BETHLEHEM, Pa. — The city planning commission unanimously approved a change in zoning rules that would permit day care services in nature and environmental education centers.
The changes voted upon Thursday clarify uses in three areas: community recreation centers, environmental education centers and nature preserves.
They now go to city council for approval.
- The Bethlehem City Planning Commission voted in support of implementing day care operations in nature and environmental education centers
- A board member of Camel's Hump Farm — a nature education center and community garden — said the changes will benefit children who visit the farm
- City council will be next to take up the measure
Planning Director Darlene Heller said the proposal was made in light of Bethlehem's Climate Action Plan, which supports nonprofit agencies involving day care, wildlife viewing areas, playscapes, education and other areas.
“The mayor has made an announcement a couple, few months ago, about the opportunity to create a new Community Recreation Center in South Bethlehem. And so, these definitions really just help to clarify and define new uses.”Darlene Heller, planning director
“The mayor has made an announcement a couple, few months ago, about the opportunity to create a new community recreation center in South Bethlehem,” Heller said. “And so, these definitions really just help to clarify and define new uses.”
Victoria Bastidas, president of the board for Camel’s Hump Farm — a nature education center and community garden on Santee Mill Road — came to the podium in support of including child care in local nature education centers and beyond.
She said those types of facilities are regulated by the state Department of Human Services. The changes would allow more children to access Camel's Hump Farm, she added.
“If you choose not to do this, then no child under the age of 16 can attend any programming during the school year without a parent,” Bastidas explained.
She said planners' approval of the amendment would provide a safe space and adequate care for the kids who visit the farm for community service opportunities and more.
One Bethlehem Township resident said he spent most of his after-school time as a kid out in nature near Allentown.
“I implore you to show up for the council meeting with the same type of passion that you gave here tonight — and I commend you for that."Rob Melosky, planning commission chairman
His recent experiences at Camel’s Hump Farm brought him out of depression, he said.
“It would be a wonderful thing if it’s in your city, or if it’s on the outskirts of your city — no matter where it would be,” he said. “ … As I said, as a child I spent my time basically the same way, and it’s a great feeling to be able to do it again.”
A couple who live near the farm as well as a camp counselor spoke in support for what the organization does for children in the area.
Following unanimous approval from the planning commission, city council is next to consider the matter.
“I implore you to show up for the council meeting with the same type of passion that you gave here tonight — and I commend you for that,” said planning commission Chairman Rob Melosky.
