April 2012 Council Minutes

President Thomas E. Stinnett called the regular meeting of the Riegelsville Borough Council to order at 7:30 p.m. April 11, 2012. Following the Pledge of Allegiance a roll call was taken.  PRESENT: Edward Bartosiewicz, Rodney Scott, Thomas Stinnett, Kathleen Weiss and Mayor Stokes   K. Weiss motioned to approve the minutes of the March 14th, 2012 Council Meeting and E. Bartosiewicz seconded.  Unanimous.

CORRESPONDENCE:  Letter was read dated March 20th, 2012 from Riegelsville Public Library giving their 2012 operating budget and the 2011 Financial Statement.

Letter was read dated March 21st, 2012 from Bucks County Department of Health notice to new property owner of parcel #38-004-002

Letter was read dated March 21st, 2012 from Nockamixon Township board of supervisors requesting Fire Police services for the Palisades Community Foundation 5K race to be held at Palisades High School, Saturday, May 5, 2012.  E. Bartosiewicz motioned to approve T. Stinnett seconded   Unanimous

Letter was read dated March 27th, 2012 Kiwanis Club of Riegelsville concerning the fall car show.

Letter was read dated April 2, 2012, Bucks County Controller’s office audit of Magisterial District

07-3-03 year ended December 31, 2011.

REPORTS:

President – T. Stinnett reported to Council that he will be out of town until Saturday April 21.  Water supplies have been order for the St Lawrence water work.  K & K has started working on the Borough Chimney.

Mayor – Nothing to report

CITIZENS COMMENTS:  K. Weiss reported to Council that Borough Resident Walt Wooden passed away on Thursday April 5th, 2012. W. Wooden was on the Riegelsville Recreation Board, Borough Council and Borough Zoning Hearing Board.  

COMMITTEE REPORTS: 

Community Affairs: Ed Bartosiewicz called the meeting to order at 7:00 pm on March 21, 2012 at the Riegelsville Borough Hall.  Members Present:  Ed Bartosiewicz, Rich Pursell, Rodney Scott, Tom Stinnett and Kathie Weiss Others Present:  Sherry Masteller

Zoning:  K. Clayton, zoning officer, reported to council that a letter has been sent to 530 Easton Road in reference to the temporary covering on the roof.  919 Easton Road was issued a sign permit. Letter was sent to 530 Easton road in reference to the temporary roof tarp.

            Fire Co. News:  E. Bartosiewicz reported that Fire Co. Breakfast is Sunday April 15, 2012 8am to 12:30pm.  Fish-fry Fridays continues until April 6th, 5pm to 7pm.  The Fire Co. sold 2 trucks and is getting a Rescue Pumper Truck.

            Library News:  Library Treasurer, Debbie Jo Mitchell reported to council the February/March minutes. Egg Hunt on April 6th at 1pm, Borough Park. Hoagie Sale April 24th Election Day. April will start movies in the meeting room.  2012 State and Federal tax forms have arrived. Those Federal forms that we don’t have can be copied from our master forms binder. A replica of the Hunger Games training center (from the very popular book series Hunger Games) will take place on March 22, 5-7pm in the Community Room.  Open to all ages.

            February Statistics:

      Walk-in patrons: 697

      Circulation: 1,301

      E-book checkouts: 80

      E-book users (new registrations):3

      Items lent out (In-County):239

      Items Borrowed (In-County): 288

       Public Computers/Wi-Fi Use: 57

      Historic Room Visits: 4

      Tax Form requests: 45

      Total Cardholders: 1,037

      Collection size: 16,639items (9,723 adult +6,916 Easy, Juvenile & Young Adult)

            Riegelsville Enhancement Committee (REC) News: E. Bartosiewicz got the hardware to put up the Bulletin board down at the pedestrian bridge.

            EMS News:  Ed Bartosiewicz attended the meeting which is the third Monday of each month. Ed will try to attend the April meeting.

      Rec Board News:  The next fundraiser is set for March 25th Filled Basket Bingo.  The Rec Board will have a Girls B team and a T-Ball team this year. Practice will begin as soon as the weather breaks.

Riegelsville Emergency Management: Nothing to report, S. Masteller will remind Dave Nadeau to send the Borough a monthly update.             

 Utilities: R. Scott called the meeting to order on March 21, 2012 at the Riegelsville Borough Hall

Members Present:   Rodney Scott, Ed Bartosiewicz, Rich Pursell, Thomas Stinnett and Kathie Weiss

Others Present:   Sherry Masteller

Citizen Comments:  None to report

Discussions:  PennDot has a site meeting for the relocation of the poles at the temporary canal bridge project on Friday April 6, 2012 11:00am to 12:30pm. Remarks: T. Stinnett attended the meeting and reported to Council that bids will be going out the end of June for the temporary bridge project and will be ready by the end of October 2012. Then in the spring of 2013 work will begin on the Canal Bridge and be completed by winter of 2013.

