Looking for development models

MILFORD - On August 29 the Pike County Commissioners, in cooperation with the Pike and Monroe County Conservation Districts, the Pike Conservation Partnership and the PA Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR), will present “Better Models for Development in Pennsylvania” with Ed McMahon, noted author, attorney, lecturer and expert on creating and sustaining livable and prosperous communities. Mr. McMahon will present material from his book “Better Models for Development in Pennsylvania”- a guide to creating, maintaining, and enhancing livable communities. Asset based economic development, land conservation, tourism promotion and historic preservation are among the themes of Mr. McMahon’s publications and programs. He stresses the use of education, incentives and voluntary initiatives, not just regulations, to encourage higher quality development. He will explore how new development can be made more attractive, efficient, profitable and environmentally sensitive. Says McMahon, “The truth is that development is inevitable, but the destruction of community character and natural resources that too often accompany growth is not. Progress does not demand degraded surroundings.” This program will provide essential information for residents, businesses and municipal officials on land use choices that can be made as Pike and Monroe counties’ populations continue to grow. Representatives from both Pike and Monroe Planning Offices will be on hand to discuss local planning initiatives. There will also be a question and answer period to discuss how the tools outlined in the presentation and the book can be utilized to assist in local planning efforts. This important program is sponsored by the following: Pike County Commissioners, Representative Jerry Birmelin, Senator Charles Lemmond, Jr., Representative Mario Scavello, Representative John Siptroth, Delaware Highlands Conservancy, Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, Hawley/Lake Wallenpaupack Chamber of Commerce, Milford Historic Trust, Monroe County Conservation District, Monroe County Planning Commission, Pike Conservation Partnership, Pike County Chamber of Commerce, Pike County Conservation District, Pike County Planning Commission, Pike County Visitors Bureau, Pocono Environmental Education Center, Pocono Mt. Chamber of Commerce and the Pocono Mountains Vacation Bureau, Inc. Registration for this program is $20 which includes a buffet dinner and materials. Registration deadline is Aug. 20. To register for this important event or for more information please contact the Pike County Conservation District office at 570-226-8220 or visit its Web site at www.pikeconservation.org.Two counties sponsor consultant’s appearance