WE ARE NOW DIGITAL!The West Goshen Township newsletter is now in digital format and is emailed monthly. Residents will be able to read the digitized version in one of two ways. Either provide us with your email so that you may receive it directly in your inbox OR simply go to our website where it will be available at any time for the general public to view.

For those that still prefer a print form, you are given the ability to “opt-in” to such a version so that you can continue to receive the printed newsletter in the mail. As part of this change, the printed version of the Township Newsletter will have a new look.

We encourage as many residents as possible to enjoy the new digital version. If you would like to receive a paper/mailed newsletter, please send an email to the following address:

newsletter@westgoshen.org

Your email should contain the following message:

• I would prefer to continue the print version (Include full name and physical address)

To receive the new digital eNews in your inbox monthly, please visit our website at: www.westgoshen.org/documents-forms/newsletter/ to sign up for the emailed version.

Thank you and we hope you enjoy our new digital newsletter!

Thank You and Best Wishes!Department Changes in West Goshen

West GoshenTownship Newsletter Volume 26 No. 1 Spring 20197 7

Sgt. Joseph Burt has retired at 38 years of service on the West Goshen Police Force.

A native of Springfield, Delaware County, Burt came to West Goshen Township as a patrol officer on April 20, 1981. He was promoted to Patrol Sergeant in 1989.

“He probably was the hardest working Patrol Sergeant we ever had,” says West Goshen Police Chief Joseph Gleason. “He was very active while handling his calls.” Burt often took on extra assignments, including traffic control at West Chester East High School dismissals and directing

traffic at Airport Road and Ward Avenue during UPS morning dispatches.

“West Goshen residents never had a bad thing to say about him,” says Chief Gleason. “He always treated them with respect.”

Burt officially retired on April 5, 2019.

1025 Paoli Pike l West Chester, PA 19380 l www.westgoshen.org

Through the hard work of the Township’s Comprehensive Plan Task Force since October 2017, the Final Plan is now under Act 247 review by West Goshen’s neighboring municipalities, the West Chester Area School District and the Chester County Planning Commission.

The Plan will be on the May 30, 2019 Board of Supervisors agenda for discussion and possible approval. The Township’s Comprehensive Plan is a guiding document to be used by the Township’s Board of Supervisors, staff and Planning Commission to plan for future development, redevelopment and for use in applying for planning and construction grants. The Final draft of the Comprehensive Plan may be viewed at the Township Building and is also available online at the Township’s website.

Sgt. Joseph Burt (left) with West Goshen Police Chief Joseph Gleason (right).

Comprehensive Plan Update

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Board of Supervisors6 year elected termChristopher Pielli, Esq., ChairRobin Stuntebeck, Vice-ChairShaun Walsh, MemberEdward G. Meakim, Jr., MemberHugh J. Purnell, Jr., Member

AdministrationCasey LaLonde, Township ManagerDerek J. Davis, Assistant Township ManagerJeanne M. Denham, Finance DirectorJ. David Woodward, Public Works DirectorRichard J. Craig, Township EngineerMark Bertolami, Streets SuperintendentDorine A. McClune, Parks Superintendent

Park and Recreation BoardNancy Pine, ChairRobert M. Cifone, Vice-ChairEdward T. Smith, SecretaryEunice Alexander, Sara J. Franco,Kenneth W. Lehr, Dorine A. McClune, Gerald L. Napiecek, Michael A. Pillagalli, Mary Lou Enoches, Alternate Michael McKinley, Alternate

Planning CommissionCarrie Martin, ChairJulie Potts, Vice-ChairVito Genua, SecretaryMonica Drewniany, John Hellman,Jeffrey S. Lieberman, John Mattia, Dr. Douglas White, DMD, John T. Wildrick

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Zoning Hearing BoardJoseph DeFelippes, ChairScott T. Cullinan, Vice-ChairShannon Royer, MemberAlessandra O’Reilly Bellwoar, AlternateSalvatore Triolo, Alternate

AuditorsWilliam Gale, ChairLen Iacono, SecretaryNick Deminski, Member

Tax CollectorWilliam R. Keenan West Goshen Police1025 Paoli Pike, W.C., 19380Police 911 or 610.696.7400 | Fax 610.696.3935Email: police@westgoshen.orgJoseph J. Gleason, Chief of Police

Wastewater Treatment Plant848 S. Concord Rd., W.C., 19382610.696.0900 | Fax 610.429.9360Michael Moffa, Wastewater Superintendent

Sewer AuthorityTheodore J. Murphy, ChairTinamarie Smith, Vice-ChairShaun Walsh, Secretary, Dan Tierney, Treasurer, Philip J. Corvo, Jr., Member

Pension CommitteeDavid B. Brune, Robert Holland, Hugh J. Purnell, Bob Sheller, Thomas A. Teneza, Walker Tompkins

Historic CommissionKevin Pistiner, ChairMichael Pillagalli, Vice ChairKent Smith, TreasurerNancy McCabe, SecretaryRichard Davis, Elizabeth Dean,Keith Smith, Edward Tiernan, Thomas Walsh

The Friends of West Goshen Park, IncNon-profit group assisting the Park and Recreation Board; meets bimonthly

John Herley, PresidentLarue Morgan, Vice-PresidentSusan Batten, SecretaryMaria Janoski, TreasurerGerald L. Napiecek, Peggy Niemeyer

Township ParksBarker ParkFalcon Lane by Westtown Way

Coopersmith ParkSpring Lane, off West Chester Pike

Lambert Park1145 Pottstown Pike

West Goshen Community ParkFern Hill & North Five Points Roads

West Goshen Installs an Enhanced Treatment System to Reduce Phosphorous

Phosphorous is a nutrient that increases plant growth and also helps the crops, but it is not conducive to the aquatic system because it causes preferential growth of plants over other wildlife which is known as eutrophication. A significant consequence of eutrophication can be algal blooms (cyanobacteria) in streams, rivers and lakes, some of which produce toxins that are harmful to animals.

