City of York panel approves variance to allow pool hall at 646 West Market Street

The City of York Building Hearing Board approved a variance to allow a recreational billiards (pool hall) use at 646 West Market Street, the board confirmed after hearing testimony at its December 2025 meeting. The written applicant was listed as Dominic Chapman; James Aldeshiels spoke at the mic on behalf of the application, describing the proposed business and answering board questions.

The board read into the record that the owner is Lockwood Property Holdings LLC and that the property sits in the UN1 Urban Mixed Residential Commercial District. The application requests relief from Section 1304.01-4.030.006 to permit a "commercial recreation" use not listed for the UN1 district; planning staff recommended denial of the variance, and the planning commission on Dec. 8 unanimously recommended approval.

During the presentation, Aldeshiels said he had renovated the space and intended to operate five pool tables and other entertainment equipment. "I set up everything for a pool hall for everybody that has something to do," he said, adding he wanted "a little spot for the kids too" to learn the game and that the neighborhood lacked activities. He told the board the site was ready to operate.

Board members asked logistical questions: the applicant said there would be no alcohol sales; operating hours were stated as roughly 10 a.m. opening with closing at midnight (the record was corrected during the meeting to reflect 12 a.m. as the intended closing time). The applicant confirmed there would be five pool tables and said snacks would be available; he described some machines in photos as "skill games" and a jukebox, which a board member asked could resemble gambling. The applicant characterized those items as entertainment rather than gambling and the board indicated it did not view them as a disqualifying issue for the variance.

Franklin moved to approve the variance for a recreational billiards facility at 646 West Market Street, and Blake seconded the motion. The board called roll; Blake, Adam, Lester, Franklin and Tina registered affirmative responses and the chair declared the motion approved. The transcript does not record a numerical roll-call tally beyond the names offered aloud. The applicant thanked the board after the vote.

The board did not record additional conditions or follow-up requirements in the provided transcript. The planning staff's recommendation for denial and the planning commission's recommendation for approval remain part of the record; any permits, inspections or licensing required for operation (for example for food service or amusement devices) will be subject to applicable city regulations and separate review.