HomeMy WebLinkAbout08-193673/27/2008 11:13 AM MWN - Armour, Michelle
Page: 2
David E. Lehman
I . D. No. 15243
McNees Wallace & Nurick LLC
100 Pine Street
P.O. Box 1166
Harrisburg, PA 17108-1166
(717) 232-8000
(717) 260-1716 (fax)
JOHN C. HARBILAS and
KATHRYN M. HARBILAS,
Plaintiffs
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
CIVIL ACTION - LAW
V.
MT. ZION ASSOCIATES, L.P.,
Defendant
NO. 0 ?-, ' 136 Ga.lI J&-41
IN EQUITY AND FOR
DECLARATORY JUDGMENT
NOTICE
YOU HAVE BEEN SUED IN COURT. If you wish to defend against the claims set
forth in the following pages, you must take action within twenty (20) days after this
Complaint and Notice are served, by entering a written appearance personally or by
attorney and filing in writing with the Court your defenses or objections to the claims set
forth against you. You are warned that if you fail to do so the case may proceed without
you and a judgment may be entered against you by the court without further notice for any
money claimed in the Complaint or for any other claim or relief requested by the Plaintiff.
You may lose money or property or other rights important to you.
YOU SHOULD TAKE THIS PAPER TO YOUR LAWYER AT ONCE. IF YOU DO
NOT HAVE A LAWYER OR CANNOT AFFORD ONE, GO TO OR TELEPHONE THE
OFFICE SET FORTH BELOW TO FIND OUT WHERE YOU CAN GET LEGAL HELP.
Cumberland County Bar Association
32 South Bedford Street
Carlisle, PA 17013
(717) 249-3166
(800) 990-9108
NOTICIA
Le han demandado a usted en la corte. Si usted quiere defenderse de estas
demandas expuestas en las paginas siguientes, usted tiene viente (20) dias de plazo al
partir de la fecha de la demanda y la notificacion. Usted debe presentar una apariencia
escrita o en persona o por abogado y archivar en la corte en forma escrita sus defensas o
sus objeciones a las demandas en contra de su persona. Sea avisado que si usted no se
David E. Lehman
I.D. No. 15243
McNees Wallace & Nurick LLC
100 Pine Street
P.O. Box 1166
Harrisburg, PA 17108-1166
(717) 232-8000
(717) 260-1716
JOHN C. HARBILAS and
KATHRYN M. HARBILAS,
Plaintiffs
V.
MT. ZION ASSOCIATES, L.P.,
Defendant
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
CIVIL ACTION - LAW
NO. 6 ?? q (e cilycry.
IN EQUITY AND FOR
DECLARATORY JUDGMENT
COMPLAINT IN EQUITY AND
FOR DECLARATORY JUDGMENT
1. Plaintiffs are John C. Harbilas and Kathryn M. Harbilas, his wife, adult
individuals residing at 817 Mandy Lane, Camp Hill, Cumberland County, Pennsylvania
(sometimes hereinafter referred to as "Harbilas" in the singular and masculine form).
2. Defendant is Mt. Zion Associates, L.P., a Pennsylvania limited partnership
with its principal office at 20 Erford Road, Suite 10, Lemoyne, Pennsylvania 17043
(sometimes hereinafter referred to as "Mt. Zion").
3. In this action, Harbilas asks the Court to fix and determine his rights, and the
obligations of Mt. Zion, respecting a tract of land, identified below. Harbilas and Mt. Zion
have entered into several agreements respecting the site, over a period of years between
1996 and 2006. The parties having disagreed with respect to their current and future rights,
and this action is brought to declare and determine those rights, and to permit Harbilas to
proceed thereafter without further obligation to Mt. Zion, as the Court shall finally determine
in this proceeding.
4. Harbilas is the equitable owner of a tract of property located adjacent to Good
Hope Road, Hampden Township, Cumberland County, Pennsylvania. That tract is more
fully described in the Real Estate Option Agreement executed January 7, 1997 between
John C. Harbilas and Kathryn Harbilas and Eugene R. Deimler, Sr., of Hampden Township
("Deimler"), which Option Agreement is appended as Exhibit 1.
5. Thereafter, Harbilas entered into an agreement with Deimler for the sale of
the subject real estate, by an agreement dated December 9, 2004, a copy of which
Agreement of Sale is appended hereto and marked as Exhibit 2. Harbilas has met all of his
payment responsibilities under the said Agreement of Sale, and is the rightful equitable
owner of said tract, pursuant to the Agreement of Sale, subject only to prior conveyance of
a portion of the said tract (commonly referred to by the parties as Lot No. 1 under the
subdivision preliminary/final subdivision plan documents.)
6. Harbilas entered into several agreements with Mt. Zion, pertaining to Mt.
Zion's plans for development of an office park. In that regard, Harbilas entered into a Real
Estate Option Agreement dated July 23, 1996, a copy of which is appended hereto and
marked as Exhibit 3.
7. Thereafter, by a Restated Second Amendment to the Real Estate Option
Agreement, dated October 31, 1997, Harbilas and Mt. Zion added Lot No. 2 to the scope of
the prior Option Agreement and otherwise modified their agreements in accordance with the
terms of that document, a copy of which is appended hereto and marked as Exhibit 4.
8. Thereafter, by an "August 2002 Amendment," the parties further confirmed
and stated their rights and obligations inter se, with respect to the said property. A copy of
that further amendment is attached hereto and marked as Exhibit 5.
2
9. Pursuant to the August 2002 Amendment (Exhibit 5), Mt. Zion held certain
rights to acquire some portion or all of Lot No. 2, in accordance with the terms of that
Agreement.
10. On or about August 12, 2002, Harbilas and Mt. Zion held settlement with
respect to the sale and transfer of Lot No. 1 and conveyances were duly executed by and
among the necessary parties, in order to effect the completion of that transaction.
11. Mt. Zion took certain steps with respect to its development interest in a
portion of Lot No. 2, prior to the "Expiration Date," noted in the August 2002 Agreement.
12. The August 2002 Amendment (Exhibit 5) confirmed that the buyer had "until
11:59 p.m. on February 15, 2005 (the "Expiration Date") within which to exercise the option
herein granted ..."
13. By letter dated February 14, 2005, Mt. Zion purported to exercise its option
right under the August 2002 Amendment, with respect to a 23.31 acre portion of Lot No. 2.
A copy of the Mt. Zion notice, as delivered to Harbilas, is appended hereto as Exhibit 6 to
this Complaint.
14. Although Mt. Zion purported to claim a material failure of required cooperation
on the part of Harbilas (and Deimler), in fact, Mt. Zion's purported exercise of its option
rights was ineffectual, and, for the reasons more fully stated below, and to be established at
hearing on the trial of this action, the Court will determine that Mt. Zion forfeited its rights to
exercise the Option Agreement.
15. Notwithstanding the self-serving statements in Exhibit 6, Mt. Zion was unable
to effectively exercise its rights under the August 2002 Amendment because Mt. Zion did
not have an approved subdivision plan for the tract which it sought to acquire.
16. Mt. Zion's failure to have an approved subdivision plan for the defined tract
was not due any failure by Harbilas (or Deimler) to reasonably cooperate in the
3
development of a satisfactory or agreeable subdivision plan. To the contrary, any
objections voiced by Harbilas to the various proposed subdivision plans related to concerns
which Harbilas legitimately held respecting the coordination of this partial option exercise
with respect to the development prospects for the remaining tract of land, not to be acquired
by Mt. Zion under the exercise of its option.
17. Accordingly, Harbilas contends in this action that his position with respect to
the proposed subdivision plan, was justifiable and appropriate for protection of his own
interest, and did not reflect a failure of reasonable cooperation. To the contrary, positions
taken by Mt. Zion reflected an overreaching and a breach of the duty of good faith and fair
dealing which the Agreement required between the parties. In particular, the Agreement
required coordination of development activities (particularly road extensions and utilities)
between tracts to be acquired by Mt. Zion and tracts retained by Harbilas. Mt. Zion's
conduct provided reasonable justification for Harbilas to withhold an expression of complete
consent and agreement to draft subdivision plans proposed by Mt. Zion, until those issues
were resolved.
18. Mt. Zion also was unable to obtain a timely and necessary approval of its
desired subdivision for the 23.31 acre tract, because Mt. Zion was itself in breach of a
contractual commitment it made to Hampden Township in 1998. That obligation, reflected
in an "Agreement to Grant Real Property" committed Mt. Zion to convey to the township a 4
acre parcel of land, adjacent to the existing township municipal sewer facilities, to facilitate
future expansion of the sewer plant.
19. Hampden Township's inaction on any subdivision plan of Mt. Zion, whether
experienced in 2004 or 2005, was due, in materially part, to the failure of Mt. Zion to
perform in accordance with its undertakings with the township, as stated above.
20. Mt. Zion's failure to fairly address and properly resolved Harbilas' concerns
4
for the reasonable coordination of Mt. Zion's proposed subdivision and land development
plans with the future development needs of the residual tract, justified Harbilas in
withholding a current expression of "approval" for Mt. Zion's proposed plan.
21. Mt. Zion failed to obtain a timely subdivision plan approval, which was a legal
prerequisite and condition precedent to any obligation on the part of Harbilas, as seller, to
proceed to closing on the identified parcel.
22. To the information and belief of Harbilas, Mt. Zion has never tendered to
Harbilas evidence of approval of the subdivision plan which would permit the lawful
conveyance of a properly subdivided parcel (as described in the February 14, 2005 notice).
23. Harbilas has performed and otherwise reasonably complied with obligations
called for under his agreements with Mt. Zion. To the extent that any specific act or event
remains undone or incomplete, that matter does not excuse or discharge Mt. Zion from its
duty to fully and timely perform its obligations.
24. Notwithstanding that Mt. Zion was not in a proper and enforceable position to
enforce its rights, Mt. Zion commenced an action in the Court of Common Pleas of
Cumberland County, titled "Mt Zion Associates L.P. Plaintiff v. John C. Harbilas. Kathryn
M Harbilas Eugene R Deimler Sr and the Eugene R. Deimler. Sr. Trust. Defendants,
docketed to No. 05-1279 Civil.
25. Mt. Zion caused a "lis pendens" to be docketed to the above-determined
number, signifying that its claim affected title to the Deimler Farm property and to Harbilas'
equitable ownership thereof. Mt. Zion thereby sought to impair the title to the entire tract,
notwithstanding that its claim affected only some 23 acres of the tract.
26. Mt. Zion has not proceeded further with the said legal action.
5
COUNTI
JOHN C. HARBILAS AND KATHRYN M. HARBILAS v. MT. ZION ASSOCIATES, L.P.
(CLAIM FOR DECLARATORY RELIEF)
27. The averments of paragraphs 1 through 26 above are incorporated herein by
reference as though set forth at length.
28. A current and justiciable dispute exists between Harbilas and Mt. Zion
concerning whether Mt. Zion holds any enforceable rights by reason of its purported
exercise of rights under the option agreement, or the August 2002 amendment thereto.
29. In this action, Harbilas asks the Court to declare and determine that Mt. Zion
has no further or enforceable rights to acquire the said 23.31-acre tract, identified in the
February 14, 2005 letter (Exhibit 7).
WHEREFORE, Plaintiffs respectfully request the Court to enter its judgment and
decree that Mt. Zion's rights under the option agreement and the August 2002 amendment
have expired, have been exhausted or are otherwise unenforceable. The right or claim by
Mt. Zion for further performance by Harbilas under the said agreements is ended and
extinguished and Mt. Zion claims should be forever barred, and the lis pendens entered
against the Plaintiff and the subject property should be stricken from the record. Plaintiffs
further request that costs of the action be awarded to them.
COUNT II
(ALTERNATIVE CLAIM FOR EQUITABLE RELIEF)
30. The averments of paragraphs 1-29 above are incorporated herein by
reference as though set forth at length.
31. Should the Court, for any reason, not grant the relief requested in Count I,
above, in the alternative, Plaintiffs request that the Court exercise its equitable authority,
and order and direct Mt. Zion to proceed promptly with completion of its responsibilities
under the parties' agreements, and to then grant equitable relief, including:
6
a. an Order directing Mt. Zion to perform its obligations toward
Harbilas and Deimler, in accordance with its purported exercise of rights as set forth
in Exhibit 6;
b. that Mt. Zion be directed to present an approved subdivision
plan, effectuating the obligations set forth in the agreements between Mt. Zion and
Harbilas respecting interconnection of roadways, extension of easements for streets
and utilities, and otherwise coordinating the land development plan features of Mt.
Zion plan with the future development needs of the remaining tract;
C. that Mt. Zion pay the agreed consideration, to have been
$43,000/acre if paid in 2005, together with such additional sums as the Court shall
reasonably determine will compensate Harbilas for the delayed performance by Mt.
Zion, but not less than the legal rate of interest on the unpaid balance; and
d. Such other relief as the Court may seem just and equitable
under the circumstances.
COUNT III
(CLAIM FOR DECLARATORY RELIEF)
32. Paragraphs 1 through 31, above, are incorporated herein by reference as
thought set forth at length.
33. Irrespective of whether the Court grants relief to Harbilas under Count I or,
alternatively, Count Il, above, Harbilas further requests the Court to determine, to adjudicate
that Mt. Zion has no further right, claim or interest in or upon conveyance of any further tract
or parcel of land heretofore embraced under the parties' agreements. Accordingly, whether
Mt. Zion is determined to have no further enforceable interest, or Mt. Zion is obligated to
proceed to perform on its purported exercise of the option, Mt. Zion shall thereafter have no
7
right to performance and Harbilas shall have no further obligation or duty of performance to
Mt. Zion respecting any residual tract.
34. Harbilas further requests the Court to strike and dismiss with prejudice the
writ of summons issued by Mt. Zion in No. 05-1279, including its associated lis pendens.
35. In its adjudication, the Court is further requested to confirm that Mt. Zion
remains obligated, as set forth in the real estate option agreement of July 23, 1996, to
conduct its development activities on the property which it does own adjoining the subject
premises, in a way which is coordinated with and does not unreasonably interfere with the
development of the adjoining parcels, including an affirmation of Mt. Zion's duty to provide
access easements through streets, together with the dedication of roads, and public utility
lines and facilities in and through their premises, as shown on the approved preliminary
subdivision plan for the office park.
WHEREFORE, Plaintiffs requests the Court to grant declaratory relief, ending further
claims or right of claim by Mt. Zion against Harbilas in connection with their prior
agreements, as set forth above, together with such other relief as the Court may be just and
equitable under all the circumstances.
McNEES WALLACE & NURICK LLC
c
By
David E. Lehman
I.D. No. 15243
100 Pine Street
P.O. Box 1166
Harrisburg, PA 17108-1166
(717) 237-5285
(717) 260-1716
Attorneys for Plaintiffs John C. and
Kathryn M. Harbilas
Dated: March 27, 2008
8
I
harbilas.opVreal.esUBD F
REAL ESTATE OPTION AGREEMENT
r ?
THIS REAL ESTIV OPTION AGREEMENT ("Agreement") is executed the
day of i 996, by and between JOHN C. HARBILAS and KATHERINE
HARBILAS, adult individuals and husband and wife, now of 817 Mandy Lane, Camp
Hill, Pennsylvania 17011, or their nominee ("Buyer") and EUGENE R. DEIMLER, SR.,
single adult individual, now of 4875 Deimler Lane, Camp Hill, Pennsylvania 17011
("Seller").
RECITALS:
WHEREAS, Seller is the title owner of property known as the Deimler Farm
located adjacent to Good Hope Road in Hampden Township, Cumberland County,
Pennsylvania, as shown on a Preliminary/Final Subdivision Plan of Deimler Farm
prepared by Act One Consultants, Inc., dated August 22, 1995 (the "Subdivision Plan"),
attached hereto as Exhibit "A" and incorporated herein. The Deimler Farm consists of a
tract of land, being Lot No. 1 on the Subdivision Plan, containing 62.0428 Acres, more
or less, zoned Office-Professional (OP) and a tract, being Lot No. 2 on the Subdivision
Plan, containing 104.2789 Acres, more or less, zoned Residential (RT). The total
acreage of the Deimler Farm is 166.3217 Acres, more or less, subject to rights-of-way,
as indicated in the Subdivision Plan; and
WHEREAS Buyer is the equitable owner or beneficial owner of the Deimler Farm
under valid Agreements of Sale or Option Agreement on the Deimler Farm, including
an Agreement for the Sale of Real Estate, dated March 15, 1988 and recorded in the
Office of the Recorder of Deeds of Cumberland County, May 10, 1988, in
Miscellaneous Book 349, Page 1085; an Addendum to the said Agreement, dated May
10, 1988, and recorded in the Office of the Recorder of Deeds of Cumberland County
May 18, 1988, in Miscellaneous Book 349, Page 1086; a second Addendum to the
Agreement, dated June 29, 1995, between John C. Harbilas and Seller; and a third
Addendum to the Agreement, dated April 2, 1996, between John C. Harbilas and Seller;
the aforesaid Agreement and Addenda thereto, all of which are attached hereto, form
Exhibit "B"' and are incorporated herein; and
I
WHEREAS, John C. Harbilas assigned his interest as Buyer in the ;aforesaid
Agreement of Sale to Buyer, jointly, by Assignment, attached hereto as Exhibit "C" and
i
incorporated herein; and
WHEREAS, the parties hereto each agree that Buyer has performed all
obligations required to be performed and paid all amounts required to be paid to Seller
under the aforesaid Agreements and Addenda thereto, through the date hereof; and
WHEREAS, the parties, by executing this Agreement, intend to supersede and
replace their existing agreements, as set forth in the cited exhibits with regard, to and to
modify and clarify all agreements, obligations and rights relevant thereto.
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the sum of One ($1.00) Dollar, receipt
of which is hereby acknowledged, the mutual modification of the aforesaid Agreements
and Addenda thereto, and in exchange for other good and valuable consideration,
receipt of which is hereby acknowledged, the Seller, for the period of time herein set
forth, hereby gives and grants unto the Buyer the sole and exclusive right and option to
purchase the Deimler Farm, or portions thereof, upon the following terms and
conditions:
1. Recitals. The recitals set forth above are incorporated herein by
reference.
2. Option Period/Expiration Date. Buyer shall have until March 15, 2005,
to exercise the Option herein granted, unless extended by written agreement between
Seller and Buyer, or as hereinafter provided. Buyer intends to attempt to exercise all
options herein contained prior to the expiration date, but is not required to do so.
i
i
3. Purchase Price. Buyer has previously paid Seller
which payment Seller acknowledges, and for which Sellerta ke.Qs, on designation and ?r" l 4
subdivision by Buyer, to the transfer and conveyance of any f ''1 Acres of the
Deimler Farm designated by Buyer to Buyer or Buyer's nominee. On the transfer to
Buyer by Seller of land owned by Buyer in Licking Creek Township, Fulton County,
Pennsylvania, more particularly bounded and described in a deed reeer?ie May 29,
44%, in the Office of the Recorder of Deeds of Fulton County in Deed Book 182, Page
388, Seller will transfer to Buyer any designated and subdivided twenty (20) acres
I '
2
j1 r
zoned OP on the Deimler Farm. On or before December 31, 1997, Buyer agrees to
pay an additional One Hundred Thousand and 00/100 ($100,000.00) Dollars to Seller,
in exchange for which Buyer, on designation and subdivision of a portion of the Deimler
Farm, at Buyer's option, shall receive an additional 6.666 Acres. On or before
December 31, 1998, Buyer agrees to pay an additional One Hundred and 00/100
($100,000.00) Dollars to Seller in exchange for which Buyer, on designation and
subdivision of the portion of the Deimler Farm, at Buyer's option, shall receive an
additional 6.666 acres. Thereafter at any time, or from time to time, through the term
hereof, Buyer may designate an additional portion or portions of the Deimler Farm and
receive title and conveyance to the same at a price of Fifteen Thousand and 00/100
($15,000.00) Dollars per acre. Buyer may exercise the option provided in this
paragraph once or as many times as Buyer desires and may accumulate acreage paid
for at various times and thereafter receive transfers of acreage therefor. buyer may
designate others to receive conveyance directly from Seller under the terms hereof.
4. Compliance with Mt. Zion 0 tion. The
p parties each acknowledge
that John c. Harbilas has entered into an Option Agreement with Mt. Zion Associates,
L.T., dated July 23, 1996, wherein Mt. Zion Associates obtained certain rights to inspect
and purchase some portions of Tract No. 1 of the Deimler Farm on the Subdivision
Plan. The Agreement with Mt. Zion Associates is evidenced by a Memorandum of Real
Estate Option Agreement, recorded in the Office of the Recorder of . Deeds of
Cumberland County. Seller confirms that he has joined in same and :agrees to
cooperate fully with Buyer in complying with all terms, conditions and obligations
thereof, including but not limited to providing access, cooperating in obtaining
subdivision and other government approvals, maintaining the lands subject to the Mt.
Zion Option, protecting the same from lien or encumbrance, except as allowed for
therein, conveyance thereof on the exercise of the Mt. Zion Option and providing good
title.
5. Access and and Inspection. The Buyer shall have the right and the Seller
shall cooperate with Buyer to allow Buyer feasibility studies concerning the purchase of
the Deimler Fans or any portion thereof, including environmental studies (Phase I and,
if appropriate, Phase II surveys), water studies, soil studies, survey, appraisals,
engineering studies, etc.
3
/ 'i
6. Property. The option herein granted shall apply to such portion(s) of
the property as determined by Buyer (in accordance with the provisions hereof) in
Buyer's notice to exercise the same.
7. Notice and Settlement. In the event Buyer exercises the option, the
sole means of exercising the option shall be by written notice, describing the property
(which shall be a separately subdivided parcel), sent be certified mail, return receipt
requested, or by overnight delivery service requiring receipt (such as UPS; Federal
Express or similar companies) postmarked prior to the expiration date set forth herein,
addressed to Seller, notifying Seller in writing of the exercise thereof and theItime and
place for settlement, which shall not be less than five (5) days nor more than sixty (60)
days after the date of said notice (or shall be held at such other time and place as the
parties may agree upon in writing). Buyer shall make payment of the purchase price for
the portion of the property then being purchased, as to which the. option is exercised, in
full at settlement. No single exercise of the option shall extinguish this option, and the
Buyer may exercise the same as to parcels of land subject to the option on one or more
occasions. Any funds previously paid to Seller hereunder shall entitle Buyer to
designate land at the rates set forth herein for conveyance on the conditions herein set
forth.
8. Failure to Exercise Option. To the extent that Buyer fails to exercise
the option, Buyer shall have no further duties or obligation to Seller, except fot physical
damage to the property, if any, which Buyer may have caused and for which Buyer is
and shall remain liable hereunder, and all sums theretofore paid by Buyer to Seller for
which Buyer does not exercise an option, if any, shall be retained by Seller as Seller's
total consideration for granting the option.
9. Plans, Zoning and Subdivision. Buyer, or Buyer's nominee or ;agent, is
authorized to procure, at no expense to Seller, surveys or other plans showing the
perimeter of the property and such other topographical or engineering data and
features as determined necessary or desirable by Buyer. Buyer may, at Buyer's
expense prepare subdivision and/or land development plans for the property or any
portions thereof. The lot layout, design and conditions shown on such plans shall be
determined by Buyer, with the consent of Seller, which shall not be unreasonably
withheld, delayed or conditioned. Following the exercise of the option, Buyer shall have
the right, at no expenses to Seller, to have any final subdivision, land development plan
4
f. ,
or similar plan showing the property as to which the option is exercised recorded, at
Buyer's discretion. i
i
10. Covenants of Seller. Seller covenants and agrees that:
a. Seller is the title owner of the Deimler Farm, subject to Buyer's
equitable ownership therein.
i
b. Seller will maintain his ownership and take all actions, including
payment of taxes to enable Seller to sell and convey the portions of the Deimler
Farm on which Buyer exercises his option and to perform all terms and
conditions hereof, including delivery of good and marketable title.
j
C. Seller will not take any actions or permit any inaction or omission
which would create or assist in creating defects in title from the date hereof until
the expiration date (or settlement, if the option is exercised), or which would
encumber the property to an extent and upon such terms as would prevent
Seller from performing this Agreement. Any mortgages or other monetary
encumbrances shall contain an unconditional obligation of the holder thereof to
release the property or portions thereof designated by Buyer, as herein provided,
for no consideration, as to the first five (5) Acres, and for no more than ninety
(90%) percent of the purchase price set forth herein, for the remaining land. Any
mortgages, judgments or obligations shall be released at the request; of Buyer
for no consideration from Buyer (except for payment of the purchase price
required hereunder).
d. Seller will cooperate reasonably, if requested by Buyer, in securing
assurances from the appropriate governmental authorities relating to
subdivision, use, water, sewer, and building permits and will give such
assistance to Buyer, or Buyer's assignees or nominees, as may be reasonably
necessary, other than money, to make appropriate soil, engineering and
environmental tests, including execution of any documents reasonably required
by Buyer to effectuate the same. Buyer shall provide a reasonable notice and
review period to Seller for any such requested cooperation.
5
?r
e. Buyer or Buyer's nominee or duty authorized agents or contractors
shall have the right to go upon the property, from time to time, from the date
hereof, for the duration of this Agreement for the purpose of conducting
appropriate tests, investigations and surveys, including but not limited to making
topographical and boundary line surveys, to conduct soil tests for percolation
and load bearing, to dig probe pits eight (8) feet or more in depth, for
environmental studies, water studies, soil studies, appraisals, engineering and to
make such other examinations or use of the property as Buyer may deem
i
necessary in Buyer's sole discretion.
11. Covenants of Buyer. Buyer covenants and agrees that Buyer shall
give prior notice of Buyer's intended entry onto the property for any activities on the
property contemplated by the foregoing paragraph hereof, shall use reasonable testing
techniques that are designed to be the least disruptive to any growing crops and
existing use of the land, and shall promptly restore the property to the condition existing
prior to such tests (including top soil to its pre-testing depth), and shall indemnify and
save harmless Seller against any loss or liability resulting from the entry of Buyer or
Buyer's nominees or their duly authorized agents or contractors in conjunction with the
activities described in the preceding paragraph. This obligation shall survive
termination of the option.
12. Time of the Essence. Time shall be of the essence as to this
Agreement and of all obligations hereunder.
13. Exercise Option. In the event the option is exercised by Buyer, it shall
become an agreement of sale as to the portion of the property as to which it is
exercised duly binding upon the Seller and the Buyer, and their respective heirs,
successors and assigns, as hereinafter provided, subject to the following, additional
terms and conditions:
a. Payment of Purchase Price. The purchase price; for the
portion of the property as to which it is then exercised shall be paid at the
closing.
b. Title. Buyer shall, at no expense to Seller, secure whatever
evidence of title Buyer desires; provided, however, Seller's conveyance must be
6
found to convey good and marketable title to the property being conveyed in fee
simple, free and clear of all liens and encumbrances, except easements and
restrictions which do not unreasonably interfere with Buyer's intended use of the
property.
C. Deed. At settlement, the Seller shall convey to Buyer or
Buyer's nominee, title as aforesaid by special warranty deed.
d. Taxes and Assessments. Seller and Buyer agree to peorate, as of
the date of closing, all real estate taxes and rents. Seller shall be liable for all
assessments prior to closing.
e. Possession. Possession of the portion of the property being
conveyed shall be given to Buyer immediately upon delivery of deed from Seller.
f. Closing of Transaction. Closing (or settlement) on this
transaction shall not be less than five (5) days or more than sixty (66) days after
notice to Seller of Buyer's election to exercise the option, but closing shall not
occur until Buyer has caused to be recorded a duly approved subdivision plan for
the portion of the property being purchased.
g. Closing Expenses. Each party shall pay closing and expenses as
is customary. Transfer taxes shall be paid fifty (50%) percent by each party.
14. Condition of the Property. Seller shall not, during the term of this
Agreement, exercise Seller's rights of ownership so as to interfere with or alter the
condition of the property as it exists on the date hereof.
15. Condemnation. In the event of condemnation of the property, the
Seller shall advise the Buyer of said condemnation upon receipt of notice of the
proceeding. Any award made pursuant to the proceeding shall be paid to the parties
hereunder as their interests may then appear pursuant to this Agreement.
16. Defective Title. If the title to the property is found to be defective or
unmarketable or any part of the property is subject to liens, encumbrances; easements,
conditions or restrictions, the Seller shall have a reasonable time, not exceeding sixty
7
(60) days after written notice thereof, in which to remedy or remove any such defect,
lien, encumbrance, easement, condition, restriction or encroachment. If the Seller is
unable to remedy, remove or secure title insurance against such defect, lien,
encumbrance, easement, condition, restriction, or encroachment within such
reasonable time, Buyer shall be entitled to terminate this Agreement and to receive a
return, in full, of all monies theretofore paid by Buyer to Seller, if any, or, if such
objection is liquidated as to amount, to pay so much of the proceeds' due Seller at
closing to satisfy such objection, but otherwise to waive said defects and accept such
title as Seller is able to grant and convey, at Buyer's option. Upon termination, if
elected the obligations and duties of the parties hereto (to one another) shall cease and
terminate, and each party shall be relieved and fully released from any and all damage
or claims in favor of any other party to this Agreement.
17. Default. Upon default or breach of this Agreement by Seller, Buyer
shall, at Buyer's election, be entitled: (a) to a return of all option; consideration
theretofore paid, to reimbursement by Seller of all expenses incurred by Buyer in
pursuing the terms of this Agreement, both with interest at the prime rata of interest as
published in The Wall Street Journal or its successor publication, from time to time, plus
four (4%) percent (the °Interest") and to damages, or (b) to specific performance. In
either case, Buyer shall also be entitled to recover from Seller Buyers reasonable
attorney's fees and costs incurred as a consequence of Seller's default.
18. Tax Free Exchange. Both parties agree that either party may wish
to treat the conveyance of this property as a tax free exchange of like kind properties as
may be permitted under Section 1031 of the United States Internal Revenue Code. In
the event that either party is able to arrange for the acquisition of other property which
can be exchanged for the property in such a tax free transaction, the parties agree that
each of them will cooperate to conclude such a like kind exchange on a tax free basis, if
at all possible. In exchange for a party's cooperation for such efforts, the requesting
party agrees to bear and pay in full all of the other parties' reasonable costs and
expenses associated with the tax free exchange and further to indemnify and save
harmless the other parties from any loss, cost or claim, including reasonable attorney's
and accountant's fees caused to the other parties as a result of such like ;kind exchange
and any review, audit or dispute of the same by the Internal Revenue Service. In the
event a party chooses to treat the transaction as a tax free exchange, Such party may
assign this contract to another person or entity without first obtaining the written
8
consent of the other party. Under such assignment, the party so assigning will assign
its rights under this Agreement as contemplated by Treasury Regulation Section
1.1031(K)-1(g)(4)(V) but not its obligations under this Agreement. Closing shall not be
delayed by an assignment as set forth in this paragraph.
19. Gender/Number. Whenever the context herein so requires, the singular
number shall include the plural, the plural shall include the singular, and the use of any
gender shall be applicable to all genders.
20. Headings. The headings or captions preceding the paragraphs in this
Agreement are inserted for convenience of reference only and shall not be construed in
interpreting this Agreement.
21. Pennsylvania Law. This Agreement shall be governed by and construed
in accordance with the laws of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.
22. Entire Agreement. This Agreement contains the entire understanding
between the parties hereto and supersedes any prior written or oral ',agreements
between them respecting the within subject matter, including but not limited to those
Agreements and Addenda thereto set forth in the recital hereto and incorporated
herein. There are no representations, agreements, arrangements or understandings,
oral or written, between or among the parties hereto relating to the subject matter of
this Agreement which are not fully expressed herein.
23. Formal Tender. Formal tender of deed and purchase; money are
hereby waived.
i
24. Assigns. This Agreement shall be binding upon and inure to the
benefit of the heirs, successors and assigns of the parties hereto.
i
25. Survival of Covenants. All covenants and provisions hereof which
expressly or impliedly are intended to survive settlement shall survive the settlement
and the execution and delivery of the deed and conveyance and shall not be merged
therein.
9
I
y „26. Modifications/Waiver. No change or modification to this Agreement
shall be valid unless the same is in writing and signed by the parties hereto. No waiver
of the provisions of this Agreement shall be valid unless in writing and signed by the
party against whom such waiver is sought to be enforced.
27. Notice. Any notice required hereunder shall be hand deli ivered, sent
by certified United States mail, postage prepaid, or sent by overnight delivery service
requiring receipt (such as Federal Express or UPS) to the parties, and shall be deemed
to have been given upon actual receipt or refusal of such notice at the following
addresses:
If to the Buyer: Mr. and Mrs. John C. Harbilas
817 Mandy Lane
Camp Hill, PA 17011
With a copy to: Bruce D. Foreman, Esquire
3207 North Front Street
Harrisburg, PA 17110-1311
If to the Seller: Mr..Eugene R. Deimler, Sr.
4875 Deimler Lane
Camp Hill, PA 17011
28. Real Estate Broker. John C. Harbilas is a licensed real estate agent
and broker in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, which fact is known to Seller.
29. Waiver of Tender. Tender of an executed deed and/or the purchase
price, in the event of a default, is hereby waived.
30. Memorandum of Option. This Agreement may be recorded, and if
requested, all parties hereto agree to execute a Memorandum of option in recordable
form setting forth the duration of the Option and such other terms and conditions as are
necessary to give notice of the provisions hereof.
10
i
IN` WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto, intending to be legally; bound
hereby, have executed this Agreement the day and year first above-written.
WITNESS:
BUYER:
r.
John C. Har ilas
Katherine Harbilas
WITNESS:
SELLER:
E ene R. Deimler, Sr.
11
a-
AGREEMENT FOR THE SALE OF REAL ESTATE
THIS AGREEMENT is made this day of beCk;M6g = 200 , by
and between Eugene R. Deimler, Sr., an adult individual, of 4875 Deimler Lane, Camp Hill,
Cumberland County, Pennsylvania 17011, • and Deimler, Sr., Trust, Eugene R. Daimler,
Trustee, hereinafter jointly called "Seller", and John C. Harbilas and Kathryn Harbilas, adult
individuals and husband and wife, of 817 Mandy Lane, Camp Hill, Cumberland County,
Pennsylvania 17011, or his assigns, hereinafter collectively called "Purchaser".
WHEREAS, Seller is the title owner of record of the Real Estate known as the Deimhr
Farm located adjacent to Good Hope Road in Hampden Township, Cumberland County,
Pennsylvania, more fully described on Exhibit A attached hereto and incorporated herein by
reference, hereinafter referred to as the "Real Estate"; and
WHEREAS, Seller and Purchaser had previously executed a Real Estate Option
Agreement (the "Option Agreement) for Real Estate dated January 7, 1997, and recorded in
the Office of the Recorder of Deeds of Cumberland County January 17, 1997, in Miscellaneous
Book 538, Page 1113, as amended August 12, 2002; and
WHEREAS, the Option Agreement provides an expiration date of March 15, 2005; and
WHEREAS, the. Option Period set forth in the Option Agreement may expire without
Purchaser having fully exercised his rights regarding Real Estate under the Option Agreement;
and
WHEREAS, Seller desires to sell and Purchaser agrees to purchase remaining Real
Estate under and subject to the terms and conditions hereinafter provided which the parties
desire to confirm in, writing.
NOW, THEREFORE, and in consideration of their mutual promises and covenants, and
other good and valuable consideration, receipt of which is hereby acknowledged, the parties
hereto, intending to be legally bound hereby, agree as follows:
RECITALS: The recitals set forth above are incorporated herein by reference.
2. SALE AND PURCHASE. Seller hereby agrees to sell, transfer and convey to
Purchaser, who agrees to purchase, Real Estate. The parties agree that Purchaser shall have
all rights which Purchaser had as Optlonee under the above-referenced Option Agreement,
except that payments by Purchaser shall be made as set forth herein.
3. PURCHASE PRICE. Purchaser shall pay the sum of Seven Hundred Twelve
Thousand Six Hundred Ninety and 00/100 ($712,690.00) Dollars, to Seller, as follows:
a. The principal sum of One Hundred Thousand and 00/100 ($100,000.00) Dollars,
on March 15, 2005; and
b. The principal sum of One Hundred Thousand and 001100 ($100,000.00) Dollars,
on June 15, 2006.
C. The balance of the purchase price principal in the sum of Five Hundred Twelve
Thousand Six Hundred Ninety and 00/100 ($512,690.00) Dollars, to be paid on
March 15, 2008.
d. Purchaser retains right of pre-payment without penalty.
4. INTEREST ON PURCHASE PRICE. Purchaser shall pay annual interest on the
outstanding balance of the purchase price to Seller, reduced in accord with the principal
payments made that year, which interest shall begin to accrue on March 15, 2005, as follows:
a. On 'March 15, 2006, Purchaser will pay an annual interest payment at a rate of
five (5%) percent of the current outstanding balance of the purchase price due to
Seller.
b. On March 15, 2007, Purchaser will pay an annual interest payment at a rate of
five (5%) percent of the current outstanding balance of the purchase price due to
Seller; and
C. On March 15, 2008, Purchaser will pay a final interest payment at a rate of five
(5%) percent of the current outstanding balance of the purchase price
concurrently due to Seller.
5. REAL ESTATE TO BE CONVEYED. Purchaser may designate within the
limitations set forth herein a portion of the Real Estate, being equal to the amount of land which
has been paid for by Purchaser under this agreement based upon the per-acre price
determined by the prior Option and dividing the total sale/purchase price by the total acreage,
and Purchaser shall be entitled to receive title and conveyance to the same after subdivision.
All costs, expenses and fees required to effect an approved subdivision shall be paid for solely
by Purchaser without contribution or reimbursement by Seller. Seller will cooperate with
Purchaser in the subdivision process. The parties-agree that upon payment of the $100,000.00
by Purchaser to Seller due on March 15, 2005, Purchaser shall be entitled to 63.432 acres of
land based upon payments previously or then made.
Limitation on designation: Purchaser's right to designate land for conveyance shall be
limited to:
(a) A tract of unimproved land (not to include any buildings on said
designated tract).
(b) The location of such tract shall be situated so that Seller's remaining land
will be accessible to an existing public road by direct adjoiner in such
manner that such remaining land can be developed in accordance with
existing zoning regulations of Hampden Township.
(c) Such designated land shall not include any of the existing buildings or
other structures.
2
(d) if the designated land includes any wells providing water to the remaining
lands improved with existing buildings, an appropriate easement and
right-of-way shall be provided and reserved for Seller appurtenant to said
remaining land-
(e) Said designated land shall be conveyed subject to Seller's obligation to
extend all utilities which may be constructed on the designated land to the
boundary of Seller's remaining lands in order to provide said remaining
lands with the right to connect thereto for the development and use of the
remaining lands in accordance with the existing zoning regulations of
Hampden Township. The term "utilities" shall include sanitary sewer,
water, gas, electricity, telephone and cable television.
6. NOTICE ON REAL ESTATE TO BE CONVEYED. Purchaser shall provide
Seller with six (6) months notice of Purchaser's intent to designate a portion or portions of Real
Estate to which Purchaser is to received title and conveyance. Said notice is necessary so that
Seller can continue to farm portions of the Real Estate until final settlement. However,
Purchaser will be entitled to take ownership and possession of Real Estate without delay if
Seller is not currently farming the portion of Real Estate.
7. DEED AND TITLE. The title to the premises shall be conveyed to Purchaser by
Seller's special warranty deed, conveying good and marketable title, free and clear of all other
judgments, liens and encumbrances, subject only to easements, rights-of way and restrictions
of record and those which a physical inspection of the Real Estate would disclose. Title shall be
such as will be insured by any reputable title insurance company, doing business in Pennsylva-
nia, at its regular rates.
8. TAXES. County, municipal and school district Real Estate taxes shall be paid by
Seller until final settlement. Sewer, trash and other municipal charges shall be paid by Seller
and apportioned pro rata as of the date of settlement. Seller will be solely responsible for any
reduced assessment of Real Estate due to the use of the land or the roll back of taxes,
including any clean and green provisions.
9. SETTLEMENT. Settlement, subject to satisfaction of all contingencies herein set
forth, shall take place on or before the 15" day of March, 2008, at the law offices of Foreman &,
Foreman PC, 4409 North Front Street, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, or at such other place as the
parties may hereafter agree to in writing.
10. POSSESSION. Purchaser shall be entitled to possession of the Real Estate as
of the date of settlement for that portion of Real Estate. However, Purchaser and/or their agents
shall be allowed access to the Real Estate for the purpose of conducting inspections and/or
appraisals of the Real Estate but Purchaser shall be responsible to Seller for any damages to
growing crops caused by such inspections and/or appraisals.
11. SELLER'S DEFAULT. If Seller is unable to deliver the quality of title required in
accordance with the terms of this Agreement, Purchaser shall have the option of terminating
this Agreement, or cure title at Seller's expense.
12. REAL ESTATE TRANSFER TAXES. Each party agrees to pay one-half (1/2) of
the realty transfer taxes which may be required to be paid as a result of any transfer at the time
the deed is recorded.
- 13. CURRENT USE. Except as specifically stated below, Seller represents that he
has not received any notice from any governmental authority of any violation of any laws
relating to the current use or condition of the Real Estate and warrants that he will comply with
the requirements of all notices received prior to the date of final settlement at his sole cost and
expense. It is specifically understood and agreed that both parties hereto have actual
knowledge of an environmental problem concerning ground water contamination presently
identified as being located generally in the northeastern area of the real estate and that
possible remediation may be required. Purchaser as equitable owner covenants and agrees to
cure said groundwater problem at such time as enforcement action may require, and Purchaser
agrees to indemnify Seller and hold him harmless of and from any and all costs, expenses,
penalties or fines hereinafter arising from said enforcement action and the curing of the
problem. The responsibilities of Purchaser in this paragraph 13 shall commence immediately
upon the execution of this agreement. The provisions of this paragraph 13 shall survive
final settlement of the sale of the Real Estate.