How does phosphorous get into our water systems in the first place? Although communities avoid adding more phosphorous to the water supply system, and even though we haven’t used them in our detergents for years, rainwater runoff picks up phosphorous from lawn fertilizers, agriculture and animals. The rainwater runoff containing phosphorous ultimately ends up in our water supply systems which perpetuates the problem.

The West Goshen Sewer Treatment Plant recently installed an Enhanced Treatment System designed to significantly reduce the amount of phosphorous in the wastewater discharged to Goose Creek. Prior to installing the new treatment system, the phosphorous concentration in the final wastewater effluent was a monthly average of between 1.5 mg/L and 2.0 mg/L (2 mg/L = 2 parts per million). Since the installation of the new treatment system that became operational in October 2018, the discharge concentration of phosphorous has fallen to below 0.8 mg/L, which is a reduction of over 50%.

In 2021, more improvements are budgeted for a major construction project, which will further enhance the wastewater quality by installing an additional phosphorous removal process. After the new treatment system becomes operational, the discharge concentration is anticipated to be below 0.1 mg/L, which represents a total phosphorous reduction from pre-2018 levels of greater than 95%.

The West Goshen Sewer Treatment plant continues to look for innovative ways to project the environment and ultimately the citizens of West Goshen Township.

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The West Goshen Police Department has a dedicated unit that is designed to address the concerns of the residents regarding traffic issues throughout the township.

The Traffic Safety Division is comprised of a Sergeant and two uniformed police officers whose main focus is the reduction of vehicle collisions and distracted driving through traffic enforcement and motor carrier inspections.

The Traffic Safety Division’s members have received specialized training in the investigation of serious injury and fatal traffic collisions and are part of a county wide crash team made up of officers from numerous municipalities throughout Chester County. The Traffic Safety officers work closely with the township engineer conducting traffic studies when requested as well as assisting the road crew, sewer department and parks department when traffic control is necessary along the roadways.

Any citizen, organization or Home Owners Association can contact the Traffic Safety Division to speak at their events or neighborhood community groups about traffic safety. Traffic enforcement requests along with any other concerns can be addressed by contacting the Traffic Safety Division at trafficsafety@westgoshen.org

About the West Goshen Traffic/Safety Division

Board of Supervisors(7:00 PM, third Tuesday of each month):

April 23; May 30; June 18; July 22; August 20

Historical Commission(7:00 PM, fourth Thursday of each month):

April 25; May 23; June 27; July 25; August 22

Park and Recreation Board(7:00 PM, third Wednesday of each month): May 15; June 19; July 17; August 21

Planning Commission(7:00 PM second Tuesday of each month):

May 14; June 11; July 9; August 13

Sewer Authority(7:00 PM, first Wednesday of each month):

May 1; June 5; July 3; August 7

Zoning Hearing Board7:00 PM, as needed.

Visit www.westgoshen.org to confirm hearings.

All meetings are held in the Township Administration Building.

There is a public comment period at each meeting.

Check www.westgoshen.org for updates.

The West Goshen Township Juvenile/Community Policing Division works in unison with the West Chester Area School District, the District Attorney’s Office, the Juvenile Probation Department, and most importantly the parents of children toward a common goal. There are three officer’s assigned to the division. One of those officers is assigned to the West Chester East High School/Fugett Middle School complex. That officer remains at the school complex the entire day while school is in session. The officer provides added security to the school as well as assists school officials with any issues that come up during the day that require police assistance. The officer also works with the Juvenile Probation Officer that is assigned to the school. The other two officers work with the other schools and daycares in the township conducting visits during the day as well as handling any incidents that arise at the schools. There are approximately 6 other schools that range from middle school age to elementary age. The township also has a large number of day care centers as well. The Juvenile/Community Relations Division strives to have positive interactions with the students.

Home Owner Associations are welcomed to contact the department to have an officer attend one of their meetings to speak to residents about various topics pertaining to crime or crime prevention. If you do not have a home owners association in your neighborhood but have a group of residents that would like an officer to speak with them about any of those topics please contact the department and we will schedule a presentation. Several times a year the officers also conduct active shooter training to various businesses within the township. These officers also conduct lock down drills at all of the schools several times a year.

If the Juvenile/Community Relations Division can assist you in any way, please contact them at juvenile@westgoshen.org or call 610-696-7400 and ask for Sgt Michael Cotter. Visit the Juvenile/Community Relations Division’s website page at https://www.westgoshen.org/government/departments/police-department/juvenile-and-community-relations/.

About the West Goshen Juvenile/Community Relations Division Public Township

Meetings

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777

Meet The West Goshen Park and Recreation Department: Your Fun Is Their Job!

The township is best known for the 32-acre West Goshen Community Park (located at Fern Hill Road and North Five Points Road) and its abounding recreation options. “It really has something for everyone,” says Ken Lehr, Park and Recreation Director. “Kids enjoy the huge play area and you’ll always find someone using the fields or courts and paved trail that circles the park.”

The hard-working Parks & Recreation staff does an excellent job managing the township programs and parks. “We have a fantastic team of year-round and seasonal staff members,” says Lehr. But the department can use residents’ help.

Lambert Park (located on Pottstown Pike) boasts some unique park elements. The Dogpark is loved by local pooches and the Skatepark includes the smart safety measure of a webcam which can be checked remotely.

“Safety is a top priority at all of our parks,” says Lehr. Other popular parks are Coopersmith Park (located on Spring Lane) and Barker Park (located at Falcon Lane and Westtown Road).

