Emmaus, PA
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We have no upcoming meetings on file for Emmaus. The most recent record we hold is from Mon Aug 17, 2026. Newer meetings may not have been published to the official portal yet, or may not have been collected by us yet — this is a statement about our record, not about whether the board or council has met.
EmmausPA averageUS Census ACS
Median home value
$244,300 Typical home value $396,894 +4.3% yr/yr · +31.2% 5-yr
👤 Members & officials (10)
Members seen in recent official meeting records — names and roles as published.
Who’s on the Planning Commission Meetings
- Christian Didra
- Eric Furhmann
- J.P. Raynock
- Jason Ulrich
- Josh Grice
- Michael Gibson
- Nigel Watt
- Robert Toth
- Shane Pepe
- Todd Ackerman
Recent meetings
Mon Aug 17, 2026
Borough Council Meetings
Council to consider vacating part of Perkiomen Street
The Emmaus Borough Council is meeting to hold a public hearing and consider Ordinance 1288, which would vacate a portion of Perkiomen Street. The agenda also includes solicitor comments, public comments, and council comments before adjournment.
- Public hearing on Ordinance 1288 to vacate a portion of Perkiomen Street
public-hearingordinancestreetsvacation
📄 From the agenda
Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
Emmaus Borough Council
Agenda
August 17, 2026 6:00 PM
1.
Attendance of Council Members
2.
Public Hearing
2.1 Ordinance 1288: An Ordinance of the Borough of Emmaus, Lehigh County, Commonwealth of
Pennsylvania, Vacating a Portion of Perkiomen Street and Providing for Severability and an
Effective Date
3.
Solicitor Comments
4.
Public Comments
5.
Council Comments
6.
Adjournment
August 17, 2026
Mon Aug 17, 2026
Borough Council Meetings
Council to consider vacating Perkiomen Street and disabled parking spots
The Emmaus Borough Council will consider several ordinances, including vacating a portion of Perkiomen Street, adding residential disabled parking signs at 217 N 7th Street and 368 Broad Street, and making Adrain Street a two-way street. The council will also review resignations, a request to use a borough-owned parking lot, and a recommendation to retain a firefighter.
- Ordinance 1288: Vacating a portion of Perkiomen Street
- Ordinance 1289: Disabled parking at 217 N 7th Street
- Ordinance 1290: Disabled parking at 368 Broad Street
- Ordinance 1291: Adrain Street two-way conversion
- Resignations from auxiliary police, ambulance, and officer Kloss
ordinancesparkingstreetsresignationspublic-safety
📄 From the agenda
Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
Emmaus Borough Council
Agenda
August 17, 2026 6:00 PM
1.
Call to Order
2.
Pledge of Allegiance
3.
Personal Appeals, Part I
4.
Community Minute
5.
Special Presentations
5.A Community of Distinction Award Presentation
6.
Reading of Council Meeting Minutes
6.A July 20, 2026 Council Meeting Minutes
6.B July 20, 2026 Public Hearing Minutes
7.
Decisions on Bids
8.
Communications
8.A Jerald Ray Brown Jr. Resignation from the Auxiliary Police
8.B Officer Kloss Letter of Resignation
8.C Emmaus Main Street Partners Request Use of Borough-owned Parking Lot
8.D Andrew Lopez Letter of Resignation with the Ambulance Department Effective Immediately
9.
Borough Engineer's Report
10. Solicitor's Report
11. Unfinished Business, Part I
11.A Ordinance 1289: An Ordinance of the Borough of Emmaus, Lehigh County, Pennsylvania,
amending Chapter 15 §602.3.a of the Emmaus Borough code, adding residential disabled
parking sign and assigning permitted parking space on a public street located in front of 217 n
7th street within the Borough of Emmaus
12. New Business
12.A Ordinance 1288: An Ordinance of the Borough of Emmaus, Lehigh County, Commonwealth of
Pennsylvania, Vacating a Portion of Perkiomen Street and Providing for Severability and an
Effective Date
12.B Ordinance no. 1290: An Ordinance of the Borough of Emmaus, Lehigh County, Pennsylvania,
amending Chapter 15 §602.3.A of the Emmaus borough code, a …
Wed Jul 22, 2026
Zoning Hearing Board
Board to hear variance request for handicap ramp in right-of-way
The Zoning Hearing Board will consider an appeal from Matt Spangenberg for a variance to install a 5'4-1/2" x 24' handicap ramp within the 12-foot Right of Way at 16 S. 4th Street, in the Downtown Core District. The variance is sought from Borough Ordinance Chapter 21, Part 2, Section 21-202 regarding permanent obstructions.
- Appeal 10655 – Matt Spangenberg requests a variance for a handicap ramp within the right-of-way at 16 S. 4th Street, Emmaus.
zoningvariancehandicap-accessemmauspublic-hearing
📄 From the agenda
Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
ZONING HEARING BOARD
AGENDA
Notice is hereby given that the Borough of Emmaus Zoning Hearing Board will meet on Wednesday, J uly
2 2 , 202 6 at 6 :00 P.M. at Borough Hall at 28 S. 4 th Street, Emmaus, PA 18049 and v ia Zoom to hear the
following appeal:
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84359779751?pwd=Z9MU4OzZW7FMDbbaQaC70RRSvXLh4G.1
Meeting ID: 843 5977 9751
Passcode: 008373
APPEAL 106 55 – Matt Spangenber g 58 Township Rd, Macungie, PA 18062 for property located at 16
S. 4th Street, Emmaus, PA 18049 . Applicant proposes to install a 5 ’ 4-1/2 ” x 24 ’ handicap ramp within the
12-foot Right of Way. Applicant is requesting a Variance to Borough Ordinance Chapter 21, Part 2 Right of
Way Obstructions, Section 21-202, Permanent Obstructions and any other relief deemed necessary at time
of hearing. Property is located in the Downtown Core District (DC)
Brent Reed - Zoning Officer
The Morning Call (affidavit required) 07/08 /2026
The East Penn Press (affida vit required) 0 7 /1 5 /26
Mon Jul 20, 2026
Borough Council Meetings
Emmaus council to vacate portion of Perkiomen Street
The Emmaus Borough Council will hold a public hearing to consider Ordinance 1288, which would vacate a portion of Perkiomen Street. The meeting will also include solicitor comments and a period for public and council comments.
- Public hearing on Ordinance 1288
- Vacating portion of Perkiomen Street
- Solicitor comments
- Public comments period
- Council comments period
perkiomen-streetordinancepublic-hearingvacationemmausborough-council
✓ Decided: Perkiomen Street vacation hearing rescheduled to Aug. 17
Council held a public hearing on a petition by CSW, 300 Furnace Street Emmaus LP (Iron Furnace Foundry Flats) to vacate a portion of Perkiomen Street. The hearing was rescheduled to August 17, 2026, after a property owner raised a notice-timing concern, and new notices will be sent. No decision on the vacation was made.
- Rescheduled public hearing on Perkiomen Street vacation to Aug. 17, 2026
- Ordered new notices sent to property owners for the rescheduled hearing
📄 From the agenda
Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
Emmaus Borough Council
Public Hearing Agenda
July 20, 2026, 6:00PM
1. Attendance of Council Members
2. Public Hearing
2.1 Ordinance 1288: an Ordinance of the Borough of Emmaus, Lehigh County, Commonwealth of
Pennsylvania, vacating a portion of Perkiomen Street and providing for severability and an effective date
3. Solicitor Comments
4. Public Comments
5. Council Comments
6. Adjournment
📄 From the minutes
Extracted text of the official minutes document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
July 20, 2026
65
EMMAUS BOROUGH COUNCIL
A Public Hearing was held at 6:00PM, prior to the start of the July 20, 2026, Council
Meeting in Council Chambers and via Zoom.
CALL TO ORDER
Roy Anders
Present
Chad Balliet
Present via Zoom
Megan Brehm
Present
Nathan Brown
Present
Chris DeFrain, Council President
Present
Brent Labenberg, Council Vice President
Present
LeaAnn Buchman
Present
Lee Ann Gilbert, Mayor
Present
Jason Ulrich, Solicitor
Present
Shane Pepe, Borough Manager
Present
PUBLIC HEARING ON VACATION OF PERKIOMEN STREET
Mr. DeFrain stated a Public Hearing regarding the vacation of Perkiomen Street will take
place prior to the Council Meeting and referred to Attorney Ulrich to run the hearing.
SOLICITOR COMMENTS
Attorney Ulrich stated that this is a public hearing with respect to the street vacation
petition of CSW, 300 Furnace Street Emmaus LP also known as Iron Furnace Foundry Flats. He
explained that the petition is to vacate a portion of Perkiomen Street and the application was
received on May 4, 2026. Attorney Ulrich stated that the property address was 300 Furnace
Street with property ID 549474474892 1, which is abutted by three property owners. He
explained that CSW Furnace Street is one owner, David and Katherine Williams are the second
owners at 480 S. 2nd Street, and Chris Romig is the third owner at 450 S 2nd Street. Attorney
Ulrich stated the notice for the hearing was advertised on July 1 and 2 and August 8 and 9 in the
East Penn Press and mailed to …
Mon Jul 20, 2026
Borough Council Meetings
Council considers vacating part of Perkiomen Street and adding disabled parking
The Borough Council will discuss two new ordinances regarding street changes and parking. The meeting also includes personnel decisions for the police and EMS departments and a review of the 2nd Quarter 2026 Budget Performance Report.
- Ordinance 1288: Vacating a portion of Perkiomen Street
- Ordinance 1289: Adding residential disabled parking in front of 217 N 7th Street
- Hiring of a Police Chief
- Hiring of four part-time EMS staff: Casey Schreiner, Ciara Cruz, Jordan Meyer, and Erick Haman
- Resolution 2026-24 Bill List
zoningparkingpublic-safetybudgetpersonnel
✓ Decided: Council hires Joseph Sokolofski as police chief with $142K salary
Council approved hiring Joseph Sokolofski as Chief of Police with a prorated starting salary of $142,000, contingent on a background check and a non-competitive Civil Service exam. They also approved $12,000 in additional duty compensation for Acting Chief Bryan Hamscher, adopted Ordinance 1289 for a disabled parking space at 217 N 7th Street, and approved the Compliance Engine software for fire inspections. The meeting included several other routine approvals and reports.
