The North Whitehall Township Planning Commission met April 28 and began with a request from resident Nathan Kuster, who sought a special exception to convert a garage bay into a commissary for a small catering business.

The commission approved the request, contingent upon completion of required fire suppression and electrical inspections.

The property is located at 3375 Route 309, Orefield.

Representatives from Swagelok, including Marty Smith of Pany and Lentz Engineering, presented a proposal for preliminary and final land development approval for a building expansion, located at 4245 Independent Drive, in Schnecksville.

Company representative Rex Schultz outlined Swagelok’s operations, which include light assembly of fluid systems and product resale.

He noted the facility, built in 2000, has been in operation for more than 20 years and that the proposed expansion is needed due to continued business growth.

The planning commission recommended approval of the expansion.

The project will proceed with coordination through the Lehigh Valley Planning Commission for land development permits.

In other business, the Saxton Walks planned commercial development, located at the intersection of Cedar Crest Boulevard and Mauch Chunk Road, was withdrawn from the agenda.