Mayor Fenton Report – January 11, 2007

Recreation:

I have been meeting with Senator Tomlinson’s office regarding the Coates Avenue building and Edgely Park. We are working on moving in Delaware Valley Vietnam Veterans as soon as possible. We have to begin working on the HVAC allowing the Veterans to move in so that the building will be occupied. During the summer months the recreation program will be using the building and the park will be the first handicap children’s park in this area. During the winter months the township can run programs charging a minimal fee so that the residents can have activities offered to them such as brisk laying, computers, to name a few. ARC is very interested in renting space in this building as well bringing in revenue to the township. They are a county rescue organization. Edgely park – I would like to ask for Council’s approval to move forward in putting the Edgely Park project in the hands of the Redevelopment Authority – Council, you have already approved the project, I believe for $452,000.

Action of Council needed – approval 4 to 0 with Mrs. Rogers not present

Development:

3M is a great site for development. This area will be a perfect site for an outlet store with the turnpike entrance nearby.

Bucks County Technical High School is working with the Teamsters Union to have a driving school. The area that they are looking at is located on North Wilson Avenue. This school will also need an office and could be located at the Coates Avenue building, bring in revenue.

Gambling:

Due to the Gambling Act now being so close to the township, we have the opportunity to receive a grant through the Redevelopment Authority. The township through Senator Tomlinson’s office put in a request for the grant showing the impact that the gambling has had on this area. As we know with the gambling now being so close there may be more crime, gang activity, drug and alcohol counseling needed. These funds may be used to expand the township’s police department since it seems they will be the department most affected by the gambling.

The revenue sharing from the Gaming Act – Now that the Casino, or should I say Racecino, is open at Philadelphia Park Bristol Township is entitled to apply for a grant through both the Redevelopment Authority and Senator Tomlinson’s office. We must show the impact it will cause us. So with your approval I would ask the Chief to get his team of Lieutenants to show the statistics on gambling and the effects it has on our town. With this grant we can apply to get our police department much needed funds to repair and/or replace their half of the township building.

The township would have to show a project and how gambling has impacted our community. It is only for neighboring communities and you must apply to the Redevelopment Authority through our state senator and state legislatures offices. The Authority will administer the funds.

Action of Council needed – approved - 4 to 0 with Mrs. Rogers not present

Memorial Park:

I would like to ask Delaware Valley Veterans and the War Dog Committee that when they put up the flag poles and benches for the completion of the Memorial Park that they apply for a grant through Senator Tomlinson’s office so that we can place a plaque or a bust honoring Daisy Meyers by the Holiday tree named in her honor with a bronze with a photo of her and her daughter as she peered through a window in her Levittown home. This will make the park complete by honoring both national and local heroes. It will be great to honor someone while they can still enjoy it.