Union City holds public hearing on zoning amendment to regulate redemption games; no public comment

Union City Borough held a public hearing Sept. 16, 2024, on a proposed amendment to Zoning Ordinance No. 1118 that would define and regulate "redemption games," also described in the documents as "games of skill," and would add Section 701.04 to provide for accessory structures on adjoining lots. The hearing was called to order at 6:05 p.m. by Councilor Cross at First Global Methodist Church, 42 East High Street.

The ordinance amendment, as described in the hearing notice, would (1) add definitions and regulations for permitted-use zones for redemption games; (2) add Section 701.04 to authorize use of accessory structures on adjoining lots; and (3) include a repealer, severability and an effective-date clause. The borough's vision statement was read at the start of the hearing: “The Union City area is a thriving rural community of families, businesses and organizations dedicated to encouraging growth while maintaining small town values.”

No visitors or members of the public offered comment during the hearing, and no formal testimony was recorded in the minutes. After the presentation of the ordinance language and the opportunity for comment, Councilor Steadman moved "that the public hearing be adjourned." Councilor Osborn seconded the motion, and the minutes record that the hearing adjourned at 6:09 p.m.

The minutes list Councilors Cross, Osborn, Steadman and Kerns as present and Joyce, Winkler and Uber as absent. Solicitor Tim Wachter and Constituent Services Representative Kim Tuszynski are recorded as the officials present. The hearing minutes do not record any vote on Ordinance No. 1118 or any public testimony; they do not specify a date when the council will next consider the ordinance or when written comments (if any) must be filed.