Union City holds brief public hearing on proposed zoning changes for redemption games

Union City Borough held a short public hearing on Sept. 16, 2024, to present a proposed amendment to Zoning Ordinance No. 1118 aimed at defining and regulating "redemption games," also described in the minutes as games of skill, and to add a provision on the use of accessory structures on adjoining lots. Councilor Cross called the hearing to order at 6:05 P.M. at First Global Methodist Church, 42 East High Street.

The ordinance amendment as read in the minutes would (1) provide definitions and regulation for permitted-use zones concerning redemption games (games of skill); (2) add Section 701.04 to permit use of accessory structures on adjoining lots; and (3) include a repealer, severability clause and an effective date. The minutes do not record debate over the substance of the amendment or any detailed staff presentation of draft language.

No members of the public attended to offer comment, according to the minutes. Solicitor Tim Wachter and Constituent Services Representative Kim Tuszynski were recorded as officials present. Councilors Cross, Osborn, Steadman and Kerns were present; Councilors Joyce, Winkler and Uber were noted as absent.

Councilor Steadman moved to adjourn the public hearing; Councilor Osborn seconded the motion. The minutes state the hearing adjourned at 6:09 P.M. The record contains no vote tally on the adjournment motion and no public testimony on the proposed ordinance amendment.

The minutes do not specify next procedural steps such as a date for further consideration or a scheduled council vote on the ordinance amendment.