Published March 27. 2026 11:20AM
The South Whitehall Township Board of Commissioners March 18 meeting featured updates on new technology, infrastructure planning and township operations.
A key highlight was the introduction of a new ArcGIS-based interactive map designed to improve transparency and public access to land development information.
Director of Planning David Manhardt described the tool as a “soft release,” currently available on the township website under news and announcements.
The map allows residents to explore active development projects, view public notice statements and access zoning district information.
While the tool is presently a stand-alone feature, officials indicated it is intended to grow into a more comprehensive resident portal and resource hub.
Discussion during the meeting also emphasized the township’s commitment to strict compliance standards for development projects, along with the importance of ensuring emergency services are adequately prepared through training and coordination.
In other business, the board approved a settlement with PPL related to property tax reductions.
Commissioners also authorized an agreement with Jeras Corporation for exploratory water well drilling, a step aimed at further evaluating local water resources and supporting long-term planning.
PRESS PHOTO BY MICHAEL HIRSCHResident Alice Lenthe, at the podium, addresses the board during the courtesy of the floor portion of the meeting. She believes the noise study is incomplete and underestimates the real impact. She said the data center could cause disruptive, continuous noise and harmful vibration for nearby residents, schools and the environment. Several residents raised concerns about the Atlas Data Center. No one spoke in support of it.
