After nearly 18 years of volunteer service, Marilyn Watson has officially retired from the Adams Township Planning Commission — closing a chapter that coincided with one of the most transformative periods in the township’s history.
Watson, a resident of Adams Township for more than two decades, joined the commission when much of the area was still farmland. Over the years, she watched as development reshaped the community, bringing new neighborhoods, businesses, and public amenities.
“This was definitely farmland,” Watson said. “And it’s nice. The developments have become very important to the township. I think they’ve done a great job. The growth in this township is proof of that.”
Her decision to step away was thoughtful and intentional.
“It’s time,” she explained, noting that she believes fresh perspectives are important for any board. After years of welcoming new members herself, Watson felt it was the right moment to make room for new ideas.
Helping Shape Growth
When asked what she is most proud of during her time on the commission, Watson didn’t hesitate.
“Being involved in that growth,” she said.
Her tenure included working closely with developers — sometimes navigating disagreements — to ensure projects aligned with the township’s long-term vision.
“Perhaps seeing some of the developers that didn’t quite see everything we did, but we were able to really work with them and have the development the way the township grew,” she recalled, adding that overall, the development community proved collaborative.
Watson also witnessed firsthand how increased development brought new challenges, particularly traffic along Route 228 and surrounding roads. She described noticeable changes in congestion and expressed concern that existing infrastructure may not be fully prepared for what lies ahead.
“I just don’t think, at this point, the way 228 is, it’s not ready for it,” she said, pointing to longer waits at intersections and increased cut-through traffic on residential roads.
Still, she views growth as a net positive.
“I think our schools are showing the improvements of everything, and growth never hurts a township — not in my opinion,” Watson said.
She credits the expanded roadway, larger tax base, and increased development with enabling improvements across the community — including enhancements at the township park, new shelters, and expanded amenities that residents now regularly fill.
“Whenever you have an event out here, it’s just so well attended,” she said. “That’s good for a township. That’s good for our schools.”
A Commitment to Community
When Watson first joined the planning commission, she was the only woman on the board. Today, she notes, another woman has since joined — a change she welcomes.
Her motivation to serve was rooted in values passed down from her family.
“My father, who was always involved, said that wherever you live, you’re part of the growth,” she said. “So, work.”
As she steps away, Watson says what she will miss most is being involved in the everyday development of the township — the steady, behind-the-scenes work that helps shape a community’s future.
Marty McKinney, chairman of the Adams Township Planning Commission, thanked Watson for her years of dedication.
“Her long-term service to the Planning Commission has been much appreciated. She has always been an advocate for the Township. Marilyn leaves some big shoes to fill.”
After 15 years of meetings, site plans, and thoughtful deliberation, Marilyn Watson leaves behind a legacy defined not by headlines, but by quiet dedication — and a township that looks very different than when she first took her seat at the table.