McDONALD — The McDonald Village Planning Commission has approved the rezoning of the corner lot at 452 Pennsylvania Ave. to create additional parking space for the municipal building.

The commission at its July 29 meeting approved rezoning the village-owned property at the corner of Fifth Street and Pennsylvania Avenue from residential to commercial. Mayor Glenn Puckett said the property was acquired by the village at auction for $40,000.

There used to be a house on the property, but it was torn down.

Puckett said the village will be able to use the property for more parking for the many people who come to village offices to pay bills. He said the land is on the same side of the road as the municipal building and will prevent people from having to walk across the street as they do now.

Officials said the new lot will provide more safety for residents and employees with closer and easier access.

Village Administrator Thomas Domitrovich said the land surrounding the property mostly is already owned by the village. The matter will next to be sent to village council for approval.

Puckett said they would like to have the parking lot project done this year, but it may have to wait until 2021 because of the current financial situation.

He said RITA has informed the village of an expected loss of between $150,000 and $250,000 in income tax.

“The project will depend on the funding situation,” he said.

Puckett said the planned paving of Massachusetts and Connecticut avenues also has been placed on hold until officials see what funds are available.

He said many communities have been affected by General Motors closing last year and are now being affected by unemployment caused by the coronavirus pandemic.

Puckett said the COVID-19 situation has caused many changes, with fewer park activities for children and the continued closing of the senior center.

Also, Councilman Brian Fisher reported the village has acquired a new bucket for the truck to be used for fixing traffic signals, trimming trees on village lots and putting up Christmas decorations. Previously the village rented a bucket truck.

bcoupland@tribtoday.com