HomeMy WebLinkAbout99-02109
,.,'"',
..' t':
,..,
:\.~,
,,1";
......
.. '.
...
~':a}
...
'-J'
-,
CETIFICATE AND TRANSMITIAL OF RECORDS UNDER
PENNSYLVANIA RULE OF APPELLATE PROCEDURE 1931 (C)
To the Prothonotary of the Apellate Court to which the within matter has been appealed:
COMMONWEALTH COURT OF PENNSYLVANIA
The undersigned, Prothonotary of the Court of Corrunon Pleas of Cumberland County,
the said court being a court of record, do hereby certify that annexed hereto is a true and
correct copy of the whole and entire record, including an opinion of the court as required
by P A RAP. 1925, the original papers and exhibits, if any on file, the transcript of the
proceedings, if any, and the docket entries in the following matter:
LESTER S. AND KATHY MILLER, THOMAS AND CATHY TIGHE,
CHRISTINA REESE, C. GRAINGER AND SANDRA LEANNA BOWMAN,
vs
TOWNSHIP OF SILVER SPRING, Appellee
99-2119 CIVIL TERM
(Companion Case for Appeal - 99-2108 Civil Term)
158 CD 2000
The documents comprising the record have been numbered from No. 1 to 6'7. and
attached hereto as Exhibit A is a list of the documents correspondingly numbered and
identified with reasonable definiteness, including with respect to each document, the
number of pages comprising the document.
The date on which the record has been transmitted to the Appellate Court is 4--; -00 .
~1
An additional eopy of this certificate is enclosed. Please sign and date copy, thereby
acknowledging receipt of this reeord.
Date
Signature & Title
{
f;
~,
PYS510
1999-02119
~Cumber1and County Prothonota~Yos Office
Civil Case Inquiry
MILLER LESTER S JR ET AL (vsl SILVER
Page
.
beKING TOWNSHIP OF
Filed........ :
Time......... :
Execution Date
Jury TriaL...
Disposed Date,
Higher Crt 1.:
Higher Crt 2.:
4/09/ H~~
0/00/0000
0/00/0000
358 C> 2000
".
, .
Reference No..:
Case Type.....: APPEAL - ZONING
Judgment. .....: .00
Judge Assigned: OLER J WESLEY JR
Disposed Desc.:
------------ Case Comments -------------
**.............**...................**..***.........................*,.........
General Index Attorney Info
MILLER LESTER S APPELLANT BOWMAN C GRAINGER
LOCUST POINT ROAD
MECHANICSBURG PA 17055
MILLER KATHY
LOCUST POINT ROAD
MECIIANICSBURG PA 17055
TIGHE THOMAS
VALLEY VIEW ROAD
MECHANICS BURG PA 17055
TIGHE CATHY
VALLEY VIEW ROAD
MECHANICSBURG PA 17055
REESE CHRISTINA
RICH VALLEY ROAD & VALLEY
ROAD
MECHANICSBURG PA 17055
BOWMAN C GRAINGER
3 NORTHFIELD WAY
MECHANICSBURG PA 17055
BOWMAN SANDRA LEANNA H
3 NORTHFIELD WAY
MECHANICSBURG PA 17055
SILVER SPRING TOWNSHIP OF
6475 CARLISLE PIKE
MECHANICSBURG PA 17055
_ _ _ _ - - - - - - - - - FIRST EN'rRY - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
NOTICE OF LAND USE APPEAL
------------------------------------------------------------------.
WRIT OF CERTIORARI
------------------------------------------------------------------~
PRAECIPE FOR LISTING CASE FOR ARGUMENT BY C GRAINGER BOWMAN ESQ
LAND USE APPEAL
-------------------------------------------------------------------
PETITION OF LETTERMEN INC TO INTERVENE
-------------------------------------------------------------------
ORDER - DATED 7/1/99 - IN RE PETITION OF LETTERMEN INC TO
INTERVENE - GRANTED - BY J WESLEY OLER JR J - NOTICE MAILED 7/6/99
------------------------------------------------------------------.
MOTION TO CONSOLIDATE
------------------------------------------------------------------
ORDER - DATED 7/10/99 - IN RE MOTION TO CONSOLIDATE - GRANTED -
MOTION SHALL BE SET DOWN FOR ORAL ARGUMENT 8/11/99 - BY J WESLEY
~~~~_~~_~______i~~~_~~:~!~~_~~~~~_!~~~!_______________------------
ORDER - DATED 1.12.00 - IN RE LAND USE APPEAL FROM SILVER SPRING
TOWNSHIP BOARD OF SUPERVISORS' GRANT OF CONDITIONAL USE APPROVAL -
APPEAL OF LESTER S MILLER ET AL FROM THE DECISION OF TilE SILVER
SPRING TOWNSHIP BOARD OF SUPERVISORS DATED 3/10/99 IS DISMISSED -
APPEAL OF LETTERMEN INC IS UPHELD TO THE LIMITED EFFECT OF
ANNULLING CONDITION 5 OF THE BOARD'S DECISION - BUT IN ALL OTHER
RESPECTS LETTERMEN INC'S APPEAL IS DISMISSED - BY GEORGE E HOFFER
*****.*********.************.************.***~*.*..***....**...*.***...........
* Date Entries
***************-****************************.******...*.~.........*..**.**.....
1 - 27 4/09/1999
28 4/09/1999
29 6/24/1999
31 - 32 6/28/1999
30 7/06/1999
34 - 36 7/07/1999
33 7/14/1999
3i:'- 56 1/12/2000
.,.... .-,.....-..._..---~
........
f'
LESTER S. MILLER, JR., KATHY
MILLER, THOMAS TIGHE, CATHY
TIGHE, CHRISTINA REESE. C.
GRAINGER BOWMAN, and SANDRA
LEANNA H. BOWMAN,
Appellants
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY,
PENNSYLVANIA
No. qq - Q. Wi r.-, U9 -re,,,,
v.
TOWNSHIP OF SILVER SPRING,
Appellee
In re: LETTERMEN, INC. Conditional Use
Approval (Silver Spring Township File No.
CU 98-6)
NOTICE OF LAND USE APPEAL
Lester S. Miller, Jr., Kathy Miller, Thomas Tighe, Cathy Tighe, Christina Reese,
C. Grainger Bowman and Sandra Leanna H. Bowman appeal from the decision of the Board of
Supervisors of Silver Spring Township, located in Cumberland County, Pennsylvania, and in
support thereof state as follows:
1. The appellants are as follows:
a. Lester S. Miller, Jr. and Kathy Miller, husband and wife, adult
individuals and residing at Locust Point Road, Silver Spring Township,
Cumberland County, Pennsylvania, and also owners offarms (that is, agricultural
real estate) located on Valley View Road, Silver Spring Township, Cumberland
County, Pennsylvania.
36662.1
. .
.-"
,.-..
b. Thomas P. Tighe and Cathy Tighe, husband and wife, adult
individuals, and residing at Valley View Road, Silver Spring Township,
Cumberland County, Pennsylvania.
(,. Christina Reese, an adult individual, residing at the intersection of
Rich Valley Road and Valley View Road, Silver Spring Township, Cumberland
County, Pennsylvania.
d. C. Grainger Bowman and Sandra Lean"a H. Bowman, husband
and wife, adult individuals, residing at 3 Northfield Way, Silver Spring Township,
Cumberland County, Pennsylvania.
2. The appellee is the Township of Silver Spring ("Township"), with its principal
place of business at 6475 Carlisle Pike, Silver Spring Township, Cumberland County,
Pennsylvania.
3. Lettermen, Inc. is the Equitable Owner/Developer ("Lettermen") ofa proposed
golf course/ banquet facility/ residential complex of approximately 194 acres in size, located on
a tract of land transected by a two-lane macadam road, known as Rich Valley Road (S.R. 1009),
bounded on the southeast side by Interstate Highway 1-81 ("1-81 "), and bounded on the north
and northeast side by the Conodoguinet Creek, and bounded on the northwest by 10 single
family residences (so-called "Existing Residences"), and bounded on the southwest by farmland
of Jack K. and Jeanne N. Sunday. The Legal Owner of the tract purports to be Jack K. Sunday
and Jeanne N. Sunday, his wife.
4. Christina Reese resides in one of the Existing Residences referenced in Paragraph
3 above.
36662.1
d
.
--.
S. As a consequence ofa recent rezoning submitted by Lettcrmen, the tmct was
rezoned from Agricultuml (A) zone to Ruml Residential (R) zone on or about September 23,
1998 by the Township.
6. On October 22, 1998, Lettermen submitted a Conditional Use application. The
application was assigned File No. CU 98-6 by the Township, and proceeded through the
application process provided by ordinance. On Deeember 10, 1998, the Township Planning
Commission recommended denial of the Conditional Use application to the Board of
Supervisors.
7. On March 10, 1999, the Board ofTownship Supervisors of Silver Spring
Township rendered the Decision olthe Township, a true copy of which is attached hereto as
Exhibit "A". The Board approved the conditional use ofthe Subject Property as a golf course
in accordance with (a) the Application and the exhibits and representation produced by the
Applicant at the hearing except as provided to the contrary or in addition thereto in the "Specific
Conditions", and (b) in accordance with Applicant's compliance with all applicable ordinances
and regulations of the Township. Eleven (II) Specific Conditions were assigned to the
conditional use approval. The exact language of the Final Decision, setting forth the II Specific
Conditions, is contained on pages 13 through 16 of Exhibit "A", which is incorporated herein by
reference.
8. The action of the Board of Supervisors of Silver Spring Township in granting the
application ofLettennen for a conditional use as set forth in the Final Decision is arbitrary,
capricious, an abuse of discretion and contrary to law, all as more specifically set forth in the
paragraphs which follow.
,.
of
36662.1
3,
~
9. The Official Zoning Ordinance of Silver Spring Township ("Zoning Ordinance")
at Section 202.1 sets forth the purpose of the Rural Residential (R) 1.one (emphasis added):
The primary purpose of this Zone i: IJ promote a eontinuation of the rural
character of the urea. characterized hv a mixture of snarselv devcloned residential
~. In addition, other small sCllle nonresidential uses have becn dcvclopcd.
This Zone will continue these dcvelopment trends, but will install additional
nrotection for rural residences from the imoacts of other nonresidential uses.. . .
10. The Zoning Ordinance at Section 202.4 provides the following conditional uses
for Rural Residential zoning district:
Conditional Uses (Subject to the review procedures listed in Section 704 of this
Ordinance.)
I. Golf courses (see Section 428); . . .
I I. The Zoning Ordinance at Section 704, entitled CONDITIONAL USES, requires
the applicant for a conditional use to demonstrate compliance with:
I. The proposed use shall be consistent with the purpuse and intent of the
Zoning Ordinance;
2. The proposed use shall not detract from the use and enjoyment of
adjoining or nearby properties;
3. The proposed use will not elleet a change in the character of the subject
property's neighborhood; ...
12. The Zoning Ordinance at Section 428.5 requires adherence to the following
prescribed limitations (emphasis added):
Golf courses may include the following accessory uses, orovided such uses are
reasonablv sized. and located so as to provide incidental service to the golf course
employees and users:
I. Clubhouse, which may consist of
A. Restaurant, snack bar, lounge, and banquet facilities; . . .
36662.1
4.
.
.~.
13. The Board of Supervisors ("Board") found as u lactthat the Subjeet Propcrty
contained approximately 194 acrcs of gencrally unimproved farm land. Finding of Fact I
(Decision, p. 4), The Board found that, "[alt thc present time. the neighborhood of the Subjeet
Property consists of agricultural and singlc-family type housing," (Decision. p. 10)
14. The Board's Decision to grant a conditional use approval as a golf course is
inconsistent with the Zoning Ordinance's stated purpose of the Rural Residential zoning district,
which states that its "primary purpose is to promote a eontinuation of the rural character ofthe
area, characterized by a mixture of sparsely developed residential uses. . .." In support of this
proposition:
a. To the contrary of the stated purpose of the Zoning Ordinance, the Board's
Decision has permitted the elimination of a productive neighborhood farm of 194 acres in
size, which was rural in eharacter and consistent with the remaining rural character of the
neighborhood community, and has permitted that fann's conversion into a golf course.
b. To the contrary of the Board's reasoning, a golf course is not a use as near
to the "rural character" as required by the Ordinance without being an active farm. A
golf course is characteristic of a sculpted and manicured landscape, obviously marked by
sand traps, mamnade bunkers, greens and teeboxes, deliberately created for a
recreational use for urbanites or suburbanites. A golf course is not a conventional
farming use, which farming use is currently characteristic of the ueighborhood. A golf
course is not characteristic of the growth of grain or grass crops or the raising of livestock
for meat and/or dairy purposes. A golf course is not rural in cha:-acter.
36662.1
0;
.
36662.1
,-
c. The Rich Valley Golf Club has expressly noted on the site plan filed with
the Lettermen Conditional Use Application its intention to build "dining facilities,
restaurant, lounge, deck lInd banquet area." The Banquet Facility is expressly intended to
accommodate 360 seats. and it will call for the employment of 14 cmplo)'ees. All of the
foregoing is shown on the Club's site pllln, a true portion ofwhieh is attached hereto as
Exhibit "B",
d. The Banquet Facility accessory use for ihis golf course is not reasonablv
sized. as required by the Zoning Ordinance. To the contrary, it is unreasonably
oversized, and the Banquet Facility, with its intended liquor Iieense, is obviously
intended to be commercial in nature, that is to say, it will be the commercial arm that will
cany this golf course enterprise economically. Such a commercial arm is wholly
inconsistent with the existing uses in the Rural Residential zone, as well as the stated
purpose and intent of the Rural Residential zone, as set forth above.
e. The Board's Special Conditions to limit the banquet facility's purported
use do not address the fact that the Banquet Facility is still unreasonably oversized, and it
is the Ordinance's limitation on the size of any banquet facility which provides the only
protection to those living within the zone against the unwarranted intrusion of this
commercial business into the Rural Residential zone.
t: To the contrary of the stated purpose of the Zoning Ordinance, the Board's
Decision has permitted the erection of a lighted driving range, which will produce light
pollution into the Rural Residential neighborhood. The neighborhood has previously
always been substantially agricultural in nature.
