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Residents push to save 905 Westtown Road; board points to conservatorship for public‑safety and blight
Summary
Save Foresight Farm representatives and residents pressed the board to pursue preservation rather than demolition at 905 Westtown Road; the board said a conservatorship had been ordered because the property is blighted and poses public‑safety risks, and that structural assessments and cost estimates will guide next steps.
Several residents urged the Board of Supervisors to pursue preservation options for the historic 8½‑acre parcel at 905 Westtown Road and criticized the property’s long history of alleged mismanagement.
Steven Lions, representing Save Foresight Farm, said the group opposes a demolition‑first posture and cited a 351‑page petition alleging "23 years of highly questionable financial practices" by the property owner, Joseph Kravitz. Lions read line‑item estimates from a consultant and described phase‑two demolition costs that he said suggest a trend toward demolition; he urged collaboration on alternatives, including conservation and grant‑funded open‑space preservation.
Multiple residents echoed those concerns and asked whether board members or staff had personally inspected the property. Township officials said the conservatorship was pursued because the property is blighted and poses public‑safety risks; the court has approved the appointment of a conservator and the township awaits structural reports that will define preservation costs and options. Staff noted an appraisal indicated purchase plus renovation could exceed $2 million, and said the board would welcome community collaboration if a purchase and viable renovation plan is found.
The board did not take additional action at the meeting beyond confirming the conservatorship status and encouraging continued public engagement and follow‑up as conservator reports become available.
