eNews




	eNews January 06, 2010
	Current Items of Interest

	Board Reorganization: I have been elected to be President of the Board of Commissioners. This is as a result of good timing more than anything. We elected Don Curley as VP. We hope that this alignment will help us move forward and put some of the past problems behind us. Trash Pickup: You will be receiving a mailing in the near future explaining significant changes in the program and schedules. Biggest change is that rear yard pickup is becoming a fee based service. Advisory Boards and Commissions: There are openings on several of our Boards. I would encourage folks to volunteer for these positions by sending a letter of interest to Bill Martin at the Township Building or emailing him at WMartin@radnor.org. Openings include: Comprehensive Plan Implementation Committee; Radnor memorial Library Board; Civil Service Commission; and, Board of Health.
	eNews July 22, 2010
	5th Ward Update

	Five points work continues I have been told that the scheduled completion date is mid October. You may have noticed that the work is taking place during the day rather than in the evening, as we had been told previously. This schedule will continue until September unless we determine that traffic becomes an issue. Daylight work is the reason we that the completion date has been moved up. New Township Finance Director Bill White has started work. Our new Finance Director has begun work and he has his hands full. I interviewed Bill for TV21 so that you can all “meet him”. I do not have the broadcast schedule. First he must get a solid grip on the current budget including identifying opportunities to reduce spending this year so that we can come in under budget. Next he must begin working on next year’s budget. We are facing an extremely serious budget situation. If we continue as we have, with the current level of services, we will be facing a large tax increase. Obviously we are also reviewing the way services are delivered BUT this alone will not address the problem. I need your feedback as we work on this budget. We all have certain expectations regarding the services we receive, the things that make Radnor special. These services all have an associated cost and the tough decisions will need to be made whether to cut services or to raise taxes. State Rep Bryan Lentz will be conducting a Town hall Meeting on Economics at the Wayne Art Center this Saturday at 3:00 PM. The event is free of charge. For additional information or to RSVP, please contact the Lentz for Congress campaign HQ at 610-328-0070 or by e-mail to Info@votelentz.com. This is a good opportunity to hear from one of the candidates for our Congressional District.

	eNews September 08, 2010 Radnor Fall Festival This year's festival is Sunday, September 19, 2010 from 1 to 5PM. As you may know the festivities will be held on North Wayne Avenue from Lancaster to West Ave. This is fun event for the entire family - face painting, magicians, food and rides for all ages. This event is organized by the Wayne Business Association and numerous sponsors. Thanks to all of them! For more information, check out the WBA website. www.radnorfallfestival.com Radnor Take Back Medicine Event Do you have any expired or unwanted medicine? In cooporation with the DEA, Radnor Police will collect and safely destroy your unwanted medicines. On Wednesday, September 22, 2010 and Saturday, September 25, 2010, Radnor Township Police will host collection sites. One site will be at the Wayne Senior Center, 108 Station Road, Wayne on both dates. A second collection site will be conducted at the Radnor Township Municipal Building, 301 Iven Ave, Wayne on Saturday September 25th. Superintendent of Police Search Radnor Township is currently searching for candidates for Superintendent of Police. There were over 65 applicants for the position and this past week the Personnel & Administration Committee of the Board of Commissioners and staff selected 15 for further interview. The process will take another 60 to 90 days. Board of Commissioners Strategic Planning Session Our Township BOC will be conducting a strategic planning session to do a comprehensive review of Township issues on Friday, September 9 from 8:30AM until 4:00PM. This session will be led by a professional facilitator. Township Budget The economy is showing some signs of improvement in Radnor however we are still very far from the peak economic period that ended in 2007. Radnor Township has seen an increase in real estate sales, building permits and revenue from business tax filings in the past six months. During the same period, our staff has reduced spending to a minimum and continues to look for ways to save money. The Township staff has begun working to develop a comprehensive budget process. The Board of Commissioners will meet in public to develop both short term programmatic goals and long term strategic goals for the next five years. Those goals will then drive budgetary decisions and help our Township be successful weathering the current recessionary climate. It is important to note that the new Township Manager and Director of Finance are fiscally conservative and are committed to operating a government that is averse to deficit spending. Crime Issues Commissioner Fisher has noted to his Ward the following information which should be read by all: Over the past year there have been numerous burglaries in our area and one just this past week! Crime rates are known to go up during recessions but please play your most important part to reduce crime. Radnor police are doing everything they can but we need your help in community policing to help keep our area burglary free! So please: Lock your doors and windows when not home. Keep valuables out of sight. Use timers on lights and small radios when you are not home. Alert your immediate neighbors that you will be away. Stop the newspaper delivery during vacations. Stop mail delivery. Obtain a stop mail form from the post office. Contact Radnor police and file a "Vacant House Report" – police will check your home daily. If you come home and discover your home has been burglarized, do not enter the home or leave immediately if you have and go to a safe place to call 911. This can be a neighbor's home or by driving away to another area to call. Criminals use backpacks to carry items. Students do too – difficult to differentiate. If you spot any suspicious persons who are in your area, do not hesitate to call Radnor Police (911). Departmental Reports Now Available Online Township Manager Robert Zienkowski has instituted weekly departmental reports which are posted on the Township website. These reports provide you with an opportunity to understand the services provided by the township. Weekly reports may be found under the Government section of Radnor.com. Fifth Ward Town Hall Meeting I am working to set up a Town Hall style meeting for our Ward at which you will be able to meet the new township manager and finance director. Stay tuned for details. Special Note: The General Election is May 18th and we need folks to work at the polls in both precincts. These are not political positions but are the positions such as the machine operators and clerks that you deal with when you go to vote. Please contact me if you are interested in helping.

