Petition Against Agritainment Zoning Change

To: Upper Providence Township Board of Supervisors

Subject: Opposition to Proposed Zoning Change for Agritainment Activities -            592 Mennonite Rd.

We, the undersigned residents of the Fox Run Community and beyond, respectfully submit this petition to express our strong opposition to the proposed zoning change that would allow for expanded agritainment activities at 592 Mennonite Rd. in our agricultural/residential zone.

Our concerns include, but are not limited to:

1. Impact on Rural Residential Character - Fox Run Community and beyond has long been known for its peaceful, rural residential character.  The introduction of agritainment activities, such as weddings, parties, pickleball, festivals, musical bands, hayrides, corn mazes, pumpkin patches, and large-scale events would disrupt the tranquility of our area and alter the landscape that current residents value.
2. Traffic and Safety Concerns - Agritainment businesses, including a proposed Barn venue for 200 people, attract large crowds and will generate significant traffic on Mennonite and Old State Roads and beyond which are not designed to handle large volumes of vehicles.  This could lead to congestion, accidents, and safety hazards for residents, particularly in areas with limited infrastructure. Furthermore, the agritainment trend, which involves introducing entertainment into agricultural settings, isn't a risk-free venture. Out of 50 USA states, 29 have legislation addressing safety in agricultural tourism, indicating a recognized need for stringent regulations in this industry (International Farm Tourism Association). In addition, increased traffic and large gatherings can also contribute to air pollution.
3. Noise and Environmental Impact - The proposed Agritainment activities will involve pickleball noise pollution, loud music, crowds, alcohol consumption and other disturbances that could negatively impact the quality of life for nearby residents.  Additionally, light pollution from nighttime activities will greatly impact surrounding neighbors.  Increased foot traffic and event-related waste and litter would also harm our local natural environment, including wildlife in the area. 
4. Strain on Local Resources - There may be increased demands on local emergency services, such as police and fire departments.
5. Loss of Property Values/Increased Liability - We have concerns about the probable loss of property values to the current surrounding residents should this proposal for multiple businesses be approved for this small residential community area.  The probability for large crowds to our small community raises concerns as well for increased liability for the land owners surrounding the agritainment location.
6. Inconsistency with Zoning Laws - The proposed zoning change contradicts the existing zoning laws, which were established to protect the agricultural and residential nature of our community.  Allowing agritainment would set a precedent for further commercial development, undermining the integrity of our zoning regulations.
7. Lack of Community Support - Many residents were not adequately informed or consulted about the proposed zoning change.  The community has expressed widespread concern and opposition to this development, as it does not align with the values and priorities of the Fox Run Community and beyond.

We respectfully request that the Upper Providence Board of Supervisors consider the concerns of the community and deny the proposed zoning change for agritainment at 592 Mennonite Rd.  We believe that preserving the rural character, safety, property values of nearby residents,  environmental integrity and protecting the quality of life for residents in our community should be the top priority.

We would urge you to conduct a thorough impact study, that includes input from all current surrounding residents, at a minimum of three blocks in each direction from the property in question, before any zoning changes are considered.

We, the undersigned, respectfully request that our concerns be taken into serious consideration.

Signatures: