Appendix 1: References References
AgMap (2009) Promote your Business. Available online http://agmap.psu.edu/ [June 2009]
Arendt, Randall, Rural By Design, Chicago: APA Planners Press, 1994, pps 226-245
Central Louisiana Electric Company (2009) Your Home-Save Energy. Available online http://www.cleco.com/uploads/EnergyConservationGuide. pdf [June 2009]
Cranberry Township (2009) Planning: Form Based Codes. Available Online http://www.twp.cranberry.pa.us/index.aspx?NID=118 [May 2009]
Crumrine, Boyd, A History of Washington County, Pennsylvania with Biographical Sketches of Many of Its Pioneers and Prominent Men. Philadelphia: L. H. Leverts & Co., 1882.
Commute Info (2009) Regional Park-n-Ride Facilities. Available online http://www.commuteinfo.org/ [March 2009]
Energy Star (2009) Products. Available online http://www.energystar.gov [June 2009]
FAA Airport Master Record for AFJ (Form 5010), effective 2007-07-05
Gromlowicz and Letherby, Pennsylvania Airport Land Use Compatibility Guidelines, Research Project No. 93-30, Prepared by The Airport Technology and Planning Group, Inc. (AirTech) Sponsored by Pennsylvania Department of Transportation Bureau of Aviation, March 1996 [Published 2007; Accessed July 2009].
Hopewell Township (2009) Available online http://www.hopewelltwp-nj.com [June 2009]
International Energy Conservation Code (2009) About the Program. Available online http://www.energycodes.gov [June 2009]
Inflation Rates. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Available online at http://www.bls.gov/cpi/. [December 2008].
James, George, “The Empty Firetruck,” The New York Times. Published 10/13/96.
Joseph Albert Walker (2009) Joseph Albert Walker. Available online http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Joseph_Albert_Walker [January 2009]
Lancaster, Roger, Recreation, Park and Open Space Standards and Guidelines, National Parks and Recreation Association, 1983.
Lone Pine Country Club (2007) Club Rules. Available online http://lonepinecc.com/index.html [October 2008]
Lowrance, R., et. al. 1995. “Water Quality Functions of Riparian Forest Buffer Systems in the Chesapeake Bay Watershed.” Environmental Management. Vol. 21: 687- 712
Marcellus Shale (2009) Marcellus Shale. Available online http://www.dep.state.pa.us/dep/deputate/minres/oilgas/new_forms/marcellus/marcellus.htm [April 2009] Marotta, E., editor, Washington County: The Second 100 Years, Washington PA: Washington County Historical Publication Commission, 1985, pp. 13.
Maryland Atlas of Greenways, Water Trails, and Green Infrastructure (2009) Montgomery County. Available online http://www.dnr.state.md.us/greenways/counties/montgomery.html [April 2009]
McMahon, Edward T., and Shelley S. Mastran, Better Models for Development in Pennsylvania, Harrisburg: The Conservation Fund, 2005, pps 15-33
Media Borough (2009) Departments: Code Enforcement. Available online http://www.mediaborough.com [May 2009]
Montgomery County Planning (2009) Montgomery County Cemetery Inventory. Available online http://montgomeryplanning.org/historic/education/cemeteries.shtm [April 2009]
Montgomery County Planning (2009) Publications: Model Ordinances. Available online http://planning.montcopa.org/planning/cwp/fileserver,Path,PLANNING/2006Guidebook_RiparCorrCons.p df,assetguid,24c7f069-fa80-47a9-bedddbfa0f1746c3.pdf [April 2009]
National Register of Historic Places (2009) National Register Research. Available online www.nps.gov/history/nr [January 2009]
National Register of Historic Places. (2009) National Register Research. Available online www.nps.gov/history/nr [January 2009]
Natural Lands Trust (2009) Growing Greener: Farmview. Available online http://www.natlands.org/categories/article.asp?fldArticleId=72 [April 2009] Natural Lands Trust (2009) Growing Greener: Garnet Oaks. Available online http://www.natlands.org/categories/article.asp?fldArticleId=71 [April 2009]
PA Grows (2009) About PA Grows. Available online http://www.pagrows.com [May 2009]
Pennsylvania Center for Farm Transitions (2007) About the Center. Available online http://www.iplantofarm.com/Default.aspx [May 2009]
Pennsylvania Cleanways (2006) Chapters and Affiliates. Available online http://www.pacleanways.org [July 2009]
Pennsylvania Council of Governments (2009) Available online http://pacog.com/index.shtml [April 2009]
Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture (2007) Agricultural Security Areas. Available online http://www.agriculture.state.pa.us/agriculture/cwp/view.asp?q=129076 [March 2009]
Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development (2009) Funding. Available online at http://www.newpa.com [March 2009]
Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (2009) Grants Funding Fact Sheet. Available online http://www.dcnr.state.pa.us/brc/Keystone/factsheet.pdf [May 2009]
Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (2009) Grants. Available online http://www.dcnr.state.pa.us [April 2009]
Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection. E-Facts Service. Available online at http://www.ahs2.dep.state.pa.us/eFACTSWeb/. [January 2009]
Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (2009) Oil and Gas Act. Available online http://www.dep.state.pa.us/dep/DEPUTATE/MINRES/OILGAS/act223.htm [March 2009]
Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (2009) Watershed Management. Available online http://www.depweb.state.pa.us/watershedmgmt/cwp/view.asp?a=1437&q=529063 [April 2009]
Pennsylvania Department of Transportation Bike Safe (2002) Touring. Available online http://www.dot.state.pa.us/BIKE/WEB/tour_routes.htm [December 2008]
Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (2005) Bureau of Avaiation-Airport Zoning and and Compatible Land Use. Available online ftp://ftp.dot.state.pa.us/public/bureaus/aviation/palanduse.pdf.
Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (2005) Bureau of Municipal Services. Available online http://www.dot34.state.pa.us/BMSInfo.aspx#1 [February 2009]
Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (2009) Transportation Impact Fees. Available online ftp://ftp.dot.state.pa.us/public/Bureaus/Cpdm/ImpactFees.pdf [March 2009]
Pennsylvania Geological Survey (2007) Oil and Gas Fields of Pennsylvania. Available online http://www.dcnr.state.pa.us/topogeo/maps/map10.pdf [April 2009]
Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission (2009) Available online http://www.portal.state.pa.us/portal/server.pt?open=512&objID=3741&&level=1&css=L1&mode=2. [February 2009]
Pennsylvania Historical Marker Program (2009). Pennsylvania Historical Marker Program. Available online http://www.portal.state.pa.us/portal/server.pt? open=512&objID=2539&&SortOrder=200&level=2&parentCommID=1586&menuLevel=Level_2&mode =2. [March 2009]
Pennsylvania Land Trust Association (2009). Library. Available online http://conserveland.org/lpr/download/23142/PubDedication08dec15.pdf [May 2009]
Pennsylvania Local Government Commission (2009). Local Government Commission Publications. Available Online http://www.lgc.state.pa.us/deskbook06/Basics06_Intergovernmental_Cooperation.pdf [May 2009]
Pennsylvania Outdoor Lighting Council (2009) Outdoor Lighting Ordinances in Pennsylvania. Available online http://www.polcouncil.org/polc2/MLOZoning2008MAR.htm [April 2009]
Pennsylvania Preferred (2009) Available online The Program http://www.agriculture.state.pa.us/papreferred/site/default.asp [July 2009]
Pennsylvania Recovery (2009) Energy Independence. Available online http://www.recovery.pa.gov [June 2009]
Pennsylvania Resources Council, Inc. (2009) Programs. Available online http://www.prc.org/community_collections.html. [May 2009]
South Franklin Township (2009) Available online http://southfranklintwp.org/government.htm [September 2008]
The Southwestern Pennsylvania Commission. 2035 Long Range Transportation Plan for Southwestern Pennsylvania. Available online http://www.spcregion.org/trans_lrp.shtml [November 2008] Steiner, Frederick, The Living Landscape: An Ecological Approach to Landscape Planning, Washington, D.C.: Island Press, 2008, pps. 373-375
Turtle Creek Valley Council of Governments (2009) About TCVCOG. Available online http://www.tcvcog.com [March 2009]
United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), Natural Resources Conservation Service. (2005). Hydric Soils-Introduction. Available online http://soils.usda.gov/use/hydric/intro.html. [February 2009].
Western Pennsylvania Wheelman (2005) About. Available online http://www.wpwbikeclub.org [November 2008]
Welsch, David J. 1991. “Riparian Forest Buffers: Function and Design for Protection and Enhancement of Water Resources.” USDA Forest Service. Northeast Area State and Private Forestry. Forest Resources Management. NA-PR-07-91.
Appendix 2: Previously Surveyed Properties of Possible Historic Significance Note about National Historic Register properties:
This is a list of all historic resources within the Township / Borough that was found using CRGIS, which is a map-based inventory of the historic and archaeological sites and surveys stored in the files of the Bureau for Historic Preservation (BHP). CRGIS is a partnership between the Pennsylvania Historical & Museum Commission (PHMC) and PennDOT, with financial support from the Federal Highway Administration, the Baltimore District of the Army Corp of Engineers, and the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection.
These are sites that have been previously documented as part of an historic survey, most likely a transportation project using federal funding where an historic survey is required.
The definition of an historic site can be found on p. 1-5 in the 3rd paragraph “at least 50 years old to be eligible and criteria includes the quality of significance in American history, architecture, archeology, engineering, and culture. Listing in the National Register honors the property by recognizing its importance to its community, State, or the Nation.”
