Planning Commission Meeting Minutes 2013

 

Franklin Township Planning Commission

January 2, 2013

In attendance:

J R Crushong, Dennis Robinson, William Cole, Bicky Redman, Pat Schindel, Mary Lower

The meeting was called to order at 7:00 PM.

Dennis Robinson stated that we received a letter of resignation from member Chris Santay effective December 31, 2012.  J R Crushong suggested that if we have anyone that should be considered to replace Chris, we should hand in their names to the Supervisors before Monday morning.

2013 REORGANIZATION

MOTION by Crushong, seconded by Redman to nominate Dennis Robinson for Chairman.  Motion carried.

MOTION by Redman, seconded by Lower to nominate Pat Schindel for Vice Chairman.  Motion carried.

MOTION by Schindel, seconded by Redman to nominate Mary Lower for Secretary.  Motion carried.

 

Approval of December 2012 Planning Commission Minutes

MOTION by Redman, seconded by Schindel to approve the minutes.  Motion carried.

Guests:

Tom McGlaughlin – Final plan – US Rt. 30 near Seven Stars – Ag Zone

Subdivision of a 157.482 +/- acre tract of land into five lots.  Lots 11 & 12 will be single family residential lots and Lots 1, 13 & 15 will be farm lots.

There were no Adams County comments received.  Robinson read KPI Technology’s comments dated 12/17/12.

Issues were the following:

  • The site data list 1.730 acres remaining for future development.  The plan should establish which Lot has the remainder developing rights.
  • For the lots that do not have any development rights, a note needs to be placed on the plan that states these lots may not be further developed.
  • An executed owner’s acknowledgement needs to be provided
  • Chambersburg Road needs to be labeled on sheets 4 & 8.
  • It is recommended that a monument be set along a common lot line, at the street right of way, for every two lots.
  • Adams County comments need to be considered.
  • A highway occupancy permit is required for the proposed driveways along Chambersburg Road.
  • Sewage facilities planning approval is required.
  • A copy of the recorded agreement from the electric and gas companies that have the right-of-ways, which states the conditions on the use of the land.
  • The required and available sight distances are needed for the proposed driveways.  Also a shared driveway agreement that ensures Lot 11 has rights to utilize the existing drive is required.
  • The plan should have a plot or key map showing the entire existing tract boundary and the location of the lots being subdivided.
  • The developer will need approval of the Township to utilize panhandle lots for this proposed subdivision.  The front yard setbacks for Lots 11, 12 & 15 should be shown at the required lot width.

McGlaughlin’s panhandle lot recommendation

MOTION by Redman, seconded by Schindel to recommend that the Supervisors approve the pan-handle lots for Lots 11, 12 & 15 because we see no problem with having pan-handles on this particular plan.  Motion carried.

Thomas McGlaughlin’s Sewage Facilities Planning Module – Component 4A

Robinson read and we answered the questions on the module.

Motion by Redman, seconded by Schindel to recommend approval of the module.  Motion carried.

Thomas McGlaughlin’s plan from the December meeting.  (Subdivision of 2 lots from 30.459 +/- acre lot.)  Gil Picarelli suggested they seek an extension for the plan.

Ryan Morris (Tripwire Operations) and his attorney, Todd King

Mr. Morris owns approximately 8 acres at 2871 Old Route 30 for a storage and dog training facility.

He would like to purchase approximately 8 acres from a neighbor and would like to move his business office, meeting room and another storage area to the property.  This type of small business commercial use is not permitted in our Open Space Zone.  They were wondering if we would consider amending our Open Space Zone to accommodate this use.  It was suggested that they come to the next Supervisor’s meeting and ask our solicitor, Walton Davis.

Ron Bennett / Penn Forestry sketch plan

Mr. Bennett owns 138 +/- acres near Bottom Road.  He would like to clean up some lot lines.  Currently a line goes through the middle of a cabin and a pond.  He would like to move the line so that the cabin and pond would be on the Penn Forestry tract.  The land is in Land Conservancy.  No problems were seen with moving the lot lines.

Old Business

It was proposed that we review the SALDO and make necessary changes.  We decided to review a list of proposed changes provided by KPI Technology for next month.  We will have workshops one hour before (6:00 PM) the regularly scheduled planning commission meeting at 7 PM.  This will continue every month until completed.

New Business

J R Crushong has an online survey that needs to be completed and he will enlist Gil Picarelli’s help to complete.

Meeting adjourned.

Respectfully submitted
Mary Lower
Planning Commission Secretary

Franklin Township Planning Commission
February 6, 2013

In attendance:
J R Crushong, Dennis Robinson, William Cole, Bicky Redman, Pat Schindel, Mary Lower

The meeting was called to order at 7:00 PM.

Approval of January 2012 Planning Commission Minutes

MOTION by Redman, seconded by Schindel to approve the minutes.  Motion carried.