- Hired Joseph Sokolofski as Chief of Police, $142K prorated salary, start Sept 7, 2026 (7-0)
- Approved $12,000 additional duty compensation for Acting Chief Bryan Hamscher (7-0)
- Adopted Ordinance 1289 on first reading for disabled parking at 217 N 7th St (7-0)
- Approved use of Compliance Engine software for fire inspections (7-0)
- Approved Firstgevity program (7-0)
- Adopted Resolution 2026-24 authorizing $2,184,344.05 in bills and payroll (7-0)
- Adopted June 15, 2026 meeting minutes (7-0)
📄 From the agenda
Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
Emmaus Borough Council
Agenda
July 20, 2026 6:00 PM
1. Call to Order
2. Pledge of Allegiance
3. Personal Appeals, Part I
4. Community Minute
5. Special Presentations
5.A Emmaus Community Foundation Presentation
6. Reading of Council Meeting Minutes
6.A June 15, 2026, Council Meeting Minutes
7. Decisions on Bids
8. Communications
8.A 5th Street Cross Event Request
8.B Danyell Himes Letter of Resignation for the EMS Department
8.C Deputy Chief Bryan Hamscher notification entering the Deferred Retirement Option Plan (DROP)
effective August 28, 2026
8.D Notice of Resignation from the Joint Environmental Advisory Council received from Brittany Billman
9. Borough Engineer's Report
10. Solicitor's Report
11. Unfinished Business, Part I
12. New Business
12.A Ordinance 1288: AN ORDINANCE OF THE BOROUGH OF EMMAUS, LEHIGH COUNTY,
COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA, VACATING A PORTION OF PERKIOMEN
STREET AND PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY AND AN EFFECTIVE DATE
12.B Ordinance 1289: AN ORDINANCE OF THE BOROUGH OF EMMAUS, LEHIGH COUNTY,
PENNSYLVANIA, AMENDING CHAPTER 15 §602.3.A OF THE EMMAUS BOROUGH CODE, ADDING
RESIDENTIAL DISABLED PARKING SIGN AND ASSIGNING PERMITTED PARKING SPACE ON A
PUBLIC STREET LOCATED IN FRONT OF 217 N 7th STREET WITHIN THE BOROUGH OF EMMAUS
13. Unfinished Business, Part II
14. Items Not on Agenda - Subject to Rule 9
15. Mayor's Report
16. Public Works Committee Report - Chad Ballie …
📄 From the minutes
Extracted text of the official minutes document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
July 20, 2026
67
EMMAUS BOROUGH COUNCIL
The Emmaus Borough Council met in Regular Session on July 20, 2026, in Council
Chambers and via Zoom.
CALL TO ORDER
Council President DeFrain called the Council meeting to order at 6:17 PM.
Roy Anders
Present
Chad Balliet
Present via Zoom
Megan Brehm
Present
Nathan Brown
Present
Chris DeFrain, Council President
Present
Brent Labenberg, Council Vice President
Present
LeaAnn Buchman
Present
Lee Ann Gilbert, Mayor
Present
Jason Ulrich, Solicitor
Present
Shane Pepe, Borough Manager
Present
PERSONAL APPEALS, PART I – None.
COMMUNITY MINUTE – None.
SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS
John Hart and Dustin Grim of the Emmaus Community Foundation gave a brief
description of the purpose and efforts of the Foundation. Mr. Hart presented a $1,000.00 check
from the Emmaus Main Street Partners Grant for a park bench. He also presented at check from
the Wingstop Restaurant Charity Grant for $3,867.00 to be used to resurface a bridge at
Community Park. Mr. Hart explained that this was the first year the Foundation had overseen
the Emmaus 4 Miler Race, which had 255 runners and raised $30,000.00. He stated that they are
working to raise more money to do larger projects and currently have 2 they are considering.
READING OF MINUTES
Motion by Mr. Labenberg, seconded by Mr. Anders, to adopt the June 15, 2026,
Council Meeting Minutes as drafted. There were 7 ayes. Motion carried.
DECISION ON BIDS – None.
COMMUNICATIONS
Fifth Street Cross Series, Season 21 event r …
Thu Jul 9, 2026
Planning Commission Meetings
Planning Commission to consider 12-unit apartment building at 37 N 2nd Street
The commission will accept a resignation, consider a waiver request for a mini golf course at 1449 Chestnut Street, discuss a 12-unit apartment building at 37 N 2nd Street, and review an NPDES modification for The Fields at Indian Creek. They will also elect a new chairman and review bills from Hanover Engineering, ARRO Consulting, and Gross McGinley.
- Resignation of Nigel Watt from Planning Commission effective immediately
- 6-month waiver request for mini golf course at House and Barn, 1449 Chestnut Street
- Discussion of 12-unit apartment building at 37 N 2nd Street
- NPDES modification for The Fields at Indian Creek
- Election of new chairman
planning-commissionhousingdevelopmentrecreationinfrastructurepublic-meeting
📄 From the agenda
Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
Emmaus Borough Planning Commission
Agenda
July 9, 2026 7:00 PM
1. Call to Order
2. Reading of the Meeting Minutes
2.a Minutes 3/12/2026
3. Communications
3.a Nigel Watt - Resignation from Planning Commission – effective immediately
4. Unfinished Business
4.a House and Barn, 1449 Chestnut Street - Mini Golf Course - 6-month Waiver Request
4.b 37 N 2nd Street - 12 Unit Apartment Building
4.c The Fields at Indian Creek -NPDES Modification
5. New Business
5.a Elect Chairman
6. Bill Review
6.a Bill Review - Hanover Engineering
6.b Bill Reivew - ARRO Consulting Inc
6.c Bill Review - Gross McGinley
7. Chairman's Business
8. Adjournment
Wed Jun 24, 2026
Zoning Hearing Board
Zoning board to decide on 36-unit apartment building at 300 Furnace St
The Emmaus Zoning Hearing Board will hear two appeals on June 24, 2026. The first seeks modification of special exception approvals to permit a 5th mid-rise apartment building with 36 units at 300 Furnace Street. The second requests a special exception to convert vacant first-floor office space into a one-bedroom apartment at 559 Chestnut Street.
- Appeal 10653: CSW Furnace Street Emmaus L.P. requests modification of special exception to build a 36-unit mid-rise apartment building at 300 Furnace Street in the Urban Edge Neighborhood District.
- Appeal 10654: BAM Management, LLC requests special exception to convert vacant first-floor office into one-bedroom residential apartment at 559 Chestnut Street in the Downtown Core District.
zoningspecial-exceptionapartment-buildingoffice-conversionemmauszoning-hearing-board
📄 From the agenda
Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
ZONING HEARING BOARD
AGENDA
Notice is hereby given that the Borough of Emmaus Zoning Hearing Board will meet on Wednesday, June
24, 2026 at 6:00 P.M. at Borough Hall at 28 S. 4th Street, Emmaus, PA 18049 and via Zoom to hear the
following appeal:
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84359779751?pwd=Z9MU4OzZW7FMDbbaQaC70RRSvXLh4G.1
Meeting ID: 843 5977 9751
Passcode: 008373
APPEAL 10653 – CSW Furnace Street Emmaus, L.P. 1300 Virgina Drive, Suite 215, Fort
Washington, PA 19034 for property 300 Furnace Street, Emmaus, PA 18049. Applicant is requesting
modification of the Special Exception approvals granted in decisions 10556 and 10607 to permit
construction of 5th mid-rise apartment building consisting of 36 units. Special Exception is required under
Z.O., Table 27-4.A and any other relief deemed necessary at the time of the hearing. Property is located in
the Urban Edge Neighborhood District (UEN).
APPEAL 10654 –
BAM Management, LLC, 3008 Macungie Road, Macungie, PA 18062 for property
559 Chestnut Street, Emmaus, PA 18049. Applicant is requesting Special Exception to permit conversion
of existing vacant first -floor office space into a one -bedroom residential apartment. Special Exception is
required under Z.O., Table 27 -4.A and any other relief deemed necessary at the time of the hearing.
Property is located in the Downtown Core District (DC).
Brent Reed - Zoning Officer
The East Penn Press (affidavit re …
Mon Jun 15, 2026
Borough Council Meetings
Council to interview, appoint new member; swear in two police officers
The Emmaus Borough Council will interview and appoint a new council member, swear in two police officers (Zachary Christman and Jeremy Schmick), and consider a roof replacement for the 1803 House with possible action. The agenda also includes resolutions on sewer facilities at 216 S 2nd Street and a bill list, along with several personnel actions such as hires, separations, and a promotion.
- Council candidate interviews and appointment (Item 5)
- Swearing in of police officers Zachary Christman and Jeremy Schmick (Item 4)
- 1803 House Roof Replacement presentation and possible action (Item 7.A)
- Resolution 2026-23: 216 S 2nd Street sewage facilities (Item 19.B)
- Request for release of security contingent on $6,736.74 letter of credit (Item 19.A)
councilpolicepublic-workshistoric-buildingzoningresolutionspersonnelsewage
✓ Decided: Council appoints LeaAnn Buchman to fill vacant seat
The Emmaus Borough Council appointed LeaAnn Buchman to fill the vacant council seat left by Katherine Watt, with her term ending December 31, 2027. The council also approved a metal roof installation on the 1803 House, hired multiple public works and police employees, and authorized the hiring process for a Water and Sewer Billing Clerk. All votes were recorded as recorded in the minutes.
- Appointed LeaAnn Buchman to vacant Council seat (4-2)
- Approved metal roof installation on 1803 House (7-0)
- Authorized hiring process for Water and Sewer Billing Clerk (7-0)
- Authorized Parks and Recreation Committee to finalize Music Café request (7-0)
- Hired Ryan Reitz as full-time Public Works employee (7-0)
- Hired Richard Dittbrenner as full-time Public Works employee (7-0)
- Hired Marcus Hardiman as full-time police officer (7-0)
- Hired Justin Grant as full-time police officer (7-0)
📄 From the agenda
Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
Emmaus Borough Council
Agenda
June 15, 2026 6:00 PM
1. Call to Order
2. Pledge of Allegiance
3. Personal Appeals, Part I
4. Swearing In of New Police Officers: Zachary Christman and Jeremy Schmick
4.A Swearing In of Police Officers: Zachary Christman and Jeremy Schmick
5. Council Candidate Interviews and Appointment
5.A Council Candidate Interviews and Appointment
6. Community Minute
7. Special Presentations
7.A 1803 House Roof Replacement Presentation and Possible Action - Marian Schneck
8. Reading of Council Meeting Minutes
8.A May 18, 2026, Council Meeting Minutes
9. Decisions on Bids
10. Communications
10.A Nigel Watt Resignation from Planning Commission Effective Immediately
10.B Teresa Pohlmann Notice of Retirement
10.C Craig Blose - Notice to Enter into Retirement DROP
10.D Emmaus 4 Mile Classic 2027 Event Request
10.E Crystal Jones Letter of Resignation
10.F Music Cafe Event Request at Triangle
10.G Deca - Emmaus and Arts Heritage Event Request on Triangle
11. Borough Engineer's Report
12. Solicitor's Report
13. Unfinished Business, Part I
14. New Business
15. Unfinished Business, Part II
16. Items Not on Agenda - Subject to Rule 9
17. Mayor's Report
17.A Mayor's Activities April 1, 2026 - June 15, 2026
18. Public Works Committee Report - Chad Balliet (Chair), Brent Labenberg, Roy Anders
18.A Hire Public Works Employee(s)
18.B Meeting Notes: June 8, 2026
18.C Next Meeting: …
📄 From the minutes
Extracted text of the official minutes document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
59
The Emmaus Borough Council met in Regular Session on June 15, 2026, in Council
Chambers and via Zoom.
CALL TO ORDER
Council President DeFrain called the Council meeting to order at 6:00 PM.
Roy Anders
Present
Chad Balliet
Present via Zoom (in-person 7:30pm)
Megan Brehm
Present
Nathan Brown
Present
Chris DeFrain, Council President
Present
Brent Labenberg, Council Vice President
Present (arrived at 6:02pm)
Lee Ann Gilbert, Mayor
Present
Jason Ulrich, Solicitor
Present
Shane Pepe, Borough Manager
Present
Sarah Greene, Intern
Present
PERSONAL APPEALS, PART I
Scott Seibert, 111 N. 7th Street, stated that he would like no parking signs around his area.
