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Board conditionally backs solicitor’s letter supporting Atrium density variance with safeguards
Summary
The board authorized the solicitor to appear at the zoning hearing and send a letter conditionally supporting a variance to allow a proposed apartment project to reach a total of about 66 units, provided an approximately 2.89‑acre parcel remain part of the development and exterior improvements are specified before final land‑development approval.
Middle Smithfield Township supervisors voted to authorize the township solicitor to attend an upcoming zoning hearing and send a letter conditionally supporting a variance for a proposed apartment project (the Atrium) that would increase allowed density. The motion, made and seconded during the solicitor’s report, passed by voice vote after discussion of conditions the board wanted attached.
Solicitor (speaker 6) explained the board could participate in the zoning‑hearing application and communicate a position to the zoning hearing board. He summarized the board’s direction as not opposing the application "so long as a condition of any approval from zoning hearing board would include the fact that the 2.89 acres... remain part of this development" and that the applicant provide more detail on exterior landscaping and improvements at land development. Committee members pressed the applicant’s intent for a 2.89‑acre parcel across the road and asked that it not be severed for unrelated commercial use.
Committee members raised alternatives and conditions: one member said, "I would like to see it conserved and be recreational land for the occupants of the apartments," arguing for amenities such as a pickleball court, dog park or walking path; other members asked that the parcel be shown on the land‑development plan so the township can review specific improvements. The solicitor agreed to incorporate the board’s conditions and requested additional specifics before the zoning hearing.
The board’s motion directs the solicitor to convey the township’s conditional support, emphasizing that approval should be contingent on (1) the approximately 2.89‑acre parcel remaining part of the land‑development plan and not being separately subdivided, and (2) required exterior/landscaping details being provided at the land‑development stage. The board voted in favor and the solicitor will follow up with the applicant and the zoning hearing board.
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