Chairman W. Logan Myers convened the October 6, 2010 meeting of the Board of Supervisors at 7:00 a.m. Present were Supervisors W. Logan Myers, Michael Vigunas, Anthony Chivinski, C. David Kramer, and Herbert Flosdorf. In attendance were Township Manager Daniel Zimmerman, Township Engineer Charles Hess, Kevin Varner, and Doug Herr.

COMMUNICATIONS: The Board received a letter from the Lititz recCenter thanking the Township for its 3^rd quarter, 2010 contribution.

The Board received a letter from the Lititz Public Library thanking the Township for its 3^rd quarter, 2010 contribution.

The Board received a letter from Sue Ann Barry extending Lititz Borough Council’s congratulations to the Township for receiving the Chesapeake Bay Foundation 2010 Conservationist of the Year Award.

CONSIDER REQUEST TO RELEASE IMPROVEMENT GUARANTEE FOR THE DEAN BRANDT PROJECT: The Board reviewed the request. The Township Manager stated that an inspection was made on September 21, 2010 to review the site. Based on this inspection, it appears that the project has been completed and may be closed out by the Township. Therefore, the financial guarantee of $6,244 may be released in it’s entirety. On a motion by Flosdorf, seconded by Chivinski, the Board voted unanimously to release the improvement guarantee for the Dean Brandt project in its entirety.

CONSIDER TERMINATION OF STREET MAINTENANCE PERIOD FOR CROSSWINDS DRIVE: The Township accepted dedication of the Crosswinds Drive extension on October 17, 2007. The Roadmaster performed an inspection of the site to determine the structural integrity of the street prior to the expiration of the Maintenance Guarantee on October 17, 2010. Based on his inspection, it appears the roadway was constructed in accordance with the Township’s specifications and the approved plans. Therefore, the Letter-of-Credit may be released in its entirety to finalize the street dedication process. On a motion by Kramer, seconded by Flosdorf, the Board voted unanimously to release the Maintenance Guarantee for Crosswinds Drive in its entirety.

CONSIDER THE MERV MILLER/HAYES STORMWATER PLAN, PREPARED BY DIEHM & SONS: Kevin Varner, representing Diehm & Sons, explained that the property is currently zoned Rural Estate and is located along Clay Road near the intersection of Stony Lane. He stated that the property contains approximately 7 acres, and is currently vacant. He stated that the plan this morning is for a proposed single-family dwelling and driveway. He stated that the property would be served by an on-site well and on-site septic. He noted that the soil has been tested for the proposed septic system. He detailed the proposed stormwater management for the site and added that infiltration facilities would be provided for the house roof, and an infiltration trench would be created beside the driveway to address stormwater runoff. He noted that the plan includes a 35' riparian buffer for the stream that extends along the property. He noted that additional soil testing was done for the septic system. He explained that the possibility exists for further subdivision of the property in the future. He added that the driveway has been designed so that it could serve an additional lot. The Township Manager explained that the location of the driveway was chosen due to topographic limitations and to meet site distance requirements. Flosdorf expressed concern over the location of the driveway. He explained that a second driveway should be moved farther from the intersection of Stony Lane and Clay Road. He noted that it would require additional cut; however, he would not approve of a shared access drive for two lots. He stated that the driveway could be moved approximately 40' farther from the intersection. He noted that although the proposal meets Ordinance standards, it does not appear to be the safest location for a driveway. The Township Engineer expressed the opinion that the current proposed location is best for sight distance due to the curve of the roadway. Flosdorf maintained that the driveway should be farther from the Stony Lane intersection.

The Chairman inquired whether the driveway would meet the criteria for a shared driveway. The Township Engineer explained that the driveway meets the criteria for a shared driveway since there is excess site distance. He noted that it would not meet the criteria for a new street. The Chairman concurred with Flosdorf that there is only limited separation from the Stony Lane intersection. The Township Engineer stated that Stony Lane has a Stop sign at the intersection, so motorists can see traffic along Clay Road. Varner stated that the issue of the required 150' lot frontage also affects the location of the driveway. Flosdorf stated that he would waive the frontage requirement for a safer driveway location. The Township Engineer stated that moving the driveway farther north would make it closer to the horizontal curve, and in his opinion, this is more dangerous than the separation from the intersection. He noted that he understands that the Board is looking for a balance between sight distance and separation from the intersection. Varner stated that he will further review the driveway location.

Varner address the Township Engineer's comment letter. The applicant is requesting a Waiver of Section 270-11.F which indicates that storm sewer pipes shall be installed with 1-foot of cover from the crown to subgrade. The request is specific to the proposed driveway culvert located within the right-of-way along Clay Road. It has been noted that the maintenance responsibilities for this pipe is the responsibility of the lot owner. The culvert will be 15" reinforced concrete pipe with a class IV rating, and will have just under the required 1-foot of cover depending upon the actual wall thickness of the pipe. The Township Engineer commented that considering the restrictive note that is on the Plan regarding the perpetual ownership and maintenance of culvert by the lot owner, and since RCP will be used, they have no objections to granting this Waiver. The Township Manager stated that the property owner would be required to maintain the storm pipes.

On a motion by Chivinski, seconded by Vigunas, the Board voted unanimously to grant a Waiver of Section 270-11.F as requested. On a motion by Flosdorf, seconded by Chivinski, the Board voted unanimously to approve the Merv Miller/Hayes Stormwater Management Plan, contingent upon the approval being for this single lot, only.

CONSIDER THE REQUEST FOR EXTENSION OF TIME TO RECORD THE SHOPPES AT KISSEL VILLAGE NORTH EXPANSION: The Board reviewed the request. On a motion by Kramer, seconded by Chivinski, the Board voted unanimously to grant an extension of time until December 15, 2010 to record the Shoppes at Kissel Village North Expansion plan.