This is by no means a comprehensive list of historic structures within the Project Area and is not meant to be; rather, it is the most current listing of surveyed properties. Appendix 3: Meeting Summaries First Public Meeting: November 18, 2008 at 7 PM
Attendance
66 residents signed in – roughly 75 were in attendance (see PDF for list) Project Steering Committee Mackin Staff Redevelopment Authority of the County of Washington (RACW) Staff Welcome
South Franklin Township Supervisor Tom Hart opened the Public Meeting at 7:00 PM and explained that this was the final public meeting for the Comprehensive Plan. Presentation
Mackin provided a PowerPoint presentation on what a comprehensive plan is, why it is important, what the benefits of multi-municipal planning are, and what it will accomplish. The presentation highlighted the vision statement for the project area as well as the priority needs that were identified throughout the planning process. Questions & Answers
After presenting this information, Mackin opened the floor for questions:
Does the plan take into account the impacts from Marcellus Shale drilling? o The plan documents the presence and potential impacts as a result of such drilling; however this is mostly regulated at the state level through the Oil and Gas Act. The Township is in the process of passing a road bonding ordinance that would address impacts on municipal roads. The presentation noted the need for commercial development such as a bank, grocery store, and gas station – how was this identified? o These items were specifically mentioned at the first public meeting in November as well as through other public involvement processes as being the priority needs for the Township. The plan documents this need and provides recommendations on how such development should occur. In addition, the plan recommends this development take place in the vicinity of the Township building as this area is to be served by public sewerage and can accommodate commercial development. What about the potential impact on traffic along SR 18 if more development occurs? o Mackin’s traffic engineers conducted preliminary assessments of traffic volumes and determined that SR 18 and many other arterial roads can support additional traffic as a result of proposed development. However, PennDOT would require a traffic impact study be conducted by any proposed future development that would utilize SR 18 or other state roads as their main access road to the development site. Does the plan encourage more development along SR 18? o The future land use plan identifies the area surrounding SR 18 north of Lone Pine Country Club as being most suitable for commercial development, mixed use (residential / commercial) as well as medium density and multi-family residential. This area is designated as such due to the proposed locations of public sewerage service. The southern portion of 18 is proposed to stay rural, allowing agricultural and low density single-family residential uses. What are the neighboring townships doing in regards to comprehensive plans? o A few adjacent townships (Amwell, Canton, etc.) are currently working with the Redevelopment Authority of the County of Washington (RACW) to submit an application to the PA Department of Community and Economic Development (PA DCED) to conduct a multi-municipal comprehensive plan. o As part of the South Franklin / Green Hills Comprehensive Plan, Mackin reviewed all existing comprehensive plans for the adjacent municipalities. In addition, the draft plan will be sent to all adjacent municipalities, McGuffey School District, and the Washington County Planning Commission for review and comment prior to adoption. Has there been any discussion about the proposed I-70 interchange near the Airport? o The plan includes a discussion on the proposed “Skypointe” industrial park that is to be located near the Airport as well as the desire for a new interchange on I-70 to serve this area. However, the interchange is not on the Transportation Improvement Plan (TIP) and so there is not a lot of emphasis placed on this concept in the plan. Rumors have it that all of the sewerage taps have been used as a due to recent developments and that South Franklin is going to have to construct its own sewerage plant as a result – who will pay for public sewerage? o South Franklin Township is still working to complete their Act 537 Sewage Management Plan, which will address the proposed plans for public sewerage. The comprehensive plan includes a summary of the draft plan and recommends that the Township implement the priority projects and recommendations contained in the Sewage Plan. Residents can obtain more information regarding the Sewage Plan by contacting the Township. Breakout Groups
Attendees were divided into two groups to review the future land use plan that is recommended for the project area as well as rank and prioritize the comprehensive plan recommendations. Final Public Meeting: July 13, 2009 at 7 PM
Attendance
46 residents (see PDF for list) Project Steering Committee Mackin Staff Redevelopment Authority of the County of Washington (RACW) Staff Welcome
South Franklin Township Supervisor Tom Hart opened the Public Meeting at 7:00 PM and explained that this was a meeting for the Comprehensive Plan along with the Township’s reasoning for undertaking the comprehensive planning process. He also explained that while the meeting would address topics such as housing development, sewage, and oil and gas wells, nothing was being proposed at the current time. In addition, he encouraged the attendees to come to the meeting the following evening on proposed plans for the Washington County Airport, such as expansion and development. Presentation
Mackin provided a PowerPoint presentation on what a comprehensive plan is, why it is important, what it will accomplish, and what the benefits of multi-municipal planning are. The presentation then provided a community snapshot detailing information on the following topics:
Demographic Characteristics Community Amenities Transportation Natural & Historic Resources Existing Land Use Housing Economic Development Questions & Answers
After presenting this information, Mackin opened the floor for questions:
Why was Mackin hired? o South Franklin & Green Hills worked with the Redevelopment Authority of the County of Washington to issue a request for proposals for a joint plan and through that process, Mackin was hired as the consultant. Why are we planning? o The comprehensive plan is a blueprint for the future regarding land use, development, preservation, etc. The public involvement process ensures that the plan is a reflection of the communities’ vision and not that of the consultant. How is it that there is an increase in the population in the child-rearing age group but the school district has declining enrollment? o There are many possible reasons, including but not limited to this age group within the project area may not have as many children as in years past; their children may be out of school already; etc. Why is South Franklin conducting a joint plan with Green Hills? Did they ask any other surrounding communities (Morris Township) to partner? o Communities can save money by planning together and can have a greater say in the amount, type, and location of future development in their partner municipalities. South Franklin and Green Hills recognize the impact that each has on the other, particularly in regards to development. They did not ask surrounding communities to partner. How can community residents stay involved, review the plan, etc.? o A final public meeting will be held in the spring of 2009 to present the draft plan and priority recommendations. In addition, residents may contact their local officials for project updates; log onto the South Franklin Township website; or contact Mackin. Has information been gathered regarding the large amount of land owned by the coal companies? o Township officials have noted this; however information is still being collected regarding the location, amount, and future plans and impact on the community. Visioning
Mackin led an exercise designed to develop a vision for South Franklin & Green Hills; asking what residents wanted their communities to look like in ten years, what residents like about where they live, what residents want to see improved, etc.
