Donna Statzer’s letter (“Unchecked growth,” Oct. 6) concerning uncontrolled growth in Jackson Township reflects a situation being encountered across southern Butler County. The same concerns she voiced are displayed throughout much of Adams Township where the dreaded Planned Residential Development (PRD) is being used to override the rural zoning that many residents had believed was their protection from high density housing.

Even though the township and municipal codes call for consistency with the long range plan, consistency with the immediate community, and provisions for infrastructure such as traffic (Route 228), these items are basically ignored in the rush for PRD approval. Timing is the critical factor while quality of the PRD documentation and the PRD itself are secondary, if even considered.

Making this situation even more severe is the lack of requirements for the acceptance of a proposed PRD into formal township consideration.

It would be beneficial for the county to be more active in oversight of the PRD process. In fact, the municipal code requires that the PRD be submitted to the county for review, but the review itself is not mandatory under current law. As a result, PRD submissions to the county for “tentative approval” can be omitted by the townships.

Residents of Butler County who live in either rural or rural conservation zoned areas should be aware that the inclusion of a PRD ordinance in your municipality can override your zoning, allowing the continuation of high density housing developments. While developers and politicians may control your municipality today, the next election is your opportunity to elect leaders who will bring a more balanced approach to property rights.