8 April 2026 BOS Meeting Summary
Public Safety Purchases, Wireless Ordinance, and EAC Vacancy Concerns
At its April 8, 2026 meeting, the Newtown Township Board of Supervisors approved major public safety and maintenance purchases, moved a wireless facilities ordinance closer to a public hearing, and heard concerns from residents about vacancies on the Environmental Advisory Council. Listen and view the following summaries:
Major Financial and Administrative Approvals
The Board approved several financial items through the “Consent Agenda” (read The “Consent Agenda” - Pros & Cons), including the bills list, account transfers, and equipment purchases.
As of the meeting date, the township’s General Fund balance stood at $6,227,653. Supervisors also approved a bills list totaling $1,243,905.19, though a significant share of that amount reflected a $1 million transfer from TD Bank to Penn Community. In addition, transfers totaling $54,949.22 were authorized.
The Board also approved two notable purchases through the CoStars program:
- Police vehicles from Chapman Auto, along with vehicle upfitting by Havis Incorporated, for $339,000.
- A flex wing mower from PA Ag & Grounds for $27,415.88.
Supervisors also announced that the borough has approved the 2026 fire agreement, which is expected to appear on the agenda at the next Board of Supervisors meeting.
Wireless Ordinance Advances
The Board authorized the advertisement or referral to the Joint Zoning Council of a wireless facilities ordinance that has been under development for several years. According to the briefing document, the ordinance has gone through multiple revisions by both the Planning Commission and the Joint Zoning Council and is now headed toward a public hearing. See the ChatGPT summary of the ordinance.
Linden Avenue Ceremonially Renamed
Supervisors adopted a resolution ceremonially naming Linden Avenue as “Morell Smith Avenue.” The naming was supported by members of American Legion Post 440. Supervisor Kyle Davis thanked the board for considering the tribute.
Police Report: Busy March Included FBI Assistance and Major Fraud Case
Police Chief John Hearn presented a March 2026 report showing a busy month for the department.
- Calls for service: 2,618
- Patrol miles logged: 27,000+
- Total arrests: 19
- Traffic crashes: 63
- Traffic citations issued: 244
- Traffic warnings issued: 237
Arrests during the month included arson, simple assault, narcotics offenses, and DUI-related offenses. The Detective Division handled 22 new cases and processed seven crime scenes.
One of the most notable public safety updates involved the department’s assistance to the FBI on March 26, 2026 in connection with a warrant service tied to a terrorist incident in New York City involving a local resident.
The department also handled several specialized investigations, including internet crimes against children, a residential burglary, sexual assaults, and non-suspicious death investigations.
Chief Hearn also highlighted major fraud-related cases, including a TSA impersonator, two fraudulent checks, and an investment scam that resulted in a loss of $260,000.
Jake Brake Noise Concerns Raised
During the meeting, Supervisor Phil Calabro raised resident concerns about Jake Brake noise near Stoopville Road and Eagle Road. Chief Hearn explained that enforcement is difficult because many modern trucks use automatic engine braking systems that often do not have a manual “off” switch. He added that such systems are important for vehicle safety because they help prevent brake overheating.
The department did conduct two truck enforcement details in March, resulting in 35 inspections and 11 citations. Seven vehicles and three drivers were placed out of service.
Public Comment: Why No Appointments to EAC?
Resident and Former Supervisor John Mack: “I'm surprised to see that on the agenda there's no vote to appoint any members to the Environmental Advisory Council (EAC). I believe maybe at least two people have already applied. I know that I applied on March 12th.”
NOTE: In addition to John Mack’s application, the BOS also received an application from Eleanor Wolcott, a student at Dickinson College majoring in Environmental Sciences. She is planning to live locally after she graduates in May, 2026.
“I note that there is a EAC meeting on the calendar for this coming Monday, the 13th of April, and there will not be a quorum,” said Mack. “As far as I know, nobody else has been assigned [to be a member]. And I'm curious as to why uh the board of supervisors is not taking action to appoint a member to the EAC so that they can have a quorum,” said Mack.
“I call I call your attention to the fact that uh this month is Earth Month, the purpose of which is to raise awareness and promote action for environmental protection, sustainability and climate change. The first Earth Day was celebrated on 22 April 1970 and I attended that celebration in New York City. It's a shame therefore that the township EAC cannot meet on the most important month of the year as far as protection the environment goes. That's my statement. Thank you.”
Community Events Highlighted
The meeting also included several community-related announcements and acknowledgements. Resident Charles Fueur thanked the police, fire, and public works departments for a successful “Touch a Truck” event, which reportedly drew strong attendance.
A public service announcement was also made for a drug take-back event scheduled for Saturday, April 25, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the police building.
Looking ahead, officials also noted that the Newtown Car Show is scheduled for July, along with a Spring Cars and Coffee event.