Planning Commission discusses parking, rule changes, and medical marijuana

The final Milford Borough Planning Commission meeting of the year sought to finalize the rewriting of several ordinances while tabling others to be worked on in the new year.

The Commission discussed a variety of matters, including state recycling funding, which requires a permanent ban on leaf burning. Leaf burning is currently allowed only in the borough between October 1 and November 30.

Changes to the Residential Farm Ordinance specify that manure will not be considered an offensive odor, as it is needed for seasonal fertilizing purposes. This will be the only exception, as it will continue to classify sewage, sludge, or animal feed waste as offensive smells and not permit them within the borough.

Off-street parking was discussed at length. Some borough homes lack driveways, forcing residents to seek either street parking or neighborly parking permission. The Zoning and Housing Board was initially considered for parking oversight, however, the board declined, anticipating excessive bureaucracy. While nothing was finalized at the meeting, there will be more dialogue to resolve the matter in the coming months.

Discussion regarding regulations for medical marijuana within Milford Borough was touched on, using examples from Matamoras and other townships that have already implemented ordinances. New regulations regarding the research, cultivation, and distribution of medical marijuana are likely next year. The Commission noted that it is unlikely that the borough will have the space required to do anything involving medical marijuana, but the township might.

Skill games will also be getting their own ordinance, separated from Milford Borough’s current gambling and betting ordinance. Skill games are technically not considered gambling. Several cases are currently being pursued in the Pennsylvania courts to determine the classification and litigation of these games.

Next year, the Milford Borough Planning Commission meetings will change from the first and third Mondays to the first and fourth Mondays of the month.