MENNO TOWNSHIP, MIFFLIN COUNTY, PA COMPREHENSIVE PLAN: 1994 - 201 5
THIS PROJECT WAS FINANCED, IN PART, BY A GRANT FROM THE FEDERAL DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT, UNDER THE ADMINISTRATION OF THE COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA, DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNITY AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT.
Prepared By MENNO TOWNSHIP PLANNING COMMISSION MICHAEL CABOT ASSOCIATES, COMMUNlTY PLANNERS SEPTEMBER, 1998 LIST OF OFFICIALS
I SEPTEMBER, 1998
TOWNSHIP SUPERVISORS
0 Charles C. Vogt, Chairman Stephen T. Dunkle, Vice Chairman 0 Harold E. Johnson, Jr.
I1 TOWNSHIP PLANNING COMMISSION
Former Members: ~ Current Members:
0 Anna Marie Yoder, Chairperson 0 Karen Bulick 0 Dale Buchanan 0 Leonard Yoder 0 Paul Woodring
STAFF PARTICIPATION
0 Harold E. Johnson, Jr., Township Secretary 0 Stephen S. Snook, Township Solicitor
CONSULTING SERVICES
0 Sweetland Engineering a Michael Cabot Associates, Community Planners
'I I MENNO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN: 1994 - 2015
TABLE OF CONTENTS I PAGE NO. I
SECTION I: INTRODUCTION 1 I - Location and Regional Context 1 - Character of Natural Environment 1 - Land Use and Socio-Economic Character of the Community 2 I - Need for the Comprehensive Plan 2 - Purpose of the Comprehensive Plan ‘3 I - Planning Decision-Making Process “‘3 - Orangization of this Report 5 I SECTION II: MAJOR PLANNING OPPORTUNITIES AND ISSUES 6 - Community Assets of Menno Township 6 I - Issues to be Addressed in this Plan (Existing Needs and Problems) 8 - Population Projection and Growth Potential 14 1 SECTION 111: DIRECTION FOR THE PLAN 18
- Basic Planning Propositions and Principles 18 1 - General Goals of Community Development and Conservation 19 - Future Development Options and Concept Plan 20 m SECTION IV: FUTURE LAND USE PLAN . 23
- Introduction 23 1 - Agricultural Preservation 23 - Objectives 24 - Recommended Land Use Policies Relative to Farmland Preservation 24 1 - Implementation Strategies for Farmland Preservation 26 - Open Space Conservation 26 - Open Space Conservation Objectives 26 1 - Recommended Land Use Policies Relative to Open Space Conservation 26 - Implementation Strategies for Open Space Conservation 29 - Commercial and Industrial Land Use Plan 29 I - Objectives 30 - Commercial and Industrial Land Use Policy Recommendations 30 1 - Implementation Strategies 31 - . 31 Residential Land Use Plan .. - Objectives 31 I - Specific Land Use Proposals 32 - Conclusion 36 1 I TABLE OF CONTENTS (cont.)
PAGE NO.
SECTION V: HOUSING PLAN 37
- Characteristics of Existing Housing Stock 37 - Existing Housing Issues and Problems in the Township 38 - Future Housing Demand Projection 38 - Housing Issues to be Addressed 39
SECTION VI: COMMUNITY FACILITIES PLAN 42
- Menno Township Municipal Building . 42 Introduction - * 43 - Characteristics of the Township Building 43 - Evaluation and Recommendations 43 - Allensville Public Library 44 - Characteristics of the Library Space 45 - Menno Township Fire Fighting Facilities Plan 45 - Introduction 46 - Facilities and Needs of Fire Company 46 - Table - Allensville Volunteer Fire Company Service Area, Existing Facilities and Needs 47 - Fire Fighting Plan Recommendations 49 - Cooperation Among the Fire Companies and the Township 52 - Menno Township Existing Recreation Facilities and Plan 54 - Condition and Evaluation 54 - Table - Allensville Park and Playground Area Characteristics 55 Recommendation for Additional Play Area '. 56 - Menno Township Maintenance Center 57 Menno Township Community Building - ' 58 - Recommendations 58 - Menno Township Public Sewer and Water Utility Systems 59 - Existing Public Sewer Facilities 59 - Public Water Facilities 60 - Historic Structures 62 - Introduction 62
SECTION VII: TRANSPORTATION PLAN 63
- Introduction 63 - Classification of Existing Road System 65 - Table - Classification of Existing Roads in Menno Township 65 - Road Improvement Standards . 66 - Table - Road Standards, By Type of Road ' 66 - Existing Road Deficiencies 66 - Transportation Recommendations 68 TABLE OF CONTENTS (cont.)
PAGE NO.
SECTION VIII: PLAN CORRELATION STATEMENT 72
- Introduction 72 - Section 301(a) 4.1 - Statement of Plan Interrelationships Among Various Plan Components 72 - Section 301(a) 4.2 - Statement of Short and Long Range Implementation Strategies, Including Implications for Capital Improvement Plans and for New or Updated Development Regulations and Identification of Available Public Funds 74 - Section 301(a) 5 - Statement Indicating the Relationship of Existing and Proposed Development of the Township to Plans of Contiguous Municipalities and to Plans for the County and the Regional Area 75 - Future Township Actions 76
APPENDIX: BACKGROUND STUDIES
A. 1992 COMMUNITY IMPROVEMENT QUESTIONNAIRE SURVEY A- 1
B. POPULATION ANALYSIS B- 1
C. POPULATION AND HOUSEHOLD PROJECTIONS c-1
D. ENVIRONMENTAL RESOURCE AND CONSTRAINTS ANALYSIS D- 1
E. 1993 LAND USE ANALYSIS E- 1
F. ECONOMIC ANALYSIS F- 1
LIST OF MAPS
EXISTING LAND USE LAND USE PLAN EXISTING BUILDING CONDITIONS TRANSPORTATION PLAN EXISTING STREET AND ROAD CONDITIONS COMMUNITY FACILITIES PLAN - ALLENSVILLE EXIST1NG COMMUNITY FAClLlTlES NEIGHBORHOOD AREAS SLOPE SOIL SUITABILITY FOR SEPTIC TANK ABSORPTION FIELDS PUBLIC WATER & PUBLIC SEWER SERVICE PLAN AGRICULTURAL SOILS ENVIRONMENTAL RESOURCES AND CONSTRAINTS COMPOSITE ENVIRONMENTAL CONSTRAINTS FOR DEVELOPMENT SECTION I: INTRODUCTION I I I I I I I I I I
I REGIONAL LOCATION I MlFFLlN COUNTY I t
MlFFLlNI COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION 1 MIc~~AELCABOT ASSOCIATES, COMMUNITV PLANNERS I THIS P&]ECT WAS FINANCED, IN PART, BY A GRANT FROM THE FEDERAL DEPARTMM
I. MENNO TOWNSHIP, MlFFLlN COUNTY, PA OF HUD, UNDER THE ADMINISTRATION OF THE COMMONWEMTH OF PA, DEPARTMENT OF . >. COMMUNITY AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT. , . -: I 6 SECTION I 1 INTRODUCTION I LOCATION AND REGIONAL CONTEXT 1 Menno Township is located in the northwest corner of Mifflin County, bounded by Huntington County on the north and west and by Union and Oliver Townships on the east and south respectively. The Township is bisected in an east-west II direction by PA State Route 655 which connects the Township to Belleville and US Route 322 to the east. To the west, PA State 655 connects the Township to I Huntingdon County. Major urban concentrations, located within approximately a 20-mile radius. of the U Village of Allensville in Menno Township includes the following: - State College to the north (about 20 miles) - Borough of Lewistown to'the southeast (about 15 miles) 8 - Borough of Huntingdon to the west (about 12 miles)
The actual driving distances between the Township and these various centers are I significantly longer than might be expected due to the travel time required to traverse steep mountainous terrain. Actual driving time to these various points e varies between about 30 to 45 minutes. CHARACTER OF NATURAL ENVIRONMENT
I Physiographically, Menno Township lies in Appalachian Mountain Section of the Ridge and Valley Province. Kishacoquilias Valley (or "Big Valley") extends on both sides of Route 655, including about one-half of the entire Township area. 'The # valley is formed by the mountain slopes of Stone Mountain and Jacks Mountain which border the northerly and southerly sections of the Township. These I mountain slopes occupy the remaining area of the Township. From the valley bottom to the mountain top, elevations of the Township range from 820 feet to 2,090 feet above the sea level. Kishacoquilias Creek is the major stream within the I Township, with two major tributaries called Little Kishacoquilias Creek and King's Hollow Creek. 1 The climate in the region is humid continental. The average annual rainfall in the region amounts to about 38 inches. Summers are warm and at times humid. Winters are cold and cloudy. During the summer temperatures range from less 1 than 45 degree F to more than 90 degrees F. During the winter, daily maximum temperature average in the upper ~O'S,and nighttime minimum temperatures I average in the lower 20's. The average growing season is 173 days. I 1 8 I LAND USE AND SOCIO-ECONOMIC CHARACTER OF THE COMMUNITY
Menno is one of the smaller Townships in the County, occupying an area of 24.7 I square miles. In 1990, the entire population of the Township consisted of only 1,637 persons and there were only 516 housing units in the entire Township. 1 Menno Township is a rural-agricultural Township with many active farms and agricultural activities. According to a 1993 land use survey, less than 7% of the 1 entire Township area is developed for residential, commercial, industrial, public and semi-public uses, as well as highways and roads. Agricultural land use accounts for nearly 54% of the entire Township area, being the predominant land use in the 1 Township, followed by woodland which accounts for about 39%. Farming is a major economic activity in the Township. Consequently, agriculture constitutes the economic base of the Township. The Allensville Planing Mill is the major industry I in the Township with about 180 employees in September of 1998.
The unincorporated Village of Allensville is the most significant small urban I concentration in the Township, located primarily on the north side of PA Route 655, near the westerly border of the Township. Other small population groupings exist along PA Route 655. 1
Menno Township is well known as a Township with a sizable Amish farming population. Most of the farmers in the Township are members of the Amish or I Mennonite community. They practice their beliefs and maintain their culture in the traditional manner. Horse drawn buggies and traditional Amish or Mennonite dress are commonplace in Menno Township. Due to the larger sized families of the 1 Amish and Mennonite population, average household size in Menno is significantly larger (3.56 persons per household) as compared to Mifflin County (2.58) and the Statewide (2.57) figures. 1 NEED FOR THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN a This Menno Township comprehensive planning program was promoted by numerous serious existing problems which are affecting the entire population and the environmental quality of the area, and by the fact that the Township has never 1 completed a planning program of its own. 1 Some of the problems have existed for many years, and some have emerged more recently. For instance, there have been conflicts arising between the special needs of the farming and Amish population and the residents of the more developed I Allensville Area. In addition, because of its proximity to State College and its attractive farming and undeveloped areas, the Township is expecting to receive growth from that area. I The population of the Township has apparently stabilized at about 1,659 persons at the end of 1997. This stabilization is due primarily to the net out-migration of 1 persons from the Township to other locations. If the out-migration had not occurred, the population of the Township would have increased significantly over I 2 1 ..
the last 20 to 30 years due to the natural increase of the population resulting from the large number of births which exceeded deaths in the Township since at least 1970. This net migration issue should be addressed in the Plan.
The Township Supervisors are fully committed to resolving the various problems I and needs of the Township, including the differences affecting Amish/Mennonite and other residents. They recognize now that there is a need to address these issues immediately before the pace of development accelerates and opportunities I to guide new growth are lost.
PURPOSE OF THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN
This comprehensive planning program is intended to address these needs. In effect, this Comprehensive Plan will become an action-oriented program which will clearly identify long and short term goals and establish priorities for immediate and long term action for the entire Township. The proposed Comprehensive Development Strategy will provide the necessary detail required to properly improve and preserve the farming and Village areas and to provide for the proper growth of residential and non-residential areas. In addition, it will assess the population and I social needs of all residents and will include programs to meet such needs, particularly those which impact on low and moderate income persons and on the differences affecting various groups.
The purpose of this Menno Township Comprehensive Plan is to provide a framework for future decision-making. The Plan presents the direction and guidelines for the development of Menno over the 20 year period between 1994 - 201 5. This plan should serve as a guide for future decision-making by the Township relative to its economic development, living environment, land use, housing, transportation and community facilities. As stated in the PA Municipalities Planning Code (MPC), once this Comprehensive Plan is officially adopted by the Township, any subsequent proposed action of the Township shall be consistent with the provisions of the Comprehensive Plan. This includes the adoption and amendment of Zoning Ordinance, Subdivision and Land Development Ordinance, provisions for planned residential development, and capital .improvement program.
PLANNING DECISION-MAKING PROCESS
This Menno Township Plan was developed through comprehensive planing process which included the following basic steps:
1. PreDaration of Detailed Backaround Studies and Maw - This step identifies the various needs and planning issues to be addressed and provides the necessary information relative to the needs and issues upon which decisions, goals, detailed plans and private and public implementation actions &an be based.
3 I
2. Decision-Makinq - This step establishes future goals and provides decisions on how the various needs identified above will be addressed. It also I includes a consideration of alternative approaches.
3. Preparation of Recommended Comprehensive Development Strateay - This a step prepares Comprehensive Development Strategy, including plans and recommendations, relative to all of the needs identified above. This presents specific proposals relative to environmental protection, land use, housing, I roads, public facilities and utilities, economic development and social needs of the Township, and also establishes priorities for action. 1 4. Development of Plan Implementation Proarams - This includes preparation of a Subudivision and Zoning Ordinances to be used to implement the Plan. I The new Subdivision and Land Development Ordinance was adopted early in the process to control subdivision and land developments in a successful attempt to control and manage new development in the Township prior to I the completion of the Plan. Much of the information used for this plan was gathered through a questionnaire I survey, field surveys, existing published reports, meetings and interviews with the Township Supervisors and other personnel of the Township, and with interviews and information received from other agencies including the Mifflin County Planning I Commission.
A new Planning Committee was established that participated in the planning 1 process through 1994, after which an official Planning Commission was created the Supervisors. The Planning Commission participated in the planning process since that time and gave particular attention to the adoption of the proposed I Zoning Ordinance, a process which intensively involved the participation of the Amish community. The zoning process identified land use issues and conflicts between the Amish and non-Amish population which has taken several years to i resolve and which delayed the completion of the Land Use Plan, whenever possible. These issues have been resolved and suitable compromises achieved so that the overall plan could be completed in 1998. The Amish and non-Am'ish I participants in the planning process were respectful of each other and it achieved better understanding of the needs of both groups and of the dynamics of the interests of each group and their needs to work together to resolve common B issues. It was a successful learning process which has resulted in a more useable Comprehensive Plan and proposed Zoning Ordinance which meets the needs of both groups. The Amish community has also increased their participation in I community life permitting them to be better represented in governmental actions which affect their lives. 1 The first Comprehensive Plan report was first prepared in 1994 and it has been reviewed by the Supervisors and the Township Planning Commission. This Plan I reflects the latest comments of the Supervisors and the Planning Commission. The Township intends to officially adopt this Plan after review by the required agencies 1 4 1 as required by the adoption process set forth in the PA Municipalities Planning Code (Act of 1968, P.L. 805, No. 247).
Numerous public meetings have been held on the Plan and proposed Zoning Ordinance. At least one public hearing will be required on the plan before it is adopted to afford local citizens an opportunity to comment.
After this plan is adopted, the Township should review this comprehensive plan periodically to ensure that the Township is moving in a positive direction as agreed to in the Plan.
ORGANIZATION OF THIS REPORT
This plan report consists of eight sections. After the introductory section, the second section will summarize major planning opportunities and issues in terms of community assets and existing problems, as derived from previous background study reports for this plan. The third section deals with a direction for the plan, which includes the statement of community development goals and future development options and a concept plan. Sections Four through Seven present plans for land use, housing, community facilities and transportation. Section Eight presents a Plan Correlation Statement as required by the PA Municipalities Planning Code and other concluding statements.
Various Background Studies and Analyses are presented in the Appendix which includes the following sections: ..
- A. Community Improvement Questionnaire Survey and Analysis - 6. Population Analysis - C. Population and Household Projections - D. Environmental Resources and Constraints Analysis - E. 1993 Land Use Analysis - F. Economic Analysis
The Subdivision and Land Developoment Ordinance and the Zoning Ordinance are presented in separate reports.
5 1 I I SECTION 11: B MAIOR PLANNING OPPORTUNITIES I AND ISSUES I I 1 0 1 I 1 I 1 I Y 1 I 8 SECTION II
MAJOR PLANNING OPPORTUNITIES AND ISSUES
As an important part of this plan, this section presents an evaluation of major planning opportunities and issues to be addressed by this Comprehensive Plan. It is based on the previous background study reports prepared for this plan which are summarized in the Appendix to the Plan. First, it assesses the available resource, strengths and regional opportunities of the Township. Then, it identifies the weakness, key issues or major problems of the community.
COMMUNITY ASSETS OF MENNO TOWNSHIP
Each community or place has its own unique history, natural setting, and cultural tradition. Nature, history, culture (people) and physical location, together make a place what it was, is and will be. It is important to recognize the uniqueness or character of a place or community because it contributes significantly to the quality of life of each place. This Comprehensive Plan is based on an assets-oriented approach which focuses on positive aspects, factors, or opportunities of the community. Future development of Menno Township should be built upon its natural, economic and cultural resources.
Major community assets of Menno Township have been identified as follows:
Vast Prime Farmlands and Aaricultural Tradition - There are large areas of fertile agricultural soils in the Township. Farmland is the largest land use area of the Township, totaling 8,222 acres which accounts for 54% of the entire Township area. These farmlands, together with the Amish population that are so involved in farming, are an important asset to the local economy and the aesthetic quality. Agriculture is the major economic activity'of the Township. Fields and farmsteads are important elements of the place and character of the Township. Agriculture should and can continue to play an important role in the Township's economy and to contribute significantly to the attractive local landscape which has evolved. The preservation of agriculture will be a major objective of this Comprehensive Plan.
Sianificant UndeveloDed Forest Land - Woodland is the second largest land use in the Township, which accounts for nearly 5,907 acres or 38.7% of the entire Township area. Most of these woodlands occur in Jacks Mountain and Stone Mountain areas which border the "Big Valley" area. Such vast woodland not only makes the Township visually attractive, but also provides opportunities for recreation, tourism, and the lumbering industry.
Attractive Rural LandscaDe Scenery - As the land use of the Township is dominated by farmland and woodland, the Township presents an attractive rural landscape. A vast rolling farming field with distinctive farmsteads against a distant background of forest covered ridges are a common scene in
6 the Township. Such a landscape character has attracted people to move into the Township to reside from nearby urbanized areas. A number of seasonal homes have also been developed in the Township for the similar reason.
The landscape scenery of many of the farmland areas of the other rural areas in Mifflin County has been affected by strip commercial and residential development along the roads which provide access to the farmlands and thereby presenting a visual barrier between the traveler on the highway and the attractive landscape and farm scenery behind the strip development. This has not yet occurred in Menno Township and this community asset should be preserved.
0 Strona and Uniaue Amish and Mennonite Cultural Tradition - A significant number of Amish and Mennonite people live in the Township. The Amish and Mennonite population are each very close knit and self-contained societies that live together and practice farming and other endeavors. Their life style characterized by their strong sense of community and close relationship to nature, joy of work, as well as their long established. sustainable agricultural practices and experience, present a unique cultural identity and value to the society. More and more people have been attracted to learn about Amish community and their culture.
0 Villaae of Allensville - The Village of Allensville located in westerly end of the Township along Main Street (PA Rte. 655) retains the character of an older rural Village. This village has a number of problems which must be addressed, particularly as it grows and changes in the future.
More recently, over the last 10 to 15 years various younger Amish families that have not been able to purchase existing farms have purchased homes within Allensville. These families have established homesteads on the smaller lot areas, including the construction of barns, the keeping of horses used for transportation by Amish families, and establishment of gardens.
The requirements of modern life of this local rural village and increase in Amish families must be accommodated in mutually respectful manner by both Amish and non-Amish residents, without changing the essential character and appeal of the village.
Opportunities for compatible growth around the Village must be encouraged which build on the essential character of the village.
0 Proximitv To Several Urban Emdovment and Service Centers - The Township’s proximity to State College, Belleville in adjoining Union Township, Reedsville in Brown Township and Lewistown and Huntingdon Boroughs have several implications. First, the potential growth of these nearby urban centers in the region may bring development opportunities to the Township. Second, residents of the Township could share or take
7 advantage of the services and facilities provided in those urban centers, reducing some of the development pressure on the Township.
ISSUES TO BE ADDRESSED IN THIS PLAN (EXISTING NEEDS AND PROBLEMS)
Between April. 1989 and Auaust of 1990, a series of public meetinas were held by the Township Supervisors to discuss the Township problems and needs. In these meetings, residents were invited to indicate their views on what they considered to I be the major needs of the Township. .. In addition, during August through October of 1992, the Community Improvement Questionnaire Survey forms, as part of this comprehensive planning program, were mailed by the Township to the 460 households within the municipality to obtain opinions of residents of the Township concerning planning problems.
Based on those meetings and the survey, as well as other background studies, major needs and issues of the Township have been identified and are summarized as follows:
1. Social and Economic Needs of the PoDulation - The population of Menno Township has experienced continuing growth up to the year 1980. After 1980 growth slowed down significantly increasing by only 69 persons (approximately) between 1980 and the end of 1997 (17 years). In effect, the population of the Township reached a relative balance and stability at a level of about 1,659 persons. The reasons for this stabilization and'relative balance have been explored in a special report titled "Population and Household Projections" dated July, 1998 which is included in Appendix C.
The problem appears to be a continuing net out-migration of the population of both the Amish and non-Amish persons due to the following:
- Lack of sufficient farmland in the Township to accommodate the need for new farms by the younger Amish generations coming of age that wish to continue farming in the Township.
- The lack of sufficient employment opportunities for non-Amish families, particularly for the younger non-Amish generations coming of age that wish to continue to reside in the Township.
Birth rates of the population have been relatively high since 1970 through the end of 1997. In contrast, death rates have been relatively low resulting in a "natural increase" in population. Unfortunately, this natural increase could not be accommodated in the Township due to the shortage of farmland and to a lack of jobs. A solution to this dilemma is essential if the Township wants to serve the needs of the existing Amish and non-Amish families presently living in the Township. This involves the creation of new employment opportunities and the provision of opportunities for the businesses that would appeal to and be consistent with their lifestyle and
8 beliefs and the growth of industry to provide modest employment opportunities.
This is not an issue of trying to stimulate growth and development for its own sake to bring in large numbers of new people. Instead, it is an issue of providing opportunities and jobs necessary to serve the needs of the natural increase resulting from the needs of existing families in the Township to the modest extent necessary to reduce the out-migration of the younger generations.
This includes relatively larger sized families with children, and with distinct culture characteristics. All age groups are represented in the Township's population, and this requires facilities and services to meet the social needs of a varied population. Such needs include education, recreation, health, child and adult care, welfare, senior citizen services and drug care. 'These needs can be provided by numerous County and non-profit agencies, but coordination and participation by the Township is required.
In 1989, a Township-wide low and moderate income survey was conducted which indicated that 58.1 % of all persons in the Township were in the low and moderate income category. This includes Amish/Mennonite and other persons. The total number of low and moderate income persons is estimated to be about 1,000 persons, a very significant number for Menno Township. The 1987 Per Capita Income Report of the US Bureau of the Census indicated that Menno Township has the third lowest per capita income ($5,770) of &I municipalities in Pennsylvania. Therefore, the need for a continuing improvement of the economic base of the Township must be addressed to provide more job opportunities which provide higher potential and which could broaden the Township's tax revenue base. In particular, economic activities that are essential for meeting the needs of the low and moderate income population should be identified and promoted.
2. Environmental Issues - Some current economic activities have caused serious problems that have adverse impacts on the natural environment and residen- tial areas in the Township. The increasing demand for wood to construct "Palettes" needed by industry for loading, transportation and unloading of factory products is having an affect on Menno Township, and also on other Townships in the area. This demand is fueled by large companies and brokers that make arrangements for the quick harvesting of available wood- lands. These are very fast "in and out" operations which permit operators to construct haphazard and poorly designed "haul" roads and "skid trails" up the steep mountain slopes for the purpose of providing quick access to the timber resources on these slopes. These operations are carried out without benefit of proper design practices or forestry plans. They deplete the mountainsides of the necessary vegetation required to restrict fast runoff of rain water and to protect the watershed for the public water supply system. These poorly controlled logging activities result in environmental degradation, siltation of creeks, soil erosion, adverse effect on watershed.
9 Small sawmill operations in the Township, of both a temporary and permanent nature, have increased in recent years. These operations use both local and imported lumber. The sawmills are noisy and sometimes promotes the poor harvesting of timber as described above, and some.are located in the areas which adversely affect adjoining residential and agricultural uses.
In addition, these larger scale timber harvesting and sawmill activities have also resulted in the following problems:
- Air pollution from the burning of sawdust and scraps of wood from the sawing operation;
- Public safety problems for school buses and children who use the same roads traveled by logging trucks;
- Additional wear and tear on Township roads from heavy logging trucks; .. - Potential use of child labor who work in the sawmills
Residents and Township Supervisors have become alarmed at the negative effects of the current logging activities in the Township. It has been realized that these activities must be carefully and properly controlled. Proper location, in accordance with a "Land Use Plan" and a "Zoning Ordinance" and proper back-up by the PA Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) are essential to properly control these uses in an environmentally sound manner. Therefore, there is a need for the Township to adopt its own Zoning Ordinance to control this activity and also to treat these activities as "land developments" under the Township's Zoning Ordinance.
A new environmental issue has recently emerged in the County relative to the need to control large scale commercial farming operations, including large scale production of hogs, chickens and other animals which result in
the need to dispose of large amounts of animal manure and wastes. ' This will require more effective controls and regulations in local Zoning and Subdivision and Land Development Ordinances.
3. Land Use Problems - Land use problems resulting from incompatible land use exist in the Township, which create adverse effects on both residential living environment and preservation of prime farmland, and cause nuisance problems. This is evidenced in conflicts between the Amish and Mennonite population and other residents due to significantly different life styles.
For example, the expansion of Amish and Mennonite families into or adjacent to the Allensville Area has created land use problems of a significant nature. As the Amish and Mennonite population grows there is a need for younger
10 members of the family to purchase or build their own home so that they can maintain their way of life after marriage. Movements that are fueled by the lack of sufficient farms for the younger Amish populations.
This has not created major problems for such families located on farms. However, because of the shortage of available land newer families may move into or adjacent to the Village of Allensville. Their traditional lifestyle requires the need for a barn and stable to house a horse and buggy which is used for transportation and also other livestock such as turkey, chicken and sheep. Such uses in very close proximity to neighbors, generate od'ors, flies, insects and rodents, and result in a lowering of real estate values. In addition, there are no public sewers in Allensville or elsewhere in the Towns hip.
These families may also require the use of diesel engines for power and the generation of electricity, with resulting odors and noise. These practices are also potential health problems in areas which have small lot sizes and which are dependent on on-lot sewer systems.
These land use problems need to be resolved through a Comprehensive Land Use Plan and related Zoning and Subdivision and Land Development Ordinances which address these specific issues and which provide develop- ment opportunities to create new types of developments which permit the creation of rural area businesses in certain locations.
4. Housina Needs - In 1990, the Township had a total of about 1,637 persons housed in about 460 occupied housing units. 35% (or 180) of the housing units in the Township were constructed before 1940. These older homes are located in both the Village and on the farms. Many of these older homes suffer from inadequate original construction, and they lack adequate water, sewer, electric, plumbing, heating and other facilities. Some few homes still maintain outdoor privies. Consequently, they fall into disrepair easily and tend to be occupied by very low income persons, particularly in the more isolated sections of the Township. The condition of older housing in the Township is generally worse than one would find in the more developed urban areas of the County.
There is a high level of home ownership, 74.4% in 1980. This combined with the old housing stock indicates that housing rehabilitation assistance for low and moderate income households is required. It is estimated that at least 20% of all of the housing units in the Township, approximately 90 units, are in need of rehabilitation.
