Michael D. Fuesser

The meeting commenced with the swearing-in of new and reappointed members. Key agenda items included the election of the Chairperson and Vice Chairperson for 2026, with resulting abstentions noted for the votes. The Commission reviewed and recommended approval for 'Living York: A Comprehensive Plan for our Future' via Planning Resolution 2026-1, incorporating two specific corrections regarding commission member acknowledgments and school capacity coordination. Furthermore, the body reviewed and recommended approval for a zoning text amendment to the HC (highway commercial) district, which involved correcting language, adding uses such as veterinary care and car wash (as special exception), and updating the district purpose statement. The Commission also approved street names for the Tradition at Springlake subdivision. A request for preliminary plat approval for a cluster subdivision on McClain Street was tabled to allow staff to provide additional information comparing the developer's proposal against Board of Zoning Appeals (BZA) conditions, specifically requesting compliance confirmation, prohibition of on-street parking, enhanced landscaping, and increased building setbacks for certain lots. Finally, the street names for the Tender Hearts Cluster subdivision were approved, and an overview of upcoming text amendments was provided.

The agenda for the meeting included several presentations, such as the retirement of Chief Brian Rose and the promotion of Scott Shillinglaw, along with the introduction of a new Public Works employee, Jeremy Gibson. The meeting was scheduled to hold a public hearing for the second reading of Ordinances 26-768 (Comprehensive Plan Update) and 26-769 (Amending Highway Commercial Zoning District). Old business focused on the second readings of multiple ordinances covering planning, administration (procurement), utility billing, and police (golf carts). New business involved first readings for several ordinances related to planning (Floodplain, Subdivision, Zoning), administration (Consent Agenda), utilities (Grinder Stations Policy), and budget scheduling for FY26-27. The Council also planned to discuss special event applications and receive a final update on Hurricane Helene FEMA Reimbursement. The session included a scheduled Executive Session to discuss contractual negotiations and matters related to the York Housing Authority Board of Commissioners.

The meeting agenda for the City of York Board of Architectural Review included several applications for Certificates of Appropriateness (COA). For the Local Historic District, applications involved the replacement of two exterior doors at the McCelvey Center and exterior renovations, including window replacements, at 235 East Jefferson Street. For the Gateway Corridor Overlay District, applications concerned wall signage for Pizza Hut, refacing and paint for Taco Bell signage, revisions to previously approved elevations for York Fire Station 2, a proposed Childcare Center for Creative Kids, and a proposed tire sales & maintenance center for Mavis Tire Shop. The agenda also included a review of staff-approved COA applications for window signage at Sweet Southern Gals and paint/maintenance for Five Blossoms Shoppe, along with Planning Director updates.

The Board of Zoning Appeals conducted public hearings and made decisions on several applications. Key items included the approval of a variance application for parking and landscaping requirements for the Lincoln Road Park improvements, which involved reducing requirements for wheel stops, shrubs, and trees. A special exception application for freestanding and instructional signage for Lincoln Road Park was also unanimously approved. Furthermore, a special exception application for freestanding informational signage at Moore Park received approval. A variance application concerning zoning requirements for constructing a single-family home at 805 Hunter Street, specifically seeking reductions in lot area and street frontage, was approved with a 5:1 vote. A special exception application for Freedom Barbers and Hair Academy to operate at 7 North Congress Street was approved. Finally, the Board approved a special exception and associated variance applications for a 24-unit apartment building proposed off Ross Cannon Street and Charlotte Street, following a recommendation from the Planning Commission. The meeting concluded with the unanimous approval of the 2026 draft meeting calendar.

Key discussions included the welcoming of the new Planner II, Lauren Hebert. The Board unanimously approved a certificate of appropriateness (COA) application for window replacement at 11 College Street, finding that the proposal complied with the Historical District Construction Design Standards. The Board also discussed slate roof replacement options for a home at 111 North Congress Street, agreeing to allow GAF Slate Line shingles on areas not visible from the street. Additionally, the Board received documentation on certificate of appropriateness applications and an update on one staff-approved COA application for a swimming pool at 224 East Liberty Street.