JEANNETTE COUNCIL RETHINKING ZONING CHANGE REQUEST

Concerned residents have prompted Jeannette council members to rethink a zoning change request for property near the former Monsour Medical Center.  The Trib reports that the change would allow proposed townhomes to be built on the surrounding property.  Several residents shared worries Monday that if a section of a residential neighborhood is changed to a commercial zoning to accommodate the proposal, it could open the area near Route 30 up to unwanted development beyond homes.About 40 people attended the public hearing Monday, and all of those who spoke during it were opposed to altering the zoning to accommodate the proposed town homes. They were concerned about additional traffic, the possibility of stormwater issues, altering the makeup of the neighborhood and reduced property values.