ADAMS TWP — Planning commission members tabled discussion of a controversial housing development proposed along the township's border with Mars.

The Howells Plan development would be situated on Pine Avenue and would consist of eight homes in the $500,000 to $750,000 range. The developer wants Mars to provide water service.

During a Monday meeting, Mars Council tabled action on the decision, saying they had to review 30 letters sent in response to a request for input on the plan. Council members said they still had a number of concerns about the development, including the impact on traffic and infrastructure. Some residents in attendance said they feared the plan would create a throughway for traffic between the borough and the township, which they opposed.

If the borough chooses to provide water, developers said they would revise the plan by creating a cul-de-sac, taking away any opportunity to create a throughway later. The developer also would pave Pine Avenue and create a tree buffer at the borough line, as well as install and maintain a water booster system.

During a planning commission meeting on Wednesday, one Mars resident addressed the board with questions about township ordinances and impact fees. Commission members explained that without further discussion of the plan, there was little they could say. They tabled the matter, and will next address the issues on Jan. 29.

The planning commission also gave tentative approval to plans for Amherst Village Phase V off Mars- Evans City Road. Approval was granted under the condition that phases are built sequentially to prevent excessive traffic before needed roads are completed.

The plan calls for 23 single-family homes on about 21 acres.

Commissioners discussed and tabled plans for the Gabriel's Crest development, Meadow Point PRD and Adams Corners plan. These will be discussed early next year.