14. CONDITION OF REAL _ESTATE. Seller shall not be responsible for the curing of
any existing environmental problems discovered on Real Estate. Purchaser or his assigns shall
be responsible for the curing of any existing environmental problems disclosed to Purchaser as
of this date. Seller shall be responsible for cleaning all debris, trash and other materials from
Real Estate, including, but not limited to, tires and vehicles currently on Real Estate. Seller
agrees to allow Purchaser full and complete access to the Real Estate to remediate any
existing environmental problems thereon, including digging of wells.
15. ENTIRE AGREEMENT. It is further understood that. this Agreement and the
documents herein referenced contain the entire Agreement between Seller and Purchaser and
there are no other terms, obligations, covenants, representations, statements or conditions, oral
or otherwise, of any kind whatsoever concerning this sale, Furthermore, this Agreement shall
not be amended except in writing executed by the parties hereto. The terms of this
Agreement shall survive settlement.
16. EFFECTIVE DATE OF THIS AGREEMENT. Except as otherwise provided
hereinabove, this Agreement will be effective as of the termination of an existing Option with Mt.
Zion Associates and with Purchaser and, in- the event the Option with Mt. Zion Associates is
exercised in part but not with regard to all lands herein covered, this Agreement shall be pro
rated by acreage in or when the Option is exercised and continue with regard to remaining
lands and, if the Option is exercised with regard to all lands which are the subject of this
Agreement, this Agreement shall terminate and no party shall have any further obligation
hereunder. Until the expiration of the Option with Purchaser, Purchaser may act under that
Option.
17. BINDING EFFECT. This Agreement shall be binding upon the parties hereto,
their respective heirs, executors, administrators, successors and assigns. Specifically,
Purchaser may take title to any portion of said Real Estate in his own name or in the name of -
any assignee, and Purchaser may assign any portion of this Agreement to any assignee.
4
IS. GOVERNING I..A1N. This Agreement shall be governed by and construed in
accordance with the laws of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto, intending to be legally bound hereby,
hereunto set their hands and seals the day and year first above written.
Witness:
SELLER:
e-?O*e?
E E R. DEIMLER, SR.
T IMLER SR. TRUST
EOCENE R. DEIMLER, SR. TRUSTEE
PURCHASER:
N C. HARBILAS
J
KA HRY HARBILAS
COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA
SS.
COUNTY OF
On this, the TVOL day of 0ffCrWar1L , 2004, before me, the
undersigned officer, personally appeared Eugene R. Deimler, Sr. and The Deimler Sr,, Trust,
Eugene R. Daimler, Sr., Trustee, known to me (or satisfactorily proven) to be the person(s)
whose name(s) is/are subscribed to the within instrument and acknowledged that he/she/they
executed the same for the purposes herein contained-
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I hereunto set my hand and official seal.
My Commission Expires:
COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA
Notarial Seal
Susan L. Matiazi, Notary Public
MechancsWrg Boro, Cumberland County
My COfnr *SiOn Fires Nov. 24, 2007
Member, Pennsylvania Association Of Notaries . _.__ ..?..?.• _
COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA
SS.
COUNTY OF
On this, the Vk day of D eCeMbV' 2004, before me, the
undersigned officer, personally appeared John C. Harbilas and Kathryn Harbilas, known to
me (or satisfactorily proven) to be the person(s) whose name(s) is/are subscribed to the within
instrument and acknowledged that he/shelthey executed the same for the purposes herein
contained.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I hereunto set my hand and official seal.
My Commission Expires;
000
Notary Public
MMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA
Notarial Seal
Loreltn L. C loodling, Notary Public
6 My N clo?mm?ion Sam, Dauphin 2Cotaq
3, 2006
Member, Pennsylvania Assodetlon of Notaries
r
EXHIBIT A
DESCRIPTION OF REAL ESTATE
ALL that certain tract of land containing 104.2789 acres situated in the Township of
Hampden, County of Cumberland and Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, being all of Lot No. 2 as
shown on a certain plan of lots entitled "Preliminary/Final Subdivision Plan of Deimler Farm"
dated August 22, 1995 and last revised on September 21, 1995, recorded in the Office of the
Recorder of Deeds in and for Cumberland County, Pennsylvania in Plan Book 85, Page 103.
3
REAL ESTATE OPTION AGREEMENT
THIS REAL ESTATE OPTION AGREEMENT ("Agreement") is made
this 23rd day of July, 1996, by and between Mt. Zion Associates,
L.P., a Pennsylvania limited partnership, with its principal
office at 20 Erford Road, Suite 201, Lemoyne, PA 17043, or its
nominee ("Buyer") and John C. Harbilas, of 817 Mandy Lane, Camp
Hill, PA 17011 ("Seller").
RECITALS:
The background to this Option is as follows:
R-1. Eugene R. Deimler, Sr. ("Deimler") is the owner
of property known as the Deimler Farm located adjacent to Good
Hope Road in Hampden Township, Cumberland County, Pennsylvania,
as shown on a Preliminary/Final Subdivision Plan of Deimler Farm
by Act One Consultants, Inc. dated August 22, 1995 (the
"Subdivision Plan").
s
R-2. Seller is the owner or beneficial owner under a
valid Agreement of Sale or Option Agreement of the Deimler Farm,
which is adjacent to lands of Buyer; and
R-3. The parties, by executing this agreement, intend
to create an Option in Buyer to purchase a portion of the
Deimler Farm; said portion being identified as Lot 11 on the
Subdivision Plan less, however, a portion of Lot 11 not
i
exceeding four acres, fronting on Good Hope Road, to be
designated by the Seller, as more fully provided hereinafter, `
which Lot it is zoned office - professional and located adjacent
t
to said lands of Buyer and being referred to herein as the
4
"Property".
t
ti
5
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the sum of one
($1.00) Dollar, rreceipt of which is hereby acknowledged, the
Seller, for the period of time herein set forth, hereby gives
and grants unto.the Buyer the sole and exclusive right and
i
option to purchase the Property ("Option"), upon the following
terms and conditions:
1. Recitals. The recitals set forth above are
incorporated herein`by reference.
2. O tion Pe 'od x iratio at . Buyer shall have
six (6) years from the date of execution and delivery of a fully
executed counterpart (including Joinder) of this Agreement to
Buyer (the "Expiration Date") within which to exercise the
Option herein granted, unless extended by written agreement
between Seller and Buyer, or as hereinafter provided.
3. Purchase Price. The purchase price to be paid for
the Property shall be based upon the time period (year)
following the execution of this option in which the Buyer
exercises the rights to purchase and the acreage (net of any
currently existing streets or public rights of way), calculated
by a registered land surveyor to the nearest hundredth of an
acre, in the portion of the Property as to which the Buyer has
exercised the Option, as follows:
Year Price Per Acre
2 $30,000.00
3 $32,000.00
4
yr? 7 2
'-$34,000.00 )? 9 Ir
4 $36,000.00 J.j\
6 $38,000.06 .-3 ) wv a "-I
$40, 000.00 T
,/k? Za??
2
i
The price per acre or, more particularly, the acreage for which
the Buyer makes payment, shall be calculated on the basis of the
year in which the payment is actually made to the Seller. For
example, if the Buyer makes a payment of $100,000.00 in year
one, the Buyer shall be entitled to 3 1/3 acres, but if that
same ($100,000.00) payment is made in year three, the Buyer
shall only be entitled to 2.941 acres. Notwithstanding the
foregoing provision, in the event settlement is delayed through
no fault of the Buyer, and the closing is not held during a year
in which a payment is scheduled, then the Buyer shall be
entitled to credit for acreage (and the per acre price), at the
price which would have obtained had the closing occurred in the
year in which the Buyer was prepared to close (except for the
delay not occasioned by the Buyer).
4. Retained Tract/Property. The Property shall not
include a tract of land fronting on Good Hope Road and
containing up to four acres of ground, as selected and
determined by Seller, with the approval of the Buyer, which
shall not be unreasonably withheld or delayed (the "Retained
Tract"). The Seller shall designate the boundaries of the
Retained Tract, in a general way, within sixty (60) days
following execution of this Agreement, and shall cause a
subdivision plan of the Retained Tract to be filed with Hampden
Township within ninety (90) days thereafter, at Sellers
expense. Seller shall diligently pursue securing such
subdivision approval. Seller agrees that the Retained Tract
3
4
shall be subject to a restrictive covenant, enforceable by
Buyer, that the building to be constructed on the Retained Tract
will be a first class office building, or of the style and
construction quality of the office buildings in Lemoyne Square.
All of Lot ,#1, other than the Retained Tract, shall constitute
the Property. Each portion of the Property as to which Buyer
exercises the Option shall be contiguous and adjacent to the
property currently owned by Buyer (situated to the north and
east of the Property), shall be a parcel laid out with due
regard for the reasonable development of the remaining Property
in the event Buyer does not exercise its option with respect
thereto, and each subsequent option parcel shall be adjacent and
contiguous to property then owned by Buyer (or an affiliate of
Buyer), as Buyer's Property may have been augmented by the prior
exercise of this option. To the extent reasonable and feasible,
the property line of each parcel to be acquired by Seller shall
be at a ninety (900) degree angle to the right-of-way line for
Interstate 81, where such new property line intersects with
Interstate 81, unless otherwise agreed by the parties.
5. Inspection Period and Consideration. The Buyer
shall have a period of ninety (90) days in which to conduct a
feasibility study concerning the purchase of the Property,
including environmental studies (Phase I, and, if appropriate,
Phase II, surveys, and other testing as generally referenced in
Paragraph 10 hereof). The Buyer will make any of its
feasibility studies relating to the Property or its
4
characteristics (such as environmental studies, soil testing,
traffic studies and the like), but not those studies dealing
with financing or economic analysis available to Seller within a
reasonable time following Buyer's receipt thereof. The Seller
has, at Seller's expense, cause a registered land surveyor to
survey the boundaries of the Property (i.e., the portion of the
Deimler Farm which is the subject of this Option) which is
located within the Office Professional Zone, as defined by the
Hampden Township Zoning Ordinance, for the purpose of providing
a legal description of the Property. At the execution hereof,
the Buyer shall deposit with the Seller the sum of Twenty-Six
Thousand ($26,000.00) Dollars, which sum shall be (i) repaid to
Buyer in the event Buyer determines, during the feasibility
period, that Buyer will not purchase the Property; or (ii) if
Buyer determines at the conclusion of the feasibility study
period to purchase the Property, then applicable to the purchase
price Until the end of the feasibility study period, the
$26,000.00 shall be represented by a promissory judgment note
(the "Note") signed by Seller and Seller's wife. The Note shall
be due and payable, without setoff, sixty (60) days following
demand, and shall bear interest only following.its due date
(i.e., 60 days after demand), such interest to be at the prime
rate,of interest as published in The Wall Street Journal or its
successor publication, from time to time, plus four (0)
percent. The Note shall be deposited with Buyer's counsel, Wix,
Wenger & Weidner, in escrow, and delivered to Buyer only if
5
Buyer determines and gives notice to Seller within the
feasibility study period that Buyer has determined not to
purchase the Property. At the conclusion of such feasibility
study period, the Buyer shall pay to the Seller the additional
sum of $74,000.00, which (together with the initial $26,000.00
payment) shall thereupon be non-refundable, but applicable to
the purchase price,.if Buyer exercises the Option as to any
portion of the Property. Thereafter, on or before the second
anniversary of this option, the third anniversary of this
Option, the fourth anniversary of this Option and the fifth
anniversary of this Option, the Buyer shall pay to the Seller
the sum of $100,000.00 (each year). Each of the foregoing
payments shall be non-refundable, but shall be applicable to the
purchase price, to the extent Buyer exercises the Option as to
any portion of the Property. If the Buyer fails to make any of
the foregoing payments, Buyers Option shall, upon written
notice from Seller, terminate, and all monies theretofore paid
by Buyer shall be retained by Seller as Seller's total
compensation for all rights granted to Buyer and all claims
which Seller may have against Buyer, for on account of or
related to this Agreement, except for physical damage to the
Property, if any, which Buyer may have caused and for which
Buyer is and shall remain liable hereunder.
6. Property. The Option herein granted shall apply to
such portion(s) of the Property as determined by Buyer (in
6
accordance with the provisions hereof) in Buyers notice to
exercise the same.
7. Notice and Settlement. In the event Buyer
exercises the Option, the sole means of exercising the Option
shall be by written notice, describing the Property (which shall
be a separately subdivided parcel), sent by certified mail,
return receipt requested, or by overnight delivery service
requiring receipt
(such as UPS, Federal Express or similar
companies) postmarked prior to the Expiration Date, addressed to
Seller as provided in Paragraph 26 hereof, notifying Seller in
writing of the exercise thereof and the time and place for
settlement, which shall not be less than five (5) days nor more
than sixty (60) days after the date of said notice (or shall be
held at such other time and place as the parties may agree upon
in writing). Buyer shall make payment of the purchase price for
the portion of the Property then being purchased, as to which
the Option is exercised, in full at settlement. No single
exercise of the option shall extinguish this Option, and the
Buyer may exercise the same as to parcels of land subject to the
Option on one or more occasions.
8. Failure to Exercise option. In the event Buyer
fails to exercise the Option, Buyer shall have no further duties
or obligations to Seller, except for physical damage to the
Property, if any, which Buyer may have caused and for which
Buyer is and shall remain liable hereunder, and all sums
theretofore paid by Buyer to Seller, if any, shall be retained
7
by Seller as Seller's total consideration for granting the
Option.
9. Plans. Zoninq and Subdivision. Buyer is authorized
to procure, at no expense to Seller, surveys or other plans
showing the perimeter of the Property and such other
topographical or engineering data and features as determined
necessary or desirable by Buyer. Buyer may, at Buyer's expense,
prepare subdivision and/or land development plans for the
Property or any portions thereof. The lot layout, design and
conditions shown on such plans shall be determined by Buyer,
with the consent of Seller, which shall not be unreasonably
withheld, delayed or conditioned. Following exercise of the
Option, Buyer shall have the right, at no expense to Seller, to
have any final subdivision, land development plan or similar
plan showing the Property as to which the option is exercised
recorded, at Buyer's discretion.
10. Covenants of Seller. Seller covenants and agrees
that:
(a) Seller is the equitable owner by virtue of
Seller's option with Deimler, of the Property.
(b) Seller will maintain his option, and take all
actions, including payment to Deimler of all sums due
to Deimler to enable Seller to sell and convey the
Property and to perform all terms and conditions
hereof, including delivery of good and marketable
title.
8
5
(c) Seller will not take any actions or permit
any inaction or omission which would create or assist
in creating defects in title from the date hereof until
the Expiration Date (or settlement, if the Option is
exercised), or which would encumber the Property to an
extent and upon such terms as would prevent Seller from
performing.this Agreement. Any mortgages or other
monetary encumbrances shall contain an unconditional
obligation of the holder thereof to release the
Property or portions thereof designated by Buyer, as
herein provided, for no consideration, as to the first
five acres, and for no more than ninety (90%) percent
of the purchase price set forth herein, for the
remaining land. Any mortgages, judgments or
obligations shall be released at the request of Buyer
for no consideration from Buyer (except for payment of
the purchase price required hereunder).
(d) Seller will cooperate reasonably, if
requested by Buyer, in securing assurances from the
appropriate governmental authorities relating to
subdivision, use, water, sewer, and building permits
and will give such assistance to Buyer, or Buyers
assignees or nominees, as may be reasonably necessary,
other than money, to secure such approvals and to make
appropriate soil, engineering and environmental tests,
including execution of any documents reasonably
9
I
required by Buyer to effectuate the same. Buyer shall
provide a reasonable notice and review period to Seller
for any such requested cooperation.
(e) Buyer or Buyer's nominee or duly authorized
agents or contractors shall have the right to go upon
the Property, from time to time, from the date hereof,
for the duration of the Option for the purpose of
conducting appropriate tests investigations and
surveys, including but not limited to making
topographical and boundary line surveys, to conduct
soil tests for percolation and load bearing, to dig
probe pits eight (8) feet or more in depth and to make
such other examinations or use of the Property as Buyer
may deem necessary in Buyer's sole discretion.
(f) As record title to the tract of which the
Property is a part is, as of the date of execution of
this Agreement, owned by Daimler, a party other than
Seller, Seller expressly covenants that Seller, at
Seller's expense, will obtain any necessary consent and
cooperation of such record title owner to the
implementation of the provisions of this Option
Agreement. Daimler, by his joinder herein, consents to
this Agreement and agrees to cooperate, as reasonable,
in effectuating the terms and conditions hereof. If,
for any reason, Daimler fails to consent or cooperate
10
as herein provided, such failure shall be deemed a
default and breach of this Agreement.
11. Covenants of Buver. Buyer covenants and agrees
that:
(a) Buyer shall give prior notice of Buyer's
intended entry onto the Property for any activities on
the Property contemplated by Paragraph 10(e) hereof,
shall use testing techniques that are designed to be
the least disruptive to Deimler's crops and existing
use of the land, and shall promptly restore the
Property to the condition existing prior to such tests
(including top soil to its pretesting depth), and shall
indemnify and save harmless Seller against any loss or
liability resulting from the entry of Buyer or Buyers
nominees or their duly authorized agents or contractors
in conjunction with the activities described in the
preceding Paragraph. This obligation shall survive
termination of the option.
(b) In order to protect crops growing on the
Property, in the event the testing or other activities
proposed by the Seller would have more than nominal
damage to crops growing on the Property,-the Buyer
will, prior to exercising its rights of inspection,
provide to Deimler a plan showing the location of the
testing to be performed or other activity and will also
provide a general description of the activities which
11
the Buyer anticipates. Should Deimler object to such
activity by or on behalf of the Buyer, then the Buyer
agrees not to engage in such testing or other activity
until the current crop has been harvested; provided,
however, that the inspection period shall be extended
by the delay so occasioned (a time period equal to the
time between the date the testing plan and description
are presented to Deimler and the date when Deimler
authorizes the Buyer to proceed).
12. Time of the Essence. Time shall be of the essence
as to this Agreement and of all obligations hereunder.
13. Exercise of Option. In the event the Option is
exercised by Buyer, it shall become an agreement of sale as to
the portion of the Property as to which it is exercised duly
binding upon the Seller and the Buyer, and their respective
heirs, successors and assigns, as hereinafter provided, subject
to the following additional terms and conditions:
(a) Payment of Purchase Price. The purchase
price for the portion of the Property as to which it is
then exercised shall be paid at the closing in the
manner provided in Paragraph 3 hereof.
(b) Title. Buyer shall, at no expense to Seller,
secure whatever evidence of title Buyer desires;
provided, however, Sellers conveyance must be found to
convey good and marketable title to the Property being
conveyed in fee simple, free and clear of all liens and
,t
f
12
encumbrances ?i
except easements and restrictions which
do not unreasonably interfere with Buyer's intended use
,
e
of the Property.
(c) Deed. At settlement, the Seller shall convey
to Buyer title as aforesaid by special warranty deed.
(d) Taxes and Assessments. Seller and Buyer
agree to prorate, as of the date of closing, all real
estate taxes and rents. Seller shall be liable for all
assessments prior to closing.
(e) Possession. Possession of the portion of the
Property being conveyed shall be given to Buyer
immediately upon delivery of deed from Seller.
(f) Closing of Transaction. Closing (or
settlement) on this transaction shall not be less than
five (5) days or more than sixty (60) days after notice
to Seller of Buyer's election to exercise the Option, `6r
but closing shall not occur until Buyer has caused to
be recorded a duly approved subdivision plan for the
portion of the Property being purchased.
(g) Closing Extiens. Each party shall pay
closing expenses as is customary. Transfer taxes shall
be paid fifty (50%) percent by each party.
14. Condition of the Prn ??
oerty, Seller shall not,
during the term of this Agreement, exercise Seller's rights of
ownership so as to interfere with or alter the condition of the
Property as it exists on the date hereof.
13
15. Condemnation. In the event of condemnation of the
Property, the Seller shall advise the Buyer of said condemnation
upon receipt of notice of said proceeding. Any award made
pursuant to the proceeding shall be paid to the parties
hereunder as their interests may then appear pursuant to this
Agreement.
16. Defective Title. If the title to the Property is
found to be defective or unmarketable or any part of the
Property is subject to liens, encumbrances, easements,
conditions or restrictions, the Seller shall have a reasonable
time, not exceeding sixty (60) days after written notice
thereof, in which to remedy or remove any such defect, lien,
encumbrance, easement, condition, restriction or encroachment.
If the Seller is unable to remedy, remove or to secure title
insurance against such defect, lien, encumbrance, easement,
condition, restriction or encroachment within such reasonable
time, Buyer shall be entitled to terminate this Agreement and to
receive a return, in full, of all monies theretofore paid by
Buyer to Seller, if any, or, if such objection is liquidated as
to amount, to pay so much of the proceeds due Seller at closing
to satisfy such objection, but otherwise to waive said defects
and accept such title as Seller is able to grant and convey, at
Buyer's option. Upon termination, if elected, the obligations
and duties of the parties hereto (to one another) shall cease
and terminate, and each party shall be relieved and fully
14
. ?
released from any and all damage or claims in favor of any other
party to this Agreement arising out of it.
17. 2efault. Upon default or breach of this Agreement
by Seller, Buyer shall, at Buyer's election, be entitled: (a) to
a return of all option consideration theretofore paid, to
reimbursement by Seller of all expenses incurred by Buyer in
pursuing the terms of this Agreement, both with interest at the
prime rate of interest as published in The Wall Street Journal
or its successor publication, from time to time, plus four (4%)
percent (the "Interest") and to damages, or (b) to specific
performance. In either case, Buyer shall also be entitled to
recover from Seller Buyer's reasonable attorneys fees and costs
incurred as a consequence of Seller's default.
18. General Provisions`Relati to Develo ment.
Seller and Buyer agree that development of the Property, the
Retained Tract, and the remaining portion of the Deimler Farm
should be accomplished in a fashion which does not unreasonably
interfere with development of other portions of the aforesaid
tracts. To that end, streets, water lines, sewer lines, and
other utilities serving any of the aforementioned tracts shall
be designed to accommodate the reasonably anticipated
requirements for development of other portions of the Deimler
Farm. Each party agrees that the other may connect with or tie
into streets or utilities constructed on any portion of the
Deimler Farm, regardless of who constructs the same, and each
party (to include Deimler) will grant easements reasonably
15
necessary to effectuate this provision. The Buyer will be
responsible for making initial payment for all streets, sewers
and water located on the Property, as well as the cost of
preparing and filing all subdivision plans (except for the
Retained Tract). While the Buyer shall bear the initial cost of
the foregoing, and shall permit the seller to connect and tie
into any of the aforesaid streets or utilities, the Buyer shall
be entitled to reimbursement for connection fees or such other
compensation from the governmental authorities or public
utilities as is permitted to Buyer by law or by agreements
negotiated with such governmental authorities or public
utilities, and the Seller shall not be relieved of the cost or
expense thereof by virtue of the provisions of this Agreement.
19. Underlying Agreement of Sale.
The parties
acknowledge that the tract of which the Property is a part is
the subject of an Agreement of Sale by and between the record
title owner and Harbilas, Seller herein. The parties expressly
agree that, if for any reason Harbilas/Seller fails to perform
any obligation under said Agreement of Sale, or exercise any
right thereunder, Buyer in its sole discretion may cure any
default by Harbilas/Seller under said Agreement of Sale, and
perform any obligation and exercise any right thereunder on
behalf of Harbilas/Seller in order to preserve Buyer's Option.
In such an event, Buyer shall be entitled to credit any
reasonable costs incurred by it on account of such cure,
performance and exercise together with Interest thereon from the
16
time the expenses of cure were incurred against the purchase
price set forth in this option Agreement, or, in the event Buyer
terminates this Agreement due to Seller's default, then to
recover the same from Seller.
20. Easements. Buyer agrees to provide to the Seller
access easements through streets which are intended to be
dedicated for public roads (prior to dedication thereof) and
utility easements, together with the right to construct public
utility lines and facilities therein, all over, upon and through
the Property. The location and capacity of such utility lines
are subject to the approval of the Buyer, which will not be
unreasonably withheld or delayed. Such utility lines shall be
laid out with due regard for the reasonable development of the
Property. The easement granted by Buyer shall contain a
provision allowing the Buyer, at Buyer's expense, to relocate
such easement and the utility facilities located therein, at
Buyer's sole cost and expense, in the event the location
approved by Buyer should subsequently impair Buyer's development
of the Property.
21. Tax Free Exchanae. Both parties agree that either
party or Daimler may wish to treat the conveyance of this
Property as a tax-free exchange of like kind properties as may
be permitted under Section 1031 of the United States Internal
Revenue Code. In the event that either party or Daimler is able
to arrange for the acquisition of other property which can be
exchanged for the Property in such a tax free transaction,,the
17
parties and Deimler agree that each of them will cooperate to
conclude such a like kind exchange on a tax free basis, if at
all possible. In exchange for a party's cooperation for such
efforts, the requesting party (to include Deimler) agrees to
bear and pay in full all of the other parties' (to include
Deimler) reasonable costs and expenses associated with the tax-
free exchange and further to indemnify and save harmless the
other parties (to include Deimler) from any loss, cost or claim,
including reasonable attorney's and accountant's fees caused to
the other parties (to include Deimler) as a result of such like
kind exchange and any review, audit or dispute of same by the
Internal Revenue Service. In the event a party (to include
Deimler) chooses to treat the transaction as a tax-free
exchange, such party (to include Deimler) may assign this
contract to another person or entity without first obtaining the
written consent of the other party (to include Deimler). Under
such assignment, the party so assigning will assign its rights
under this Agreement as contemplated by Treasury Regulation
Section 1.1031 (K)-1(g)(4)(V) but not its obligations under this
Agreement. Closing shall not be delayed by an assignment as set
forth in this Paragraph.
22. Gender/Number. Whenever the context herein so
requires, the singular number shall include the plural, the
plural shall include the singular, and the use of any gender
shall be applicable to all genders.
18
23. Headings. The headings or captions preceding the
paragraphs in this Agreement are inserted for convenience of
reference only and shall not be construed in interpreting this
Agreement.
24. Pennsylvania Law. This Agreement shall be
governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the
Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.
25. Entire Agreement. This Agreement contains the
entire understanding between the parties hereto and supersedes
any prior written or oral agreements between them respecting the
within subject matter, except a Utility Easement Agreement
and/or Right of First Refusal Agreement, if any, executed by the
parties of even date. There are no representations, agreements,
arrangements or understandings, oral or written, between or
among the parties hereto relating to the subject matter of this
Agreement which are not fully expressed herein.
26. Formal Tender. Formal tender of deed and purchase
money are hereby waived.
27. Assigns. This Agreement shall be binding upon and
inure to the benefit of the heirs, successors and assigns of the
parties hereto.
28. Survival of Covenants. All covenants and
provisions hereof which expressly or impliedly are intended to
survive settlement shall survive the settlement and the
execution and delivery of the deed of conveyance-and shall not
be merged therein.
19
29. Modifications/waiver. No change or modification
to this Agreement shall be valid unless the same is in writing
and signed by the parties hereto. No waiver of the provisions
of this Agreement shall be valid unless in writing and signed by
the party against whom such waiver is sought to be enforced.
30. Notice. Any notice required hereunder shall be
hand delivered, sent by certified United States mail, postage
prepaid, or sent bysovernight delivery service requiring receipt
(such as Federal Express or UPS) to the parties, and shall be
deemed to have been given upon actual receipt or refusal of such
notice, at the following addresses:
If to the Seller: Mr. and Mrs. John C. Harbilas
817 Mandy Lane,
Camp Hill, PA 17011
With a copy to: Bruce D. Foreman, Esquire
Nicholas & Foreman
3207 N. Front Street
Harrisburg, PA 17110
If to the Buyer: Mt. Zion Associates
20 Erford Road, Suite 201
Lemoyne, PA 17043
With a copy to: Wix, Wenger & Weidner
508 North Second Street
Harrisburg, PA 17101
31. Waiver of Tender. Tender of an executed deed
and/or the purchase price, in the event of a default, is hereby
waived.
32. Memorandum of Option. Upon payment by Buyer to
Seller of the initial $100,000.00 consideration, this Agreement
may be recorded, and if requested, all parties hereto agree to
execute a Memorandum of Option in recordable form,setting forth
20
e
the duration of the Option and such other terms and conditions
as are necessary to give notice of the provisions hereof. In
the event Buyer fails to make any of the payments required
herein, including, without limitation, the payments due on each
anniversary date, strictly in accordance with the terms of this
Option, or after thirty (30) days written notice and failure to
cure, fails to perform any other material term or provision of
this Agreement, then.the Buyer shall, upon written notice from
Seller, promptly sign such reasonable documentation as is
prepared by Seller, including, without limitation, a release of
this option, evidencing the termination of all of the Buyer's
right, title and interest to the portions of the Property as to
which Buyer has not exercised its options and made payment
therefor.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto, INTENDING TO BE
LEGALLY BOUND HEREBY, have executed this Agreement the day and
year first above written.
WITNESS: BUYER:
MT. ZION ASSOCIATES, L.P.
By its sole general partner
Mt. Zion Associates, Inc.
t C?
H OW"p U44C By .
TG4
WITNESS : SELLE
ohn C. Hark
r
las
21
COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA :
SS..
COUNTY OF
On this, the r?Q4L-day of . v L , 1996, before me,
a Notary Public, the undersigned office F, personally appeared
Timothy C. Harrison, who acknowledged himself to be the
president of Mt. Zion Associates, Inc., the sole general partner
of Mt. Zion Associates, L.P., a Pennsylvania limited
partnership, and that he, as such president, being authorized to
do so, executed the foregoing instrument as.the act and deed of
said partnership for the purposes therein contained by signing
the name of the corporation himself as president.
seal.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF
COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA
COUNTY OF ?„?k(N
I hereunto set my hand and official
.-
X0.
o ary Public -
My Commission Expires:
(SEAL) Notarial Seal
Loretta B. Eciter. Notary Public
Camp Him Boro, Cumberland County
A My Commission Expires Nov. 9.1998 -
SS.:
On this, the @5?iday of l?l 1996, before me
a Notary Public, the undersigned officer, personally appeared
John C. Harbilas, an adult individual, known to me (or
satisfactorily proven) to be the person named in the foregoing
instrument, and acknowledged that he executed the same for the
purposes therein contained.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I h unto set m a d and official
seal. ` ?
N ary Public
My Commission Expires:
(SEAL)
C:\DAW\D000MfEHTS\HBC.oPT July 17, 1996 NOTARIAL SEAL
USA M. LONG. Notary Public
City of Harrisburg. Dauphin County
M Commission Expires April 28. 1997
22
JOINDER OF EUGENE DEIMLER
Eugene Deimler, for good and valuable consideration,
the receipt of which is hereby acknowledged, and intending to be
legally bound, joins in the foregoing Real Estate Option
Agreement for the purpose of evidencing his consent to the terms
and conditions thereof, insofar as he has any interest in the
Property, as defined therein, and agrees that any interests he
has therein are and shall be subject to the rights.and
privileges of the Buyer, as set forth therein.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, Eugene Deimler, INTENDING TO BE
L( AL Y BOUND HEREBY, has executed this Joinder this 9A day of
, 1996:
WIT ESS.
uge a De mler
COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA
COUNTY OF SS.:
On this, the ? ?SP
a Notary Public, the undersignedfo cer e ' 1996, before me,
Eugene Deimler, an adult individual, known p to s me a (or appeared
satisfactorily proven) to be the person named in this Joinder,
and acknowledged that he executed the same for the purposes
therein contained.
seal. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I hereunto set my hand and official
Not y ublic
My Commission Exp s;
(SEAL)
ttc?t Seal
a cblw. NO WY Rblc
°mm
,sace
Accounting Offices of
JOHN C. HARBILAS AND ASSOCIATES
)ffice: (717) 238-5353 33 North Second Street FAX: (717) 238-5355
Harrisburg, PA 17101
July 24, 1996
Eugene R. Deimler received from John C. Harbilas, $26,000.OC
on account of purchase price of Deimler Farm in Hampden township
at $15,000.OC per acre. Accepted as consideration in joining
agreement between John C. Harbilas and Mt. Zion Associates.
$26,000.00
isburg, Pennsylvania
July U, 1996
FOR VALUE RECEIVED AND INTENDING TO BE NGALLY BOUND HEREBY,
the undersigned (jointly and severally "Maker'}), hereby promises
to pay to Mt. Zion Associates, L.P., a Pennsylvania limited
partnership ("Payee"), sixty (60) days after demand, the
principal sum of Twenty Six Thousand and 00/100 Dollars, without defalcation, for valued received, with interest
commencing sixty (60) days after demand, at the prime rate of
interest as published in The Wall Street Journal, or its
successor publication, from time to time, plus four (0) percent.
Maker hereby waives presentment, grace, demand for notice of dishonor, ? payment,
protest and notice of protest, and any and
all other notices and demands in connection with this Note. The
liability of Maker shall be unconditional without regard to the
liability of any other party and shall not be affected in any
manner by any indulgence whatsoever
Payee in any manner, including, withoutn limitation Seanydreto b
lease
or substitution of any collateral, extension of time, renewal,
waiver or other modification. Any failure of Payee to exercise
any right hereunder shall not be construed as a waiver of the
right to exercise the same or any other right at any time and
from time to time thereafter.
UPON DEFAULT HEREUNDER, Maker hereby authorizes any attorney
of any court of record of Pennsylvania or elsewhere to appear for
and enter and confess judgment against Maker for the above sum,
the principal hereof, interest and all-other obligations of Maker
to Payee, with or without declaration, with costs of suit, with
attorneys' fees, with release of all errors, and without stay of
execution. Maker also waives the right of inquisition on any
real estate that may be levied upon in any action to collect this
Note and does hereby voluntarily condemn the same and authorizes
the prothonotary to enter upon any writ such voluntary
condemnation. Maker further agrees that real estate may be sold
on a writ of execution and does hereby waive and release all
relief from any and all appraisement, stay or exemption of laws
of any state, now in force or hereafter to be passed and all
errors in any judgment in an action herein and in any process or
proceeding thereon. The authority to appear, enter and confess
judgment hereby granted shall not be exhausted by any one or more
or by any defective exercise thereof, but shall be available and
may be exercised at any time or times on such number of occasions
and in such manner as Payee requires or any attorney for Payee
deems necessary or desirable until the full principal sum, with
all interest and other obligations due Payee, has been paid in
q
RESTATED SECOND AMENDMENT
TO
REAL ESTATE OPTION AGREEMENT
THIS RESTATED SECOND AMENDMENT TO REAL ESTATE OPTION AGREEMENT
(the "Second Amendment") is made this 4??day of October, 1997, by
and between Mt. Zion Associates, L.P., a Pennsylvania limited
partnership with its principal office. at 20 Erford Road, Suite 201,
Lemoyne, Pennsylvania 17043, or its nominee (the "Buyer") and John
C. Harbilas, of 817 Mandy Lane, Camp Hill, Pennsylvania 17011 (the
"Seller")..
Recitals
The background to this Amendment is as follows:
R-1. Pursuant to a certain Real Estate Option Agreement dated July
23, 1996 (the "Option"), Seller granted to Buyer an option to
purchase certain property identified as Lot Number 1 ("Lot
1111) on a Preliminary/ Final Subdivision Plan of Deimler Farm
prepared by Act One Consultants, Inc. dated August 22, 1995,
as amended (the "Subdivision Plan").
R-2. Pursuant to an Amendment to Real Estate Option Agreement dated
April 8, 1997 (the "Amendment"), the parties amended the
Option to include Lot, Numbdr 2 on the Subdivision Plan ("Lot
12) as part of the "Property" (as defined in the Option),
subject to the terms and conditions of the Option and the
Amendment.
R-3. Pursuant to a notice from Buyer's counsel dated September 5,
1997, Buyer terminated the Option with respect to Lot 12.
R-4. The parties hereto desire to reinstate the option as to Lot 12
and to amend the option and the Amendment so that the term
"Property", as defined in the Option and the Amendment
includes Lot 01, Lot #2 and the "Retained Tract," as defined
in the Option, under the terms and conditions contained
herein.
R-5. The parties hereto further desire to amend the Option and the
Amendment to modify the term of the Option granted therein.
NOW THEREFORE, in consideration of the sum of $1.00 and other
good and valuable consideration, the receipt and sufficiency of
which' is hereby acknowledged, and INTENDING TO BE LEGALLY BOUND
HEREBY, the parties hereby agree to amend the Option and the
Amendment upon the following terms and conditions:
1. Recitals. The recitals set forth above are incorporated
herein by reference as if set forth in full.
2. The Property. The term Property as set forth in the Option
and the Amendment shall include the entire area of Lot #l, Lot
12 and the Retained Tract as set forth in the Subdivision Plan
and further defined in the option and the Amendment and each
shall be subject to the terms and conditions of the Option,
the Amendment and this Second Amendment; provided, however,
that the inclusion of Lot 02 shall, also be subject to the
following:
(a) Rezoning. The parties acknowledge that Lot #2 is
currently zoned RT (Residential Town). Buyer shall have
four months from the date of execution and delivery of
this Amendment by all parties (including the joinder of
Deimler, attached hereto) to complete, at Buyer's sole
cost and expense, a rezoning of Lot #2 to OP (Office
Professional) (or such other comparable zone then in
effect if OP is no longer available). Provided, however,
that if Buyer shall, within four (4) months of the date
hereof, notify Seller of a favorable indication, in
Buyer's reasonable discretion, regarding the rezoning
request (e.g., a positive recommendation from the
` planning commission or statements of approval from the
Board of Commissioners) then Buyer shall, upon making the
additional payments and required by Section 2(b)
hereunder, be granted an additional two (2) months beyond
the initial four (4) month period in which to complete
the rezoning. If Buyer shall be unable to accomplish
said rezoning within the period allotted, either party
shall have the right,' but not the obligation, to
terminate the option as to Lot 12 (but Seller shall not
have the right to terminate as to Lot #1) by written
notice to the other party, in which event all payments
made by Buyer to Seller pursuant to this Second Amendment
shall be applied by Seller as a credit toward the next
due option payments for and also to the purchase price of
Lot 01; and thereupon neither party shall have any
further obligations to the other relative to Lot #2 as a
result of this Second Amendment. In the event rezoning
is finally approved prior to notice of termination being
given, Lot #2 shall automatically be added to and be
considered a part of the "Property" for purposes of the
Option, the Amendment and this Second Amendment.
(b) Payments. Upon execution of this Second Amendment by all
parties, (including, joinder by Deimler), Buyer shall
deposit $50,000 with Seller's counsel, Nicholas &
Foreman, as consideration for the grant of the option on
Lot 12. The payment referenced in this Paragraph 2(b)
shall be held by Seller's counsel in escrow. The
escrowed option payment reference herein shall be
released to Seller at such time as Seller has performed,
and satisfied the following conditions:
2
(i) An initial Twenty Five Thousand ($25,000.00)
Dollars payment shall be released to Seller when
Seller and Deimler have executed and acknowledged
(in the presence of a notary public) the existing
Revised Preliminary Subdivision Plan for Mt. Zion
Office Park prepared by H. Edward Black &
Associates ("Black") dated July 24, 19971 as last
revised September 19, 1997 approving of the
proposed location of Valley Road through the
Property, including the Retained Tract which is
currently in the offices of Black and will be made
available during business hours; and
(ii) The balance of the $50,000.00 payment hereunder
shall be made to Seller when Seller, at Seller's
expense, has filed with Hampden Township the
Subdivision Plan in accordance with Township's
approval letter dated October 2, 1995, and has
complied with the Township's requirements as set
forth therein. Should the Township or any other
governmental authority having jurisdiction impose
further conditions, with respect to approval or
recording of the Subdivision Plan, Buyer will,
unless the same are due to the negligent or
intentional misconduct of Seller or Deimler, be
liable therefor. Such approval shall only be
evidenced by the.recording of a fully-approved copy
of said Plan in the Cumberland County Recorder of
Deeds Office.
In the event the Option as to Lot 12 is terminated pursuant to
paragraph 2(a) hereof, all payments hereunder shall be applied as
a credit to the purchase price of Lot A, effective as of the date
it was delivered to Seller and the yearly amount due pursuant to
paragraph 5 of the Option.shall remain at One Hundred Thousand
($100,000.00) Dollars. In the event that neither party terminates
the Option as to Lot 12, then the yearly amount due pursuant to
paragraph 5 of the Option shall increase to Two Hundred Thousand
.L8200,000.00), but the payments-made pursuant this paragraph 2(b),
Vogether with the Fifty Thousand ($50,000.00) Dollars paid to
Seller on or about August 8, 1997, shall be applied to the payment
next due from Buyer to Seller pursuant to the Option as amended
tereby.
.
3. The Retained Tract. In consideration of Seller's grant of
option for the Retained Tract, Buyer agrees to pay to Seller
an amount equal to Seller's actual documented expenses
incurred in the development of the Retained Tract, not to
exceed Thirteen Thousand ($13,000.00) Dollars. Upon the
execution of this Amendment, Buyer shall pay the sum of Ten
Thousand ($10,000.00) Dollars to Seller. To receive payment
in excess of $10,000.00, Seller shall promptly thereafter
submit an itemization of costs actually incurred in connection
with Seller's development of the Retained Tract and paid
invoices (or cancelled checks) evidencing payment of such
costs to Buyer; Buyer shall reimburse Seller for the amount by
which such documented costs exceed $10,000.00, within twenty
(20) days of receipt and, if desired by Buyer, verification
thereof, up to the maximum amount stated herein. Nothing
contained in this paragraph 3 shall affect or alter the yearly
payment due under the Option or the Amendment.
