Birmingham Township supervisors are considering the possible creation of a new zoning district, the ASA — the Agriculture Security Area.
Township resident William Rappolt formally introduced the idea to the supervisors during their Aug. 7 meeting. He told them that it was Chester County who broached the subject with him.
According to Rappolt, property owners in an ASA would be compensated by the state and the county to preserve the land for agricultural use and keep it from being developed. A minimum of 250 acres is required, but multiple properties may be included.
One point of possible misunderstanding is whether or not an ASA can cross municipal boundaries. Rappolt, who has 20 acres on Elaine Lane, said the county told him that could happen, but Birmingham solicitor Kristin camp said that is not the case.
Supervisor Michael Shiring said he is interested in learning more about the idea and the other supervisors agreed to investigate the possibility of creating an ASA.
Other business
Mercedes-Benz of West Chester, with a dealership on Route 202 is applying for a zoning variance to erect a new, double-sided sign. Supervisors offered no opinion, saying they would defer to the Zoning Hearing Board without any recommendation.
About Rich Schwartzman
Rich Schwartzman has been reporting on events in the greater Chadds Ford area since September 2001 when he became the founding editor of The Chadds Ford Post. In April 2009 he became managing editor of ChaddsFordLive. He is also an award-winning photographer.