Parcel 38-004-002 sold for $85,000.00 to Andrew D. Hulshizer.

Paul Singh, Contractor answers questions from Council in reference to his proposal for the Borough’s masonry chimney. 

Streets & Properties: Rich Pursell called the meeting to order at 7:00 pm on April 4, 2012 at the Riegelsville Borough Hall.

Members Present:

Rich Pursell, Ed Bartosiewicz Rodney Scott, Thomas Stinnett and Kathleen Weiss Others Present: Sherry Masteller

Comments from the citizens:  None to report

Discussions:

            R. Pursell reported to Council that he spoke to Ron Martin, PennDot Supervisor in reference to the pipe that feeds water into the river from the drains on 611 that needs to be repaired. R. Martin said he would go and look at the pipe and see if they could assist in the repairs.

            Council discussed the Chimney replacement and unanimously decided to do a masonry chimney outside and give the job to K&K Contracting.

            Nockamixon Township board of supervisors has voted to request that the Riegelsville Borough Council authorize the services of its Fire Police during the Palisades Community Foundation 5K race to be held at Palisades High School, Saturday, May 5, 2012. S. Masteller will add this to the Council agenda on April 11, 2012.

            County of Bucks Department of Health sent a letter to the new property owner of the violation on parcel 38-004-002 Easton road.

Finance:  Kathie Weiss called the meeting to order at 7:38pm on April 4, 2012 at the Riegelsville Borough Hall. Members Present:  Rich Pursell, Kathie Weiss, Ed Bartosiewicz, Rodney Scott and Thomas Stinnett Others Present:Mayor Stokes and Sherry Masteller

Comments from the Citizens:   None to report

Discussions:

            S. Masteller attended the “Communicating in the 21st Century” seminar, they suggested all municipalities should have a website, Face book and twitter account since the majority of residents are using the internet to communicate.

            Liquid fuels money will not be here until April 17th, the funds are used to pay street lights and traffic light met-ed bills.  T. Macaluso may need to hold the electric bills a few days.

            T. Stinnett reported that there is a growing list of municipalities that are considering a challenge to Act 13 of 2012.

            Treasurer’s report was discussed.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS: 

            Approval of Check $1134.99($567.50 from GF & $567.49 from WC) to Riegelsville Auto Care LLC for loader repair. E. Bartosiewicz motioned to approve and second R. Scott    Unanimous

            Approval of Resolution R-02-12 Borough of Riegelsville, declaring its intent to follow the schedules and procedures for disposition of records as set forth in the Municipal records manual approved on December 17, 2008.  E. Bartosiewicz motioned to approve R. Scott Seconded    Unanimous

            Approval of Resolution R-03-12 Borough of Riegelsville authorizes the disposition of 13 boxes: 2001- 2004 Income Statements, Accounts Payable Files, Balance Sheets, Bank Statements, Cancelled Checks, Check Registers, Deposit Slips, Water Paid Receipts, and Water Correspondence – 4 Boxes 

 Tax Collector Office 1993 – 2004 Tax Duplicates, Tax Payments, Bill of Taxes, Tax Certifications, change of Address, Lien Lists, Exonerations, Occupation Tax Lists, Real Estate Transfer Records, Paid Receipt Tax Bills,  Tax Collector Monthly Report to Taxing Districts – 9 Boxes     R. Scott motioned to approve

NEW BUSINESS:  None to report

APPROVAL OF BILLS:     K. Weiss motioned to approve bills as listed.  R. Pursell seconded.  

Meeting adjourned 8:35 PM  Next Council meeting is May 9th, 2012

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School Transfer update!

 

RIEGELSVILLE TAKES FINAL STEPS IN SCHOOL TRANSFER

 

STUDENTS TO ATTEND PALISADES IN 2013

 

An historical landmark agreement has been reached that will transfer Riegelsville students from the Easton Area School District to the Palisades School District in 2013. The two school districts and RTEC agreed to a transfer beginning July 1, 2013. In exchange for delaying the start date, both districts agreed not to appeal and to support the transfer as the case moves on to the State Board of Education.

RTEC’s priority and focus will now be to work with both districts to ensure a smooth transition for all the children in Riegelsville. This includes keeping students enrolled in EASD who wish to finish out their education there. Palisades and Easton will both be assigning liaisons to work with RTEC specifically on this matter.

The official court order agreed upon this Thursday will be completed within the week. We hope the State Board of Education will have it in time for their March meeting. The State BOE will then form a special committee to review our case in its entirety. They may hold special meetings within the Borough. When the BOE has conducted a thorough investigation, they will then render their decision. RTEC believes with the support of the two districts this will be a positive outcome.

The financial agreements between the districts include PSD paying EASD $1.4 million over a four year period ($350,000 per year). Palisades will begin collecting school taxes from Riegelsville residents in 2013. With the Riegelsville tax monies totaling over $1 million dollars, Palisades will have a positive revenue stream resulting from this transfer, even during their first four repayment years.

