Hatboro currently lacks a comprehensive set of ordinances which govern the aesthetic components of remodeled buildings and new construction.  Without these ordinances, the borough lacks the power to maintain its desired historic charm and architectural appearance. 

We will work with the Historical Commission, the Millbrook Society, and citizens to develop an architectural ordinance code for Hatboro which includes required design elements for buildings, a borough color scheme, and guidelines as to the size and placement of buildings.  By enacting these new ordinances, Hatboro will have the legal grounds on which it will protect its small town charm and improve the appearance of our downtown corridor.  

The Town Center Ordinance Number 1074, adopted on January 23, 2023, created criteria for height bonuses for new construction that are too easily and cheaply met, resulting in little benefit to the community, while resulting in four and five story buildings being permissible in certain parts of Hatboro.  We will make these bonus requirements more stringent, requiring more valuable environmental bonuses, such as alternative energy usage, green roofs, and greywater reuse, to be met before aesthetic bonuses, such as benches, bike racks, and balconies can be taken.  

Increased traffic and lack of adequate parking for current and future citizens is a high priority safety concern. Without adequate parking to support high density residential developments, overflow parking from these developments will move into the existing neighborhoods.  For the safety of our citizens, we will review the current ordinances for new construction and ensure the  maximum amount of parking recommended by the most recent parking guidelines is created, with few parking reductions being granted. 

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