Cove Gap public meetings in 2025

Planning Commission

The Cove Gap Planning Commission will meet to approve minutes, discuss a sketch plan for a car wash at 101 Wallace Avenue, and consider a conditional use request for a 20-unit apartment building at 114 Washington Avenue.

• Approve meeting minutes from November and May
• Sketch plan for car wash at 101 Wallace Avenue
• Conditional use request for 20-unit apartment building at 114 Washington Avenue
• C-3 Zoning discussion
• Engineering & Code Department update

The commission unanimously recommended approval of volunteer applicants Ted Roehrig and Joe Borgioni, with Borough Council to decide which will be the voting member. The commission also unanimously recommended appointing both applicants to the Planning Commission. Minutes from the November 3 and May 5, 2025 meetings were approved unanimously. Member David Proctor announced his resignation effective end of December 2025.

• Approved November 3, 2025 minutes (all voting aye)
• Approved May 5, 2025 minutes (all voting aye)
• Recommended approval of volunteer applicants Ted Roehrig and Joe Borgioni (all voting aye)
• Recommended appointment of both volunteers to the Planning Commission (all voting aye)

Borough Council

The Borough Council will meet to decide on the final 2026 budget, the real estate millage rate, and refuse and recycling fees for 2026. The body will also consider personnel appointments and franchise renewals.

• Final 2026 Budget approval
• Resolution 2025-20: 2026 Real Estate Millage Rate
• Resolution 2025-21: 2026 Refuse and Recycling Fees
• Ordinance 2025-08: Increase of Council Members Compensation
• Zoning Hearing Board fee waiver for 507 Thomas Road application

The Downingtown Borough Council unanimously approved the final budget for 2026. It also set the 2026 real estate millage rate and increased refuse and recycling fees. A 4‑3 vote approved an ordinance raising council members' compensation. Additional items such as collective‑bargaining agreements and several appointments were also approved.

• Approved final 2026 budget (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 2025-20 setting 2026 real estate millage rate (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 2025-21 increasing refuse and recycling fees for 2026 (unanimous)
• Approved Ordinance 2025-08 increasing council members' compensation (4‑3, Mayor broke tie)
• Approved MOU with Downingtown Police Association (unanimous)
• Approved MOU with AFSCME union (unanimous)
• Waived Zoning Hearing Board fee for 507 Thomas Road application (unanimous)
• Re‑appointed Alex Rakoff to Downingtown Municipal Water Authority Board (5‑0, Rakoff abstained)

Shade Tree Commission

The Downingtown Shade Tree Commission will meet to discuss tree planting initiatives and grant opportunities. The body will review a recent planting meeting and the Trees for Watersheds Grant.

• Borough Newsletter contributions
• Tree Planting Meeting held 11/20/25
• FEMA Lots fill material
• Future Riparian Buffer Planting
• Trees for Watersheds Grant

Borough Council

The Borough Council will discuss waiving parking fees from November 27, 2025 through January 2, 2026. They will also hold a conditional use hearing for a project at 104 Brandywine Avenue. No other business is scheduled for this work session.

• Waive parking fees Nov 27, 2025 – Jan 2, 2026
• Conditional Use Application hearing for 104 Brandywine Avenue

The council approved waiving parking fees in the business district from November 27, 2025 to January 2, 2026, while keeping the 2‑hour street‑parking limit; the motion carried unanimously. The borough solicitor announced that the conditional‑use hearing for 104 Brandywine Avenue will be continued to January 21, 2026 at 6:30 p.m., with public comment allowed then.

• Waived parking fees in business district Nov 27‑2025 to Jan 2‑2026 (unanimous)
• Continued conditional‑use hearing for 104 Brandywine Ave to Jan 21‑2026 at 6:30 p.m.
• Adjourned meeting at 6:58 p.m. (unanimous)

Flood Advisory Committee

The committee will meet to discuss the scope of a future Downingtown feasibility study. The agenda also includes updates on grant funding, the PEMA Buy Out Program, and storm water authority development.

• Discussion of scope for Downingtown feasibility study
• PEMA Buy Out Program update on line abandonment
• Review of alert siren use and cost analysis
• Status of public camera feeds and private stream gauges
• Downingtown Storm Water Authority Development

The Flood Advisory Committee deferred approval of the July, August, and September meeting minutes to a later meeting. The Downingtown Storm Water Authority Development item was also deferred. The committee adjourned the meeting at 7:43 p.m. by a unanimous motion.

• Deferred approval of July, August, and September meeting minutes
• Deferred Downingtown Storm Water Authority Development
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Historic Commission

The Downingtown Borough Historic Commission will meet to approve minutes and discuss old business including merchandise and paint chart updates. The agenda includes new business regarding a property at 601 E. Lancaster Ave, membership renewal for CCHPN, and the use of temporary office space at Borough Hall.

• Approval of November minutes
• Merchandise and paint chart updates
• 601 E. Lancaster Ave property discussion
• CCHPN Membership renewal
• Temporary office space at Borough Hall

The commission approved the September 2025 meeting minutes. They also ordered supplies for the upcoming Santa event. No other substantive actions were decided.

• Approved September 2025 minutes (no vote recorded)
• Ordered supplies for Santa event (no vote recorded)

Borough Council

The borough council will review and approve expenditures for October 2025 and adopt the October meeting minutes. In new business, council members will hear a conditional use request for 104 Brandywine Avenue, a land development application for 181 St. Joseph’s Lane, and a shared parking proposal for 78 W. Lancaster Avenue. They will also consider drafting an ordinance to increase council member compensation, and other resolutions and agreements.

• Conditional Use Application/Hearing – 104 Brandywine Avenue
• Preliminary/Final Land Development Application – 181 St. Joseph’s Lane
• Shared Parking Concept – 78 W. Lancaster Avenue
• Drafting and advertising ordinance to increase council member compensation
• Approval of the Preliminary 2026 Budget

The council unanimously approved the preliminary 2026 budget and a grant application to fund a new generator costing about $687,000. It also approved land development plans for 181 St. Joseph’s Lane, a shared parking concept for 78 W. Lancaster Avenue, and the Minquas EMS cost‑sharing agreement. A motion to raise council member compensation to $4,190 and the mayor’s salary to $8,385 passed 4‑1. Additional items such as the expenditures report, minutes, and police cadet sponsorships were also approved unanimously.

