The matter of a Franklin Township property owner allowing visitors to park their vehicles on his property so they can visit Beltzville State Park continues to spark debate.

Resident Todd Zellers discussed the parking situation with the board of supervisors last week, at which time he asked them to address the matter in the township’s zoning ordinance.

Zellers said he believes the property in question was operating as a business.

The property owner in question, Tim Rehrig, who lives on Pine Cove Court northwest of the Beltzville entrance, said he does allow people to park in his yard.

Rehrig said he’s done so to make extra money.

Earlier this month several residents took to Facebook to voice their concerns after swarms of visitors were seen parking their vehicles on Rehrig’s property at the corner of Pine Cove Court and Jefferson Street.

Township police Chief Jason Doll said at that time the parking situation was an issue last year as well.

Doll said the township doesn’t have an ordinance prohibiting the matter, and previously told the board it should possibly look to create an ordinance.

Township secretary Brenda Cressley said that while there’s been discussion, nothing has been acted on at this point.

Similarly, Doll said the police department received calls for the same reason on the Fourth of July.

Rehrig told a reporter earlier this month that since it’s his property, he assumed that he could continue to allow vehicles to park there.

“I’m not sure that I can; I’m doing some research.”

He also told a reporter the area often gets congested with traffic.

Residents complain about rat issue

Also at the meeting, eight Union Hill residents told the board they were concerned about a rat issue in the area.

The residents said that a female who lives in the vicinity feeds outdoor cats.

Additionally, the residents said they believe there are three property owners who have chickens in a residential area.

Herman said she would look into the matters.