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Council backs Knauss Homestead plan to add museum space and ADA restrooms, contingent on planning approvals
Summary
Emmaus Borough Council voted to support the Knauss Homestead proposal to build a small exterior building for a museum lobby and two ADA restrooms, subject to planning, zoning and floodplain review and routine fee/consultant arrangements.
Emmaus Borough Council on Oct. 6 voted to support a proposal by the Knauss Homestead to add a small building that would serve as a museum lobby and include two ADA‑compliant restrooms to support events at the adjacent barn. Council members agreed the endorsement is contingent on required planning and zoning approvals and standard permitting processes.
The Knauss Homestead representatives described the twofold purpose: a small museum lobby and two ADA restrooms to support barn events, including weddings. The presenter said the building would be privately funded for construction and ongoing maintenance. Council members stressed that any formal approvals will follow normal planning, zoning and floodplain procedures.
Council discussion noted a letter confirming the project site is outside the 100‑year floodplain, a point the Parks & Recreation committee had sought before advancing a recommendation. Committee members also discussed fee waivers: the committee recommended the borough waive permit fees but that any outside consulting costs be paid by the applicant. Council moved to support the project to the extent required for planning and zoning and to recommend it to the planning commission; the motion passed by voice vote.
Council members and staff also asked the applicant to ensure the building design is historically compatible with the existing homestead structures; renderings were included in committee materials. The council did not approve zoning or building permits at the meeting — the vote is a council-level recommendation and support for the planning process, not a final permit or zoning change.
The Parks & Recreation committee will continue to coordinate with planning staff and the applicant on next steps, including any required waiver requests or consultation with floodplain officials. If outside consultant fees are incurred, committee notes indicate the applicant would be expected to pay those costs.