• Approved Expenditures (period ending Oct 31 2025) – unanimous
• Approved preliminary 2026 budget – unanimous
• Approved generator grant submission (~$687,000) – unanimous
• Approved land development plans for 181 St. Joseph’s Lane – unanimous
• Approved shared parking agreement concept for 78 W. Lancaster Avenue – unanimous
• Approved council member compensation increase to $4,190 and mayor’s to $8,385 – 4‑1
• Approved Minquas EMS cost‑sharing agreement for 2026 – unanimous
• Ratified police officer cadet sponsorship agreements – unanimous

Parks and Recreation Commission

The Parks and Recreation Commission will receive updates on the Restore Our Roots program, the Mural/Arts Fest, and a recap of 2025 events. It will then look ahead to the 2026 calendar and consider new ideas for future activities. The meeting includes a public comment period before adjournment.

• Restore Our Roots update
• Mural/Arts Fest update
• 2025 event recap
• 2026 calendar look ahead
• New Business (new ideas)

Planning Commission

The Cove Gap Planning Commission will consider a conditional‑use application for an 85‑unit apartment building (plus two existing units) at 104 Brandywine. The commission will also discuss matters related to C‑3 zoning. Additional agenda items include updates from the Engineering & Code Department and the Borough Council.

• Conditional‑use application for an 85‑unit apartment building at 104 Brandywine
• Discussion of C‑3 zoning issues
• Engineering & Code Department update
• Borough Council update

The commission approved the minutes from the October 20, 2025 meeting unanimously. It then voted to recommend the conditional use application for 104 Brandywine Ave to the Borough Council, attaching ten specific conditions; the motion passed unanimously with one member not voting. No other substantive actions, such as zoning changes, were decided at this meeting.

• Approved minutes of Oct 20, 2025 meeting (unanimous)
• Recommended 104 Brandywine Ave conditional use to Borough Council with ten conditions (unanimous, Joe Ferris did not vote)
• Motion to adjourn adopted (David Proctor, 8:20 p.m.)

Shade Tree Commission

The Shade Tree Commission will discuss several items, including a grant for watershed trees and a property at 181 St Josephs Lane. Commissioners will review and vote on the commission's mission and vision statements. Additional topics include a website presence and a contribution to the November borough newsletter.

• Armor Alley – guests Alexis Law and Kirsten MacLaughlin of KM Gardens
• “The Borough” – tree planting specifications and schedule a meeting
• 181 St Josephs Lane
• Trees for Watersheds Grant
• Vote on STC Mission and STC Vision statements

Borough Council

The borough council will present and discuss the preliminary budget for fiscal year 2026. The meeting also includes standard procedural items such as a call to order, pledge of allegiance, and a public comment period. No deferred business is listed. The council will adjourn after the agenda items are completed.

• 2026 Preliminary Budget Presentation and Discussion
• Citizens to be Heard (public comment period)
• Deferred Business – None

The council discussed the 2026 preliminary budget, noting that the Refuse Fund rate will now be $90 per quarter and that a fire tax increase is anticipated. Councilor Roehrig announced an official Halloween trick‑or‑treat period of 6‑8 PM. The meeting was adjourned by a unanimous motion.

• Set Refuse Fund rate to $90 per quarter (no vote recorded)
• Declared Halloween trick‑or‑treat hours 6‑8 PM (no vote recorded)
• Adjourned meeting (motion carried unanimously)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will consider the 104 Brandywine Conditional Use application for an 85‑unit apartment building. It will also review a shared parking agreement for 72‑78 W. Lancaster Avenue and a proposed two‑unit building at 181 St Josephs Lane. Additional agenda items include a C‑3 zoning district review and updates from the Engineering & Code Department.

• 104 Brandywine Conditional Use application – 85‑unit apartment building
• 72‑78 W. Lancaster Avenue shared parking agreement application
• 181 St Josephs Lane proposed two‑unit building
• C‑3 zoning district review
• Engineering & Code Department update

The commission voted unanimously to move forward with the enclosure of Anthony’s restaurant outdoor dining area, adding a condition for a permanent deed restriction on shared parking. A motion was made to defer the 104 Brandywine Ave conditional‑use application until the November 3 meeting. The commission also carried a motion approving the two‑family dwelling proposal at 181 St. Joseph Lane with specified conditions.

• Approved enclosure of Anthony’s restaurant outdoor dining area with deed‑restriction condition (unanimous)
• Deferred 104 Brandywine Ave conditional‑use application to Nov 3 meeting
• Approved two‑family dwelling at 181 St. Joseph Lane with conditions (motion carried)

Borough Council

The Borough Council will meet to review expenditures and several new business items. Decisions include approvals for a pension contribution ordinance and a DCED grant amendment for Main Street Matters.

• Ordinance 2025-07 regarding 2022 Pension Contribution
• Resolution 2025-15 to amend DCED Grant Submission-Main Street Matters
• Bid awards for Public Works Equipment and Fire Apparatus from Municibid
• Appointment of Megan Stellfox to the Zoning Hearing Board as an Alternate
• Discipline Agreement between Downingtown Borough and the Downingtown Police Association

The Downingtown Borough Council unanimously approved the September 2025 expenditures and the prior meeting minutes. It also approved Ordinance 2025-07 (2022 pension contribution amendment), Resolution 2025-15 (Main Street Matters grant amendment), the borough’s participation agreement for employee medical coverage with the Delaware County Health Trust, bid awards for public‑works equipment and fire apparatus sold on Municibid, and the appointment of Megan Stellfox as an alternate on the Zoning Hearing Board. The council approved a discipline agreement with the Downingtown Police Association by a 5‑1 vote.

• Approved Expenditures for period ending Sep 30, 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved September 3, 2025 council minutes (unanimous)
• Approved Ordinance 2025-07 for 2022 pension contribution amendment (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 2025-15 to amend Main Street Matters grant (unanimous)
• Approved participation agreement for employee medical coverage with Delaware County Health Trust (unanimous)
• Approved bid awards for public‑works equipment and fire apparatus sold on Municibid (unanimous)
• Approved appointment of Megan Stellfox as alternate Zoning Hearing Board member (term expires Dec 2027) (unanimous)
• Approved discipline agreement with Downingtown Police Association (5‑1 vote)

Shade Tree Commission

The Shade Tree Commission will discuss and vote on its mission, vision, and website presence. It will also receive an update on the Armor Alley project and consider contributions to the Borough October newsletter. Additional items include signage for the Leave the Leaves campaign and a citizen comment period.

• Vote on Shade Tree Commission (STC) Mission
• Vote on STC Vision
• Vote on STC Website Presence
• Article for the Borough October Newsletter
• Signage for the Leave the Leaves campaign locations

The commission postponed the STC Mission/Vision/Website discussion. It also tabled planning for the Friends Fall Fest scheduled for October 11. The commission assigned tasks to schedule meetings with Keith, and with Kiersten MacLaughlin and Alexis from Public Works, and to email the "Leave the Leaves" article to Val for the October newsletter.