He complained that high school students are making it very difficult for residents to park. Mr.
Pepe acknowledged that Mr. Seibert reached out previously in April, and the matter was
discussed at the Public Safety Committee. The matter was referred back to the Public Safety
Committee for further consideration.
Melissa Ballas, 618 Walnut Street, issued concerns regarding her neighbors. She stated
that she does not feel safe living next to the tenants in the attached home. There is garbage all
over, she has had issues with trespassing, threat, and harassment. She stated that she has had
rocks thrown at her, and that there is trash and high weeds throughout the property. She has
concerns about her …
Wed May 27, 2026
Zoning Hearing Board
Zoning board to consider variance for 15x40 ft addition on Harrison Street
The Emmaus Zoning Hearing Board will hear one appeal at its May 27, 2026 meeting. Glen and Chris Gregory request a 6-foot variance from the required 15-foot minimum setback for a secondary street to build a 15x40-foot addition at 29 Harrison Street. The property is in the Central Residential District. The meeting is in person and via Zoom.
- Appeal 10652 by Glen and Chris Gregory for a 15x40-foot addition at 29 Harrison Street
- Request for 6-foot variance from Table 27-314, A secondary street setback requirement (15-foot minimum)
- Property located in the Central Residential (RC) District
- Hearing scheduled for May 27, 2026 at 6:00 p.m. at Borough Hall and via Zoom
zoningvarianceresidentialadditionemmauszoning-hearing-board
✓ Decided: Zoning Hearing Board grants variance for addition at 29 Harrison Street
The Zoning Hearing Board approved a request for a 6-foot variance from the secondary street setback requirement. This allows the property owners to build a 15' x 40' addition that will be 9 feet from the property line instead of the required 15 feet.
- Granted 6-foot variance for addition at 29 Harrison Street (3-0)
📄 From the agenda
Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
ZONING HEARING BOARD AGENDA
Notice is hereby given that the Borough of Emmaus Zoning Hearing Board will
meet on Wednesday, May 27, 2026 at 6:00 P.M. at Borough Hall at 28 S. 4th
Street, Emmaus, PA 18049 and via Zoom to hear the following appeal:
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84359779751?pwd=Z9MU4OzZW7FMDbbaQaC70RRSvXLh4G.1
Meeting ID: 843 5977 9751
Passcode: 008373
APPEAL 10652 – Glen and Chris Gregory, 29 Harrison Street, Emmaus, PA
18049. Applicant is proposing to build a 15’ x 40’ addition on property and
is requesting a 6-foot Variance to Z.O. Chapter 27, Table 27-314, A.,
Secondary Street to Build, 15-feet min., and any other relief deemed
necessary at the time of the hearing. Property is located in the Central
Residential District (RC).
Brent Reed - Zoning Officer
The East Penn Press (affidavit required) 05/13/26 – 05/20/26
Mon May 18, 2026
Borough Council Meetings
Emmaus Borough Council discusses resignations, bids, and personnel hires
The Council will review several committee reports and bid openings including an EMS billing RFP. The meeting includes discussions on staff resignations and requests for commission reappointments.
- EMS Billing RFP bid opening
- 2026 CDBG bid opening
- Resolution 2026-20: 181-183 Ridge Street Sewage Facilities Planning Module
- Resolution 2026-21: Bill List
- Contract Caselle for utility bill mailing
governmentpersonnelpublic-worksfinanceutilities
✓ Decided: Council approved $114,600 CDBG curb and sidewalk contract with Zgura Concrete
The council disqualified Easton General Contractors' bid for the 2026 CDBG curb and sidewalk project and accepted the second‑lowest bid from Zgura Concrete for $114,600. The motion passed unanimously with six ayes. Several other contracts and appointments were also approved, all with six ayes.
- Disqualified Easton General Contractors' bid and accepted Zgura Concrete bid $114,600 (6 ayes)
- Approved design and construction of green‑and‑gold gateway sign (6 ayes)
- Approved contract with AIM EMS Software & Services for EMS billing (6 ayes)
- Approved outsourcing utility bill mailing to Caselle (6 ayes)
- Adopted Resolution 2026‑21 authorizing $1,292,665.65 payment of May 18 bill list (6 ayes)
- Accepted Kate Watt’s resignation from council (6 ayes)
- Reappointed Debbie Kirkpatrick to Recreation and Entertainment Commission for 3‑year term (6 ayes)
- Hired Sarah Greene as summer intern at $15/hour (6 ayes)
📄 From the agenda
Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
Emmaus Borough
Council Agenda
May 18, 2026, 6:00 PM
1. Call to Order
2. Pledge of Allegiance
3. Personal Appeals, Part I
4. Community Minute
5. Special Presentations
5.A Historical Commission Recommendation for New Gateway Entrance Sign
6. Reading of Council Meeting Minutes
6.A May 4, 2026, Council Meeting Minutes
7. Decisions on Bids
7.A EMS Billing RFP
7.B 2026 CDBG Bid Opening
8. Communications
8.A Kate Watt - Resignation from Council - Effective June 11, 2026
8.B Neil Valois Resignation From the Recreation and Entertainment Commission, Effective Immediately
8.C Debbie Kirkpatrick Request for Reappointment to the Recreation and Entertainment Commission for
a 3-year Term Expiring May 1, 2029.
9. Borough Engineer's Report
10. Solicitor's Report
11. Unfinished Business, Part I
12. New Business
13. Unfinished Business, Part II
14. Items Not on Agenda - Subject to Rule 9
15. Mayor's Report
15.A Proclamation 2026 - 643: Memorial Day
16. Public Works Committee Report - Chad Balliet (Chair), Brent Labenberg, Roy Anders
16.A DPW Updates - May
16.B Next Meeting: Monday, June 8, 2026, at 4:45PM
17. Health, Sanitation, and Codes Committee Report - Nate Brown (Chair), Kate Watt, Megan Brehm
17.A Resolution 2026 - 20: 181 - 183 Ridge Street Sewage Facilities Planning Module
17.B Next Meeting: Tuesday, May 19, 2026, at 4:45PM
18. Parks and Recreation Committee Report - Roy Anders (Chair), Nate Brow …
Mon May 4, 2026
Borough Council Meetings
Council to decide on fuel contract, zoning appeal for Ridge Street
The Emmaus Borough Council will consider a bid for a heating oil, kerosene, and fuel contract, an appeal of the Zoning Hearing Board's decision regarding 215-217 Ridge Street parking concerns, and a request to appoint a deputy tax collector. Several proclamations and committee reports are also on the agenda.
- Heating Oil, Kerosene, Unleaded Fuel, & Diesel Fuel Contract
- Request to Appoint Debra Gouldy as Deputy Tax Collector
- Appeal of Zoning Hearing Board's Decision Regarding 215-217 Ridge Street Parking Concerns
- Vacation of Perkiomen Street
- Hiring of Joseph Zientara as a Part Time Seasonal Public Works Employee and Ian Kenny as a Lifeguard
councilzoningfuel-contractparkingstreetsappointmentspublic-worksproclamations
✓ Decided: Council authorizes drafting and advertising of Perkiomen Street vacation ordinance
Council voted 6-0 to authorize writing and advertising an ordinance vacating a segment of Perkiomen Street, with all costs paid by the Westrum Group. A resident raised procedural concerns about the street vacation, but council proceeded with the motion. Council also awarded a fuel contract to Lehigh Fuels LLC (6-0), appointed a deputy tax collector (6-0), and adopted Resolution 2026-19 approving bill payments (6-0).
- Authorized writing and advertising an ordinance to vacate a segment of Perkiomen Street, with Westrum Group paying all fees (6 ayes)
- Awarded Lehigh Fuels LLC the Heating Oil, Kerosene, Unleaded Fuel, and Diesel Fuel Contract through Dec 31, 2028 (6 ayes)
- Appointed Debra Gouldy as Deputy Tax Collector (6 ayes)
- Adopted Resolution 2026-19 approving bill list and payroll totaling $608,791.27 (6 ayes)
- Heard resident concern about Perkiomen Street vacation but proceeded with motion to prepare ordinance
- Discussed parking concerns on Ridge Street for 215 and 217 Ridge Street development; no motion made on appeal
📄 From the agenda
Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
Emmaus Borough Council
Agenda
May 4, 2026, 6:00 PM
1. Call to Order
2. Pledge of Allegiance
3. Personal Appeals, Part I
4. Community Minute
5. Special Presentations
5.A Ella Daly - Parking and Emmaus HIgh School
6. Reading of Council Meeting Minutes
6.A April 20, 2026, Council Meeting Minutes
7. Decisions on Bids
7.A Heating Oil, Kerosene, Unleaded Fuel, & Diesel Fuel Contract
8. Communications
8.A Tax Collector, Kathleen Mintzer, Request to Appoint Debra Gouldy as Deputy Tax Collector
8.B Letter from Lance Burgess Regarding Recent Railroad Modifications
9. Borough Engineer's Report
10. Solicitor's Report
11. Unfinished Business, Part I
12. New Business
13. Unfinished Business, Part II
14. Items Not on Agenda - Subject to Rule 9
15. Mayor's Report
15.A Proclamation 2026 - 638: International Compost Awareness Week (ICAW) - May 3 - 9, 2026
15.B Proclamation 2026 - 639: Police Week - May 10 - 16, 2026
15.C Proclamation 2026 - 640: Emergency Medical Services Week - May 17 - 23, 2026 "EMS Week:
Improving Outcomes, Together"
15.D Proclamation 2026 - 641: National Public Works Week - May 17 - 23, 2026
15.E 2026 - 644: National Preservation Month
16. Public Works Committee Report - Chad Balliet (Chair), Brent Labenberg, Roy Anders
16.A Next Meeting: Monday, May 11, 2026, 4:45PM
17. Health, Sanitation, and Codes Committee Report - Nate Brown (Chair), Kate Watt, Megan Brehm
17.A Request for an …
Wed Apr 22, 2026
Zoning Hearing Board
Variance request for pole barn on Pennsylvania Ave. in Conservation District
The Emmaus Zoning Hearing Board will hear an appeal from Robert J. Weber seeking a variance to build a 40'x30' pole barn at 1490 Pennsylvania Ave. The property is in the Conservation District, and the variance is requested from Zoning Ordinance Chapter 27, Section 502 #5 on accessory structures. The board will decide on the request at the April 22, 2026 meeting.
- Appeal 10651 by Robert J. Weber for a variance to build a 40'x30' pole barn
- Property located at 1490 Pennsylvania Ave., Emmaus, in the Conservation District
- Variance sought from Z.O. Chapter 27, Section 502 #5 (Accessory Structures and Outbuildings)
- Applicant may request additional relief as deemed necessary at the hearing
- Meeting will be held in person at Borough Hall and via Zoom
zoningvariancepole-barnconservation-districtemmauszoning-hearing-boardaccessory-structures
✓ Decided: Board grants variance for 1,200‑sq‑ft pole barn at 1490 Pennsylvania Ave
The Zoning Hearing Board voted 3‑0 to grant a variance allowing Robert J. Weber to build a 1,200‑sq‑ft pole barn on his property at 1490 Pennsylvania Avenue. The variance applies to Z.O. Chapter 27, Section 502, #5 for accessory structures. Neighbors Renee & Larry Grow did not object. The board’s decision permits the pole barn despite the 1,000‑sq‑ft limit for accessory buildings.