(P.
,-
g. To the contrary of the statcd purpose of the Zoning Ordinance, the Board's
decision has pennitte:l or will permit the introduction of an unneeessarily large volume of
traffic to be generated by golf course patrons and banquet facilities patrons into the rural
residential neighborhood, contrary to its curr~.lt substantially agricultural character.
h. To the contrary of the stated purpose of the Zoning Ordinance, the Board's
drcision has permitted or will permit the alteration of the water courses and swales on the
Subject Tract to permit the feeding of water into ponds to be made by Lettermen, which
ponds are intended to be used as reservoirs for water storage to be used to irrigate
fairways, greens and teeboxes at all times, and especially in times of drought. The
manmade ponds will be built (and the farmland terrain will be graded) to allow water
which would otherwise naturally drain into wetlands and into the Conodoguinet Creek, to
be re-directed instead into these manmade ponds. The capturing of the water from the
water courses and swales, and the detaining ofthat water fro" the wetlands and the
creek, will be detrimental to the fragile wetlands and creek environment, contrary to the
purposes of Section 231 of the Zoning Ordinance.
15. Accordingly, for all of the reasons stated above, the Final Decision of the Board
in the granting of a conditional use approval is arbitrary, capricious, an abuse of discretion and
contrary to law, in that:
a. the use of the Subject Property as a golf course is not consistent with the
intent and purpose of the Zoning Ordinance;
36662.1
7
b. the use of the Subject Property as a golf course will detmet from the use
and peaceful and quiet enjoyment of adjoining or nearby agricultuml and residential
propertics;
c. the use of the Subject Property as a Ilolf course will effect a change in the
character of the subject property's neighborhood;
d. public facilities, such as Rich Valley Road, arc not adequate to serve the
use of the Subject Property as a golf course;
e. the use of the Subject Property as a golf course will adversely affect water
resources management, floodplain management, wetlands ami creeklands development,
traffic flow and road systems, and create light pollution;
f. the use of the Subject Property as a golf course will impair the integrity of
the Township's Comprehensive Plan by eroding the farmland and wetland features and
characteristics of the northem part of Silver Spring Township; and
g. the use of the Subject Property as a golf course, as applied for and
approved, will be contrary to the public health, safety and welfare.
36662.1
g-,
:~~....
I'IM~-~~-~~ I'IV'~ ~~;~~ ~~~v~~ b~~~N~ .~~.
t"".Id"':
,',
.~. .. :-
BEFORE 'l'HE
BOARD OF TOWNSHIP SUPERVISORS
IN AND FOR THE
TOWNSHIP OF SILVER SPRING, CUMBERLAND COUNTY
PENNSYLVANIA
File No, CU 98-6
IN RE: APPLICA'l'ION FOR CONDITIONAL USE
BY
LETTERMEN, INC.
DECISION BY BOARD OF TOWNSHIP SUPERVISORS
AND NOW, this 10th day of March, 1999, the Board of Township
Supervisors in and tor the Township of Silver Spring, renders the
following decision:
AU'l'HORI'l'Y
The Pennsylvania Municipalities Planning Code ("MPC")
authorizes a municipality to include conditional uses in its
zoning ordinance: Section 603 (c) (2), 53 P.S, S 10603 (c) (2).
The Board of Township supervisors ("Board") in and for the
TownShip of silver Spring ("Township") enacted a Zoning ordinanoe
on October 11, 1995 as ordinance No, 95-10 ("Zoning ordinance").
The Township has implemented the conditional use concept
into its Zoning Ordinance via specific authorization in zoning
district regulations, e.g. S 202,4 re Rural Residential Zone, and
by establishment of standards and review requirements in S 704,
The MPC prescribes substantive and procedural requirements
for the municipality'S governing body in S 913.2, 53 P.S. S
10913.2.
EXHIBIT "A"
/(),
.'
,
o
f'_f' ..._ ......... -",_yC;;..,... ...........t'tO.&.,...&.. ..........
.....Id&
.~. . f'...
PROCEDURAL BACKGROUND
x.ettennen, Inc. ("Applicant") filed an Application for
ConcHtional Use ("Application") with Township on October 22, 1998
seeking conditional use approval to construct and operate' a golf
oourse in a part of the Rural Residential (R) zoning district.
The Application was referred to the Silver Spring Tow~~~ip
Planning Commission for recommendations pursuant to S 705.5.1 of
the Zoning Ordinance, The Planning Commission held a meeting on
the Application on December 10, 1998, and reported its
recommendation (denial) by letter to Applicant dated December 11,
1998, a copy of which is part of the record of this proceeding.
The Board fixed a public hearing on the Application for
January 27, 1999, PUblic notice was given pursuant to S 704.5.2
and S 112 of the Zoning Ordinance, Proof of pUblication of suoh
notice is filed as part of the record of this proceeding,
A public hearing was held by the Boa~d on January 27, 1999.
A transcript of the testimony and the various exhibits are parts
of the record of this proceeding. References to the notes of
testimony are referred to below as ("N.T,") plus page numbers and
exhibits are referred to as "Exhibit" with designation as to
proponent and number.
The Board considered the evidence and rendered a tentative
decision on February 24, 1999, with final formal decision to be
made on March 10, 1999. This Decision is the final formal
decision.
-2-
/I.
..,.,.... -- ........ ,.-...
.'
-
'0 . ~...
JURISDICTIONAL FACTS AND CONCLUSION
Th~ Board finds as follows:
1. Lettormen, Inc., is the Applicant tor conditional us~ of
oertain land in Silver Spring Township ("Subject Property") for a
golf oourse.
2. The Subject Property is a tract of land transected by
Rich Valley Road (S.R. 1009) adjoining the northern side of
Interstate Highway 1-81, cuntaining approximately 194 aores and
improved with a dwelling house and various farm related
structures.
3. Applioant is the equitable owner of the SUbject
property.
4, The Subject Property is within the Rural Residential (R)
zoning district of the Zoning Ordinance as shown on zoning Map
pursuant to S 109 of the Ordinance and governed by the use
regulations of S 202 of the Zoning Ordinance.
S. Section 202.4.1 of the Zoning Ordinance provides for
"golf courses" as conditional uses in the Rural Residential Zone.
6, The Applicant has filed the appropriate Application for
conditional use and paid the required fee.
7, The Board is the proper body to hear and decide
applications for conditional uses pursuant to S 704 of the Zoning
Ordinance.
Therefore, the Board concludes that it has juriSdiction of
the Applioation.
-3-
/J..
,-.
. ."
SUFFICIENCY OF APPLICATION
The Board finds and concludes that Applicant has tiled an
appropriate Application and has supplied the supportinq data as
required by 5 704.1 ot the Zoning ordinance. See also
Applioant's Exhibits 1, 2, 3 and 4 and testimony of Jettrey S.
Austin: N.T. 8 et Rea.
SUFFICIENCY OF PUBLIC HEARING
The Board finds and concludes that proper public notice ot
the hearinq to be held on January 27, 1999, was given pursuant to
5704.5 of the Zoning Ordinance and that the hearinq was held in
accordance with the same section.
It is noted that no objections Were made to either the
notice or hearing procedures.
FINDINGS OF FACTS
The Board finds the following as relevant facts:
1. The Subject Property contains approximately 194 acres ot
qenerally unimproved farm land which adjoins a highly used
Interstate Highway (1-81). (Applicant's Exhibit 4).
2. The improvements on the Subject Property consist of a
dwelling house, two barn-type buildings and various sbeds and
other farm related outbuildings (Applicant's Exhibit 4)_
3. The Application seeks generally to use the SUbject
Property for (a) a 21-hole golf course and driving range to be
constructed on both sides of RiCh Valley Road (S.R. 1009) on
approximately 174.2 acres; and (b) sixteen lots fo~ single-family
-4-
/J.
., 4 "
dwellinqs on approximately 19,5 acre. on the east side of Rioh
Valley Road ("Residential SUbdivision") (Applicant's Exhibit 4).
4. The SUbject Property is bounded generally as follows:
a. On the southeast by Inter.~ate Highway (X-al)
(3,941 feet);
b. On ths north and northeast by the Conodoguinet
Creek (3,790 feet);
c. On the northweot by 10 single family reaidences
("Existing Reaidence5") (3,668 feot); and
d. On the west and southwest by other farm land of
Jack and Jeanne sunday, the legal owners of the
Subject property (1,906 feet).
5. opponents of the conditional use application consisted
primarily of (a) occupants/owners of the Existing Residences and
of lands in the neighborhood of the Existing Residences and (b)
oooupants/owners of non-adjoining residential structures located
on the opposite side (southeast) of Interstate Highway I-al.
6. Rich Valley Road (S.R. 1009) is a two-lane macadam road
under the jurisdiction of pennsylvania Department of
Transportation ("PennDOT") and runs generally between Carlisle
pike (s.a. 11) on the south and Wertzville Road (s.a. 944) on the
north, and has intersections with various secondary roads serving
the local cOlllX1\unity ("Feeder Roads"). RiCh Valley Road is a
oollector-type road providing traffic access to and from said
Carlisle pike and wertzville Road,
-5-
Iii
..........."---
..
7. Carli,le Pike is a major 4-lan. (with additional turn1nq
lans8) highway under PennDot jurisdiction which bisects Silver
Spring Township, The interssction of Rieh Valley Road with
Carlisle Pike i. controlled presently only by a stop si9n on Rich
Valley Road, No electric traffic signals exist.
8. Wertzville Road is a 2-lan8 highway undsr PennDOT
juriSdiction Which is a major transportation route for traffic to
and from Perry County and areas of northern cumberland County.
9. The Application proposes a golf driving range of
approximately 400 yards in length (terminating at Interstate
Highway I-81) to be illuminated for night uss.
10, The Application proposes to convert the barn structure,
nearest to Rioh valley Road as a "olubhouse restaurant". Other
farm outbuildin9s are proposed to be removed or converted to
storage and maintenance facilities incidental to the golf couree
usage, The dwelling house is proposed to be used for golt course
office and residential purposes.
11, The Application proposes to draw all irrigation water
from the conodoquinet creek. A prior indication of using on-site
wells was abandoned by Applicant at the hearing.
12. The lighting proposed to illuminate the driving range
is oriented to project away trom (opposite) the Existing
Residenoes.
13. The Existing Residences will adjoin golf tees and
-6-
/0-
..'HtoC-4.,.;;-'iI/I.... "'UN ,,~.... f b"LVb.toC Ut-.t<& fi&.. ,....,...
.......uw
fairways. No clubhous. type activities will adjoin Existinq
Residences.
FINDINGS RELATIVE TO CRITERIA OF ~ 704.2 OF ZONYNG ORDIN^NCE
Tho Board finds a. follows with respect to the General
Criteria of S 704.2 of the Zonin9 Ordinance:
1. The use of ~h. Subiect pronertv AS a aolf cours. 18
consistent with the intent and Duraose ot the Zonina ordinanc_,
The Subject Property i& located in the Rural aesidential
zoning district which recognizes golf course use as an allowable
use S 204.4.1 and S 428.1.
"The primary pUrpose of this Zone [Rural Residential] is to
promote a continuation of the rural character of the area... ": S
202.1 of the Zonin9 Ordinance. A qolf course with lar98 areas of
9rass planted land and natural landsoapinq is a use as near to
thQ "rural oharacter" as required by the ordinance without beinq
an aotive farm. The Subject Property is presently used for
farmin9 purposes. The proposed use for a qolf course will
preserve the openness of the "rural character" desired by S
202,1 above. We believe that openness is the key element of
"rural character".
It is noted that the proposed Residential Subdivision is a
permitted use in the Rural Residential zoninq district: S
202.2.2. While this proposed use is not at issue in this
Decision, its permitted nature is recognized under the first
criterion of S 704.2.
-7-
I~.
MHH-~~-~~ MUN lUJ~t
.
2. Tha UB~ ot the Sub~Qot Pro~arty a. a dolr eaur.. will
not d.traet trom thA us. And en10vment or adioinina or nea~bv
'Oropertiell.
The golt course adjoins the Conodoguinet Creek tor a
distanoe of 3,790 teet and Interstate Highway I-81 tor 3,941 feat
(totalling approximately 7,731 feet), Such u.. cannot adver.ely
affect the use of the Creak or I-81.
The golf course adjoins other lands ot Jack and Jeanne
Sunday (legal owners of the major portion of Subject property)
tor a distar.ce cf 1,906 feet. The Sundays have no objection to
the proposed use and, in fact, supported it by testimony at the
hearing (N.T. 81-84), Therefore, such use will not detract from
the use and enjoyment ot the sundays' adjoining farmland,
The golf course will not detract trom the use and enjoyment
of the Existing Residences, The location of golt course
facilities in relation to the Existing Residences will perpetuate
the open and cultivated character of the present agricultural
use. Golf. tees and greens will adjoin the Existing Residences
Which will provide green and landscaped facilities in the
continuation of existing openness. Except for the presence of
golfers and occasional maintenance activities, the occupants of
Existing Residences will not be aware of the adjoining use, and
such use will not detract from their use and enjoyment of their
properties, No adverse conditions (smoke, light, glare, dust,
noise, etc.) will exist to cause such distractions.