• Tabled STC Mission/Vision/Website discussion (postponed)
• Tabled Friends Fall Fest planning (postponed)
• Schedule meeting with Keith (to be arranged)
• Schedule meeting with Kiersten MacLaughlin and Alexis from Public Works (to be arranged)
• Email "Leave the Leaves" article to Val for October newsletter (assigned)

Flood Advisory Committee

The Flood Advisory Committee will approve any outstanding minutes and review updates on several flood‑related programs. Deferred items include a tentative Emergency Response Plan drill on 10/16/25 at 137 Modena Dr, updates on the PEMA Buy‑Out Program, Downingtown Strong, grant funding, camera and private stream gauge status, and the Downingtown Storm Water Authority development. New business includes a request for the DFAC to join the committee and an action item to send the borough a letter detailing the cost and use of an alert siren. The meeting will also include a period for citizens to be heard before adjourning.

• Tentative Emergency Response Plan drill on 10/16/25 at 137 Modena Dr
• PEMA Buy‑Out Program update
• Downingtown Storm Water Authority development discussion
• DFAC request to join the committee
• Action item: send borough a letter on cost and use of an alert siren

The Flood Advisory Committee deferred approval of the July and August meeting minutes to a future meeting. The committee adjourned unanimously at 7:53 p.m. No other actions were taken; remaining items were provided as updates or deferred for later discussion.

• Deferred approval of July and August meeting minutes
• Adjourned meeting unanimously

Historic Commission

The Downingtown Borough Historic Commission will meet on September 10, 2025. The agenda includes recaps of recent events, a review of the First Sunday schedule for October and November, and discussion of an ordinance change. Additional topics include the borough’s 250th anniversary, a Santa event, and a senior graduation project by Carmella.

• Ordinance Change/update
• First Sunday – recap & October/November Schedule
• 250th – Discussion
• Santa – Discussion
• Senior Graduation Project – Carmella

The Downingtown Borough Historic Commission met on September 10, 2025. After a call to order and a roll call, the commission approved the minutes from the June 11, 2025 meeting. No other substantive actions, approvals, or votes were recorded in the minutes.

• Approved minutes for June 11, 2025

Borough Council

The Cove Gap Borough Council will meet on September 3, 2025, to approve expenditures, minutes, and recognize life-saving efforts during Hurricane Ida. The council will also discuss and potentially vote on several new items, including a zoning amendment for 114 Washington Avenue, a sanitary sewer access easement, and police pension contributions for 2023, 2025, and 2026.

• Amended Zoning Hearing Board Application for 114 Washington Avenue
• Approval of Sanitary Sewer Access Easement Agreement
• Approval of Resolution 2025-16 Transportation Alternatives Set Aside (TASA) Grant Application
• Approval of Resolution 2025-17 Police Pension Contribution Percentage for 2023, 2025, and 2026
• Authorizing advertisement for sale of Public Works and Fire Apparatus on Municibid

The Downingtown Borough Council approved several resolutions, including police pension contribution percentages for 2023, 2025, and 2026, and a five‑year Beaver Creek Gage Agreement with the Chester County Water Resources Authority. Additional approvals covered the sanitary sewer access easement, a transportation grant application, and a public‑works change order under $100,000. All motions passed unanimously except the police MMO, which passed 5‑0 with the President abstaining.

• Approved Expenditures for period ending Aug 31, 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved Sanitary Sewer Access Easement Agreement (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 2025-16 Transportation Alternatives Set‑Aside grant (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 2025-17 Police Pension Contribution Percentage for 2023, 2025, 2026 (unanimous)
• Authorized advertisement of 2022 pension ordinance amendment (unanimous)
• Approved 2026 Police & Non‑Uniform Pension MMO (5‑0; President abstained)
• Approved Chester County Water Resources Authority Beaver Creek Gage Agreement (unanimous)
• Approved Change Order #1 for Public Works Facility drainage (cost < $100,000, unanimous)

Shade Tree Commission

The Shade Tree Commission will review tree planting updates for 'The Borough' and Armor Alley. The meeting will also cover the commission's mission, vision, and website presence. The agenda includes a 'Leave the Leaves' campaign.

• Tree planting updates for 'The Borough' and Armor Alley
• Review of STC mission and vision
• Discussion on STC website presence
• Borough Newsletter contributions
• Leave the Leaves Campaign

The Shade Tree Commission identified several items for future discussion, including meeting with KM Designs about the Armor Alley garden, developing a mission statement, creating a vision/website and newsletter, and planning signage for the "Leave the Leaves" areas near disc golf hole #12 and the Brandywine Creek. No votes or approvals were recorded.

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will meet to approve minutes from the June 16 meeting and discuss a proposed five-lot subdivision at 601 E Lancaster Ave. A work session on the Comprehensive Plan and updates from Engineering & Code and Council are also scheduled.

• 601 E Lancaster Ave proposed five-lot subdivision
• June 16, 2025 meeting minutes approval

The commission approved the June 16, 2025 meeting minutes. Members discussed a proposed five‑lot subdivision at 601 E Lancaster Ave, noting traffic, drainage, and sidewalk concerns. Updates were given on several engineering, flood‑mitigation, and code compliance projects, but no votes were taken on those items. The meeting was adjourned.

• Approved June 16, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Motion to adjourn passed

Borough Council

The Borough Council will hold public hearings regarding zoning amendments for tobacco, vape, and medical marijuana shops. The body will also consider ordinances regarding vacant property registration and UCC amendments.

• Public Hearing for Ordinance 2025-05 Zoning Amendment (Tobacco and Vape Shops)
• Public Hearing for Ordinance 2025-06-Zoning Amendment (Medical Marijuana)
• Ordinance 2025-02-Amendment to Vacant Property Registration Ordinance
• Zoning Hearing Board Applications for 330 E. Lancaster Avenue, 355 Washington Avenue, and 222 Whiteland Avenue
• Resolution 2025-15-DCED Main Street Grant Application

The Downingtown Borough Council approved the period‑ending July 31 2025 expenditures and the July 2 2025 meeting minutes. It ratified the conditional employment offer for Interim Codes Manager Brian Willicombe and approved four zoning‑related ordinances covering tobacco/vape shops, medical marijuana, vacant property registration, and a UCC amendment. The council also approved a resolution to submit a DCED Main Street Grant application.