- Granted variance for 1,200‑sq‑ft pole barn at 1490 Pennsylvania Ave (3‑0 vote)
📄 From the agenda
Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
ZONING HEARING BOARD
AGENDA
Notice is hereby given that the Borough of Emmaus Zoning Hearing Board will meet on Wednesday, April
2 2 , 202 6 at 6 :00 P.M. at Borough Hall at 28 S. 4 th Street, Emmaus, PA 18049 and v ia Zoom to hear the
following appeal:
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84359779751?pwd=Z9MU4OzZW7FMDbbaQaC70RRSvXLh4G.1
Meeting ID: 843 5977 9751
Passcode: 008373
APPEAL 106 5 1 – R obert J. Weber, 1490 Pennsylvania Ave., Emmaus, PA 18049. Applicant is
proposing to build a 40 ’ x 30 ’ pole barn on property and is requesti ng a Variance to Z. O. Chapter 27,
Se ction 502 , #5, Accessory Structures and Outbuildings and any other relief deemed necessary at the time
of the hearing. Propert y is located in th e Conservation District (C ) .
Brent Reed - Zoning Officer
The East Penn Press (affidavit required) 0 4 /08 /26 – 0 4 /1 5 /26
Mon Apr 20, 2026
Borough Council Meetings
Council to vote on reappointments, paramedic hire, and lifeguard hire
The Emmaus Borough Council will consider several personnel actions, including the reappointment of Dustin Grim to the General Authority and Alan Sylvestre to the Recreation and Entertainment Commission, as well as the hiring of a part-time paramedic and a lifeguard. The council will also review a resolution for the bill list and receive committee reports on public works, parks, public safety, and finances.
- Reappointment of Dustin Grim to the General Authority
- Reappoint Alan Sylvestre to the Recreation and Entertainment Commission for a 3-year term expiring May 1, 2029
- Hire Scott Ringle as a part-time paramedic
- Hire Allison Fontaine as a lifeguard for the 2026 season
- Resolution 2026-18 Bill List
council-meetingpersonnelreappointmentshiringpublic-safetyparks-and-recreationbudget
✓ Decided: Council reappoints Dustin Grim to General Authority, approves $1.56M in bills
Council voted 6-0 to reappoint Dustin Grim to the General Authority for a five-year term ending January 1, 2031, and adopted Resolution 2026-18 authorizing payment of $1,563,776.72 in bills. No decision was made on a possible appeal of the Zoning Hearing Board's variance approval for 215 and 217 Ridge Street; discussion is expected at the May 4 meeting.
- Reappointed Dustin Grim to General Authority for 5-year term (6-0)
- Appointed Alan Slyvestre to Recreation and Entertainment Commission for 3-year term (6-0)
- Adopted Resolution 2026-18: Bill list payment of $1,563,776.72 (6-0)
- Approved April 6, 2026 Council meeting minutes (6-0)
- Tabled decision on Zoning Hearing Board appeal until May 4 meeting
📄 From the agenda
Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
Emmaus Borough Council
Meeting Agenda
April 20, 2026, 6:00 PM
1. Call to Order
2. Pledge of Allegiance
3. Personal Appeals, Part I
4. Community Minute
5. Special Presentations
5.A Rotary Club Summer Festival Update
6. Reading of Council Meeting Minutes
6.A April 6, 2026, Council Meeting Minutes
7. Decisions on Bids
8. Communications
8.A Emmaus Veterans Committee Memorial Day Event Application
8.B Dustin Grim Request for Reappointment to the General Authority
9. Borough Engineer's Report
10. Solicitor's Report
11. Unfinished Business, Part I
12. New Business
13. Unfinished Business, Part II
14. Items Not on Agenda - Subject to Rule 9
15. Mayor's Report
16. Public Works Committee Report - Chad Balliet (Chair), Brent Labenberg, Roy Anders
16.A Meeting Notes: April 13, 2026
16.B Next Meeting: Monday, May 11, 2026, at 4:45PM
17. Health, Sanitation, and Codes Committee Report - Nate Brown (Chair), Kate Watt, Megan Brehm
17.A Next Meeting: Tuesday, April 21, 2026, 4:45PM
18. Parks and Recreation Committee Report - Roy Anders (Chair), Nate Brown, Megan Brehm
18.A Reappoint Alan Sylvestre to the Rec. & Entertainment Comm. to a 3-Year Term Expiring 5.1.2029
18.B Meeting Notes: April 16, 2026
18.C Next Meeting: Thursday, May 21, 2026, at 4:45PM
19. Public Safety Committee Report - Kate Watt (Chair), Chad Balliet, Chris DeFrain
19.A EMS 1st Quarter 2026 Reports
19.B Next Mee …
Mon Apr 6, 2026
Borough Council Meetings
Council to vote on CDBG funds, EMS policies, and fee schedule changes
The Emmaus Borough Council will consider approving a Community Development Block Grant application, adopting amended EMS policies, and amending the 2026 fee schedule. The meeting also includes reports from various committees and the reappointment of planning commission members.
- Approve CDBG funds application to Lehigh County and HUD
- Adopt amended EMS vacation, holiday, sick leave, and overtime policies
- Amend 2026 fee schedule for swimming lessons and parking requirements
- Reappoint Christian Didra and Mike Gibson to Planning Commission
- Authorize hiring Sinai Braverman as a part-time EMT
councilemsbudgetfeeshiringplanning-commissioncommittee-reports
✓ Decided: Council approved higher parking‑space fees and a new private‑lesson fee
The council adopted Resolution 2026‑16, raising the fee for parking‑space alternatives to $1,500 per space and adding a fee for private swimming lessons at the community pool. The motion passed with four ayes and one nay. Several other actions were also approved, including a CDBG grant application, a sewer‑module approval, and a purchase of the NeoGov software platform.
- Adopted Resolution 2026‑16 amending the fee schedule (4 ayes, 1 nay) – higher parking‑space fee and private‑lesson fee
- Adopted Resolution 2026‑15 authorizing a CDBG grant application (5 ayes)
- Adopted Resolution 2026‑14 approving the 417 S. Mountain Street sewer module (5 ayes)
- Authorized the Borough Manager to contact PPL for underground electricity at Knauss Homestead (5 ayes)
- Approved purchase of the NeoGov software platform (5 ayes)
- Authorized release and advertisement of the EMS billing services RFP (5 ayes)
- Authorized a letter of support and matching‑fund commitment for the Western Lehigh Greenway feasibility study (5 ayes)
- Appointed Jackie Pursell to the Arts Commission (5 ayes)
📄 From the agenda
Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
Emmaus Borough Council
Agenda
April 6, 2026, 6:00 PM
1. Call to Order
2. Pledge of Allegiance
3. Personal Appeals, Part I
4. Community Minute
5. Special Presentations
6. Reading of Council Meeting Minutes
6.A March 16, 2026, Council Meeting Minutes
7. Decisions on Bids
8. Communications
8.A Christian Didra Request for Reappointment to the Planning Commission for 4-Year Term Expiring
April 1, 2030
8.B Mike Gibson Request for Reappointment to Planning Commission - term expiring 4/1/30
8.C Sign&Print LLC Event Request Application
9. Borough Engineer's Report
10. Solicitor's Report
11. Unfinished Business, Part I
12. New Business
13. Unfinished Business, Part II
14. Items Not on Agenda - Subject to Rule 9
15. Mayor's Report
15.A January 5, 2026, through March 31, 2026, Mayor's Report
16. Public Works Committee Report - Chad Balliet (Chair), Brent Labenberg, Roy Anders
16.A RESOLUTION 2026-15: APPROVING THE APPLICATION TO LEHIGH COUNTY AND THE UNITED
STATES DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT FOR COMMUNITY
DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT (CDBG) FUNDS
16.B Next Meeting: Monday, April 13, 2026, at 4:45PM
17. Health, Sanitation, and Codes Committee Report - Nate Brown (Chair), Kate Watt, Megan Brehm
17.A Resolution 2026 - 14: 417 S Mountain Street Sewage Facilities Planning Module
17.B Meeting Notes: March 17, 2026
17.C Next Meeting: Tuesday, April 21, 2026, at 4:45PM
18. Parks and Recr …
📄 From the minutes
Extracted text of the official minutes document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
32
The Emmaus Borough Council met in Regular Session on April 6, 2026, in Council
Chambers and via Zoom.
CALL TO ORDER
Council Vice President Labenberg called the Council meeting to order at 6:00 PM.
Roy Anders
Present
Chad Balliet
Present
Megan Brehm
Present
Nathan Brown
Absent
Chris DeFrain, Council President
Absent
Brent Labenberg, Council Vice President
Present
Kate Watt
Present
Lee Ann Gilbert, Mayor
Present
Jason Ulrich, Solicitor
Present
Shane Pepe, Borough Manager
Present
PERSONAL APPEALS, PART I
Michael Gibson, 230 Ridge Street, requested that Borough Council appeal the February
15, 2026, Zoning Hearing Board decision for 215 and 217 Ridge Street. He read a prepared
statement that outlined reasons why Council should appeal. He stressed that he feels that the
Zoning Hearing Board incorrectly interpreted the Zoning Ordinance, overrode the Codes
Department, and the appellant’s position that it was a conversion.
Motion by Mr. Balliet, seconded by Mr. Anders, to allow Mr. Gibson an additional 5
minutes to continue to state his personal appeal. There were 5 ayes. Motion carried.
Solicitor Ulrich stated that there has not been any written decision of the February 15,
2026, Zoning Hearing regarding 215 and 217 Ridge Street to date. The Board has 45 days to
render an official decision; therefore, it would be premature for Borou …
Wed Mar 25, 2026
Zoning Hearing Board
Zoning Board to hear appeal for residential conversion at 104 N. 4th Street
The Emmaus Zoning Hearing Board will meet on March 25, 2026, to hear an appeal regarding the conversion of office space into a residential apartment at 104 N. 4th Street. The applicant is seeking a Special Exception to allow the use.
- Appeal 10650: Request for Special Exception to convert office space to residential at 104 N. 4th Street
- Meeting location: Borough Hall at 28 S. 4th Street, Emmaus, PA 18049
- Meeting format: In-person and Zoom
- Public notice period: March 11, 2026 – March 18, 2026
zoningspecial-exceptionresidentialdowntownmeeting
✓ Decided: Board grants special exception to convert office to residential apartment
The Zoning Hearing Board voted 3‑0 to grant a Special Exception Use for 104 N. 4th Street. The applicant may convert the first‑floor office space into a residential apartment. Parking requirements were discussed, but the board’s decision focused on the use change. No other actions were taken.
- Granted Special Exception Use for 104 N. 4th St. conversion (3-0)
📄 From the agenda
Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
ZONING HEARING BOARD
AGENDA
Notice is hereby given that the Borough of Emmaus Zoning Hearing Board will meet on Wednesday,
March 25, 2026 at 6:00 P.M. at Borough Hall at 28 S. 4th Street, Emmaus, PA 18049 and via Zoom to hear
the following appeal:
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84359779751?pwd=Z9MU4OzZW7FMDbbaQaC70RRSvXLh4G.1
Meeting ID: 843 5977 9751
Passcode: 008373
APPEAL 10650 – Richard Kiernan, 3953 Larkspur Drive, Allentown PA, 18103, for property located
at 104 N. 4th Street, Emmaus PA, 18049. Applicant is proposing to convert existing office space into a
residential apartment and is requesting a Special Exception to Z.O. Table 27 -4 Principal Uses – Residential
and Lodging Uses and any other relief deemed necessary at the time of the hearing. Property is located in
the Downtown Neighborhood (DN).
