Shows
Mack's Newtown VoiceNewtown Township PA vs Conversion TherapyThis "Deep Dive" podcast reviews Newtown Township Ordinance No. 2018-0-8, also known as the Newtown Township Anti-Discrimination Ordinance, enacted in November 2018, which establishes the Newtown Township Human Relations Commission.
This ordinance broadly prohibits discrimination in areas like employment, housing, and public accommodations based on numerous characteristics, including race, color, sexual orientation, gender identity, and disability.
More to the point with regard to recent news, the document explicitly prohibits "Conversion Therapy" for use with minors by mental health professionals. Furthermore, the law established a local Human Relations Commission and details the procedures for filing complaints with the newly created Commission...
2025-10-0818 min
Mack's Newtown VoiceHow Supervisor Mack Works For YouThis a "Deep Dive" podcast into Newtown Township Supervisor John Mack's September 2025 timesheet, detailing his work activities, hours, and compensation for the month.
This records tracks 31.17 total hours worked, categorized by type, with preparation for meetings consuming the largest percentage of time at 42%. Specific activities include attending various township meetings like the Board of Supervisors (BOS), Zoning Hearing Board (ZHB), and Environmental Advisory Committee (EAC), as well as interactions with residents concerning issues such as traffic safety, property lines, and Little League field maintenance.
The timesheet also calculates the hourly rate based on the yearly stipend and breaks down hours...
2025-10-0514 min
Mack's Newtown VoiceNewtown Creek Bridge Intergovernmental AgreementThe provided source for this "Deep Dive" podcast is an Intergovernmental Cooperation Agreement between the Township of Newtown, the Borough of Newtown and the Newtown Creek Coalition. Only the township and borough, however, are the designated signatories to this agreement.
This formal document outlines the planning, funding, and construction of a pedestrian bridge over Newtown Creek, which is being called the "Bridge Project." [Refer to the Briefing Document for a detailed summary: https://rebrand.ly/NTcreekIGAbriefing]
The agreement specifies that the project is funded primarily by a Commonwealth of Pennsylvania grant of almost one million dollars and mandates cooperation among...
2025-10-0413 min
Mack's Newtown Voice#NewtownPA BOS Showdown: Parking, Zoning, Bridges & Fire ServicesThe source for this "Deep Dive" podcast is a transcript from the 24 September 2025 Newtown Board of Supervisors meeting, detailing several key discussions and resident concerns.
Public comments focus heavily on a parking enforcement issue at Newtown Gate, where a resident representative argues against recent ticketing on Fountain Farm Lane and alleges a double standard in enforcement. Another resident addresses traffic and pedestrian safety issues at the intersection of Summit and Newtown Gate, specifically requesting a right-turn lane and better crosswalk provisions.
The meeting includes a Planning Commission report discussing land development applications, including a proposed mini-storage facility that requires several...
2025-09-2515 min
Mack's Newtown VoiceThe Comedy of Local GovernmentThis podcast summarizes a stand-up comedy routine delivered by John Mack, who is a Newtown supervisor and a retiree. Mack uses his time on stage to joke about his experience as an elected official, highlighting the often trivial nature of local political complaints in his community, which he compares to "Pleasantville" issues.
The would-be comedian jokes about the extraordinary number of chicken restaurants in Newtown and recites in the "Bubba Gump" mode the many varieties of chicken available.
Even the dead have complaints says Mack who related how "people" at the local cemetery opposed a propose sidewalk abutting the cemetery...
2025-09-2411 min
Mack's Newtown VoiceNewtown Community Development and Governance ReviewThe source for this podcast is an excerpt from a September 22, 2025, "Meet Mack Monday" Zoom meeting transcript, which serves as an in-depth summary of local government topics and community concerns, led by Supervisor John Mack.
The discussion covers a wide range of issues, including a controversial mixed-use development proposal by Jim Worthington (Goodnoe Homestead), various concerns about historic preservation and signage at a new restaurant called Melange, and the ongoing saga of the sewer authority's land dispute and rate increases.
Much of the meeting focused on pedestrian and traffic safety concerns at specific crosswalks and intersections, as well as updates...
2025-09-2314 min
Mack's Newtown VoiceNewtown's Tug of War: Developers Versus ResidentsDuring a Newtown Township Board of Supervisors meeting on September 10, 2025, resident Bradley Cooper expressed significant concern regarding a proposal by Jim Worthington to develop the Goodnoe's Farmstead on Sycamore Street into a large apartment complex with ground-floor businesses.
Cooper argued that Newtown Township supervisors consistently favor business development over the interests of residents, citing a pattern of approving large-scale projects despite widespread public opposition. He highlighted that residents frequently attend meetings to oppose such developments, yet their concerns about overdevelopment, increased traffic, and the destruction of existing character are often disregarded.
Cooper specifically mentioned an incident where a Wawa representative...
2025-09-1315 min
Mack's Newtown VoiceJohn Mack's Unconventional Life JourneyThese memoir excerpts by John Mack offer a multifaceted look into his life. "In My Brother's Shadow" explores his academic and anti-war activism during the Vietnam era, highlighting his decision to leave a Ph.D. program to pursue community organizing. "More Cow Valve Please!" details his recent, life-saving heart surgery, where a cow valve replaced his aortic valve, emphasizing the unexpected and vital role this object plays in his continued health. "My Major Life Work" recounts his transition from various professional roles to an elected township official, describing how he "stumbled" into public service but found it to be a...
2025-09-0412 min
Mack's Newtown VoiceMack's "Are You Shitting Me" Standup Comedy RoutineThis podcast was created by Google NotebookLM based on the text from a comedy routine delivered by Newtown Township Supervisor John Mack.
Mack, who is retired and identifies as "old," uses humor to discuss the unexpected realities of local politics and the challenges of being a public servant. The routine covers a range of local issues, from the abundance of fast-food chicken establishments to controversies surrounding a proposed sewage treatment plant and even opposition from "dead residents" regarding a sidewalk project. Mack playfully laments the low pay and high demands of the role, ultimately suggesting that stand-up comedy might offer...
2025-08-3013 min
Mack's Newtown VoiceNewtown's Historic Window WarHow a Hiccup in Rules Exposed a Battle for Heritage
I provided NotebookLM with the transcript from a YouTube video featuring Craig Deutsch’s Comments at 13 August 2025 Newtown Board of Supervisors meeting (https://youtu.be/zERFq8CajU0) and it generated this podcast. The video features a discussion concerning violations of historic district regulations by an applicant (Mélange on Sycamore).
The central issue revolves around the unapproved replacement of historically compliant windows with single-pane windows, and the addition of etched glass signage, without proper review or permits. Concerns are raised regarding the absence of a building permit requirement for window rep...
2025-08-2908 minMack's Newtown VoiceNewtown's Historic Preservation Blunder: When Good Intentions Meet Regulatory GapsI provided NotebookLM with the transcript from a YouTube video featuring Craig Deutsch’s Comments at 13 August 2025 Newtown Board of Supervisors meeting (https://youtu.be/zERFq8CajU0) and it generated this podcast. The video features a discussion concerning violations of historic district regulations by an applicant (Mélange on Sycamore).
The central issue revolves around the unapproved replacement of historically compliant windows with single-pane windows, and the addition of etched glass signage, without proper review or permits. Concerns are raised regarding the absence of a building permit requirement for window replacements in the historic district, a loophole that hinders enforcement. The...
