Paul Marx

The Adamstown Borough Planning Commission meeting included discussions and a recommendation regarding a special exception application for the property located at 293 E. Main Street, to convert a former motel into three one-bedroom apartments, contingent upon following proper codes. The commission also discussed revisions to the Zoning Ordinance, including proposed changes for the sign ordinance and dumpster permits, and identified definitions to be incorporated into Adamstown Borough's ordinance.

The meeting addressed several key areas, including stormwater infrastructure improvements, school zone safety lights, and water meter replacements. The council discussed and approved a Green Light Go project at the intersection of Willow Street and N. Reading Road. Updates were provided on the Summer Reading Program, tree removal around borough wells, and siding improvements on the scout cabin. The council reviewed solar installation possibilities at the WWTP, pickleball court enhancements, and lighting for sports courts. The 2026 budget, pension obligations, and a clean liquid fuels audit were also discussed. The council adopted the 2025 Lancaster County Hazard Mitigation Plan and considered replacing computers for the SCADA system. Additionally, the council discussed revisions to ordinances related to short-term rentals, signs, and parks and recreation areas. The borough also considered acquiring a parcel adjacent to the well property through eminent domain and approved a Memorandum of Understanding with the Lancaster County Planning Department. Finally, the council approved the annual 5K for Johnnie K race and discussed legal issues and wages in an executive session.

The commission discussed revisions to the Zoning Ordinance, including short-term rentals (adding liability insurance proof, posting registration permits, and establishing a single fee), long-term rentals, hotels/motels, AirBNBs and B&Bs, and sign requirements (allowing digital signs along Highway Commercial roads with restrictions). They also considered a dumpster/pod permit ordinance, regulations for air soft guns, uninspected vehicles, parking by the Post Office, apron setbacks, and restricted traffic areas.

The meeting addressed various topics, including a rug-cleaning business proposal and concerns about PFOS in the water system. Discussions also covered the upfitting of a new Public Works truck, Celebration Park playground improvements, and the appointment of a new member to the Adamstown 2026 Committee. Grove improvements, including lighting for tennis, basketball, and pickleball courts, were approved. The council also discussed potential tax and water/sewer increases due to rising interest and electric rates, along with upcoming borough projects. Code enforcement violations and a tree planting initiative were addressed, and a motion was passed to pave Main Street. The council also went into an executive session to discuss litigation.

The Adamstown Borough Council meeting included discussions on a police contract, ultimately deciding to enter into an agreement with Ephrata Borough for the next 5 years. They also discussed Adamstown 2026, building leases, and community matters such as the pickleball project grant. Additionally, the council considered a donation to St. Paul's Church, water and sewer-related issues including a waiver request and robotic reservoir inspections, and new business such as the LCPC draft zoning ordinance and the Transportation Improvement Program.