Maintain high quality of life – low crime, low traffic, peace and quiet Uphold rural character by preserving farmland and open space Attract new residents by offering an alternative to suburban sprawl – allow for limited residential and commercial development on a smaller scale within a country setting Encourage environmental sustainability by offering “greener” choices like recycling, solar panels, etc. Address future effects of longwall mining Breakout Groups
Attendees were asked to count off by three in order to divide into breakout groups; who were then asked to identify specific strengths, opportunities, issues and concerns within each plan element. Each group was facilitated by Mackin staff along with RACW staff.
Community Amenities:
The community’s rural character was identified as an overwhelming strength and residents appreciate the peace and quiet and are satisfied with the level of municipal services. Other strengths identified:
Access to major road networks and shopping amenities McGuffey school system, particularly the elementary school in the Township Low crime rates Fire and emergency services Township Park Accessible library services Public water in much of South Franklin Township
Identified concerns include:
Lack of volunteers and adequate funding for the fire department Appearance of SR 18 in South Franklin near the border with North Franklin o Need to address presence of junk, illegal dumping, littering, etc. o Need attractive “gateway” – signing welcoming visitors to area Lack of public sewage o Need to address failing systems o One of the groups felt that sewage should be extended and offered to all existing homes before offering it to any new construction residences o Need public sewage in Lagonda Village area and housing plans Need to extend public water o Two groups identified Jolly School and Moore Roads as in need State Police presence o Two of the groups stated that while state police are adequate for protection, they can be difficult to contact o Two groups identified the Township Park as in need of surveillance Expanded cell phone service o Two groups noted that the height restrictions associated with the Airport have restricted construction of additional cell towers Availability of Internet access o One group identified as a primary concern, particularly for school-aged children o Need high-speed service (only dial-up is available now) Need variety of recreational activities o One group noted the need for recreational activities for different age groups o One group identified a need for more community activities such as concerts or theater groups o Two groups identified a need for an area to rollerblade / skateboard Better Township / Borough Advertisement o One group noted that better advertising for activities and an up-to-date website for South Franklin Township are needed Lack of Recycling o One group expressed the need for a recycling program
Transportation:
Residents felt that transportation within the Project Area is overall satisfactory. Strengths identified include:
Low traffic Proximity to interstates and major highways Adequate winter road maintenance Recent improvements to the County Airport
Identified concerns include:
Speeding o All three groups noted, however no desire for local police presence Need pedestrian and bicycle access o Sidewalks are not a priority for any group o Two groups want safer biking routes, including wider shoulders on SR 18 o Two groups expressed a need for walking trails but one group felt the trails within the Township Park are sufficient o One group stated that there is a group of walkers that regularly meets to walk on Deerfield Road Lack of Public Transportation o One group identified a need for to extend public transportation service into the Project Area from Washington but another group noted that the current GG&C On-call service is adequate Need for a Park n’ Ride o One group noted a need for one in the Project Area but another group felt existing ones were sufficient Increased Traffic o One group noted that increased commercial development may worsen the bottleneck on SR 18 at the border between North Franklin and South Franklin o One group also identified the connector from South Franklin to the high school in Claysville as a priority Road Condition o One group is concerned about the impact of truck traffic (in relation to oil and gas well activity) on roads One-lane Bridges o One group noted the need to address one-lane bridges Airport Noise o Need to address the noise associated with the Airport
Natural and Historic Resources:
For the most part, natural resources are classified as assets while most residents note the lack of historic resources in the Project Area to preserve. Identified strengths include:
Abundant green space and wooded areas Low pollution
Identified concerns include:
Preserve Historic Resources o Two groups noted the Clark House (on old SR 18) as a priority o One group noted that there are old cemeteries that should be preserved for historic significance Flooding o One group noted flood prone areas near Scotty’s, the Airport, the Walker place, and the border between North and South Franklin Stormwater Runoff Sewage Overflow o One group noted the stream behind the VFD and other streams within the Project Area have sewage overflows and pollution issues Slumping o One group identified slumping on Deerfield and Lagonda Water Quality / Quantity o One group is concerned about the impact of gas wells on water wells and springs
Land Use, Economic Development, and Housing
As expressed during the visioning exercise, most of the residents wish to see very little development in order to preserve their high quality of life and rural character. However, many realize that there is a need to allow for controlled development, in areas where existing infrastructure can support it and developed in such a manner that does not detract from the existing nature of the community. Identified opportunities include:
Residential o More single-family homes to respond to increased demand in area o One group noted need for senior housing o One group noted need for a variety of housing options Commercial o Allow small commercial business, such as grocery store, bank, etc. along SR 18 o Want personal services / professional offices on a small scale – designed to serve the local population, not regional Industrial o Allow for small-scale industrial, similar to Lagonda Machine Identified concerns include:
