For the second time this year, a scheduled North Whitehall Township Planning Commission meeting to discuss a proposed warehouse project was canceled – this time at the request of the developer.

The April 30 meeting, which was set to review plans for a warehouse near Route 309 and Orefield Road, was called off just days before it was to take place, according to a notice on the township’s official website.

A similar meeting in January was also canceled, frustrating residents concerned about the project’s impact on their community.

In response, members of the grassroots group North Whitehall Township Taxpayers for Smart Growth transformed the canceled meeting into an impromptu press conference and community gathering.

The group, which opposes the Nexus 78 warehouse proposal, urged residents to still attend, writing on Facebook, “A reminder to please come to the meeting tonight! Open to the public, and we need as many residents in attendance as possible to help show solidarity, and that we are serious about this fight. Enough is enough.”

Their mission is clear: “We, the residents and taxpayers of North Whitehall Township, are committed to preserving the character, safety and quality of life in our community. United in our opposition to over development – specifically the Nexus 78 warehouse project – we stand together to protect our township from the negative impacts of unchecked industrial expansion.”

The Facebook group has grown to 174 members, serving as an active platform for updates, research and discussion surrounding development concerns.

At the April 30 gathering, one member, Angelo Caggiano, brought pizza and introduced attendees to Joseph Candelmo, a candidate for township supervisor.

Candelmo, who has been vocal in his opposition to warehouse development, handed out brochures emphasizing his platform.

“Smart Growth means attracting the right businesses that provide jobs and enhance our community without sacrificing North Whitehall’s charm or raising unnecessary taxes,” the brochure reads.

Candelmo is endorsed by both North Whitehall Township Taxpayers for Smart Growth and Parents Opposing Warehouses and claims to be the only candidate openly opposing all future warehouse developments.

As frustrations mount over perceived delays and lack of transparency, residents are vowing to stay engaged.

“We’re not going away,” one attendee said. “Whether they cancel meetings or not, we’re going to be here fighting for the future of our township.”