2025-08-2913 min
Mack's Newtown VoiceNewtown Sewer Authority 8 July 2025 Public DiscussionsAt the 8 July 2025 public meeting of the NBCJMA (Newtown Bucks County Joint Municipal Authority, aka Newtown Sewer Authority) Board, two items were discussed/voted on that are of interest to residents: (1) Adoption of Policy for Conduct of Authority Meetings, and (2) Approval of the 2025/2026 Budget.
Item (1) actually concerns the intent of the Board to limit public comments. As the Solicitor said the "desire" of the Board is to remove the paragraph in the resolution that says "For ALL (emphasis added) on the agenda, the Board will accept public comment prior to each official action." This may not be acted upon until...
2025-07-0905 min
Mack's Newtown Voice24 June 2025 Newtown Sewer Authority Public CommentsAt the 24 June 2025 public meeting of the Newtown Bucks County Joint Municipality Authority (aka Newtown Sewer Authority) Advisory Board, several residents in attendance voiced opinions about several issues including making these meetings more accessible to the public. Residents also had questions about the future of the land purchased by the Authority. At the end of the meeting, the Board discussed a new policy for public comments at meetings as if to say, "We heard you. Now we need to codify/limit(?) how the public can make comments at our meetings."
2025-06-2529 min
Mack's Newtown VoiceResidents Have MORE Questions Regarding Proposed Sewer PlantAt the 11 February 2025 Newtown Bucks County Joint Municipal Authority (aka Newtown Sewer Authority) Advisory Board public meeting, several residents from Newtown and Middletown demanded answers to their questions regarding the sewage treatment plant that the Authority is planning to build on Lower Silver Lake Rd in Newtown. [For more on that, read "Opposition Builds to Proposed #NewtownPA Sewage Treatment Plant'; https://johnmacknewtown.info/ntnu_feb2025.html].
Most people were incensed about the recent 47% rate increase.
The Authority did not answer the questions posed but suggested that residents email them and they will respond. Newtown Supervisors John Mack requested that all...
2025-02-1117 min
Mack's Newtown VoiceResidents Question Sewer Authority About Proposed WWTPAt the 14 January 2025 Newtown Sewer Authority public meeting, residents from Middletown and Newtown had several questions regarding the proposed Waste Water Treatment Plant (WWTP, aka Sewerage Treatment Plant) on Lower Silver Lake Road abutting Middletown.
One important question had to do with ACT 537, which currently provides:
"The Township’s continued use and expansion of the Bucks County Water and Sewer Authority’s (BCWSA) conveyance system that includes the Neshaminy Interceptor for sewage conveyance to the City of Philadelphia’s Northeast Water Pollution Control Facility."
This act would have to be modified by BOTH Newtown Township AND Newtown Borough to allow the us...
2025-01-2615 min
Mack's Newtown VoiceMeet Mack Monday 23 Sep 2024 DiscussionAt the September 23, 2024, Meeting Mack Monday Zoom meeting, participants discussed several issues including road paving, Blue Zones, Wawa delays, new sewage treatment plant, crosswalk on Bypass, working with the Middletown Traffic Committee, 2025 police & fire budget, Silver Lake Park, etc.
2024-12-2139 min
Mack's Newtown VoiceNewtown Sewer Authority Q&A Regarding Rate Hike & Treatment Plant PlansThis a recording of the Q&A session at the 16 October 2024 meeting of the Newtown Water & Sewer Authority public meeting. At issue was the 43% rate increase starting in 2026 (read "#NewtownPA Sewer Authority Rates to Increase 43%!"; https://sco.lt/8o4g9A) and the proposed sewage treatment plant down Lower Silver Lake Rd from the Wawa site on the Newtown Bypass (read "#NewtownPA Sewer Authority Purchases Land for Sewage Treatment Plant"; https://sco.lt/6VZozw).
2024-10-1626 min
Mack's Newtown VoiceMeet Mack Monday Attendees Discuss Chick-fil-A on Bypass PlanAt the 29 April 2024 Meet Mack Monday Zoom meeting, several attendees had a lively discussion regarding the proposal to build a drive-thru Chick-fil-A restaurant "on the Bypass" (actually at the northeast corner of the Bypass and Newtown-Yardley Rd diagonally across from the soon-to-be built Wawa).
Specifically, the applicant is seeking relief for a proposed 6,110sq.ft. restaurant with drive-thru (Chick Fil-A) on and existing 3.21-acre corner property, with frontage on Newtown-Yardley Road and Upper Silver Lake Road, where a bank (TD Bank) with drive-thru are currently located.
The proposed restaurant with drive-thru will require a use variance for the inclusion of...
2024-07-0134 min
Mack's Newtown Voice17 June 2024 Meet Mack Monday Discussion17 June 2024 Meet Mack Monday Zoom meeting attendees discuss what's on their minds including:
* Tara Blvd crosswalk safety improvements
* The possibility of Wawa selling beer 24/7
* Problems with the LI/O-LI Overlay proposal
* and other issues
2024-06-1924 min
Mack's Newtown VoiceBarbara Simmons Talks About a Mural Project in the Newtown AreaBarbara Simmons, former Director of the Langhorne Peace Center, and currently a member of the Executive Board, NAACP Bucks County, attended the February 21, 2024, Newtown Human Relations Commission (HRC) meeting.
Ms. Simmons informed HRC members of her work on the Bucks County Mural Project, which invites police and community members to paint murals in Bucks County.
The goal is to allow people to get to know one another, begin to build trust and a relationship. The project includes murals in Morrisville, Falls Township Community Park, and Bristol Township Community Park.
At the NT HRC meeting, Ms. Simmons discussed the possibility of...
2024-02-2218 min
Mack's Newtown VoicePlanning Commission Review of "Newtown Place"On February 6, 2024, BET Investment presented to the #Newtown Planning Commission a revised plan for Newtown Corners, now called “Newtown Place.” The owner seeks a text amendment to the Joint Municipal Zoning Ordinance (JMZO) to allow a “Parking Core Apartment Building” in the TC (Town Center) district of Newtown Township. The current zoning does not allow for such a structure. Consequently, BET proposes to add this “B-11” use to the JMZO.
This is a recording of the Q&A session. For more details and a summary, go to https://johnmacknewtown.info/6feb2024pc.html
2024-02-091h 13
Mack's Newtown VoiceBorscht Belt Neon Sign Meet Mack Monday DiscussionAt the 4 January 2024 meeting of the Newtown Township Zoning Hearing Board, the Borscht Belt attorney cited several businesses that he claims have neon signs in their windows such as Acqua e Farina at 50 Richboro Rd.
This case was discussed by residents at the 22 January 2024 Meet Mack Monday Zoom meeting.
2024-01-2607 min
Mack's Newtown VoicePublic Comments Regarding Borscht Belt Neon SignMembers of the public spoke up at the January 4, 2024, #NewtownPA Zoning Hearing Board regarding Borscht Belt Deli's appeal of a Notice of Violation issued by the township declaring that the neon sign in its window violation the JMZO's zoning ordinance. Read more about this here: https://sco.lt/58eUaW
"This is a very troubling situation," Eric Pomerantz told the Newtown Zoning Hearing Board. "Why wasn't there an investigation done to assess the number of other businesses in violation before issuing the violation to the Borscht Belt? Because we hear that they only respond to complaints," he said. "So you present...
2024-01-0520 min
Mack's Newtown VoiceSteeple View Bridge DiscussionThis discussion took place during the November 13, 2023, Meet Mack Monday Zoom meeting. Supervisor John Mack presented his questions regarding the utility of this bridge to Newtown Township and suggested it would benefit primarily Steeple View residents in the Borough.
Newtown Environmental Advisory Board member Jan Filios pointed out the environmental concerns, which may be insurmountable due to zoning ordinances that are in place regarding flood plains.
