Several Ross Commissioners Reveal Their Desires for Highland CC Property

While the , Heartland Homes, are still formulating their plans, several Ross Township commissioners are weighing in what they’d like to see become of the property. 

“If it were up to me, I would like to see them renew the country club. It’s been there for so long, the grounds are so beautiful, it’s really an asset to the community,” said Commissioner Grace Stanko. 

But Stanko, like several of her colleagues, realizes that’s an unlikely scenario, and she’s heard from several residents about what they would like to see. 

“Upscale patio homes with a golf course, that’s what constituents say they would like to see there, especially our senior citizens,” she said. 

Commissioner Peter Ferraro also likes that idea. 

“I’ve heard rumors that Heartland wants to keep 9 holes, and develop the other 9 for either condos or single family homes. That’s something I could support,” he said. 

“It will be good for the tax base, and I encourage anyone I can to move to Ross.” 

Commissioner Daniel DeMarco would also like to see the country club remain, but said he’s a realist. 

“Nobody has been able to keep that golf club running, people have to understand these country clubs aren’t as popular as they used to be. The economic reality is that many people don’t have the financial capability to be members,” he said. 

“The next best thing is a residential development. I personally think that would be a good alternative, it will provide a good tax base for the township, and right now we’re not getting anything from that property.” 

and school enrollment brought on by a new housing development. DeMarco said he’s not worried. 

“I don’t think a development in that location will have a gigantic impact on traffic or enrollment at the schools,” he said. “The developer will figure out a way to access those roads. They can work the traffic flow matters and adequately compensate for any projected increase of traffic.” 

A marketing representative for Heartland said preliminary plans could be revealed in a week or two. 

Check back with North Hills Patch for updates on this story. 

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