Mark Hiester

The board reviewed operational and engineering reports, including a discussion on Lead and Copper Rule revisions and the Trifecta Solar Agreement and Sewer Design project. Approvals were granted for the Inframark contract operations, the Trifecta Solar projects, and the purchase/repair of equipment for the WWTF Influent Pumping Station. Additionally, the board discussed ongoing solicitor tap fee litigation in executive session, authorized the replacement of a township truck used by Inframark for sewer and water systems, and noted the upcoming transition to new CUSI billing software.

The board conducted its reorganization, resulting in the appointment of a Chairman and Vice-Chairman. Additionally, the board heard and approved a request for a Special Exception and a variance to allow the keeping of a horse on a lot smaller than two acres and to permit the placement of a structure housing the animal closer to a dwelling than the standard requirement.

The meeting included discussions on subdivision, land development, and stormwater management plans, specifically regarding the Baron's Run Plan Transportation and traffic impact study results. New business items addressed the Manheim Community Library report and emergency medical services updates from Penn State Health Life Lion. The board approved road closures, event requests, and the use of the yard waste site by the Manheim Central School District and Penryn Fire Company. Additionally, various departmental and authority reports were reviewed, and financial approvals for invoices were processed.

The meeting included a reorganization process where the 2026 positions for the Planning Commission were approved, establishing Fred Hammond as Chair, Skylar Gingrich as Vice-Chair, and Cullen Ketcham as Secretary. A briefing item involved Land Development Plan 25-020 for Cassel Signs, which proposes relocating operations to a new 15,346 square foot building on the existing 3-acre site, including a new parking lot, with associated pending permits. Under decision items, the sewage planning module for the Cassel Signs project was approved. Additionally, Plan No. 25-019, a Lot Add On Plan for PA Classics involving lot line adjustments to meet landscape strip requirements between commercially zoned and agriculturally zoned parcels, was conditionally approved.

The meeting proceedings included the call to order and recognition of guests. There were no discussion items. Key decision items involved two preliminary/final land development plans. Plan No. 25-011 concerned a new headquarters building for Rohrer's Quarry, requiring stormwater management facilities and a pending Zoning Hearing Board application for building height; it was recommended for conditional approval with waivers. Plan No. 25-013 addressed the Cobblestone Landscaping business, involving modifications to driveway access and previous Zoning Hearing Board approvals; this plan was also recommended for conditional approval with waivers. The commission adjourned shortly after these decisions.