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JUNE 4-10, 2026
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Bath Planning Commission Photo of the Month Recommends rezoning for proposed Apartment development By SAVANNAH BROWN The Bath Borough Planning Commission unanimously recommended a proposed zoning change for a vacant 18acre property at 467 W. Main St. during its meeting on Monday, May 18, moving a potential apartment development one step closer to consideration by Bath Borough Council. The recommendation would change the property's zoning designation from Manufactured Commercial (MC) to High Density Residential (R3), allowing a residential development proposed by Monocacy Builders. The property
currently is vacant and bordered by residential neighborhoods and an existing R-3 district. Representing applicant Plamen “Rocco” Ayvazov from Monocacy Builders LLC, Attorney Victor Scomillio said the company is under an agreement to purchase the property and is seeking a sketch plan review while pursuing the zoning amendment. He said the current commercial zoning has effectively limited development opportunities on the site and that the proposed zoning change would allow for a more efficient use of the land. Scomillio said the development
concept includes approximately 217 to 220 apartment units, down from an earlier estimate of 244 units because of the property's steep topography. The project would consist of eight buildings containing one- and two-bedroom apartments, with rental rates expected to range from approximately $1,400 to $2,000 per month. The proposed development would be accessed primarily from West Main Street, with an emergency access point on Century Drive. Scomillio emphasized that residents would Continued on page 7
Lehigh Township gets Jaindl update, Interviews new police officers By LAURA KLOTZ The Lehigh Township Board of Supervisors met prior to their May 26 meeting in order to conduct interviews of two potential new hires for the Police Department. They agreed to extend conditional offers of employment to both candidates, subject to the completion of their drug tests, polygraphs and psychological examinations. On the recommendation of Police Chief John Henry, they also agreed to conclude the probationary period of Officer Richard Houser and make him a permanent officer beginning on June 10.
Representatives of the Lehigh Valley Resort and Spa project presented the supervisors with an update. The ground for the new wastewater treatment plant was broken on Indian Trail Road at the beginning of May, and the first phase is expected to be completed within two weeks. Tanks will be set in July. The majority of the construction should be completed by September, though it was acknowledged that the project may be affected by the weather; however, they are on or ahead of schedule. The project team is working closely with the Lehigh
Township Municipal Authority. Equipment will not be put into the new structure before 2027. In response to an audience question, it was confirmed that everything being built in the Indian Trail Park area is being situated well above the 100-year flood level, so even if the creek at the park were to flood, the buildings will be very safe. After the treatment plant is completed, the next phase will most likely be installing the water line from the city of Bethlehem. On the resort side, they are currently addressing issues inside the building and are “excited to get going” once the water
Beatrice Christoff Amaryllis in bloom for Mother’s Day, May 10, 2026 Northampton, PA treatment plant is ready. The project’s plan recording is due to expire in August, and they expect to request an extension of one year to cover all bases. Jaindl is still going to provide Indian Trail Park with playground equipment once the recreation board confirms what they want. Township Manager Alice Rehrig reported that the township has won gaming grants
from both Monroe County and Northampton County, which Continued on page 6
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