-8-
/7
. . . ' ~ ' ,'.
. ..' I ' !
',. . . ' .
......., __ JI JI ..........
.. .
The concerns ot persons located on the opposite side of
In~ors~a~. Hiqhway 1-81 are more perceived ~han actual when tho
long-time existence ot 1-81 io conDid.red with its noi../ fume.,
lights and constant activity, The proposed golt course use will
not add to the existinq major detraction of the use ot 1-81.
The issue of increased traffic on Rich Valley Road has also
been studied at lenqth. It 1s the Board's position th~t lawful
development of land cannot be prohibited ner Se by possible
inadequacy of existing public roads. Many roads, includinq Rich
valley Road were developed in another era when vehicular traffic
was minimal and served only a local community. Vehicular ~raffic
is an element in all types of planning and development. Its
existence must be considered and accommodated. The Board
believes that it has the authority to impose reasonable
conditions relating to traffic iSSUQS whiCh it has exercised
below.
The Board believes that other fully permitted uses in the
Rural Residential zoning district could generate equal volume of
tr.~fic to that of the proposed golf course. The construction of
single-family detached dwellings, parks, public uses, churches,
etc, would produce as much traffic (if not more) as a golf course
which is limited by climatic seasons, daylight and patron
capacity.
The additional traffic from golf course activity will not
detraot in any unreasonable manner from the present use and
-9-
If,
........" -.-..... .-.- ...,...... .. u......- _...... "'..."'" ........ .....
.,
.
J
onjoyment of adjoining and nearby proportie..
3. Tho oroDos.d Use a. a 001' ~our.Q ~il1 no~ ftft.et .
Qhanae in the chA~Dcter of th. ftubiftct DrODft~tv'. nAiahborhood.
As discussed abovG, the proposod us. of approximately 17S
acre. of land for a golf cour~o i. as near a. po..ible to the
exi.ting agricultural character of the SUbject Property. It i.
as n..r to farm land as could be developed undvr the various uses
allowed under the Rural Residential use requlations, whether
permitted or allowed by special exceptions or conditionally (See
S S 202.2, 202,3, 202.4 ot Zoning Ordinance).
At the present time, the neighborhood of the Subject
property consists of agricultural and single-family type housing.
It is crossed by Interstate Highway 1-81. The Applicant propose.
to expand the residential character by its ~9.5 acre Residentia~
SUbdivision and to convert 175 acres of farmland to an open golf
course. The character of the neighborhood will be preserved by
the continuation of openness. Moreover, the activities of the
qolf course pale in comparison to the detraction of the
Interstate Highway.
4, Adeauate nublie facilities are available to serve the
DrODosed use as a aolf courSe.
Very few and limited PUblic facilities are needed to operate
a golf course. With the very limited nature of human needs,
equally limited public facilities are needed.
Since the golf course does not increase population, there is
-10-
If.
,. . ,
no concern tor public school tacilities and only minimal concern
for police, fire or ambUlance s.rviees. All of thes. elements are
obviously SUfficient.
Thoro are no public weter cr sanitary s.werage facilities
readily available, However, ba.ed upon the abs.nce of
~ub.tantial need8 thereror, it is believed that on-site well. and
sew6rage tacilities will be adequate to secure the needs ot the
golt ~our.e u.es. Adequacy of on-lot .ewago disposal facilitios
is ~ proper issue in the sub.equent land dovelopment planning
process to as.ure public health protection, This conclusion
specifically excepts the irrigation water needs which are limited
by the Applicants' representation to use only water from the
Conodoquinet Creek.
In light of the relatively small proposed use of the Subject
property, electrical, telephone and other public utility services
appear to be adequate or otherwise available to Applicant by
extension from nearby facilities.
Traffic access is readily available by the existing system
of public roads.
S. Floodnlain develonment, The use of the existing
floodplain of the Subject Property for golf course purposes is
not inconsistent with the Floodplain zone and requirements as set
forth in S231 of the Zoning Ordinance, The conditions set forth
below SUfficiently protect the public interest with respect to
floodplain concerns.
-11-
~6-
, . . .
I. SnAoitic e~f~ftria or S.c~!O" .28 and other 8.o~ion. or
Zoninq Q~dinanoe, Th. Zoning Ordinance pr..cribo. .pecitio
cr1teria in 5 421 tor the developmant of 901r cour..., An ..t
forth in th. conditions below, the Applicant will be require~ to
oomply with the .p.c1tic cr1teria ot 5 428 in the land
d.v.lopmont proca...
A. applicable, all actual development and construction of
the proposed qolt course must comply with all other relevant
requlationa of the Zoning Ordinance.
7. Thft nro~os.d UBe B& a aolt ~ourc. will not AUbghantiallv
imDair ~h. int.ari~y ot the TownshiD'. ComDrah.nsive Plan.
The Silver Spring TownShip Comprehensive Plan, adopted
October 11, 1995, identifies by way of the Natural Features Map
areas within the TownShip poasessing environmental features of
conc.rn, Those features depicted on the map within the area of
the Subject Property proposed for the qolf course development
include tloodplain, wetlands, and hydric component soils. The
proposed use as a golf course (open land with little additional
impervious area) is in concert with those natural features.
In addition the Future Land Use map also identifies a
substantial portion of the SUbject Property as Conservation (over
sot). The proposed use of the Property is consistent with the
preeervation of those sensitive natural features noted above.
-12-
d.f.
'.1"".........-'...... ,.,u,. .......g.... ......""'V...... w.-",.rf"-
I. . .
OONCLUSI9N AND PINAL DEeIStoN
Baaed upon tho record at thoee proceeding_ and tho toregoing
findings and conclueion. The Board approve. the conditional us.
ot the Subjeot Property a. a golf cour.e in accordance with Ca)
the Application and the exhibit. and repre.entation produoed by
Applicant at the hearinq except a. provided to the contrary or in
addition thereto in tho "Specitio Conditions" below, and Cb) in
aooordence with Applicant's compliance with all applicable
ordinanoes and regulations ot the Township, includinq, but not
limited to, the specific criteria of S 428 and the applioable
limitations and requirements of SS 202 and 231 of the Zoninq
Ordinance and the following Specific Conditions imposed pursuant
to S 704.3 of the zoning ordinance:
1. That all water to be used for irrigating the golf
course must be drawn directly from the conodoquinet creek in
accordance with the rules and regulations of any agency
having jurisdiction over said Creek and its water, and that
no water shall be used from wells on the Subject Property
for irrigation.
2. That the lights for illuminating the proposed
driving range must comply in all respects with the TownShip
Subdivision and Land Development Ordinance and zoning
Ordinance.
3. That the lights for illuminating the proposed
driving range must be extinguished at 9:30 o'clock P.M.,
prevailing time,
-13-
d.d..
l
f"
f
t
i
!
'.
" . ..
4. That tha Applicant shall provido a coaprehanl1vI
t~aff1c analYlil or tho interslctionl of (a) Rich Valloy
Road and Werteville Road, (bl Rich Valley Road and Carltwl.
Pika, and (c) Rich Valley Road and all Feadlr Streatl
locatad bltwe.n (a) and (b), in order to idantify an4 fund
road iDprov"~nt. na.dad to addre.. the incraasa of traffic
volume caused by the qolf course usa.
5. That if wa~ranted by PennooT, Applicant shall
provida tha ~und. nece.sary to improve the roadway and
install electric traffic signals at the intersection of Rich
Valley Road and Carlisle Pika. Applicant's funding
requirements shall be reduced by the amount, if any, of
prior developer-contributions made specifically tor such
purpose at said intersection,
6, That except for an outside entrance canopy, the
proposed adaptation of the barn structure nearest RiCh
Valley Road denoted for clubhouse purposes must be limited
and confined to tha existing interior dimensions (width,
length, height, area and volume) of said structure and
within the "footprint" thereof.
7. That restaurant and dining facilities of the
clubhouse shall not be used for banquet purposes exoept in
conjunction with principal golf-related activities on the
day of said activities.
-14-
J3,
.~' ,.. .'
.. That tho porotion ot tho 'IoU own. on tho
louth.a.t aide ot Rich Valley ROad ahall bu aubatantial1y
coap1.tad bot ore oommonoinq tho conatruct1on ot any
.tructuroa 1n tho Roaidentlal SUbd1v1a1on,
,. That tho propo..d ottice u.. or the eXiatin"
dw.l1ih9 bou.. on the Subject Pro~arty .hall be limited to
the immediate buaino.. at oporatinq the 901f cour., and
shall not be u..d by or tor any other enterprise,
10. That any uoe ot the floodplain araa ot tho Subjoct
Proporty shall be 1n strict compliance with all rogulations
of this Township, the Commonwealth at Pennsylvania and of
the United States or any of thalr agencies havinq
jurisdiction, applicable to such floodplain use and
preservation,
11. That the Applicant's commitment to the revertar
condition made in the rezoninq procoedings is hereby
extended and made a continUing condition of this decision.
The foregoing requirements and conditions must be reflected
in all future land subdivision and land development plans whioh
relate in any way to the golf course,
The time limitations contained in S 704.6.1-3 shall apply to
this approval,
This decision shall be binding and entorceable upon and
against Applicant and/or its successors and/or assigns.
-15-
d~
"',.
Tbo Zoninq Ottioor aball bavo opocial autbority to ontorco
tho provioiona ot tbia deeioion.
A truo copy ot thi. Oooi.ion ohall be dOlivored to tho
Applieant personally o~ mailed by cortifiod ..il (return roceipt
roque.tod) no lator than Horch 11, 1~g9.
APPROVED this loth day of Harch, 19~9 by the Board or
Townohip Supervisoro at a pUblic .oetinq on a roll-call voto as
tollows:
Chairman Pecht - \~~
Supervisor LeBlanc <f1~ ~
Suporvioor Lawis - <
Suparvisor Eakin - 0... .
Supervisor Dunn - c) 'ij _
BOARD
By:
ATTEST:
.~ ~'" CM(~'M)
Townsh1p seoretary
-16-
g,
(J-
.~ ...:::.
0-
-
~
..... ,.'j' -- """8_ lr\ b .j
f,- '" f; 0 nI
.' t-
..~ f:; ., ,- 0- ~
, - l{) ('f)
..:: --
~I!I-. r -~:J C-
..,.. - ~~'" .~ .
'.- lfJ '2
... .,- ~ , ~ :~--: ~ tl
t>: . ~ -' III -r 'j cL
J .' l7\ 1
1')- I ..'
lr' - :Ill e!
c.:. ....
G-l, ", '.I
L~ ;.:t.l..
tH' "'" ',' ~
u, cro d
Co '"
.
.
v
'...I
.. II .
..
.
. ~
/",
leater S. Miller, Jr., K~thy
Miller, Thomfts Tighe, C~thy
Tiehe. Christin~ Reese, C,
Gr~inger Bowm~n, ~nd S~ndr~
Le~nn~ H. Dowm~n
IN THE COURT or COMMON PLEAS OF
CliMBER LAND COUNTY. PENNSYLVANIA
VS.
NO, 99-2119 CIVIL TERM
Township of silver spring
WRIT OF CERTIORARI
COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA)
55,
COUNTY
OF
CUMBERLAND)
TO: Township of Siver Spring,
We. being willing for certain reasons, to have certified a certain action
be~en Lester S. Miller, Jr., Kathv Miller, Thomas Tiohe. Cathv Tiqhe,
Christina Reese, C, Grainger Bowman, and Sandra Leanna H. Bowman,
pending before you. do ccmrend you that the record of the action aforesaid with
all things concerning said action. shall be certified and sent to our judges of
our Court of Common Pleas at Carlisle. within
20
days of the date hereof,
together with this writ: so that we may further cause to be done that which ought
to be done according to the laws and Constitution of this Commonwealth.
WITNESS, the Honorable George E. Hoffer, P.J.
our said Court, at Carlisle. Pa.. the 9th day of April
. 1992-.'
.
.
r~
I
~
eJ.$
2'::;~~;:~
\-,".
','
.';.
'-'~ n,
,-. .,..-
'.'
."
',..:,
: ~ ! ~.
, ..
""
"':':;;:';'
;'. ':~.;,
~, ..
.
.-;,,".........
. :,..:(\,~:~.~,'.. '~:
-.....
,j"".t.' _.
-,I:
,~ :'
.-',:.
.. ~','
"'.1
';".;- ,
'i.,"
,;>.-
',: ~ I
"':" "
. ':.:~,.
",
;,',"::."
",.
,,;',,'-
",;""
.',.,'
','.
",;;"
':' -.1
',,',
:..
.'."
'-:,';
"'-)'"
"."
,;',:',':"'~i<:,:~,,::,,'"~..; \~.
:(~~. ~~~:~,~fi} :i/:;',.:..:;, ;'"
._~.i "_
~:i,~:...., ',:. ';\,
''', - '!,;'~,',;'_:':',:'.
"r _
~:";';-~:'\~!.~;:',f;':.,.:. ,i".~'
if
'.-',r":-,.
;".
~~':!Y!:'M~ji;;:~r .~;
~~"i
.
t
. .
' .
. -
. ,
.'
\,
. ,,'., ',;";"JUt' ~
. .' ~)''(;-. ..' -'. '0"
. . }~:;?~1:S'i2!>>:;!:;r
,. ", ,\;-,;~t<b\'-'
~.'i
..;:,....
. "
'".
NOTICE OF APPEAL TO Tim COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
ZONING MATTER
Lester S. Miller Jr. et. al.
Appellants
IN TIlE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
v.
