Residents oppose zoning hearing board ruling, ask for support
NORTH UNION TWP. — More than a dozen township residents went before supervisors this week to oppose a recent Zoning Hearing Board ruling, and to ask for the supervisor’s support.
Rich Ringer spoke on behalf of the residents, who raised concerns about the Piccolomini ruling, which would allow a restaurant to be built on property along Oakhill Drive.
Ringer said the ZHB granted the conditional approval in November for the property, though residents were told it was zoned as residential.
He added that he and the residents were “not anti-growth or anti-business.”
“Whatever can increase tax base — we’re all for it,” he said.
Ringer and other residents, though, said they were worried about increased traffic on their narrow streets and the danger alcohol and increased presence could pose.
Supervisor Rob Tupta, who said he was at the zoning hearing for the property, reiterated that they “welcome the business with open arms, but not in this location.”
Ringer said they are willing to challenge and file an appeal, though they’re waiting on the resolution to be issued from the ZHB so that they know on what grounds the property was given the conditional approval.
Tupta and supervisor Curt Matthews agreed that they’re in support of the residents, and would offer testimony in opposition of the ruling.
“You do have our support,” he said. “That is absolutely not the right location.”
During the township meeting, supervisors also approved the first step in a long process for attorneys on behalf of the new Speedway along Route 119 that would allow them to carry six-packs of beer and bottles of wine.
In other news, supervisors:
n Approved the 2018 budget, noting that the real estate tax will remain at 0.447 mils for the 59th year.
n Informed residents that damage forms would be available at the township building for damages incurred from the Redstone Creek flooding.
n Thanked Rob Kovach for his two years of service as an appointed supervisor following Tom Kumor’s retirement.