Our View of the Political Landscape in Upper Moreland

New year, new decade let's see what it brings

2010-01-12T12:18:00.003-05:00

The follwoing was taken off of the Montgomery news website. It really holds true for the 2010-2012 UM Board of Commissioners.

Montgomery News (montgomerynews.com)

Public Spirit Willow Grove Guide > Opinion
Editorial: Listen to voters
Tuesday, January 5, 2010
The new year is a time of new beginnings.Some people take the opportunity to initiate new habits, or rid themselves of old ones, while others may change their whole outlook on life.In government, it is also a time of new beginnings: they call it reorganization.For local township and borough governments, 2010 provides a chance to start with a new outlook — seats will be juggled, parties will switch and issues will be raised.Reorganization, Webster’s Dictionary says, is to (once again) “form into a complete and functioning whole.”Fortunately, the “complete” component of the definition is provided for by a group of citizens willing to work in local government, and also by the election process adopted to get them there.It is however, the premise of “functioning” that is of issue here.Is a government “functioning” when it adopts plans for development or amends zoning regulations? Well, in a sense they are. They are doing the work — voting, adopting denying ... voting, adopting, denying ....That is after all what we pay them (ha, ha) for. Right?Isn’t, however, the “function” of the government — for the U.S. at least — to represent the needs, desires and best interests of the people?By its inherent nature, a governing body — no matter what its size — is not functioning if it is not listening to voices which it governs.For those local leaders who put their hands on the Bible Monday night and swore to provide residents with representation, this message goes to you — remember your constituents.They are the people who elected you, and they are not going to be easy to please. They will not want their roads to be crowded or their fields to be developed. They will not want to pay more taxes or fees. And they will not want their property devalued or potholes left unfilled.If each politician has their own agenda, whether affiliated with a party or personal, and each of these agendas is forced into a decision (through vocalized pushing and shoving) the results that are squeezed out are often not desired by the residents.If, however, each politician starts out with a common agenda — the best interests of the people — the results stand a better chance of coming out right.As new members take their seats and veteran ones come back from the holidays, the proverbial slate should be wiped clean for the new year and the voices of the people should be listened to, no matter how faint their whisper.
URL: http://www.montgomerynews.com/articles/2010/01/12/public_spirit_willow_grove_guide/opinion/doc4b43e3d986531859209405.prt
© 2010 MontgomeryNews.com, a Journal Register Property

Now I know some out there will disagree with me but this board, with the longest serving members at 4 years each, has a giant opportunity ahead of them. The self-serving politics has to stop!!! Unfortunatly, at the re-orginzation meeting held last week, two commissioners (yes the ones that are supposed to be the leaders simply by the time served) continued pontificating for the cameras to show that they know what is best. Now, if you look at the votes of the past 6 months, you will see that these two comissioners have no clue about how government is supposed to work. They only want to serve themselves, not the voters who put them there. I can only hope that they somehow saw this editorial and it changes their outlook on the way business gets done!

Developers coming to UM???

2009-05-13T14:02:00.002-04:00

It's about time that developers got interested in developing in UM again!! The only problem as I see it is that because the comissioners did not extend the "town center zone" to include the areas north on York Rd. & Davisville Rd., there is only 1 developer that will bnenfit from the TIF. I only hope that the voters in ward 1 realize that Commissioner Romaniello was the driving force behind keeping the "town center zone" samller rather than enlarging it to include areas that; to quote Comm. Hotchkiss; "... is ugly and keeps getting uglier". Read below and feel free to comment.

By Jesse Reilly Staff Writer
With a tax incentive aiming to increase development in downtown Willow Grove waiting on approval from the county, it seems developers are already interested in the area.Several presentations came before the community development committee Monday night proposing a movie theater, student housing and major improvements to the Willow Grove Shopping Center.David Iemolo of Federal Realty Investment Trust, which has owned the shopping center since the mid 1980s, presented the committee with a plan that would upgrade nearly 6 acres of the 13-acre center and add a six-story parking garage, more than 250 residential units and increase the retail square footage by nearly 80,000.“It would really open up the space and allow pedestrian connection straight through,” Seth Shapiro, the director of planning and urban development for the project said. “It would look quite different than it looks right now.”The project is consistent with the guidelines of redevelopment in the town center, Jody Holton, urban development planner for the township, said.“This plan really seems to embody all of your goals,” she said. “It looks to eliminate big box stores and increase pedestrian travel. It is centralized and much more efficient.”For Commissioner Joe Lavalle, chairman of the committee, the project seemed to embody the township’s goals.“This could inject life back into this area of town,” he said. “It’s a big project but I think we’re going in the right direction.”With Toys-R-US vacant, Iemolo said there is a short window of opportunity to begin the project because, if it is re-occupied, it could put construction on hold for as long as a decade.Federal Realty would be the first developers looking to utilize tax incremental financing — a tool used to generate funds for projects by freezing taxes for developers, allowing them to use the money they would have paid in taxes for construction.“Without that, this project would not be possible,” Iemolo said. “This needs to be a partnership because it is a large scale project.”Even with 229 one- and two-bedroom apartments, Shapiro said he did not believe there would be a significant impact on the school district — one of the entities needed to approve a TIF.“This is luxury apartment living and we usually see young, single professionals or newly married couples without children,” he said. “We don’t see it bringing too many children to the school district.”In addition to the improvements to the shopping center, a representative for Frank Theaters proposed a 16-screen movie theater and IMAX at the old Sam’s Club Property, 1001 S. York Road.The plan also proposed restaurants in the area and possible retail space in the future, Thomas Chapman, attorney for Frank Theaters said.A variance for restaurant use, parking and possibly for the height of the IMAX would be needed.Finally the township heard a proposal for a three-story, 50 two-bedroom unit student housing at 422, 423 and 503 York Road.“We have had conversations with Penn State Abington and Arcadia,” Jeffery Cairone of Joseph Cairone Construction said. “There is a definite need for student housing in the area.”Commissioner James Hotchkiss agreed.“That area is ugly and keeps getting uglier,” he said. “Any construction would be welcome.”There would be security on the property from Thursday to Sunday as well as the possibility of a graduate student as a resident assistant.Although the developers were interested in a TIF, Kate Harper, the township’s solicitor, said she did not believe it would apply and is something both entities would have to look into.Excited to keep the lines of communication open with all developers, it seemed that the members of the board had some reservations but were in favor of the projects.“It’s a very exciting time,” Lavalle said. “We just need to keep the lines of communication open.”

