Douglass Township officials heard from Scott Moyer, representing St. Luke Knolls, about the possibility of expanding the housing complex.

            St. Luke Knolls, located on Knoll Lane in Gilbertsville, is a subsidized housing complex for low-income seniors. Moyer stated that the 40-unit building has been at 100 percent capacity for the last 15 years. Moyer also said that there is a waiting list of approximately 150 people in need of affordable housing.

            He continued to explain that 10 years ago, St. Luke Knolls purchased a property adjacent to the existing apartment complex. The senior living community hopes to expand the property in order to accommodate people on their waiting list.

            The retirement community applied for a grant through Montgomery County during the height of the pandemic. They were awarded $300,000 through the pandemic recovery fund. These funds are to be used for architectural, design and township application fees.

            St. Luke Knolls is working with HDC Mid-Atlantic Architecture. The firm suggested that the senior living complex request support from the township before pursuing the project.

            Solicitor Robert Brant advised Moyer that at some point a land/subdivision development plan be submitted for review by the zoning officer and township engineer. Brant stated that this is the first step in the process and township officials will be able to advise on the project after reviewing the plan.

            In other news, Avante Apartments presented the board with an update. Attorney Chuck Garner represented the owners of the existing complex.

            The property is zoned R4 and there are 104 existing apartments. A concept plan of possible expansion is in the process of being developed to include an additional 68 units. The new units will be located on an additional lot.  A sketch plan has been submitted, however, plans have not been formalized.

            Garner explained that the project will benefit the community. It will also address stormwater issues associated with the area. Brant suggested that Avante Apartments submit an application to the zoning hearing board. This will begin the process of project review and possible approval.

            Andrew Duncan provided an administration report for the meeting. The 20-lot dedication process on Huntsville Drive, of the Stafy I and II project, has begun. In addition, the final escrow release for the emergency service building was requested and approved for $4,705.50.