OppOrtunities fOr COmmunity invOlvementThe Friends of West Goshen Parks is a non-profit group assisting the West Goshen Township Park and Recreation Board. You can support The Friends of West Goshen Parks by becoming a member. A one-year membership with The Friends costs just $10.00 per family.

Another option is to volunteer to help with one of the many activities, events or projects that the Parks & Recreation Department organizes. It’s a great way to meet your neighbors!

Lastly, Lehr reminds residents, “Come out to events and sign up for programs! We are proud of what we offer and want as many people as possible to enjoy them.”

For more information about West Goshen Parks & Recreation, please visit: https://www.westgoshen.org/government/departments/parks-recreation/.

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Caring fOr West gOshen’s parks

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West Goshen residents work hard and play hard. That’s why the West Goshen Parks & Recreation Department—led by Ken Lehr and Tom Steines— focuses on providing safe, welcoming parks and recreation opportunities for people of all ages to play, learn, and build community.

Spring and Summer are particularly busy times for Parks & Recreation. Special events like the Easter Egg Hunt, 4th of July Bicycle Parade, Summer Concert Series and Outdoor Theater give residents a reason to come out and enjoy township traditions with their friends and neighbors.

Offering many summer reCreatiOn OppOrtunities

The Parks & Recreation Department offers phenomenal options for families to stay active during the summer!

The Summer Recreation Program begins in June and offers kids ages 5-12 a chance to spend summer mornings participating in sports, games, crafts, and weekly field trips. Programming is held at three parks and spots fill up quickly!

Sports Clinics offer at the beginner level of instruction for tennis, t-ball, baseball, basketball, lacrosse, skateboarding and ice-hockey. Clinics are held one afternoon a week and run for seven weeks.

Teens (13-15) can sign up for the Summer Teen Program which includes a mix of outdoor fun, community service and weekly field trips to amusement parks and activities.

Older teens (16-17) are eligible to become junior counselors for the Summer Recreation Program.

Registration for all Summer Programs begins in May and takes place at the Township Administrative Building.

Summer Recreation Program Registration Kickoff Events: Saturday, May 4th: 8 AM – 11 AM and Saturday, May 11th: 9 AM – 11 AM. Drop-in registration will be held during regular business hours if spaces are still available.

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Reduce Your Risk!Illegal sump pump and roof drain connections to the sanitary sewer rob the system of valuable capacity and can lead to sanitary sewer backups. These backups not only cause damage that is difficult and expensive to repair, but also create health hazards.

For HomeownersSump Pumps in addition to roof drains and foundation drains connected to the Township's sanitary sewer system is in violation of the West Goshen Municipal Code. It is important to inspect and confirm that your sump pump and roof drains are not connected to the sanitary sewer system. If you are unsure, the Township Wastewater Department can provide a free inspection to determine if your sump or roof drain is connected by calling 610-696-0900.

Consult a professionalIf your sump or roof drain is connected you can have a plumber disconnect from the sanitary sewer and redirect the discharge. It is important that you first contact the Township Engineer with questions regarding the appropriate location to redirect your sump water discharge by calling 610-696-5266.

SUMP PUMP CONNECTIONSto the Sanitary Sewer System

Improper Sump Pump Installation

Proper Sump Pump Installation

Watch Your Pump!If connected to the sanitary sewer line, as few as 200 homes with a sump pump running for 10 minutes an hour can discharge over 2 million gallons per day!

This excess water can quickly overload our pump stations and the wastewater treatment plant causing overflows & increased treatment costs. If left unchecked, these illegal connections may someday require an expensive treatment plant expansion. Ultimately, these costs will be passed on to the residents of our township.

Source: The Post Standard

For more information please contact the Wastewater Department: 610-696-0900

Illegal

All dogs three months or older must be licensed by Jan. 1 of each year. Violators can be cited with a maximum fine of $300 per violation, plus court costs. An annual license is $8.50 and a lifetime license is $51.50. If the animal is spayed or neutered, the annual fee is $6.50 and lifetime is $31.50. Discounts are available for older adults and people with disabilities. The small license fee helps protect the millions of dogs in the state by funding the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture Bureau of Dog Law Enforcement, which is responsible for ensuring the welfare of dogs, regulating dangerous dogs and overseeing annual

licensing and rabies vaccinations.

In addition to being required by law, a license is the best way to get your dog back if your pup becomes lost. A license helps animal control and shelters identify your dog and get her back home safely.

Roonie Says…

SUMMER RECREATION

INFORMATION:Summer Counselors: The West Goshen Park and Recreation Department is currently seeking enthusiastic and experienced individuals to plan, facilitate and supervise safe and enjoyable outdoor activities for participants of West Goshen’s Summer Recreation Program and Summer Teen Program.

Registration kick off will be held on Saturday, May 4th (8 – 11 AM) and on Saturday, May 11th (9 – 11 AM) at the Township Administrative Building. Beginning on Monday, May 13th, parents/ legal guardians may register their children during regular business hours (7 AM – 5 PM) as space permits. Registration will be limited to West Goshen residents until Monday, May 13th.

Work on the Sunoco Mariner II project was set to begin on Monday, March 18th in the vicinity of Boot Road, Greenhill Road and Rt. 202 in West Goshen Township.

Per the PennDOT press release, materials deliveries will begin on March 18th with Horizontal Direction Drilling (HDD) to start in the eastbound direction towards East Goshen Township on Tuesday, March 19th or Wednesday, March 20th with drilling to continue for 115 days. A second HDD drill rig is being delivered in the next 30 days for the westbound direction to West Whiteland Township. Once that drill rig begins, drilling will continue for 140 days.

West Goshen Township received a total of $325,415 in grant money from the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (PADEP) that was a

SUNOCO PIPELINE UPDATE

From the Sewer Authority:

result of the settlement penalty imposed from PADEP upon Sunoco for a total of $12.6 million.