Brent Reed - Zoning Officer
The East Penn Press (affidavit required) 03/11/26 – 03/18/26
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March 25, 2026 Borough of Emmaus Page 5
Zoning Hearing Board
APPEAL #106 50 – Richard Kiernan, 3953 Larkspur Drive, Allentown PA, 18103 for
property located at 104 N. 4 th Street, Emmaus PA, 18049. Applicant is proposing to convert
existing office space into a residential apartment and is requesting a Special Exception to Z.O.
Table 27-4 Principal Uses – Residential and Lodging Uses and any other relief deemed
necessary at the time of the hearing. Property is located in the Downtown Neighborhood (DN).
Brent Reed stated that he is the Zoning Officer for the Boroug h of Emmaus, the appeal was
properly advertised, the property was posted, and the adjoining neighbors were notified. The
applicant, Richard Kiernan, stated that he owns the property located at 104 N 4 th Street. He
explained that the first floor was previously used as an office and the 2 nd floor is currently a 2 – 3-
bedroom apartment. He stated that the first floor and the basement are approximately 1950 sq
ft. He stated that the first floor currently has 2 half baths, and he i s proposing to install a kitc hen
and shower and will comply with all zoning ordinances. He explained that he is unsure if the
proposed apartment will be one bedroom or two. He stated that he believes this property is
suitable for residential use and there are 9 multi-unit properties on the block. He stated that there
are no other 1 st floor commercial businesses in the area. Attorney Corkery stated that, if the 1 st
floor would …
🏢 Building at this address: 2 floors
Mon Mar 16, 2026
Borough Council Meetings
Emmaus Borough Council to decide on paving bids and financing
The Borough Council will make decisions regarding bids for a bituminous seal coat and paving machine financing. The meeting also includes reports on an inter-municipal mutual aid agreement and a bill list resolution.
- Decisions on bids for Bituminous Seal Coat
- Decisions on Paving Machine Financing
- Inter-municipal Mutual Aid Agreement
- Resolution 2026-12: Bill List
- Letter of concern regarding data center development from Dylan Cawman
roadsfinancepublic-safetydevelopment
✓ Decided: Council approved $1.47 M payment resolution and key public‑works contracts
The council adopted Resolution 2026‑12 authorizing payment of $1,467,987.64 for the March 16 bill list. It approved Journey Bank financing for a paving machine at 5.03% with a maximum annual cost of $35,490.12. The intermunicipal mutual‑aid agreement with Salisbury Township Police was adopted, and the Bituminous Seal Coat bid was awarded to Asphalt Maintenance Solutions. All motions recorded as carried received seven ayes where a vote tally was noted.
- Adopted Resolution 2026‑12 authorizing $1,467,987.64 payment (7 ayes)
- Awarded Bituminous Seal Coat bid to Asphalt Maintenance Solutions (vote not recorded)
- Awarded Paving Machine financing bid to Journey Bank, 5.03% up to $35,490.12/yr (7 ayes)
- Adopted Intermunicipal Mutual Aid agreement with Salisbury Township Police (7 ayes)
- Adopted March 2, 2026 council meeting minutes (7 ayes)
- Adopted March 16, 2026 bill list payment resolution (7 ayes)
- Adjourned meeting (7 ayes)
📄 From the agenda
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Emmaus Borough Council
Agenda
March 16, 2026 6:00 PM
1. Call to Order
2. Pledge of Allegiance
3. Personal Appeals, Part I
4. Community Minute
5. Special Presentations
6. Reading of Council Meeting Minutes
6.A March 2, 2026, Council Meeting Minutes
7. Decisions on Bids
7.A Bituminous Seal Coat
7.B Paving Machine Financing
8. Communications
8.A Jackie Pursell Emmaus Arts Commission Volunteer Application
8.B Dylan Cawman Letter of Concern Regarding Data Center Development
9. Borough Engineer's Report
10. Solicitor's Report
11. Unfinished Business, Part I
12. New Business
13. Unfinished Business, Part II
14. Items Not on Agenda - Subject to Rule 9
15. Mayor's Report
16. Public Works Committee Report - Chad Balliet (Chair), Brent Labenberg, Roy Anders
16.A Meeting Notes: March 9, 2026
16.B Next Meeting: Monday, April 13, 2026, at 4:45PM
17. Health, Sanitation, and Codes Committee Report - Nate Brown (Chair), Kate Watt, Megan Brehm
17.A Next Meeting: Tuesday, March 17, 2026, at 4:45PM
18. Parks and Recreation Committee Report - Roy Anders (Chair), Nate Brown, Megan Brehm
18.A Next Meeting: Thursday, March 19, 2026, at 4:45PM
19. Public Safety Committee Report - Kate Watt (Chair), Chad Balliet, Chris DeFrain
19.A Inter-municipal Mutual Aid Agreement
19.B Meeting Notes: March 11, 2026
19.C Next Meeting: Wednesday, April 8, 2026, at 9:00AM
20. General Administration Committee Report -Brent Lab …
📄 From the minutes
Extracted text of the official minutes document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
March 16, 2026 27
The Emmaus Borough Council met in Regular Session on March 16, 2026, in Council
Chambers and via Zoom.
CALL TO ORDER
Council President DeFrain called the Council meeting to order at 6:00 PM.
Roy Anders Present
Chad Balliet Present
Megan Brehm Present
Nathan Brown Present
Chris DeFrain, Council President Present
Brent Labenberg, Council Vice President Present
Kate Watt Present
Lee Ann Gilbert, Mayor Present
Jason Ulrich, Solicitor Present
Shane Pepe, Borough Manager Present
PERSONAL APPEALS, PART I
Craig Neely, 209 Main Street, stated that he believes that Council made a terrible
decision discontinuing weekly curbside yard waste collection for residents. He stated that he
feels that the Borough has invested millions of dollars to benefit the government, but not for the
community. He stated that the compost site is a nice convenience for the citizens.
Motion by Mr. Balliet, seconded by Mr. Anders, to allow Mr. Neely an additional 5
minutes to continue to state his personal appeal. There were 7 ayes. Motion carried.
Anne Zayaitz, 144 E Spruce Street, reported that she was taken aback by Council’s
decision to cut weekly curbside yard waste collection and is unhappy with the decision. She
stated that the schedule in the newsletter is unclear.
COMMUNITY MINUTE
Mr. Anders stated that he called the numbers for the Emmaus Main Street Partners bingo
event on March 15, 2026. He stated that it was a great fun …
Thu Mar 12, 2026
Planning Commission Meetings
Planning Commission to consider a 12‑unit apartment project at 37 N 2nd St
The commission will review several unfinished items, including a withdrawn project at 318 E Harrison St, a 120‑day waiver request for a mini‑golf course at 1449 Chestnut St (deadline for borough council action 6/10/26), and an NPDES permit modification for The Fields at Indian Creek. It will also consider a new application for a 12‑unit apartment building at 37 N 2nd St. In addition, the commission will conduct bill reviews for three engineering firms. The meeting follows standard agenda items such as call to order and adjournment.
- 318 E Harrison Street – project withdrawn
- House and Barn, 1449 Chestnut Street – mini‑golf course 120‑day waiver request (deadline 6/10/26)
- The Fields at Indian Creek – NPDES permit modification
- 37 N 2nd Street – 12‑unit apartment building application
- Bill Review – Hanover Engineering, Ott Consulting/ARRO Consulting Inc, Gross McGinley
zoninghousingdevelopmentenvironmentpermitsplanning
📄 From the agenda
Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
Emmaus Borough Planning Commission
Agenda
March 12, 2026 7:00 PM
1. Call to Order
2. Reading of the Meeting Minutes
2.a Minutes 1/22/2026
3. Communications
3.a Zoning Hearing Board Agenda - March 25, 2026
4. Unfinished Business
4.a 318 E Harrison Street - project withdrawn
4.b House and Barn, 1449 Chestnut Street - Mini Golf Course Tabled, 120-day Waiver Request
(Deadline for Borough Council Action 6/10/26)
4.c The Fields at Indian Creek - NPDES Modification
5. New Business
5.a 37 N 2nd Street - 12-Unit Apartment Building
6. Bill Review
6.a Bill Review - Hanover Engineering
6.b Bill Review - Ott Consulting/ARRO Consulting Inc
6.c Bill Review - Gross McGinley
7. Chairman's Business
8. Adjournment
Mon Mar 2, 2026
Borough Council Meetings
Emmaus Borough Council to consider park grant application and phone use policy
The Borough Council will review a resolution to apply for a state park rehabilitation grant and a new cellular phone use policy. The meeting also includes the review of February 2026 budget performance and revenue reports.
- Resolution 2026-10: Application for a Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Park Rehabilitation and Development Grant
- Cellular Phone & Mobile Device Use Policy
- Resolution 2026-11: Bill List
- Budget Performance Report and Significant Revenue & Expenses for February 2026
- Letter of retirement from Police Detective Christian Gill
parksgrantsbudgetpolicypersonnel
✓ Decided: Council approved $1.214M payment of March 2 bill list
The council adopted the February 17 minutes (5 ayes, 1 abstention). It approved a grant application for Boroline Park Phase I. It adopted a revised cellular‑phone use policy for personnel. It authorized payment of the March 2 bill list totaling $1,214,968.93. All motions carried with unanimous ayes where noted.
- Adopted February 17 minutes (5 ayes, 1 abstention)
- Approved Boroline Park Phase I grant application (6 ayes)
- Adopted revised cellular phone and mobile device use policy (6 ayes)
- Authorized payment of March 2 bill list $1,214,968.93 (6 ayes)
- Adjourned meeting (6 ayes)
📄 From the agenda
Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
Emmaus Borough Council
Meeting Agenda
March 2, 2026, 6:00 PM
1. Call to Order
2. Pledge of Allegiance
3. Personal Appeals, Part I
4. Community Minute
5. Special Presentations
6. Reading of Council Meeting Minutes
6.A February 17, 2026, Council Meeting Minutes
7. Decisions on Bids
8. Communications
8.A Letter of Retirement From Police Detective Christian Gill
9. Borough Engineer's Report
10. Solicitor's Report
11. Unfinished Business, Part I
12. New Business
13. Unfinished Business, Part II
14. Items Not on Agenda - Subject to Rule 9
15. Mayor's Report
16. Public Works Committee Report - Chad Balliet (Chair), Brent Labenberg, Roy Anders
16.A Next Meeting: Monday, March 9, 2026, at 4:45PM
17. Health, Sanitation, and Codes Committee Report - Nate Brown (Chair), Kate Watt, Megan
Brehm
17.A Meeting Notes: February 17, 2026
17.B Next Meeting: Tuesday, March 17, 2026, at 4:45PM
18. Parks and Recreation Committee Report - Roy Anders (Chair), Nate Brown, Megan Brehm
18.A Resolution 2026 - 10: A Resolution of the Council of the Borough of Emmmaus,
Lehigh County, Pennsylvania, approving the application of a Pennsylvania
Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Park Rehabilitation and
Development Grant
18.B Meeting Notes: February 19, 2026
18.C Next Meeting: Thursday, March 19, 2026, at 4:45PM
19. Public Safety Committee Report - Kate Watt (Chair), Chad Balliet, Chris DeFrain
19.A Next …
📄 From the minutes
Extracted text of the official minutes document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
March 2, 2026 22
The Emmaus Borough Council met in Regular Session on March 2, 2026, in Council
Chambers and via Zoom.
