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APRIL 25-MAY 1, 2019
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Moore Township St. Paul’s UCC of Northampton Planning Commission Receives special donations Discusses Warehouse Ordinance By KERI LINDENMUTH During their meeting on Monday, April 22, the Moore Township Planning Commission discussed a proposed warehouse ordinance that would put “reasonable regulations” on warehouse development. Warehouse development is allowed in the township’s industrial zone and has been for several decades. However, as solicitor David Backenstoe explained, the proposed ordinance will allow for greater protections and regulations “in accordance with the times.” While the ordinance has been in the works for several months, commissioners used Monday’s meeting to tie up discussion in regards to buffering. Chairman John Becker wondered whether buffers should be reduced along roadways so drivers can find and identify buildings. Buffering would still be required on
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the remaining three sides of the property. Commissioner Jason Harhart added that buffers should be required along roadways in the case of a residential zone across the street. Attorney Backenstoe advised that it would be better for the commission to require buffers and allow developers to request waivers. The commission recommended that the ordinance go to the township’s Board of Supervisors so that it can be drafted for approval. During the meeting, the Planning Commission also heard the waiver request of Samuel Firmstone. Firmstone is seeking to develop a minor subdivision for his relatives. The plan currently allows for 9,800 square feet of impervious stormwater coverage. At 10,000 square feet, the plan is required to undergo additional LVPC and DEP review. Mike Hahn, representative for Firmstone, said he stands by the plan and does not believe it should undergo additional reviews. He argued that planning for the size of the future homes is a “guessing game.” They can be larger, he said, or smaller than what he calculated in the plan. However, commissioners worried that coverage is too close to 10,000 square feet. This could result in high costs for future residents who would have to undergo the planning process again. Sidewalks, a deck, or a patio could push the coverage over 10,000. Instead of letting the possibility of fines and planning costs fall on future residents, commissioners required that Hahn and Firmstone resubmit the plan as if it allowed for 10,000 square feet. “If you do not do it, you will wish you did,” warned Becker. May’s Planning Commission meeting has been cancelled in observance of Memorial Day. The next meeting will be held on June 24.
Front Row left to right: Dottie Kromer, Brenda Kohler, Marge Oberly, Margaret Pendergrass, Eileen Wismer. Back Row left to right: Gloria Snyder, Barbara Szerensits, Jane Hoh, Larry Oberly, Nancy Richter, Marian Miller. Submitted by DAVE FARKAS goal of the Capital Campaign guests with physical limitations Sunday, April 14, 2019 two is to install a Lift and provide access to the basement, parking special donations were presented an ADA Wheelchair accessible lot and the main Sanctuary. to The Capital Campaign of St. bathroom. The bathroom has We look forward to the supPaul’s U.C.C., Northampton. been completed and we now port of the people of the congreThe Women of St. Paul’s do- continue to work toward provid- gation and community who connated $7,000 and the Bakers of ing the Lift which would give tinue to be part of our ongoing St. Paul’s Donated $25,000. The congregational members and campaign.
Allen O. Delke Post 16 American Legion 50 year Membership Award
Pictured left to right on April 8, 2019: Sr. Vice Commander George Burke, Commander Burnie Dugan, 50 year awards-Gary Schneck, Bruce Mack, Charles Miller, Warren Henritzy, Ronald Scheffler.