During the July 20 Lower Macungie Township Board of Commissioners meeting, proclamations were issued to two residents for their services to the township.

The first was presented to Kathee Rhode for her 18 1/2 years as executive director of the Lower Macungie Township Public Library. She introduced the new director Debbie Jack.

Tom Beil was also recognized for his 13 1/2 years of service on the planning commission from 2010-2023.

A conditional use hearing was held for the proposed land development project. The Lehigh Valley Town Center and Top Golf is proposed for the area off Route 222 and Route 309/78 with addresses of 361 Schantz Road and 4511 Cedarbrook Road. The project is to include residential, retail and recreational areas. There are 550 apartments, a 100 room hotel, a restaurant, a grocery store, office building, medical building and more. The area is 60 acres. Langston Equities LLC is the company proposing this project. They are a division of Jaindl Land Company.

Luke Jaindl presented the project. Jaindl described the project as “timeless, unique, different. It is a brand-new concept. It will be a place for gathering and have unique lighting and store fronts.”

A resident from the area expressed concern about traffic and stormwater. A representative from Penn Sheet Metal which would be a neighbor to this development expressed his concerns of stormwater and traffic. Also mentioned is the Schantz Road spring. This is a water source for Allentown.

After the conditional use hearing, it was put before the commissioners to approve. The planning commission recommended approval.

President Brian Higgins said it was a good project but the commissioners need more time to go through all the material. Therefore, it was recommended to table this project presently.

Resolution 2023-37 was approved. This resolution is for the land development plan for Spring Creek Estates. These properties are located at 6158 Stein Way and Lower Macungie Road and 1255 Danner Road and Church Lane. Each property is to have eight town homes constructed for rental units.

Resolution 2023-38 was approved. This land development plan is for 6709 Mountain Road. This is a minor subdivision with an existing house and barn with the other lot being created for another house. It is a two lot subdivision with Gehman Road bordering the property and known as Stone Hill Haven.

A representative from Legacy Oaks spoke about truck traffic on Willow Lane. He expressed his concerns about safety for residents. The commissioners are aware and said residents should make sure state Rep. Ryan Mackenzie, R-187th, is notified of this problem. It is noted there is not enough data on this problem but also there being a lack of enforcement.

Don Heist was appointed for the vacancy for the parks and recreation advisory committee with a term to expire Dec. 31.

Heather Shirr was appointed to the library board with a term to expire Jan. 31, 2026.

Ryan Kennedy was appointed to fill the vacancy on the planning commission until the term expires Jan. 1, 2024.