South Strabane Grants Modification Request

Allowing the builder to construct driveway aprons with slopes greater than 7 percent for several lots in the Burkett Manor development, The South Strabane Township Board of Supervisors approved an emergency modification request from Ryan Homes. The measure passed in a 4-1 vote, with Supervisor Jeff Bull dissenting. Bull said he opposed the request because he believes the township should stop “rewarding developers for inappropriate behavior.” Township code generally restricts driveway slopes to 7 percent or less to ensure safe access and usability, but Ryan Homes sought the modification due to grading challenges on certain properties within the plan. In other business, the board accepted the resignations of Parks and Recreation Commission members Kristina Schuerle and Heidi McConnell, both of whom recently stepped down from their roles. To fill the vacancies, the supervisors appointed Elizabeth Ellerbock and Ashley Martin, pending completion of background checks. Ellerbock will serve a three-year term on the commission, while Martin will serve a two-year term.