The penalty against Sunoco was for permit violations related to the construction of the Mariner East 2 pipeline. A total of sixty-one grants were awarded to 14 of the 17 counties through which Mariner East 2 passes which West Goshen was one of the 14 county that was affected.

The PADEP said they would turn the penalty into grants for projects related to water quality, watershed restoration and storm water management. West Goshen Township will use $215,273 of the money for urban storm water management that will reduce impacts to Taylor Run and $110,142 of the money for restoration of riparian buffer in the Chester Creek watershed.

Reduce Your Risk! Illegal sump pump and roof drain connections to the sanitary sewer rob the system of valuable capacity and can lead to sanitary sewer backups. These backups not only cause damage that is difficult and expensive to repair, but also create health hazards.

A Reminder about Illegal Sump Pumps and Roof Drains

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Rain gardens are a natural and beautiful way to help your streams. These gardens in slight depressions in the ground trap rainfall from a roof or driveway and prevent it from adding to the polluted runoff that damages streams. Trapped rain water is allowed to slowly sink into the ground while supporting beautiful plants that attract birds and butterflies. You can create your own rain garden in 3 easy steps…

1. Pick the Right Location and SizeThe best locations are in natural depressions or low lying areas where water flows naturally from a downspout, driveway, patio or sidewalk. Avoid steep slopes and areas near septic systems or drinking water wells. You must be able to move water from the hard surface (roof, etc.) to the garden location, either by directing a downspout with an extended tube towards it, or simply by following contours and capturing water that is naturally flowing downhill.

For more detailed information about picking the right location go to: http://www.crcwatersheds.org/pick-the-right-location.php

A properly sited and prepared rain garden will not allow mosquitoes to breed. Your rain garden will drain within 24-48 hours after a storm. Mosquitoes need seven days or more to complete a breeding cycle.

2. Create a Design and Select PlantsOnce you have a location and size for your garden, sketch it out on paper. Determine the mix of species you would like to use, including flowers, grasses, and shrubs that are drought tolerant but can withstand wet conditions. Native plants are adapted to local conditions, easy to maintain and attract birds and butterflies. Fill in your sketch with your selected plants.

For more detailed information about design and plant selection go to: http://www.crcwatersheds.org/create-a-rain-garden-design.php

3. Construct and Plant your GardenSpray paint or otherwise mark on the ground the exact shape of your rain garden. Excavate to a depth of 4-8 inches, creating a berm on the downslope side of your garden using the removed sod. Amend your soil as needed to improve drainage. Try to keep the bottom of the basin as flat as possible to increase the area that will come in contact with water regularly. Add plants following your design, placing species that need the most water in the lowest lying areas or in the most direct path from the downspout.

For more detailed information about constructing and planting your rain garden go to: http://www.crcwatersheds.org/index.php?s=33

4. Rain Garden PlantsBy using native plants in your rain garden you are giving your plants the best chance to survive the wide range of weather conditions they will experience, from long droughts to large storms. Native plants also support the largest number of wildlife species, including birds, butterflies, and bees.

For more detailed information about selecting the right plants go to: http://www.crcwatersheds.org/native-plants-for-rain-gardens.php

Sponsors

This project has been funded by the League of Women Voters of Pennsylvania Citizen Education Fund through a Section 319 federal Clean Water Act grant from the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, administered by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

CreditsSpecial thanks to the Partnership for the Delaware Estuary and the Philadelphia Water Department for the graphics. Artwork © 2013 by Frank McShane, Merle Manwaring and www.vectoropenstock.com

Article from the CRC Watersheds Association

West Goshen Township is committed to keeping its creeks and streams clean and safe. You can do your part by following these guidelines:

DO• Plant native trees and shrubs along your

stream. The roots of woody plants stabilize the banks and reduce erosion. In addition to shading, cooling and improving water quality, the leaves, flowers and seeds of native plants also support terrestrial and aquatic life and their interdependent relationships.

• Allow naturally occurring debris, such as fallen logs, leaves and rocks to remain in place in streams. Such materials provide food and shelter for aquatic life and hydrologic stability as well.

• Use composted leaves and other natural fertilizers as needed to limit or avoid application of chemicals, and maintain septic tanks. Lawn chemicals and septic pollutants easily find their way into streams, where they damage or kill insects, fish, amphibians, birds and plants.

• Maintain or create buffer zones (35-100’ or,

The Do’s and Don’ts of Stream Maintenanceif you can manage it, 200’) along streams and wetlands. Buffer zones absorb water and filter out chemical fertilizers and sediment, with 35’ bands having a filtering capacity of about 67%.

DON’T• Remove native vegetation from

stream banks or buffer zones and leaf litter from soils. These protect and add nutrients to our soils and support terrestrial and aquatic food we

• Dump swimming pool water or non-biodegradable water directly into streams or storm sewers. Storm sewers flow directly into streams and should not carry chlorine and detergents to aquatic life.

• Mow and maintain lawn in the stream buffer zone. Turf does not make a good buffer, especially on slopes. Its shallow roots do not stabilize soils as well as native trees, shrubs and grasses and other herbaceous plants.

• Throw grass clippings or yard waste into the stream. Excess debris and grass clippings reduce oxygen in the stream, killing fish

and other aquatic life. Such materials should be composted or removed on Township yard-waste collection days.

• Dump oil, antifreeze or other toxins into streams or sewers (sanitary or storm). Dispose of these chemicals at approved disposal centers or on hazardous waste collection days.

Rain Gardens: A Clean Solution to Storm Water Pollution

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During the nineteenth century, West Goshen Township was a getaway for Philadelphia residents to relax at their country homes. The expansive pastures and dense forests offered a quiet reprieve from the chaos of the city. One of these notable residents was General George Archibald McCall. He retired to his West Goshen farm after a life of service to the United States. Although the house is no longer standing, the property once stood near the intersection of Goshen Road and Phoenixville Pike. McCall’s journey to West Goshen involved traveling throughout the United States.

