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Poland trustees deny zone-change request
POLAND
Township trustees denied a zone-change request that would have permitted construction of a multiunit residential complex on Center Road.
The board voted 2-1 at a public hearing Wednesday, with Trustee Robert Lidle voting for the zone change and Trustees Eric Ungaro and Joanne Wollet voting against it.
Henry Hassay Jr. submitted the request, which proposed to rezone two parcels just west of Tala Drive so he could build what he described as a complex of single-floor units.
The complex would have no more than seven units. Hassay said he was not interested in building a six-plex or similar structure.
“I don’t want to build something that looks like a motel,” he said, adding he wants to build units that would be appealing to senior citizens.
Several residents whose properties are near the parcels spoke in opposition to the zone-change proposal.
Property owners cited concerns mostly about a downgrading of their property values, the proposed placement of a retention pond and current drainage issues in the area, and traffic.
Lidle’s vote in favor of the proposal, he said, was because he believes the structure actually would help alleviate water issues.
Wollet, who also cited concerns about fire safety, said she did not believe the proposal was in the township’s best interests.
“We’re here to represent the people, so that’s why I’m voting no,” Ungaro said.