Easton · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Easton public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
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.
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.
Development Agreements & Stormwater Management for Berwick and Centre Streets
Developer Nicholas Zawarski received approval to build a 3-story, 12-unit apartment building on a long-vacant lot surrounded by industrial warehouses. The project will bring new housing and green space while serving as a buffer between industrial and residential areas.
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.
Workforce Housing Infill Development on Phillips Street
The Greater Community Development Corporation is partnering with Tuskus Homes to build eight affordable workforce housing units on Phillips Street. Neighbors raised strong concerns about traffic congestion, narrow streets, lack of sidewalks, and property values, prompting the board to add a strict no-street-parking condition.
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.