McCall’s life began in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, on March 16, 1802. From an early age, he desired to serve in the United States Military. In 1822, McCall graduated from the United States Military Academy in West Point, New York. He experienced his first military

Belair Estate: The Home of George A. McCall

campaigns during the Seminole War of 1835-1842 in Pensacola, Florida. During the war, McCall served as aide-de-camp to Gen. Edmund P. Gaines.

McCall returned to war by participating in the first major battles of the Mexican-American War of 1846-1848. The Battles of Palo Alto and Resaca de la Palma in May 1846 began the movement to claim Mexican territory now known as the State of Texas. McCall and his fellow soldiers fought under the command of General Zachary Taylor who became the twelfth president of the United States. In 1850, after McCall’s successful military accomplishments during the Mexican-American War, he was appointed Inspector General of the Army. In 1853, after nearly thirty years of military service, he retired to West Goshen Township with his wife, Elizabeth McMurtrie, to engage in farming at the Belair Estate.

Although McCall decided to end his military service, his retirement only lasted a few years. On May 15, 1861, as the United States Civil War began, he rejoined the military. At the age of 59, McCall was commissioned major-general of the Pennsylvania Volunteers and later the U.S. Volunteers. His division assisted with protecting the nation’s capital from the Confederate Army. McCall also planned several successful movements in Virginia throughout the Civil War, including the Battle of Dranesville, the Battle of Mechanicsville, and the Battle of Gaines’ Mill.

During the Battle of Glendale on June 30, 1862, McCall was taken prisoner. He was confined in Libby Prison in Richmond, Virginia, until August 1862. After his escape, McCall remained on sick leave until March 1863 when he retired back to Belair Estate. Upon his

The West Goshen Historical Committee

return to West Goshen, McCall was presented with a ceremonial sword to honor his service of over thirty-five years to the country. On February 26, 1868, General McCall died at Belair Estate. As a tribute to General McCall’s service, the West Chester Grand Army of the Republic (GAR) Post was named in his honor.

The lives of local residents tell stories of survival, sacrifice, and bravery. Although some of our historic properties are no longer standing in West Goshen, the documents and photographs of these residents will continue to survive. General McCall is one of many inspiring stories that reveal the impact that West Goshen residents can have on the country. The journey continues to uncover the history of many more notable residents.

Meets the fourth Thursday of each month at 7:00 P.M. in the Community Room of the West Goshen Township Administration Building. Anyone is welcome to attend or join. Information about the West Goshen Historical Committee is available on Facebook @WGoshenHistoricCommittee or by contacting Kevin Pistiner, Historical Committee Chairman at kevinpistiner@comcast.net. Projects undertaken by the West Goshen Historical Committee include studies into the lives of early West Goshen residents.

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Trash and Recycling Information

Trash and recycling information is made available in the West Goshen Township Newsletter in the spring and fall issues each year. The following guide for disposing of recyclables, household hazardous wastes, and other trash items is for homeowners not affiliated with homeowners associations in West Goshen Township.

Residential establishments with four or more units and commercial, municipal, and institutional establishments are responsible for individually contracting at their sole cost and expense for the collection of waste and recyclables with any collector/hauler licensed by West Goshen Township. They must provide to their tenants collection for recycling of high-grade office paper, corrugated paper, cartons, aluminum, steel, bimetallic cans, clear and colored glass, and plastics #1 through #7.

There is no maximum limit. The following items are recyclable:

• Cans, including aluminum, steel or tin.

• Bottles and jars, including clear, brown, or green glass.

• Plastics, #1 through #7

• Flattened boxes, including cereal boxes, corrugated cardboard, and other cardboard boxes. All cardboard items must fit into your recycling toter. Cardboard must not be wedged into the toter, as any cardboard items that may not be easily removed from the toter may block the toter from being emptied. In such instances, the recycling truck will not revisit your property to empty the toter. Cardboard items that do not fit into household recycling toters may be placed in the cardboard dumpster next to the Public Works Building at the West Goshen Municipal Complex. Large cardboard items may not be placed next to trash or recycling toters for curbside pickup.

• Paper, including junk mail, telephone books, catalogs, white paper, wrapping paper, magazines, and newspapers.

All items must be placed in a Republic recycling toter. Your recycling toter has a unique identification number assigned to your home. We recommend that you make note of your toter number. If you have moved into new construction, you may obtain a recycling toter at no cost by contacting West Goshen Township at 610-696-5266, ext. 4305

Recycling toters must be placed to the left or right of trash cans, with at least three feet of clearance between the containers before 6:00 AM or the night before. Homeowners are responsible for their toters, and must replace lost or damaged toters at their own expense by contacting West Goshen Township. The Township-provided 96-gallon containers to help assure efficient trash collection. Place this container at the curbside before 6:00 AM or the night before. Trash will not be picked up after the truck has arrived.Please follow these guidelines to make sure your trash is being picked up safely and in a timely manner:

• Your trash container has a unique identification number assigned to your home. We recommend that you make note of your toter number and/or indicated your address in permanent black marker on it to avoid confusing your container with those of neighbors.

• All trash (except bulk items) must be placed inside the Township-provided container.

• Electronic items, recyclables, and household hazardous wastes may not be disposed in trash toter.

• Place your container on the street with the front wheels against the curb and the handle and wheels facing away from the street.

• Make sure your recycling toter is placed at least three feet to the left or right of the trash toter.

