Chairman Bruce Bucher convened the February 6, 2002 meeting of the Board of Supervisors at 7:00 p.m. Present were Supervisors Bruce Bucher, Michael Vigunas, W. Logan Myers, and Joseph McSparran. Roger Moyer was absent. In attendance were Township Manager Daniel Zimmerman, Township Solicitor William Crosswell, John Schick, John Love, Dan McGraw, Ruth Kiskaddon, Dotti Flory, Don Vollmar, J. Reid Buckwalter, J. Campbell, J. Mateyak, Bill Kiskaddon, Ruth Devenney, Michael J. Arno, Mary Ann Hartzell, Diane Bomberger, Albert Knouse, David Eberly, Mike Gibson, Randy J. Hoy, Russ Heiken, Kerry Blind, Maureen Gallo, Robert Siple, and Michael Gingras. Laura Knowles of Lancaster Newspapers and Richard Reitz of the Lititz Record Express represented the press.

PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER A CONDITIONAL USE APPLICATION RECEIVED FROM LANCASTER HMA, INC., 1100 EAST ORANGE STREET, LANCASTER, PA. THE PROPERTY OWNER IS BUCKHILL FARMS, 1001 LITITZ PIKE, LITITZ, PA. THE APPLICANT IS SEEKING CONDITIONAL USE APPROVAL UNDER SECTION 209.3.K OF THE WARWICK TOWNSHIP ZONING ORDINANCE. THE APPLICANT IS PROPOSING TO CONSTRUCT A HOSPITAL, RELATED MEDICAL OFFICE BUILDINGS AND CERTAIN ACCESSORY USES IN THE CAMPUS INDUSTRIAL ZONE (I-2) ON THE 43+ ACRE TRACT OF LAND LOCATED ON THE WEST SIDE OF HIGHLANDS DRIVE AND THE EAST SIDE OF HESS LANE BETWEEN WEST WOODS DRIVE AND WEST MILLPORT ROAD.

The Chairman outlined the procedures to be followed for the evening's hearing.

Attorney Stanley stated that Applicant's Exhibits 3-6 were the Landscaping Plan, Lighting Plan, and Elevation Plan, respectively. He explained that the applicant made several modifications to the Conceptual Plan for the project, which resulted in minor modifications to these previously submitted plans. Attorney Crosswell explained that following last month's hearing, the Applicant continued its Conditional Use application presentation to the Planning Commission's at their January 23, 2002 meeting.

John Love, representing Rettew Associates, presented the plan previously reviewed by the Board along with the plan that has been revised in accordance with the recommendations made by the Planning Commission. He explained that the modifications include additional details to some of the structures, and the internal circulation of traffic throughout the site. He explained that the Women's and Babies Center will have the same "footprint", although it would be offset slightly to improve traffic circulation for the drop-off area. He explained that the location of the proposed Power Plant has been modified for aesthetic purposes.

Attorney Stanley requested Love to confirm whether or not he had been advised by Attorney Stanley to review the guidelines of Section 209 (Campus Industrial Zone), Section 435 (Hospitals), and Section 705 (Conditional Use) of the Zoning Ordinance in anticipation of this evening's hearing. Love responded in the affirmative. Love expressed the opinion that the application as submitted and amended meets the applicable guidelines of the Zoning Ordinance. Attorney Stanley requested that all items presented at this evening's hearing, and all items presented at all of the previous hearings be submitted into the record for the public hearing.

Attorney Stanley stated that, at this time, the Applicant has completed their presentation. He noted that the Township Manager indicated that he will provide a presentation on the recommendations and stated that there are a few items that they would like to discuss.

The Township Manager was sworn in. He stated that Township staff met with the Applicant to discuss the proposal and provide recommendations on the project. He stated that as part of the review process, the Applicant's attorney was provided with proposed conditions for the project, which the were subsequently reviewed.

The Township Manager explained that Attorney Stanley has provided additional recommendations for the conditions. He noted that this process is followed for all Conditional Use projects presented to the Township in order to ensure the best possible project for the Township.

The Township Manager stated that the Township and Applicant agree on more than 90% of all of the conditions; however, there are several conditions that the Board needs to discuss with the applicant. He added that as part of the process, Township staff met with representatives of the Lancaster County Planning Commission, Lancaster Airport Authority, Warwick Emergency Services Alliance (WESA), Manheim Township, the Warwick School District, and Lancaster Transportation Authority. He stated that as part of the Township's Zoning amendment in 2001, the Board decreased the acreage of the Campus Industrial Zone (formally the Airport Industrial Zone) from approximately 300 acres to approximately 170 acres. The balance of 130 acres was zoned to Agricultural. The Township Manager explained that as part of the zoning amendment process, the Township also adopted an "Official Map" that addressed transportation corridors that coordinate with a long-range Capital Improvement Plan. The Township Manager explained that when any development is proposed in an area earmarked for roadway improvements, Township staff works with the developer to correlate the improvements, either through a fee-in-lieu, actual roadway construction, or a partnership. He noted that the Lancaster Transportation Authority has designated the Route 501 corridor for improvements.