The financial benefits to Riegelsville taxpayers will also begin in 2013. The 2011 millage rates for the two school districts were as follows: EASD 161.211 and PSD 110.340. This 50.871 mill decrease will save Riegelsville homeowners an average of $1,000 per household per year. For example, if your assessed home value is $20,000 you will save $1,017.42 if your assessed value is $15,000 you will save $880.65 each year. Collectively, Riegelsville will save over $400,000 every year.

RTEC sincerely looks forward to working with the school districts and community members in making this time of change a positive one for all involved. RTEC welcomes any questions or concerns anyone may have at

RTEC18077@hotmail.com

or to:

Damion Newton Maureen Woerner Kathy Anderson

 

610.749.0256 610.749.2725 610.749.2110

 

 

dhnewton@ptd.net mwoerner@verizon.net willakather@hotmail.com

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Public Meeting May 1, 2012

NOTICE

Application of the Riegelsville Independent School District for Transfer from the Easton Area School District to the Palisades School District

Notice of Public Hearing

Notice is hereby given that the Special Committee of the State Board of Education (State Board) established to facilitate the Board’s consideration of the Application of the Riegelsville Independent School District to transfer from the Easton Area School District to the Palisades School District will conduct a public hearing on May 1, 2012, at 6:00 p.m., at the Riegelsville Borough Hall, 615 Easton Road, in Riegelsville, Bucks County.

The purpose of the hearing is to listen to public comment from persons and organizations interested in the matter. Copies of the application for transfer and other relevant material are available on the State Board’s web site at www.education.state.pa.us. Public comment is limited to no more than 10 minutes per person, and participants will be assigned a time slot when they register.

Individuals wishing to make comment at the public hearing must register in advance, no later than Thursday, April 26, 2012, by telephoning the State Board office at (717) 787-3787 (TYY 717-783-8445), Monday through Friday (excluding holidays), between 8:30 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

 

 

Individuals with disabilities needing special accommodations in order to participate or attend the hearing, such as sign language interpreter services, must contact the State Board office at the above listed telephone number by Thursday, April 26, 2012, at 4:00 p.m. Persons with disabilities are invited to submit public comments in alternative formats such as Braille or taped testimony and via the telephone. Written and alternative formats of public comment will be afforded the same thoughtful consideration by the Committee as oral remarks.

Should registrants scheduled to provide public comment need to cancel their participation, the State Board requests that they immediately notify the State Board office by calling (717) 787-3787 or via email at ra-stateboardofed@pa.gov.

Karen Molchanow

Executive Director

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March 2012 Council Minutes

President Thomas E. Stinnett called the regular meeting of the Riegelsville Borough Council to order at 7:30 p.m. March 14th, 2012. Following the Pledge of Allegiance a roll call was taken.  PRESENT: Edward Bartosiewicz, Rodney Scott, Thomas Stinnett, Kathleen Weiss and Mayor Stokes   E. Bartosiewicz motioned to approve the minutes of the February 8, 2012 Council Meeting and R. Scott seconded.  Unanimous.

 CORRESPONDENCE:  

            Letter dated February 16, 2012 from Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).  Riegelsville Borough’s adoption of the Bucks County Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan dated January 11, 2012 has been received by FEMA. The plan is now approved with the receipt and acceptance of the formal adoption resolution. As such, the Borough of Riegelsville is now eligible to apply for federal disaster assistance until the Bucks County Multi- Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan expires on December 12, 2016.

             Letter dated February 20, 2012 from Community Fire Company #1 of Riegelsville Banquet Committee was received inviting Council and Mayor Stokes to the banquet that will be held on March 31, 2012.

            Letter dated February 21, 2012 from Riegelsville Planning Commission. Attached is the copies of the 2011 minutes that is their Annual report to the Borough Council on the Riegelsville Planning Commissions activities for 2011.

            Letter received March 1, 2012 from Nockamixon Township board of Supervisors to request that Borough Council authorize the services of its Fire Police during the Buckingham United Soccer Club Tournament to be held at Palisades High School.  Council denied this request because the organization is not in the service area of the Fire Company plus the Borough holds the Workman’s Comp. insurance on the Fire Co. and Fire Police volunteers.  Council was also told that Todd Myers, Fire Chief, thought he did not have enough Fire Police to cover this event and also be prepared for any accident or fire in the service area.

            Letter dated March 7, 2012 from Bucks County Planning Commission in reference to the public hearing on March 8th to not adopt amendments to the zoning ordinance that would include use regulations for Recovery of Subsurface Gas and Oil deposits.

            Email from Bucks County Tax Collection Committee reporting the 2012 Business meeting dates and times.

REPORTS:

            President – Nothing to report

            Mayor – Mayor Stokes reported to Council that he and Matt Brady met with Asher Tingle from A& E Associates that represents Tide-Flex Technology. They went to see the pipe in the river and discuss how the Duckbill system and the in-line check valve would help with possible flooding off of 611.