• Approved Expenditures for period ending July 31 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved July 2 2025 Council minutes (unanimous)
• Ratified conditional offer of employment for Interim Codes Manager Brian Willicombe (unanimous)
• Approved Ordinance 2025‑05 (tobacco & vape shop zoning amendment) (unanimous)
• Approved Ordinance 2025‑06 (medical marijuana zoning amendment) (unanimous)
• Approved Ordinance 2025‑02 (vacant property registration amendment) (unanimous)
• Approved Ordinance 2025‑03 (UCC amendment) (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 2025‑15 for DCED Main Street Grant application (unanimous)

Shade Tree Commission

The Shade Tree Commission will review ongoing projects for Lancaster Avenue and Armor Alley. The body will also discuss a presentation from the Chester County Planning Sustainability Director and various funding opportunities.

• Lancaster Avenue street trees
• Armor Alley project
• Presentation by Rachael Griffith, Chester County Planning Sustainability Director
• Texas Roadhouse donation
• FEMA homes and demolition on Brandywine Avenue

The commission postponed the discussion of its mission, vision, website presence, and borough newsletter to the August meeting. It agreed to attend the next Main Street Association meeting to discuss Armor Alley maintenance ideas and approved reimbursement to Tara for the Texas Roadhouse donation. The board also scheduled a Garden Tour fundraiser for August 23, with Kelly, Mark and Tara hosting and flyers to be posted in Kelly’s yard and other locations.

• Deferred STC mission/vision, website and newsletter items to August meeting
• Planned attendance at next Main Street Association meeting for Armor Alley maintenance ideas
• Approved reimbursement to Tara for Texas Roadhouse donation
• Scheduled Garden Tour fundraiser for Aug 23, hosted by Kelly, Mark, and Tara
• Decided to post a flyer for the Garden Tour in Kelly’s yard and other locations

Flood Advisory Committee

The committee is reviewing updates on emergency response, PEMA buyouts, and grant funding. Members will discuss the potential creation of a storm water authority and a proposed tax of $1 per person per month.

• Discussion of a proposed storm water tax of $1 per person per month
• Next steps for approved $25k in technical support
• Updates on PEMA Buy Out Program and Borough Grant funding
• Review of USGS monitoring station and camera projects
• Appointment of a new member to replace Cori Trice

Borough Council

The Borough Council will consider a post issuance debt policy and a grant for a flood mitigation study. The body will also discuss three Zoning Hearing Board applications and several appointments to the Sustainability Advisory Committee.

• Resolution 2025-14-CRP Grant for Flood Mitigation Study
• Zoning Hearing Board Application 104 Brandywine Ave
• Zoning Hearing Board Application 11 Stuart Avenue
• Zoning Hearing Board Application 114 Washington Avenue
• Resolution 2025-13 and Letter of Support for SEPTA Funding

The Borough Council unanimously adopted Resolution 2025-13 urging the state to find permanent funding for SEPTA. It also approved the Post‑Issuance Debt Policy and the period‑ending June 30 2025 expenditures. The Council voted unanimously to send the Borough Solicitor to oppose three zoning applications and approved a flood‑mitigation study grant. All motions were carried with the votes recorded in the minutes.

• Approved expenditures for period ending June 30, 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved Post Issuance Debt Policy (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 2025-13 supporting SEPTA funding (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 2025-14 for CRP flood‑mitigation study (unanimous)
• Sent Borough Solicitor to oppose 104 Brandywine Avenue zoning application (unanimous)
• Sent Borough Solicitor to oppose 11 Stuart Avenue zoning application (unanimous)
• Sent Borough Solicitor to oppose 114 Washington Avenue zoning application (4‑0, 1 abstain)
• Appointed Erica Deuso and Ben Griffin to Sustainability Advisory Committee (unanimous)

Shade Tree Commission

The Downingtown Shade Tree Commission will review updates on tree planting projects and establish the commission's mission and vision. The body will also discuss its website presence and contributions to the Borough newsletter.

• Veteran’s Memorial Trees updates
• Tree planting updates for "The Borough"
• Armor Alley project
• Establishment of STC Mission and Vision
• STC Website and Borough Newsletter presence

The Shade Tree Commission reviewed recent tree removals and plantings, noted pending work on the borough restaurant tree well, and outlined mission, vision, and website content ideas. It also scheduled a meeting with a planning official for July 22. No votes or formal approvals were recorded.

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will review a Zoning Hearing Board application and a use update for 11 Stuart Laundromat. The body will also hold a work session regarding the Comprehensive Plan and discuss a Sustainable Downtown initiative.

• Zoning Hearing Board Application for 104 Brandywine Avenue
• Use update for 11 Stuart Laundromat
• Sustainable Downtown discussion
• Comprehensive Plan work session

The commission noted that there were no minutes to approve. It formally tabled the correctional‑use application for 104 Brandywine Avenue. No updates were reported for the Comprehensive Plan. The meeting concluded with a motion to adjourn.

• Noted no minutes to approve
• Tabled correctional‑use application for 104 Brandywine Ave

Flood Advisory Committee

The committee will review updates on the Emergency Response Plan drill and the PEMA Buy Out Program. Members will discuss grant funding and specific project scopes for Mary St and Kardon Park.

• $1.5 mil Mary St Scope
• Additional $3 mil for a project
• $25k approved for technical support
• PEMA Buy Out Program update
• Discussion regarding Kardon Park with Verdants

Historic Commission

The Historic Commission is meeting to review old business regarding specific local sites and merchandise. The body will also discuss new business including paint colors and updates to the Borough Code.

• Discussion of 149 E. Lancaster Ave (The Borough Restaurant)
• Marinelli Park service recap
• Log House merchandise
• Pantone paint colors
• Update to Borough Code

Borough Council

The Borough Council will meet to discuss several new ordinances and grant submissions. The body is considering the adoption of Ordinance 2025-04 regarding debt for facilities and the advertisement of regulations for vape shops and medical marijuana dispensaries.

• Ordinance 2025-04: Issuance of Debt for Borough Facilities
• Proposed ordinances for vape shop separation and medical marijuana regulation
• Amendment to Ordinance 2025-02 regarding Neighborhood Blight Protection
• Resolution 2025-11 (PennDOT ARLE Grant) and Resolution 2025-12 (PA DEP Growing Greener Grant)
• Ratification of a conditional offer for a new police officer

The Downingtown Borough Council adopted Ordinance 2025-04 to issue debt for public works, police and borough hall upgrades, passing 4-1. It also approved the May 31, 2025 expenditures and the May 7 meeting minutes unanimously. Several ordinance advertisements and two grant resolutions were approved unanimously. Multiple appointments to commissions were confirmed without opposition.

