A presentation to develop the Farr Tract on the corner of Cedar Crest Boulevard and Lower Macungie Road with an Active 55 community was given at the Lower Macungie Township Board of Commissioners meeting Feb. 19. The plan was denied earlier by the planning commission.

A regular single home community was originally proposed but it was rejected due to traffic concerns.

Commissioner Brian Higgins suggested the planning commission is being more stringent. Higgins also said "there is absolutely a traffic problem."

Commissioner Ron Beitler said he is not interested in any development on the property.

No motion was made to draft an ordinance and advertise. Open space was definitely a determining factor.

The artificial turf project for Quarry Park is moving forward. Astro Turf was chosen for the purchase and maintenance of the fields. Commissioners Beitler and Douglas Brown believe the project is being rushed. Costs are being questioned.

The National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System permit is a lengthy process to obtain but the design is being included. Beitler asked for a timeline of the project. Solicitor Richard Somach gave positive input for the Astro Turf company. Compliments were given from the Wilkes-Barr area.

Snow removal continues to be a topic. There are certain areas of concern including bike paths and areas where properties do not have ownership. Sidewalks are being cleared up to the property line and then unowned property sidewalks are not cleared.

Automated texting is being considered which will make the snow emergency announcements more efficient.

Leibensberger Transportation wants to return to its place of business, which includes school bus maintenance and some sales, in East Texas. This request will go before the zoning hearing board.

The Hills of Lockridge development has some unfinished business, including missing crosswalks and unfinished sidewalks. This is being investigated.

The Wild Cherry bridge construction has been delayed due to the weather.

The township building experienced a power outage due to an accident where a car hit a pole and knocked out the transformer. The new generator is operating.

There is the possibility several new election districts will be added due to population increases. It does cost money to add districts and redistribution among existing districts will be considered for that reason.

The Lower Macungie Township Campus Electronic Billboard Policy is being investigated. Lower Macungie Township is reviewing Bethlehem Township's usage.