The Township Manager explained that as part of the Shopping Center project, the intersection of Millport Road and Route 501 was scheduled for improvements. He stated that the developer of the Shoppes at Kissel Village contributed nearly $1 million toward these improvements. He explained that the developer also contributed toward improvements to the intersection of Peters Road and Route 501, and also the intersection of Owl Hill Road and Route 501. He explained that the improvements included hardwiring of the traffic signals. He noted that the Township has advised PennDOT of traffic backups that occur at the crest of Route 501 near Trans Am Cycle Sales. He explained that northbound left-turn traffic from Route 501 at this area creates a traffic backup along the roadway. He stated that additional right-of-way is available at Trans Am Cycle Sales and at the new office complex (Oak Crest) that could accommodate a left-turn lane from Route 501 into the Trolley Run development. He explained that the Lancaster Transportation Authority recently authorized a scope of services for that project to be submitted to PennDOT. He explained that the scope of services includes a possible left-turn lane from Owl Hill Road southbound to Route 501.

The Township Manager detailed the Draft Conditions for the benefit of those present.

The Township Manager stated that the Applicant has agreed to complete the full build-out of Highlands Drive from Peters Road to West Woods Drive. He explained that the design for the roadway was part of the Shopping Center project. He noted that Highlands Drive is proposed to be extended northbound to Sixth Street, and southbound into Manheim Township. He explained that the roadway is planned as an alleviator route for Route 501. He stated that the Applicant would construct the roadway to the ultimate cartway width of 38' as illustrated on the Site Plan (Drawing No. 1.02). He explained that the Draft Conditions would include the construction of south bound right-turn deceleration lanes leading into the main entrances of the hospital site along Highlands Drive. He added that the applicant will also install concrete curbs along the full length of both sides of Highlands Drive.

The Conditions would require the Applicant to perform improvements at the intersection of Highlands Drive and Peters Road and also the intersection of Highlands Drive and Millport Road as depicted on Applicant's Exhibit 20. The Township Manager noted that the Condition includes a provision for a traffic signal at these intersections, in addition to other improvements (left- and right-turn lanes, etc.). He noted the traffic signals would be interconnected. The Township Manager explained that additional right-of-way will be needed to improve the intersection of Highlands Drive and Millport Road.

He outlined the monetary contributions toward these improvements by the appropriate parties (Lancaster HMA and Buckhill Farm).

The Township Manager stated that the Applicant has worked with WESA to coordinate emergency services for the hospital. The Applicant has agreed to modify the timing/phasing at the intersections Route 501 and Peters Road, at Route 501 and Owl Hill Road, and Route 501and Millport Road, and will add emergency vehicle preemption control equipment.

The Township Manager stated that the Draft Conditions would require improvements to the intersection of Woodcrest Avenue and Millport Road as depicted on Applicant's Exhibit 21. The improvements could include a traffic signal and provisions for a left-turn lane from Millport Road to Woodcrest Avenue. The Township Manager detailed the recommended improvements to the intersection of Route 501 and Millport Road. He explained that the Applicant is providing a financial contribution toward the improvements of Hess Lane and also West Woods Drive.

The Township Manager explained that the applicant would need to obtain right-of-way, construction easements and drainage easements to construct the roadway improvements contained within the decision. He explained that if the Applicant is unable to obtain the necessary easements, the Township, as a last resort, would agree to assist in obtaining these easements.

The Township Manager explained that the proposal would require the Applicant to acquire approximately 141 TDR's to enable the proposed coverage as indicated on the Site Plan. He stated that the Draft Conditions would require the Applicant to purchase the TDR's prior to Final Plan approval. He explained that the monies from the sale of the TDR's would be returned to the Township's Agricultural Preservation Fund.

The Township Manager explained that a pedestrian trail system would be constructed as part of the site improvements. He noted that the trail system would include an 8' wide public trail system and a 6' wide internal trail system that would be designated for private use. He added that the trail would be interconnected to several other pedestrian trails in this area of the Township.

