More water tests in East Hopewell

East Hopewell Township residents have waited months to find out if a 2,200-head hog farm will move in. Yesterday was supposed to be the day it was decided.

Now they’ll have to wait another month.

People again filled the Eureka Fire Hall to hear the board of supervisors meeting. It didn’t take long to start talking about hogs.

Farmer John Marsteller Jr. has angered many of his neighbors with his application to build a large hog farm on Round Hill Church Road. Residents have complained a farm that size will pollute and drain their wells, devalue property and, most of all, really stink.

Marsteller’s attorney, Paula Leicht requested an extension until Dec. 13 to conduct additional groundwater testing and drill a well on the property.

“That should put this matter to rest,” said Leicht.

Last month, a report conducted off-site by hydrogeologist Scott Summers concluded the proposed farm would have an adequate water supply. Residents argued that actually drilling a well was the only way to determine if there was enough water. Now the question is when.

“I don’t have a date,” said
Leicht. “Well drillers are extraordinarily busy.” Solicitor William H. Poole Jr. told the board they did not have to grant the extension. He said they could make a final decision or give Marsteller an extension.

But Poole said that if the board rejected the plan based on an inadequate water supply, Marsteller could appeal and argue the board did not allow him the opportunity to conduct additional water testing.

The board chose to extend the deadline.

“I’m going to make that motion and I’m going to make it in the interest of fairness,” said vice-chairman William K. Gorrell.

Chairman Richard Seitz Jr. said he wanted the record to note that he was against the motion.

The board is now expected to make a final decision on the proposed farm Dec. 1.