Vacancy rates in the Township are relatively low since the location and rural character is perceived as a desirable place in which to live. However, the extent of affordable housing and available sites for new development does not meet the full need of Township residents. Land suitable for new development, which does not encroach on prime agricultural land, is not in
11 abundance. Therefore, new potential housing sites need to be carefully identified.
5. Road Svstem Needs and Drainage Problems - The following road improvements were identified:
- Need to improve local roads and to provide for improvement of private roads not under the jurisdiction of the Township
- Need for improvement along PA Route 655
- Need to coordinate with PennDOT
- Need to establish road improvement standards to be used by new d eve Io pe rs .. - The proper use and administration of its Land Subdivision and Development Ordinance is needed to ensure adequate construction of new roads and facilities by developers
Various drainage problems exist in different locations which must be identified and addressed. Controls for avoiding such problems in the future are essential.
6. Issues Related to Communitv Facilities - Major issues related to community facilities are as follows:
0 Need To ImDrove Public Water Svstem - The existing public water supply system, which serves both Allensville and some of the agricultural areas in the Township was identified as a problem since in 1994 it was old and suffered from a deterioration of the water lines. These water lines have excessive leakage much in excess of the actual water used by the users of the system. This water supply is dependent upon the maintenance of the large watershed area which consists of the mountain slopes along the north and south borders of the Township. This need for the water system to be improved and for the preservation of the watershed areas has been addressed during the preparation of this Comprehensive Plan and recently completed in 1997.
The Plan now includes an identification of expanded areas of public water service to serve the new areas proposed for development surrounding the Allensville area. The Zoning Ordinance also provides for the protection of the watershed which feeds the well water supply for the water supply.
0 Possible Need For Public Sewer Svstem - At present, the Township does not have any public sewer system facilities. About 85% of all
12 requests for new or replacement conventional septic systems cannot be approved due to the small size of lot areas involved and/or poor soil conditions. The concentration of population in the Allensville area and the increasing number of failing or malfunctioning on-lot sewer systems indicates that a new community sewer system may b.e needed for that area in the future. Therefore, the need and issue for a public or community sewer system must be addressed.
0 Public TownshiD Communitv Facilities - The Township Public Buildings and facilities need to be evaluated to identify the improvements needed. This includes the new Municipal Building and Public Library, Firefighting facilities, Recreation facilities, the Community and the Township Maintenance Center. Public School buildings are not included since they are no public elementary schools in the Township and all school children attend public schools in other municipalities which are under the jurisdiction of the Mifflin County School District. Public sewer and water utility systems are discussed and proposed future service districts are presented to be consistent with the Land Use Proposals of the Comprehensive Plan.
All existing Township fire fighting facilities need to be upgraded; The need for a Township Building including space for Township administrative services has been addressed during the preparation of this Comprehensive Plan.
0 Recreation Facilities - Inadequate existing recreational facilities in the Township indicates the need for improvement and/or development of recreation opportunities and facilities for all age groups of Township residents.
7. Need For Land Use Control Standards and Reaulations To Address Existinq Problems and To Ensure Desired Qualitv of New DeveloDment - All the issues described above have indicated that the Township needs to establish zoning, land subdivision and other improved ordinances, and code requirements which should fit the special needs of the Township. .. Menno TownshiD Communitv Questionnaire and Analvsis - Appendix A includes the results of the 1992 Menno Township Community Questionnaire survey, the most serious problems of the Township as considered by survey respondents include:
- Horse manure on roads
- Accumulation of trash, garbage and junk cars
- Need for public sewer system
- Excessive traffic on major roads
13 - Drainage problems
- Inadequate local recreation facilities
- Poor condition of roads
- Incompatible residential livestock uses
- Noise pollution
- Poor condition of nearby lots and yards
- Nuisance stray dogs and animals
- Inadequate central water system
The results of the questionnaire survey also show that such issues as street and roadway improvement, land use regulation, water, Township governance and services are the most common concerns of questionnaire respondents. This Comprehensive Plan will address the above described problems and needs that seriously affect all residents.
POPULATION PROJECTIONS AND GROWTH POTENTIAL
A detailed analysis of the size of the population and number of households has been presented for the years 1960 through the end of 1997 in Appendix C. This includes a projection of household size, number of households and size of the population between 1997 and the year 2020.
The analysis includes a study of births and deaths between 1970 and 1997 and resultant natural changes in populations and also estimates of the net out-migration I which occurred between 1970 and the end of 1997 (12/31/97).
The results of this study provide insight as to what is occurring to the population I and actions which the Township must take to better serve the needs of its residents.
I The reader is referred to Appendix C, particularly the tabulations presented on pages 1, 3 and 7 of that Appendix C. Appendix C presents three possible ranges for future population growth including a low range, mid range and high range projection.
A summary of the "high range" projection is presented below:
- The "high range" projection assumes that the Township will take action to create new jobs in the Township which will result in a decrease in net out- migration without such action present trends indicate that population growth will be significantly less.
14 I MENNO TOWNSHIP ACTUAL, CURRENT AND HIGH RANGE PROJECTION 1960 THROUGH 2020 I
Population Total Household I Households Size 1 (a) 1 (b) I Actual PoDulation 1960 1,147 I 281 I 4.08 I 1970 1,308 I 326 I 4.01 1980 1,590 I 431 I 3.69 .. I 1990 1,637 I 460 I -3.56 1997 as of 12/31I97 474 I 3.54 I (Estimate) (c) I I I I Proiection (High Ranael (c) I 201 0 2,001 594 3.46 201 5 2,138 644 3.37 I 2020 2,270 694 3.27 I Source: 1960 to 1990 US Bureau of the Census. Current estimate for 1997 and future projections by Michael Cabot Associates, Inc. (See Appendix C) I Footnotes: (a) Occupied housing units I (b) Persons per household (c) Current estimate for 1997 and future projections by Michael Cabot Associates, Inc. I
Factors Affectina or Restricting Growth In The PoDulation - The growth factors I affecting the size of the population presented in Appendix C are repeated below for the convenience of the reader. 1 The extent to which any of these projections are realized will be based on the number of new jobs created in area and on the extent to which past levels of out- migration can be reduced. 1
The Comprehensive Plan is based on the High Range Growth projection which assumes that net out-migration will be reduced to about 17% of the rate which I existed between 1980 and 1990. I 15 I I Numerous factors, which will affect the rate of population growth during the 30 I years (between 1990 and 2020), have emerged and are discussed below. 1. Menno Township is located in an attractive rural area with a large Amish population devoted to farming and rural area activities. The Amish I population with their beliefs and religious convictions continue to maintain their lifestyle which relies on close ties and large families.
I The Township also has limited industrial and commercial areas and a principal employer, the Allensville Planning Mill has reduced its employment in recent years from about 190 employees in 1995 to about 180 in 1998. I Young persons seeking jobs do not have ample job opportunities in the nearby commercial and industrial areas . The lack of job growth has kept the size of the non-Amish population down and has also resulted in out- migration.
On the other hand, the Amish population do have higher birth rates and low death rates which has resulted in significant natural increase in the population (births exceed deaths).
The combination of lack of job growth and lack of additional farmlands resulting in net out-migration of the population has therefore been offset by the natural increase of the population.
These factors have appeared to reach a balance so that the population in 1990 and the end of 1997 has remained about the same (about 1,659 persons).
Finally, the population growth of the Amish population seems to have stabilized due to lack of additional farmland to meet the needs of younger Amish families which is causing some Amish families to relocate elsewhere or to seek other nearby employment opportunities, including the operation of self owned businesses.
The above factors if continued into the future will result in very slow growth in the population. The "high range" projection is a pro-active decision to provide new jobs to serve existing youth so that they can remain in the Towns hip.
2. As a result of the decision-making process, the Township has determined that the existing character of the Township should be maintained and that only slow to moderate growth should be encouraged.
This can be accomplished as follows:
- Limited growth of industrial and commercial areas should be encouraged, but larger scale new developments serving a wider area or regional market should not be promoted.
16 However, job growth should be promoted to reduce the high out- I migration of residents out of the Township.
Growth should be geared to meeting the growing needs of the existing I population including the provision of jobs, housing and uses to serve the special agricultural needs of the Amish population. I - The Village of Allensville is presently served with a public water system. This Village and its surrounding area should also be served with public sewers to eliminate the environmental problems resulting I from the existing smaller residential lots which must rely on septic tanks. This would also permit public sewer and water to expand into the area surrounding Allensville enabling it to grow slowly. This new I development could include larger lot sizes to serve both non-Amish residents and also younger Amish families wishing to establish small I farm homesteads coupled with farm oriented businesses and craft shops and outlets. This could include the production of specialty crops, popular craft items, bed and breakfast establishments, and I retail outlets to serve tourists. This type of slow growth should result in a reduction of net out-migration of the Amish population seeking to find new farm areas outside of the Township and in other states. I 3. It can be expected that persons living in the State College area may seek permanent homes from in Menno Township from which they can commute I to State College.
The provision of public sewers surrounding the Allensville Area can thus also I result in the subdivision of land adjoining Allensville which could provide ideal sites for such persons. i 4. A final factor limiting the growth of Menno Township is the relatively limited highway access to the Township. Principal roads serving the area include State Route 655, a relatively narrow two lane road which provides access to I Reedsville to the northeast and to Huntingdon County to the southeast. This is an extremely scenic road which provides beautiful views of farmland in the "Big Valley" area of the Township and is used by Amish families with their 1 horse drawn buggies.
Access to the south is restricted by the steep valley wall. Access to State I College to the northwest is available via State Route 305, but this road must negotiate the steep valley wall on that side of Big Valley. I All of the above factors indicate that future population growth will be relatively limited especially considering the reality of time required to plan, fund and construct a new public sewer system to serve Allensville. I The "high range" projection projects a growth of 61 1 persons between 1998 and I the year 2020. This growth can realistically be accommodated by creating new jobs (about 50 to 1001, construction of public sewers in the Allensville Area, and the expansion of the Allensville Area as described above. B 17 I I I I I SECTION 111: I DIRECTION FOR THE PLAN 1 I I I I I I I I I 1 ~1 I I I SECTION 111
I DIRECTION FOR THE PLAN I This section of the Comprehensive Plan presents a general direction for the future development of the Township. The direction is recommended based on three I components as follows:
- Basic planning propositions and principles upon which this Comprehensive I Plan is developed; I - Statement of the general goals for community development; - Development options and selected concept plan.
I These propositions, principles, goals, and concept plan provide a basis for detailed plans for future land use, transportation, and other community facilities. They also indicate the general intent of this Comprehensive Plan. Knowledge of this intent I may be helpful in regard to future decisions on specific points not covered by this Plan.
I BASIC PLANNING PROPOSITIONS AND PRINCIPLES I This Plan aims at the development of planning strategies and policies that are ecologically sound (or environmentally sensitive), economically stimulative, socially just, culturally appropriate, and legally defendable. Three basic planning I propositions and principles underlying this Plan are stated as follows: 0 Balance Between Economic DeveloDment and Environmental Conservation - I It is necessary to balance economic development needs and environmental conservation. Sensitive development should respect or work with nature so that a harmony between nature and human society can be achieved. It is I important to balance short term needs and long term needs; to balance human needs and those of other life forms. This Comprehensive Plan ' intends to achieve an optimal balance between the desired economic growth 1 and environmental conservation and farmland preservation. This Plan intents to protect those ecologically significant land areas such as stream corridors and upland forests. It also intends to protect environmentally sensitive I areas, such as floodplain and steep slopes, from new development.
0 Sianificance of the Sense of Place (or ldentitv of Communitv) - Each I community has its own identity or unique character which is embedded in its geographic location and natural setting, history, and local tradition in terms of economic activities, people's attitude and value, cultural and social I institutions and events, as well as architectural heritage. Such identity or I uniqueness is an important element of the living environment, and creates a 18 I1 I sense of community pride. This Comprehensive Plan addresses the uniqueness of the Township, and intends to maintain its character through integrating economic development, environmental conservation, and historic I preservation strategies. I Importance of Maintenance of Cultural Diversitv and Social Harmonv -. Democracy relies on diversity. The society as a whole will benefit from the richness of cultural heritage. For every culture can learn from others. Each I culture has its own right to maintain and continue its cultural identity, heritage, tradition, belief, and lifestyle, as long as it does not harm other groups of people. To achieve a social harmony, one should respect and 1 tolerate others. Consideration of Both Public Interests and Constitutional RiGhts of Individuals I - This Comprehensive Plan recognizes the importance of both public interests of the community as a whole and constitutional rights of individual land owners. I GENERAL GOALS OF COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT AND CONSERVATION 1 The following is a statement of general goals of Menno Township future '. development and conservation. These goals set a direction for Menno Township for the next 20 years. Once this Comprehensive Plan is officially adopted by the I Township, Township Zoning Ordinance, Subdivision and Land Development Ordinance, and other future Township decisions should be consistent with the goals stated here: I
1. To provide for the development of the Township which is coordinated with development located in adjoining municipalities and in the County of Mifflin. I 2. To protect and enhance the overall quality of life of all Township residents. I 3. To preserve the rural character and the uniqueness of Menno Township.
4. To preserve lands suited for agricultural use and provide opportunities for the I stabilization and/or growth of agriculture and related farm uses and home businesses. I 5. To provide appropriate locations and opportunities for balanced development and/or continuation of various types of land uses including Open Space Conservation, Agriculture, low-density Residential and non-residential uses I which are suitable to meet the needs of the Township. I 6. To provide new opportunities for employment and land use development which creates jobs that can serve both the Amish and non-Amish population, thereby reducing the current pattern of out-migration. I I 19 I 7. To prevent the degradation of the environment including prevention of groundwater and stream contamination and soil erosion and sedimentation which adversely affects local streams. 8. To protect watershed areas and regulate building construction in such areas,
I 9. To protect residential areas and neighborhoods from adverse influences.
10. To establish appropriate densities of development for agricultural, residential I and other uses, satisfying the needs of various age groups, income levels, family sizes and individual preferences for all persons in the Township.
I 11. To encourage neighborhood conservation and rehabilitation; and preservation I of the older areas of Township and historic structures. 12. To encourage appropriate non-residential growth opportunities for , development and for improvement of the Township's tax base and economy.
I 13. To provide for adequate community facilities and services to serve the present and future needs of the population, including sewer and water I facilities, drainage, fire and police protection, recreation, cultural, library and other facilities to ensure public safety, health and welfare. I 14. To provide a street and road system capable of circulating people and goods within and through the entire Township safely and efficiently. .. I 15. To minimize traffic congestion in the Township and to provide adequate parking space to serve all uses in the Township.
I 16. To promote sound standards of development, maximize stability of property values and encourage desirable economic activities.
'I 17. To achieve and ensure optimal long term benefits and consequences from the positive environmental, social, economic and fiscal impacts of I development. FUTURE DEVELOPMENT OPTIONS AND CONCEPT PLAN
I A concept plan is a schematic diagram that shows the recommended overall community form. It mainly identifies general locations of growth areas and preservation areas. It also shows general locations and interrelationships am'ong I major land uses, principal roads, and/or community facilities. It serves as a framework for preparing detailed plans. A concept plan helps to clarify and I emphasize key ideas of the Comprehensive Plan. In the planning process of this Comprehensive Plan, three options that the Menno Township may have for its future development were identified. The purpose here is to consider all the development possibilities and to compare and understand their advantages and disadvantages. The three options are described as follows:
20' I Option No. 1 : Uncontrolled Development - This development option assumes that current development trends would continue without planning guidance and control. If no effective planning guidance is provided, all existing problems of the Township I as described above could very likely continue to exist and the situation may become even worse. Out-migration of younger persons (Amish and non-Amish) I would continue with increasing losses of younger persons who might otherwise remain in the Township. More new residential development would scatter throughout the Township. This will result in more conflicts between farming I activities and residents and high impact commercial farming proposals. More uncontrolled logging will occur. More soil erosion and sedimentation will take place. Groundwater resource may be further contaminated. Eventually, the I continuation of existing trends without planning guidance would result in the loss of the rural character and farmlands, and more problems of incompatible land uses. I Option No. 2: Manaaed Growth Development - This development concept addresses the environmental and historic character of the Township. This concept recognizes different natural environment in the Township. Major ideas in this I concept are:
1. Strengthen agriculture as the major economic base of the Township by I preserving prime farmlands and existing successful farms in the Township. Valley floor farmlands will be preserved as "Agricultural Core". I 2. Preserve the rural character and uniqueness of the community and the "Big Valley" and enhance the aesthetic quality. I 3. Protect water quality and quantity by protecting steep wooded hillside areas from intense development, prohibiting development within stream corridor, floodplain, and wetlands. Forested hillsides of Jacks Mountain and Stone I Mountain will be preserved as "Watershed protection area". Kishacoquilias Creek and its tributaries will be preserved as natural stream corridor. I 4. Strengthen and promote the sense of community by improving the Allensville "village" area and encourage a concentrated, compact, and clustered development pattern and avoid strip development pattern. New residential I development is suggested to take place primarily adjoining the already well- established Allensville Village and Whitehall Areas. I New commercial and industrial development would occur in the Allensville Village to form a community commercial and industrial concentration. I Cultural and historic preservation should also be concentrated in the Allensville area around the nucleus created by the location of the new Municipal Building and Public Library, the Historical Society building and the I Community Building. This concentration of public building can form. the nucleus of a new cultural center of the northwesterly section of the County. I Allensville and its adjoining areas would be served with public sewers and industrial development provided which can create about 50 new jobs in this I 21 I area. In addition, new residential areas adjoining Allensville would be especially designated and designed to serve both the Amish and non-Amish
population which will continue to grow as out-migration decreases. . *.
In short, the four key physical elements for expressing this concept are: maintain I and preserve the agricultural core and its attractive landscape features, watershed protection area, natural stream corridor, and village-type community with expansion for residential and non-residential uses around Allensville and also around the I Whitehall Area to a lesser extent. This development option is desirable because it would maintain the agricultural and rural character of the Township and would also provide for new residential and economic development including rural area I businesses would be encouraged, but at levels to serve the normal growth of the I Township resulting from natural increase. ODtion No. 3: Hiah Growth DeveloDment - This concept assumes that the Managed Growth Development of Option No. 2 would be encouraged but that a higher I growth may occur in the Township as a result of the growth of nearby communities such as State College, Belleville and the region as a whole. Under this concept, more development may be expected, particularly tourism associated I development, such as motels/hotels, restaurants, gift shops, and more residential development and new subdivisions can be expected, including special types of housing development and associated facilities, such as seasonal home, elderly I housing and retirement center. This concept introduces more intensive development of the type that will increase a number of visitors and users in the I Township. Selected ODtion - The above three development options were presented to the Township Planning Commission and the Board of Supervisors. After evaluation and I discussion with the Township Planning Commission members and Supervisors, the second concept was selected as the most desirable option for future development of the Township, because it intends to achieve a balance between the farmland I and environmental preservation and economic growth, it reduces the out-migration of younger persons and it provides for the orderly natural growth of the Township.
I However, some of the compatible types of Option No. 3: High Growth Development could be incorporated into Option No. 2, particularly those activities dealing with growth in the tourism industry which could provide opportunities for I new service businesses, including specialized crafts carried out by younger I residents who wish to remain in the Township. I I
22 I I I SECTION IV: I e FUTURE LAND USE 1 I I I I I I I I I I I I I SECTION IV
FUTURE LAND USE PLAN INTRODUCTION
Each type of human activity requires a certain location and environment of certain character. This land use plan deals with location (spatial distribution pattern), character (type of use), and development intensity or density of land use activities within the Township. In other words, land use plan answers three general questions: What types of land use should be permitted within the community? Where should permitted land uses be located? How intensely should the land be used or developed? Three basic goals of a land use plan include: 1) To create an efficient land use spatial distribution pattern, 2) To achieve harmonious relationships among various human land use activities, such as living, working, shopping, recreation, and socializing, or to avoid problems resulting from incompatible land uses, 3) To avoid any misuse and/or overuse of land resource. In short, the purpose of land use plan is to establish an efficient land use pattern consisting of suitable land uses with an optimal intensity allowed by land carrying capacity.
This Menno Land Use Plan serves as a guide for the Township in order to promote a healthful, pleasant, safe and functional community. Once this plan is adopted, it will provide a basis for the Township Zoning Map and Ordinance, as well as any future amendment to that Ordinance. As various changes occur in the use of land and buildings between now and 201 5, Menno Township Supervisors, Planning Commission, and Township staff, as well as private developers and individual land owners should use this plan as a guide for public and private development decisions. (Please refer to Appendices D and E for existing Environmental and existing Land Use conditions.)
All land use activities in the Township are classified into the following five major land use categories: residential, commercial, industry, and open space conservation, agricultural preservation. The following presents plan recommendations on appropriate and desirable land use types, locations, and development density or intensity for each land use category.
Please refer to the proposed Land Use Plan Map in this section to determine the location of various proposed uses. The Community Facilities Plan also presents proposals for the location of public water and sewer facilities which will significantly affect proposed land uses.
AGRICULTURAL PRESERVATION
Agricultural production is still the major source of income of many families in the Township. Agriculture is a predominant land use activity in Menno Township. More than half (1/2) of the entire land area of the Township is currently farmed. The Mifflin County Soil Survey indicates that large areas of prime farmland soils
23 I exist in Menno Township. These prime farmland soils are concentrated in the valley floor between Jacks and Stone Mountains. These soils have high productivity and are an important economic asset of the Township. !
The 1992 Menno Township Community Improvement Survey indicated that a vast majority (85%) of survey respondents are in favor of preserving the Township's I existing farmland. A high level of support was reported from all areas of the Township. I OBJECTIVES: I 0 ' To preserve the existing prime farmlands and successful farms in the Township and to save them from permanent loss resulting from residential, industrial, commercial, road construction, or other types of development. 1 To protect the agricultural land base from the adverse impacts of nearby urbanization and to reduce the conflicts between farming and non-farming uses. 'I To strengthen the agricultural industry (including all agricultural related I businesses), and to retain high productivity for the local agricultural economy, so that agriculture will continue to provide its important functions in the Township. I To control large scale commercial farming operations which may adversely affect the environment and other adjoining residential or farming uses. 1 RECOMMENDED LAND USE POLICIES RELATIVE TO FARMLAND PRESERVATION I 0 Desianate currentlv farmed areas with good soils as an aaricultural preservation district in Menno Township - The agricultural preservation district should consist of the prime farmland in the area, which are I composed of Class I and II soils, shown on the proposed Menno Township Future Land Use Plan. These lands are the most productive and have the least limitations for agricultural production. They, therefore, should.be given r the highest priority for protection.
0 The District should be Dreserved for onlv agricultural uses - Uses of this 1 District should be limited to the raising of crops, fruits, trees, shrubs, flowers, and livestock. Any use that conflicts with farming activities, such as suburban residential, industrial or commercial developments should be I severely restricted, except where otherwise designated. However, limited residential uses may be provided to provide flexibility for the farmer in the use of the farm tract and family farms should be encouraged. Intensive 1 farming and related processing operations which create adverse environmental conditions should be discouraged or regulated to avoid 1 problems which cannot be suitably controlled. I 24 I 0 Densitv of the number of dwellinas Dermitted on a tract should be determined bv the size of the tract, and small buildins lots should be 1 encouraaed - Individual agricultural farm parcels shall be limited to at least 50 acres in size, wherever possible, except that up to 20% of the farm tract may be utilized for permitted non-agricultural uses such as single family residential or related rural area businesses and/or agricultural uses located on an agricultural parcel shall be consolidated into one large compact and contiguous area wherever possible, with limited frontage along existing roads to preserve the agricultural landscape and to prevent strip development along existing roads.
0 Prevent the division of farmland into small or medium size Darcels that are too small to comorise economicallv viable farms - The Township should limit I the subdivision of land in the designated agricultural preservation districts in prime farmland areas to 50 acres. The farm core consists of the contiguous tracts that typically include the farmstead, barn, equipment sheds, and other 1 agricultural facilities. Certain areas of farmland may be designated as areas required for agriculture 1 or other uses surrounding the Village of Allensville. These parcels may be used for residential parcels on smaller lot sizes at least one acre in size or for farm use on 15 acre minimum tracts. They may also be used for a wide 1 variety of rural and farm related businesses.
This is intended to provide alternatives for Amish families wishing to. remain I in the Township even when a separate farm is not available to them.
0 The TownshiD should avoid Drovidinq growth aeneratins public facilities and services to its desianated aaricultural preservation areas - Examples of such facilities and services include faster roads or highways, water and sewer services, which encourage urbanization. Highway improvements that make 1 the agricultural area more accessible and increase its value for development. The provision of water and sewer services will make its development almost inevitable and result in strip development along the highway which detracts from the attractive rural landscape which now exists in the Township.
0 Reauire develoDers of tracts adjacent to farmed tracts to Drovide a buffer - In order to reduce the conflicts between farming and non-farming uses, suitable buffers should be established between farmland tract and non-farm uses which conflict or adversely affect farm areas. Such inconsistent . development consists of residential; buildings, wells, drinking water springs, water supply points, school buildings and play areas designed for children, commercial establishments dispensing or selling food, and public and commercial campgrounds and picnic areas. The size of the buffer area should be based on the intensity and impact of the non-farm use.
25 IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES FOR FARMLAND PRESERVATION
In order to implement the above plan and recommended policies, the Township must consider a combination of various implementation tools, including the establishment of land use regulations, provision of economic incentives, financial assistance, and information. This plan suggests the following specific implementation strategies for the Township to use:
0 The Townshir, should adopt aaricultural zoning - The PA Municipalities Planning Code (MPC) authorizes municipalities to protect and preserve agricultural land and activities through zoning ordinances (Section 603 (b)(5)). The MPC also requires municipalities to zone "to preserve prime agricultural and farmland considering topography, soil type and classification, and present use" (Section 604(3)). The purpose of Agricultural Zoning is to severely limit non-agricultural uses in defined agricultural zoning districts, and to prevent development on prime farmland soils and make possible the --- continuation of the agricultural industry. Such zoning should be consistent -1 with the recommendations made in this Comprehensive Plan.
0 Permit farmers to sell directlv to the consumer - Allow seasonal farmstands I in agricultural areas and pick-your-own farm operations. Encourage the development of a farmer's market, as rural area businesses and also in the Township commercial areas. I OPEN SPACE CONSERVATION I Overview - Forest or woodland is the second largest land use in Menno Township. According to 1993 Menno Township existing land use survey, forest land occupies 5,907 acres, accounting for 39% of the entire Township area. The largest spans I of forest cover within the Township are on steeply sloped hillsides of Jacks and Stone Mountains. I OPEN SPACE CONSERVATION OBJECTIVES
0 To protect the natural resources and environmental quality of the Township, I including protection of quality and quantity of surface water,-, woodlands, floodplain, steep slopes, groundwater aquifer and recharge areas, and maintenance of wildlife habitats to ensure ecological health. I
RECOMMENDED LAND USE POLICIES RELATIVE TO OPEN SPACE CONSERVATION a
0 Desianate an oDen wace conservation zonina district in Menno Township - Open Space Conservation District should require minimum five acres for I each new dwelling unit. In general, this district is used for only open space preservation, wildlife habitat, and limited outdoor recreation activities, 1 including low intensity resort and ecotourism facilities. I 26 I 0 Establish additional land use restrictions on develoDment in areas with sianificant natural resources or environmentallv sensitive areas. as recommended below:
- Flooddain Protection Policv - The Township should prohibit any types of development in the 100-year floodplain, which may pose a significant public health or safety hazard to occupants, or to individuals living downstream, or which may result in the decrease of a stream's capacity to carry flpodwaters. In general, floodplain should be reserved for open space, agriculture, recreation, or the undeveloped yard area of an adjacent land use. The construction of buildings and impermeable coverage such as paved parking lots should be prohibited, while parking lots with permeable surfaces should be permitted. In a case where development in the floodplain is inevitable due to economic or other factors, the development shall not result in a more than one foot increase above the base flood elevation irl.flood heights.
