The Lower Macungie Township regularly scheduled board of commissioners meeting was held May 1 in the Lower Macungie Township building. The agenda included several resolutions needing board approval.

The first resolution was for an amended Beit Simcha plan. This property is located at 1111 Grange Road. Resolution 2025-15 is calling for a phased completion of this project. The Beit Simcha Messianic Fellowship Plan construction is almost completed for ministry residence.

The related part of this project is for the construction of the synagogue. The request for amending is due to completing this project in phases. Included in this plan are landscaping plans, stormwater management and parking. Also a request was made for removal of the crosswalk across Grange Road. A private agreement is being made with Binder Garage to allow for overflow parking on that property.

Phase 1 includes completion of the residency which also contains a fellowship room, nursery, two classrooms and a worship area. Phase 2 will be the actual construction of the synagogue. Five years is allowed for completion. The board approved the resolution.

Resolution 2025-16 is for sale of surplus items within the township which was approved.

Resolution 2025-17 is for an amendment to the fee schedule allowing for a change in the fee for swim lessons required by Emmaus Aquatic Club. This was approved.

Resolution 2025-14 is an amended plan for Mack Trucks/Depot properties. The amendment is requesting the plan to be completed in three phases.

Phase 1 will create and allow access from Orchard Road. This will become the emergency access when the project is completed. Phase 2 is the phase for installing sanitary sewer, water lines and lines for the irrigation system.

Phase 3 will be for installation of proposed buildings, primary access stream culvert and final grading and landscaping.

Residents living in the area nearby expressed their concerns. Water issues were discussed. One resident said they had 18 inches of water in their house during heavy downpours. The water being directed back into the creek was mentioned as a concern.

Safety was also mentioned as a concern. Trucks on Orchard Road are a concern for families who wait for the school bus at area bus stops.

It was also said trucks are hard on roadways. They discussed the bridge at the Wildlife Sanctuary being destroyed recently by a truck.

Board President Brian Higgins said the township will be watching. Higgins said a reputable developer is involved and Mack Trucks has been in the area for quite awhile. He expressed his concern for the construction access saying he does not want this to become another regular entrance.

The resolution was approved with some minor changes to follow.

Township Manager Bruce Beitel mentioned a ribbon cutting at Hillside School for a trail opening May 9.

The pool will open soon as preparations have been underway.