CALL TO ORDER
Council President DeFrain called the Council meeting to order at 6:00 PM.
Roy Anders Present
Chad Balliet Absent
Megan Brehm Present via Zoom
Nathan Brown Present
Chris DeFrain, Council President Present
Brent Labenberg, Council Vice President Present
Kate Watt Present
Lee Ann Gilbert, Mayor Present
Jason Ulrich, Solicitor Present
Shane Pepe, Borough Manager Present
PERSONAL APPEALS, PART I – None.
COMMUNITY MINUTE – None.
SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS – None.
READING OF MINUTES
Motion by Mr. Labenberg, seconded by Mrs. Watt, to adopt the February 17, 2026,
Council Meeting Minutes as drafted. There were 5 ayes and 1 abstention (Brehm). Motion
carried.
DECISION ON BIDS – None.
COMMUNICATIONS
Letter of retirement from Police Department Detective Christian Gill
Mr. Pepe commented that Detective Gill is a great asset to the Police Department and that
he will be missed. He stated that Detective Gill has served on many county task forces as an
undercover detective for many years.
BOROUGH ENGINEER’S REPORT – None.
SOLICITOR’S REPORT – None.
Progress.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS, PART I – None.
March 2, 2026 23
NEW BUSINESS – None.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS, PART II – None.
ITEMS NOT ON AGENDA, subject to Rule 9 – None.
MAYOR’S REPORT – None.
Progress.
COMMITTEE REPORTS
a. P …
Wed Feb 25, 2026
Zoning Hearing Board
Appeal to convert 215 & 217 Ridge St townhomes into multi‑unit housing
The Emmaus Zoning Hearing Board will consider Appeal 10649 filed by Matt Spangeberg for the properties at 215 Ridge Street and 217 Ridge Street. The applicant seeks to convert the two townhomes into multi‑unit residences. The request includes a variance from Zoning Ordinance 27-517 parking requirements and Table 27‑5B off‑street parking standards. The hearing will take place on February 25, 2026 at Borough Hall and via Zoom.
- Appeal 10649: conversion of 215 and 217 Ridge Street townhomes to multi‑unit housing
- Variance request for Zoning Ordinance 27-517 parking requirements
- Variance request for Table 27‑5B off‑street parking standards
zoninghousingparkingappealsemmaus
✓ Decided: Board grants 8‑space off‑street parking variance for 215 & 217 Ridge St.
The Zoning Hearing Board voted 3‑0 to grant an eight‑space off‑street parking variance for the conversion of 215 and 217 Ridge Street to two‑family dwellings. The board also appointed Ted Iobst as chairman and retained Corkery & Almonti as its solicitor. No other actions were taken.
- Appointed Ted Iobst as Chairman (3‑0)
- Retained Corkery & Almonti as solicitor (3‑0)
- Declared each lot a conversion to a two‑family dwelling (3‑0)
- Granted 8‑space off‑street parking variance (3‑0)
📄 From the agenda
Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
ZONING HEARING BOARD
AGENDA
Notice is hereby given that the Borough of Emmaus Zoning Hearing Board will meet on Wednesday,
February 25 , 202 6 at 6 :00 P.M. at Borough Hall at 28 S. 4 th Street, Emmaus, PA 18049 and v ia Zoom to
hear the following appeal:
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84359779751?pwd=Z9MU4OzZW7FMDbbaQaC70RRSvXLh4G.1
Meeting ID: 843 5977 9751
Passcode: 008373
APPEAL 10649 – Matt Spange nberg, 58 Township Road, Macungie, PA 18062. For Properties
located at 215 Ridge Street and 217 Ridge Street , Emmaus, PA 18049 . Applicant is proposing
converting both townhomes into multi-units and is requesting a Variance to Z.O. 27-517 Parking, Table 27-
5B Off Street Parking Requirements and any other relief deemed necessary at the time of the hearing.
Properties are located in the Downtown Neighborhood (DN).
Brent Reed - Zoning Officer
The East Penn Press (affidavit required) 02/11/26 – 02/18/ 26
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February 25, 2026 Borough of Emmaus Page 1
Zoning Hearing Board
APPEAL #1064 9 – Matt Spangenberg, 58 Township Road, Macungie, PA 18062. For
properties located at 215 Ridge Street and 217 Ridge Street, Emmaus, PA 18049. Applicant is
proposing converting both townhomes into multi -units and is requesting a Variance to Z.O. 27 -
517 Parking, Table 27 -5B Off Street Parking Requirements and any other relief deemed
necessary at the time of the hearing. Properties are located in the Downtown Neighborhood
(DN).
Motion by Zoning Hearing Board member Steinmayr, seconded by Zoning Hearing
Board member Schmidt to appoint Zoning Hearing Board member Ted Iobst as Chairman
of the 2026 Zoning Hearing Board. There were 3 ayes. Motion carried.
Motion by Zoning Hearing Board member Steinmayr, seconded by Zoning Hearing
Board Member Schmidt to retain Corkery & Almonti as Solicitor of the 2026 Zoning
Hearing Board. There were 3 ayes. Motion carried.
Zoning Hearing Board Chairman Iobst explained that 215 Ridge Street and 217 Ridge Street are ,
by definition, semidetached single -family dwellings. Solicitor Corkery explained that the appeal
is for a request for a parking variance only and there are no other variances needed. The
applicant, Matt Spangenberg, stated that he and his partner, Jonathan Wilhite are proposing to
convert the two single -family dwellings into multi-unit dwellings. Mr. Wilhite handed out
exhibits defining two family dwellings and multi -fam …
Tue Feb 17, 2026
Borough Council Meetings
Emmaus Borough Council to discuss police chief hiring and public works staffing
The Borough Council will review budget performance reports and consider the hiring of a full-time public works employee. The meeting includes discussions on the police chief hiring process and opposition to vacating Perkiomen Street.
- Hire Mark Simpkins as a full-time Public Works employee
- Police Chief hiring process: Consultant vs. In-House
- Opposition to vacating Perkiomen Street from Romig and Williams
- Year End Budget Report and January 2026 Budget Performance Report
- Resolution 2026-9: Bill List
public-workspolicebudgetpersonnelroads
✓ Decided: Council approved hiring an outside consultant to run the chief of police search
The council adopted the February 2, 2026 meeting minutes. It approved hiring Mark Simpkins as a full‑time public works employee. It authorized payment of the February 17 bill list totaling $900,361.52. It approved hiring the Pennsylvania Chiefs of Police Association to conduct the chief of police hiring process for up to $27,000.
- Adopted February 2, 2026 minutes (6 ayes)
- Approved hiring Mark Simpkins as full‑time Public Works employee (6 ayes)
- Authorized payment of February 17 bill list $900,361.52 (6 ayes)
- Approved hiring Pennsylvania Chiefs of Police Association for chief hiring, max $27,000 (6 ayes)
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Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
Emmaus Borough Council
Agenda
February 17, 2026 6:00 PM
1. Call to Order
2. Pledge of Allegiance
3. Personal Appeals, Part I
4. Community Minute
5. Special Presentations
6. Reading of Council Meeting Minutes
6.A February 2, 2026, Council Meeting Minutes
7. Decisions on Bids
8. Communications
8.A Rick Wentz - Retirement from Public Works Department
8.B Police Chief Jason Apgar Retirement Notice
8.C Romig Opposition to Vacating Perkiomen Street
8.D Williams Opposition to Vacating Perkiomen Street
8.E Kiwanis Annual Egg Hunt Request
8.F Snowblast Event Request Application
8.G 21st Annual Student Film Festival Event Request Application
9. Borough Engineer's Report
10. Solicitor's Report
11. Unfinished Business, Part I
12. New Business
13. Unfinished Business, Part II
14. Items Not on Agenda - Subject to Rule 9
15. Mayor's Report
16. Public Works Committee Report - Chad Balliet (Chair), Brent Labenberg, Roy Anders
16.A Hire Mark Simpkins - Full-Time Public Works Employee
16.B Meeting Notes: February 9, 2026
16.C Next Meeting: Monday, March 9, 2026, at 4:45PM
17. Health, Sanitation, and Codes Committee Report - Nate Brown (Chair), Kate Watt, Megan Brehm
17.A Next Meeting: Tuesday, March 17, 2026, at 4:45PM
18. Parks and Recreation Committee Report - Roy Anders (Chair), Nate Brown, Megan Brehm
18.A Next Meeting: Thursday, February 19, 2026, at 4:45PM
19. Public Safety Committee Report - K …
📄 From the minutes
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February 17 , 20 26 17
The Emmaus Borough Council met in Regular Session on February 17 , 202 6 , in Council
Chambers and via Zoom.
CALL TO ORDER
Council President DeFrain called the Council meeting to order at 6: 00 PM .
Roy Anders Present
Chad Balliet Present via Zoom
Megan Brehm Absent
Nathan Brown Present
Chris DeFrain , Council President Present
Brent Labenberg , Council Vice President Present
Kate Watt Present
Lee Ann Gilbert, Mayor Present
Jason Ulrich , Solicitor Present
Shan e Pepe, Borough Manager Present
PERSONAL APPEALS, PART I
Chris Romig, 450 S. 2nd Street, stated that he was present on behalf of the properties
located at 450 S. 2nd Street and 480 S. 2nd Street, the latter owned by neighbors who were
unable to attend the meeting. He expressed opposition to the proposed vacation of Perkiomen
Street and requested that Borough Council vote against the vacation.
Attorney Ulrich addressed Mr. Romig ’s concerns and advised him of the process for
vacating a street. Mr. B rown invited Mr. Romig to attend the next Health, Sanitation, and Codes
Committee meeting for further discussion of the matter.
COMMUNITY MINUTE
Mayor Gilbert reported that the District Attorney Gavin Holihan will be present at
Borough Hall on Monday, February 23, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. to discuss resources available through
the District Attorney ’s Office and current crime trends nationwide.
Council President DeFrain congratulated the Rotary Club on its 100th anniversary. He
announced that the Rot …
Mon Feb 2, 2026
Borough Council Meetings
Council to conditionally approve two subdivision and land development plans
The Emmaus Borough Council will consider two resolutions that conditionally approve subdivision and land development plans: one for Emmaus Development Corp at 216 S. 2nd Street and another for MPRE Partners at 101 N. 2nd Street and 181‑183 Ridge Street. The council will also review an EMS/LVHN Payer of Last Resort agreement, a hiring request for a part‑time EMT, and a donation from the Fireman's Relief Association. These items are listed under the Health, Sanitation, and Codes Committee and the Borough Manager's Report.