Residential o Two groups stated that there is overcrowding in some of the mobile home parks o One group stated a need for senior housing while another felt there is no need to provide that type of housing o One group wanted to see townhouses while another sees them as too expensive and that people can move outside of Project Area for that type of housing Commercial o One group would like to see more attractive and prosperous-looking storefronts along SR 18 Industrial o One group wanted to see the Airport area used as an economic engine for the Project Area, while another did not wish to see any development near the Airport o One group stated the need for the Township to have solid working relationships with the coal, oil and gas companies Priority Concerns
Each group prioritized their top three issues and presented them to the larger audience.
Group 1 1. Sewage 2. Clean up unattractive areas 3. Recreation for multi-age groups
Group 2 1. Sewage 2. Controlled growth 3. Keep rural character
Group 3 1. Sewage/water extensions 2. Preserve rural open space and farmland—controlled development 3. Aesthetics- clean up community- 18 Exit Survey Summary
In total, 35 surveys were returned out of the 46 distributed.
Where do you live? South Franklin Township residents 32 Green Hills Borough resident 1 Morris Township residents (Prosperity) 2
How did you hear about the meeting? Local newspaper: 17 Posters/flyers: 11 Friends/word of mouth 7
Is there a better time to hold the meeting? No, 7 pm is good time 8 Yes, 6pm 1 Not on a hockey night; not on a snowy night;
Did the presentation adequately explain planning and the project? Yes: 28 No: 1 If no, why not? o Who is Green Hills Borough? o Why should South Franklin Township join with this Borough and not another Township? o Handouts would be nice o Better answers to questions – how much land is owned by coal company that in all likelihood cannot be developed?
Did you have an opportunity to convey your thoughts regarding development and community needs during the breakout groups?? Yes: 30 No: 1 If no, why not? o Not enough time
Any other comments regarding the meeting overall? Introduce all of the staff/speakers Productive meeting – hope that municipalities act on plan and move forward with improvements Speakers should write larger on the charts for audience to see Belief statements could be beneficial Speakers were wonderful – kept the crowd under control Very well run meeting Provide more ways for residents to be actively involved in plan development through e-mail and Internet communications Very informative
Priority Needs / Issues: 1. Sewerage / Water 2. Preserve Farmland & Rural Character 3. New Growth / Development 4. Airport Noise
Other identified issues include: Development: o Residential single-family homes for controlled development o Allow for limited residential o Limit the number of new mobile home parks / overcrowding o Low impact commercial businesses o Limit commercial development o Small industrial development along SR 18 o No industrial development o No new growth o Own property in South Franklin – need sewage for development Utilities: o Do not extend water and do not provide public sewage Municipal Services: o Local police force Natural Resources: o Restrict gas drilling and coal mining Transportation o Trail of some sort
Overall, what is the #1 issue facing the future of your community? 1. Sewerage 2. Overall appearance / community character
Other responses include: Build value to property by adding sewage and water – enhance desire to move and build hear in future Undesired urban sprawl; Preservation of farmlands / rural lifestyle; Restrain growth and development Recreation; Rural Character; SR 18 corridor for business Protect private properties from subsidence due to coal removal Not enough money to pay for all of the “wants” discussed tonight
Future Land Use Map Active farm at Deerfield and SR 18 – what are impacts of single-family residential designation on active farms? o Category encourages larger-lot residential dwellings, agricultural activities should be permitted as part of an “agricultural transition zone” Medium Density Category o Regulate lot size so that there are not 15 dwelling units on 1 acre, etc. o Support concept of conservation subdivisions to preserve open space / agriculture Can the Township regulate Airport land if the County owns it? o They can regulate the land through zoning and what types of uses are permitted How far south on SR 18 is sewage recommended? o Franklin Manor is the current terminus of recommended sewage as part of the Sewage Management Plan but the plan is still a draft and has not been adopted yet so it is still subject to change When will the current zoning ordinance become null and void? o It never expires once it is enacted. You can keep an ordinance in place for as long as you like, although it is helpful to update them every 10 or 15 years as communities change. If South Franklin chooses to update it, the new ordinance would then replace the existing one once enacted. If the Township gets public sewage, would it take over the package plant for the Green Hills housing development? o Yes, that plant would be decommissioned and the two municipalities would agree upon a tap-in fee structure for those residents What will happen to the other package plants in mobile home parks? o The Sewage Management Plan does not address any of the other package plants in the Township. Franklin Lakeview is in desperate need of sewage Do not see the need for any development – would like the community to stay exactly as it is How is future mining addressed, as the coal company owns large parcels of land? o It is difficult to regulate subsurface mining activities, however, most of that land is in the agriculture / wooded / open space category and is recommended to remain woodlands or open space. How will the projects identified be funded? o The plan is policy only – therefore it is still up to the local municipal officials to take action on the recommended projects. The plan will identify possible funding sources where appropriate. Priority Ranking Exercise Please see attached for a full summary of results.
