Planning Commission
Tuesday, November 24 2009
Members Present
Theodore Hauptman
Dr. Arthur Friedman
Steven B. Long
Edward Ingle
Keith Garverich
Others Present
George Komelasky, Supervisor Liaison
J. Jerome Skrincosky, Township Planner
Michael Solomon, Director of Zoning and Planning
Excused
James E. Kinney
Evan J. Stone
Chairman Hauptman called the work session meeting to order at
7:36 PM.
Open Space Plan
At this time, the Planning Commission reviewed the draft Open
Space Plan.Joe Johnston, a resident, raised concerns about the train tracks that are in the rear of his property.He
had concerns about how rails to trails would be defined in the plan.Chairman Hauptman noted that it doesn't guarantee
that a project will be completed just because it is indicated in the plan.Rather, the Open Space Plan is an advisory
guide.Mr. Johnston also raised concerns about setbacks for parks.Mr. Skrincosky advised that the parks need to follow
the setback requirements of the Recreation District.Dr. Friedman and Mr. Garverich recommended that Mr. Johnston keep
advised of park and trail improvement projects, especially if he has concerns about rails to trails.
Continuing through the draft plan, Dr. Friedman raised concerns
about the projections for the number of housing units noted in the plan.It was decided that these projection should
be removed.There was a discussion on trail and greenway linkages.Mr. Komelasky stated that bikeways are discouraged
by PennDOT.With respect to private open space, it was discussed that this is a vulnerable resource and can be
developed under the R-1 zoning.The proposed map was also reviewed to insure that deed restricted and Act 319
properties are correctly identified.Mr. Komelasky recommended that the Township develop an initial list of priority
areas for identification and preservation.Overall, the Planning Commission made minor changes to the document,
including typographical modifications and defining plan priorities.Mr. Solomon will forward the changes to Boucher
and James.
Proposed Ordinance - Alternative Energy
Provisions
The Planning Commission once again reviewed the proposed
ordinance with respect to alternative energy provisions.Mr. Komelasky had concerns regarding measuring the decibels
from the property line as opposed to the house.
Chairman Hauptman recommended that both the open space plan and
alternative energy ordinance be placed on the December 1st meeting.At that time, the Planning Commission
will recommend that they be forwarded to the Board of Supervisors for their consideration.
There being no further business the meeting was
adjourned.
Respectfully Submitted:
Michael T. Solomon
Director of Planning and Zoning
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