Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Easton public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
8 issues in zoning
Rezoning 203 North 7th Street and 6903 Bushkill Street from River Corridor to West Ward
Part of the map amendments would move these two North 7th Street parcels out of the River Corridor district into the West Ward district. Staff called it a 2020 mapping error correction; neighbors feared it could enable a developer to tear down an older apartment building and block views, while the property owners themselves said it was a mistake and they're not selling.
Fence Height Special Exception – 277-79 West Nesquehoning Street
The meeting sparked a debate about whether six-foot side-yard fences should remain special exceptions or become simpler variances/permitted uses. Members worried that removing the special exception would eliminate neighbor notification, while others noted the commission almost never denies these anyway and the fees differ by district ($350 vs $200).
Planning Commission Procedural Updates & Public Notice Expansion
Commissioners have pushed back on the Zoning Hearing Board granting variances before the Planning Commission reviews a land development application. Staff agreed future applications requiring variances will come to the Planning Commission first.
Church Street Vacation and Ordinance Amendments
The council will discuss a proposal to vacate a portion of Church Street alongside amendments to mechanical and amusement regulations under Bill No. 29 and Bill No. 30.
Accessory Structure Approval at 309 W. Wayne Ave.
Residents sought approval for garages and large accessory structures to store personal vehicles and protect them from tree damage.
Setback Variance for Shed at 61 N. Locust St.
Gary Skelly was granted a side yard setback variance to install a prefabricated garage shed to protect his vehicle from falling tree branches.
Davis Street Duplex Conversion Denial
An owner requested variances to convert a single-family house into a duplex, utilizing existing rear parking spaces.
Driveway Width Variance at 812 W. Grant St.
Property owners sought relief for existing paved driveways exceeding maximum width limits, leading to conditions for signs and future removal.