Council votes to update entire zoning ordinance

McKeesport is updating its zoning ordinance to, among other things, add microbreweries as a conditional use and allow more uses in the Regional Industrial Development Corp. business park.

“We haven’t had it updated since the 1990s,” Mayor Michael Cherepko said of the zoning ordinance, which council voted unanimously April 5 to amend in its entirety. “You get to a point where things change,”hesaid.

The majority of the zoning will stay the same. Mr. Cherepko said the changes will help prevent obstacles to future developments.

Also at the meeting, Mr. Cherepko honored four residents for living the city’s message of respect, dignity, love and hope. The awards are given quarterly.

Hannah Klingensmith, a senior at McKeesport Area High School, received the love award for conducting toy drives and other community service projects throughout the year. She is a member of National Honor Society and student council and is senior class president.

Jason DeFelice, who runs the Air Force Junior ROTC program at McKeesport Area High School, received the respect award. He is a retired Air Force senior master sergeant with 24 years of service.

“He’s a McKeesporter through and through,” Mr. Cherepko said.

Sharon Soles received the dignity award for years of volunteering to help better the city. She is a member of the McKeesport Lions Club and Kiwanis Club.

Gerald Grayson, McKeesport Area High School basketball coach, received the hope award.

“He’s been a mentor from the time I was a little kid,” Mr. Cherepko said, adding that Mr. Grayson continues mentoring students and has been a positive role model for them.

“These are people who do what they do because they just want to make life better in the community,” Mr. Cherepko said.