The Whitehall Township Board of Commissioners at the May 11 meeting voted unanimously to grant St. John's United Church of Christ, Fullerton, a waiver to file a zoning appeal with the township's zoning hearing board.

The $1,000 fee was waived by the six commissioners. Commissioner Dennis Hower was not present.

Members of the Grape Street church informed the commissioners it expects its membership to increase dramatically this summer by more than 100 individuals. The church was also looking for the commissioners to help develop its Field of Dreams.

Specifically, St. John's UCC wants to add additional vehicle parking on an undeveloped piece of land it has owned for more than 20 years on the north side of Sixth and Grape streets.

Officials of St. John's said the church has been growing and will continue to grow, as Dubbs UCC, Allentown, is closing its doors and congregation members will be attending services at St. John's.

John Viglione, chair of the Field of Dreams Committee, said the project involves adding more parking, a memorial garden, pavilion and a recreation area.

Commissioner Thomas Slonaker inquired what the cost of the zoning appeal would be to the township. Lee Rackus, director of planning, zoning and development, said the only costs are for the legal ad in the newspaper and a stenographer.