Township of West Goshen, PA Chapter 3 Historical Commission

[HISTORY: Adopted by the Board of Supervisors of the Township of West Goshen 10-19-2016 by Ord. No. 4-2016. Amendments noted where applicable.]

§ 3-1 Commission created.

There is hereby established a commission to be known as the "West Goshen Township Historical Commission."

§ 3-2 Responsibilities.

The Commission shall serve in an advisory capacity for historic preservation and to foster a community appreciation for the historic resources within the Township. To accomplish this purpose, the Commission shall:

A. Identify significant architectural, historical, and natural sites in the Township and maintain a detailed inventory and map(s) of these historic resources, including informational data appropriately classified;

B. Gather documentary evidence, illustrations, photographs and other appropriate materials regarding historic resources for inclusion in any inventory of the Township's historic resources;

C. 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;

D. Research and record the history of the Township;

E. Prepare appropriate reports for the Board of Supervisors, as well as reports which may be requested by the Board of Supervisors;

F. 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 in the Township and recommend certain procedures and/or regulations to be implemented in order to protect and preserve such historic resources;

G. With the prior approval of the Board of Supervisors, apply for technical and financial assistance from appropriate local, county, state, federal or other entities for the preservation of significant architectural, natural, and historic resources within the Township;

H. Prepare and submit a yearly report and budget to the Board of Supervisors for sums deemed necessary to carry out the objectives;

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; and

K. Commit to self-education by attending appropriate conferences and workshops relating to historic preservation to effectively carry out its responsibilities.

§ 3-3 Membership; terms of office.

A. The said Historical Commission shall:

(1) Consist of a minimum of five members who must be residents of the Township. The membership of the Commission shall include individuals who have an interest or expertise in history or historic preservation.

(2) Be appointed by the Board of Supervisors.

(3) Serve a term of office for three years except for the initial term, which shall be two members for two years, and three members for three years.

(4) Serve without compensation but may be reimbursed for expenses necessary to conduct the responsibilities of the Commission when authorized by the Board of Supervisors.

(5) Elect annually a Chairperson, Vice Chairperson, Secretary, and other officers as deemed necessary by the Commission.

B. 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.

§ 3-4 Meetings.

Meetings and periodic executive sessions shall be held at intervals deemed appropriate by the Commission. The Commission shall keep records of its meetings and activities, and submit periodic reports to the Board of Supervisors.

§ 3-5 Assistance and budget.

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 Township, 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 West Goshen Township Historical Commission shall submit a proposed budget to the Board of Supervisors during the regular Township budget process.