Wissahickon Freshman Jayna Patel to join Whitpain’s Park and Open Space Board

One local township resident felt strongly enough about Whitpain’s local parks and open spaces that she asked to join its board. It’s not unusual that local citizens volunteer to be a part of the municipal government’s happenings and procedures. What may surprise you is, she is a soon-to-be freshman in high school.

Jayna Patel will become a non-voting student member on the Park and Open Space Board, effective Sept. 1, after an approval by the township’s Board of Supervisors on June 18.

“She expressed an interest in several different committees,” said newly sworn-in Township Manager Eric Traub. “Her first choice was the Park and Open Space Board.”

“We happen to have a vacancy that is coming on that board,” said Traub, “so we’re happy to have her interest, her enthusiasm, and have her join that group beginning in September.”

Other township supervisors were happy to hear of Patel’s request, as well.

“I just want to thank Jayna for taking the time to even volunteer, to participate in her community,” said Supervisor and Township Treasurer Joyce Keller. “It’s very exciting when youngsters want to come in and learn more about, especially, Park and Open Space Board.”

Supervisor and Township Secretary Jeff Campolongo agreed.

“I’ll just second what Supervisor Keller said, and also add it was a very resume for a young, rising freshman,” said Campologno, “at this stage in her professional career, so congratulations to her.”

Vice-Chair Kimberly Koch echoed the excitement.

“I’m just adding that, in my tenure here on our board, this initiative to have student, non-voting members, might be my favorite,” she said. “It’s just a wonderful practice. It is great to see young people involved.”

Koch made the motion to approve this action at the supervisors’ last meeting. Chair Scott Badami seconded the motion. The motion was approved by the five-member board unanimously.