Emmaus public meetings in 2022

Zoning Hearing Board

The Emmaus Zoning Hearing Board will meet to hear two appeals. One seeks variances to subdivide a townhouse property and build an additional unit on S. 6th St., and the other requests a special exception to use the Knauss Barn for weddings and events on E. Main St.

• Appeal 10621: 7035 LLC requests variances for lot width and area to subdivide 130 S. 6th St. and construct an additional townhouse in R-HO district
• Appeal 10622: Knauss Homestead Preservation Society requests special exception for temporary use of Knauss Barn for weddings and events in C-R district

The Zoning Hearing Board granted a special exception for the Knauss Barn to be used as a temporary wedding and event venue. The board also approved lot width and area variances for a townhouse subdivision project at 130 S. 6th St.

• Approved special exception for Knauss Barn as temporary wedding/event venue (3-0)
• Approved 4 ft. lot width variance for Lot A at 130 S. 6th St. (3-0)
• Approved 400 s.f. area variance for Lot B at 130 S. 6th St. (3-0)
• Conditioned 130 S. 6th St. variances on consolidation of 615 Minor Street with Lot A

Borough Council Meetings

The Emmaus Borough Council will hold second readings and likely vote on several ordinances, including the 2023 tax levy at 8.1815 mills, water and sewer rate changes, and creation of a street light fund. They will also consider resolutions to adopt the 2023 budget, set fees, and establish refuse and compost assessment fees. The agenda includes appointments to boards and a request for tax penalty forgiveness.

• Ordinance 1236: 2023 tax levy of 8.1815 mills, split among general fund (6.3154), fire fund (1.3961), roads (0.32), street light (0.15)
• Ordinance 1234: Amends water rate schedule and billing procedures
• Ordinance 1235: Amends sewer and sewage disposal rates for FY 2023
• Ordinance 1233: Establishes a street light fund
• Resolution 2022-48: Adopt 2023 fiscal year budget

Council approved the 2023 fiscal year budget and established tax rates at 8.1815 mills. The board also passed ordinances for water and sewer rate schedules and approved a new collective bargaining agreement for police officers.

• Adopted 2023 Fiscal Year Budget (Resolution 2022-48) (7-0)
• Set 2023 tax rate at 8.1815 mills (Ordinance No. 1236) (7-0)
• Approved Collective Bargaining Agreement for Police Officers through 2026 (7-0)
• Adopted water rate and billing procedures (Ordinance No. 1234) (7-0)
• Adopted 2023 sewer and sewage disposal rates (Ordinance No. 1235) (7-0)
• Established Street Light Fund (Ordinance No. 1233) (7-0)
• Approved $23,047.13 fee adjustment for D’Huy Engineering Inc. (7-0)
• Approved $36,680.00 fee adjustment for W2A Architect (7-0)

Borough Council Meetings

The Emmaus Borough Council is meeting to introduce several ordinances for first reading, including the 2023 tax levy and changes to water and sewer rates. They will also consider reappointments, a resignation, and other routine business.

• Ordinance 1236: 2023 tax levy at 8.1815 mills, split among general, fire, roads, and street light funds
• Ordinance 1234: Amends water rate schedule and billing/collection procedures
• Ordinance 1235: Amends sewer and sewage disposal rates for fiscal year 2023
• Ordinance 1233: Establishes a street light fund
• Reappointment of Hanover Engineering as Borough Utility Engineer and Sewage Enforcement Officers

Borough Council approved first readings for ordinances to establish a street light fund, increase water and sewer rates, and levy 2023 taxes. The council also scheduled 2023 waste collection events and approved over $400,000 in bills and payroll.

• Passed 1st reading of Ordinance 1233 to establish a Street Light Fund (6-0)
• Passed 1st reading of Ordinance 1234 to increase water rates for PFAS mitigation and tank repairs (6-0)
• Passed 1st reading of Ordinance 1235 to increase sewer rates for storm water removal (6-0)
• Passed 1st reading of Ordinance 1236 levying 2023 taxes at 8.1815 Mills (6-0)
• Scheduled 2023 Dumpster Day for September 16, 2023 (6-0)
• Scheduled 2023 Household Hazardous Waste Day for October 21, 2023 (6-0)
• Adopted Resolution 2022-50 to pay $400,873.21 in bills and payroll (6-0)
• Authorized advertising of the proposed 2023 Budget (6-0)

Borough Council Meetings

The Emmaus Borough Council is meeting to handle routine business including approving minutes, receiving reports, and discussing bids. Notable items include requests to reduce or release financial security for several developments, a Comcast network expansion communication, and committee reports covering topics like a compost site policy and a PennDOT traffic signal maintenance agreement.