Mayor Stokes reported that there is a very large tree near the drain that needs to be taken down. S. Masteller will contact Ron Martin, PennDot supervisor, to ask if that is their responsibility or the Borough’s.

            Mayor Stokes also contacted the State Police in reference to the abandoned car in the large Borough parking lot and they stated they would get it removed.

CITIZENS COMMENTS:  None to report

COMMITTEE REPORTS: 

Community Affairs: Zoning:  K. Clayton, zoning officer, reported to council that he has issued 3 permits: Boiler tie-in, 2 Bedroom Apartment and minor building permit for Yoga studio.

            Fire Co. News:  E. Bartosiewicz reported that Fire Co. Breakfast is Sunday February 19, 2012 8am to 12:30pm.  Fish-fry Fridays will start on February 24th 5pm to 7pm.

            Library News:  Library Board member’s Nancy and Pat McEvoy reported to Council the January 2012 Board Meeting minutes.  The draft 2012-2013 state budget proposed by Governor Corbett includes a 6% cut to state library funding.  AARP tax volunteers will be at the Borough Hall every Tuesday until April 10, 2012 to do your taxes.  Library is stocked with tax forms.  Beginning in July, 2013 the Library will have to begin paying for the internet connectivity. This covers staff internet and e-mail, SIRSI circulation and public catalog and Wi-Fi. Since 2009 Doylestown has absorbed this cost, but they can no longer do so due to the State and County budget cuts. So as of July 2013 the cost will be $1113.48 per year ($92.79 per month). This price is set for two years.  The Library would like to put a small sign on the front door with the hours listed. Council agreed to this.

            January Statistics:

      Public Count: 681

      Circulation: 1,423

      E-book checkouts: 57

      E-book users (new registrations): 16

      Items lent out (In-County):286

      Items Borrowed (In-County): 296

      Public Computers/Wi-Fi Use: 75

      Historic Room Visits: 7

      Tax Form requests: 10

      Total Cardholders: 1,030

      Collection size: 16,658items (9,754 adult +6,904Easy, Juvenile & Young Adult)

            Riegelsville Enhancement Committee (REC) News: Elaine Albrecht reported to Council that the Super Bowl Hoagie sale profited $301.00 plus a $25.00 donation with a total of $326.00.

            EMS News:  They are still seeking a member for the board from Riegelsville.

      Rec Board News:  The next fundraiser is set for March 25th, Filled Basket Bingo.  Rodney Scott reported that the American Legion Ladies Auxiliary donated $500.00 to the Recreation Board. The Rec Board will have a Girls B team and a T-Ball team this year. Practice will begin as soon as the weather breaks.

Riegelsville Emergency Management: Dave Nadeau EMA Coordinator and Dave Gerstenberg reported to Council that they will be updating the Borough’s EOP (Emergency Operations Plan) this spring for Council’s approval.  T. Stinnett thanked them for coming to the meeting and said it would be helpful if they could give updates/meeting minutes for the Community Affairs meeting which is held the third Wednesday of each month.  S. Masteller will put the flyer for the “Ready Notify” in next quarter’s water bill. Remarks: The ready notify booklet will not fit in the water bill envelope.

Utilities: M. Brady reported to S. Masteller that the curbstop for #1107 Easton Road needs to be repaired. W. Nicholas usually helps with this.  M. Brady also reported that there are a few other ones that need to be fixed so he suggests having W. Nicholas look at the list and see how many they can get done in one day.

             S. Masteller will contact W. Dowd Excavating to look at the water main on Bidwell lane.

            Well #1 has been repaired by Barry Hoffman, electrician.

            S. Masteller will get a quote from Pool Plus in NJ for a generator for well #3.

Streets & Properties: Council and M. Smith, Borough engineer discussed the 3 different optioned to replace the current chimney in the borough building. Proposal will be gathered and discussed next week during Council meeting.

  1. Masonry chimney on the outside
  2. Steel chimney on the outside
  3. Steel chimney on the inside

 Bucks County Board of health sent a final notice of violation to parcel #38-4-2 Serenity Investors,

27 acres that are for sale at the south end of the Borough. The violation is for discarded tires and other items allowing for a reservoir for mosquito breeding activity.

            Mayor Stokes has an appointment for the representative from “Duckbill Backflow preventer” to come and look at the pipe in the river that may help with the flooding issues on Tuesday March 13, 2012 at 10am. Matt Brady will also meet with them too.

Finance:  S. Masteller would like to attend a PA Local government seminar on April 4th, 2012 noon to 4pm fee is $50.00 “Communicating in the 21st Century”, Council unanimously approved.

            Council discussed putting “reduce speed signs” as you are entering the Borough North and South on Route 611. S. Masteller will contact PennDot in reference to this question.