- Resolution 2026‑7: Conditional approval of subdivision plan for Emmaus Development Corp, 216 S. 2nd Street
- Resolution 2026‑8: Conditional approval of subdivision and lot line adjustment plan for MPRE Partners, 101 N. 2nd Street and 181‑183 Ridge Street
- EMS / LVHN Payer of Last Resort Agreement (Public Safety Committee)
- Hire Alexandria Kern‑Hickey as a part‑time EMT (Borough Manager's Report)
- Fireman's Relief Association Donation (Special Presentations)
zoningdevelopmentpublic-safetybudgetemploymentcommunity
✓ Decided: Council adopted ambulance payment agreement and approved multiple development actions
The council adopted the Ambulance and Medical Transportation Services Payer of Last Resort Agreement. It also approved waivers, fund releases, and conditional subdivision plans for several developers. Additional actions included authorizing the February bill list payment and appointing a new arts commissioner and board of health member.
- Adopted Ambulance and Medical Transportation Services Payer of Last Resort Agreement (7 ayes)
- Approved waiver of 2026 Refuse and Recycling Collection Assessment for 215 and 217 Ridge Street (7 ayes)
- Approved release of remaining secured funds for Chestnut Ridge at Rodale development (7 ayes)
- Conditionally approved subdivision plan for Emmaus Development Group, LLC at 216 S 2nd Street (Resolution 2026‑7) (7 ayes)
- Conditionally approved subdivision and lot line adjustment plan for MPRE Partners, LLC at 101 N 2nd Street and 181‑183 Ridge Street (Resolution 2026‑8) (7 ayes)
- Adopted Resolution 2026‑6 authorizing payment of February 2, 2026 bill list totaling $1,179,254.63 (7 ayes)
- Appointed Kristy Morris to the Arts Commission (3‑year term) and Board of Health (5‑year term) (7 ayes)
- Adopted January 19, 2026 council meeting minutes (7 ayes)
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Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
Emmaus Borough Council
Agenda
February 2, 2026 6:00 PM
1. Call to Order
2. Pledge of Allegiance
3. Personal Appeals, Part I
4. Community Minute
5. Special Presentations
5.A Fireman's Relief Association Donation
6. Reading of Council Meeting Minutes
6.A January 19, 2026, Council Meeting Minutes
7. Decisions on Bids
8. Communications
8.A Halloween Parade Event Request Application
8.B Emmaus Run Inn Event Request Application
8.C CSW Furnace Street Emmaus, L.P. Petition to Vacate a Portion of Perkiomen Street
9. Borough Engineer's Report
10. Solicitor's Report
11. Unfinished Business, Part I
12. New Business
13. Unfinished Business, Part II
14. Items Not on Agenda - Subject to Rule 9
15. Mayor's Report
16. Public Works/(Highway, Water & Sewer) Committee Report
Chad Balliet (Chair), Brent Labenberg, Roy Anders
16.A Next Meeting: Monday, February 9, 2026, at 4:45PM
17. Health, Sanitation, and Codes Committee Report
Nate Brown (Chair), Kate Watt, Megan Brehm
17.A Chestnut Ridge at Rodale Request for Security Release
17.B Chris Elston Street Opening Request - N. 3rd Street
17.C Matthew Spangenberg Request to Waive Refuse Fees
17.D Resolution 2026-7: A Resolution Conditionally Approving the Preliminary / Final Subdivision and Land
Development Plan for Emmaus Development Corp, LLC Regarding the Parcel Located at 216 S. 2nd
Street, Emmaus, Pennsylvania
17.E Resolution 2026-8: A Reso …
📄 From the minutes
Extracted text of the official minutes document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
February 2, 2026
11
The Emmaus Borough Council met in Regular Session on January 19, 2026, in Council
Chambers and via Zoom.
CALL TO ORDER
Council President DeFrain called the Council meeting to order at 6:00PM.
Roy Anders
Present
Chad Balliet
Present via Zoom
Megan Brehm
Present
Nathan Brown
Present
Chris DeFrain, Council President
Present
Brent Labenberg, Council Vice President
Present
Kate Watt
Present
Lee Ann Gilbert, Mayor
Present
Tyler Meyers, Solicitor
Present
Shane Pepe, Borough Manager
Present
PERSONAL APPEALS, PART I – None.
COMMUNITY MINUTE
Mr. DeFrain stated that the Public Works Department and everyone else that helped to take care
of the roads after the recent snowstorm did a great job. Mr. Labenberg commented that the downtown was
clear and that snow removal has begun on the side streets. Mr. Pepe agreed that everyone did a great job.
He stated that the newly hired public works employee, was scheduled to have orientation on Monday, but
was called into work at 4:30AM on Sunday and worked a total of 74 hours for the week, including 36
straight hours on his first shift. Mr. Pepe reported that the Fire Department attached a snow blower to the
front of their ATV and had some fun clearing off the parking lot at Central Station to assist the Public
Works Department. He stated that when not on calls, the Fire Department was …
🏢 Building at this address: 4 m tall
Thu Jan 22, 2026
Building Board of Appeals
Emmaus Planning Commission to review unfinished development items
The Emmaus Borough Planning Commission is meeting to review unfinished business from prior sessions, including several development proposals and a waiver request. The agenda also includes a presentation on Vision 2030 and review of engineering and legal invoices. No new business items are listed.
- 216 S 2nd Street - 10 unit apartments
- 101 N 2nd Street, 181 Ridge Street
- 318 E Harrison Street - 90-day waiver request
- House & Barn, 1449 Chestnut Street - mini golf course (tabled)
- The Fields at Indian Creek - NPDES modification
planning-commissiondevelopmentzoningwaiverinvoices
📄 From the agenda
Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
## Emmaus Borough Planning Commission
## Agenda
## January 8, 2026 7:00 PM
|1.|Call to Order||
|---|---|---|
|2.|Reading of the Meeting Minutes 2.a 12/11/2025 Minutes||
|3.|Communications||
|4.|Unfinished Business 4.a 216 S 2nd Street - 10 Unit Apartments 4.b 101 N 2nd Street, 181 Ridge Street 4.c 318 E Harrison Street - 90-day Waiver Request||
||4.d|House & Barn, 1449 Chestnut Street-Mini Golf Course-Tabled|
||4.e|The Fields at Indian Creek-NPDES Modification|
|5.|New Business||
|6.|Bill Review||
6.a Hanover Engineering Invoices
6.b Ott Consulting Invoices
6.c Gross McGinley Invoices
7. <u>Chairman's Business</u>
7.a Vision 2030 Presentation
8. <u>Adjournment</u>
Thu Jan 22, 2026
Planning Commission Meetings
Planning Commission reviews multiple development proposals and invoice bills
The Emmaus Borough Planning Commission will discuss several unfinished projects, including a 10‑unit apartment at 216 S 2nd Street, a 90‑day waiver for 318 E Harrison Street, and a mini‑golf course at 1449 Chestnut Street that was tabled. It will also hear a presentation on an NPDES modification for The Fields at Indian Creek. The meeting includes a review of engineering and consulting invoices before adjourning.
- 216 S 2nd Street – 10‑unit apartment proposal
- 101 N 2nd Street and 181 Ridge Street projects
- 318 E Harrison Street – 90‑day waiver request
- House & Barn, 1449 Chestnut Street – mini‑golf course (tabled)
- The Fields at Indian Creek – NPDES modification presentation
zoninghousingenvironmentfinanceplanning
✓ Decided: Planning Commission recommends Council approve 101 N 2nd St plan with conditions
The commission elected a new Chairman and Vice Chairman, each unanimously. It recommended conditional approval of the 216 S 2nd Street project and accepted the 101 N 2nd Street/183 Ridge Street plan as a Preliminary/Final Plan. The commission also recommended that Council approve the 101 N 2nd Street plan pending specific waiver requests and granted three SALDO waivers. Engineering and consulting invoices were approved.
- Elected Commissioner Watt as Chairman (5-0)
- Elected Commissioner Grice as Vice Chairman (5-0)
- Recommended 216 S 2nd St Preliminary/Final Plan conditional on Ott letter (5-0)
- Accepted 101 N 2nd St/183 Ridge St plan as Preliminary/Final (5-0)
- Recommended to Council approval of 101 N 2nd St plan conditional on waiver requests (5-0)
- Granted SALDO waiver #12 (22-408) pending waiver request review (5-0)
- Granted SALDO waiver #18 (22-408) pending waiver request review (5-0)
- Granted SALDO waiver #24 (22-429) pending waiver request review (5-0)
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Emmaus Borough Planning Commission
Agenda
January 22, 2026 7:00 PM
1. Call to Order
2. Reading of the Meeting Minutes
2.a Minutes 12/11/2025
3. Communications
4. Unfinished Business
4.a 216 S 2nd Street - 10 Unit Apartments
4.b 101 N 2nd Street, 181 Ridge Street
4.c 318 E Harrison Street - 90-day Waiver Request
4.d House & Barn, 1449 Chestnut Street - Mini Golf Course - Tabled
4.e The Fields at Indian Creek - NPDES Modification - Presentation Hanover Engineering
5. New Business
6. Bill Review
6.a Hanover Engineering Invoices
6.b Ott Consulting Invoices
6.c Gross McGinley Invoices
7. Chairman's Business
7.a Vision 2030 Presentation
8. Adjournment
📄 From the minutes
Extracted text of the official minutes document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
January 22, 2026 Page 1
EMMAUS PLANNING COMMISSION
1. CALL TO ORDER
Chairman Gibson called the January 22, 2026 Emmaus Planning Commission Meeting to
Order at 7:00 p.m., with the following members present:
Michael Gibson Chairman
Christian Didra Member (via Zoom)
Robert Toth Member
Josh Grice Member
JP Raynock Member
Jeffrey Ott Borough Engineer
Brent Reed Codes Official
Commissioner Watt was absent. Also in attendance Shane Pepe, Borough Manager, and
Attorney Tyler Myers, Gross McGinley as Borough Solicitor.
2. REORGANIZATION MEETING
Chairman Gibson informed the Commission that, due to requirements under the Borough
Code and Municipalities Planning Code, it is time to hold a reorganization meeting and elect the
Chairman and Vice Chairman.
Commissioner Grice nominated Commissioner Watt for the position of Chairman.
The motion was seconded by Commissioner Toth. Motion approved 5-0. Motion carried.
Commissioner Gibson nominated Commissioner Grice as Vice Chairman. The
motion was seconded by JP Raynock. Motion approved 5-0. Motion carried.
Vice Chairman Grice oversaw the meeting as Chairman Watt was absent.
Commissioner Gibson stated that he will seek another term on the Commission and
wished Commissioner Watt and Grice best of luck in their new positions.
READING OF THE MINUTES
Motion by Commissioner Gibson, seconded by Commissioner Raynock to dispense
with the reading of the December 11, 2025 meeting minutes. Mot …
Mon Jan 19, 2026
Borough Council Meetings
Council considers subdivision plan for 417 South Mountain Street
The Emmaus Borough Council will meet to discuss a minor subdivision plan and various commission appointments. The body will also review event applications and a resolution supporting the America250PA commission.
