BUTLER TWP — The planning commission voted Tuesday, Feb. 6, to recommend preliminary and final approval of phase one of a 62-unit subdivision of single-family homes off Dutchtown Road, pending several contingencies.

The Oaks at Dutchtown Road is being developed by Joe Gray, who owns the 30-plus acre property at 75 Dutchtown Road, where the subdivision is planned. According to Michael Ogin, project manager with Gateway Engineers, the structures planned for the subdivision will be constructed in three phases.

Contingencies given by the commission include the developer’s compliance with a letter sent by Senate Engineering, execution of a developer’s agreement, the posting of a financial security bond, execution of a stormwater operation and maintenance plan, and approval from the Butler Area Sewer Authority.

Two residents of Dutchtown Road voiced concerns about the development, because it would be constructed directly behind their home.

Paul and Bobbi Jo Cornetti said they purchased 12 acres on Dutchtown Road decades ago because of the wide-open space and would like to see the development near their property reconsidered.

“The lots that are proposed are going to be developed only feet away from our garage and driveway, providing not even enough room for us to mow grass in between,” Bobbi Jo Cornetti said. “We did not move to this property and build our forever home here over 20 years ago to have 62-plus neighbors a few feet away from us. We purchased and built on Dutchtown Road to enjoy the privacy and natural surroundings to raise our family.”

Ron Henshaw, chairman of the planning commission, told the Cornettis the board appreciated the couple’s comments, but the township is bound by law to make recommendations to the township commissioners if they meet requirements. Ogin said he would consult with Gray on the Cornetti’s comments on possible adjustment of the plan.

“I feel that it’s only right that the development be redesigned near our home to be able to get more buffer room between our two properties,” Bobbi Jo said.

Butler Township zoning officer Jesse Hines also said at the meeting the Cornettis were welcome to meet with him to review the plan.

Township commissioners will review the plan and recommendation made by the planning commission at a future meeting.