What Will the Year Bring to Upper Moreland?

2009-04-16T19:22:00.002-04:00

Upper Moreland board member seeking re-election
By: Jesse Reilly, Staff Writer
04/09/2009

No surprises here folks… Lisa is running again! I guess she still has more to say. Taking the meetings until 11:00 must not have been enough time.

Deciding to run for Upper Moreland Township Commissioner to spur change in downtown Willow Grove, Democratic incumbent Lisa Romaniello said her reasons for seeking re-election are the same.

Will this include more projects that will be funded with our local taxpayer dollars? This same tax base that is overburdened? We wonder if there were less dissention from self proclaimed advocates of “change” we might have developers ready to invest in the future of our township. Hold on, we forgot, we will be getting that snazzy fountain and granite curbing! Upper Moreland Township Taxpayers – are you getting your money’s worth? Maybe we can pull some pennys out of that fountain some day!

"We had two really productive years in 2006 and 2007. We had a lot of momentum as a board and got a lot accomplished," the Ward 1 representative said. "But we seemed to have lost in the past two years and I want to work to get us back there."

Teamwork means seeing all sides, not fighting to prove you are right. Team work is Compromise. Lesson of the day… There really is no I in team.

Hoping to restore civility and decorum to the council room, focus on economic development and create more jobs in the community and take the steps necessary to make Upper Moreland the leader in green technology are advancements that Romaniello said are crucial to the township's future.

Hold on, I choked on my gum – civility? Do you ever watch the videos of the commissioners meetings over the past 4 years? Glass house, let me introduce you to stone.

"If re-elected I would work to switch our HVAC system to solar or geo-thermal technology," she said. "I would update our zoning codes and make investments in improving the township's storm water infrastructure."

Too much here, just google geothermal – won’t vote to fund needed upgrades for our police but will talk about technology that potentially leaves a more detrimental carbon footprint. Talk green but do the research too. Oh and how much will this cost and how will WE pay for that?

Zoning code update? Is this the same one already under review and the effort, by the way, that she opposed favoring the establishment of traffic impact fees? Tax and Spend?

As a board member, Romaniello said the economy will be the biggest challenge that the board will face in the upcoming years.

"Our expenditures are currently $600,000 more than our revenue," she said. "We really need to tighten our belts, but realize that we need to be willing to go after economic stimulus dollars and make investments in our future. It is irresponsible not to try to go after the funds that are available to finance these types of improvements."

Next lesson: Stimulus money is a one time shot of funding for the commonwealth – you cannot count on this money as continuous funding stream. As one of 67 counties in this commonwealth all the money isn't coming here. But hey courting a few good developers might help build that tax base – or cutting some of the frivolous projects already mentioned. And the Grants or low interest loans? These still come with a price tag. We need to make good choices.

Acknowledging the difficult times ahead, Romaniello said she believes it is also a time of change."I think the status quo type of governing is not paying off," she said.

Change!? Your right - the last four years are not paying off.

The self-proclaimed bipartisan said her way of thinking could be an asset to the board. "I am able to cross political lines and work with people," she said, adding that her time on the township's advisory planning agency, the historical commission and the revitalization and redevelopment committee (is this one that ended over a porkchop?), as well as her professional experience as a business owner have afforded her the experience necessary to work on the board. Letting it go… Too easy…

"I have managed many big projects from start to finish and part of my job is listening to my clients, establishing a strategy and implementing those strategies," she said. "And of course, delivering the final project within budget." But are these team strategies or my way or the highway strategies? Compromise in goverment is essential too.

Re-establishing the spirit of political will on the board is what is needed as the township moves forward, Romaniello said.

"We need to bring back that spirit," she said. "We need to become a government that can do and accomplish things, not look at them as an impossibility."

Amen to that - Heres to alternatives!

My Thanksgiving post . . .

