1) Sidewalk project update: Newtown–Yardley Road

The group discussed progress on the Newtown–Yardley Road sidewalk effort—work that’s been supported by community advocates—and the good news that the project is approved for a $750,000 grant. The plan would improve safety by replacing the existing path with a concrete sidewalk and curb. 

There was also some confusion raised about the cemetery’s position on the project; clarification was obtained by contacting the cemetery president. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}

2) Liberty Center development: what was shared

Liberty Center—on the borough side where the former liquor store was located—came up in discussion as a multi-story apartment development with a public-facing plaza/stage concept. The land ownership and the original mixed-use intent (apartments plus commercial) were noted, along with interest in moving the project along more quickly.

Floodplain restrictions were also discussed as a limiting factor for ideas like a bridge connection across the creek to Newtown Township parks.

3) Signage, zoning, and historic preservation

The conversation reviewed frustrations with signage rules and enforcement, plus a complicated proposal under review by the Joint Zoning Commission. 

Historic preservation concerns were also raised—specifically the limits of the current demolition permit process and broader “governance gaps” in protecting historic structures outside designated districts, with a call for reform.

4) Consent agenda: transparency concerns and how items get pulled

The group discussed how a consent agenda can streamline meetings, but also how it can reduce visibility if major items get bundled without adequate public discussion.

How items can be removed: discussion noted that any supervisor (and citizens, via request) can ask to pull an item from the consent agenda so it is discussed and voted on separately, including by emailing supervisors or offering public comment.

A suggestion was raised to set a financial cap for what can appear on a consent agenda—so higher-dollar items must be discussed individually. 

5) Budget reporting and financial oversight

A significant portion of the discussion focused on financial reporting transparency: residents raised concerns about the absence of regular monthly financial updates and the need for clearer budget tracking against year-to-date spending.

6) Public engagement and big-ticket decisions

The conversation ended with a broader point: residents want earlier and clearer public engagement in decisions—especially around potential future sites for major facilities like a fire station or police station, and how those decisions could affect community assets (including fields used by local sports). 

A prior study was referenced that had considered multiple locations, and the group emphasized the importance of transparency and dedicated public meetings for projects of that scale.