Commission backs Bloomfield R‑3 rezoning request, will send support letter to borough

The planning commission agreed to send a letter to Bloomfield Borough recommending approval of an R‑3 rezoning for a 10.6‑acre tract proposed for condominium‑style housing targeted largely to members of a Talmudic community.

Applicant representative John Melham told the commission the developer (Talmudic Properties) aims to build a higher‑density, condominium form of ownership where many units would be used seasonally or for occasional holidays. He said utility access was secured and that the maximum theoretical unit count would be about 50, though the final number depends on floor‑plan choices. “We want R3 zoning to to, be applied,” Melham said during his presentation.

Staff told commissioners the request appears consistent with the county’s comprehensive plan (Picture Perry), which promotes infill and higher densities in borough settings where sewer and water are available. After discussion and a motion, the commission voted to send a letter of support and noted the borough, not the county, has final authority over zoning decisions.

The commission’s letter of support is advisory and will accompany Bloomfield Borough’s review process and the public hearings required for a zoning map amendment.