After recent events, worries expressed about whether department is large enough to handle current needs
By Jamie Richard, Staff Writer, CoatesvilleTimes.com
Commissioner Josh Young presents his proposal while President Vincent Rose and Commissioner Lorraine Tindaro look on.
CALN –After a series of events in recent weeks in the township, some residents are expressing concerns that the township’s police department might be understaffed and unequipped to deal with the challenges it faces.
The board of Commissioners discussed recent police events in the township as well as a new trash proposal at their meeting last week.
Resident Robert Robert Reymos spoke before the board, expressing concern over a series of recent crime-related events in Caln, the latest of which included a standoff earlier this month between police and a Caln resident that tragically ended the resident’s apparent suicide.
“What is happening to Caln?” asked Reymos.
In lieu of these events, Reymos asked the board to consider expanding the size of the police department. Reymos explained that he had great admiration for the police department and commended them on their performance, but felt that they were too understaffed to effectively patrol the township.
“I still don’t think we have enough people on the street,” said Reymos.
Board Vice President Charles Kramer praised the township police department.
“They have demonstrated their professionalism in regard to public safety,” said Kramer.
The board informed Reymos that they would consider the matter and look at other options to ensure the quality of service provided by the police department.
“We are going to look at all of our options to maintain what we have and to make improvements,” said Board President Vincent Rose.
In other business, Commissioner Joshua Young gave a presentation on behalf of the Conservation and Renewable Energy Task Force. The presentation proposed the purchase of 65 gallon trash totes to match the recycling totes currently used by the township.
Currently, the township limits residents to one 65 gallon recycling tote and up to 6 32 gallon trash cans per week. Under the proposal, residents will be allowed one additional recycling tote at no charge and can purchase additional trash totes at a charge of $50 per year.
According to Young, the new totes will cut down on water weight in trash, as well as debris and blowing trash. Young felt that limiting residents to one trash tote would encourage residents to limit their amount of trash and encourage recycling.
“If you want to be wasteful or don’t want to recycle or have a large family…then other people shouldn’t have to pay for it,” said Young.
Commissioner Jim Kruse suggested conducting a survey to get public feedback on the matter; Vice President Kramer expressed concerns over the idea of forcing residents to better manage their trash output.
“I have an issue with us trying to change someone’s lifestyle,” said Kramer.
The board decided to further examine Young’s presentation and continue discussion on the matter at a later date.
The board of commissioners will hold their next meeting on Mar. 29.
