Township resident questions board extensions of builder’s projects – Lehigh Valley Press

The Upper Milford Township meeting opened with a moment of silence for Nicholas Cury who died Oct. 18.

For the past 20 years, Nick and his wife worked as part-time park gate caretakers. Supervisors recognized Nick's service and dedication to Upper Milford Township and expressed their sadness upon learning of his passing.

Public comments opened with the continuing street parking issue in the Jasper Ridge community and Mink Estates.

Relatively new to the community, resident Lauren wanted her view of no parking on the streets to be on record.

According to Lauren, it was her understanding as well as many other residents in this community there would be no parking on any of the streets.

She was disappointed to learn the homeowners association wants parking on one side of the street.

Lauren was expressing her support for her neighboring community for no street parking in this area.

The second public comment came from a representative for the Western District Fire Company who inquired about the money for the department.

Township Manager Bud Carter explained the resolution passed for the money for 2025 and Secretary/Treasurer Jessi O'Donald added the fire company will need to prepare a plan for the money and the board will make a decision.

The representative appeared satisfied with the response.

In old business, Carter shared residents' concerns for PA Route 29 safety were denied by the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation. If residents want to pursue this issue, they will need to contact their local state legislators for further action.

In new business, Planning Coordinator Brian Miller shared information regarding the property at 6620 Crown Lane.

A group of neighbors are interested in purchasing 35 acres of land to protect it from development. The appraisal cost is $1,700. The board approved $1,700 will be paid for the appraisal of this conservation easement by the agrarian associates.

The neighbors anticipate purchasing the land in the near future.

Similarly, The Graf conservation easement was also approved for the land at 6212 Sweetwood Drive in Macungie at a cost of $145,441.80.

This area was referred to as "Save our Springs" and was noted for its history. This was described as a "nice piece of property" for conservation.

Supervisors also approved resolution 2024-036 which involves the LSA Grant Application for a fire truck.

O'Donald explained approving this resolution allows the township to be able to apply for the $1 million grant. The application is due Nov. 30 and a quote is needed.

Firefighters have been working to contain the wildfires along Blue Mountain and have not been able to meet to determine the quote; they hope to have the quote by the end of the week.

Finally, in new business Carter explained the Twin Run improvements were previously approved and the paperwork is being finalized.

Supervisors accepted the agreement with Kay Builders.

This is a new development located off Indian Creek Road. A resident voiced concerns about supervisors approving another project with Kay Builders when there are current concerns with several other projects in the township.

Upper Milford Township Board of Supervisors Chairman John Zgura commented, "We learned that you need to go to higher state officials because our hands are tied."

Zgura added any extensions for the Fields at Twin Run must be requested 90 days in advance and a schedule/updated schedule must be provided to the board of supervisors.

In addition, Kay Builders must appear physically in front of the board to explain any future extension requests.

However, supervisors approved the extension for Kay Builders for the Fields at Indian Creek Annex through Dec. 7, 2025, because this was previously agreed upon. The extension is needed for a small area involving paving roads and establishing trees. Kay Builders did not respond to attempts made for comment.

The supervisors also approved Credit Release #9 for the Fields at Jasper Ridge for $147,333.96. A resident expressed concern about how the costs are determined. Supervisors explained Carter, as township planner, visits the sites and the Upper Milford Township Engineer Jeffery Ott, who works with the developers, determines the costs.

O'Donald informed the resident a "Right to Know" form is available online. Residents can complete this form and receive a copy of the pertinent information regarding costs of specific projects.

In other issues, supervisors accepted the resignation of Randy Faurl with regret.

Faurl provided more than 10 years of service to the recreation committee but he no longer is able to commit the necessary time needed for this position. Residents interested in serving on this committee can contact the township.

The Emmaus Public Library, the home library for residents of Upper Milford Township, continues its search for a new library director. Residents interested in this position can contact the library for more information.

The tentative 2025 township budget is now available for public review. It is available on the township website. Hard copies are available from the township office. The budget is set for approval at the Dec. 5 meeting.

The next meeting is scheduled 7 p.m. Nov. 21 in the township building, 5671 Chestnut St.