- Wetland Protection Policv - As defined by PA DEP, uncontrolled areas are "those areas that inundated or saturated by surface or groundwater at a frequency and duration sufficient to support the wetland area, and that under normal circumstances do support, a prevalence of vegetation typically adapted for life in saturated soil conditions, including swamps, marshes, bogs and similar areas".
All uncontrolled areas should be preserved in their natural state, as wildlife habitats and for passive recreation such as nature observation. Such areas shall not be altered, regraded, filled, piped, diverted or built upon, except where State and Federal permits have been obtained. Roads may be built over uncontrolled if no other reasonable access is available and design approval is obtained from the . Township, DEP and the US Army Corps of Engineers.
Wetland margin is the transitional areas extending 100 feet from the outer boundary of a wetland or to the limit of the hydric soils, whichever is more. No more than 20% of such areas shall be altered, regraded, filled or built upon. (Existing PA and Federal requirements do not regulate areas outside of the actual wetland.)
- Stream Corridor Management Policv - A stream corridor consists of a stream and its continuous vegetated buffer zones for each side. All streams should be preserved for water supply, wildlife, or water- oriented recreation. No development or activities that will result in lower quality of surface water should be allowed.
Adequate buffer zones depending on the width of the streams at a minimum of 15 to 25 feet should be required on either side of.all streams within the Township to provide for water quality and flood
27 protection, as well as to provide for appropriate activities in the corridor (e.g. recreation and wildlife habitat). A buffer zone is a setback distance from the stream. Such areas should be vegetated. Development in defined buffer zones along stream corridors shall be prohibited.
A wider protective buffer zone could be required based on the function and characteristics of the stream and its adjacent areas, as suggested in the following table:
Additional Considerations Affectin9 Widths of Stream Buffers
Areas of Flooding Buffers should be sufficiently wide to include the 100- year f Iood pla i n
Steep Slopes On reaches of a stream with slopes greater than lo%, consider extending the buffer beyond the top of the slope.
Sediment Control Where disturbance is occurring near the stream, a buffer of at least 65 feet and up to 150 feet should be considered.
Nutrient Removal Where major sources of nutrients are proposed (e.g., fertilizers), a distance of at least 65 to 150 feet should be considered.
Habitat (Aquatic) A setback of wooded vegetation should be at least 50 - 80 feet.
Habit at (Ter rest ria I) For deer wintering areas and wildlife corridors, a setback of wooded vegetation of 100 - 300 feet should be considered.
- SteeD SloDe DeveloDment Restriction Policv - The Township should limit development on areas of steep slopes (1 5% and greater) to minimize soil erosion, water pollution, flood damage, and negative impact on aesthetic quality. Clear-cutting of woodlands and forests on steep slopes should be minimized. The following requirements for development on steep slopes are recommended:
28 Slope Minimum Maximum Minimum Classification Lot Size Impervious Open Space Ratio
15 - 25% 5 acres 30% 70%
> 25% 10 acres 20% 80%
IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES FOR OPEN SPACE CONSERVATION DISTRICTS
0 Incorporate the above recommendations into the Township Zonina Ordinance and Subdivision and Land Development Ordinance - Re-enforce the ordinance regulations for protection of environmentally sensitive areas through the Township development review process. Adopt subdivision and zoning provisions for management of stormwater, which should require submission of a soil erosion and sedimentation plan as part of the preliminary subdivision or land development plan, and require site design review for subdivision and land development to place development on a site in such a way as to protect vegetated areas along streams, mature trees, scenic views, and plant and animal habitat.
0 The TownshiD should encouraae and support the establishment of watershed associations or similar environmental conservation organizations. .
COMMERCIAL AND INDUSTRIAL LAND USE PLAN
Overview - In 1993, Menno Township had a total of 29 acres of land used for commercial activities including general and heavy commercial, and mixed commerciaVresidentia1 land use. There were totally 32 acres of land used for industry in the Township. Most commercial uses occur in the Allensville Village along Route 655. Other scattered commercial areas exist.
According to the 1992 Menno Community Improvement Questionnaire survey, Townshipwide 58% of all adults are actively employed, 11YO are unemployed and 31 % were retired. Most employed adults (88%) have jobs located within Mifflin County, about half (43%) of which were reported to be in Menno Township. Most of those reporting jobs located outside of the County are in Huntingdon Borough. Townshipwide 35% of the survey respondents reported that additional employment opportunities are needed for Township residents, while 31% indicated that more jobs were not needed. However, as previously noted, new jobs are needed to reduce out-migration from the Township.
29 0BJ ECTlV ES :
0 To diversify and stabilize the local economic base of the Township by promoting rural area small businesses to serve the local population and tourists; to attract new low intensity commercial and manufacturing firms; to promote tourism, bed and breakfast and similar establishments; and to encourage and facilitate the expansion of existing firms in the Township.
To encourage additional light industrial developments in the Township to increase well-paid employment opportunities for local residents; and to raise local incomes and to provide enough jobs to support the natural increase in the size of the population.
0 To expand local tax base and increase more tax revenue by encouraging the type of growth described above.
COMMERCIAL AND INDUSTRIAL LAND USE POLICY RECOMMENDATIONS
0 Commercial land use areas are proposed to primarily serve residents of the Township, visitors and tourists, but do not include large scale commercial establishments which are intended to attract persons from a larger regional area. These commercial areas are proposed in the Allensville Village Area and in the "Whitehall Area" along PA Route 655.
Major permitted land use activities of a limited commercial nature include retail trade, rural area businesses of all types, personal and household services, professional and business services and offices including medical, legal, financial, insurance, real estate services, accounting, advertising, etc. Additional rural area businesses may be developed in the Village Residential District and in the agricultural areas.
More intensive commercial land uses may be considered after special reviews and approval by the Township. These special commercial uses may include wholesale, general merchandise, hotels and motels, professional or business services and offices, personal and household services, medical and allied uses, commercial entertainment and recreation facilities.
0 A general industrial land use district is designated.
Major permitted land use activities in these industrial districts shall include manufacturing, assembly of electronic and other component parts, laboratories and research facilities, wholesale business, storage and warehousing establishments, truck and freight terminals, delivery and distribution centers, mechanical and equipment repair establishments.
In order to minimize conflicts between industrial and residential uses, adequate vegetated buffers should be provided where industrial district adjoin existing or future residential areas.
30 IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES
0 ldentifv State and Federal arants available to foster economic develoDment of the Townshir, - Grant programs are available to assist economic development activities including the State/Federal Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program and a variety of programs available through the PA Department of Community and Economic Development. These provide grants to municipalities and public non-profit agencies which may be used for developing sites and to provide other financial assistance for economic development. Grants may be used for construction, rehabilitation, expansion or improvement of water facilities, sanitary sewage collection lines, access roads, channel realignment, and land acquisition. The Township should discuss these needs with the Mifflin County Planning Commission and with the Mifflin County Industrial Development Corporation (MCIDC) for advice on how to proceed in specific cases.
0 Establish Townshir, economic develorment assistance Droarams - The Township may also establish a program with local banks and businesses to aid in financing new small businesses, including rural area businesses.
0 AdoDt the Townshir, Zonina Ordinance - The proposed Menno Township Zoning Ordinance will designate commercial and industrial zoning districts which are consistent with the recommendations made in this Comprehensive Plan.
RESIDENTIAL LAND USE PLAN
The 1993 land use survey shows that the residential land use occupies about 565 acres or 3.7% of the entire Township land. Allensville Village is the most signifi- cant residential concentration of residential uses in the Township, consisting of 1 09 residences. Other residential concentrations include subdivisions along Front Mountain Road, at Whitehall (along Rt. 6551, and along both Back Mountain and Front Mountain Roads. A number of seasonal homes are concentrated on Stone Mountain at the northwestern section of the Township. About 130 farmsteads (living units of farms) scatter throughout the valley floor area of the Township.
OBJECTIVES:
0 Accommodate new housing needs by promoting affordable housing
0 Maintain the quality of living environment by establishing standards for the location of various housing types at specific densities of development and by creating protective buffers between residential areas and commercial or industrial areas
0 Maintain the rural character of the area by encouraging well designed new housing which is compatible to the rural development
31
.. 0 Avoid or discourage all kinds of strip development along major highways, such as along PA Rt. 655 in the rural areas and encourage residential clustered developments adjoining the Allensville area and in the Open Space Conservation area
0 Provide a public sewer system to serve the existing Allensville Area and.also to serve additional residential growth adjoining Allensville as shown on the Land Use Plan. This development should provide space for larger lots for Amish families with enough space for a garden, residence, craft shops, barn and horses, and rural area businesses. This should reduce the use of existing smaller lots in Allensville for these purposes. These areas adjoining Allensville can also be used to serve non-Amish families wishing to remain in or move into the Township.
0 Where appropriate, provide residential clustered developments instead of low density uses and large lot development
0 Provide programs to encourage and assist homeowners in the rehabilitation of their homes, including financial assistance for low and moderate income families.
SPECIFIC LAND USE PROPOSALS
The Managed Growth Development Concept (Option No. 2) previously discussed has been selected as the basis for the future development pattern for the Township. This concept is illustrated in the Land Use Plan Map attached.. That map identifies the following categories of proposed land uses which have been selected to implement the Managed Growth Development Concept and also the objectives discussed in the preceding section.
Each of the proposed land use categories shown on the Land Use Plan Map are briefly described below:
A. Aaricultural Areas - The entire "Kishacoquillas Valley" also known as the "Big Valley" is designated as an area superbly suitable for continued agricultural use. The following two categories of agricultural use areas are proposed as discussed below:
1. Acaricultural Preservation - The large majority of the Big Valley is designated as an "Agricultural Preservation Area". The major land uses in this area would include the following: .. a. Agriculture and forestry, with a minimum farm size of 50 acres where possible. While these areas would be primarily for agriculture, limited non-agricultural uses could also be developed by the farmer on a portion of the farm not exceeding 20% of the total farm size. This will allow flexibility in the use of the farmland by the farm owner and will provide for certain
32 special uses which may be required by the farm occupants. This special provision for agricultural lands to be preserved has been discussed with representatives of the Amish population, the principal owners of much of the farmland in Menno Township.
b. Such limited non-agricultural uses in the Agricultural Preservation area could include single family residential development, primarily to serve persons associated with the farm operation, rural area businesses, including sale of farm products and other related uses. These non-farm developments would require a minimum lot size of one or two acres, concentrated on one section of the farm designated for this purpose.
2. AariculturaVLow Densitv Residential Uses - Limited areas adjoining.. the Allensville and Whitehall sections of the Township have been design ate d as "A gr i c uI t ur a I/Low Density Residentia I are as . These areas would also be used primarily for agricultural uses with farms having a minimum area of at least 15 acres where possible. However, in these areas, single family residential and other residential or public uses and rural area businesses could also be developed on the entire farm. This would permit these areas to be used for a continuation of agriculture, while permitting a gradual transition of these areas adjoining Allensville and Whitehall into other single family residential uses or public uses and for use as rural area businesses. Low density residential is particularly appropriate for the areas adjoining the Allensville and Whitehall areas where public sewers are proposed at densities of at least one acre per dwelling unit.
In addition, "Planned Cluster Residential Subdivisions" could also be constructed in these areas adjoining Allensville and Whitehall at densities up to four units per acre, provided that they are served with public water and sewer facilities. Planned Cluster Residential Developments would have to be approved by the Township in all cases and they would have to be attractively designed and located open space to enhance the residential development.
B. ODen SDace Conservation Uses - Open space conservation uses are proposed along the steep slopes of both Stone and Jacks Mountain, including the full length of the Township adjoining the "Big Valley" area on the north and south sections of the Township. These steep slope areas include woodlands, watershed and aquifer protection areas, and State owned areas. The open space conservation areas would also serve the purpose of protecting the quality of the water supply which serves both the Allensville and Whitehall Areas.
33 The Open Space Conservation areas may also be used for agriculture and for outdoor recreational uses of various types, for seasonal homes and cabins on a minimum lot size of five acres.
Planned Cluster Residential uses may also be provided at densities of not more than three units per acre provided that these cluster developments are served with private central water and sewer facilities at densities not to exceed three units per acre.
C. Residential Uses - The following two types of residential use areas are designated:
1. Low Densitv Residential - One "Low Density Residential" concentration (Stonewood) is proposed along a section of the north and south sides of West Back Mountain Road as shown on the proposed Land Use Plan map. Two other "Low Density Residential" concentrations are also proposed encompasing two previously subdivided areas located on the southside of the Front Mountain Road.
All of these low density areas are presently served only with on-lot sewers and wells and a proposed minimum lot size of two acres is proposed for these areas. The Stonewood development is an area in need of public sewers. These areas could also include open space conservation uses and appropriate public uses until such time as they may be developed for residential use.
2. Village Residential Areas - The Village Residential areas include the existing older portion of Allensville which has been previously developed with residential units on relatively small lot sizes. This area is presently served with a public water and on-lot septic systems. Public sewers are proposed for this existing development and also for the Agricultural/Low-Density Residential areas adjoining Allensville.
New development in these areas, after public sewers are provided, could take place on 20,000 square foot lots in a manner which preserves the existing "village" character of the existing uses. The existing village character can also be enhanced and preserved, in accordance with various appropriate recommendations set forth by a team of students of the Landscape/Architecture Department from Penn State College. That group of students developed various illustrative examples of the manner in which the area can be enhanced and the village character preserved and also recommended various proposals for landscaping which would be appropriate. A copy of their recommendations are on file at the Township Municipal Building.
Since small lot sizes exist in this area, care must be taken not to overburden the on-lot sewage capacity of the area until the new public sewers are constructed.
34 In a similar manner to the Allensville area, the small subdivided and developed area of Whitehall is also designated as a "Village Residential" area. This area does not have a public sewer system and a recommendation is included in this Comprehensive Plan that the development of a small public sewer system to serve Whitehall and the propos e d adjoin ing "A g r ic uI t ura I! Low- Density Residentia I area which surrounds Whitehall be considered by the Township when an Act 537 Sewage Facilities Plan is undertaken.
D. Non-Residential Uses - Proposals for non-residential uses consist of the .. following two types:
1. Limited Commercial Areas - Limited Commercial areas are proposed on the southside of Main Street (PA Rt. 655) in Allensville. These uses include various types of commercial activities presently existing in the Township and also new commercial uses to primarily serve residents of the Township and adjoining municipalities, and also to provide a variety of services and facilities which are required to serve tourists visiting the area.
A similar small commercial area of this type is also proposed adjoining the Whitehall area located along PA Rt. 655 at the eastern end of the Towns hip.
2. General Industrial Uses - The existing industrial area of the Township, located adjoining Allensville presently includes the Allensville klaning Mill, an important business facility providing employment for existing residents. This "General Industrial" area provides additional land which could be used for industrial development for the purpose of creating new jobs to serve both Amish and non-Amish residents. It is projected that at least 50 new jobs are needed to reduce the net out- migration of persons that has continued for at least the last 30 years. A variety of light industrial uses are therefore proposed for this area. These uses may also include research facilities, wholesale business and storage facilities, automotive and vehicle sales and repair and other similar uses of these types.
A former quarry area located on the northside of West Back Mountain Road, adjoining Quarry Lane has also been proposed for industrial use.
Minimum lot sizes for commercial and industrial uses are proposed to have minimum lot areas of 30,000 and 40,000 square feet, respectively, for developments of this type. In most cases, such development would make use of larger amounts of land to provide adequate parking and setbacks. Any commercial or industrial development in these areas should be served with public sewer and water facilities. If such facilities are not available then PA DEP
35 requirements and review by the Township Sewage Enforcement Officer would be required.
CONCLUSION
The Plan presents a coordinated set of recommendations which together create a logical pattern of uses which meet the "managed growth" option for guiding the future growth of the Township. The Plan also addresses the various issues, problems, and opportunities which were previously discussed.
The pace of new growth and development in the future would largely be dictated by the provision of public sewers in the Allensville, Whitehall and Stonewood areas of the Township as discussed above and in the "Public Sewer and Water Service Recommendations" included in the Community Facilities Plan.
36
SECTION V: HOUSING PLAN SECTION V
HOUSING PLAN
Housing policy plan is an important part of this Comprehensive Plan. This section deals with issues regarding existing and future residential land and housing, development within the Township. It contains the following five components and steps:
1. Inventory and analysis of the characteristics of existing housing stock in Menno Township, including both quantative and qualitative aspects of existing local housing supply, such as number of housing units, housing type, tenure, availability, cost, age, physical condition, location, and community facilities supporting housing supply
2. Projection of the future housing demand in the Township. The projection will indicate the number of housing units that will be required in the Township by 201 5. Such a projection will provide a base for recommended housing policies of the Township.
3. Identification of housing needs, issues and problems that should be. addressed in this Comprehensive Plan.
4. Establishment of specific housing plan goals, objectives and policies.
5. Development of housing policy implementation and action plan which identifies the tools that can be used to address the issues and achieve the objectives.
Each of these components is presented as follows.
CHARACTERISTICS OF EXISTING HOUSING STOCK
The 1990 US Census indicated that Menno Township had totally 516 housing units of which 460 units were occupied with permanent residents. More than 90 percent of housing units are single family housing type. The remaining units include two family (1.6%) and multi-family housing (0.8%),as well as mobile home (6%).
69% of housing units in the Township were owner occupied, while 20% were renter occupied and the remainder were vacant. The average household size in the Township is 3.56 persons
7.8% of occupied units are overcrowded, with over one person per room. This figure is significantly higher than figures for both Mifflin County (1.5%) and the State (1-8%).
37 1 Although overall housing vacancy rate (10.8%) of the Township is slightly higher than both County's and State's because of the existence of a number of seasonal residences, there was only one actual vacant housing unit available for I sale, while no "for rent" housing units was available in the Township.
35% of housing units in the Township were built prior to 1940 or are more than 50 1 years old. Medium value of owner occupied housing units was $57,000 in 1990.
Based on a building condition windshield survey of exterior housing conditions 1 conducted in 1993, the majority of the existing buildings are in sound condition which require no visible rehabilitation. However, Townshipwide, based on the exterior survey, there are 25 housing structures in need of rehabilitation, of 1 which 12 structures are located at Allensville Village, two require major '. rehabilitation or demolition. I The 1990 US Census indicates that 5.7% of housing units in the Township lack complete plumbing facilities, and 6.9% of housing units lack complete kitchen I facilities. No municipal sewerage service is provided in the Township. All housing units rely on on-site sewer disposal system. 38% of housing units are served with public water system. I EXISTING HOUSING ISSUES AND PROBLEMS IN THE TOWNSHIP 1 The existing housing stock of Menno Township involves the following problems and issues which should be addressed in this housing plan: 1 1 . Deteriorating housing conditions, aging building structures and inadequate housing (lacking complete plumbing, kitchen facilities, and overcrowded conditions), need rehabilitation. I
2. Lack of affordable housing - low vacancy rate of permanent year round units which are listed for sale and for rent in 1990. I
3. Lack of public sewer facilities throughout the Township, including the Allensville Area and public water available only in the Allensville and I Whitehall Areas.
4. Lack of effective housing and building codes that ensure minimum housing I standards and protection of environment and neighborhood.
FUTURE HOUSING DEMAND PROJECTION 1
The latest population projection of Menno Township has been projected in the report titled "Population and Household Projection" included in Appendix 6. The I high range 2.1 38 persons projection for the year 201 5. This is an increase of 501 persons above the 1960 population of 1,637 persons. I I 38 I 1
Based on the above population projection, the number of new housing units to be c constructed to accommodate the population increase within the next 17 years has been projected at 10 units per year over a 17 year or 170 additional units by the year 2015. This is the number of new units needed to accommodate the high I range population growth. ~1 HOUSING ISSUES TO BE ADDRESSED The necessary actions to be taken to address the existing housing issues and problems identified above, by the year 201 5, are summarized below:
1 , Deteriorating Housina Conditions - Housing Rehabilitation activities are required to address the existing deteriorated conditions and overcrowding. In 1993, an exterior windshield survey of housing conditions indicated that some 25 structures were in need of rehabilitation. This figure should be doubled to include homes with interior housing problems not visible from the outside for an estimated total of about 50 units in need of rehabilitation. At an average cost of rehabilitation of $9,000 per unit, this would amount to a total cost of $450,000. This magnitude of funding is not readily available and would have to be provided in the following ways:
Total Estimated Housina Units In Need of Rehabilitation: _.50
- Homeowner Units @ 70% 35 - Rental Units @ 30% 15
Units Qualifving for Assistance:
- Homeowners who qualify as low and moderate income persons @ 60% 21
- Non Low/Moderate income homeowners . 14
- Rental units - private investors requiring Bank loans -15
Total: 50
At a cost of about $9,000 per unit for a total of about $450,000 of financing may be necessary to make these improvements using a combination of funding sources as follows:
- CDBG Programs - HOME Programs - PHFA HOME Programs - SEDA-COG Weatherization Programs
39 111 These actions will be required over many years before the entire problem could be addressed. 1 The Township is not in a position to subsidize any portion of the cost of providing these private improvements. However, the Township may take the following actions to assist homeowners and private investors in meeting 1 these needs:
1. The Township may request CDBG and HOME Program funds either I directly from the State and/or through the Mifflin County Planning Commission for the low and moderate income eligible activities that must be taken by homeowners or through SEDA-COG Weatherization 1 Programs. I 2. Private individuals whose incomes exceed the low and moderate income requirements for obtaining rehabilitation assistance and private investors may be encouraged to improve substandard rental property I or their own private homes by being cited by the Township for violations of housing, building and fire prevention codes. This would require the Township to adopt and enforce such codes. I 3. Another approach would be to encourage homeowners to make their own rehabilitation improvements on a "sweat" equity basis. , I Homeowners would have to be qualified and knowledgeable to carry out improvements of this type on their own, but this approach may be suitable for certain homeowners. I
Lack of Affordable Housinq - HOME Programs and Bank Financing Programs are available to assist potential homebuyers. Programs of this type make individual I subsidies to potential homebuyers to reduce closing costs and to provide grants to reduce the amount of the loan to be borrowed to make the unit affordable for the lower income homebuyers. Programs of this type may be available locally through I the Omega Bank in Allensville.
The Township may discuss these needs with the Omega Bank branch since it has I been approved to participate in the PA Housing Finance Agency (PHFA) affordable housing programs utilizing Federal HOME Program funds. I The Township may also take steps to make potential homebuyers aware of the availability of these funds by requesting the local newspaper to prepare articles describing these programs. 1
Lack of Public Water and Sewer Facilities - The Allensville Area is the major area in need of public sewer facilities. This will require Township action through a I Township Municipal Authority to plan, finance and construct such facilities. I 1 40 I This is presently very much needed to protect the health of persons living in Allensville. However, it would also make homes in Allensville much more desirable and it would stimulate the real estate market and perhaps increase the number of younger families with children to move into Allensville. Such families would also carry out any needed rehabilitation activities.
Lack of Effective Housina and Building Codes - The problem can be readily addressed as soon as possible by the Township by adopting and enforcing fire 1 prevention, housing maintenance and building construction codes, all of which do not presently exist in the Township. All of these codes would help the Township identify housing code violations and to establish proper construction standards. Standardization of codes by the State is also being considered at this time and could expedite the use of codes in the near future. The Volunteer Fire Company .. has recommended that adoption of codes of this type.
An expense to the Township would be involved since a Codes Officer would have I to be retained to administer and enforce the Codes. The Codes would have to be enforced on a continuing basis, primarily when requests for permits for new construction are requested. Existing housing units could be inspected to identify code violations. Such a Codes Officer could also be trained to administer Subdivision and Land Development and Zoning Ordinances. I Eventually, if all new housing and non-residential buildings being constructed comply with the Building Codes, the quality of housing would improve over the 1 years and many code violations would be eliminated. Conclusion - Housing problems and needs can be addressed, but, in Menno Township this would have to be considered as a continuing problem to be carried 1 out over many years, until it is fully solved.
41
1 1 R SECTION VI: I I COMMUNITY FACILITIES PLAN I I I. M I 1 m a n I I I e I - ._- I EXISTING CIOMMUNITY FACILITIES I (BASED ON SURV Y BY MICHAEL CABOT ASSOCIATES, INC.) 1998 FOREST I -- (DETAILED LISTING) I I I I I I I I I I
I 0 3000 6000 sE*LE w mr I
MICHAEL CABOT ASSOCIATES. COMMUNrrY PLANNEW
I THIS PROJECT WAS FINANCED. IN PART. BY A GRANT FROMIWE FEDERAL DEPARTMENT OF HUD. UNDER THE ADMllSTRAnON OF MENNO -TOWNSHIP, MIFFLIN COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA I THE COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA. DEPAAmMENT OF COMMUNrrV AND ECONOMIC DNELOPMEM. . . -. . - . _.. -. . - ___ .. -. -...... - ... .. - - - -. I I NEIGHBORHOOD AREAS
I LEGEND I -----COUNTY BOUNDARY -----TOWNSHIP BOUNDARY I ---=-NEIGHBORHOOD AREAS I I I I I I I I 0 3000 6000 I fw m m
MENNOCOM-ENS~VE TOWNSHIP BOARDpi ANN~NG OF SUPERVISORS PRO(;^
___ -- ___ -- MENNO TOWNSHIP PLANNING COMMITTEE MlFFLlN COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION I MICHAEL CABOT ASSOCIATES. COMMUNITY PLANNERS MENNO TOWNSHIP, MIFFLIN COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA MIS PROJECT WAS FINANCED, IN PART. BY A GRANT FROM THE - _- FEDERAL DEPARTMENT OF HUO. UNDER THE AOMlNlSTRATlON OF THE COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA. DEPARTMENT OF '2 . I -- - COMMUNITY AND ECONOMIC ONELOPMENT'.
SECTION VI
COMMU NlTY FACILITIES PLAN
INTRODUCTION
Community Facilities include the basic services and facilities which serve the public and which determine the quality of life available to its residents.
These facilities include a wide variety of physical infrastructure needed to sustain the life of the community. This section of the Comprehensive Plan includes those facilities and services over which the Township has either complete or partial responsibility. Facilities which are under the complete control of other agencies are not included in any detail. For example, the local school system is under the ' complete control of the Mifflin County School District and plans for schools are not presented in this report. However, the preparation of this Plan has been discussed with the School District to determine cooperative relationships which can be established between the School District and the Township's Comprehensive Plan. The School District does provide local and convenient recreational areas on school property which are also available after school hours to serve nearby residents.
In a similar manner, the Township has been able to provide a new Branch Public Library which is located in the Township's new Municipal Building.
This Plan does include a review and planning recommendations for the following community facilities:
- Menno Township Municipal Building - New Branch Public Library - Township Fire Fighting Facilities - Township Recreational Facilities and Plan - Township Maintenance Center - Public Sewer and Water Utility Systems
A Map illustrating the location of the various community facilities is also included, together with tabular information on the various facilities involved.
42 MENNO TOWNSHIP MUNICIPAL BUILDING (Including Branch Public Library)
INTRODUCTION
In 1994 Menno Township purchased a vacant, old Grange Historic structure in the Allensville Area of the Township. The intention of the Board of Supervisors was to rehabilitate the building so that it could be used as a Municipal Building.
The building is located on a 2.3 acre parcel and the structure itself has 3400. square feet of ground floor area. Access to the building was from Main Street (PA Rt. 655) via Water Street.
The Township retained an Architect and plans were prepared. It was determined that the building could house both the Municipal Offices and also provide sufficient room for the enlargement and relocation of the existing inadequate Public Library space.
Both the Public Library and the Municipal Offices at that time were using inadequate space for their purposes in a room located at the rear of the Allensville Fire Station.
Rehabilitation construction was started in 1995 and carried out through 1996 with occupancy taking place in 1997. Financing for the building utilized a combination of Township funds, a Keystone Library Grant and a Community Developme,nt Block Grant (CDBG) funds.
The rehabilitation program has transformed the building from a vacant, dilapidated structure to a modern up-to-date attractive structure that has retained its exterior historical appearance as required by the State Bureau of Historic Preservation.
