Supervisors adopt 2015 budget
By Kris Firey-Poling, Correspondent, The Times
Birmingham Police Chief Thomas Nelling (center) introduces new part time police officers John Pot (left) and Kevin Urbany (right) during Monday night’s township Board of Supervisors meeting.
BIRMINGHAM — In many ways, it was a night for the township’s police force!
Township Secretary/Treasurer Quina Nelling opened Monday night’s Board of Supervisors meeting by acknowledging Chief of Police Thomas Nelling’s 30 years of service.
“He is the go-to guy for everything, from down trees to snow to fires. He has been a true servant to our community,” explained Nelling.
Not enjoying the spotlight, Chief Nelling quickly changed the subject to discuss the proposed police association contract. Birmingham has been without a police contract in the past, and the group requested a formal approach to base pay and raises. After reviewing contract highlights, the Board accepted the proposed agreement that goes into effect January 1, 2015.
Also, Chief Nelling introduced two new part-time police officers, John Pot and Kevin Urbany. Both officers expressed their interest in meeting Birmingham residents and getting to work.
The township currently has three full-time and six part-time police staff that provide 24/7 coverage.
In addition, Chief Nelling also proposed selling the used 2008 Dodge Charger to a New Jersey bidder for $4400.
“The online bidding exceeded the township’s expectation in price,” stated Supervisor Scott Boorse. The Board of Supervisors accepted this highest bid for the retired vehicle.
In his November report, Nelling cited 913 incidents, 6187 police miles logged, and four criminal arrests.
One resident asked if he noticed an increase in crime in response to the economy.
Nelling described one burglary during the Thanksgiving holiday, adding that the home was unsecured, the owners were away, and they did not report the incident. Nelling then replied, “Overall, there has been no increase in township crime.”
In other township business, PHP Enterprise owner Paul Canavarro questioned what he still needs to do to comply with ordinances as they relate to Stillman Volvo’s use of his property.
Edward Stillman is seeking access from his dealership to the PHP property, located in Thornbury Township, for car storage.
According to Rich Jensen, Building Code Officer, “There are two concerns. The rutted path is unsuitable for driving cars back and forth. When this becomes muddy, it will go out on township roads. Also, we need to identify the location of the septic. It cannot be below the parking area.”
After lengthy discussion, Supervisor Chairman John Conklin said, “The Board cannot approve this request when issues are still up in the air.” He instructed Canavarro to wait for Jensen’s written report, correct non-compliant issues, and report back at next month’s meeting.
Also, the Board approved the 2015 Budget, reinforcing no increase in property tax. According to Conklin, there were no comments in response to advertising this budget in the Daily Local News.
In other business, the Board approved the order for Infinity of West Chester to add three building additions on 1265 Wilmington Pike.
Supervisors also appointed BBD, LLP to complete the 2014 Audit at a cost of $5,000.
