Administration Updates from North Coventry Township – October 10, 2023, Board of Supervisors Meeting
North Coventry Township, PA – At the October 10th, 2023 Board of Supervisors meeting in North Coventry Township, staff and officials discussed various administrative updates. Here is a summary of the key points presented during the meeting:
Road Report
Chairman Jim Marks remarked that the Road Report was sent out by Road Master McKee. The Board had no questions or concerns regarding the report. Road Master McKee mentioned that an applicant had accepted a position within the Public Works department, indicating that the road maintenance team would soon be operating at full staff.
Additionally, the Road Tour (held on October 6th) was reported as a success, where Road Master McKee provided the Board and Township Manager Batdorf with plans for road work in 2024. These road maintenance plans are vital for ensuring the safety and efficiency of local transportation.
Police Report
The monthly Police Report was previously provided to the Board by Police Office Manager Ann Gery. Supervisor Bill Soumis inquired about the possibility of reimbursement for overtime expenses incurred during the search for escaped convict Cavalcante. Chief Matt Deichert explained that no information had been received regarding reimbursement at that time but highlighted that the Police Department had accrued about 160 hours of overtime between staff and K9 Kedra during the search.
Chief Deichert also shared an important upcoming event – the SOS 5k, scheduled for October 21, 2023, which is aimed at community engagement and support.
Moreover, Chief Deichert informed the Board that the Police Department is progressing with the RMS (computer) System and that a meeting with Chester County Police Chiefs is planned for October 18, 2023, to discuss this system, indicating a commitment to enhancing law enforcement processes.
Manager’s Report
Township Manager Erica Batdorf provided an overview of the ongoing activities in the township. She highlighted the commencement of Fire Prevention Week and mentioned that Norco Fire Company would host a free public event at the Coventry Mall on Thursday, October 12, 2023, featuring their Fire Prevention Display.
Furthermore, Township Manager Batdorf discussed the budget process, with the staff currently reviewing the September 2023 reports. A budget workshop was scheduled for Wednesday, October 18, 2023, at 8:30 a.m., held at the Township Building.
Township Manager Batdorf also shared an update on the progress draft for the Bickel Run Park and Trail Master Plan. This plan envisions the development of trails and open spaces spanning 33 acres, including Open Space along Kemp Road and Hanover Street. Feedback from the Board was sought regarding the plan, and Chairman Marks expressed concerns about its complexity and potential impact on homeowners. The Township’s responsibility for trail maintenance was also discussed, raising further considerations.
Solicitor’s Report
Solicitor Eric Brown requested a brief Executive Session, indicating ongoing legal matters that required private discussion.
Supervisor’s Report
Supervisor Soumis discussed the Planning Commission’s ongoing discussions about Solar Ordinances and expressed a desire for staff to attend a training seminar on November 29, 2023, to gain more insight into the topic.
Supervisor Carrie Hipple commended the Newsletter and highlighted a growing issue in the west end of the Township involving 4-wheelers and dirt bikes. These activities, she noted, were particularly problematic after 3:30 p.m. when students were out of school.
The October 10th, 2023 Board of Supervisors meeting brought to light the township’s ongoing efforts to address a variety of community concerns and work towards enhancing the quality of life for its residents. These administrative updates represent the commitment of North Coventry Township to effectively manage its resources and provide a safe and thriving community for all.
