Residents oppose Narberth's plan to sell Sabine Park for commercial development

During the recent Borough Council Workshop Meeting on April 3, 2025, community concerns about local development and housing were at the forefront of discussions. A significant topic was the potential sale of Sabine Park, which has sparked considerable debate among residents.

Carol Marie Scanlon, a local resident, voiced strong opposition to the proposed sale and rezoning of Sabine Park for commercial development. She highlighted that the community has consistently expressed a desire to maintain the park as green space rather than allow for further commercial expansion. Scanlon pointed out that Narberth is financially stable, having recently raised the Earned Income Tax (EIT), and questioned the necessity of selling public land when the borough is not in financial distress.

The conversation also touched on the broader issue of housing in Narberth. Scanlon emphasized that while new developments are visible, there are already a variety of homes available in the community, with recent sales in the $300,000 to $500,000 range. She argued that the market does not require additional apartments or commercial spaces, suggesting that the existing housing inventory is sufficient to meet community needs.

The council's discussions reflect a growing tension between development interests and community desires for preserving local parks and maintaining the character of residential areas. As the borough considers its next steps, the voices of residents like Scanlon will likely play a crucial role in shaping future decisions regarding land use and housing development in Narberth.