Upper Mac Planners Mull SALDO Changes

The most dramatic changes to Upper Macungie Township's Subdivision and Land Development Ordinance (SALDO) revolve around the and the amount of money per dwelling developers would need to shell out as a direct result.

Planners examined SALDO revisions during Monday night's work session and heard from Community Development Director Bruce Wlazelek, who noted the proposed rise in developer fees and mandates are needed to maintain ongoing programs.

SALDO changes call for developers to provide 7,800 square feet of recreation space for dwelling unit. Some national standards, Wlazelek said, call for 1,000 square feet per dwelling unit.

"Suburban areas have a true burden," Wlazelek said. "We're going to have less and less land and our (recreation) needs will continue."

The suggested recreation fee per unit in the SALDO would rise to $3,500 per unit from $2,500 per unit. However, that fee will apply to future development plans and not to plans already introduced to planners.

"With the inventory and backlog in housing, it should be seven to 10 years before developers will be paying this fee," Wlazelek said.

Planners will have the opportunity to vote Wednesday night to send SALDO changes to the township's Board of Supervisors. Any changes will require a public hearing overseen by supervisors.

Planners, on Wednesday night, will consider a final phasing plan from Chesapeake Homes Ltd. concerning the Rabenold Farms II development, which will impact intersections and Krocks and Schantz roads and Blue Barn and Schantz roads.

Planners are also scheduled to examine revisions of land development plans for a