4. Inspection Period. Buyer shall have a period of ninety (g0)
days from the date of the approval of the rezoning of Lot #2
to OP in which to conduct a feasibility study concerning the
purchase of Lot 12, which may include, without limitation,
environmental studies. Buyer will make all of its feasibility
studies relating to the physical characteristics of Lot 12
(such as environmental studies, soil testing, traffic studies
and the like) but not those studies dealing with financial or
economic matters, available to Seller within a reasonable time
following Buyer's receipt thereof. In the event Buyer
determines on or before the end of the feasibility period that
Buyer will not purchase Lot 12, upon notice to Seller, this
Amendment shall be deemed terminated as if rezoning had not
occurred and all provisions applicable to such a termination
shall thereupon be effective.
5. Option Period /Expiration Date. Paragraph two (2) of the
Option, shall be anLendedr' by adding a new subparagraph
applicable to Lot No. 2 (only) as follows:
With respect to Lot No. 2, Buyer shall have until July 23,
2003 within which to exercise the Option herein granted, (the
"Expiration Date") unless extended by mutual agreement of the
parties; provided however, in the event Seller shall extend
Seller's underlying option on the Property (with Deimler), the
Expiration Date as set forth herein shall, without further
action of the parties, be extended for the same period of
time. If the Option is exercised in year Seven (7), then the
price per acre will be Forty Two Thousand ($42,000.00)
Dollars.
6. Seller Cooperation. Provided Buyer has paid all costs and
expenses which it has agreed to pay hereunder, Seller shall
fully and promptly cooperate to the extent reasonably
requested by Buyer in executing any documents reasonably
required by Buyer to effectuate the terms of this Second
Amendment and the option and to assist Buyer's development the
Property, (including Seller's payment of Seller's costs and
attorneys fees in connection therewith).
7. Memorandum of Option. The parties have executed and recorded
a Memorandum of Real Estate Option Agreement (the
"Memorandum") in the Cumberland County Recorder of Deeds
4
Office. Upon Buyer's payment to Seller's counsel, in escrow,
as set forth herein, this Second Amendment may be recorded or,
if requested, all parties hereto agree to execute an amendment
to the Memorandum in recordable form setting forth such terms
and conditions as are necessary to give notice of the
provisions hereof; provided, however, that any amendment
thereto shall be and remain subject to the provisions of
Paragraph 32 of the option..
8. Joinder. The parties acknowledge that the record owner of the
Retained Tract is Eugene Deimler ("Deimler"). By his joinder
herein, Deimler hereby consents to this Second Amendment and
agrees to cooperate, as reasonably requested, in effectuating
the terms and conditions hereof. If, for any reason, Deimler
fails to consent or cooperate as herein provided, such failure
may be deemed by Buyer to be a default and breach of the
Option, the Amendment and this Second Amendment.
9. Remaining Provisions. Except as expressly amended by' this
Second Amendment, all the terms and conditions of the option
and the Amendment shall remain in full force and effect.
10. Counterparts. This Agreement may be executed in counterparts,
each of which shall be deemed an original copy and all of
which together shall constitute one agreement that shall be
binding on all parties hereto.
,, r•
11. Telecovier. This Agreement may be executed by each party
hereto on separate counterparts. When such executed
counterparts have been exchanged by telecopier among all
parties, this Agreement shall be delivered, binding, and in
full force and effect. Thereafter, the parties will make good
faith efforts to exchange original signed counterparts.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have executed this
Second Amendment on the day and year first above written.
BUYER:
ATTEST:
Mt. Zion Associates, L.P., by
its sole general partner, Mt.
Zion Associates, Inc.
•L 2.1?i ?lac.L- IiC?C-t1?1.?-
(SEAL)
By: Imo /'???
T' othy C Harrison
President
5
SELLER:
COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA
SS.:
COUNTY OF ('71X On this, the day of October, 1997, before me, a Notary
Public, the unders ned officer, personally appeared Timothy C.
Harrison, who acknowledged himself to be the President of Mt. Zion
Associates, Inc., a Pennsylvania corporation, and that he, as such
President, being authorized to do so, executed the foregoing
instrument for the purposes therein contained by signing the name
of the corporation himself as (Vice) President.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I hereunto set my hand and official seal.
,- 4"e", /?? - an"
No a Public -r- ?y
My ommission Expires : X11 1f,
(SEAL)
Notarial Seal
Loretta B. Ecker, Notary Public
.0, Cumberland County'
CamQ Hill Bo,
my Commission Expires Nov. 9,1998
COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA :
: SS.:
COUNTY OF : ,*"
On this,-the day of October, 1997, before me, a
Notary Public, the undersigned officer, personally appeared John C.
Harbilas, known to me (or satisfactorily proven) to be the person
whose name is subscribed to the within instrument, and acknowledged
that he executed the same for the purposes therein contained.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and official
seal.
Notary Public
my commission Expires:
(SEAL)
7
JOINDER
Eugene Deimler, for good and valuable consideration, the
receipt and sufficiency of which is hereby acknowledged, and
intending to be legally bound hereby, joins in the foregoing Second
Amendment to Real Estate Option Agreement for the purpose of
evidencing his consent to the terms and conditions thereof in so
far he has any interest in the Retained Tract (as defined herein)
and agrees that any interest he has in the Retained Tract is an
shall be subject to the rights and privileges of the Buyer, as set
forth in the Option, the Amendment and this Second Amendment.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, Eugene Deimler, INTENDING TO BE LEGALLY
BOUND HEREBY, has executed this Joinder this
, 1997. day of
COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA :
COUNTY OF = SS.:
On this, the '- day of October, 1997, before me, a
Notary Public, the undersigned officer, personally appeared Eugene
Deimler, known to me (or satisfactorily proven) to be the person
whose name is subscribed to the within instrument, and acknowledged
that he executed the same for the purposes therein contained.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and official
seal.
Notary Public
My Commission Expires:
(SEAL)
c:\wp5l\ksb\docunents\llmt,=iomleanOCtober 31, 1997
8
S
ALIGLIST 2nn2 AM NDMENT
M
$FAL ESTATE OPTION AGREEMENT
THIS AUGUST 2002 AMENDMENT TO REAL ESTATE OPTION AGREEMENT
(the "August 2002 Amendment") is made this 12- day of August, 2002, by and between
Mt. Zion Associates L.P., a Pennsylvania limited partnership, with its principal office at 20
Erford Road, Suite 201, Lemoyne, Pennsylvania 17043, or its nominee (the "Buyer") and
John C. Harbilas and Kathryn M. Harbilas, husband and wife, of 817 Mandy Lane, Camp
Hill, Pennsylvania 17011 (collectively referred to in this August 2002 Amendment, the
option (as defined below), and in all prior amendments, the "Seller").
The background to this August 2002 Amendment is as follows:
R-1. Pursuant to a certain Real Estate Option Agreement dated July 23, 1996 (the
"Option"), Seller granted to Buyer an option to purchase certain property identified
as Lot Number 1 ("Lot #1 ") on a Prelijninary/Final Subdivision Plan of Deimler
Farm prepared by Act One Consultants, Inc. dated August 22, 1995, as amended,
recorded in Cumberland County Plan Book 85, Page 103 (the "Subdivision Plan").
R-2. The parties negotiated an Amendment to Real Estate Option Agreement dated
April $, 1997 (the "Amendment"), which Amendment was subsequently terminated,
and is no longer effective.
R-3. Pursuant to a Restated Second Amendment to Real Estate Option. Agreement
dated October 31, 1.997 (the "Second Amendment'), the parties hereto reinstated
the Option as to Lot #2 and amended the Option and the Amendment so that,
among other things, the term "'Property', as defined in the Option and the
Amendment included Lot #1, Lot #2 and the "Retained Tract," as defined in the
Option, under the terms and conditions contained herein.
R-4. By a Joinder to Real Estate Option dated December 12, 1997, Kathryn M. Harbilas
joined in the Option, as amended. By virtue of such joinder, Kathryn M. Harbilas
shall be included as a Seller wherever such term is used in the Option or any
amendments thereto.
R-5. By letter agreement dated July 18, 2002, Seller extended the exercise date of the
Option, as to Lot No. 1, to August 22, 2002.
R-6. Buyer has exercised its Option as to Lot No. 1, and Buyer and Seller agree that
settlement has tentatively been scheduled for August 12, 2002, at, 2:00 p.m. at the
offices of Wix, Wenger & Weidner, 508 North Second Street, Harrisburg,
Pennsylvania 17101 (the "First Settlement').
R-7. When used in this August 2002 Amendment, the phrase "the Option, as amended"
shall include the Option and all joinders and amendments identified in these
recitals.
R-8. The parties further desire to amend the Option, as amended, to modify the term of
the Option, as amended, and make other changes set forth below.
NOW THEREFORE, in consideration of the sum of $1.00 and other good and
valuable consideration, the receipt and sufficiency of which is hereby acknowledged, and
INTENDING TO BE LEGALLY BOUND HEREBY, the parties hereby agree to amend the
Option, as amended, upon the following terms and conditions:
1. Recitals. The recitals set forth above are incorporated herein by reference as if set
forth in full.
2. Option Period/Expiration Date. Paragraph 2 of the Option, as amended, is
amended and restated in its entirety, as follows: '
2. Option Period/Expiration Date. Buyer shall have until 11:59 p.m. on
February 15, 2005 (the "Expiration Date") within which to exercise the
Option herein granted, unless extended by written agreement between
Seller and Buyer, or as hereinafter provided; provided, however, in the
event Seller shall extend Seller's underlying option on the Property (with
.Deimler), the Expiration Date as set forth herein shall, without further action
of the parties, be extended for the same period of time. If the Option, as
amended, is exercised, then the price per acre will be forty-one thousand
($41,000.00) dollars if the payment is made on or before the one (1) year
anniversary date of this August 2002 Amendment, or forty-three thousand
($43,000.00) dollars per acre if made thereafter.
3. Payments. The following two sentences are added to the end of Paragraph 3 of
the Option, as amended:
Seller acknowledges that Buyer has, to date, paid Seller the sum of
$1,000,000.00, which entitles Buyer to receive 29.72 acres of the Property.
At the First Settlement, Buyer shall purchase the remaining acreage in Lot 1
for a purchase price of $40,000.00 per acre.
4. Property. Paragraph 4 of the Option, as amended, is amended and restated in its
entirety, as follows:
4. Property. The Property shall include the Retained Tract, as defined in
2
the original Option, and all of Lot No. 2. When exercising the Option, if
Buyer elects to purchase less than all of the Property, the minimum size of
the parcel(s) shall, except as expressly herein provided, be twenty-two (22)
acres and the parcel shall be contiguous to other land owned by Buyer;
provided, however, that Buyer shall have the right to designate, layout and
subdivide a parcel or parcels which do not meet such criteria to transfer and
convey to (or exchange with) Hampden Township or an authority or other
entity designated by Hampden Township; and provided further, if Buyer
does not purchase all of the Property, Seller's remaining parcel must be no
less than twenty (20) acres of contiguous real estate.
5. Notice and settlement. Paragraph 7 of the Option, as amended, is amended and
restated in its entirety, as follows:
7. Notice and Settlement. In the event Buyer exercises the Option, the
sole means of exercising the Option shall be by written notice, describing
the Property (which shall be a separately subdivided parcel, unless
subdivision has not occurred through a failure of Seller or Eugene R.
Deimler, Sr.), sent by certified mail, return receipt requested, or by
overnight delivery service requiring receipt (such as UPS, Federal Express
or similar companies) postmarked prior to the Expiration Date, addressed
to Seller as provided in Paragraph 26 of the Option, notifying Seller in
writing of the exercise thereof and the time and place for settlement, which
shall not be less than forty-five (45) days nor more than two (2) months
after the date of said notice (or shall be held at such other time and place
as the parties may agree upon in writing). Buyer shall have the right to
subsequently.advance or delay the date of settlement by not more than
fifteen (15) days either way, by notice in writing to Seller, provided that such
adjustment shall not change the date when Seller must deliver possession
to the Buyer. Buyer shall make payment of the purchase price for the
portion of the Property then being purchased, as to which the Option is
exercised, in full at settlement. No single exercise of the Option shall
extinguish this Option, and the Buyer may exercise the same as to parcels
of land subject to the Option on one or more occasions.
6. Covenants of Seller. Paragraph 10 (c) of the Option, as amended, is amended
and restated in its entirety, as follows:
(c) Seller will not take any actions or permit any inaction or omission
which would create or assist in creating defects in title from the date hereof
until the Expiration Date (or settlement, if the Option is exercised), or which
would encumber the Property to an extent and upon such terms as would
prevent Seller from performing this Agreement. No mortgages, monetary
3
encumbrances, or other liens or other objections to title not existing on the
day of settlement on Lot No. 1 (immediately after the settlement) shall be
permitted, and it shall be Seller's responsibility to discharge the same
promptly after the entry thereof. Should Seller fail to discharge the same,
Buyer may use Buyer's own funds to discharge the same and deduct
Buyer's costs and expenses, including reasonable attorneys fees, from the
purchase price due Seller at settlement, or may use a portion of the
settlement proceeds due Seller for payment thereof.
(d) In order to maintain the overall quality of Cumberland Technology Park,
if Buyer does not purchase all of the Property, Seller will require and
include, in any deed to Seller or its nominee or designee, portions of the
Property, not purchased by Buyer to the Declaration of Protective
Covenants for Cumberland Technology Park, recorded in Cumberland
County Miscellaneous Book 595, Page 625, and Special Declaration of
Restrictions and Covenants, recorded in Cumberland County -
Miscellaneous Book 595, Page 658, which governs the development and
use of the Property. The foregoing provision shall not bb applicable to
Deimler, except in deeds to Seller.
7. covenants of uyer. A new Paragraph 11 (c) is added to the Option, as amended,
as follows:
(c) If Deimler has, prior to the exercise date of the Option by Seller,
planted crops on any portion of the Property as to which Buyer has
exercised, or in the future exercises, its Option (including, without limitation,
Lot No. 1), and Deimler has not harvested the crops. at the time of
settlement, and Buyer does not thereafter permit Deimler to harvest all or
any portion of such crops, the Buyer will pay to Deimler, at settlement or
within thirty (30) days following Buyer's material interference with Deimler's
harvesting of such crops, the replacement value of such unharvested
crops. The replacement value shall be determined by multiplying the
acreage not harvested by the average crop yield (by bushel) per acre (for
the season, in Central Pennsylvania) for the unharvested crop, by the
average price per bushel for such crop on the business day nearest the day
the harvest is stopped, as published in The Wall Street Joumal, less
Deimler's cost savings for not having to harvest such crops.
8. Exercise of Option. Paragraphs 13 (e) and 13 (f) of the Option, as amended, are
amended and restated in their entirety, as follows:
(e) Posc anion. Possession of the portion of the Property being
conveyed shall be given to Buyer immediately upon delivery of deed from
4
runless Buyer has exercised its right to advance the settlement ate
by,;Up to 15 days) in which case Seller shall have a right of possession until
the date contained in Buyer's original notice of exercise of the Option, as
amended. Notwithstanding Buyer's right to possession, Buyer agrees that
Deimler shall have the right, for a period of six (6) months following the
settlement date on the portion(s) of the Property on which buildings are
situated, to remove any and all such buildings as Deimler may elect, at no
cost to Buyer; provided further, that as to buildings designated by the
numbers 11 and 12 of Exhibit 1 hereto, incorporated herein by reference,
Deimler shall have an additional two (2) months to remove them. Deimler
shall not be required to remove any of the buildings, but, if Deimler elects to
remove any buildings, any such removal shall be accomplished in
accordance with the provisions of Paragraph 14(b) of the Option, as
amended. Notwithstanding Deimler's right to remove the buildings, Buyer
shall have the right to possession of the Property it acquires, and the right
to construct utilities, streets, buildings and other improvements to,-upon or
under the Property it acquires, all subject only to Deimler's license to
remove the said buildings and to have reasonable access to the buildings
for such purpose. Any buildings not removed within the applicable six (6)
month or eight (8) month period shall, upon expiration of the applicable
period, be and become the property of the Buyer, without further
documentation or notice. Following settlement, Deimler shall continue to
have the risk of loss for all of the buildings on the Property, and shall
continue to maintain liability insurance with respect to his operations and
removal of the buildings. Buyer shall have no duties with respect to such
buildings other than not to unreasonably interfere with Deimler's removal of
the-buildings permitted by this paragraph and to provide to Deimler
reasonable access to the buildings. Deimler shall be liable to Buyer for any
costs or expenses incurred by Buyer, including reasonable attorneys fees
and court costs, incurred by Buyer as a consequence of any breach by
Deimler of his obligations pursuant to this paragraph or the paragraphs
referenced herein, or any other post settlement obligations Deimler may
have to Buyer under this August 2002 Amendment or any other agreement
between Deimler and Buyer, and Buyer shall be entitled to set off such
amounts against any amounts owed by Buyer to Deimler. If requested by
Buyer, Deimler will enter into a license agreement at the settlement further
defining the rights of the parties. In the absence of such a license
agreement, this paragraph and those other paragraphs referenced in it shall
survive settlement and closing, and control the rights of the parties with
respect thereto.
(f) Qlosing of Transaction. Closing (or settlement) on this transaction
shall be as and when provided in Buyer's notice to Seller of Buyer's election
5
to exercise the Option, but closing shall not occur until Buyer has caused to
be recorded a duly approved subdivision plan for the portion of the Property
being purchased; provided, however, that a refusal by Deimler or Seller to
execute the required Subdivision Plan or to otherwise perform any of their
duties hereunder shall, at Buyer's option, extend the Settlement Date, and
shall entitle Buyer to damages therefor.
9. Oondition of he Property. Paragraph 14 of the Option, as amended, is amended
and restated in its entirety, as follows:
14, •rondition of the ProRefic. Neither Deimler nor Seller shall, during the
term of this Agreement, exercise either of their rights of ownership so as
to interfere with or alter the condition of the Property as it exists on the
date hereof; except that Deimler may:
(a) continue to farm the Property, using commercially acceptable
farming practices in compliance with all applicable laws, ordinances,
rules, and regulations ("Applicable Laws"). '
(b) remove any and all"buildings on the Property, without
compensation to Seller, provided that following such removal, all
construction materials, debris, equipment and other remnants
thereof, excluding, however, any foundations and concrete floors,
are removed in compliance with all Applicable Laws, and the site of
such buildings are left in broom clean condition, with all wells
properly capped (but not filled).
..........
10. [yJt-- morand?m of O tp ion. The parties have executed and recorded a
Memorandum of Real Estate Option Agreement (the "Memorandum") in the
Cumberland County Recorder of Deeds Office. All parties hereto agree to execute
an amendment to the Memorandum in recordable form setting forth such terms
and conditions as are necessary to give notice of the provisions hereof; provided,
however, that any amendment thereto-shall be and remain subject to the
provisions of Paragraph 32 of the Option, as amended.
11. Fme_rgency Access Easement. Seller and Deimler, by Deimler's joinder, agree to
execute an emergency access easement (for police, fire, ambulance and other
emergency vehicles or services) over and across Deimler Lane in form and
substance satisfactory to Hampden Township, in order to permit Buyer to construct
Technology Parkway to a temporary cul-de-sac ending approximately 275 feet
east of Good Hope Road, all as shown on a Preliminary/Final Subdivision Plan of
Lot No. 9, Cumberland Technology Park, prepared for Buyer by H. Edward Black
and Associates, a copy of which has been delivered to Seller and Deimler. The
6
easement shall provide that when Buyer has obtained a highway occupancy
permit from the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation for the connection of
Technology Parkway with Good Hope Road substantially in the location shown on
the aforesaid Lot 9 Subdivision Plan, and has completed a connection between
existing Deimler Lane and Technology Parkway (said connection to be of the
same construction materials and to the same specifications as existing Deimler
Lane, or better (if Buyer so elects), in a location approved by Deimler, such
approval not to be unreasonably withheld or delayed), the Seller and Deimler will
abandon existing Deimler Lane from its current intersection with Good Hope Road
to its intersection with the newly constructed connection to Technology Parkway.
12, inder.-The parties acknowledge that the record owner of the Property is Eugene
R. Deimler, Sr. or a trust owned and controlled solely by Eugene R. Deimler, Sr.
("Deimler"). By his and its joinder herein, Deimler hereby consents to this August
2002 Amendment and agrees to cooperate, as reasonably requested, in
effectuating the terms and conditions hereof. If, for any reason, Deimler fails to
consent or cooperate as herein provided, such failure may be deemed by Buyer to
be a default and breach of the Option, as amended. The Joinder shall create a
contractual relationship only, and shall not be construed as, nor create, a
partnership, joint venture, or any similar relationship.
13. syPr Subdivision. Seller shall have the right to subdivide the Property, at Seller's
sole cost and expense, during the term of this Option; provided, however, that any
such subdivision shall be plotted to follow Buyer's then existing sketch plan
therefor. If Seller elects to exercise Seller's option with Deimler and to acquire feet
simple title, Seller shall acquire parcels of the Property in the order established by
Buyer`s then current phasing plan.. Any such subdivision plan(s) shall be subject to
Buyer's approval, which shall not be unreasonably withheld.
14. R mainina Provisions. Except as expressly amended by this August 2002
Amendment, all the terms and conditions of the Option, as amended, shall remain
in full force and effect.
15. Qnunterparts. This August 2002 Amendment may be executed in counterparts,
each of which shall be deemed an original copy and all of which together shall
constitute one August 2002 Amendment that shall be binding on all parties hereto.
16. T.• This August 2002 Amendment may be executed by each party hereto
on separate counterparts. When such executed counterparts have been
exchanged by telecopier among all parties, this August 2002 Amendment shall be
delivered, binding, and in full force and effect. Thereafter, the parties will make
good faith efforts to exchange original signed counterparts.
7
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have executed this August 2002
Amendment on the day and year first above written.
BUYER:
WITNESS: Mt. Zion Associates L.P., by its sole general
partner, Mt. Zion Associates, Inc.
ow a4&4'tM_
A@e
WITNESS:
By:
f? 6 r- Ai T
/ELL R:
John C. Harbilas `
Kathryn M. Harbilas
F.•Idawl3485 - ELYSIAN PARTNERS LP18809 -MT, ZIOMDocum"lAugust 2002 Amendment doc 8112102 2:49 PM
8
VERIFICATION
Subject to the penalties of 18 Pa. C.S.A. § 4904 relating to unsworn falsification to
authorities, I hereby certify that the facts set forth in the foregoing document are true and
correct to the best of my information and belief.
Dated: 2 6 ??0 4 FS
C • lr ?
John C. Harbilas
1- 9
d
f `-
d
?, V 1
David E. Lehman
I.D. No. 15243
McNees Wallace & Nurick LLC
100 Pine Street
P.O. Box 1166
Harrisburg, PA 17108-1166
(717) 232-8000
(717) 260-1716
JOHN C. HARBILAS and
KATHRYN M. HARBILAS,
Plaintiffs
V.
MT. ZION ASSOCIATES, L.P.,
Defendant,
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
CIVIL ACTION - LAW
NO. 08-1936 CIVIL TERM
IN EQUITY AND FOR
DECLARATORY JUDGMENT
AMENDMENT TO COMPLAINT
Plaintiffs' Complaint, as filed March 27, 2008, is amended, as follows:
In paragraph 29, to change the Exhibit reference to "Exhibit 6," and, to attach the
document identified as "Exhibit 6," a letter of February 14, 2005.
McNEES ALLACE & NURIC LLC
By
David E. Lehman
I.D. No. 15243
100 Pine Street
P.O. Box 1166
Harrisburg, PA 17108-1166
(717) 237-5285
(717) 260-1716
Attorneys for Plaintiffs John C. and
Kathryn M. Harbilas
Dated: April %0, 2008
Y"IAN
Mr. and Mrs. John C. Harbilas
817 Mandy Lane
Camp Hill, PA 17011
20 Erford Road -,Suite 10 - Lemoyne, PA 17043
-p.
Ph: (717) 303-1800 Fax: (717) 730-0500
February 14, 2005
VIA FEDERAL EXPRESS
& CERTIFIED MAIL Direct Dial (717) 303-1800x802
RE: Real Estate Option Agreement dated July 23, 1996, as amended (the
"Option Agreement"), between John C. Harbilas and Kathryn M. Harbilas
(collectively, "Harbilas") and NIt. Zion Associates L.P. ("Mt. Zion")
Dear Mr. and Mrs. Harbilas:
Pursuant to Paragraph 7 of the above-captioned Option Agreement, you are hereby
notified that Mt. Zion is exercising its option rights under the Option Agreement with respect to
real property comprising a portion of Lot #2 (as defined in the Option Agreement) containing
approximately 23.31 acres designated as Lot 1A ("Lot lA") on that certain Preliminary/ Final
Subdivision For The Deimler Farm dated January 28, 2005 prepared by H. Edward Black and
Associates, P.C. (the "Subdivision Plan"). The Subdivision Plan was delivered to you on January
31, 2005. Settlement on Mt. Zion's purchase of Lot IA shall take place at 10:00 a.m. on April
14, 2005, at the office of Mt. Zion's Counsel, Dean Weidner of Wix Wenger & Weidner, 508
North Second Street, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. Lot IA shall be a separately subdivided parcel,
but that requirement is expressly contingent on Harbilas and Eugene Deimler, Sr, as Trustee for
The Deimler Sr. Trust ("Deimler") honoring their respective obligations under the Option
Agreement with respect to the execution of and cooperation with obtaining approval of the
Subdivision Plan.
As you know, during the summer and fall of 2004, representatives of Mt. Zion held a
series of meetings with you (and in some cases your representatives) to negotiate an extension of
Mt. Zion's option and, at your request, to discuss the parcel as to which Mt. Zion intended to
exercise its option. A plan showing the parcel which Mt. Zion desired to acquire was delivered
on November 18, 2004. phis plan depicted contiguous parcels and abutting roadway which
followed the lot lines depicted on the Revised Preliminary Subdivision Plan for Cumberland
Technology Park dated August 15, 2002 and filed with Hampden Township (the "Preliminary
Subdivision Plan").
Following that meeting, to address concerns raised by Harbilas and in accordance with its
rights under the Option Agreement, Mt. Zion increased the size of the parcel it intended to
acquire by adding Lot 27 as depicted on the Preliminary Subdivision Plan and on December 16,
2004, delivered to your attorney a proposed subdivision plan dated December 13, 2004. You met
with your engineers, and some 25 days later (on January 7, 2005), through your attorney,
presented a list of ten comments to the plan, mostly objections. Dean Weidner's letter of January
10, 2005 (copy enclosed) responded to those objections and the comments in his letter that are
applicable to the current plan, including, without limitation, paragraphs b-f (inclusive), h and I,
are specifically incorporated into this notice.
Mt. Zion again revised the plan to address your comments, and on January 17, 2005,
submitted a revised plan (dated January 13, 2005) to you. Through your attorney, three days
later, you presented a list of comments to this plan. Again, the comments were all objections to
the plan, and virtually all of these objections would have been equally applicable to the December
13, 2004 plan. You, your engineer and your attorney simply elected not to tell Mt. Zion of those
objections until it was too late to make revisions and submit the subdivision plan to Hampden
Township for consideration and action in February of 2005.
As an accommodation, Mt. Zion further revised the plan to address all objections that you
were arguably entitled to raise, and submitted the subdivision plan dated January 28, 2005 to you
on January 31, 2005. You have still not consented to that plan, nor have you notified Mt. Zion of
any objections to such plan.
For reasons fully explained in prior correspondence from our attorneys, Wix, Wenger &
Weidner, to your attorney, Bruce Foreman, Mt. Zion is not obligated to submit a subdivision plan
to Hampden Township until you have both (i) consented to it; and (ii) signed it, to evidence your
consent to it.
We note the following failures to cooperate with Mt. Zion, including, without limitation:
(1) The wrongful failure and refusal of Deimler to both sign and consent to the
December 13, 2004 subdivision plan.
(2) The wrongful failure and refusal of Deimler to both sign and consent to the January
13, 2005 revised subdivision plan.
(3) The wrongful failure and refusal of Deimler to both sign and consent to the January
28, 2005 subdivision plan.
(4) The delays of Deimler in communicating the conditions upon which consent to any
of the aforesaid subdivision plans would be approved.
(5) The wrongful failure and refusal of Harbilas to consent to the December 13, 2004
subdivision plan.
(b) The wrongful failure and refusal of Harbilas to consent to the January 13, 2005
revised subdivision plan.
(7) The wrongful failure and refusal of Harbilas to provide all objections to the
December 13, 2004 subdivision plan in a timely manner.
(8) The wrongful failure and refusal of Harbilas to consent to the January 28, 2005
subdivision plan.
(9) The wrongful failure and refusal of Harbilas to execute each of the aforesaid plans.
(10) The wrongful failure and refusal of Harbilas to cooperate (for the reasons set forth
in this letter and prior correspondence from our counsel), contrary to your express contractual
obligations.
The foregoing failures, and others, have prevented Mt. Zion from filing and securing
subdivision approval of a separate parcel to which you have consented. As Mt. Zion has
repeatedly stated, it has no obligation to file a subdivision plan until Harbilas and Deimler have
consented to it. In fact, consent to and plan signatures are required no later than February 16,
2005 for the settlement date noticed herein to be attained.
This exercise of the Option by Mt. Zion is without prejudice to any rights of Mt. Zion
pursuant to the Option Agreement or otherwise at law, including, without limitation (1) Mt. Zion's
right to extend the settlement date as specifically provided in the Option Agreement; (ii) to any
rights Mt. Zion may have at law or in equity against you or Deimler as a consequence of your
respective failures to honor your obligations to Mt. Zion under the Option Agreement, including,
without limitation, the rights to extend settlement and to damages; and (iii) any extension of the
Option Agreement or settlement, or other rights which Mt. Zion may have, as a consequence of
agreements between you and Deimler which are unknown to Mt. Zion.
Very truly yours,
MT. ZION ASSOCIATES, L.P.
By: Mt. Zion Associates, Inc.,
Alan P. Garubba
Vice President
/jsk
cc: Bruce D. Foreman, Esq. (via telecopier and Federal Express)
Dean A. Weidner (via telecopier)
F:\daw\3485 - ELYSIAN PARTNERS L.P\8809 - MT. ZION\Letters\Exerdse Letter.doc 2/14/05 2:27 PM
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
The undersigned hereby certifies that on this date a true and correct copy of the
foregoing document was served by first-class mail upon the following:
Dean A. Weidner, Esquire
Wix, Wenger & Weidner
508 North Second Street
PO Box 845
Harrisburg, PA 17108
David E. Lehman
Dated: April /0 , 2008 Attorneys for Plaintiffs
,...>
? ._
;:'''i ...rz
.._ ?
m
? t
.,
. - ;r;7
..__ ,
,.
_.
.
__. . ,
_?:t
s*.3
_ .. _?_
?
c?? ?
?' C; , -C
JOHN C. HARBILAS and )
KATHRYN M. HARBILAS, )
Plaintiffs )
V. )
MT. ZION ASSOCIATES, L.P., )
Defendant )
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
CIVIL ACTION - LAW
NO. 08-1936 Civil Term
IN EQUITY AND FOR
DECLARATORY JUDGMENT
ACCEPTANCE OF SERVICE
hereby accept service of the Complaint in the above matter on behalf of Mt.
Zion Associates, L.P. Please enter my appearance as counsel for Defendant.
WIX, WENGER & WEIDNER
? Cr u
By_
Dean A. Weidner
Attorney ID No.
508 North Second Street
P.O. Box 845
Harrisburg, PA 17108
(717) 234-4182
(717) 234-4224 (fax)
Dated: May /, 2008
cz?
m
vi
Wix, Wenger & Weidner
Dean A. Weidner, I.D. #06363
dweidner@wwwpalaw.com
Jeffrey C. Clark, I.D. # 89277
jclark@wwwpalaw.com
508 North Second Street
P.O. Box 845
Harrisburg, PA 17108-0845
(717) 234-4182
Attorneys for Defendant
JOHN C. HARBILAS and
KATHRYN M. HARBILAS,
Plaintiffs
V.
MT. ZION ASSOCIATES L.P.,
Defendant
!fit r?
n -.
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
CIVIL ACTION -LAW
No. 08-1936 Cis it Term
IN EQUITY AND FOR
DECLARATOR" JUDGEMENT
NOTICE TO PLEAD
To: John C. Harbilas and Kathryn M. Harbilas, by and through their attorneys,
David E. Lehman, Esquire, and McNees Wallace & Nurick, LLC, 100 Pine Street,
P.O. Box 1166, Harrisburg, PA 17108-1166.
You are hereby notified to file a written response to the enclosed New Matter and
Counterclaim within twenty (20) days from service hereof o, a judgment may be entered
against you.
Respectfull,i Submitted,
Date: .,? ?Gv(, 3 Z r? 1 1
WIX, WENGER & WEI NER
J
By:
Dean A. Weidner, I.D. #06363
Jeffrey G. Clark, I.D. # 89277
508 Nor h Second Street
P.O. Box, 845
Harrisburg, PA 17108-0845
(717) 234-4182
Attorneys for Defendant
Mt. Zion Associates L.P.
JOHN C. HARBILAS and
KATHRYN M. HARBILAS,
Plaintiffs
V.
MT. ZION ASSOCIATES L.P.,
Defendant
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
CIVIL ACTION -LAW
No. 08-1936 Civil Term
IN EQUITY AND FOR
DECLARATORY JUDGEMENT
ANSWER TO COMPLAINT IN EQUITY AND FOR
DECLARATORY JUDGMENT WITH NEW MATTER AND COUNTERCLAIM
AND NOW comes Defendant, Mt. Zion Associates L.P., a Pennsylvania limited
partnership, by its undersigned attorneys, Wix, Wenger & Weidner, and files this
Answer to Complaint in Equity and for Declaratory Judgment with New Matter and
Counterclaim, stating as follows:
1. Admitted (as in the Complaint, Plaintiffs John C. Harbilas and Kathryn M.
Harbilas are sometimes hereinafter referred to in thE! singular and masculine
form).
2. Admitted in part and denied in part. Mt. Zion Associates L.P. ("Mt. Zion") did, at
the time of filing the Complaint, maintain an office at 20 Erford Road, Suite 10,
Lemoyne, Pennsylvania 17043. Mt. Zion's current address is 508 North Second
Street, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania 17101.
3. Admitted in part and denied in part. All averments o1 Paragraph 3 are admitted
as stated. However, due to Harbilas' "unclean hands" and other matters set forth
in the New Matter and Counterclaim (below), Mt. Zion denies that Harbilas has a
right to have this Court determine any matters in favor of Harbilas.
4. Admitted in part and denied in part. Harbilas' equitable ownership did not derive
from the Real Estate Option Agreement dated Janua y 7, 1997 between Deimler
1
c i
and John C. Harbilas (sometimes referred to as the Deimler/Harbilas Option)
(Complaint Exhibit 1), but from the Agreement for the Sale of Real Estate dated
December 9, 1994 (Complaint Exhibit 2). It is admitted that Harbilas was, at the
time of filing, the equitable owner of the subject property. However, since the
Complaint was filed, Harbilas acquired legal title to :he property by virtue of a
deed discussed more fully in Mt. Zion's New Matter which deed violated
Harbilas' contractual duties to Mt. Zion. A copy of the deed is attached hereto as
Exhibit A, incorporated herein by reference.
5. Denied. Mt. Zion is without knowledge as to the trulh of the averments of
Paragraph 5 and proof thereof is demanded.
6. Denied as stated. At no time did Harbilas enter into any agreements with Mt.
Zion pertaining to Mt. Zion's plans for development of an office park, and
Harbilas was never a participant in designing or formulating any of Mt. Zion's
plans for development of an office park on the prope rty being purchased from
Harbilas. Mt. Zion, did, in fact, enter into a Real Estate Option Agreement dated
July 2:3, 1996, (Complaint Exhibit 3), with Harbilas (;3ometimes referred to herein
as the "Original Option"); and the parties amended the Real Estate Option
Agreement on several occasions (the Real Estate Option Agreement, as
amended, is referred to in this Answer as the "Option")
7. Admitted.
8. Admitted.
9. Admitted.
10. Admitted.
2
11. Denied as stated. Mt. Zion undertook all steps and activities which were
necessary to permit it to exercise its rights prior to t-ie "expiration date" set forth
in the August 2002 Amendment. However, Harbila:> actively and affirmatively
took steps to frustrate Mt. Zion's ability to exercise ins option, including
concealment of Harbilas' entry into an agreement with Deimler to extend the
settlement date in the Deimler/Harbilas agreement by three (3) years (which
would have automatically extended Mt. Zion's settlement date) and contact with
Hampden Township officials to interfere with Mt. Zicn's subdivision plan approval
process, all as more fully appears below in this Answer, and in the New Matter
and Counterclaim hereinafter set forth.
12. Admitted in part and denied in part. The August 2002 Amendment (Complaint
Exhibit 5) did provide for an expiration date of the Option at 11:59 p.m. on
February 15, 2005; however, the provisions of the aloresaid paragraph also
provided for an automatic extension in the event Harbilas secured an extension
of his closing date with Deimler. Harbilas did, in fact, enter into an Agreement for
the Sale of Real Estate dated December 9, 2004, a copy of which is attached
hereto as Exhibit B, incorporated herein by reference, for the purpose, inter alia,
of extending the Harbilas/Deimler settlement date by three (3) years; but Harbilas
actively concealed such extension from Mt. Zion.
13. Admitted in part and denied in part. It is admitted that Mt. Zion exercised its
option under the August 2002 Amendment with respoct to a 23.31 acre portion of
Lot No. 2. Notwithstanding Mt. Zion's proper exercis,: of the Option, Harbilas
initially, untruthfully and in bad faith, denied receiving the notice. See Bruce
Foreman letter of March 3, 2005, Exhibit C attached hereto, incorporated herein
3
by reference. When Federal Express records were provided to show that the
notice had been received and signed for by "K. Har3ilas," Harbilas improperly
and in bad faith expanded the grounds for rejecting the notice, asserting that the
notice was not effective because the subdivision plain did not comply with the
Hampden Township Ordinance (subsequently approved by the Township) and
with the Option (patently untrue). See Bruce Forerr an letter of March 3, 2005,
Exhibit D attached hereto, incorporated herein by reference.
14. Denied. Paragraph 14 states a conclusion of law a:; to which no response is
necessary. However, to the extent an answer is rec uired, all averments of fact
are denied and, if relevant, proof thereof is demanded.
15. Denied. While approval of a subdivision plan showing the property to be
conveyed pursuant to the Option may have been a condition to closing, it was not
a condition to Mt. Zion's effectively exercising its rights under the August 2002
Amendment. Indeed, the only reason Mt. Zion was unable to have an approved
subdivision plan was because of the failure of Harbilas, the then equitable owner,
and Deimler, the legal owner, to sign the subdivision plan, contrary to an
affirmative duty of cooperation contained in the Option. In particular, Paragraph
6 of the Restated Second Amendment to Real Estate: Option Agreement
(Complaint Exhibit 4) provides in relevant part: "...S -3Iler shall fully and promptly
cooperate to the extent reasonably requested by Bu)/er in executing any
documents reasonably required by Buyer to effectuate the terms of this Second
Amendment and the Option and to assist Buyer's development [of] the
Property..." Furthermore, notwithstanding the fact that the subdivision plan had
not been approved by Hampden Township on February 14, 2005, when Mt. Zion
4
exercised the Option, the subdivision plan was sub:;equently approved.
However, it was never recorded (and Mt. Zion ceased efforts to have it recorded)
because Harbilas and Deimler never agreed to exe(;ute the subdivision plan,
notwithstanding Harbilas' aforesaid contractual obligation to execute the same.
The Township's approval therefore expired on June 1, 2007.
16. Denied. Exhibit 6 to the Complaint (Mt. Zion's February 14, 2005 notice
exercising of the Option) sets forth in detail a number of Harbilas' attempts to
obstruct the exercise of the Option and lists no less than six ways in which
Harbilas refused to cooperate with Mt. Zion, as required by the Option.
Furthermore, following the date of Exhibit 6, Harbilas continued to obstruct Mt.
Zion by contacting Township officials (directly and through his engineers) and
making adverse comments with respect to the subdivision plan (See New
Matter).
17. Denied. The positions taken by Harbilas with respect to the proposed
subdivision plan, including an assertion that Mt. Zior was required to construct
roads to the borders of the residual Harbilas land anJ to construct utilities to
those borders, were not supported by any reasonable interpretation of the
Option. In accordance with its obligations pursuant to the Option, Mt. Zion had
agreed to provide to Harbilas (as shown on the subdivision plan) a street right-of-
way to his property and a right-of-way for connecting utilities. Beyond providing
the foregoing, there was no "required coordination of development activities
(particularly road extensions and utilities) between tracts to be acquired by Mt.
Zion and tracts to be retained by Harbilas," as asserted in the Complaint.
Harbilas unfairly, without justification, and in violation of his contractual
5
obligations, insisted on benefits to his residual land to which Harbilas was not
entitled.
18. Denied. The "Agreement to Grant Real Property" between Mt. Zion and
Hampden Township obligated Mt. Zion to convey such four acres to the
Township, if (i) it acquired the entirety of Lot No. 2 (,approximately 104 acres),
and (ii) was therefore able to convey four acres to F- ampden Township. Because
Harbilas improperly asserted to Hampden Township officials that the Option had
expired and Mt. Zion could not convey the four acre 3, and because the Township
needed the four acre parcel earlier than anticipated, the Township asked Mt. Zion
to convey the property prior to acquiring the balance of Lot No. 2.
Notwithstanding the fact that Mt. Zion had no legal obligation to convey the land,
Mt. Zion did, in fact, cause Deimler and Harbilas to convey the land by making
payment to Harbilas of over $175,000.00 to secure a deed.