CHARACTERISTICS OF THE TOWNSHIP BUILDING
The Township Building has a total area of 3400 square feet with space allocated as f 01 lows :
- Municipal Township functions: 2,230 sq.ft.
- Branch Public Library function: 1,170 sq.ft.
- Total 3,400 sq.ft.
Municipal Township functions include a lobby and reception area, a large community meeting room, a special room for records and storage, a large area for Township employees, including offices for the Township Secretary and space for the Township Supervisors and other municipal functions.
43 u Since the site is quite large, there is sufficient land for public parking at the rear of I the building. The characteristics of the Public Library space will be discussed following this I section on the Municipal Building. EVALUATION AND RECOMMENDATIONS
I The building is a completely new structure, designed in accordance with the detailed plans prepared by the competent Architect and with construction adequately supervised by the Architect. It is, therefore, essentially a brand new I building in excellent condition which will be adequately maintained by the Township so that it will no doubt continue in operation for at least 50 years, and I probably longer than that time period. Additional improvements which may be considered in the future will be the paving of the parking area at the rear of the building and the discussion and alloca'tion of I some of the community space in the building so that it can be used by various segments and groups of the population. It is expected that all meetings of the I Township Supervisors will take place at this meeting room, as well as meetings of various Boards which are part of the Township government, including the Township Planning Commission and the Township Zoning Hearing Board after the I Zoning Ordinance is finally adopted. It should be noted that the Kishacoquillas Valley Historical Society and the I Municipal Building, Library and the Historical Society, together with other important buildings along Main Street have the potential to become a true historic, cultural I and information center of this section of the County. 1 I I 1 I D I 44 I ALLENSVILLE PUBLIC LIBRARY
The Allensville Public Library in Menno Township, located in a portion of the new Municipal Township Building, is a new modern facility with ample space to properly serve the residents of the area. The Library is operated as a branch library.of the Mifflin County Public Library which is located in the Borough of Lewistown.
The library is supervised by the County Library Director. The Director is paid to direct all activities and utilize the services of all volunteers who have agreed to work at the Library.
The Township assumes all expenses relating to the operation cost of the building, including any rental fees or maintenance costs which might otherwise be involved. Necessary insurance coverages are also provided by the Township.
CHARACTERISTICS OF THE LIBRARY SPACE
Library space in the Municipal Building totals 1,170 square feet and includes a large public library wing for use by the public, including any necessary stacks, comfortable seating and reading space for the public, computer equipment and software with access to the Internet. All of the resources of the larger County Main Library in Lewistown are available to the users of the Branch Library, including books available through inter-library loans with other libraries in the State.
The facility itself is air conditioned to prevent deterioration of library collections and enough space exists to provide sufficient seating of users of the library and shelving to permit growth in the book, magazine and newspaper collections.
Library service in Allensville is important to community residents, many of whom are Amish who cannot travel great distances for library materials.
In 1993, approximately 13.7% of the population of the Township (1,637 persons) had library cards. The library serves persons who live out of the County.
It should be noted that during the rehabilitation process, special wiring was included to provide a potential for automation of the Branch Library in the future, including the use of fax machines, modems and internet.
In addition to the library space, a 729 square foot community room is also available.
The new Public Library is a major public improvement in the Township providing positive benefits to the community. This new facility is in excellent condition and it should meet the needs of the population for many years to come.
45 MENNO TOWNSHIP FIRE FIGHTING FACILITIES PLAN
INTRODUCTION
Menno Township is served by the Allensville Volunteer Fire Company which is centrally located on the north side of PA Rt. 655 (Main Street) in Allensville.
This Fire Fighting Facilities Plan was developed with cooperation of the Allensville . Volunteer Fire Chief and acknowledgement is made for his cooperation, information and comments.
The Fire Company is an important element of the Township's Disaster Preparedness Plan, which is available to serve local and nearby fires; and also to respond to any proclamation of an emergency order by official, Federal, State or Township directives for the purpose of protecting life and property and to minimize the destructive impact of natural or man-made disasters.
The fire company operates under the direction of a designated Fire Chief and in the event of a disaster, in cooperation with the Township Emergency Management Coordinator, the Township Supervisors and the Mifflin County Emergency Services Agency.
FACILITIES AND NEEDS OF FIRE COMPANY
A summary of the existing major fire fighting facilities and equipment is set forth on the tabulation following this page.
The Township has both formal and informal "Mutual Aid" Agreements with the County and adjoining municipalities.
The Allensville Volunteer Fire Company provides "Primary Response" to all sections of Menno Township, and to a portion of Brady Township in Huntingdon County.
46 MENNO TOWNSHIP ALLENSVILLE VOLUNTEER FIRE COMPANY SERVICE AREA, EXISTING FACILITIES AND NEEDS MAY, 1998
Name of Location (a) Major Faa'lities (b) Needs Fire and Primary Company Service Area Type and Age Condition Short Term Long Term (By 2003) (By 2015)
Allensville Serves entire NIA NIA NIA NIA Fire Co. Township and portion of Brady Township in Huntingdon County Fire Station is - 4 Bay metal Constructed in -- -- .. located on the building Fire 1950. northerly side of Station with Fit. 655 (Main St.) room for Fair Condition, in Allensville vehicle storage enough space between Water & and separate for all needs Huey Streets. room for meetings and training
Vehides - Vehicles 1990 Good condition -- X replace include: Enginelpumper truck 1,000 gallon capacity 1,500 GPM
New Personnel Very Good -- Carrier - seats condition 5 firemen plus the driver. Also includes a large water tank of 500 gallons 1968 Tanker Fair condition X replace (Refurbished in 19911 1,500 gal. capacity; 750 GPM
(Continued on next Daae)
47 U Name of Location (a) Major Fees(b) Needs Fire and Primary I Company Service Area Type and Age Condition Short Term Long Term I (By 2003) (By 2015) 1980 Special Good condition X replace - I Unit - small 201 3 pick-up engine truck: I 250 gal. capacity; 250 GPM I Carries special equipment 1971 Dodge Fair condition X - 2003 I Pickup truck carries water to fight brush I fires Source: Menno Township - Allensville Volunteer Fire Company and Mifflin County Emergency Services I Office. Footnotes:
I (a) See Community Facilities Plan Map for location (b) Miscellaneous other equipment available at the fire company. I u i I ‘I I ,I In I 4% I Evaluation of EauiDment and Other Factors Affectina The Fire ComDanv - The Fire Company has 15 active volunteer members and receives about 34 calls per year, including calls resulting from traffic accidents. The Fire Company fights about five fires a year.
Fundraising activities are important activities of the Fire Company, necessary to raise sufficient funds to meet their overall yearly budget requirements. The fundraising activities include meetings with the public for breakfast, suppers, community banquets, the annual Festival event in July, and the filling of swimming pools and other varied methods. The Fire Company uses the facilities at the Township Community Building which is located across Main Street from the Fire Station for many of these activities where the public is involved.
The attached tabulation indicates that the Fire Company has sufficient equipment to meet its needs. A total of five vehicles, in fair, good or very good condition. Two of the older vehicles will probably require replacement within five years and two of the vehicles may need replacement or repairs by the next 15 years.
Public water supply in the Allensville and Whitehall Areas are adequate to Tight fires.
Three box alarms exist in the following locations in the Township:
- Menno Township Municipal Building - Brady Township - Allensville Planing Mill
The Fire Company is able to rely on some special equipment from other fire companies, such as ladder trucks which are available from both the Borough of Lewistown and Huntingdon County municipalities.
The Township provides necessary insurance coverages, including medical coverage and workmens compensation for the volunteers and liability insurance.
FIRE FIGHTING PLAN RECOMMENDATIONS
The following recommendations relate to the major foreseeable equipment needs and other proposals designed to improve fire protection services in the Township.
1. EauiDment Needs
a. Enaine and Tanker Truck Needs - Despite the high cost of new fire trucks and other vehicles, the Allensville Fire Company has been able to raise enough funds to purchase new or used equipment in good condition and to maintain them in good or fair condition. This is essential to safeguard the public health and to protect the lives of the firefighters.
49 Based on the tabulation on the preceding page, only one tanker truck and the pick-up truck used for brush fires may require replacement within the next five years and two of the lesser aged vehicles which are in good or fair condition may need replacement in about 10 to 15 years.
All vehicles must be well maintained to increase their life over the time periods involved. Additional replacements may be necessary to provide more modern equipment to replace vehicles that are still operative, but which have become obsolescent. ..
In some cases, advances in the design of fire fighting trucks and equipment, including high technology improvements, or the construction of new buildings in the Township may necessitate further I changes which cannot be anticipated at this time. I In making these decisions, the latest technology available should be identified to be sure that vehicles, especially used equipment, are purchased which will meet immediate and future needs and NFPA I standards. b. Special Needs - The special vehicles which serve the Fire Company II vary in type, from a pick-up truck to fight brush fires, other vehicles adapted to transport volunteer personnel and other equipment. I In order to avoid the excessive cost of equipment which may only be rarely needed, the Fire Company should continue to cooperate with other municipalities to develop and improve separate specializations in I each municipality to serve the entire Township which do not have to be maintained by each separate Fire Company. This will reduce the need for each company to purchase and maintain similar equipment I which is not used very often.
Equipment needs should be reviewed annually and upgraded and replaced as required with appropriate funds and funding sources identified.
2. Drv Hvdrants and Public Water SUDD~V- Dry hydrants are used to provide water from existing creeks and streams where public water supply is not available.
Two dry hydrants have been installed at locations needing additional water supply. The Fire Company believes that additional dry hydrants are not needed.
Public water extensions adjoining Allensville and the Whitehall Areas will be needed as additional dates are projected by the Population Analysis. See Map titled "Public Water and Sewer Services".
50 3. Fire Prevention Activities - The Township may also undertake fire prevention measures for the purpose of preventing fires or to alert residents to fires in a more timely manner. These measures may include the following:
a. Public Education and InsDections - Actions which may be taken to prevent fires and to alert persons immediately when a fire does occur can be made available to residents and business firms through well organized public education and periodic inspections. The Fire Company normally does undertake activities of this type, but this should be continued on an organized basis with brochures and other materials made available to the public.
b. Fire Alarm Installation Proaram - The Township may wish to initiate a program for the installation of wired fire and smoke alarms in homes where such devices are not available or affordable. Devices of this type may be funded under the CDBG Program or from other sources.
This may include the voluntary installation of these devices by the Volunteer Fire Company personnel. This would provide an opportunity for the volunteer firemen to inspect the premises and to identify specific conditions which may lead to fires. Residents may then be counseled about actions they should take to improve these conditions.
4. New Growth and DeveioDment - A moderate amount of growth and some new development is planned primarily to meet the needs of the natural increase in the population. This would provide new jobs to serve youth coming of age over the next 15 years. This level of growth will not greatly increase the need for firefighting equipment unless higher multi-story structures are constructed in the Township an occurence which is not anticipated at this time.
The Township should therefore continue to review all subdivisions and land developments to ensure adequate construction of these new facilities, in accordance with up-to-date and modern fire prevention codes and building codes. Incorporation of protective measures of this type during the construction stage can eliminate or reduce life and property losses resulting from fire.
All plans for new development should be subject to review by the Fire Company to ensure adherence to such standards and to the requirements of the National Fire Protection Association. In addition, measures which may reduce fire insurance rates should also be utilized or provided where possible.
5. Fire Prevention and Buildina Codes - There is a need for the adoption, implementation and enforcement of fire prevention, housing maintenance, and building construction codes, all of which do not presently exist in the Township. All of these codes may contain fire prevention requirements as
51 I well as other proper construction standards. Standardization of codes by the State is also being considered at this time and could expedite the use of I codes in the near future.
The Township also needs to designate a Fire Code Officer, either at'the I Township or County level to properly inspect and enforce these codes on a continuing basis.
I 6. Mutual Aid Agreements - Mutual Aid Agreements and/or cooperative understandings do exist between the Fire Company/Township, the County and adjoining municipalities. These agreements should be reviewed by the I Township from the point of view of responsibilities, liabilities, and costs which are incurred under these agreements or understandings. The review I should include legal advice and, if necessary, the agreements should be updated to better serve and protect all parties involved and to share the cost I of these services in an equitable manner. Agreements of this type are mandated by the State as set forth in the PA Consolidated Statutes - Title 35 - Emergency Management Services Code of I PA; Chapter 75, Subchapter A, Section 7504 titled Coordination, Assistance and Mutual Aid, and all agreements must be approved by local resolutions of 1 the parties involved and be properly executed. 7. Reductions in Available Volunteers - The trend, Nationwide is for reductions in the number of persons available to volunteer their services to volunteer I fire departments. This trend is affecting Mifflin County, although presently there are enough volunteers to man the fire company in the Township. Over the coming years, the Township must continue to review changes occurring in the number of available volunteers in anticipation of the time when other I' arrangements may have to be made. Some municipalities have found the need to provide paid drivers or to take other actions necessary to address I the shortage of volunteers. This may include new recruiting actions and I special incentives to encourage volunteers.
I The volunteers are a tremendous resource providing vital services and measures to sustain and support these volunteers should be identified.
I COOPERATION BETWEEN THE FIRE COMPANY AND THE TOWNSHIP
In the past, the volunteer Fire Company has maintained a highly independent attitude, striving to obtain and maintain the best equipment possible and to develop and establish the best reputation for competence.
This competitive spirit and independent attitude for each Company has served to attract numerous volunteers in the past. Presently, due to the increasing costs and funds required to purchase new equipment and the need to provide for various insurance coverages, including medical coverage, workmans compensation and
52 I liability insurance has required the Fire Company and the Township to cooperate more closely. 1 This type of cooperation should be continued and Township participation may need to be increased, especially if it becomes necessary to hire paid drivers. In addition, with the increasing cost of new fire equipment, the need for cooperation has I become more important and necessary to maximize the effectiveness of the Company while at the same time reducing cost of operation. I There are many common areas of concern between the Fire Company andethe Township where joint solutions to problems may be necessary. The following problems and common areas of concern have been identified by this study and I they can be used as a basis for establishing more formal cooperation. 1 The identification of specialized areas where the Company can become most proficient in to avoid or reduce the need to duplicate the purchase of similar equipment or special training which may be obtained by cooperating with 1 other municipalities.
The identification of locations of where additional dry hydrants can be I programmed and installed (See Item 2 above).
Cooperative fire prevention actions which can be taken by the Fire Company 1 to reduce fires from being started or getting out of control, including the program proposed for the installation of fire alarms in existing homes (See Item 3 above). .. 8
Identification of new "box alarms" which may be needed particularly as new growth takes place. This will improve the dispatch of proper equipment in I response to emergencies.
Cooperation and actions needed to adopt and enforce fire codes and steps to I inspect existing premises for the purpose of identifying violations of these codes (See Item 5 above). I Review of existing mutual aid agreements, including clear cut identification of responsibilities, liabilities, and costs, including insurance costs to be accepted by the Fire Company and by the Township (See Item 6 above). 1 Donation drives, including the establishment of services which are needed by I the public and which can be sold at a minimum cost. Cooperation on the part of the Township and the Fire Company is necessary to i maximize the use of Township funds which can be made available. The process of both parties working together will result in a more efficient fire I fighting system and may result in incentives which will increase the number of volunteers willing to serve in the Township. I 53 I MENNO TOWNSHIP EXISTING RECREATION FACILITIES AND PLAN
Menno Township has only one developed recreation facility available to serve the public in the entire Township. It is a park/playground area located in Allensville behind the Allensville Fire Station on a Fire Company parcel.
This facility serves the Allensville Area and is also available to the rest of the Township and to persons from other nearby areas, such as Belleville and Brady Towns hip.
A description of this recreational area is summarized on the tabulation presented on the following page. ..
The Park has a wide range of equipment of all types, including tennis courts and a basketball court with night lighting, a band shell to accommodate entertainers and musicians who perform at the annual festival which is used for fundraisers by the Volunteer Fire Company, a large assortment of play equipment for young children, a large picnic pavilion and storage area used for family reunions and large picnic groups, and an official sized Little League field.
CONDITION AND EVALUATION
The Fire Company has assumed a large burden by taking on the responsibility for the development, upkeep and maintenance of this park facility.
The Park is a popular facility that does draw persons from the entire Township and from adjoining municipalities. However, the number of young children available to play at this park has declined as the population in the Allensville Area has aged. Recent birth and death rates now indicate that an increase in younger children is coming of age which should increase the use of the Park in the coming years. Another factor inhibiting the use of the Park has been the increasing large numbers of young children in the Amish community due to natural increase, that do not use the Park because of religious and lifestyle restrictions which the Amish have about mingling with non-Amish persons.
The overall condition of the park is considered to be fair to good. Actions taken to replace some of the older facilities and also to increase the safety of the Park in accordance with modern standards would do much to elevate the overall condition and evaluation to good. This Park is definitely a useful asset to the Township and should be continued into the future.
54 I TABULATION OF CHARACTERISTICS OF ALLENSVILLE PARK AND PLAYGROUND AREA I I ALLENSVILLE PARK AND PLAYGROUND ~~ I Ownership: Allensville Fire Company. Entire Park was improved by the volunteers of the Fire ComDanv. Location: Behind the Allensville Fire Station - between Water and I Huev Streets, off of Main Street Approximate Size: Entire Fire Company parcel: 3.95 acres 1 Area available for Recreation: 2.66 acres Service Area: Available to serve all persons in Menno Township. 1 People from adjoining communities also use the Park (Belleville and Bradv Townshid Two tennis courts I One Basketball court Lighting for the tennis courts Large Picnic pavilion I Band s he1I/stag e Grassy area Official Little League ballfield with two dugouts 1 and backstop and fencing Young childrens play area: I - Two slides - Special small slide - Double swing I - Two horses attached on springs - Merry-go-round Tether ball I - Climbing Bars (2) - Monkey Bars - Steel pole climbing tree I - Balance beam
~ ~~ 0 Mostly well maintained I 0 Depending on age, condition is fair to good 0 Some safety improvements needed I Source: Field Survey, photographs and interviews with Township officials and Volunteer Fire Company personnel, May, 1998. I I I 55 I I .. Recommendations - The following recommendations have been prepared for use as a guide by Township officials and firefighting volunteers. These include the I following:
1. The Fire Company needs help from the Township Supervisors to maintain I and improve this Park/Playground Area. It is recommended that the Township Supervisors appoint a Recreation Committee to study the use of the Park and to meet with volunteer Fire Company officials to discuss I maintenance and improvements in greater detail and also to attempt to develop solutions for eliminating some of the problems which the Park faces. Most important would be a discussion of how the Township can accept an I increasing share and responsibility for this facility. I 2. Evaluate the safety of all the equipment and ground surfaces under active play areas. . ,'
I 3. Replace all unsafe equipment. I 4. Define safe "fall zones" and remove and/or respace equipment, if required. 5. Provide a new multi-use paved court area for roller skating and other court I games. 6. Provide additional park benches in the grassy area for more informal I picnicking, away from the pavilion. 7. Provide sand boxes for use by young children.
I 8. Develop an overall improvement plan and proposed landscaping improvements, including the provision of trees and shrubs which can provide I some shade in the grassy areas in the future. 9. Identify funding sources and seek grants to be used for improving the park. The Township and Fire Company officials should cooperate and apply for I such grant funds where available, so that the Park can be improved in the relatively near future.
I RECOMMENDATION FOR ADDITIONAL PLAY AREA
The easterly section of the Township is not served with any nearby recreational I facilities. It is recommended that the development of a new recreational area be considered in the Whitehall Area along PA Rt. 655. The recreation area can be I kept relatively simple consisting only of a ballfield, or several small popular facilities combined such as a ballfield, tot lot area and basketball court. A recreational questionnaire can be distributed in the elementary schools to assess the need and I the numbers of persons interested in participating in the program. The need and potential usage of a facility of this type can be evaluated by an East End I Recreational Committee appointed by the Township Supervisors. I 56 _. I MENNO TOWNSHIP MAINTENANCE CENTER I
The Menno Township Maintenance Center is located on the westerly side Qf Mill Road, about 700 feet north of its intersection with Huey Street in the Allensville I Area. It is located on a site approximately 0.3 acres in size.
The site is occupied with one metal heated building that serves as a garage to I house two trucks used for maintenance activities. In addition, there is a covered outdoor area used for the storage of cinders and salt and also for keeping a grader under roof. 1 Staff Personnel - The Maintenance facilities are utilized by the following personnel: 1 - Road Master - One Equipment Operator I Activities carried out by the Maintenance Center staff include road maintenance and repair, including the cleaning of road culverts, the plowing of snow in.the winter, grass cutting in the summer, and other miscellaneous maintenance 'work. I
Recommendations - The Township considers this area suitable for the immediate future. However, the site could benefit by being somewhat larger to accommodate I additional vehicles and additional storage of supplies. It is recommended that the Township take any opportunity which presents itself to acquire a larger parcel of I land to be used for this purpose and to permit the storage of additional vehicles necessary to carry out these maintenance activities. I I I I I I I I 57 I MENNO TOWNSHIP COMMUNITY BUILDING
Menno Township presently owns the former Methodist Church building located on the south side of Main Street (PA Rt. 655) diagonally opposite from the Fire Station which has been donated to the Township. This building is now used for community meetings, special events, Township meetings requiring a large space I for congregation, fundraising activities for the Volunteer Fire Company including group dinners, morning breakfast service. The building is referred to locally at the I "A II e nsviI I e Comm u ni ty Bui I d ing 'I. The Township was able to use this building as a place for holding a public hearing on the adoption of a proposed Subdivision and Land Development Ordinance which I generated considerable concern among the Amish population. The building was able to hold the large Amish population that showed up at the meeting and to answer all questions asked by the Amish, and the Ordinance was subsequently I adopted by the Township.
The Building is a large attractive structure with significant architectural quality and features and it is considered to be a historic structure worthy of preservation (see Photograph). The old Methodist Cemetery is located behind the building and that cemetery is also considered to have historic significance.
The Community Building is approximately 35 by 48 feet in size on the first floor (1700 square feet) with a kitchen on the rear side of the building. It has a large foyer leading into a large open space which is used for meetings.
While the building is owned by the Township, it is maintained by the Lions Club. This is good example of the Township and a responsible local service club working together to preserve a historic community asset.
RECOMMENDATIONS
The Township should continue to use this building for the uses described. However, consideration should also be given to housing a public or semi-public use or agency in the building to provide an economic return from the building which can be used to help with the maintenance of the building. Depending on the amount of space required for such a use, it may be possible to keep a portion of the building in use for community meetings and activities as it is now used. This type of change is possible since the new Township municipal building recently completed also has set aside space for community meetings.
58 I MENNO TOWNSHIP PUBLIC SEWER AND WATER UTILITY SYSTEMS I
The availability of public water and sewer systems to serve Township residents is I one of the important factors affecting the quality of life in the Township. It is also an important factor required for the creation of new jobs in the area. I The purpose of this water and sewer study is to clearly set forth the policy of the Township relative to future public sewer and water extensions. I On-lot septic systems serve the entire Township and they are located in areas with .. poor soils have been and still continue to be a major problem resulting in contaminated soils which adversely affect on-lot private well systems used by I residents. They are a particular problem in the Allensville and Whitehall Areas where numerous small lots are located, and also in the Stonewood Subdivision Area. I The lack of public sewers has also discouraged the growth of industry in the 1 Township with a corresponding lack of growth in new jobs which are necessary to serve the generation of younger persons growing up in the area. I The availability of public sewer and water service in Menno Township is discussed below. I EXISTING PUBLIC SEWER FACILITIES
Public sewers do not exist anywhere in the Township. It is apparent from a review I of soil conditions and small lots in the Allensville, Whitehall and Stonewood subdivision areas that public sewers are needed to serve the existing population of these three areas. I
Future Public Sewer Service Area - As a part of this Comprehensive Plan, the suitability of land for development at various densities has been considered during I the preparation of the Land Use Plan for the Township.
This Land Use Plan has identified areas proposed for Low Density and Village-type I residential development at higher densities. The Plan also identifies proposed areas for industrial and commercial development. It is within these limits that the majority of new development in the Township is expected to take place by the year I 201 5. These areas are shown on the proposed Land Use Plan and the service area itself is identified on the accompanying map following this sewer service area report, titled "Public Water and Public Sewer Service Plan". I
The Public Sewer Service Area shows existing development served with on-lot sewers which need immediate consideration for sewers at this time. In addition, I adjoining areas where the proposed public sewer system may eventually be I 59 I extended are also depicted based on the recommendations of the Land Use Plan. These areas include the following:
- The existing Villages of Allensville and Whitehall
- The Stonewood subdivision area, portions of which have severe conditions which adversely affect the functioning of on-lot septic systems.
All of these areas will need further study of the type required by PA DEP through the preparation of an Act 537 Sewage Facilities Plan for the Township. Such a plan should be scheduled as soon as possible so that new public sewers can be provided over the next several years. i It is also proposed that when the Township receives requests for new development under its Subdivision and Land Development Ordinance that the development proposals be carefully reviewed before they are approved for development. I Development in the designated future sewer service areas may be required to hook- up to the sewer system, or if such an extension is not immediately possible, to provide "capped" sewers until such time as it is feasible to connect into the sewer system. I On-lot sewers would not be permitted in these areas, except on a temporary basis. PUBLIC WATER FACILITIES
I Public water facilities are provided in two sections of the Township by the following agencies:
1 . Allensville MuniciDal Authority - The Authority recently updated its filtration system and installed a new distribution system. These improvements were completed in 1996. 164 hook-ups have been served with adequate public I water.
The water filtration has been designed with a capacity of 80,000 gatlons per I day which provides ample margin of safety to permit substantial future expansion.
This improved water system primarily serves developed sections of the Village of Allensville at the present time. This is shown on the accompanying plan titled "Public Water and Public Sewer Service Plan".
It is expected that as new development takes place around Allensville for residential, commercial or industrial uses that the water service area will be expanded to serve the new development as it takes place. These water expansion areas are designated on the map referred to above.
60 I
2. Whitehall Water Service ComDanv - This private water company presently provides public water service to the presently developed area of the "village" I of Whitehall (See Map referred to above).
Water expansion areas around Whitehall are proposed in those areas I proposed for new development on the Land Use Plan. The water service would accordingly be expanded at that time to accommodate the new growth that may take place in accordance with available excess capacity I that may be available in the existing water system. I I I I I I I I I I I I I I 61 I HISTORIC STRUCTURES
INTRO DU CTlO N
The Village of Allensville, located along PA Rt. 655 or Main Street as it is known locally, houses the four historic buildings identified. These buildings include two former churches, a former Grange/School building, and a church that is still actively used for services. Menno Township has taken a proactive approach to ensure the preservation of its historic properties and will continue with a policy of historic preservation paying particular attention to buildings which are scheduled for demolition. The location of the four buildings are identified on the accompanying Community Facilities Plan Map. The source of this information was a historic sites survey completed by the Mifflin County Planning Commission and a letter received from the PA Historical and Museum Commission. Other historic structures, primarily residential buildings are also located in the Township. A complete record of these other structures is on file with the Historic Society.
1. Big Vallev Grange Hall (a.k.a. Allensville Grade School1 - Located at the corner of Main Street (PA Rt. 655) and Water Street, this building was first used as the Allensville Grade School and later was taken over by the Big Valley Grange. This building was converted in 1997 for use as the Menno Township Municipal Building which also includes a Public Library. This Library is an important resource for the local Amish and Mennonites.who now do not have to travel far to use the resources. This building is eligible for listing in the National Register of Historic Places and the buildings recent conversion in 1997 did conform with guidelines set forth by the Secretary of the Interior's standards for Rehabilitation and Guidelines for Rehabilitating Historic Buildings.
2. Methodist Church and Cemetery - Located along Main Street in Allensville, this building was originally constructed in 1852. The structure has an ornate bell tower and fanned window above the doorway for architectural interest.
Today, it is used as a Community Building for meetings, special events, Township meetings, and fundraising activities for the Volunteer Fire Company.
3. Presbvterian Church - The congregation of this church was formed in 1774 and the present brick structure was built in 1862. Located on East Main Street in Allensville, the building is considered to have a Greek Revival style including pillars over the porch in the front. Today, the Historic Society is housed within this building.
