Council reviews zoning changes, sidewalk project and other municipal business

Union City Borough Council used its July 9 meeting to advance a range of municipal items including zoning changes, project scheduling and community updates.

Council discussed amending the zoning ordinance to address skill games of chance (previously presented and approved) and to consider allowing above-ground pools on adjoining vacant lots and sheds up to 144 square feet if placed on skids, pillars or a gravel base so they would be removable; front-yard setbacks would continue to apply while no set-back from an adjoining lot line was being proposed. Solicitor Tim Wachter will draft suggested ordinance language for council review.

Borough Manager Cindy Wells reported the TA set-aside sidewalk project will begin July 15, 2024, and that the feasibility study for a school crossing was approved with county-appointed engineer WRA, LLP selected to perform engineering work. Council reviewed the RT 97 project engineering and inspection budget, noting a $10,000 grant allocation and cautioning that extended project duration or encountering rock could increase monitoring costs the borough would need to cover.

The Street Supervisor also reported Bentley Run streambank stabilization work was completed but some seed and topsoil washed out during a subsequent rain and will be replaced. Councilor Winkler reminded residents about the French Creek Festival and associated events; Councilor Kerns asked about ongoing flooding on Putnam Street but no resolution was reported in the minutes.

These items were recorded for staff follow-up and solicitor drafting where required; no final ordinance amendments were adopted at this meeting.