Union City Borough holds brief public hearing on proposed zoning amendment for "redemption games"

Union City Borough convened a public hearing Sept. 16, 2024, to present and receive comment on a proposed amendment to Zoning Ordinance #1118 that would define and regulate permitted-use zones for “redemption games” (games of skill) and add rules for 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, Union City, Pa.

The ordinance amendment, as described in the minutes, would (1) provide definitions and regulation for permitted-use zones for redemption games, commonly described in the record as games of skill; (2) add Section 701.04 to allow the use of accessory structures on adjoining lots; and (3) include a repealer clause, severability language and an effective date. The minutes do not record any additional details about zoning district boundaries, licensing requirements, fees, or enforcement mechanisms for the proposed gaming regulations.

Solicitor Tim Wachter and Constituent Services Representative Kim Tuszynski were listed as officials present. According to the minutes, no visitors attended the hearing and the public-comment period produced no testimony or submissions. With no public comment on the record, Councilor Steadman moved to adjourn the hearing and Councilor Osborn seconded; the hearing was adjourned at 6:09 p.m.

No formal vote on Ordinance #1118 is recorded in the minutes of this hearing. The record of the public hearing as reflected in the minutes will serve as the official opportunity for public notice and comment; any future formal action on the ordinance would appear in later council proceedings and minutes.

Meeting duration and attendance: the hearing opened at 6:05 p.m. and adjourned at 6:09 p.m.; Councilors Cross, Osborn, Steadman and Kerns were present and Councilors Joyce, Winkler and Uber were absent. The minutes include an attestation line indicating the hearing record was filed.

Clarifying details in the minutes are limited: the ordinance is identified as "Ordinance #1118" and the agenda items mentioned are limited to definitions/regulation for redemption games and the addition of Section 701.04 for accessory structures on adjoining lots. The minutes do not specify proposed zoning districts, technical definitions used, any proposed licensing or permit fees, or the next scheduled council action on the ordinance.