• Approved expenditures for period ending May 31, 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved May 7, 2025 council minutes (5-0)
• Adopted Ordinance 2025-04 debt issuance for borough facilities (4-1)
• Approved advertisement of Uniform Construction Code amendment (unanimous)
• Approved advertisement of vape shop separation requirements (unanimous)
• Approved advertisement of medical marijuana regulation ordinance (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 2025-11 authorizing PennDOT ARLE Grant submission (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 2025-12 authorizing PA DEP Growing Greener Grant re‑application (unanimous)

Shade Tree Commission

The Downingtown Shade Tree Commission will discuss the results of a visit to Armor Alley and review previous revisions to the Shade Tree Ordinance. The body will also address the Tree City USA application and plans for a pollinator garden at Johnsontown Park.

• Recap of Armor Alley visit
• Review of Shade Tree Ordinance revisions
• Tree City USA Application
• Johnsontown Park Pollinator Garden
• Updates from Restore Our Roots

The commission directed Joe Ferris to add the financial information to the Tree City USA application. It approved a 4‑foot woven‑wire fence for the Pollinator Garden in Johnsontown Park, with Tara Muenz to pick up the fence and Joe Ferris to verify budget availability. The commission confirmed it and Restore Our Roots will not participate in the Summer Jam and will host a maintenance day at the Pollinator Garden on Saturday at 10 AM.

• Joe Ferris to add financial section to Tree City USA application
• Approved 4‑foot woven‑wire fence for Pollinator Garden (no vote recorded)
• Tara Muenz assigned to pick up fence materials
• Joe Ferris to check budget for fence purchase
• Shade Tree Commission and Restore Our Roots will not participate in Summer Jam
• Restore Our Roots to host maintenance day at Pollinator Garden Saturday 10 AM

Historic Commission

The Downingtown Borough Historic Commission is meeting to discuss building maintenance and community events. The body will review a paint request for a specific property and coordinate Memorial Day activities at Marinelli Park.

• Paint request for 149 E. Lancaster Avenue (Keith Critchley)
• Memorial Day flag presentation and coordination at Marinelli Park
• Yerkes House photography update
• East Ward tour of the Log House scheduled for May 25th
• CCHPN Recognition Volunteer Dinner on June 25th

The Downingtown Borough Historic Commission approved the minutes from the March meeting. The commission also discussed banner measurements, upcoming events, and future projects, but no other formal actions were decided.

• Approved March meeting minutes

Flood Advisory Committee

The committee will review updates on emergency response, grant funding, and the PEMA Buy Out Program. Members will discuss specific project scopes and funding requests for local infrastructure.

• $1.5 million Mary St Scope
• Request for additional $3 million for a project
• $25k approved technical support next steps
• Selection of a non-USGS monitoring station
• Discussion of Kardon Park with Verdants

Borough Council

The Borough Council will consider authorizing the drafting of an ordinance for general obligation debt to fund facilities enhancements, along with approving bids for borough facilities and a resolution for an Act 13 flood mitigation grant application. Other new business includes authorizing advertisement for the notice of intent to remediate Kardon Park and reviewing a Summer Jam mass gathering application. Proclamations for EMS Week and National Police Week, and the Downingtown Police Department's Handle with Care Registry are also on the agenda. The meeting will also approve expenditures and previous minutes.

• Authorize drafting of ordinance for general obligation debt for facilities enhancements
• Consider approval of bids for borough facilities
• Resolution 2025-10 for Act 13 flood mitigation grant application
• Authorize advertisement for notice of intent to remediate Kardon Park
• Summer Jam mass gathering application

The Downingtown Borough Council approved the period’s expenditures and the March and April meeting minutes. It authorized the drafting and advertisement of an ordinance to incur $9.8 million in general‑obligation debt for facilities enhancements. The council awarded contracts for the 126 Wallace Police Facility, the 260 Norwood Road Public Works Facility, and the 4 West Lancaster Avenue annex alteration. It also approved a flood‑mitigation grant resolution and the Summer Jam 2025 mass‑gathering application.

• Approved period expenditures (unanimous)
• Approved March 26 and April 2 council minutes (5-0, Rakoff abstained)
• Authorized drafting of $9.8 M general‑obligation debt ordinance (unanimous)
• Awarded BSS Contractors $2,396,000 for 126 Wallace Police Facility (unanimous)
• Awarded Uhrig Construction $5,324,134.38 for 260 Norwood Road Public Works Facility (unanimous)
• Awarded Uhrig Construction $2,210,000 for 4 W Lancaster Avenue annex alteration (5-1)
• Approved Resolution 2025-10 for Act 13 flood‑mitigation grant (unanimous)
• Approved Summer Jam 2025 mass‑gathering application (unanimous)

Parks and Recreation Commission

The Parks and Recreation Commission will meet to discuss updates on several projects and events, including the Restore Our Roots initiative, an Eagle Scout project, a charity event, a concert in Johnsontown, a park mural, and disc golf. The commission will also review 2025 event planning. No detailed packet information is included with the agenda.

• Restore Our Roots project updates
• Eagle Scout project
• Charity event
• Concert in Johnsontown
• 2025 event planning

Planning Commission

The Cove Gap Planning Commission will discuss several items including a medical marijuana and tobacco/vape use ordinance, a vacant property registration ordinance amendment, and a conditional use application at 104 Brandywine Avenue. The board will also consider a flood mitigation letter to the PA DCED and work on the comprehensive plan. Meeting minutes from April 7, 2025 are scheduled for approval.

• Conditional use application at 104 Brandywine Avenue
• Flood mitigation letter to the PA DCED
• Vacant property registration ordinance amendment
• Medical marijuana and tobacco/vape use ordinance
• Transportation Improvement Inventory

The Commission approved the minutes from the April 7, 2025 meeting unanimously. Matthew Bradley was approved as a voting member and Tim Knievel was approved as an alternate member, both by unanimous vote. The conditional use application for 104 Brandywin​e Avenue was tabled for later consideration.

• Approved April 7, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved Matthew Bradley as voting member (unanimous)
• Approved Tim Knievel as alternate member (unanimous)
• Tabled Conditional Use Application – 104 Brandywine Ave (no vote recorded)

Shade Tree Commission

The Downingtown Shade Tree Commission will discuss old and new business, including scheduling an Armor Alley visit for May 27, inviting Rachael Griffith to a meeting, and reviewing a May 1, 2021 ordinance draft. The commission will also address grant funding, signage resources, and updates from Restore Our Roots.

• Schedule Armor Alley visit for May 27 at 6 PM
• Invite Rachael Griffith to a meeting
• Review May 1, 2021 ordinance draft
• Discuss grant funding
• Discuss signage resources

The Shade Tree Commission did not adopt any resolutions or approvals. Members scheduled an Armor Alley visit for May 27, planned to contact Rachael Griffith for a future meeting, and assigned tasks such as uploading signage resources, creating a Google document for ideas, and preparing a maintenance guide. The commission also slated review of a May 1, 2021 ordinance draft for the next meeting. No votes or formal decisions were recorded.

