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Whitehall commission conditionally approves Whitehall Townhomes subdivision; residents cite historic‑district concerns
Summary
After technical review of density, stormwater easements, recreation-fee calculations and deed restrictions, the board conditionally approved a major subdivision (Whitehall Townhomes) with conditions including a $2,000-per-lot recreation fee and recorded O&M agreements; neighbors urged preservation of historic character.
The Board of Commissioners conditionally approved Resolution 33-29 for the May major subdivision/land-development plan for Whitehall Townhomes at 3229 North Front Street after detailed review by township counsel, engineering, and the developer.
Staff, the township solicitor and Boller Engineering (Mary Bacher, Speaker 17) reviewed density calculations, stormwater management and NPDES constraints. The board clarified that recreation fees are $2,000 per lot (not a flat $2,000) and sought to ensure that the plan would include a deed restriction or recorded memorandum to prevent future re-subdivision of the lot that contains the stormwater infrastructure. Mary Bacher said the plans include stormwater easements and PCSM measures bound by the NPDES permit and that the easements will be maintained in perpetuity.
Commissioner questions focused on whether a separate O&M (operation and maintenance) agreement would be recorded in the chain of title to ensure future owners understand maintenance responsibilities. The solicitor said the O&M provisions are part of the PCSM plans and will be recorded and can also be reflected in deed restrictions when appropriate.
During public comment, nearby residents urged the board to reconsider the project or impose stronger historic-preservation measures. Resident Lorraine Fennell (Speaker 8) said the property is historic and that constructing 10 townhomes will harm the area's character. The board acknowledged the concern but noted that the conditional approval includes requirements that the developer agreed to regarding density and recorded maintenance obligations. The resolution passed 5-1.
Next steps: Conditions agreed on record will be reflected in the minutes and final resolution language; staff and solicitor will coordinate the recording of O&M and deed‑restriction language prior to final plan recording.
