NEW CASTLE Zoning board considers stalling development

The family thinks the video store is encroaching.
By LAURE CIOFFI
VINDICATOR NEW CASTLE BUREAU
NEW CASTLE, Pa. -- The city zoning board expects to decide by late June if a new commercial development will be stalled.
Rose Przybylski of New Castle has asked the board to invalidate two decisions made by city council that pave the way for a new video store on Wilmington Road.
Przybylski's daughter, Andrea, said her family opposes the video store there because it is encroaching on a residential neighborhood.
The development is taking four homes and Point Grille to make room for a Family Video store, a national chain of video rental stores.
The Przybylski family lives on nearby Laurel Avenue.
Was proper procedure used?
The family contends city council did not follow proper procedure when it changed zoning for commercial use. It had previously been transitional zoning, which allows for homes and some small businesses.
The Przybylski family also contends city council's vote on the matter is invalid because Councilman Mark Elisco participated in the discussion before council voted. Elisco, a part owner of the Point Grille, abstained from voting.
Jonathan Robison, an attorney representing the family, said Elisco should not have even been part of the discussion.
Robison also contends the city did not follow proper procedure when getting recommendations on the zoning change from the city and county planning commissions.
Councilwoman Patricia May said following the hearing council followed proper procedures.
A special meeting of the zoning hearing board is set for 1:30 p.m. June 26.