Guests:

Ron Bennett / Penn Forestry Preliminary/Final plan – Ag and Open Space Zones

Mr. Bennett owns 138 +/- acres near Bottom Road.  He would like to clean up lot lines.  Currently a line goes through the middle of a cabin and a pond.  He would like to move the line so that the cabin and pond would be on the Penn Forestry tract.  The land is in Land Conservancy.

Robinson read KPI Technology’s comments dated 1/17/2013.

No Adams County comments were received.

MOTION by Schindel, seconded by Redman to table the plan due to no Adams County comments being received.  Motion carried.

Ronald Bennet – Non-building waiver

MOTION by Schindel, seconded by Redman to approve the Non-Building Wavier.  Motion carried.

Penn Forestry – Non-building waiver

MOTION by Schindel, seconded by Lower to approve the Non-Building Wavier.  Motion carried.

Tom McGlaughlin – Final plan – US Rt. 30 near Seven Stars – Ag Zone

Subdivision of a 157.482 +/- acre tract of land into five lots.  Lots 11 & 12 will be single family residential lots and Lots 1, 13 & 15 will be farm lots.

Robinson read a letter by Sharrah Design Group, Inc. which addressed the comments from KPI Technology’s comments dated 12/17/12.  Robinson also read Adams County comments dated 1/4/2013.

Issues were the following (comments in italics are from KPI Technology)

  • A highway occupancy permit is required for the proposed driveways along Chambersburg Road and PennDOT won’t approve the highway occupancy permit until the plan is approved.  Bob Sharrah is going to discuss this with the Supervisors at the next Supervisor’s meeting.
  • The developer will need approval of the Township to utilize panhandle lots for this proposed subdivision.  The front yard setbacks for Lots 11, 12 & 15 should be shown at the required lot width.  Our ordinance does not address lot width in residential lots in the Agricultural Zone.  This will need changed in the ordinance.
  • Pages 2 & 4 of the plan has “Lot 11” instead of Lot 1 – this will need revised on the plan
  • Floodplain note needs to be shown on the plan.

MOTION by Schindel, seconded by Redman to recommend approval of the plan conditionally providing all the concerns of KPI Technology have been addressed, a note is added regarding the floodplains and drafting issues on two pages have been addressed.  Motion carried with one opposing.

Meeting adjourned at 8:10 PM.

Respectfully submitted

Mary Lower, Planning Commission Secretary

MARCH 6, 2013

THE MARCH 2013 MEETING WAS CANCELED DUE TO INCLEMENT WEATHER SO THERE ARE NO MINUTES

Franklin Township Planning Commission

April 3, 2013

In attendance:

Dennis Robinson, J R Crushong, William Cole, Bicky Redman, Pat Schindel, Gary Deardorff,

Mary Lower

The meeting was called to order by Dennis Robinson at 7:00 PM.

Approval of February 2013 Planning Commission Minutes

March’s meeting was cancelled due to bad weather.

MOTION by Redman, seconded by Schindel to approve the minutes.  Motion carried.

Guests:

Ron Bennett / Penn Forestry Preliminary/Final plan – Ag and Open Space Zones

Subdivision of two lots (Lot 1A & Lot 1B) from an existing 124.127 +/- acre lot (Lot 1) and convey them to an adjoining lot owner (Penn Forestry Company Inc. – Lot 2).  Penn Forestry Co. is also subdividing a 280.759 +/- acre tract of land into two lots (Lot 2 – 117.649 acres and Lot 2A – 163.110).  The proposed subdivision is located jointly in Ag & Open Space zoning districts, along Bottom Road.  The property is considered non-conforming because a lodge is located on a common lot line, this proposal would eliminate the issue.

KPI’s issues to be reviewed are the following:

  1. The adjusted tract area calculations need to be shown on the plan.
  2. The lot coverage for the Open Space zoning district is 30%.  Sheet 1 data should be revised to reflect this.
  3. The Zoning Officer’s comments should be considered.
  4. The address for Penn Forestry Company should be placed on the plan.
  5. An executed owner’s acknowledgement needs to be provided.  Also, an executed owner’s acknowledgment for the person receiving the lot addition needs to be provided.
  6. An existing or proposed right-of-way or easement for proposed Lot 2 is needed to provide access to and from the proposed Lot.
  7. A monument needs to be set along a common lot line.
  8. A note should be placed on the plan regarding the presence, or lack of, flood prone areas.
  9. While the plan shows the soil boundaries, the plan should state the type of soils located on the property.
  10. A typical PA-One Call note should be added to the plan.
  11. The 1’=400’ scale is acceptable for the overall view of the lots; however, a scale of 1”=50’ should be utilized for the area where the subdivision is proposed.  Also, it appears that some of the lot line dimensions do not properly reflect the scale that the plan is drawn.

After reflection we decided that the area where the subdivision is proposed should be shown as 1”=200’ scale.

  1. It appears that the Site designation on the Location Map does not conform to the land proposed for subdivision.
  2. Lot 2 will need to front upon a dedicated public street or upon a private street constructed to the Township’s specifications and ordinances. This note will hinge upon what happens to #6.