• Position your container so it is at least four feet away from mailboxes, cars, or any other obstacles. A maximum of one bulk item will be collected per week. A bulk item is an object which two people can lift. Disabled refrigerators, air conditioners, and other cooling units must be tagged that freon has been removed. Refrigerators must have front doors removed. No building materials, railroad ties, automotive parts, or tires will be picked up. A maximum of four carpet rolls, each no longer than four feet in length, will be collected.

West Goshen Township provides monthly yard waste service to residents between April and October on the dates in the chart below. Homeowners may place leaves, branches, twigs, and other yard wastes in trash cans or biodegradable paper yard waste bags, or tied in bundles no more than four feet in length with branches no more than four feet in diameter at their curbside for collection. Yard waste will not be collected from plastic bags, and grass clippings will not be accepted. There is no limit to the number of trash cans, paper bags, or tied-up bundles that will be accepted.

In compliance with standards set by Title 25 of the Pennsylvania Code, yard waste is no longer permitted to be burned in West Goshen Township.

If a collection day for regular trash, recycling, or bulk pickup falls on a holiday, collection will occur on the very next day. If the holiday falls on a Monday, the second pickup that week will also be postponed to the following Friday. Midweek holidays may affect the regularly scheduled Thursday trash collection.

Electronic devices may not be placed with regular household trash in accordance with Pennsylvania’s Covered Device Recycling Act of 2010. Chester County will no longer accept electronic waste with its household hazardous waste dropoffs. Check future issues of The West Goshen Township Newsletter for special electronic waste disposal events at the West Goshen Municipal Complex.

The Chester County Solid Waste Authority will accept televisions, computers and other electronics and appliances at the Lanchester landfill for no charge for County residents with photo identifications. There is a three-unit limit per vehicle. A complete computer system is considered one unit. All items must be intact and no disassembled items will be accepted. Residents must be able to unload their own items. Items must be put on the appropriate pallet or in the labeled gaylord box. Appliances that are mostly metal should be disposed in the metals container for recycling.

RECYCLABLES (MONDAYS):

TRASH (MONDAYS/THURSDAYS):

BULK TRASH (THURSDAYS):

YARD WASTE:

NO TRASH SERVICE:

ELECTRONIC WASTE:

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Trash and Recycling Information

PAINT PRODUCTS OUTDOOR AUTOMOTIVE HOUSEHOLD OTHER

Oil Products Pool Chemicals Fuel Additives Drain Openers Lead/Mercury

Turpentine/Thinners Weed Killers Antifreeze Spot Remover Reactive Metals

Stain/Varnish/Shellac Asphalt Sealers Carburetor CleanersRug/Wood/Metal Cleaners

Acids/Caustics/Solvents

Strippers/RemoversCaulking Compounds

Greast/Rust Solvents Mothballs/Flakes Flammables/Oxidizers

Adhesives Joint Compounds Transmission/Brake Fluids Dry Cleaning Fluid Organic Peroxide

Wallpaper Cement Roof CementsGasoline/ Gas & Oil Mixtures

Toilet Bowl CleanersPropane Cylinders under 20 lbs.

Other Solvent Based Paint Products

Septic Tank Degreasers

Car (lead-acid), Truck, Motorcycle, or Marine Batteries

Rechargeable Batteries (Lithium, NiCad, or Button)

Rodent Poisons Kerosene

Items labeled with any of the following words can not be disposed of with regular trash: CAUTION, TOXIC, DANGER, FLAMMABLE, WARNING, CORROSIVE, EXPLOSIVE, REACTIVE, COMBUSTIBLE, POISONOUS, or HAZARDOUS. Explosives, ammunition, radioactive wastes, asbestos, tires, PCBs, alkaline batteries, gas cylinders, smoke

detectors, CFL light bulbs, prescription drugs, and infectious or unidentified wastes will not be accepted for disposal. Please contact the proper authorities if you have a waste item that poses a significant danger.

Chester County will host monthly Household Hazardous Waste Disposals in the spring through fall. Look for dates in the Spring 2019 issue of The West Goshen Township Newsletter. Use the chart below to determine items that may be brought to the Chester

HOUSEHOLD HAZARDOUS WASTE:

Trash Rebate Program for SeniorsWest Goshen seniors age 65 or older who received a Pennsylvania Property Tax Rebate this year are eligible to apply for a Trash Rebate through West Goshen Township. The Trash Rebate Program Applications will be mailed in June to everyone who received a West Goshen Trash rebate in the past. First time applicants may receive an application for the Trash Rebate program by calling 610-696-5266, ext. 4108.

The Trash Rebate Program application is also available at the West Goshen Township Administration Building after July 1, 2019.

The Trash Rebate Program application must be completed and returned to West Goshen Township by October 31, 2019.

County Household Hazardous Waste Collection sites.

Latex paints will not be accepted—they may be air dried or mixed with cat litter and disposed of with your regular trash pickup. Motor oil and tires will not be accepted, but may be brought to your local service station. Call 610-273-3771 for locations for automotive related materials. Electronic items are no longer accepted at Household Hazardous Waste disposals.

Please pack all household hazardous wastes safely in original containers for transport.

Please note that leaves and other yard waste will not be collected from plastic bags.

Additional information about leaf collection is available at www.westgoshen.org/government/departments/trash-recycling/yard-waste-fall-leaf-pickup/.

The Township is applying for grant funding to install two electric vehicle (EV) charging stations at the Township Building at 1025 Paoli Pike and two charging stations at the Township’s Community Park, located at 1023 Fernhill Road.

If the grant application is successful, the EV charging stations will be installed in Spring 2020.

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9The West Goshen Park and Recreation Department has announced its offerings of 2019 bus trips, with visits to some of the northeast’s top historic and cultural sites.

For those who want to explore New York City on your own, Saturday, June 23rd includes a morning dropoff in the Times Square area. Go shopping, see a show, check out the sites, and grab food on your own before catching the bus home at 7:00 PM. $40 per person includes round-trip motorcoach transportation and bus driver tip.