4. Lutheran Church and Cemeterv - Constructed in 1863, this brick church is located on West Main Street in Allensville. It is a two story structure that features a bell tower and is still used for religious services.
62 SECTION VII: TRANSPORTATION PLAN
I I I I I I SECTION VI1
I EXISTING ROAD AND PROPOSED TRANSPORTATION PLAN
I INTRODUCTION I The Menno Township Road System is an integral part of the overall road system of Mifflin County and it is typical of road systems which exist in other rural aceas I where only limited new development has occurred over the years. Most portions of the Menno Township Road System were established many years ago and the location of the existing roads was largely determined by local I topography which resulted in sharp turns in the local roads and poor alignments to avoid topographic obstacles. In addition, the system was laid out and built to an older standard of design. Construction technology and equipment was not I comparable with modern day equipment which can smooth out obstacles and can provide improved grades and alignments.
I The right-of-way width of most of the older roads was set at 33 feet which was considered to be adequate at that time to handle the low traffic volumes.
I Improvements were gradually made to the system as traffic volumes increased and when serious hazardous problems resulted in excessive accidents. ..
1 The road system in Menno Township reflects the results of this type of development and in many ways it can be considered to be a deficient system. However, because of low traffic volumes and a low density of population, there I seems to be no economic justification to improve the system for its own sake. Improvements can also disrupt local existing development and create problems I where none seem to exist. In addition, the older system is reminiscent of the life of older villages and it provides a substantial reminder of better days gone by. This actually is the I situation which exists in Menno Township where the older villages have a historic quality and where the horse and buggy is still an important method of transportation for the Amish population. The road system is actually a part of the I attractive rural landscape which is highly admired by local persons living in the area I and by visitors and occasional tourists who visit the area. Of course, times are changing and new highway standards are essential in some cases to remove unsafe traffic conditions. This Plan will identify such deficiencies. I However, it is an objective of this Transportation Plan to retain most of what does exist and is useable and to concentrate on essential requirements to upgrade safety and eliminate hazardous conditions such as poor alignments in some cases and I narrow bridges. I 63 I This approach has been thoroughly discussed with the local Menno Township I Supervisors and with both the Amish and non-Amish population and it is an important objective of the Plan. I CLASSIFICATION OF EXISTING ROAD SYSTEM
The existing road system has been functionally classified into the following I categories as depicted on the attached Transportation Plan - Map No. 1 entitled "Road Classifications": I 1. Maior Thorouahfares - "Major Thoroughfares" are major roads which serve County movements and through traffic connections to adjoining Counties or localities at higher speeds of up to 55 mph, except as posted in specific I locations. These roads also provide connections to important longer distance traffic generators. 1 .. 2. Connector Roads - "Connector Roads" are the more important roads in the Township which connect different sections of the Township with other nearby municipalities or counties. They do carry local through traffic, but I not the type of longer distance traffic carried by the major thoroughfares. Speeds are usually limited, depending on the level of development along I these roads, but they vary between 35 and 55 mph. In the case of Menno Township, they do not carry heavy traffic volumes. I 3. Collector Roads - "Collector Roads" are streets which intercept local streets and provide access to abutting properties and also serve individual neighbor- hoods or areas. There function is to collect traffic from the Local Streets I and to feed this traffic into the collector roads or major thoroughfares. Collector roads are anticipated to serve moderate traffic volumes and have designed speeds up to 45 mph, although lesser speed limits are posted I depending on the type of development they may be passing.
4. Local Roads - "Local Roads" or streets (also called Minor Streets) are those I streets used primarily to provide access to abutting property and to feed into the Collector Roads. These local streets are anticipated to serve low traffic volumes and have designed speeds of up to 35 mph. I
All the roads in the Township have been classified into one of these four categories as shown on the accompanying map referred to previously. An important use of I this classification system is that it can help to establish priorities for the improvement of existing roads requiring maintenance by the Township. State owned roads are of course referred to PennDOT for improvement where needed. I However, when Township roads require improvement, the higher functional classification (for example, Connector roads as compared to Collector roads would normally be considered to have a higher priority for improvement, other conditions I being equal).
In Menno Township, all the existing roads in the Township have been classified in I one of these four categories and they are summarized in the accompanying tabulation. I 64 I I CLASSIFICATION OF EXISTING ROADS IN MENNO TOWNSHIP i ROAD NAME LENGTH IN. i FEET MILES I 1. Major Thoroughfares (Includes all of PA 655) 31,500 6.0 I 2. Connector Roads, including the following: 107,250 20.3 - Front Mountain Road (SR 4004) and T334 I - Zook Road (T322) - Waynesburg Road (SR 4009) I - Middle Road (SR 4004) - Jacks Mountain Road (SR 4007) I - Allensville Mountain Road (T324) - Long Lane (T336) I - West Back Mountain Road (T451) - Knepp Road, between West Back Mountain I Road and PA Rt. 655 (T342) 3. Collector Roads, including the following: 45,000 8.5 I - Huey Street in Allensville - School House Road (T326) I - Bunker Hill Road (T340) - Knepp Road, between PA Rt. 655 and I Middle Road (T342) - West Back Mountain Road (T451), between PA I Rt. 655 and Long Lane - Cemetery Road (T453) I - Hickory Lane (T464) 4. Local roads 186,000 35.2 - All of the remaining roads in the Township not I classified above including Township roads and some private roads which provide direct frontage access to individual homes and I businesses. I I TOTALS: 369,750 70.2 I Source: Field Survey Classification by Michael Cabot Associates. 65 I I ROAD IMPROVEMENT STANDARDS
Road Improvement Standards for the various types of roads, as classified above are I summarized in the following tabulation. These standards apply primarily to new construction, or to the improvement of existing roads. In many existing situations, road rights-of-way will not be wide enough to meet these standards, but the I jndardswill serve as a guide for the proposed improvements.
The standards should apply completely when new subdivisions are proposed, I particularly when these subdivisions include connector, collector or local roads.
ROAD STANDARDS, BY TYPE OF ROAD I
Cartway Width (Ft.) I
Way Width Road Classification Ft.1 Paved Total Right-of- Travel Shoulders I GLanes Major Thoroughfare 44 I (SR 655) 8o I 24 I 2o I Connector Roads 60 24 16 40 I Collector Roads 50-55 22-24 12 34-36 Local Roads 50 1 20-22 I 8-10 I 28-32 I Source: Menno Township Subdivision and Land Development Ordinance. I EXISTING ROAD DEFICIENCIES I The existing road system was inspected in 1993 and the following conditions were noted at that time. I Existina Road Conditions - Road pavements were found to be in either good or fair condition. None of the major roads were found to be in need of major repairs. However, some of the local roads, including private roads or lanes were not paved I and had gravel surfaces, but they seemed passable and useable considering the . low traffic volumes involved. One such Township road leading up over the' Allensville Mountain (T324) is a gravel road that could be scheduled for paving I since it connects Allensville with adjoining Huntingdon County.
While none of the roads were found to be in poor condition in 1993, portions of I the following State roads were considered to be in "fair" condition reflecting the need for continuing maintenance and improvement of all roads. It should be noted that the Township is well organized with its road maintenance activities and has 1 been able to keep up with the improvement of existing Township roads. This is r I 66 I also apparently possible because of the relatively small area of the Township and it is not faced with an overwhelming number of roads to be improved.
The only Township roads which were evaluated in "fair" condition were short portions of the West Back Mountain Road (see Map). However, some of the "connector" roads primarily State owned roads were found to have a number of roads in "fair" condition approaching the point where maintenance and improvement would be required. This also reflects the fact that these roads are more heavily used when compared with the local roads discussed previously. These sections of road were located along Front Mountain Road and its continuation east where the traffic would continue onto Middle Road.
A summary of deficient road conditions are listed below:
Existina Road Deficiencies I A. Portions of Various Roads in Fair Condition: I - State Roads 1. Front Mountain Road (SR 4004) 2. Waynesburg Road (SR 4023) I 3. Middle Road (SR 4004) I - TownshiD Roads 1. West Back Mountain Road (T451)
I B. Gravel Roads:
1. Allensville Mountain Road (T324) I 2. Beantree Lane (Local Road) 3. Streamside Lane, between Front Mountain Road and School House Road I 4. Subdivision Area, located along Front Mountain Road - Four Local Streets serving this subdivision I 5. Bogey Street in Allensville C. Narrow Bridcles - Narrow bridges over existing creeks were found to be a potential problem in various locations in the Township. These narrow I bridges (safely suitable for only one lane of t+affic) include the following:
1. Four bridges over the Kishocoquillas Creek on Schoolhouse Lane, I Waynesburg Road, Bunker Hill Road and Beantree Lane.
2. An unnamed creek which passes under the Allensville Mountain Road I above the Village of Allensville also has a narrow bridge problem. I 67 I I 3. Three bridges on the West Back Mountain Road over several unnamed creeks (see Map for location). I TRANSPORTATION PLAN RECOMMENDATIONS ..
The proposed Transportation Plan is presented in the following two parts: I
1. The results of the study of existing road conditions and road deficiencies will be addressed by proposing various improvements to the existing road I system, indicating the procedures which can be followed to upgrade that system. I 2. The second part will present ideas for major road construction and improvements which could have an impact on PA Route 655 and could result in a way to address a transportation problem which presently provides 1 some conflict between the needs of the Amish and the non-Amish communities. I ImDrovement of Existina Road Svstem - All the road deficiencies identified .above.. should be reviewed by the Road Master, the Township Supervisors and the I Township Planning Commission and action should be taken to accomplish the following steps: I 1. Roadwav Deficiencies - Road conditions should be updated to identify the status of roads discussed under the prior sections of this report. An up-to- date list of all roads needing repair should be prepared. The list should I itemize the roads which are owned by the State and the possible repairs to those roads should be discussed with PennDOT. This discussion should result in a decision on those roads which can be programmed for I improvement, including the establishment of priorities. The Township should also itself update the list of Township owned roads needing repairs and prepare cost estimates for carrying out such improvements. These I improvements should then be prioritized, with priorities established based on the condition of each road and on its functional classification. The cost estimate should include the cost of the repair, including improvement of I shoulders and replacement of culverts where necessary.
The list completed by the Township should then be discussed with PennDOT I and the use of future Liquid Fuels Tax refunds programmed to carry out the improvements agreed upon over a feasible time period. I If sufficient funds are not available to improve all of the roads on a timely basis, then the Township should consider requesting CDBG funds from the Mifflin County Planning Commission to carry out certain improvements on I roads which are eligible for such funding. Income surveys may have to be programmed by the County to determine eligibility so that this step should be taken as soon as possible, if required. I
I'I 68 .. I The above process should also include all of the gravel roads which the I Township wishes to consider for improvement. 2. Bridae Deficiencies - In a similar manner updated lists and cost estimates should be developed for bridges. Bridges are normally inspected on a regular I basis. The latest inspection report should be reviewed and priorities established for the required improvement of the narrow bridges. Priority should be established based on the volume of traffic on each road and also I on the condition of each narrow bridge. A program for funding the 'proposed bridge improvements can then be finalized.
I 3. Road Maintenance - The Township's Maintenance facilities are located at the northwesterly side of Mill Street in the Allensville Area.
I The recommendations of that review which are contained in the Community Facilities Plan should be discussed, including the need to provide a somewhat larger maintenance area which can accommodate additional I vehicles and additional storage of supplies. The parcel could be enlarged, perhaps on the existing site or an extension of the site to provide more I space for additional equipment required for road maintenance. Future Road Construction - The existing road system in the Township was studied I to determine if new road construction was required to serve the existing growth of the population by the year 2015 and if any new road construction was needed to *. I serve the future population or the proposals of the Land Use Plan. The High Range Population Projection was 2,138 persons by the year 201 5. This is a significant percentage increase over the size of the population in 1990 I amounting to 501 additional persons (30.6%) over the projected 25 year period, and an even higher percentage increase in number of households from 460 in 1960 I to 644 by the year 201 5 (40.0% increase). These increases will be spread out in different sections of the Township and will not have a major impact on the existing road system since the roads are all I operating well within the capacity of the system to serve these numbers of people. Therefore, proposed major road improvements beyond the required maintenance I and repair of the existing system as discussed above is not necessary at this time. However, it is expected that the Land Use Plan and sewer system proposed for the Allensville Area will generate the new growth that is projected by the highrange 1 estimate in that area and it will result in the need for new local roads to serve new developments which may be provided under the proposals of the Land Use Plan. This new development would include expansions of the Village residential area and I also new residential construction in the proposed agricultural/low density residential area. Some growth in the Whitehall section may also occur in the agricultural/low I density area surrounding Whitehall as shown on the Land Use Plan Map. I 69 I I
Any new growth in these areas will require the subdivision of land and the new streets required will have to be included on such subdivisions plans which are I submitted to the Township. These subdivision plans will be reviewed, prior to any approval by the Township at the appropriate time. The Township and the Developer, working together, will determine the layout of the new subdivision that I best serves the proposed development and which meets the needs of the Township. This of course is an important opportunity for the Township and the subdivision review process should be carried out carefully to achieve the best I possible layout for new streets in these growth areas. Id lmmovement of PA Route 655 - Improverr/lent of existing PA Route 655 should also I be considered at the present time by PennDOT. This road is a two lane highway for its entire length in the Township w&$houlders on each side. The road is heavily used by the Amish population with their buggies. It is a highly scenic road, I especially as it passes the open farm areas and the attractive landscape visible from the highway on both sides. Improvements are needed along the road to accommodate the use of buggies on a major highway where slow buggy traffic I occurs. This conflict of fast moving traffic and slow moving buggy traffic is potentially a very serious problem which may result in death of one or more I persons and which could adversely affect the Amish population. It would also affect the non-Amish population since it might be very well be perceived that there is some element of responsibility on the non-Amish for not recognizing a possible I catastrophe of this type. The time for a solution to this should wait no longer and steps to initiate and address this problem should begin immediately. The following recommendations outline a procedure that could be explored to reach a solution: I 1. Identification of Problem - PA Route 655 carries fast moving traffic over its entire length, but the capacity of the road is able to accommodate the I vehicular traffic. A widening of that road from two to four lanes does.not appear necessary in the foreseeable future. However, the road does suffer from major conflicts between slow moving horse and buggy traffic and fast I moving vehicular traffic, and this problem should be addressed as soon as possible. The solution to the horse and buggy problem could include the construction of buggy lanes on each side of the road. These could be I located on the shoulders of the highway and each shoulder could be redesigned to carry buggies and to provide the necessary shoulder space for vehicles to pull off in case of mishap or emergency. I
2. Maanitude of Problem - An inventory of the problems should be prepared by the Township in cooperation with PennDOT officials. This should include an I identification and evaluation of the number of horse drawn buggies and vehicular traffic on Route 22. This problem also exists in adjoining municipalities and these should be included in this evaluation. I
3. Reaulatorv Measures - Serious regulatory measures should be discussed to control the conflicts which presently exists. However, it is not expected I that this will completely solve the problems. I 70 I I 4. New Construction - One possible, but expensive solution could be the widening of the highway at selected locations, including the provision of I 0 (L shoulders (which do not presently exist) to control passing movements.
5. Consultation with PennDOT - Under the preparation of this Comprehensive I Plan, the use of shoulders for this purpose were discussed with representatives of PennDOT involved in the ISTEA process. Interest on this proposed solution was expressed and the Township was given the ~I opportunity to consider an ISTEA funding program. At the time of that discussion, ISTEA funds were not available. This may now be an appropriate time to consider this type of action since new funding under a ‘I Federal Transportation Program has recently been approved by Congress (5/98).The entire length of the improvement in Menno Township should be considered. Shoulders of the road can be widened if possible to permit I additional room on each side and also to provide an adequate surface which would be suitable for buggy traffic and also for use of the shoulder in the conventional manner. Several educational pull-off stops along the road can I also be planned since the traveling public is very much interested with the Amish way of life and these stops could emphasize Amish matters. .
I The required action to be taken by the Supervisors would be to contact PennDOT again and particularly the section of PennDOT dealing with the I new Transportation Program to discuss this matter. Contact would also be made with Congressional and Senate representatives while this matter is I being pursued. I I I I I 1 I I 71
I I I SECTION VIII: I PLAN CORRELATION I STATEMENT I .. I I I I I \I i I SECTION Vlll PLAN CORRELATION STATEMENTS
I INTRODUCTION
The Pennsylvania Municipalities Planning Code requires that three statements be I included in the Comprehensive Plan relative to the following: .. I 1 . A statement on the interrelationships between various planning components. 2. A statement on the short and long range plan implementation strategies.
I 3. A statement on the relationship of the existing and proposed development of the Township to the plans of contiguous municipalities, and of the County I and the relationship of the proposed development in the municipality to regional trends. I These statements as required by Sections 301 (a) 4.1 , 4.2 and 5 of, the Pennsylvania Municipalities Planning Code, Act of 1968, P.L. 805, No. 247, as I reenacted and amended, are presented below: SECTION 301 (a) 4.1 - STATEMENT OF PLAN INTERRELATIONSHIPS AMONG I VARIOUS PLAN COMPONENTS Communitv DeveloDment Goals and Obiectives - The new Menno Township Comprehensive Plan establishes a plan for the Township based on a series of I integrated Community Development Goals and Objectives (see Sections Ill and IV), dealing with the need to enhance the Township as a desirable place in which to live, which preserves the positive environmental conditions which presently exist I and which encourage neighborhood conservation and rehabilitation, the preservation of agricultural lands and historically significant structures and the creation of new job opportunities which will reduce the net out-migration of the I younger Amish and non-Amish population.
The goals and objectives also encourage the stabilization of the Township's I agricultural economy; and the preservation and improvement of the tax base primarily through the creation of new jobs and the development of new rural area businesses, including businesses to serve tourists. These goals also provide 'for the enhancement of the quality of life and the preservation of property values.
The goals and objectives further provide for the development of a variety of housing types at appropriate densities which are capable of serving all groups and families, at various income levels, which are appropriately located in designated areas of the Township. The community development goals further provide for the improvement of the major street and local road systems which are designed to
72 control and reduce traffic congestion and which can circulate people and goods throughout all areas in a safe and efficient manner.
Finally, the goals provide for an adequate system of community facilities which are capable of serving the existing population and future population.
Comprehensive Plan - The Comprehensive Plan sets forth a number of interrelated plans which are designed to accomplish the goals and objectives identified by the Township. These plans which are identified below further take advantage of the Township's existing assets and the opportunities for the purpose of enhancing community life within the Township:
1. A plan for the proper use of land to serve the needs of the existing and future population which will enhance the quality of life and will preserve and conserve the agricultural areas, provide land for industrial and comnkrcial development, and provide improved opportunities for the cooperation between the Amish and non-Amish population.
2. A plan for transportation and road improvements would provide a road network capable of serving the existing and proposed future land uses.
3. Proposals for a Community Facilities Plan which will build on the existing network of community facilities in the Township and which will provide the necessary services, buildings and facilities to serve the needs of the future population. These services include recreation areas, public buildings, municipal offices, fire fighting facilities, public library and public utilities.
4. The plans also discuss the need for affordable housing and new housing construction.
All of the Township Plans are interrelated and they are intended to work together to achieve and support the goals and objectives outlined above. They have the following implications:
- The improvement of the land use structure of the Township and the achievement of a better balance between land use development needed to preserve agricultural lands and need to create new jobs.
- The new Township Zoning Ordinance has also been completed based on the Land Use Plan and this amendment promotes the elimination of existing environmental problems by the proposed construction of a new public sewer system in the Allensville Area and the prevention of future environmental problems resulting from on-lot sewage disposal problems.
- The promotion of energy conservation through the rehabilitation of existing homes which provides for increased insulation of existing homes and structures in the Township, and the improvement roads and proposals for the separation or better regulation of horse drawn traffic from automotive traffic. 73 I 0 - The preservation and enlargement of the existing commercial and industrial I areas in the Township which will support economic development, job creation and maintenance of the Township's tax base. i - Improvement of the quality of life in the Township by addressing problems and conflicts between Amish and non-Amish groups which will reduce social I conflict and problems which adversely affect the population. - Provision of land which provides additional alternative opportunities for 'I younger Amish families wishing to remain in the Township. - The use of infrastructure improvement programs which will promote and I make use of other available funding sources to carry out portions of the Plan. SECTION 301(a) 4.2 - STATEMENT OF SHORT AND LONG RANGE IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES, INCLUDING IMPLICATIONS FOR CAPITAL I IMPROVEMENT PLANS AND FOR NEW OR UPDATED DEVELOPMENT REGULATIONS AND IDENTIFICATION OF AVAILABLE PUBLIC FUNDS .. I The Comprehensive Plan establishes short and long range proposals extending to the Year 2020. This provides an opportunity for determining short term needs I which require implementation in the near future. These short term needs include: - Adoption of the proposed new Zoning Ordinance which will identify areas for I new development, and for the preservation of agricultural areas. - Development of a new public sewer system in the Allensville Area
11 - Improvements of the Township's Community Facilities including firefighting needs, recreation, road deficiencies which should be addressed, maintenance of existing buildings owned by the Township and expenditures for other i' short term requirements. Many of the short term needs are currently being programmed through the use of general tax revenues and CDBG grant funds. The Comprehensive Plan will'also I'11 provide a basis for prioritizing those needs which can be addressed with CDBG or other funding programs. These can include PA Keystone Recreation Programs, Federal Rural Development Agency and PennVEST for sewer programs, former ~I ISTEA Program and other sources. Longer term proposals, including long range housing rehabilitation programs to improve neighborhood quality and funding are intended to continue over a longer I time period since the problems which exist will take many years before they can be fully addressed. These programs provide opportunities to fund housing rehabilitation and also affordable housing programs using local funds, available I mortgage resources and also HUD assisted "CDBG" and "HOME" housing programs. The Township, working with the Mifflin County Planning Commission I has already made a start in the use of these programs and continued utilization to .. I 74 I promote homeownership and improvement of housing quality can be programmed and continued over a long term basis. I The Township should also continue to assign longer term priorities to the various recommendations included in the Plan and should determine the extent to which they can be funded locally or by other agencies, such as Federal Rural I Development Agency, PennDOT, PA DCNR and PennVEST and by local business and industry. Some of these problems may seem too expensive for immediate I funding. However, adopting a longer time scale allows funding to be considered over many years which can permit the accomplishment of important projects in an orderly manner. I The Township has a Subdivision and Land Development Ordinance and is now scheduling adoption of a new Zoning Ordinance which provides for orderly land use I changes in accordance with the Land Use Plan and which promotes the proper location of structures to meet the needs of the population and also to ensure public health and safety considerations. Updated building, plumbing, fire prevention, I electrical and building and housing maintenance codes are also required and these should be programmed for future years. These regulations can serve to ensure that new construction and building changes will conform with modern standards and I will result in the elimination of existing problems.
SECTION 301(a) 5 - STATEMENT INDICATING THE RELATIONSHIP OF EXISTING 1 AND PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT OF THE TOWNSHIP TO PLANS OF CONTIGUOUS MUNICIPALITIES AND TO PLANS FOR THE COUNTY AND THE REGIONAL'AREA I The Comprehensive Plan has been coordinated with available plans and development proposals established by Mifflin County Planning Commission and with the adjoining municipalities of Union and Oliver Townships in Mifflin County I and adjoining municipalities in Huntingdon County.
Township plans have also considered the land use development adjoining the I Township in contiguous municipalities and also the transportation needs which are required to serve the Township and the region as a whole. I The Township's Comprehensive Plan, as proposed, has also been submitted to the adjoining municipalities, the School District and the Mifflin County Planning Commission and all comments received will be considered by the Township before I its official adoption by the Township. I Transportation improvements for PA Route 655 have also been discussed with PennDOT, including the need for traffic safety problems which result from the conflict of horse and buggy traffic and automotive traffic. I Proposed recreation improvements have also considered the availability of State Recreational facilities in Mifflin County and in the Township. I I 75 I I All of the three statements presented above clearly indicate that Menno Township I is not an island in itself, but also an integral part of Mifflin County and with close relationships to municipalities in Huntingdon County. The Comprehensive Plan is intended to permit the coordinated growth of the Township, consistent with the i position which it has in the County, while at the same time meeting the specific needs of Township residents. I FUTURE TOWNSHIP ACTIONS
This Comprehensive Plan update is intended to give direction to public policies I through the year 2020. However, every five to ten years, the plan should be reviewed and updated if necessary.
I Having a good comprehensive plan is important. However, the Plan is only.the first step in the improvement process. It is even more important and difficult to implement the Plan. Successful implementation of a comprehensive plan relies on I the combination of the following key factors: leadership, public support or cooperation, effective land use control regulations, and financial resources.
I The Menno Township Supervisors, Planning Commission and other community leaders and citizens have much to do with carrying out community improvements as recommended in this Comprehensive Plan. First, this plan recognizes the I importance of community involvement to implement the plan. Therefore, this plan recommends the use of grass roots approach to assure continued public participation in the decision-making process, by keeping residents informed of 1 major matters affecting the community through meetings and public hearings, and other mass communication medium, such as newspaper, broadcast and television, by conducting a Community questionnaire survey periodically, and by frequent I communication between the Township Supervisors and its residents, including both I the Amish and non-Amish population. Second, the Township will coordinate the proposed Zoning Ordinance, Building and Fire Prevention Codes as recommended by the Volunteer Fire Department and other 1 regulations to ensure that they are all consistent with the new Menno Township Comprehensive Plan and are consistent with each other. When the Township applies one of these regulations, all of the regulations should be considered at the I earliest stage to avoid later inconsistencies and problems.
Third, the Township must continue to address the lack of financial resources by I utilizing Federal and State grants in combination with local tax resources to resolve priority issues. Township Supervisors, working with the County Planning Commission and Volunteer Fire Company and other agencies will continually I update priorities so that they can be accomplished in an orderly manner. Cooperation with adjacent municipalities and with the School District and the County is also essential in providing regionalized community facilities and s.ervices. I The Township should also seek more opportunities for partnerships between the public sector and private sector, and with State and governmental agencies. I I 76 APPENDIX B: POPULATION ANALYSIS POPULATION ANALYSIS
INTRODUCTION
A Comprehensive Plan represents a strategy, specifically designed to guide a community toward successfully meeting the environmental, social and economic challenges of the future. To develop such a document, is vital to first examine the current state of a community so that existing conditions can be identified and planning goals established.
As an important part of the planning process, this section of the Background Analysis begins with an examination of Menno Township's population, size and characteristics. Current (1990) U.S. Census Bureau data has been tabulated to present a snapshot of the Township's population, size and composition. In addition, the information from previous Censuses has been utilized to identify the I demographic changes which are occurring in the Township, relative to trends in the surrounding areas.
GENERAL AREA POPULATION TRENDS
1940 to 1990 U.S. Census Bureau figures indicate a growth population trend for 1 Menno Township and the surrounding communities located in the "Big Valley" of Mifflin and Huntingdon Counties (see Appendix Tables I and 11). The figures on these tables present the general trends typical among most rural Townships in the I State, scoring modest, but steady gains in population over the past several decades, while the older Boroughs and urban areas experience population losses.
I In Mifflin County, the growth in the outlining Townships has been sufficient to offset the population decline occurring in Lewistown, Burnham, Juniata Terrace and the County's older communities. As a result, the County-wide population has 8 slowly increased up until this last decade. 1 MENNO TOWNSHIP POPULATION TRENDS As stated above, Menno Township has seen a number of residents within it's borders grow for much of the last 50 years, although the double digit growth has slowed over the last decade. This relatively high growth has resulted with a 52% increase in Menno Township's population since 1950.
A summary of the population activity in Menno Township appears on the Table on the next page. MENNO TOWNSHIP POPULATION TRENDS 1940 TO 1990
Demographic 1940 1950 1960 1970 1980 1990 Characteristic Total Population 992 1,013 1,147 1,308 1,590 1,637 Numerical Change - 21 134 161 282 47 Percentage Change - 2.1 13.3 14.0 21.6 3.0
Aae ComDosition - While the total number of reported residents in the Township increased by 25% during the past two decades, the age composition of the population is also showing some signs of change as well (See Appendix Table 111). Although all three age groups have shown numeric increases, the proportion of the Township youth population has declined from 44% to 39% for the 1970-90 period. However, Menno Township, as well as the other Townships within the "Big Valley", all have higher proportions of youth than Mifflin County and the State in total.
