Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Zoning Notice topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Resident says Central Penn College zoning notice was unclear; solicitor says advertisement met requirements
Summary
A resident challenged the clarity and visibility of the township's notice for a proposed Central Penn College overlay zoning amendment, saying the summary and lack of maps mislead the public; the solicitor read the published summary and said the full ordinance text is available at multiple locations and the notice met statutory requirements.
A West Fairview resident told the Board of Commissioners she could not find a clear notice or map for a zoning text amendment proposed by Central Penn College and urged the township to make advertisements more transparent and include maps showing the overlay area.
Sharon Stempel said the summarized advertisement did not "get to the gist of what's being asked," citing reductions to setbacks and parking and saying residents could feel "tricked" if notices omit key details and maps. She asked where the overlay district is located and where residents could review the proposed changes.
In response, a township representative read the published summary of the ordinance and said it had been advertised in the Patriot-News on March 22 and March 29 and that the full text is available on the township website, at the Township Building during business hours and on file at the Cumberland County Commissioners Office. The speaker said the advertisement was consistent with statutory requirements. "Yes, it's advertised for April 15th to be on the agenda at that time for discussion and action by the board," the solicitor said.
Why it matters: the College Overlay amendment would change permitted uses and dimensional standards in the zoning code (Chapter 27). Residents asked for clearer notice (including maps) so those who do not regularly attend meetings or read the newspaper have accessible information before an April 15 discussion and possible vote.
Next steps: the ordinance is scheduled for discussion and possible enactment on April 15; the public hearing period will provide another opportunity for residents to review materials and comment.