 UNFINISHED BUSINESS: 

            Approval for W. Dowd Excavating proposal for 6” water main on Bidwell Lane $10,949.00 E. Bartosiewicz motioned to approve.  R. Scott seconded.  Unanimous

            Council gives permission to spend up to $18,500.00 for a chimney proposal and get more proposals to present at a future Committee meeting. E. Bartosiewicz motioned to approve.  R. Scott seconded.    Unanimous

            Approval of check to Diamond Marketing Solutions for $576.59 for the printing and mailing of the per capita bills.  K. Weiss motioned to approve.  R. Pursell seconded.  Unanimous

 NEW BUSINESS:

            None to report

 APPROVAL OF BILLS:     E. Bartosiewicz motioned to approve bills as listed.  K. Weiss seconded.  

Meeting adjourned 9:10 PM

 Sherry Masteller   Borough Secretary

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February 2012 Council Minutes

President Thomas E. Stinnett called the regular meeting of the Riegelsville Borough Council to order at 7:30 p.m. February 8th, 2012. Following the Pledge of Allegiance a roll call was taken.  PRESENT: Edward Bartosiewicz, Rodney Scott, Thomas Stinnett, Kathleen Weiss and Mayor Stokes   E. Bartosiewicz motioned to approve the minutes of the January 11, 2012 Council Meeting and R. Scott seconded.  Unanimous.

CORRESPONDENCE:  

Letter dated February 2, 2012 from PPL Generation, LLC- in reference to downstream user notifications according to section 901 of the Storage Tank and Spill Prevention Act of July 5, 1989,

35 P.S.S6021.901.

 REPORTS:

President – T. Stinnett reported to Council that the Pennsylvania Legislature approved the House Bill (HB) #1950 An Act amending Title 58 (Oil and Gas) of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, providing for an unconventional gas well fee and for transfers from the Oil and Gas Lease Fund on Wednesday February 8th, 2012. This Bill will affect all municipalities’ current ordinances on gas drilling.

Mayor – Mayor Stokes reported to Council that he has contacted Upper Makefield Township and Yardley to inquire about the “duckbill Backflow valves” that they use to control flood waters in drains. Mayor Stokes will get more information to Council.

CITIZENS COMMENTS:  Elaine Albrecht, Riegelsville Enhancement Committee member reported to Council that their Super Bowl Hoagie fundraiser was a success, profited $301.00.

COMMITTEE REPORTS: 

Community Affairs: Zoning:  K. Clayton, zoning officer, reported to council that the 141 Delaware Road property owner has been sent a letter in reference to the dead tree that needs to be removed.  S. Masteller did receive a phone message to let K. Clayton know that the owner, T. Kreider, is waiting for one more bid for the tree removal.  C. Cardone is working on his plans for an apartment at 671-673 Easton Road. 

            Riegelsville Kiwanis: Council had invited representatives of the Kiwanis and State Police Sergeant Turk to this meeting to discuss the Annual Fall-Rollout car show fundraiser burnouts.  S. Mathias, a Kiwanis member, said that this past year she notified the State Police of the event and requested police coverage around 2pm when the burnouts usually begin.  Sergeant Turk did have 2 officers on duty for the car show but additional help was needed.  He will attend a future Kiwanis meeting to discuss a solution for this year’s event.  S. Mathias stated how the annual car show is their big fundraiser for the year.  S. Masteller spoke on behave of the Riegelsville Recreation Board stated that the Car show is also their biggest fundraiser of the year, selling food out of the concession stand. Council, Kiwanis and Sergeant Turk continued to discuss the dangers related to the “Burnouts”.

            Fire Co. News:  E. Bartosiewicz reported that Fire Co. Breakfast is Sunday January 22, 2012 8am to 12:30pm.  Fish-fry Fridays will start on February 24th 5pm to 7pm.

            Library News:  Library Board member Priscilla Clay reported to Council the January 2012 Board Meeting minutes. AARP tax volunteers will be at the Borough Hall February 7,2012 to April 10, 2012 to do your taxes.  Planning for summer reading 2012 is underway. This year’s theme will be “Night”. For kids: “Dream Big-read! And for teens, “Own the night”.

            December Statistics:

      Public Count: 538

      Circulation: 1,215

      Items lent out (In-County): 157

      Items Borrowed (In-County): 214

      Internet Use: 71

      Historic Room Visits: 4

      Total Cardholders: 1,076

      Collection size: 16,673items (9,747 adult +6,926 Easy, Juvenile & Young Adult)

            Riegelsville Enhancement Committee (REC) News: Minutes were received from the pocket        park patio project via e-mail to the Borough office and distributed to Council. Hoagie sale fundraiser will be Super Bowl Sunday February 5, 2012, $6.00 per hoagie.

            EMS News:  They are still seeking a member for the board from Riegelsville.

