November 25, 2002

The Board of Supervisors of Pennsbury Township held a regular meeting on Monday, November 25, 2002. All members, Mr. Patten and Kathy Howley were present and the minutes approved as submitted.

Earned Income Tax vs Property Tax

A proposed ordinance was advertised for adoption of a change from a township property tax to an earned income tax. Several mailings have been sent to residents asking for their input. Jim Hunt was present from Berkheimer Assoc. to answer any questions. The township received input through emails, fax and telephone calls on this subject. Mr. Reynolds proceeded to give an overview of why the township has proposed this and other pertinent statistical data. The following was noted:

• the supervisors value public input
• the township is financially stable - not presently increasing revenues
• we have one of the lowest tax rates in the County
• we can change the way we tax without a referendum up to 1% EIT or 14 mils
• 1/3 of the property tax funds the township
• Bill went over the different types of tax parcels and what revenues they generate
• reviewed the pros and cons of tax collection under both methods
• went over options available to the township
• noted 40% of total population will pay the earned income tax. Residents present did not feel this was fair

The meeting was opened for discussion. Residents present, in general, felt the tax was unfair since there would be property owners living in the township that would pay no township tax. They felt everyone should pay and did not see a need to change the method of taxation if this was going to be revenue neutral. EIT would discourage open space especially those who have their land in Act. 319 or 515. Steve McClaskey appreciated the effort the township made to communicate this information to residents but he too opposed the change. After much discussions Bill Holloway moved to keep the property tax. The vote was unanimous.

Steger Gowie Land Development Plan - Dan Wright was present requesting a conditional approval for the plan. The outstanding items are:

• final approval of the landscaping plan by Anne Walters
• final review by the Chester County Health Department.
• determine if any escrows are needed for landscaping

The Board approved the plan and will sign it when the above items are satisfied.

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November 25, 2002

Dave Patten stated that the Board of Supervisors has 30 days in which to name a replacement for Bill Holloway who will be resigning effective December 31, 2002. If no one is named, then the Vacancy Board will appoint someone. The position will be on the May 2003 ballot.

Reese Reynolds reported that emergency management is conducting training programs for all members of their team. The next one will be December 7^th at 9 a.m. and January 11, 2003.

The resolution for the recreation fee was signed by the Board. The fee is $2000 per dwelling unit - new construction.

Dave Patten reported that Jeff Berlin wants indemnity from the township before he does the work on Judy Duke's property. Since he will be doing the work on her property, he must seek this from her.

Ms. Howley asked Mr. Patten to put together a resolution for "records request" to comply with the recent legislation addressing this issue.

A bill list dated November 25^th numbering 3986-4030, State Fund #167 was submitted and approved for payment by the Board. With no further business the meeting adjourned at 9:45 p.m.

Respectfully submitted:

Kathleen Howley

Township Manager