2023-11-1508 min
Mack's Newtown VoiceMack's Concerns Regarding Business Commons Overlay PlanAt the 17 October 2023 #NewtownPA Planning Commission (PC) meeting, I spoke up about my concerns regarding the O-LI/LI ("Business Commons") Overly Plan. Find the plan here:
The PC - working with Bucks Planning Commission (BCPC) experts - is near to finalizing the Plan to recommend to the Board of Supervisors (BOS).
Before this comes to a vote by the supervisors, I expressed a need to have more discussion of the plan's details. This is an audio recording of my comments made at the PC meeting.
I specifically have major concerns about "mixed-use" development, which is a major aspect of the...
2023-10-1827 min
Mack's Newtown VoiceMeet Mack Monday #NewtownPA 2024 Budget DiscussionThis 30-minute discussion was recorded at the 16 October Meet Mack Monday (MMM) Zoom meeting, which focused on the draft 2024 #NewtownPA budget.
See the video presentation that was made prior to the discussion: https://youtu.be/arT6ui-fx2M
MMM attendees commented on the proposed tax increase, road program, and other aspects of the budget. One resident asked if the budget was reviewed by an outside expert. It should be noted that many aspects of the budget followed the guidelines of a 5-year plan prepared by outside consultants. Find that plan here: https://www.johnmacknewtown.info/UserFiles/files/Newtown_ESI_Final...
2023-10-1729 min
Mack's Newtown VoiceMeet Mack Monday 20 September 2021The 75-minute audio recording of the September 20, 2021, Meet Mack Monday meeting (via Zoom). The major issue discussed was the Toll Bros proposed settlement. For links to resources relevant to this, see my meeting notes: https://www.johnmacknewtown.info/mmm20sep2021.html
2023-10-061h 16
Mack's Newtown VoiceSupervisor Mack Challenges Expert KRE WitnessAt the 18 Sept 2023, #NewtownPA BOS meeting, Supervisor John Mack secured his right to hear and judge the evidence provided by KRE Upper Macungie Associates, LLC (“Applicant”) in its challenge to Newtown's zoning. During the hearing, Mr. Mack asked the applicant's expert witness - Town Planner Thomas J. Comitta - to clarify remarks he made in his testimony.
Recall that KRE is seeking to build a multistory, 245-unit apartment building on Lower Silver Lake Road and has claimed that the Town's Zoning is unconstitutional because it doesn't allow such as use.
Mr. Mack focused on the applicant's claim that experts such as t...
2023-09-1912 min
Mack's Newtown Voice11 September 2023 Meet Mack Monday DiscussionThis is an edited recording of the discussion I had with residents who attended the 11 September 2023 Meet Mack Monday Zoom meeting.
Among the topics discussed were;
(1) Lower Dolington Road Trail problems identified by residents and by the township engineering firm, and
(2) The proposed plan to amend the zoning to allow the development of a 120-unit "Garage Core" apartment complex off of South Sycamore Street, behind the 711.
2023-09-1332 min
Mack's Newtown VoiceGormley Speaks About Plans for Sewage Treatment Plant in #NewtownPAAt the September 6, 2023, Newtown Borough Council Meeting, Mr. Warren Gormley - executive director of the Newtown, Bucks County Joint Municipal Authority - informed Council members that the Authority is investigating the possibility of acquiring land and building its own sewage treatment plant in Newtown Township.
The Authority is looking into the feasibility of acquiring a 17.5-acre tract on Lower Silver Lake Road for the construction of a state-of-the-art treatment facility to serve the authority’s 9,000 customers in Newtown Township and Newtown Borough.
NOTE: The site is the same site that KRE developers plan to build a multi-story apartment building (read “Deve...
2023-09-0824 min
Mack's Newtown VoiceImpact of Capital Grille on ParkingAt the 22 May 2023 Meet Mack Zoom meeting [https://www.johnmacknewtown.info/22may23mmm.html#grille], participants had a lively discussion of the impact that a proposed Capital Grille would have on parking in the Newtown Village (aka Brixmor) shopping center.
Should the Newtown Board of Supervisors (BOS) oppose this plan?
Before that decision is made, however, the BOS will decide if will approve the transfer of a liquor license from Warwick Twp to Newtown, which already is way over its quota for liquor licenses.
2023-05-2305 min
Mack's Newtown VoiceDeluca Discussion at 22 May 2023 Meet Mack MondayParticipants at the 22 May 2023 Meet Mack Monday Zoom meeting discussed Deluca Construction's plan is to build two single-family homes on 3.08 acres whereas Newtown's Conservation Management (CM) District permits only one house on 3 acres.
The developer must seek zoning variances from the Zoning Hearing Board (ZHB), but the company's solicitor will appear before the Newtown Board of Supervisors (BOS), which opposes the plan, to plead its case. Will they succeed in getting the BOS to change its mind and NOT oppose the plan? That would help them when they appear before the ZHB.
2023-05-2306 min
Mack's Newtown VoiceTalking Trash at 22 May 2023 Meet Mack MondayParticipants in the 22 May 2023 Meet Mack Monday Zoom meeting talked trash.
It began with a seemingly simple question: "Should Newtown Township contract with one trash company for savings, efficiency, less noise and pollution?"
It quickly moved on to how some homeowners associations have taken matters into their own hands to reduce costs and reduce noise and other pollution by hiring a single source for trash collection.
Left unanswered, however, was the question about whether it would be a good idea for the township to sign a contract with a single trash company to collect all the trash.
2023-05-2305 min
Mack's Newtown VoiceSycamore Street Handicap ParkingAt the February 20, 2023, Meet Mack Monday Zoom meeting, a Newtown Twp resident raised the issue of handicap parking on the east side of North Sycamore Street between Newtown Pizza and Penn Community Bank. This is a 2-minute edited audio snippet of that conversation.
2023-02-2201 min
Mack's Newtown VoiceProvco's E30 Validity Challenge at ZHB: Part 1At a special session of the Newtown Township Zoning Hearing Board (ZHB) on January 30, 2023, Provco/Wawa appealed the ZHB's 2021 denial (see https://sco.lt/6Eh7rM) of all signage and fuel dispenser variances to the JMZO E30 zoning ordinance.
Provco is challenging Section 803.E.30.3, Section 1103.CA, and Section 1101.A of the ordinance, as "arbitrary, unreasonable, and not substantially related to the purposes of the Pennsylvania Municipalities Planning Code (MPC), or the public health, safety, or welfare of Newtown Township that the JMZO purports to serve."
Specifically, Wawa wants to have 8 fueling dispensers (16 pumps) whereas the E30 ordinance allows only 6 and...
2023-01-3144 min
Mack's Newtown VoiceProvco's E30 Validity Challenge at ZHB: Part 2At a special session of the Newtown Township Zoning Hearing Board (ZHB) on January 30, 2023, Provco/Wawa appealed the ZHB's 2021 denial (see sco.lt/6Eh7rM) of all signage and fuel dispenser variances to the JMZO E30 zoning ordinance.
Provco is challenging Section 803.E.30.3, Section 1103.CA, and Section 1101.A of the ordinance, as "arbitrary, unreasonable, and not substantially related to the purposes of the Pennsylvania Municipalities Planning Code (MPC), or the public health, safety, or welfare of Newtown Township that the JMZO purports to serve."
Specifically, Wawa wants to have 8 fueling dispensers (16 pumps) whereas the E30 ordinance allows only 6 and it...
