Pocopson Township Planning Commission Meeting

7:30 p.m., Wednesday, November 18, 2009

Members Present: Gary Summers, Meg Johnson, Robert Miller, Robert Costello

Members Absent: Chris Sperber, Suzy Breiseth, Sean Rafferty

1. Call to Order: Summers called the meeting to order at 7:30 p.m.

2. Public Comment: Art Sulzer appeared before the Planning Commission to discuss a potential idea to modernize the dwelling he inherited located at 13 Cabin Club Lane. He reported that he previously reviewed preliminary plans with Township Building Inspector that included demolition of the current dwelling and construction of a log cabin-style dwelling. The replacement dwelling is about 700 square feet and therefore smaller than the current dwelling. The foundation would be rebuilt in the current footprint. Sulzer noted that over the years the current dwelling has sustained flood damage which was subsequently approved for various repairs by the insurance company. Planning Commission (PC) members generally could not comment regarding the proposal and suggested that Sulzer pursue the matter with an attorney as issues that may need to be addressed include legal location of the dwelling within the single-parcel community, Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) approvals, homeowner insurance coverage for a dwelling intentionally demolished and rebuilt in a floodplain, and community approvals if applicable.

3. Township Ordinances:

a. Fence – PC members reviewed and generally discussed the three (3) sample fence and wall ordinances (labeled #1, #2, and #3) submitted by Breiseth. Members agreed that sample #2 was the most comprehensive. It was noted, however, that the draft ordinance for Pocopson should include reference to deer fencing as the height of such fencing can exceed ten (10') feet. Further discussion tabled for the December meeting.

b. Noxious Weeds – Secretary will prepare sample draft ordinance for the December meeting.

c. Public Hearing November 23, 2009 – Secretary reported that a Public Hearing will be held November 23, 2009 for the adoption of the “Grinder Pump” Ordinance and the amended “Keeping of Animals” Ordinance.

4. Zoning Hearing Board Decision: PC reviewed the Zoning Hearing Board Decision in the matter of Brandywine Land Management Co., Inc., 2111 West Street Road, rendered November 4, 2009.

5. Correspondence: PC reviewed response regarding Orr subdivision located at 1870 Lenape-Unionville Road. Secretary noted no further submissions by Orr.

6. Other Business: PC Members requested that when available the final plan for Corinne Village should be submitted to the PC for review during a regularly scheduled meeting for the appropriate endorsement.

7. Approval of Meeting Minutes October 21, 2009: PC tabled approval of the October 21, 2009 Minutes.

8. Adjournment: Summers moved, Johnson seconded to adjourn at 8:45 p.m.

The next regularly scheduled Planning Commission Meeting is Wednesday, December 16, 2009.

___________________________ _____________________________________

Susan Simone, Secretary Gary Summers, Chair