Commission discusses site-visit rules for upcoming Sheetz project package

The Havre de Grace Planning Commission discussed site-visit procedures for an upcoming development package (the Sheetz-related application for the former bank site) and concluded commissioners may inspect the property but should coordinate visits and avoid discussing planning business while on site.

Chair Volney Ford told commissioners the project packet for the Sheetz site had been distributed and that copies would be provided to absent commissioners. Commissioners asked whether they were permitted to visit the property. Planning staff advised that state law and local practice allow commissioners to enter properties to observe measurements and conditions, but recommended contacting the property owner in advance as a courtesy and to coordinate a single visit so multiple members do not attend on different days.

Planner April (staff) recommended coordinating one site visit and emphasized that if a quorum of commissioners attends and they begin discussing the application, the Open Meetings Act would require proper public-notice procedures. "The goal would be though not to talk business while you're there, but to observe and take in the site and make notes," April said.

Commissioners noted the site is vacant (the former bank parcel), and staff clarified the Sheetz application does not include adjacent self-storage parcels. The commission did not take a formal vote on the site-visit guidance; it instructed staff to distribute the project packet to absent commissioners and to coordinate any group site visit.