Board appoints Bernard Hines to Public Safety Committee, names interim zoning officer and asks solicitor to draft public‑comment policy

The Montgomery Township Board of Supervisors on March 9 appointed Bernard (Bernie) Hines to the Public Safety Committee for a one‑year term and approved Jesse Hill of Keystone Municipal Solutions as interim zoning officer following the resignation of Mary Ann McConnell.

Hines introduced himself and said he and his family have been township residents for 36 years and he looks forward to serving. The board approved the appointment by voice vote.

Township Manager Carolyn McCreery introduced Jesse Hill, noting he works for Keystone Municipal Solutions and is a certified zoning officer who handles inspections and plan reviews for multiple municipalities. The board approved his interim appointment; staff clarified Hill’s office hours and that inspections staff will continue to support day‑to‑day operations.

A separate, extended discussion focused on whether supervisors should read written letters from residents into the public‑comment record. Solicitor Kim McKinney told the board that municipalities may adopt reasonable regulations and that many boards do not read letters into the record; she offered to circulate sample resolutions and amendments. Some supervisors emphasized protecting residents’ free speech and ensuring consent before names are read publicly, while others said reading letters without balance could create perceptions of favoritism. The board directed the solicitor to circulate the existing resolution and present a draft for the next meeting.

During public comment several residents asked for clearer communications about the recent fire tax and consultant study; staff said a newsletter and website updates are planned.