2023-01-311h 01
Mack's Newtown VoiceKRE Sketch Plan Q&A at the December 20, 2022, Newtown Planning Commission MeetingOn December 20, 2022, the KRE Group presented to the Newtown Planning Commission a plan for development of 17.87 acre parcel in the OR, Office Research, Zoning District to construct a luxury rental apartment building with 225 units, 244 surface parking spaces and 232 garage parking spaces.
Synopsis by PC Chair Peggy Driscoll:
The Jointure does not permit such a residential use in any of our zoning districts. Attorney Ed Murphy indicated that the plan would require a zoning amendment, which the applicant preferred over a use variance.
The Commission members had many concerns about the size and intensity of the project and had many questions...
2022-12-2256 min
Mack's Newtown VoiceVolta EV Charging Stations Discussed by Newtown PlannersOn April 19, 2022, representatives of Volta Charging, LLC, came before the Newtown Township Planning Commission (NTPC) to discuss a plan to install two Electrical Vehicle (EV) Charging Stations in landscape islands located in the parking lot of ACME in the Newtown Shopping Center.
Testifying for Volta were Michael J. Megnniss of Begley, Carlin & Mandio, LLP, and John Stuckey, VP East Charging Solutions and Site Development.
In this composite of audio snippets from the meeting, Volta describes its unique business model that includes a 4-foot high visual electronic signage/advertising charging station panel. The charging service is FREE to anyone. There is...
2022-04-2308 min
Mack's Newtown VoiceMeet Mack Monday: Wawa Land Development DiscussionJohn Mack discussed the Newtown Planning Commission’s review of the latest Wawa Land Development Plan at the April 11, 2022, Meet Mack Monday Zoom meeting. Mr. Mack specifically discussed issues raised by the Bucks County Planning Commission in a letter to the township, including orientation of the buildings, traffic issues, and pedestrian safety.
Mr. Mack also mentioned that the E30 ordinance gives the Newtown Board of Supervisors the option to limit the hours of operation if there is a residential use with 750 feet of the Wawa site. In this case, where the site is at the intersection of the Bypass and Lo...
2022-04-1204 min
Mack's Newtown VoiceWawa Developer Criticized for Being Unprepared to Answer Newtown Planning Commission QuestionsBrett Duffy – a Holland resident – criticized Provco for being unprepared to answer questions about its Wawa Land Development Plan at the April 5, 2022, public meeting of the Newtown Planning Commission (NTPC). Mr. Duffy was among more than a dozen Newton and neighboring township residents who attended the meeting and made public comments.
“The developer that wants to build on a parcel of land in your township that you have the power to approve or deny… they don’t know anything about it or they do know it and the answers are not satisfactory,” said Mr. Duffy. “That was my big takeaway.”
Indeed, Provco d...
2022-04-0705 min
Mack's Newtown VoiceNewtown Planning Commission Recommends That Supervisors Deny Wawa’s PlanAt its April 5, 2022, public meeting, the Newtown Planning Commission (NTPC) failed to achieve a consensus to recommend that the Board of Supervisors (BOS) approve the latest Provco/Wawa Land Development Plan.
This plan calls for building a Wawa “Superstore” – 12 pump gas station plus convenience store – at the intersection of the Newtown Bypass and Lower Silverlake Road. This project has a long history going back to at least 2018.
This was not the first time Wawa representatives were interviewed by the NTPC. At its April 21, 2021, Zoom meeting, the NTPC discussed Provco’s Zoning Hearing Board “Special Exception” application that included requests for several varian...
2022-04-0606 min
Mack's Newtown VoiceState Sen. Steve Santarsiero Speaks About LOVE-is-LOVE ResolutionOn March 11, 2020, Newtown Township passed a "Love is Love" Resolution in support of LGBTQ + minority youth (read "Newtown Township Passes Revised Love is Love Resolution"; http://bit.ly/PatchLoveislove). This resolution was inspired by State Sen. Steve Santarsiero, who has attempted to get his LOVE is LOVE Resolution passed by the PA Senate for the last 3 years without success.
Mr. Santarsiero attended my Meet Mack Monday Zoom meeting on March 7, 2022, and informed us that he is in the process of getting a state grant that will help fund the Rainbow Room in Doylestown AND bring a NEW Rainbow Room in...
2022-03-1507 min
Mack's Newtown VoiceComments on Arcadia U-Turn by Peter Ancona at March 7, 2022, MMM MeetingPeter Ancona, VP of the Newtown Crossing Community Association, gave an update on Arcadia at the March 7, 2022, Meet Mack Monday Zoom meeting.
Mr. Ancona noted that the developer submitted a revised Highway Occupancy Permit (HOP) application for a U-turn at the Buck Road and Millpond Road intersection. In this recording Mr. Ancona describes an alternate to the U-turn option, which PennDOT said it preferred. This is the “2C option.” [For background, read “Controversy Regarding Proposed Arcadia Newtown U-Turn Option”; https://bit.ly/3CaZju2].
Mr. Ancona also discussed his efforts to get elected officials – State Sen. Steve Santarserio and Rep. Perry Warren – t...
2022-03-1409 min
Mack's Newtown VoiceMeet Mack Monday February 7, 2022Topics include: Newtown Gun Show, N Sycamore St Pedestrian Safety, Tolls Bros 413 Plan Update, Hybrid Meetings, Review of Arcadia Highway Application Permit Application, Electric Vehicle Charging Stations, American Rescue Plan Funds
2022-02-101h 38Mack's Newtown VoiceMeet Mack Monday February 7, 2022Topics include: Newtown Gun Show, N Sycamore St Pedestrian Safety, Tolls Bros 413 Plan Update, Hybrid Meetings, Review of Arcadia Highway Application Permit Application, Electric Vehicle Charging Stations, American Rescue Plan Funds
2022-02-101h 44
Mack's Newtown VoicePlanning Commission Discusses Electric Vehicle Charging StationsOn January 18, 2022, the Newtown Planning Commission reviewed a variance application to permit the installation of three (3) electric vehicle charging stations (G-16 use) which is not a permitted use in the LI District and would require relief from the parking standards.
The applicant is Cameron C. Troilo & Olga Jean Troilo, applicants/owners, Homewood Suites, 110 Pheasant Run, Newtown Business Commons, Newtown Township, Newtown, PA.
These charging stations will be for shared use by hotel guests, the office complex, and any member of the public.
An electric car charging station is not a use enumerated in the Newtown Area Joint Municipal Zoning Ordinance...
2022-01-2022 min
Mack's Newtown VoiceMeet Mack Monday 10/18/21: 2022 Budget & Toll SettlementThis session was devoted mainly to two topics: (1) the draft Newtown Township 2022 budget, which was presented to the Board of Supervisors later that same night (more about that here: https://bit.ly/NT2022BudgetPreso), and (2) the Toll Brothers proposed Settlement Agreement (more about that here: http://bit.ly/2sqcHfi).
2021-10-2048 min
Mack's Newtown Voice2020 Census Redistricting Data for Newtown Area Jointure TownshipsAt the October 7, 2021, Newtown Area Joint Zoning Council (JZC) meeting, Lisa Wolff, Senior Planner, Bucks County Planning Commission, presented recently released 2020 U.S. Census Redistricting Data Summary Files, as related to the Jointure townships (Newtown, Wrightstown, and Upper Makefield).
Her analysis, which will be incorporated into the updated Newtown Area Comprehensive Plan, covers population trends from 1950 through 2020, population change from 2000 to 2020, population by race, and housing data.
Download the BCPC report here: https://bit.ly/BCPC2020CensusData
2021-10-1006 min
Mack's Newtown VoiceNewtown Planning Commission Discusses LI/OLI Overlay ProcessAt the October 5, 2021, Newtown Planning Commission (NTPC) meeting, members discussed the Bucks County Planning Commission's (BCPC)September 10, 2021, revised proposal for services related to the creation of an Overlay District in the LI/OLI zones. The purpose of the overlay is to allow new permitted uses that will benefit local businesses.