• Request for Reduction of Financial Security - Emmaus Commerce Center
• Request for Release of Financial Security - Wawa Food Market
• Request for Release of Financial Security - The Towns at South Mountain
• Resolution 2022-46: PennDOT Traffic Signal Maintenance Agreement
• Comcast Network Expansion

Borough Council approved a new Commercial Hauler Compost Site Policy and authorized over $800,000 in bill and payroll payments. The council also granted three financial security reductions for local developments and approved new software for emergency services.

• Adopted Commercial Hauler Compost Site Policy (6-0)
• Approved $801,002.85 for bill list, payroll, and taxes via Resolution 2022-47 (6-0)
• Approved $15,990 purchase of First Due software for Fire and Ambulance Departments (6-0)
• Granted $457,494.47 financial security reduction for Emmaus Commerce Center (6-0)
• Granted $51,485.74 financial security reduction for Cedar Crest Chestnut Development L.P. (Wawa) (6-0)
• Granted $110,862.97 financial security reduction for Towns at South Mountain (6-0)
• Adopted Resolution 2022-46 for PennDot Traffic Signal Maintenance Agreement (6-0)
• Approved 2021 Audit Review contingent on narrative updates regarding PFAS/PFOS lawsuit and financing (6-0)

Borough Council Meetings

The Emmaus Borough Council is meeting to consider several resolutions, including a property tax penalty waiver under Act 57 of 2022, a sewage facilities planning module for 300 Furnace Street, and conditional approval for development at 680 Ridge Street. They will also review committee reports, including quarterly public safety reports and grant applications for community projects. The agenda includes routine items like minutes approval and committee updates.

• Resolution 2022-39: 300 Furnace Street Sewage Facilities Planning Module
• Resolution 2022-40: Conditional approval and waivers for development of 680 Ridge Street
• Resolution 2022-41: Implementing Act 57 of 2022 property tax penalty waiver provisions
• Grant applications: LSA for Seven Generations Charter School amphitheater, Small Water & Sewer, H2O
• Quarterly reports from Ambulance, Fire, and Police Departments

Borough Council approved a bill list and payroll totaling $773,262.40 and adopted resolutions for three state grant applications. The council also approved a land development plan for 680 Ridge Street and a property tax penalty waiver resolution.

• Approved $773,262.40 for November 7 bill list, payroll, and payroll taxes (6-0)
• Approved alcohol sales at Triangle Park for SnowBlast Winter Festival on Feb 4, 2023 (6-0)
• Adopted Resolution 2022-41 to implement Act 57 property tax penalty waivers (6-0)
• Adopted Resolution 2022-40 approving revised land development plan for 680 Ridge Street (6-0)
• Approved application for DCED Local Share Accounting Fund (6-0)
• Approved application for ARPA PA Small Water and Sewer Grant Program (6-0)
• Approved application for H2O PA Grant Program for water tank rehabilitation (6-0)
• Adopted Resolution 2022-39 for 300 Furnace Street sewage facilities planning (6-0)

Borough Council Meetings

The Emmaus Borough Council is meeting to handle routine business, including approving minutes, considering bids, and receiving reports from the borough engineer and solicitor. Notable items include a request for a train noise survey, a grant sponsorship request from Seven Generations Charter School, and a resolution to apply for a DCNR grant for Boroline Park. The agenda is largely procedural, with most items being reports or routine approvals.

• Resolution 2022-37: DCNR grant application for Boroline Park
• Kelly Anderson - Train Noise Survey Request
• Seven Generations Charter School Public Share Account Grant Sponsorship Request
• Lindsey Kleinberg Notice of Residency Change and Request to Remain on Arts Commission
• Resolution 2022-38: Bill List

Borough Council Meetings

The Emmaus Borough Council is meeting to consider two ordinances on second reading: one amending the code to change the appointed secretary of the Planning Commission, and another amending the school bus zone for Seven Generations Charter School. The council will also review bids, communications, and committee reports, and make appointments to boards.

• Ordinance 1231: Amends Chapter 1, adding Subsection 302, regarding the appointed secretary of the Planning Commission (2nd reading)
• Ordinance 1232: Amends Chapter 15 §404.1, changing the school bus zone for Seven Generations Charter School (2nd reading)
• Resolution 2022-36: Bill list approval
• Appointments to Planning Commission (term expiring April 1, 2026) and Board of Health (term expiring January 1, 2027)
• Parking restrictions at South Seventh and Broad Streets; Jefferson Elementary School bus parking relocation

Emmaus Borough Council adopted two ordinances on second reading: one amending the appointed secretary of the Planning Commission (Ordinance 1231) and another amending the school bus zone for Seven Generations Charter School (Ordinance 1232). Council also approved a Sips & Stems event request contingent on police coverage fees, appointed Christian Didra to the Planning Commission and Georgine Snyder to the Board of Health, and authorized payment of $966,785.31 in bills and payroll.

