Letter to my 4th ward neighbors:

By Lin Axamethy Floyd

A summary of what I've worked on since 2006 and where I will focus my efforts in a second term of office:

"« Commingled Curbside Recycling began 1/2009, >3 times previous monthly volumes to date, meeting state requirements, reducing total waste disposal costs, improving use of space at the NPT Public Works and recycling center.

"« Energy Conservation Committee members tapped their expertise to assess NPT utility use, secure grants for energy efficiency (see solar panels atop Public Works building!), advise on weatherizing & switching to LED lights.

"« The Walkable Wallingford Committee developed pedestrian safety plans, securing a $304,000 Safe Routes to Schools PA grant in 2009; the group is designing traffic calming plans with NPT neighborhood residents.

"« Enhanced communications: Township website launched in 2006 (http://www.netherprovidence.org) providing easy access to NPT information, ActionLine service request, Township Code, meeting and community calendar.

"« Land development oversight: close attention to subdivision proposals and compliance, cell tower height limits, storm water controls, open space protections, R-1A zoning overlay, accessory building limitations.

NPT's reliance on property taxes is a heavy burden for many. Providing the services that our community considers essential (or are mandated) requires responding to residents' concerns, conservative budgeting, strong oversight, and searching for efficiencies. If re-elected, I'll continue this practical, cost-effective approach. I've proposed and/or supported such actions by our Board including:

"« 2008 Refinancing of Township debt, reducing interest rates from 4.7 to 3.18%, capturing long-term savings.

"« Township pension funds placed with new management firm in 2007; the move significantly limited losses and risk in this difficult economy as compared with prior portfolio.

"« Instituted an ongoing sewer line maintenance program to head off more costly repairs.

"« Revised administrative procedures: zero-based budgeting, open recruiting (NPT assistant manager, finance director, police chief, pension manager); centralized purchasing; on-line bidding; consolidated phone and IT services.

I'll continue to inform you and seek your thoughts on challenges facing NPT. The skills of our residents are substantial and I recognize the value of volunteers' service and energy. I'll continue to work with WSSD, local municipalities, and regional organizations. I'm especially interested in your opinion on uses for Summit School and WES sites, decisions shaping the 4th Ward for the next 50-80 years.

I've called NPT home for close to 25 years. My husband and I are active in local organizations. We've cheered for our daughters on local sports teams and support NPT groups alongside many of you. A semi-retired patent attorney, I have the time, energy, and interest to serve our community. I ask you for the opportunity to do so for the next four years.

Contact me with questions or suggestions (lin.ax.floyd@gmail.com or 610-892-0673. My thanks for your consideration.