Clifton Heights zoning board OKs parking- lot variance for Potter's House Church at 360 North Oak Avenue

CLIFTON HEIGHTS, Pa. — The Clifton Heights Zoning Hearing Board on Nov. 25 approved a use variance allowing Potter's House Church (Act 1 Inc.) to convert a vacant residential parcel adjacent to its church property at 360 North Oak Avenue into a parking lot to serve church activities.

Pastor John Overson, representing the applicant, told the board the church purchased the property "for $850,000" and completed renovations to the building. "We can get 41 spaces on that property right there," Overson said, describing plans to grade the former house site and install a two-way entrance and exit near an existing utility pole.

The board admitted proof of publication and evidence of property posting into the record. Zoning officer Mr. Gould said the notice ran in the newspaper (including 11/18/2025) and that the property was posted on 11/07/2025 with flyers distributed within a 500-foot radius.

Overson described parking and safety problems that prompted the request: he said the property previously had about 15 spaces on one side, a narrow approach that made it difficult for emergency vehicles to access the site and occasions when school buses and neighbors had trouble entering and exiting. Overson said the church currently draws about 100 people and that the proposed 41 spaces, combined with on-street parking, would meet anticipated needs; he added the lot would be used for church purposes only and not rented to commercial entities.

A board representative read the legal standards for a use variance under the municipal zoning rules, including the need to show unique physical circumstances, that the hardship was not self-created, and that the relief sought is the minimum necessary. Overson agreed the parcel's irregular size and prior use met those requirements and that the variance would not alter the essential character of the neighborhood.

The board opened the hearing to nearby residents; no neighbors within the notice radius spoke. The record showed approximately 10–12 members of the church in attendance who voiced support, and the board noted the presence of Council Members Suzanne Brittis and John Gorman.

The board voted to grant the variance. By roll call, board members recorded their votes as follows: Mister Humphreys — yes; Mister Lombardo — yes; Mister Danes — yes. The board's solicitor said the office would prepare written notice that will be sent tomorrow.

Following the vote, Overson thanked the board and attendees. The hearing concluded with brief closing remarks and holiday wishes.

Votes at a glance: Motion — allow parking use variance for Potter's House Church (Act 1 Inc.) at 360 North Oak Avenue; Outcome — approved, 3–0; Recorded votes — Humphreys: yes; Lombardo: yes; Danes: yes.

What happens next: The board will prepare and mail written notice of the decision; final site layout and any required permits will be completed by a design professional in accordance with local ordinances before construction.