The Huntington Township Board of Supervisors meeting on May 8, 2025, focused on critical updates regarding zoning and building permit processes, as well as the appointment of a new zoning officer. The discussions highlighted the need for improved communication and efficiency in handling permits and compliance with regulations.
One of the main topics was the township's plan to update its website to provide residents with clear, step-by-step instructions for obtaining building permits. Supervisors emphasized the importance of making necessary forms accessible online, similar to other townships, to better serve the community.
Mark Layers raised questions about the building permit process, specifically who to contact for assistance. It was clarified that residents should first consult the zoning officer to ensure compliance before moving forward with their applications. The township will outsource building permit issuance to a company called MDIA, which will handle the necessary inspections and approvals.
Concerns were also raised about the hiring of a zoning officer. Supervisors confirmed that they would not be hiring a full-time employee but would instead appoint Scott Longstreet from Sherrod Design Corporation as a consultant to oversee zoning matters. His compensation will be at a rate of $103 per hour, which sparked discussions about the differences in pay compared to existing township employees.
The meeting also touched on the need for better oversight of commercial facilities within the township. Residents expressed concerns about the lack of inspections and compliance checks for businesses, particularly regarding health and safety regulations. Supervisors reassured attendees that while the zoning officer would ensure compliance with zoning ordinances, other regulatory bodies, such as the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), are responsible for broader inspections.
In conclusion, the meeting underscored the township's commitment to improving its permit processes and ensuring compliance with regulations. The appointment of a zoning officer is seen as a step towards enhancing service delivery to residents, with further updates expected as the new processes are implemented.