Allentown · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Allentown public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Beauty Salon Zoning Variance at 440 N 10th St
A new beauty salon requested a parking variance because the historic commercial building lacks standard off-street parking. The board approved the shop after hearing that the operator reduced the number of chairs and that two garage spaces are available in the rear.
Garage Conversion to Commercial Business at 436 N. 2nd St.
City zoning officials halted a hair salon application at 436 N. 2nd St. after discovering unverified auto repair, vehicle storage, and graphic design activities occurring on site without proper permits.
Supermarket Loading Dock Expansion & Traffic Safety
A local supermarket needed a rear setback variance to build a modern loading dock so delivery trucks wouldn't block busy 7th Street. Neighbors raised concerns about large trucks hitting parked cars on narrow Silk Street, leading the board to require trucks to use 7th Street instead.
Residential Density and Conversion at 827 N. 5th St.
The board was scheduled to review a proposal to turn a single-family home into three apartments, which raises questions about neighborhood density and parking availability in the N2 district.
Historic District Window and Door Compliance
A property owner appeared before the board to discuss an unpermitted front door replacement intended to address tenant security concerns. The board explained the historic guidelines and instructed her on the formal review process for violations.
Zoning Code Implementation and Future Amendments
Staff is working through public and staff confusion regarding applications under old versus new zoning codes, with a first round of administrative amendments anticipated in April.
Allentown Parking Authority Board Residency and Representation
City leaders want to drop the rule that parking authority board members must also serve on the Allentown Economic Development Corporation, opening seats up to regular residents. They also discussed ways to make sure the board doesn't end up stacked with too many elected officials.
Residential Parking Permit Program and Ordinance Updates
Council members and residents discussed the limitations of the current residential parking permit system, exploring how density-based rules and outdated neighborhood designations impact downtown parking availability.
Subdivision and Variances for New Single-Family Home at 928 West Chew Street
A developer sought to split a 4,600-square-foot lot in half to build a second affordable housing unit facing Oak Street while keeping rear parking. The zoning board ultimately denied the project, deciding that the property already had a reasonable use and that the requested variances would improperly expand non-conforming lot dimensions.
Arts Commission Scope and Advisory Role
Commissioners discussed whether their board should have a formal advisory voice in public art for development projects, similar to other city commissions. Members also noted that past annual funding has been significantly reduced, shifting focus primarily toward public art restoration.
Commercial Truck Cab Parking in Residential Area
The zoning board addressed the ongoing issue of commercial truck parking on residential properties, reinforcing that city ordinances prohibit heavy commercial vehicles in residential zones without a proven land hardship.
Unpermitted Building Encroachment at 638 N. 2nd St.
Homeowners built a second-floor addition back in 2014 without permits, reducing the side yard setback by 17 inches. Following neighbor complaints regarding safety and maintenance access, the board denied the variance.
Residential Conversion and Parking Requirements at 21 N. 11th St.
Property owners sought to legalize a three-family dwelling layout inside an existing structure. The board approved the conversion with a condition requiring four off-site leased parking spaces to address neighborhood parking strains.
Residential Conversion on Ridge Avenue
A property owner is converting a vacant dental office into two new apartments to help address housing needs, though the landlocked lot requires careful attention to fire safety and egress.