19. Denied. The answer in Paragraph 18 above is incorporated herein by reference.
20. Denied. The Option does not require "the reasonable coordination of Mt. Zion's
proposed subdivision and land development plans with the future development
needs of the residual tract" as alleged by Harbilas. The August 2002
Amendment (Complaint Exhibit 5) provides in relevant part in Paragraph 4, a
statement of Mt. Zion's (Buyer's) obligations, as follo'NS:
When exercising the Option, if Buyer elects to purchase less than all of the
Property, the minimum size of the parcel(s) shall, except as expressly
herein provided, be twenty-two (22) acres and the parcel shall be
contiguous to other land owned by Buyer; provided, however, that Buyer
shall have the right to designate, layout and subdivide a parcel or parcels
which do not meet such criteria to transfer and convey to (or exchange
with) Hampden Township or an authority or other entity designated by
Hampden Township; and provided further, if Bayer does not purchase all
of the Property, Seller's remaining parcel must be no less than 20 acres of
contiguous real estate.
6
The foregoing provision supersedes earlier version: of Paragraph 4 and provides
exclusive control in the Buyer; further, it simply reqL Tres that the parcel be no less
than 22 acres and contiguous to other property of Mt. Zion. It does not require
"reasonable coordination of Mt. Zion's proposed development with the future
development needs of the residual tract" which, in any event, would not include
physically constructing streets and utilities to the residual parcel, as asserted by
Harbilas.
21. Denied. The averments of Paragraphs 18 and 20 o' the Answer are incorporated
herein by reference. Further, as Harbilas refused to acknowledge Mt. Zion's
proper exercise of the Option, the fact that Mt. Zion 'Nas unable to secure
subdivision approval until after the April 14, 2005 closing date required by the
Option, cannot be relied upon by Harbilas as a reason for Harbilas' breach of the
Option and failure to perform.
22.Admitted in part and denied in part. The subdivision plan was approved by the
Hampden Township Commissioners at their meetinc of June 6, 2006. Copies of
revised plans had been provided to Harbilas in Janu -3ry or February of 2006, in
anticipation of such approval. At the time of the subdivision plan approval, Mt.
Zion and Harbilas had been in several meetings with the Township, jointly, where
approval of the subdivision plan was discussed, as well as filing a new
subdivision plan for conveyance of the four acre tract to the Township, so
Harbilas was aware that objections of the Township to the subdivision plan had
been resolved. Nevertheless, the last written communication of Harbilas to Mt.
Zion with regard to its exercise of the Option was a letter from his then counsel,
Susan Smith, dated April 13, 2005, attached hereto ?is Exhibit E, incorporated
7
herein by reference, which contains a condition not required or even permitted by
the Option (i.e., termination of Mt. Zion's lis pendens which was then applicable
to Mt. Zion's stated position that the Option had beE!n extended for three (3)
years), which condition was not acceptable to Mt. Z on. Harbilas knew that the
subdivision plan had been approved, and never communicated a willingness to
sign the plan or to proceed with a settlement in accordance with the terms of the
Option (and without conditions).
23. Denied. For the reasons set forth in Paragraph 17 and Paragraph 22 of this
Answer, as well as for the reasons set forth in the New Matter and Counterclaim,
Harbilas has neither performed nor reasonably complied with the obligations
called for under his agreements with Mt. Zion. To tre contrary, he has made
unreasonable demands, inconsistent with his duties of cooperation set forth in
the Option, and otherwise acted to frustrate Mt. Zion's performance of the Option.
24. Admitted in part and denied in part. It is denied that Mt. Zion was not in a proper
and enforceable position to enforce its rights under the Option. It is admitted that
Mt. Zion commenced the action referenced in Parag 'aph 24.
25. Denied. By the time it filed the lis pendens Mt. Zion nad been advised that
Harbilas had entered into an agreement with Deimle which was an amendment
to the Harbilas/Deimler option, which extended the settlement date between
Deimler and Harbilas for a period of three (3) years, :hereby automatically
extending Mt. Zion's settlement date. Harbilas has never acknowledged Mt.
Zion's right to a three (3) year extension of the settlement date. Accordingly, Mt.
Zion should have three (3) years from the date of this Court's Order to exercise
its Option as to the Harbilas residual property; and the entire residual property is
8
subject to a Declaration of Protective Covenants foi- Cumberland Technology
Park (See Paragraph 33(a) below). Therefore Mt. 'ion had and has rights with
respect to the entire residual property.
26. Admitted.
COUNT I
Claim for Declaratory Relief
27. The answers set forth in Paragraphs 1 through 26 above are incorporated herein
by reference as though set forth at length.
28. Denied. Paragraph 28 states a conclusion of law a: to which no response is
required. However, to the extent an answer is required, Mt. Zion is entitled to a
three (3) year extension of the Option on the entire Harbilas tract from the date of
this Court's Order and to a reasonable period of tiM to pursue reapproval of the
subdivision plan for the 23.31 acres as to which it exercised its option, and to
settlement thereon pursuant to the Option.
29. Denied. Paragraph 29 states a conclusion of law as to which no response is
required.
WHEREFORE, Mt. Zion respectfully requests the Court to enter judgment and
decree that Mt. Zion has the right pursuant to the Option to purchase the 23.31 acre
tract of ground, and to purchase the remainder of the residual property pursuant to the
Option for a period of three (3) years following this Court's Order. In the alternative, Mt.
Zion respectfully requests the Court to enter an Order subjecting the property to all
obligations of Harbilas pursuant to the Original Option (as amended by, among other
documents, the Restated Second Amendment and the August 2002 Amendment),
including, without limitation, the obligation to subject the Harbilas residual property to
9
the Declaration of Restrictive Covenants referenced in the August 2002 Amendment
(more fully discussed in Paragraph 33(a) of this Answer and Mt. Zion's New Matter).
Count II
30. The answers in Paragraphs 1 through 29 above are incorporated herein by
reference as though set forth at length.
31. Denied. For the reasons set forth in the New Matte including, without limitation,
Harbilas' failure to have "clean hands" and absence of good faith, Mt. Zion
requests the Court to deny the relief requested by Harbilas.
32. The answers to Paragraphs 1 through 31 above are incorporated herein by
reference as though set forth at length.
33. Denied. The Court should not award the relief reque.sted by Harbilas in
Paragraph 33 for the following reasons:
a. As a specific term of the August 2002 Amendment, and because of the
likelihood that access to and from Harbilas' residual ground would be, in
part, through Cumberland Technology Park, thereby implying to the public
that the development of Harbilas' residual ground would be an extension
of Cumberland Technology Park, Mt. Zion negotiated to have any residual
ground which it did not purchase made subject to a Declaration of
Protective Covenants for Cumberland Technc logy Park (see Paragraph
6(d) of the August 2002 Amendment, Exhibit!-) to the Complaint).
Pursuant to the August 2002 Amendment, Harbilas agreed that any deed
to Harbilas or its nominee would subject the p,operty to the aforesaid
Declaration of Protective Covenants for Cumberland Technology Park.
Nevertheless, despite written demand by Mt. -e'_ion prior to the closing that
10
the deed to Harbilas include the aforesaid restriction, the deed from
Deimler to Harbilas (Exhibit A hereto) does rot, in fact, include it. It would
be unfair and contrary to equity to require Mt. Zion to provide access to
the Harbilas residual ground through its property, thereby imposing a duty
under the Option on Mt. Zion, but to invalidate the corresponding
obligation of Harbilas to subject the residual property to the Declaration of
Protective Covenants. This result, sought by Harbilas, would provide to
him the benefits of the Option, but deny to M1. Zion the corresponding
benefits for which it negotiated.
b. For the reasons set forth in Mt. Zion's New Matter, including, without
limitation, Harbilas' unclean hands and lache:;, this Court should deny the
relief requested by Harbilas.
34. Denied. For the reasons set forth in Mt. Zion's New Matter, Harbilas is not
entitled to the relief sought in Paragraph 34. Furthermore, as is set forth in this
Answer and Mt. Zion's Counterclaim, Mt. Zion has continuing rights pursuant to
the Option to the entire tract of residual ground own0d by Harbilas.
35. Denied. The answer to Paragraph 33 is incorporated herein by reference.
WHEREFORE, Defendant requests the Court to dismiss the requested
declaratory relief, to recognize Mt. Zion's continuing rights i i the residual property, and
to recognize Harbilas' continuing duties pursuant to the Option, together with such other
and further relief as the Court deems necessary or appropriate.
11
NEW MATTER
Unclean Hands
(Concealment of Real Estate License
36. Paragraphs 1 through 35 hereof, together with the Exhibits of the Complaint and
the exhibits to this Answer with New Matter and Counterclaim, are incorporated
herein by reference as if fully set forth herein.
37. The original Option between Mt. Zion and John C. Farbilas (alone) was entered
into on July 23, 1996 (Complaint Exhibit 3).
38. At the time of signing the original Option (on or about July 23, 1996), Harbilas
represented to Mt. Zion, in Paragraph R-2 of the Option, that Harbilas was the
"...Owner or Beneficial Owner under a valid agreement of sale or option
agreement of the Deimler Farm..."
39. Harbilas' right to enter into the Option was governed by a series of documents,
the first of which was an Agreement for the Sale of Real Estate between Deimler
and Harbilas, dated March 15, 1988, which was recorded in the Cumberland
County Recorder of Deeds Office in Miscellaneous Book 349, Page 1085. This
agreement provided that Harbilas was to pay Deimler $20,000.00 per acre, but
did not require a settlement until ten (10) years thereafter. A copy of this
agreement is attached hereto as Exhibit F, incorporated herein by reference (the
"March 15, 1988 Sales Contract")
40. Mt. Zion subsequently discovered (in 1997) that the March 15, 1988 Sales
Agreement had been amended by an Assignment dated October 21, 1991, also
recorded, but incorrectly indexed, in the Cumberland County Recorder of Deeds
12
Office in Miscellaneous Book 406, Page 249. A copy of the Assignment is
attached hereto as Exhibit G, incorporated herein bar reference.
41. The March 15, 1988 Sales Agreement, as assigned, was amended by a Second
Addendum to Agreement for the Sale of Real Estate dated March 15, 1988
between Eugene Deimler and John Harbilas, which Second Addendum was
dated June 29, 1995 and is recorded in Cumberland County Miscellaneous Book
500, Page 728. A copy of the Second Addendum iE attached hereto as Exhibit
H, incorporated herein by reference.
42. Mt. Zion believes, and therefore avers, that when this March 15, 1988 Agreement
for the Sale of Real Estate was signed (on May 10, 1988) and/or when the
Second Addendum thereto was signed, on or about June 29, 1995, John C.
Harbilas was a licensed real estate agent in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania,
having acquired his license in September of 1979. Nevertheless, contrary to the
requirements of the regulations issued pursuant to Pennsylvania's then Real
Estate Licensing Act, John C. Harbilas failed to disclose, in writing, to Eugene
Deimler that he was a licensed real estate agent acting for profit.
43. The failure of Harbilas to include the foregoing disclc,sure in the March 15, 1988
Sales ,Agreement and/or in the Second Addendum rondered the agreement
voidable by Eugene Deimler, thereby jeopardizing the contract with Mt. Zion
(potentially rendering it voidable).
(Concealment of Kathryn Harbilas Aspi nment
44.As noted in Paragraph 38 above, John C. Harbilas alone represented that he "is the
Owner or Beneficial Owner under a valid agreement of sale or option agreement of
13
the Deimler Farm...," without reference to and concealing his wife's co-ownership
interest (see Assignment referenced in Paragraph z-0 of this New Matter).
45. Pursuant to the Original Option, Mt. Zion had the right to purchase the 62 Acre Tract
from John C. Harbilas (alone) for a consideration which began at a price of
$30,000.00 per acre during the first year after exeCUtion of the Original Option, which
increased by $2,000.00 per acre per year for the next five years (for a total of six
years). In other words, if Mt. Zion purchased the property in 2002, then the option
price would be $40,000.00 per acre, or two times th : amount which Harbilas was
obligated to pay Deimler.
46. Pursuant to an Amendment to Real Estate Option Agreement dated April 8,
1997, Mt. Zion was authorized to secure, at its own ,expense, a rezoning of the
104 Acre Tract to O-P. Such rezoning was to have occurred within four months
from April 8, 1997.
47. Mt. Zion pursued and initiated the rezoning, but was not able to accomplish the
same within such four (4) month period. However, the parties negotiated an
extension for the rezoning and an amendment to other terms which were
incorporated into a Restated Second Amendment to Real Estate Option
Agreement (Complaint Exhibit 4).
48. Mt. Zion made all payments required of it pursuant 0 the Original Option, as
amended, and otherwise performed its duties and of ligations thereunder.
49. Mt. Zion incurred substantial expense in pursuing development of the Deimler Farm,
including securing a zoning change for the 104 Acre Tract from R-T to O-P, laying
out a preliminary subdivision plan for all land owned I)y or optioned to Mt. Zion
(designated Cumberland Technology Park), extending 12 inch water lines,
14
underground electric service, sewer service lines, cable and conduit, all to and
through large portions of Cumberland Technology Park, with reliance upon the legal
effectiveness of its agreements with Harbilas. It also constructed Technology
Parkway through most of Cumberland Technology Park.
50. During the course of the aforesaid negotiations and activities of Mt. Zion, beginning
in 1996 and extending through October 31, 1997, Jahn C. Harbilas never advised
Mt. Zion that his wife, Kathryn M. Harbilas, was a party to the Agreement of Sale (by
virtue of his recorded but improperly indexed assignment to her, Exhibit G).
51. When Mt. Zion discovered this deficit, which had be-3n concealed from Mt. Zion, Mt.
Zion demanded that Kathryn M. Harbilas join in the Driginal Option, as amended;
and on or about December 12, 1997, Kathryn M. Harbilas joined into the Original
Option as amended.
52. Mt. Zion incurred substantial expense in reliance of the aforesaid representation of
John C. Harbilas that he had valid title to the property when, in fact, he did not and
therefore Mt. Zion had no legally enforceable rights to the option property.
(Concealment of Deimler Novation
53. Not only did Harbilas fail to disclose to Mt. Zion the assignment of the March 15,
1988 Sales Agreement to Kathryn M. Harbilas, but Harbilas also failed to disclose a
novation of his agreements with Deimler. Indeed, or or about January 7, 1997,
Harbilas converted the Agreement of Sale which war,, the foundation of his equitable
ownership and the basis of his dealings with Mt. Zion into a Real Estate Option
Agreement with Deimler (Complaint Exhibit 1).
54. The conversion of the agreement of sale to an option jeopardized Harbilas' ability to
perform the Option with Mt. Zion.
15
(Concealment of Harbilas/Deimler Settlcment Extension)
55. On August 12, 2002, Mt. Zion closed on the purchase of the 62 Acre Tract, and Mt.
Zion and the Harbilas Defendants executed the August 2002 Amendment
(Complaint Exhibit 5).
56. Paragraph 2 of the August 2002 Amendment extended Mt. Zion's option until
February 15, 2005, and also contained the followinc proviso: "provided, however, in
the event Seller [Harbilas Defendants] shall extend Seller's underlying option [the
Harbilas/Deimler Option] on the Property [the 104 Acre Tract], the Expiration Date
[of Mt. Zion's option] as set forth herein shall, withoL t further action of the parties, be
extended for the same period of time." The paragraph continued by stating that "the
price per acre [to be paid by Mt. Zion to Harbilas] wi I be $43,000.00 per acre if made
[after August 12, 20031."
57. Pursuant to the Harbilas/Deimler Option, which superseded the prior agreements
between Deimler and Harbilas, Harbilas was given L ntil March 15, 2005 to exercise
his option to purchase all remaining lands in the Deimler Farm which were not
previously purchased by Harbilas. Because of advaice payments made by
Harbilas, the purchase price was adjusted to $15,00100 per acre.
58. Notwithstanding the continuing negotiations betweer Mt. Zion and Harbilas with
respect to the Preliminary Final Subdivision Plan, which had occurred between
November 18, 2004 and January 30, 2005, the Harb las Defendants actively
concealed from Mt. Zion their negotiations with Deimler for a three year extension of
their duty to close, all with the intent of denying to Mt. Zion its right to an extension of
the exercise date of the Original Option, as amended by the provisions of the August
2002 Amendment, to March 15, 2008.
16
59. Had Harbilas acknowledged the extended settlemeit date to Mt. Zion, Mt. Zion
would not have exercised the Option as to the 23.31 acre tract of land (at that
time), would not have incurred the subdivision and ether expense with respect
thereto, nor incurred other substantial expenses.
(Intentional Failure to Coop jAj!gj
60. Paragraph 10 of the Original Option, in subparagraph (d), which was never revoked
or amended, required the Harbilas Defendants to "cooperate reasonably, if required
by the Buyer [Mt. Zion] in securing assurances from appropriate governmental
authorities relating to subdivision, use, water, sewer and building permits and to give
such assistance to Buyer [Mt. Zion] as may be reasonably necessary, other than
money, to secure such approvals.... including execution of any documents
reasonably required by Buyer [Mt. Zion] to effectuate; the same."
61. Beginning in December 2004, and continuing into early 2005, Harbilas and the
engineer he hired met with officials of Hampden Township and, contrary to his
duty of cooperation as set forth in the Option (see Paragraphs 15 and 60, above),
attempted to persuade them not to approve the subdivision plan prepared and
submitted by Mt. Zion, asserting it did not comply with law.
62. Contrary to his contractual duty of cooperation and the doctrine of good faith,
from the summer of 2004 to at least the spring of 2006, Harbilas asserted to Mt.
Zion that Mt. Zion had a contractual obligation to cor struct roads and utilities to
the border of any residual property which was ownec by Harbilas after Mt. Zion's
exercise of its Option.
63. No provisions in the Original Option or any of its subsequent amendments
required Mt. Zion to physically construct a street or s1 reets or utilities to the
17
residual property (which Mt. Zion did not purchase). The Option is clear on this
point, that Mt. Zion is only required to provide rights-of-way, and contains no
obligation, express or implied, that Mt. Zion is required to physically construct the
roads and utilities to the border of the Harbilas residual land.
64. Contrary to his contractual duty of cooperation and the doctrine of good faith,
from December of 2004 through February 14, 2005, as set forth in the February
14, 2005 letter from Mt. Zion to Harbilas which is attached to Plaintiff's Complaint
as Exhibit 6, Harbilas refused to execute the subdivision plans prepared and
submitted to him by Mt. Zion. Such action alone results in Harbilas having
unclean hands.
65. Harbilas, through his then attorney Bruce Foreman, notified Mt. Zion that
Harbilas did not receive the February 14, 2005 notice from Mt. Zion exercising
the Option. A copy of the correspondence from Bruce Foreman to counsel for
Mt. Zion is attached hereto as Exhibit C.
66. Subsequently, counsel for Mt. Zion forwarded return receipt information provided
by Federal Express confirming that "K. Harbilas" had, on February 15, 2005,
signed a receipt for the Federal Express package exercising the Option.
67. Harbilas then expanded his basis for rejecting the nctice of the Option, to include
failure of the subdivision plan to comply with the Hampden Township Zoning and
Subdivision Ordinance (but the plan was subsequently approved by the
Township) and failure to comply with the Option (not true).
68. One year later, through his new attorney, Susan Smi:h, Esquire, Harbilas
admitted receiving the notice properly exercising the Option, but conditioned his
performance of the Option on a condition not specified in the Option, and not
18
acceptable to Mt. Zion. A copy of the letter from Harbilas' then counsel, Susan
Smith, Esquire, setting forth the unacceptable condition, is attached hereto as
Exhibit E.
69. The actions of Harbilas in denying receipt of the notice; subsequently admitting
receipt of the notice; and then agreeing to close on the sale of the 23.31 acres,
but only with a condition not specified in the Option and not acceptable to Mt.
Zion, constitutes unclean hands.
(Intentional Failure to Comply with Option Terms)
70. As a specific term of the August 2002 Amendment, -and because of the likelihood
that access to and from Harbilas' residual ground would be, in part, through
Cumberland Technology Park, thereby implying to the public that the
development of Harbilas' residual ground would be an extension of Cumberland
Technology Park, Mt. Zion negotiated to have any residual ground which it did
not purchase made subject to a Declaration of Protective Covenants for
Cumberland Technology Park (see Paragraph 6(d) of the August 2002
Amendment, Complaint Exhibit 5).
71. Pursuant to the August 2002 Amendment, Harbilas agreed that any deed to
Harbilas or its nominee would subject the property tc the aforesaid Declaration of
Protective Covenants for Cumberland Technology Park.
72. Despite written demand by Mt. Zion prior to the Deirr ler/Harbilas closing that the
deed to Harbilas include the aforesaid restriction, the deed from Deimler to
Harbilas (Exhibit A hereto) does not, in fact, include i".
73. Harbilas' failure to follow a clear, concise, unambiguous provision of the Option
constitutes unclean hands.
19
74. The foregoing actions, specified in Paragraphs 36 through 73 of the New Matter,
together with other actions referenced in the Answer to the Complaint,
individually and cumulatively, evidence a lack of good faith and unclean hands.
Any of the series of actions, alone, but certainly cumulatively, evidence sufficient
bad faith to preclude Harbilas from proceeding in a -,ourt of equity to enforce his
alleged rights.
Estoppel
75. By virtue of the matters set forth in Paragraphs 1 through 74 above, together with
the averments of this Answer (and in particular, the averments of Paragraphs 36
through 73 hereof), Harbilas is estopped from secur ng the relief prayed for by
Harbilas.
Laches
76. The Complaint filed by Harbilas is barred by laches in that not filing it until
March 27, 2008, three (3) years following Mt. Zion's filing of a lis pendens
initiating legal proceedings against Harbilas to enfori;e the terms of the Option, is
prejudicial to Mt. Zion.
WHEREFORE, Mt. Zion requests the Court to dismi:;s the Harbilas Complaint, to
recognize Mt. Zion's continuing rights in the residual property, and to recognize
Harbilas' continuing duties pursuant to the Option, together with such other and further
relief as the Court deems necessary or appropriate.
COUNTERCLAIM
77. Paragraphs 1 through 76 hereof, together with the exhibits of the Complaint and
the exhibits to this Answer with New Matter and Cou iterclaim, are incorporated
herein by reference as if fully set forth herein.
20
78. As set forth in Exhibit 6 to Plaintiff's Complaint, Mt. Zion exercised its Option to
purchase 23.31 acres.
79. Because of Harbilas' improper refusal to acknowledge Mt. Zion's exercise of the
Option, Mt. Zion ultimately allowed its subdivision plan, which met all Township
requirements and was approved by the Township subject only to the conditions
that it be signed by the legal owner and equitable owner of the property, and that
a bond for the streets shown thereon be posted, to Expire.
80. Because Mt. Zion was prevented, as aforesaid, from exercising its rights
pursuant to the Option, this Court should afford Mt. Zion a reasonable time to
resubmit its subdivision plan, secure approval, and thereafter to exercise its
option and close on the portion of the Option which it exercised.
81. Because of Harbilas' refusal to acknowledge that the three (3) year extension of
the Deimler/Harbilas option negotiated by Harbilas, which Harbilas concealed
from Mt. Zion, automatically extended the (Mt. Zion) Option, Mt. Zion respectfully
requests this Court to order that, as to the residual ground, the Option is and
remains in effect for a period of three (3) years following the date of this Court's
Order.
82. Harbilas entered into an Agreement for the Sale of Real Estate dated December
9, 2004, a copy of which is attached hereto as Exhib t B, for the purpose, inter
alia, of extending the Harbilas/Deimler settlement date by three (3) years; but
Harbilas actively concealed such extension from Mt. Zion.
83. The Option (Complaint Exhibit 3) provides, in Paragraph 17 thereof, that in the
event of a breach by Harbilas, Mt. Zion is entitled to :specific performance and to
recover its reasonable attorneys' fees in connection with any litigation.
21
WHEREFORE, Mt. Zion respectfully requests that this Court issue an Order:
a. affording Mt. Zion a reasonable time to resubmit a subdivision plan, in order to
secure subdivision plan approval for the 23.31 acre parcel of land as to which Mt. Zion
properly exercised its Option;
b. restricting Harbilas, directly or through his engineers or other agents, from
contacting any Township officials with respect to the aforesaid subdivision plan;
c. requiring Harbilas, as legal owner of the 100 acre residual parcel, to execute
the usual and customary owner's certification on the aforesaid subdivision plan;
d. requiring Harbilas, pursuant to the terms of the Option, not to encumber the
100 acre residual parcel of land, and to otherwise comply with the terms of the Option;
e. requiring Harbilas to extend the Option for a reasonable time to permit Mt.
Zion to subdivide the aforesaid (approximately) 23.31 acre tract of ground to Mt. Zion,
free and clear of all liens and encumbrances, in accordanco with the terms of the Option
and thereafter to delivery usual and customary closing documents in connection with
the conveyance;
f. awarding to Mt. Zion reasonable attorneys fees and costs incurred by it in
connection with Harbilas' default, including all settlement and other negotiations related
to the exercise of this Option;
g. ordering that the residual land retained by Harbilas is and shall be subject to
the Declaration of Restrictive Covenants pursuant to and aE required by the Option;
h. ordering that the residual Harbilas parcel remains subject to the Option for a
period of three (3) years; and
22
i. granting such other and further relief as the Court may deem necessary and
appropriate.
Date: __ 4,q 13 Z 010
Respectfully Submitted,
WIX, WE 4GER & WEI NER
Dean A. Weidner, I.D. #06363
Jeffrey C. Clark, I.D. # 89277
508 No -th Second Street
P.O. Box 845
Harrisburg, PA 17108-0845
(717) 234-4182
Attorneys for Defendant
Mt. Zion Associates L.P.
23
VERIFICATION
I, Philip Markovitz, Vice President of Mt. Zion Associates, Inc., the general
partner of Mt. Zion Associates L.P., Defendant in the foregoing matter, have read the
foregoing Answer to Complaint in Equity and for Declaratory Judgment with New Matter
and Counterclaim, and hereby affirm and verify that it is trUe and correct to the best of
my personal knowledge, information and belief. I verify that all of the statements made
in the foregoing are true and correct and that false statements made therein may
subject me to the penalties of 18 Pa.C.S.A. Section 4904, elating to unsworn
falsification to authorities.
Date: <? v at z J c'
Philip Markovitz
EXHIBIT "A"
Lin 1__;
Prepared by:
Core Settlement Services, Inc.
3800 Market Street
Camp Hill, PA 17011
Return to:
Above address
DEED
1111111111111111111111
Tax Parcel No. 10-15-1283-003
THIS INDENTURE, made the _ /6A day of Detywkpr- in the year of our
Lord Two Thousand Eight (2008).
BETWEEN EUGENE R. DEIMLER, SR., TRUSS-EE OF THE DEIMLER,
SR. TRUST, (hereinafter referred to as the "TRUST"), GRANTOR, Party of the
First Part,
A
N
D
JOHN C. HARBILAS and KATHRYN M. HARE ILAS, husband and wife,
GRANTEES, Party of the Second Part,
WHEREAS, the Grantor is the sole trustee of The Doimler, Sr. Trust, created by
Eugene R. Deimler, Sr., as Trustor (Settlor), on July 7, 1998; and
WHEREAS, the Trust provides, in relevant part, as follows:
...the Trustee is specifically authorized and empowered with respect to any
property, real or personal, at any time held under any provi.,ion of this Trust: to allot,
allocate between principal and income, assign, borrow, buy, care for, collect, compromise
claims, contract with respect to, continue any business of the Trustor, convey, convert, deal
with, dispose of, enter into, exchange, hold, improve, incorporate any business of the
Trustor, invest, lease, manage, mortgage, hypothecate (by Deed of Trust or other appropriate
instrument), encumber, grant and exercise options with rest ect to, take possession of,
pledge, receive, release, repair, sell, sue for, make distributions in cash or in kind or partly in
each without regard to the income tax basis of such asset and in general, exercise all of the
powers in the management of the Trust Estate which any individual could exercise in the
management of similar property owned in his/her own right, upon such terms and conditions
as to the Trustee may seem best, and execute and deliver any and all instruments and do all
acts which the Trustee may deem proper or necessary to carry )ut the purposes of this Trust,
without being limited in any way by the specific grants of mower made, and without the
necessity of a court order.
NOW THEREFORE, WITNESSETH that the said Party of th j Fir >^azthor?t defy
in consideration of the sum of 5Q Y l f) TT U nil a d-ruJQ I A-T ?2 ($11 °7T-00)
DOLLAR and .00/100, lawful money of the United States of America, well and truly paid
by the said Party of the Second Part to the said Party of the First Part, at and before the
sealing and delivery of these presents, the receipt whereof is hereby acknowledged, have
granted, bargained, sold, alienated, enfeoffed, released, conN eyed and confirmed and by
these presents does grant, bargain, sell, alien, enfeoff, release, -.onvey, and confirm unto the
said Party of the Second Part, their heirs and assigns.
ALL THAT CERTAIN tract of land shown on the Preliminary/Final Subdivision
Plan of Deimler Farm, Good Hope Road, as situate in Hampden Township, Cumberland
County., Pennsylvania, shown on a plan dated August 22, 1995, prepared by Act One
Consultants, Inc. (Job No. 95-033), and more particularly bounded and described as
follows, to wit:
BEGINNING at a p.k. nail in the bed of Good Hope Road (public street 60' wide)
at the dividing line between lands described herein and lan((s now or formerly of Faith
Tabernacle Congregation (Plan Book 43, Page 35 and Plan .3ook 60, Page 116); thence
through said bed of Good Hope Road North six degrees thin) minutes zero seconds West
(N 061 30' 00" W) a distance of 959.55 feet to a p.k. nail zt line of lands described in
Cumberland County Plan Book 43, Page 35; thence along said lands the following three
courses and distances: 1) North seventy-seven degrees twenty-four minutes eleven
seconds East (N 77° 24' 11" E) 112.76 feet through an iron pin on the Good Hope Road
right-of-way line to a second iron pin; 2) North five degrees zero minutes forty seconds
West (N 05° 00' 40" W) 119.33 feet to a point; and 3) North twenty-three degrees forty-
four minutes sixteen seconds East (N 23° 44' 16" E) 80.00 feet to an iron pin at the
dividing line between Lot I and Lot 2 of the herein described plan; thence along said
dividing; line of Lot 1 and Lot 2 the following three courses and distances: 1) South
sixty-six: degrees fifteen minutes forty-four seconds East (S 651 15' 44" E) 320.00 feet to
a point; 2) North three degrees thirty-two minutes fifty seconds West (N 03° 32' 50" W)
199.76 feet to a point; and 3) North eighty-six degrees tweet)-seven minutes ten seconds
East (N 86° 27' 10" E) 1165.53 feet to a point at lands now or formerly of Hampden
Township Sewer Authority (Plan Book 37, Page 103 and Plan Book 49, Page 146);
thence along said lands of the Sewer Authority South fifteen degrees eight minutes fifty
seconds East (S 15° 08' 50" E) a distance of 170.00 feet to an existing concrete
monument; thence North seventy-two degrees fifty-four minutes fifty-five seconds East
(N 72° 54' 55" E) a distance of 300.77 feet to an existing concrete monument; thence
North seventeen degrees eight minutes fifty-eight seconds west (N 17° 08' 58" W) a
distance of 40.00 feet to an existing concrete monument; thence North seventy-two
degrees twenty-nine minutes forty-two seconds East (N 72" 29' 42" E) a distance of
374.50 feet to an existing concrete monument; thence Soutf. twelve degrees twenty-four
minutes ten seconds East (S 12° 24' 10" E) a distance of 386.59 feet to a pin; thence
North seventy-three degrees thirty-one minutes eighteen seconds East (N 73° 31' 18" E) a
distance of 268.45 feet to an existing concrete monument; thence South eighty-nine
degrees forty-five minutes seven seconds East (S 89° 45'07" E) a distance of 214.50 feet
to an existing concrete monument; thence South sixty-nine degrees eleven minutes
fourteen seconds East (S 69° 11' 14" E) a distance of 178.25' feet to an existing concrete
monument; thence North fifty-one degrees forty-seven mimttes twenty-six seconds East
(N 511 47' 26" E) a distance of 174.67 feet to a point on the opposite side of Sears Run;
thence along and through Sears Run South thirty-nine degrees thirty-three minutes
twenty-five seconds East (S 39° 33' 25" E) a distance of 6;0.50 feet to a point; thence
continuing along same South thirty-two degrees thirty-six minutes eight seconds East (S
32° 36' 08" E) a distance of 118.80 feet to a point at line of lands now or formerly of
Ronald Weaver; thence along lands now or formerly of ]Ronald Weaver, of Charles
Kemberling and of Raymond Mitchell South fifty-nine degrees thirty-eight minutes fifty-
two seconds West (S 59° 38' 52" W) a distance of 2580.37 feet to a point at lands now or
formerly of Eugene E. Heiges; thence along lands now or formerly of Heiges and lands
now or formerly of Gregory A. Kauffman (Cumberland County Plan Book 50, Page 104)
North seventy-seven degrees zero minutes zero seconds West (N 77°00' 00" W) a
distance of 560.12 feet to an iron pin at line of lands now cr formerly of Faye Sweger;
thence along said lands now or formerly of Sweger the follcwing three and courses and
distances: 1) North forty-three degrees thirty-nine minutes thirty-eight seconds East (N
43° 39'38" E) 39.00 feet to a iron pin; 2) South seventy-two degrees five minutes twenty-
two seconds East (S 721 05' 22" E) 152.90 feet to an iron pin; and 3) North six degrees
twenty :minutes twenty-two seconds West (N 06° 20'22" W) a distance of 350.00 feet to
an iron pin at line of lands now or formerly of Faith Tabeinacle Congregation; thence
along lands now or formerly of said Congregation the following two courses and
distances: 1) North three degrees forty-two minutes twenty-n.ne seconds West (N 03° 42'
29" W) 349.75 feet to an iron pin; 2) South eighty-six degre ;s seventeen minutes thirty-
one seconds West (S 86° 17' 31" W) a distance of 802.76 feet through an iron pin on the
right-of-way line of Good Hope Road to a p.k. nail in the bird of Good Hope Road, the
point of BEGINNING.
BEING Lot 2 on the aforementioned Preliminary Final Subdivision Plan of
Deimler Farm, Good Hope Road, recorded in Plan Book 85, Page 103.
LESS AND EXCEPTING property conveyed in Deed of Dedication by and
between Eugene R. Deimler, Sr., Trustee, The Deimler Sr. rust, John C. Harbilas and
Kathryn M. Harbilas, Mt. Zion Associates, L.P., as Grantors and Township of Hampden,
as Grantee dated June 5, 2006 and recorded June 30, 2006 in the Recorder of Deeds
Office in and for Cumberland County, Pennsylvania in Deed Dook 275, Page 2189.
AND LESS AND EXCEPTING property conveyed in Deed of Dedication by
and between Eugene R. Deimler, Sr., Trustee, The Deimler Sr. Trust, John C. Harbilas
and Kathryn M. Harbilas, Mt. Zion Associates, L.P., as Granters and Hampden Township
Sewer Authority, as Grantee dated March 26, 2007and recorded April 9, 2007 in the
Recorder of Deeds Office in and for Cumberland County, Pennsylvania in Deed Book
279, Page 2423.
UNDER AND SUBJECT to easements, conditions and restrictions of record
including, without limitation, a 70' wide PP&L right-of-w-iy shown in Miscellaneous
Book 178, Page 153; a 33' wide AT&T right-of-way shown in Miscellaneous Book 87,
Page 159; a 15' wide water line easement described in Miscellaneous Book 295, Page
198; and a 30' wide force main easement described in Plan 49, Page 148.
BEING PART OF THE SAME PREMISES whi cch Eugene R. Deimler, Sr.
granted and conveyed unto The Deimler, Sr. Trust by deed dated October 8, 1998, and
recorded on December 24, 1998, in the Recorder of Deeds Office in and for Cumberland
County., Pennsylvania in Deed Book 191, Page 778.
Pursuant to Section 3030 and 304(m) of the Pennsylvania Land Recycling and
Environmental Remediation Standards Act ("Act 2'9, 35 P.S. §§60263030 and
6026.304(m), Section 405 of the Pennsylvania Solid Waste Management Act, 35 P.S.
§6018.405, and Section 512 of the Pennsylvania Hazardous Sites Cleanup Act ("HSCA"),
35 P.S. §6020.512, the Grantor hereby provides notice that solid waste and hazardous
substances have been disposed and released on the land described in this Deed (the
"Land') and remediated to an Act 2 cleanup standard Groff ndwater on a portion of the
Land has been impacted by chlorinated solvents, including perchloroethylene and its
breakdown products trichloroethylene, cis-1,2-dic)doroethylene, trans-1,2-
dichloroethylene, 1,1 dichloroethylene, and vinyl chloric e. The location of the
groundwater impacts by these substances is generally set foiTh in Exhibit A hereto. In
addition, soils on the Land were impacted by those products, however, at concentrations
that are below residential cleanup standards developed under Act 2. The Land was
subject to characterization and remediation pursuant to Act 2, and a "final report"
demonstrating compliance with Act 2 cleanup standards is expected to be submitted to the
Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection ("1ADEP") by December 31,
2008. Soils were remediated to the Act 2 Statewide Health Standards for all constituents
of concern, and groundwater was remediated to the Act 2 Site Specific Standard utilizing
pathway elimination. Because certain contaminants are known to exist in soil and
groundwater, pursuant to 35 P.S. §§ 6018.405, 6020.512, 6016.3030 and 6026.304(m),
Grantor hereby provides this notice. This solid waste and hazardous substance
acknowledgement shall be included in the description of the Land in the deed for all
future conveyances or transfers of the Land pursuant to 35 P.S. §§6018.405, 6020.512,
60263030 and 6026.304(m).
UNDER and SUBJECT to restrictions and conditions ,Ls now appear of record.
AND THE SAID Party of the First Part, for their selvos, their heirs, executors and
administrators, does by these presents, covenant, grant and agroe to and with the said Party
of the Second Part, their heirs and assigns, that they, the said Party of the First Part, their
heirs all and singular the hereditaments and premises hereinabc ve described and granted or
mentioned and intended so to be, with appurtenances, unto the said Party of the Second Part,
their heirs and assigns, against the said Party of the First Part ,md their heirs and against all
and every other person or persons whomsoever, lawfully claiming or to claim the same or
any pail thereof, by, from or under them, them or any of them, shall and will, by these
presents, SPECIALLY WARRANT AND FOREVER DEFEND.
THE REMAINDER OF THIS PAGE IS INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the said Party of the First Part, have hereunto set their hands
and seal the day and year first above written.
Signed, Sealed and
Delivered in the Presence of
THE DEIMLER, SR. TRUST
(SEAL) BY: L)
WITNESS EUGENE R. DEIMLER, TRUSTEE tUGE-X E R. DEIMLER,
TRUSTEE
COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA
COUNTYOF gw&c*.M*vD
:SS
On this, the 16 LR day of et:x-w bpr _, 2008, before me, a Notary
Public, the undersigned officer, personally appeared EUGENE R. DEIMLER, AS
TRUSTEE, the Grantor, known to me (or satisfactorily pro- en) to be the person whose
name is subscribed to the within instrument, and acknowledge d that he executed the same
for the purpose therein contained.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I hereunto set my hand and Notarial seal.
L -
My Commission Expires Notary
CERTIFICATION OFADDRES6'
I hereby certify that the precise residence of the Grantee n the within Deed is:
Agent fo rantee
3
m
3
N
7
w Lf
ni
ANN
o d
N
0
0
n
w
w
a w
v w.
o Z
..r u -
= w
o 1 a
a #
t?
\ Q?m
U
va
0NW
\ O Z a
1 W Z
V
•
lll
1
1
a?
ROBERT P. ZIEGLER
RECORDER OF DEEDS
CUMBERLAND COUNTY
1 COURTHOUSE SQUARE
CARLISLE, PA 17013
717-240-6370
Instrument Number - 200900435
Recorded On 1/7/2009 At 11:21:40 AM
* Instrument Type - DEED
Invoice Number - 34911 User ID - MSW
* Grantor - DEIMLER SR TRUST
* Grantee - HARBILAS, JOHN C
* Customer - CORE SETTLEMENT SERVICES
* FEES
STATE TRANSFER TAX $7,126.90
STATE WRIT TAX $0.50
STATE JCS/ACCESS TO $10.00
JUSTICE
RECORDING FEES - $17.50
RECORDER OF DEEDS
PARCEL CERTIFICATION $10.00
FEES
AFFORDABLE: HOUSING $11.50
COUNTY ARCHIVES FEE $2.00
ROD ARCHIVES FEE $3.00
CUMBERLAND VALLEY $3,563.45
SCHOOL DISTRICT
HAMPDEN TOWNSHIP $3,563.45
TOTAL PAIL) $14,308.30
*Total Pages - 8
Certification Page
DO NOT DETACH
This page is now part
of i:his legal document.
I Certify this to be recorded
in Cumberla rid County PA
cf cuq
K
° RECORDER O D EDS
ryao
* - Information denoted by iin asterisk may change during
the verification process and may not be reflected on this page.
V!iIIININIUImII?N
EXHIBIT "B"
08/28/2005 09:05 FAQ. 717697768' SNELBAIKER BRENNEMAN SPAT 0 002
AGREEMENT FOR THE SALE OF REAL (ESTATE
THIS AGREEMENT is made this day of -D,c r#"6*r , 2DO L/, by
and between Eugene R. Deimler, Sr., an adult individual, of 4875 Deimler Lane, Camp Hill,
Cumberland County, Pennsylvania 17011,. and Deimler, Sr.; Trust, Eugene R. Daimler,
Trustee, hereinafter jointly called "Seller", and John C. Harbii14 s and Kathryn Harbilas, adult
individuals and husband and wife, of 817 Mandy Lane, Gimp Hill, Cumberland County,
Pennsylvania 17011, or his assigns, hereinafter collectively calleJ "Purchaser".