Flood Advisory Committee

The Flood Advisory Committee will meet on April 10, 2025, at 7:00 p.m. to discuss updates on the Emergency Response Plan drill, PEMA Buy Out Program, Downingtown Strong, and the Downingtown Resilience Fund. Members will review grant funding applications, borough grant updates, and committee- and citizen-led projects, including selection of a non-USGS monitoring station. Barry will present requests for a combined effort with East Caln and Caln, a $1.5 million Mary Street scope, an additional $3 million for a project, meetings with Verdants regarding Kardon Park, and a Daisies letter of intent. Under new business, the committee will address next steps for approved $25k technical support.

• Update on Emergency Response Plan drill
• Update on PEMA Buy Out Program
• Discussion of $1.5 million Mary St flood mitigation scope
• Discussion of additional $3 million for a project
• Review of technical support ($25k approved) and next steps

The Flood Advisory Committee approved the March meeting minutes and the Intent to Remediate for Kardon Park, both unanimously. The board also approved comments to send back to the Brandywine Flood Study. It decided to postpone selecting a monitoring camera and to table a presentation to Council until more work is done. The meeting was adjourned unanimously.

• Approved March meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved Intent to Remediate (unanimous)
• Approved comments to Brandywine Flood Study (unanimous)
• Tabled discussion on selecting a monitoring camera until next meeting
• Tabled planning a presentation to Council until more work is done
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The Cove Gap Planning Commission will discuss a proposed ordinance regulating medical marijuana and tobacco/vape use, and review a ZHB application for 114 Washington Avenue. They will also hold a work session on the comprehensive plan and receive updates from engineering and council.

• Discuss 114 Washington Avenue ZHB application
• Medical marijuana and tobacco/vape use ordinance discussion
• Transportation Improvement Inventory review
• Comprehensive Plan work session
• Engineering & Code Department update

The commission unanimously approved the March 17, 2025 meeting minutes. It approved permits for an ice‑cream shop at 837 W Lancaster Avenue and for outdoor dining at 47 W Lancaster Avenue. Staff were instructed to incorporate suggested edits to the Medical Marijuana and Tobacco/Vape Ordinances and forward the revised drafts to the commission. A motion to adjourn the meeting was adopted.

• Approved March 17, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Issued permit for 837 W Lancaster Ave ice‑cream shop (approved)
• Issued permit for 47 W Lancaster Ave outdoor dining (approved)
• Directed Bob Duncan to revise Medical Marijuana and Tobacco/Vape ordinances (action)
• Adopted motion to adjourn meeting (adopted)

Borough Council

The Borough Council will hold a public hearing and consider a zoning amendment and a neighborhood blight protection ordinance. The body will also review a zoning application for 114 Washington Avenue and a proposal for flood engineering services.

• Public hearing and approval of Ordinance 2025-01 (Zoning Amendment)
• Approval of Ordinance 2025-02 (Neighborhood Blight Protection)
• Zoning Hearing Board Application for 114 Washington Avenue
• Flood Advisory Committee request for engineering services proposal
• Purchase of new ERP Software and Agreement

The Downingtown Borough Council approved the 2025-01 zoning enforcement amendment and the 2025-02 Neighborhood Blight Protection ordinance, both unanimously. It also approved several contracts and agreements, including a phone system upgrade, engineering services for the Flood Committee, and new ERP software. Additionally, the council approved the latest expenditures and a conditional hiring offer for a Parking Enforcement Officer.

• Approved Expenditures (period ending March 31, 2025) – motion carried unanimously
• Approved Borough Council Minutes (Feb 26 & Mar 5, 2025) – motion carried unanimously
• Approved Ordinance 2025-01 (Zoning Amendment Chapter 287-153 A) – motion carried unanimously
• Approved Ordinance 2025-02 (Neighborhood Blight Protection) – motion carried unanimously
• Approved agreement with CTL for phone system upgrade – motion carried unanimously
• Approved Applied Weather Associates for Flood Committee engineering services – motion carried unanimously
• Approved BS&A as new ERP software – motion carried unanimously
• Approved conditional offer of employment for Parking Enforcement Officer (Lorelei Keating) – motion carried unanimously

Borough Council

The Borough Council will hold a work session with one new business item: opening bids for building renovation updates. No deferred business is listed. Citizens may be heard during the public comment period.

• Building renovation updates – bid opening

Council reviewed bids for renovations to the police department at 126 Wallace Avenue, the public works facility at 260 Norwood Road, and Borough Hall. No contracts were awarded; the council scheduled a future meeting, tentatively May 7 2025, to make award decisions. The meeting was adjourned unanimously.

• Scheduled bid award decision for May 7 2025 (no vote)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Shade Tree Commission

The Downingtown Shade Tree Commission will hold a regular meeting to discuss old and new business. Key topics include a recap of an Armor Alley site visit, proposed revisions to the Shade Tree Ordinance, an update on Tabas Park Meadow, and the Tree City USA application. The commission will also follow up on 2025 goals and hear from Restore Our Roots.

• Recap of Armor Alley visit conducted earlier today at 6:15 PM
• Shade Tree Ordinance – review of previous revisions
• Cori Trice update on Tabas Park Meadow
• Tree City USA Application discussion
• 2025 Goals – follow-up discussion

The commission tabled the recap on the Armor Alley visit. Commissioners directed Joe Ferris to upload the latest Shade Tree Ordinance revisions to the shared drive. An update on Tabas Park Meadow noted that funds are expected soon and planting is planned for fall 2025. Work continues on the Tree City USA application and photos of tree ID examples on Struble Trail will be uploaded.

• Recap on Armor Alley visit – Tabled
• Shade Tree Ordinance revisions – Upload assigned to Joe Ferris
• Tabas Park Meadow – Funding pending, planting planned for Fall 2025
• Tree City USA Application – Borough statistics being compiled
• Tree ID examples – Photos to be uploaded to the drive

Planning Commission

The Cove Gap Planning Commission will consider a land development application for a two-unit dwelling at 181 St. Joseph's Lane. The board also plans to discuss the 2025 Transportation Improvement Inventory, review its own bylaws, and hold a work session on the Comprehensive Plan. Updates from the engineering department and borough council are also on the agenda.