NO. 99.21 19 Civil Term 1999
Board of Supervisors of Silver
Spring Township,
Appellee
f-RDER
+ .:rv '1
NOW THIS I:s day of .Iwle;-I999, upon eonsideration of Petition of Leltermen Inc. to
Intervene, said Petition is granted. Intervenors shall follow the brief schedule required of the Appellee.
t
36-
'I
I
i
I
!
.~
/"
~
,,~
~
,
,
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
AND NOW, on June 28, 1999,1 hereby ecrlify that I have served alrlle and correel eopy oflhe
within PeIi/lolI /0 III/en'me upon the following person(s) by Fax nnd U.S. Mail, postage prepaid.
C. Grainger Bowman, Esq.
Powell, Traehlman, Logan, Carrie. Bowman & Lombardo, P.C.
114 N. 20d Street
Harrisburg. PA 17101
Richard C. Snelbaker, Esq.
Snelbakcr & Brenneman
44 W. Main Street
P.O. Box 31S
Mechaniesburg, PA 17055.
31.,
"
,-,
LETTERMEN, INC.
Appellants
v.
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY,
PENNSYLVANIA
..
.
TOWNSHIP OF SILVER SPRING
Appellee
No.99-2108 Civil Term
Land Use Appeal
t,
v.
LESTER S. MILLER, ET AL,
Intervenor
LESTER S. MILLER, ET AL,
Appellants
v.
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY,
PENNSYLVANIA
No. 99-2119 Civil Term ~
Land Use Appeal
BOARD OF SUPERVISORS OF
SILVER SPRING TOWNSHIP
Appellee
v.
LETTERMEN, INC.
Intervenor
IN RE: Land Use ADDeal From Sliver SDrlna TownshlD Board of
Supervisors'
Grant of Conditional Use ADDroval
Before HOFFER, P.J. and OLER, J.
ORDER
~
AND NOW, this 1'1.- day of January, 2000, it is hereby ordered and
decreed that, the appeal of Lester S. Miller, et aI., from the Decision of the
Silver Spring Township Board of Supervisors dated March 10, 1999, is
37
"
r-,
LETIERMEN, INC.
Appellants
v.
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY,
PENNSYLVANIA
TOWNSHIP OF SILVER SPRING
Appellee
No.99-21oa Civil Term
Land Use Appeal
v.
LESTER S. MILLER, ET AL,
Intervenor
LESTER S. MILLER, ET AL,
Appellants
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY,
PENNSYLVANIA
v.
BOARD OF SUPERVISORS OF
SILVER SPRING TOWNSHIP
Appellee
No. 99-2119 Civil Term
Land Use Appeal
v.
LETIERMEN, INC.
Intervenor
Land Use Appeal From Sliver Sprlna Township Board of Supervisors'
Grant of Conditional Use Approval
HOFFER, P.J.:
Statement of Facts and Procedural Hlstorv
Lettermen, Inc., a Pennsylvania Corporation with offices at 153 South
Hanover Street, Carlisle, is the equitable owner of the subject property and
developer of a proposed golf course. Lettermen, Inc. sought and obtained
approval from the Silver Spring Township Board of Supervisors to construct a
37.
~,
r'
LETTERMEN, INC,
Appellants
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY,
PENNSYLVANIA
v,
TOWNSHIP OF SILVER SPRING
Appellee
NO.99-210B Civil Term
Land Use Appeal
v.
LESTER S. MILLER, ET AL,
Intervenor
LESTER S. MILLER, ET AL,
Appellants
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY,
PENNSYLVANIA
v.
BOARD OF SUPERVISORS OF
SILVER SPRING TOWNSHIP
Appellee
No. 99-2119 Civil Term
Land Use Appeal
v.
LETTERMEN, INC.
Intervenor
Land Use Appeal From Sliver Sprlna Township Board of Supervisors'
Grant of Conditional Use Approval
HOFFER, P.J.:
Statement of Facts and Procedural Hlstorv
Lettermen, Inc., a Pennsylvania Corporation with offices at 153 South
Hanover Street, Carlisle, is the equitable owner of the subject property and
developer of a proposed golf course. Lettermen, Inc. sought and obtained
approval from the Silver Spring Township Board of Supervisors to construct a
31.
-,
golf course at the subject property. The subject property Is 194 acres of
generally unimproved farmland. The property Is transected by Rich Valley Road
and bounded by Interstate 81, Conodogulnet Creek, 10 slngle.famlly residences
and the farm~and of Jack K. and Jeanne N. Sunday. Decision of the Sliver
Spring Township Board of Supervisors (hereinafter "Decision') at 3. Section 202
of the Zoning Ordinance governs the use of property In a Rural Residential (R)
zoning district, within which the subject property Is located. Decision at 3.
On September 23. 1998, the Board approved Lettermen's rezoning
request that the subject property be rezoned from Agricultural (A) to Rural
Residential (R). On October 22, 1998, Lettermen, Inc. applied for conditional use
approval. On December 10, 1998, the Township Planning Commission
recommended to the Beard that the Board deny the conditional use. In their
Decision on March 10, 1999, the Board granted Lettermen, Inc. a Conditional use
to construct a golf course subject to 11 "Specific Conditions."
In Lettermen, Jnc, v. Township of Sliver Spring, Lettermen, Inc.
appealed conditions imposed by the Board in the Board's conditional use
approval. Lester S. Miller, Jr. and other neighbors to the subject property
appealed the conditional use' approval in Lester S. Miller, Jr., et al v. Township
of Silver Spring. The cases have been consolidated here.
The subject property has improvements consisting of a dwelling house,
two barn-type buildings and various sheds and other farm related outbuildings.
The application for conditional use approval proposes to use the property for a
46.
21.hole golf course and driving range to be constructed on both sides of Rich
Valley Road (S.R. 1009) on approximately 174.2 acres; and sixteen lots for
slngle.famlly dwellings on approximately 19.5 acres on the east side of Rich
Valley Road ("Residential Subdivision").
The application proposes:
- to build a golf driving range of 400 yards, terminating at 1-81, to be
illuminated for night use.
- to illuminate the driving range with lighting that will project away from
(opposite) the existing residences.
r,"
"
,
.
I
r
I
;
i
- to convert an existing barn as a "clubhouse restaurant." Applicant
proposes the removal or conversion of other farm outbuilding:; to
storage and maintenance facilities for usage incidental to the golf
course, Applicant proposes to use the house for a golf course office
and residence.
- to draw all irrigation water from the Conodogulnet. The Applicant
abandoned the possibility of on-site wells at the hearing.
Rich Valley Road (S.R. 1009) is a two-lane macadam "collector-type" road
under PennDOT jurisdiction and runs generally between Carlisle Pike (S.R. 11)
on the south and Wertzville Road (S.R. 944) on the north, and has intersections
with feeder roads. Carlisle Pike is a major 4-lane highway under PennDOT
jurisdiction bisecting Silver Spring Township. The intersection of Rich Valley
Road and Carlisle Pike, which is more than a mile from the subject property,
iJt
r-
presently has only a stop sign and no electric traffic signal. Wertzvllle Road,
approximately one mile from the subject property, is a 2.lane highway and major
transportation route under PennDOT Jurisdiction.
General ADDrovallssues
The zoning change from Agricultural (A) to Rural Residential (R) on
September 23, 199B will not be reviewed. Section 909.1 (a) of the Municipalities
Planning Code, 53 P.S. ~10909.1(a), provides the zoning hearing board with
exclusive Jurisdiction to hear and render adjudication in matters of substantive
challenges to the validity of any land use ordinance or validity challenges raising
procedural questions. Procedural challenges must be raised by an appeal taken
within 30 days of the effective date. See Sharp v. Zoning Hearing Board of the
Township of Radnor, 157 Pa.Cmwlth. 50, 62B A.2d 1223, appeal denied, 536
Pa. 629, 637 A.2d 290 (1993). The time limitation on appeals to the zoning
change here was 30 days. No such appeal was or has been made concerning
the zoning of the subject property in this case. However, the parties appeal the
l:'Jard's decision based on the fo <"..jng contentions.
Contentions of the Parties
Lester S. Miller, Jr., et ai, appeals the grant of conditional use approval for
a golf course use. Lester S. Miller, Jr., et ai, contends:
A. A golf course use is inconsistent with the purpose of the Rural
Residential zoning district, because a golf course's characteristics are
4
~l
.' _ . I '.
, , . . '. ""', ~ . .' " .'
r
not rural, thus detracting from the use and peaceful enjoyment of
property for the neighbors.
B. The banquet facllll/es In the Leiterman condilional use appllesl/on are
unreasonably oversized and will be a commercial use Inconsistent with
the Rural Resldenl/al zone.
C. The lighted driving range will cause light pollution in the neighborhood.
D. The golf course will generate an unnecessarily large volume of traffic in
the neighborhood, contrary to the character of the zone; and public
facilities, such as Rich Valley Road, are not adequate to serve a golf
course.
E. The proposed plans will alter watercourses, detaining water from fragile
weliands, contrary to Section 231 of the Zoning Ordinance.
F. The proposed withdrawal of water from the Conodoguinet may result in
excessive water withdrawal and could threaten neighbor's access to
water, particularly during drought.
Lester S. Miller Jr., et ai, requests that this Court reverse the DeciSion of the
Board and deny Lettermen, Inc.'s conditional use.
Lettermen, Inc. appeals conditions the Board attached in granting
Lettermen, Inc.'s conditional use approval for a proposed golf course. Lettermen,
Inc. contends that the following conditions were arbitrary, discriminatory, not
supported by evidence and contrary to law:
5
43.
,-
A. Condition 3 restricts the hours of operallon of driving range lights
beyond the standards of the Township Ordinances.
B. Condition 4 requires Lettermen, Inc. to provide a traffic study and fund
Improvements to address the Increase in traffic resulting from the golf
course.
C. Condition 5 requires Lettermen, Inc. to fund roadway Improvements and
Install electric traffic signals at the Intersection of Rich Valley Road and
Carlisle Pike.
D. Condition 6 restricts the golf course clubhouse to the existing interior
dimensions of the existing barn, while section 428.5 of the Zoning
Ordinance permits a clubhouse to include a restaurant, snack bar,
lounge, banquet facilities, locker and rest rooms, pro shop,
administrative offices and fitness and health equipment.
E. Condition 7 restricts the reasonable use of the proposed premises.
F. Condition 8 requires substantial completion of the golf course on the
southeast side of Rich Valley Road prior to commencing construction of
any "structures" in the Residential Subdivision. Enorcement of this
condition would preclude construction of storm sewer pipes, culverts,
roads, signs, and the like, until construction is substantially completed.
6
44
.-
D/SCU~
We now must determine whether the Board abused lis discretion,
committed an error of law or made findings of fact not supported by substantial
evidence. POA Co. v. Findlay Township Zoning Hearing Board, 551 Pa. 689,
698, 713 A.2d 70, 75 (1998). An abuse of discretion occurs when the Board's
findings are not supported by substantial evidence in the record. POA Co" 551
Pa. at 698,713 A.2d at 75. Substantial evidence Is such relevant evidence that a
reasonable mind would accept as adequate to support the conclusion that was
reached. Id, 551 Pa. at 698, 713 A.2d at 75.
A trial court, having determined that the Board committed neither an abuse
of discretion nor error of law, is bound to affirm the decision of the Board as long
as the Board's findings and conclusions are supported by substantial evidence.
Spargo v, Zoning Hearing Board of the Municipality of Bethel Park, 128
Pa.Cmwlth. 193,204,563 A.2d 213, 217 (1989) reh'g denied. A trial court may
not substitute its judgment for that of the Board, absent a manifest abuse of
discretion. B & B Shoe v, Manheim Borough, 28 Pa.Cmwlth. 275 (1977).
The law regarding conditional use permits states that a conditional use
permit must be granted if the applicant meets the specific requirements in the
ordinance, unless the use will be detrimental to public health, safety or welfare.
Wheaton v. Zoning Hearing Board of Municipality of Penn Hills, 130
Pa.Cmwlth. 201,204-205,567 A.2d 779, 781 (1989). The burden then shifts to
7
4S
r
the protestants to present evidence that the proposed use has a detrimental
effect on health, safety and welfare. Id,
A Board of Supervisors may attach such reasonable conditions and
safeguards, In addition to those expressed In the zoning ordinance, as it may
deem necessary to Implement the purposes of the MPC In the zoning ordinance.
MPC ~603(c)(2); Levin v. Board of Supervisors of Benner Township, Centre
County, 669 A.2d 1063, 1073 (Pa. Cmwlth. 1995). Additionally, a township board
of supervisors may properly require conditional use applicants to bear the cost of
Improvements which address concerns arising from the applicant's proposed
use, if the requirement is intended to promote conditions favorable to the
township's general health, safety and welfare. Pitcher v. Heidelberg Township
Board of Supervisors, 161 Pa.Cmwlth. 505, 508, 637 A.2d 715, 716 (1994).
See also, Tobin v, Radnor Township Board of Commissioners, 142
Pa.Cmwlth. 567, 584-85, 597 A.2d 1258, 1266-1267(1991). Any conditions that
the Supervisors wish to impose upon the proposed conditional use must be
upheld if the conditions are reasonably related to the health, safety or welfare of
the public. Clinton County Solid Waste Authority v. Wayne Township, 164
Pa.Cmwlth. 632,646.647,643 A.2d 1162, 1169 (1994) (Requiring inspection of
incoming waste and requiring construction of cyclone fence to protect site were
held to be reasonable conditions imposed in a landfill conditional use). See also
Mosslde Associates, Ltd. v. Zoning Hearing Board of Municipality of
8
40.
