Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Lower Paxton Township public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
15 issues with medium priority
Happy Tails Dog Park Renovations and Access System
The Parks and Recreation Board approved an $80/year membership for the formerly free dog park, funded partly by a $26,000 custom app. Residents say it prices people out and blindsided the community; a petition is circulating and organizers offered to fundraise instead.
Storage building at former Baltimore Tar site
A grandfathered commercial landscaping business in the Stray Winds area wants to replace its old building with a larger, better-looking storage structure. Commissioners probed soil contamination from the site's tar-plant history and potential light pollution before endorsing the waiver.
Waiver of Land Development for 4010 McIntosh Road
An applicant is asking the Commission to waive standard land development plan requirements for a property on McIntosh Road. A waiver would allow the project to proceed without full land development review, so neighbors may want to weigh in on how the site would be used and improved.
Hidden Lake Drive Culvert Replacement
The township is set to award a contract to replace the culvert on Hidden Lake Drive, a drainage and road infrastructure fix for that neighborhood. Work would proceed once legal review and reference checks are complete.
Stormwater and Sewer Infrastructure Program
The quarterly engineering update covered Trunk H sewer replacement, Hidden Lake culvert work, Mountain View Acres storm sewer, and Utah Avenue design — plus a new in-house engineering capability saving HOA consulting costs.
Supervisor Conduct and Censure Calls
Multiple residents demanded censure or resignation of Vice Chair Scheib over a heated post-meeting confrontation with Secretary Lindsey and a profane remark. Campbell confirmed the incident and urged civility; the video editing of the incident also drew complaints.
Commercial Expansion and Non-Conforming Use on Linglestown Road
Macintosh Investments is upgrading its landscaping business property with a larger building and office space. Residents and board members discussed making sure operations remain quiet, stay within normal hours, and respect neighboring properties.
Shearer Subdivision and Infrastructure Deferrals
The board discussed a preliminary final subdivision plan for Frederick and Joule Shearer involving a 3.42-acre tract on Ranger Road. The property owners requested waivers from sidewalk and curb requirements due to financial hardship and health challenges, leading the board to table the matter.
Boardroom Technology Upgrade
The township is spending over $106,000 to overhaul its meeting room cameras, microphones, and display systems to improve remote viewing and public participation.
Conway Park Phase 1 Development
The township hired landscape architects for $68,700 to design basketball courts, parking, and multi-use lawns at Conway Park.
Dauphin County Local Share Municipal Grant Applications
Lower Paxton received two Commonwealth Finance Authority grants totaling $835,000 for local drainage and sewer projects.
Clayton Lappley Minor Subdivision
An 86-acre parcel on Devonshire Road is being divided into two lots, creating a new building lot while deferring certain curb and sidewalk improvements. Commissioners discussed long-term enforcement of deferrals and future connectivity.
Short-Term Rentals in Village District
Property owners received permission to operate two short-term rental units in Linglestown, highlighting how the township handles Airbnb-style lodging in commercial-residential areas.
Website ADA Compliance Mandate
The township must update its official website to meet federal ADA compliance requirements by April 2027.
Newside Road Cemetery Subdivision and Historic Preservation
The Historical Commission shared significant progress on clearing and mapping the historic 18th-century cemetery, featuring revolutionary war veterans.