Northhampton News

Representative Joe Emrick (R-Upper Nazareth) has introduced a new piece of legislation that would grant voters the power to decide whether new high-impact warehouses and distribution centers should be approved in their community. Emrick expressed concern over the negative effects these facilities have had on the region, such as the loss of open space and farmland, increased truck traffic, and higher levels of air, sound, and light pollution.

Emrick emphasized the lack of input from the community regarding the approval of these warehouses, stating, "While high-impact warehouses and distribution centers are approved by local governments, the people who are most affected—the community—have no say in whether they should become part of the fabric of our region."

Under House Bill 1960, a voter referendum would be required for any warehouse or distribution center that is considered a development of regional significance, measuring at least 100,000 square feet and occupying three acres of land or more. Current legislation defines a "development of regional significance" as a land development that will have a substantial effect on the health, safety, or welfare of citizens in more than one municipality.

Emrick clarified that smaller businesses open for retail sales would not be impacted by the referendum requirement. He stated, "To maximize local control by giving the people a voice at the ballot box in the final approval of these high-impact warehouses. This way, the community can say with one voice when and how this kind of growth should continue."

The legislation aims to address the concerns raised by local officials regarding the need for more local control in the Pennsylvania Municipal Planning Code. Emrick's proposed bill seeks to give the community a say in the approval process, allowing them to have a voice in determining the future growth and development of their region.

For media inquiries, please contact Huntre Keip at 717.772.9837 or hkeip@pahousegop.com. Additional information can be found on RepEmrick.com and Facebook.com/RepEmrick.

This legislation is a significant step towards empowering the community and ensuring that their voices are heard when it comes to the approval of high-impact warehouses and distribution centers. By granting voters the final say, Representative Emrick is taking measures to address the negative effects these facilities have had on the region while maximizing local control and preserving the interests of smaller businesses in the area.