MonrolvllJl It II" 70 Pa.Cmwlth. 555, 557, 454 A.2d 199, 201 (19B2)
(Conditional use appropriately granted with 13 attached conditions).
We now look to whether the Board has abused Its discretion In rendering
Its Decision regarding the following Issues:
1. Whether a golf course use In a rural residential zone violates the Sliver Spring
Township Zoning Ordinance.
Lester S. Miller, Jr., at ai, contends that a golf course use Is Inconsistent with
the purpose of a Rural Residential zoning district. The ordinance governing the
present case is the 1995 Zoning Ordinance for Sliver Spring Township ~42B.
which permits golf courses as a conditional use in a Rural Residential zone and
prescribes specific criteria for golf courses. Section 202.1, which defines the
purpose of a Rural Residential zone, allows farmland to be developed while
preserving the "rural character" of an area. As the 1995 Silver Spring Township
Zoning Ordinance ~202.4.1 specifically provides for the conditional use of a golf
course in the Rural Residential Zone, it is clear that the drafters of the Zoning
Ordinance believed golf courses would not detract from the "rural character" of
an area. In addition, the record shows that the golf course use will not be
detrimental to public health, safety or welfare. Thus, we affirm the Board's
decision permitting the proposed golf course at the subject property.
2. Whether the Susquehanna River Basin Commission's (SRBC) approval of
irrigation water withdrawal from the Conodoguinet River will sufficiently guard
the health, safety and welfare of the township residents and neighbors of the
subject property.
9ÿ
~7
r
Lester S. Miller, et ai, contends that Lettermen's withdrawal of water from
the Conodogulnet will endanger the health, safety and welfare of nearby
residents due to the lowering of the water level In the creek. Pending final
approval from the SRBC, the issue here of withdrawing water from the
Conodogulnet River Is totally within SRBC Jurisdiction. We do not address issues
here that the Board of Supervisors would be unable to address. Citizens have
the option of carrying their concerns to the SRBC, should any concerns arise.
3. Whether the golf course plans will alter watercourses, detaining water from
fragile wellands, contrary to Section 231 of the Zoning Ordinance.
Lester S. Miller, Jr., et al contends that the proposed plans will alter
watercourses, detaining water from fragile wellands, contrary to Section 231 of
the Zoning Ordinance. Lettermen, Inc.'s Exhibit 11, which contains the plans for
the proposed golf course, clearly shows that the subject property partially lies
within a flood plain. Section 231.7 allows golf courses in a floodplain zone:
.Permitted Uses - The following uses and no others are permitted in the
Floodplain Zone:
9. Recreational use, '" such as parks, camps, picnic areas, golf courses,
fishing areas, ..."
Sliver Spring Township Zoning Ordinance of 1995.
The record shows that the golf course use will not be detrimental to public health,
safety or welfare. Lettermen's plans for the proposed golf course show that the
wellands area will not be eliminated as a result of the proposed plans.
10
Lrr
Lettermen, Inc.'s Exhibit 11, Section 4. Thus, we affirm the Board's decision
permitting the proposed golf course In a floodplain zone.
I'
4. Whether public facilities are adequate to serve the golf course.
t
c
Lester S. Miller, Jr., et al contends that the public facilities, such as Rich
Valley Road, are not adequate to serve a golf course. Vehicular traffic must be
considered and accommodated by the Board's decision, but lawful development
of land cannot be prohibited per se by possibly Inadequate existing public roads.
The construction of other fully permitted uses in the R zone would produce as
much or more traffic than a golf course. A golf course, In contrast, will result In
increased traffic only during the seasons when people would want to golf. The
existing on-site wells and sewerage facilities, electrical, telephone and other
public ulllity services will be adequate to meet the golf course use needs. Due to
the nature of a golf course, we agree with the Board that the course will require
few other public facilities. We affirm the Board's decision that Lettermen, Inc.
need not construct additional public facilities.
4. Whether Condition 5, requiring that Lettermen, Inc. fund traffic signals and
road improvements to an area more than a mile away from the subject
property if warranted by Penn DOT, is a permissible condition.1
I Silver Spring Township made a stipulation regarding whether Lettermen, Inc. met Condition 4 of the
Decision, that Lettermen, Inc. provide a comprehensive traffic analysis. "Applicant has provided
Township with the required comprehensive traffic analysis as prepared by Grove Miller Engineering, Inc.
dated June 29,1999 as supplemented by report dated August 20,1999." Letter from Township's
Counsel, Richard C. Snelbaker, September 23, 1999. Thus, we do not address Condition 4 of the
Decision here.
II
41.
,.-
Lellermen, Inc. contends that Condition 5 Is an error of law.
.
Condition 5 provides,
That If warranted by PennDOT, Applicant shall provide the funds
necessary to Improve the roadway and install electric traffic signals
at the Intersection of Rich Valley Road and Carlisle Pike. Applicant's
funding requirements shall be reduced by the amount, If any, of prior
developer-contributions made specifically for such purpose at said
Intersection.
Decision at 14.
The law In Pennsylvania does not allow a Board to require off-site Improvements.
Municipality of Monroevll/e v. Prln, 680 A.2d 9, 13.14 (Pa. Cmwllh. 1996). In
Municipality of Monroevll/e v. Prln, the court held that an attempt to impose
conditions of off-site improvements violated 53 P.S. s10503(A)(b), stating that
such an imposition constituted an error of law. Id. The Prln court found the
requirement of improvements to traffic intersections at least one mile from the
subject property to be an error of law. rd. The Prln court stated that s 503-A(b)
of the MPC (53 P.S. s10503(A)(b)), prohibited off-site conditions. However, the
Prln court permitted conditions that required on-site improvements. rd.
A Board may appropriately require on-site improvements, so long as the
improvement will improve the health, safety or welfare of citizens. Pitcher v.
Heidelberg Township Board of Supervisors, 161 Pa.Cmwlth. 505, 508, 637
A.2d 715, 716, 717 (1994). The court in Pitcher v. Heidelberg Township
Board of Supervisors held that an applicant for a subdivision approval was
properly required to pay to widen an abulling road. Id. The improvement would
12
66.
~
,-..
correct an existing hazardous condition Immediately adjacent to the subject
property In that case (emphasis added). Id. The Board In Pitcher anticipated
that the applicant's subdivision plan would Increase traffic on the road In
question, rd. at 509, 637 A.2d at 718, See also, Tobin v. Radnor Township
Board of Commissioners, 142 Pa.Cmwlth. 567, 584-85, 597 A.2d 1258, (1991)
(holding that a munlclpallly may condition use approval on Improvements to a
road).
Here, Lettermen, Inc. has provided a comprehensive traffic study
demonstrating that traffic on the road will increase as a result of the proposed
use. 2 The Board of Supervisors conditioned approval of the golf course on the
Lettermen's funding of traffic signals at the intersection of Rich Valley Road and
Carlisle Pike, if warranted by PennDOT. A situation whereby PennDOT would
warrant such Improvements may not come about for many years. However, if
Penn DOT requires such improvements, the Board then would seek provision of
funds from whoever owns the golf course. At present we do not know whether
Penn DOT warrants or will warrant such improvements. The Board is attempting
to preface approval on a condition that may never come into effect, or may come
into effect 20 or 30 years from now. Notwithstanding an indefinite time period,
the Pennsylvania Code does not provide for offsite improvements, regardless of
when such improvements would be required. 53 P.S. 10503(A)(b); Municipality
of Monroevllle v. Pr/n, 680 A.2d 9, 13-14 (Pa.Cmwlth. 1996). Offsite
13
51.
c'-
Improvements to the Intersection of Rich Valley Road and Carlisle Pike may
eventually be warranted by PennDOT and possibly could Improve health, safety
and welfare In the township by controlling the Increased traffic a golf course
would create. Nonetheless, such Improvements would clearly be far removed
from the subject property and a condlllon requiring such Improvements Is per se
Impermissible and an error of law. We hereby annul Condition 5 of the Board's
grant of conditional approval.
5. Whether the glare reduction on the driving range lights as conditionally
approved In the plans is an appropriate condlllon; and whether it will
sufficiently protect the health, safety and welfare interests of the residents.
Lester S. Miller, Jr., et al contends that the golf course lights will cause
light pollution, create a commercial appearance and detract from the neighbor's
use and enjoyment of their property. Lettermen, Inc. contends that Condition 3,
restricting the hours of operation of the driving range lights, is beyond the
standards of the Township Ordinances. Section 428.5(2)(a) of the Zoning
Ordinance allows a "driving range," provided that the applicant shall furnish
expert evidence that all lighting has baen arranged to prevent glare on adjoining
properties and streets. Silver Spring Township Zoning Ordinance, 1995. The
township has required glare shields. Lettermen, Inc. has furnished expert
evidence explaining the function of glare shields. Lettermen, Inc.'s Exhibit 11,
Section 5. The shields are intended to prevent direct glare, but ambient light
would still be a factor. For this reason, the Board has set a 9:30 p.m. "lights off'
'Leltennen, Inc.'s Exhibit 11, Section 5.
14
Sl.
~
....
- L
..
condition In Condition 3 of the Decision. This requirement Is reasonably required
to protect the health, safety and welfare of nearby residents. The Board has met
,
t"..
r'
("
J
!
I
its duty to the neighbors and the Zoning Ordinance with this requirement. The
driving range Is a permitted accessory use and the 9:30 p.m. "lights off" provision
Is reasonable. Thus, we are bound to affirm the Board's decision permitting the
proposed driving range.
6. Whether It is reasonable and not an abuse of discretion for the Township
Board of Supervisors to require in Condition 8 that the portion of the golf
course on the southeast side of Rich Valley Road be substantially completed
before construction on any .structures" in the Residential Subdivision begins.
Lettermen, Inc. contends that requiring substantial completion of the golf
course on the southeast side of Rich Valley Road prior to commencing
I
i-
construction of any "structures" in the Residential Subdivision is an arbitrary,
discriminatory and irrational condition. Condition Eight provides:
That the portion of the golf course on the southeast side of Rich Valley
Road shall be substantially completed before commenCing the construction
of any structures in the Residential Subdivision.
Decision at 15.
Lettermen, Inc. does not yet have the Board's approval to construct a
"Rural Cluster" housing development within the golf course. Section 451 of the
Zoning Ordinance permits Rural Clusters in a Rural Residential zone subject to
conditional use approval. Lettermen, Inc. must yet obtain such approval. While
this proposed use is not at issue In this Decision, its permitted nature is
recognized under the first criterion of ~704.2. Decision at 7. Lettermen, Inc.
15
53.
.~
.-,
,-..
appealed Condition 8 In the Decision on the basis that construcUon on the golf
course later would need to be re-done to Install necessary utility pipes for the
proposed ResldenUal Subdivision. The Board addressed this complaint In the
Brief of Sliver Spring:
Lettermen, Inc. quibbles with the Board of Supervisors's language In
regulaUng the order of development. Specifically, It attempts to split hairs
over the word 'structures'. As explained informally to Lettermen,
'structures' means buildings, houses, homes. At no time has any
Indication that the term means 'storm sewer pipes, culverts, roads, signs,
etc.
Lettermen, Inc. knows that the Township insisted that the golf course be
substanUally completed before the housing development began. It Is sheer
common sense that houses would sell independent of the golf course, but
that the houses were incidental to the primary use of a golf course. . . . If
the golf course development requires "storm sewer pipes, culverts, roads,
signs, etc.," they must be installed of sheer necessity. . . . The Court is
assured that "structures" means "houses" In the context of Condition 8.
Brief of Township of Silver Spring at 13-14.
We find that the Board did not abuse its discretion in requiring substantial
completion of the golf course prior to the commencement of housing
construction. Lettermen, Inc. must yet obtain approval for a residential
subdivision. As provided for in the Brief of Township of Silver Spring, the Board's
allowance for the inclusion of such items as .storm sewer pipes, culverts, roads,
signs, etc.," in the course of the golf course construction eliminates the possibility
of an unreasonable reading of the Board's decision. Thus, we are bound to
affirm the Board's decision requiring that the golf course be substantially
completed prior to the commencement of housing construcUon.
16
(j- 4-
-.
r-
7. Whether the golf course banquet facilities are unreasonably oversized or
unreasonably restricted to the footprint of the existing facilities, In light of the
permitted Inclusion of a restaurant, snack bar, lounge, banquet facilities,
locker rooms, rest rooms, pro shop, offices and fitness equipment.
Lester S. Miller, et ai, contends that the proposed clubhouse features an
unreasonably oversized banquet facility, arising from the concern that the facility
will allow a large restaurant use. Lettermen, Inc. contends that Conditions 6 and
7 unreasonably limit the proposed facility to the footprint of the existing buildings
on the subject property and unreasonably limit the use of the facility.
Conditions 6 and 7 provide:
6. That except for an outside entrance canopy, the proposed
adaptation of the barn structure nearest Rich Valley Road denoted
for clubhouse purposes must be limited and confined to the existing
interior dimensions (width, length, height, area and volume) of said
structure and within the 'footprint' therof.
7. That restaurant and dining facilities of the clubhouse shall not be
used for banquet purposes except in conjunction with principal golf-
related activities on the day of said activities.
Decision at 14.
According to the Clubhouse Schematics, the combined gross square
footage of the ground floor and the first floor of the facility would be 8,350 feet.
However, this area Is contained entirely within the footprint of the existing
buildings, upon which Silver Spring conditioned approval. The plans are part of
the record, and from our own examination of the plans, we estimate the building
to be approximately 120 feet by 100 feet. The facility contains 3 partitioned
rooms with rough measurements of 25 feet by 30 feet, 25 by 40 feet, and 12 feet
17
5S
,
'.
