[Ord. 2002-15, 7/18/2002, § I]
There is hereby established a commission to be known as the "Franklin Township Historical Commission."
[Ord. 2002-15, 7/18/2002, § II]
1. 
The Commission shall serve in an advisory capacity for historic preservation information facilitation to the citizens of the Township. To accomplish this purpose, the Commission shall:
A. 
Identify significant architectural, historical, and natural sites in Franklin Township and maintain a detailed inventory and map(s) of these historic resources including informational data appropriately classified.
B. 
Create an awareness of the history of the Township from the native Americans to the present day, including cultural, agricultural, business, educational, and religious endeavors.
C. 
Research and record the history of Franklin Township and provide information for owners of historic properties involved with preservation and/or restoration.
D. 
Prepare appropriate reports for the Board of Supervisors, as well as reports which may be requested by the Board of Supervisors.
E. 
Cooperate with and advise the Board of Supervisors, the Planning Commission, and all Township officials and agencies in relation to the preservation and restoration of significant historic properties, natural resources and natural features including the review of zoning and/or subdivision/land development proposals and building/demolition permit applications which have the potential to impact on historical resources.
F. 
Consider, promote, and with the prior approval of the Board of Supervisors, to apply for technical and financial assistance from all appropriate local, county, state, federal and other entities for the preservation of significant architectural, natural, and historic resources within Franklin Township.
G. 
Prepare and submit a yearly report and budget to the Board of Supervisors for sums deemed necessary to carry out the objectives.
H. 
In conjunction with and cooperation of the Board of Supervisors, the Planning Commission, and other appropriate groups, to study the feasibility of creating historic districts in accordance with and pursuant to the Act of the Legislature of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania dated June 13, 1961, P.L. 282, No. 167, entitled "Historic Districts," 53 P.S. § 8001 et seq., and an overlay ordinance to protect historic resources throughout the Township.
I. 
Cooperate with all Township officials regarding the possible acquisition and use of significant historic structures and sites, including their research and nomination to the National Register of Historic Places in accordance with the provisions of the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, as amended.
J. 
Perform other related duties as may be delegated by the Board of Supervisors.
K. 
Commit to self-education by attending appropriate conferences and workshops relating to historic preservation to effectively carry out its responsibilities.
L. 
Consider obtaining certified local government status.
[Ord. 2002-15, 7/18/2002, § III; as amended by Ord. 2007-05, 10/17/2007, § 1]
1. 
The said Historical Commission shall:
A. 
Consist of a minimum of five members, but not exceeding nine members, who must be residents of Franklin Township or property owners in Franklin Township.
B. 
Be appointed by the Board of Supervisors.
C. 
Serve a term of office for five years, except for the initial term, which shall be three members for two years; three members for three years; and three members for five years.
D. 
Serve without compensation but may be reimbursed for expenses necessary to conduct the responsibilities of the Commission when authorized by the Board of Supervisors.
E. 
Elect annually a chairperson, vice chairperson, secretary, and other officers as deemed necessary by the Commission.
2. 
A vacancy on the Commission shall be filled by appointment by the Board of Supervisors for the unexpired term. The Commission may make recommendations for appointees to the Board of Supervisors for unfulfilled terms and for full terms. The Commission may have the right to establish appropriate committees to assist with research, to lend expertise, and to perform other duties as assigned by the Commission. Each committee shall be chaired by a member of the Historical Commission.
[Ord. 2002-15, 7/18/2002, § IV]
Meetings and periodic executive sessions shall be held not less than once per quarter to conduct the business of the Commission. The Commission shall keep records of its meetings and activities, submitting periodic reports to the Board of Supervisors.
[Ord. 2002-15, 7/18/2002, § V]
In order to carry out its responsibilities, the Historical Commission may, with the prior consent of the Board of Supervisors, utilize any funds, personnel, or other assistance made available by the county, the commonwealth, or federal government, or any of their agencies, or from private sources. The Board of Supervisors may enter into agreements or contracts regarding the acceptance or utilization of the funds or assistance in accordance with Township procedures. The Franklin Township Historical Commission shall submit a proposed budget to the Board of Supervisors during the regular Township budget process.