Exit Survey Summary Please refer to attached handout for results from the Exit Surveys. Appendix 4: Web Survey Summary South Franklin Township & Green Hills Borough Comprehensive Plan Web Survey Results April 23, 2009
11 surveys returned (1 digital, 9 hardcopy)
Where are you from? South Franklin Township: 10 Green Hills Borough: 0
Did you attend the public meeting? Yes: 1 No: 9
If no, why not? Did not know about it: 9
Priority Rankings Results (Median ranking on a scale of 1-5, with 1= most important and 5= most important)
Community Facilities / Amenities Top Three: Extension of public sewerage Road maintenance Cell phone service / Internet service
Others (in order of ranking): Police response Code enforcement Fire protection Garbage collection Extension of public water Recycling
Parks and Recreation: Top Three: Walking trails Skate park Game lands Adult programs / activities Public park land
Others (in order of ranking): Children programs / activities Community center / indoor facility Playgrounds Senior programs / activities New / updated recreation facilities
Transportation Top Three: Road Safety Walking trails Public Transportation Others (in order of ranking): Bicycle routes Park N’ Ride Traffic congestion
Natural Resources Top Three: Illegal dumping Stormwater Stream / groundwater pollution Littering
Others (in order of ranking): Open space protection Flood protection Wildlife protection
Historic Resources Top Three: Documentation of historic cemeteries Recognition as “Home of Joe Walker” Historic markers placed at historic locations
Others (in order of ranking): Listing of historic properties on National Register Protect / promote historic farms
Agricultural Agricultural preservation through zoning Enrollment of farms in preservation programs Agritourism (promotion / marketing)
Residential Development Top Three: Single-family residential Senior housing Townhouses
Others (in order of ranking): Home maintenance assistance Duplexes
Economic Development Top Three: No more businesses needed Light industrial Small-scale retail Heavy industrial
Others (in order of ranking): Personal service businesses Gas service stations Professional offices Large-scale retail Growth & Development (number of people who checked the following items): (9) I would like to see public sewerage provided in the South Franklin / Green Hills (5) I would like to see more commercial development on SR 18 (5) I would like to see more light industrial / commercial development near the Airport (5) I would like to see farmlands / open space protected from new development (5)I would like to see the area promoted as a “rural alternative” to suburban development (3) I would like to see more residential development
The final question asked for top 5 priorities: The most popular responses were as follows: 1. Stormwater management 2. Protection of natural environment 3. Extension of sewerage 4. Preserving / protecting farmland 5. Walking trails / biking trails
Other priorities listed included: Upscale controlled growth Unification of two communities Regional partnerships with other neighbors such as Buffalo & N Franklin Speed control Place for pets (dog park or similar) Recreation for kids (skate park) Getting rid / cleaning up mobile home parks Appendix 5: Zoning Code & SALDO Summary Detailed Zoning Code Summary
A-1 Agricultural District Purpose: Provide for agricultural activities, together with low density residential uses and additional public and semipublic functions as may be compatible. This district intends to maintain agricultural activities in conjunction with limited residential development and prevent encroachment by land uses not compatible.
Permitted uses include: Single-family dwellings Duplexes Agricultural uses Churches and cemeteries Commercial recreation, outdoor
Conditional uses include: Extractive operations, including oil and gas wells, coal mining activities, etc. Mobile home parks Hospitals, clinics, and nursing home facilities Group residential facilities and daycare centers/homes
A-2 Agricultural Transition District Purpose: Provide for the continuance of existing agricultural and residential functions and accommodate a range of business and service activities related to emerging heavy commercial and industrial uses of land. This district intends to supplement and expand the economic strengths of the township while still offering protection to adjacent uses.
