Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Easton public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
13 issues in development with high priority
Workforce Housing Infill Development on Phillips Street
An owner of four neighboring Philips Street properties wants to add off-street parking pads, but each would be a foot narrower than zoning allows and would sit flush against the property line. If approved, it could add parking options on a tight residential street; neighbors can weigh in at the hearing.
Side-Yard Shed and Fence Placement Standards
Two applicants — one on Canal Street, one on High Street — want to put storage structures where the zoning code says they can't go. Both cases will test how flexible the board is on accessory building placement and setbacks.
Development Agreements & Stormwater Management for Berwick and Centre Streets
Council will consider hiring Colliers Engineering & Design for stormwater detention work in Williams Township — infrastructure aimed at managing runoff and reducing flooding.
Downtown Hotel Demolition Impacts on Neighbors
A resident living adjacent to the former Hampton Hotel fire site complained about property damage, debris, and trespassing caused by demolition contractors. City officials advised the resident to document damages with police and codes departments for civil recourse.
Stewart Street Townhouse Development
An applicant is proposing an eight-lot subdivision on Pastor Fred Davis Street featuring seven townhomes. Commissioners raised concerns about steep slopes, retaining walls, stormwater swales, and whether sidewalks should be installed along vacant lots.
Two-Family Conversion at 254 W. Nesquehoning St.
The owner of 329 Folk Street wants to turn a long-vacant commercial storefront into three new apartments, bringing four total units to the property. Commissioners discussed building layout, parking grandfathering, and green space.
Workforce Housing Ordinance Amendments
Council discussed strengthening the city's affordable housing ordinance by lowering income thresholds to local levels and raising developer penalties for opting out.
Certification of Blighted Properties
The city is cracking down on vacant and neglected properties by advancing blight determinations for eight addresses and certifying another property after two years of inaction.
Jackson Street Multifamily Infill Development
The planning commission advanced multiple residential projects, including low-rise and mid-rise apartments, to help address local and regional housing shortages.
Housing Safety Ordinance
Easton is cracking down on landlords with a new tenant-list rule and a utility investigation after the Hotel Hampton fire. It's all about making sure local apartments are actually safe to live in.
101 S. 3rd Street Mixed-Use Condominium Development
A developer is building a major 7-story mixed-use project downtown with 73 condos and ground-floor retail, which is seeing massive pre-sale interest. The project adds much-needed owner-occupied housing to Easton's downtown corridor.
Warehouse Development
Easton residents are fighting plans to build a huge warehouse at the old Pfizer plant site. Expect some serious neighborhood battles at city hall over traffic, noise, and zoning rules.
Urban Development
Easton's city council just approved new development projects, so builders are getting ready to break ground. You'll likely start seeing fresh construction and neighborhood changes pop up nearby soon.