      Rec Board News:  The next fundraiser is set for March 25th Filled Basket Bingo.  Rodney Scott will be taking over the running of the Baseball/Softball program from Joe Evanowski.  

      Riegelsville Emergency Management: John Panasiuk sent the Borough office minutes from the December 19th, 2012 meeting.

Utilities: S. Masteller faxed the signed proposal for the Well#3 adaptor to Barry Hoffman, Electrical Contractor on January 12, 2012.

Council discussed renting the meeting room to Borough residents that are not non-profit organization.

  Med-Ed will be sending payment for the lane to be fixed at Well 1& 2 that was damaged by Med-ed trucks during the power outage storm in October/November 2011. W. Nicholas will be doing the repair.

The phone book still has the Riegelsville Police listed; S. Masteller will look into this.

Streets & Properties: E-mail was received from Scout Master Ralph Riegel stating there is a scout who is about to work on his Eagle Project. He is building a brick patio and memorial in the center of the cemetery.  They will be replacing the 40 foot flagpole and need to use a backhoe.  They asked if the Borough could assist with the backhoe.  Council suggested asking M. Brady if he wanted to work the Backhoe. R. Pursell also offered to help if M. Brady could not help. 

R. Scott is going to put together a proposal for a carport for the backhoe to go in.  R. Pursell went around the Borough with M. Brady to look at all the Borough properties and what M. Brady takes care of.

R. Pursell would like to see the equipment on maintenance programs. The backhoe should be looked over as well. S. Masteller suggested Riegelsville Auto. R. Scott will stop and talk to Troy Holzworth, owner of shop.

            R. Pursell reported that there are quite a few speed limit signs that are very hard to read like at Sycamore/Spruce.  S. Masteller will have M. Brady go thru the streets and then put an order together.

            M. Brady would like permission to remove the tall shrubs in the triangle by the Borough office since they do not look very good. Council said yes they can be removed and maybe the Riegelsville Enhancement Committee could work on replacing the shrubs.

            R. Pursell reported to Council that he looked at the generator that would be used at the Borough office building and suggested we see about getting it fixed since it is fairly new.  Council suggested contacting Borough resident, Fred Raub to see if he could look at it and repair it.

Finance:  Mayor Stokes reported to S. Masteller that he spoke to the Realtor, Michael Strickland who is selling the Weiss barn and property at the north end of the Borough and the price is as follows: Barn&1.44acres $199,000.00, 19 acres $349,000.00, and .63 acres $149,000.00.

            T. Macaluso is waiting for the proposal from the Co. that will be printing the Borough’s per capita bills.

            Council looked over the 2012 Lien report.

            The General Primary Election will be April 24, 2012 and General Election November 6th, 2012.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS: 

            Public hearing is scheduled for March 8th, 2012 at 7pm Proposed Ordinance #222 Entitled,” An Ordinance amending the Riegelsville Borough Zoning Ordinance and Zoning Map dated January 15, 1989, as amended”

            Approval of check to Lehr’s Auto for $583.43 (Utility truck, Ball joint repair) E. Bartosiewicz motioned to approve.  R. Pursell seconded. Unanimous

            Council discussed the St Lawrence Water line issue.

            Todd Myers, Borough Engineer asked Council what direction Council would like him to proceed once the Land development application comes into the Borough office.  Council would like T. Myers to go over the plans and comment on any zoning issues he might find.

NEW BUSINESS:

            None to report

APPROVAL OF BILLS:     K. Weiss motioned to approve bills as listed.  R. Scott seconded.  

Meeting adjourned 8:50 PM

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Public hearing on March 8, 2012 at 7:00pm

Borough Council Passed Ordinance #222

Notice is hereby given by the Council of the Borough of Riegelsville that it shall hold a public hearing on March 8, 2012 at 7:00pm at the Riegelsville Borough Hall, 615 Easton Road, Riegelsville, Pennsylvania, to vote on Riegelsville Proposed Ordinance No.222 entitled, “An Ordinance Amending the Riegelsville Borough Zoning Ordinance and Zoning Map dated January 15, 1989, as amended.”  A full copy of the proposed ordinance may be examined without charge at the Borough Hall, the office of this newspaper or the Law Library at the Bucks County Court House during normal business hours, or may be obtained upon request for a charge not greater than the cost thereof.  The following is a summary of the ordinance which will be presented for adoption at the public hearing:  

Article I – Title and Purpose.  The ordinance shall be known as the “Zoning Ordinance and Zoning Map Amendments of 2011” and its purpose is to amend various provisions of the Riegelsville Borough Zoning Ordinance and Zoning Map dated January 15, 1989, as amended, by making clarifications, additions, deletions and corrections as hereinafter set forth to same.

Article II – Amendments.  Amendment 1 revises the Table of Contents to reflect the substantive amendments to the Zoning Ordinance.  Amendments 2 and 3 revise the Statement of Community Goals and Objectives.  Amendment 4 revises Section 105 (Establishment of Districts) by establishing the new “R-3 Residential District.”