~
~
by 25 feet. If Lettermen, Inc. constructed the course and the facilities as
proposed and condlllonally approved, the seating In the banquet facility would far
exceed the number of possible players at the course. If all four players on each
of the holes were to eat simultaneously in the banque: facility, only 84 seats
would be required (4 x 21 = 84). Clearly, this Is not a large-scale restaurant
operallon. It is irrelevant that there would be more seats In the banquet facility
than there could be players on the golf course.
According to the Clubhouse Schematics, the facility will be constructed
entirely within the footprint of the existing buildings. The Board conditioned
approval on such a plan. The exisllng buildings are a barn and farmhouse; the
area therein is not an unreasonably large accomrnodation for the golf course
restaurant, snack bar, lounge, banquet facilities, locker rooms, rest rooms, pro
shop, offices and fitness equipment. Also, the area within the footprint of the
existing buildings is not so small as to be unreasonably restrictive of the
proposed facility. The proposed facility, as evidenced by the Clubhouse
Schematics in the record, allows all of the above-mentioned uses. The Board
appropriately limits the facility to the footprint of the existing buildings to prevent
the possibility of a large-scale restaurant use.
Therefore, we conclude that the Board's condition limiting the clubhouse
and banquet facility to the footprint of the existing buildings to be a reasonable
condition, and we affirm.
18
!J7(),
..
- ..:;::r-r-...,....
73r;~?
-
-
0']
...
2. FACTUAL BACKGROUND
In March of 1998 Lellennen Inc. presented a concept plan lor a proposcd golf course to
the Silver Spring Township Planning Commission and requestcd gcneral comments from the Board
regarding the potcntial for a rezoning of the suhjcct 194 acrcs tmct from Agricultural to Rural.
Residential for the purposes. Applicant adviscd the Board that the rcqucstcd rezoning was for the
purposes of constructing and operating a golf course facility. Thc planning commission made general
comments only and advised the Owner to submit a rczoning request to thc Board of Supervisors.
In June of 1998, pursuant to the procedures of Silver Spring Township, Lettennen Inc.
presented its request in detail at the Silver Spring Township Planning Commission workshop of July 7,
1998 and the Planning Commission meeting July 9. 1998.
The Board of Supervisors held a public hearing on the rezoning request on August 26,
1998. On September 23, the request was approved upon condition that (I) the DroDertv be used for a
l!olf course, and (2) that the Owner agree to establish a passive recreation easement in favor of the
Township for a certain portion of the tract adjacent to the Conodoguinet Creek. The Owner
acknowledged its consent to these conditions.
On October 22, 1998 the Owner submitted the Conditional Use Application pursuant to
the Silver Spring Township Zoning Ordinance. The plan and application were presented and supporting
testimony was given at the Planning Commission workshop on November 10, 1998 and at the regutar
meeting of the Planning Commission on November 12, 1998 (at which meeting the application was
tabled.) At both the workshop and regular meeting, the Protestants were present and testified as to their
concerns. On December 10, 1998 the planning commission recommended denial of the conditional use
solely based on "the fact that the applicant failed to provide adequate proof that the proposed use would
not detrimentally effect the groundwater supply of the adjoining properties." This concern was made
moot by approval hy the Susquehanna River IIl1sin l'ummission uf a pennittu draw wllter from the
Conodoguinet Creek, The Commissiun by law hils sole authurity to make detenninatiuns regarding the
use of Conodoguinet Creek water and the 3afety thereof.
On Jllnullry 27. 1999. I.ettemlen Inc. presented the cunditiunllluse request at a hearing
held by the Silver Spring Tuwnship Boord of Supervisors. The presentatiun was consistent with the plan
considered by the Planning Commission except for the elimination of the use of wells and the
substitution of the Conodoguinet Creek as the source fur greens and fairway watering. Such use was
approved by the Susquehanna River Basin Commission on March II. 1999 (see Addendum A to briel).
The SRBC has exclusive iurisdiction over use of the Willers of the Conodoguinet Creek.
,
",
At the conditional use hearing Lettermen presented comprehensive testimony supported
by numerous exhibits which demonstrated Lettermen' s compliance with all requirements of the Zoning
Ordinance for a conditional use golf course facility. Objectors presented only anecdotal and speculative
concerns concerning potential health and safety issues, unsupported by credible evidence. (with the
exception of certain water related issues which are moot for reasons argued herein). On March 10.
1999. the Board of Supervisors approved the requested conditional use. from which decision Appellants
have taken exception.
3. ISSUE
SHOULD THE DECISION OF THE BOARD OF SUPERVISORS
OF SILVER SPRING TOWNSHIPAPPROVING THE GOLF COURSE
CONDITIONAL USE BE UPHELD?
SHORT ANSWER: Yes.
4. ARGUMENT
A, APPLICANT IS IN COMPLAINCE WITII ALL APLLlCABLE
REQUIREMENTS OF TIlE ZONING ORDINANCE AND LAW TO
SUPPORTDECISIONOF BOARD IN APPROVING TIlE CONDITIONAL USE
The Board of Supervisors of Silver Spring Township correctly granted approval of the
conditional use golf course application of Lellennen Inc. The requested golf course use is permitted as a
conditional use in the Rural Residential (R) zoning district (Sec. 202.1.1 of Silver Spring Township
Zoning Ordinance). The Board heard extensive testimony from Lellennen Inc by its President, Jeffery
S. Austin, in support of its application. Lettennen also submitted 10 exhibits in support of its
epplication.
The Board first concluded properly that thc applicant had complied with all applicable
provisions of Section 704 of the Zoning Ordinance (see Decision by Board pp.7-12). This conclusion is
clearly supported by the finding of facts in the Decision and by substantial testimony at the h~aring
including the following:
1. Section 704.1 The rcquired application was clcarly submitted as demonstrated by
Exhibit I and the testimony of Mr. Austin (NT 13 el. seq.)
2. Section 704.2 General criteria based upon the testimony and exhibits as well as
Protestants comments. The Board extensively summarized its finding with regard
to the compliance by the requested conditional use plan with the general criteria
established in Section 704.2 (1-7) of the Ordinance. (NT Generally)
3. Section 202.4.1 Conditional uscs also subjects Golf Courses to specific criteria
set forth in section 428 ofthc Ordinance. Applicant demonstrated complete
compliancc with thc provisions of Scction 428 as more fully set forth in Exhibits
2. and 4.8 and in dircct testimony (NT 16-26).
'The courts have long held that the inclusion of a particular use in a zoning ordinance "indicates a
decision that the use is consistent with the zoning plan." Greensburl! Citv Plannil1l! Commission v.
Threshold Ins.. 12 Pa. Cmwlth.. 104. 315 A 2d 311 (1974). The Courts have further held that "the fact
the use is pennitted as a conditional use evidences a legislative intent that the particular type of use is
not adverse to the public interest per se," Brentwood Borough v. CooDer, 60 Pa. Cmwlth. 462, 431 A.
2d 1177(1981).
Achev also held that a conditional use should only be rejected where the adverse impact
upon the public interest "exceeds that which might be expected in nonnal circumstances," id. There was
no testimony that the proposed golf course will have any unique, significant adverse impact on the
public interest not otherwise incidental and nonnal from operation of a golf course.
The courts have also clearly stated that the burden on the protestants, once the applicant has
evidenced compliance with the specific requirements in the zoning ordinance to show "a high degree of
probability that the use will adversely impact on public interest and the mere possibility of adverse
impact is not enough." Levin v. Board of SUDervisors of Benner Townshio et. aI., 465 Pa. Cmwlth. 405,
669 A 2d 1063 (1995). The protestants provided no credible evidence to support such a finding, Only
vague opinion regarding what might result in the future was presented.
The scope of review by this court, absent the taking of additional evidence is limited to
detennining "whether the board committed a manifest abuse of discretion or an error of law." Board of
Suoervisors ofUooer Southamoton Townshio v. Zoing Hearing Board, 124 Pa. Cmwlth. 103,555 A 2d
256 (1989). The courts havc also held that a claim by protestors that the board abused its discretion
"may be reached only ifits finding are not ~upported by substantial evidence." Hoooes v. Zonimz
Hearimz Board of Haverford Townshio. 134 1'0. Cmwlth. 26. 578 A.2d 63 (1990). In the instant ease the
record is lepletc with substantial evidence of the applicant's compliancc with the requirements of the
ordinances.
B. PROTESTANTS HAVE THE BURDEN OF PROOF IN CONDITIONAL
USE HEARING AS TO GENERAL ORDINANCE REQUIREMENTS
The Courts have consistently held that the burden of proof standards for special exceptions under
a zoning ordinance apply to conditional use hearings. White Advertisin2 Metro Inc. v. Zonin2 Hearing
Board of Susauehanna TownshiD. 70 Pa. Cmwlth. 308, 453 A.2d 29 (1982). Those burdens are set forth
clearly in Bray v. Zoninl! Board of Adjustment, 48 Pa. Cmwlth. 523,410 A.2d 909 (1980). The
Treatise, Rvan on Zoninl! 95.2.5 has summarized the Brav burdens of the duty to go forward and the
burden of persuasion in as follows:
I. The applicant has the burden of going forward with the evidence and the burden
of persuasion with regard to "objective requirements of the ordinance." (In the
present case, applicant submission of exhibits 1-10 and the direct testimony of
Mr. Austin clearly met both burdens.)
2. Once the applicant has met thc burdcn with regard to specific criteria" a
presumption" arises that the use is consistcnt with the health, safety, and general
welfare of the community." The burden of persuasion then shifts to the
protestants that the proposed use will conflict with the general policies contained
in the ordinancc. (The protestants have clearly failed to rebutlhe presumption of
consistency with the public good.)
The applicant clearly met its burden with regard to the specific provisions of section 428 oflhe
ordinance as more fully discllssed in the previous section. Applicant also presented clear and
convincing evidcnce regarding compliance with the general policies as well as specific standards set
forth in section 704 of the ordinance.
It should be noted that Appellants in their Briefidentify 5 specific concerns (items A-E,
page 6) to support their position that the Board of Supervisors com milled error of law and/or abuse of
discretion in approving the conditional use, as follows:
a. A golf course is not rural in character. nor is it consistent with the remaining rural
character of the community. It is a threat to water resources to the community.
b. The 360-seat banquet facility is an unreasonably over-sized commercial
operation, wholly inconsistent with rural residential use.
c. The erection of a lighted driving range would introduce light pollution into the
rural residential and agricultural neighborhood.
d. The golfcourse would introduce unnecessarily large volumes of traffic into the
neighborhood.
e. The alteration of water courses and swales would adversely affect the
environment.
First, Intervenor, Lellermen Inc. submits that the argument of Appellants is an effort to
twist the plain language of the ordinance so as to find their extremely narrow definition of "rural" as the
norm. By including golf courses as a conditional use in the R zoning district, the Township clearly
stated its decision that such a use was consistent with the zoning plan (see Greensburg v. Threshold and
BrentwOOl! v. ('ooocr. ihil.!). Therelilre the Township was in filet hlllinII ill! 111llll1ltt Q[ IJm: to accept that
a golf course is consistent with the "rurnl" charncter orthe R district. It is also simply common sense
that a golf course (which is not specifically rclcrrcd to in any of the "chartlcter" statements in any 1.one
in the ordinance) is much more lIppropriate in the R zone then in Agriculturnl or Commercial zon.:s etc.
Likewise. Appellant misconstrues the evidence presented to the township to support its
position that the banquet facility somehow makes the use "commercial" and bence not pennitted. If
appellant means that 3pplicant intends to profit from his enterprise, the Appellant is undeniably correct.
The ordinance however. does not preclude a profit motive as a condition for approval of a golf course.
Appcllant has also misstatcd thc testimony rcgarding the proposed banquet facility. In
fact the 350 or 360 seals referred to in his brief and in the tcstimony of objcctors at the hearing are not in
the banquet facility but instead represent the sum total of all seating in the restaurant, snack bar. lounge,
patio and dining facilities. (NT 103-107). The evidence presented by Leltemlen demonstrates that the
proposed facilities, including the banquet facility are consistent with the "reasonable" needs of the uses
pennitted by the ordinance for a golf course (Ordinancc sec. 428).
Appellant's concerns regarding the water use by the applicant are also little more than
"smoke and mirrors." The Susquehanna River Basin Commission (SRBC) has exclusive jurisdiction
over water allocations from the Conodoguincl. The SRBC atter a complete hearing on the request of
Applicant (which hearing included testimony by the appellants) gave full approval to the requested
allocation. The resumption over the water allocation issue is clearly stated in Levin et. al. v. Baard of
Suoervisors of Benner Townshio, 165 Pa. Cmwlth. 405, 669 A.2d 1063 (1995). In Levin the
Commonwealth Court reaftinned earlier decisions that the SRBC has exclusive power to allocate stream
water (here) from the Conodoguinel.
It should also be noted that it is proper for this court to take judicial notice of the SRBC
order approving applicants allocalion from the Conodoguincl. Edelbrew Brewerv Inc. v. Weiss. 170 Pa.
Superior Ct. 34. 84 A.2d 371 (1951), which position was rcaffinned in l&rin, il!.ilI. al 1075. The
Decision of the SRIlC dated March 1 J, 1999 approving the water allocation request of Inlervenor is
aU ached hereto as appendix ^.
Therefore, based UpOIl the Commonwealth's participalion in the Susquehanna River
Basin compact (32 I'.S. section 820.1). ~.lllliL, and the prior decision in Stale Colleue Borouuh
Water Authorilv v. Board of Suocrvisors of Ilalfmoon Townshio. 659 ^.2d 640, the water issues raised
by appellant are moot and should not be considered by this Court.