• Public hearing and potential decision on two-unit dwelling land development at 181 St. Joseph's Lane
• Discussion of 2025 Transportation Improvement Inventory
• Review and possible amendment of Planning Commission Bylaws
• Comprehensive Plan Work Session for long-term zoning and growth policy
• Engineering & Code Department update on current projects

The Planning Commission reviewed a proposed two-unit dwelling at 181 St. Joseph's Lane, discussing multiple waiver requests and suggesting the applicant resubmit the plan for a final recommendation. The Commission also prioritized the 2025 Transportation Improvement Inventory, removing several inactive projects, and discussed forming a subcommittee for bylaw updates. No formal votes were taken on these items.

• Approved January 27, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Reviewed 181 St. Joseph's Lane proposal; requested resubmission for final recommendation
• Prioritized 2025 Transportation Improvement Inventory; removed inactive projects (US 30 Bypass, PA 113, Chester Valley Trail, Boot Rd)
• Formed subcommittee for Planning Commission bylaws (Geanine & Caroline volunteered)
• Preferred contracting with Chester County for Official Map work over outside firm
• Discussed DVRPC streetscape grant; may miss current round due to lack of budget line item

Flood Advisory Committee

The committee will discuss the Emergency Response Plan and the PEMA Buy Out Program. Members will review grant applications and potential funding for Mary Street planning. The meeting includes a discussion on the Brandywine Flood Study.

• Emergency Response Plan discussion with Corrine Badman
• PEMA Buy Out Program update
• Potential use of $25k for Mary Street planning
• Request for $25k in technical support
• Discussion of $1.5 million Mary St Scope and an additional $3 million project

Historic Commission

The Downingtown Borough Historic Commission meets to review old business including a letter about paint chart changes and an outhouse dedication, and new business such as a guest from Chester County, a new Santa banner, a contract to fix the Log House threshold, scheduling Log House opening, and reviewing the budget.

• Contract awarded to Matthew Robeson for Log House back threshold repair (no dollar amount given)
• Discussion of new Santa banner
• Scheduling Log House opening for April or May
• Review of historic commission budget
• Letter to Planning Commission regarding paint chart change

The Downingtown Borough Historic Commission met March 12, 2025, and tabled the budget. Members discussed plans for the 250th anniversary celebration, including a possible plaque for the outhouse dedication and connecting with other municipalities. They approved repairs to the Log House threshold and reviewed new Santa banner designs, requesting a larger size.

• Tabled the budget
• Approved Matthew Robeson to fix the backdoor threshold at the Log House
• Discussed new Santa banner designs; requested larger size
• Scheduled Charlie and Ginny for May Log House duty
• Planned 5th grade East Ward Log House tour
• Noted donation of spinning wheel and yarn holder from Mrs. Robert Miller

Borough Council

The Cove Gap Borough Council will hold a public hearing and consider resolutions for an inter-municipal transfer of a restaurant liquor license into Downingtown and for a community revitalization grant. Other business includes swearing in police officers, approving a stormwater management agreement at 413 Grant Avenue, upgrading the phone system, and extending a sewer conveyance agreement with East Caln Township.

• Swearing in of police officers
• Public hearing for inter-municipal transfer of Restaurant Liquor License No. R19522 into the Borough of Downingtown
• Consider Resolution 2025-09 to apply for a Community Revitalization Program Grant through Chester County
• Consider approval of Stormwater Management Agreement at 413 Grant Avenue
• Consider agreement for phone system upgrade

The Downingtown Borough Council unanimously approved the inter-municipal transfer of Restaurant Liquor License No. R19522 into the borough, following a public hearing with no public comments. The council also approved several other items, including a grant application for the Mary Street Flood Mitigation Project, a stormwater management agreement, a phone system upgrade, a mobile parking app agreement, and an extension on a sewer conveyance agreement with East Caln Township. All votes were unanimous.

• Approved Resolution 2025-08 for liquor license transfer (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 2025-09 to apply for CRP grant for Mary Street flood mitigation (unanimous)
• Approved stormwater management agreement for 413 Grant Avenue (unanimous)
• Approved agreement with CTL for phone system upgrade (unanimous)
• Approved 3-year agreement with Passport for mobile parking app (unanimous)
• Approved extension of sewer conveyance agreement with East Caln Township (unanimous)
• Approved expenditures for period ending February 28, 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of February 5, 2025 meeting (unanimous)

Parks and Recreation Commission

The commission will review updates on the Restore Our Roots project, Live & Local, park murals, and disc golf. The body will also discuss planning for 2025 events.

• Restore Our Roots (ROR) project updates
• Live & Local update
• Park Mural update
• Disc Golf update
• 2025 Event Planning

Borough Council

The Cove Gap Borough Council holds a work session to discuss deferred business, consider appointing a new council member, and approve Resolution 2025-06 regarding check signatories. A roundtable discussion and public comment period are also scheduled.

• Appointment of a Borough Council member
• Consider approval of Resolution 2025-06 Check Signatories
• Roundtable discussion on borough matters

The Downingtown Borough Council appointed Ted Roehrig to fill the vacant council seat, serving the unexpired term of Dr. Angela Howard. The council also approved a resolution authorizing new check signatories for borough accounts. No other substantive decisions were made; the remainder of the meeting was a roundtable discussion of potential focus areas.

• Appointed Ted Roehrig to vacant council seat (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 2025-06 authorizing check signatories (unanimous)

Shade Tree Commission

The Downingtown Shade Tree Commission will discuss the Tabas Park Meadow Project, review a master landscape plan covering street wells from Green St to Stuart Ave, consider revisions to the shade tree ordinance, and receive updates on grants and the 2025 Pennsylvania Invasive Replace-Ive Program.

• Cori Trice invited to discuss Tabas Park Meadow Project
• Master Landscape Plan mapping street wells from Green St to Stuart Ave
• Shade Tree Ordinance previous revisions
• Pollinator Garden Grants and letter from Borough
• 2025 Pennsylvania Invasive Replace-Ive Program

The Shade Tree Commission discussed ongoing projects, including mapping street wells and planning spring tree planting on Lancaster Avenue. They confirmed that the borough submitted a letter of approval for pollinator garden grant applications. No formal votes or binding decisions were made; items were either discussed or deferred.

• Borough submitted letter approving pollinator garden project with both grant applications
• Deferred 2025 goals discussion
• Scheduled Cori Trice to attend March 4 meeting for meadow project

Flood Advisory Committee

The Flood Advisory Committee will discuss the Brandywine Flood Study and consider comments to inform the borough council. They will also review an emergency response plan comparison with the county, receive updates on the PEMA Buy Out Program, and discuss grant funding including a potential use of $25,000 for Mary Street planning. Additional items include updates on Downingtown Strong and the Downingtown Resilience Fund, as well as planning for spring field outings and public outreach events.