The proportion of the elderly population in the Township areas remain significantly lower than the County or State, although numerically, senior citizens residing in Menno have increased by 74% since 1970.
Overall, Mifflin County and the State are both fairly close in age composition, while Menno and the other "Big Valley" Townships have a much higher proportion of youth and a much lower proportion of elderly. Important however, is that the youth and mature populations have been nearly stable for the last decade, while the elderly population has recorded the most significant increases.
Household Comr>osition - 1990 Census data reports that there were 460 households in Menno Township with 380 (83%) classified as family type households (See table below). In fact, 95% of the total population reported living in a family household arrangement. Children are part of almost half (46%) of all Township households as compared to 35% for the County. Persons aged 65 years and over, reported heading 26% of all households in the Township, although only accounting for 11 % of the total population.
As indicated by the relatively large proportion of youth in the Township's population, average household size in Menno is significantly larger (3.56) as compared to Mifflin County (2.58) and the Statewide (2.57) figures. 1990 HOUSEHOLD CHARACTERISTICS MENNO TOWNSHIP, MlFFLlN COUNTY, PA
~~ ___ Demographic Characteristics No. Percent TOTAL HOUSEHOLDS 460 100.0 - Total Family Households 380 83.0 TOTAL POPULATION 1,637 100.0 - In Family Households 1,549 95.0 HOUSEHOLDS AGE 65 YRS. + 121 100.0 - % of Total Households 26.3 - No. of Family Households 76 62.8 - No. Living Alone 42 34.7 PERSONS PER HOUSEHOLD - Menno Township 3.56 - Mifflin County 2.58 - Pennsylvania 2.57
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, 1990
No persons were reported to be living in a group quarters type of household arrangement within the Township.
Minoritv Powlation - The Township nearly mirrors the County regarding the racial and minority makeup of it's population (See Appendix Table IV). In 1980 and 1990, the County reported a population which was approximately 99% white, while the Township was virtually 100% white in racial makeup.
Only negligible changes in minority population have occurred in the County and Township during the past decade, with the County minority residents increasing by 50 to a total of 357 and the Township reporting only one minority person in 1990.
Natural Powlation Change and Migration - Changes in population are the result of natural increase/decrease (the number of births relative to the number of deaths in a given area) and also of the movement or migration of persons into or out of an area. Annual data reporting resident births and deaths for Menno Township and Mifflin County have been assembled covering the period of April, 1970 to April, 1990 (See Appendix Table V, VI and VII). For this 20 year period, the Township has recorded a natural increase of 638 persons, almost evenly split between the '1 970- 80 and 1980-90 decades. The County, however, has seen its natural increase of 1970-80 (2,247 persons) decline significantly by 502 persons to 1,745 over the last decade.
Based upon the natural changes described above and the actual population existing in the Township and County as reported by the U. S. Census Bureau, it is possible to arrive at an estimate of the migration activity for each of these areas. Although these estimates are set forth in detail in the referenced Appendix Tables, a summary of the natural population changes of the Township are presented below:
NATURAL POPULATION CHANGE AND MIGRATION ACTIVITY MENNO TOWNSHIP, PA. 1970 - 1990
Migration Factor No. of Persons 1970 POPULATION 1,308 - Natural Change, 1970-80 + 324 - Net Emigration - 42 1980 POPULATION 1,590 - Natural Change, 1980-90 + 314 - Net Emigration - 267 1990 POPULATION 1,637
Source: U.S. Census Bureau and Pa. State Health Data Center
As presented above and on Appendix Table VI, although births have exceeded deaths in the Township and County, the actual versus potential population indicate a net out-migration of residents. Information on Appendix Table VI1 is consistent in the following manner with the other demographic characteristics previously discussed:
* The death rate in Menno Township is much lower in the Township than the overall County due to a lower proportion of elderly in it's population.
* The higher birth rate is exemplified by the high number of family households with children, the nature of the farm household and larger family sizes.
The high emigration rate occurring in the Township as compared to the County is likely due to maturing residents leaving the nest to pursue financial opportunities outside the Township and/or to seek housing opportunities in other areas. 1 INCOME CHARACTERISTICS
1 Appendix Tables XI and XI1 present U.S. Census data detailing the 1979 and 1989 income information reported by residents within the Township, the County and the State. All dollar amounts on the above referenced tables are expressed in 1989 1 dollar amounts.
1989 Detailed Income - A breakdown of the Township’s households within i specified income ranges indicate that half of all households in the Menno Township reported total income of less $20,000. This figure is far larger than the proportion of households in the County (43%) and the State (34%) reported to be at this I income level. Those with incomes between $20,000 and $40,000 accounted for approximately one-third of all households within the Township, the County and the State. However, incomes in excess of $40,000 were reported by 34% of all I households Statewide, 19% Countywide and only 16% in Menno Township. 1 Median household income is significantly lower in the Township ($20,114) and County ($22,778) in comparison to the Statewide median ($29,069). I 1979 - 1989 Income Trends - Once adjusted to 1989 dollars, it is revealed that median household incomes in the Township and in the County have dropped while modest gains have been reported Statewide. The same holds true for median family incomes reported for the ten year period.
Povertv Status - The number of persons living below the poverty line remains very high (31%) in Menno Township, and in fact rose from the 1979 figure (28%) now accounting for approximately 505 persons. Levels in the County (13%) and the State (10%) remain the same for the period.
The number of families below the poverty line in Menno Township remained at 90 accounting for approximately 24% of all families, while levels in the County (10%) and the State (8%) remain nearly unchanged since 1979. TABLE I
POPULATION TRENDS 1940 - 1990 MENNO TOWNSHIP AND VICINITY
Menno Union Brown Brady(a1 Mifflin Year Township Township Township Townshi D Countv 1940 992 2,039 2,196 590 42,993 1950 1,013 2,280 2,341 (b) 659 43,691 1960 1,147 2,645 2,631 672 44,348 1970 1,308 2,965 2,742 763 45,268 1980 1,590 3,131 3,003 967 46,908 1990 1,637 3,265 3,320 1.053 46.1 97
TABLE II
NUMERIC AND PERCENTAGE POPULATION CHANGE 1940-1990 MENNO TOWNSHIP AND VICINITY
Decennial Menno Twp. Union Twp. Brown Twp Brady Twp (a) Mifflin County Period No. % No. YO No. % No. % No. % 1940 - 1950 21 2.1 241 11.8 145 6.6(b) 69 11.7 698 1.6 1950-1960 134 13.3 365 16.0 290 12.4 13 2.3 657 1.5 1960-1970 161 14.0 320 12.1 111 4.2 91 13.5 920 2.1 1970-1980 282 21.6 166 5.6 261 9.5 204 26.7 1,640 3.6 1980-1990 47 3.0 134 4.1 317 10.6 86 8.9 (711) (1.5)
Footnotes:
(a) Adjacent community located in Huntingdon County. (b) Parts of Armagh Township annexed to Brown Township in the 1940's.
Source: US Census Bureau 1940 - 1990 TABLE 111 POPULATION COMPOSITION 1970 - 1990 MENNO TOWNSHIP AND VICINITY
Places and 1970 1980 1990 1970-1990 Age Group Percentage No. % No. % No. % Chanae MENNO TOWNSHIP 0 - 17 Yrs. 572 43.7 655 41.2 639 39.0 11.7 18 - 64 Yrs. 630 48.2 809 50.7 814 49.7 29.2 65+ Yrs. 106 8.1 129 8.1 184 11.3 73.6 Total: 1,308 100.0 1,590 100.0 1,637 100.0 25.1 UNION TOWNSHIP 0 - 17 Yrs. 1,144 38.7 987 31.5 923 28.3 -1 9.3 18 - 64 Yrs. 1,528 51.7 1,813 56.0 1,749 53.6 14.5 65+ Yrs. 283 9.6 390 12.5 593 18.2 109.5 ...... Total: 2,965 100.0 3,131 100.0 3,265 100.0 10.1 BROWN TOWNSHIP 0 - 17 Yrs. 971 35.4 891 29.7 870 26.2 -10.4 18 - 64 Yrs. 1,555 56.7 1,813 60.4 1,996 60.1 28.4 65+ Yrs. 21 6 7.9 299 9.9 454 13.7 110.2 ...... Total: 2,742 100.0 3,003 100.0 3,320 100.0 21 .I BRADY TOWNSHIP 0 - 17 Yrs. 309 40.5 359 37.1 331 31.4 7.1 18 - 64 Yrs. 395 51.8 552 57.1 635 60.3 60.8 65+ Yrs. 59 7.7 56 5.8 87 8.3 47.5 ...... Total: 763 100.0 967 100.0 1,053 100.0 38.0 MlFFLlN COUNTY 0 - 17 Yrs. 15,708 34.7 13,586 28.9 11,512 24.9 -26.7 18 - 64 Yrs. 24,988 55.2 27,004 57.6 27,302 59.1 9.3 65+ Yrs. 4,572 10.1 6,318 13.5 7,383 16.0 61.5 ...... Total: 45,268 100.0 46,908 100.0 46,197 ...... 100.0 2.1 PENNSYLVANIA 0 - 17 Yrs. 3,848,102 32.6 3,120,204 26.3 2,794,810 23.5 -27.4 18 - 64 Yrs. 6,673,681 56.6 7,213,248 60.8 7,257,727 61.1 8.8 65+ Yrs. 1,272,126 10.8 1,530,443 12.9 1,829,106 15.4 43.7 Total: 1 1,793,909 100.0 1 1,863,895 100.0 1 1,881,643 100.0 0.7
~~
Source: US Census Bureau 1970, 1980 and 1990. TABLE IV 1980 - 1990 MINORITY POPULATION CHANGE MENNO TOWNSHIP AND MlFFLlN COUNTY, PA
Population Group 1980 1990
No. of Oh of No. of 96 of Persons Total Persons Total MENNO TOWNSHIP All Persons 1,590 100.0 1,637 100.0 White (a) 1,586 99.7 1,636 99.9
Total Minority: 307 0.7 357 0.8 - Black (a) 96 0.2 97 0.2 - Hispanic 122 0.3 132 0.3 - Other Races (a) '89 0.2 128 0.3
Footnote:
(a) Not of Hispanic origin
Source: 1980 and 1990 US Census TABLE V RESIDENT BIRTHS AND DEATHS MENNO TOWNSHIP AND MlFFLlN COUNTY, PA 1970 - 4/1/90
Menno Township MMin County YEAR ~~______Births Deaths Births Deaths Census Period 4/2/70 to 4/1/80 4/2/70- 12/31/70 20 11 683 346 1971 44 10 785 454 1972 42 9 764 502 1973 45 8 704 466 1974 42 9 61 9 464 1975 37 5 558 432 1976 42 8 623 446 1977 48 8 636 452 1978 33 8 61 1 439 1979 36 8 626 41 5 1 /I /80- 4/1/80 19 - 173 119 Census Period 4/2/80 to 4/1/90 4/2/80- 12/31/80 36 4 509 336 1981 38 8 590 479 1982 37 9 628 450 1983 38 8 639 447 1984 43 7 61 2 434 1985 29 6 683 493 1986 33 11 579 492 1987 50 14 682 493 1988 42 10 642 487 1989 42 9 679 460 1 /I 190 - 4/1/90 13 1 191 118 Total for IO-Year Census Period: 408 84 6,782 4,535 4/2/70- 4/1/80 - Natural Increase: 4/2/70- 4/1/80 324 2,247 Total for IO-Year Census Period: 401 87 6,434 4,689 4/2/80- 4/1/90 - Natural Increase: 4/2/80- 4/1/90 314 1,745 Source: PA State Health Data Center TABLE VI POPULATION IMMIGRATION (EMIGRATION) MENNO TOWNSHIP AND MlFFLlN COUNTY 1970TO1980AND1980TO1990
MIGRATION FACTOR Menno Mifflin Township county Census Period 4/2/70 to 4/1/80 Actual 1970 Population 1,308 45,268 Natural Change (a) 324 2,247 Potential 1980 Population 1,632 47.51 5 Actual 1980 Population 1,590 46,908 Net Immigration (Emigration) (b) (42) (607) Census Period 4/2/80 to 4/1/90 Actual 1980 Population 1,590 46,908 Natural Change (a) 314 1.745 Potential 1990 Population 1,904 48,653 Actual 1990 Population 1,637 46,197 Net Immigration (Emigration) (b) (267) ( 2,456)
Footnotes:
(a) Births minus deaths, for the period. (b) Actual population minus potential population, for the period.
Source: US Census Bureau, 1970, 1980 and 1990; PA State Health Data Center. TABLE VI1 BIRTHS, DEATHS, NATURAL CHANGE AND IMMIGRATION (EMIGRATION) RATES MENNO TOWNSHIP AND MlFFLlN COUNTY, PA 1970,1980 AND 1990
MIGRATION FACTOR Menno MMin County Township PoDulation 1970 1,308 45,268 1980 1,590 46,908 1990 1,637 46,197 No. of Births 1970 32 876 1980 55 682 1990 39 679 No. of Deaths 1970 14 469 1980 4 454 1990 6 460 Birthdl000 Persons 1970 24.46 19.35 1980 34.59 14.54 1990 23.82 14.70 Deaths/l000 Persons 1970 10.70 10.36 1980 2.51 9.68 1990 3.67 9.96 Natural Chanqe/l 000 Persons 1970 13.76 8.99 1980 32.08 4.86 1990 20.1 5 4.74 lmmiqration (Emiqration) 1970 - 80 Persons (42) (607) Rate/l000 Persons in 1970 (32.11) (13.41) Immkration (Emiqration) 1980 - 90 Persons (267) ( 2,456) Rate/lOOO Persons in 1980 ( 1 63.10) (52.36) Source: US Census Bureau, 1970, 1980 and 1990; PA State Health Data Center. TABLE Vlll SELECTED HOUSING CHARACTERISTICS MENNO TOWNSHIP, MlFFLlN COUNTY AND PENNSYLVANIA 1980 AND 1990
Menno Township Mifflin County Pennsylvania Characteristic 1980 1990 1980 1990 1980 1990
~~ ~ ~__ Total Housing Units 488 51 6 18,566 19,641 4,596,431 4,938,140 Total No. of Households 43 1 460 16,813 17,697 4.21 9,606 4.495.966 OCCUPANCY - % Owner Occupied 68.2 69.4 66.3 65.6 64.2 64.3 - % Renter Occupied 20.1 19.8 24.3 24.5 27.6 26.7 - % Vacant 11.7 10.8 9.5 9.9 8.2 9.0 VACANCY STATUS - "For Sale" Vacancy Rate 0.6 0.3 0.8 0.8 1.4 1.5 - "For Rent" Vacancy Rate 5.8 -0- 5.1 3.3 6.8 7.2 PERSONS PER OCCUPIED UNITS - Persons Per Household 3.69 3.56 2.76 2.58 2.74 2.57 - Persons Per Owner X 3.60 2.90 2.68 2.96 2.72 Occupied - Persons Per Renter X 3.40 2.41 2.33 2.23 2.19 Occupied - % of Occupied Units With 9.1 7.8 2.6 1.5 2.4 1.8 Over One Persons Per Room UNITS IN STRUCTURE % of Housing Units in Structures which are: - One Unit (a) 81.4 90.3 74.7 73.3 75.7 71.8 - Two to Nine Units X 2.3 11.3 10.5 14.6 13.7 - Ten + Units X 2.0 1.8 6.1 8.0 - Mobile Home X 7.4 7.3 10.4 3.6 6.5 AGE OF STRUCTURE - No. Built During 116 85 2,962 2,200 753.81 5 61 2,329 Previous Decade - % of Total 26.1 16.4 16.7 11.2 16.4 12.4 - No. Built Prior to 1940 240 180 8,992 7,346 2,059,201 1,733,287 - YO of Total 53.9 34.9 50.7 37.4 44.8 35.1 FINANCIAL - Median Value of Owner $36,100 $57,000 $27,900 $44,800 $39,100 $69,700 Occupied Units - Median Value of Renter $85 $ 168 $1 18 $ 204 $ 173 $322 Occupied Units Footnotes: (a) Includes detached and attached single family structures. X = Information to be added when available.
Source: US Census Bureau, 1980 and 1990. TABLE IX OTHER 1990 HOUSEHOLD AND HOUSING CHARACTERISTICS MENNO TOWNSHIP, MlFFLlN COUNTY, PA
‘I DEMOGRAPHICCHARACTERISTICS NUMBER PERCENTAGE TOTAL HOUSEHOLDS 460 100.0 - Total Family Households 380 83.0 I HOUSEHOLDS AGE 65 + YRS. 121 100.0 - % of Total Households 26.3 I - No. of Family Housseholds 76 62.8 - No. Living Alone 42 34.7 I TOTAL POPULATION 1,637 100.0 - In Family Households 1,549 95.0 TOTAL NUMBER OF HOUSING 51 6 100.0 I UNITS - No. Owner Occupied 358 69.4 I - No. Renter Occupied 102 19.8 - No. Vacant 56 10.9 I - Seasonal Vacant 45 - For Sale Vacant 1 - For Rent Vacant 0 I ~~~ HOUSINGTYPES OCCUPIED VACANT TOTAL yo OF TOTAL Single Family 41 6 50 466 90.3 I - Detached 40 1 50 45 1 87.4 - Attached 15 - 15 2.9 I Two Family 8 - 8 1.6 Four Family 4 - 4 0.8 I Mobile Home 28 3 31 6.0 Other 4 3 7 1.4 I TOTAL 460 56 516 100.0 1 Source: US Census Bureau, 1990. I I 1 I TABLE XI I HOUSEHOLD INCOME PROFILE, 1989 MENNO TOWNSHIP AND MlFFLlN COUNTY, PA I Income Level Menno Township Mifflin County Pennsylvania I No. YO No. YO No. %
~~ Less than $10,000 75 16.7 3,527 19.9 697,525 15.5 $10.000 - $14,999 76 16.9 1,947 11.0 41 5,303 9.2 1 $15,000 - $19,999 72 16.0 2,139 12.1 412,315 9.2 $20,000 - $29,999 81 18.0 3,746 21.1 785,64 1 17.5 I $30,000 - $39,999 73 16.3 2,928 16.5 682,824 15.2 $40,000 - $49,999 28 6.2 1,609 9.1 51 1,028 11.4 I $50,000 - $74,999 21 4.7 1,372 7.7 632,633 14.1 $75,000 - $149,999 13 2.9 412 2.3 295,492 6.6 I $150,000 or More 10 2.2 57 0.3 60,197 1.3 Total Households 449 100.0 17,737 100.0 4,492,985 100.0 I
TABLE XI1 I COMPARATIVE INCOME CHARACTERISTICS, 1979 AND 1989 MENNO TOWNSHIP AND MlFFLlN COUNTY, PA I Characteristic Menno Township Mifflin County Pennsylvania 1979 1989 1979 1989 1979 1989 I Total Persons 1,590 1,637 46,908 46,197 1 1,863,895 11,881,643 Total Families 373 379 12,915 12,903 3,147,809 3,176,451 I Per Capita Income $ 7,157 $ 7,782 $ 9,754 $10,609 $11,877 $14,068 Median Family $24.857 $21,779 $28,550 $27,502 $33,555 $34,856 Income I Median Household $22,236 $20,114 $23,424 $22,778 $28,328 $29,069 Income Persons Below 450 505 6,098 6,079 1,233,854 1,283,629 I Poverty Line - % of Total Pop. 28.3 30.9 13.0 13.2 10.4 10.8 1 Families Below 90 90 1,240 1,231 242,381 259.1 17 Poverty Line - YO of Total Pop. 24.1 23.8 9.6 9.5 7.7 8.2 1 NOTE: ALL INCOME FIGURES EXPRESSED IN 1989 DOLLARS.
SOURCE: US CENSUS BUREAU, 1980 AND 1990. I I I I TABLE Xlll CIVILIAN LABOR FORCE CHARACTERISTICS, 1980 ,AND 1990 I MENNO TOWNSHIP AND MlFFLlN COUNTY, PA MENNOTOWNSHIP MIFFLIN COUNTY CHARACTERISTICS I 1980 1990 1980 1990 Potential Work Force All Persons 16+ Yrs. 994 1,063 35,034 36,071 I - % of Total Population 62.5 64.9 74.7 78.1 - No. of Males X 505 16,161 16,901 I - No. of Females X 558 18,873 19,170 Education Level (a) I - YO High School Grad. 37.6 40.5 57.5 68.2 - YO College Grad. 2.0 3.9 6.8 8.7 I Civilian Labor Force (CLF) All Persons 58 1 624 19,629 21,254 - No. of Males X 406 11,777 12,059 I - % of All Males 16+ Yrs. X 80.4 72.8 71.5 - No. of Females X 21 8 7,852 9,195 I - % of All Females 16 + Yrs. X 39.0 41.6 48.0 - No. of Females with Children Under NA 111 2,538 2,591 I 6 Yrs. - % in Labor Force NA 28.8 36.9 58.0 EmDlovment I - No. in RetaillWholesale 74 119 3,160 3,847 - % RetailMlholesale 12.7 19.1 16.1 18.1 I - No. in Service Trade 23 49 1,767 2,210 - % Service Trade 3.9 7.8 9.0 10.4 I - No. in Manufacturing 168 154 7,302 6,695 - YO Manufacturing 28.9 24.7 37.2 31.5 I - No. Unemployed 17 12 1.41 3 1,424 - % Unemployed 2.9 1.9 7.2 6.7 Prior Year Labor Force SAWS I - No. of Males 16 + Yrs. who worked X 395 12,417 12,732 during previous year I - Percentage of Males X 78.2 76.8 75.3 - No. of Females 16+ Yrs. who X 23 1 8,602 10,107 worked during previous year 45.6 52.7 I - Percentaae~ ~~ - of Females X 41.4 Footnote:
I (a) Percentage of all persons age 25 years and older. NOTE: X = To be filled in when available. I TABLE XIV I CIVILIAN LABOR FORCE 1970 - 1991 UNEMPLOYMENT AND EMPLOYMENT BY RESIDENCE LEWISTOWN LABOR MARKET AREA (a) I
NUMBER OF PERSONS PERCENT UNEMPLOYED I YEAR CIVILIAN LABOR FORCE EMPLOYED UNEMPLOYED 1970 25,600 24,300 1,300 5.1 I 1972 26,100 23,700 2,400 9.4 1974 24,900 23,200 1,700 7.0 I 1976 24,900 22,600 2,300 9.3 1978 26,400 24,300 2,200 8.1 I 1980 29,000 26,200 2,800 9.7 1982 28,900 24,800 4,100 14.0 1984 28,600 25,400 3,200 11.2 1 1986 29,600 26,800 2,800 9.5 1988 31.1 00 28,800 2,300 7.3 I 1990 3 1,400 28,600 2,800 9.0 1991 3 1,800 28.400 3.400 10.7 I Footnote: I (a) Area includes all of Mifflin and Juniata Counties. Source: PA Dept. of Labor and Industry, 1970 - 1991. I I I I I I I 1 I I TABLE XV ANNUAL AVERAGE EMPLOYMENT 1979 - 1989 NUMBER OF EMPLOYED BY PLACE OF WORK I LEWISTOWN LABOR MARKET AREA (a), PA
1971 1976 1981 1986 1991 Establishment I Employ % Employ- % Employ- % Employ- % Employ- % -ed ed ed ed ed I Goods Rodudnq Construction 600 3.0 600 3.2 600 3.2 700 3.5 800 3.7 Manufacturing 10,000 49.3 8,100 43.5 8,700 42.9 8,500 42.3 8,600 39.3 I Total - Nondurable 5,500 27.1 3,600 19.4 4,000 19.7 3,800 18.9 4,600 21.0 Goods I - Durable Goods 4,500 22.2 4,500 24.1 4,700 23.2 4,700 23.4 3,900 17.8 SubTotal 10,600 52.2 8,700 46.8 9,300 45.8 9,200 45.8 9,400 42.9 service Rodu- 1 Transp. & Public 1,100 5.4 900 4.8 1,000 4.9 800 4.0 800 3.7 Utilities Wholesale & 3,500 17.2 3,500 18.8 3,700 18.2 4,000 19.9 5,000 22.8 I Retail Trade Services(b1 2,800 13.8 3,000 16.1 3,800 18.7 3,800 18.9 4,300 19.6 I Government 2,300 11.3 2,500 13.4 2,500 12.3 2,300 11.4 2,400 10.9 SubTotal 9.700 47.8 9,900 53.2 11,000 54.2 10,900 54.2 12,500 57.1
I Total Non- 20,300 100.0 18,600 100.0 20,300 100.0 20,100 100.0 21,900 100.0 Agricultural I EmDlovment Footnotes: (a) Area includes all of Mifflin and Juniata Counties. I Ib) Includes Finance, Insurance and Real Estate. Source: PA Dept. of Labor and Industry, 1971 - 1991. I I I I I I I TABLE XVI I SELECTED CHARACTERISTICS OF RETAIL TRADE 1982 AND 1987 MlFFLlN COUNTY, PA I
CHARACTERISTIC Lewistown Borough Balance of County (a) County Total I
~~ 1982 1987 1982 %(bl 1987 %(b) 1982 1987
~ ~~ No. of Establishments 151 136 98 39.4 135 49.8 249 27 1 1 - Sales ($1.000) 111,582 123,637 74.928 40.2 115,937 48.4 186,510 239.574 Annual Payroll 12,251 14,675 8,335 40.5 13.01 2 47.0 20,586 27,687 ($1.000) I No. of Paid 1,353 1,399 866 30.0 1,414 50.3 2.21 9 2,813 Employees ...... I------.------.------I TvDe of Establishment Building Materials, 6 7 8 57.1 9 56.3 14 16 Hardware and Garden I Supply - Sales ($1.000) 4,874 6.899 9,776 66.7 13,591 66.3 14,650 20,490 General Merchandise 6 5 4 40.0 5 50.0 10 10 I
- Sales ($1,000) (C) (C) (C) (C) - 19,053 25,150 Food Stores 20 18 15 42.9 22 55.0 35 40 I - Sales ($1.000) 27,291 28,516 19,855 41.6 27,490 49.1 47,776 56,006 Automotive Dealers 16 16 7 30.4 7 30.4 23 23 - Sales ($1.000) 17,629 35.61 7 6,596 27.2 14,691 29.2 24.225 50,308 I Gasoline Stations 15 6 6 28.6 15 71.4 21 21 - Sales ($1.000) 15,069 5,202 3,162 17.3 13,647 72.4 18,231 18,849 1 Apparel & Access. 11 10 5 31.3 5 33.3 16 15 - Sales ($1,000) 4,392 2,34 1 2,118 32.5 5,485 70.1 6,510 7,826 I Furniture, Home 7 9 8 53.3 10 52.6 15 19 Furnishings - Sales ($1,000) 2,597 3,655 2,556 49.6 5,077 58.1 5.1 53 8,732 I Eating & Drinking 34 33 33 49.3 42 56.0 67 75 Places - Sales ($1,000) 7,764 8,322 6,362 45.1 9,405 53.1 14,125 17,727 1 Drug & Proprietary 7 5 3 30.0 2 28.6 10 7 Stores I - Sales ($1,000) (C) (C) (C) (C) - 13,223 9.41 3 Misc. Retail 29 27 8 21.1 18 40.0 38 45
Sales ($1,000) 12,341 (C) 11,222 47.6 23,563 25,073 I - (C) -
Footnotes: (a) Includes Granville Township I (b) Percentage of County total. (c) Information withheld by Census Bureau to avoid individual disclosures. NOTE: All payroll and sales figures expressed in 1987 dollars. I Source: Census of Retail Trade, US Census Bureau 1982 and 1987. I I TABLE XVll SELECTED CHARACTERISTICS OF SERVICE TRADE 1982 AND 1987 I MlFFLlN COUNTY, PA
I CHARACTERISTIC Lewistown Borough Balance of County (a) County Total 1982 1987 1982 %(b) 1987 %(b) 1982 1987 I No. of Establishments 107 123 39 26.7 48 28.1 146 171 - Receipts ($1.000) 21,938 32471 7,546 25.6 10,561 24.5 29,483 43,032 Annual Payroll 8,062 13,231 1,840 18.6 2,678 16.8 9,902 15,909 I ($1.000) No. of Paid 559 690 159 22.1 224 24.5 718 914 I EmDlovees TvDe of Establishment Hotel, Rooming 3 4 1 25.0 3 42.9 4 7 I House, Camps and other Lodging Places
- Receipts ($1.000) (C) (C) (C) (C) (C) (C) I Auto Repair, Services 5 4 16 76.2 16 80.0 21 20 and Parking I - Receipts ($1.000) 1,042 696 3,462 76.9 3,860 84.7 4,5043 4,556 Amusement, 6 8 1 14.3 5 38.5 7 13 Recreation, Movie Theaters and I Museums
- Receipts ($1.000) (C) 3,187 (C) 893 21.9 2,003 4,080 I Health Services (e) 53 60 8 13.1 10 14.3 61 70 - Receipts ($1,000) 12,940 21,567 866 6.3 1,792 7.7 13,806 23,359 I Legal Services 9 10 1 10.0 1 9.1 10 11 - Receipts ($1.000) 1,745 (C) (C) (C) (C) 1.988
Footnotes: I (a) Includes Granville Township (b) Percentage of County total. (c) Information withheld by Census Bureau to avoid individual disclosures. I (d) 1982 figures do not include museums. (e) 1982 figures do not include hospitals. I NOTE: All payroll and sales figures expressed in 1987 dollars. I Source: Census of Service Trade, US Census Bureau 1982 and 1987. I I I TABLE XVlll I SELECTED CHARACTERISTICS OF WHOLESALE TRADE 1977 AND 1987 MlFFLlN COUNTY, PA I
CHARACTERISTIC Lewistown Borough Balance of County (a) County Total I 1977 1987 1977 %(b) 1987 %(b) 1977 1987 No. of Establishments 32 29 31 49.2 34 54.0 63 63 I - Sales ($1.000) 58,288 84.846 67,352 53.6 70,456 45.4 125,640 155,302 Annual Payroll 5,789 7,623 4,511 43.8 10,537 58.0 10,300 18,160 ($1,000) I No. of Paid 334 397 254 43.2 538 57.5 588 935 EmDlovees I Footnotes: (a) Includes Granville Township (b) Percentage of County total. I NOTE: All payroll and sales figures expressed in 1987 dollars. I Source: Census of Wholesale Trade, US Census Bureau 1977 and 1987. I I I I I I I I I I 1 I TABLE XIX SELECTED CHARACTERISTICS OF MANUFACTURING TRADE 1977 AND 1987 II MlFFLlN COUNTY, PA
I CHARACTERISTIC Lewistown Borough Balance of County (a) County Total 1977 1987 1977 %(b) 1987 %(b) 1977 1987 I No. of Establishments 29 32 27 48.2 26 44.8 56 58 No. of Employees (Cl 1,800 (Cl 3,300 64.7 6,200 5,100 I - Production Workers (C) 1,400 (Cl 2,600 65.0 5,100 4,000 Total Payroll (C) 32.9 (C) 81.5 71.2 150.9 114.4 (Millions $1
I - Production (C) 23.2 (Cl 61.0 72.4 114.4 84.2 I ESTABLISHMENTS BY EMPLOYMENT SIZE AND MAJOR INDUSTRY GROUP INDUSTRY GROUP 1-19 20 - 99 100 - 249 250 + I Employees Employees Employees Employees 1977 1987 1977 1987 1977 1987 1977 1987 Food products 10 3 1 4 I Textile products - 1 1 Apparel products - - 3 2 I Lumber & Wood 5 6 3 2 Paper products - 1 - - I Publishing 3 5 1 1 Chemicals 1 - - I Rubber/Plastic - 1 1 Stone/Clay/Glass 5 3 - 2 Primary Metals 1 - 1 Fab. Metals 3 1 1 2 Ind. Machinery 2 7 1 1 Electronic Equip. 2 1 Transp. Equip. 1 1 - - lnstuments - - Misc. Ind. 1 1 1 County Total 31 30 15 17 3 7 7 4 Footnotes: (a) Includes Granville Township (b) Percentage of County total. (c) Information withheld by Census Bureau to avoid individual disclosures.
