Shohola Township updates its zoning

Trails End campground cries foul

By TOM KANE

SHOHOLA, PA - Shohola Township officials say the township’s zoning hasn’t been altered for 20 years, so it’s time for a change.

Attorney Rich Henry who represents Trails End, a recreational vehicle campground which has had ongoing disagreements with the township, says the new ordinance is illegal and even unconstitutional.

Trails End will consider suing the township if the ordinance passes.

One of the bones of contention between the facility and the township is that Trails End refuses to allow the township zoning officer general access to the campground in order to inspect for zoning violations.

“One event a few months ago was a fire in one of the bungalows that set off a propane tank nearby that exploded and nearly injured the firefighters who arrived to fight the fire,” said Donald Wall, township zoning officer. “That’s unacceptable and gravely unsafe.”

“We have had several court cases against Trails End over recent years that they ignore,” said Michael Parker, attorney for the township.

At the public hearing on March 18, no one but Henry spoke against the zoning changes.

Henry objected to certain regulations in the new zoning law that were explicitly directed at Trails End.

“That’s unconstitutional,” he said. “An ordinance should be generic and not specific to any one organization. There are no other recreational vehicle campgrounds in the township.”

Township officials were adamant and passed the ordinance unanimously.

“We need a zoning ordinance that is up-to-date that can address changing conditions,” said supervisor Nelia Wall.