	eNews October 19, 2010 Township Manager's Listening Session tomorrow (Wednesday, 10/20) :, our new Township Manager, Bob Zienkowski, will be holding "listening sessions" at the Township building throughout the day and evening (7:00am, 9:00am, 12 noon, 4:00pm, 6:30pm and 7:30pm) to give residents a chance to voice their issues, concerns, and desires as we develop the 2011 budget. See the Township Webpage for more information. If you will be unable to come to our 5th Ward Town Hall meeting to meet Bob Z. on the 28th, this is another great opportunity to meet Bob and informally discuss topics that matter to you. The Citizens Budget and Finance Advisory Committee's Final Report: The CBFAC has finished their budget analysis and issued their final report with recommendations. Click here to review it: http://www.radnor.com/egov/docs/1287166776_96374.pdf . They will be presenting the report to the Board of Commissioners on Monday, 10/25, at the regularly scheduled BoC meeting. Please share your thoughts about their recommendations - either to Bob Z. at his listening sessions, to the BoC at the 10/25 meeting, or by e-mail to me or Bob Z.
	eNews October 27, 2010 We will meet at the Country Day School of the Sacred Heart, in the dining room beginning at 7:00 PM. Go to the top of the driveway and behind the mansion to the parking area. Enter through the “red doors.” Our new Township Manager, Bob Zienkowski and the new Finance Director, Bill White will be there to do a very brief introduction regarding the current efforts underway to move Radnor forward and some of the challenges we are facing. A question and answer session will follow their presentation and then I will ask you for input. I need to know what you want for our community so that I can make the right decisions going forward. I would also like to review some of Boards and Commissions we have in Radnor Township. Our community works the best when we have an informed and involved citizenry. We are blessed to have a Township chock full of very talented folks. By using this talent we all benefit so I hope you will be willing to volunteer.
	eNews November 25, 2010 Folks, I was not available to attend the Commissioners’ meeting Monday night when the Budget was discussed. Please be confident that I am following the issue closely and I was able to watch the meeting on my computer. I will certainly be in attendance when we vote on the final budget. The following update was provided to the 4th Ward by Commissioner Schaefer, who kindly permitted me to plagarize. Please email me with any questions or comments. Budget Update Last week we received an updated 2010 budget as well as our Township Manager’s recommended budget for 2011. We expect to end 2010 in a much better financial position than we had anticipated due to over $500,000 in expense reductions and unexpectedly high business tax revenues. Nonetheless, the 2011 budget is challenging due to increased health care costs (up $360,000), pension costs (up $800,000) and relentless debt payments, among other expenses. The recommended 2011 budget calls for a 17% tax increase. However, at the Monday, 11/22, BoC meeting, all Commissioners agreed that such an increase would be unacceptable and asked the Manager to come back with a menu of further cuts to reduce the tax increase. Some editorial comments about the 2011 budget: The budget fully restores our required fund balance to more than the required minimum level (12% of revenues) – a very important accomplishment; It contains an aggressive approach to increasing revenues as well as conservative estimates of revenue, especially business tax and real estate transfer revenues (which have both been down in the recent past); It reflects significant reductions in spending (including wage freezes and staff reduction) in almost every department, and especially the sanitation department, due to sacrifices that our staff members have tentatively agreed to make; Because of those reductions, we will be able to keep our coveted trash service in-house. I want to thank the MANY residents who have called or e-mailed me to express how important and appreciated our township trash service is. I agree. This first pass is an excellent beginning and goes a long way toward getting us back on firm financial footing, but we will be considering more reductions at our next meeting to get the necessary tax increase down. That next meeting is scheduled for MONDAY, 11/29, at 6 pm in the Township Building. You can read the budget yourself by clicking here: http://www.radnor.com/egov/docs/1290205782_988647.pdf (warning: it’s 124 pages). I will keep you updated as we finalize the numbers. Ethics Opinion Issued re: Former Manager Dave Bashore: As you may have read in the papers , the PA State Ethics Commission issued an opinion pertaining to Dave Bashore’s former employment with Radnor Township and the allegations of his wrongdoing. They found that Mr. Bashore violated the Ethics Act when he “used the authority of his public position for private pecuniary benefit by annually authorizing lump sum payments to himself without the approval of the Board of Commissioners. . . and when he directed Township staff to issue leave payments to him that were not approved by the Board.” Pursuant to a consent agreement entered into between the State Ethics Board and Bashore, he was ordered to pay restitution to the Township in the amount of $55,331.21. If you would like to see a copy of the opinion, please let me know and I’d be happy to e-mail it to you. It is 26 pages. In addition to the Ethics Act action, the Township continues to pursue a legal surcharge action against Mr Bashore. Further, we have filed an insurance claim for losses suffered as a result of Mr. Bashore’s actions and await a decision on that reimbursement.