2008-11-26T11:33:00.004-05:00

With the Thanksgiving Holiday tomorrow, I thought that I would post some things that I am thankful for:
1). My loving Family, for with out them there would be nothing!
2). My friends, they keep me on the even keel
3). The USA. Even though I do not agree with all the results of election earlier this month, we are still the greatest country on this planet and I dare anyone to try and prove me wrong!

With the exciting times that are ahead for UM next year, 4 Commissioner races, 5 School Board elections and Tax Collector. All I can say is hold on to your hats, it's going to be an exciting ride!!!!!

I hope everyone has a safe and relaxing holiday!

2008-10-10T17:13:00.003-04:00

Thank goodness that a segment of our board of commissioners recognize the cost to the taxpayers of expanded government. This "Design Review Board" would have (from this bloggers understanding of the discussions) created a redundant board for potential developers to go before. Keep in mind that these boards require overview/input from our township staff. Important to note that the APA Board has these same tasks assigned to them, or should if they are clearly defined. Good vote commissioners. Thank you for safeguarding our tax dollars and making our township more desirable to developers.

Bloggers note: this redundant board feels alot like the redundant website we are still paying for.

UM commissioners nix design commitee idea
By: Jesse Reilly, Staff Writer
10/07/2008

With downtown revitalization central to Willow Grove, the Upper Moreland Township Board of Commissioners voted against a new committee that the majority of the board feared would hinder a developer's interest in the area.

In a 4-3 vote, the establishment of a design and review board failed at the commissioner's Monday night meeting.

The review board, had it passed, would have been charged with ensuring developers were in compliance with township codes, review architectural and landscaping plans for development, promote increased harmony between the township and the developer, as well as encouraging new design for construction and renovations, the proposed ordinance said.

"The board is just another roadblock for developers," Commissioner James Hotchkiss said. "We are duplicating the Advisory Planning Association."Board President Stacey Efkowitz echoed Hotchkiss' sentiments. "It's just another layer of government, it's not necessary," she said. "The new board's recommendations would not even be enforceable."

Review board supporter, Commissioner Kevin Spearing added that much like the new board, the APA is not enforceable either."I am very much in favor of the board," he said. "A lot of developers in surrounding communities are in favor of the board because they are looking for guidance. The only problem developers had with it has been the scheduling of meetings.

"Member of the APA, Jonathan de Jonge agreed with the majority."Design approval is important, but it is something the APA is already charged with," he said. "Time is money and every time a developer has to appear in front of a board they are losing more money. It is more effective to have one-stop shopping."

Although potential developers would have to go through another committee, Commissioner Lisa Romaniello said it would be a benefit. "It [the board] will not, in any way shape or form, drive business away. It is a mistake to say it is an obstacle," she said. "It will provide a sense of town pride and give guideposts to interested developers."

A Dogs Holiday!

2008-09-24T21:28:00.002-04:00

Committee changes proposed dog park location
By: Jesse Reilly, Staff Writer
09/23/2008

After moving forward with the creation of a dog park in Mill Creek Park in May, the Upper Moreland Parks and Recreation Committee had to take a few steps back Monday night.

The park's original location was set between the fence and the creek in Mill Creek Park and approximately $25,000 of the project's estimated $63,000 cost was to build a dry ford across the waterway to improve accessibility. But, after receiving notification that a joint permit from the Army Corp of Engineers and the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Resources would be required at a cost of approximate $25,000, the township decided to rethink the location.

"An $88,000 dog park is not acceptable for the taxpayers," committee member Lisa Romaniello said. (But a redundant website costing the taxpayers money was acceptable? How about that glass fountain - that is acceptable too we assume.) The committee decided to move forward with changing the location back to the second choice in the Hankin section of Veterans Memorial Park. "I am surprised a joint permit was required and am disappointed the park will not be at Mill Creek," Pat Stasio, director of parks and recreation said. "Mill Creek was the top choice because it was under utilized, but when we were deciding on the location both were pretty much even."

Stasio added that Paw Prints Dog Owners Group had been positive about the second choice location a few months ago. The move will create a slightly smaller economic burden on the township. The Veterans Memorial Dog Park is estimated to cost $55,000, about $8,000 less than the first location. "Most of the work can be done in-house," Stasio said. The committee moved the location change to be voted on at the board of commissioners meeting Oct. 6.

Congratulations to the Paw Prints Dog Owners Group for keeping up the good work for our furry friends and to UM Parks and Rec for having the forethought to keep additional sites in mind and consistently looking to keep our costs down and in turn our Taxes!

Commissioners give sewer authority OK to move plan foward

2008-09-18T19:35:00.002-04:00

So what do you think? Should Horsham Township dictate what direction we take with our services? Should we be reviewing and planning for such an important service such as sewer? Should we not allow our service organizations the ability to plan for the future for something that another Township may or may not do?

By: Jesse Reilly, Staff Writer
09/16/2008

Against the wishes of some members, the Upper Moreland Board of Commissioners voted to allow the Upper Moreland-Hatboro Joint Sewer Authority to move forward with an update of the authority's Act 537 Plan.

In a 5-1 vote Sept. 8, the board directed Township Solicitor Kate Harper to draft a letter to the authority documenting their approval. "The decision is not an adoption of a new plan, it is simply allowing the sewer authority to move forward with its strategic plan," board President Stacey Efkowitz said.

