A Ross Township resident is proposing to donate 43 acres of land — valued at about $500,000 — to create public hiking trails, picnic areas and outdoor education space.

Lenny Ventre presented the idea during the public comment portion of the recent township supervisors meeting, sharing maps and literature outlining a plan he said has been in the works for more than four years.

“This has been something I’ve been planning for 4½ years now,” Ventre said.

The land borders the Van Buskirk Haney Communtiy Park property line, near the Municipal Park at 250 Anchorage Road, Saylorsburg.

Ventre said he has worked with Keystone Engineering and discussed the concept with the Pocono Heritage Land Trust, which suggested consolidating several lots in the subdivision as part of the plan. Ventre said his goal is to ensure the land remains preserved.

“I want it to remain untouched,” he said, explaining that he intends to donate the majority of the property to the township upon his passing.

Supervisors said they would need a formal written proposal outlining long-term maintenance responsibilities before considering approval.

The discussion also included improving access from Brick Church Road to the proposed park, noting that the primary access point is currently private.

Historical society

Martha Rezeli of the Ross Township Historical Society also addressed supervisors, announcing the success of the society’s Valentine’s Day event and inviting residents to its next meeting Thursday at the museum.

Rezeli said the group is planning a Sept. 27 event featuring a “wizard appraiser,” similar to the television program “Antiques Roadshow,” where residents can bring items to be evaluated.

She also promoted the society’s ongoing sale of a Saylorsburg history book written by longtime resident LeRoy Rasely.

Rezeli offered condolences following the death of Doris Price, noting her significant role in helping establish the museum as part of the historical society.

Tax collector

Nina Campbell introduced herself as the township’s new tax collector, succeeding Laura Hoffman. Campbell said office hours will be held Tuesdays from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., and she will also be available by email and a dedicated cellphone for questions outside those hours.

Supervisors briefly discussed potential updates to the township phone system.

In other business, supervisors discussed potential zoning considerations for data centers and solar facilities. Chairman David Shay said he opposes locating such uses near residential areas. Township solicitor Ricky Santee recommended advertising the issue for a future public hearing.

Dangerous structure

Last month Shay asked new solicitor Eric Filer if he was aware of the issue with the dangerous structure at 1123 Pine Cone Court. Shay said it will cost just under $15,000 to demolish an haul away the burned out structure.

This would only include the structure that was deemed dangerous and not any of the remaining vehicles on the property.

According to Times News archives, the property was abandoned several years ago.

Building plans

Last month supervisors heard an update on the final development plans for Saunders Properties at 140 Elmer Road.

“All conditions except for the payment of consulting engineering fees have been satisfied,” Santee said.

He added that property owner Dan Saunders is believed to have paid those fees, though the township has not yet issued a final invoice for services provided since August 2025.

The supervisors continue to review the land development application submitted by Catherine Andrews and Saunders. Plans call for a second house on the large property.

Planning commission

Several appointments were also made to the planning commission after members were unable to complete their terms. Kevin Overbey will fill the vacancy left by Dave LaBar, Keith Noble replaces Frank Piraino Jr., and Vincent DeGhelardi will take the seat previously held by Roger Green Jr.

Shay and Supervisor Randy Detrick thanked Piraino for his years of service.

Supervisors also approved advertising for a road department employee to be vetted by Road Foreman Ethan Brewer.

The municipal building will be closed on Good Friday, April 3.