WHEREAS, Seller is the title owner of record of the Real Estate known as the Deimler
Farm located adjacent to Good Hope Road in Hampden Township, Cumberland County,
Pennsylvania, more fully described on Exhibit A attached hemto and incorporated herein by
reference, hereinafter referred to as the "Real Estate"; and
WHEREAS, Seller and Purchaser had previously ex.cuted a Reel Estate Option
Agreement (the "Option Agreement') for Real Estate dated January 7, 1997, and recorded in
the Office of the Recorder of Deeds of Cumberland County January 17, 1997, in Miscellaneous
Book 538, Page 1113, as amended August 12, 2002; and
WHEREAS, the Option Agreement provides an expiratior date of March 15, 2005; and
WHEREAS, the Option Period set forth in the Option Agreement may expire without
Purchaser having fully exercised his rights regarding Real Estate: under the Option Agreement;
and
WHEREAS, Seller desires to sell and Purchaser agrees to purchase remaining Beal
e=state under and subject to the terms and conditions hereinafter provided which the parties
desire to confirm in writing.
NOW, THEREFORE, and in consideration of their mutual promises and covenants, and
other goad and valuable consideration, receipt of which is heriaby acknowledged, the parties
hereto, intending to be legally bound hereby, agree as follows:
1_ RECITALS. The recitals set forth above are incorporated herein by reference.
2. SALE AND PURCHASE. Seller hereby agrees ;o sell, transfer and convey to
Purchaser, who agrees to purchase, Real Estate, The parties agree that Purchaser shall have
all rights which Purchaser had as Optionee under the above-isferenced Option Agreement,
except that payments by Purchaser shall be made as set forth herein,
3. PURCHASE PRICE, Purchaser shall pay the sum of Seven Hundred Twelve
Thousand Six Hundred Ninety and 00/100 ($712,690.00) Dollars, to Seller, as follows:
03//28/2005 09:05 FAX 717697768 SNELBAIZER BRENNEMAN S?A' 8003
a. The principal sum of One Hundred Thousand and 001100 ($100,000.00) Dollars,
on March 15, 2005; and
b. The principal sum of One Hundred Thousand and i]01100 ($100,000.00) Dollars,
on June 15, 2006.
C. The balance of the purchase price principal in the sure of Five Hundred Twelve
Thousand Six Hundred Ninety and 001100 ($512,690.00) Dollars, to be paid on
March 15, 2008.
d. Purchaser retains right of pre-payment without pen-cilty,
4. INTEREST ON PURCHASE PRICE. Purchaser shell pay annual interest on the
outstanding balance of the purchase price to Seller, reduced in accord with the principal
payments made that year, which interest shall begin to accrue on March 15, 2005, as follows:
a. On March 15, 2006, Purchaser will pay an annual interest payment at a rate of
five (5%) percent of the current outstanding balance of the purchase price due to
Seller.
b. On March 15, 2007, Purchaser will pay an annual interest payment at a rate of
five (5%) percent of the current outstanding balance of the purchase price due to
Seller; and
C. On March 15, 2005, Purchaser will pay a final inte5rest payment at a rate of five
(5%) percent of the current outstanding balance of the purchase price
concurrently due to Seller.
5. RIrAI_ ESTATE TO BE CONVEYED. Purchaser may designate within the
limitations set forth herein a portion of the Real Estate, being equal to the amount of land which
has been paid for by Purchaser under this agreement based upon the per-acre price
determined by the prior Option and dividing the total salelpurcha se price by the total acreage,
and Purchaser shall be entitled to receive tltle and conveyance to the same after subdivision.
All costs, expenses and fees required to effect an approved subdivision shall be paid for solely
by Purchaser without contribution or reimbursement by Seller. Seller will cooperate with
Purchaser in the subdivision process. The parties agree that upon payment of the $100,000.00
by Purchaser to Seller due on March 15, 2005, Purchaser shall be entitled to 63,432 acres of
land based upon payments previously or then made.
Limitation on designation. Purchaser's right to designate land for conveyance shall be
limited to:
(a) A tract of unimproved land (not to include any buildings on said
designated tract).
(b) The location of such tract shall be situated so that Seller's remaining land
will be accessible to an existing public read by direct adjoiner in such
manner that such remaining land can be leveloped in accordance with
existing zoning regulations of Hampden Township.
(c) Such designated land shall not include any of the existing buildings or
other structures,
2
03/2&/2005 09:05 FAX 717697768 SNELBAKER BRENNEMAN SPA' Z 004
(d) if the designated land includes any wells providing water to the remaining
lands improved with existing buildings, an appropriate easement and
right-of-way shall be provided and reserved for Seller appurtenant to said
remaining land.
(e) Said designated land shall be conveyed subject to Seller's obligation to
extend all utilities which may be constructed on the designated land to the
boundary of Seller's remaining lands in order to provide said remaining
lands with the right to connect thereto for ttie development and use of the
remaining lands in accordance with the existing zoning regulations of
Hampden Township. The term "utilities" shall include sanitary sewer,
water, gas, electricity, telephone and cable television.
6, NOTICE ON REAL ESTATE TO BE CONVEYED. Purchaser shall provide
Seller with six (6) months notice of Purchaser's intent to designale a portion or portions of Real
Estate to which Purchaser is to received title and conveyance. S aid notice Is necessary so that
Seller can continue to farm portions of the Real Estate until final settlement. However,
Purchaser will be entitled to take ownership and possession of Real Estate without delay if
Seller is not currently farming the portion of Real Estate.
a. DEED AND TITLE. The title to the premises shall be conveyed to Purchaser by
Seller's special warranty dead, conveying good and marketable Itle, free and clear of all other
judgments, liens and encumbrances, subject only to easements rights-of-way and restrictions
of record and those which a physical inspection of the Real Estate would disclose. Title shall be
such as will be insured by any reputable title insurance company doing business in Pennsylva-
nia, at its regular rates.
B. TAXES. County, municipal and school district Reel Estate taxes shall be paid by
Seller until final settlement. Sewer, trash and other municipal clarges shall be paid by Seller
and apportioned pro rata as of the date of settlement. Seller will be solely responsible for any
reduced assessment of Real Estate due to the use of the land or the roll beck of taxes,
including any clean and green provisions.
9. SETTLEMENT. Settlement, subject to satisfaction of all contingencies herein set
forth, shall take place on or before the 15" day of March, 2008, at the law offices of Foreman &
Foreman PC, 4409 North Front Street, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania or at such other place as the
parties may hereafter agree to in writing.
10. POSSESSION. Purchaser shall be entitled to possession of the Real Estate as
of the date of settlement for that portion of Real Estate. However, Purchaser and/or their agents
shall be allowed access to the Real Estate for the purpose of -onducting inspections and/or
appraisals of the Real Estate but Purchaser shall be responsible! to Seller for any damages to
growing crops caused by such inspections and/or appraisals.
11. SEL ER'S DEFAULT, If Seller is unable to deliver the quality of title required In,
accordance with the terms of this Agreement, Purchaser shall have the option of terminating
this Agreement, or cure title at Seller's expense.
03/25;2005 09:06 FAX 71769776P SNELBAKER BRENNEMAN .SPA 005
12. . REAL ESTATE TRANSFER TAXES, Each party allrees to pay one-half (1/2) of
the realty transfer taxes which may be required to be paid as a result of any transfer at the time
the deed is recorded.
- 13. CURRENT USE. Except as specifically stated below, Seller represents that he
has not received any notice from any governmental authority of any violation of any laws
relating to the current use or condition of the Real Estate and warrants that he will comply with
the requirements of all notices received prior to the date of final settlement at his sole cost and
expense, It is specifically understood and agreed that botli parties hereto have actual
knowledge of an environmental problem concerning ground water contamination presently
identified as being located generally in the northeastern arvi of the real estate and that
possible remediation may be required. Purchaser as equitable cwner covenants and agrees to
cure said groundwater problem at such time as enforcement action may require, and Purchaser
agrees to indemnify Seller and hold him harmless of and from any and all costs, expenses,
penalties or fines hereinafter arising from said enforcement action and the curing of the
problem. The responsibilities of Purchaser in this paragraph i;y shall commence immediately
upon the execution of this agreement. The provisions of th::s paragraph 13 shall survive
final settlement of the sale of -the Real Estate.
14. CONDITION OF REAL ESTATE. Seller shall not 13e responsible for the curing of
any existing environmental problems discovered on Real Estate. Purchaser or his assigns shall
be responsible for the curing of any existing environmental probl ams disclosed to Purchaser as
of this date. Seller shall be responsible for cleaning all debris, trash and other materials from
Real Estate, including, but not limited to, tires and vehicles currently on Real Estate. Seller
agrees to allow Purchaser full and complete access to the Beal Estate to remediate any
existing environmental problems thereon, Including digging of wells.
15, ENTIRE AGREEMENT. It is further understooc that this Agreement and the
documents herein referenced contain the entire Agreement between Seller and Purchaser and
there are no other terms, obligations, covenants, representations, statements or conditions, oral
or otherwise, of any kind whatsoever concerning this sale. Furthermore, this Agreement shall
not be amended except in writing executed by the parties hereto. The terms of this
Agreement shall survive settlement
16. EFFECTIVE DATE OF THUS AGREEMENT. Exce at as otherwise provided
hereinabove, this Agreement will be effective as of the termination of an existing Option with Mt.
Zion Associates and with Purchaser and, in'the event the Option with Mt. Zion Associates is
exercised in part but not with regard to all lands herein covered, this Agreement shall be pro
rated by acreage in or when the Option is exercised and cominue with regard to remaining
lands and, if the Option is exercised with regard to all lands which are the subject of this
Agreement, this Agreement shall terminate and no party sh?]l have any further obligation
hereunder. Until the expiration of the Option with Purchaser, Purchaser may act under that
Option.
17. BINDING EFFECT. This Agreement shall be bidding upon the parties hereto,,
their respective heirs, executors, administrators, successore and assigns. Specifically,
Purchaser may take title to any portion of said Real Estate in his own name or In the name of -
any assignee, and Purchaser may. assign any portion of this Agmement to any assignee.
4
03/°28./2005 09:06 FAX 71769776r SNELBAIMR BRENNEMAN SFE 2006
Is. GOVERNING LAW. This Agreement shall be golrerned by and construed in
accordance with the laws of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto, intending to be legally bound hereby,
hereunto set their hands and seals the day and year first above wrtten,
Witness:
SELLER:
EU E R. D EIMLER, SR.
T EIMLER S . TRUST
E GENE R. DEIMLER, SR. TRUSTEE
PURCHASER..
C,
JOHN C. HARBILAS
KATHR'Y'N RR-B LAS
5
03/23,/2005 09:06 FA:( 71769776' SNELBAKER BRENNEMAN E;P 16007
COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA
SS,
COUNTYOF C?u?hdtru-? -
On this, the q-N_ day of Dew sew 2004, before me, the
undersigned officer, personally appeared Eugene R. Deirnler, Sr. and The Deimler Sr., Trust,
Eugene R, Deimler, Sr., Trustee, known to me (or satisfactor'ly proven) to be the person(s)
whose name(s) is/are subscribed to the within instrument and acknowledged that he/she/they
executed the same for the purposes herein contained.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I hereunto set my hand and ofcial seal.
My Commission Expires:
COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA
Notarial Seal
Susan L. Matraii, No?ary Public
Mechanicsburg Boro, Cumberland County
My Commission Bxpires Nov, 2b, 2007
Mernber, PF nnsylvar is Association of Notaries al-I
o ry Public
?-k*tr?+,?fnew.rr?..?*..,rrx+tiewwvetxk*w,rk?ex*ww•x?•?r*,k,4*++??r+?i*..*??w.?w?****ws*?n??wkxonl??w,r,rxr?ww,r*?e*,v x•x-?,?*,Fri•,t
COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA
SS.
COUNTY OF
On this, the I ( r)4-1\ day of cam ?&r , 2004, before me, the
undersigned officer, personally appeared John C. Harbilas and Kathryn Harbilas, known to
me (or satisfactorily proven) to be the person(s) whose name(s) islare subscribed to the within
instrument and acknowledged that he/she/they executed the same for the purposes herein
contained.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I hereunto set my hand and ofS.,ial seal.
My Commission Expires;
Notary Public ?-'
6
03.!28/2005 09:06 FAX 71769776' SNELBAKER BRENNEMAN 5P 0 008
EXHIBIT A
DESCRIPTION OF REAL. ESTATE
ALL that certain tract of land containing 104.2789 acres situated in the Township of
Hampden, County of Cumberland and Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, being all of Lot No. 2 as
shown on a certain plan of lots entitled "Preliminaiy/Final Subd.vision Plan of Deimler Farm"
dated August 22, 1995 and last revised on September 21, 1995, :•ecorded in the Office of the
Recorder of Deeds in and for Cumberland County, Pennsylvani,. in Plan Book 85, Page 103.
EXHIBIT "C"
LAW OFFICES
FOREMAN & FOREMA:?T, P. C.
BRUCE D. FOREb1AN
JEFF FOREMAN
TR14CY L. UPDIKE
JONATHAN 1vL CR:IST
4409 NORTH FRONT STREET
HARRISBURG, PA 17110-1709
March 3, 2005
TELEPHONE (717) 236.9391
FAY (717) 236-6602
ie ff@fore man-foreman. com
bruce@foreman-foreman.com
tracv@foreman-foreman.com
ionathanaforeman-fore man.com
Via Facsimile 234.4224
First Class Mail
Dean A. Weidner, Esquire
Wix, Wenger & Weidner
5o8 North 2nd Street
P.O. Box 8,45
Harrisburg, PA 17io8-0845
Re: Mt,. Zion Associates LP - Harbilas
Dear Attorney Weidner:
I received your fax letter of March 3, 2005. The Option Agree rent required that exercise
of the option be made by a delivery of notice to the Optionor, Mr. Harbilas. Mr. Harbilas
advises me that he did not receive notice of the exercise of the option by any of the means
set forth in the Option Agreement. We believe that the option was not properly exercised
and, by its terms, it has expired.
Ve tr J 0 S,
"Br?uc reman
BDF.mam
Cc: John Harbilas (via facsimile only 238-5355)
EXHIBIT "D"
LAW OFFICES
FOREMAN & FOREMA]v, P.C.
BRUCE D. FOREMAN
JEFF FOREMAN
TRACY L. UPDIKE
JONATHAN M. GRIST
4409 NORTH FRONT STREET
HARRISBURG, P_1 17110.1709
TELEPHONE. (717) 236.9391
FAX (717) 236.6602
ief[Ca fore m an-foreman. com
bruce@foreman-foreman.com
trace@fore m an-foreman. com
ionathan@foreman-fore man. com
March 3, 2005
Via Facsimile 234.4224
First Class Mail
Dean A. Weidner, Esquire
Wix, Wenger & Weidner
5o8 North 2nd Street
P.O. Box 8,15
Harrisburg, PA 171o8-0845
Re: Mt. Zion Associates LP - Harbilas
Dear Attorney Weidner:
I am writing to formally advise you of our position that your c. ients, Mt. Zion Associates,
did not properly exercise their option rights under the Real Estate Option Agreement for
the Deimler Farm property. While we believe that the proposed subdivision plan was
improper for a number of reasons which you are already awar including but not limited
to failure to abide by the applicable law and statute, particular ly the Hampden Township
Subdivision and Land Development Ordinance, and in that it slid not comply with
contract terms which requires that any action by your client leave the remaining parcel of
the "Deimler Farm" reasonably developable, we also believe a] id assert that the option
was not properly exercised.
Any notice, such as the exercise of the option, had to have been timely hand delivered,
sent by certified united states mail, postage prepaid or sent by overnight delivery service
requiring receipt by the Seller with a copy to me. The option v ras not provided with
notice by you within the time reauired as mandated by the opt ion.
The option, having not been properly exercised, expired.
Very truly yours,
Bruce U.Am i?
BDF.mam
Cc: John Harbilas (via facsimile only 238-5355)
Richard Snelbaker, Esquire (via facsimile only 697-7681)
EXHIBIT "E"
REAGER & ADLER, PC
ATTORNEYS AND COUNSELORS AT LAW
2331 MARKET STREET
CAMP Hill, PENNSYLVANIA 17011-4E42
717-763-1383
TELEFAX 717-730-7366
WEBSITE: ReagerAdlerPC.com
THEODORE A. ADLER +
DAVID W. REAGER
CHARLES E. ZALESKI
LINUS E. FENICLE
THOMAS O. WILLIAMS
SUSAN J. SMITH
Writer's Email Address: ssmith@reageradlerpc.com
April 13, 2005
Dean A. Weidner, Esq.
Wix, Wenger & Weidner, PC
508 North 2nd Street
PO Box 845
Harrisburg, PA 17108
SUSAN H. CONFAIR
TIFFANY M. CARTWRIGHT
PETER R. WILSON
-rnrlif ed Ci-il Trb! Spec'e!i.;t
Re: 23.31 acres (Lot 1A, Preliminary/Final Subdivision Plan for the Deimler Farm)
Dear Dean:
As discussed with you earlier this week, on behalf of Mr. Harbilas we recognize Mt. Zion
Associates, L.P.'s exercise of its option on February 14, 2005 for 23.31 acres of the Deimler Farm
("Property"). As further agreed, settlement on the Property will not to ce place on April 14, but will be
scheduled to take place at a future mutually convenient time. And, co:isistent with our mutual interest, I
am ava?lahle to ngrticir..ate il, a pre-settlement reviffW meeting to discuss an?r outstand;nom matt- v.
Settlement on the Property must include the following:
0 adequate and acceptable assurances of the reservation of utility and road (Sharla Circle
and Technology Parkway) easements (for access and/or construction purposes) sited
substantially in conformance with the Revised Preliminary Subdivision Plan, Cumberland
Technology Park (approved October 1, 2002) and with :he Preliminary/Final Subdivision
Plan for the Deimler Farm, as may be approved by Harr pden Township;
• release of the lis pendens with prejudice; and
• a Preliminary/Final Subdivision Plan for the Deimler Firm that fully satisfies the
requirements of Hampden Township, as set forth in review comments prepared by Mr.
Dean Weidner, Esq.
April 13, 2005
Page 2
Spease, the Township's Engineer, or as may be determined by official action of the
Township on the Plan, and timely approval of the sari e.
Mr. Harbilas remains willing to enter into agreement with Mt. Zion Associates for option and
purchase of the remaining acreage shown as Lot 1B on the proposed Preliminary/Final Subdivision Plan
for the Deimler Farm.
Ve truly y u'
us
an i?
cc: John Harbilas
EXHIBIT "F"
AGREEMENT FOR THE SALE OF REAL ESTATE
01
This agreement is made this JS day of 1988,?gtNynI B n )z 10
r t
seller, Eugene &i?lmler, residing at 4875 Diemler Lane, Cumberland County,
?`l ,
owner of Diemler Farm of ± 160 acres & purchaser-, John Harbilas, residing
at 817 Mandy Lane, Camp Hill, PA, 17011 & assigns.
John Harbilas agrees to purchase & Eugene DQmler agrees to sell all
of his land - 180 acres for $20,000 per acre for a total of $3,600,000.00
to be paid at settlement, Exact purchase price to be determined by number
of acres multiplied by $20,0003j00.
I
Settlement & transfer of Band shall occurr no later than ten years
(10 yrs.) from the date of this contract.
Seller has optiol to remove all existing buildings & contents prior to
settlement.
Seller to give buyer & his representatives full cooperation & access to
site. Buyer will not interfere or disturb crops & planting by seller.
Seller to continue use of land until start of construction.
John Harbilas will purchase u hunting camp preselected by Dieniler fur a
price not to exceed $:100,000.00, for the exclusive use by Of4mler & his
representative. At settlement, Harbilas will exchange the equity in this
hunting camp for an equal amount of equity in N-omlers Farm.
In addition, Johr Harbilas; will provide R*niler $20,000 at signing of
!I
this agreement to be used for the purchase of a tractor to maintain land up
i
to standards until time of settlement.
The land is to be conveyed!in fee simple by special waranty deed free
1
& clear of all liens & encumberances.
This agreement is binding,?'upon the hiers, executors, & administrators.
II
h
l
7Se 11 e r
Witness
3=/o("S
SW?11N.' `OT1A:,SUBSCRIBED i
be't?reOm@):Lhd /G/^Lday
0 0r7?; ?• 1988!. t^ -Q S//b > >
r BooK 406 E _50
Publ C D. WNN E. TROSTLE, Notary Pubno ?risburp, Dauphin County, Pa. BOOK r3Vj hlS?E [08- .
my On EXIJ . 1 CE5 : Commlalon Explr e. August 21, 19D9 l)
?I
II
?I
ADDENDUM; AGREEMENT FOR THE SALE OF REAL ESTATE, Dated Mar I';, !988
between Eugene DtZinler and John Ilarbils
Seller agrees that buyer may purchase at $20,000. per acre and s,ttle
on any part of the farm during the period this contract is in force. Seller
will cooperate and subdivide at the expense of the buyer the por'Liors of
the faun to be transferred.
Whenever possible, buyer will exchange with seller, farm land re>ulting
in non-taxable transfers provided that tax laws apply.
This agreement is contingent on financing.
DATED: May 10 1988
SWORN TO AND SUBSCRIBED t. "
befo4cR,+r lw,•t*s i O/& day
1T
_ ..,. '_ 1988.
Q!'
A7
• Stale;of Pennsylvania c
S.' .
CCUnIy_ol :'Cumberland R
:1ecorded fli tho' fllcg for the recording of Deeds
5 ,
m gland C ounl Pa.
%
s4 \ ook 1V01-? PagO
My
,,epm
.Expires:
DAwmH E. TROSiLE. Notary Pub[ ?wttri83$• my, hand and anal of office at
•
:. Hrr4cbur0. oauoln County. P& .
,nm?,"`''
Cpmminloo E,wo-., noc,n( L•r,}P?le,.?'''??'' ?a I t9?)
BOOKf 34?) PACE tf)86
BOOK 406 PACE 251
I
I
i
a
State of Pennsylvania
County of Cumberland
Recorded in the office for thlllecordj ig of Deeds
etc. in and for Cumberland County, a
inBookQVol. Pa("e
witness my hand and ;cent pf ,)tl,ce o
Carlisle, PA thi` ?--C?I LS;L_ 79??
cu?
EXHIBIT "G"
• r
V,-/
.-
' ?'. OC i 2 1. I
ASSIGNMINT
I hereby assign all my rights, title and intc-est
in and to the attached Agreement of Sale dated Math
15, 1988, from Eugene leimler to John Harbilas,
recorded'in miscellaneous Book 349, Paqc IOH4, in
volving property situate i.n (Hampden lbwnship, 1'umh ?i -
land County, Pennsylvania, unto John (Harbilas and
Kathryn Harbilas, his wife.
(^J'`-' ?? .• I_-6,?._?e_.?.?` 1. _.. -
'U7f(
., 7
f ,o 'W 1 r hc'IP,
COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA :
SS
COUNTY OF DAUPHIN
On the 21 day of &I 6`x"1991 , be Core mu
this,
the undesigned officer, personally appeared john
I
Harbilasjlwhose name is subscribed to the within
instrument, and acknowledged that he executod som,,
j for the purpose therein contained.
IN (WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my
hand and! seal.
`^ M omission Expires-_
not
"J 'rr' • " 'I D.1d G. Gckrs, nk I •Rd :
r''+ Pi?,J! , ,. ?I FAy Qmunis_<oi fxp,ce Jan. J1, 19}t
i! Y;• ' F,101i,?101, F?C(YLS M:UV.I l?r{ pa7;gn 0 ??OLIl1 5
EXHIBIT "H"
Second Addendum to: Agreement For The Sale Of Real Estate
dated March 15, 1988, between Eugene Deimler and John
Harbilas.
The parties hereto agree as follows:
1. Said real estate is to consist of all the land c wned by Eugene Deimler,
approximately 166 acres as per survey of Act One Consulting Engineers dated March
5, 1991.
i
2. Settlement and transfer of said real estate is hereby changed to occur on or before
March 15, 2005.
3. In consideration of this addendum, John Har )ilas has agreed to pay Eugene
Deimler $100,000.00 (one hundred thousand d Alars) a year for the Years 1995,1996
and 1997. This payment is to be exchanged fol land at $20,000.00 per acre.
4. It is hereby acknowledged that Eugene Deiriler has received to date monies from
John Harbilas and that these monies will be cre cited to future conveyances of land at
$20,000.00 per acre.
5. It is hereby agreed that John Harbilas has th s right to subdivide and purchase and
transfer any portion or all of the land of the said -eal estate as he shall determine at
any time this contract is in force. Payment for E ny of the portion of land shall occur
on or before transfer unless! otherwise agreed to in writing by both parties.
All other provisions of said Agreement and First Addendum not here changed shall
remain in full force and effect. 1)
In witness whereof we have set our hands and se als this CY day of June 1995. '.
witness j 5,genoe Deiml r
,,Witin.ess is John C. Har ilas
•-f : v
17
`\?.??1.-L`1-L?t_.?...-.n;. ?n .7wFfa IU. 10C9 ... _.
. 1
State of ??,hV ?.c i{Jrw U 51A
County of
On this, the, y??? day of 19 yS-, before me
The undersigned officer, personall} appeared Eugene R. Deimler Sr. and
John C. Harbilas mown to me (or satisfactorily proven) to be the person
whose name subsc ibed to the within instrument, and acknowledged. that'
executed the same for the purpose theeik",coppai'ned.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand u JO weal.
!+ i
My Commission Expires
a
n_ C7
n 1 CD
U' o ?-
"' G o E
L.L 1
O U 0
1. c= L?
,. W [ to
IIJ •_ l1:
U lLi ?;
Aty Ca
NUL-tW Seal
Monaca J. Gbv , Pldta?typP?ttyfic
Ii M1fyCaw?lori Nw.16,1[198
•1I?•re of Pennsylvania 1. SS
li.unty of Cumberland
i . orded in the office tc r the recording of D"'"
:, in nd for Cumberle nd County, PtF
?Book?Vol. _-Page -?
lin,cas my hand and S( al of office?f , , 19 ?
i,?:,rtisla, PA this III-- day of
??? cord
a((r 5'1 i?'Y^? I i v
Boot`, 500 m.,: 729
0 0 K
t
U, X,
?• :FBI .s.?., r ?s. `?? ? ?? l l
i
BOOK 500 731
I!
li
J
1
JOHN C. HARBILAS and
KATHRYN M. HARBILAS,
Plaintiffs
V.
MT. ZION ASSOCIATES L.P.,
Defendant
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
CIVIL ACTION - LAW
No. 08-1936 Civil Term
IN EQUITY AND FOR
DECLARATOR" JUDGEMENT
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
I hereby certify that a true and correct copy of the foregoing Answer to Complaint
in Equity and for Declaratory Judgment with New Matter and Counterclaim was sent by
regular United States mail, postage prepaid to the following:
David E. Lehman, Esquire
McNees Wallace & Nurick, LLC:
100 Pine Street
P.O. Box 1166
Harrisburg, PA 17108-1166
Date: fJAU
WIX, WENC ER & WEIDNER
By:
Harva Owings augh n, Paralegal
P.O. Box 845
508 North Second Street
Harrisburg, PA 17101-0845
(717) 234-4182
F:\daw\3485 - ELYSIAN PARTNERS L.P\8809 - MT. ZION\Documents\Answer to Complaint in Equity.doc 1112110 4:37 PM
David E. Lehman
Attorney I.D. No. 15243
Charles T. Young, Jr.
Attorney I.D. No. 80680
McNEES WALLACE & NURICK LLc
P.O. Box 1166, 100 Pine Street
Harrisburg, PA 17108-1166
Phone: 717-237-5397
Fax: 717-260-1760
Attorneys for Plaintiffs
TP, • Rv:, OTAP
,lit
3: 2
=_i
JOHN C. HARBILAS and : IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
KATHRYN M. HARBILAS, : CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
Plaintiffs,
NO. 08-1936 CIVIL TERM
V.
MT. ZION ASSOCIATES, L.P., : CIVIL ACTION - EQUITY AND FOR
Defendant. : DECLARATORY JUDGMENT
PLAINTIFFS' REPLY TO NEW MATTER
AND ANSWER AND NEW MATTER TO COUNTERCLAIM
Plaintiffs John C. Harbilas and Kathryn M. Harbilas, by and through their
attorneys McNEES WALLACE & NURICK LLC, hereby file this Reply to New Matter and
Answer and New Matter to Counterclaim. In response to Defendant's allegations,
Plaintiffs state the following:
REPLY TO NEW MATTER
Allegation of Unclean Hands
(Alleged Concealment of Real Estate License Concealment of Real Estate License)
36. Plaintiffs incorporate herein by reference, the allegations of their Complaint
(and attached exhibits) as if fully set forth below.
37. Denied. The Real Estate Option Agreement dated July 23, 1996 (Exhibit 3
to the Complaint) is a legal document that speaks for itself, and Defendant's
1
characterizations of it are denied. By way of further response, Eugene Deimler
executed a joinder to the agreement and became legally bound by its terms.
38. The Real Estate Option Agreement dated July 23, 1996 (Exhibit 3 to the
Complaint) is a legal document that speaks for itself, and Defendant's characterizations
of, and/or selective quotations from that document are denied.
39. It is admitted that Harbilas' ability to enter into the Real Estate Option
Agreement dated July 23, 1996 (Exhibit 3 to the Complaint) was governed by a series of
documents. The remainder of the allegations is denied. The Agreement for the Sale of
Real Estate dated March 15, 1988 (Exhibit F to the Answer) is a legal document that
speaks for itself, and Defendant's characterizations of that document are denied.
40. Denied. The Assignment dated October 21, 1991 (Exhibit G to the Answer)
is a legal document that speaks for itself, and Defendant's characterizations of that
document are denied. By way of further response, after reasonable investigation,
Plaintiffs are without knowledge or information sufficient to form a belief as to the truth
of the remainder of the allegations. They are therefore deemed denied. By way of
further response, Plaintiffs had no control over the indexing of documents by the
Cumberland County Recorder of Deeds.
41. The Agreement for the Sale of Real Estate dated March 15, 1988 (Exhibit F
to the Answer), Assignment dated October 21, 1991 (Exhibit G to the Answer), and
Second Addendum to Agreement for the Sale of Real Estate dated June 29, 1995
(Exhibit H to the Answer) are legal documents that speak for themselves, and
Defendant's characterizations of those documents are denied.
2
42. Admitted in part, denied in part. It is admitted that Mr. Harbilas was a
licensed real estate agent during the relevant period. The remainder of the allegations
is denied. Mr. Harbilas disclosed his status as a licensed real estate agent to Mr.
Deimler. By way of further response, Plaintiffs note that the Agreement for the Sale of
Real Estate dated March 15, 1988 (Exhibit F to the Answer) itself states that,
"Purchaser is a real estate agent."
43. Denied. Mr. Harbilas disclosed his status as a licensed real estate agent to
Mr. Deimler. By way of further response, Plaintiffs note that the Agreement for the Sale
of Real Estate dated March 15, 1988 (Exhibit F to the Answer) itself states that,
"Purchaser is a real estate agent." By way of further response, Deimler was himself a
party to the Real Estate Option Agreement dated July 23, 1996 (Exhibit 3 to the
Complaint), and Deimler's obligations under that Agreement would not be affected by
transactions to which Defendant was not a party.
(Alleged Concealment of Kathryn Harbilas Assignment)
44. The Real Estate Option Agreement dated July 23, 1996 (Exhibit 3 to the
Complaint) and the Assignment dated October 21, 1991 (Exhibit G to the Answer) are
legal documents that speak for themselves, and Defendant's characterizations of,
and/or selective quotations from those documents are denied. By way of further
response, Plaintiffs did not conceal anything from Defendant.
45. The Real Estate Option Agreement dated July 23, 1996 (Exhibit 3 to the
Complaint) is a legal document that speaks for itself, and Defendant's characterizations
of it are denied.
3
: 46. This Paragraph refers to a legal document (viz, the Amendment to Real
Estate Option Agreement dated April 8, 1997) that speaks for itself, and Defendant's
characterizations of the document are therefore denied.
47. The Restated Second Amendment to Real Estate Option Agreement dated
October 31, 1997 (Exhibit 4 to the Complaint) is a legal document that speaks for itself,
and Defendant's characterizations of the document are denied. By way of further
response, after reasonable investigation, Plaintiffs are without knowledge or information
sufficient to form a belief as to the truth of the remainder of the averments. Therefore,
they are deemed denied.
48. Denied. It is denied that Defendant performed its duties and obligations
under the Real Estate Option Agreement dated July 23, 1996 (Exhibit 3 to the
Complaint).
49. After reasonable investigation, Plaintiffs are without knowledge or
information sufficient to form a belief as to the truth of these averments. Therefore, they
are deemed denied.
50. After reasonable investigation, Plaintiffs are without knowledge or
information sufficient to form a belief as to the truth of these averments. Therefore, they
are deemed denied.
51. It is denied that anything was "concealed" from Defendant. It is admitted
that Kathryn Harbilas executed a Joinder to the Real Estate Option dated December 12,
1997. After reasonable investigation, Plaintiffs are without knowledge or information
sufficient to form a belief as to the truth of the remainder of the averments. Therefore,
they are deemed denied.
4
: 52. Denied. This is simply not true, and the assertion is belied by Defendant's
own allegations in prior paragraphs.
(Alleged Concealment of Deimler Novation)
53. It is admitted that Plaintiffs entered into the "Real Estate Option Agreement"
with Eugene Deimler on or about January 7, 1997. Defendant's remaining allegations
are denied. The Real Estate Option Agreement with Deimler dated January 7, 1997
(Exhibit 1 to the Complaint) is a legal document that speaks for itself, and Defendant's
characterizations of it are denied. By way of further response, there was no "novation."
The Real Estate Option Agreement with Deimler dated January 7, 1997, had no effect
on Defendant, as Deimler had previously executed a Joinder to the Real Estate Option
Agreement between Harbilas and Defendant (Exhibit 3 to the Complaint).
54. Denied. This is simply not true.
(Alleged Concealment of Harbilas/Deimler Settlement Extension)
55. The August 2002 Amendment to Real Estate Option Agreement (Exhibit 5 to
the Complaint) is a legal document that speaks for itself, and Defendant's
characterizations of it are denied.
56. The August 2002 Amendment to Real Estate Option Agreement (Exhibit 5 to
the Complaint) is a legal document that speaks for itself, and Defendant's
characterizations of, and/or selective quotations from that document are denied.
57. The Real Estate Option Agreement with Deimler dated January 7, 1997
(Exhibit 1 to the Complaint) is a legal document that speaks for itself, and Defendant's
characterizations of that document are denied.
5
58. Denied. Plaintiffs did not "actively conceal" anything from Defendant. By
way of further response, it is denied that Plaintiffs attempted to deprive Defendant of
any right granted under the August 2002 Amendment to Real Estate Option Agreement
or any other contract. Defendant is mischaracterizing the relevant events, and it is
confused in its use of terminology. Exhibit 2 to the Complaint is an "Agreement for the
Sale of Real Estate" between Deimler and Plaintiffs. It is not properly characterized as
a "three year extension of their duty to close." Among other distinctions, under the
Agreement for the Sale of Real Estate dated December 9, 2004, Plaintiffs were required
to make significant payments towards the purchase of the property.
59. It is denied that Plaintiffs concealed anything from Defendant. It is further
denied that Defendant validly exercised the Option. After reasonable investigation,
Plaintiffs are without knowledge or information sufficient to form a belief as to the truth
of the remainder of the averments. Therefore, they are deemed denied.
(Alleged Intentional Failure to Cooperate)
60. The Real Estate Option Agreement dated July 23, 1996 (Exhibit 3 to the
Complaint) is a legal document that speaks for itself, and Defendant's characterizations
of, and/or selective quotations from that document are denied. By way of further
response, Plaintiffs at all times cooperated in a reasonable manner with Defendant.
61. It is admitted that Mr. Harbilas had some contact with the township. The
remainder of the allegations is denied. Plaintiffs at all times cooperated with Defendant.
By way of further response, Defendant acted in a unreasonable manner, and Plaintiffs'
purpose was only to ensure that their remaining property continued to be commercially
viable and did not become "land-locked."
6
62. Denied. Plaintiffs at all times cooperated with Defendant and acted in good
faith. By way of further response, Defendant acted in a unreasonable manner, and
Plaintiffs' purpose was only to ensure that their remaining property continued to be
commercially viable and did not become "land-locked."
63. This Paragraph references legal documents that speak for themselves, and
Defendant's characterizations of those documents are denied.
64. Denied. Plaintiffs at all times cooperated with Defendant, and they acted in
good faith. Plaintiffs expressed appropriate concern regarding road access and other
issues involved in the coordination of development. Plaintiffs do not have unclean
hands. By way of further response, Plaintiffs did not receive any plans in the Federal
Express envelope, containing Defendant's letter of February 14, 2005.
65. The letter of March 3, 2005 (attached as Exhibit C to the Answer), is a
document that speaks for itself, and Defendant's characterizations of it are denied. By
way of further response, Plaintiffs did not receive any plans in the Federal Express
envelope, containing Defendant's letter of February 14, 2005. Defendant purported to
exercise the Option, but it remained unclear which version of the Subdivision Plans
Defendant was pursuing.
66. It is admitted that Plaintiffs received a Federal Express containing the letter
of February 14, 2005. It is denied that Plaintiffs received any plans as part of the
Federal Express. Defendant purported to exercise the Option, but it remained unclear
which version of the Subdivision Plans Defendant was pursuing.
67. Denied as stated. Plaintiffs expressed appropriate concerns regarding road
access and other issues involved in the coordination of development. These concerns
7
have always formed the basis of Plaintiffs' actions, and Plaintiffs' concerns have not
expanded over time. By way of further response, Plaintiffs did not receive any plans in
the Federal Express envelope, containing Defendant's letter of February 14, 2005.
Defendant purported to exercise the Option, but it remained unclear which version of
the Subdivision Plans Defendant was pursuing.
68. The letter of April 13, 2005 (attached as Exhibit E to the Answer) is a
document that speaks for itself, and Defendant's characterizations of it are denied. By
way of further response, the Real Estate Option Agreement of July 23, 1996, is a legal
document that speaks for itself, and Defendant's self-serving characterizations of it are
denied.
69. Denied. Defendant is mischaracterizing the relevant events. Plaintiffs at all
times acted reasonably and in good faith. Plaintiffs do not have unclean hands.
(Alleged Intentional Failure to Comply with Option Terms)
70. The August 2002 Amendment to Real Estate Option Agreement (Exhibit 5 to
the Complaint) is a legal document that speaks for itself, and Defendant's
characterizations of it are denied. By way of further response, after reasonable
investigation, Plaintiffs are without knowledge or information sufficient to form a belief as
to the truth of the remainder of the averments. Therefore, they are denied.
71. The August 2002 Amendment to Real Estate Option Agreement (Exhibit 5 to
the Complaint) is a legal document that speaks for itself, and Defendant's
characterizations of it are denied.
72. Denied as stated. Harbilas did inform Mt. Zion that Harbilas was planning to
complete a closing with Deimler, and to take title. That action would in no way affect Mt.
8
Zion's interests in the real estate. Harbilas also informed Mt. Zion that Harbilas
intended to protect Mt. Zion's potential interests in the future applicability of the
covenants to the tract in question, to the extent those did otherwise exist, by executing a
separate agreement between Harbilas and Deimler, concerning the applicability of the
covenants, but that the recording of that document would be withheld, pending further
negotiations between the parties, or Order of Court. Accordingly, Harbilas has fulfilled
any substantive obligation which may arise under the documents, between Harbilas and
Mt. Zion. Mt. Zion has a complete copy of the executed agreement between Harbilas
and Deimler, and fully understands that its substantive interests have been protected
therein.
73. Denied. It is denied that Plaintiffs failed to honor their contractual
obligations. It is denied that Plaintiffs acted with unclean hands. By way of further
response, see Paragraph 72, above. Any substantive interests of Mt. Zion have been
fully protected by the said agreement.
74. Denied. Plaintiffs acted in good faith, and they did not act with unclean
hands. By way of further response, see Paragraph 72, above. Any substantive
interests of Mt. Zion have been fully protected by the said agreement.
Alleged Estoppel
75. Denied. It is denied Plaintiffs are estopped from securing the relief
requested. By way of further response, see Paragraph 72, above. Any substantive
interests of Mt. Zion have been fully protected by the said agreement.
9
Alleged Laches
76. This Paragraph states a legal conclusion to which no response is required.
To the extent a response is deemed necessary, the allegations are denied.
WHEREFORE, Plaintiffs respectfully request the Court to enter its judgment and
decree that Mt. Zion's rights under the Option Agreement and the August 2002
Amendment have expired, have been exhausted or are otherwise unenforceable. The
right or claim by Mt. Zion for further performance by Harbilas under the said agreements
is ended and extinguished and Mt. Zion claims should be forever barred, and the lis
pendens entered against the Plaintiff and the subject property should be stricken from
the record. Plaintiffs further request that costs of the action be awarded to them.
ANSWER TO COUNTERCLAIM
77. The responses contained in Paragraphs 1 through 76 above, together with
the allegations of the Complaint and attached exhibits, are incorporated herein by
reference as if fully set forth below.
78. Denied. It is denied that Defendant properly exercised its Option to
purchase the property.
79. Denied. Plaintiffs did not improperly refuse to acknowledge Defendant's
purported exercise of the Option. After reasonable investigation, Plaintiffs are without
knowledge or information sufficient to form a belief as to the truth of the remainder of
the averments. Therefore, they are deemed denied.
80. Denied. Defendant was not prevented from exercising its rights, and it is not
entitled to any extension of time.
10
81. Denied. Plaintiffs did not conceal anything from Defendant, and they did not
improperly refuse to acknowledge Defendant's purported exercise of the Option. The
remainder of the Paragraph states legal conclusions to which no response is required.
To the extent a response is deemed necessary, the allegations are denied. Defendant
is not entitled to any extension of time or modification of the agreements.
82. It is admitted that Plaintiffs entered into the Agreement for the Sale of Real
Estate dated December 9, 2004 (Exhibit 2 to the Complaint). The remainder of the
averments is denied. The Agreement cannot fairly be characterized as an "extension of
a settlement date," and Plaintiffs did not actively conceal anything from Defendant.