JR Crushong will contact Wilbur Slothour to discuss the calculations that need shown on the plan.

MOTION by Schindel, seconded by Deardorff, to table the plan till May.


Mike Swenk
– Sketch Plan – 3612 Chambersburg Road – Commercial Zone

Mr. Swenk presented the plan for his client – Whitebelt Partnership – 2.12 +/- acres – the owners would like to sell – a Dollar General 9,100 sq. ft. retail store would be built on the site.  On-lot well.

They would like to have the plan waived as a preliminary & final plan and just submit it as preliminary/final plan.  No one had a problem with doing this.

They plan to seek several zoning variances.

Parking – they would like fewer parking spaces.  Our ordinance would require 75 spaces and they would like to have 35.  No one has an issue with this request.

Lot Width – They would like to have the lot width within 10 feet of the right-of-way and no objection was seen with request for a variance.

Interior Green Space – They would like a variance on providing 10% on the inside the parking lot and will provide space on the exterior green spaces.

Access Drive – Ordinance states 35’ in width within 10’ of right-of-way

Signage – Free standing business sign – ordinance states 50 sq. ft. and they would like 96 sq. feet

Attached business sign – ordinance states 70 sq. ft. and they would like 150 sq. feet

There were objections to recommending approval for the sign variance requests.

New Business

The Cashtown and Buchanan Valley Fire Departments were added to the planning comments and will be receiving our agendas so they are informed of development plans. 

Meeting adjourned at 8:15 PM.

Respectfully submitted

Mary Lower, Planning Commission Secretary

Franklin Township Planning Commission

May 1, 2013

In attendance:

Dennis Robinson, J R Crushong, William Cole, Bicky Redman, Pat Schindel, Gary Deardorff, Mary Lower

The meeting was called to order by Dennis Robinson at 7:00 PM.

Approval of April 2013 Planning Commission Minutes

MOTION by Redman, seconded by Deardorff to approve the minutes.  Motion carried.

Guests:

Ron Bennett / Penn Forestry – Preliminary/Final plan – Ag and Open Space Zones

Subdivision of two lots (Lot 1A & Lot 1B) from an existing lot (Lot 1) and convey them to an adjoining lot owner (Penn Forestry Company Inc. – Lot 2).  Penn Forestry Co. is also subdividing a tract of land into two lots.  The proposed subdivision is located jointly in Ag & Open Space zoning districts, along Bottom Road.  The property is considered non-conforming because a lodge is located on a common lot line, this proposal would eliminate the issue.

KPI Technology’s comments date 4/29/2013 and Adams County comments dated 2/2013.

MOTION by Redman, seconded by Deardorff, to recommend approval of the plan.  Motion carried.

George & Pam Mouer – Sketch plan – Hilltown Road

Jennifer Mouer would like to build a home on her parent’s lot.  There is public sewer.  We suggested she talk to someone about drawing a subdivision plan. 

Dollar General – 3612 Chambersburg Road – Commercial Zone

2.12 +/- acres – the owners would like to sell – a Dollar General 9,100 sq. ft. retail store would be built on the site.  On-lot well.

There were no Adams County comments available.  We briefly reviewed KPI Technology’s comments dated 4/30/2013.

The developer plans to seek several zoning variances.

  • Parking – they would like fewer parking spaces.  Our ordinance would require 95 spaces and they would like to have 30.  No one has an issue with this request.  Also, Parking spaces are not permitted with the front yard setback.  The developer is proposing ten (10) parking spaces to be located within the front yard setback and we did not have an issue with this request.
  • Lot Width – They would like to have the lot width within 10 feet of the right-of-way and no objection was seen with request for a variance.
  • Interior Green Space – They would like a variance on providing 10% on the inside the parking lot and will provide space on the exterior green spaces.
  • Access Drive – Ordinance states 35’ in width within 10’ of right-of-way
  • Signage
    • Unattached free standing business sign – ordinance states no greater than 50 sq. ft. and they would like 96.5 sq. feet
    • Attached business sign – ordinance states no greater than 70 sq. ft. and they would like 150 sq. feet.
      • We do NOT recommend the Zoning Hearing Board approve the signage variance waivers.
  • Driveway width shall not exceed thirty-five (35) feet.  The developer is proposing the driveway width to be approximately seventy-five (75) feet.  We feel this is a PennDOT issue and will be decided by them.

Additional Zoning Ordinance issues were the following:

A landscape screen must be provided along any part of the property that abuts a residential use.

The proposal shows that “spill-over” illumination will occur on an adjoining lot owner.  Lighting is to be located and shielded that no objectionable illumination or glare is cast upon an adjoining lot owner.  Also the plan does not show where Light Poles will be placed on the property.

MOTION by Schindel, seconded by Deardorff to table the plan due to no county comments being received.  Motion carried.

MOTION by Redman, seconded by Cole to send our zoning comments to the Zoning Hearing Board for their review.  Motion carried.