	eNews December 08, 2010 Monday December 13th the Board of Commissioners Meeting will be primarily about approving next year’s budget. This budget includes a 9% increase in your Township real estate taxes. All services (trash, snow and police) remain at the current levels. The budget does include the layoff of 3 additional township workers. Please share the following information with your friends and neighbors. One of the home invasions discussed was here in Radnor. The Radnor Township Police Department will be hosting a Town Hall Meeting on Friday evening, December 10, 2010 at 7:00 PM in the Board of Commissioners Room. The purpose, content and focus of this meeting is in response to the recent home invasions that have occurred over the previous 6 months in Delaware County. The overwhelming majority of victims have been Asian Business owners who conduct businesses in the City of Philadelphia and reside in the Philadelphia suburbs. This program will consist of three parts: Radnor Police Department will be presenting: The profiling of the victim (business, family and residence). Safety and Security Information for Residence and Businesses. What to do if one becomes a victim of a home invasion. The Delaware County District Attorney's Office will present: Why Asian Families and Businesses are targeted. How to reduce one's exposure so as not to be a victim of a crime. What support and procedures occur with the legal system when is a victim of a crime. Mr. Tsiwen M. Law, Esq. will present: Information on Asian Victim's Advocates. Victims rights and compensation information. Translation information for victims. The following guests will be attending the program: Mr. G. Michael Green, District Attorney - County of Delaware Pearl Kim, Assistant District Attorney - Special Victims Unit - County of Delaware Special Agent J.J. Klaver, F.B.I. - Philadelphia Officer of the FBI Lieutenant John Walker - Philadelphia Police - Southwest Detective Division. Mr. Tsiwen M. Law, Esq.- Mr. Law is a leading advocate for the Asian American community in the Philadelphia region. In addition to being a practicing attorney, Law is an adjunct professor at both the University of Pennsylvania and Temple University, and participates in many Asian American organizations During the meeting Korean and Chinese interpreters will translate the information being presented to the audience. This presentation will also be recorded so that a full translation may occur. Once translated, the DVD's, may be reproduced and distributed throughout the Asian communities.
	eNews December 22, 2010 Just a reminder that recycle will be collected on Thursday the 23rd due to the holiday schedule. Remember to RECYCLE your Holiday Debris Cardboard boxes, cards, catalogs and wrapping paper. The Township is looking for volunteers to serve on our boards and Commissions starting in 2011, including Planning Commission, Zoning Hearing Board, Environmental Advisory Council, Parks and Recreation, Citizens Communications Council, and Board of Health. Our Community can only be successful with the help of our citizen volunteers. Please consider tossing your name into the hat. Send a resume and a letter of interest to Bob Zienkowski (RZienkowski@radnor.org) at the Township Building 301 Iven Ave, Wayne PA 19087. Many of you have asked about Goshen Road construction. The completion date is spring 2011. Apparently there were some problems with a retaining wall that needed to be redesigned. They are currently driving piles for a new retaining wall. On 12/13 the Board of Commissioners adopted our 2011 Budget. This is available on the Township Website for review. clicking here: http://www.radnor.com/egov/docs/1292299615_658569.pdf The budget contains significant cuts in spending (including a salary freeze, the elimination of 3 positions, increased staff contributions to health care costs, and all around belt-tightening in each department) , a 10% reduction in our funding to non-profits, and a 9 % tax increase. Please note that the budget still reflects an operating deficit of almost a million dollars. This is a serious situation, however we are making progress on correcting this fundamental problem. Please also note that we have restored our fund balance to the required minimum (which important to our Bond rating.) In addition, as you may have read in the News, we have received restitution in the amount of $55,000 from our prior Manager and an insurance payment of $500,000 for the losses we suffered due to his actions. Our new Manager Bob Zienkowski and Finance Director Bill White, with the help of the entire team did an incredible job pulling this budget together under very difficult circumstances. With their leadership we are seeing a new level of professionalism and expertise. With their guidance we will reestablish the Township’s long term financial stability. This has been an extremely difficult year for our employees. However, I would note that through all that has gone on we have not seen a reduction in the level of the services that they provide to the Community. Please thank them if you have an opportunity.
	eNews January 04, 2011 A quick update and a look ahead: Reorganization: The Board of Commissioners reorganized this week and elected John Fisher, President and Bill Spingler as Vice President. I did not run for President for several reasons primary being my belief that rotating the Presidency will be beneficial for open government and transparency. I had always seen my role as “transitional” in nature this past year and look forward to being President again in the future as we rotate the position. Meeting on storm water issues January 20th: A meeting will be held at the Township building to discuss the progress on the ongoing storm water study. Further details will be available on the Radnor website. I need your feedback. We have made a lot of progress this past year, as I previously reported, but we are far from a return to normalcy. Our budget deficit must be addressed, we need to revise many of our business practices and we need to reestablish a positive vision for our community. Long term difficulties include funding of Other Post Employment Benefits (OPEB), Pensions as well as our capital programs addressing infrastructure issues. I do need your input regarding several issues. What does it mean to you to live in Radnor? What attributes lead to your moving here? What makes Radnor unique? These questions may seem esoteric but are significant as we review the services that Radnor provides and how they are paid for. As one example take Parks and Recreation Department programs: There is a school of thought that suggests that all of these programs should be completely self supporting, paid for by user fees and sponsorships. Thus the maintenance of fields and facilities would be charged against these programs rather than be part of our tax base. I personally do not support this school of thought but rather consider these things to fall into the category of “quality of life” and are some of the reasons Radnor is a great place to live and our real estate values as high as they are. So, what do you think? E-news delivery change I will be changing to a dedicated bulk email program in the near future. So you may notice some change in the way the emails come to you. I have not settled on using a standalone program or a service such as Constant Contact.
	eNews January 14, 2011 Crime Alert Update- Radnor 5th Ward This home is in the Coopertown section of Radnor (by the big curve on Highland Lane). Please be vigilant in locking doors, windows and cars. Radnor Township Crime Alert Residential Daytime Burglary The Radnor Township Police Department has issued following crime alert for a residential burglary that occurred on Wednesday, January 12, 2011 in the Bryn Mawr Section of Radnor Township. At 4:45 PM Radnor Township Police responded to a report of a residential burglary discovered in the unit block of Courtney Circle. The homeowner reported that upon returning to the residence the front door of the house had been forcibly opened. Upon further investigation by Radnor Police it was determined that unknown perpetrator(s) forced entry into the residence through the front door. Once inside the residence an undetermined amount of jewelry was removed from the master bedroom. This burglary occurred between the hours of 1:00 PM and 4:15 PM on January 12, 2011. If you have information as to the identity of the person(s) who committed the above burglary or observed any suspicious activity or person(s) in the above area please contact the Radnor Police Department's Investigations Unit at 610-688-0503. The Radnor Police Department continues to remind all residents to lock doors and windows when leaving the residence or when retiring for the evening. If windows are to remain open the use of security pins are highly recommended. In addition residential security systems should be used, if so equipped, when leaving the residence or retiring for the evening. If you observe suspicious activity or person(s) in your neighborhood call 9-1-1 immediately. Holiday Schedule Next Week The Township Municipal Building will be closed for business in observance of the birthday of Martin Luther King, Jr. There will be no trash collection on Monday and a Trash and Recycling holiday collection schedule is in effect for this week due to the Monday holiday. Our Trash will be picked up on Wednesday Jan 19th, recycle remains unchanged.

	eNews February 18, 2011 Police Superintendent On Monday night the Board of Commissioners approved hiring William Colarulo as Radnor’s new Superintendent of Police. Mr. Colarulo is coming from the Philadelphia police force with a distinguished 30 year career. Mr. Colarulo has an impressive record, references and reputation. We believe Mr. Colarulu is the right person to lead the force as we continue to work our way out of the tight fiscal situation. I will be interviewing Mr. Colarulo for Radnor cable TV21 next week so watch for broadcast times. Resignation of Public Works Director Bill Hagan Public Works Director, Bill Hagan, has resigned from his position with Radnor after a 28 year career. We will miss him very much, as he was universally respected by his staff, management and residents alike. A posting for his position will be on the Township website and will begin the hiring process for his successor in short order. I met with Bill and personally thanked him for his service. I could always count on Bill to take care of any problems in our Ward Volunteers needed to serve on the Citizens Audit Review and Financial Advisory Committee We are currently accepting applications for nine positions on this new committee that will meet at least quarterly and advise the Board of Commissioners on financial and budget matters. If you are interested in this subject -- especially if you have a background in finance, accounting or running a business -- please consider volunteering and submit your resume to our manager, Bob Zienkowski (RZienkowski) at radnor.org and copy me on your email. If you are interested in serving e-mail me and I’ll send you the detailed description of the Committee. Volunteer Boards and Commissions This past week the BoC interviewed candidates for the various opening on our Boards and Commissions. Appointments were made at our meeting Monday night. I was very impressed by the number of applicants and their qualifications. There were over 30 applicants for the 8 or so openings, which was the largest number I have seen in the last 15 years that I have been observing this process. Thanks to all of these folks for stepping up. The success of our Community depends on the willingness of our citizens to serve. Year Yard Trash Pick-up For those of you currently having your trash picked up in the rear yard, the Township will be sending you invoices for the upcoming year. Unfortunately we had to raise the fees, as we did with most of the fees. For those folks who received an exemption, you will receive a letter asking for recertification of your qualifications for the fee waiver. Holiday Schedule Next Week The Township Municipal Building will be closed for business in observance of the Presidents Day. There will be no trash collection on Monday and a Trash and Recycling holiday collection schedule is in effect for this week due to the Monday holiday. Our Trash will be picked up on Wednesday Feb 23rd, recycle remains unchanged.

