Manor supervisors send Vistablock zoning change to planning commissions after residents raise traffic and school concerns

Brandon Conrad of Vistablock LLC presented a preliminary proposal to the Manor Township Supervisors on June 1, asking the board to consider a text amendment to the R1 Low Density Flex zone for about 210 acres behind Freedom Memorial Park. Conrad said Vistablock could develop the land now under existing rules at 2–3 single‑family homes per acre, but is proposing instead to allow up to 5 units per acre in exchange for dedicating the western portion to 55+ housing and providing roughly 20–22 acres of open space that could expand nearby parkland.

Conrad said the developer would reserve about half the tract (roughly 105 acres) for 55+ housing and leave the balance for single‑family homes; he also offered to provide approximately 18 acres of land to expand Eshelman Elementary School and to perform site utilities for the potential school site. Township Manager Ryan Strohecker said the proposed park linkage to Millersville’s Freedom Park and any intersection improvements would be contingent on the project’s final plan and approvals.

Residents at the meeting pressed for details. Matt Eberts requested an update to Chapter 321 (Peddling and Soliciting), citing increased door‑to‑door sales; Diane Duell asked the board to adopt a commercial noise ordinance to prevent construction before 8 a.m. Other neighbors asked how many homes could be built under current zoning, whether children would be routed through a 55+ community to reach parks, who is negotiating with the school district and whether the developer is financially viable. Several attendees asked that maps and the proposed amendment be posted online for public review.

Board members and staff clarified process and requirements. Manager Strohecker noted the 55+ use is being proposed as a special‑exception use, which would require a clearly defined plan to go to the Zoning Hearing Board; if approved there, the developer would be bound by that decision. Supervisor Missy Phelan asked about open‑space requirements and access points; Conrad said Vistablock owns one parcel along Route 999 but has no current plans to expand onto Rt. 999, and noted two existing access points on the western side of the property.

Following the presentation and public comment, Supervisor Dennis Funk moved to send the proposed zoning text amendment to the Manor Township Planning Commission and Lancaster County Planning Commission for review (after solicitor review), to schedule a public hearing for the board meeting on Aug. 3, 2026, and to authorize the township solicitor to publish the required notices. Supervisor Allan Herr seconded the motion. The board approved it 4–1, with Supervisor Phelan opposed.

Next steps: the written amendment will be reviewed by the township solicitor and transmitted to the planning bodies for comment; the board scheduled a public hearing on Aug. 3, 2026 to consider the proposed zoning text amendment. Public comments at that hearing will be recorded in the board minutes and considered before any final ordinance change.

The meeting also included other routine business and land‑use items.