In the heart of Huntington Township, a pressing issue looms over the community: a significant housing shortage. As local officials gathered for the Planning Commission Meeting on November 25, 2024, the conversation turned to the challenges posed by local zoning laws and the need for more homes in Pennsylvania.

The discussion highlighted a growing frustration among residents and officials alike regarding the restrictive zoning regulations that hinder the construction of new housing. Advocates are calling for state legislation that would allow developers to bypass local zoning restrictions, a move they believe could alleviate the housing crisis. However, the complexities of local infrastructure, particularly concerning water and sewer systems, complicate the situation.

In Adams County, the requirements for building lots are stringent. A typical home needs a lot size of at least one and a half acres for on-site water and sewer, with exceptions in certain areas like Long Spring, where a quarter-acre is permissible. This limitation poses a significant barrier to development, especially in regions lacking adequate water and sewer facilities. The township currently does not have a sewer plant, which further restricts potential housing projects.

The meeting also addressed the township's infrastructure challenges, particularly regarding stormwater management. Many roads lack curbs, and the township relies on maintaining gutters and culverts, often at the expense of residents. The burden of replacing culverts under state roads falls on the township, creating financial strain, especially since they do not collect real estate taxes. This situation raises concerns about the long-term sustainability of local infrastructure as development pressures mount.

As the meeting concluded, officials acknowledged that these issues are not new. A proposed state law aimed at easing zoning restrictions had previously been defeated but is expected to resurface in 2025. The outcome of this legislation could significantly impact Huntington Township's ability to address its housing shortage and infrastructure needs.

With the community's future hanging in the balance, residents and officials alike are left to ponder the implications of these discussions. The path forward remains uncertain, but the urgency for action is clear.