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Upper Allen supervisors debate timing of land‑preservation referendum after public outcry over consultant outreach
Summary
Upper Allen supervisors heard extended public comment about a proposed land‑preservation referendum, including complaints that consultant outreach was rushed; a motion was made to schedule a June 22 public forum for consultant presentations, though no final vote appears in the transcript.
Upper Allen Township supervisors on Tuesday faced extended public comment and debate over whether to move forward quickly with a proposed land‑preservation referendum or delay to allow more public engagement.
Residents and speakers raised concerns that consultant outreach and focus groups were rushed or poorly organized, and several urged the board to provide more time and broader public education before placing a question on the ballot. One resident told the board the outreach felt hurried: “it seems like we’re rushing this process through,” and urged more transparent public engagement and clearer timelines. (Resident)
Staff reported the township received a letter of support from county farmland‑preservation officials; Stephanie Williams, director of the county farmland‑preservation and open‑space program, also submitted a letter (read into the record by staff) outlining county perspectives and technical background. Board members and members of the public debated whether to tie a referendum to an upcoming fall election or delay to spring so the comprehensive‑plan update and additional advisory‑board input can be incorporated.
During deliberations a board member moved to "authorize staff to schedule an advertisement for regarding land preservation June 22" so consultants could present data and answer questions; the motion is recorded in the transcript but the record does not include a second or a roll‑call vote. Planning staff and members of the public emphasized that voters should have ample opportunity to review consultant materials and attend forums before any ballot measure is finalized.
Supporters of a referendum described examples from neighboring municipalities and county programs, and several speakers urged quick action to protect vulnerable open space from development pressures such as large warehouses or data centers. Opponents and some residents urged additional outreach, more transparent consultant deliverables, and deliberate timing so the community can participate in the comprehensive‑plan process.
Next steps recorded in the transcript: staff was asked to work to schedule a public forum and to provide the consultants’ draft materials for public review; no final decision or certified vote on a referendum was recorded in the available transcript.
