Tom Carnevale Named to Phoenixville Planning Commission

Phoenixville Borough Council filled the vacancy left when Jennifer Mayo stepped down from the planning commission to .

Out of four candidates who applied, council selected Tom Carnevale with a vote of 7-1. James Evans (D-North) voted in opposition.

It won’t be the first time Carnevale’s been involved with the borough. He served on the Phoenixville Planning Commission for 15 years from 1992 to 2007. Additionally, Carnevale was part of the Historical Architecture Review Board in the borough in the past.

When asked why he resigned from planning commission the first time, Carnevale told council that at the time he had young sons and family obligations to attend to.

“I still have young boys, but they’re now at the age where they can do more things,” Carnevale said. “I’m also a small business owner, and balancing family, business and borough commitment was too much, and something had to give.”

The three other candidates who applied were Estes Parker, Justin Thomas and Merritt Zucca. Each gave a brief presentation to council and then answered a number of questions from council members.

Mayor Leo Scoda praised the candidates who came out, noting that he was happy to see young professionals who already accrued a host of accomplishments in their careers applying for the job.

“As mayor I appreciate their interest in coming forward,” Scoda said. “Going back many years in borough government, I remember a time when we could hardly get anybody to serve on boards and commissions.”

All candidates were asked about their political ambitions—if they’d be interested in a seat on council—by Councilman David Gautreau. While three said they’d be open to moving on to council, Carnevale said he’d be happy sticking with planning commission.

“You guys are doing a fine job,” Carnevale said. “I like being on the recommending side, and you guys have the final say.”

As Carnevale works for a downtown engineering firm, Council President Richard Kirkner noted that some issues coming before the commission may pose a conflict of interest. When asked by Kirkner how many times Carnevale had recused himself during his time on planning commission, the candidate said it was only a handful of times in 15 years. When there is a conflict, however, Carnevale said he will abstain from voting if there’s any question.

“It’s not fair to the applicant, and it’s not fair to the borough,” he said.