AUTHORIZE SALE OF A 1995 FORD F-250 PICK-UP TRUCK: The Township Manager explained that the sale of the truck was included within the 2010 budget. He noted that the minimum acceptable bid is $4,800.00. On a motion by Chivinski, seconded by Kramer, the Board voted unanimously to authorize the sale of a 1995 Ford F-250 Pick-up Truck.

CONSIDER CHANGE ORDER #2 FOR THE WEST MILLPORT ROAD/WOODCREST AVENUE INTERSECTION PROJECT: The Township Manager explained that the change order relates to macadam curbing that was installed along Woodcrest Avenue. Vigunas expressed concern over the location of the yellow lines that were recently painted along Woodcrest Avenue. The Township Manager explained that the location is in accordance with PennDOT requirements. The change order would cost $1,000.00. On a motion by Kramer, seconded by Chivinski, the Board voted unanimously to authorize Change Order #2, dated September 17, 2010 as submitted.

DISCUSS DRAFT FOR NEW STANDARDS FOR ALTERNATE ENERGY TYPES: The Township Manager explained that the draft Ordinance was coordinated with Ordinances adopted in other municipalities. He noted that the County has reviewed several alternative energy Ordinances and they were consulted on the standards. He explained that the Ordinance is comprehensive and includes anaerobic (manure) digesters, wood burning boilers, and geothermal systems, in addition to wind and solar systems. Chivinski inquired who was consulted on the recommendations. The Township Manager explained that Township staff consulted Ken Kauffman, who serves on the Township’s Zoning Hearing Board. Kauffman works for Moore Engineering and they install geothermal systems. In addition, individuals representing Sun Lion Energy Systems also provided assistance on the draft, since they install solar energy systems.

The Board members discussed whether windmills should be permitted within residential areas. In addition, certain uses that serve only the residence could be permitted, but systems that would be designed to generate more electricity than needed could be considered commercial in nature. The Township Manager stated that a subcommittee could be created that includes two members of the Board, two members of the Commission, and two experts to discuss the draft ordinance.

DISCUSS FISCAL STRATEGY FOR THE 2011 BUDGET: The Township Manager explained that the Township’s cash balance could remain unchanged at the end of the year, compared to an anticipated reduction at the beginning of the year. He noted that this is partly due to a reduction in staff hours in each of the Township’s departments. In addition, modifications to health benefits and cost-saving conservation measures were also implemented. He noted that the Township continues to experience a loss of $300,000-$400,000 in revenue per year due to the economy. He explained that the Township continues to evaluate options to reduce costs; however, the reduction in revenue exceeds the available options to further reduce costs. He noted that the Township has maintained the current millage rate for 20 years (the last increase was in 1990). He added that it appears that the Township might have to increase the millage rate slightly this year. He explained that one option that Township staff is pursuing is a card system for the leaf and woody yard waste drop-off site. He stated that Warwick Township residents would be issued a card for 10 visits to the site at a cost of $10.00. He noted that the operational expenses for the site are not being adequately met through the current fee process. He stated that individuals that live outside the Township would be charged more (i.e. $50 for 5 visits). He explained that this process could generate between $10,000-$20,000, which would help offset the operating expense for the facility. Flosdorf expressed concern that after a storm event, residents without a card would have to wait to clear their property since the office is not open on weekends. The Township Manager explained that a card reader costs approximately $5,000, and a credit card reader costs approximately $20,000, plus a rental fee. The Township Manager stated that PennDOT recently made a decision that all storm pipes that are installed along their roadways are the responsibility of the municipality. He explained that they included this as part of the MS4 regulations that they previously adopted. Flosdorf stated that the Township could create storm water districts (similar to street light districts) which would impose a fee on property owners based on the type and number of stormwater facilities in a specific area. Flosdorf stated that he would prefer imposing user fees for services, rather than a general millage increase. The Chairman explained that the Township has not raised its millage rate for 20 years, and the Township has accepted new roadways and parkland to improve the community. He noted that the Township has the second lowest municipal tax rate in the County, and continues to maintain its level of service to its citizens. The Board briefly discussed budget issues.

CONSIDER RESOLUTION #10-06-10-01 ADOPTING A REDUCED AMORTIZATION OPTION-AS AMENDED UNDER ACT 44: The Board reviewed the Resolution. On a motion by Flosdorf, seconded by Chivinski, the Board voted unanimously to enact Resolution #10-06-10-01 which authorizes the Township to utilize the 75% amortization option as allowed by Act 44 of 2009 for the Warwick Township Police Pension Plan.

CONFIRM ATTENDANCE AT THE 11/1/2010 COUNTY CONVENTION: Chivinski stated that he will attend the County Convention on November 1, 2010.

TOWNSHIP MANAGER’S REPORT: The Township Manager provided an update on the Police Feasibility Study. He explained that the draft of the study has been completed for the subcommittee to review.

The Township Manager provided an update on the septic program. He stated that one property owner is not complying with the reporting requirement.

The Township Manager provided an update on the Millport Road/ Woodcrest Avenue project. He stated that the work is scheduled to be completed by October 8, 2010.

The Township Manager provided an update on the Farmington Way basin. He explained that the majority of the basin is working very well; however, a sinkhole has developed in one area of the basin. He added that ARM was contacted, and it appears that the sinkhole could be repaired. He explained that based on preliminary discussions, the Homeowner’s Association would pay for materials, and the Township would provide labor and equipment to perform the repairs. He noted that this area is within the Township’s wellhead protection area.

ADJOURNMENT: With no further business to come before the Board, the meeting was adjourned at 9:00 a.m.

Respectfully submitted,

Daniel L. Zimmerman
Township Manager