Development News for Pocono, Pennsylvania

Residents Voice Strong Concerns Over Construction Impacts, Stormwater Runoff, and Zoning Enforcement

Residents expressed significant concerns regarding stormwater runoff, property damage, and potential well contamination due to ongoing construction projects, particularly by Core 5. Speakers described issues such as nails popping in houses, damaged trees, displaced property markers, and excessive runoff affecting their backyards and wells. They questioned the enforcement of zoning ordinances and the lack of communication regarding construction activities and property line markings. The township staff acknowledged some issues and committed to looking into marking property lines.

MCTI Contract Renewal Includes Rate Increase; Board Approves Modified Hourly Rate

The board discussed renewing the MCTI contract, with a proposed increase in the hourly rate from $88.07 to $97.84. Some commissioners expressed concern about the $9 hourly increase, deeming it substantial. A motion was made and approved to change the rate to $91.59, reflecting a 4% cost-of-living increase. The board also agreed to review the full MCTI contract document before final approval.

Public Gathering Ordinance Drafts Referred to Solicitor for Review

The board discussed proposed ordinances concerning the use of public property for assemblies and organized gatherings. After a debate on the proper procedure, a motion was made and passed to refer one of the draft ordinances (Kepler's draft) to the township solicitor for review and possible advertisement for a public hearing. A second motion was made and passed to submit both draft ordinances to the solicitor for his review.

Township Moving to Repeal Data Center Overlay District Amidst Resident Concerns

The board discussed the potential for data centers on the Core 5 site. Commissioner Mike Gable argued that data centers are not a 'boogeyman' and are a necessary part of the 21st century, creating jobs and utilizing closed-loop cooling systems with grey water. Commissioner Matt Kelly stated that the township is in the process of repealing the data center overlay district, making it unlikely for Core 5 to pursue a data center due to new requirements like decommissioning escrow accounts. He also noted that a curative amendment process could further mitigate concerns.