York County Board Reviews Pool Safety Regulations Amid Rising Drowning Incidents

The York County Board of Supervisors convened on August 19, 2025, to discuss significant updates to local zoning and building regulations, particularly focusing on recreation standards and open space cluster subdivisions. The proposed changes aim to clarify existing ordinances, making them more accessible and understandable for residents.

One of the key discussions centered on the proposed amendment to reduce the minimum lot size for cluster developments from 10 acres to 5 acres. This change has sparked a mix of support and concern among board members and community stakeholders. While some supervisors expressed enthusiasm for the potential to allow more residents to develop smaller plots of land, others voiced apprehensions about the implications of such a reduction, particularly regarding parking and the overall density of developments.

Ron Struble, a representative from the Conservatory County Foundation, spoke during the public hearing, highlighting the importance of maintaining adequate buffers between residential properties and new developments. He emphasized the need for careful consideration of how these changes could affect neighborhood dynamics and property values. Struble also praised the collaborative efforts of the county staff in addressing community concerns, noting a marked improvement in communication over the past year.

The board ultimately decided to table the proposed amendment for further review, allowing staff to gather more information on the potential impacts of the changes, particularly regarding clustering and parking issues. This decision reflects a commitment to ensuring that any modifications to zoning laws are well-informed and considerate of community feedback.

In addition to the zoning discussions, the meeting also addressed proposed amendments to building regulations aimed at enhancing pool safety. The building official, Corey Carney, presented a plan to enforce maintenance of pool enclosures beyond the current two-year limitation after a pool's final inspection. This amendment seeks to prevent child drownings by ensuring that pool barriers are properly maintained over time.

The board's decision to continue discussions on these amendments underscores the importance of community input in shaping local policies. As York County moves forward, residents can expect further opportunities to engage in the conversation about how these changes will impact their neighborhoods and overall quality of life. The next public hearing is scheduled for September 16, where these topics will be revisited, allowing for additional public comment and further deliberation by the board.