Residents, citing BZA decision, urge council to enforce zoning and stop Silfab project near Flint Hill schools

During the Feb. 3 public forum, residents told York County Council they believe the Silfab solar-cell manufacturing project at 7149 Logistics Lane is inconsistent with a unanimous Board of Zoning Appeals decision and presents an immediate threat to public safety because of chemicals they say would be stored on-site.

John Lee and Norbert Dickreiter, both identifying themselves as nearby residents, said county management had allowed construction permits to be issued despite what they described as a May 9, 2024 unanimous BZA ruling that forbids solar-cell manufacturing in that light industrial district. Lee urged the council to demand independent legal representation for the Board of Zoning Appeals to avoid any appearance of conflict of interest and to restore public trust.

Norbert Dickreiter said the proposed facility would be sited “right next to the new Flint Hill Elementary and Middle School” and listed chemical quantities he said are associated with the operation: “13,000 gallons of pure oxygen, 22,000 pounds of ammonia, 16,000 gallons of hydrofluoric acid,” and argued those materials create a risk he likened to a refinery or steel mill. He urged the council to enforce zoning laws and prevent the project from moving forward next to schools and residences.

Council did not take action during public forum; the remarks were made during the public-comment portion of the meeting. The speakers referenced a BZA decision and asked the council to consider steps to ensure independent legal counsel for that board and to confirm that county staff are enforcing zoning and permitting rules consistently with the BZA ruling.

Ending: The council did not make any immediate promise of remedial action during the public forum portion; the remarks were entered into the record.