After Ridge Farm representatives completed their presentation for conditional-use approval, South Whitehall Commissioners’ President Christina “Tori” Morgan announced the board would adjourn for an executive session.

At that point, Commissioner Glenn Block stepped forward and commented.

“I won’t go to an executive session,” Block said. “I’m willing to cast my vote against this now.”

Block said the board has some legal obligations but suggested going back to the developer and asking for a reduction in the number of units.

The applicant’s attorney, Jim Preston, expressed unwillingness to do that.

“There is plenty of time in land development to make changes,” Preston said.

Commissioner David Bond reported he has been struggling for awhile with the project.

“It just scares the crap out of me,” Bond said.

He noted the Ridge Farm proposal does not appear to be the lifestyle center and neighborhood envisioned in the comprehensive plan.

Morgan offered comments.

“Without a doubt, there’s a lot of passion in this room,” Morgan said. “The process is so very important.

“Rules and regulations have to be considered.”

Commissioner Matt Mulqueen made a motion to grant conditional-use approval which was seconded by Mark Pinsley.

Bond, Morgan, Mulqueen and Pinsley voted in favor of the motion.

Morgan said there will be ample opportunities to flesh out details for Ridge Farm as it moves ahead in the township review process.