Montgomery Township is at a pivotal moment in how it delivers emergency services. In this episode, Township Manager Carolyn McCreary speaks with Fire Chief Bill Wiegman about the growing challenge of maintaining safe and timely fire response amidst declining volunteerism, modern construction risks, and increasing emergency call volumes.

The conversation outlines a proposed transition to a fully staffed, 24/7 combination fire department — a change designed to improve response times, increase firefighter safety, and better serve the community. This proposal includes the hiring of 19 career firefighters. Township staff are seeking consensus from the Board of Supervisors to include it in the 2026 Township Budget. If included in the budget, it would require a real estate tax increase to fund the expansion.

Learn what’s at stake, what the data shows, and how the Township is planning for the future of public safety — with residents' lives, property, and dollars in mind.

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In this special episode of We Are Montgomery Township, we take a heartfelt deep dive into The Wall That Heals—a traveling three-quarter-scale replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial coming to Montgomery Township in July 2025. Host, Co-Chair, and Township Manager Carolyn McCreary and Co-Chair Deb Rivas sit down with Tim Tetz, Director of Outreach for the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund, to discuss The Wall’s significance, its impact on communities, and why Montgomery Township was chosen as a host site.

Together, they explore themes of remembrance, education, and healing, while highlighting how local volunteers, veterans, and organizations are coming together to support this powerful event. Whether you're a veteran, student, or community member, this episode will leave you inspired to participate in a truly moving experience.

Montgomery Township is honored to host The Wall That Heals from July 10th to July 13th, 2025. The Wall That Heals is a three-quarter scale replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C., that travels across the country. The exhibit honors the more than 3 million Americans who served in the U.S. armed forces in the Vietnam War and bears the names of the 58,281 men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice in Vietnam.

For more information visit: https://www.thewallthathealsmontgomerytwppa2025.org/

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In this episode of We Are Montgomery Township, Township Manager Carolyn McCreary sits down with Kristine Willard, HR Administrator, to explore the evolving landscape of hiring, workplace culture, and staff engagement in local government. Kristine shares her professional journey from police administrative support to earning a doctorate in organizational leadership, and how that shaped her human-first approach to HR.

The conversation covers challenges in public sector recruitment, creative strategies for outreach and internships, and the importance of building an inclusive, connected culture in a multigenerational workforce. From staff retreats and Friday lunches to onboarding practices that prioritize connection, listeners get a behind-the-scenes look at how Montgomery Township supports its employees while staying fiscally responsible. Kristine closes with heartfelt reflections on what makes Montgomery Township feel like “a warm hug”—a place where people genuinely care and thrive.

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In this episode of We Are Montgomery Township, Township Manager Carolyn McCreary sits down with Marianne McConnell and Amy Gehman from the Planning and Zoning Department for a closer look at how local planning and zoning decisions shape the neighborhoods we call home. From how zoning ordinances guide development to the community-driven process behind residential projects, our team explains the "why" behind the rules—and how residents can get involved. Whether you're curious about the permitting process, home renovations, or zoning within Montgomery Township, this episode offers a clear and engaging introduction to the world of planning and zoning.

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In this episode of We Are Montgomery Township, Township Manager Carolyn McCreary sits down with Derek Muller and Ava Komasz from the Public Information Office for a behind-the-scenes look at the evolving role of public information in local government. They discuss their unique paths to the field, the shift from simply sharing information to engaging the community, and the increasing importance of accessibility and authenticity in government communications. From social media trends to emergency management, Derek and Ava share insights on how Montgomery Township is fostering transparency, trust, and community engagement. Tune in for a compelling conversation about the power of local government communications!

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In this episode of We Are Montgomery Township, Township Manager Carolyn McCreary sits down with newly appointed Police Chief Bill Peoples to discuss his journey from military service to leading the Montgomery Township Police Department.

Chief Peoples shares his vision for the department, the importance of community policing, and the challenges of law enforcement recruitment in today’s climate. He also highlights key programs like the Citizens Police Academy, Shop with a Cop, and National Night Out, emphasizing the department’s commitment to public safety and community engagement.

Tune in to learn more about the future of policing in Montgomery Township!

Please visit MontPD.org or follow the Montgomery Township Police Department on Facebook for more information about the Montgomery Township Police Department.

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Are you coming to our Autumn Festival this Saturday, October 19th from Noon to 5pm at William F. Maule Park at Windlestrae? Listen to this podcast episode for all of the things you need to know for the event!

Additional information can be found at MontTwp.org/AutumnFest

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In this episode of We Are Montgomery Township, Township Manager Carolyn McCreary hosts a roundtable discussion with Police Chief J. Scott Bendig, Fire Chief Bill Wiegman, and VMSC Chief Shane Wheeler. Together, they explore the challenges facing Montgomery Township’s police, fire, and EMS services, including recruitment, retention, and adapting to the evolving needs of the community. Tune in to hear how these first responders work collaboratively to protect and serve Montgomery Township.

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