83. The Real Estate Option Agreement dated July 23, 1996 (Exhibit 3 to the
Complaint) is a legal document that speaks for itself, and Defendant's characterizations
of it are denied.
WHEREFORE, Plaintiffs respectfully request the Court to enter its judgment and
decree that Mt. Zion's rights under the Option Agreement and the August 2002
Amendment have expired, have been exhausted or are otherwise unenforceable. The
right or claim by Mt. Zion for further performance by Harbilas under the said agreements
is ended and extinguished and Mt. Zion claims should be forever barred, and the lis
pendens entered against the Plaintiff and the subject property should be stricken from
the record. Plaintiffs further request that costs of the action be awarded to them.
NEW MATTER TO COUNTERCLAIM
84. Defendant is improperly seeking to modify the terms of the parties'
agreements, and extend the Option for years past its expiration and any possible
extension.
11
85. Defendant's Counterclaim may be barred by the doctrine of unclean hands.
86. Defendant may have acted in bad faith and failed to cooperate with Plaintiffs.
87. Defendant may have concealed relevant facts from Plaintiffs.
88. Defendant may be estopped from securing the relief requested.
89. Defendant's claim may be barred. by the doctrine of laches.
90. Defendant may have waived its claims and/or defenses by failing to act in a
prompt manner.
WHEREFORE, Plaintiffs respectfully request the Court to enter its judgment and
decree that Mt. Zion's rights under the Option Agreement and the August 2002
Amendment have expired, have been exhausted or are otherwise unenforceable. The
right or claim by Mt. Zion for further performance by Harbilas under the said agreements
is ended and extinguished and Mt. Zion claims should be forever barred, and the lis
pendens entered against the Plaintiff and the subject property should be stricken from
the record. Plaintiffs further request that costs of the action be awarded to them.
McNEES W LLAC & NU IC PLC
1,
By David E. Lehman `
Attorney I.D. Nb. 5243
Charles T. Yogi g, Jr.
Attorney I.D. o. 80680
McNEES WALLACE & NURICK LLC
P.O. Box 1166, 100 Pine Street
Harrisburg, PA 17108-1166
Phone: 717-237-5397
Fax: 717-260-1760
Attorneys for Plaintiffs
Dated: March 16, 2010
12
VERIFICATION
Subject to the penalties of 18 Pa.C.S.A. § 4904 (relating to unsworn falsification
to authorities), I, John C. Harbilas, hereby certify that (1) 1 have reviewed the foregoing
Reply to New Matter and Answer and New Matter to Counterclaim and (2) the
responses and allegations contained therein, are true and correct to the best of my
knowledge, information, and belief.
John C. Harbilas
Dated: Pt42 c?# 15 , 2010
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
I, Charles T. Young, Jr., hereby certify that on this 1L ay of March 2010, a true
and correct copy of the foregoing Reply to New Matter and Answer and New Matter to
Counterclaim was served by U.S. first-class mail, postage prepaid, on the following:
(Attorney for Defendant Mt. Zion Associates, L.P.)
Dean A. Weidner, Esq.
WIX, WENGER & WEIDNER
508 North Secon Street
P.O. Box 4$' ! r?
Harrisburg, PA 1 1,b8-08451 /.
Charles T. Youn
JOHN C. HARBILAS and IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
KATHRYN M. HARBILAS, CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
Plaintiffs
CIVIL ACTION -LAW
V. No. 08-1936 Civil Term
MT. ZION ASSOCIATES L.P., INEQUITY AND FOR r? ^Defendant DECLARATORY JUDGMENT
REPLY TO PLAINTIFF'S NEW MATTER TO COUNTERCLAIM
AND NOW comes Defendant, Mt. Zion Associates L.P., a Pennsylvan4 IirrZ pd
partnership, by its undersigned attorneys, Wix, Wenger & Weidner, and files this Reply
to Plaintiff's New Matter to Counterclaim, stating as follows:
84 Paragraph 84 states a conclusion of law, to which no response is required.
However, to the extent an answer is required, all averments of fact are denied
and, if relevant, proof thereof is demanded.
85 Paragraph 85 states a conclusion of law, to which no response is required.
However, to the extent an answer is required, all averments of fact are denied
and, if relevant, proof thereof is demanded.
86 Paragraph 86 states a conclusion of law, to which no response is required.
However, to the extent an answer is required, all averments of fact are denied
and, if relevant, proof thereof is demanded.
87 Paragraph 87 states a conclusion of law, to which no response is required.
However, to the extent an answer is required, all averments of fact are denied
and, if relevant, proof thereof is demanded.
88 Paragraph 88 states a conclusion of law, to which no response is required.
However, to the extent an answer is required, all averments of fact are denied
and, if relevant, proof thereof is demanded.
89 Paragraph 89 states a conclusion of law, to which no response is required.
However, to the extent an answer is required, all averments of fact are denied
and, if relevant, proof thereof is demanded.
90 Paragraph 90 states a conclusion of law as to which no response is
necessary. However, to the extent an answer is required, all averments of
fact are denied and, if relevant, proof thereof is demanded.
WHEREFORE, Mt. Zion requests the Court to dismiss the Harbilas Complaint, to
recognize Mt. Zion's continuing rights in the residual property, and to recognize
Harbilas' continuing duties pursuant to the Option, together with such other and further
relief as the Court deems necessary or appropriate.
Date: q /t,?l 16
Respectfully Submitted,
WIX, WENGER & WEIDNER
By:
A4yort7SIeco aner, i.u. ;;U b6b 6
arkI.D. # 89277
nd d Street
P.O. Box 845
Harrisburg, PA 17108-0845
(717) 234-4182
Attorneys for Defendant
Mt. Zion Associates L.P.
2
VERIFICATION
I, Philip Markovitz, Vice President of Mt. Zion Associates, Inc., the general
partner of Mt. Zion Associates L.P. Defendant in the foregoing matter, have read the
Reply to Plaintiff's New Matter to counterclaim
foregoing
, and hereby affirm and verify that it is true and correct to the best of
my personal knowledge, information and belief. I verify that all of the statements made
in the foregoing are true and correct and that false statements made therein may
subject me to the penalties of 18 Pa.C.S.A. Section 4904, relating to unsworn
falsification to authorities.
Date: '// ///Z o / o
MT. ZION ASSOCIATES, INC.
Philip Markovitz, Vice Pr dent
3
. ,
JOHN C. HARBILAS and
KATHRYN M. HARBILAS,
Plaintiffs
V.
MT. ZION ASSOCIATES L.P.,
Defendant
CIVIL ACTION -LAW
No. 08-1936 Civil Term
IN EQUITY AND FOR
DECLARATORY JUDGMENT
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
I hereby certify that a true and correct copy of the foregoing Reply to Plaintiff's
New Matter to Counterclaim was sent by regular United States mail, postage prepaid to
the following:
David E. Lehman, Esquire
McNees Wallace & Nurick, LLC
100 Pine Street
P.O. Box 1166
Harrisburg, PA 17108-1166
WIX, WENGER & WEIDNER
Date: H la C, I I C,
By.
Li M. Sites, Paralegal
P.O. Box 845
508 North Second Street
Harrisburg, PA 17101-0845
(717) 234-4182
F:1daw13485 - ELYSIAN PARTNERS L.P18809 - MT. ZIONOocuments\Answer to New Matter.doc 4/19/10 4:56 PM
4
1111 I I IL VVV1X1 VI VV1V11Y1v1? i - -
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
Kandice J. Giurintano
Attorney I.D. No. 86345
Kimberly A. Selemba
Attorney I.D. No. 93535
McNEES WALLACE & NURICK LLC
P.O. Box 1166,100 Pine Street
Harrisburg, PA 17108-1166
Phone: 717-237-5452
Fax: 717-260-1698
Attorneys for Plaintiffs
JOHN C. HARBILAS and
KATHRYN M. HARBILAS,
Plaintiffs,
V.
MT. ZION ASSOCIATES, L.P.,
Defendant.
: IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
: CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
NO. 08-1936 CIVIL TERM
: CIVIL ACTION - EQUITY AND FOR
: DECLARATORY JUDGMENT
PRAECIPE FOR WITHDRAWAL/ENTRY OF APPEARANCE
TO THE PROTHONOTARY:
Please withdraw the appearance of David E. Lehman, Esquire on behalf of Plaintiffs in
the above-captioned matter.
David E. Lehman
I.D. No. 15243
100 Pine Street
P.O. Box 1166
Harrisburg, PA 17108
Tel: (717) 232-5285
Date: March ZE , 2012
TO THE PROTHONOTARY:
Please enter the appearance of Kandice J. Giurintano and Kimberly A. Selemba as
counsel for Plaintiffs in the above-captioned matter.
McNEES W?LLACE & NURICK LLC
By
Date: March QT, 2012
Kanolce J. Giurintano
I.D. No. 86345
Kimberly A. Selemba
I.D. No. 93535
100 Pine Street
P.O. Box 1166
Harrisburg, PA 17108
Tel: (717) 232-8000
Attorneys for Plaintiff
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
The undersigned hereby certifies that on this date a true and correct copy of the foregoing
document was served by first-class mail, postage prepaid, upon the following:
Dean A. Weidner, Esq.
Jeffrey C. Clark, Esq.
WIX, WENGER & WEIDNER
508 North Second Street
P.O. Box 845
Harrisburg, PA 17108-0845
i
sephi e M. Brinley, Pa.C. .
Dated: March ?U , 2012
L
20 12 AP -3 A ll:21,
!'CUMBERLAND COUI1,1TY
'PENNSYLWANIA
David E. Lehman
Pa. I.D. No. 15243
100 Pine Street
P.O. Box 1166
Harrisburg, PA 17108-1166
Phone: 717-237-5285
Fax: 717-260-1716
Attorney for Plaintiffs
JOHN C. HARBILAS and
KATHRYN M. HARBILAS,
Plaintiffs,
V.
MT. ZION ASSOCIATES, L.P.,
Defendant.
: IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
: CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
NO. 08-1936 CIVIL TERM
: CIVIL ACTION - EQUITY AND FOR
: DECLARATORY JUDGMENT
PRAECIPE FOR ENTRY OF APPEARANCE
TO THE PROTHONOTARY:
Please enter the appearance of David E. Lehman, Esquire as additional counsel on behalf
of Plaintiffs in the above-captioned matter.
L
David E. Lehman
I.D. No. 15243
100 Pine Street
P.O. Box 1166
Harrisburg, PA 17108
Tel: (717) 232-5285
Date: April L , 2012
00
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
The undersigned hereby certifies that on this date a true and correct copy of the foregoing
document was served by first-class mail, postage prepaid, upon the following:
Dean A. Weidner, Esq.
Jeffrey C. Clark, Esq.
WIX, WENGER & WEIDNER
508 North Second Street
P.O. Box 845
Harrisburg, PA 17108-0845
QUI d
David E. Lehman
Dated: April, 2012
JOHN C. HARBILAS and IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
KATHRYN M. HARBILAS, CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
Plaintiffs,
NO. 08-1936 CIVIL TERM
V.
MT. ZION ASSOCIATES, L.P., CIVIL ACTION - EQUITY AND F41W,
Defendant. DECLARATORY JUDGMENT -
.. 03 LL .. ,
OBJECTIONS TO SUBPOENA PURSUANT TO RULE 4009.21
°-D
Defendant, Mt. Zion Associates, L.P., objects to the proposed subpoena that is
attached to these objections for the following reasons:
(1) The scope of the proposed subpoena is overly broad and, due to that broad
scope, inquires into irrelevant matters and matters not reasonably calculated to lead to
the discovery of admissible evidence.
(2) The proposed subpoena would require the disclosure of drawings, concept
plans, sketches, studies, and similar documents prepared by the recipient of the
proposed subpoena, H. Edward Black & Associates, P.C., an engineering firm hired by
Defendant to do extensive work for the development known as Cumberland Technology
Park. Plaintiffs are owners of contiguous property and are developers of a planned
development of lots for businesses similar to the ones that Defendant seeks for its
development - in other words, Plaintiffs are a competitor of Defendant. Plaintiffs could
use the drawings, concept plans, sketches, studies, and the like, for its own benefit in
the planning of their development. These documents were paid for by Defendant, and it
would be unfair for Plaintiffs to obtain them and use them to their competitive
advantage, particularly when they have little or no relevance to the litigation.
Accordingly, the proposed subpoena is, in part or in whole, beyond the proper scope of
discovery.
Date: 611$ / k7-
Respectfully Submitted,
WIX, WENGER & WEIDNER
By:
Dea WW ' ner, I. D. #06363
Jeff r C. CI rk, I.D. # 89277
508 N rth Second Street
P.O. Box 845
Harrisburg, PA 17108-0845
(717) 234-4182
Attorneys for Defendant
Mt. Zion Associates L.P.
JOHN C. HARBILAS and
KATHRYN M. HARBILAS,
Plaintiffs
V.
MT. ZION ASSOCIATES L.P.,
Defendant
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
CIVIL ACTION - LAW
No. 08-1936 Civil Term
INEQUITY AND FOR
DECLARATORY JUDGEMENT
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
I hereby certify that a true and correct copy of the foregoing Objections to
Subpoena Pursuant to Rule 4009.21 was sent by regular United States mail, postage
prepaid to the following:
Kandice J. Giurintano, Esquire
McNees Wallace & Nurick LLC
100 Pine Street
P.O. Box 1166
Harrisburg, PA 17108-1166
Attorneys for oilx
WIX,
Dater
B?:
Y,gula A. Cribben, Paralegal
508 North Second Street
P.O. Box 845
Harrisburg, PA 17101-0845
(717) 234-4182
COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA
COUNTY OF CUMBERLAND
JOHN C. HARBILAS and
KATHRYN M. HARBILAS,
Plaintiffs
NO. 08-1936 CIVIL TERM
V.
MT. ZION ASSOCIATES, L.P., CIVIL ACTION -- EQUITY AND FOR
Defendant DECLARATORY JUDGMENT
SUBPOENA TO PRODUCE DOCUMENTS OR THINGS
FOR DISCOVERY PURSUANT TO RULE 4009.22
TO: H. Edward Black and Associates P.C.
2403 N. Front Street
Harrisburg, PA 17110
Within twenty (20) days after service of this subpoena, you are ordered by the court to
produce the following documents or things at the offices of McNees Wallace & Nurick LLC,
100 Pine Street, P. O, Box 1166, Harrisburg, PA 17108-1166: SEE ATTACHMENT A.
You may deliver or mail legible copies of the documents or produce things requested by
this subpoena, together with the certificate of compliance, to the party making this request at the
address listed above. You have the right to seek in advance the reasonable cost of preparing
the copies or producing the things sought.
If you fail to produce the documents or things required by this subpoena within twenty
(20) days after its service, the party serving this subpoena may seek a court order compelling
you to comply with it.
THIS SUBPOENA WAS ISSUED AT THE REQUEST OF THE FOLLOWING PERSON:
Kandice J. Giurintano, Esq.
McNees Wallace & Nurick LLC
100 Pine Street
P. O. Box 1166
Harrisburg, PA 17108-1166
Phone: 717.237.5452
Supreme Court I.D. 86345
Attorneys for Plaintiffs
BY THE COURT:
Prothonotary
Date:
Seal of the Court Deputy
Attachment A
Please make available for review any and all files, documents, plans, notes,
messages (including electronically stored communications), correspondence or the like
referring and/or relating to work performed for Mt. Zion Associates relating to the Deimler
Farm and/or Cumberland Technology Parkway from January 1, 2004 to the present.
NOTE: This is a subpoena for document inspection, not for production of copies.
Requestor reserves the right to obtain photocopies on a selective basis based on the
inspection.
'-Ii ED-OFFICE
Kandice J. Giurintano ?'_ RO = MONO TARS
Attorney I.D. No. 86345 1,012 Jul AM 10:
58
Kimberly A. Selemba c
Attorney I.D. No. 93535 ,BERLAND COUNTY
McNEES WALLACE & NURICK LJpENNSYLYANCA
P.O. Box 1166, 100 Pine Street
Harrisburg, PA 17108-1166
Phone: 717-237-5452
Fax: 717-260-1698
Attorneys for Plaintiffs
JOHN C. HARBILAS and
KATHRYN M. HARBILAS,
Plaintiffs
: IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
: CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLV.
: NO. 08-1936 CIVIL TERM
V.
MT. ZION ASSOCIATES, L.P.,
Defendant.
CIVIL ACTION - EQUITY AND FOR
DECLARATORY JUDGMENT
CERTIFICATE PREREQUISITE TO SERVICE
OF A SUBPOENA PURSUANT TO RULE 4009.22
As a prerequisite to service of a subpoena for documents and things pursuant to Rule
4009.22, Plaintiffs John C. Harbilas and Kathryn M. Harbilas, through their attorneys, McN
Wallace & Nurick LLC, certify that
(1) a notice of intent to serve the subpoena with a copy of the subpoena attached
thereto was mailed to Dean A. Weidner, Esq., and Jeffrey C. Clark, Esq., counsel for
Mt. Zion Associates, L.P., at least twenty (20) days prior to the date on which the subpoena is
sought to be served,
(2) a copy of the notice of intent, including the proposed subpoena, is attached to
certificate,
(3) the subpoena which will be served is identical to the subpoena which is
to the notice of intent to serve the subpoena, with the exception that counsel have agreed to
indicate on the attachment to the subpoena that any documents copied will be stamped
"ATTORNEYS' EYES ONLY" before sharing with other counsel, and
(4) with the additional language to the attachment to the subpoena, counsel no longer
has any objection to service of the subpoena.
McNEES WALLACE & NURICK LLC
By
Kandi e J. Giurintano
I.D. No. 86345
Kimberly A. Selemba
I.D. No. 93535
100 Pine Street
P.O. Box 1166
Harrisburg, PA 17108
Tel: (717) 232-8000
David E. Lehman
I.D. No. 15243
P. O. Box 1166
Harrisburg, PA 17108-1166
(717) 237-5285
Attorneys for Plaintiffs
Date: July 16, 2012
Kandice J. Giurintano
Attorney I.D. No. 86345
Kimberly A. Selemba
Attorney I.D. No. 93535
McNEES WALLACE & NURICK LLC
P.O. Box 1166, 100 Pine Street
Harrisburg, PA 17108-1166
Phone: 717-237-5452
Fax: 717-260-1698 .Attorneys for Plaintiffs
JOHN C. HARBILAS and : IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
KATHRYN M. HARBILAS, : CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVAP
Plaintiffs ,
NO. 08-1936 CIVIL TERM
V.
MT. ZION ASSOCIATES, L.P., : CIVIL ACTION - EQUITY AND FOR
Defendant. : DECLARATORY JUDGMENT
NOTICE OF INTENT TO SERVE A SUBPOENA
TO PRODUCE DOCUMENTS OR THINGS
FOR DISCOVERY PURSUANT TO RULE 4009.21
Plaintiffs John C. and Kathryn M. Harbilas, by their attorneys, McNees Wallace &
Nurick LLC, intend to serve a subpoena identical to the one that is attached to this notice. Y
have twenty (20) days from the date listed below in which to file of record and serve upon the
undersigned an objection to the subpoena. If no objection is made the subpoena may be
McNEES WALLACE & NURICK LLC
By
L-2L-
Kandi J. Giurintano
I.D. N .86345
Kimberly A. Selemba
I.D. No. 93535
100 Pine Street
P.O. Box 1166
Harrisburg, PA 17108
Tel: (717) 232-8000
David E. Lehman
I.D. No. 15243
P. O. Box 1166
Harrisburg, PA 17108-1166
(717) 237-5285
Attorneys for Plaintiff
Date: May 9, 2012
COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA
COUNTY OF CUMBERLAND
JOHN C. HARBILAS and
KATHRYN M. HARBILAS,
Plaintiffs
NO. 08-1936 CIVIL TERM
V.
MT. ZION ASSOCIATES, L.P., CIVIL ACTION - EQUITY AND FOR
Defendant DECLARATORY JUDGMENT
SUBPOENA TO PRODUCE DOCUMENTS OR THINGS
FOR DISCOVERY PURSUANT TO RULE 4009.22
TO: H. Edward Black and Associates P.C.
2403 N. Front Street
Harrisburg, PA 17110
Within twenty (20) days after service of this subpoena, you are ordered by the court t
produce the following documents or things at the offices of McNees Wallace & Nurick LLC,
100 Pine Street, P. O. Box 1166, Harrisburg, PA 17108-1166: SEE ATTACHMENT A.
You may deliver or mail legible copies of the documents or produce things requested
this subpoena, together with the certificate of compliance, to the party making this request at
address listed above. You have the right to seek in advance the reasonable cost of preparin
the copies or producing the things sought.
If you fail to produce the documents or things required by this subpoena within twenty
(20) days after its service, the party serving this subpoena may seek a court order compelling-
you to comply with it.
THIS SUBPOENA WAS ISSUED AT THE REQUEST OF THE FOLLOWING PERSON:
Kandice J. Giurintano, Esq.
McNees Wallace & Nurick LLC
100 Pine Street
P. O. Box 1166
Harrisburg, PA 17108-1166
Phone: 717.237.5452
Supreme Court I.D. 86345
Attorneys for Plaintiffs
BY THE COURT:
Prothonotary
Date:
Seal of the Court
De
Attachment A
Please make available for review any and all files, documents, plans, notes,
messages (including electronically stored communications), correspondence or the like
referring and/or relating to work performed for Mt. Zion Associates relating to the Deimll
Farm and/or Cumberland Technology Parkway from January 1, 2004 to the present.
NOTE: This is a subpoena for document inspection, not for production of copies.
Requestor reserves the right to obtain photocopies on a selective basis based on
inspection.
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
The undersigned hereby certifies that on this date a true and correct copy of the
document was served by first-class mail, postage prepaid, upon the following:
Dean A. Weidner, Esq.
Jeffrey C. Clark, Esq.
WIX, WENGER & WEIDNER
508 North Second Street
P.O. Box 845
Harrisburg, PA 17108-0845
J.
Dated: May 9, 2012
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
The undersigned hereby certifies that on this date a true and correct copy of the
document was served by first-class mail, postage prepaid, upon the following:
Dean A. Weidner, Esq.
Jeffrey C. Clark, Esq.
WIX, WENGER & WEIDNER
508 North Second Street
P.O. Box 845
Harrisburg, PA 17108-0845
61,
Kimberly A. Selemba
Dated: July 16, 2012
CA
PRAECIPE FOR LISTING CASE FOR NON JURY TRIAL
(Must be typewritten and submitted in triplicate)
MM C/)
TO THE PROTHONOTARY OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY: =;V --v
Please list the within matter for a TRIAL WITHOUT A JURY. rte- °' C5C�
C)-n
zQ
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- - ---
tt- ....
JOHN C. HARBILAS and
KATHRYN M. HARBILAS,
Plaintiffs
NO. 08-1936 CIVIL TERM
V. .
MT. ZION ASSOCIATES, L.P., : CIVIL ACTION—EQUITY AND FOR
Defendant : DECLARATORY JUDGMENT
Indicate the attorney who will try case for the party who files this praecipe:
Kandice Kerwin Hull (I.D.No. 86345) David E. Lehman, Esq. (I.D. No. 15243)
Kimberly A. Selemba(I.D. No. 93535) 100 Pine Street
McNees Wallace &Nurick LLC Harrisburg, PA 17101
100 Pine Street, P.O. Box 1166 Tel: (717) 237-5285
Harrisburg, PA 17108 Fax: (717) 237-5300
Tel: (717) 237-5452
Fax: (717) 260-1698
Attorneys for Plaintiffs
Indicate trial counsel for other parties if known:
Jeffrey C. Clark, Esq.
WIX, WENGER& WEIDNER
508 North Second Street
P.O. Box 845
Harrisburg, PA 17108-0845
Attorneys for Defendant - r
This case is ready for trial.
Kandice KerwiA Hull
Dated: Attorney for Plaintiffs
C01 aaS89s
-,n
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
The undersigned hereby certifies that on this date a true and correct copy of the foregoing
document was served by first-class mail, postage prepaid, upon the following:
Jeffrey C. Clark, Esq.
WIX, WENGER& WEIDNER
508 North Second Street
P.O. Box 845
Harrisburg, PA 17108-0845
K,dndi*ce Kerwi Hull
Dated: September 9, 2013
-e
JOHN C. HARBILAS AND 411 �ic,c (El 'lh 1 ich u•�,
KATHRYN M. HARBILAS (�� u =.�
Plaintiff
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
v. OF THE NINTH JUDICIAL DISTRICT
MT. ZION ASSOCIATES, L.P., 2008-01936 CIVIL VI :
r*, r m_.
Defendant •
V/f
IN RE: NON-JURY TRIAL
—r,
D
ORDER OF COURT c `
AND NOW, this 3rd day October 2013, the non-jury trial being assigned to this
court, prior to setting an actual trial date the parties are DIRECTED to file a pretrial
memorandum with the Court on or before 4 Novemberer 2013 in the following format:
i. A concise statement of factual issues to be decided at trial.
ii. A list of witnesses the party intends to call at trial along with a
concise statement of their anticipated testimony.
iii. A list of all exhibits each party anticipates presenting at trial.
iv. A statement of any legal issues each party anticipates being raised
at trial along with copies of any cases which may be relevant to
resolution of the stated issue.
v. An estimate of the anticipated time needed for the party to present
its case.
Upon receipt and review of these memorandums, the court will set a trial date
for this case.
BY THE COURT,
Thom:s A. Placey C.P.J.
Distribution:
Kandice Kerwin Hull Esq.
David E. Lehman, Esq.
Jeffrey C. Clark, Esq.
0-ae i ES nal
/via//3
,
JOHN C. HARBILAS and : IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
KATHRYN M. HARBILAS, : CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
Plaintiffs
: NO. 08-1936 CIVIL TERM
v.
MT. ZION ASSOCIATES, L.P., : CIVIL ACTION —EQUITY AND FOR
Defendant. : DECLARATORY JUDGMENT
VI\ ORDER
AND NOW, this \ day of October 2013, it is hereby Ordered that the prior Order in
I
this matter dated October 3, 2013 directing that the parties file pretrial memoranda on or before
November 4, 2013 is amended to provide that the parties shall file such memoranda on or before
November 25, 2013. In all other respects, the prior Order shall remain in effect.
Thomas A. la ey, C.P.J.
Distribution:
X(andice Kerwin Hull, Esq.
47David E. Lehman, Esq.
..<> co
r--- -
. Jeffrey C. Clark, Esq.
- z--r-- t•-, '
Ccr Ces tr&t a. .„
-,r1
;
�i..E .1-U'.F ICF
i Iii Pt OiHONOTAi(
2313 DEC 17 Of 11: 25
JOHN C. HARBILCAISIMIL AND COUNTY : IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
KATHRYN M. HAREREI S$YLVANIA : CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
Plaintiffs,
: NO. 08-1936 CIVIL TERM
v.
MT. ZION ASSOCIATES, L.P., : CIVIL ACTION — EQUITY AND FOR
Defendant : DECLARATORY JUDGMENT
DEFENDANT'S MOTION IN LIMINE AND MOTION TO STAY ACTION
AND NOW, comes Defendant, Mt. Zion Associates, L.P., by and through its
attorneys, Wix, Wenger &Weidner, P.C., and files this Motion in Limine and Motion to
Stay Action, stating as follows:
1. The facts and legal issues of this case have been summarized extensively by the
parties in the pre-trial memorandums filed by the parties on November 25, 2013.
2. This case has been assigned to The Honorable Thomas A. Placey for trial.
3. This Motion in Limine is presented to seek the exclusion of evidence relating to
the purported exercise of eminent domain by PPL Electric Utilities ("PPL") over
land at issue in this case.
4. During the pendency of the motion in limine, this action should be stayed to allow
time for Defendant to obtain a counter expert opinion and to wait until PPL
actually seeks to exercise eminent domain.
5. In Plaintiffs' Pretrial Memorandum and a report from Plaintiffs' engineer, which
was not served on Defendant's counsel until November 21, 2013, Plaintiffs have
indicated that they will seek to present evidence of a proposed taking by PPL of a
four acre tract of land on Good Hope Road for a substation. Plaintiffs seek to
3
argue the impact of the threatened taking on Plaintiffs remaining property in
relation to the subdivision plan prepared by Defendant in the exercise of its
option to purchase.
6. The conclusions of the report of Plaintiffs' engineer are conditioned on whether or
not the taking actually occurs.
7. Importantly, PPL has indicated that it is willing to consider alternative site
locations for its substation.
8. In fact, the parties have been cooperating in negotiating with PPL for an
alternative site location, as both parties have an interest in the location of the
substation (particularly, that it not be located on Good Hope Road), and PPL has
indicated that it will consider alternative sites.
9. Evidence of the taking of this land is irrelevant because when the option to
purchase real property was exercised by Defendant, and wrongfully refused by
Plaintiffs in February, 2005, the proposed taking was not in existence.
10. In other words, Plaintiffs seek to present evidence that the subdivision plan
proposed by Defendant in 2005 is rendered unreasonable by the existence of
circumstances in 2013 but that did not exist at the time of the exercise.
11. Moreover, the fact that the proposed taking has not occurred and may not occur
renders any evidence relating to the effect of the taking as unreliable and
irrelevant.
4
12. Further, in the event that any land is taken by PPL in an exercise of eminent
domain, the impact on the value of the property, and the remaining property not
taken, will be part of any compensation to the owner.
13. In other words, Plaintiffs are, in effect, seeking something akin to a double-
recovery: they seek to have the threat of eminent domain taken into
consideration as to whether Defendant's subdivision plan unreasonably interferes
with the remaining property, and then, subsequently, in the exercise of eminent
domain, any impact on the remaining property will be taken into consideration for
valuation purposes.
14. In the event that PPL does not exercise eminent domain, or negotiates for the
placement of the substation at a different location, Defendants would be
prejudiced by the introduction of evidence purportedly against the
reasonableness of their plan that did not occur.
15. Accordingly, because the threat of the taking of a portion of property at issue in
this case (1) was not an existing circumstance at the time of the exercise of the
option and therefore cannot be used as evidence of whether the proposed
subdivision plan unreasonably interfered with the remaining property; (2) has not
occurred, and may not occur at all, because PPL's representatives have
indicated a willingness to consider alternative site locations under certain
conditions; and, (3) the conclusions of Plaintiffs' engineer are conditioned on
whether or not the taking actually occurs, any such evidence is both irrelevant
and highly prejudicial to Defendant.
5
•
16. As aforesaid, Plaintiffs did not produce a letter report from their engineer until
November 21, 2013, a mere four days before the filing of pre-trial statements.
17. The report takes positions that were not raised before and were contrary to prior
deposition testimony; namely, that access from Good Hope Road and a single
access to the roadway system in Defendant's property (Technology Parkway)
would allow for the development of Plaintiff's property for office/professional use.
18. Defendant now needs time to address Plaintiffs' late report and testimony and
does not believe that there is sufficient time to do so with the pending trial.
19. Moreover, if Plaintiffs insist that the threat of the taking, which PPL has already
indicated is negotiable, is relevant evidence, then the trial in this action must be
stayed until such time as the taking actually occurs or negotiations as to an
alternative site are concluded.
20. The undersigned has sent this Motion and the proposed order to Plaintiffs
counsel for consent, which was denied, although Plaintiffs counsel indicated that
they were agreeable to the April, 2014, trial dates mentioned in the telephone
conference call between Judge Placey and counsel.
21. Defendant appreciates Plaintiffs counsel's willingness to use the April, 2014,
dates for trial in order for Defendant to procure expert testimony. However,
though Defendant accepts this an an alternative, it is preferable that the case be
removed from the trial list until such time as the exercise of eminient domain is
completed (if it occurs at all).
6
•
WHEREFORE, Defendant, Mt. Zion Associates, L.P., respectfully requests that
this Honorable Court enter an order granting its Motion in Limine and Motion to Stay
Action, ordering that this action be stayed until further order of Court, or, alternatively,
setting the trial dates for April, 2014, to give time for Defendant to procure expert
testimony, and further ordering that any evidence of the proposed taking of any property
by PPL is inadmissible.
Respectfully submitted,
Wix, Wenger &Weidne
Date: (7f)6/)3 By:
J._ ►�� . Clark, I.D. # 89277
• orth Second Street
.O Box 845
Ha risburg, PA 17108 - 0845
(717) 234-4182
Attorneys for Defendant
7
M
JOHN C. HARBILAS and • IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
KATHRYN M. HARBILAS, : CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
Plaintiffs, .
: NO. 08-1936 CIVIL TERM
v. .
•
MT. ZION ASSOCIATES, L.P., : CIVIL ACTION — EQUITY AND FOR
Defendant • DECLARATORY JUDGMENT
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
I hereby certify that a copy of the foregoing Motion was served via regular mail at
the following address:
David Lehman, Esquire
Kandice Kerwin Hull, Esquire
McNees Wallace & Nurick, LLC
100 Pine Street
P.O. Box 1166
Harrisburg, PA 17108-1166
spectf ly Submitted,
WIX, WE GER &W I NE'-
1 0 if
Date: PI bi ao l� Ly: _I' A '
\,, ,Paul- A. Crib•- , Par egal
508 North Second Street
P.O. Box 845
Harrisburg, PA 17108-0845
(717) 234-4182
8
JOHN C. HARBILAS and KATHRYN M. ��- � J '` - 4r
HARBILAS �iiu �� , ; �. �itt
Plaintiffs
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
v. OF THE NINTH JUDICIAL DISTRICT
MT. ZION ASSOCIATES, L.P., 2008-01936 CIVIL TERM
Defendant
IN RE: DEFENDANT'S MOTION IN LIMINE AND MOTION TO STAY ACTION
ORDER OF COURT
2 1 upon consideration f he
AND NOW, thi�� day of December 0 3, upo of t
Defendant's Motion in Limine and Motion to Stay Action, a RULE is issued upon Plaintiff
to show cause why the relief requested should not be granted. DEFENDANT shall
effectuate service of this Order of Court upon Plaintiffs.
RULE RETURNABLE twenty (20) days from the date of service.
4
Thoma'A. Placey C.P.J.
istribution List:
Zreffrey C. Clark, Esq.
✓ David Lehman, Esq.
C^ipisES Pl_kt[EL
L
iNty 7... .,_, _..1
.■. :71) -..e •.,
r 4?
. r.0
P P ppvppp..
Kandice Kerwin Hull
Attorney I.D. No. 86345 J r.i - CL-1
McNEES WALLACE & NURICK LLC
P.O. Box 1166, 100 Pine Street
PPS7LiViA
Harrisburg, PA 17108-1166
Phone: 717-237-5452
Fax: 717-260-1698
David E. Lehman
Attorney I.D. No. 15243
Lehman Mediation Service, LLC
2903 North Second Street
Harrisburg, PA 17110 Attorneys for Plaintiffs
JOHN C. HARBILAS and : IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
KATHRYN M. HARBILAS, : CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
Plaintiffs
: NO. 08-1936 CIVIL TERM
v.
MT. ZION ASSOCIATES, L.P., : CIVIL ACTION—EQUITY AND FOR
Defendant. : DECLARATORY JUDGMENT
PLAINTIFFS' ANSWER TO DEFENDANT'S MOTION IN LIMINE
AND MOTION TO STAY ACTION
Plaintiffs John C. and Kathryn M. Harbilas ("Harbilas"), by their counsel, make the
following responses to Defendant's Motion in Limine and To Stay Action.
1. Admitted.
2. Admitted.
3. Denied. It is appropriate to allow Harbilas to introduce evidence regarding the
acquisition of the portion of the property at issue in this case by PPL Electric Utilities ("PPL").
Four months ago, PPL advised Harbilas that it intended to place an electric substation on the land
owned by Harbilas, which land is, at least in part, the subject of this litigation. PPL selected a 4+
acre parcel along Good Hope Road at the southern edge of the Harbilas land for its substation.
PPL must construct the substation in order to serve business and commercial properties in the
1
area, including most immediately the Pinnacle Hospital facility now being constructed along
Technology Parkway. PPL has told Harbilas it must have the new service station constructed
and operational by December of 2014. Accordingly, PPL's land acquisition is on an urgent
timetable. PPL made an offer to purchase the 4 acre site in September. Harbilas immediately
informed Mt. Zion's counsel about this offer, but declined to sell any Good Hope Road frontage
to PPL. In the hope of persuading PPL to look at an alternate site (away from the Good Hope
Road frontage), Harbilas had an independent valuation done of the property in question, and
furnished PPL with that valuation in early December. A copy of that evaluation was
simultaneously provided to counsel for Mt. Zion. PPL has indicated it would be willing to pay
Harbilas the value of the 4 acre parcel as determined by Harbilas' evaluation, if it could promptly
acquire that particular site. The Harbilas evaluation did not persuade PPL to take an alternate,
less disruptive site. PPL offered to pay the higher amount, but advised that if it cannot reach an
agreement, it will exercise statutory powers of condemnation. The threat to take 4 acres of
Harbilas' land frontage on Good Hope Road would have a significant impact on the residual
tract.
4. Denied. There is no need to delay the trial of this matter beyond the previously
scheduled April trial dates. Harbilas anticipates that PPL will act very quickly to take its
preferred site—since it has said it needs to begin construction quickly. If PPL uses its power of
eminent domain (granted under Pennsylvania law), the taking will be effective upon filing of the
declaration of taking. Accordingly, Harbilas believes these matters will be clarified and
finalized within a month or two. Mt. Zion counsel has indicated that they are engaging an
appraiser (and have selected their appraiser), to assess what impact the proposed PPL taking (and
use) will have on Mt. Zion's interest. For that reason, we have advised Mt. Zion's counsel that
2
we would not oppose its request that the matter not proceed to hearing in the period of February
3 —7, 2014. The Court in its telephone conference with counsel on November 27, 2013,
indicated that that week might be available, contingent on developments in the jury trial list of
cases for that week. The Court has given counsel the dates of April 2, 3, 4, and 7, 2014, as a
"back-up." Harbilas requests that the matter remain on the Court's calendar for the April 2014
dates, as assigned. Defendant's counsel has adequate time to work with its appraiser and to
consider what testimony, if any, it may wish to bring to the Court's attention, as it may affect the
issues pending in this case. Moreover, Harbilas anticipates that PPL's actions to acquire a
portion of the Harbilas property will be substantially complete by that time.
5. Admitted in part and denied in part. It is admitted that Harbilas intends to
introduce evidence regarding the acquisition of a portion of the property at issue by PPL. It is
denied that such evidence should be excluded. Preliminarily, Harbilas suggests that it is
premature for the Court to consider any motion in limine regarding testimony either from
Harbilas' engineer or valuation expert. The relevance of the potential testimony will become
apparent at trial at the time the Court considers Mt. Zion's request for specific performance of its
option exercise. Moreover, if the Court did choose to consider the issue at this moment, the
Court should conclude that the testimony is relevant. In briefest summary, the evidence is
relevant because of the relief sought by Mt. Zion. Mt. Zion will ask the Court to permit it to
acquire 23.3 acres identified by it in its January 2005 subdivision plan. That plan, as the Court
will see, would leave Harbilas about 400' of frontage on Good Hope Road. If, at the time the
Court considers that request, PPL has taken the remaining 400' of frontage on Good Hope Road,
then the residual Harbilas tract will be entirely landlocked—except for such access as it can get
onto Technology Parkway. The expert testimony will show that such a situation would not
3
permit the reasonable development of the remaining Harbilas parcel and will, therefore, be
relevant to show that Mt. Zion's requested relief is inconsistent with the terms of the parties'
agreement requiring that Harbilas be able to develop any land remaining with him after
acquisition of a portion by Mt. Zion.
6. Denied as stated. The testimony and opinions to be offered at trial will address
the realities on the ground at the time the Court is asked to exercise its equitable powers. The
Court must have knowledge of the current state of the property in order to fashion an appropriate
equitable remedy. Harbilas' objection to Mt. Zion's 2005 attempt to exercise the option was
based, fundamentally, on insufficient access from the residual Harbilas tract out to Technology
Parkway, a road controlled by Mt. Zion. Without adequate assurance that streets extending the
then-existing roadway to the border of the residual parcel, Harbilas would have been(and still
would be) severely impaired with respect to any future development. Harbilas contends that the
underlying Option Agreement with Mt. Zion promised reasonable interconnection with Mt.
Zion's road network. The Court, acting in equity, must surely consider what effect will flow
from Mt. Zion's requested relief. Again, however, Harbilas contends the Court is not presently in
a position to fairly evaluate the arguments as to the full relevance of the testimony, and can only
fairly do so at trial.
7. Denied. PPL has most recently said it wants the Good Hope Road site, and not
any alternative. The PPL decision will likely become a certainty early in 2014.
8. Denied. As stated above, the parties' arguments to PPL to select an alternative to
the Good Hope Road site have not been fruitful.
9. Denied. For the reasons argued above, the evidence to be proffered at the hearing
in this matter will be very relevant to the request by Mt. Zion for the equitable relief of specific
4
performance. The very problem which formed the basis of Harbilas' objection in 2005 —that any
alternate access out to Good Hope Road is unreliable and highly inferior to two points of access/
connection onto Technology Parkway—is illustrated by the PPL taking. This is not a new issue;
rather, it is evidence of the fundamental issue in the case—whether there is adequate access to
permit reasonable development of the residual Harbilas parcel. Furthermore, the current
condition of the land is relevant to any decision issued by the Court in equity.
10. Denied. As argued above, the concerns for proper access have been in this case—
and central to the dispute—since 2005.
11. Denied. The potential relevance of the PPL taking can be fully and fairly
addressed by the Court at the time the matter of the hearing in April 2014.
12. Denied. It should be noted that the parcel identified by PPL is not included within
the boundaries of the 23.3 acre tract which Mt. Zion identified in its option exercise!