NOTE: All payroll and sales figures expressed in 1987 dollars.
Source: Census of Manufacturing Trade, US Census Bureau 1977 and 1987. TABLE XX I SELECTED CHARACTERISTICS OF AGRICULTURAL TRADE 1978 AND 1987 MlFFLlN COUNTY, PA I
COUNTY TOTALS (a) 1978-87CHANGE CHARACTERISTIC 1978 1987 No. % I Number of Farms 641 677 36 5.6 Total Acreage 88,602 87,546 - 1,056 - 1.2 I Average Size (Acres) 138 129 -9 - 6.5 Total Cropland (Acres) 58,961 57,861 - 1.100 - 1.9 I Market Value of Product ($l.OOOJ Total 47,229 41,796 - 5,433 - 11.5 I - Crop Value 3,821 2,297 - 1,524 - 39.9 - Livestock & Poultry 43,407 39,500 - 3,907 9.0 ODerators Bv Princide I Occuoation: - Farming 443 478 35 7.9 I - Other OccuDation 198 199 1 0.5
Footnote: 1 (a) Includes Granville Township. I NOTE: All market value figures expressed in 1987 dollars. Source: Census of Agriculture, US Census Bureua, 1978 and 1987. I I I I I 1 I I I I a 1 APPENDIX C:
POPULATION AND HOUSEHOLD PROJECTIONS I I I I I
5 I I I -- - --__-- - I MENNO TOWNSHIP, PA ------_ I 1 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN REPORT I 19.94 - 2015 I I
I POPULATION AND HOUSEHOLD PROJECTIONS I
I THIS PROJECT WAS FINANCED, IN PART, BY A GRANT FROM THE FEDERAL DEPARTMENT OF HUD, UNDER THE ADMINISTRATION OF THE COMMONWEALTH OF PA, DEPARTMENT OF 1 COMMUNITY AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT. I I PRESENTED TO: ME"0 TOWNSHIP SUPERVISORS I ME"0 TOWNSHIP PLANNING COMMISSION By: I MICHAEL CABOT ASSOCIATES, COMMUNITY PLANNERS I JULY, 1998 I MENNO TOWNSHIP, PA POPULATION AND HOUSEHOLD PROJECTIONS
INTRODU CTlO N
Population and household projections are useful in estimating the size of the future population during the period of time over which the Plan is projected (1994 through the Year 201 5).
A current population estimate presented below indicates that the size of the population was approximately 1,659 persons at the end of 1997, amounting to a net total increase of only 51 2 persons since 1960, a period of approximately 38 years. Significantly, however, the total number of households in the Township increased by 193 during that same 38 year period of time, an increase of 68.9%, compared to only a 44.6% increase in the population during the same 38 years.
The following tabulation provides an analysis of the relationships and changes in the total population, total households (occupied housing units) and the average number of persons in each household for the period between 1960 and 1997.
Population and Household Trends Menno Township, PA 1960 through 12/31/97 Net Change in Total Persons Actual Total Total Households Per Total Year Population Households (Prior Year Household period) 1960 1,147 281 -- 4.08 1970 1,308 326 45 4.01 1980 1,590 43 1 105 3.69 1990 1,637 460 29 3.56 Current Estimate 1,659 474 14 3.50 Thru 12/31/97 (a) (b) Footnotes: (a) Estimate for 12/31/97 by Michael Cabot Associates (b) Actual net increase in households based on Building Permit Data 1990 through 1997 (see Attachment A)
Source: U.S. Bureau of the Census, 1960 to 1990, Township Building Permit Data, 1990 through 1997 (Attachment A)
During the entire period between 1960 and 1990, the increase in the number of households has been faster than the population increase. This has been due to the fact that the number of persons living in individual households has decreased, dropping from an average of 4.08 persons per household in 1960 compared to
c-1 about only 3.56 persons in 1990. This trend of smaller sized households is expected to continue in the future, although at a reduced rate due to the growth in the number of elderly persons living alone, the number of young single adults living alone or with only one other person, and also due to the reduction in the ave.rage number of children in each household. Household size at the end of 1997 is estimated to be 3.50.
Township population in Menno Township increased from 1,147 persons in 1960 to 1,637 persons by 1990, as reported by the US Bureau of the Census. 90% of this increase (433 persons) took place between 1960 and 1980. After 1980, population increase slowed down significantly amounting to only 47 persons between 1980 and 1990. Since 1990 through the end of 1997 (8 years) it is estimated that the population increased by only 22 persons, the slowest rate of growth since 1960.
Significant growth in the total population did take place from 1960 to 1970 (14.0%). During the same time period there was a slightly higher rate of increase in the total number of households (16.0%) which reflected the trend of a decrease in the total number of persons per household.
The large growth which occurred between 1970 and 1980 (21.6%) took place due to several factors. The first factor is the Amish population which remains relatively stable and is not as affected by external economic factors as are other groups. The second factor is that the non-Amish population is more sensitive to economic factors, recession, depression and job growth occurring in the Township, and in nearby surrounding areas which are convenient to Menno residents. From 1970 to 1980 the economic situation was apparently improving resulting in growth in the number of jobs in Mifflin County and State College. The positive economic climate during this period, combined with the natural increase in the total number of people, resulted in significant growth in the population.
Since 1980, however, the rate of population growth has slowed down and was only 2.9% between 1980 and 1990. The natural increase during this period primarily reflects the higher Amish birth rates, but a negative change in the economic climate resulted in reduced job growth and an increase in net out- migration. This accounts for the relatively slower growth between 1980 and 1990.
Current PoDulation Estimate - A current estimate of the number of households and the size of the population has been prepared as summarized in the Table on the preceding page. The number of net new households, as of December 31, 1997, has been estimated based on the Township Building Permits issued between 1990 and the end of 1997 (See Attachment A).
Only 14 net new households were created between 1990 and the end of 1997 resulting in a total of only 474 households at the end of 1997 which, at an estimated household size in this period of 3.50 persons per household, indicates a growth in the total estimated Township population to approximately 1,659 persons at the end of 1997.
c-2 It is significant that past increases in the net population have resulted from a combination of "natural change" (births exceeding deaths) and from net "in or out- migration" into or out of the Township. The combination of these factors determines the number of new households, as measured by building permits which are created to house the increasing population.
These factors are summarized in the following tabulation for the period between 1970 and 1997. Summary Table Resident Births and Deaths (Natural Increase and Net Migration Into and Out of) Menno Township, PA 1970 through 1997
Year Menno Township Natural Net Migration
' Increase Births Deaths In out 4/2/70to 408 84 324 -- ( - 42) 411 180 (10yrs.) 4/2/80to 40 1 87 314 -- (- 267) 411 190 (1 0 yrs.) 4/2/90to 330 70 260 -- (- 238) 1 213 1 197 (8yrs.)
Source: See detailed Migration, Natural Increase and Building Permit Data in Attachments A to D.
Natural Increase - Natural increase due to births exceeding deaths has occurred consistently over the last 28 years at the following annual average rates:
- Between 1970 to 1980 32.4 persons per year - Between 1980 to 1990 31.4 persons per year - 1990 to end of 1997 32.5 persons per year
The annual average rates of natural increase (number of births which exceeds deaths) has remained relatively stable over the 28 year period fluctuating only slightly between 31.4 and 32.5 persons per year.
The number of births in Menno Township is relatively high reflecting the family oriented lifestyle of the Amish population. Deaths are relatively low compared to other municipalities reflecting the healthy lifestyle of the population.
c-3 Net In or Out Miclration - Net migration is primarily the result of economic factors and the availability of jobs in the Township and surrounding areas which are convenient to the population in the Township. In Menno Township it also reflects the availability of suitable farmland to serve new young families that require such farms.
Menno Township has experienced a net out-migration over the last 28 years increasing at a faster rate during each census period as indicated below:
Net Out-Miaration
- Between 1970 and 1980 4.2 persons per year - Between 1980 and 1990 26.7 persons per year - Between 1990 and the end of 1997 (8 years) 29.8 persons per year
It was only as a result of the high birth rates and relatively low death rates that population was able to increase. However, the amount of increase has declined significantly since 1980, as net out-migration increased. It has been observed by knowledgeable persons in the area that the Amish families are now also beginning to participate in out-migration as the availability of farms has not permitted newer Amish families to move to find suitable farm sites on which to continue their way of life. This shortage of available farms has also encouraged some new Amish families to move into home sites which have become available in the Village of Allensville perhaps as a result of non-Amish families leaving that area in search of areas where more jobs are available.
Factors Affectincl or Restrictina Growth in the PoDulation - Numerous factors, which will affect the rate of population growth during the 30 years (between 1990 and 20201, have emerged and are discussed below.
1. Menno Township is located in an attractive rural area with a large Amish population devoted to farming and rural area activities. The Amish population with their beliefs and religious convictions continue to maintain their lifestyle which relies on close ties and large families.
The Township also has limited industrial and commercial areas and a principal employer, the Allensville Planning Mill has reduced its employment in recent years from about 190 employees in 1995 to about 150 in 1998. Young persons seeking jobs do not have ample job opportunities in the nearby commercial and industrial areas . The lack of job growth has kept the size of the non-Amish population down and has also resulted in out- migration.
On the other hand, the Amish population do have higher birth rates and low death rates which has resulted in significant natural increase in the population (births exceed deaths).
c-4 1 The combination of lack of job growth and lack of additional farmlands resulting in net out-migration of the population has therefore been offset by I the natural increase of the population.
These factors have appeared to reach a balance so that the population in I 1990 and the end of 1997 has remained about the same (about 1,659' persons).
I Finally, the population growth of the Amish population seems to have stabilized due to lack of additional farmland to meet the needs of younger I Amish families which is causing some Amish families to relocate elsewhere. The above factors if continued into the future will result in very slow growth 1 in the population. 2. As a result of the decision-making process, the Township has determined 1 that the existing character of the Township should be maintained and that relative population balance and only slow to moderate growth should be 1 encouraged. This can be accomplished as follows: I - Limited growth of industrial and commercial areas should be encouraged, but larger scale new developments serving a wider area II or regional market should not be promoted. However, job growth should be promoted to reduce the high out- I migration of residents out of the Township. Growth should be geared to meeting the growing needs of the existing population including the provision of jobs, housing and uses to serve I1 the special agricultural needs of the Amish population.
The Village of Allensville is presently served with a public water 1 system. This Village and its surrounding area should also be served with public sewers to eliminate the environmental problems resulting from the existing smaller residential lots which must rely on septic I tanks. This would also permit public sewer and water to expand into the area surrounding Allensville enabling it to grow slowly. This new development could include larger lot sizes to serve both non-Amish 1 residents and also younger Amish families wishing to establish small farm homesteads coupled with farm oriented businesses and craft shops and outlets. This could include the production of specialty I crops, popular craft items, bed and breakfast establishments, and retail outlets. This type of slow growth should result in a reduction of net out-migration of the Amish population seeking to find new farm E areas outside of the Township and in other states. I c-5 I I 3. It can be expected that persons living in the State College area may seek permanent homes from in Menno Township from which they can commute to State College. I
The provision of public sewers surrounding the Allensville Area can thus also result in the subdivision of land adjoining Allensville which could provide I ideal sites for such persons.
4. A final factor limiting the growth of Menno Township is the relatively limited I highway access to the Township. Principal roads serving the area include State Route 655, a relatively narrow two lane road which provides access to Reedsville to the northeast and to Huntingdon County to the southeast. This I is an extremely scenic road which provides beautiful views of farmland in the "Big Valley" area of the Township and is used by Amish families with their 1 horse drawn buggies. Access to the south is restricted by the steep valley wall. Access to State I College to the northwest is available via State Route 305, but this road must negotiate the steep valley wall on that side of Big Valley. 1 All of the above factors indicate that future population growth will be relatively limited especially considering the reality of time required to plan, fund and construct a new public sewer system to serve Allensville. 1
Future Growth in Housing Units and PoDulation (1990 to 2020) - Between 1960 and the end of 1997, a period of 38 years, the Township experienced a net 1 increase of 193 new households (occupied housing units), an annual average growth rate of 5.1 households (HH) per year. I The population and household changes between 1997 and the Year 2020 are projected based on three growth assumptions of the average number of net new households to be created between 1990 and the Year 2020. These three I assumptions, described below, will result in a "Low", "Mid Range" and "High" estimate to the Year 2020. 1 All of the three estimates (projections) assume that the number of births over deaths (natural increase) will remain at about the same level as existed between 1980 and 1990. I
0 Low Ranae Estimate - The total number of net new households will be based on the annual yearly average which will be a continuation of the recent past I rate of growth in households since 1980, a rate of approximately two new households per year. That rate assumes that net out-migration will continue 1 to increase in future years to a level of 12% higher than it was between 1980 and 1990. a 0 Mid Ranae Estimate - This estimate will be based on an annual average rate of growth in net new households of five households per year. That rate 1 C-6 I assumes that net out-migration will decrease to about 75% of the level existing between 1980 and 1990.
0 Hiah Estimate - The high estimate will be based on an increase in the number of net new households to an average rate of about 10 new households .per year between 1997 and the year 2000. That rate assumes that net out- migration will decrease to about 17% of the rate existing between 1980 and 1990.
The estimated number of persons per household for each of those estimates is based on a trend projection of the actual change in the number of total persons per total household between the years 1960 and 1990 which showed an actual decrease in the ratio from 4.01 persons per household in 1970 to 3.56 persons per household in 1990. This ratio is projected to decrease at a slower rate to 3.27 persons per household by the Year 2020.
The above assumptions and projections will result in the changes in total households and population as shown on the following table:
Population and Household Projections ~ i.~,,~ . . :i:: Menno Township, PA 1990 to 2020 1213 1I97 Projections Item Estimate 2000 2010 2020 TOTAL HOUSEHOLD PROJECTIONS Low 474 478 498 518 (Average increase of 2.0 Households per year) Mid Ranae 474 484 534 584 (Average increase of 5.0 households per year) High 474 494 594 694 (Average increase of 10.0 households per year) PERSONS PER HOUSEHOLD 3.50 3.46 3.37 3.27 POPULATION PROJECTIONS Low 1,659 1,653 1,678 1,695 Mid Ranae 1,659 1,675 1,800 1,910 Hiah 1,659 1,709 2,001 2,270
Source: US Bureau of the Census, Building Permit data from Menno Township and projections by Michael Cabot Associates, Inc.
c-7 Projections to the Year 2015 - The above projections are a basis on which the Plan may be developed. In reality, those projections may be reached sooner or later, depending on numerous factors and conditions which may occur in the years to come. To a large extent households and population will be based on the number of new jobs which can be created in the area and the extent to which net out- migration can be reduced. If economic development takes place at a faster pace due to the various growth factors and Township objectives identified above, then both the number of households and the size of the population will vary accordingly. However, the projections do provide a direction on which the Plan can be based and this Comprehensive Plan sets forth a series of recommendations designed to fa ke-f.ullad_v_ant age_of _the0p ~QLU.UW ' ' s that do exist for the Township in the future.
Since the end of the planning period is the Year 2015, the projections for the Years 2010 and 2020 are averaged to result in the following household and population estimates, which are summarized below:
Summary of Households and Population Projections Menno Township, PA 1990 to 2015
Projections for Year 2015(a) Actual Item 1990 Low Mid High Ranne Total Households 460 508 559 644 Persons Per Household 3.56 3.32 3.32 3.32 Tot a I Population 1,637 1,686 1,856 2,138 Percentage Increase 1990 to 201 5 (25 years) - Total Households -- 10.4% 21.5% 40.0% - Total PoDulation -- 3.0% 13.40% 30.6%
(a) The Year 2015 is the end of the planning period for this Comprehensive Plan.
Over the 25 year period between 1990 and 2015 total households are projected to increase between 10.4% and 40.0%. Total population is also projected to increase, at a rate between 3.0% and 30.6%. The High Estimate presents significant changes which are expected to challenge the Township Supervisors.
C-8 1 The Low Range Estimate to the year 201 5 assumes that existing conditions will remain the same and that no action will be taken to provide new public sewers in 6 the Allensville Area. Net out-migration will continue and will actually increase above the levels previously existing between 1980 and 1990.
I The Mid Range Estimate assumes a more active approach on the part of the Township to provide public sewers in the Allensville Area, with a moderate u decrease in net out-migration. The High Range Estimate with a projected growth of about 170 new households, an average growth rate of about 11 units per year between 1997 and the year P 201 5, will be dependent on a speedy attempt to address the sewer problem and to enact and adopt the new Zoning Ordinance now being completed by the 1 Supervisors. The Comprehensive Plan envisions the preservation of prime agricultural areas and conservation of the natural resources and attractive rural character of the Township. It also provides more opportunities for both the Amish e and non-Amish population to carry on with their separate lifestyles with respect, harmony, and positive cooperation with each other.
I Recommendations - This Plan recommends that the Township Supervisors establish the High Projection as their goal for accomplishment by the year 2015. I I I 1 8 B E I I;
c-9 ATTACHMENT A MENNO TOWNSHIP, PA POPULATION PROJECTION
MENNO TOWNSHIP, PA BUILDING PERMIT TRENDS 1990 THROUGH 1997
~~~ Total Total New Demolitions Total Households Housing Units (a) Reported (a) Households 1990 1990 Through (Household Units) 1997 1997 460 14 0 474
Footnote:
(a) Township Supervisors have provided an estimate of the number of building permits granted from May 2, 1990 through December 31, 1997 amounting to a total net increase of 14 households.
Source: Menno Township - Building and Demolition Permits
c-10 RESIDENT BIRTHS AND DEATHS AlTACHMENT B MENNO TOWNSHIP AND MlFFLlN COUNTY, PA 1970 - 12/31/97
Menno Township Mifflin County YEAR Births Deaths Births Deaths Census Period 4/2/70 to 4/1/80 4/2/70 - 12/31170 20 11 683 346 1971 44 10 785 454 1972 42 9 764 502 1973 45 8 704 466 1974 42 9 61 9 464 1975 37 5 558 432 1976 42 8 623 446 1977 48 8 636 452 1978 33 8 61 1 439 1979 36 8 626 41 5 111 180 - 411 180 19 0 173 119 Census Period 4/2/80 to 4/1/90 4/2/80 - 12/31180 36 4 509 336 1981 38 8 590 479 1982 37 9 628 450 1983 38 8 639 447 1984 43 7 61 2 434 1985 29 6 683 493 1986 33 11 579 492 1987 50 14 682 493 1988 42 10 642 487 1989 42 9 679 460 111 190 - 411 190 13 1 191 118 Census Period 4/2/90 to 12/31/97 4/2/90 to 12/31197 26 5 486 368 1991 44 12 659 480 1992 44 9 650 484 1993 40 10 613 489 1994 46 7 621 526 1995 39 6 63 1 456 1996 50 17 580 522 1213 1197 41 4 574 509 Total for 10-Year Census Period: 408 84 6,782 4,535 4/2/70 - 4/1/80 - Natural Increase: 4/2/70 - 4/1/80 324 2,247 Total for 10-Year Census Period: 40 1 87 6,434 4,689 4/2/80 - 4/1/90 - Natural Increase: 4/2/80 - 4/1/90 314 1,745 Total for 8-Year Period: 330 70 4,814 3,834 4/2/90 - 12/31197 -Natural Increase: 412190-12/31197 260 980 Source: PA State Health Data Center
c-11 IN OR OUT-MIGRATION AlTACHMENT C NUMBER OF PERSONS POPULATION MENNO TOWNSHIP 1970 TO 1980, 1980 TO 1990, and 1990 TO 1997
MIGRATION FACTOR Menno Township 1970 TO 1980: CENSUS PERIOD 4/2/70 TO 4/1/80 Actual 1970 Population 1,308 Natural Change (a) 324 Potential 1980 Population 1,632 Actual 1980 Population 1,590 Net Out-Migration (b) (42) 1980 to 1990 CENSUS PERIOD 4/2/80 to 4/1/90 Actual 1980 Population 1,590 Natural Change (a) 314 Potential 1990 Population 1,904 Actual 1990 Population 1,637 Net Out-Migration (b) (267) 1990 Thru 1997 CENSUS PERIOD 4/2/90 to 12/31/97 Actual 1990 Population 1,637 Natural Change (a) 260 Potential 1997 Population 1,897 Actual Estimated 1997 Population (c) 1,659 Net Out-Migration (b) (238)
Footnotes:
(a) Births minus deaths, for the period. (b) Actual population minus potential population, for the period. (c) Estimate by Michael Cabot Associates using Building Permit Data
Source: US Census Bureau, 1970, 1980 and 1990; PA State Health Data Center, 1970 through 1997 Township Building Permit Data, 1990 through 1997
c-12 I BIRTHS, DEATHS, NATURAL CHANGE ATTACHMENT D AND IN-MIGRATION or OUT-MIGRATION RATES I MENNO TOWNSHIP AND MlFFLlN COUNTY, PA 1 1970, 1980, 1990, and 1997
MIGRATION FACTOR Menno Mifflin 8 TownshiD County PoDulation I 1970 1,308 45,268 1980 1,590 46,908 1 1990 1,637 46,197 No. of Births 8 1970 32 876 1980 55 682 I 1990 39 679 No. of Deaths I 1970 14 469 1980 4 454 I I990 6 460 Birthdl 000 Persons 1970 24.46 19.35 I 1980 34.59 14.54 1990 23.82 14.70 I Death41000 Persons 1970 10.70 10.36 I 1980 2.51 9.68 1990 3.67 9.96 1 Natural Chanqe/lOOO Persons 1970 13.76 8.99 I 1980 32.08 4.86 1990 20.1 5 4.74 I In-Miaration (Out-Migration) 1970 - 80 Persons (42) (607) 1 Rate/?000 Persons in 1970 (32.11) (13.41 ) In-Miaration (Out-Miaration) 1980 - 90 IF Persons (267) (2,456) Rate/lOOO Persons in 1980 (1 67.93) (52.36) I Source: US Census Bureau, 1970, 1980 and 1990; PA State Health Data Center. I C-13 APPENDIX E: I 1993 LAND USE ANALYSIS
1 I 8 IC I I I I MENNO TOWNSHIP, MlFFLlN COUNTY, PA
EXISTING LAND USE ANALYSIS
INTRODUCTION
This land use analysis deals with the type, characteristics, amount, and spatial distribution pattern of all land use activities within Menno Township. The purpose of the land use study is to understand both qualitative and quantitative characteristics of current land use in the Township, and to identify existing land use problems and issues to be addressed in this comprehensive plan. The information presented in this report provides a foundation for Township policies regarding its future development and conservation.
LAND USE CLASSIFICATION
The land use classification system should correspond to the types of land use existing and emerging in the planning area. Based on the US Federal government’s Standard Land Use Coding Manual and with consideration of existing land use character of the Menno Township, all land uses within the Township are classified into the following nine land use categories:
1. Residential - Housing of all densities, including single-family, two-family, and multi-family housing, and other types of housing, such as seasonal (or secondary) homes, and farmstead.
2. Commercial - All types of regional and local repair business, services (e.g. personal, business, repair, professional), and associated business offices. In addition, mixed commercial and residential land use is also included in this category.
3. lndustrv - All types of manufacturing, assembling, and products distribution, warehousing and the Iike business activities.
4. Public and Semiwblic - Governmental buildings and lands, public and private schools, churches, cemeteries, recreational facilities (e.g. parks and playgrounds), utilities, and other public and semi-public facilities.
5. Roads and Streets - Right-of-way of State highways, local streets and private driveways.
6. Aolricultural Land - Land that is currently used for farming purposes.
7. Woodland - Undeveloped forested land areas.
8. Vacant Land - Undeveloped open land.
E- 1 I
1993 LAND USE STATISTICS
Michael Cabot Associates conducted a land use survey during the winter of 1993. Survey methods included a drive around windshield inspection combined with on- foot inspection throughout the entire Township. The Consultant prepared a land use map that depicts the land usage of every property on the property base map of the Township. Then, area of each land use category was measured and calculated. Major findings of this survey are presented as follows.
