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Zoning Board Reissues 2008 Decision for Tillman Street Conversion; Applicant Told to Pull Permits
Summary
The board reissued a decision consistent with relief granted in 2008 for 211 Tillman St., allowing a previously approved conversion to proceed. The applicant, Joseph Goll, was told to draw building permits within one year and complete the work within two years; the board noted prior approvals and the applicant’s long‑standing efforts to comply.
The Allentown Zoning Hearing Board reissued a decision Oct. 6 consistent with relief granted in 2008 for 211 Tillman Street, where the owner seeks to convert a first‑floor commercial space (previously a beauty salon) into a dwelling unit.
Applicant Joseph Goll told the board he purchased the property in 2006 and has maintained permits and ongoing work; the board reviewed the 2008 decision that provided special‑exception use approval and a set of dimensional variances for conversion. Goll said he has been renewing permits while organizing financing and performing other maintenance, and he described plans to complete work when his cash flow improves.
Board members stated their tradition of honoring prior board rulings when circumstances have not materially changed and moved to issue a new decision consistent with the earlier relief. The board clarified application deadlines and building permit timelines: the zoning permit is typically valid for one year from issue, and the building work is generally expected to be completed within two years of permit issuance, subject to reasonable discretion for unforeseen conditions.
A motion to issue a decision consistent with the previous 2008 ruling passed by voice vote.
