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Neighbors press Charlestown Township over ongoing Hedgerow Lane property violations
Summary
Consultant Dan Wright told the Board there was no visible evidence of rodents from public vantage points at 19 Hedgerow Lane, while neighbors reported pest-control findings and feces photos. The board reviewed enforcement history, fines and agreed to pursue a private meeting with the homeowner and health officials.
Dan Wright, P.E., the Township consultant, updated the Charlestown Township Board of Supervisors on Jan. 5 about ongoing violations at 19 Hedgerow Lane, saying County Health officials observed no visible rodents from public vantage points and that the pool cover had been installed but a requested interior house visit was denied by the homeowner.
Neighbor James Tidwell asked whether the County Health Department had submitted a formal report, and Wright said he would request one. Resident Hallie Steinberg told the Board her pest-control contractor reported rodents coming from the direction of the property and said she has photographs of feces. Township members asked to see any pest-control documentation.
Manager Chris Heleniak reviewed prior enforcement steps: the property was cleaned after fines paid in early 2024 but trash re‑accumulated, and the homeowner was fined multiple times during 2025. Heleniak said the Township has the authority to enforce under its public nuisance ordinance and noted the maximum fine is $1,000 plus costs for each occurrence. Board members discussed the limits of Township authority and acknowledged potential mental-health considerations raised in the minutes.
The Board agreed to pursue a more private outreach approach: holding a meeting with two supervisors, health-department officials and Wright to try to secure the homeowner's cooperation. Wright was asked to contact the homeowner to arrange that meeting.
Next steps: staff will request any County Health Department or pest-control reports and report back to the Board; no additional enforcement motion was recorded at the meeting.