2021-10-0915 min
Mack's Newtown VoiceNewtown's Expert Testifies at ZHB Wawa HearingDavid C. Babbitt, AICP NJPP, President of David C. Babbitt & Associates, LLC, Land Planning Consultants, was hired by Newtown Township to provide expert testimony at Zoning Hearing Board hearings opposing variances to zoning requested by Wawa.
In this 15-minute snippet, Mr. Babbitt presents his opinions of Wawa's request for 8 fueling stations where only 6 are allowed. He also weighed in on the signage issue.
For the details, please read Mr. Babbitt's July 8, 2021, Report: https://bit.ly/BabbitReport
2021-08-2014 min
Mack's Newtown VoiceNFA Member Andy Rich Talks About the 12th Annual Newtown BeerfestNewtown Fire Association member and local businessman Andy Rich talks about the celebrated Newtown Beerfest, which will take place on September 18, 2021, at the Stocking Works, 301 S State St, Newtown, PA.
Andy emphasizes the major role that the beerfest has played in raising funds for the new $800,000 fire engine. All made possible by contributions from local businesses and residents!
Even so, Andy says more is needed to build up the understaffed volunteer and paid fire departments in Newtown.
2021-08-1613 min
Mack's Newtown VoiceRedel Cross-Examination at Newtown ZHB on 8 July 2021At the July 8, 2021, Zoning Hearing Board (ZHB) public hearing, Newtown Township attorney David Sander cross-examined Mr. Mike Redel, a Real Estate Project Engineer employed by Wawa, regarding signage. Mr. Redel presented his testimony at the June 3, 2021, ZHB session: https://www.johnmacknewtown.info/zhbwawarnd1.html
More details: More details: https://johnmacknewtown.info/zhbwawarnd2.html
2021-07-1006 min
Mack's Newtown VoiceTech Committee Discusses Hybrid Public MeetingsNewtown supervisor John Mack presents a case for switching from strictly in-person official public meetings to hybrid meetings that allow the public the option of attending in person or via an online technology such as Zoom. Mr. Mack made his comments at the June 28, 2021, meeting of the NT Technology & Communications Committee. Two members of the Committee participated successfully via Zoom while others met in person at the township public meeting room.
Get more details about the Hybrid Meeting survey mentioned by Mr. Mack, including sample comments from survey respondents, in the June 2021 Newtown News Update newsletter: https://bit.ly/ntnuJun2021
2021-07-0206 min
Mack's Newtown VoiceNewtown Township Website Review: Need for AnalyticsBrian Miller, Founder & CEO of Unique Design Studios and member of the Newtown Township Technology & Communications Committee (T&CC) gave a short preliminary review of the township's website at the June 28, 2021, T&CC public meeting. In this snippet, Mr. Miller focuses on the importance of performing regular analytics to determine how the website is performing and what needs to be improved.
2021-07-0104 min
Mack's Newtown VoiceNewtown Finance Committee Discusses Starting Budget Process EarlierAt its June 22, 2021, live public meeting, the Newtown Township Finance Committee (FC) continued its discussion of how it can advise the township on budget priorities. A major issue discussed was the fact that the FC cannot see the preliminary budget before September at which time it is too late to change priorities. A case was also made to have department heads discuss THEIR priorities in a public forum with input from the FC very early in the process before the preliminary budget is presented to the Board of Supervisors. This is just a shortened snippet from the rather contentious hour-long...
2021-06-2316 minMack's Newtown VoiceNewtown Finance Committees Discusses Uses of PEG Grant MoneyAt its June 22, 2021, live public meeting, the Newtown Township Finance Committee (FC) continued its discussion of possible uses for PEG (Public, Educational, and Governmental) grants from cable companies. Under federal law, PEG Fees may only be used for capital costs associated with PEG access facilities and equipment. One possible use is to upgrade the "antiquated" equipment used by the township. Also discussed was the possibility of competitive bidding to find a new contractor to provide cable AND streaming video of important public meetings.
2021-06-2308 min
Mack's Newtown VoiceWestcorp Makes Case for Signage Variances at PC MeetingWescorp, located at 1 Pheasant Run in Newtown, PA, is planning on a reconstruction project and would like to "upgrade" two signs - one facing Pheasant Run and one facing Penn Street above the entrance (see sketch).
In this 30-minute audio clip from the June 15, 2021, Newtown Township Planning Commission (NTPC)meeting, representatives of Wescorp make their case for the requested variances, which raise several interesting issues: Jerry Schenkman - a Newtown solicitor - revealed that a multi-story apartment building has been proposed to be located next to Wescorp on Penn Street. How will a lighted sign impact local residents, including those...
2021-06-1736 min
Mack's Newtown VoiceNewtown ZHB Wawa Hearing Part 2: Signage Cross ExaminationIn this excerpt from the Newtown Township Zoning Hearing Board (ZHB) June 3, 2021, Wawa hearing, attorney David Sander representing Newtown Township cross examines Provco/Wawa's expert witness Jason Korczak regarding signage. This audio clip also includes testimony on the signage issue by Mr. Mike Redel, a Real Estate Project Engineer employed by Wawa.
Provco/Wawa is asking the ZHB to permit two electronic message center signs (aka, monument signs) for the purpose of displaying fuel prices with the changeable copy being limited to fuel prices. This is a variance from Newtown Area Joint Municipal Zoning Ordinance sections 1103.0.3 "General Sign Regulations; Illumination...
2021-06-0821 minMack's Newtown VoiceNewtown ZHB Wawa Hearing Part 1: Signage Expert TestimonyIn this excerpt from the Newtown Township Zoning Hearing Board (ZHB) June 3, 2021, Wawa hearing, Provco/Wawa attorney John VanLuvanee solicits testimony regarding signage by the Provco/Wawa expert witness Jason Korczak, P.E., Bohler Engineering regarding signage. Provco/Wawa.
Provco/Wawa is asking the ZHB to permit two electronic message center signs (aka, monument signs) for the purpose of displaying fuel prices with the changeable copy being limited to fuel prices. This is a variance from Newtown Area Joint Municipal Zoning Ordinance sections 1103.0.3 "General Sign Regulations; Illumination of Signs"; 1104.B.16 "Applicability; Prohibited Signs"; and 1106.N.1 "Permanent Sign Requirements; Electronic Message...
2021-06-0809 min
Mack's Newtown VoiceNewtown Planning Commission Reviews Chop't ApplicationAt the May 18, 2021, Newtown Planning Commission Zoom meeting, Joseph M. Blackburn, Partner with Wisler Pearlstine, presented an overview of a "conditional" use application by the Chop't Creative Salad Company, LLC. The application is for a 2,500 sf Chop't restaurant to be located at 2910 S. Eagle Road in the Village at Newtown Shopping Center. This use would bring the percent of square footage allocated for restaurant use in the shopping center to about 31%. The total allowable percentage for such use is - believe it or not - 45%! So, there is still significantly more restaurant use allowable.
2021-05-1921 min
Mack's Newtown VoiceRevitalization of Newtown Township's Business Commons DistrictTownship Planner Michele Fountain was a guest speaker at the May 4, 2021, Newtown Planning Commission (PC) Zoom meeting. The topic was "LI & OLI Zoning District Land Use."
At the end of the presentation PC Chair Allen Fidler led a discussion on the possibility of rezoning these districts - especially the Newtown Business Commons Industrial zone - to allow specific new uses.
