The site, which is currently undergoing an environmental clean-up, will retain its commercial zoning under the new plan. The borough council aims to ensure that any future uses of the site align with their vision for the district. The plan also prevents the granting of use variances by the board, unless a redevelopment agreement has been entered into with the council.

Emily Gibbin, presenting the plan at the board meeting, highlighted that the proposed plan does not alter the existing zoning. Instead, it positions the borough council to act as a redevelopment entity, ensuring the property remains a commercially viable asset in the business district. This strategy is seen as another “tool in the toolbox” for the borough council to guide the site’s future development in line with local preferences.

Frank Little Jr., Board Engineer, supported the proposal, stating that it aligns with the borough’s master plan goals and current ordinances. He appreciated the plan’s consistency, stating, “we’re adopting this with the underlying zoning so it’s going to meet the setbacks, the coverage, everything that we currently have for any other development in town.”

The board unanimously approved resolution 227 2023 to advance the redevelopment plan. However, any substantive changes based on public comments at a subsequent council meeting might require reintroduction and further review by the board.