Residents press board on fly infestations, Right-to-Know requests and alleged defamation in minutes

Multiple residents used the township’s public-comment period to press officials about a persistent fly infestation they said stems from a nearby poultry operation, to question whether Right-to-Know requests were fully fulfilled, and to raise long-running disputes about alleged defamatory meeting minutes.

Residents described worsening fly problems on Cranberry Road that they said began after a chicken farm was established. One resident said, "You can't even sit on the porch," describing flies that make outdoor activities untenable; another said the problem has persisted despite complaints. Board members said the township’s authority is limited by the state Right to Farm Act and that the township cannot unilaterally restrict standard farming practices, but offered to investigate and provide recommendations where possible.

On open records, a resident (Marie) asked whether the township had withheld any requested records; the solicitor asked for written, specific requests so the township could respond and noted there are statutory exceptions to disclosure. Marie said she previously retained counsel over alleged defamation in minutes and stated she had retained counsel again if the issue is not resolved amicably.

The board said staff will accept written Right-to-Know appeals and will investigate fly-control options and state requirements, but clarified that remedies are constrained when agricultural operations comply with state rules. There was no immediate enforcement action recorded; residents asked for follow-up and clearer responses to outstanding record requests.