The case against the Alif Farms meat operation in Mahoning Township is progressing.

Neighbor Holly Heintzelman asked at the recent board of supervisors meeting if there had been any progress on the notice of violation at the district magistrate.

Township zoning officer Ryan Wessner told Heintzelman that the township hired a conflict attorney and it’s moving forward.

Heintzelman explained there were now tractor-trailers unloading animals into a structure.

Last month, supervisors hired specialized legal counsel to represent it against Alif Farms.

At that time, Kate Durso was appointed as land use attorney at the rate of $250 an hour.

Heintzelman noted at that time the notice of violation was issued back in May and that nothing had been done.

Supervisor Mark Schwalm assured residents at that time their concerns weren’t being ignored.

Schwalm said he’s all about businesses in the township, but run properly.

Supervisor Ron Reeser said there’s no doubt a big mistake was made previously.

Board Chair Deb McGowan said at that time the board plans to have a meeting with the attorney on the matter.

At the board’s meeting in June, Wessner said he had submitted a three-page notice of violation that consists of an odor abatement plan, storage of animals within setbacks, and a rule within animal husbandry.

Wessner said that if Alif Farms didn’t comply by June 27, he would then send the matter to the district magistrate.

In May, Heintzelman asked whether Alif Farms had applied for any permit or plans to hold another festival in May like it did last year, which she said sparked the complaints, noting this year’s festival was planned on school days.

Wessner told Heintzelman that he does not believe a permit would be required, explaining the slaughterhouse use applies to the parcel itself. Heintzelman argued the permit only allows operation as a slaughterhouse, and that additional activities could be considered a nonconforming use.