Permitted uses include: Single family detached dwellings, including home occupations Agricultural uses Automobile service stations, truck terminals, and freight depots Kennels and veterinary clinics Industrial parks Warehousing and storage, wholesale distribution, and manufacturing, fabrication, and processing activities Commercial recreation, outdoor
Conditional uses include: Junkyards Coal mining, underground Oil and gas wells Extractive operations
Special exception uses include: Public facilities, including health care and educational facilities
R-1 General Residential District Purpose: Provide for moderate density residential land uses in areas of the township where such activity is already established or is most likely to occur.
Permitted uses include: Single family detached dwellings Duplexes (two-family) Conditional uses include: Multi-family dwellings Daycare centers/homes Group residential facilities Public and private primary, secondary, and postsecondary schools
R-2 Rural Residential District Purpose: Provide for sites for low-density residential together with appropriate public and semi-public uses and accessory residential activities. This district is intended to provide for low-density, long term residential growth and preserve the characteristics of the existing neighborhood areas.
Permitted uses include: Single-family detached dwellings Duplexes
Conditional uses include Daycare centers/homes Public and private primary, secondary, and postsecondary schools Group residential facilities Coal mining adjunct operations Noncommercial keeping of farm animals
Special exception uses include: Conversion apartments Home occupations
C-1 Local Commercial Purpose: To provide for general shopping and business and professional facilities as a convenience for local residents and those of the surrounding vicinity.
Permitted uses include: Offices, and personal and business services Medical and dental clinics Retail stores, financial establishments, and restaurants Theaters
Conditional uses include: Automotive sales and service and automotive laundry facilities Hotels, motels, and lodges
C-2 Major Commerce District Purpose: To provide locations for light commercial, service, and heavy commercial and related activities where sites are oriented to major highway systems and other transportation facilities. In particular, these provisions relate to the use of property near the Washington County Airport by providing for uses that will complement the Airport and strengthen the local economy.
Permitted uses include: Public airport Businesses and sales offices Packaging and delivery services Printing and publishing Restaurants Sales retail and wholesale Service stations
Conditional uses include: Research laboratories Industrial parks Transportation depots and truck terminals Warehousing and storage Private contiguous off-site airport-related uses
FP Floodplain District Purpose: Established to protect designated floodplain areas subject to periodic inundation by overflow from streams situated in or contiguous to South Franklin Township. This district is intended to control and limit those uses and activities that may cause or contribute to loss and destruction of life and poverty during periods of flooding.
Land use controls: Uses permitted in zoning districts that are within designated floodplain overlay areas must demonstrate that they do not obstruct flood flows Hospitals, nursing homes, jails or prisons, and mobile home parks are specifically prohibited
A Airport District Purpose: Restricts and regulates the height of structures and other objects, the density of residential development, and otherwise regulates the use of property in the vicinity of the County Airport by creating appropriate zones and establishing associated boundaries of such zones.
Zones: Utility Runway Visual Approach Zone Transitional Zones Horizontal Zone Conical Zone
Lot, Area, and Dimension Requirements For the A-1 and A-2 Districts, the minimum lot size is 1 acre (except for agricultural uses, which is 10 acres), the minimum lot width is 120 feet, with minimum front yard setbacks in most cases set at 50 feet, and minimum rear yard setbacks at 40 feet. Maximum building height is 35 feet.
The R-2 District requirements are similar, with minimum lot size 1 acre in most cases (except for schools, daycare facilities, and noncommercial keeping of farm animals, which have minimum lot size requirements of 1.5 acres for the former two, and 2 acres for the latter), and minimum lot width varying between 120 to 140 feet, depending on use. Front setbacks are 50 or 60 feet in most cases, and minimum rear yard requirements are 40 or 50 feet. Maximum building height is 35 feet, and maximum lot coverage is 35 percent.
For the R-1 District, minimum lot area is between 20,000 square feet and 60,000 square feet, depending on the use, minimum lot width is between 100 to 150 feet, front setbacks are 50 or 60 feet, and minimum side yard setbacks are between 15 to 30 feet, depending on the use. Maximum building height is 35 feet, and maximum lot coverage is 35 percent.
C-1 Local Commercial District requirements provide for a minimum lot size of ½ acre, with a minimum lot width of 50 feet (except for auto-oriented conditional uses, which require 100 feet of lot width), front setbacks of 30 feet, side yard setbacks of 10 feet, rear yard setbacks of 25 feet, and a maximum building height of 35 feet. Maximum lot coverage is 60 percent. C-2 Major Commerce District requirements provide for a minimum lot size of ½ acre, with a minimum lot width of 100 feet, front yard setback of 50 feet, side yard setback of 25 feet, rear yard setback of 35 feet, and maximum building height of 35 feet. Maximum lot coverage is 30 percent.
