Union City Council discusses parking ordinance changes and license-plate-reader capabilities; zoning changes deferred

Union City Borough Council on June 25 debated proposed parking-ordinance revisions for Municipal Lot #2 and heard police testimony about license plate readers, but took no ordinance votes. Council also deferred proposed zoning amendments on small games of chance and allowing pools in vacant adjoining lots until the Solicitor can attend.

Police Chief David Pernice told the council that license plate readers (LPRs) “showed videos. They can search plates on the system and assist in an investigation anywhere in the country,” and said the technology could help protect the community. Council asked the Streets Supervisor to review angled-parking layouts for Municipal Lot #2 before the council moves forward with any ordinance change.

Why it matters: LPR technology raises operational and privacy questions because of its ability to search plate data across jurisdictions. The council did not adopt policy changes or an ordinance amendment at this meeting; it requested further review by staff and the Solicitor.

Zoning amendment items on small games of chance and permitting pools in adjoining vacant lots were discussed briefly and held for the next meeting when the Solicitor is available. No formal motions or votes were taken on those zoning items.

The council’s decision to defer means any changes to parking enforcement, LPR policy, or zoning will return for formal consideration with legal guidance and recommended lot-layout options. The council adjourned at 7:21 p.m.