Nonetheless, Mt. Zion has filed a lis pendens affecting the entire parcel, and will assert an
interest in any funds which might derive from the PPL taking of Harbilas' land. That lis pendens
is a cloud on Harbilas' title, and will generate further issues which may require the Court's
intervention to resolve. It is facile for Mt. Zion to assert that "any compensation to the owner,"
will be the simple resolution of a PPL condemnation. Mt. Zion is arguing in this case that,
although it never sought to take anything other than 23.3 acres (out of the 100 acre farm), it
should have an ongoing basis to consider doing so, now, and for three years after this litigation is
concluded. Additionally, the payment of compensation cannot be effectuated without some
resolution of the disputes in this case.
13, Denied. Harbilas is not seeking a double recovery; he wants a full and final
adjudication of disputes with Mt. Zion. The recent intervention of PPL—with its announced
5
intention to condemn the road frontage that would remain if Mt. Zion took the designated 23.3
acres—threatens a double loss to Harbilas. Mt Zion will argue to the Court that Harbilas has
adequate access out to Good Hope Road. Surely, Harbilas should have the opportunity to prove
that is not the case.
14. Denied. Mt. Zion will not be prejudiced by having to address the reality that
exists on the ground at the time of hearing, and the reasonable prospects for the Harbilas' tract.
Moreover, by the April trial date, Mt. Zion will have had sufficient time to prepare to address
this issue and has, indeed, already admitted that it has retained an expert to testify regarding the
topic.
15. Denied. For the reasons argued above, it is premature to move to exclude
evidence of matters that are imminent, are highly likely to take place well before date of hearing,
and that bear on the central dispute regarding exercise of the option—the issue of access.
16. Denied. Harbilas disagrees with the characterizations of the November 21, 2013
letter; the subjects addressed were points covered in a deposition of Mt. Zion's engineer on
November 11, 2013, and are in themselves not controversial or disputed.
17. Denied. The report does not vary or contradict prior deposition testimony.
18. Harbilas does not oppose a release of the February 2014 contingent hearing dates,
in favor of the April 2014 dates already reserved on the Court's calendar. Harbilas has advised
Mt. Zion's counsel of that position.
19. Harbilas does not anticipate offering any hearsay testimony or testimony
regarding negotiations with PPL. Again, it is anticipated that PPL will move to condemn the
parcel quickly, because it needs the site, and because Harbilas will not voluntarily convey the
frontage on Good Hope Road.
6
20. Agreed. Harbilas requests the Court to hold the April 2014 dates for hearing in
this matter. The disputes between these parties have been ongoing since 2005; they have not
yielded to several rounds of negotiation. The status quo is favored by Mt. Zion—it has not spent
a penny to acquire the Harbilas 23.3 acre site; and it does not have any need for the ground,
because its office park land sales have been slower than anticipated. So, in effect, it views
Harbilas as carrying the cost of its future land inventory (assuming it has a valid and enforceable
right under the option agreement.)
21. For the reasons stated above, Harbilas requests the Court to keep the case on its
April 2014 schedule, and to schedule a status conference with counsel 45 days before trial.
WHEREFORE, Plaintiffs request the Court deny the Motion as presented and to set
firmly the trial of the matter for April 2014.
Respectfully submitted,
McNEES WALLACE&NURICK LLC
By /,.64J .._
Kandice K; win Hull
I.D. No. 86345
100 Pine Street
P.O. Box 1166
Harrisburg, PA 17108
Tel: (717) 232-8000
Fax: (717) 237-5300
and
David E. Lehman
I.D. No. 15243
Lehman Mediation Service, LLC
2903 North Second Street
Harrisburg, PA 17110
Attorneys for Plaintiffs
Date: January 6, 2013
7
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
The undersigned hereby certifies that on this date a true and correct copy of the foregoing
document was served upon the following via first class mail, postage prepaid upon:
Jeffrey C. Clark, Esq.
Wix, Wenger& Weidner
508 North Second Street
PO Box 845
Harrisburg, PA 17108-0845
/
,iIA A Ao • I d. Jam. _de Ai
.ndice Kerwin Hull
Dated: January 6, 2014
�_� (JII iiti fl
JOHN C. HARBILAS AND �n :4
KATHRYN M. HARBILAS
41,-)14- .
Plaintiff
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
v. OF THE NINTH JUDICIAL DISTRICT
MT. ZION ASSOCIATES, L.P., 2008-01936 CIVIL TERM
Defendant
IN RE: NON-JURY TRIAL
ORDER OF COURT
AND NOW, this 7t" day January 2014, the Non-jury trial assigned to this court,
will commence on 2 April 2014 at 9:00 a.m. in Courtroom No. 6 of the Cumberland
County Courthouse, Carlisle, Pennsylvania. Trial is consecutively scheduled for four (4)
days through 7 April 2014.
BY THE COURT
Thomas A. Placey C.P.J.
Distribution:
Kandice Kerwin Hull Esq. °�` C._led
David E. Lehman, Esq. �QPIfS
Jeffrey C. Clark, Esq. II/ ` y
JOHN C. HARBILAS and KATHRYN M.
HARBILAS,
Plaintiffs
v.
r iLED-1;,- r!u.
OF THE URO I HOHO rAr
7014 11AY 23 Ni 1: 05
CUMBERLAND COUNTY
PENNSYLVANIA
nizt
Count? of eumheri nb
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
OF THE NINTH JUDICIAL DISTRICT
MT. ZION ASSOCIATES, L.P.,
Defendant 2008-01936 CIVIL TERM
IN RE: BENCH TRIAL
ORDER OF COURT
AND NOW, this 23rd day of May 2014, following a bench trial, the following
limited but salient findings of fact are made in advance of the decision:
1. Plaintiff John C. Harbilas (hereinafter, collectively with Plaintiff Kathryn M.
Harbilas, "Plaintiffs") is a multifaceted professional, whose enterprises
include a public accounting service and a licensed real estate brokership.
2. Plaintiff Kathryn M. Harbilas is the wife of John C. Harbilas and was
brought into this suit solely by her husband's assignment of his interest for
tax purposes.
3. Mrs. Harbilas' involvement in this action is insignificant to this decision.
4. Mt. Zion Associates, L.P. (hereinafter "Defendant") is a limited partnership
entity set up for the development of the tracks of lands bordering Mt. Zion
Church in Hampden Township and is a subset of the corporation owned
by the same limited partners.
5. One of the tracks bordering Mt. Zion Church was the Deimler Farm,
owned and operated by the recently deceased Eugene R. Deimler, Sr.,
(hereinafter "Farmer Deimler").
6. The Deimler Farm consisted of approximately 166 contiguous acres.
7. Farmer Deimler entered into several option contracts with Plaintiffs for the
sale of the land.
8. The first option contract, with husband only, was a ten-year option dated
15 March 1988 but recorded 10 May 1988. Plaintiffs' Ex. 4.
9. The second option contract was an eight -year -plus option to buy
agreement dated 7 January 1997 that would to expire on 15 March 2005.
Plaintiffs' Ex. 5.
10. In the interim period, Plaintiffs had the Deimler Farm subdivided into two
tracks of land of approximately 64 acres and 102 acres.
11. At issue in this action are the remaining 102 acres as Defendant has
already properly exercised its option on the 64 acres.
12. Defendant and Plaintiffs entered into a six-year Real Estate Option
Agreement dated 23 July 1996. Plaintiffs' Ex. 1.
13. This Agreement was supplemented by a Restated Second Amendment
to Real Estate Option Agreement dated 31 October 1997. Plaintiffs' Ex.
2.
14. Thereafter, these Agreements were supplemented by an August 2002
Amendment to Real Estate Option Agreement dated 12 August 2002
which would expire on 15 February 2005. Plaintiffs' Ex. 3.
2
15. Plaintiffs entered into another contract, titled Agreement For The Sale of
Real Estate, with Farmer Deimler on 9 December 2004 that detailed the
acreage purchased to-date from Plaintiffs' payments and for the outright
purchase of the remaining acreage with the final payment to be made no
later than 15 March 2008. Plaintiffs' Ex. 7.
16. The remaining Deimler Farm parcel was ultimately conveyed to Plaintiffs
by deed dated 16 December 2008. Plaintiffs' Ex. 9.
17. The Agreement For The Sale of Real Estate is not an additional option
to buy contract that would entitle Defendant to more time to purchase
under the terms of its various Agreements with Plaintiffs.
18. Defendant requested Plaintiffs' signatures on a subdivision plan by letter
dated 15 December 2004. Plaintiffs' Ex. 26 and PD04.
19. Plaintiffs, in breach of their stated contractual duties, unreasonably
withheld, delayed or conditioned their consent to this subdivision plan and
the two other subdivision plans subsequently submitted by Defendant for
the exercise of the option to purchase not Tess than twenty (20) acres of
contiguous real estate. Plaintiffs' Ex. PD04, PD05, and PD06.
20. Plaintiffs' engineering approval and position on the approval of Hampden
Township to Defendant's subdivision plan are not contractual
requirements.
21. Defendant properly exercised its option to purchase not less than twenty
(20) acres of contiguous real estate that adjoined its previous purchase.
22. All of these subdivision plans call for a minimum of two points of full
ingress and egress to and from Plaintiffs' remainder tract of land.
23. The remaining acreage not purchased by Defendant under the option, the
remainder property, is subject to the Defendant's Declaration of
Protective Covenants for Cumberland Technology Park by the terms
of the parties Agreements.
24. A lis pendens action has been filed by Defendant concerning the real
estate at Civil Term 2005-01279 that has prevented Plaintiffs and Farmer
Deimler from use of the property beyond its continued agricultural
purpose.
Following the application of the law to the above facts, it is ORDERED and
DIRECTED that:
1. Defendant SHALL choose from any one of the three (3) properly
presented subdivision plans [PD04, PD05, or PD06] the acreage it now
wishes to purchase from Plaintiffs;
2. The selected plan SHALL be subject to Defendant's modification, as
necessary to meet the conditions now existing, and any review and
approval of Hampden Township as required by law;
3. Plaintiffs SHALL sign for consent, within five (5) business days of any
request by Defendant, the chosen plan for submission to Hampden
Township for prerequisite approval;
4. The subdivision plan SHALL have two points of full ingress and egress for
access to the remainder property;
4
5. Any future subdivision plan SHALL provide for emergency -only access by
Hampden Township from its Good Hope Road property to Technology
Parkway;
6. The remainder property SHALL be subject to the Defendant's "Declaration
of Protective Covenants for Cumberland Technology Park" as recorded,
which SHALL NOT unreasonably withhold approval; and
7 Plaintiffs MAY construct infrastructure and roadways at the locations
designated in the chosen subdivision plan through Defendant's property
up to the remainder property, at Defendant's ultimate expense, if
Defendant has not already provided such improvements by the time
Plaintiffs are ready to develop the remainder property.
No further relief is granted at this time.
Distribution List:
ffrey C. Clark, Esq.
avid E. Lehman, Esq.
•
lfzU
sia.2/1 y
5
-COURT,
Thoma- A. Placey C.P.J.
s„.1
rigitdiAY27 Ati : 30
CUMBERLAND COUNTY
JOHN C. HARBILAS and KATHRYN M.
HARBILAS,
Plaintiffs
v.
MT. ZION ASSOCIATES, L.P.,
Defendant
Countp of €umbertona
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
OF THE NINTH JUDICIAL DISTRICT
2008-01936 CIVIL TERM
IN RE: COURT EXHIBITS
ORDER OF COURT
AND NOW, this 2�day of May 2014, the Court sua sponte admits the following
exhibits to the record:
1) The CD entitled "Plaintiffs' Exhibits Admitted At Trial", dated 10 April 2014,
which contains only the exhibits presented by Plaintiffs and admitted at the
April 2014 trial is admitted as Court's Exhibit 1.
2) The CD entitled "Def. Exhibits Used At Trial", dated 17 April 2014, which
contains only the exhibits presented by Defendant and admitted at the April
2014 trial is admitted as Court's Exhibit 2.
Distribution List:
,,/Jeffrey C. Clark, Esq.
,/David E. Lehman, Esq.
Thomas A. Placey C.P.J.
Kandice Kerwin Hull
Attorney I.D. No. 86345
McNEES WALLACE & NURICK LLC
P.O. Box 1166, 100 Pine Street
Harrisburg, PA 17108-1166
Phone: 717-237-5452
Fax: 717-260-1698
David E. Lehman
Attorney I.D. No. 15243
Lehman Mediation Service, LLC
2903 North Second Street
Harrisburg, PA 17110
-2 3:
COU,T1I
PENNSYLVANIA
Attorneys for Plaintiffs
JOHN C. HARBILAS and
KATHRYN M. HARBILAS,
Plaintiffs
v.
: IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
: CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
: NO. 08-1936 CIVIL TERM
MT. ZION ASSOCIATES, L.P., : CIVIL ACTION — EQUITY AND FOR
Defendant. : DECLARATORY JUDGMENT
PLAINTIFFS MOTION FOR POST-TRIAL RELIEF
Pursuant to Pennsylvania Rule of Civil Procedure 227.1, Plaintiffs John C. Harbilas and
Kathryn M. Harbilas move the Court to amend paragraphs 19 and 21 of its findings of fact set
forth in the Order of Court issued May 23, 2014, in the above action as stated below, on the
following bases and for the following reasons:
1. The Court's findings (a) in paragraph 19 that Plaintiffs breached their contractual
duty to Defendant by unreasonably withholding or conditioning their consent to any of the three
1
subdivision plans submitted by Defendant, and (b) in paragraph 21 that "Defendant properly
exercised its option to purchase..." are inconsistent with the Court's adjudication in its Ordering
paragraph 7 (at page 5 of the adjudication), in light of the undisputed documentary evidence in
the record.
2. The Court has adjudicated that Defendant Mt. Zion Associates, L.P. ( "Mt. Zion ")
is contractually obligated to pay the costs of infrastructure and road improvements that will
connect the residual Harbilas tract through "two points of full ingress and egress" to the Mt. Zion
lands (at page 4 of the adjudication).
3. It is an uncontroverted fact that Mt. Zion disavowed any obligation to construct
connecting roads or infrastructure between its existing facilities along Technology Parkway and
any Harbilas' residual land. (See, e.g., trial exhibits 33 and 43, Mr. Weidner's explicit position,
confirmed in his courtroom testimony.)
4. The documentary record further shows that Plaintiffs' objections to the several
subdivision plans was founded in large part on Mt. Zion's refusal to commit to construct
connecting roads and infrastructure. (See, e.g., trial exhibits 41 and 48, Mr. Foreman's explicit
statements, confirmed in his courtroom testimony.)
5. Plaintiffs contend that Mt. Zion's explicit and categorical rejection of its
contractual duty to construct connecting roads and infrastructure, as declared in January of 2005,
should be found to be a justification and reasonable basis for Iarbilas' refusal to then sign or
otherwise consent to Mt. Zion's subdivision plans, which were premised on a denial of its
contractual duty.
2
6. To that extent, and on that basis, the Harbilas consent was not unreasonably
withheld, but was justified; and to that extent and on that basis, Mt. Zion's attempt to exercise its
option was improperly limited, but has now been properly conditioned. Plaintiffs urge the Court
to so amend its decision accordingly. In any event, the finding of a current duty to convey on
Harbilas should not trigger the provisions of paragraph 17 of the Option Agreement of July 23,
1996, as amended, otherwise launching a claim by Mt Zion for recovery of counsel fees and
costs.
7. Plaintiffs also move the Court to explicitly direct that the lis pendens filed by Mt.
Zion in Civil Action No. 05 -1279 be stricken and the action marked as dismissed with prejudice.
8. Plaintiffs do not request transcription of the trial testimony at this time.
Respectfully submitted,
McNEES WALLACE : NURICK LLC
Date: June 2, 2014
By
Kan. ice Kerwin ull
I.D. o. 86345
100 Pine Street
P.O. Box 1166
Harrisburg, PA 17108
Tel: (717) 232 -8000
Fax: (717) 237 -5300
and
David E. Lehman
I.D. No. 15243
Lehman Mediation Service, LLC
2903 North Second Street
Harrisburg, PA 17110
Attorneys for Plaintiffs
3
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
The undersigned hereby certifies that on this date a true and correct copy of the foregoing
document was served by hand delivery, upon the following:
Jeffrey C. Clark, Esq.
WIX, WENGER & WEIDNER
508 North Second Street
P.O. Box 845
Harrisburg, PA 17108 -0845
` Ate.,
andice K- win Hull
Dated: June 2, 2014
LE_J -of-H
Tr t� �1 F t
d"t THE PRO HONo TA _,:
7] tJU —9 41 fly. 50
CUMBERLAND COUNT
JOHN C. HARBILAS and KATHRYN .
tdNSYLVANIA
HARBILAS,
Plaintiffs
v.
MT. ZION ASSOCIATES, L.P.,
Defendant
Countp of Cumber(anb
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
OF THE NINTH JUDICIAL DISTRICT
2008-01936 CIVIL TERM
IN RE: PLAINTIFFS' MOTION FOR POST -TRIAL RELIEF
ORDER OF COURT
13
AND NOW, this _ 1 day of June 2014, upon consideration of Plaintiffs' Motion
for Post -Trial Relief, a RULE is issued upon Defendant to show cause why Plaintiffs'
Motion should not be granted.
PLAINTIFFS shall effectuate service of this Order upon Defendant. A motion to
make this Rule absolute will not be entertained until proof of service is filed. Defendant
SHALL include a proposed Order with its response.
RULE RETURNABLE twenty (20) days from the date of service.
_pisiribution List:
JJ ey C. Clark, Esq.
dice Kerwin Hull
avid E. Lehman, Esq.
t ES' it
4 CVN
Thoma A Piacey C.P.J.
4
Mt. Zion Associates, L.P., Defendant
WIX, WENGER & WEIDNER, P.C.
Jeffrey C. Clark, I.D. No. 89277
508 North Second Street
P.O. Box 845
Harrisburg, PA 17108-0845
(717) 234-4182
!JOH
70.11-1 JL11',1 12 Pri'l 1; 25
CUMBERLAND .COUNTY
PEt4NSYLVANIA •
JOHN C. HARBILAS and
KATHRYN M. HARBILAS,
Plaintiffs,
v.
: IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
: CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
: NO. 08-1936 CIVIL TERM
MT. ZION ASSOCIATES, L.P., : CIVIL ACTION — EQUITY AND FOR
Defendant : DECLARATORY JUDGMENT
DEFENDANT'S OBJECTION TO REQUEST FOR TRANSCRIPTION
OF TRIAL TRANSCRIPT
Defendant, by and through undersigned counsel, hereby objects to the Plaintiffs'
request for trial transcript in accordance with Pa.R.C.P. 227.3, stating as follows:
1. It is necessary for the proper disposition of the post -trial motion filed by
Plaintiffs to transcribe the following parts of the testimony:
a. Testimony of Bruce Foreman;
b. Testimony of John Harbilas;
c. Testimony of James Cieri;
d. Testimony of Dean Weidner; and
e. Summation by the parties' counsel.
Respectfully submitted,
Wix, Wenger & Weidner
Date: (( t, By: i
I Jeffr_f'C. Clark, I.D. # 89277
508 rt Second Street
P.O : ox 845
Harrisburg, PA 17108 - 0845
(717) 234-4182
Attorneys for Defendant
F:\daw\3485 - ELYSIAN PARTNERS L.P\8809 - MT. ZION\Documents\Defendant's Objection to Request for Transcription of Trial
Transcript.doc 6/9/14 4:20 PM
2
JOHN C. HARBILAS and
KATHRYN M. HARBILAS,
Plaintiffs,
v.
: IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
: CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
: NO. 08-1936 CIVIL TERM
MT. ZION ASSOCIATES, L.P., : CIVIL ACTION — EQUITY AND FOR
Defendant : DECLARATORY JUDGMENT
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
I hereby certify that a copy of the foregoing Objection to Request for
Transcription of Trial Transcript was served via regular mail at the following address:
David E. Lehman, Esquire
Lehman Mediation Service, LLC
2903 North Second Street
Harrisburg, PA 17110
Kandice Kerwin Hull, Esquire
McNees Wallace & Nurick, LLC
100 Pine Street
P.O. Box 1166
Harrisburg, PA 17108-1166
Michelle Eline, Court Reporter
Court Reporting Office
1 Courthouse Square
Carlisle, PA 17013
Melissa H. Calvanelli, Court Administrator
1 Courthouse Square, Suite 301
Carlisle, PA 17013
3
of
Date: (Q
nla��
Dennis E. Lebo, Clerk of Court
1 Courthouse Square, Room 205
Carlisle, PA 17013
Respectfully Submitted,
By: -
\y'aul- . CritSben, Paralegal
508 North Second Street
P.O. Box 845
Harrisburg, PA 17108-0845
(717) 234-4182
4
JE
JON I 2 PN '15
CUMBERL 4 ND
PENNS YL VACOUNNIA
Mt. Zion Associates, L.P., Defendant
WIX, WENGER & WEIDNER, P.C.
Jeffrey C. Clark, 1.D. No. 89277
508 North Second Street
P.O. Box 845
Harrisburg, PA 17108-0845
(717) 234-4182
JOHN C. HARBILAS and
KATHRYN M. HARBILAS,
Plaintiffs,
V.
: IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
: CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
: NO. 08-1936 CIVIL TERM
MT. ZION ASSOCIATES, L.P., : CIVIL ACTION — EQUITY AND FOR
Defendant : DECLARATORY JUDGMENT
DEFENDANT'S OBJECTION TO REQUEST FOR TRANSCRIPTION
OF TRIAL TRANSCRIPT
Defendant, by and through undersigned counsel, hereby objects to the Plaintiffs'
request for trial transcript in accordance with Pa.R.C.P. 227.3, stating as follows:
1. It is necessary for the proper disposition of the post -trial motion filed by
Plaintiffs to transcribe the following parts of the testimony:
a. Testimony of Bruce Foreman;
b. Testimony of John Harbilas;
c. Testimony of James Cieri;
d. Testimony of Dean Weidner; and
1
e. Summation by the parties' counsel.
Respectfully submitted,
Wix, Wenger & Weidner
Date: 6/11 / By:
Jeffr;jjC. Clark, LD. # 89277
508 rt Second Street
P.O ox 845
Harrisburg, PA 17108 - 0845
(717) 234-4182
Attorneys for Defendant
F:\daw\3485 - ELYSIAN PARTNERS L.P\8809 - MT. ZIONIDocuments\Oefendant's Objection to Request for Transcription of Trial
Transcript.doc 6/9/14 4:20 PM
2
JOHN C. HARBILAS and
KATHRYN M. HARBILAS,
Plaintiffs,
V.
: IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
: NO. 08-1936 CIVIL TERM
MT. ZION ASSOCIATES, L.P., : CIVIL ACTION — EQUITY AND FOR
Defendant : DECLARATORY JUDGMENT
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
I hereby certify that a copy of the foregoing Objection to Request for
Transcription of Trial Transcript was served via regular mail at the following address:
David E. Lehman, Esquire
Lehman Mediation Service, LLC
2903 North Second Street
Harrisburg, PA 17110
Kandice Kerwin Hull, Esquire
McNees Wallace & Nurick, LLC
100 Pine Street
P.O. Box 1166
Harrisburg, PA 17108-1166
Michelle Eline, Court Reporter
Court Reporting Office
1 Courthouse Square
Carlisle, PA 17013
Melissa H. Calvanelli, Court Administrator
1 Courthouse Square, Suite 301
Carlisle, PA 17013
3
Dennis E. Lebo, Clerk of Court
1 Courthouse Square, Room 205
Carlisle, PA 17013
Respectfully Submitted,
WIXC, WqIGEREI
ER
By:
Paula . Cribben, Paralegal
508 North Second Street
P.O. Box 845
Harrisburg, PA 17108-0845
(717) 234-4182
Kandice Kerwin Hull
Attorney I.D. No. 86345
McNEES WALLACE & NURICK LLC
P.O. Box 1166, 100 Pine Street
Harrisburg, PA 17108-1166
Phone: 717-237-5452
Fax: 717-260-1698
David E. Lehman
Attorney LD. No. 15243
Lehman Mediation Service, LLC
2903 North Second Street
Harrisburg, PA 17110
UF
-47]
vt
21114 JUN 12 1: 1
CUNBERLAND COUNty
PENNSYLVANIA
(1
Attorneys for Plaintiffs
JOHN C. HARBILAS and
KATHRYN M. HARBILAS,
Plaintiffs
V.
MT. ZION ASSOCIATES, L.P.,
Defendant
: IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
: CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
: NO. 08-1936 CIVIL TERM
: CIVIL ACTION — EQUITY AND FOR
: DECLARATORY JUDGMENT
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
I, Kandice Kerwin Hull, hereby certify that a true and correct copy of the Order dated
June 9, 2014, a copy attached hereto, was served by first class mail, postage pre -paid, on the date
set forth below, Upon the following:
Jeffrey C. Clark, Esq.
WIX, WENGER & WEIDNER
508 North Second Street
P.O. Box 845
Harrisburg, PA 17108-0845
McNEES WALLACE & NURICK LLC
By
Date: June 11, 2014
,,,//1 h
andice K rwin Hu
I.D. No. 8.345
100 Pine Street
P.O. Box 1166
Harrisburg, PA 17108
Tel: (717) 232-8000
Fax: (717) 237-5300
and
David E. Lehman
I.D. No. 15243
Lehman Mediation Service, LLC
2903 North Second Street
Harrisburg, PA 17110
Attorneys for Plaintiffs
20114 JUN 79 Mi It ,50
CUMBERLAND COUNTY
PENNSYLVANIA
JOHN C. HARBILAS and KATHRYN M.
HARBILAS,
Plaintiffs
v.
MT. ZION ASSOCIATES, L.P.,
Defendant
Countp of €umbertanb
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
OF THE NINTH JUDICIAL DISTRICT
2008-01936 CIVIL TERM
IN RE: PLAINTIFFS' MOTION FOR POST -TRIAL RELIEF
ORDER OF COURT
AND NOW, this g day of June 2014, upon consideration of Plaintiffs' Motion
for Post -Trial Relief, a RULE is issued upon Defendant to show cause why Plaintiffs'
Motion should not be granted.
PLAINTIFFS shall effectuate service of this Order upon Defendant. A motion to
make this Rule absolute will not be entertained until proof of service is filed. Defendant
SHALL include a proposed Order with its response.
RULE RETURNABLE twenty (20) days from the date of service.
Distribution List:
Jeffrey C. Clark, Esq.
Kandice Kerwin Hull
David E. Lehman, Esq.
Thoma A Placey C.P.J.
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
The undersigned hereby certifies that on this date a true and correct copy of the foregoing
document was served by hand delivery, upon the following:
Jeffrey C. Clark, Esq.
WIX, WENGER & WEIDNER
508 North Second Street
P.O. Box 845
Harrisburg, PA 17108-0845
andice Ke win Hull
Dated: June 11, 2014
s `
u (:`=,-
77!!.f Jig¢
c,u'`'113r rf
' tvN }`L At I}1 `f f
JOHN C. HARBILAS and : IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
KATHRYN M. HARBILAS, : CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
Plaintiffs,
: NO. 08-1936 CIVIL TERM
v.
MT. ZION ASSOCIATES, L.P., : CIVIL ACTION — EQUITY AND FOR
Defendant : DECLARATORY JUDGMENT
DEFENDANT'S PETITION FOR ASSESSMENT OF
ATTORNEY'S FEES AND COSTS
AND NOW, comes Defendant, by and through its attorneys, Wix, Wenger &
Weidner, P.C., and files this Petition for Assessment of Attorneys' Fees and Costs,
stating as follows:
1. On March 27, 2008, Plaintiff filed a Complaint in Equity and for Declaratory
Judgment.
2. On January 14, 2010, Defendant filed an Answer with New Matter and
Counterclaim ("Answer").
3. In its Answer, Defendant identified the provision of the governing agreement
between the parties that entitled Defendant to an award of attorneys' fees and
costs, and request entry of the same.
4. Paragraph 17 of the Real Estate Option Agreement (a copy of which is attached
hereto as Exhibit "A") states:
2
e.
"Upon default of breach of this Agreement by Seller
[("John Harbilas")], Buyer [("Mt. Zion Associates, L.P.")]
shall . . . be entitled to recover from Seller Buyer's
reasonable attorneys' fees and costs, incurred as a
consequence of Seller's default."
s
5. A trial was held on April 2nd -4th, and 7th, before the Honorable Thomas A.
Placey.
6. On May 23, 2014, Judge Placey entered an Order of Court, which found, in
pertinent part, that Plaintiffs breached their contractual duties to sign the
presented subdivision plan and "unreasonably withheld, delayed or conditioned
their consent to" the various subdivision plans submitted by Defendant for
exercise of its option to purchase land from Plaintiffs.
7. Defendant is entitled to recover its reasonable attorneys' fees and costs in this
case.
8. Prior to and during trial, Defendant's counsel raised the issue of attorneys' fees
and costs and suggested that evidence relating thereto be presented in the event
of a successful verdict, which procedure was approved by the Court.
9. Defendant should be awarded attorneys' fees and costs relating to the litigation
and for all work performed by Defendant's attorneys, engineers, and other
professionals, which was necessitated by Plaintiffs' failure to consent to
Defendant's plans.
10. Plaintiffs have filed a post-trial motion that impacts this Petition.
11. Defendant requests that the impact of that post-trial motion be considered in
setting a briefing schedule and evidentiary hearing date for this Petition.
3
i ,
12. Defendant's legal expenses and costs are $270,069.64, not including anticipated
expenses and costs relating to Plaintiff's motion for post-trial relief and this
Petition. Defendant's engineering and expert costs are $56,886.79. Copies of
billing reports outlining the time expended will be presented at a hearing and
provided to opposing counsel in a timely manner prior thereto.
13. Defendant incurred these expenses as a consequence of the breach of contract
by Plaintiffs.
WHEREFORE, Defendant respectfully requests that this Honorable Court enter
an Order awarding attorneys' fees and costs in an amount to be proven at an
evidentiary hearing.
Respectfully submitted,
WIX, WENGER &WEID ER
Date: billiiil By:
if ir
Jeff f irk, I.D. # 89277
50: ii o 1 lecond Street
P.• ,:ox 845
Harrisburg, PA 17108 - 0845
(717) 234-4182
Attorneys for Defendant
4
JOHN C. HARBILAS and : IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
KATHRYN M. HARBILAS, : CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
Plaintiffs,
: NO. 08-1936 CIVIL TERM
v.
MT. ZION ASSOCIATES, L.P., : CIVIL ACTION - EQUITY AND FOR
Defendant : DECLARATORY JUDGMENT
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
I hereby certify that a copy of the foregoing Petition was served via regular mail
at the following address:
David Lehman, Esquire
Lehman Mediation Services, LLC
2903 North Second Street
Harrisburg, PA 17110
Kandice Kerwin Hull, Esquire
McNees Wallace & Nurick, LLC
100 Pine Street
P.O. Box 1166
Harrisburg, PA 17108-1166
Res15-e-ally Submitted,
(
WIX, WE GER &W •NE-
\
Date: (SP\ a014 pct
411
ul- A. Gribbe ,-Paralegal
508 North Second Street
P.O. Box 845
Harrisburg, PA 17108-0845
(717) 234-4182
5
r
EXHIBIT "A"
°4 PLAINTIFF'S
EXHIBIT
REAL ESTATE OPTION AGREEMENT
THIS REAL ESTATE OPTION AGREEMENT ("Agreement") is made
this 23rd day of duly, 1996, by and between Mt. Zion Associates,
L.P. , a Pennsylvania limited partnership, with its principal
•
' office at 20 Erfbrd Road, Suite 201, Lemoyne, PA 17043, or its
nominee ("Buyer") and John C. Harbilas, of 817 Mandy Lane, Camp
Hill, PA 17011 ("Seller") .
r
RECITALS:
The background to this Option is as follows:
R-1. Eugene R. Deimler, Sr. ("Deimler") is the owner
of property known as the Deimler Farm located adjacent to Good
Hope Road in Hampden Township, Cumberland County, Pennsylvania,
as shown on a Preliminary/Final Subdivision Plan of Deimler Farm •
by Act One Con$ultants, Inc. dated August 22, 1995 (the
"Subdivision Plan") .
R-2. Seller is the owner or beneficial owner under a
valid Agreement of Sale or Option Agreement of the Deimler Farm,
which is adjacent td lands of Buyer; and
R-3. The patties, by executing this agreement, intend
to create an Option in Buyer to purchase a portion of the
Deimler Farm; said portion being identified as Lot 11 on the
Subdivision Plan less, however, a portion of Lot 11 not
exceeding four acres, fronting on Good Hope Road, to be
{
design ted by the' Seller, as more fully provided hereinafter,
which Lot f1 is zoned office - professional and located adjacent
to said lands of Buyer and being referred to herein as the
"Property". 1
• 1 •
•
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the sum of One
($1.00) Dollar, receipt of which is hereby acknowledged, the
Seller, for the period of time herein set forth, hereby gives
and grants unto the Buyer the sole and exclusive right and
•
option to purchase the Property ("Option") , upon the following
terms and conditions: •
1. Recitals. The recitals set forth above are
incorporated herein' by reference.
2. Option PeriedJExpiration Date. Buyer shall have
six (6) years from the date of execution and delivery of a fully
executed counterpart (including Joinder) of this Agreement to
Buyer (the "Expiration Pate") within which to exercise the
Option herein granted, unless extended by written agreement
between Seller and Buyer, or as hereinafter provided.
3. Purchase Price. The purchase price to be paid for
•
the Property shall be based upon the time period (year)
following the execution of this Option in which the Buyer
exercises the rights to purchase and the acreage (net of any
currently existing streets or public rights of way) , calculated
by a registered land surveyor to the nearest hundredth of an
acre, in the portion of the Property as to which the Buyer has
exercised the Option, as follows:
Year Price Pep Acre
1 $30,000.00 2
2 $32,000.00 ,+
3 '•$34,000.00 1.
4 $36,000.00••JZJ\ w7 o �(
5 $38,000.0q --��
6 $40,000.0d TA) vw
• 2
-- •
The price per acre or, more particularly, the acreage for which
the Buyer makes payment, shall be calculated on the basis of the
year in which the payment is actually made to the Seller. For
example, if the Buyer makes a payment of $100,000.00 in year
one, the Buyer shall be entitled to 3 1/3 acres, but if that •
same ($100,000.00) payment is made in year three, the Buyer
shall only be entitled to 2.941 acres. Notwithstanding the
foregoing provision, in the event settlement is delayed through
no fault of the Buyer, and the closing is not held during a year
in which a payment is scheduled, then the Buyer shall be
entitled to credit for acreage (and the per acre price) , at the
price which would have obtained had the closing occurred in the
year in which the Buyer was prepared to close (except for the
delay not occasioned by the Buyer) .
4. Retained Trapt/Property. The Property shall not
include a tract of land fronting on Good Hope Road and
containing up to four acres of grouhd, as selected and
determined by Seller, with the approval of the Buyer, which
shall not be unreasonably withheld or delayed (the "Retained
Tract") . The Seller shall designate the boundaries of the
•
Retained Tract, in a general way, within sixty (60) days
following execution of this Agreement, and shall cause a
subdivision plan of the Retained Tract to be filed with Hampden
Township within ninety (90) days thereafter, at Seller's
•
expense. Seller shall diligently pursue securing such
subdivision approval. Seller agrees that the Retained Tract
3
shall be .subject to a restrictive covenant, enforceable by ••
Buyer, that the building to be constructed on the Retained Tract
will be a first class office building, or of the style and
construction quality of the office buildings in Lemoyne Square.
All of Lot #1, other than the Retained Tract, shall constitute
the Property. Each portion of the Property as to which Buyer
exercises the Option shall be contiguous and adjacent to the
property currently owned by Buyer (situated to the north and
east of the Property) , shall be a parcel laid out with due
regard for the reasonable development of the remaining Property
in the event Buyer sloes not exercise its option with respect
thereto, and each subsequent option parcel shall be adjacent and
contiguous to property then owned by Buyer (or an affiliate of •
Buyer) , as Buyer's Property may have been augmented by the prior
exercise of this option. To the extent reasonable and feasible,
the property line of each parcel to be acquired by Seller shall
be at a ninety (90°) degree angle to the right-of-way line for
Interstate 81, where such new property line intersects with
Interstate 81, unless otherwise agreed by the parties.
5. Inspection Period and Consideration. The Buyer
shall have a period of ninety (90) days in which to conduct a
feasibility study concerning the purchase of the Property,
including environmental studies (Phase I, and, if appropriate,
Phase /I, surveys, and other testing as generally referenced in
Paragraph 10 hereof) . The Buyer will make any of its
feasibility studies relating to the Property or its
4
4 '
characteristics (such as environmental studies, soil testing, •
traffic studies and the like) , but not those studies dealing
with financing or economic analysis available to Seller within a
• reasonable time following Buyer's receipt thereof. The Seller
has, at Seller's expense, cause a registered land surveyor to
survey the boundaries of the Property (i.e., the portion of the
Daimler Farm which is the subject of this Option) which is
located within the Office Professional Zone, as defined by the
Hampden Township Zoning Ordinance, for the purpose of providing
a legal description of the Property. At the execution hereof,
the Buyer shall deposit with the Seller the sum of Twenty-Six
Thousand ($26,000.00) Dollars, which sum shall be (i) repaid to
Buyer in the event Buyer determines, during the feasibility
period, that Buyer will not purchase the Property; or (ii) if
Buyer determines at the conclusion of the feasibility study
period to purchase the Property, then applicable to the purchase
price Until the end of the feasibility study period, the
• $26,000,00 shall be represented by a promissory judgment note
(the "Note!") signed by Seller and Seller's wife. The Note shall
be due and payable, without setoff, sixty (60) days following
demand, and shall bear interest only following its due date
(i.e., 60 days after demand) , such interest to be at the prime
rate' of interest as published in The Wall Street Journal or its
successor publication, from time to time, plus four (4%)
percent. The Note shall be deposited with Buyer's counsel, Wix,
Wenger & Weidner, in escrow, and delivered to Buyer only if
5
Buyer determines and gives notice to Seller within the
feasibility study period that Buyer has determined not to
purchase the Property. At the conclusion of such feasibility
study period, the Buyer shall pay to the Seller the additional
sum of $74,000.00, which (together with the initial $26,000.00
payment) shall thereupon be non-refundable, but applicable to
the purchase price, . if Buyer exercises the Option as to any
portion of the Property. Thereafter, on or before the second
anniversary of this Option, the third anniversary of this
Option, the fourth anniversary of this Option and the fifth •
anniversary of this Option, the Buyer shall pay to the Seller
the sum of $100,000.00 (each year) . Each of the foregoing
•
payments shall be non-refundable, but shall be applicable to the
purchase price, to the extent Buyer exercises the Option as to
any portion of the Property. If the Buyer fails to make any of
the foregoing payments, Buyer's Option shall, upon written
notice from Seller, terminate, and all monies theretofore paid
by Buyer shall be retained by Seller as Seller's total
compensation for all rights granted to Buyer and all claims
which Seller may have against Buyer, for on account of or
related to this Agreement, except for physical damage to the
Property, if any, which Buyer may have caused and for which
Buyer is and shall remain liable hereunder.
6. property. The option herein granted shall apply to
such portion(s) of the Property as determined by Buyer (in
6
AMM
•
accordance with the provisions hereof) in Buyer's notice to
exercise the sante.
7. Notice and Settlement. In the event Buyer
exercises the Option, the sole means of exercising the Option
Shall be by written notice, describing the Property (which shall
be a separately subdivided parcel) , sent by certified mail,
return receipt requested, or by overnight delivery service
requiring receipt (such as UPS, Federal Express or similar
companies) postmarked prior to the Expiration Date, addressed to
Seller as provided in Paragraph 26 hereof, notifying Seller in
Writing of the exercise thereof and the time and place for
settlement, which shall not be less than five (5) days nor more
than sixty (60) days after the date of said notice (or shall be
held at such other time and place as the parties may agree upon
in writing) . Buyer shall make payment of the purchase price for
the portion of the Property then being purchased, as to which
the Option is exercised, in full at settlement. No single
exercise of the Option shall extinguish this option, and the
Buyer may exercise the same as to parcels of land subject to the
Option on one or more occasions.
8. Failure to Exercise Qption. In the event Buyer
fails to exercise the Option, Buyer shall have no further duties .
or obligations to Seller, except for physical damage to the
Property, if any, which Buyer may have caused and for which •
Buyer is and shall remain liable hereunder, and all sums
theretofore paid by Buyer to Seller, if any, shall be retained
7
• • • 1
by Seller •as Seller's total consideration for granting the
Option.
9. plans. Zoning and Subdivision. Buyer is authorized
to procure, at no ekpense to Seller, surveys or other plans
showing the perimeter of the Property and such other
topographical or engineering data and features as determined
necessary or desirable by Buyer. Buyer may, at Buyer's expense,
prepare subdivision'and/or land development plans for the
Property or any portions thereof. The lot layout, design and •
conditions shown on such plans shall be determined by Buyer,
with the consent of Seller, which shall not be unreasonably
withheld, delayed or conditioned. Following exercise of the
Option, Buyer shall have the right, at no expense to Seller, to •
have any final subdivision, land development plan or similar
plan showing the• Property as to which the Option is exercised
recorded, at Buyer's discretion.
10. Covenants of Seller, Seller covenants and agrees
•that:
(a) Seller is the equitable owner by virtue of
Seller's option with Deimler, of the Property.
(b) Seller will maintain his option, and take all
actions, including payment to Deimler of all sums due
to Daimler to enable Seller to sell and convey the
Property and to perform all terms and conditions
hereof, including delivery of good and marketable
title.
8
•
(c) Seller will not take any actions or permit
any inaction or omission which would create or assist
in creating defects in title from the date hereof until
the Expiration Date (or settlement, if the Option is
exercised) , or which would encumber the Property to an
extent and upon such terms as would prevent Seller from
performing.this Agreement. Any mortgages or other
7
monetary encumbrances shall contain an unconditional
obligation of the holder thereof to release the
Property or portions thereof designated by Buyer, as
herein provided, for no consideration, as to the first
five acres, and for no more than ninety (90%) percent
of the purchase pride set forth herein, for the
remaining land. Any mortgages, judgments or
obligations shall be released at the request of Buyer •
for no consideration from Buyer (except for payment of \
the purchase price required hereunder) .