Detailed SALDO Summary
Summary of SALDO Design Standards: Street requirements, which includes but is not limited to the following: 1. Street Widths: All right-of-ways must be at least 50 feet in width, arterial right-of-ways must be 60 feet in width. Cartways must be 20 feet for local roads, 24 feet for collector roads, and 30 feet for arterial roads. 2. Grade: No arterial or collector may have a grade of more than 7 percent, and local streets may not have a grade of greater than 12 percent 3. Cul-de-sac streets may not exceed 600 feet in length, and must have a turnaround with a cartway diameter of 80 feet, and right-of-way diameter of 100 feet. 4. Residential driveways must be at least 10 feet in width and have a minimum radius of 10 feet. One-way commercial/industrial driveways must have at least 12 feet in width and two-way commercial/industrial driveways must have a minimum width of 24 feet; however, no driveway may exceed 30 feet in width. Lot standards and requirements, including but not limited to the following: 1. All lots must have full frontage abutting a public street 2. All lot lines shall be let perpendicular or radial to the street centerline if possible 3. No lot area requirement or setback may be computed from within a public right-of-way 4. No land shall be graded or filled so as to create a slope exceeding a vertical rise of 1 foot for each 2 feet of horizontal distance between abutting lots, unless there is a retaining structure approved by the Township Engineer Utility easements, including but not limited to the following: 1. A minimum of 20 feet in width is to be placed at the side or rear of lots for utility easements, and underground wherever possible Sidewalks should be provided for wherever possible Open space, including but not limited to the following: 1. If adequate public recreation/open space does not exist within ½ mile of proposed residential subdivision exceeding 5 acres, the governing body may require the developer to provide such public or open space as a prerequisite to plan approval. Areas for park, playground, or similar active recreational use shall be set aside and shall comprise a minimum of 10 percent of the total subdivided area, exclusive of streets.
Appendix 6: Washington County Agricultural Programs & Resources Agricultural Programs and Organizations in Washington County Title Address Objectives Protect viable agricultural lands by acquiring agricultural conservation easements Provide financial incentives to farmers for relinquishing their development rights Washington County Encourage the formation of Agricultural Security Areas Farmland Preservation 100 West Beau St. Protect normal farming operations Program Washington, PA 15301 Assure conservation of viable agricultural lands Delivery of National Farm Programs, mandated by 2800 North Main St. Congress through the 1996 Farm Bill (including the Washington County Farm Extension Commodity Loan Program, Farm Loan Program, Service Agency/ USDA Washington, PA 15301 Conservation Program, Disaster Program, etc) 2801 North Main St. To provide quality leadership and service for the USDA Natural Resources Extension stewardship and conservation of Pennsylvania's natural Conservation Service Washington, PA 15301 resources. 100 West Beau St. Suite Provide educational and research resources including 4-H Penn State Cooperative 601 programs, Nutrition Education, Urban and Community Extension Washington, PA 15301 Forestry, Soil Testing and Insect Identification, etc. Region 7 South Western The overall goals of the PEC aim to make it easier, more 201 Madison St. affordable, safer and more enjoyable to own equines and Pennsylvania Equine Monroeville, PA 15146 participate in equestrian sports in the Commonwealth of Council 412-373-4210 Pennsylvania To assist in the conservation of soil, water, and other 101 West Beau St. Suite natural resources of the county Washington County 602 To protect important farmland Conservation District Washington, PA 15301 To provide environmental education 100 West Beau St. Suite Washington County Diary 601 To promote the local diary industry and educate Club Washington, PA 15301 consumers on the health benefits of diary products Encourage the production of quality beef cattle Washington County To identify solutions of problems with the beef industry Cattlemen's Association, 213 Pine Run Rd. To promote the consumption of beef Inc. Amity, PA 15311 To promote youth interest in the beef industry Washington County Ag 261 Pine Run Rd. Promote and educate the public by having demonstrations Days Amity, PA 15311 and shows of Washington County Agricultural Products 287 Ridge Rd. To promote and publicize the agricultural products of Washington County Fair McDonald, PA 15057 Washington County Promote agriculture in the county and state by providing Washington County 130 Statement Ave. extended insurance for home and farm, educational Pomona Grange Washington, PA 15301 programs and charity promotions. To promote the sheep industry. To educate the consumer to the healthy choice that lamb represents. Provide for the selling of wool, education Washington County Sheep 297 Rural Valley Rd. programs, training programs, and networking and Wool Growers Claysville, PA 15323 opportunities. Active participation in the legislative process locally, statewide and nationally Providing services to aid members in group rates and Washington County Farm 128 Cowden Road discounts Bureau Burgettstown, PA 15021 Sponsoring programs to educate and inform members