Act 537, The Pennsylvania Sewage Facilities Act, requires that all commonwealth municipalities develop and implement comprehensive official plans to provide for the resolution of existing sewage disposal problems and provide for the future, the Department of Environmental Protection's Web site said. The sewer authority is re-examining its plan because it has exceeded 80 percent capacity.

With Horsham Township utilizing 30 percent of capacity, approximately 2 million gallons per day, Commissioners Kevin Spearing and Lisa Romaniello were concerned with their neighboring township's commitment. "If Horsham diverted half a million gallons to another authority we would be below 80 percent," Spearing said.

"We wouldn't even have to have a 537 plan, we would save a lot of money."If the plan called for the expansion of the authority, a move that could cost upwards of $10 million, and Horsham decided to take its capacity elsewhere, the changes would be void. "It's just a good business decision," he said. "Let's not put the horse before the cart."

Although both were concerned with moving forward too quickly, Harper warned the board that by not allowing the authority to move forward they are putting pressure on the wrong entity - Horsham would not be affected by its holdout. "I would like to see a 20- or 30-year commitment from Horsham," he said.

In an attempt to ease fears and protect themselves, board members instructed Harper's letter to the sewer authority to address their concerns with Horsham's ability to decide against utilizing its 30 percent, information regarding other municipalities for long-term planning as well as the original documents that afford Horsham its portion.

Although Spearing said the township has more than enough capacity for redevelopment, Jonathon de Jonge, vice-chairman of the Advisory Planning Agency, was concerned that failing to move forward would inhibit growth in the downtown area. "We have already spent over $2 million on redevelopment," he said. "We cannot keep doing this dance, people won't come."

Turnpike will clear out debris . . .

2008-09-15T15:03:00.002-04:00

Turnpike will clear out debris
By DOM COSENTINO
The Intelligencer
Kevin Spearing pointed to a pair of trees at either end of the small hillside, both of which were choking from the effects of the mounting pile of stone and debris.
“Look at those trees!” he shouted. “Those trees are dying!”
The pile extended the hillside outward from the contractor's storage area near Easton and Maryland roads in Upper Moreland, right next to the Willow Grove interchange of the Pennsylvania Turnpike.
It contained mostly paving material — concrete, gravel, rocks — plus a few pieces of misshapen metal and other detritus that had simply been dumped off the hillside, all the way to the bottom, all the way to the tall weeds below.
The small storage area sits within a mostly wooded right of way shared by the Turnpike Commission and the state Department of Transportation. Nearby, there is a makeshift access road at the intersection of Easton and Maryland roads. A sewer pipe that juts out into an adjacent creek and sits beneath piles of rocks had been put down to create the roadway. Numerous trees had obviously been cleared out for that purpose, too.
Spearing, an Upper Moreland commissioner, was at the site Thursday afternoon with a pair of turnpike officials: senior engineer and project manager Joe Serbu and public involvement specialist Mimi Lindelow.
While Spearing said there was no way the road could pass muster with the state Department of Environmental Protection, Serbu said there was no way of knowing at that moment what regulations applied to what had been done there, and when.

The access road leads to a culvert that runs beneath the turnpike interchange. The culvert, which is maintained by the township, has a dike in front of it that keeps the creek waters from flooding out downstream homeowners.
The nearby rock pile, however, was another matter.
The pile had been there for about a year, building and expanding to maybe 30 feet in width. It has become a source of frustration for Spearing, who said his attempts to get someone (I wonder if he even attempted to contact the Turnpike? I know his Father brought this before the comissioners way before the construction began and I think that it (the "construction debris") is the same size now as it was then.)— anyone — from the Turnpike Commission to do anything about it in the past had gone unheeded.
“In my opinion,” Spearing said, “they were ignored.”
Serbu, however, expressed a willingness to get the pile cleaned up.
“We're going to rectify that,” Serbu said. “We're going to have them remove that. We're going to get them to pull it out.”
Serbu was referring to the contractor, whom he declined to name and who could not be proven guilty of having done the dumping, based on the fact that no one had actually observed it happen.
“We just want to make sure that now you know that we're listening,” Serbu said. (See, ask and ye shall receive!!!)

Dom Cosentino can be reached at 215-345-3148 or dcosentino@phillyBurbs.com.

Here is something new (well maybe not so new)

2008-09-02T14:58:00.003-04:00

Coming up sometime soon; might be this month, might be next month, there will be a vote on wether or not to provide funds to shore up a building at the Nathaniel Boileau Park. I believe that the amount requested is around $56,000. In my humble opinion that is throwing good money after bad! I wish the commissioners would take heed from a survey done several years ago and get moving on a community center! The results were that a majority of those who took the survey said that UM needed a community center. Instead of putting money into these buildings that, from what I can tell, not many residents care about, lets do something the whole township can get behind! The township should look into funding to make a community center at the Boileau Park grounds. I have heard several people talk about this (yes they are non-political types) and they feel, as I do, Boileau would be a great location for a community center. The senior citizens could use it during the day and the kids could use it on the weekends and some evenings. There are a multitude of things that can be done there. Just my opinion.

Don't you just love archives?

2008-08-15T19:46:00.002-04:00

In an expected move, much is being said about transparency in government and about how our Commissioner in Ward 1 (candidate for the State House) has single handedly stopped the "Back Room Deals" and has created transparency in our local government.

