Jim Fosselman

The council meeting addressed various community and administrative matters. Key topics included public comments regarding the fire department and local fundraising activities, reports from the fire, police, and street departments, and updates on code enforcement efforts regarding blighted properties. The council approved the purchase and financing of a 2013 Pierce Aerial Truck, authorized applications for several DCED Multimodal Grants for paving and infrastructure projects, and approved the reapplication for a T-Mobile Hometown Grant. Additionally, the council made appointments to the FEMA committee and the First Ward Council position, hired a part-time secretary, and approved a FEMA agreement for emergency repair projects. The meeting concluded with a review of financial expenditures and a brief executive session for a legal matter.

The council discussed various operational and community issues, including concerns regarding skill-based gaming machines and amusement tax revenue from the county fair. An Eagle Scout project to replace playground equipment at a local park received support. Reports from the police and fire departments were reviewed, along with discussions regarding parking ordinances, maintenance of a local dam, and infrastructure repairs. The council authorized the purchase of a new dump truck for the street department and repairs for a truck bed, as well as the submission of a grant application for a dump truck and retaining wall construction. Financial matters, including the payment of bills, were addressed.

The meeting focused on the organization of the council for the new term, including the swearing-in of elected council members and the election of officers, specifically the Council President, Vice President, and President Pro Tem. Key appointments were made, including the Chairman of the Vacancy Board, Treasurer, Secretary, Solicitor, and representatives to the Planning Commission and regional tax collection committees. Additionally, the council designated depositories for borough funds and established power of attorney for authorized officials. A motion was passed to advertise for upcoming vacancies in the Third and Fourth Wards.

The Council meeting involved public input regarding concerns over amusement tax increases, proposed fees on internet-connected devices, and requests for handicap parking accommodations. Committee reports covered fire and police department updates, with approval recommended for a charity event at a local park. Public works discussions focused on heating fuel bid advertisements, grant applications for new equipment, and updates on FEMA storm culvert and infrastructure projects. Planning and community development items addressed blighted property management, proposed amendments to peddler permits, amusement licensing ordinances, and the transfer of Park and Shop lots. Finance updates included a review of a liquid fuel audit finding regarding past street lighting fund transfers and an upcoming hearing for a council member appointment.