Neighbors say developer’s clearing violated UDO tree‑preservation rules; commissioners cite buffer questions

Residents of the Overlook at Barber Rock told Lancaster County planners the recent tree clearing at the Melanie Lane site removed mature canopy trees that previously screened a 154‑foot cell tower and provided noise and privacy buffers. Thomas Hankinson (speaker 17), who said he filed a written complaint on Aug. 19, 2024, asserted that mandatory UDO tree‑preservation provisions (UDO 4.3.0.2 and chapter 7) were ignored and that a comprehensive tree survey was not performed before clearing.

Cody Hinton (speaker 15) described the physical effects of clearing: "The ground shook. Our houses shook. We had to run outside and make sure our kids were inside" and argued that the proposed Type B buffer (10–20 foot options) lacks species, planting sizes and density to provide immediate screening given a 4–6 foot elevation advantage at the developed building site. Commissioners asked staff and applicants whether denser buffers, larger planting stock or a fence could be required as conditions. Applicant representatives said they would consider intensified understory and overstory trees and a fence 'at our cost' but noted some planting specifications are typically detailed at site‑plan review.