Amendments 5 through 8 reflect changes to Article II (Definitions).  Specifically, Amendment 5 deletes all categorization and identification to the definitions set forth therein by section numbers; Amendment 6 deletes reference to “Section 210” in the definition of “Lot Width”; and Amendment 7 inserts and defines the following terms: “Mechanical Equipment,” “Solar Access,” “Solar Energy Systems” and “Solar Glare”; and Amendment 8 provides for the a new definition of  “Street.”

Amendments 9 through 17 reflect changes to Article III (Use Regulations).  Specifically, Amendment 9 inserts and defines Use A7 Forestry/Timber Harvesting in Section 303.A. Amendment 10 provides for a new area and dimensional requirements in Section 303.B.B1.b (Use Regulations) for detached dwellings.  Amendment 11 provides for new area and dimensional requirements in Section 303.B.B2.b for a detached dwelling cluster subdivision.  Amendment 12 provides for a redefined institutional use, E4 Adult Commercial, in Section 303.C. Amendment 13 deletes the institutional use, “Service Business” from Section 303.C. Amendment 14 adds the institutional use, E5 Village Retail or Service Business to Section 303.C. Amendment 15 adds the industrial use, G16 Recovery of Subsurface Gas and Oil Deposits, to Section 303.G.  Amendment 16 adds the general accessory use and structure, H11 Solar Collector Devices to Section 303.H.  Amendment 17 provides for a new Table of Use Regulations in Section 305.

Amendment 18 amends Article IV, Section 401.a regarding uses permitted by right in the RP Resource Protection District.

Amendments 19 through 21 reflect changes to Article V regarding uses permitted by right, uses permitted by conditional use and uses permitted by special exception in the R-1 Residential District.

Amendments 22 through 24 reflect changes to Article VI regarding uses permitted by right, uses permitted by conditional use and uses permitted by special exception in the R-2 Residential District.

Amendment 25 adds Article VII with respect to the particulars of the newly created R-3 Residential District in terms of its purpose (Section 700), its use regulations (Section 701) and its area and dimensional requirements (Section 702).

Amendments 26 through 28 reflect changes to Article VIII regarding uses permitted by right, uses permitted by conditional use and uses permitted by special exception in the C Commercial District.  Further, Amendment 29 changes the minimum building setbacks in section 802 in the C Commercial District.

Amendments 30 through 32 reflect changes to Article IX regarding uses permitted by right, uses permitted by conditional use and uses permitted by special exception in the I Industrial District.  Amendment 33 substitutes reference to “Section 1100” with “Section 1200” in section 902.c.

Amendment 34 renames former Article IX (Area, Dimensional and Parking Requirements) as being “Article X – General Regulations” and all references to other articles and sections of the Zoning Ordinance are accordingly revised per Amendment 24, supra.  Amendment 35 changes the maximum fence height under the general regulations from twelve (12) feet to six (6) feet.

Amendment 35 adds two (2) new sections to the general regulations of Article X, which sections are entitled, “Section 1017 Lighting” with respect to outdoor lighting for all residential and nonresidential use and “Section 1018 Design Guidelines for Nonresidential Buildings” with respect to all new nonresidential developments and additions/alterations to nonresidential buildings in the I Industrial District and the C Commercial District.

Amendment 37 provides for a new Minimum Building Envelope chart at Section 1201.a in reference to Article XII (Natural Resource Protection Standards, Site Capacity Calculations, Open Space Standards, and Buffers).

Amendment 38 provides for a new subsection in Section 17137 (Hearings) under Article XVII (Zoning Hearing Board) in terms of making the provisions consistent with applicable provisions of the Pennsylvania Municipalities Planning Code.

Amendment 39 provides that all references to a minimum impervious surface ratio in the area and dimensional requirements as set forth in Sections 402, 502, 602, 702 and 802 are corrected to refer to a maximum impervious surface ratio.

Amendment 40 provides for an amendment to the Zoning Map to reflect the creation of the new R-3 Residential District.

Article III – Publication of Amendments.  This section provides that the amendments to the Zoning Ordinance and Zoning Map as affected by this Ordinance, together with all previous provisions unaffected by this Ordinance, appear in and are part of the publication entitled, “Riegelsville Borough Zoning Ordinance, Bucks County, Pennsylvania (Revised: June, 2011),” which published codification is hereby adopted as such upon enactment of this Ordinance.

 Article IV – Repealer.  This section provides that all provisions of the Zoning Ordinance or Zoning Map unaffected by this Ordinance are hereby declared to be in full force and effect and any provisions of the Zoning Ordinance or Zoning Map inconsistent with the terms of this Ordinance are hereby repealed to the extent of the inconsistency.

