Falls Bids Farewell To Outgoing Manager

FALLS TOWNSHIP, PA — Supervisors in Falls Township bid farewell Monday night to Peter Gray, who has served as township manager for the past 12 years.

Gray, who began working for the township more than 20 years ago, will step down from his post on Feb. 4. Before taking the helm as township manager, Gray worked for eight years as Falls Township’s finance director.

"It’s been a wonderful opportunity to serve the township," Gray said at Monday's board of supervisors meeting. "I have nothing but great memories … . It’s been a great ride and I appreciate every minute."

Gray announced his resignation earlier this month. He had previously announced plans to resign in September, but supervisors, who approved a $5,000 annual raise for him, convinced him to stay on at that time.

The supervisors unanimously approved a resolution Monday recognizing Gray for his years of service. Following the vote, the board and the audience stood and gave Gray a standing ovation

Supervisors Chairman Jeff Dence called Gray "a great friend" and joked that Gray would drive home from his beach vacations to attend supervisors meetings "even when we told him not to."

"It’s been nothing but a pleasure," Dence said.

Newly elected Bucks County Commissioner Bob Harvie, who had served on the board for 16 years, attended Monday’s meeting and acknowledged Gray for a job well done.

"It is not an exaggeration to say this township would not be where it is today without Peter Gray," Harvie said. "He’s done a tremendous job."

Police Chief William Wilcox, who has worked with Gray for the last 20 years, said Gray has "always had Falls Township first and foremost."

Supervisors Vice Chairman Jeff Boraski applauded Gray for making himself available "seven days a week, 24 hours a day with no complaints."

Supervisor Jeff Rocco wished Gray good luck. Supervisor John Palmer, who joined the board on Jan. 6, said he appreciated Gray’s help with transitioning onto the board.

Assistant Township Manager Matt Takita will assume Gray’s roles in the short term following the current manager’s departure. Falls is contracting with David Woglom of Robert B. and Helen S. Meyner Center for the Study of State and Local Government to find a new township manager.