HERMITAGE Planning panel: Ease restrictions

The original version might be unable to withstand a court challenge, the commission said.
By HAROLD GWIN
VINDICATOR SHARON BUREAU
HERMITAGE, Pa. -- The city planning commission says the city was a bit too restrictive in its efforts to regulate adult-oriented businesses that might want to come into Hermitage.
City commissioners introduced an ordinance last month that would ban such businesses from locating within 1,000 feet of any residential district, church, school, public park or recreation area, establishments selling alcohol or any other adult business.
The proposed legislation was sent to the Hermitage and Mercer County Regional planning commissions for their review and recommendation.
The regional body hasn't acted on it yet, but the city planning commission recommended Monday that the guidelines be relaxed a bit when it comes to location.
Objections: The 1,000-foot ban proposed in the ordinance is too restrictive because it eliminates the possibility of an adult-oriented business locating anywhere in the city and that might not be defensible should it be challenged in court, the commission said.
The commission recommended reducing the distance limit to 800 feet and eliminating establishments that sell alcohol from that ban.
There were no suggestions for changes in regulations that would limit adult-oriented businesses to the central commercial district and ban them from using any pictures or graphics or any X letters indicating X-ratings on their signs.
City officials said there have been no efforts to locate any such businesses in the city but they felt some regulation should be in place if that happens.
Other action: In other matters, the planning commission:
U Gave its approval to the first phase of a planned residential development for the Pierce Bluffs project along Lamor Road. This phase covers the construction of 27 free-standing condominium units. The project calls for the eventual construction of 45 condos and 68 single-family homes at a total cost estimated at $45 million.
U Approved a land development plan for the construction of a 3,000-square-foot office building at Dutch Lane and state Route 18. The building will be built by Mark Hudson and used as a doctor's office.