Several suggestions for new uses were put forward including allowing more restaurants, hydroponic crop growing (e.g., marijuana), etc.
The goal is to "revitalize" the district in order to attract new businesses to the area and maintain the current businesses...
2021-05-0832 min
Mack's Newtown VoiceWhy the Delay in the Lower Dolington Road Trail Project?At the May 3, 2021, Meet Mack Monday Zoom meeting, Newtown Supervisor John Mack tries to explain the delay in the Lower Dolington Road Trail project, which had its start back in 2018. It seems there have been problems with the stormwater management permits that required a change in plans - namely the elimination of rain gardens and using an underground drainage system instead. Mack wondered why the township's experienced engineers did not anticipate the problem in the first place. Meanwhile, you can listen to the Township's Engineer's Update here: https://bit.ly/LDtrailUpdate28apr2021
2021-05-0406 min
Mack's Newtown VoiceMeet Mack Monday Wawa DiscussionAt the May 3, 2021, Meet Mack Monday Zoom meeting, Newtown Supervisor John Mack gave an update on the Wawa "special exception" zoning application. Mack discussed the zoning variances requested by Wawa with residents. The Zoning Hearing Board will consider the application at its May 6, 2021, meeting. The Township Solicitor will be there to oppose the variances as he was instructed to do by the supervisors.
2021-05-0423 min
Mack's Newtown VoiceNewtown Supervisor David Oxley Comments on Derek Chauvin Trial VerdictNewtown Supervisor David Oxley commented on the results of the Derek Chauvin trial at the April 28, 2021, Board of Supervisors meeting. Mr. Oxley called for more police accountability at the country, state, and local level and he urged all citizens to work together to ensure action, to do better, and to be kinder.
2021-04-2904 min
Mack's Newtown VoiceImproving Newtown Township CommunicationsThere was an “unofficial” Zoom meeting of the Technology & Communications Committee on Monday, April 26, 2021 (a quorum was not present). However, members of the Planning Commission (PC), Environmental Advisory Council (EAC) and the Human Relations Commission (NTHRC) attended to have an informal discussion of their communication needs.
The discussion focused mainly on how to improve the usability of the website and the possibility of performing routine analytics to identify problem areas. The Committee members will discuss a needs analysis at future meetings.
Present: Dan Williams, Committee Chair; John Mack, BOS Liaison; Allen Fidler, PC; Elaine McCarron, EAC; Aamir Nayeem, NTHRC; Joel Raab...
2021-04-2824 min
Mack's Newtown VoiceNewtown Planning Commission Versus WawaAt its April 21, 2021, Zoom meeting, the Newtown Planning Commission discussed Provco’s Zoning Hearing Board “Special Exception” application that includes variances to allow a proposed Motor Vehicle Fueling & Convenience Store (i.e., Super Wawa) on the southwest corner of Newtown Bypass & Lower Silver Lake Road in the Newtown Office Research district.
Note that this so-called “E-30” use recently was created by the Newtown-Wrightstown-Upper Makefield Joint Zoning Council via a “municipal cure” process.
The requested variances to the E-30 use includes 8 multi-product fueling dispensers where 6 are permitted & associated signage, including an electronic sign visible to the Bypass where electronic signs are prohibited thr...
2021-04-2121 min
Mack's Newtown Voice5G Technology Safety DiscussionThe safety of 5G cellular technology was discussed at the March 22, 2021, Meet Mack Monday Zoom meeting. A resident asked prior to the meeting: "Is 5G a topic that has been or will be discussed by Newtown Zoning or other? Are 5G emitters/masts allowed to be close to schools?"
The discussion focused on the 5G antennas on top of the Newtown Artesian Water tower located less than 500 feet from Goodnoe Elementary School and many nearby homes.
In this 15-minute excerpt from the discussion, a resident living nearby the tower claims the 5G radiation from this source has caused medical problems...
2021-03-2315 min
Mack's Newtown VoiceResidents Lash Out at Supervisor Mack & Solicitor Dave Sander at Arcadia MeetingMany angry residents attended the February 24, 2021, Newtown Board of Supervisors (BOS) Meeting to oppose a settlement with the Arcadia developer to build 60 homes at Buck Road and the Bypass.
None perhaps were more angry than Eric Scott Gold, a resident of Eagle Ridge whose lawyer advised the HOA to settle its case against Arcadia (see his statement below). In this short audio clip, Mr. Gold lashes out against me (John Mack) for voting in favor of the settlement. Mr. Sander objected to his language and Chairman Phil Calabro had to calm everyone down.
Mr. Gold thought the supervisors came into...
2021-02-2808 min
Mack's Newtown VoiceRevising the Newtown Township Budget ProcessAt the February 23, 2021, Newtown Township Finance Committee (NTFC) Zoom meeting, there was a lively discussion regarding ideas for revising the Newtown Budget process. A proposal was put forward by the NTFC in December, 2020, but it was not yet seen by the supervisors when this meeting was held.
Supervisor John Mack started the discussion, which was joined - in order - by NTFC member George Skladany (author of the proposal), Supervisor Dennis Fisher, NTFC member Dissinger, and NTFC Chair Shelley Howland.
It was agreed the the process should start earlier, involve members of the NTFC and/or a Finance Team, and...
2021-02-2629 min
Mack's Newtown VoiceNewtown Gate Residents Oppose DoggyDayz K9 ResortNewtown Gate residents have organized a campaign opposing the application of DoggyDayz, LLC, to set up an indoor “K9 Resorts Luxury Pet Hotel” at 8 Pheasant Run (at the intersection with Terry Drive) in the LI (Light Industrial) district of Newtown Township. In this audio clip from the February 16, 2021, meeting of the Newtown Planning Commission, Mr. Fred Kurtz - president of the Newtown Gate Homeowners Association - makes his case against the application followed by the response from the Doggy Dayz lawyer.
2021-02-1709 min
Mack's Newtown VoiceNewtown Supervisors Discuss Ideas for Revitalization of LI & O-LI DistrictsThis is a clip from a discussion at the February 16, 2021, Newtown Board of Supervisors Work Session. Supervisors discussed a Economic Development Committee memo that proposed zoning changes for the LI (Light Industrial) and O-LI (Office-Light Industrial) districts in Newtown. The ultimate goal is to attract new, high-paying businesses to the area.
2021-02-1711 min
Mack's Newtown VoiceWill Newtown Help Eagle Ridge Fight Arcadia III?At the January 13, 2021, Board of Supervisors Meeting, former Supervisor, current Bucks County Deputy Chief Information Officer, and resident of Newtown Crossing said that Eagle Ridge HOA had a better chance of winning an appeal against Arcadia III than does Newtown.
He and other residents - including Eric Scott Gold - wanted to know if Newtown was willing to help residents fight the case in some way, including helping pay the legal fees. The Supervisors agreed they need more information before they could decide and will arrange an executive session with residents and their lawyer in the near future to discuss...
2021-01-1408 min
Mack's Newtown VoiceNewtown BOS Rejects Chick-fil-A/Old Navy Settlement AgreementAt it's January, 13, 2021, public meeting, the Newtown Board of Supervisors (BOS) voted 3-2 against agreeing to a settlement with Newtown Bucks Association (NBA) regarding Chick-fil-A and a "retail pad" in the Newtown Shopping Center.
NBA intended to make certain traffic/circulation improvements as related to the existing Chick-fil-A restaurant in the Shopping Center, together with a proposed pad that would be used for additional retail space (i.e., proposed Old Navy site).
The agreement would have granted several variances, including allowing additional impervious surface for the retail space, which was the main reason the Zoning Hearing Board originally voted against...