New Business

Subdivision and Land Development Ordinance revisions from our workshops.

MOTION by Redman, seconded by Deardorff to send the revised SALDO to the Supervisors for their review.  Motion carried. 

Meeting adjourned at 7:40 PM.

Respectfully submitted

Mary Lower

Planning Commission Secretary

Franklin Township Planning Commission

June 5, 2013

In attendance:

Dennis Robinson, J R Crushong, William Cole, Bicky Redman, Pat Schindel, Mary Lower

The meeting was called to order by Dennis Robinson at 7:00 PM.

Approval of May 2013 Planning Commission Minutes

MOTION by Redman, seconded by Schindel to approve the minutes.  Motion carried.

Guests:

Leo Redding – Sketch plan – near Crooked Creek Rd

They would like to subdivide approximately 26 acres.  They will need a 30’ right-of-way shown on the plan because currently it would be a land-locked parcel.

Florence McDannell estate – most of the property is in the Borough of Arendtsville

Since the majority of the property is outside of the township we will give concurrence to the Borough of Arendtsville. 

Mouer request for Zoning Map Changes – 1751 Hilltown Road.

The property is currently in the Ag Zone although some of the neighboring parcels are zoned residential.  0.82+/- acre parcel. It is connected to the public sewer system.

We discussed this map change along with all the other proposed map changes that we considered months ago.  We will reinvestigate the zoning map changes that we have already submitted once to the Supervisors and if we decide to pursue the changes again, we will add the Mouer request at the same time.  If we do not decide to pursue the zoning map changes, then the Mouers will have to cover the expense of having their lot changed.

New Business

Changing the date of the Planning Commission Meetings – Due to the lack of time between the Planning Commission’s meeting and the Supervisor’s meeting (24 hours), it was decided to change the day of the Planning Commission meeting.  It will be changed from the first Wednesday of every month to the third Wednesday of every month.  The next planning commission meeting will be on July 17th.

 

Meeting adjourned.

Respectfully submitted,

Mary Lower

Planning Commission Secretary

Franklin Township Planning Commission

July 17, 2013

In attendance:

Dennis Robinson, William Cole, Pat Schindel, Mary Lower

Also present:  Gil Picarelli from KPI Technology Inc.

The meeting was called to order by Dennis Robinson at 7:00 PM.

Approval of June 2013 Planning Commission Minutes

MOTION by Schindel, seconded by Cole to approve the June minutes.  Motion carried.

 

Guests:

Freya Qually – Sketch plan – 980 Flohrs Church Road, Biglerville, PA

They have 4.1236 +/- acres and would like to subdivide 2.519 acres to an adjoiner, Bruce & Marcia Kile.  The remaining 1.607+/- acres will remain with the house and outbuildings.

No perc test will be required for this subdivision.

  1. Gregg Bucher/Sue Ann Wentz – Final – Old Rt 30 near Franklin Township Elem. School

Subdivision of a 1.11 +/- acre parcel of land into two lots.  Lot 1 is the proposed 24,381.40 sq. ft (.560 acre) and Lot 2 is the remaining 23,978.11 sq. ft. (0.550 acre) lot.

Robinson read KPI Technology’s comments dated 6/18/13 and Adams County comments dated 6/27/13.

Issues were about hooking up to the township’s sewer which would require an under the road hookup.  The Municipal Authority will need to review and approve the proposal including any fees required.  Approval should not be granted unless we receive approval from the Municipal Authority.

Other issues were: All right-of-ways (electric, etc.) need to be shown on the plan. The location of the proposed water and sewer line connections should be shown on the plan.  The Stormwater Management Note on the plan should remove the phrase “for the construction of a dwelling on an individual lot.”  An As-Built plan is required after all required improvements are completed.

MOTION by Schindel, seconded by Lower to recommend approval of the plan as a Preliminary (not Final) plan pending resolution of the issues shown above.  Motion carried.

Charles Suhr – representing Brian Morris – 2871 Old Rt. 30 – Zoning Ordinance Amendment Changes

Mr. Suhr discussed the proposed zoning ordinance changes for providing regulations for storage of explosives and dog training for the detection of explosives within the Open Space zoning district.

Robinson also read Adams County’s comments regarding the changes dated 7/8/2013.

They would like to make some changes in regards to the fencing requirements and will return to present it at the August meeting.

New Business

Meeting adjourned at 8:10 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Mary Lower

Planning Commission Secretary

Franklin Township Planning Commission

August 21, 2013

In attendance:

Dennis Robinson, Henry Crushong, Jr., William Cole, Pat Schindel, Bic Redman, Gary Deardorff,

Mary Lower

Also present:  Dominic Picarelli from KPI Technology Inc.

The meeting was called to order by Dennis Robinson at 7:00 PM.

Approval of July 2013 Planning Commission Minutes

MOTION by Deardorff, seconded by Cole to approve the July minutes.  Motion carried.

