MINUTES of MEETING

Durham Township Planning Commission

Tuesday October 03, 2006

Township Building Meeting Room

Attendees:             Don Ratushny, Cindy Skoriak, Gerald Ulmer

Peter Thomson, Ken Klein, and George Helwig

Quorum:               Yes

Secretary:             Joseph M. Kulick

Absent were Chairman James Pavlica, Zoning Officer Peter Bent & Township Engineer Scott Mease

Meeting called to order by Vice Chairman Don Ratushny at 7:32 PM.  All in attendance stood and recited the Pledge of Allegiance to the American Flag.

Approval of Minutes from 09-05-06 Meeting:

George Helwig made a motion to accept the Minutes as presented; Ken Klein seconded the motion and all agreed. Minutes Approved as presented.

New Business:  - None Presented

Old Business:

Open Burning Discussion:

Mr. Ron Furlan, P.E., Project Manager, PA Department of Environmental Protection, attended the meeting, at the request of the township, to clarify current state regulations on “Open Burning”.  He provided a 30 minute power point presentation that basically stated it is currently illegal to burn any solid waste.  Occasional recreational and “for cooking of food” fires are the exception. The definition of solid waste includes yard waste.  Some open burning is permitted in other areas of the state but not within the Southeast PA Air Basin where Bucks County is located. 

Complaints of illegal open burning should first be handled by local authorities.  If not satisfied with the results; complainants may contact the DEP at 484-250-5900.  Upon receipt of a complaint the DEP will follow-up with the alleged offender and may either issue a written warning or fine depending on circumstances.  Local municipalities may also be cited for allowing open burning. The PA DEP encourages local municipalities to enact ordinances to incorporate the above regulations and to encourage recycling.

Resident Bruce Blanchard and resident/supervisor Manfred Marschewski questioned Mr. Furlan on several items; i.e. difference between burning in a fireplace and open burning (none);  what to do with storm damage (chip & compost).  Resident Lois Oleksa asked if this is a state-wide program (yes...but controlled by air basins).  Resident Ed Manning expressed his disagreement with the regulation.  Resident Jerry Fritz also did not agree with the prohibition on open burning in our rural agricultural area.  He did not feel the township should enact an ordinance to enforce the regulation.  A lengthy discussion between meeting attendees (audience) and Mr. Furlan took place. 

Acting Chair Don Ratushny requested clarification on the DEP grant program and the possibility of obtaining money to obtain a larger chipper for the township.  Mr. Furlan advised him to contact Ann Ryan at the local Norristown DEP office.  Also, he requested Mr. Furlan to repeat the complaint process, which he did. Supervisor Manfred Marschewski advised the meeting attendees on the proper method to voice concerns.  He felt the first place (for a resident) to come was before the Board of Supervisors to file a complaint.  Also, anyone wanting a rule changed should write their suggestions down and present them to the Board of Supervisors (for review), and if required, the only person that writes ordinances in this township is (Township Solicitor) Peter Harrison. 

Resident Lois Oleksa thanked Mr. Furlan to coming out and educating the township and the Commission concurred.  There were no further comments or questions.

Comments / Questions from the Floor:

None

Closing:

A motion to Adjourn was made by George Helwig, and seconded by Ken Klein, all were in favor.  Meeting adjourned at @9:05 PM.

Minutes Submitted By:  Joseph M. Kulick, Recording Secretary