CLEARFIELD – The Lawrence Township Supervisors agreed to postpone any decision on proposed zoning changes at Tuesday night’s meeting.
More than 40 people attended a public hearing Monday regarding the zoning changes. Only one person present was in favor of the changes, according to Township Secretary/Treasurer, Barbara Shaffner.
Two petitions were presented from residents of Golden Rod and Country Club/Long Meadow districts strongly opposing the zoning proposal to allow multi-unit dwellings in districts zoned Residential Suburban. The supervisors voted to send the proposed zoning changes back to the zoning hearing board for further review.
According to Shaffner, the proposed zoning change allowing multi-unit dwellings in residential areas is specified as “conditional use,” or requiring final approval from the supervisors for a specific proposed project before any such project could move forward.
Shaffner said other items in the proposed zoning changes include updates regarding timbering. She noted that laws have changed that require timbering to be permitted in all areas; therefore, the township zoning must incorporate these changes.
Proposed changes will also permit location of convenience stores and wineries in certain districts, again with conditional use requiring final approval of the supervisors, Shaffner said.
Referring the zoning proposals back to the Zoning Board will require review with board, attorneys and supervisors, and another public hearing before it can be brought to vote again.
Supervisors reviewed progress on a CDBG funding application for a project in Kerr Addition. Shaffner said the project is to replace storm drains and pave Good Street and Bowman Hill Road in Kerr Addition.
Shaffner pointed out that the CDBG application requires income surveys from the residents of the area affected. She said numerous attempts have been made, but residents of the area are not cooperating in completing the surveys.
It is essential, Shaffner said, that these income surveys be completed to qualify for the funding for this much needed project.
Police Chief Mark Brooks reported that police will join with Clearfield Borough and state police to present a class on robbery prevention on Aug. 14 at the Clearfield Area High School. The class is open to all businesses and residents. Information on the class can be obtained from either of these organizations.