Guests:

Gas station at US Rt. 30 & Rt. 234 – Sketch plan – The owner would like to put a mobile home behind the business on the same property.  There would be two uses on one lot.  1.4 +/- acres in Commercial Zone – There are some issues with setbacks on the wells, will need to see if it is possible to put another septic at the location and he will need to see if he has enough road frontage.

Steven J. Waters – Final – Railroad Lane – Ag Zone

Subdivision of a 1 acre parcel from an existing 11.081 +/- acre lot to be conveyed to an adjoining lot owner (Steve McShane).    Robinson read KPI Technology’s comments dated 7/15/2013 and Adams County comments dated 7/16/2013.

Issues were the following:

  • The location of the tree masses need to be shown on the plan
  • Will need to show the front setback line on Lot 1 at 35’
  • An executed owner’s acknowledgment needs to be provided; also an executed owner’s acknowledgment needs to be provided for the person receiving the lot addition.
  • Sewage facilities planning approval is required.

MOTION by Deardorff, seconded by Redman to recommend approval of the plan pending resolution of the issues shown above.  Motion carried.

Steven J. Waters – Planning Waiver & Non-Building Declaration

MOTION by Deardorff, seconded by Redman to recommend approval.  Motion carried.

Freya Qually – Final Plan – Flohrs Church Road – Ag Zone

Subdivision of 2.519 +/- acres from an existing 4.13 +/- acre lot to be conveyed to adjoining lot owner, Bruce Kile.  Robinson read KPI Technology’s comments dated 8/5/2013 and Adams County comments dated 8/13/2013.

Issues were the following:

  • An executed owner’s acknowledgment needs to be provided; also an executed owner’s acknowledgment needs to be provided for the person receiving the lot addition.
  • A street monument needs set along a common lot line.
  • Sewage facilities planning approval is required.

MOTION by Redman, seconded by Deardorff to recommend approval of the plan pending resolution of the issues shown above.  Motion carried.

Freya Qually – Planning Waiver & Non-Building Declaration

MOTION by Deardorff, seconded by Redman to recommend approval.  Motion carried.

Dollar General – update

The county is reviewing the plan again.  Issues still seem to be with the parking and the lighting going on the adjoining properties.

New Business

Charles Suhr – representing Brian Morris – 2871 Old Rt. 30 – Zoning Ordinance Amendment Changes

Robinson read KPI Technology’s comments dated 8/21/2013 and Adams County comments dated 7/8/2013.  Mr. Suhr presented a revised copy of the ordinance for our review (v7).

Issues are the following:

  • An Emergency Response Plan needs to be presented to the Township. The County feels it is appropriate for the Emergency Response Plan be “approved” by the Township Emergency Management Director and/or Adams County Emergency Agency prior to plan approval.
  • “Adams County Emergency Agency” should be changed to “Adams County Department of Emergency Services.”
  • Check to see if there are any gas lines on the property.  The magazines may need a setback from any utility and/or gas lines.
  • If the use is discontinued, measures should be provided for the removal of the explosives in a timely manner and inspected by the Township (or other party) to ensure that the explosives have been removed.  Bonding may be appropriate to ensure all explosives are removed from the property in a proper manner.
  • To insure Liability Insurance is always provided, the Township should state a specific schedule that the owner must show proof of insurance to the Township.  If insurance should ever lapse, it should be stated that all Township Permits be revoked immediately and a cease and desist order against the property owner be issued immediately.
  • We are requesting a minimum of 6’ security fence be installed around the perimeter.

MOTION by Deardorff, seconded by Redman, to recommend approval of the proposed ordinance pending resolution of the issues shown above.  Motion carried.  

Meeting adjourned.

Respectfully submitted,

Mary Lower
Planning Commission Secretary

Franklin Township Planning Commission

September 18, 2013

In attendance:

Dennis Robinson, William Cole, Pat Schindel, Bic Redman, Gary Deardorff, Mary Lower

Also present:  Dominic Picarelli from KPI Technology Inc.

The meeting was called to order by Dennis Robinson at 7:00 PM.

Approval of August 2013 Planning Commission Minutes

MOTION by Redman, seconded by Deardorff to approve the August minutes.  Motion carried.

Guests:

Strat-O-Span – Final Plan – Chambersburg Rd. – Industrial Zone

Subdivision of 0.89 +/- acres from an existing 5.90 +/- parcel to be conveyed to an adjoining lot owner.  There were no Adams County comments available.  We did look over the plan.  The main issue was the front setback as 50 feet, when 30 feet is the requirement in the industrial zone.

MOTION by Redman, seconded by Schindel to table the plan due to no county comments being received.  Motion carried.

County of Adams – Emergency Communication System – Preliminary/Final – Sayber Trail (near Hidden Pines) – Open Space

This is part of Adams County’s effort to have 19 sites available for installing communication towers or collocating onto existing towers.  Construction of a 2,809 sq. ft. area that will host a tower, building, etc. and provide a 12’ wide access to the pad site.  This will need to go before the Zoning Hearing Board.  There were no Adams County comments available.