On another Blog - Elizabeth states (we wont bore you with all of it!):

"I was happy to see back room negotiations gone...

Lisa's bi-partisan efforts helped to attract a dozen new developers to Willow Grove. Leveling the playing field is good business - fair and equitable business. It is obvious that when outside developers don't contribute to the political campaigns of this republican controlled board, they stay on the outside. If you were following the facts you would know there is a BRAND NEW DEVELOPMENT PROPOSAL with benefits for our community being ignored by this town leadership!!!

Thank you "Elizabeth" for reminding us about transparency of our local government. I guess having knowledge as a citizen of who the developers are would be too much for us TAXPAYERS to handle.

What we are enjoying this time around is open and honest conversation amongst all the board members in a public setting for the taxpayers to see.

From May 30, 2007... gotta love the Archives!

Commissioners won't name would-be developer
By JACOB FENTONphillyBurbs.com

The township committee charged with revamping downtown Willow Grove was criticized Tuesday for refusing to name a potential master developer who presented a conceptual plan to township consultants behind closed doors this month.

“I'm sorely disappointed,” said Jonathan de Jonge, a member of the township's advisory planning agency, adding that rumors were flying. “This almost smacks of what the previous committee was accused of — making backdoor deals.”

Lisa Romaniello, the township commissioner who chairs the redevelopment effort, said that the developer didn't want any of its investors to be taken by surprise.

Township Commissioner Richard Booth, who's often at odds with Romaniello, said the developer being considered owned property in the redevelopment area, and questioned whether he might be able to prevent his tenants' competitors from getting leases in the area. “Might that be a conflict of interest?” he asked.

While Booth didn't identify the developer, he said that the township had only been meeting with one candidate in the last six months. In November, township officials visited sites in Maryland where Federal Realty Investment Trust had done work. The group, which has been named as a potential builder in the past, also owns Willow Grove Shopping Center.

Romaniello said that the meeting this month had gone well, but that the plan laid out had been too big for the township to swallow at once. “They came in with a significant size proposal for a conceptual site plan and the township and the developer realized that it was too big for us to handle — we needed to break it down into phases.”

Township commissioners did not attend the meeting, held May 14, in an attempt to keep plans for revamping about 75 acres of the downtown area from turning political.

Planners have long envisioned a mix of housing and stores easily accessible to public transit taking root in the area; that would likely be part of the first phase, Romaniello said.

Thank Goodness for Forward Thinking in UM

2008-08-07T10:12:00.003-04:00

Thoughtful planning and committment to redevelopment are given the "proof is in the pudding" nod to our commissioners who approved the bod issue with the buffer funding in place.

Commissioner Romaniello voted for the project to move forward (the one with the granite curbs and glass fountain" but voted against the funding saying it was unnecessary to expand the dollars needed to see this through. Hmm... It would appear that thinking ahead is a strength that needs to be worked on for one.

I am still wondering this morning how you can promote, advocate and fight for a project - yet vote agains the money needed to see it through. Just doesnt make sense to this girl to the right. Strength comes in many forms, not just in a manner of dress and speaking.

Funding increases for park project
By: Jesse Reilly, Staff Writer
08/06/2008

The rising cost of oil is affecting more than people's attitudes toward car fill-ups these days and the Upper Moreland Township Board of Commissioners got a firsthand look at the ripple effects at its meeting Monday night.

The board approved a nearly quarter of a million dollar increase in the construction of Memorial Park Drive, raising the cost from $1.7 million to nearly $2 million. The total project is estimated to cost $3.25 million, the majority of the township's $5.3 million bond. The bulk of the increase is due primarily to the rising price of materials, especially the paving that has oil in it, township engineer Joe Hanna said. Although demolition of the buildings in the area of the drive began last week, paving will occur midway through the project. "I don't see paving in the next few months," Hanna said. First storm-water management and clearing issues need to be tackled.

Although some commissioners were skeptical about the rising prices of materials unrelated to paving, including the fountain, Commissioner Joseph Lavalle said every increase could be attributed to oil."If you have to ship something your prices have gone up because you need to fuel the vehicle to get there," he said. "It's just the prices these days, it impacts everything."

Although the increase occurred in a matter of months, board President Stacey Efkowitz said planning has allowed the township to cover extra costs. When working the numbers, the township added a 20 percent over-run for unexpected expenditures, she said.Although the increase is eating up about 15 percent of that over-run, Efkowitz said the township is not wasting any more time beginning the project. Demolition began last week and according to the township's schedule, construction is set to begin in early September and be completed by the end of the year.

"Thankfully we borrowed enough money," she said. "Hopefully we will be able to complete the project before the asphalt index increases again."Agreeing that the project is a long time coming, Commissioner Kevin Spearing said it needs to be completed quickly. "I guess this reinforces the old adage that time is money," he said.

Redevelopment is on the move . . .

2008-07-02T12:51:00.003-04:00

Redevelopment is on the move despite Commisioner Romaniello's questions as to, heck I don't even know want she was asking. At the Tif meeting on Monday night Commissioner Romaniello asked several questions all which brought on the question from the committee; "Where are you going with this Lisa?" Her response each time was to walk away from the microphone. She wanted this meeting televised, but it was not. She is probably happy 'cause my source tells me she did not get the sound bites she needs for her campaign. Looks as though we are one step closer to having a serious developer contact the twp to do some work here. Stay tuned!

