A decision has landed on the Grey Hawk plan after nearly two years of being in court.

Butler County Common Pleas Judge S. Michael Yeager signed a consent order last month granting Grey Hawk's appeal of Middlesex Township's 2019 denial of preliminary approval for the planned residential development (PRD).

The order determines the board must consider Grey Hawk's application for final PRD approval.

It also says the development in turn must make plans to divert potentially harmful runoff away from Glade Run Lake.

The decision involved mutual effort, according to the township and representatives of Glade Run Lake Conservancy (GRLC).

GRLC joined the suit last year as an intervenor on behalf of the township.

The April 21 outcome partially aligns with the conservancy's efforts, according to GRLC representatives.

“It's a compromise,” said Timothy Fitchett, who represented GRLC. “The most important thing is that the lake is protected.”

Siggy Pehel, president of GRLC, said that was the conservancy's mission from the start.

While Pehel said he'd like to see more willingness to explore alternatives, the order at least allows for an off-site storm sewer system.

“That's a positive thing,” Pehel said. “Our mission was basically to preserve and protect the lake.”

Among other things, the order also asks Grey Hawk developers to install “environmentally friendly lights.”

These would shine toward the ground so as to not interfere with the migratory paths of birds.

Glade Run Lake is home to more than 160 species of birds, according to Pehel.

Fitchett said the order included accommodations on both sides.

Specifically, it states Grey Hawk is entitled to construct 111 dwelling units. The original PRD involved 108 units.

Fitchett said the three extra units were offered as a compromise to cover the added costs of rerouting potential runoff.

“We're very happy that these two parties came to an agreement,” said Adam Hartwig, township manager.

The township must consider the plan for final approval, if Grey Hawk representatives submit it to the township.

Nothing has been submitted at this time.

Jeffrey Robinson, attorney for Grey Hawk, declined to comment Friday.