Union City holds public hearing on proposed Zoning Ordinance change to regulate "games of skill"

The Borough of Union City convened a public hearing on Sept. 16, 2024, to present a proposed amendment to Zoning Ordinance #1118 that would define and regulate "redemption games," also described in the text as "games of skill," and add Section 701.04 to allow use of accessory structures on adjoining lots. The hearing was held at First Global Methodist Church and was called to order at 6:05 p.m. by Councilor Cross.

The stated purpose of the session, as recorded in the minutes, was "to provide information and receive public comment on the proposed amendment to Zoning Ordinance #1118," including a repealer, severability clause, and effective-date language. The text of the proposal, as read into the record, focuses on three components: (1) providing definitions and permitted-use zoning designations for redemption games/games of skill, (2) adding rules for accessory structures sited on adjoining lots under a new Section 701.04, and (3) standard repealer/severability/effective-date provisions. No public commenters attended to offer testimony.

Councilor Steadman moved to adjourn the hearing; Councilor Osborn seconded the motion, and the hearing was recorded as adjourned at 6:09 p.m. The minutes do not record a council vote on the ordinance nor any formal decision at the hearing; the hearing served to present the proposal and solicit public comment. The borough's minutes include the vision statement: "The Union City area is a thriving rural community of families, businesses and organizations dedicated to encouraging growth while maintaining small town values."

Next steps are not specified in the transcript. The record lists Solicitor Tim Wachter and Constituent Services Representative Kim Tuszynski as officials in attendance; the minutes note that no visitors were present to provide public comment.