Towamensing Township’s Zoning Hearing Board will determine the future of Country Junction’s outdoor tent at tonight’s meeting.

Owner James Everett, of Forest Inn Property LLC, is seeking a variance from a zoning office ordinance pertaining to Country Junction’s outdoor tent.

Everett submitted an application for a final five-year extension on the tent’s temporary permit in November 2017, which Towamensing Township Zoning Officer Carl Faust denied.

“As per the Towamensing Township Zoning Ordinance 504 A, a temporary permit is not to exceed One (1) Year. This structure has had a One (1) Year permit and Zoning Variances for Two Five (5) Year extensions,” Faust wrote in a letter to Everett.

The tent was constructed following the devastating fire that leveled Country Junction in October 2006, with a permit granted so that the “World’s Largest General Store” could continue its operations until the permanent structure was built. A five-year extension was granted later on.

Everett said the tent became a significant part of Country Junction over the years, and its loss would have a severe impact on the local business.

“The use of this tent has evolved into a major part of our seasonal retail events,” Everett wrote in his letter. “The loss of the tent at this time would force us to downsize or eliminate events. Our business, along with the loss of part-time jobs and tourist business to the area would hurt the local economy.”

The board will hold the hearing at 7 p.m. today at the Towamensing Township Municipal Building. All interested parties are permitted to attend.