Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Zoning Amendments topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Planning commission reviews broad zoning amendments and recommends two application denials pending extension requests
Summary
Commissioners reviewed roughly 50 proposed zoning amendments—about half addressing housing—and discussed bylaws, a potential vacant‑property registry, short‑term rentals, and parking requirements. The body also recommended denial of two applications if extension requests are not filed by April 16, 2026.
The Chester City Planning Commission spent substantial time on April 8 reviewing a package of proposed zoning amendments and other commission business, alongside a sketch‑plan presentation. Planning staff said roughly 50 amendments are under consideration, with about half aimed at clarifying housing types and reducing some regulatory barriers to help boost housing supply.
The planning director said the amendments seek to update definitions (including “transitional housing” versus group homes), add rules for short‑term rentals, and relax certain parking requirements for small parcels to make infill housing more feasible. "We're trying to keep up with what the state is trying to do," he said, referencing a state housing plan discussed at a March 30 hearing.
Commissioners urged clearer language on transitional housing definitions and expressed interest in a vacant‑property registry to increase accountability for long‑vacant lots and deteriorated structures. The director said a registry is being considered and that building maintenance and long‑term vacancies would remain subject to code enforcement and L&I inspection processes.
On bylaws, the commission discussed updating titles (chair/vice chair), the role of alternates, meeting notice and recording practices under the Pennsylvania Sunshine Act, and whether roll‑call voting should be standard. The assistant city solicitor (Kyle Miller) will review the draft bylaws before further action.
The commission also moved to recommend denial to City Council for two impending applications unless the applicants submit written 90‑day extension requests by April 16, 2026: the subdivision/land‑development application for 3308 West Second Street and the land‑development application for "0 West Fourth Street." Both motions were seconded and carried by voice vote. Staff said if extensions arrive before the April 16 deadline, the recommended denials would not advance to council.
Next meeting: the commission scheduled its next regular meeting for May 13, 2026.
Votes at a glance
• 3308 West Second Street — Motion: recommend denial to City Council unless a written 90‑day extension is filed by April 16, 2026. Outcome: recommendation to deny (motion carried by voice vote).
• 0 West Fourth Street — Motion: recommend denial to City Council unless a written 90‑day extension is filed by April 16, 2026. Outcome: recommendation to deny (motion carried by voice vote).