MOTION by Deardorff, seconded by Redman to table the plan due to no county comments being received.  Motion carried.

Michaux Gun Range

Ken Kozak, Roy Brubaker and Rod Lyon were on hand to discuss the plan.  They have an old rifle and pistol range that has some problems with it and are in the process of renovating the site.  They have some wetland issues.  In order to do the renovations they would have to do some wetland mitigation, so they will remove the existing pistol range and convert it to a wetlands area.  They plan on adding a pistol range to the proposed rifle range.  The entire rifle/pistol range area will need some lead abatement and mitigation work done prior to the installation of the new ranges.

They need to fill out an application, pay the fees and meet with the zoning officer to determine any zoning related issues.

Morris Ordinance Update – Charles Suhr – 2871 Old Rt. 30 – Zoning Ordinance Amendment Changes

Mr. Suhr stated one section on the revised ordinance was incorrect and that he had made a mistake on the last copy presented at the August meeting.  It is Section Five – 1. B. which is “All magazines must be set back at least 500 feet from any property lines”.  He meant to say “100 feet”.   A public hearing is scheduled for October 3rd.  The property is currently being surveyed.  We have concerns over the change from 500’ to 100’ setback and would like to see the surveyor’s results before the public hearing.  After much discussion, we decided that instead of 100’ we would like to recommend a 300’ setback.

MOTION by Deardorff, seconded by Redman to recommend approval of the ordinance with all the         recommendations from the August meeting (fencing, liability insurance, bonding, etc.) plus the setback change from 500’ to 300’. Motion carried.

Dollar General – update

Parking seems to be the main issue.  Their review period for the plan will expire on October 11, 2013 so they are requesting a ninety (90) day extension of time in which to take formal action on the plan.

MOTION by Deardorff, seconded by Schindel to recommend the Supervisors grant the extension.  Motion carried. 

New Business 

Meeting adjourned.

Respectfully submitted,

Mary Lower

Planning Commission Secretary

Franklin Township Planning Commission

October 16, 2013

In attendance:

Dennis Robinson, JR Crushong, William Cole, Pat Schindel, Bic Redman, Gary Deardorff, Mary Lower

Also present:  Dominic Picarelli from KPI Technology Inc.

The meeting was called to order by Dennis Robinson at 7:00 PM.

Approval of September 2013 Planning Commission Minutes

MOTION by Redman, seconded by Deardorff to approve the September minutes.  Motion carried.

Guests:

Elizabeth Irvin estate – Preliminary/Final plan – 1320 Buchanan Valley Rd – Ag Zone

Subdivision of 2.403+/- acres (Lot 2) from an existing 203.24+/- parcel of land (Lot 1).  The subdivision is considered nonconforming because three existing buildings are located within the setbacks; however, this proposal will not have a positive or negative affect on the property.

Robinson read KPI Technology’s comments dated 10/11/2013 and Adams County comments dated 9/24/2013.  Issues were the following:

  1. It should be noted on the plan that development shall not exceed 30% of the parent tract and the remaining area of the parent tract that can be subdivided in the future.
  2. Executed owner’s acknowledgment needs to be provided.
  3. Street monument be set along a common lot line at the street right-of-way line.
  4. Setbacks for Lot 1 should be shown.  Can be added to sheet 2.
  5. Sewage facilities planning approval is required.
  6. Developer should provide information to the Township in regards to who will be monitoring, maintaining and owning the leased cabins, now and in the future.  Note could be added to sheet 2 to that affect.
  7. The total tract boundary lines need to be shown on the plan.  (There are no meets and bounds for the tract – Suggested they ask for a modification for showing the total tract boundary lines on the plan.)

MOTION by Schindel, seconded by Redman to recommend approval be granted for a modification from showing the total tract boundary lines on the plan.  Motion carried.

MOTION by Redman, seconded by Deardorff to recommend approval of the plan pending resolution of the issues 1 thru 6 shown above.  Motion carried.

Elizabeth Irvin – Form B Non-Building Waiver

MOTION by Deardorff, seconded by Lower to approve the waiver.  Motion carried.

Strat-O-Span – Final Plan – Chambersburg Rd. – Industrial Zone

Subdivision of 0.89 +/- acres from an existing 5.90 +/- parcel to be conveyed to an adjoining lot owner.  The subdivision is considered nonconforming because two existing buildings are located within the setbacks; however, this proposal will not have a positive or negative affect on the property.

Robinson read KPI Technology’s comments dated 10/14/2013 and Adams County comments dated 9/24/2013.  Issues were the following:

  1. An executed owner’s acknowledgment needs to be provided.
  2. An executed owner’s acknowledgment needs to be provided for the person receiving the lot addition.

MOTION by Redman, seconded by Deardorff to recommend approval of the plan pending resolution of the issues above.  Motion carried.