Moving closer to dispersing tax revenue
By DOM COSENTINOThe Intelligencer
The township, the school district and Montgomery County are close to having guidelines in place for using new tax revenue to help finance redevelopment in Willow Grove.
Officials from all three taxing entities met Monday night to parse the language of the proposed “tax increment financing” guidelines, including what percentage each is prepared to pledge toward it. The two-hour meeting went smoothly, with much of the discussion centering on a small portion of the nine-page document.
A property's assessed value increases, in theory, when it is revitalized, therefore generating more tax revenue for the township, school district and county, all of which levy taxes on Upper Moreland properties.
The enticement of a so-called TIF is that it promises to use that new tax revenue to help pay the developer's costs.
“It's a no-brainer,” said Sam Valenza, vice president of the township board of supervisors and chairman of the TIF committee formed to create the guidelines. “It's win-win for everybody to get this thing moving.”
Monday night, the township decided to pledge a range of 85 to 100 percent of increased TIF revenues, depending on a project's desirability.

It's clear that the township wants to encourage business development and infrastructure improvements within the TIF district.
Bruce Nicholson, a lawyer for the Montgomery County Redevelopment Authority, said the county would typically pledge the same as the local municipality, at least based on previous programs in Pottstown and Norristown.
The school district set a ceiling of 50 percent, though it had discussed going as high as 75 percent. The school board will not meet to determine the district's pledge until its next regular meeting at the end of this month.
Once the guidelines have the necessary approvals from each taxing body, they will then be advertised, a process that could be completed as soon as September.

Dom Cosentino can be reached at 215-345-3148 or dcosentino@phillyBurbs.com.

Thank You Mr. Bender

2008-06-26T15:29:00.003-04:00

While I personally did not agree with most things Dave voted against, I know that he had the citizens and the students of Upper Moreland formost in his mind. The district and most importantly the board will miss his incessant questioning! (LOL!!!) Seriously, Thank you Dave for your service and dedication to UMTSD.

Bender steps down from board
By DOM COSENTINOThe Intelligencer
David Bender has resigned from the Upper Moreland School Board, just one day after the board approved a budget for 2008-09 and just as his term as its treasurer was about to expire.

A board member for nine years with 31/2 years remaining on his current term, Bender said he was “involved in a couple of other things” that have been placing demands on his time. He described those things as “personal” and declined to elaborate.

“I don't feel comfortable not being prepared for the meetings,” said Bender, who typically spoke up to ask questions at the board's public meetings. “I'm finding that it's more and more difficult to do that and I don't want to do that to my fellow board members in not being prepared.”
Tuesday night, Bender cast one of the board's three dissenting votes against a budget for next year that will raise taxes 10.65 percent. The impact of the tax hike will be offset significantly for taxpayers who signed up for the state's homestead exemption, however.
Bender said he had made his decision about a month ago but only made it official on Wednesday because his term as treasurer was set to expire Monday.

“I enjoyed it,” Bender said. “I enjoyed doing what I did. I hope I had done things for the children of our district as well as for the taxpayers of our district.”
Among the achievements Bender takes pride in are the elementary center construction, the ongoing renovations at the high school and the rise of the district's PSSA scores.
“Everybody's just doing a good job over there,” he said of the schools. “The district's heading in the right direction.”

The district is accepting applications for a replacement member who will be appointed to serve until December 2009. Those interested should send a resume to Michael J. Braun, board secretary, Upper Moreland Township School District Administration Building, 2900 Terwood Road, Willow Grove, Pa. 19090. The deadline is July 9 at 4:30 p.m.

Qualified candidates will be invited to present their credentials at a July 10 board meeting, with the appointment to be made at a special meeting July 22.

Dom Cosentino can be reached at 215-345-3148 or dcosentino@phillyBurbs.com.

