Palmer Digital Billboard Illegal, Resident Says

Charles Diefenderfer has appeared before the Palmer Township Board of Supervisors twice this month to complain about the new digital billboard on Route 22 that is blinding—and infuriating—residents.

The resident of Hay Terrace—where most of the complaints have been lodged—stated at a recent supervisors meeting attended by a dozen residents that the billboard isn't up to snuff.

"It's in violation of township zoning codes," he said.

Defanderfer stated that, in checking township meeting minutes and records, he did not believe the sign permit is legitimate.

"When the permit was issued, the work was null and void in six months because the billboards were approved in December yet the ordinance was adopted on Dec. 27, 2011," Diefenderfer stated.

He also said that the sign doesn't meet setback requirements from residences.

"It should be 300 feet, but it looks like 200 feet or less to the closest property," he said. "The sign doesn't belong there."

Diefenderfer argued that there's no light and glare control, that "the lighting spills over on our lawns, decks and interiors. That's in violation of code."

So, he says, is the fact that sign hours are regulated from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. and are also in violation since the sign hasn't been turned off.

"A cease and desist order should be issued," Diefenderfer said. "

When he first appeared at a March 2 meeting, Diefenderfer expressed concern that he wasn't notified about the billboard going up and also said that it's too close to homes.

"There is no way I can have any quiet enjoyment," he said. "I can't go outside without seeing it. There are all kinds of other places where this could have been put."

Supervisors Chairman Dave Colver assured Diefenderfer that the billboard meets PennDOT requirements in terms of its height and proximity to residences. He also said that numerous public hearings were held and also attended by billboard representatives.