County of Adams – Emergency Communication System – Preliminary/Final – Sayber Trail (near Hidden Pines) – Open Space

This is part of Adams County’s effort to have 19 sites available for installing communication towers or collocating onto existing towers.  Construction of a 2,809 sq. ft. area that will host a tower, building, etc. and provide a 12’ wide access to the pad site.  Robinson read KPI Technology’s comments dated 10/11/2013 and Adams County comments dated 9/24/2013.  Issues were the following:

  1. The approval as a special exception from the Zoning Hearing Board is required for this use.
  2. It is required that the County of Adams proves to the satisfaction of the Zoning Hearing Board that a good faith effort has been pursued to locate the facility on existing structures.  It should be noted that there are two cell towers located on Route 234 and Route 30 that are in the general vicinity of this proposal.
  3. The seal of the engineer/surveyor responsible for the plan needs to be provided on all sheets of the plan that are to be recorded.
  4. An executed owner’s acknowledgment needs to be provided.
  5. An executed Operations and Maintenance Agreement needs to be submitted.
  6. Permanent access or maintenance easements for all physical SWM BMPs, as necessary to implement the O&M Plan need to be shown on the plan.
  7. A Landscaping Plan is required.  (The developer is requesting a modification of this section.)
  8. The minimum diameter of culverts shall be 18 inches.  (The developer is requesting a modification of this section.)
  9. Headwalls and endwalls shall be provided for culverts where appropriate.  (The developer is requesting a modification of this section.)

MOTION by Redman, seconded by Deardorff to recommend approval of the modification requests (#’s 7, 8, & 9) shown above.  Motion carried.

MOTION by Redman, seconded by Deardorff to recommend approval conditionally pending resolution of issues 1 thru 6 shown above and that they address any issues brought forth from the Zoning Hearing Board.  Motion carried. 

New Business

Sewage Facilities Planning Module – Minor Act 537 Update Revision (Component 3m)

This proposes to convert the Hamiltonban Township Wastewater Treatment Plant to a pump station that will convey sewage to the Franklin Township Wastewater Treatment Plant which is currently owned by Pennsylvania American Water Company (PAWC).  PAWC proposes to own and maintain the new pump station and lines following completion.

Stan Corbett and Sandy Morgan from URS (principal planners) were in attendance.

Robinson read KPI Technology’s comments dated 10/14/2013 and Adams County comments dated 10/16/2013.  We also reviewed the map of the proposed sites for the lines.

Robinson read and completed the Sewage Facilities Planning Module Component 4a.

One of the County’s comments addressed the connection route. They would like to see the route to include a force main running north along the Orrtanna Road connecting to the end of the existing sewer line extending south along the Orrtanna Road out of Cashtown.  This route would avoid much of the agricultural setting along Orrtanna, Sunset and Flohrs Church Road which they have concerns.

Sandy Morgan (URS) spoke to why the Orrtanna, Sunset & Flohrs Church Road routes was selected.  She said they had originally chosen the Orrtanna Road route but after speaking to members of the township’s sewer authority they changed the route.  The sewer authority had an issue about odor discharge among other concerns, into the more populated area of Cashtown, instead of the other route through the less populated area.

If they run the route thru the agricultural land along Orrtanna, Sunset and Flohrs Church Road then the County would only like existing uses along these roads to be permitted to connect to the new system.  No new development along these roadways should be permitted to connect.

There was some discussion about not letting new development connect to the line in the future.  Most felt that they should be allowed to connect instead of having sand mounds.

MOTION by Deardorff, seconded by Schindel to send the module on to the Supervisor for their review.  Motion carried with Redman abstaining.

Meeting adjourned at 8:17 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Mary Lower

Planning Commission Secretary

Franklin Township Planning Commission

November 20, 2013

In attendance:

Dennis Robinson, JR Crushong, William Cole, Pat Schindel, Bic Redman, Gary Deardorff, Mary Lower

Also present:  Dominic Picarelli from KPI Technology Inc.

The meeting was called to order by Dennis Robinson at 7:00 PM.

Approval of October 2013 Planning Commission Minutes

MOTION by Redman, seconded by Cole to approve the October minutes.  Motion carried.

Guests:

Michaux Gun Range – Open Space – near Long Pine Run Reservoir in Michaux State Forest

Ken Kozak was on hand to discuss the plan.  Michaux has an old rifle and pistol range that has some problems with it and are in the process of renovating the site.

Mr. Kozak is seeking waivers for some of the issues on KPI Technology’s comments show below:

  1. The total tract boundary lines, including distances and bearings, need to be shown on the plan. If waiver is granted, it needs to be noted on the plan.

MOTION by Deardorff, seconded by Schindel to recommend that the waiver be granted.  Motion carried.

  1. Boundaries of adjacent property owners, including recorded name and deed references, need to be located on the plan. If waiver is granted, it needs to be noted on the plan.

MOTION by Redman, seconded by Cole to recommend that the waiver be granted.  Motion carried.

  1. The width & cartway width of existing streets (Birch Run Rd) need to be labeled on the plan. Mr. Kozak will have this added to the plan.
  2. The building setback lines need to be shown on the plan.

