Michael R. McKenna

The council meeting will address several key agenda items including proposed parking restrictions on South Railroad Street, East Richland Avenue, and South Cherry Street. Discussions will cover a request from the ELCO School District to use the community pool parking lot for a bookmobile, potential revisions to the Residential Rental License Ordinance, and the development of an ordinance regarding the keeping of backyard hens. Additionally, the council will deliberate on the staff recommendation for livestreaming future meetings, a requested scope modification for the 2026 CDBG paving project, and hold an executive session.

The Council discussed regulations for e-bikes and micromobility devices, municipal waste collection options, and the Borough's Social Media Policy. A facilities use request for the Community Center was considered. Significant discussion occurred regarding potential revisions to the Residential Rental License ordinance, including the transition to a rental registry, and amendments to the Zoning Ordinance to allow for backyard hens. The Council also reviewed the creation of a standardized event use agreement, a request for technical assistance for police feasibility planning, and concerns regarding a pool fence replacement project. An executive session was held to discuss personnel matters.

The commission reviewed and acted upon a Final Subdivision Plan for 121 S. College Street submitted on behalf of the North American Baptist Seminary. The discussion covered the proposed subdivision of property to create a second lot containing the existing library building. The plan was confirmed to meet the requirements of the county's subdivision ordinance and the local zoning ordinance, with no issues raised by the borough solicitor or engineer. The commission officially recommended the plan for approval by the borough council.

The council conducted a public hearing and enacted Ordinance No. 881 to update the Non-Uniformed Employees' Pension Plan for federal compliance. Significant actions included accepting the resignation of a councilmember, approving various road project bids for 2024 and 2026, and authorizing facility-related projects such as pool fence replacements and the installation of a pickleball divider fence. The council also authorized an RFP for third-party administrator services for the pension plan, approved a payment plan agreement for property improvements, and finalized lease agreements for community center parking lot usage. Additionally, the council heard citizen concerns regarding infrastructure and property maintenance, and discussed departmental and official reports.

The council held a special meeting to gather public input and provide information regarding police service options for the Borough, including continuing with the Pennsylvania State Police, creating a local police department, or contracting with regional police agencies. Discussions included staffing, response coverage, potential costs, and the enforcement of borough ordinances. Representatives from the Lebanon County Regional Police Department presented on their capabilities. Public comments raised concerns regarding tax implications, the necessity for a local police presence, and the communication process surrounding the meeting. No official action was taken regarding the selection of a service model or financial commitments.