The West Rockhill Board of Supervisors recently heard positive news about the township’s solar power system.
In 2021, West Rockhill became the first municipality in Pennsylvania to be entirely powered by solar energy with the goal of reducing carbon emissions and lowering electricity costs.
At the board’s latest meeting, former board chairman Jim Miller announced that the township has reduced carbon by nearly 650,000 pounds and saved over $50,000. He stressed that the system consistently generates surplus energy, enabling West Rockhill to sell renewable energy credits on the open market.
Miller said that the township is “under” its 11-year plan to pay off the system and underscored the projected total savings of $500,000.
Housing developments
Township engineer Steve Baluh informed the board of a proposal for a six-lot housing development at 2405 Camp Rockhill Road. The proposal includes two shared driveways, though the property is large enough for split driveways, said Baluh. The Planning Commission recommended conditional approval.
Baluh additionally reported on a proposed nine-lot housing development on 109 Augustine Road, featuring private well water and public sewer. The Planning Commission tabled the proposal due to concerns about groundwater depletion and public sewer accessibility.
Conservation easements
Michael Schrameyer of the township’s conservation committee announced that the committee recently notified local landlords about the benefits of a conservation easement in order to protect their properties from development. The move follows a push by real estate agents and developers to purchase large local properties for development. Schrameyer noted that the easement allows landowners to preserve their properties and earn additional money.
Schrameyer also took time to mention the recent approval of a conservation easement at the 14-acre Holiday House pool recreational area, protecting the property from development.
PRPD grant applications
The board approved Perkasie Regional Police Department grant applications for fleet upgrades and body camera and mobile in-car video system replacements, totaling $90,000 and $145,000, respectively.
The board also highlighted some upcoming township events, including Septemberfest on September 28 from noon to 4 p.m. and Feature Film and a Fire on October 18 at dusk, featuring the original Home Alone film. Both events will be located at James Memorial Park.
The next West Rockhill Board of Supervisors meeting is on September 17 at 7 p.m. For more information, visit westrockhilltownship.org
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