	eNews February 24, 2011 Interview with new Police Superintendent William Colarulo I interviewed the new Superintendent for TV 21. There are 2 half hour sessions. The first is on tonight at 7 PM, then repeats tomorrow at 7 AM, plus 1 PM. Last presentation will be Sunday at 7 PM. Same rotation next week for the second episode. The shows are available on both Verizon and Comcast on Channel 21. Sorry for the late notice. Mark the Date - March 22nd I have set up a Ward Town Hall style meeting at the Jewish Federation Campus. Township Manager Bob Zienkowski and new Police Superintendent William Colarulo will attend. In addition, I expect Ira Schwartz, CEO of the Philadelphia Jewish Federation, to attend in order to meet the neighbors and discuss the future of the campus. The meeting will be held at 6:30 PM and will be in the Federation Building. This building is to the left of the Barrack Academy building, behind the soccer fields, and the entrance is on the left side of the building. Turn in to the campus, go straight back past the soccer field, turn left and the building is on the right. Parking is also available to the left of the building. Crime Alert There was recently a rash of automobile "smash and grab" robberies in the parking lots of some of the restaurants in Wayne. It is important to not leave valuables visible from the outside of the car. This includes GPS units, phones and handbags.
	eNews March 4, 2011 Willows Cottage Volunteer Day Saturday 3/5 from 9 am to 1 pm. The Friends of the Willows Cottage is holding the first volunteer day of the spring this Saturday. Over the winter a lot of work was completed including the PADEP energy grants we received and other volunteer work. If you have time stop by and help with the clean up and check out the grant work! Goshen Road Update (Courtesy Commissioner Elaine Schaefer) I have spoken with PennDot this week and the current estimate for the re-opening of the road is mid-May. The bridge work will be completed before then. Current activity seems quiet because they are waiting on a re-design of the architectural treatment of the retaining wall. The wall will be higher than originally understood, so the visual design is being redone. Once approved, it will be about a month before delivery and installation. As it was described to me, the wall will be about six feet tall, with three feet showing over the concrete barrier. I will keep you updated with further news as I receive it. Police Superintendent As I mentioned in my last newsletter, I did two half hour “get-to-know-you” interviews of new Police Superintendent William Colarulo on Radnor 21. The second interview was broadcast last night and will be repeated on Sunday at 7 PM. The first interview was posted to YouTube by John Haines (thanks John) This is the link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mxBj3sRbz2g . The second will be posted on YouTube shortly. Radnor Patch For you local news junkies out there, the new Radnor Patch website: http://radnor.patch.com/ is up and running. The editor is Sam Strike -- who previously served as the Suburban’s reporter for Radnor. This site allows individuals to contribute articles and provides daily updates. Electric Choice Workshop. State Representative Greg Vitali (representing 5-1, 7-1 and 7-2) held a workshop at the Township Building regarding electric choice. Panel included three great speakers with tons of info. The session was recorded and will be re-broadcast on Radnor Government Channel (10 on Comcast and 30 on Verizon) over the weekend (Saturday 6am and 9pm, Sunday 12pm, Monday 3am.) I will try to get it broadcast on RTV 21 also. Lots of good info can be found at the state office of the consumer advocate http://oca.state.pa.us. PECO also has a good website with very useful information and internet links (www.peco.com/smartIdeas). I was surprised to learn that they will give rebates for energy saving appliance purchases (including heaters and A/C) retroactive to 7/1/2009. Township Facilities As you may have heard, it has been determined that the Township has historically been a poor steward of the properties we all own. This first problem surfaced two years ago when the Township was planning to demolish the Willows Cottage because it was in a state of disrepair. Fortunately it was saved by the Friends of the Willows Cottage. Subsequently we have performed inspections of the Willows Mansion, the Creutzberg Mansion and the Sulpizio gym which have identified significant issues with these facilities. At this time of great financial pressure we do not have the resources to correct all of these problems. Much like the Cottage, the Township is looking for private partners for the facilities who will do the necessary repairs and maintain the facilities while keeping them available for the benefit of the public. I am very concerned with these issues and am working with the Parks and Rec Board and the Township staff to retain these facilities. This matter was discussed in a Parks and Rec Committee of the Board of Commissioners this past Tuesday. At this meeting we also discussed leasing of Radnor Memorial Field (Matson Ford Road). This meeting has been uploaded to You Tube by John Haines (thanks again, John) and can be found at the following links:http://www.yocom/watch?v=tCKzFi-Jr1A http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tCKzFi-Jr1A 03-01-11 Radnor Township Board of Commissioners Parks & Rec Committee Meeting, Part 1 of 3. In this segment: Township Memorial Park. ww.y http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fMTUAn4JsOw&feature=related 03-01-11 Radnor Township Board of Commissioners Parks & Rec Committee Meeting, Part 2 of 3. In this segment: Continuation of the Radnor Township Memorial Park discussion. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7CjtNXCMEcA&feature=related 03-01-11 Radnor Township Board of Commissioners Parks & Rec Committee Meeting, Part 3 of 3. In this segment: A discussion on Radnor Township owned properties (Radnor Activity Center at Sulpizio Gym, The Willows Mansion, The Creutzburg Center) and what to do with them.
	eNews March 6, 2011 Wrong e-Mail I am sorry that I accidentally sent the rear yard trash pickup renewal to the entire list. I apologize for littering your in boxes. However, to make the best of this situation here are a few quick updates and reminders: The second interview with William Colarulo, Radnor’s new Superintendent of Police has been uploaded to YouTube. This is the link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PBwgbOXYbkk You Tube links for Electric Choice Workshop. State Representative Greg Vitali 's(representing 5-1, 7-1 and 7-2) workshop on Electric Choice, here are the links: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3y1gfbjQdvo http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZIxrdjSnmig Volunteers needed To serve on the Citizens Audit Review and Financial Advisory Committee: We are currently accepting applications for nine positions on this new committee that will meet at least quarterly and advise the Board of Commissioners on financial and budget matters. If you are interested in this subject -- especially if you have a background in finance, accounting or running a business -- please consider volunteering and submit your resume to our manager, Bob Zienkowski (RZienkowski) at radnor.org and copy me on your email. If you are interested in serving e-mail me and I’ll send you the detailed description of the Committee. Ward 5 Town Hall - March 22nd at 6:30 Jewish Federation Foundation Hall
	eNews March 17, 2011 Reminder: Town Hall Meeting Tuesday the 22nd at the Jewish Federation campus. Township Manager Bob Zienkowski and new Police Superintendent William Colarulo will attend. In addition, I expect Ira Schwartz, CEO of the Philadelphia Jewish Federation, to attend in order to meet the neighbors and discuss the future of the campus. The meeting will be held at 6:30 PM and will be in the Federation Building. This building is to the left of the Barrack Academy building, behind the soccer fields, and the entrance is on the left side of the building. Turn in to the campus, go straight back past the soccer field, turn left and the building is on the right. Parking is also available to the left of the building. Brace yourselves; it is a local election year This is an election year for Radnor Township and Delco. Here are the Radnor candidates. Ernie Shapiro and I are running for 5th ward commissioner (although the primary is not a contest since no one has filed to run against either of us). Since the School Board candidates do cross file it is important that you vote in the primary. The school board candidates are: Eric Zajac (Incumbent), Lisa Borowski, Sheila Palmer, Kimm Doherty, Eric Budin, Patricia Booker (Incumbent), Howard Gartland, Chuck Madden (Incumbent), Steven Modell, and Janie Partridge. Please note that volunteers are always needed at the polls. There are both “political positions,” such as greeting folks and handing out candidates’ information and non –political jobs available. Contact me for further information. Charter Review Commission. At the meeting Monday night the Board approved the establishment of a Charter Review Commission. Radnor Township’s Charter has not been revised since it was initially approved in the mid 1970’s. There are out of date requirements and flat out errors that need to be addressed. Each Commissioner will appoint one “Elector” from their Ward to serve on the Commission. This group will hold public meetings and propose changes to the Board of Commissioners. The changes will then appear on the ballot for passage by the voters. If you are interested in serving please contact me. Survey of the Township. We approved the hiring of a firm to conduct an opinion survey of the Township. Specific items researched will be the priorities of the community members, perceptions regarding the Township’s current financial position and overall resident sentiment toward local government. We are seeking individuals to serve in focus groups so if you are interested please contact me.
	eNews April 4, 2011 Town Hall Meeting Thanks to everyone who attended our Town Hall Meeting. Our new Police Superintendent William Colarulo filled in folks on his background and his ideas for the future. In addition, he took comments from the audience concerning the hot topic, student housing. Ira Schwartz, CEO of the Philadelphia Jewish Federation, attended in order to meet the neighbors and discuss the future of the campus. He also took the opportunity to introduce some of the other folks from the Jewish Federation. Survey of the Township As I had discussed in a previous eNews, we are seeking individuals to serve in focus groups to discuss the priorities of community members, perceptions regarding the Township’s current financial position and overall resident sentiment toward local government. I am very interested in making sure that our Ward is represented so please consider volunteering. There will be one or two meetings of about 2 hours max. Residential Burglaries An assessment of recent residential burglary has been completed by new Police Superintendent, Bill Colarulo. The data shows that the vast majority of burglaries occur during daytime hours. Please be sure to lock your doors when you are not home and report suspicious activity via 911. For more information see http://www.radnor.com/egov/docs/1301417257905.htm -- Goshen Road PennDoT is still saying May opening for Goshen Road. Hard to believe given the lack of visible work. Five Points I believe that the changes at the intersection of County Line Road and Bryn Mawr Ave have been a major success. I continue to work with Staff and with Lower Merion to resolve a safety concern for folks turning left onto Glenbrook and am also monitoring traffic backups to determine if the timing of the traffic lights needs to be addressed.
	eNews April 18, 2011 Trash/Recycle Holiday Schedule This Week The Township Municipal Building will be closed for business on Friday. There will be no trash collection on Friday and a Trash and Recycling holiday collection schedule is in effect for this week due to the Friday holiday. Our Trash will be picked up on Tuesday April 19th, as usual, Recycle is changed to Thursday. Pothole Repair Thanks goes out to the offices of State Reps Vitali and Adolph for nudging Padot to do the pothole patching on Btyn Mawr and Sproul. Town hall Meeting with Congressman Meehan. We have an opportunity to hear from/speak with our 7th District Congressman Pat Meehan on Wednesday April 20 at the Radnor Township Municipal Building 11:30 to 12:30.