2021-01-1441 min
Mack's Newtown VoiceMy Efforts to Cut Expenses in the 2021 Newtown BudgetAfter voting to adopt the 2021 budget at the December 22, 2020, Board of Supervisors meeting, several residents wanted to hear why I voted to approve this budget that included added expenses and a tax increase.
I decided to host a Meet Mack Monday Zoom meeting on January 11, 2021, to answer that question.
This is an audio segment from that meeting where I summarized my personal efforts to cut expenses in the 2021 budget and thereby reduce as much as possible the township real estate tax increase.
You can find a more detailed timeline here: https://bit.ly/2021BudgetCutEfforts
2021-01-1215 min
Mack's Newtown VoiceNewtown Area JZC Members Discuss TrailsThe Newtown Area Jointure, which comprises Newtown, Wrightstown, and Upper Makefield Townships, is currently updating the 2009 Newtown Area Comprehensive Plan. One chapter of that plan focuses on transportation.
This 17-minute audio podcast includes a portion of a presentation made before the November 5, 2020 meeting of the Joint Zoning Council by Jeremy W. Stoff, a Bucks County Planning Commission (BCPC) Planner. This audio clip from that presentation focuses on the discussion of trails.
Speakers (in order of speaking): Jeremy Stoff (BCPC),Thomas Cino (Upper Makefield), Mary Eberle (JZC Solicitor), John Mack (Newtown), Chester Pogonowski (Wrightstown), Lisa Wolff (BCPC), Tim Thomas (Upper Makefield)
2020-11-0617 minMack's Newtown VoiceNewtown Twp Residents Discuss Proposed 2021 Budget with Supervisor MackSeveral Newtown Township residents let their feelings about the proposed 2021 budget be known at the October 26, 2020, Meet Mack Monday Zoom meeting. You can find more information about Meet Mack Monday meetings - including summaries of past meetings and when the next meeting is scheduled - here: https://johnmacknewtown.info/meetmack.html
2020-10-2740 min
Mack's Newtown VoiceSynopsis of "Recommended" Newtown Township 2021 BudgetNewtown Township Manager Micah Lewis presented his “recommended” 2021 budget to supervisors and the public on October 19, 2020. Mr. Lewis read from an 8-page “synopsis” and supervisors were able to ask questions. Board members, however, had only a few comments or questions to ask regarding the presentation. You can download the PDF version of the synopsis here: https://bit.ly/3oalgUf
2020-10-2126 min
Mack's Newtown VoiceNewtown Land Use Trends 2005-2020There have been notable shifts in the land use characteristics of the individual municipalities of the Newtown Area Jointure (Newtown, Wrightstown, Upper Makefield) as well as in the characteristics of the Jointure, as measured against comparable statistics from 2005. Jeremy W. Stoff, a Bucks County Planning Commission Planner, presented highlights of those shifts at the September 3, 2020, Joint Zoning Council meeting.
2020-09-1603 min
Mack's Newtown VoiceNewtown Residents Discuss Plans for Police Town HallAt the July 15, 2020, Zoom meeting of the Newtown Township Human Relations Commission, several attendees discussed the upcoming Town Hall meeting with Police Chief Hearn. Some expressed concern regarding the limited attendance due to COVID-19 social distancing guidelines, making sure people of color are not excluded, and concern that the meeting is not being recorded. In addition, some felt that the meeting should be open to people who cannot attend either via Zoom or via Facebook Live.
In general, people understood the need for a limited access meeting, they felt it was important to move forward with the meeting as currently e...
2020-07-1613 min
Mack's Newtown VoiceMatt Peters on EIT & Bringing New Business to NewtownMatt Peters - owner and operator of Weed Man USA of Newtown and co-chair of the Newtown Township Economic Development Committee - talks about Earned Income Tax. This podcast features excerpts from a July 10, 2020, Newtown Business Association “Coaches on Couches With Coffee” Facebook Live presentation by Matt. A very informative presentation to which John Mack added some comments and clarifications.
The mission of the Newtown Township Economic Development Committee is to prepare and recommend economic development policies, goals and strategies for the retention and expansion of business opportunities in the Newtown area.
2020-07-1315 min
Mack's Newtown VoiceE30 Timeline Discussion at 8 July 2020 BOS MeetingAt the July 8, 2020, Newtown Board of Supervisors (BOS) meeting, Township Solicitor Dave Sander attempted to answer John Mack's request to clarify the timeline and next steps for approval of the final version of the E-30 amendment to the Newtown Area Zoning Ordinance that would allow a combination gas station/convenience store use. Mr. Sander argued that the draft amendment first be shown to Provco, which represents Wawa, for their review/approval before sending the finalized document to the Bucks County Planning Commission and then to the Boards of each of the Jointure's member townships. Recall that Provco is suing Newtown...
2020-07-0918 min
Mack's Newtown VoiceNewtown EDC Discusses Revitalization of Business CommonsAt the July 2, 2020, Zoom meeting of the Economic Development Committee (EDC), members Karen Miller, co-president of the Newtown Business Commons Association, and Joseph Blackburn, an Associate with Wisler Pearlstine, proposed ways that the township can revitalize the Newtown Business Commons, which is zoned for light industrial and office use. This is especially important after COVID-19 restrictions are lifted and businesses get up and running again but find that more workers can work at home and they no longer need as much office space.
2020-07-0311 min
Mack's Newtown VoiceE30 Discussion at June 15, 2020, Newtown BOS Work SessionAt the June 15, 2020, Newtown Township Board of Supervisors (BOS) meeting, the Board reviewed the details of latest draft of the E30 "Curative Amendment" to the Newtown Area Zoning ordinance. This amendment creates a new use for a combination gas station/convenience store (i.e., Wawa) in each township of the "Jointure" of Newtown, Wrightstown and Upper Makefield. Supervisor Mack asked how this amendment differed from the original "sketch plan" submitted to the BOS by Provco Pineville Acquisitions LLC, which is the Wawa developer.
Here are some related stories as background:
“Lower Southampton - Another Township Considering Zoning Variances to Allow a...
2020-06-161h 04
Mack's Newtown VoiceNewtown Planning Commission Discusses Wawa's Challenge to OR ZoningProvco - representing Wawa - has sued Newtown because it does not have a zone that allows a combination gas station and convenience store. In a separate but somewhat related action, a curative amendment was proposed that seeks to find a zoning area for the use within the jointure area of Newtown Township, Wrightstown and Upper Makefield (view the video here: https://johnmacknewtown.info/municure.html). Although Supervisor Calabro suggested that this is "protecting" Newtown, Township Solicitor Dave Sander said it does not apply to Wawa's substantive legal challenge to the joint municipal zoning ordinance previously filed by Wawa. Only...
2020-06-1417 min
Mack's Newtown VoiceNewtown Supervisors Plan Town Hall Meeting with PoliceA the June 10, 2020, Newtown Board of Supervisors meeting, Supervisor John Mack suggested to Newtown Police Chief John Hearn that the township host a public "Town Hall" meeting where police officers and the community - especially residents who feel they have issues with the police - can get to know one another and have a meaningful dialog. In essence, a bigger, more inclusive, version of "Coffee with a Cop".
2020-06-1303 min
Mack's Newtown VoiceNewtown Township Police Chief Hearn's Message To the CommunityNewtown Police Chief John Hearn read a message to the community at the June 10, 2020, Board of Supervisors meeting. He said "the tragic death of Mr. Floyd is unacceptable and our hearts and prayers go out to Mr. Floyd’s family. The actions of the officers were wrong and those involved are not representative of the police profession, especially here at Newtown Township. The civil unrest, including the destruction of property and assaults on law enforcement are also not representative of the public we serve. Together we can and must strive to eliminate both."