MOTION by Deardorff, seconded by Redman to recommend that the waiver be granted.  Motion carried.

  1. The deed book and page number for the property needs to be shown on the plan.  It was decided it was just needed for the project area.

MOTION by Redman, seconded by Cole to recommend that the waiver be granted to show the deed book and page number for just the project area.  Motion carried.

  1. The soil types and boundaries need to be located on the plan.  It was decided it was just needed for the project area.

MOTION by Redman, seconded by Deardorff to recommend that the waiver be granted to just show it for the project area.  Motion carried.

  1. A water feasibility report is required. If waiver is granted, it needs to be noted on the plan.

MOTION by Redman, seconded by Deardorff to recommend that the waiver be granted.  Motion carried.

County of Adams – Emergency Communication System – Sayber Trail (near Hidden Pines) – Open Space

This is part of Adams County’s effort to have 19 sites available for installing communication towers or collocating onto existing towers.

Attorney John M. Hartzell, Adams County Solicitor, was present to ask for a 90-day extension for this plan, if it is needed and to ask for a recommendation to the Zoning Hearing Board.  The Zoning Hearing Board meeting is scheduled for December 11, 2013.   The 90-day extension is due to all the different entities involved in evaluating and making recommendations on the applications, as well as the scheduling of the reviews.

MOTION by Schindel, seconded by Redman to recommend approval of the Special Exception by the Zoning Hearing Board.  Motion carried.

MOTION by Deardorff, seconded by Schindel, to recommend the Supervisors grant the 90-day extension, if needed.  Motion carried.  

New Business

Dollar General – We received a copy of the letter from Steckbeck Engineering & Surveying, Inc. (SESI), regarding the preliminary/final plan for the Dollar General store.  We had further discussions about the plan withdrawal and the parking situation.  We are currently in the process of updating our zoning ordinance which could take several months to complete.

It was decided that the Chairman should contact Mr. Swank of SESI and discuss the parking situation, our zoning ordinance updates and see if they were still interested in this site.  If they are, would they be interested in paying for the revisions to the parking section of our ordinance in order to expedite the process.  We could make revisions to the parking section now, instead of waiting until we make all the revisions to the zoning ordinance which could take many months to complete.

Zoning Reviews

We would like to know the determination of the zoning officer, Wilbur Slothour, before we make decisions on plans.   Guest, Gil Picarelli, was present and suggested that as KPI Technology receives a plan for review, that they review for zoning issues first.  If there are zoning issues, then they would notify our zoning officer immediately.  This would give Wilber Slothour time to get back to us with a determination before our next meeting.  KPI Technology will also do their review of the plan and give us their recommendations also.

Meeting adjourned at 8:00 PM.

Respectfully submitted,
Mary Lower
Planning Commission Secretary

Franklin Township Planning Commission

December 18, 2013

In attendance:

Dennis Robinson, JR Crushong, William Cole, Pat Schindel, Gary Deardorff, Mary Lower
Also present:  Dominic Picarelli from KPI Technology Inc.

The meeting was called to order by Dennis Robinson at 7:00 PM.

Approval of November 2013 Planning Commission Minutes

MOTION by Cole, seconded by Schindel to approve the November minutes.  Motion carried.

Guests:

Michaux Gun Range – Land Development – Open Space – near Long Pine Run Reservoir in Michaux State Forest

Ken Kozak was on hand to discuss the plan.  Michaux has an old rifle and pistol range that has some problems with it and is in the process of renovating the site.

Robinson read KPI Technology’s comments dated December 12, 2013 and Adams County’s comments dated December 9, 2013.  We also reviewed the letter from Wilbur Slothour, dated November 30 regarding his zoning ordinance review of the site.  The majority of the previous issues have been addressed by Mr. Kozak.

Mr. Kozak is seeking a waiver from the bonding issue noted on KPI Technology’s comments – “Bonding of related improvements is required.  Because DCNR requires their contractor to provide financial surety before start of construction, it is recommended that the applicant asks for a waiver of this requirement (146-12.C.5).”

MOTION by Deardorff, seconded by Schindel to recommend that the waiver be granted.  Motion carried.

MOTION by Schindel, seconded by Cole to recommend conditional approval of the plan based on KPI Technology’s comments.  Motion carried.

Village of Laurel Run – Continuance of a Special Exception Hearing – They have a new architect on board and have revised the plan.  They will return for land development plans if they get approval of the special exception at the next hearing.

Phase I – 84 units – 4 stories
Phase II – 84 units – 4 stories

Recommendation to the Zoning Hearing Board to reaffirm our approval as a special exception use.  Our support of the prior plan has not changed.

MOTION by Schindel, seconded by Cole to recommend approval as a special exception.  Motion carried with Robinson abstaining. 

New Business

Dollar General – Robinson did call them and told them to contact Dominic Picarelli but as of today they have not called.  It was decided to have Dominic contact Michael Swink to discuss the parking.

Meeting adjourned at 7:21 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Mary Lower, Planning Commission Secretary