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Solicitor seeks SALDO referral; supervisors review 2‑acre Ag Security split requested by supervisor
Summary
The township solicitor asked to forward proposed changes to the subdivision ordinance to the planning commission and discussed a model lighting ordinance for billboards; the board also reviewed a request for a one‑time 2‑acre subdivision of preserved farmland owned by Supervisor Bob Zundel and heard residents’ concerns about construction without permits.
During the Solicitor’s Report on Aug. 21, Solicitor Falatovich asked the board to refer proposed amendments to the Salem Township Subdivision and Land Development Ordinance (SALDO) to the Planning Commission for review. Proposed changes include establishing escrow accounts to cover solicitor and engineer fees for land development reviews.
Falatovich also discussed a model lighting ordinance for billboards and signage, noting recent court rulings that changed whether billboards are treated as land development, meaning a separate lighting ordinance can address signage and billboard lighting regardless of land‑development status.
Separately, the board was asked to comment on a request by Supervisor Bob Zundel to create a two‑acre subdivision within land preserved under the Westmoreland County Agricultural Security Program. Falatovich explained the program allows one two‑acre subdivision of preserved land for a family member or worker; the restriction is tied to the property rather than the owner. County review was expected. Residents expressed concern about residents building without permits; Zundel said septic/percolation testing (a planning module) had already been completed and that the subdivision must follow the township’s SALDO process.
Why it matters: SALDO changes and a lighting ordinance could change submission requirements and fees for land development. The 2‑acre split of preserved farmland owned by a sitting supervisor raises transparency and procedural questions for neighbors and required county review.
What’s next: The board agreed to forward SALDO changes to the Planning Commission for review and to provide comment on the Zundel subdivision request to the county as part of the standard review process.
