Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Easton public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
14 issues in zoning
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).
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Accessory Structure Special Exception at 309 West Wayne Avenue
A College Hill homeowner wants a 576-square-foot detached garage where a parking pad now sits. The planning commission recommended approval, and the Zoning Hearing Board makes the final call.
Signage Variance for River of God Fellowship Church
River of God Fellowship Church sought permission to keep an unpermitted freestanding sign that helps community members and school families find their bilingual services. The board approved the sign after confirming it doesn't block views and adding safety requirements for anchoring.
West Ward Residential Conversions and Parking
Residents and council members raised concerns about converting single-family homes into multi-unit apartments in the West Ward, highlighting severe street parking shortages and neighborhood fabric degradation.
Board of Health Parking Permit Denials
Council reviewed Board of Health parking permit denial processes and discussed adding explanatory criteria to application forms to improve transparency.
Hotel and Motel Rental Registration Code Amendment
Council is considering closing a loophole that exempts hotels and motels from regular rental inspection programs, requiring them to register and undergo routine safety checks.
Group Home Zoning Appeal at 236 Vista Dr.
An investor sought variances to house six foster girls in a semi-detached home, highlighting a conflict between state child welfare goals and local zoning rules.