(d) Seller will cooperate reasonably, if
requested by Buyer, in securing assurances from the
appropriate governmental authorities relating to
subdivision, use, water, sewer, and building permits
and will give such assistance to Buyer, or Buyer's
assignees or nominees, as may be reasonably necessary,
other than money, to secure such approvals and to make
appropriate soil, engineering and environmental tests,
including execution of any documents reasonably
9
•
•
•
required by Buyer to effectuate the same. Buyer shall
provide a reasonable notice and review period to Seller
for any such requested cooperation.
(e) Buyer or Buyer's nominee or duly authorized .
agents or contractors shall have the right to go upon
the Property, Prom time to time, from the date hereof,
for the duration of the Option for the purpose of
conducting appropriate tests investigations and
surveys, including but not limited to making
topographical and boundary line surveys, to conduct
soil tests for percolation and load bearing, to dig
probe pits eight (8) feet or more in depth and to make
such other examinations or use of the Property as Buyer
may deem necessary in Buyer's sole discretion.
(f) As record title to the tract of which the
Property is a part is, as of the date of execution of
this Agreement, owned by Deimler, a party other than
Seller, Seller expressly covenants that Seller, at
Seller's expense, will obtain any necessary consent and
cooperation of such record title owner to the
implementation of the provisions of this Option
Agreement. Deimler, by his joinder herein, consents to
this Agreement and agrees to cooperate, as reasonable,
in effectuating the terms and conditions hereof. If,
for any reason, Deimler fails to consent or cooperate
10
•
as herein provided, such failure shall be deemed a
default and breach of this Agreement.
11. Covenants pf Buyer. Buyer covenants and agrees
that:
(a) Buyer shall give prior notice of Buyer's
ihtended entry onto the Property for any activities on
the Property contemplated by Paragraph 10(e) hereof,
shall use testing techniques that are designed to be
the least disruptive to Deimler's crops and existing
use of the land, and shall promptly restore the •
Property to the condition existing prior to such tests
(including top soil to its pretesting depth) , and shall
indemnify and save harmless Seller against any loss or
liability resulting from the entry of Buyer or Buyer's
nominees or their duly authorized agents or contractors
in conjunction with the activities described in the
preceding Paragraph. This obligation shall survive
termination of the option.
(b) In order to protect crops growing on the
Property, in the event the testing or other activities
proposed by the Seller would have more than nominal
damage to crops growing on the Property, •the Buyer
will, prior to exercising its rights of inspection,
provide to Deimler a plan showing the location of the
testing to be performed or other activity and will also
provide a general description of the activities which
11
•
•
the Buyer anticipates. Should Daimler object to such
activity by or on behalf of the Buyer, then the Buyer
i
agrees not to engage in such testing or other activity
until the current crop has been harvested; provided,
however, that the inspection period shall be extended
by the delay so occasioned (a time period equal to the
. i
time between the date the testing plan and description
7 .
are presented to Deimler and the date when Daimler
authorizes the Buyer to proceed) .
12. Time of the Essence. Time shall be of the essence
•
as to this Agreement and of all obligations hereunder.
•
13. gxercise of Option. In the event the Option is
exercised by Buyer, it shall become an agreement of sale as to •
the portion of the Property as to which it is exercised duly
binding upon the Seller and the Buyer, and their respective
heirs, successors and assigns, as hereinafter provided, subject
to the following additional terms and conditions:
(a) Payment of Purchase Price. The purchase
i
price for the portion of the Property as to which it is
then exercised shall be paid at the closing in the
manner provided in Paragraph 3 hereof.
(b) Title. Buyer shall, at no expense to Seller,
secure whatever evidence of title Buyer desires; c
ts
provided, however, Seller's conveyance must be found to • t
convey good and marketable title to the Property being
conveyed in fee simple, free and clear of all liens and I.'
. t
12
1 •
1
I;
it
encumbrances, except easements and restrictions which '.
do not unreasonably interfere with Buyer's intended use
of the Property.
(c) peed. At settlement, the Seller shall convey
to Buyer title as aforesaid by special warranty. deed.
(d) Taxes and Assessments. Seller and Buyer
agree to prorate, as of the date of closing, all real
estate taxes and rents. Seller shall be liable for all .
assessments prior to closing.
(e) possession. Possession of the portion of the
Property being conveyed shall be given to Buyer
immediately upon delivery of deed from Seller.
(f) Closing of Transaction. Closing (or
settlement) on this transaction shall not be less than
five (5) days or more than sixty (60) days after notice
to Seller of Buyer's election to exercise the Option, lit
but closing shall not occur until Buyer has caused to
be recorded a duly approved subdivision plan for the
portion of the Property being purchased.
(g) Closing Expenses. Each party shall pay
closing expenses as is customary. Transfer taxes shall
be paid fifty (50%) percent by each party.
14. Condition of the Property. Seller shall not,
during the term of this Agreement, exercise Seller's rights of
ownership so as to interfere with or alter the condition of the
Property 4s it exists on the date hereof.
13
, 1
15. Condemnation, In the event of condemnation of the
Property, the Seller shall advise the Buyer of said condemnation
upon receipt of notice of said proceeding. Any award made
pursuant to the proceeding shall be paid to the parties
hereunder as their interests may then appear pursuant to this
Agreement.
16. Defective Title. If the title to the Property is
found to be defective or unmarketable or any part of the
Property is subject to liens, encumbrances, easements,
conditions or restrictions, the Seller shall have a reasonable
time, not exceeding sixty (60) days after written notice
thereof, in which to remedy or remove any such defect, lien,
encumbrance, easement, condition; restriction or encroachment.
If the Seller is unable to remedy, remove or to secure title
insurance against such defect, lien, encumbrance, easement,
condition, restriction or encroachment within such reasonable
time, Buyer shall be entitled to terminate this Agreement and to
receive a return, in full, of all monies theretofore paid by
Buyer to Seller, if any, or, if such objection is liquidated as
to amount, to pay so much of the proceeds due Seller at closing
to satisfy such objection, but otherwise to waive said defects
and accept such title as Seller is able to grant and convey, at
Buyer's option. Upon termination, if elected, the obligations
and duties of the parties hereto (to one another) shall cease
and terminate, and each party shall be relieved and fully
14
•
released from any and all damage or claims in favor of any other
party to this Agreement arising out of it.
17.• Default. Upon default or breach of this Agreement .'
by Seller, Buyer shall, at Buyer's election, be entitled: (a) to
a return of all option consideration theretofore paid, to
reimbursement by Seller of all expenses incurred by Buyer in
pursuing ,the terms of this Agreement, both with interest at the
prime rate of interest as published in The Wall Street Journal
or its successor publication, from time to time, plus four (4%)
percent (the "Interest") and to damages, or (b) to specific
performance. In either case, Buyer shall also be entitled to
recover from Seller Buyer's reasonable attorneys fees and costs
incurred as a consequence of Seller's default.
18. General. Provisions' Relating to Development.
Seller and Buyer agree that development of the Property, the
Retained Tract, and the remaining portion of the Deimler Farm
should be accomplished in a fashion which does not unreasonably
interfere with development of other portions of the aforesaid
tracts. To that end, streets, water lines, sewer lines, and
other utilities serving any of the aforementioned tracts shall
be designed to accommodate the reasonably anticipated
requirements for development of other portions of the Deimler
Farm, Each party agrees that the other may connect with or tie
into streets or utilities constructed on any portion of the
Daimler Farm, regardless of who constructs the same, and each
party (to include Daimler) will grant easements reasonably
15
•
•
necessary to effectuate this provision. The Buyer will be
responsible for making initial payment for all streets, sewers
and water located on the Property, as well as the cost of
preparing and filing all subdivision plans (except for the
•
Retained Tract) . While the Buyer shall bear the initial cost of
the foregoing, and shall permit the Seller to connect and tie
into any of the aforesaid streets or utilities, the Buyer shall
be entitled to reimbursement for connection fees or such other
compensation from the governmental authorities or public
utilities as is permitted to Buyer by law or by agreements
negotiated with such governmental authorities or public
utilities, and the Seller shall not be relieved of the cost or
expense thereof by virtue of the provisions of this Agreement.
19. Underlying Agreement of Sale. The parties
acknowledge that the tract of which the Property is a part is
the subject of an Agreement of Sale by and between the record
title owner and Harbilas, Seller herein. The parties expressly
agree that, if for any reason Harbilas/Seller fails to perform
any obligation under said Agreement of Sale, or exercise any
right thereunder, Buyer in its sole discretion may cure any .
default by Harbilas/Seller under said Agreement of Sale, and
perform any obligation and exercise any right thereunder on
behalf of Harbilas/Seller in order to preserve Buyer's Option.
In such ain event, Buyer shall be entitled to credit any '
reasonable costs incurred by it on account of such cure,
performance and exercise together with Interest thereon from the
16
. y
time the expenses of cure were incurred against the purchase
price set forth in this option Agreement, or, in the event Buyer
terminates this Agreement due to Seller's default, then to
recover the same from Seller.
20. Easements. Buyer agrees to provide to the Seller
access easements through streets which are intended to be
dedicated for puhlic roads (prior to dedication thereof) and '
.
utility easements, together with the right to construct public
utility lines and facilities therein, all over, upon and through
the Property. The location and capacity of such utility lines
are subject to the approval of the Buyer, which will not be
unreasonably withheld or delayed. Such utility lines shall be
laid out with• due regard for the reasonable development of the
Property. The easement granted by Buyer shall contain a
provision allowing the Buyer, at Buyer's expense, to relocate
such easement and the utility facilities located therein, at
Buyer's sole cost and expense, in the event the location
approved by Buyer should subsequently impair Buyer's development
of the Property.
21. Tax Free Exchange. Both parties agree that either
party or Deimler may wish to treat the conveyance of this
Property as a tax-free exchange of like kind properties as may
be permitted under Section 1031 of the United States Internal
Revenue Code. In the event that either party or Deimler is able
to arrange for the acquisition of other property which can be
exchanged for the Property in such a tax free transaction, 'the
17
parties and Deimler agree that each of them will cooperate to
conclude such a like kind exchange on a tax free basis, if at
all possible. In exchange for a party's cooperation for such
efforts, the requesting party (to include Daimler) agrees to
bear and pay in full all of the other parties' (to include
Deimler) reasonable costs and expenses associated with the tax-
free exchange and further to indemnify and save harmless the
F .
other parties (to include Deimler) from any loss, cost or claim,
including reasonable attorney's and accountant's fees caused to -
the other parties (to include Deimler) as a result of such like
kind exchange and any review, audit or dispute of same by the
Internal Revenue Service. In the event a party (to include
Deimler) chooses to treat the transaction as a tax-free
exchange, such party (to include Deimler) nay assign this
contract to another person or entity without first obtaining the
written consent' of the other party (to include Deimler) . Under
such assignment, the party so assigning will assign its rights
under this Agreement as contemplated by Treasury Regulation
Section 1.1031 (K)-1(g) (4) (V) but not its obligations under this
Agreement. Closing shall not be delayed by an assignment as set
forth in this Paragraph.
22. Gender/Number. Whenever the context herein so
requires, the singular number shall include the plural, the
plural shall include the singular, and the use of any gender
shall be applicable to all genders.
18
23. Headings. The headings or captions preceding the
paragraphs in this Agreement are inserted for convenience of
reference only and shall not be construed in interpreting this
Agreement.
24. pennpylvgnia Law. This Agreement shall be
governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the
Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.
25. Entire 'Agreement. This Agreement contains the
entire understanding between the parties hereto and supersedes
any prior written or oral agreements between them respecting the
within subject matter, except a Utility Easement Agreement •
and/or Right of First Refusal Agreement, if any, executed by the
parties of even date. There are no representations, agreements,
arrangements or understandings, oral or written, between or
among the parties hereto relating to the subject matter of this
Agreement which are not fully expressed herein.
26. Formal Tender. Formal tender of deed and purchase
money are hereby waived.
27. Assigns. This Agreement shall be binding upon and
inure to the benefit of the heirs, successors and assigns of the
parties hereto.
26. Survival of Covenants. All covenants and
provisions hereof which expressly or impliedly are intended to
survive settlement shall survive the settlement and the
execution and delivery of the deed of conveyance.and shall not
be merged therein.
19
29. Modifications/Waiver. No change or modification
to this Agreement shall be valid unless the same is in writing
and signed by the parties hereto. No waiver of the provisions
of this Agreement shall be valid unless in writing and signed by
the party against whom such waiver is sought to be enforced.
30. Notice. Any notice required hereunder shall be
hand delivered, sent by certified United States mail, postage
prepaid, or sent byrovernight delivery service requiring receipt
(such as Federal Express or UPS) to the parties, and shall be
deemed to have been given upon actual receipt or refusal of such
notice, at the following addresses:
If to the Seller: Mr. and Mrs. John C. Harbilas
817 Mandy Lane,
Camp Hill, PA 17011
With a copy to: Bruce D. Foreman, Esquire
Nicholas & Foreman
3207 N. Front Street
Harrisburg, PA 17110
If to the Buyer: Mt. Zion Associates
20 Erford Road, Suite 201
Lemoyne, PA 17043
With a copy to: Wix, Wenger & Weidner
508 North Second Street
Harrisburg, PA 17101
31. Waiver of Tenpler. Tender of an executed deed
and/or the purchase price, in the event of a default, is hereby
waived.
32. Memorandum of Option. Upon payment by Buyer to
Seller of the initial $100,000.00 consideration, this Agreement
may be recorded, and if requested, all parties hereto agree to
execute a Memorandum of Option in recordable form setting forth
20
• .
the duration of the Option and such other terms and conditions
as are necessary to give notice of the provisions hereof. In
the event Buyer fails to make any of the payments required
herein, including, without limitation, the payments due on each
anniversary date, strictly in accordance with the terms of this
Option, or after thirty (30) days written notice and failure to
cure, fails to perform any other material term or provision of
this Agreement, then.the Buyer shall, upon written notice from '
Seller, promptly sign such reasonable documentation as is
prepared by Seller, including, without limitation, a release of
this option, evidencing the termination of all of the Buyer's
right, title and interest to the portions of the Property as to
which Buyer has not exercised its options and made payment
therefor.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto, INTENDING TO BE
LEGALLY BOUND HEREBY, have executed this Agreement the day and
• year first above written.
WITNESS: BUYER:
MT. ZION ASSOCIATES, L.P.
By its sole general partner
Mt. Zion Associat:s, Inc.
/OW BY !2I
H , ip 61hGC
T
WITNESS: SELLE•/:
A bi/ //////6/6i
(7- r 146%,.AZ.
,ohn C. Harb las
21
•
COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA :
: S5. :
COUNTY OF :
On this, the p94-t•kday of 75-4-1 , 1996, before me,
a Notary Public, the undersigned officet•, personally appeared
Timothy C. Harrison, who acknowledged himself to be the
president of Mt. Zion Associates, Inc. , the sole general partner
of Mt. Zion Associates, L.P. , a Pennsylvania limited
partnership, and that he, as such president, being authorized to
do so, executed the foregoing instrument as. the act and deed of
said partnership for the purposes therein contained by signing
the name of the corporation himself as president.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I hereunto set my hand and official
seal. .91/.71k- f(-1-tee -- •
o ary Public
My Commission Expires:
(SEAL) Notarial Seal •
Loretta 8.Ecker,Notary Public '-
Camp Hill Bora,Cumt?erland County • '.
COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA My Commission Expires Nov.9,1998 _
1/4):1..0 , : SS. : •
COUNTY OF Y •
on this, the ra„rdLday of %Vl-, , 1996, before me,
a Notary Public, the undersigned officer, personally appeared
John C. Harbilas, an adult individual, known to ma (or
satisfactorily proven) to be the person named in the foregoing
instrument, and acknowledged that he executed the same for the
purposes therein contained.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I h unto set m � d and official
seal. AL-
-\(\(\ . • °MCt,
11
N ary Public V► I
My Commission Expires:
(SEAL)
Co Ww\oOCUMENTs\HLC.OPT July 17, 1996 i NOTARIAL SEAL
VSA M.LONG.Notary Public
CIry al Harrisburg,Dauphin County
My Commission t=xpiras Apnl 2E.1997
•
•
22
•
,
• ..
JOINDER OP EUGENE DEIMLER
Eugene Daimler, for good and valuable consideration, •
the receipt of which is hereby acknowledged, and intending to be
legally bound, joins in the foregoing Real Estate Option
Agreement for the purpose of evidencing his consent to the terms
and conditions thereof, insofar as he has any interest in the
Property, as defined therein, and agrees that any interests he
has therein are and shall be subject to the rights• and •
privileges of the Buyer, as set forth therein.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, Eugene Daimler, INTENDING TO BE .
AL Y BOUND HEREBY, has executed this Joinder this A day of ;
V ( , .996: •
WIT ESS: •
/
W\ (11moylNk_...., �C ' . r1 . ,f /4' �,( ugee De m er
COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA : •
U� t, : SS. :
COUNTY OF :
On this, the 5P day of , 1996, before me,
a Notary Public, the undersigned o car personally appeared
Eugene Daimler, an adult individual, known to me (or
satisfactorily proven) to be the person named in this Joinder,
and acknowledged that he executed the same for the purposes
therein contained.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I hereunto set my hand nd official
seal.
Notti lub y lict
My commission Exp s: i
(SEAL) .
•
Mail Seal
J G3unx.Notary Pi.bia
1 14 Ociniabier;=No,Cca Mt]
'C.)
JOHN C. HARBILAS and KATHRYN M.
HARBILAS,
Plaintiffs
v.
MT. ZION ASSOCIATES, L.P.,
Defendant
eountp of QCurnberlanb
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
OF THE NINTH JUDICIAL DISTRICT
2008-01936 CIVIL TERM
IN RE: PLAINTIFF'S MOTION FOR POST -TRIAL RELIEF
ORDER OF COURT
AND NOW, this 27th day of June 2014, upon consideration of Plaintiffs' Motion
for Post -Trial Relief and the response to the Rule to Show Cause by Defendant, the
Motion for Post Trial Relief is DENIED.
The above decision obviates the need for a trial transcript, which becomes the
prompt decision on the objection to the portion of the record to be transcribed.
Itribution List:
✓JI'rey C. Clark, Esq.
dice Kerwin Hull, Esq.
avid E. Lehman, Esq.
Thomas ? 'lacey C.P.J.
•Lr
r
C� h L (� RO T HO?t .1 ,
t i4JUN 30 J1 0:
CUMBERLAND COUNTY
PENN SYLVANIA
JOHN C. HARBILAS and KATHRYN M.
HARBILAS,
Plaintiffs
v.
MT. ZION ASSOCIATES, L.P.,
Defendant
Count? of 4 umbertnnb
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
OF THE NINTH JUDICIAL DISTRICT
2008-01936 CIVIL TERM
IN RE: DEFENDANT'S PETITION FOR ASSESSMENT OF ATTORNEY'S FEES AND
COSTS
ORDER OF COURT
AND NOW, this day of June 2014, upon consideration of Defendant's
Petition for Assessment of Attorney's Fees and Costs, a RULE is issued upon Plaintiffs
to show cause why the relief requested should not be granted.
DEFENDANT shall effectuate service of this Order of Court upon Plaintiffs and
shall file proof of service.
RULE RETURNABLE twenty (20) days from the date of service.
Plaintiffs SHALL include a proposed Order with any response.
Thoma •' A. Placey C.P.J.
Dpi tribution List:
t. Jeffrey C. Clark, Esq.
%/ dice Kerwin Hull, Esq.
%/David E. Lehman, Esq.
0111 J,Ir -2 2:
/2
CUMBERLAND COUNTY
WIX, WENGER & WEIDNER '
Jeffrey C. Clark, I.D. # 89277,
jclark@wwwpalaw.com
508 North Second Street
P.O. Box 845
Harrisburg, PA 17108-0845
(717) 234-4182
Fax: (717) 234-4224
Attorneys for Defendant
JOHN C. HARBILAS and
KATHRYN M. HARBILAS,
Plaintiffs,
v.
: IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
: CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
: NO. 08-1936 CIVIL TERM
MT. ZION ASSOCIATES, L.P., : CIVIL ACTION — EQUITY AND FOR
Defendant : DECLARATORY JUDGMENT
AFFIDAVIT OF SERVICE
Paula A. Cribben, being duly sworn according to law, deposes and says that she
is a Paralegal at the law offices of Wix, Wenger & Weidner, and that on July 1, 2014,
she sent a true and correct copy of the attached Order of Court filed on June 30, 2014,
to Kandice Kerwin Hull, Esquire, at McNees Wallace & Nurick, LLC, 100 Pine Street
P.O. Box 1166, Harrisburg, PA 17108-1166 and to David Lehman, Esquire, at Lehman
Mediation Services, LLC, 2903 North Second StrH�rrisburg, PA 17110, via
regular, first class mail. /
WIX, ENGER
Date: kaa4 By:
\Pula A. eh, Paralegal
508 North Second Street
P.O. Box 845
Harrisburg, PA 17108-0845
(717) 234-4182
Attorneys for Defendant
11
LVr-. f11)'t
JOHN C. HARBILAS and KATHRYN M.
HARBILAS,
Plaintiffs
V.
MT. ZION ASSOCIATES, L.P.,
Defendant
County of Cumberfanb
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
OF THE NINTH JUDICIAL DISTRICT
2008-01936 CIVIL TERM
IN RE: DEFENDANT'S PETITION FOR ASSESSMENT OF ATTORNEY'S FEES AND
COSTS
ORDER OF COURT
AND NOW, this
day of June 2014, upon consideration of Defendant's
Petition for Assessment of Attorney's Fees and Costs, a RULE is issued upon Plaintiffs
to show cause why the relief requested should not be granted.
DEFENDANT shall effectuate service of this Order of Court upon Plaintiffs and
shall file proof of service.
RULE RETURNABLE twenty (20) days from the date of service.
Plaintiffs SHALL include a proposed Order with any response.
Thoma" A. Placey C.P.J.
Distribution List:
Jeffrey C. Clark, Esq.
Kandice Kerwin Hull, Esq.
David E. Lehman, Esq.
Kandice Kerwin Hull
Attorney I.D. No. 86345
McNEES WALLACE & NURICK LLC
P.O. Box 1166, 100 Pine Street
Harrisburg, PA 17108-1166
Phone: 717-237-5452
Fax: 717-260-1698
David E. Lehman
Attorney I.D. No. 15243
Lehman Mediation Service, LLC
2903 North Second Street
Harrisburg, PA 17110
1 JUL 13 PM 3: 2
CUMBERLAND COUNTY
PENNSYLVANIA
Attorneys for Plaintiffs
JOHN C. HARBILAS and
KATHRYN M. HARBILAS,
Plaintiffs
v.
: IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
: CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
: NO. 08-1936 CIVIL TERM
MT. ZION ASSOCIATES, L.P., : CIVIL ACTION — EQUITY AND FOR
Defendant. : DECLARATORY JUDGMENT
PLAINTIFFS' ANSWER TO DEFENDANT'S PETITION
FOR ASSESSMENT OF ATTORNEYS' FEES AND COSTS
Plaintiffs John C. Harbilas and Kathryn M. Harbilas, by their undersigned counsel, make
the following responses to Defendant's Petition for Assessment of Attorneys' Fees and Costs, as
directed in the Rule to Show Cause issued June 30, 2014.
1. Admitted. Plaintiffs commenced this action seeking declaratory and equitable
relief.
2. Admitted.
3. Admitted.
4. The text of paragraph 17 of the Option Agreement is admitted.
5. Admitted.
6. Admitted. By way of further answer, Paragraph 19 of the Court's Order of
May 23, 2014 contains the complete text of the Court's finding.
7. The Court's finding in Paragraph 19 appears to set the basis for consideration of
recovery of "reasonable attorney's fees and costs incurred as a consequence of Seller's default."
8. Admitted that, at Defendant's request, consideration of this issue was deferred
from the trial issues heard in the April 2014 trial proceedings.
9. Denied as stated. The reasonableness, necessity, and causal relation of claimed
costs and expenses are matters now to be reviewed and, after hearing, to be determined by the
Court. Based on the gross dollar amount set forth in the Petition, which has been stated without
any further explanatory support or documentation, Plaintiffs will contest certain aspects of the
items claimed.
10. Denied. Plaintiffs filed a Motion for Post -Trial relief, but that Motion, having
been denied by the Court without any reply from Defendant and without any briefing, will have
no impact on Defendant's claim for fees.
11. The Court has denied the Motion for Post -Trial Relief. However, Plaintiffs join
in a request (a) that a hearing be held to receive evidence and to hear argument in this matter, and
(b) that the date for such a proceeding be deferred for at least 60 to 90 days to permit document
discovery and related analysis to be completed.
2
12. The amounts claimed by Defendant seem extraordinary, particularly in light of
pre-trial discovery responses. Plaintiffs sent Interrogatories to Defendant asking it to state its
claims for "all damages relating to legal expenses, engineering and other technical assistance,"
and in response, Defendant gave an elaborate answer concerning its assertions of multiple
breaches by Plaintiffs, and then stated:
"The engineering costs are at least $15,373.29."
"The legal fees are at least $35,354.33."
The Answers to Interrogatories (marked as trial Exhibit No. 85), were verified by Mt. Zion's
Vice -President on January 31, 2013. Engineering bills were provided at that time, but not
lawyers' bills. Plaintiffs have served Requests for Production of supporting documentation on
Defendant. Until some rationale and substantiation is provided by Defendant, Plaintiffs must
reserve further commentary. On their face, and in light of prior discovery responses, the claims
seem excessive and highly unreasonable. Further specification of Plaintiffs' objections will be
provided when supporting documentation from Defendant has been provided.
13. Denied as stated. Plaintiffs dispute the Defendant's assertions that the amounts
claimed are reasonable, and that the amount claimed were necessitated by the dispute with
Plaintiffs. As an equitable matter, Plaintiffs will demonstrate to the Court the substantial savings
enjoyed by Mt. Zion through deferring its land acquisition costs for almost ten years, while
3
keeping the Harbilas' land out of market competition. Those savings should be considered by the
Court as well in adjudicating this matter.
Respectfully submitted,
McNEES WALLACE & NURICK LLC
By
Date: July 18, 2014
4
Kandice Derwin Hull
I.D. No. 86345
100 Pine Street
P.O. Box 1166
Harrisburg, PA 17108
Tel: (717) 232-8000
Fax: (717) 237-5300
and
David E. Lehman
I.D. No. 15243
Lehman Mediation Service, LLC
2903 North Second Street
Harrisburg, PA 17110
Attorneys for Plaintiffs
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
The undersigned hereby certifies that on this date a true and correct copy of the foregoing
document was served by first-class mail, postage prepaid, upon the following:
Jeffrey C. Clark, Esq.
WIX, WENGER & WEIDNER
508 North Second Street
P.O. Box 845
Harrisburg, PA 17108-0845
41/11,
landice Ker n Hull
Dated: July 18, 2014
[' f!Wful
WIX,Ion Associates, L.P.,WENGER &WEIDNEDRf P.C.
nth°�s/Y��
Jeffrey C. Clark, I.D. No. 89277
508 North Second Street
P.O. Box 845
Harrisburg, PA 17108-0845
(717) 234-4182
JOHN C. HARBILAS and IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
KATHRYN M. HARBILAS, CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
Plaintiffs,
NO. 08-1936 CIVIL TERM
V.
MT. ZION ASSOCIATES, L.P., CIVIL ACTION — EQUITY AND FOR
Defendant DECLARATORY JUDGMENT
REPLY TO PLAINTIFFS' ANSWER TO
DEFENDANT'S PETITION FOR ASSESSMENT OF
ATTORNEYS' FEES AND COSTS
AND NOW, comes Defendant, Mt. Zion Associates, L.P., by and through its
attorneys, and files this Reply, stating as follows:
Although not presented as New Matter, Plaintiffs make various statements to
which Defendant believes a response is necessary:
12. Plaintiffs misstate both their Interrogatory and Defendant's response in
Paragraph 12 of their Answer. Plaintiffs asked for "legal expenses,
engineering and other technical assistance in connection with the project
development work." Defendant answered that it incurred "legal and
engineering expenses to create subdivision plans and to engage in
negotiations with the purpose of validly exercising their option rights" and
1
then stated a minimum amount calculated on that basis. The
Interrogatory did not request, and Defendant reasonably did not interpret
the request, as one for Defendant's full litigation and expert costs, such a
request being highly premature at that state of the litigation and, thus,
objectionable and unanswerable in its own right. Applicable portions of
the discovery are attached hereto as Exhibits "A" and "B".
13. It is denied that any purported "savings" are relevant in any way to
equitably offset the attorneys' fees due Defendant by application of the
contractual agreement between the parties Any such consideration would
serve to vary the terms of the contract, contrary to axiomatic principles of
contract law. Moreover, Plaintiffs' position is entirely speculative as it
does not account for any lost business opportunities to Defendant. Put
another way, the purchase of the property pursuant to the option when
first exercised could have presented any number of opportunities to
Defendant, or completely altered the marketing and development of the
property. To offset the "savings" to Defendant as purported by Plaintiffs
would be to enter a deep and complicated morass of speculation and
irrelevancy.
2
Respectfully submitted,
WIX, WENGER &W IDNER
Date: rzu/t\� By- dL
Jeffrey 64rk, I.D. # 89277
508 NoS cond Street
P.O. B 84
Harrisburg, PA 17108 - 0845
(717) 234-4182
Attorneys for Defendant
3
JOHN C. HARBILAS and IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
KATHRYN M. HARBILAS, CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
Plaintiffs,
NO. 08-1936 CIVIL TERM
V.
MT. ZION ASSOCIATES, L.P., CIVIL ACTION — EQUITY AND FOR
Defendant DECLARATORY JUDGMENT
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
I hereby certify that a copy of the foregoing Reply to Answer to Petition for
Assessment of Attorneys' Fees and Costs was served via regular mail at the following
address:
David Lehman, Esquire
Lehman Mediation Services, LLC
2903 North Second Street
Harrisburg, PA 17110
Kandice Kerwin Hull, Esquire
McNees Wallace & Nurick, LLC
100 Pine Street
P.O. Box 1166
Harrisburg, PA 17108-1166
Respectfully Submitted,
WIX GER & WEIDN
s ' r3 ti
Date: j p a o By
PaA K C ben, r
508 North Second Street
P.O. Box 845
Harrisburg, PA 17108-0845
(717) 234-4182
4
EXHIBIT "A"
Kandice Kerwin Hull
Attorney I.D.No. 86345
McNEES WALLACE &NURICK LLC
P.O.Box 1166, 100 Pine Street
Harrisburg,PA 17108-1166
Phone: 717-237-5452
Fax: 717-260-1698 Afforneys for Plaintiffs
JOHN C. HARBILAS and : IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
KATHRYN M.HARBILAS, : CUMBERLAND COUNTY,PENNSYLVANIA
Plaintiffs
NO. 08-1936 CIVIL TERM
V.
MT. ZION ASSOCIATES,L.P., : CIVIL ACTION—EQUITY AND FOR
Defendant. : DECLARATORY JUDGMENT
PLAINTIFFS' SECOND SET OF INTERROGATORIES DIRECTED TO DEFENDANT
To: Mt.Zion Associates,L.P.,Dean A. Weidner,Esq. and Jeffrey C. Clark,Esq.,
their attorneys:
PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that you are hereby required,pursuant to Pennsylvania Rules
of Civil Procedure,Rules 4001,4003.1-.3, -.4,-.5,4005 and 4006, to serve upon the
undersigned,within thirty(30)days from service hereof, your Answers in writing and under oath
to the following Interrogatories. These Interrogatories shall be deemed to be continuing
Interrogatories. If between the time of your Answers to said Interrogatories and the time of the
trial of this case you or anyone acting on your behalf learn the identity and whereabouts of any
other witnesses not identified in your said Answers,or if you or anyone on your behalf obtain or
become aware of additional requested information not supplied in your Answers,you shall
promptly furnish the same to the undersigned by Supplemental Answers. These Interrogatories
are addressed to you as a party to this action and your Answers shall be based upon the
information known to you,or your attorney or other representatives.
11. To the extent not already provided in answers to previous Interrogatories, state the
factual basis for Mt. Zion's claim for recovery from Mr. and/or Mrs. Harbilas of any damage
amounts, including without limitation all damages relating to legal expenses, engineering and
other technical assistance in connection with project development work. Include in your answer
an itemization of dollar amounts claimed,and state whether you will provide without further
request copies of all invoices upon which such claims are based.
ANSWER;
12. Assume for the proposes of this Interrogatory and its subparts,that at the conclusion of
this litigation Mr. and Mrs.Harbilas will own a substantial residual parcel of 77-100 acres, more
or less,abutting and adjoining property owned by Mt.Zion in the Technology Park.
(a) In that circumstance, does Mt. Zion acknowledge and agree that its agreement(s)
with Mr. and/or Mrs. Harbilas obligate Mt. Zion"to provide (as shown on the subdivision
plan) a street right-of-way to his property and a right-of-way for connecting utilities?"1
(b) In that circumstance,does Mt. Zion acknowledge and agree that Mt. Zion's
obligation to provide a street right-of-way to the residual Harbilas'tract will include the right
to connect on to the existing street known as Technology Parkway?
Quoted language drawn from Mt.Zion's Answer with New Matter and Counterclaim,dated
January 13,2010.
8
EXHIBIT "B"
JOHN C. HARBILAS and : IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
KATHRYN M. HARBILAS, : CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
Plaintiffs,
NO. 08-1936 CIVIL TERM
V.
MT. ZION ASSOCIATES, L.P., : CIVIL ACTION — EQUITY AND FOR
Defendant. : DECLARATORY JUDGMENT
ANSWERS TO PLAINTIFFS'SECOND SET OF INTERROGATORIES
AND NOW, comes Defendant, Mt. Zion Associates, L.P., by and through its attorneys,
Wix, Wenger&Weidner, and files these Responses to Plaintiffs' Second Set of
Interrogatories, as follows:
Plaintiffs' Second Set of Interrogatories are objected to the extent that they:
1. are sought in bad faith, Pa.R.C.P. 4011(a);
2. would impose unreasonable annoyance, embarrassment, oppression, burden or
expense upon Defendant, Pa.R.C.P. 4011(b);
3. require the making of an unreasonable investigation by Defendant, Pa.R.C.P.
4011(e);
4. inquire into privileged matters, Pa.R.C.P. 4003.1;
5. inquire into irrelevant matters or matters not reasonably calculated to lead to the
discovery of admissible evidence, Pa.R.C.P. 4003.1;
6. seek disclosure of the mental impression of Defendant's attorneys or its
conclusions, opinions, memoranda, notes, summaries, legal research or legal
theories, or require disclosure of Defendant's other representatives' mental
9. If the answer to the foregoing Interrogatory is not in the negative, identify each
such claim, set forth the actual basis for the claim, the legal theory upon which it is
asserted, and your current best calculation (or best estimate) of its dollar amount.
ANSWER: N/A
10. State the factual bases for calculating any monetary damages claimed by Mt.
Zion in the above-captioned action for any economic harm or loss arising from loss of
opportunity. Include in your answer identification of the persons) associated with Mt.
Zion who are most knowledgeable of those facts.
ANSWER: N/A
11. To the extent not already provided in answers to previous Interrogatories, state
the factual basis for Mt. Zion's claim for recovery from Mr. and/or Mrs. Harbilas of any
damage amounts, including without limitation all damages relating to legal expenses,
engineering and other technical assistance in connection with the project development
work. Include in your answer an itemization of dollar amounts claimed, and state
whether you will provide without further request copies of all in voices upon which such
claims are based.
ANSWER: The underhanded and wrongful actions of Plaintiffs in this case (the
concealment of an option extension with Mr. Deimler; contacting township officials to
convince them not to approve Mt. Zion's subdivision plan; refusing to sign subdivision
plans prepared by Mt. Zion; lying about not receiving the notice of Mt. Zion's exercise of
the option; once caught in the lie, creating false bases upon which to refuse to
recognize the option without imposing conditions not found in the agreement; failing to
include language in the deed subjecting the property to the protective covenant as
required by the agreement) all constitute unclean hands and caused Mt. Zion to incur
significant legal and engineering expenses to create subdivision plans and to engage in
negotiations with the purpose of validly exercising their option rights.
The engineering costs are at least$15,373.29.
The legal fees are at least $ 35,354.33.
5
_= lL` J -O FPL: •
u. THE PROTHON3`ir', 't
20R OCT 28 PM • I: CI 4
CUMBERLAND COUNTY
PE
JOHN C. HARBILAS and KATHRYN M. NSYLMANIA
HARBI LAS,
Plaintiffs
MT. ZION ASSOCIATES, L.P.,
Defendant
Countp of enmbertanb
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
OF THE NINTH JUDICIAL DISTRICT
2008-01936 CIVIL TERM
IN RE: DEFENDANT'S PETITION FOR ASSESSMENT OF ATTORNEY'S FEES AND
COSTS
ORDER OF COURT
AND NOW, this 27th day of October 2014, upon consideration of Defendant's
Petition for Assessment of Attorney's Fees and Costs, it is hereby ORDERED that
ARGUMENT on the Petition is scheduled for 12 December 2014 at 11:30 a.m. in.
Courtroom Number Six of the Cumberland County Courthouse, Carlisle,
Pennsylvania.
Further, it is ORDERED that Defendant provide to Plaintiff all documentation
relating to attorney's fees and engineering costs that they are seeking to submit in
support of their claim no later than twenty (20) days from the receipt of this Order.
stribution List:
✓ �Jeffrey C. Clark, Esq.
✓andice Kerwin Hull, Esq.
David E. Lehman, Esq.
i ES �.dt
1o7z8/,y
-T
BY T E COURT,
II
Thom -s A . Placey C.P.J.
JOHN C. HARBILAS and
KATHRYN M. HARBILAS,
Plaintiffs,
V.
HE Eu C CE
P:OTIIDOTAI:;1
20 i 6 A1I1 147
CLE-1BEFIAND COUNTY
PENNSYLVANIA
: IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
: CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
: NO. 08-1936 CIVIL TERM
MT. ZION ASSOCIATES, L.P., : CIVIL ACTION — EQUITY AND FOR
Defendant : DECLARATORY JUDGMENT
JOINT PETITION TO RESCHEDULE HEARING
AND NOW, comes Defendant, Mt. Zion Associates, L.P., by and through its
attorneys, Wix, Wenger & Weidner, P.C., joined by Plaintiffs, John C. Harbilas and
Kathryn M. Harbilas, and files this Petition to Reschedule Hearing:
1. On June 29, 2014, Defendant filed a Petition for Assessment of Attorneys' Fees
and Costs, answered by Plaintiffs on July 18, 2014.
2. By letter dated October 7, 2014, Defendant's counsel requested that a hearing
be scheduled.
3 On October 27, 2014, The Honorable Thomas A. Placey issued an Order
scheduling argument for December 12, 2014, at 11:30 a.m.
4. Defendant's counsel is currently attached for trial by the Court of Common Pleas
of Dauphin County on that day.
5. The parties would be available on December 1, 2014.
6. If that date is unavailable, the parties would request a date after January 25,
2015.
2
7 The parties also request that the hearing be scheduled to accommodate the
presentation of evidence, as well as argument.
WHEREFORE, the parties respectfully request that this Honorable Court enter
an Order removing the December 12, 2014 argument from its calendar and
rescheduling the hearing as set forth above.
Date: ff/117rLj
Respectfully submitted,
WIX, WENGER WEIDNER
By:
3
C. Clark, I.D. # 89277
5 rth Second Street
P. ox 845
Harrisburg, PA 17108 - 0845
(717) 234-4182
Attorneys for Defendant
JOHN C. HARBILAS and
KATHRYN M. HARBILAS,
Plaintiffs,
v.
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
: CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
: NO. 08-1936 CIVIL TERM
MT. ZION ASSOCIATES, L.P., : CIVIL ACTION — EQUITY AND FOR
Defendant : DECLARATORY JUDGMENT
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
I hereby certify that a copy of the foregoing Petition was served via regular mail
at the following address:
David Lehman, Esquire
Lehman Mediation Service, LLC
2903 North Second Street
Harrisburg, PA 17110
Kandice Kerwin Hull, Esquire
McNees Wallace & Nurick, LLC
100 Pine Street
P.O. Box 1166
Harrisburg, PA 17108-1166
With a courtesy copy to:
The Honorable Thomas A. Placey
via email to: mhalla.ccpa.net
Respe - ly Submitted,
WIX, WE GER & WEIDNE
Date: ti14Laoi4 B
4
aula A. Crib: - n, Paralegal
508 North Second Street
P.O. Box 845
Harrisburg, PA 17108-0845
(717) 234-4182
THE PROTHONOTARY
2011, NOV 21 PH 2: 0 8
CUMBERLAND COUNTY
PENNSYLVANIA
JOHN C. HARBILAS and KATHRYN M.
HARBILAS,
Plaintiffs
v.
MT. ZION ASSOCIATES, L.P.,
Defendant
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
OF THE NINTH JUDICIAL DISTRICT
2008-01936 CIVIL TERM
IN RE: JOINT PETITION TO RESCHEDULE HEARING
ORDER OF COURT
AND NOW, this 20th day of November 2014, upon consideration of the Joint
Petition to Reschedule Hearing , it is hereby ORDERED that the 12 December 2014
hearing has been continued until 20 February 2015 at 11:00 a.m. in Courtroom
Number Six of the Cumberland County Courthouse, Carlisle, Pennsylvania.
BY THE COURT,
Thoma A. Placey C.P.J.
D tribution:
ey C. Clark, Esq.
dice Kerwin Hull, Esq.
avid E. Lehman, c.sq.
trZA LEL
P..0g