NE Township Zoning Update Hearing Results in Additional Change Requests

Before the regular supervisors meeting, during the public hearing for the zoning updates, a presentation was made by Char Kerr explaining the process the planning commission followed along with a list of areas addressed. Afterwards, a number of requests were made for further changes or clarifications to the ordinance.

Township resident Amanda Steeneck had questions about the changes applicable to the new multi-use district zoning category and also about the new solar ordinance and whether batteries would be allowed in those installations. Her concern centered around the potential for fires and environmental pollution which would affect groundwater. There was also a question about the necessity for plans on smaller scale installations of one acre or less and was told there are Pennsylvania laws that apply to her concerns whether the ordinance calls for them or not.

Teresa Sculley asked about the removal of protections for water wells potentially affected by wind or solar installations. She believed the previous protections and requirements for a developer to pay for and restore water supply to residents were not spelled out as they had been though the solicitor Tim Wachter found text that quoted the previous wording. There was also mention of the new requirements for a hydrologist to make an assessment of potential water supply disruption which seemed unclear as to who would choose the individual or pay for this.

Supervisors noted the questions and comments and the township solicitor said whatever changes were necessary would be made to address these concerns so a final revision could be presented at the next meeting. Whether any actual changes are necessary is unclear, rather than simply providing an explanation of how those questions are answered or already dealt with.