See Bryce Harper and the rest of the Phillies take on the Mets in New York’s Citi Field. As an added bonus, fans receive a Spiderman bobblehead on Marvel Superhero Day. $70 per person includes round-trip motorcoach transportation, a ticket to the game, and bus driver tip.

Travel by motorcoach to New Jersey’s Liberty State Park and by ferry to Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty on Saturday, August 10th. This trip costs $55 for adults or $50 for children 12 or under or seniors age 62 or over, and includes round-trip motorcoach and ferry transportation, bus driver trip, admission to Ellis Island and

the Statue of Liberty Pedestal Monument, and audio tours of Ellis and Liberty Islands. Seniors and children must register by July 1, 2019 to be eligible for the discount.

Experience the history of Lower Manhattan on Saturday, September 7th. A local historian will guide you on a 90-minute walking tour of New York’s Financial District. Sights will include The New York Stock Exchange, Federal Hall, Trinity Church, and the famous Wall Street bull. Then enjoy lunch on your own before spending the afternoon at the World Trade Center Memorial and Museum. Please note that this trip requires over one mile of walking. Cost of this trip is $70 for adults or $65 for children 17 or under or seniors 65 or older, and includes a guided tour of New York’s Financial District, entrance to the World Trade Center Museum, round-trip motorcoach transportation, and bus driver tip. Seniors and children must register by August 30, 2019 to be eligible for the discount.

The West Goshen Historical Commission partners with the West Goshen Park and Recreation Department for a Sunday, October 13th trip to Gettysburg. Visit the Seminary

Ridge Museum, where you may choose to view Gettysburg from the cupola where General John Buford scouted out the battlefield. See the Visitor Center and Museum before taking a guided tour of the battlefield. Then go to downtown Gettysburg for the David Wills House (where Lincoln slept prior to delivering his Gettysburg Address) and explore the town on your own. Conclude with dinner at the historic Dobbin House. $140 per person includes round-trip transportation, admission to museums, a guided tour of the Battlefield, dinner, and driver and server tips.

Look for information about November and December trips to Radio City Music Hall and the December trip to New York City in the Summer 2019 West Goshen Township Newsletter or check the West Goshen Township Calendar.

To obtain a booklet of the 2019 bus trips offered by the West Goshen Park and Recreation Department, contact Park and Recreation Director Ken Lehr at klehr@westgoshen.org or by phone at 610-696-5266, ext. 4104.

Information and registration forms for 2019 bus trips are available at www.westgoshen.org/government/departments/parks-recreation/bus-trips/

Leave the Driving to Us!ROAD RULES

Motorcycle Safety Tips From Brian Griesser

As the warm weather approaches, the West Goshen Police Department Traffic Safety Division would like to remind you to be aware of motorcycles on the roadway. The following are some safety tips and facts to help keep our roadways safe for everyone: Drivers — please follow these safety tips to be more aware of motorcycles and to help keep all on our roadways safe:

Remember to:

ü Slow down, asses your surroundings, and don’t rush when crossing intersections, entering the roadway from a parking lot or driveway, or turning left. Always give yourself enough time to thoroughly check for motorcyclists.

ü When turning left, ensure there is enough time and space for the motorcyclists to clear the roadway before you initiate the left turn.

ü Don’t follow motorcyclists too closely and allow sufficient braking cushion between your vehicle and the motorcycle in front of you to give your vehicle enough room to come to a complete stop without a collision.

ü Always double-check your blind spots when changing lanes or starting to enter or exit the roadways. Adjust your rear and side-view mirros and use them properly.

ü If someone you know drives a motorcycle, tell him or her to always wear a helmet-even if the law doesn’t require it. According to NHTSA, an estimated 740 lives could have been saved in 2015 if all motorcyclists had worn helmets.

2019 Bus Trips with the Park and Recreation Department

fununder sunthe

William Shakespeare returns to West Goshen Community Park in the form of a FREE performance of his romantic comedy “Measure for Measure” on Saturday, July 20th at 7:00 PM.

The city is adrift in moral decay. The Duke decides to go undercover as a holy man, leaving his holier-than-thou deputy, Angelo, in charge to harshly enforce the strict morality laws of the city. Angelo begins his rule by making an example of Claudio, sentencing him to death for his transgressions. Claudio’s sister Isabella, a young novitiate, pleads for his life. Angelo makes his own indecent proposal to Isabella, leaving her with an impossible

choice: give up her innocence or give up her brother to the executioner.

In Shakespeare’s bawdy and witty dark comedy, questions of mercy, justice, corruption, and hypocrisy are examined in a thrilling story line. What are the human consequences of power in the wrong hands? How can the scales of justice and mercy be leveled fairly and humanly?

Parents are advised that this play contains mature subject matter that may not be appropriate for children.

As always, guests are encouraged to bring a dry good item (soap, shampoo, toilet paper, deodorant, diapers, etc.) for the West Chester Food Cupboard. In the event of rain, the performance would be postponed to Sunday, June 21st at 7:00 PM. Check www.westgoshen.org or call 610-696-5266 after 5:00 PM for rain determination.

PLAY IN THE PARK

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Whether your child is a stepping on a skateboard for the first time or has been boarding for years, the West Goshen Park and Recreation Department offers opportunities for your son or daughter to improve skills, meet other boarders, and have fun.

Beginner Skateboarding Clinics- Beginners can participate in seven weekly skateboarding clinics between 1:30 PM and 3:00 PM on Mondays beginning on June 24th as part of the Summer Recreation Program’s series of sports clinics. These clinics are taught by a team of West Goshen’s experienced summer counselors.

