Swarthmore Borough
Planning and Zoning Committee
Minutes for October 3, 2003

The meeting was called to order at 11:30 am and was held at the restaurant Pannera’s. Present were: Joanna Jacobs, Paul Bech, Lisa Aaron, and Jane Billings. The minutes from September, 2003, were approved unanimously.

1. There was a discussion about the pending application for a fence with a 6 foot height along the northern tip of Cedar Lane, up to the corner of Baltimore Pike. There was a brief discussion about the current fence regulations and the reasoning underlying the 31/2 foot limit. It was decided that Council should discuss in an Executive Session following Monday’s meeting the question of whether or not to take a position on this application before the Zoning Hearing Board.

2. There was a discussion regarding the current application for a conditional use for a Bed and Breakfast on North Swarthmore Avenue, which the Planning Commission will review at its next meeting. There was a question raised about whether or not the site would be the permanent residence of the applicant, and the legal requirements constituting “permanent residence.” It was decided that Joanna would summarize the questions raised to the Planning Commission at its next meeting when they are considering the application.

3. We discussed and edited the proposed home-based business ordinance, including
the suggestions we received from the Planning Commission’s review.

4. There was insufficient time to begin a lengthy discussion regarding FAZIP.
However, it was decided that we will get David Wolfsohn’s legal opinion about the feasibility of the ordinance and, if approved, review a draft at the next P&Z meeting.

5. The meeting was adjourned at 1:30 pm.


Minutes submitted by Joanna Jacobs