Chrissi Thomas

The Borough Council of the Borough of Middletown is considering the adoption of an ordinance to amend the code of ordinances. The amendment involves creating a new chapter to establish a special fund dedicated to the improvement, beautification, and maintenance of the town square.

The Dauphin County Comprehensive Plan, titled "Growing Together," establishes an overall vision for the future of Dauphin County. It focuses on three key pillars: Enhancing Communities, Improving the Environment, and Encouraging Economic Development. The plan aims to set direction, identify goals for community, environmental, and economic initiatives, and provide implementable methods and actions to achieve these goals.

The council meeting included discussions and actions on various items. The council approved the payment of bills, including those for holiday banners, and payment to Hayden Power Group for construction work on the Spruce Street substation. A retainer agreement with HRG was approved for the submission of a grant application for the South Union Street Park Improvement, with a commitment to fund the 15% match through the 2026 budget or cash reserves. Additionally, the council adopted an ordinance amending regulations for temporary sponsorship signs at Oakills Park, appointed a liaison for tax information sharing with Burkheimimer, established Credit Tech as the collector of fees and charges, and appointed a voting delegate for the Pennsylvania State Association of Buroughs conference. A side letter agreement was approved to resolve a dispute over holiday benefits with the Middletown Police Officer Association.

The committee reviewed operational updates, including completed sewer flushing, ongoing Well 4 upgrades, and repairs to the Booster Station and other equipment. Discussions included the Susquehanna River Basin Commission's (SRBC) proposed decrease in allowable flow from Well 6 and ongoing efforts to address this. Customer service updates covered the nearly complete meter replacement program and positive water and sewer revenue trends. The capital investment and engineering report highlighted the wrapping up of the 2018/2021 infrastructure replacement project and upcoming work for 2022/2023, including water storage tank rehabilitation projects. The committee also discussed the CPI's impact on future rate increases, noting an anticipated 8% increase offset by a lower-than-expected water sales shortfall. The Royalton contract update involved discussions regarding a time extension, with a proposed three-month extension suggested. Community outreach efforts, including the Frosty 5k, were also reviewed. Finally, a cyber-attack at another water authority was discussed, highlighting the importance of cybersecurity measures.

The committee reviewed and approved the minutes from the June 13, 2023 meeting. Operational updates included the small meter replacement program, hydrant flushing, leak detection, and clarifier maintenance. Discussions covered equipment repairs, the Well 4 upgrade, and the impact of a drought watch on water consumption. Customer service updates included water revenue and consumption analysis, with a focus on Royalton's unusually high consumption. The capital investment report covered the wastewater project completion, the upcoming water project, and planning for the 2022/2023 project. Discussions also included a proposal to relocate a water main due to easement issues, and an engineering report on the wet well project, including cost estimates for necessary improvements. The committee reviewed the CPI and its impact on future rate increases, and discussed the Royalton agreement. Finally, community service activities and the date of the next meeting were noted.