Union City schedules public hearing on zoning changes to regulate redemption games and accessory structures

Union City Borough posted a notice that it will hold a public hearing on Monday, Sept. 16, 2024, at 6 p.m. at First Global Methodist Church, 42 East High Street, to consider amendments to Zoning Ordinance No. 1118. The notice names two primary changes under consideration: definitions and regulation of permitted use zones for “redemption games,” also described as games of skill, and the addition of Section 701.04 to allow use of accessory structures on adjoining lots, along with standard repealer, severability and effective date language.

The borough’s notice — attributed in the agenda posting to borough staff — says: “The purpose of the hearing is to provide information and receive public comment on the proposed amendment to Zoning Ordinance #1118” and lists the specific topics to be addressed. The proposed definitions and permitted-use rules for redemption games would clarify where such games may operate within the borough; the agenda text does not specify the zoning districts affected or any licensing or operational limits. The announcement also states the ordinance would add a provision (Section 701.04) concerning accessory structures sited on adjoining lots; no additional details about standards, permitting, or enforcement appear in the notice.

The hearing is a chance for residents, business owners and other stakeholders to offer comment before the borough decides whether to move forward with the amendment. The posted agenda lists a separate “hearing of the visitors” item for public comment and concludes with adjournment; the notice does not state whether the borough council or an appointed planning body will vote at the meeting or whether action would occur at a later date.

Details that were not specified in the posted agenda include which zoning districts would be classified as permitted-use zones for redemption games, any proposed restrictions or licensing requirements for operators, whether accessory-structure rules would apply to residential, commercial or mixed-use lots, and whether a formal vote is expected on Sept. 16. Interested parties should plan to attend the Sept. 16 hearing or contact borough offices for additional documents and proposed ordinance language before the meeting.