Commission recommends salon use at 201 S. Charles St. Unit 4, urges parking plan

The Red Lion Borough Planning Commission on July 15 voted to recommend that the Zoning Hearing Board allow a personal‑service salon in Unit 4 at 201 S. Charles Street, a unit within the former Failor’s Photography building, provided the applicant addresses parking concerns.

Owner David Thompson told the commission Unit 4 has a separate entrance and that the larger building is more than 6,000 square feet. He said the salon use would be appointment‑based; two licensed owners would operate services for hair, nails and skin. The proposed hair area measures about 630 square feet and three nail chairs were described for the nail area. Mr. Thompson also said he plans to continue photography services and to offer music lessons and podcast services on the premises.

Commission discussion focused on parking availability and potential noise or construction impacts. Members noted on‑street parking is often full during daycare drop‑off and pick‑up and that the lot across the street is owned by the daycare. Mr. Thompson said he was pursuing options to rent spaces from the daycare and to use Community Building spaces. Borough counsel advised that the applicant should demonstrate adequate parking at the time of the Zoning Hearing Board application; absent evidence the commission could deny or withhold recommendation.

Ms. Beth Nidam moved to recommend approval with the applicant giving strong consideration to securing adequate parking; Mrs. Muriel Slenker seconded and the motion carried unanimously.

The application will proceed to the Zoning Hearing Board, which will determine required parking and whether conditions should be attached.