On April 12, 2023, West Goshen Township received the 2023 Governor’s Award for Local Government Excellence at the annual awards ceremony held at the State Museum of Pennsylvania in Harrisburg. These awards are given annual in order to recognize municipalities for ways in which they work to improve public service for their communities. West Goshen Township was recognized in the “Health and Wellness Initiatives” category. This recognition was due to the leadership shown by the Township through the Sustainability Advisory Committee, witnessed through such accomplishments as:
Becoming the first Second Class Township in Chester County to successfully pass and implement a ban on plastic bags and straws.
Achieving Tree City USA status through the Arbor Day Foundation.
Working with the Board of Supervisors and Township staff on plans to provide for more renewable energy usage at the Municipal Complex, as well as converting the vehicles in the Township’s fleet to electric vehicles.
Future initiatives were also outlined, including the upcoming Arbor Day project on April 29, 2023 where 120 trees will be planted in Hamlet Crest Park and working with the Public Works Department to improve the natural ecology of wetlands and other important ecosystems within the Township.
On hand to accept the award for the Township on April 12, 2023 were Ashley Gagné, Tinamarie Smith, and John Hellmann from the Board of Supervisors; Melanie Vile and Susan Charkes from the Sustainability Advisory Committee; and Christopher Bashore, Township Manager. In addition to the Governor’s Award for Local Government Excellence, the Township also received citations from PA State Representative Chris Pielli and PA State Senator Carolyn Comitta for this achievement.
On behalf of the Board of Supervisors, the Sustainability Advisory Committee, and Township staff, we would like to thank Governor Shapiro and the selection committee for recognizing West Goshen Township with this prestigious honor.