	eNews May 8, 2011 Election Day May 17th. Be sure to vote. This is your civic duty. Crime Report You probably saw the news last week that there was an armed robbery in Wayne (behind Starbucks.) The Police already have a suspect in custody but this event should serve as a reminder to all of us that our Township is not immune to crime. It is important that we all take prudent steps to prevent becoming a victim. This does not mean that we need to live in fear but rather that we be cautious. Lock your home and car doors, don’t leave valuable items in your cars in open sight, and most important, do not hesitate to call the police with any concerns regarding suspicious activity. A close review of crime statistics suggests that there is a small increase in crime over last year but not a positive trend over the past several years. An example of the necessary awareness I am suggesting is the door-to-door solicitors selling magazines and other services. Be aware that all commercial solicitors must have a license to solicit in Radnor. If you choose to answer the door when visited by one of these folks, be sure to ask for their license. If they do not have one, call the police. Memorial Field Lease (Memorial Park is at King of Prussia and Matsonford Rds.) An issue being discussed by the Board of Commissioners is the Lease of Memorial Field to Agnes Irwin School for their after school use in return they will install a turf field and lights. Several Commissioners, and a few outspoken citizens, are against this Lease. Their reasons vary but I personally know that this is a great deal for the Township Taxpayers. If Radnor enters into this Lease, our usage of the formally problematic field will increase, our maintenance costs will be eliminated, public access will continue and the Township will continue to own the underlying asset. Below is a fuller discussion that will demonstrate to you the rationale for my intention to vote in favor of this Lease. I apologize for the length. Parks and Recreation Summer Program Guide The Summer Guide is now available online, here is the link: http://www.radnor.com/egov/docs/1303838960_237060.pdf There is an impressive array of programs. Goshen Road Update We are now being told that the completion date has slipped to the end of July. Township management has met with PaDot representatives to express our unhappiness with this and several other issues affecting State Highways. Resignation of Township Engineer, Dan Malloy Many of you may know or have worked with our long-term employee, Dan Malloy. Dan has submitted his resignation and is moving over to the private sector having worked for 18 years with Radnor. His expertise, skill and knowledge of the Township will be missed. An RFP for engineering firms to meet our engineering needs is being prepared. Memorial Field Lease (continued) AIS approached the Township last year with a proposal to lease the field (located at King of Prussia and Matsonford Rds) and to install a “Turf” field, lights and other amenities. They would use the field exclusively during the school year, weekdays from 3 PM to 6 PM, 4 Saturdays from 9 to 5 and 12 evening from 6 to 9. At all other times the field would be controlled by Radnor Township. In addition, AIS would be responsible for the maintenance of the field. The proposed term of the proposed lease is 15 years with 5 single year extensions and there will be requirements at the end of the lease regarding the state/condition of the field. Public access to the park will not be limited (except obviously for the playing fields when games or practices are taking place.) If any of you have been to this facility you know that the condition is far from good. Due to mismanagement many years ago, road salt was stockpiled on the helipad that was formally located at the site and grass will not grow in that area. The Township has invested a great deal of money, time and effort in an attempt to improve the quality of the field. Currently the field has limited use. The Township Park Department indicates that we spend about $47,000 per year on maintenance. Further, estimates for the restoration of this field to a good quality condition are in excess of $100K and would require that we take the field out of service for two years to establish the grass. Arguments that have been put forth against the potential Lease and my positions follow: The Township will be losing Prime hours: It has been suggested that the proposed use by AIS ”after school” is using prime hours. I disagree. This field is a Radnor Township field, not a school district field. As such prime time is after 6 PM on weekdays and both days of the weekend. There will be no place for UF to play: Members of the Ultimate Frisbee Club (a School activity) have lobbied the Commissioners because they currently use this field for their activities. Direct discussions with the School District, the High School Facilities Manager and the Athletic Director have resulted in a commitment that the UF team will be afforded space and will be in the mix with other High School sports programs. Indeed, the development of this field may result in increased playing opportunities for this team. This is a Bad financial deal for the Township. I think that this is hardly the case. As a result of the proposed Lease the Township will actually have increased usage of this facility. In addition, the Township will not have to maintain the facility which will result in a saving to all taxpayers in the $30K to $45K range. And, and this is an important “and”, is the fact that we still own the asset and will have the field to use full time after the Lease expires. The current negotiations include the payment of an annual fee of $25,000. ( this figure does not include the expenses that will be incurred by the Lessee that includes the annual maintenance and amortization of the $1 million investment they will make, or the fact that they will being replacing the playing surface at least once during the lease term . My calculations put these costs at a cost of over a total of $125K each year.} This is illegal, leasing the field will be a violation of the deed restrictions (Tri Party agreement): Many of you may remember the history associated with this Park. Originally the land on both sides of Matsonford Rd. was gifted to the Township by the owners of the Corporate Center. A few years later, the school district was looking for a location for an additional Elementary School and the concept that resulted in the current arrangement came to mind. In order to achieve this goal an “agreement” was reached between the Corporate Center, the School district and Radnor Township. The terms of this are embodied in the often referenced “Tri-Party Agreement” which constitutes dead restrictions upon the properties. Our solicitor has advised us that there are no issues with this agreement. We will have written confirmation of this from the other parties prior to any Lease being signed. Leasing the field will deny public access. Again this is not true. The public will have full access to the park and the walking path regardless if AIS or Township teams are using the playing field for practice or a game. This is not different than current situation. Traffic will be a problem. The Triparty agreement currently includes traffic (from the Radnor Elementary School). The field usage under this proposed lease will be after school, generally wrapping up around 6 PM which is after the bulk of the traffic from the Corporate Center. On game days there may be quite a few cars but hardly enough to significantly impact traffic and the remainder (practice days) automobiles will be minimal since the athletes will be bused to the field. Traffic in the evening period will be no greater than it has been in the recent past when the field was used by the Township sports programs. The Township will coordinate closely with AIS, RTSD, RCC and ABC High School to minimize the traffic issues. The lights will disturb the neighbors. I think this is a gross overstatement. The lights that will be installed as a result of the Lease will be strictly controlled and will be extinguished at 9 PM. In addition, the draft Lease includes limitation of the lighting fixtures to be “no spill” lighting and they will be positioned to provide additional assurance that the lights do not affect the neighboring homes. The Township has invested a lot of money in the facility and any Leasing organization should reimburse those costs. On the face this sounds reasonable. However, please consider that the funds were used to install the original field, parking lot and amenities over 10 years ago. So, if you accept this premise then some proration would be appropriate. Any funds specifically expended on the field should not be included since the lesee will be installing a new playing field. And the other improvements will remain. Actually this point is a good reason to enter in to the lease in that we currently have a lot of money tied up in a low use facility. The lease will result in increased use of the field and a better return on our investment. The last point I will make is that Radnor Taxpayers are not losing out on some other better alternative. No one has come forward with a better plan or a better offer; we will own an improved asset and our children will be able to play on a quality playing surface. Assuming we could sell the property, which is doubtful based on laws affecting gifts, the value of the property will be strongly affected by the fact that the land must comply with the terms of the Triparty agreement (which is a deed restriction upon the land not the owner.) What is the imputed value of property which cannot be developed? The best use would actually be a Turf Field for rental and one cannot make “the numbers work” for an investment of that nature.
	eNews May 19, 2011 Crime Report The Radnor Township Police Department has issued this crime alert for a residential burglary that occurred on Monday, May 16, 2011 in 200 Block of Berwind Road in Radnor Township. On May 16, 2011 at 10:40 AM Radnor Police received a report of an interrupted residential burglary that had just occurred in the 200 Block of Berwind Road. Responding Radnor Officers located a rear ground floor window smashed out and access gained. Once inside the perpetrator entered bedrooms removing jewelry. The resident returned to the house and believed that they heard the perpetrator fleeing out the rear window of the residence. A neighbor witnessed a black male, no further description, running from the rear of the residence and enter a black colored sedan. The sedan was parked on Berwind Road and occupied by one other person. There is no further description of the sedan or the occupant of the sedan. The sedan was last seen driving on Berwind Road towards Spruce Tree Road. If you have any information as to the identity of the person(s) who committed this crime or witnessed any persons, vehicles or suspicious activity in this area contact the Radnor Police Department's Investigations Unit at 610-688-0503. Note that you can receive these reports directly from the Police Department by signing up for the Emergency Alerts at Radnor.com Election Results The turnout for the Primary on Tuesday was very disappointing with less than 15% of the registered Republican and Democrat registered voters participating. I have heard many reasons including “no races/decisions” and there seems to be a general malaise with “politics.” Of course the weather did not help. What ever the reason, please remember to Vote in the General Election this fall on November 8th, mark your calendars. Delco Electronics Recycling Event June 17th An electronics recycling event is being held on June 17th 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Delaware County Community College, 901 S. Media Line Rd. Media. A flyer is available at http://www.co.delaware.pa.us/recycle/pdf/ElectronicFriday.pdf Acceptable items include: Computers, Computer related equipment, Fax Machines, TVs, Stereos, Radios, Tape Players, CD Players, Telephones, Cell Phones, Gaming Consoles, Docking stations, Power Network Cables, Household Batteries, Microwaves, Toasters, Irons, Blenders, Mixers, Coffeemakers, Vacuums, Power Tools, SMALL Household Appliances, Hair Dryers, Curling Irons, Office Equipment, Dictaphones, Electric Adding Machines, Electric Typewriters

