Easton · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Easton public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Planning Commission Procedural Updates & Public Notice Expansion
A debate broke out over whether a sick zoning board member could participate and vote remotely via phone and livestream. Objectors argued it violates local rules, while solicitors pointed to state laws allowing it, highlighting how local boards handle post-COVID virtual attendance.
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.
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.
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 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.
Accessory Structure Special Exception at 309 West Wayne Avenue
Mark Ricker requested a special exception to build a 576-square-foot detached garage on his residential property. The commission reviewed the plans to ensure compatibility with neighborhood character and zoning rules.
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.