Two Zoning Appeals Continued in Bethlehem

Happy birthday, Suzanne!

Unlike the 4 1/2 hour hearings that are becoming the norm for Bethlehem's Zoning hearing Board, its October 24 hearing was a quick one. Zoning Officer Suzanne Borzak, celebrating her 25th birthday, was actually able to go home early.

The first matter involved the former Anna Maria Restaurant, located at 114 W. 4th Street. When Pastor Wesley Jun purchased the property in 2004, he lived on the third floor, and the restaurant operated below him. When it closed a few months later, he moved his family into the building.

"I had no idea I needed a permit to live there," Jun told zoners. So he filed an application allowing him to convert the former restaurant into a single family dwelling. But during the hearing, he disclosed that he is now renting out the third floor. As a result, his matter was continued so that it can be re-advertised as a multi-family dwelling.

In the second case considered, Keystone Country Building Group is seeking relief that would allow it to build a dwelling at 1456 Philip Street, even though the property is located on a steep slope. But that matter had to be continued, too.

Under questioning by Attorney Lisa Pereira, Keystone principal Brad Stine revealed that he had just revised his plans. The proposed home would be located less than 5' from the street, in violation of the zoning ordinance. In order to obtain relief from this requirement, the matter needs to be re-advertised. Stine's proposal is already being opposed by neighbor Jeff Hernandez, represented by Attorney Frank Trodato.

Both cases will be heard at he next regularly scheduled Zoning Hearing Board meeting, on November 29 at 7PM.