	eNews June 17, 2011
	Jewish Federation Follow-up
	I mentioned in my last e-News that the Jewish Federation was scheduled to go before the ZHB to seek necessary approval on a project to construct a small residential facility at the campus to house challenged adults, their supervisors, some students and visiting professors. They have voluntarily continued the hearing until July in order to allow for the preparation of drawings which would better convey the size and appearance of the project. Although this isn’t required, it will be beneficial to all of us to be able to better understand any potential impacts. I have received feedback from a few individuals who have reacted to rumors about the project. The Federation is being very open about their plans and there is no reason to listen to rumors .
	Health and Safety Fair June 29
	The Radnor Township Workplace Safety Committee is sponsoring a Health and Safety Fair at the Township building from 8 AM to 1 PM on June 29th. Residents are welcome to attend and meet a wide range of practitioners.
	Community Telephone Survey
	Tonight (Friday), a phone survey of the Township residents will begin so we may better know how to serve you. Note that “Radnor Township” should be displayed on your Caller ID. Here are a few facts about the survey. • It is being conducted by an independent research firm on behalf of the Township. • It is a random phone survey that will allow the Township to have a statistically accurate measure of the communities’ thoughts and perceptions. •The survey will take about four days to complete. I would encourage everyone who is called to take the few minutes necessary and answer the questions honesty and frankly. It is only by your feedback that we can accurately move the Township forward.