Next Appellant argues lhatthe proposed lighting neccssitates reversal of the conditional
use approval. Appellant correctly states the ordinance contains objective requirements under section
528.5(2) which penn its a "driving range provided that the applicant shall show expert evidence that all
lighting has been arranged to prevent glare on adjoining properties and streets."
Intervenor presented oral testimony (NT p?ges 26.35) and an engineering report (exhibit
8) to support its contention that it had met the provisions of this section (see exhibit). The Board
properly concluded that "no adverse conditions (smoke. Iiuht, ulare. dust, noise, etc.) will exist"
(Decision, page 8). Appellants argue only anecdotally and speculatively and such evidence does not
meet the burden established by the Courts (see Brav and Levi[l, ibid.) to prove that the Board l:xercised
an abuse of discretion in their finding or the ultimate approval of the conditional use.
In its brief the Appellant cites traffic concerns as a criteria for overturning the Boards
decision. The brief however omits any reference to evidence supporting this argument. In fact the notes
of the hearing refer only to anecdotal prior experiences by protestants on Rich Valley Road or other
areas of the Township and completely fail to meet the burden to prove an abuse of discretion or error of
law as required by law. Intervenor presented a professionally prepared traffic report (exhibit 9) and
testimony of a professionallranic cnginecr (NT pagcs 35-40) which clcnrly rcfuted prolestants
speculation on tranic impacl issucs. The lestimony of Mr. Grove clearly concluded that thc additional
trips will not have a detrimental impact on Rich Vallcy Road (NT page 39). The courts in dealing
specifically with Irnflic issues havc held thnllhe Ilurden is on the nrotestonls to show that the plnn
showed "a high probabilily Ihat increased traffic or turning pattems would significantly alTect
congestion." Susauehanna Townshin Board of Commissioners v. Hardces's Food Svstems. 59 Pa.
Cmwlth. 479, 430 A.2d 367 (J 98 J). In lhe presenl casc. Iittlc if any probativc evidencc as 10 tranic
impact was presenled by protestants, and they clearly failed to meet their burden under the Susauehanna
test.
CONCLUSION
The issues raised by appellants are perfect examples of a potential abuse (making
conditional uses nothing more than a beauty contest) for which preventive standards have been adopted
by the courts. In order to overturn a conditional use approval by a Board of Supervisors, the courts have
clearly placed both the duty of presenting evidence and the burden of persuasion on the objectors that
the use (here the golf course) will have a substantially detrimental elTect on health safety, and welfare.
Foster Grading Co. v. Venango Townshin Zoning Hearing Board, 49 Pa. Cmwlth. 1,412 a.2d 647
(1980).
The courts have consistently required such proof of adverse impact to be
demonstrated by "a high degree of probability." Anneal bv Estate of Achev, 86 Pa. Cmwlth. 385,484
A.2d 874 (1984). The courts have likewise rejected evidence, which merely alleges the possibility of
adverse impact. Evans v. Zoning Hearing Board of Easttown Townshin, 40 Pa. Cmwlth 103, 396 A.2d
889 (1979), also Levin v. Board ofSunervisors of Benner Townshin et. al. 465 Pa. Cmwlth. 405, 669
A.2d 1063.
SUSQUEHANNA RIVER BASIN COMMISSION
1721 North Front S1rMt. HIrrIlburg, Pemaytvlllia 17102-23G1
Phon. (717) 23&0'-23 . Fax (717) 2384438
Web http://www.srbc.net
March 22, 1999
Mr. Jeffrey S. Austin, President
Lettermen, Inc.-Rich Valley GolfCour.e
1S3 South Hanover Street
Carlisle, P A 17013
Dear Mr. Austin:
We are pleased to infonn you that on March II, 1999, the SusquehllMa River Basin
Commission acted on and approved your project for the consumptive use of water as indicated
on the enclosed docket. Under Article 3.10(6) of the Susquehanna Rivt'r Basin Compact, any
appeal to this decision must be made to the U.S. District Court within 90 days of the date of the
Commission's decision.
Please note that this approval requires compliance with the Commission's water
conservation, surface water and consumptive water use reporting requirements (regulations
enclosed). Condition (b) of the approval also requires quarterly reporting of the withdrawal from
the clubhouse well. A consumptive water use reporting form is also enclosed.
If you have any questions regarding the above, please contact me at 717/238-0425.
Sincerely yours,
~~l 14
fvJ Paula B. Ballaron .
'/ Project Review CoordinatorlHydrogeologisl
Enclosures (5)
cc: E. J. Slavin, Earth Resource Associates, Inc.
T. Shaul, Soulhcentral Regional Office, PADEP
.4-Pi"..o,,, .4-
~ ."",.. Iflfl'......."I'It,,...' .".....,... ........;nlf ,t.,. c:"r.......I. '..... 0 ;".... ."..,,,..~r.,,.l
SUSQUEHANNA RIVER BASIN COMMISSION
. 1721 NCI1h Front Stroot' Harrisburg, Plmaylvlnla t7102.Z391
Phone (717) 238-0423 . FIX (717) 238.2438
Web hltp:/Iwww.srbc.nel
Application 19990306
LETIERMEN, INC. - RICH VALLEY GOLF COURSE
SurfllCe-Water Withdrawal of up to 0.325 mgd from Conodoguinet Creek and
Consumptive Water Use of up to 0.325 mgd for OotfCourse lITigation.
Silver Spring Township, Cumberland County, Pennsylvania
RevIew Authority
This application was reviewed by Commission staff pursuant to Anicle 3, Section 3.10 of
the Susquehanna River Basin Compact, P.L. 91-575, Commission Regulation 803.42 rellllingto
consumptive use of water, and Commission Regulation 803.44 relating to surface.water
withdrawals. The application was received by the Commission on January 26, 1999.
DescrIption
Purpose. The purpose of the application is to request approval for the surface.water
withdrawal and consumptive use of water for inigation of fairways, greens, and tees at a 21-hole
gotf course and driving range.
LocadoD. The project is located in Silver Spring Township, Cumberland County,
Pennsylvania.
Project Features. The applicant has requested approval for the surface-water
withdrawal of up to 0.325 million gallons per day (mgd) and consumptive use of water of up to
0.325 mgd. Water \\;ll be pumped into the sprinkler head inigation system from the largest of
three ponds on the property that will be supplied from the Conodoguinet Creek. The two smaller
ponds will drain by gravity to the larger pond and can be filled from the inigation system, as
needed. The three on-site ponds \vill have a combined storage capacity of 6.75 million gallons,
representing a three-week supply for the irrigation system. One of the smaller ponds is an
existing structure used by the prior agricultural operations at the site. All three ponds will be
lined with clay or a synthetic liner to prevent leakage.
Additional water will be used to service the golf course clubhouse; however, that water
will be derived from an existing 6-inch diameter on-site well located approximately 500 feet
south of the proposed clubhouse, or from a well to be drilled in the vicinity of that well. The
estimated water requirements for the clubhouse are tess than 7,500 gallons per day, and
therefor:, application was not made for this proposed ground-water withdrawal. No off-site
wells are located within 1,000 feet of the well proposed for clubhouse use. Consequently, no
adverse off-site impacts from the use of that well are expected. The clubhouse well will be
..: ":r.'r II' :.:.1fft'...~':~ ::t'f'~.:"" ,."r..inr" I.r:,. Sll.~ml,.h:1m!j Ril'er lL'atrr~hd
19990306
nlgutAlcd by the Perwytvllnill Oepllltment of Environmental Protection (PL OEP) as a non.
lrInJlent, non-community wl1ter supply.
Findings
The project is subject to SRBC's consumptive water use approval and reponing
requlrcmenll, III per Commission Reguhwon 803.42, and surface-wllter withdrawal approvlll and
reporting requirements,lII per Commission Regulation 803.44.
At the project site, the proposed withdrawal represents only 0.7 percent of the seven day-
ten YClll' low flow (Q7.IO flow) on Conodoguinet Creek. Therefore, based on the Pennsylvania
Fish and Boat Commission's instrcan1 flow guidelines, a minimum passby 1I0w for protection of
fish and aquatic life is not required at the intake stnIcturc on the creek.
The existing pennsYlvania American Water Company water supply intake on
Conodoguinet Creek is located approximately four miles downstream from the project's
proposed intaJce and is just upstream from the Hogcstown strcamgage, The water company has
indicated that it has no objection to the applicant's proposed taking for golf course irrigation.
For wastewater treatment plants, the water quality modeling on Conodoguinet Creek is
based on a Q7-10 flow (at the Hogcstown streamgage) of72.8 cubic feet per second (47.0 mgd),
after accounting for the historic Pennsylvania American water supply withdrawal. In the rare
event when streamflows naturally drop below the Q7-10 level, wastewater treatment plants are
normally well below peak permitted capacities. In addition, because this low-flow event would
likely occur during a dec1ared drought emergency, golf courses would be under bans for non-
essential uses of water, precluding fairway watering. Rich Valley Golf Course plans to bave
three weeks of water supply storage in its irrigation ponds. This storage can be further extended
if only greens and tees are watered. Thus, under severe drought conditions, adverse impacts
from this withdrawal to reduced flows on Conodoguinet Creek should be adequately mitigated.
The applicant proposes to instal1 a computerized irrigation system that calculates the
mgation pond withdrawal and records the total use. In addition, the applicant has agreed to
meter the withdrawal from Conodoguinet Creek as well as the withdrawal from the clubhouse
well. All water withdrawn from Conodoguinet Creek is considered to be used consumptively.
The consumptive use of water by the project is subject to water compensation
requirements as per Commission Regulation 803.42. To satisfy these requirements, the applicant
propo~~s to make quarterly payments to the Commission in-Iieu-of providing actual
comp~i1sation water.
The project is subject to SRBC water conservation requirements as per Commission
Regulation 804.20(c).
The project is not subject to the Commission's ground-water withdrawal approval and
reporting requirements, as per Commission Regulation 803.43, since withdrawals from the
clubhouse well arc not expected to exceed 7,500 gallons per day. No other wells are anticipated
2
1~~~0306
for this facility. Rcsidcntial wells arc located 1,000 fect or more from the clubhouse well.
Beclluse of tho diJl4Ilces and low wllter usage of the wells, potentilll lIdvcrse impacts arc
unIikety.
The applic:ulI has paid the Ilpplication fee pursUo1/lt to Commission Regullltion 803.28
and in accordnnce with Commiasion Resolution No. ~8.1~. The applicllllt has llIso provided all
proofs of required notification, as clllled for in Commission Regulation 803,25.
No lIdverse impacts on other 3rCll surfllce water withdrawals arc anticipated. The project
does not conflict with or adversely atrect the SRBC Comprehensive PIan, is physically feasible,
and does not advClSely influence the prescnt or future use and development of the water
resources of the basin.
Decision
The surface. water withdrawal of up to 0.325 mgd and the consumptive use of water not
to exceed 0.325 mgcl.ue approved pursuant to Article 3, Section 3.10 of the Compact subject to
the following conditions:
a. The applicant shall comply with all SRBC regulations, including consumptive water
use reporting requiremcots, as per Commission Regulation 803.42, and surface.water withdrawal
reporting requirements, as per Commission Regu1ation 803.44. The applicant shall keep daily
records of the project's total water withdrawal and consumptive use, and shall provide the results
to the Commission quartcrly and as otherwise requested.
b. The applicant shall install meters, accurate to within five percent, to measure
withdrawals from the irrigation pond as well as withdrawals from Conodoguinet Creek at the
intake structure and from the clubhouse well. Daily withdrawal data for the clubhouse well shall
be provided to the Commission with the regular quarterly report.
c. The applicant shall make quarterly payments to the Commission in the amount of
$0.14 per 1,000 gallons of water conswnptively used by the project through irrigation and pond
evaporation. Paymcnts shall be made quarterly and shall be calculated by applying' this rate to
the amount of water cOllS\llllptively used by the project during the preceding calendar quarter.
Quarterly payments are due and payable within 30 days after the close of the preceding quarter.
The rate of payment, after appropriate notice to all consumptive users of water using this method
of compliance, is subject to change at the Commission's discretion.
d. The applicant shall comply with SRBC water conservation requirements, as per
Commission Regulation 804.20(c). The golf course shall use an irrigation system properly
designed for the golf course's respective soil characteristics, topography, and management
objectives.
e. This action shall not be construed to exempt the applicant from obtaining all
necessary pennits and/or approvals required for the project from other federal, state or tocal
3
19990306
, ,
government agencies having jurisdiction over the project. The Commission reserves the right to
modify, suspend or revoke this lICtion if the 3JlpliCanl f:lils to obtain or maintain such :JPprovals.
r. If the project appliClllll f:lils to comply with any term or condition of this docket, the
Commission may suspend, modify or revoke its approval of same. Upon written notice by the
Commission, the project applicant shall have thirty (30) days to correct such non-compliance,
unless an a1tel1lflte period is specified in the notice, Failure to comply within thirty (30) days, or
within the a1temate period identified in the notice, sh:lIl result in a ninety (90) day suspension of
lIpprovnl of this docket. If the project applicant fails to address the non-comp1iance to the
satisfaction of the Commission within the suspension period, this approval may be revoked.