Article V – Severability.  This section provides that the provisions of this Ordinance are declared to be severable and that if any section, clause or phrase of this Ordinance is declared by a court of competent jurisdiction to be invalid or unconstitutional, such determination shall have no effect on the remaining provisions of this Ordinance or on the provisions of the Zoning Ordinance or the Zoning Map.

 Article VI – Effective Date.  The Ordinance and by reference, the Riegelsville Borough Zoning Ordinance, Bucks County, Pennsylvania (Revised: June, 2011)  shall become effective upon the date of its adoption and its incorporation by reference into the Borough’s Code of Ordinances with the same force and effect as if duly recorded therein.

Prepared by the   Solicitor:

William T. Dudeck, Esquire

Eastburn and Gray, P.C.

60 East Court Street

P.O. Box 1389

Doylestown, PA 1890-10137

(215) 345-7000

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January 2012 Council Minutes

President Thomas E. Stinnett called the regular meeting of the Riegelsville Borough Council to order at 7:30 p.m. January 11, 2012. Following the Pledge of Allegiance a roll call was taken.  PRESENT: Edward Bartosiewicz, Rodney Scott, Thomas Stinnett, Kathleen Weiss and Mayor Stokes Present after Council appointed Richard Pursell to the open Council seat.

E. Bartosiewicz motioned to approve the minutes of the December 14, 2011 Council Meeting and R. Scott seconded.  Unanimous.

            E. Bartosiewicz motioned to approve the minutes of the January 3, 2012 Reorganization Council meeting and K. Weiss seconded. Unanimous

CORRESPONDENCE:  

E-mail dated December 31, 2011 from Borough resident, Vickie Weaver commented that the Candles that where lit on Christmas Eve near the churches was very beautiful.  V. Weaver suggested that everyone in town should get involved next year and go throughout the whole town. K. Weiss suggested somehow doing a fundraiser with this project.  S. Masteller forwarded this email to St Peter’s Lutheran Church since they provided the luminaries.

Letter dated January 5, 2012 from the Office of the Bucks County Recorder of Deeds in reference of Annual Senior Forum on January 27th, 2012 sponsored by State Representative Marguerite C. Quinn.

REPORTS:

President – T. Stinnett reported to Council the passing of William Aubel, past Mayor of the Borough who lived in Florida and also the passing of Borough Resident Elizabeth “Bette” Johnson, Funeral will be Friday January 13, 2012 at Snyder’s Funeral Home.

Mayor – Mayor Stokes reported to Council that he attended the Riegelsville Emergency management meeting and they are looking to get wax boards to put in the Borough to help communicate with residents during an emergency.

CITIZENS COMMENTS:

Bob Rainey reported to Council that the Riegelsville Enhancement Committee that the Pocket Park project is 95% complete and the benches will be put in during the spring. B. Rainey would like to request a yearend report from T. Macaluso; S. Masteller will have T. Macaluso prepare the report before their meeting on January 25, 2012. Hoagie Sale Fundraiser will be Superbowl Sunday $6.00.

E. Albrecht reported that the Fire Co. will do Friday Night Fish Fry starting February 24 until April 6th 5pm to 7pm.  Easter Flowers will be sold on April 5, 6, 7th 2012 at Antique Haven. Roast beef dinner is May 5th, 2012.

Borough office received 4 letters of intent from Borough Resident to fill the open Council seat. Three where present at the Council meeting. David Wilson, Wayne Sisco and Rich Pursell introduced themselves to Council and explained why they were interested in being appointed the Council seat.  E. Bartosiewicz motioned to appoint Rich Pursell to the open Council seat K. Weiss seconded Unanimous. T. Stinnett, Council President stated that since R. Pursell has Streets experience that E. Bartosiewicz will be the Chair of the Community Affairs Committee and R. Pursell will be the Chair of the Streets & Properties Committee.

COMMITTEE REPORTS:  No Committee meetings since December 14th, 2011 Council meeting.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS: 

Approval of Resolution #R-01-12 Bucks County 2011 Hazard Mitigation Plan E. Bartosiewicz motioned to approve R. Pursell seconded   Unanimous

Approval of check for $490.00 to Ed Bartosiewicz (repair the borough Building slate roof) K. Weiss motioned to approve R. Scott seconded E. Bartosiewicz abstained since the check was to himself. Unanimous

Approval of Barry Hoffman to furnish and install all electrical work for a generator connection at Well #3 proposal $6,480.00. R. Scott motioned to approve E. Bartosiewicz seconded Unanimous

NEW BUSINESS:

Approval of the 2011 Exoneration List for per Capita. R. Scott motioned to approve K. Weiss seconded Unanimous

Approval Of the 2011 unpaid Per Capita List E. Bartosiewicz motioned to approve R. Scott seconded Unanimous

APPROVAL OF BILLS:     K. Weiss motioned to approve bills as listed R. Scott seconded (E. Bartosiewicz abstained only from check #9504 for $ 490.00 to himself the rest of the bills he approved)    T. Stinnett voted yes to pay the bills as listed.

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