• Discussion of Brandywine Flood Study and committee comments/recommendations to council
• Update on PEMA Buy Out Program
• Consideration of using $25,000 in grant funds for Mary Street planning
• Review of non-USGS monitoring station with guests Matt Gyves and Drew Reif
• Discussion of spring field outings and public outreach events (4th of July, Fall Fest, etc.)

Borough Council

The Borough Council will discuss and vote on several items including an EMS cost-sharing agreement, demolition bid for a FEMA flood grant, and ordinance amendments. The meeting also covers the resignation of a council member and potential appointments. Routine approvals of expenditures and minutes are on the agenda.

• Consider approval of demolition bid award for FEMA Hazard Mitigation Flood Grant Program
• Consider indemnification agreement with PennDOT for property at 225 Brandywine Avenue
• Consider EMS cost sharing agreement between Downingtown, East Caln, West Bradford, East Brandywine, and Caln Townships
• Consider advertisement of public hearing to amend zoning ordinance (Chapter 287-153 A)
• Consider resignation of Council Member Dr. Angela Howard and appointment of new council member

The Downingtown Borough Council reappointed officers, accepted Councilor Angela Howard's resignation, and tabled the appointment to fill her vacant seat until the February 26 work session. Several routine items were approved, including expenditures, minutes, and various agreements. The council also received updates on the train station project and heard from three applicants for the vacant council seat.

• Reappointed Steve Plaugher as Council President (4-1)
• Reappointed Joe Ferris as Council Vice President (4-1)
• Reappointed Councilor Horstmann as President Pro-Tempore (4-1)
• Accepted resignation of Councilor Angela Howard (unanimous)
• Tabled appointment to fill vacant council seat until Feb 26 work session
• Approved advertisement for zoning ordinance amendment (unanimous)
• Approved demolition bid award for FEMA flood grant program (unanimous)
• Approved EMS cost sharing agreement with neighboring townships (unanimous)

Parks and Recreation Commission

The Parks and Recreation Commission will meet to approve minutes, discuss deferred business, and receive updates on several projects including Restore Our Roots, a park mural, disc golf, and planning for 2025 events. No agenda packet information was provided, so details may be presented at the meeting.

• Restore Our Roots project updates
• Park mural discussion
• Disc golf updates
• 2025 event planning

Shade Tree Commission

The Downingtown Shade Tree Commission will meet to discuss the Shade Tree Ordinance and the Master Landscape Plan. The body will also review 2025 goals and receive updates on borough street trees.

• Tree recommendations for 216 E Lancaster (Black Tupelo/Gum)
• Tabas Park Meadow Project meeting invitation from Cori Trice
• Shade Tree Ordinance review
• Master Landscape Plan discussion
• Restore Our Roots updates

The Shade Tree Commission held a meeting with no public comment and no old or new business. They discussed a presentation on local Shade Tree Commissions and received an update on borough street trees for Lancaster Avenue. The commission decided to inventory tree wells on Lancaster Avenue from Green Street to Stuart Avenue, with Kelly Ragan assigned to complete the task. No formal decisions or votes were recorded.

• Commissioner Kelly Ragan assigned to inventory Lancaster Avenue tree wells from Green Street to Stuart Avenue
• Invited Cori Trice to a Shade Tree Commission or Restore Our Roots meeting

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will hold a work session on the Comprehensive Plan. The body will also review several ordinances and permit fee updates to be presented to the Borough Council in January.

• Vacant Property Registration Ordinance (Chapter 114-7-16)
• PA Uniform Construction Code Permitting Ordinance (Chapter 120-8)
• Zoning Enforcement Ordinance (Chapter 287-153)
• Permit fees update
• Comprehensive Plan work session

The Planning Commission unanimously voted to move three ordinances to Borough Council: a vacant property registration ordinance, a Uniform Construction Code permitting amendment, and a zoning enforcement amendment. They also discussed by-law updates and a comprehensive plan work session, but no other formal decisions were made.

• Approved moving vacant property registration ordinance to Borough Council (unanimous)
• Approved moving Uniform Construction Code permitting amendment to Borough Council (unanimous)
• Approved moving zoning enforcement ordinance amendment to Borough Council (unanimous)
• Approved December 16, 2024 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Amended agenda and appointed temporary chair (unanimous)

Borough Council

The Borough Council will consider several resolutions, including the 2025 fee schedule and emergency services provider designations. The body will also review a parking study agreement and a demolition bid for the FEMA Hazard Mitigation Flood Grant Program.

• Resolution 2025-3: 2025 Borough Fee Schedule
• Agreement with Walker Consultants for Comprehensive Parking Study
• Demolition Bid Award for the FEMA Hazard Mitigation Flood Grant Program
• Resolution 2025-4: RSLPP Streetlight Program Phase 3 & 4
• Parking Easement Agreement and Settlement Agreement with River Bank, LLC

The Downingtown Borough Council approved several resolutions and appointments, including the 2025 fee schedule, emergency services designation, streetlight program, and water authority compensation. Two items were tabled: Councilor Howard's resignation and the FEMA flood grant bid award. All other motions passed unanimously or with noted vote splits.

• Approved Resolution 2025-1 designating emergency services providers (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 2025-2 adjusting water authority compensation (4-0, President abstained)
• Approved Resolution 2025-3 2025 fee schedule (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 2025-4 streetlight program base upgrade (unanimous)
• Approved parking easement and settlement with Riverbank LLC (unanimous)
• Authorized employment offer for public works laborer (unanimous)
• Appointed Caroline O'Conner to Planning Commission (unanimous)
• Re-appointed Zoning Hearing Board members (4-1)

Flood Advisory Committee

The committee will discuss updates regarding the PEMA Buy Out Program and the Emergency Response Plan. Members will also review grant applications and the status of a non-USGS monitoring station.

• PEMA Buy Out Program update
• Emergency Response Plan review
• Downingtown Strong and Downingtown Resilience Fund updates
• CDBG and Borough grant funding recommendations
• Status of non-USGS monitoring station

The Flood Advisory Committee met and approved the October meeting minutes. They discussed the PEMA Buy Out Program, noting that bids for demolition of eight properties on Brandywine Ave were received in November but are awaiting FEMA budget reallocation before awarding. Updates were given on the Downingtown Strong group, the Downingtown Resilience Fund, and grant applications, including a DEP Growing Greener grant for a stormwater plan. No formal decisions were made beyond approving the minutes.

• Approved October meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Deferred action on previous month's minutes to future meeting
• Discussed PEMA buyout demolition bids for 8 Brandywine Ave properties, awaiting FEMA approval
• Discussed potential Borough Council funding for one stream gage in 2025