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South Strabane OKs car sales lot

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An established South Strabane Township business can expand its footprint after securing consent from township supervisors Tuesday.

By a 3-2 vote, the board approved a conditional use application from W&W Realty Enterprises, Washington Ford, for a vehicle sales lot zoned commercial on Munce Ridge Road. Plans call for existing structures, including a vacant house, to be razed, and a new building constructed on the 4.5-acre parcel adjacent to the township municipal building.

Supervisors approved the conditions recommended by the township planning commission, including an agreement that the business not use a broadcasting or loudspeaker system, that car carriers not access the site and that hours of operation be from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, and no hours Sunday.

Supervisors also adopted conditions agreed upon by attorney Thomas Lonich, representing W&W Realty. Lonich said no automobiles will be serviced or washed on the site and a gate and stop sign will be installed at the lot entrance.

The plan calls for 75 to 100 feet of wooded area at the back of the parcel to remain in place as a natural buffer. Supervisors requested that pine trees abutting township property remain if possible, but did not make it a requirement. Trees or hedges will be planted along both sides of the property according to buffer codes.

On Aug. 23, the board denied an application from the business for a vehicle storage lot on the parcel because a private lot intended for car storage only is not addressed in the township’s zoning ordinance.

Residents of nearby Kingswood Court opposed the storage lot on the basis that it would put the burden of traffic, noise and lights on them and decrease their property values.

No Kingswood Court residents addressed the board Tuesday.

Washington Ford has been in operation at the intersection of Washington and Manifold roads since 1988. A major renovation of the showroom was complete in 2015.

The next board of supervisors meeting is scheduled for 7 p.m. Nov. 9.

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