October 5, 2008
Lower Paxton Board of Supervisors
Lower Paxton Township
425 Prince Street
Harrisburg, PA 17109
Dear Supervisors:
Please note that SWAN is on record opposing the rezoning request of
Laurel Ridge from R-2 Medium High Density Residential District to R-3
Medium High Density Residential District. (Please refer to Enclosure
- 3-4)
SWAN met several times with Multi-Properties. We appreciate their
efforts to engage the community, acknowledge the improvements the
company has made to existing units, and appreciate the effort expended
to conduct a traffic study.
The Planning Commission stated that they did not rezone this property
because they wanted to control the density of new development on this site.
The public expressed concern about additional housing units along
Linglestown Road, traffic congestion, and infrastructure challenges.
Consistent with SWAN’s previous testimony, e.g., “New Devonshire
Subdivision, Martin L. Schoffstall Children’s Trust, et al” on June 10, 2008
and SWAN’s Testimony in Opposition to -Ordinance #07-14 Rezoning
Application, May 6, 2008, we remain opposed to the rezoning.
This type of density request, in the shadow of a DEP consent order,
limited EDUs, possible EPA remediation bills, I&E challenges, and sewer
reconstruction, must have widespread support from the folks who live
near the development as well as tax payers who may have to pay for
the additional infrastructure.
It is important for the Township to implement the Comprehensive
Plan as envisioned and codified. The Planning Commission was correct
to deny this rezoning request.
Consistent with the 2006 Comprehensive Plan, we support the
Township’s continued concern and vigilance in managing density and
infrastructure challenges in Lower Paxton Township.
We are willing to work with the Township and Multi-Properties to
foster an alternative resolution to deal with “overstuffing.” SWAN is also
willing to continue a dialogue regarding protective covenants, dedications,
easements, and park and recreation opportunities.
Respectfully submitted,
Eric Epstein, SWAN, Chairman
4100 Hillsdale Road
Harrisburg, Pa 17112
cc:
Frederick Lighty, Chairman, Lower Paxton Planning Commission
George S. Wolfe, Township Manager, Lower Paxton Township
Richard Hantgan, Multi Properties, Inc., Senior Vice President