Before the May 23 Lehigh Township Board of Supervisors meeting began, a conditional use hearing was held for Solar City on behalf of 725 Walnut Drive. The owner is Geraldine McCutcheon. Michele Shellborn represented Solar City.

A solar installation for 18 kilowatts can be installed by permit, but Solar City wants 32.8 kilowatts. The request was denied by the planning commission, so the supervisors were hearing the appeal.

Jake Schray, code enforcement officer, had sent a letter from the zoning office, which was described by Solicitor David Backenstoe as thorough and non-negative. The property is an agricultural/rural/residential area, which is allowed only one principal use.

Shellborn said she could say it was a hardship to the property owner because she wants clean energy, but the argument was refused.

The solar installation was approved for the house and attached garage roofs and not able to be seen by neighbors, the closest of which is one-quarter mile away. The equipment cannot interfere with neighboring electrical equipment, and installation must comply with all zoning regulations.

Afterward, an executive session was held for personnel reasons.

Upon supervisors’ return, Backenstoe said a letter would be sent to Jeff Erschen regarding his position on the recreation board.

Also at the meeting, Wynnefield Manor was approved for a time extension until May 30, 2018.

The fire company requested the use of Indian Trail Park for a picnic without the usual $50 fee. It was granted.

Ed Ziegler spoke of a Timberline Road resident with health problems. The end of his driveway is in bad shape, Ziegler said, adding he thinks it is the township’s responsibility to fix it. Township Manager Alice Rehrig said there is a pipe under the driveway that is not completely open.

Supervisor Keith Hantz asked who could go to the township building’s back offices. He suggested a touch-pad lock to keep people from wandering back when there is no one at the front desk. This will be installed.