At the Nov. 5 Hanover Township, Lehigh County, Council meeting, council had only one new business agenda item, which was to introduce a zoning ordinance update.

Updating zoning ordinances involves a multistep process that typically includes research, public engagement, formal application, public hearings and a final vote by council.

The first step is to understand the current zoning laws and how they align with the township’s comprehensive plan which sets long-term land use goals. A public hearing is an important step to gather community feedback before council takes a final vote.

The entire zoning update process can take time, depending on its complexity. A typical zoning change may take three months, but environmental reviews with suggested changes may extend the change timeline considerably more than three months.

In township news police update, an adult bicycle was found at Bicentennial Park in East Allen Township. Anyone missing a bicycle can contact State Trooper Ryan Seiple at 717-678-4204. Pennsylvania State Police Troop M provides police services for both Hanover and East Allen townships.

The township is seeking a part-time code enforcement officer to complete the team of three. Candidates must be 21 years or older, with a clean criminal background, a high school diploma or equivalent, strong intercommunication skills and ability to work weekends and holidays. Contact township Manager Melissa Wehr at the township office for more information about the role or to apply for the position.

Council approved the minutes of the Oct. 15 special council meeting, Oct. 15 regular council meeting and the Oct. 16 special council meeting.Council also approved the township bills for Nov. 5.