Flooding Issues

2008-06-09T10:19:00.002-04:00

Our officials need to take a hard look at where the extra rain water is coming from and mitigate it there, not just here. Upgrading our system is needed, but let's make sure that the improvements we put in place will handle the increased storm water our neighbors to the north will be "giving" us as a result of thier new developments.
It's funny how this information is not mentioned in the story below!
When it rains ... A river runs through it
By HILARY BENTMANThe Intelligencer
The sign warns motorists — “roadway subject to flooding” — but that doesn't begin to tell the story.
In the nine years Linda Bailey has lived on Norwyn Road in Upper Moreland, she has helped to rescue at least 10 people from cars trapped on her flooded street.
Bailey has endured 3-foot-deep sinkholes in her yard, and was preparing to spend about $13,000 to fix her eroded driveway, that is until the work the contractor had started was washed away by a fast-moving storm on Wednesday.
“I have a lake in my driveway,” Bailey said last week.
She is frustrated and so are her neighbors on Norwyn, Barbara and Shirley roads, who live in what locals call the panhandle of Upper Moreland — a thin sliver of the township nestled between Horsham and Hatboro.
For decades residents have endured flooding with little or no relief from the township or other agencies.
The flooding is a result of several factors, including a circa 1950s storm water system that is undersized and not adequate to handle the flow of water.
Some of the piping has also outlived its usefulness.
The panhandle sits in a valley, with runoff from surrounding areas gravitating toward the neighborhood. Any prolonged rain or heavy summer thunderstorm will flood the community.
“It's like a river running through my yard. I've had ducks swimming in the yard,” said Joan Cunicelli, a 48-year Shirley Road resident. “I've seen two of my neighbors take terrible falls trying to get to their cars on what they thought was level ground.”
To add to the problems, the sewer line that which runs parallel to the storm water line has been affected, and neighbors like Melody Latare have dealt with sewer backups in their homes.
“They have to do something or someone's going to die,” said Latare, who has lived on Shirley Road for four years.
But for the most part nothing has been done.
In 1983, the township's engineer, Chambers Associates, conducted a study of the area, identifying the problems, said Commissioner Kevin Spearing, who represents the neighborhood and on Wednesday could be found wading in waist-deep water.
Minor repairs have been made to the system over the years, but no long-term, effective measures have been taken.
The current board of commissioners is not sure why corrective action was never taken, but most suspect it came down to money. It could take millions to fix it.
“It was probably a matter of cost,” said township engineer John Chambers. “The pipe goes across private property and disturbance to the property owners was (probably going to be) significantly high.”
Spearing is hoping to secure money and help from Montgomery County's flood mitigation program, as well as work with the surrounding municipalities, the local sewer authority, and even the Pennypack Greenway Partnership, whose goal is to protect the Pennypack Creek, which runs through this area.
On June 2, Upper Moreland officials authorized Chambers Associates to examine the entire township, develop a cost estimate to fix all flooding areas and prioritize the work.
“The panhandle is not the only area on the list but it happens to be number one on the list,” said Commissioner President Stacey Efkowitz.
In the end it could cost millions and residents in the panhandle expressed disgust last week that the township is borrowing $5.38 million to be used, in part, to complete the War Memorial Park entrance. The money, they argue, should go toward helping them.
But the majority of the commissioners believe the money is needed to inject some life into the economically struggling Willow Grove section.
“It's not money for a park. It's money for downtown revitalization,” said Spearing. “It's a commitment from the municipality that shows we are serious about redevelopment, and it helps bring developers to Willow Grove.” Hilary Bentman can be reached at 215-345-3148 or hbentman@phillyBurbs.com.

Very Interesting

2008-05-27T14:00:00.003-04:00

A little birdy told me that Lisa Rominello ((D) candidate for the 152nd Pa. House seat) was crusing through Sycamore Village today.
Now usually most campaingers will wait until later in the day to stop by and see people. I guess that Ms. Rominello feels that the working class of the neighborhood are not important enough to talk to. Oh well better for Tom Murt, the incumbent!

The Comissioners listen

2008-05-08T09:22:00.006-04:00

At Monday nights general meeting a special meeting was held to discuss rezoning of 2 parcels on Moreland Rd. The article from the Inteligencer details what took place and what action was taken on this request. Feel free to comment on this!

Board says no to zoning change
By HILARY BENTMAN The Intelligencer
One by one they rose to speak out against turning a residential property on Moreland Road into a professional office.
Neighbors voiced concern about traffic on the already busy thoroughfare and side streets, feared that commercialism was creeping into their neighborhood, and noted there are already several vacant office buildings nearby.
In the end, Upper Moreland commissioners heard their pleas and agreed, voting not to rezone two properties on Moreland Road.
About 35 people attended the commissioners meeting Monday to oppose the plan, which called for converting 501 and 517 Moreland Road from a residential- to professional-zoned property in the hope it would be easier for the owners to sell.
Professional properties allow for small office-like businesses, such as insurance agencies and accountants.
The zoning change was requested by Guiseppe and Eleanora Pescatore, the longtime owners of both properties, who tried unsuccessfully for eight months to sell their home as a residence for nearly $400,000.
Their real estate broker, Henry Jacquelin, a former Upper Moreland commissioner, said the only interest was from people who wanted a professional space and the Pescatores signed a contract with an insurance company to buy it.
But the property needed to be rezoned and the commissioners ultimately said no.
“I've spoken to residents in the neighborhood and no one is in favor of it,” said Commissioner Joseph Lavalle, who represents that area. “I really don't see the need with the amount of vacant space that this would be a necessity.”
There are currently at least four vacant office properties along Moreland Road.
After the vote, Jacquelin declined to comment on what he and his clients planned to do next.
Residents who live on nearby Cameron Road were concerned mainly about the traffic, which is already high with people cutting through their neighborhood. Cameron Road connects Route 611 to Moreland Road near the Willow Grove Park mall.
“Cameron Road has become a speedway,” said resident Frank Delaurentis.
Echoing his sentiments was his neighbor John Luecke, who said: “There are enough idiots flying down the streets now. I feel bad that (the Pescatores) can't sell their home. But I don't want Upper Moreland to become Oxford Circle or Mayfair (sections of Philadelphia).”
Jacquelin argued there are already 18,000 to 20,000 cars a day driving by the properties on Moreland Road and putting in an insurance business would not increase traffic by any significant amount. Moreland Road is no longer the two-lane quiet thoroughfare it once was, he said.
“Moreland Road is going to change whether we like it or not. We're hurting for business in this town,” he argued.
The Montgomery County Planning Commission reviewed the zoning change request and recommended the board take no action.
The reasoning was that both Upper Moreland and neighboring Abington are in the process of comprehensive revisions to their zoning regulations. The properties in question sit on the border of the two municipalities and the planning commission recommended that both towns work together on this issue, as well as the evaluation of the entire Moreland Road corridor.
Jacquelin sits on the Montgomery County Planning Commission board, but said he is only an advisory member and is not part of the professional staff that reviewed the rezoning plans.