- Resolution 2026-4: Conditionally approving a minor subdivision plan for 417 South Mountain Street
- Hire Logan Davidson as a full-time Public Works employee
- Resolution 2026-3: Supporting the Pennsylvania Commission for the United States Semiquincentennial (America250PA)
- Appointment of Lara Thrapp to the Recreation & Entertainment Commission
- Resolution 2026-5: Bill List
zoningpersonnelcommissionsbudgetpublic-works
✓ Decided: Council approved $1.06 M bill list and several event, staffing, and zoning motions
The council adopted Resolution 2026‑2, authorizing payment of a $1,064,337.09 bill list. It also approved alcohol sales for the Farewell to Summer and Old‑Fashioned Christmas events, hired a full‑time public works employee, and conditionally approved a minor subdivision at 417 S. Mountain Street. Additional actions included appointing a recreation commission member and supporting the America250 semiquincentennial partnership.
- Adopted Resolution 2026‑2 authorizing $1,064,337.09 bill payments (7 ayes)
- Approved sale of alcohol at Farewell to Summer event (7 ayes)
- Approved sale of alcohol at Old‑Fashioned Christmas event (7 ayes)
- Hired Logan Davidson as full‑time public works employee (7 ayes)
- Adopted Resolution 2026‑4 conditionally approving minor subdivision at 417 S. Mountain St (7 ayes)
- Appointed Lara Thrapp to Recreation and Entertainment Commission (7 ayes)
- Approved The Running Kind event with $180 fee, conditional on insurance (7 ayes)
- Adopted Resolution 2026‑3 supporting America250 partnership (7 ayes)
📄 From the agenda
Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
Emmaus Borough Council
Agenda
January 19, 2026 6:00 PM
1. Call to Order
2. Pledge of Allegiance
3. Personal Appeals, Part I
4. Community Minute
5. Special Presentations
5.a Emmaus Main Street Partners
6. Reading of Council Meeting Minutes
6.a January 5, 2026, Council Meeting Minutes
7. Decisions on Bids
8. Communications
8.a 2026 Farewell to Summer Event Application
8.b 2026 Old Fashioned Christmas Event Request Application
8.c Lara Thrapp Volunteer Application for Recreation & Entertainment Commission
8.d Maryellen Iobst Request for Reappointment to the Historical Commission as a Representative of
the Knauss Homestead for a 2-Year Term Expiring January 1, 2028
9. Borough Engineer's Report
10. Solicitor's Report
11. Unfinished Business, Part I
12. New Business
13. Unfinished Business, Part II
14. Items Not on Agenda - Subject to Rule 9
15. Mayor's Report
15.a Proclamation 2026 – 633: International Holocaust Remembrance Day
16. Public Works/(Highway, Water & Sewer) Committee Report
16.a Hire Logan Davidson as a full-time Public Works employee
16.b Next Meeting: Monday, February 9, 2026, at 4:45PM
17. Health, Sanitation, and Codes Committee Report
17.a Resolution 2026 - 4: A Resolution Conditionally Approving a Minor Subdivision Plan Regarding
417 South Mountain Street, Emmaus, PA 18049
17.b Next Meeting: Tuesday, January 20, 2026, at 4:45PM
18. Parks and Recreation Committe …
📄 From the minutes
Extracted text of the official minutes document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
January 19 , 2026 1
The Emmaus Borough Council met in Regular Session on January 19 , 202 6 , in Council
Chambers and via Zoom.
CALL TO ORDER
Council President DeFrain called the Council meeting to order at 6: 00 PM .
Roy Anders Present
Chad Balliet Present via Zoom
Megan Brehm Present
Nathan Brown Present
Chris DeFrain , Council President Present
Brent Labenberg , Council Vice President Present via Zoom
Kate Watt Present
Lee Ann Gilbert, Mayor Present
Jason Ulrich , Solicitor Present
Shane Pepe, Borough Manager Present
PERSONAL APPEALS, PART I – None.
COMMUNITY MINUTE
Mayor Gilbert announced that the Emmaus Rotary Club is ho lding their “ Over the Moon
Valentine ’s Dance ” at Triple Sun Spirits Co. on Sunday, February 15, 2026, from 3:00 PM to 6:00PM.
She stated that a ticket is required for the event.
Mr. Anders reported that the Emmaus Youth Association Spring season baseball and softball
sign-ups are going on now. He stated that interested parties should click on registration on the home page
of their website .
SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS
Emmaus Main Street Partners representat ives , Hayden Rinde and Chloe Krempasky , gave
highlights of events that took place in 2025. Ms. Rinde explained the Emma the Mule Campaign and the
prospect of driving tourism downtown. She gave a brief overview of some of the events planned for 2026 ,
including February ’s Soup Crawl and Lucky Bucks Bingo on March 15, 2026. Ms. Rinde invited
Borough C ouncil to attend the ribbon cutting for Bam …
Mon Jan 5, 2026
Borough Council Meetings
Council will hire Richard Hadju as a part-time EMT
The Emmaus Borough Council meeting will consider several reappointments to boards and commissions, adopt resolutions for official appointments, and vote on hiring Richard Hadju as a part-time EMT. The council will also review reports from the Borough Engineer, Solicitor, and various committees, and discuss items such as bids and budget items.
- Hire Richard Hadju as a part-time EMT (Item 29.a)
- Reappoint Michael Wilson to the Civil Service Commission (Item 23.a)
- Reappoint Susan Kowalchuk to the Community Garden Commission (Item 26.a)
- Resolution 2026‑1: Officials Appointment (Item 24.a)
- Resolution 2026‑2: Bill List (Item 25.a)
personnelpublic-safetyappointmentsbudgetcommittees
✓ Decided: Council approved $1.06M bill list and appointed officials for 2027 terms
The council elected Roy Anders as President and Brent Labenberg as Vice President, each by unanimous vote. It adopted the December 15, 2025 meeting minutes and reappointed several commission members. Melanie Shimer was appointed to the Library Board and a new Employee and Volunteer Safety Committee was formed. The council authorized payment of a $1,064,337.09 bill list for January 1, 2026.
- Elected Roy Anders as Council President (7 ayes)
- Elected Brent Labenberg as Council Vice President (7 ayes)
- Adopted December 15, 2025 council minutes (7 ayes)
- Reappointed Michael Wilson to Civil Service Commission (7 ayes)
- Reappointed Susan Kowalchuk and Stephen Baier to Community Garden Commission (7 ayes each)
- Appointed Melanie Shimer to Library Board for a 3‑year term (7 ayes)
- Appointed members to 2026 Employee and Volunteer Safety Committee (7 ayes)
- Authorized payment of $1,064,337.09 bill list (7 ayes)
📄 From the agenda
Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
Borough of Emmaus
Monday, January 5, 2026, 6:00PM
Council Meeting Agenda
Page 1 of 3
1. Oath of Office
2. Remarks by the Honorable Magisterial District Judge Trexler
3. Call to Order
4. Pledge of Allegiance
5. Mayor Gilbert will preside over the Council Meeting by asking for nominations for President of Council.
Council will vote for President. Mayor Gilbert will ask for nominations for Vice President. Council will vote
for Vice President. The President will then preside over the meeting.
6. Reorganization of Council
7. Personal Appeals, Part I
8. Community Minute
9. Special Presentations
10. Reading of Council Meeting Minutes
10.a Council Meeting Minutes for December 15, 2025
11. Decisions on Bids
12. Communications
12.a Michael Wilson Request for Reappointment to the Civil Service Commission for a 6-year Term
Expiring January 1, 2032.
12.b Susan Kowalchuk Request for Reappointment to the Community Garden Commission for a 4-year
Term Expiring January 1, 2030.
12.c Stephen Baier Request for Reappointment to the Community Garden Commission for a 4-year Term
Expiring January 1, 2030.
12.d Carl Cramer Request for Reappointment to the Library Board for a 3-year Term Expiring January 1,
2029.
12.e Roger Steinmayr Request for Reappointment to the Zoning Hearing Board for a 3-year Term Expiring
January 1, 2029.
12.f Theodore Iobst II Request for Reappointment to the Zoning Hearing Board for a 3-year Term Expiring
Janua …
📄 From the minutes
Extracted text of the official minutes document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
January 5, 2026 1
The Emmaus Borough Council met in Regular Session on January 5 , 202 6 , in Council
Chambers and via Zoom.
The Honorable Magisterial District Judge Daniel Trexler administered the Oath of Office
to Mayor Lee Ann Gilbert , Borough Tax Collector Kathleen Mintzer, as well as Council
Members Roy Anders, Chris DeFrain, Brent Labenberg, and Megan Brehm .
CALL TO ORDER
Mayor Lee Ann Gilbert called the Reorganization meeting to order at 6: 13PM .
Roy Anders Present
Chad Balliet Present
Megan Brehm Present
Nathan Brown Present
Chris DeFrain Present
Brent Labenberg Present
Kate Watt Present
Lee Ann Gilbert, Mayor Present
Taylor Meyers, Solicitor Present
Shane Pepe, Borough Manager Present
Mayor Gilbert asked for nominations for President of Borough Council.
Mr. Balliet nominated Mr. DeFrain for Council President.
Motion by Mr. Brown , seconded by Mr. Labenberg to close the nominations for
Council President. There were 7 ayes. Motion carried.
Mr. DeFrai n received 7 votes for Council President.
Mr. DeFrain was declared Council President.
Mayor Gilbert asked for nominations for Vice President of Borough Council.
Mr. Anders nominated Mr. Labenberg for Council Vice President.
Motion by Mr. Balliet , seconded by Mr. Brown to close the nomination for Council
Vice President. There were 7 ayes. Motion carried.
Mr. Labenberg received 7 votes for Council Vice President.
Mr. Labenberg was declared Council Vice President.
Mr. DeFrain took t he President ’s seat and preside …
💰 Federal awards (top 5 by amount)
Largest recent federal contract/grant awards to recipients in this city (2023–present), via USAspending.gov.
Source: USAspending.gov (U.S. Treasury) — federal awards only, not city budgets.
🌐 County-level context (Lehigh County)
County-level context — from BLS, IRS, FEMA, HUD, Census. These figures cover the whole county this city sits in, not just the city itself.
Business establishments8,681 (201,146 employees · 2023)
Fair Market Rent (2BR)$1,507/mo (161 assisted households · 2025)
Adults with low literacy21.3% (low numeracy 31% · 2017)
Sources: BLS LAUS, IRS SOI, FEMA, NHTSA FARS, Census CBP, HUD, NCES PIAAC
City profile
Everything below is drawn from this city’s own public record and primary-source government data. AI-written summaries are a finding aid, not a citable quote.
Outcomes — economic mobility
source: Opportunity Atlas (Harvard) · research useFor kids who grew up here in low-income households, their adult household-income rank (0–1). The average hides a gap by race:
Research-only layer, shown here for context — not included in the CC BY 4.0 bulk download.
Where it’s happening
geocoded land-use decisions🗺 Interactive map
Every rezoning, development approval, and permit — explore the geocoded records in the
research explorer.
Meeting archives
🔗 Embed this city · use the data
Free to reuse under CC BY 4.0 — a link back is appreciated. Paste this into your site:
<iframe src="https://mytown.theboringparts.com/city/emmauspa.gov/embed/" width="100%" height="640" loading="lazy" style="border:1px solid #ddd;border-radius:8px" title="Emmaus government meetings"></iframe>
<p>Local government meetings via <a href="https://mytown.theboringparts.com/city/emmauspa.gov/">MyTown</a></p>
The credit line under the iframe is a real link back — keep it and you help others find us (and it satisfies the CC BY attribution). Prefer JSON? meetings.json · full embed & API guide.