Menno Township covers approximately 15,232 acres of land area within its boundaries. Of the entire Township area, about 1,408 acres or 6.88 percent is developed for residential, commercial, industrial, public and semi-public land uses, as well as highways and roads. The undeveloped areas of the Township, including agricultural land, woodland, and vacant land occupy about 14,184 acres or 93.1 2 percent of the entire Township area.
Agricultural land use is the largest land use in Menno Township, which accounts for 8,222 acres or 53.98% of the entire Township area. Woodland is the second largest land use, accounting for nearly 5,907 acres or 38.78%, followed by residential land use at 3.71% (or 565 acres). Table No. 1 presents statistics regarding the 1993 land use in Menno Township.
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E-2 TABLE NO. 1 MENNO TOWNSHIP, MlFFLlN COUNTY, PA EXISTING LAND USE MEASUREMENTS (1993) LAND USE CLASSIFICATION % OF % OF (MAP KEYS)(a) ACRES TOTAL DEVELOPED LAND RESIDENTIAL Single family, Two-family, 347.3 2.20 33.14 and Multi-family dwellings (Rl, R2 and RM) Seasonal Residential 42.7 0.27 4.07 Farmstead (FS) 175.2 1.11 16.72 SubTotal 565.2 3.58 53.93 COM MERCl AL General Commercial (GC) 12.2 0.08 ,1.16 Heavy Commercial (HC) 15.2 0.10 1.45 Mixed Commercial/ 1.5 0.01 0.14 Residential (MC) SubTotal 28.9 0.1 9 2.76 INDUSTRY/EXTRACTION (I) 32.0 0.20 3.05 PUBLIC AND SEMI-PUBLIC 28.9 0.1 8 2.76 (G, E, C + F, REC, U, etc.) ROADS, STREETS AND 393.0 2.49 37.50 PRIVATE LANES SubTotal 1,048.0 6.64 100.0 ...... Developed Land OPEN SPACE % OF OPEN SPACE STREAMS, CREEKS AND 544.0 3.45 3.69 WATER BODIES AGRICULTURE (AG) 8,222.2 52.1 2 55.83 WOODLAND (WD) 5,907.0 37.44 40.1 1 VACANT LAND 54.8 0.35 0.37 SubTotal 14,728.0 93.36 100.0
Source: Menno Township Land Use Field Survey Conducted by Michael, Cabot Associates, Inc., Winter, 1993.
Footnote: (a) Map keys are abbreviations used on a detailed map which indenfies the various types of existing land uses.
E-3 APPENDIX
LIST OF NON-RESIDENTIAL LAND USE PROPERTIES IN MENNO TOWNSHIP, 1993
COMMERCIAL LAND USES
c-1 TRUCKING CO. GARAGE
c-2 VALLEY MAILING SERVICE
c-3 ALLENSVILLE SHOE SHOP (AMISH)
c-4 MOUNTAIN SIDE ORCHARD/STORE (AMISH) c-5 ZOOK ROAD DRY GOODS (STORE) (AMISH)
C-6 ALLENSVILLE PLANNING MILL (APM) (HARDWARE/BLDG. MAT'L) c-7 AUTO REPA1 R/I NSPECTI0 N GARAG E
C-8 YODER BROS. DRYWALL , c-9 PEACHEY'S HARNESS SHOP (AMISH?) c-I0 AMISH BLACK SMITH (AMISH) c-I 1 FURNITURE AND CHAIR REPAIR (AMISH) c-I2 WILLOW HILL GREEN HOUSE (AMISH?)
C-13 COUNTRY SIDE BAKE SHOP (AMISH)
C-14 PEIGHT'S STORAGE SHEDS, PICNIC TABLES, ETC. (AMISH) c-15 SUNNYSIDE GOSPEL BOOK STORE
C-I 6 SMALL ENGINE REPAIR SHOP (AMISH?)
C-I 7 CALEB PEACHEY SHALE PIT AND MULCH
C-I 8 ALLENSVILLE BULK FOODS (STORE) (AMISH) c-I9 MELLON BANK
E-4 I 1 C-20 THE OLD SCHOOL HOUSE OUTLET (CLOTHING & CRAFT STORE) C-21 COUNTRY VILLAGE RESTAURANT I C-22 BIG VALLEY HARNESS SHOP (AMISH) iI C-23 VACANT STORE C-24 M.D. YODER GARAGE AND USED AUTO SALES
MIXED RESlDENTlALlCOMMERClAL LAND USES
RC-1 JOHNSON’S ACCOUNTING SERVICE AND S.F. RESIDENTIAL
RC-2 HICKORY GROVE BED AND BREAKFAST AND S.F. RESIDENTIAL
RC-3 ALLENSVILLE GARDEN MARKET AND TWO APARTMENTS
RC-4 CANNARIES FOR SALE AND S.F. RESIDENTIAL
RC-5 WHITEHALL GENERAL STORE AND S.F. RESIDENTIAL
RC-6 PEERLESS BATTERIES FOR SALE AND S.F. RESIDENTIAL
RC-7 QUILTS FOR SALE AND S.F. RESIDENTIAL (AMISH)
RC-8 BUCHANAN’S FABRICS, QUILTS, CRAFTS AND SUPPLIES AND S.F. RESIDENTIAL
E-5 1 INDUSTRIAL LAND USES
I- 1 SAW MILL (AMISH) I 1-2 METAL FABRICATION SHOP (FIREPLACE INSERTS, ETC.) 1 1-3 LOGGING OPERATION (AMISH) I 1-4 SAW MILL (AMISH?) 1-5 ALLENSVILLE PLANNING MILL (APM) (TRUSS, SHED, ETC. 1 MANUFACTURE)
1-6 LOGGING OPERATION (AMISH) I 1-7 PALLET MANUFACTURER (AMISH) 1 1-8 KING ENTERPRISES (MANUFACTURER ALUM. STORM DOORS/WINDOWS) I 1 I 0 4 I I I I 1 I E-6 I
APPENDIX F: ECONOMIC ANALYSIS I I ECONOMIC ANALYSIS INTRODUCTION
II This Economic Analysis has been prepared to provide information on economic trends and conditions in Menno Township, Mifflin County and the State of Pennsylvania. The information presented in this analysis provided the basis for the 1 commercial and industrial land use plan, and all the factors revealed in this analysis have been considered in the development of said Plan.
B INCOME CHARACTERISTICS
Appendix Tables XI and XI1 present U.S. Census data detailing the 1979 and 1989 income information reported by residents within the Township, the County and the State. All dollar amounts on the above referenced tables are expressed in 1989 dollar amounts.
1989 Detailed Income - A breakdown of the Township’s households within specified income ranges indicate that half of all households in the Menno Township reported total income of less $20,000. This figure is far larger than the proportion of households in the County (43%) and the State (34%) reported to be at this income level. Those with incomes between $20,000 and $40,000 accounted for approximately one-third of all households within the Township, the County and the State. However, incomes in excess of $40,000 were reported by 34% of all households Statewide, 19% Countywide and only 16% in Menno Township.
Median household income is significantly lower in the Township ($20,114) and County ($22,778) in comparison to the Statewide median ($29,069).
1979 - 1989 Income Trends - Once adjusted to 1989 dollars, it is revealed that median household incomes in the Township and in the County have dropped while modest gains have been reported Statewide. The same holds true for median family incomes reported for the ten year period.
Povertv Status - The number of persons living below the poverty line remains very high (31%) in Menno Township, and in fact rose from the 1979 figure (28%) now accounting for approximately 505 persons. Levels in the County (13%) and the State (10%) remain the same for the period.
The number of families below the poverty line in Menno Township remained at 90 accounting for approximately 24% of all families, while levels in the County (10%) and the State (8%) remain nearly unchanged since 1979.
The Labor Force - A total of 64.9% of the population in Menno Township is over the age of 16 years and thus part of the potential work force. Eighty percent (80%) of the males over 16 years work, and 39% of the females in the same age group work. The percentage of working males in Menno is larger than the County’s
F-1 rate of 71.5%, the percentage of working females is lower than the County's rate of 48%. The percentage of workers has remained about the same from 1980 to 1990.
Menno's Job Market - Menno Township's work force has seen changes in the availability of different types of work. The percentage of jobs in the retail/wholesale trades rose from 12.7% in 1980 to 19.1 % in 1990. This rate of 19.1 % is slightly higher than the County's rate of 18.1 % in 1990. The number of jobs Menno has to offer in the service trades has grown by 100% from 1980 (3.9%) to 1990 (7.8%). The County also saw growth in the number of service oriented jobs, but it was modest in comparison (15.6%). Manufacturing jobs have declined in Menno, as they have in the County as a whole. Manufacturing jobs had employed 28.9% of Menno's work force in 1980, by 1990 that rate had dropped to 24.7% (31.5% for the County in 1990).
The unemployment rate in Menno Township has declined from 2.9% in 1980 to only 1.9% in 1990. The County also saw a reduction in its unemployment rate from 7.2% in 1980 to 6.7% in 1990. Even though the County's unemployment rate is still higher than Menno's, any reduction can be viewed as an indicator of economic growth.
Mifflin County Trends - Mifflin County has seen growth in the area of retail trade since 1982. The total number of establishments, employees and consequently the annual payrolls have all seen growth. Specifically, the number of building materials, hardware and garden supply stores, food stores, furniture and home furnishing stores, eating and drinking places, and miscellaneous retail stores have grown in Mifflin County since 1982, only drug and proprietary stores have dropped both in number and total sales since 1982. The number of apparel and accessory stores also dropped by one store, but the total sales still rose during the same period of time. The number of general merchandise stores, automotive dealers and gasoline stations remained the same, however, sales have grown for those stores, especially automotive dealers who more than doubled their total sales from 1982 to 1987 (see Table XVII).
Service trades also experienced growth from 1982 to 1987. Hotels, rooming houses, camps and other lodging places; amusement, recreation, movie theaters and museums; and health services all grew significantly in number and receipts. Auto repair, services and parking lost one establishment from 1982 to 1987, but receipts still grew slightly despite the loss.
Wholesale trade had the same number of establishments from 1977 to 1987 (631, but sales grew by 23.6% during that time. By 1992 the number of establishments grew to 70, and sales grew by another 36.6%.
The manufacturing trades did see slight growth in the number of establishments from 1977 to 1987. Unfortunately, the total number of employees, the total payroll, and production all decreased during the same time period.
F-2 In the Industrial Listing of Mifflin County for January, 1998 there was one business, Allensville Planing Mill, located in Menno Township. This business employed a total of 150 people in January of 1998.
Mifflin County has seen growth of 5.6% from 1978 to 1987 in the number of farms in the County, and a 7.9% growth in the number of people who claim farming is their principle occupation. Unfortunately, crop value dropped by 39.9% in the same time period, and despite the fact that livestock and poultry values rose by 9%, there was still a decline of 11.5% in total market value for farm products.
Regional EmDlovment Trends - The Lewistown Labor Market Area, which includes all of Mifflin and Juniata Counties, has seen an increase in the percentage of unemployed from 1986 (9.5%) to the present (10.7% in 19911. This unemployment rate of 10.7% is the highest the Lewistown Labor Market area has seen since the recessions in the early 1980s which brought the highest unemployment rates in the last two decades (14% in 1982 and 1 1.2% in 1984 - See Table XV). However, during this 1971 to 1990 period, the total employed in the Lewistown Labor Market Area increased by 1,600 persons or 7.9%.
In the goods producing industries, construction has grown slightly since 1971 while manufacturing of both durable (-13.3%) and nondurable goods (-16.4%) declined during the same time period. Altogether, the goods producing segment of the labor market declined from 1971 to 1990 (52.2% to 42.9% = 9.3% of total labor market employment).
Service producing industries, on the other hand, grew from 1971 to 1990 (47.8% to 57.1 % = 9.3% of total labor market employment). The biggest growth areas were in wholesale and retail trade, and services including finance, insurance, and real estate. Areas such as transportation and public utilities, and government jobs each declined in the same time period, but the decline was not enough to offset the growth mentioned previously in other areas (See Tables XV and XVI).
F-3 TABLE XI HOUSEHOLD INCOME PROFILE, 1989 MENNO TOWNSHIP AND MlFFLlN COUNTY, PA
Income Level Menno Township Mifflin County Pennsylvania 1 No. % No. % No. Less than $10,000 75 16.7 3,527 19.9 697,525 15.5 $10,000 - $14,999 76 16.9 1,947 11.0 41 5,303 $15,000 - $19,999 72 16.0 2,139 12.1 41 2,315 9.29-2 1 $20,000 - $29,999 81 18.0 3,746 21.1 785,641 17.5 $30,000 - $39,999 73 16.3 2,928 16.5 682,824 15.2 I $40,000 - $49,999 28 6.2 1,609 9.1 51 1,028 11.4 $50,000 - $74,999 21 4.7 1,372 7.7 632,633 14.1 1 $75,000 - $149,999 13 2.9 41 2 2.3 295,492 6.6 $150,000 or More 10 2.2 57 0.3 60.1 97 Total Households 449 100.0 17,737 100.0 4,492,985 100.0
F-4 I TABLE XI1 COMPARATIVE INCOME CHARACTERISTICS, 1979 AND 1989 1 MENNO TOWNSHIP AND MlFFLlN COUNTY, PA
Characteristic Menno Township Mifflin County Pennsylvania 1979 1989 1979 1989 1979 1989 Total Persons 1,590 1,637 46,908 46,197 11,863,895 11,881,643 Total Families 373 379 12,915 12,903 3,147,809 3,176,451 Per Capita Income $ 7.1 57 $ 7,782 $ 9,754 $10,609 $11,877 $14,068 Median Family $24,857 $21,779 $28,550 $27,502 $33,555 $34,856 Income Median Household $22,236 $20,114 $23,424 $22,778 $28,328 $29,069 Income Persons Below 450 505 6,098 6,079 1,233,854 .1,283,629 Poverty Line - % of Total Pop. 28.3 30.9 13.0 13.2 10.4 10.8 Families Below 90 90 1,240 1,231 242,38 1 259,117 Poverty Line - % of Total Pop. 24.1 23.8 9.6 9.5 7.7 8.2 NOTE: ALL INCOME FIGURES EXPRESSED IN 1989 DOLLARS.
SOURCE: US CENSUS BUREAU, 1980 AND 1990.
F-5 I TABLE Xlll CIVILIAN LABOR FORCE CHARACTERISTICS, 1980 AND 1990 MENNO TOWNSHIP AND MlFFLlN COUNTY, PA I MENNOTOWNSHIP MIFFLINCOUNTY CHARACTERISTICS 1980 1990 1980 1990 1 Potential Work Force All Persons 16+ Yrs. 994 1,063 35,034 36,071 - % of Total Population 62.5 64.9 74.7 78.1 I - No. of Males X 505 16,161 16,901 - No. of Females X 558 18.873 19,170 1 Education Level (a) - % High School Grad. 37.6 40.5 57.5 68.2 I - % College Grad. 2.0 3.9 6.8 8.7 Civilian Labor Force (CLF) All Persons 581 624 19,629 21,254 I - No. of Males X 406 11,777 12,059 - YO of All Males 16+ Yrs. X 80.4 72.8 71.5 I - No. of Females X 21 8 7,852 9,195 - % of All Females 16+ Yrs. X 39.0 41.6 48.0 - No. of Females with Children Under NA 111 2,538 2,591 I 6 Yrs. - YO in Labor Force NA 28.8 36.9 58.0 I Emdovment - No. in Retail/Wholesale 74 119 3,160 3,847 - % Retail/Wholesale 12.7 19.1 16.1 18.1 I - No. in Service Trade 23 49 1,767 2,210 - YO Service Trade 3.9 7.8 9.0 10.4 I - No. in Manufacturing 168 154 7,302 6,695 - % Manufacturing 28.9 24.7 37.2 31.5 - No. Unemployed 17 12 1.41 3 1,424 I - % Unemployed 2.9 1.9 7.2 6.7 Prior Year Labor Force Status I - No. of Males 16+ Yrs. who worked X 395 12,417 12,732 during previous year - Percentage of Males X 78.2 76.8 75.3 I - No. of Females 16+ Yrs. who X 23 1 8,602 10.1 07 worked during previous year I - Percentaae.. of Females X 41.4 45.6 52.7 Footnote: (a) Percentage of all persons age 25 years and older. NOTE: X = To be filled in when available. I I F-6 I TABLE XIV CIVILIAN LABOR FORCE 1970 - 1991 UNEMPLOYMENT AND EMPLOYMENT BY RESIDENCE LEWISTOWN LABOR MARKET AREA (a)
NUMBER OF PERSONS PERCENT UNEMPLOYED YEAR CIVILIAN LABOR FORCE EMPLOYED UNEMPLOYED
~ ~~ 1970 25,600 24,300 1,300 5.1 1972 26,100 23,700 2,400 9.4 1974 24,900 23,200 1,700 7.0 1976 24,900 22,600 2,300 9.3 1978 26,400 24,300 2,200 8.1 1980 29,000 26,200 2,800 9.7 1982 28,900 24,800 4.1 00 14.0 1984 28,600 25,400 3,200 11.2 1986 29,600 26,800 2,800 9.5 1988 31,100 28,800 2,300 7.3 1990 31,400 28,600 2,800 9.0 1991 31,800 28,400 3,400 10.7
Footnote:
(a) Area includes all of Mifflin and Juniata Counties.
Source: PA Dept. of Labor and Industry, 1970 - 1991.
F-7 TABLE XV ANNUAL AVERAGE EMPLOYMENT 1979 - 1989 NUMBER OF EMPLOYED BY PLACE OF WORK LEWISTOWN LABOR MARKET AREA (a), PA
1971 1976 1981 1986 1991 Establishment Employ % Employ- % Employ- % Employ- % Employ- % -ed ed ed ed ed Goods Produeirg Construction 600 3.0 600 3.2 600 3.2 700 3.5 Manufacturing 10,000 49.3 8,100 43.5 8,700 42.9 8,500 42.3 8,6008oo 39."3 Total - Nondurable 5,500 27.1 3,600 19.4 4,000 19.7 3,800 18.9 4,600 Goods .la91
- Durable Goods 4,500 22.2 4.500 24.1 4,700 23.2 4,700 23.4 ' 3,900 17.8 SubTotal 10,600 52.2 8,700 46.8 9,300 45.8 9,200 45.8 9,400 42 service Roducinq Transp. 81 Public 1,100 5.4 900 4.8 1,000 4.9 800 4.0 Utilities 8oo Wholesale 81 3,500 17.2 3,500 18.8 3,700 18.2 4,000 19.9 5,000 228"'1 Retail Trade ServicesIb) 2,800 13.8 3,000 16.1 3,800 18.7 3,800 18.9 4,300 19.4 Government 2,300 11.3 2,500 13.4 2,500 12.3 2,300 11.4 2,400 10.9 SubTotal 9,700 47.8 9,900 53.2 11,000 54.2 10,900 54.2 12,500 571 Total Non- 20,300 100.0 18,600 100.0 20,300 100.0 20,100 100.0 21,900 Agricultural Employment
Footnotes: la) Area includes all of Mifflin and Juniata Counties. (b) Includes Finance, Insurance and Real Estate. Source: PA Dept. of Labor and Industry, 1971 - 1991. I 1 I I I 1 F-8 8 TABLE XVI SELECTED CHARACTERISTICS OF RETAIL TRADE 1982 AND 1987 MlFFLlN COUNTY, PA
~~ II CHARACTERISTIC Lewistown Borough Balance of County (a1 County Total 1982 1987 1982 %(b) 1987 %(b) 1982 1987 I No. of Establishments 151 136 98 39.4 135 49.8 249 27 1 - Sales ($1.000) 11 1,582 123,637 74,928 40.2 115,937 48.4 186,510 239,574 Annual Payroll 12,251 14,675 8,335 40.5 13,012 47.0 20,586 27,687 I ($1,000) No. of Paid 1,353 1,399 866 30.0 1,414 50.3 2.21 9 2.81 3 ...... Employees I TvDe of Establishment Building Materials, 6 7 8 57.1 9 56.3 14 16 Hardware and Garden I Supply - Sales ($1.000) 4,874 6,899 9,776 66.7 13,591 66.3 14,650 20,490 I General Merchandise 6 5 4 40.0 5 50.0 10 10 - Sales ($1.000) (C) (C) (C) (C) 19,053 25,150 Food Stores 20 18 15 42.9 22 55.0 35 40 I - Sales ($1.000) 27,291 28.51 6 19,855 41.6 27,490 49.1 47,776 56,006 Automotive Dealers 16 16 7 30.4 7 30.4 23 23 - Sales ($1,000) 17,629 35.61 7 6,596 27.2 14,691 29.2 24,225 50,308 I Gasoline Stations 15 6 6 28.6 15 71.4 21 21 - Sales ($1.000) 15,069 5,202 3,162 17.3 13,647 72.4 18,231 18,849 I Apparel & Access. 11 10 5 31.3 5 33.3 16 15 - Sales ($1.000) 4.392 2,341 2.1 18 32.5 5,485 70.1 6,510 7,826 Furniture, Home 7 9 8 53.3 10 52.6 15 19 I Furnishings I I
- Sales ($1,000) 2,597 3,655 2,556 49.6 5,077 58.1 5,153 8,732 ~ Eating & Drinking 34 33 33 49.3 42 56.0 67 75 I Places - Sales ($1,000) 7,764 8,322 6,362 45.1 9,405 53.1 14,125 17,727 Drug & Proprietary 7 5 3 30.0 2 28.6 10 7 I Stores - Sales ($1.0001 (C) (C1 (C) (C) 13,223 9.41 3 I Misc. Retail 29 27 8 21 .I 18 40.0 38 45 - Sales ($1.000) 12,341 (c) 11,222 47.6 (C) 23,563 25,073 Footnotes: I (a) Includes Granville Township (b) Percentage of County total. (c) Information withheld by Census Bureau to avoid individual disclosures. I NOTE: All payroll and sales figures expressed in 1987 dollars. I Source: Census of Retail Trade, US Census Bureau 1982 and 1987. F-9 I TABLE XVll SELECTED CHARACTERISTICS OF SERVICE TRADE 1982 AND 1987 MlFFLlN COUNTY, PA
CHARACTERISTIC Lewistown Borough Balance of County (a) County Total 1982 1987 1982 %(b) 1987 %(b) 1982 1987 No. of Establishments 107 123 39 26.7 48 28.1 146 171 - Receipts ($1,000) 21,938 32471 7,546 25.6 10,561 24.5 29,483 43,032 Annual Payroll 8,062 13,231 1,840 18.6 2,678 16.8 9,902 15,904 ($1.000) No. of Paid 559 690 159 22.1 224 24.5 718 ______------Employees TvDe of Establishment Hotel, Rooming 3 4 1 25.0 3 42.9 4 House, Camps and 4 other Lodging Places
- Receipts ($1.000) (C) (C) (C) (C) (C) 20 Auto Repair, Services 5 4 16 76.2 16 80.0 21 (4 and Parking - Receipts ($1.000) 1,042 696 3,462 76.9 3,860 84.7 4,5043 4.554 Amusement, 6 8 1 14.3 5 38.5 7 13 Recreation, Movie Theaters and Museums I
- Receipts ($1,000) (C) 3,187 (C) - 893 21.9 2,003 Health Services (e) 53 60 8 13.1 10 14.3 61 4'0887 - Receipts ($1.000) 12,940 21,567 866 6.3 1,792 7.7 13,806 23,359 Legal Services 9 10 1 10.0 1 9.1 10 II - Receipts ($1.000) 1,745 (C) (C) (C) (C) 1,988
Footnotes: (a) Includes Granville Township (b) Percentage of County total. (c) Information withheld by Census Bureau to avoid individual disclosures. (d) 1982 figures do not include museums. (e) 1982 figures do not include hospitals. NOTE: All payroll and sales figures expressed in 1987 dollars. I Source: Census of Service Trade, US Census Bureau 1982 and 1987. I
F- 10 I TABLE XVlll SELECTED CHARACTERISTICS OF WHOLESALE TRADE I 1977 AND 1987 MlFFLlN COUNTY, PA
I ~~ ~~ CHARACTERISTIC Lewistown Borough Balance of County (a) County Total 1977 1987 1977 %(b) 1987 %(b) 1977 1987 I ~~ ~~ No. of Establishments 32 29 31 49.2 34 54.0 63 63 - Sales ($1.000) 58.288 84,846 67,352 53.6 70,456 45.4 125,640 155,302 I Annual Payroll 5,789 7,623 4,511 43.8 10,537 58.0 10,300 18,160 ($1,000) No. of Paid 334 397 254 43.2 538 57.5 588 935 I Employees
Footnotes: I (a) Includes Granville Township (b) Percentage of County total. I NOTE: All payroll and sales figures expressed in 1987 dollars. I Source: Census of Wholesale Trade, US Census Bureau 1977 and 1987. I I I I I I I I I F- 11 I TABLE XIX SELECTED CHARACTERISTICS OF MANUFACTURING TRADE 1977 AND 1987 MlFFLlN COUNTY. PA CHARACTERISTIC Lewistown Borough Balance of County (a) County Total 1977 1987 1977 %(b) 1987 %(b) 1977 1987 No. of Establishments 29 32 27 48.2 26 44.8 56 No. of Employees (C) 1,800 (C) 3,300 64.7 6,200 5,10058) - Production Workers (C) 1,400 (C) 2,600 65.0 5,100 Total Payroll (C) 32.9 (C) 81.5 71.2 150.9 4'00B114. (Millions $1
- Production (C) 23.2 (C) 61.0 72.4 1 14.4 84.
ESTABLISHMENTS BY EMPLOYMENT SIZE AND MAJOR INDUSTRY GROUP INDUSTRY GROUP 1-19 20 - 99 100 - 249 250 + I Employees Employees Employees Employees
~~ 1977 1987 1977 1987 1977 1987 1977 1987
~~ ~ ~ ~ Food products 10 3 1 4 I Textile products - 1 - 1 Apparel products - 3 2 I Lumber & Wood 5 6 3 2 Paper products - 1 - - I Publishing 3 5 1 1 Chemicals 1 - 1 Rubber/Plastic - 1 1 Stone/Clay/Glass 5 3 - 2 Primary Metals 1 - 1 - I Fab. Metals 3 1 1 2 Ind. Machinery 2 7 1 1 I Electronic Equip. - 2 1 Transp. Equip. 1 1 - I lnstuments - Misc. Ind. 1 1 1 - I County Total 31 30 15 17 3 7 7 4 Footnotes: (a) Includes Granville Township 1 (b) Percentage of County total. (c) Information withheld by Census Bureau to avoid individual disclosures. I NOTE: All payroll and sales figures expressed in 1987 dollars. Source: Census of Manufacturing Trade, US Census Bureau 1977 and 1987. 1 F- 12 I TABLE XX SELECTED CHARACTERISTICS OF AGRICULTURAL TRADE I 1978 AND 1987 MlFFLlN COUNTY, PA
I COUNTY TOTALS (a) 1978-87 CHANGE CHARACTERISTIC 1978 1987 No. %
~ ~~ ~~ ~~ ~ ~ ~ ~~~ ~~ I Number of Farms 641 677 36 5.6 Total Acreage 88,602 87,546 - 1,056 - 1.2 I Average Size (Acres) 138 129 -9 - 6.5 Total Cropland (Acres) 58,961 57,861 - 1,100 - 1.9 I Market Value of Product ($l.OOOl Total 47,229 41,796 - 5,433 - 11.5 - Crop Value 3,821 2,297 - 1,524 - 39.9 I - Livestock & Poultry 43,407 39,500 - 3,907 9.0 Operators BY Principle I OccuDation: - Farming 443 478 35 7.9 I - Other Occupation 198 199 I 0.5 Footnote:
I (a) Includes Granville Township. 11 NOTE: All market value figures expressed in 1987 dollars. Source: Census of Agriculture, US Census Bureua, 1978 and 1987. I I I I I I I F-13 I