🪴Caln Cannabis Zoning Hearing | 🚔Ranger Training | 🔐 New CCIU Director of Safety

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In Today’s Edition of Downingtown Local Pulse…

☀️ Downingtown PA Weather

🚫 Zoning Changes Could Bring More Dispensaries and Hookah Lounges to Caln

🚓 West Pikeland Releases Police Management Study

🚓🌳 Park Rangers Receive Training and Resources to Handle Mental Health Crises

🪪 CCIU Appoints Bill Pepitone as Director of Safety and Security

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Proposed Zoning Changes Could Bring More Dispensaries, Hookah Lounges to Caln

CALN, PA — Caln Township officials will hold a public hearing on February 27 at 7:30pm to consider a zoning ordinance that could impact local businesses, including medical marijuana dispensaries, smoke shops, and hookah lounges. The proposed changes include updated definitions for retail establishments and new classifications for businesses selling cannabinoid products. If adopted, the ordinance would allow larger medical marijuana dispensaries in commercial zones and permit regulated and unregulated cannabinoid retailers in industrial areas, subject to conditional use permits. The measure also outlines operational requirements for these businesses. Residents can review the ordinance at township offices and attend the hearing to provide input. See the official notice on the township website.

West Pikeland Releases Police Management Study, Seeks Community Feedback

WEST PIKELAND TWP — West Pikeland Township has unveiled a management study evaluating the performance of its police department, aiming to ensure efficient and responsible law enforcement. Conducted by the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development, the study outlines recommendations for improving public safety services. Township officials have emphasized their commitment to transparency and are inviting residents to review the findings and provide feedback. Community input will play a key role in shaping any future decisions regarding policing. Residents can submit their comments via email as part of the ongoing evaluation process. See the study on the township website.

Park Rangers Receive Training and Resources to Handle Mental Health Crises

WEST CHESTER, PA — Chester County park rangers Goodeaux and Wolf have successfully completed Crisis Intervention Training, a 40-hour program that prepares law enforcement to handle mental health emergencies with a focus on de-escalation and support. The certification equips them with the tools to connect individuals in crisis with appropriate services rather than relying on arrests or hospitalization.

The training is part of a broader initiative to incorporate mental health awareness into public safety efforts, ensuring law enforcement can provide effective, compassionate responses to those in distress. County officials praised the rangers for their dedication to improving crisis response strategies within the parks system

CCIU Appoints Bill Pepitone as Director of Safety and Security

DOWNINGTOWN, PA — The Chester County Intermediate Unit has appointed Bill Pepitone as its new director of safety and security, a move aimed at strengthening security measures for students and staff. Pepitone, who officially took on the role on January 27, brings extensive experience from his time in law enforcement and educational security.

His career began with the NYPD, where he served in Brooklyn South before becoming an instructor and safety training coordinator. After retiring from the force, he transitioned to campus safety, overseeing public safety operations at Manor College and later leading security efforts at the Montgomery County Intermediate Unit.

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