Lower Paxton Township · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Lower Paxton Township public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Waiver of Land Development for 4010 McIntosh Road
An applicant is asking the Commission to waive standard land development plan requirements for a property on McIntosh Road. A waiver would allow the project to proceed without full land development review, so neighbors may want to weigh in on how the site would be used and improved.
Double Taxation Concerns Regarding Library Funding
The township may authorize a special election asking residents whether to repeal the special library tax. If it moves forward, this question would go directly to voters — a decision that could affect library funding for years to come.
Compost Facility Operations and Compliance
Two environmental infrastructure items are before the board: a GHD proposal to improve the compost facility and an HRG retainer for groundwater monitoring at the landfill. Both concern how the township manages waste sites and protects local water quality.
Hidden Lake Drive Culvert Replacement
The township is set to award a contract to replace the culvert on Hidden Lake Drive, a drainage and road infrastructure fix for that neighborhood. Work would proceed once legal review and reference checks are complete.
Commercial Expansion and Non-Conforming Use on Linglestown Road
Macintosh Investments is upgrading its landscaping business property with a larger building and office space. Residents and board members discussed making sure operations remain quiet, stay within normal hours, and respect neighboring properties.
Indoor Recreation Facility Traffic and Ingress/Egress
Pebble Climbing and Fitness is opening a bouldering gym alongside an upcoming brewery on Linglestown Road. Residents and board members expressed deep concerns about traffic congestion, single-exit safety, and parking lot management.
Residential Setback Variance for Family Care Addition
A homeowner requested a side yard setback variance to build an addition for her aging mother. The neighbor offered verbal support, and the board approved the request.
Shopping Center Signage Expansion
Paxton Town Center is adding tenant panels to its main freestanding sign on Jonestown Road to help customers locate businesses. The board verified that the structure's height will not change.
Township Manager Employment Agreement and Salary
Residents criticized the township's high legal expenditures and questioned severance payments and consulting agreements made with former officials. Speakers urged the board to adopt resolutions holding officials personally accountable for frivolous legal costs and enforcing non-disparagement clauses.
Shearer Subdivision and Infrastructure Deferrals
The board discussed a preliminary final subdivision plan for Frederick and Joule Shearer involving a 3.42-acre tract on Ranger Road. The property owners requested waivers from sidewalk and curb requirements due to financial hardship and health challenges, leading the board to table the matter.
Zen Leaf Medical Marijuana Dispensary Proposal
Zen Leaf Harrisburg applied for a conditional use permit to relocate their medical marijuana dispensary to a vacant bank building at 4206 Union Deposit Road. Residents and supervisors discussed security, traffic impacts, and parking, leading to approval with a condition for direct police camera access.
2027 Public Works General Fund Budget and Staffing
The board reviewed and approved the preliminary 2027 budget, which includes a general fund deficit of over $860,000 to be covered by fund reserves. Discussions highlighted healthcare cost adjustments, a new economic development position, and municipal dues.
Conway Fill Site Erosion and Stormwater Concerns
A resident from North Arlington Avenue raised ongoing concerns about backyard flooding, standing water, and clogged drainage pipes near her property. Township staff noted that millions in stormwater projects are planned over the next few years to address major problem areas.
Electronic Communications and Records Policy
The township adopted a strict policy banning officials from conducting public business via text message. The move aims to keep all official communications accessible and secure under right-to-know laws.