	Ithan Valley Park cleanup
	Next weekend (June 25-26, schedule to be determined) help is needed for a cleanup at Ithan Valley Park (IVP.) We will be removing vines and invasive species as we move forward to increase access to this gem Please dress properly and bring gloves. Located within IVP are the remains of the Evan’s Arboretum, one of the oldest in the United States. A group of residents has taken up the challenge of cleaning up the Park, developing interpretive walking paths, identifying specimen trees and providing historical/educational opportunities. To quote one of the members of the group, “We see a lot of "win" here in terms of history, conservation, and utility at what is really the only local park for South Radnor.” It's a beautiful place, and worth preserving.

	Garrett Hill- Rosemont July 4th Parade
	Reminder that this year's Garrett Hill's July 4th Parade and Celebrations is on Monday, July 4, 2011. This event is one of the best home town celebrations in the area because so many of you make it possible with your generous donations. If you care about this community tradition as much as I do, please donate to help keep this tradition alive! http://www.garretthillpa.com/Donate.html
	eNews June 24, 2011
	Five Points Intersection Wins Award

	The 5 Points Improvement Project has been awarded an Honorable Mention in the 2011 Road and Bridge Safety Improvement Awards from the PA Highway Information Association, Penndot and the PA State Association of Township Commissioners.
	Township Reorganization
	On Monday the Board of Commissioners approved a reorganization plan for the Township. Under this plan Community Development has divided into Two Departments, Building and Codes and Planning Services. In addition, engineering has been moved under the Director of Public Works and Information Technology is relocated to the Finance Department as is the Assistant Township Manager (now called Director of Admin Services.) The primary purpose of this reorganization is to improve the efficiency of your government and ultimately to reduce costs.
	Township Staff Reductions
	As a result of the reorganization there has been a reduction in the size of the Township Staff. When combined with the agreed to reduction of three by the RATE Union there is a net of eight positions eliminated. Some of the folks who were potentially being laid off were able to transfer to other open positions. Several of the personnel discharged were not working due to long term illnesses or workers comp issues and one individual had been terminated for cause. Without any doubt this is the most difficult part of the job because these are people, not just numbers. The manager has assured us that these reductions will not negatively impact the service level that you have grown to expect.
	Memorial Field Update
	The commissioners approved the lease of Memorial Field at Radnor Memorial Park to Agnes Irwin School. As I had discussed previously, in addition to an annual lease payment AIS will install a Turf Field, Lights and amenities and also maintain the field. The Township will have full access to the field when it is not being used by AIS (basically 3 to 6 each school day) which will fill a significant role in our programs.
	Ithan Valley Park Cleanup Rescheduled
	The Ithan Valley Park cleanup has been postponed in order to allow the Parks Board to review the proposed plans of the citizens group that is leading the efforts. I will be certain to provide more info as it becomes available.
	Learn How To Save Energy and Water at Two Free Workshops:
	Sustainability Series presents “Bringing Green Energy Home.” This will be presented on 7/28 from 7 to 8:30 providing information on conservation, efficiency and renewable energy technologies. This will be conducted at the Township Building.
	eNews July 1, 2011

	Holiday Trash Schedule next week
	Remember Monday is the Fourth of July (hope to see you at the Garrett Hill Parade) so our trash will be picked up on Wednesday next week. Recycle will remain on Friday.
	Stormwater Study Presentation:
	The initial findings of our consultants on our flooding and stormwater issues will be presented on Thursday, July 14th, at 7 PM in the Township Building.
	Goshen Road:
	I have walked the project with Commissioner Schaefer and our Public works Director Steve Norcini and the early August re-opening seems reasonable. I am personally very unhappy with the project. This is a case study in how to destroy the character of a road and area. This used to be a lovely tree lined country lane (albeit somewhat dangerous curve) and now it is like a city street. It is my humble opinion that they have not eliminated the underlying problem. I have communicated my displeasure with Senator Leach and State rep Hackett.The Township is currently trying to work with PennDoT to improve the appearance of the retaining wall and increase the replanting plans.
	Home Rule Charter Update:
	I have mentioned previously that we a committee to take update our Home Rule Charter. The committee would like your input and you can send them your ideas at charter@radnor.org

	Vacationers, Remember the Township Vacant House Program:
	Reduce your worries and enjoy your vacation knowing that the Radnor Police are providing extra attention to your home. Radnor Township offers a Vacant House Watch program. There is a online form on the township website (under the Police Department) or call 610-688-5600.
	School Tax Bills
	Several people have contacted me about the school tax bills that were received this week, particularly the line item for “Community College”. Please note that the Commissioners are not responsible for school taxes, that is the School Board. You can find their email addresses on the school district website www.RTSD.org.