The Township Manager stated that the Applicant will work with fire, police and ambulance providers to assure that the Property is adequately serviced by these public service providers and to exchange design information which relates to fire and safety issues. In addition, the Applicant would agree to work with ambulance providers under the jurisdiction of WESA to coordinate and provide ambulance service for the hospital. Also, the Applicant would commit to not using a private ambulance service, unless approved by the Township and WESA.

The Township Manager stated that the Applicant will be required to adhere to specific requirements for storm water management. The Draft Conditions include details pertaining to the proposed "wet pond," requirements for BMPs, and submittal of a Storm Water Management Agreement.

The Township Manager stated that the project requires a Master Plan for the remaining undeveloped land of Buckhill Farm, and added that representatives of Buckhill Farm Partnership have agreed to be conceptually bound to the Master Plan. The Master Plan includes the conceptual location of the lot lines, the extension of pedestrian trails and sidewalks, the location of access points and curb cuts, and the continuation of the streetscape concept. He explained that the Applicant requested a change to the wording indicating that the Master Plan may be modified during the land planning for Buckhill Farm's provided the modifications maintain the streetscape concept as set forth on the Streetscape Plan. He explained that the Master Plan also addresses items such as regional storm water controls, and although the Township might be agreeable to lot line modifications, language should be discussed that would be acceptable to all parties.

The Township Manager explained that the Applicant has agreed to provide a monetary contribution toward the replacement of the existing culvert under Buckwalter Road; although the culvert is actually located within Manheim Township. He added that the Draft Conditions will also address provisions for public transportation and specific work shifts to avoid peak traffic hours.

The Township Manager stated that Township staff recommends several modifications to the submitted conditions. He outlined the modifications for the benefit of the Board (Memo dated February 6, 2002 listing 11 modifications).

Attorney Stanley stated that the first modification (Condition 7) should include both Condition 9 and Condition 29. He explained that modification 2 (Condition 9) can be further discussed. He stated that the Applicant is agreeable to incorporate Condition1-5 as part of Condition 11 (pertaining to roadway improvements); however, the addition of Condition 6, 7 & 8 should not be required to be completed prior to the issuance of a Certificate of Occupancy. He explained that the traffic patterns should be evaluated after the hospital is operational to determine the traffic signal requirements for these Conditions. He noted that the Township would have a Letter-of-Credit for the full cost of the proposed improvements.

Attorney Stanley explained that the applicant is agreeable to modification 4 and 5; however, he stated that modification 5 (Condition 13) should not reference PennDOT criteria since their criteria does not remain consistent. He explained that the applicant would provide letters from property owners confirming that right-of-way has been requested. Attorney Stanley stated that they would be agreeable to modification 6 and 7; however, modification 8 (Condition 31) should remain as currently written so that any superfluous funds could be used for intersection improvements at other locations within the project area. Attorney Stanley stated that the applicant is concerned over modification 9 (Condition 47) requiring specific work shifts for logistic staff. He stated that the issue is an operational concern and the Applicant would be agreeable to using non-binding language. The Board inquired what total number of individuals would be employed at the hospital at the full build-out. A hospital representative stated that the hospital would employ approximately 384 individuals over a 24-hour period initially, and at full build-out (approximately the year 2010), the number of employees would double. The representative stated that the employees work staggered shifts throughout the day. He explained that his concern is that any condition now would affect the staffing requirements of the hospital for years, and due to the current nursing shortage, they would like to provide for flexible hours for their nurses. The Township Manager clarified that the condition would only apply to logistic support staff such as cafeteria and maintenance staff. The Chairman stated that this issue could be further discussed at a future meeting. Attorney Stanley explained that the Applicant is agreeable to the remaining two modifications to the proposed conditions. The Township Solicitor clarified several issues pertaining to the Draft Conditions.

The Chairman opened the hearing to public comment.

Ruth Kiskaddon, 702 Buckwood Lane, expressed concern over the amount of truck traffic that would use Millport Road and West Woods Drive during the construction phase of the project. In addition, she stated that the proposed number of beds within the hospital was originally proposed at 90 and now the number given is 204. She requested clarification of what would be constructed during Phase I and Phase II of the project. Kiskaddon also expressed concern about motorists speeding along Highlands Drive and suggested a four-way stop at the intersection of West Woods Drive and Highlands Drive. The Chairman explained that Phase I and Phase II of the project are reflected in the traffic study and storm water management study that was performed for the project. He noted that Phase II of the project does include a proposed expansion of the facility and construction of a second medical office building. The Township Manager confirmed that construction traffic would use Millport Road and the Applicant would be required to improve the roadway as part of this project.

