2007 News

May 9, 2007

Bucks County Commissioners Announce Delaware River Flood Task Force Members

A little more than a month after they announced the formation of the Delaware River Flood Task Force, the Bucks County commissioners announced today the names of the 17 members.   According to Chairman Charles H. Martin, the members will be charged with focusing attention on the many resources, features, opportunities and problems associated with the Delaware River and the 60 miles of river shore that affect Bucks County. 

Martin notes the members, who were selected by their respective municipalities, will convene to review recommendations from the recent Delaware River Basin Commission (DRBC) report and help chart a course for action.  “These individuals have distinguished themselves through their willingness to participate in this important endeavor.  On behalf of my fellow commissioners Jim Cawley and Sandy Miller, I express my gratitude to them and look forward to the results of this collaborative effort.”

Chief Operating Officer Dave Sanko, Planning Commission Executive Director Lynn Bush, Bill Mitchell from Parks and Recreation, and John Dougherty, director of the Emergency Management Agency will serve as ex officio members. According to Bush, the task force is charged with focusing its attention on the Delaware River to identify opportunities and challenges that can be addressed through coordinated and cooperative action.  These include:

• In-depth review of the DRBC report
• Further refinement and implementation of the Delaware Waterfront Revitalization Plan (2005), to encourage development in accordance with the Plan’s guiding principles
• Development of strategies to prevent flooding and minimize damages
• Protection of important natural and historic features

Each of the 17 municipalities located along the Delaware River will have one representative serving on the task force, with members appointed by each township or borough. They are: