FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Citizens for Responsible Development – LST
Legal Battle Ensues Over Bethlehem Landfill Expansion in Lower Saucon Township
DETAILS OF THE HEARING:
- Date: Tuesday, October 10, 2023
- Time: 9:00 A.M.
- Location: Courtroom No. 10, Northampton County Courthouse, 669 Washington Street, Easton, PA 18042
PURPOSE: The hearing before the Honorable Judge Abraham Kassis will determine a request for a preliminary injunction to prevent Lower Saucon Township from enforcing its new rezoning of 275 acres of forested land for landfill development. The request for relief also includes an injunction against the termination of Conservation Easements, which previously prohibited landfill operations on much of the property. Representatives for Bethlehem Township and St. Luke’s University Health Network are also expected to appear asking for similar relief.
BACKGROUND: The plaintiffs, consisting of several Lower Saucon Township residents and taxpayers, are alleging that the recent actions taken by Lower Saucon Township and Bethlehem Landfill Company violate the Pennsylvania Donated or Dedicated Property Act, the Environmental Rights Clauses of the Pennsylvania Constitution, Article I, Section 27, and the public trust. The plaintiffs further claim that these actions violate existing Conservation Easements and potentially threaten the health, safety, and welfare of the local community.
The core of the dispute revolves around ordinances that have rezoned specific areas from Rural Agricultural to Light Industrial, making it permissible to conduct landfill operations in areas previously protected for scenic and conservation purposes.
ATTACHMENTS: The full legal documentation surrounding this case, including the COMPLAINT FOR DECLARATORY JUDGMENT/EQUITY and the PETITION FOR PRELIMINARY INJUNCTIVE RELIEF, are attached.
FOR MEDIA INQUIRIES: For further details, interview requests, or clarifications, please contact either Victoria Opthof, Esquire, at 610-554-7500 or by email to: victoriaopthof@yahoo.com or Gary N. Asteak, Esquire, at 610-258-2901.
About Citizens for Responsible Development – LST: Formed in response to concerns surrounding the Bethlehem Landfill expansion, Citizens for Responsible Development – LST advocates for the protection and conservation of the natural environment in Lower Saucon Township. The group is dedicated to ensuring the health, safety, and well-being of all residents and the preservation of the area’s scenic beauty. Members of the organization will be in attendance to support the courageous litigants!