Township appoints Pillar Ott (John Martin) as personnel/labor counsel after board discussion

Unidentified Speaker 1 opened discussion on Resolution 2025-02, the appointment of personnel/labor counsel, noting the item on the reorganization agenda. Unidentified Speaker 3 said Patrick Harvey had not requested reappointment and reported contacting a local firm, Pillar Ott of Harrisburg, recommending John Martin based on references and two meetings with the firm.

Why it matters: The township will rely on the labor counsel for upcoming negotiations, including a police contract that the board noted expires in 2025. Board members framed the choice in terms of local familiarity and recent performance of prior counsel on labor matters.

What was said: Unidentified Speaker 3 summarized the vetting: that the firm provided references and that personal interactions were positive and led to the recommendation of John Martin as counsel. Unidentified Speaker 1 said he had been "not necessarily completely happy" with how the last police negotiation was handled under the previous manager and prior labor solicitor, framing part of the rationale for considering a change. Unidentified Speaker 6 said he had used Pillar Ott previously for commercial litigation (not for labor matters) and had a positive experience with the firm, while noting that his prior work was not directly germane to labor law.

Action and outcome: Unidentified Speaker 5 moved to appoint Pillar Ott, John Martin, as personnel/labor counsel (Resolution 2025-02); the motion was seconded and approved by voice vote.

What’s next: The appointment places Pillar Ott in the role for labor and personnel matters; the board noted the police contract will require attention in 2025. The board did not record a roll-call tally in the transcript for this resolution beyond the voice approval.

Ending: Resolution 2025-02 was adopted; the meeting continued with other reorganization items.