Karen Leach

The committee held workshop meetings covering Highway, Sewer, and Water departments. Key topics included requests to plant a tree in the park, personnel hiring challenges, maintenance issues such as weed control and repainting, infrastructure concerns like aging pipes and the Factory Street condition, and potential equipment purchases. Discussions on the Sewer system focused on emergency repairs, grease control ordinances, and toxic reduction planning. The Water committee addressed staffing and training, efficiency improvements in flushing hydrants, repair costs for pumps and water mains, potential infrastructure upgrades for the Victory Park water tank, and outsourcing water sampling services.

The council discussed the potential hiring of an animal control officer and the need for updated borough ordinances regarding animal control. Key points included differentiating between a standard animal control officer and a humane officer with arrest authority, exploring partnerships with the Lehigh Valley Humane Society, and examining the feasibility of regional collaboration with neighboring municipalities. A research plan was initiated to gather data on the frequency of dog-related incidents to inform future decisions by the Public Safety Committee.

The committee meeting addressed multiple topics across departments. Finance/Planning/Zoning discussions included the potential installation of gas lines near schools, the recruitment of a full-time Code Enforcement Officer, the evaluation of different approaches for a Pavement Condition Study, engineering services for Shadow Oaks Lane, and pursuit of a Tourism Development Grant. The Public Safety committee discussed the implementation of an Animal Control Officer, various financing and discount options for a new fire truck, upcoming fundraising events for the fire department, and the status of the police training center lease.

The council adopted Resolution R-13-26, authorizing the borough to apply for a tourism grant from Lehigh County for 2027 events, and Resolution R-14-26, authorizing the application for a quality-of-life grant from Lehigh County for the Main Street Beautification Project.

The council discussed several operational and community matters. Key agenda items included the authorization to purchase a new fire truck, research regarding the appointment of an animal control officer, and approval of plans for the 100 Steps project. The council approved grant applications for park improvements and economic development projects, authorized various community event requests such as concerts and food truck sales, and addressed a request regarding library employee healthcare benefits. Financial approvals included the payment of bills and fund transfers, while an executive session was convened to deliberate on legal and real estate matters.