The first South Whitehall commissioners meeting of the new year was held Jan. 15.

The meeting scheduled for Jan. 2 was canceled due to a lack of a quorum.

Commissioners discussed a proposal for a text amendment to allow larger restaurant pads, 7,000-8,000 square feet, in the Ridge Farms development.

The site was originally designed for smaller restaurants, around 5,000 square feet.

Applicant Kay Walbert LLC, asked whether the board would support the change.

Some commissioners expressed concerns about the original intent of the development, which was to maintain small, neighborhood-oriented restaurants.

“Personally, I’d like to see an 8,000 square foot restaurant,” Commissioner Chris Peischl said.

He mentioned a restaurant along Schoenersville Road, Bethlehem, where on the day of a football game, the atmosphere is neighborly.

He said his son, who is in his 20s, goes there.

Commissioner Monica Hodges also commented.

“One of the things that weighs most heavily for me is public trust, and it’s really important to me that we deliver on that and not switch it up, at least not without a full public engagement,” Hodges said. “To keep that communication with our residents and keep that trust with our residents, as well.

“At this time, I’m really reluctant to approve this, and I hope you can understand it and respect it.”

President of Kay Builders Rick Koze was asked when he plans to start building the apartments.

“The next phase of the development will focus on condos on the west side, expected to start in the summer (around July),” Koze said. “On the east side, there’s another phase that will likely follow right after.

“The team is working on agreeing on the necessary improvements that will support this western development.”

Koze said the main goal is to keep the project moving forward.

“There’s an interest in getting some amenities in place early, but if they have to wait 10 years to get things like restaurants, that’s fine.

“The approach is flexible, and they are willing to offer below-market rates to attract the right tenants.

“However, they’re not willing to just fill spaces with sub par businesses or allow the development to stay vacant for years.

“There’s also mention of building apartments and including retail, but again, the focus is on quality tenants, not rushing to fill the space.

“In short, the project is moving ahead, but with a focus on quality and long-term viability rather than forcing quick but sub par solutions.”

The board voted to not support the text amendment at this time.

The motion was passed with three votes in favor and two opposed.