SMETHPORT (EC) — Richard Kallenborn was elected president of the McKean County Planning Commission at Tuesday’s meeting.
Kallenborn of Port Allegany, succeeds Bradford attorney Tony Clarke, who declined to seek another term, citing the fact that he is now the county solicitor. However, Clark will remain a commission member.
Ron Keim is the new vice-president.
Prior to the elections, Kallenborn, citing a land development in Eldred Township, shared his concerns about developers moving forward without the proper permits as required by the county’s subdivision and land development ordinance. While saying he’s pro-development for the county, the SALDO — Subdivision and Land Development Ordinance — must be followed in all cases, he added.
After considerable discussion about this case in Eldred Township, commission members concluded that it’s the township’s role to bring the project into compliance.
Gloria Ours of Eldred Township posed questions and asked for guidance from the planning commission about subdividing parcels and land developments that can occur despite parcels not meeting sewage requirements as per sewage enforcement regulations.
If sewage cannot pass inspection, the land cannot be subdivided or developed.
Suggestions from the commission were to contact the sewage enforcement officer, contact an attorney for more guidance, rectify sewage system problems or wait until the municipal sewer systems expand.
Rob Dickinson of Smethport has joined the commission, replacing Don Martyna who has resigned. Dickinson will fill out the remainder of Martyna’s term, which will expire Jan. 31, 2022.