	eNews August 4, 2011
	Happy Summer (and Happy Birthday to my sister)
	It is a quiet summer from the Township standpoint but there are a few items you may be interested in hearing about. Stormwater Management Report – Chagrin Valley Engiineers have submitted their final stormwater report to the Township. This report can be reviewed on the Township website at http://www.radnor.com/egov/docs/1311956792_445831.pdf. This plan will be formally presented by Chagrin at a Board of Commissioners meeting. Goshen Road is OPEN (but). With no fanfare what so ever, Goshen Road has been returned to service. Elaine Schaefer (4th Ward Commissioner) and I have been discussing the roadway with Pendot. We are incredibly unhappy with what they did from an appearance standpoint. As I discussed, a previously tree lined country lane has been turned into a city streetscape. We have been working with our State Reps and Senator regarding this matter. Potholes – I have received many phone calls and emails about the condition of Bryn Mawr Avenue between Sproul and County Line Rds. As you may not be aware, this road is a state highway and therefore is the responsibility of Pendot. I have asked the Township to contact Pendot (again) about the condition.
	CARFAC has begun meeting
	The Citizens' Audit Review & Financial Advisory Committee is an additional layer to enhance the Township's effort to promote transparency in financial accountability and to ensure the appropriate and proper expenditure of taxpayer dollars. We are fortunate to live in a community with a lot of expertise amongst our citizens. Our Ward is well represented on this committee holding 3 of the nine seats. Budget At our last BoC Meeting we received a detailed 6 month financial report. This report contains some positive revenue number and also identifies a few areas that we will need to watch. The report includes some excellent information. This report is on the web at: http://www.radnor.com/egov/docs/1311257957_584625.pdf Stability – With the recent reorganization and additional layoffs discussed in my last newsletter I believe we are now entering a period of stability for our local government. This is a good thing for our employees who have been through hell in the past several years. Hopefully this will allow the staff and Commissioners to increase our focus on the future. We are working on next year’s budget and the development of a real strategy for the future of our community. 5 Points Update – I am continuing to work with the Township staff concerning the potential safety issue of turning left in to Glenbrook from County line. The problem is complicated by two factors: 1) the lane having the concern is in Lower Merion, and 2) County Line is a State Highway so we must follow those rules. I haven’t given up hope of a reasonable resolution. Permit Requirements Do you know the requirements for obtaining permits when you are doing work on your home or property? Well, frankly I do not, so I call the Township and ask. Many times the contractors you are using will address this for you but please check. The permit fees are small and help pay for our inspectors who do a great job making sure the work is done properly (and safely.) Some surprises for me were the need for a permit when you are replacing and existing fence or the need for a permit if you are having a party tent erected.
	eNews August 24, 2011
	Hurricane Planning
	You may have been called by the Radnor Township automated call system regarding the potential bad weather coming from the Carribean. Here is some additional information regarding this topic. Our Township Emergency Response Team met today to discuss emergency response coordination between Township Departments, Radnor Police and Fire Companies in anticipation of heavy rain and wind related weather conditions that may result from Hurricane Irene this weekend. As part of Radnor Township's efforts to alert residents, we will be utilizing the Township's website, our voice notification system, email notification system, Comcast channel 10 and Verizon channel 30 to keep you informed of the Township's preparations as well as storm event activities as they occur.
	Support Radnor Township in Honoring Our Troops
	Radnor Township invites residents and members of the community to join the Township in honoring our troops. You may contribute by submitting the names and photographs of active and retired members of the United States military, as well as those who gave their lives while defending our country, for a display that will be located in the lobby of the Township Municipal Building. Names of family members, relatives, and friends of Radnor residents and community will all be accepted. Additional information may include (but is not required): branch of the military, rank, year(s) and location(s) served. Hard copy photographs should be either 4x6 or 5x7 in size and digital photographs at least 300 dpi. Submissions and questions may be directed to Melissa Conn at Radnor Township, 301 Iven Avenue, Wayne, PA 19087 or by email at mconn@radnor.org All submissions must be approved by the member's family.
	Township Manager Listening Sessions
	Manager Robert Zienkowski will be holding six listening session over three days in the month of September. These sessions will allow the Township Manager and members of the Administration an opportunity to meet and hear from our residents, businesses, and the educational community about what your thoughts and opinions are of Radnor Township, the municipal services you receive, programs that are offered, and what you would like to see from the Township government in the future. Everyone is invited and welcome to attend. All sessions, with one exception, will be held at the Radnor Township Municipal Building, 301 Iven Avenue, Wayne. September 14 7:00 - 8:30 am 12 noon - 1:30 pm 6:00 - 8:00 pm September 22 9:00 - 10:30 am 1:30 pm - 3:00 pm September 24 8:30 - 10:30 am Please note: The September 14 6:00 pm session will be held at the Radnor Memorial Library, Winsor Room, 114 W. Wayne Avenue, Wayne. The format of the sessions is informal and allows everyone to speak openly and honestly on your thoughts, ideas, criticism and suggestions as for what are best or in the best interest for Radnor Township. Residents, businesses and the educational community do have a voice in the direction of government and this is a great opportunity to let the Township know what your opinions, ideas and suggestions are on any number of topics. Radnor is a great community with very bright and insightful residents and business owners. Our belief is that we are all in this together and we need that input and feedback so that moving forward, we are truly working together and communicating our thoughts and ideas to continue to make Radnor Township a great place to live, work, play and raise a family! No RSVP is necessary, it is a drop-in format in which you can come and go at your leisure. If you can't make the sessions, you can send an e-mail with your comments and suggestions to Township Manager Robert Zienkowski at: rzienkowski@radnor.org
	eNews October 5, 2011 Radnor 5th Ward Public Telephone Notification – As I am sure you all have noted, the Township has begun using an auto-dialer /robo call service to provide important notifications to our citizenry. The feedback I received about this was very positive. However, because the current system we use has some significant limitations, the Commissioners have authorized the staff to procure and deploy a system called “Code Red”. This system includes both general notifications and also a severe weather notification service that is driven by the National Weather Service and hence much more focused on specific areas rather than the entire Township. An additional feature is the ability to tailor the notifications to the individual needs of our residents. I will keep you up to date as we progress with this project. Survey Recently the Board of Commissioners were presented with the results of a survey of the community. The results were very interesting and provide us with information we need to move forward in our quest to improve the local government. The results are available on the Township website. http://www.radnor.com/egov/docs/1316621022_298950.pdf Fire Company Donations I recently sent off my annual donation to the Bryn Mawr Fire Company and this made me think about the service they provide. In Radnor Township we are served by several volunteer fire companies and we are lucky to have them. I asked Township staff how much would it cost if we had to provide the emergency services we receive from these folks. I was somewhat surprised by the number. I was told that providing for emergency services with non-volunteers would add about $6 million to our annual budget. That would increase or taxes by close to 25%. Of course there is no intent to take such an action but it something worth remembering when you are writing out you donation checks for this great service. It is interesting to note that only about 35% of the households here in our ward contribute to the fire companies. Ambulance service Recently the Township decided to change the provider for “Advanced Life Support” (ALS) from Narberth Ambulance (Volunteer Medical Service Corps) to Radnor Fire Company. Radnor Fire Company has been providing Basic Life Support (BLS) but previously did not have ALS capability, which they now have. At the recent Board of Commissioners meeting we presented a certificate of appreciation to Narberth for there many years of fine dedicated service. Accepting the certificate for Narberth was their President, David Zaslow, who happens to reside here in our Ward. I want to thanks David on behalf of our community for his service. School district grounds maintenance agreement For 30 years there has been an agreement between the School District and the Township under which the Township maintains playing fields and landscaping for the school district in return for use of school district fields and facilities for our Recreation Programs and cash. At our last meeting of the BoC we approved notifying the School District that the contract will be terminated at the end of the year. This was done because we are attempting to re-negotiate the contract and there is a requirement for 90 day notice or the continuance is automatic. This agreement has been very beneficial to our community however, about three years ago we determined that the terms are not equitable to the separate taxing authorities and I have personally been trying to resolve the issue for at least two years. Our goal is to have a new contract in place before the current contract expires. Rain, Rain, Rain I guess I don’t have to tell you that this has been an incredibly wet year? But do you know the serious effects this rain has had on the community? We are all familiar with the most obvious issue which is the local flooding but we are having issues with the fact that the water table is significantly higher than normal. This translates into wet basements (that have never had a problem before) big trees falling over and swampy, mushy yards. The most dramatic effect has been on the SEPTA Rt 100 line which experienced a landslide of sorts dropping the inbound tracks about 17 inches in a spot between Roberts Road and Conestoga Road. SEPTA has been doing emergency repairs and now is embarking on a large stabilization project that will cost several million dollars. You may have already observed their vehicles in the area of the Radcliff House apartments. They anticipate that the project will take 30 to 60 days.