Marple commissioners approve subdivision, capital purchases and name new township manager

Marple Township commissioners moved through routine business on June 8 and approved several agenda items by unanimous voice votes.

Votes at a glance
• Adopted resolution approving the preliminary/final subdivision plan for Lawrence Park Partnership (lot adjustments as presented). Motion passed 4‑0.
• Approved a capital purchase of a 2026 Ford F‑150 (CoStar contract) for Public Works for $53,331.94. Motion passed 4‑0.
• Ratified purchase of three Exmark mowers (60‑inch) at $11,359 each, total $34,077, for the Public Works Department. Motion passed 4‑0.
• Adopted the Nonuniform Employees Bargaining Unit agreement effective Jan. 1, 2027 through Dec. 31, 2030. Motion passed 4‑0.
• Awarded Contract 2026‑3 (Veterans Park Rehabilitation Project Phase 3 — trails and stormwater detention basin renovation) to James R. Kenny Excavating & Paving, low responsible bidder, for $472,500; stated funding sources include an LSA grant and a Delco Greenways grant; board noted a $100,000 match question to be resolved. Motion passed 4‑0.
• Appointed John McMullen as township manager, effective Aug. 10, 2026 through Dec. 31, 2027. Motion passed 4‑0.

Board members also approved the 2026 tax distribution report and meeting minutes for May 11 by unanimous votes and postponed items 10–13 on the agenda. When the awards and purchases were discussed, staff noted grant funding for the Veterans Park project and that the award was lower than the available grant funding, which may free funds for additional trail repaving.

What happens next: Staff will follow up on the grant match question for Veterans Park and begin procurement/implementation steps for the approved purchases and contract awards. Appointment paperwork and onboarding steps for the new township manager were announced but no dates beyond the effective Aug. 10 start were provided.