The saying ‘good things come in threes’ has played out in Lower Makefield Township with the hiring of a new police chief, designation as a Tree City USA community, and a bond ratings upgrade by Moody’s Rating. Joseph D. Kelly III, Yardley Borough police chief for a decade, now is chief of poli ce in Lower Makefield Township. Kelly left the Yardley post on a recent Monday and two days later became chief in neighboring Lower Makefield. “I appreciate the opportunity and the trust placed in me by the Lower Makefield Township Board of Supervisors,” said Kelly, 57, who holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Seton Hall University, and who served as deputy chief of New Jersey Transit Police prior to joining Yardley. “I will work tirelessly with the men and women of the Lower Makefield Township Police to ensure the safety of everyone who lives, works or visits in the area,” he said. Kelly replaces longtime LMT Police Chief Kenneth Coluzzi. The recent hiring came at about the same time the township learned it had been accepted as a Tree City USA community, a designation earned by upholding four standards including maintaining a tree board or department, having a community tree ordinance, spending at least $2 per capita on urban forestry, and participating in an Arbor Day celebration. “A city that takes care of its trees, takes care of its people,” said the Arbor Day Foundation. “Since 1976, the Foundation’s program has recognized and supported the cities and leaders who create places to play, create room to breathe, and create beauty on every block,” according to the Foundation. Lower Makefield also received good news when Moody’s Ratings upgraded the township’s general obligation bond rating from Aa2 to Aa1. In its report, Moody’s cited the township’s “sound fiscal policies, strong fund balance and prudent budgeting as key factors” in the upgrade. Said Township Manager David W. Kratzer Jr.: “This upgrade is a testament to our commitment to responsible financial management and long-term planning. It  reinforces the strength of our local economy.” ...read more read less