Nothing herein shall preclude the Commission from exercising its authority to immediately
modify, suspend or revoke this approval where it determines exigent circumstances warrant such
lICtion.
g. The Commission reserves the righ~ based upon new findings, to reopen any project
docket and malee additional orders that may be necessary to mitigate or avoid adverse impacts or
otheIWise to protect the public health, safety, welfare or the environment. Commission approval
confers no property rights upon project sponsors.
h. This approval is effective until March 11, 2024. In order to continue operation
beyond this time, the applicant shall submit a renewal application by September II, 2023.
i. The applicant has a period of three years from the date of this approval to initiate the
project or such approval will automatically expire, unless an extension is requested by the
applicant and approved by the Commission. Likewise, if the project is discontinued for such a
time and under such circumstances that an abandonment of the project may be reasonabty
inferred, the Commission may rescind the approval of the project unless a renewal is requested
by the applicant and approved by the Commission.
By the Commission:
Dated: March 11. 1999
padam\word\docketslLellennanIncRich Valley399
4
>- ..::r i;;
~ <':
1-- ~3",
UJR -
- 0_..
. C.)4: ~ :::--)~
, ---( ,
f'--,-' ~ ';1~
~f:.
r- -, .!!J
I:. .),..
LUI....- I
IT\~: >- ~.tjr~
"" 'JCl.
;:= :r.:: ' .
tL 0'> =3
0 0'> (J
>- co ~
c-; lJj
~ (~; --,
wQ 0""
.- 2;
~.!(.., -- :_)$.
!+- :J~ u: ::!~
f~:~::: 0'1 ~ '.U)
0'.. 'I--
I '..__.c"_
~l.\. - 'CZ
.."iiJ
ff:!;: ~ :no..
r-: "'""
IJ.. m :s
0 Cl'I U
Johnson, Duffie, Stewart & Weidner
By: Richard W. Stewart
1.0. No. 18039
By: Keirsten W. Davidson
1.0. No. 78243
301 Market Street
P. O. Box 109
Lemoyne. Pennsylvania 17043.0109
(717) 761-4540
tCO~l
Attomeys for Plaintiff
MAY 1 . 1999
SCOTT A BOLGER,
PlaIntiff
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
NO. 99-2109 CIVIL TERM
CIVIL ACTION - LAW
v.
BENJAMIN F. ZIMMERMAN,
hIs heIrs and assigns,
Defendant
ORD~
AND NOW, thIs J 7 i{ray of .", ~ . 1999, It Is hereby ordered that Defendant Is to bring an
action In ejectment withIn thirty days from the entry of this Order pursuant to Pa. R.C.P. 1066 (b)(1), or be
forever barred from assertIng a claIm or Interest In or to the following real property or any part thereof:
BEGINNiNG at a point at the Intersection of the northern right-of.way line of
Hillcrest Road and the eastern right-of-way line of Wood crest Lane, same
being situated on the southern line of land now or formerly of Scott A. Bolger,
thence along said land of Bolger on a course and distance of South twenty
five degrees thirty nIne minutes thirty four seconds East (S25-39-~4E) one
hundred seventeen and seven hundredths (117.07) feet to the common
comer of Scott A. Bolger and George & Carol A. Madara; thence along other
right-of-way of unopened Hillcrest Road on a course and distance of Soulh
sixty four degrees twenty mInutes twenty six seconds West (S64-20-26W)
forty and no hundi'edths (40.00) feet to a poInt; thence along the southern
right-of-way line of unopened 'Hillcrest Road on a course and distance of
North twenty five degrees thIrty nIne minutes thirty four seconds West (N25-
39-34W) one hundred seventeen and seven hundredths (117.07) feet to a
point on the eastern right-of-way line of Wood crest Lane; thence along said
eastern right-of-way line of Wood crest Lane on a course and distance of
North sixty four degrees twenty minutes twenty six seconds east (N64-20-
26E) forty and no hundredths (40.00) feet to the point of beginning, containIng
therein an area of 4,682.77 square feet or 0.11 acres.
BY THE COURT:
~. I'. J./.' I
1.$/ (;d "",-,-do c: ~
J.
:122327
Johnson, Dume, Stewart & Weidner
By: Richard W. Stewart
1.0, No. 18039
By: Kcirsten W. Davidson
1.0. No. 78243
301 Markct Street
P. O. Box 109
Lcmoync, Pennsylvania 17043-0 I 09
(717) 761-4540
Allomcys for Plaintiff
;i '~
11
{
~
,':\
SCOTT A. BOLGER,
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF
CUMBERLAND COUNTY. PENNSYLVANIA
NO. 99-2109 CIVIL TERM
CIVIL ACTION - LAW
:~
"-l
Plalnliff
'l
.\
v.
j':\j
BENJAMIN F. ZIMMERMAN,
his heirs and assigns.
-
.?
Defendant
,-~
...
AFFIDA VIT PURSUANT TO PA. R.C.P. 1066
,{
'J
"
'"
'j;
I, Keirsten W. Davidson, of Johnson, Duffie, Stewart & Weidner, attorneys for Scott A. Bolger, Plaintiff,
being duly sworn, do depose and say as follows:
;:,0
.,
1.
Plaintiff has initiated an action to quiet title against Defendants, docketed to No. 99-2109 Civil
Term.
,.
j':',
2. Because Plaintiff was unable to locate Defendants in order to serve the above Complaint
containing a Notice to Defend, Plaintiff petitioned the Court to serve Defendants by publication pursuant to
PaRC.P. 430.
.~'
'1.
3. On April 22, 1999, The Honorable Edward E. Guido ordered that the Defendants should be
served by way of publication and by posting pursuant to Pa.R.C.P. 410(c)(2). (A copy of the Order is attached
hereto and marked as Exhibit "A.")
4. On April 26, 1999, Plaintiff requested that the Sentinel and the Cumberland Law Journal publish
notice of the action to quiet title. Attached hereto and collectively marked as Exhibit "B" Is proof of publications
from both the Sentinel and the Cumberland Law Journal.
State of Pennsylvania,
County of Cumberland.
Sherry Clifford, Classified Advertising Manager 01 TilE SENTINEL,
01 the County and Slate IlorelBld, beIng duly Iworn, dopolel and laYI that THE SENTINEL, I newlpaper 01
glneral clrculellon In the Borough 01 Carllele, County and State alore..ld, wae e.tablllhed December 13th,
1881, Ilnce which dete THE SENTINEL has been regularly IBlued In eald County, Ind that the printed nollca
or publlcallon a\tlched hereto II exactly the lame al wal printed and publllhad In the regular edlllonl and
I..uel of THE SENTINEL on thelollowlng datil, vlz
Copy of NotIce of Publication
SCOTT A. BOLGER
PloklUIl
IN THE COURT OF COMMON
PLEAS OF CUMBERLANO
COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
v.
April 29, 1999
BENJAMIN F.
I ZIMMERMAN. hI, NO. 99.2109 CIVIL TERM
heir. and 8"lgnl . : did I
Oolondonl . : CIVIL ACTION. LAW ant further eposes that he Is not ntereste n
. COMPLAIIITTOQUIETTITLE
TO: BonJamln F. Zlmmormln. hll holllond IIIlgnl subject matter of the aforesaid notice or
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a Complaint 10 Qulel Title
WII mod ogllns! you on o"boul April 9,1999. avo,rlng Ihlt ertlsement and that all allegations In the
you were atone time the owners 01 real propertylocaled at 18 '
Slono Sprlng Lano,Clmp HilI. CumblrllndCounlY, PA,mora going statement as to time place and character
IpeciIIcaUy.lh' unopened portion of HlIIerest Roa;) that I ,
borde" the IIbova property. The Complaint requestl the Court
10 ox1lnguloh Inypo..lblolnta'lIl you mlygovoln ..Id "01 lubllcatlon are true.
8,tatl mar. partlcularty described a. follows:
BEGINNING al a polntallhe Intersection 01 the northern ~
rlght-ol.way line 01 Hlller"l Road and the eastam rlght-ol.way
line 01 Woodcrest Lane, same being sllulted on the southern
Un. 01 land no,!" or fonnerty 01 Scan A. Bolger, Ihence along
laid land 01 Bolger on a course and dlslance 01 South twenty
flve degreelthlrtY nine minutes thirty four seconds East (S2~-3
9.34E) one hundred seventeen and seven hundredths
(117.07) leello the common comer 01 Scoll A. Bolger and
George & Caro! A. Madara: thence along othor rlght.oloway 01
unopened Hillcrest Road on a course and distance of Soulh
sixty lour degrees twenty minutes twen!: six seconds West
(S84020028W) lony and no hundredths 40.00) feel to a point;
thence along the soulhem rlght.ol.way I ne 01 unopened
HlUcresl Road on 8 courso and distance of North twenty Ilv"
degrees thirty nine minutes thirty four seconds West (N25.3903 30th
4W)onOhundrad...onllonondsovonhundrodlhII117.07) )rn to and subscribed before me this
feet 10 a polnl on the eastern rlght-ol.way line 01 Woodcrest A "
. Lane;thencealong said easlem r1ght-of.way line of Woodcrest . of pn ,19 99
Lane on a course end distance 01 North sixty four degrees
twenty minutes twenty sht seconds east IN64020026E) forty
and no hundredths (40.00) leet to the po nt 01 beginning,
containing therein an area of 4,682.77 square leel or 0.11
acres.
NOTICE
If you .wlsh 10 defend. you must enler a written appearance
personally or by attorney and tile your delenses or obJacllons
In wrlUng with the court. You are warned that If you lall to do so
the case may proceed wllhoutyou and a Judgment may be eno
tered against you wlthoutlurther notice lor the rellel requested
by Ihe plalnllff. You may lose money orpropeny or other rights
. Im.f&aa~~~J~g'TAKE THIS NOTICE TOYOUR LAWYER AT commIssion expires:
ONCE. IF YOU DO :,OT HAVE A LAWYER OR CANNOT AF.
FORD ONE, GO TO OR TELEPHONE THE OFFICE SET
FORTH BELOW TO FINO OUT WHERE YOU CAN GET Notarial Seat
LEGAL HELP. ley O. Durnin, NOlary Public
cumberland County Bar Association lIe Boro Cumberland County
2 Liberty Avenue, Carlisle, PA 17013 mmlsslo'n Expires Aug. 9, 1999
Telephone: (717) 249-3166
'. .. Kelrslen W. Davidson, Esquire Pennsylvania AssocIation 01 Notaries
Johnson, Dulfle, Stewan & Weidner
301 Market Street
Lemoyne, PA 17043.0109
(717) 76104540
~ O~PUbliC
>- c. --
a; c f.:.:
-:;.
.- ..r
lll! ~ - .
!:.t(:, ,
t~- - "... '~i
J_,.' ,
r)',';'
l:r~'.~ ~...,
"
U,I..
-' .!! >. t,l
0..
r-.: .' , ,-
."-
II. e:, _~.i
U (.... (j
: 'I'
, '
,(
'~ 'J ;'" I' ,
::! (j
€)
'1
4
f
. ...
...... ,,'
i':; - ;,-
-
c: "
j:"::: ."
S , ,
wr.) ."
J
(J"'.~ ; "
r'l'
'--, "-
L.
C)~.
2:,'" Cl
UJ'- '" >:
~~L r" :;':t1J
f"' c, . .;:..
" .::~
.,
<L m :J
0 0' U
.... - r:;
E. c:;
<(
,-- 9 :-';
IJJL) , "
(~. " J
P.= ~;' ....:; :;_1
~;
c: c. :';l
I.
~", C" ,- .
f':: I J~;,;;:
n:~!:' ~ " 1
LL :'1:J..
,-, "'-'
'-1. a, ::j
Q c:. U
and dlstam:e 01 South twenty five degrees thirty nine minutes thirty lour seconds East (S25-
39-34E) one hundred seventeen and seven hundredths (117.07) leet to the common comer
01 Scoll A. Bolger and George & Carol A. Madara; thence along other right-of-way 01
unopened Hillcrest Rood on a course and distance of South sixty lour degrees twenty
minutes twenty six seconds West (S64.20-26W) lorty and no hundredths (40,00) leet 10 a
point; thence along the southern rlght-ol.way line 01 unopened Hillcrest Road on a course
and distance 01 North twenty five degrees thirty nine minutes thirty lour seconds West (N25.
39.34W) one hundred seventeen and seven hundredths (117.07) leet to a point on the
eastern rlght-ol.way line 01 Wood crest Lane; thence along said eastern right.ol.way line 01
Wood crest Lane on a CO'lrpe and distance of North sixty four degrees twenty minutes twenty
six seconds east (N64.20-26E) lorty and no hundredths (40.00) feet to the point 01 beginning,
containing therein an area cl 4,682.77 square feet or 0.11 acres.
4. Plaintiff has been, by hlmsell and his predecessors In Interest, in the actual, exclusive.
continuous, visible, notorious and adverse possession of the property above described continuously lor In
excess of twenty-one (21) years prior to the filing of this Complaint, claiming to own the same in fee against
the whole world, and has paid taxes of every kind, levied or assessed, against the property during the
periOd In excess of twenty-one (21) years continuously next preceding the filing of this Complaint.
5. On or about September 28, 1998, Plaintiff acquired the above property Irom his predecessors
in interest.
6. Since that time, Plaintiff has been in exclusive and continuous possession 01 the property.
7. Defendants may claim and assert an interest or Interests therein adverse to the Plaintiff,
however these claims are without any right whatsoever, and the Defendants have no estate, right, title, or
Interest whatsoever in the above referenced property, CJr any part thereof.
WHEREFORE, Plaintiff requests that this Court order Defendant, his heirs and assigns, to bring an
action in ejectment within 30 days from the entry of the Order pursuant to Pa.R.C.P. 1066(b)(1), or be
lorever barred from asserting any right, claim, lien, tille, or interest to said parcel, inconsistent with the
Interest of Plaintiff.
JOHNSON, DUFFIE, STEWART & WEIDNER
:121304
BY;~ W.~"
Kelrsten W. Davidson
Richard W. Stewart