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Township approves $3,200/month contract with Keystone Municipal Solutions over one supervisor's objections
Summary
Dickinson Township supervisors voted 2-1 on June 4 to approve a professional services contract with Keystone Municipal Solutions for $3,200 a month to support grant-seeking and project management for initiatives including Barnitz Mill and Lindenwood Park; Supervisor Robert 'Bob' Line III raised concerns about oversight and bidding exemptions.
The Dickinson Township Board of Supervisors voted 2-1 on June 4 to accept a professional services contract with Keystone Municipal Solutions (KMS) at $3,200 per month to support project management, strategic advisory work and grant research.
The vote was moved by Chairman Rob Kole and seconded by Vice Chairperson Jennnifer DeGaetano; Supervisor Robert "Bob" Line III voted no. Manager Jill Lovett outlined the scope of services, saying KMS would identify and pursue state and federal grant opportunities the Township needs to advance large projects such as Barnitz Mill and Lindenwood Park and that the value of those services would exceed the contract cost.
Why it matters: Township leaders said outside help is needed to secure the sustained, high-dollar funding required for major capital projects and that KMS's prior interim management of Dickinson Township gives the firm familiarity with local priorities. Supporters argued the monthly fee is modest relative to the potential awards and that KMS can expedite relationship-building with grant sources.
Opposition and oversight concerns: Supervisor Line acknowledged Manager Lovett’s capabilities but said he preferred she handle grant applications herself and expressed concern about the contract’s lack of hourly tracking, oversight provisions, and an unspecified end date. Solicitor Matthew Boyer told the board the engagement is a professional services contract and is exempt from formal bidding requirements. Vice Chairperson DeGaetano noted the contract can be terminated with 30 days' notice and said staff would monitor KMS's progress; Manager Lovett said KMS would likely provide progress reports.
Public questions and procurement clarifications: Residents asked whether KMS had any affiliation with the Township solicitor; Solicitor Boyer stated it did not. Questions were also raised about whether the Township’s solicitor firm, Salzman Hughes, provided grant-writing services; Boyer confirmed those services are offered as a separate, fee-based line.
What happens next: The contract was approved and will proceed subject to the normal administrative steps; supervisors and staff indicated they expect to monitor deliverables and reporting from KMS and to keep the public informed as grant applications move forward.