What is $1 worth to you?

2008-05-02T17:09:00.001-04:00

It is just not understandable how public safety can take a backseat to curbs and other pretty amenities, when for a single dollar our security and those who provide that safety can be improved. Read on to see just how much $1 per household got to Commissioner Romaniello. Keep in mind, no where did she say she was willing to reduce the budget on her project at the park, just not fund the improvements to the infrastructure that we seriously need. I don't get it, maybe someone can explain it to me.

Funding gets nod for Willow Grove projects
By: Jesse Reilly, Staff Writer

Upper Moreland Township's Finance and Administrative Committee decided Monday night to move forward with a bond issue that would allow the township to finish projects that have been in the works for several years.

The committee voted 2-0 to set the amount of the bond at $3.25 million, approximately a quarter-million more than what was discussed at last month's meeting. Commissioner James McKenna did not vote, saying he disagreed with the amount of the bond. Robert Jones of Saul Ewing was named to serve as bond counsel and Public Finance Management to be the primary consultant. A final vote on the bond issue must be approved by the full board May 5.The bond will pay for the completion of War Memorial Park Drive, a $2.5 million project, as well as a streetscaping project and renovations to the police department and township building.

Much like last month's meeting commissioners disagreed regarding the bond amount and the work being tackled, but board President Stacey Efkowitz said the projects needed to be completed. "There is an urgency to these projects," she said. "Several years ago we were slashing things out of the budget because we were so focused on a zero tax increase that we may have overlooked critical issues. No one wants to see a tax increase when we're looking at a recession but it's better to do it now rather than later."

According to Assistant Township Manager John Crawford, if the township borrowed $3 million dollars, a resident with a property assessed at $150,000 could expect a tax increase of $15. Borrowing a quarter of a million more, a move Crawford recommended, would raises taxes another $1. The increase would begin in 2009 and be in effect until 2016, he added. "We are talking about $1 per year per resident," Crawford said. "The best financial analysis is to borrow more money to ensure that the projects are able to be completed."The issue of a tax increase was also a source of conflict. "It's no time to be cavalier when families are taking such a hit," McKenna said. "With lower wages and a higher cost living we have to be fiscally responsible."

Commissioner Lisa Romanillo echoed McKenna's concerns. "It's time to tighten our belts, not a time to haphazardly tack on large sums of money," she said. She added that she thought it would be better if the township focused solely on completing War Memorial Park Drive and cutting costs from $3.25 to $2.5 million. (I would think that Public Safety for the 25,000+ residents and our police officers would be a priority along with Granite Curbs and Fountains... )

Township Manager David Doodies warned commissioners that they had to account for unexpected costs. "We may be dealing with design modifications and because we are working with a road adjacent to a creek [that] could cause construction problems," he said. "We want to make sure the project is fully funded."Although Commissioner Kevin Spearing agreed that some of the projects were not on the top of his list, he was comfortable with the monetary amount. "I think we need to prioritize," he said. "I am content with the number but I'd like to re-look at issues and decide what is most important."

Commissioners Samuel Valenza and Joseph Lavalle also said they were content with the number. "I think we should move forward with the bond as it is presented," Valenza said. Upper Moreland police Chief Thomas Nestel agreed and said the projects were a long time coming. "All renovations to the police department are necessary," he said. "Video enhancements will reduce our liability, false claims and lawsuits. They will also reduce court costs for drunk driving and disorderly conduct if there are cameras in our booking area because they will catch people acting in the same way they were when we picked them up."He added that the renovations will also help the police department become accredited by the state, which will help them with future grants. "It is an investment," he said.

The concept of investment was also addressed by advisory planning agency Vice Chairman Jonathon de Jonge, who urged commissioners to look to the future. "We have to borrow the larger number to send the message to developers that we are ready for redevelopment. There will be a return, so go for it," he said. "If you want to sabotage redevelopment then go with the lower number because that will just show people that we are not ready."

Romaniello disagreed (surprise surprise) with de Jonge and said there were other funds available. She said the township has two outstanding grants totaling approximately $600,000 that could decrease the cost of the bond and finance the projects. Crawford said that money was already being used. "We have $300,000 from the county for construction secured and $294,000 from U.S. Rep. Allyson Schwartz for construction," he said. According to township Solicitor Kate Harper, the money is already allocated. "We are using that money to acquire properties at 135 and 139 Old York Road, currently H & R Block and Avis, to be able to complete construction," she said. At last month's meeting, Efkowitz said she hopes the closing of the bond and construction will begin in tandem over the summer, but no decisions can be made until the full board of commissioners votes on the issue May 5.