Inspection role questioned; new full-time police officer sworn in
By Jamie Richard, Staff Writer, CoatesvilleTimes.com
A West Brandywine supervisor is questioning the role of township inspections in real estate transactions.
WEST BRANDYWINE – The proper role of local government was central to discussions about real estate inspections in the township, and whether it was proper to have such a role, during Thursday’s Board of Supervisors meeting.
The meeting featuring discussions about an ordinance involving rental and resale inspections — one that requires the township to perform inspections of properties. Currently, the ordinance has been on record as part of the International Property Maintenance Code for several years but has not been enforced. Vice Chairman Thomas J. McCaffrey took issue with the ordinance, stating that the township should not involve itself in private resale matters.
“It just is not the place for local government,” said McCaffrey.
Township Manager Ronald A. Rambo Jr. reminded McCaffrey that the ordinance is already in place and, as part of the International Property Maintenance Code, may not be subject to change or removal.
“We didn’t come up with this,” said Rambo. “It’s federal law, passed down to state law, passed down to local municipalities.”
After much debate, the board ultimately decided to have Rambo and Codes Officer Dale Bennett review the ordinance to clearly establish what is required by the ordinance.
In other business, the board voted to appoint Keith Davis as the new Deputy Emergency Management Coordinator. Board Chairman Josef G, Obernier Sr. felt that Davis would be a worthy candidate for the vacant position.
“I’ve looked at his background and asked others…I find him appropriately qualified for the position,” said Obernier.
The board also dealt with several matters pertaining to the township police department. Part-time police officer Russell Moore was sworn in as a full-time officer and the board approved the purchase of two new 2013 Ford Police Interceptor Utility all-wheel drive vehicles for the department.
The board also reminded the audience that they are still in need of volunteers to fill vacant positions within the township. The board is seeking a volunteer to serve on the Historic Commercial and two volunteers to serve on the Parks and Recreation Board.
The West Brandywine Board of Supervisors will hold its next regularly scheduled meeting on March 1.
