By John Chambless
Staff Writer

The 1723 Winery near Kemblesville took a big step toward a planned spring 2018 opening after the Franklin Township Board of Supervisors approved their preliminary and final plan submission last week.

At the board's Feb. 21 meeting, the winery was allowed as an accessory to agriculture use at the address, 5 McMaster Blvd., Landenberg. The winery was started by Sarah and Ben Cody, who purchased 36 acres of the historic McMaster farm in 2014, and planted vines for what will become the winery. The business sits on part of a tract of land settled in 1723.

The plan for the winery, which was dated Jan. 15 and revised Feb. 7, was approved by unanimous vote.

Board chairman John Auerbach complimented the thoroughness and expertise of the Planning Commission in their work leading up to the approval.

Also at the meeting, Corporal Louis Robinson from the Avondale State Police reported on police activity, year-to-date, in the township. There were 77 incidents, which included 911 hang-ups, disabled motorists, police accompanying emergency vehicles to the hospital, and traffic stops. There were no burglaries or break-ins. Auerbach asked for a more comprehensive police activity report each month. Currently, the township receives a basic report which lists the number of incidents, but no details. Robinson and the board discussed privacy issues and Robinson said he will follow up with his superiors to see if the State Police can generate a detailed report with specific information redacted.

Historical Commission chairman Lagasse reported that after their Feb. 7 meeting, he will continue to be the chairman, Nan Latimer is the vice-chair and Sara Beth Kohut is the secretary. They discussed the Eastern Shore Natural Gas pipeline progress, saying that all agency approvals have been secured, but not landowner permissions. They also reported that there has been no progress on the proposed work on Route 896 through the township.

For updated information on the township, and a scheduel of upcoming meetings, visit www.franklintownship.us.

To contact Staff Writer John Chambless, email [email protected].