December 7, 2023

Update To Comprehensive Plan Progressing

Consultants from Simone Collins Landscape Architecture and from 4Ward Planning, who are analyzing possible updates to Whitpain’s Comprehensive Plan, recently presented some findings to the Board of Supervisors.

The plan update covers two specific topics, examining potential uses for vacant office space in the Township’s southeastern corner and addressing challenges created by the loss of parking and front yard space to properties located along the Route 202 corridor.

At a November 21 meeting, the consultants presented a Residential Absorption Analysis, to help determine if some conversion of office space to residential use could be viable. The PowerPoint presentation can be found here.

The consulting team plans to present a draft plan recommendation to the Board in January.

Solar-Powered Charging Station Coming To Township Building

A solar-powered electric vehicle charging station that provides two chargers for electric vehicles is coming to the Township Building complex.

The chargers, which are expected to be operational early next week, will be in the front parking lot of the Township Building complex, just in front of the Public Works garages and available to the public. The station, which is completely powered by solar energy, is intended to provide for daily range replacement (DRR), essentially topping off the charge of an electric vehicle.

Whitpain Township continues to demonstrate environmental leadership with solar power. Currently, the parking lots at the Township Building and Wentz Run Park are completely powered by solar lighting. 

Beginning in 2022 and completed in 2023, the project saw the installation of 45 poles and 58 lights. These poles have solar panels integrated in their design and are completely disconnected from the grid.

“We were fortunate to obtain a grant for nearly $125,000 to pay for the vast majority of the project,” said Public Works Director Tom Farzetta. “The solar lighting has been reliable and will continue to provide a cost savings in the months and years to come.”

By switching to solar powered energy, Whitpain is reducing their carbon footprint and contributing to environmental sustainability.  

Leaf Collection On December 11, 13

The next leaf collections are December 11 and December 26 for residents who live on the south side of Skippack Pike and December 13 and December 27 for residents on the north side of Skippack Pike.

The Public Works Department reminds residents that leaves must be bagged for collection and not raked to the curb. The Township's collection process does not involve vacuum trucks that clean up piles of loose leaves. Leaf piles cause safety issues, clog storm drains and block street sweeping.

Retiring Deputy Police Chief Recognized

The Board of Supervisors and the Police Department joined together at Tuesday’s Board meeting to celebrate the career of Deputy Police Chief William Armstrong who is set to retire at the end of the year. Originally hired in 1988, Bill has served in nearly every position in the department including patrol officer, traffic officer, patrol sergeant, detective sergeant, lieutenant, and ultimately deputy chief.

“Bill has been an instrumental leader in our department and in our community for parts of five decades,” said Police Chief Ken Lawson. “His calm demeanor, comprehensive knowledge, and consummate professionalism will be missed, but his legacy will live on in the numerous officers he mentored over the years.”

Support The Lt. Patty Simons Food Drive

There are still a few days left to support the Lt. Patty Simons Annual Food Drive. Collection boxes for non-perishable food items have been placed throughout the community. Please donate by December 13 to help those in need.

Donation locations:

Whitpain Township Police lobby, 960 Wentz Road

Tiferet Bet Israel, 1920 Skippack Pike

Giant, 1760 DeKalb Pike

McCaffrey's Market, 1301 Skippack Pike

Oxford of Blue Bell (Rental Office), 11 Bromley Drive

Burn Boot Camp, 984 DeKalb Pike

Arbor Crest Office Complex, 785 Arbor Way 

WRA Baseball Teams Honored

The Board of Supervisors recognized two WRA baseball teams at its meeting on Tuesday.

The 10U Warriors (below top) experienced a summer of accomplishments, including victories at the Plymouth Memorial Day Tournament, the Harleysville Stars and Stripes Tournament and appearance in the finals at the Cal Ripken District 2 Tournament, progressing to the State Tournament finals.

The 11U Warriors (below bottom) also experienced a very successful season including victories in Hershey and the Field of Dreams Tournament at Deep Run, as well as claiming the District 2 Championship.

Congratulations to the players, coaches, and parents for a successful season. 

Community Corner

Dog Licensing Events

State Rep. Matt Bradford and the Office of Montgomery County Treasurer Jason Salus are hosting dog licensing events.

The events will take place on Tuesday, December 12 from 10 a.m. to Noon at Rep. Bradford’s Norriton District Office, 240 W. Germantown Pike in East Norriton Township and on Wednesday, December 13 from 10 a.m. to Noon at Rep. Bradford’s Worcester District Office, 2000 Bustard Road, Suite 6 in Worcester Township.

An annual license is $8.70. If the animal is spayed or neutered, the fee drops to $6.70 annually. A lifetime license is available for $51.70. If the animal is spayed or neutered, the fee drops to $31.70. Discounts are available to older adults and people with disabilities.

For more information, call Rep. Bradford’s office at 610-222-3490.

Financial Aid Webinar

State Rep. Matt Bradford and the Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency (PHEAA) are hosting a financial aid webinar for families and students who would like to pursue a higher education.

The event takes place on Wednesday, Dec. 13 from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. virtually via Teams.

The webinar will provide an overview of the new and changing process to apply for financial aid beginning with the 2024-25 academic year. The presentation will also highlight higher education costs, the types of financial aid available and how to apply for financial aid. Participants will also have an opportunity to ask questions after the presentation.

Click here to register for the webinar