Issues
On a local level, when a community is considering approval of a development that will have adverse impacts on a neighboring jurisdiction, it should put mechanisms in place to mitigate this damage, such as intergovernmental agreements for sales tax sharing and/or joint development impact fee benefit areas. This kind of an agreement could offer participants protection from such externally produced burdens. These could be accomplished as legislation, by unanimous regional compact or as an informal policy or intergovernmental agreement between two or more jurisdictions.
Adams County Pennsylvania has issued permits for over 15,000 new houses to satisfy homebuyers searching for "greener pastures" in the housing market. In recent years, pressure to accommodate new development in Adams County has driven the median sale price of residential housing units up 75% over a five year period. Additionally, more than 60% of the pending or proposed residential units will be located in areas designated in PA's Comprehensive Plan for conservation.
According to the Revised Comprehensive Plan "Between 1990 and 2000 the population of Adams County increased by 16.6%. While the County was the forth fastest growing county in PA, the rate of growth approximates the nation's growth rate for this time period.
The increase in commuter traffic from Pennsylvania to employment corridors in the Baltimore and Washington region has a significant impact on the Frederick County road network. The impact begins in Emmitsburg, where Pennsylvania commuters and truck drivers wait through multiple traffic light cycles to reach Rt. 15.
The resulting traffic has a significant negative impact on the health, safety and quality of life for Emmitsburg residents. The impacts are summarized in a October 2, 2006 letter sent to the Governor and a number of Maryland Elected Officials.
Heavy trucks traveling through the village are of great concern and should be restricted. The basis for the restriction are summarized in the November 16, 2006 letter sent to Maryland Senator Brinkley as well as Delegates Stull, Bartlett and Clagett.