Skate Jams- The West Goshen Park and Recreation Department continues it’s partnership with Fairman’s Skate, Surf, and Snow Shop by offering free Skate Jams on the second Tuesday of each month. The Skate Jams are an awesome way to get pointers from Fairman’s staff of professionals. The 2019 Skate Jams are scheduled from 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM on the following Tuesdays: April 9th, May 14th, June 11th, July 9th, August 13th, September 10th, and October 8th. In the event of rain, the Skate Jam would be held on the following day between

5:00 PM and 7:00 PM.

Go Skateboarding Day- The West Goshen Park and Recreation Department will also partner with Fairman’s again on Friday, June 21st to celebrate the annual Go Skateboarding Day beginning at 1:00 PM. Boarders can learn from experts from Fairman’s Skate, Surf, and Snow Shop, compete in contests, win prizes, and skate to music. All activities on this day are FREE OF CHARGE.

Skatecamps- The Park and Recreation Department and Fairman’s offer week-long skateboarding camps, taught by the crew of experienced Fairman’s staff. Children eight through fourteen years old are eligible to participate in the following skatecamps:

Monday, June 24th through Friday, June 28th.

Monday, July 8th through Friday, July 12th.

Monday, July 22nd through Friday, July 26th.

Monday, August 5th through Friday, August 9th.

Monday, August 19th through Friday, August 23rd.

All skatecamps begin at 9:00 AM and end at noon. Cost for each one-week skatecamp is $210 per registration, or $200 for residents of West Goshen Township. Register early, as space is limited and tends to fill up!

Each participant in the skateboarding clinic and the skatecamps is responsible for his or her own board, helmet, kneepads, and elbow pads. Registrants will not be permitted to participate without the required safety equipment.

For more information, visit the skatepark page of the West Goshen Township website at www.westgoshen.org/government/departments/parks-recreation/skatepark/.

Additional information about Go Skateboarding Day, Skate Jams, and summer skateboarding camps is also available at www.fairmans.com.

For over twenty years, Sunday evenings in West Goshen have meant going to West Goshen Community Park, often with a picnic dinner and family, neighbors, and close friends, and enjoying an evening of concerts at the J. Leo Hagerty Amphitheater in West Goshen Community Park. The tradition continues this year, as the West Goshen Summer Concert series continues to delight local audiences with a wide variety of musical offerings.

June 23rd: Street Corner Trio. Traditionally the Summer Concert Series begins with a performance for the children, but this year’s kickoff will also be a must-see for adults as the West Goshen Park and Recreation Department partners with the West Chester Public Library to celebrate the 100th birthday of legendary folk singer Pete Seeger and his vision of making the world a better place.

June 30th: Zydeco-a-Go-Go. The sounds of the New Orleans bayou come to West Goshen Community Park.

July 14th: The Twangabillies. Explore the roots of rock and roll and country music with a distinctive bluegrass twang.

July 28th: Chester County Concert Band. Some of the area’s top musicians bring their big band sound to the Summer Concert Series.

August 11th: Blue Philly Magic with Special Blendz. Two great Motown groups bring their performers together for one magical concert of amazing renditions of your favorites.

August 25th: The Malarkey Brothers. Due to popular demand, one of the area’s top Celtic rock bands makes a return appearance to West Goshen Community Park.

As always, thanks to The Friends of West Goshen Parks and the generous support of our local sponsors, all of the West Goshen Summer Concerts are FREE of charge. Concerts begin at 6:30 PM. In the event of rain, concerts would be moved to the West Chester East High School Auditorium on Ellis Lane. Rain determination will be made after 3:00 PM on the date of the concert. Visit www.westgoshen.org for directions and rain determination.

In addition to the Summer Concert Series, West Goshen Community Park will again host the popular annual FREE concert featuring the West Chester East High School Jazz Ensemble on Sunday, May 19th at 3:00 PM. Everyone is invited to come see some of the area’s top young performers perform outdoors in the park.

Robert Lambert Park Offers Opportunities for all Levels of Skateboarders

Join us for Chester County Tree Tenders Basic Training:Spring 2019 (3-class series)

Thursdays, May 16, 23 and 30, 2019 from 6pm-9:15pm

Warwick County Park191 County Park Road Pottstown, PA (pizza served for a voluntary donation)

Gloves, bags and refreshments will be provided.

The Summer Concert Series Schedule is Set!

West Goshen

In This Issue:

1025 Paoli Pike West Chester, PA 19380Mondays - Fridays7:00 AM - 5:00 PM 610.696.5266(fax) 610.429.0616

twp@westgoshen.orgwww.westgoshen.org

Township Newslet ter 7 SPRING 2019

We’re Going Digital. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1

Changes at the Police Department. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1

Comprehensive Plan Update . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1

West Goshen Installs an Enhanced Treatment System to Reduce Phosphorus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2

Township Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2

About the West Goshen Juvenile/Community Relations Division . . . . .3

About the West Goshen Traffic/Safety Division . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3

Township Public Meetings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3

Meet the West Goshen Park and Recreation Department… . . . . . . . . . .4

Summer Recreation Information. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5

Roonie Says . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5

From the Sewer Authority . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5

Sunoco Pipeline Update . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5

The Do’s and Don’ts of Stream Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6

Rain Gardens: A Clean Solution to Storm Water Pollution . . . . . . . . . . .6

About Belair Estate: The Home of George A. McCall . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7

Trash and Recycling Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8

Trash Rebate Program for Seniors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9

Electric Vehicle Charging Stations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9

Leave the Driving to Us! . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10

Play in the Park. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10

Road Rules: Motorcycle Safety Tips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10

The Summer Concert Series Schedule is Set! . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11

Robert Lambert Park Offer Opportunities for all Levels of Skateboarders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11

Township Holidays: Township offices will be closed on May 27th for Memorial Day. Township offices will also be closed on

July 4th for Independance Day.

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