The Lower Milford Township board of supervisors voted Aug. 20 to send a proposed zoning ordinance update addressing roof-mounted solar installations and timber harvesting back to the planning commission for additional review, citing concerns about environmental impacts.

Supervisors Susan LaBrie and Chairman Tim Cougle said the township has invested significant resources protecting steep slopes and questioned whether the proposed changes could negatively affect riparian buffers and erosion control efforts. The board delayed action on the ordinance and requested further research and consideration by the planning commission.

Residents also urged township officials to take action regarding a property on Bridle Path Lane neighbors described as a junkyard.

Speaking on behalf of a group of residents, a 47-year Lower Milford resident said a neighboring property contains approximately 33 vehicles and is negatively affecting nearby property owners and the surrounding environment. Residents asked the board to consider amending Ordinance 137, arguing current nuisance language is too vague.

Township Solicitor Mark Cappuccio said the township has attempted to engage the property owner but has received no response. As a result, he said the matter will likely require litigation.

The board also received a fire company report from Ed Miller, who warned the township could lose its two Class A pumpers within three years because one apparatus is too old to be refurbished. Miller said the loss could affect departmental certifications and potentially have insurance implications for township residents.

Cougle requested additional research on the issue and directed that the matter be placed on the agenda for the board’s Sept. 17 meeting.

Under new business, supervisors approved a demolition permit for three outbuildings at 8025 Spinnerstown Road, taking into consideration recommendations provided by the township Historical Commission.

Supervisors also unanimously approved spending $7,600 with Lehigh Valley Upfitters of Quakertown to install safety strobe lighting on a 2022 Ford F-550 and a 2021 GMC utility truck.

In another personnel matter, the board unanimously approved hiring two public works laborers and replacing a previously authorized equipment operator position with a laborer position.

The board postponed consideration of several items, including proposals for a new township website. Supervisors indicated an $8,700 start-up proposal from NA Studios is the leading candidate. The matter is expected to return in September.

Former planning commission chair Ellen Koplin questioned supervisors about a proposal to livestream planning commission meetings, raising concerns about the legal implications of broadcasting discussions involving developers and attorneys.

Supervisors said they understood the concerns but emphasized the goal of increasing transparency at public meetings. No action was taken. Instead, Township Manager Elizabeth Lembach was directed to gather information from other municipalities that livestream planning commission meetings, and supervisors said they would seek input from planning commission members before making a decision.