📣 Petition Update: What We’ve Learned So Far (As of June 19, 2025)

We’ve been in active communication with the Township of Franklin regarding the proposed Copart auto auction next to our farm. Here’s a brief summary of the most important developments based on public records and township responses:

🔹 A use variance application has been submitted by the developers.

This application seeks to allow a commercial auto auction on land currently zoned for residential and agricultural use — something that is explicitly prohibited under the current zoning without a variance. The township has confirmed that the prior denial of their original application triggered this variance request.

🔹 No public hearing date has been set yet.

The application has not yet been deemed complete by the township’s professionals. Once it is, a hearing will be scheduled — and all property owners within 200 feet will receive formal notice by mail, as well as publication in the newspaper.

🔹 Concerns about road widening remain unanswered.

The proposal reportedly includes paving and widening a currently unpaved road to 30 feet — which would affect private property, including ours. We have received no clear explanation from the township on how this would be possible without acquiring land from unwilling owners. We have formally stated that we do not consent to selling or surrendering any portion of our property.

🔹 The township has advised us to seek legal counsel.

When asked for further clarification about property rights, road use, and the legality of expanding infrastructure through private land, the township’s zoning secretary recommended we speak with an attorney.

We are continuing to monitor this issue closely and will update as soon as a hearing is scheduled. Our goal remains the same: to protect our farmland, local ecosystem, and the rural character of our community. Thank you for standing with us.

#SaveOurSoil

#ProtectFranklinville

#NoAutoAuction