The Columbia Borough Planning Commission held its monthly meeting on Monday evening, November 21, in the Borough Hall conference room. Chairperson Don Haines called the meeting to order at 7:00 pm. Two Commission members, Carmen Swinehart and Terry Sears, were not present. It was learned near the end of the meeting that Swinehart had tendered her resignation because she no longer resides in the borough.

Four citizens, council president Mary Wickenheiser and petitioners from the Cycle Den were in the gallery.

CYCLE DEN

The Cycle Den’s architect requested a continuance to revisit the issue of “post-development” storm water management issues that are unclear due to verbiage. Commission member Virginia Abendschein expressed her understanding of the Commission’s intention to find a resolution to “move along” the Cycle Den construction project. Codes officer, Jeff Helm and borough’s engineer provided explanations about the dated language of the current borough codes; the introduction of new stormwater vocabulary (bio-retention, rain garden, etc.).

• What is a Rain Garden?
• What are Best Management Practices (BMP): US EPA Urban Stormwater Best Management Practices
• What is a retention basin?

At the core of the issue is the fact that the Cycle Den has plans to construct an enhanced “gateway” impression with their new site. The new site will have a significantly lessened impervious footprint than the former auto dealership, which was virtually “100 percent asphalt.” The Cycle Den’s contractor, Tom Feeser, complimented Helm for his “working with him since day one” to design a facility with increased green space.

The Commission approved an “extension” period so the project can be re-drafted to comply with the before and after footprint of “pervious” and “impervious” land use. There was continued discussion about what is required to update the borough’s code language to be compliant with current state and federal interpretations.

NORFOLK SOUTHERN SUBDIVISION PLAN

Helm provided a “plain speak” interpretation of the circumstances and actions that the borough has accomplished to bring the plan (the plan includes a significant land transfer of Norfork Southern Property “between the bridges” to the borough) to this point. The borough is under pressure to accomplish the final transfer of property before the end of the year to apply DCNR grant funds. The Norfolk Southern land acquisition coincides with the Riverfront Cabin Owners Association property sale process.

The borough will gain a road across the railroad tracks (on the West side) and the Locust Street tracks crossing will be closed. The closure of the crossing is a safety enhancement for citizens.

The Commission approved the plan with the incorporation of a “list of waviers.”

OFFICIAL MAP

The official map currently is under consideration in the purview of Council’s Legislative Committee pending the posing of questions to legal counsel. Helm commented that this is “democracy in action.”

GORMAN DISTRIBUTORS

Helm announced that, today, he distributed the permit papers to allow Gorman Distributors to occupy the site at 1201 Manor Street, the former Phoenix Packaging building.

PIZZA DELIVERY SERVICE

Helm announced “he is in continuing discussions with a new tenant” at eastern most condo at the Turkey Hill Experience. It “looks like its going to pizza … .”

PLANE STREET PROJECT

Helm informed that the project is proceeding according to plan. The rough asphalt has been applied; the curbs are in place and the sidewalks will be poured and finished quickly. Helm commented that the mild weather has aided in getting this project to its planned state. Wickenheiser stated that the residents will be able to park there “eventually.” The sidewalks may have to be “blanketed.”

MED EXPRESS MEDICAL CENTER

Helm stated the medical center is “90 percent completed.” He thinks there is a “cash flow” problem in the (storefront medical) industry. He said the property developer is “very positive” that the group is solvent and will be doing some creative things.” The property owner is moving ahead with the completion of eight second and third floor apartments.

There are 24 parking spaces at the rear of the building for apartment dwellers and business tenant customers.

PLANNING COMMISSION VACANCIES

The Commission proposed the re-nomination of Abendschein and Jay Lewis for four-year terms; the Commission will forward the nominations to Council for approval. President Haines passed around an “updated contact list” for verification to each of the members. As a result of Swinehart’s resignation, there are now two vacant positions on the Commission.

Interested residents of Columbia Borough who are interested in serving on the Planning Commission should submit a written letter of interest to the Borough offices; Jeff Helm; the president of the Planning Commission or to any member of the Borough Council.

The meeting was adjourned at 8:45 pm.