NEWLIN TOWNSHIP: Sept. 8 hearing for horse boarding proposals

If you are a Newlin horse-farm owner, you probably don't need to be reminded of this upcoming hearing, but I know that concerned folks in other townships are also keeping an eye on this controversy.

Newlin is considering enacting rules regulating equestrian operations, and the township supervisors will be holding a hearing on the proposed ordinance at 8 p.m. Monday, September 8, at the Lenfest Center on Cannery Road.

Horse farm owners have told the supervisors that the proposed rules would place undue hardships on them, would jeopardize their livelihoods, and would endanger Newlin's rural character. In particular, they object to the requirements that the township wants to impose on boarding facilities, such as having at least three acres for the first horse and two acres for each additional one, as well as restrictions about where pastures can be located in terms of flood plains and steep slopes and where manure can be stored. Farms that meet the regulations will be permitted to continue operating; those that don't will have to apply for a special exception from the township's Zoning Hearing Board. The township charges $1,500 to hold such a hearing.

The proposed ordinance is posted on the township's website.