Zoning Board to Hear Appeals for Variances Tonight

Norristown's Zoning Hearing Board is holding a public hearing on four scheduled appeals by local business and organizations.

On the business side, Steve Fierro, owner of at 407 East Lafayette Street is requesting a variance to expand the business by adding 6000 square feet. According to the request, they'll be demolishing three houses on Walnut Street to make room. Flower Saenz, of Easton, is requesting a variance to operate a used car sales lot at 371 East Main Street.

The at 1401 DeKalb Street is requesting a variance for the mural that's already been erected on the east side of the building by the . Apparently folks at the Health Center didn't realize they needed one when the mural went up.

Grace Lutheran Church at Haws and Airy streets is requesting a variance to operate a food pantry in the basement of the church. According to the appeal, the pantry would operate three mornings a week. The pantry in question, Interfaith Emergency Service, had originally operated out of at Stanbridge and Airy streets, but that church has closed and is now reportedly for sale.

The owner of the property must be present, or send documentation such as a power of attorney or an agreement of sale or lease agreement authorizing the applicant to represent the owner. The lease must specifically permit the application before the Zoning Hearing Board. There should be a clause stating that the application is permitted or at least that the lease is contingent upon the successful completion of the zoning application process. A corporate entity must be represented by an attorney or at least have an officer with authority (i.e. the president of the organization with specific authority to act on behalf of the corporation) present or a majority shareholder.

Persons with a disability who wish to attend the hearing and require an auxiliary aid, service or other accommodation should call 610-270-0420.