Union City holds public hearing on proposed zoning changes for redemption games and accessory structures

Union City Borough held a public hearing Sept. 16, 2024, to provide information and receive public comment on a proposed amendment to Zoning Ordinance #1118. The hearing, called to order by Councilor Cross at 6:05 p.m. at First Global Methodist Church, reviewed proposed language to define and regulate redemption games (described in the record as "games of skill") and to add Section 701.04 permitting the use of accessory structures on adjoining lots. The minutes list a repealer, severability clause and an effective date for the ordinance but do not specify the effective date.

The meeting opened with the borough's 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." Councilors Cross, Osborn, Steadman and Kerns were recorded as present; Councilors Joyce, Winkler and Uber were recorded as absent. Solicitor Tim Wachter and Constituent Services Representative Kim Tuszynski were listed as officials present. The minutes state that no visitors attended the hearing and that no public comments were offered.

Procedurally, Councilor Steadman moved that the hearing be adjourned; Councilor Osborn seconded. The minutes record that "the hearing adjourned at 6:09 P.M." The record does not provide a roll-call or vote tally for the adjournment motion, nor does it record any public testimony or formal committee recommendations on the substance of the zoning amendment.

Next steps are not specified in the minutes provided. The record identifies the amendment's subjects and the ordinance number (#1118); it does not include proposed ordinance text, a staff report, dates for subsequent council consideration, or an effective date. Residents or interested parties seeking more information should contact Borough officials for the full amendment text and the schedule for any future council action.