September Update on Cricket Slope Farm Subdivision

September 2004

Dear Neighbor,

The Oley Township Supervisors met Wednesday Sept 8, and Forino’s Attorney Henry Koch requested a standard 90 day extension. Further, he said that A NEW PLAN FOR CRICKET SLOPE will be submitted shortly… When the Supervisors asked Koch if the house and barn would be on the new plan, he twice said, "please wait to see the new plan…"

The Supervisors gave us some time to speak about our efforts to prevent the destruction of this historic farmstead. We told them that we’ve spoken to many, many neighbors, quite a number of letters have been written to Forino Builders and the township, that there are a considerable number of petitions signed. We also described our ongoing plans to organize in opposition to the demolition. We will be at the OLEY FAIR continuing to sign petitions, and we are expecting more letters from Berks Conservancy, POD/PC, Oley Heritage Society, and others.

The Supervisors have been VERY supportive, saying that they are "encouraged" by our efforts, and are optimistic that the attorney’s comments might be a sign that Forino is willing to cooperate about preserving the buildings in future plans to develop the site…The Supervisors and the Planning Commission object to the planned destruction, and are doing all they can to convince the builder to save the structures, as continued degradation of the inventory of historic structures effects Oley townships status as a historic district…

What can we do? The Neighbors of Cricket Slope will be at the Oley Fair September, 16, 17 and 18 with POD/PC (Pike Oley District Preservation Coalition), and will be collecting petition signatures. STOP BY AND SIGN A PETITION LETTER. In the meanwhile, all concerned citizens of Oley Township and environs should consider writing letters to the developer, Mr. Anthony Forino, president of Forino Development, encouraging them to reconsider their approach to developing this property. Please tell Mr. Forino that you think that it is much better business to submit a new plan that is respectful of our historical heritage and enhances our unique town. ATTEND next Planning Commission meeting October 4th at 7:30pm to support your local planning commission! Voice your concerns, and learn more about the challenges faced by our township in preserving our rural character.

What’s Next: We can prevent the demolition of historic buildings in the future if we act now...The Oley Township Supervisors and the Oley Planning Commission do a good job of preserving the heritage of our town with careful zoning law and aggressive agricultural preservation work. Currently, an expansion of Oley’s PA Historic District is being proposed, which can prevent the destruction of historic buildings and preserve the character of Oley Township. Attend the Planning Commission Workshop September 27th at 7:00pm to learn more about this important issue.

Neighbors of Cricket Slope
info@ www.neighborsofcricketslope.org