Lack of Waste Water Plan Threatens Turkey Farm Development

After a year of planning, coordinating, meeting and visioning, the development of the Turkey Farm site is right where it started a year ago.

But where is that, exactly?

Swallowed in a heap of research needed, according to Chester Borough Mayor Bob Davis.

“The first and last consideration in Chester Borough is wastewater management,” Davis said. “Since we don’t have the ability, in the borough, to handle that infrastructure, it needs to be the most important part of development.”

And right now, there’s no place for wastewater to go on the property. The issue has been brought up each step of the way, yet no resolution has been found.

In a letter about the matter composed on Aug. 28, Davis said, “it has become clear to both property owner and the Borough that wastewater management issues will determine what if anything can be constructed on the site.”

The statement went on to say more studies and investigations need to be completed as protected species habitat, nitrate dilution studies and Highlands implications that need to be completed before rezoning decisions can be made.

“There are still a number of green lights needed from the DEP and Highlands before this can go any further,” Davis said. “We’ve gone through the visioning process, the developer has heard input and agreed to maintain structures on the sight. It’s really a shame this can’t move forward yet.”

Davis also mentioned the developer had verbally agreed to building affordable housing on the property in addition to a hotel, restaurant and catering facility.

“The best thing we can do is await the answers from the agencies involved,” he said. “And just make sure it’s a fair process.”