A Willistown man is persisting through an ongoing governmental battle to save his beloved homestead, Maple Leaf Farm, writes Jen Samuel for The Daily Local News.
Landowner Richard Glunk’s 45-acre farm is currently preserved in a land trust through an easement with the Brandywine Conservancy. The land is also protected by the state’s Agriculture and Security Law, as the farm has been in use since the 1700s.
However, Willistown Township recently notified Glunk of plans to condemn 2,060 square feet of Maple Leaf Farm.
Through condemnation, a government body acquires private property for a public project or because the land has been deemed unsafe.
In the notice, township officials stated that condemning the land would allow enhanced flow in nearby Crum Creek. The township’s acquisition would also support safer road travel in the surrounding area.
The conflict stems from a years-long dispute between Glunk and the township over a culvert, a stormwater infrastructure tool on the property.
Glunk shared that he tried to get the culvert repaired with the township’s help in 2020, an adjustment that would help with creek flow. He stated that the township later cut off communication and assistance regarding the project.
Glunk plead for county commissioners’ support at a meeting earlier this month. Commissioner Eric Roe shared plans to support Glunk to protect property rights and prevent government overreach.
Advocating for the preservation of his family home, Glunk said, “Leave my farm in peace. Let my family legacy endure. Leave my farm intact.”
Read more about Maple Leaf Farm and landowner Richard Glunk’s fight to save the property in The Daily Local News.
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