Donald Vollmer, 405 West Woods Drive, expressed concern over speeding motorists along Highlands Drive and stated that he is opposed to the entire hospital project.

The proposed roadway improvements were briefly discussed.

The Chairman inquired whether anyone else wishes to comment on the proposal. No one indicated that they wish to comment on the proposal. On a motion by Vigunas, seconded by Myers, the Board unanimously closed the public hearing on the Lancater HMA, Conditional Use application.

The Chairman recessed the meeting. The meeting was reconvened at 9:45 p.m.

COMMUNICATIONS: The Board received a letter from the Little Conestoga Watershed Alliance requesting a representative of Warwick Township to become a member of their organization. The Township Manager explained that he will contact the members of the Lititz Run Watershed Alliance to inquire whether or not one of the members would serve on the Little Conestoga Watershed Alliance. He noted that he may also review the volunteer listing to inquire whether or not any of these individuals wish to serve in this capacity.

The Board received a copy of the Brunnerville Fire Company's Financial Statement for 2001.

CONSIDER REQUEST BY LANCASTER EVANGELICAL FREE CHURCH FOR A 60-DAY TIME EXTENSION TO RECORD THE WITNESS PARK LAND DEVELOPMENT PLAN: The Board reviewed the request. On a motion by Myers, seconded by McSparran, the Board unanimously approved a 60-day extension of time to record the Witness Park Land Development Plan.

CONSIDER REQUEST BY ROHRER'S QUARRY FOR A 90-DAY TIME EXTENSION FOR A LOT ADD-ON PLAN: The Board reviewed the request. On a motion by Myers, seconded by McSparran, the Board unanimously approved a 90-day extension of time for the Rohrer's Quarry Lot Add-on Plan.

CONSIDER REQUEST BY GRANT AND BARBARA BUCHTER FOR A 90-DAY TIME EXTENSION FOR A ONE (1) LOT SUBDIVISION PLAN: The Board reviewed the request. On a motion by Vigunas, seconded by McSparran, the Board unanimously approved a 90-day time extension for the Grant and Barbara Buchter Subdivision Plan.

CONSIDER REQUEST BY OEHME/MATTINGLY FOR A 90-DAY TIME EXTENSION FOR A LOT ADD-ON PLAN: The Board reviewed the request. On a motion by Vigunas, seconded by McSparran, the Board unanimously approved a 90-day time extension for the Oehme/Mattingly Lot Add-on Plan.

CONSIDER REQUEST BY WENGER/DRUMMOND FOR A 90-DAY TIME EXTENSION FOR A LOT ADD-ON PLAN: The Board reviewed the request. On a motion by Vigunas, seconded by McSparran, the Board unanimously approved a 90-day time extension for the Wenger/Drummond Lot Add-on Plan.

REVIEW OF THE WARWICK TOWNSHIP POLICE DEPARTMENT STRATEGIC ISSUES AND DEPARTMENT GOALS: The Board reviewed the document which was prepared by the Police Chief. The Police Chief stated that he has started several initiatives within the Police Department and wanted to advise the Board of the process. The Police Chief outlined the report. On a motion by Vigunas, seconded by Myers, the Board unanimously accepted the Police Department Strategic Issues and Department Goals report.

CONSIDER THE APPOINTMENT OF CRAIG ROBINSON AND THOMAS BECK TO THE REGIONAL COORDINATING COMMITTEE: On a motion by Vigunas, seconded by McSparran, the Board unanimously appointed Craig Robinson and Thomas Beck to the Regional Coordinating Committee.

CONSIDER THE APPOINTMENT OF STEPHEN PEARSON TO THE RECREATION ADVISORY COMMITTEE: On a motion by McSparran, seconded Vigunas, the Board unanimously appointed Stephen Pearson to the Recreation Advisory Committee.

CONSIDER AUTHORIZATION TO BID FOR ID2 BINDER AND WEARING MATERIALS: On a motion by Myers, seconded by Vigunas, the Board unanimously authorized the advertisement to bid for ID2 Binder and Wearing materials.

EXECUTIVE SESSION The Chairman announced that the Board will recess to an Executive Session to discuss personnel issues and the pending litigation (Warwick Township et al vs. Ron Simril et al).

The Chairman reconvened the meeting at 10:50 p.m.

OTHER BUSINESS TO COME BEFORE THE BOARD: On a motion by Myers, seconded by Vigunas, the Board voted unanimously to authorize the Township Solicitor to issue a letter to Professional Claims Management in response to their recent correspondence.

ADJOURNMENT: With no further business to come before the Board, the meeting was adjourned at 10:51 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,

Daniel L. Zimmerman
Township Manager