2020-06-1105 min
Mack's Newtown VoiceGetting Newtown Businesses Open AgainDuring the May 13, 2020, Newtown Board of Supervisors meeting via Zoom, Supervisor John Mack made a case for the Township to start thinking how it can help local businesses to re-open safely during the current and the next phases of COVID-19 restrictions. Several ideas were put forward such as rethinking the Finance Committee's purview, putting together an ad hoc business Task Force, etc.
2020-05-1332 min
Mack's Newtown VoiceNewtown Township Road Program Falls Victim to COVID-19This 8.5 minute podcast features a recording of a segment of the April 22, 2020, Board of Supervisors meeting during which the Supervisors ratified their decision to re-allocate 1 mill of real estate tax revenue from the debt service fund to the general fund.
This was necessary due to an anticipated shortfall in Earned Income Tax revenue due to the COVID-19 shutdown of local businesses. The 1 mill of real estate tax revenue was slated to be used to borrow money to repave more than 5 miles of roads in Newtown Township will now be used to pay general operating expenses such as salaries of township...
2020-04-2908 min
Mack's Newtown VoiceE-30 Use Discussed at Newtown Planning Commission: Part 2The proposed ordinance to amend the Joint Municipal Zoning Ordinance to allow a new Use E-30 for a combined Motor Vehicle Fueling Station and Convenience Store was discussed at the February 4, 2020, meeting of the Newtown Township Planning Commission. The Commission discussed several recommendations from Jointure member solicitors regarding suggested changes to the draft amendment that was submitted to the Jointure, which consists of Newtown, Wrightstown, and Upper Makefield. Included are several edited audio clips from the discussion.
2020-02-0513 min
Mack's Newtown VoiceE-30 Use Discussed at Newtown Planning Commission: Part 1The proposed ordinance to amend the Joint Municipal Zoning Ordinance to allow a new Use E-30 (previously referred to as "Use E-25") for a combined Motor Vehicle Fueling Station and Convenience Store was discussed at the January 7, 2020, meeting of the Newtown Township Planning Commission. This audio snippet gives an introduction to the process and includes comments from residents. According to Allen Fidler's subsequent report to the Board of Supervisors "There are some items in question including eat in dining, 24-hour operation and the size of the building. The members will continue to review the amended ordinance and bring additional concerns...
2020-01-2010 min
Mack's Newtown VoiceNewtown Planning Commission Hears Proposal for 27 TownhousesAt the November 19, 2019, Newtown Planning Commission public meeting, Mr. Heath Dumack representing Durham Partners presented a Zoning Hearing Board (ZHB) application for twenty seven townhouses and associated dimensional variances on a 5-acre parcel of land located at 413 Durham Road in the PS-2 (Professional Service) Zoning District.
2019-11-2012 min
Mack's Newtown VoiceNewtown Creek Bridge ProposalAt the September 16, 2019, “Work Session” meeting of the Newtown Township Board of Supervisors, Mike Sellers, a member of the Newtown Creek Coalition, invited the Township to join in a project to construct a pedestrian bridge over the Newtown Creek in a partnership with the Borough of Newtown and the Newtown Creek Coalition.
2019-09-2016 min
Mack's Newtown VoiceFidler On Parking in Village at Newtown Shopping CenterIn response to a resident’s comments at the May 8, 2019, Newtown Township Board of Supervisors meeting, Mr. Allen Fiddler, Chair of the Newtown Planning Commission, recounted the history of the renovation of the Village at Newtown Shopping and explained the ultimate goal of Brixmor, the company that owns and manages the Center.
2019-06-0608 min
Mack's Newtown VoiceNewtown Planning Commission Meeting, October 16, 2018At its October 16, 2018, public meeting, Newtown Planning Commission members ripped apart the proposed Ordinance Definition amendment (a so-called “Text Amendment”) to the Newtown Area Joint Municipal Zoning Ordinance (JMZO) that is designed to allow a “modern, motor vehicle fueling center consisting of a convenience store with accessory motor vehicle fuel sales” on the Bypass.
2018-11-301h 42
Mack's Newtown VoicePaul Cohen On Planning Commission Consensus re WawaAt the August 7, 2018, Newtown Planning Commission meeting, member Paul Cohen objected to Chairman Fidler's characterization that the informal "consensus" of the Commission was not in favor of a Super Wawa at the proposed location on Newtown Bypass. Mr. Cohen suggested that this characterization in the minutes did not accurately reflect the conversation of members of the Commission.
LISTEN TO MORE PODCASTS BY JOHN MACK: http://bit.ly/MackPodcasts
2018-08-0802 min
Mack's Newtown VoiceJen Dix On Corruption and Political Favoritism in NewtownIn this episode, we hear former Newtown Supervisor Jen Dix allege that there has been decades of “self-serving leadership” and “corruption” in Newtown. She made her comments at the June 27, 2018, meeting of the Board of Supervisors, which approved her resignation effective June 30, 2018.
LISTEN TO MORE PODCASTS BY JOHN MACK: http://bit.ly/MackPodcasts
2018-07-0505 min
Mack's Newtown VoiceWawa in Context of Newtown's Comprehensive PlanIn this episode, Michael Horbal, a resident of Newtown makes comments about the proposed Wawa convenience store and gas station at the southwestern corner of Newtown Bypass and Lower Silver Lake Road. Mr. Horbal is concerned that if proposed changes of this nature were considered, developers would start contacting landowners with similar types of properties to see if there was an opportunity to turn their property into a project.
Mr. Horbal’s concerns suggest that proposed plans for a Super Wawa on Newtown Bypass must be considered in context of Newtown's Comprehensive plan for the future to assure that it is...
2018-06-0404 min
Mack's Newtown VoiceVanLuvanee Proposes Ordinance Change to Allow WaWa on BypassLand use attorney John VanLuvanne, speaking at a Work Session meeting of the Newtown Board of Supervisors on Monday, May 14, 2018, made a case for amending a Township ordinance in order to allow a Wawa Super Store to be located at the southwestern corner of Newtown Bypass and Lower Silver Lake Road.
LISTEN TO MORE PODCASTS BY JOHN MACK: http://bit.ly/MackPodcasts
2018-05-1510 min
Mack's Newtown VoiceNewtown Supervisors Discuss Proposed Fracking OrdinanceAt the March 19, 2018, Working Session of the Newtown Township PA Board of Supervisors (BOS) meeting, the proposed "Oil & Gas Drilling" (i.e., fracking) ordinance of the Newtown, Upper Makefield, and Wrightstown "Jointure" (JMZO) was discussed. Supervisor Jen Dix asked for the Board's opinion of this proposed ordinance that would allow fracking in the Quarry area of Wrightstown. Participating in the discussion were Supervisors Phil Calabro, John Mack and Township Manager Kurt Ferguson as well as Jerry Schenkman, of the Law Offices of Sean Kilkenny, LLC.
LISTEN TO MORE PODCASTS BY JOHN MACK: http://bit.ly/MackPodcasts
2018-03-2104 min
Mack's Newtown VoiceSteve Bacher Talks About the EnvironmentLong time former Newtown resident and environmentalist Steve Bacher recently launched his campaign to enter the 8th District Congressional Primary Race in a bid to unseat Brian Fritzpatrick. In this interview Bacher discusses environmental issues of concern to Newtown residents as well as his opposition to the 287g program, in which local police are trained to act as immigration officers.
LISTEN TO MORE PODCASTS BY JOHN MACK: http://bit.ly/MackPodcasts
2018-01-1809 min