The Holmesburg Civic Association last week heard a proposal from an automotive shop at 4418 Holmesburg Ave., seeking to expand from car repairs and maintenance to sales and rental.
The business, under its current owner, has been open a year. Security cameras are on site.
There is expected to be about 30 vehicles in the lot for sale or rental.
Attorney David Orphanides distributed packets of information that included pictures showing that the addition of car sales and rentals will have no impact on the surrounding area, which is at a dead end at Pennypack Creek.
Neighbors voted unanimously to not oppose the shop’s request for a special exception in front of the Zoning Board of Adjustment.
In other news:
• State Rep. Joe Hohenstein spoke, explaining that he hopes the state decides to use some of its rainy day fund money to help schools and improve infrastructure.
Hohenstein also spoke of his cosponsorship of a proposed disability inclusiveness curriculum bill, which would mandate that all students in Pennsylvania be taught about the political, economic and social contributions of persons with disabilities. There is expected to be a hearing and vote in January, and Hohenstein is hopeful of passage in the Republican-controlled House, as GOP Rep. Jason Ortitay is the sponsor. The measure is House Bill 726, so named because President George H.W. Bush signed the Americans with Disabilities Act on July 26, 1990.
• State Sen. Tina Tartaglione will hold a senior expo on Thursday, Oct. 21, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., at Mayfair Community Center, 2990 St. Vincent St. Masks are required. All senior citizens and their primary caregivers are invited. Representatives from various government agencies as well as public and private service providers will be available to discuss programs and services for older Philadelphians. Call 215-291-4653.
• Holmesburg Civic will elect a vice president and treasurer at its November meeting. The vice president slot is open, and there are no nominees. Incumbent treasurer Barb Kleschick was nominated for another term.
• Several neighbors complained about some local car repair shops performing work on residential streets. City Councilman Bobby Henon has a bill that would address the issue.
• Riverfront North Partnership will hold a free tree giveaway on Saturday, Oct. 23, from 10 a.m. to noon, at Pennypack on the Delaware, 7801 State Road. To register, call 215-425-8350 or visit riverfrontnorth.org/trees. ••
