Lisa Mapes

Key discussions included the Treasurer's Report, which summarized bank accounts and presented insurance renewal amounts for the Borough and Goodwill Fire Co., along with requests for future quotes. Approvals were sought for invoice payments drawing from the Impact Fee Account and Gas Lease Royalty Account. The council reviewed and adopted the 2026 Budget, which includes no tax increase but introduces a water rate increase and a capital improvement fee effective in 2026. Water updates covered an emergency permit requirement, troubleshooting a water leak on Bee Street, and preparing the system for cold weather. Street items addressed the repair of lights on Main Street and electrical poles needing replacement. The Sewer Update involved reviewing and signing the sewer shut-off list, with letters to be drafted subsequently. Correspondence included accepting the resignation of a Sewer Authority Board member and the appointment of a replacement, acknowledgement of Liquid Fuels Funds received, and details regarding newly elected official training. Old Business included ongoing efforts to transfer phone lines to Blue Ridge and adjustments to December office hours. Finally, the resignation of Council member Tari Trowbridge, due to relocation, was accepted.

The meeting included the approval of the Treasurer's Report, summarizing receivables and payments for the Water Company, and noting gas lease royalties. Visitors addressed signage and water quality concerns, specifically regarding water smell, which the Water Operator attributed to existing piping. Key water agenda items involved the approval of an emergency permit for a second well, required testing protocols, and the approval to purchase new equipment to monitor manganese levels. Updates were provided on a quote for a required reservoir tank dialer system. Street issues included addressing ongoing streetlight outages and coordinating the placement of bricks donated by citizens. Community events, including the Halloween Event and planning for the upcoming Christmas Vendor Event, were discussed. Old business involved scheduling the Crack & Seal work for Second Street before the snow. New business included updating office hours for late December, approving the purchase of a new Microsoft Surface Laptop for the Treasurer/Secretary due to software obsolescence, and scheduling the installation of new phone lines and an internet speed upgrade for the Borough Office.

The Reorganizational Meeting involved the swearing-in of Jeffrey Shotwell as Mayor and Phillip Brewer for another four-year council term. Kristy Fassett was elected Council President. Key appointments and designations were made, including the Treasurer/Water Billing Specialist, Secretary, Open Records Officer, Tax Representative, Auditors, and Solicitor. The Millage Rate, Pay Rates, Mileage Rate, and general meeting schedule were confirmed to remain the same for 2026. Following this, a Regular Monthly Meeting commenced. Water committee discussions included lifting a boil advisory, seeking proposals for new filtration systems, updating on water testing results, and confirming the water rate increase ordinance would be voted upon in February 2026. Street committee items included reminders for snow plowing and handling Christmas decorations. In New Business, Jaime Lopez was appointed to fill a vacant Council Seat for a two-year term, and subsequently nominated for Council Vice President. Lawn bids were scheduled to go out for bid in March 2026.

The meeting addressed various financial matters, including the approval of fund transfers from the Gas Lease, Donation Account, Liquid Fuels Account, and Impact Fee to the Borough General Fund for specific expenses. Water-related discussions included updates from a virtual meeting with DEP, grant opportunities, potential loans, the purchase of a manganese analyzer, lead/copper sample results, and a leaking valve on Main Street. The idea of a Capital Improvement Fee was discussed, and the collection of past-due water receivables was emphasized. Street-related topics covered light repairs, brick placement, and the acceptance of a snow bid from D.R. Brown's Hauling for the 2025-2026 service period. The council also discussed a Halloween event and a Christmas vendor event. Other business included crack and seal work on Second Street, a Hazard Mitigation Plan, the 2026 budget review, and water rates effective 1/1/2026.

The council meeting included discussions on the Treasurer's report, a large water leak repair, and updates from the Water Operator on testing the Lower and Upper Wells. Funding opportunities for water projects were explored, including potential grants and a line of credit. Updates were provided on street lights and filling holes on Main Street. Plans for a Halloween event and a Christmas Vendor Event were discussed. Mulch spreading at the playground was reported. The council discussed snow removal bids, the 2026 budget, and the need to raise water rates, considering options like a flat fee or percentage increase.