• Adopted Ordinance 1231 amending Planning Commission secretary appointment (5-0)
• Adopted Ordinance 1232 amending school bus zone for Seven Generations Charter School (5-0)
• Granted Sips & Stems event request contingent on police coverage fee payment (5-0)
• Appointed Christian Didra to Planning Commission term expiring 4/1/2026 (5-0)
• Appointed Georgine Snyder to Board of Health term expiring 1/1/2027 (5-0)
• Approved Knauss Homestead terrace addition request (5-0)
• Removed parking within 3 cars' lengths at S. 7th & Broad Street intersection (5-0)
• Approved relocation of bus parking at Jefferson School with school district paying for signage (5-0)

Zoning Hearing Board

The Emmaus Zoning Hearing Board will meet to hear one appeal: John and Susanne Geiger request a variance to keep a rear yard fence in the public right of way at 34 W. Berger St. The fence violates Z.O. 403.4.D(3), which prohibits fences in the public right of way. The property is in the R-L district.

• Appeal 10620: Geiger request for 9-foot encroachment variance for rear yard fence in public right of way at 34 W. Berger St.
• Variance sought from Z.O. 403.4.D(3), which prohibits fences in the public right of way.
• Property located in R-L district.
• Meeting held at Borough Hall, 420 S. 10th St., and via Zoom.

The Zoning Hearing Board voted 3-0 to grant a variance to John and Susanne Geiger allowing a rear yard fence to remain 9 feet into the public right of way at 34 W. Berger Street, despite a zoning violation notice. The fence, erected 3 feet from the curb, violates Zoning Ordinance 403.4.D(3) which prohibits fences in the right of way. Two neighbors did not object. The variance was granted with standard conditions.

• Granted variance for fence encroachment at 34 W. Berger St. (3-0)

Borough Council Meetings

The Emmaus Borough Council is holding its regular meeting on September 19, 2022, at 7:00 PM. The agenda includes decisions on bids, several community event requests, a proclamation for Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and reports from the borough engineer, solicitor, and various committees. The meeting will also address unfinished and new business, as well as items not on the agenda.

• Decisions on bids
• Community event requests: Handmade Mystic Festival of Witches and Knauss Homestead Harvest Festival
• Proclamation 2022-549: Breast Cancer Awareness Month
• Resolution 2022-35: Bill List
• Expansion of Split Layer Fence at Knauss Homestead

The Emmaus Borough Council approved the 2023 Minimum Municipal Obligation for the Emmaus Police Pension Plan ($521,616.55) and the Emmaus Employees’ Pension Plan ($244,264.87). The council also adopted Resolution 2022-35 authorizing payment of bills totaling $734,472.12. Several community event requests were approved, including the Today is the Day event at Triangle Park and the Knauss Homestead Harvest Festival with alcohol sales.

• Approved 2023 Minimum Municipal Obligation for Police Pension Plan ($521,616.55) and Employees’ Pension Plan ($244,264.87) (6-0)
• Adopted Resolution 2022-35 authorizing payment of bills totaling $734,472.12 (6-0)
• Approved Bethesda Church Lehigh Valley's Today is the Day event at Triangle Park on October 22, 2022 (6-0)
• Approved Knauss Homestead Harvest Festival on October 22, 2022 with alcohol sales permitted (6-0)
• Approved Knauss Homestead's request to expand split rail fence behind the barn (6-0)
• Adopted September 6, 2022 Council Minutes as drafted (6-0)

Borough Council Meetings

The Emmaus Borough Council is meeting to consider two ordinances: one amending the code to appoint a secretary for the Planning Commission, and another changing the school bus zone for Seven Generations Charter School. The agenda also includes funding requests, a retirement notice, and various committee reports. Most items are routine administrative matters.

• Ordinance 1231: Amending Chapter 1 to add Subsection 302, appointing the Planning Commission secretary
• Ordinance 1232: Amending Chapter 15 §404.1 to change the school bus zone for Seven Generations Charter School
• Meals on Wheels financial contribution request
• New Bethany Ministries funding request on behalf of Lehigh Valley Regional Homeless Advisory Board
• Resolution 2022-34: Conditional approval and waivers for development at 680 Ridge Street

Emmaus Borough Council approved a commercial parking lot lease with 7035 LLC for spaces at 311 Main Street ($50/month per space, 5-2), adopted the Emergency Operations Plan (7-0), and gave first reading to two ordinances: one amending the appointed secretary of the Planning Commission and another adjusting the school bus zone for Seven Generations Charter School. Council also appointed two members as alternates to the Planning Commission and granted conditional approval for development at 680 Ridge Street.

• Approved commercial parking lot lease with 7035 LLC at 311 Main Street (5-2)
• Adopted Emergency Operations Plan (7-0)
• Adopted Ordinance No. 1231 on first reading – amending Planning Commission secretary (7-0)
• Adopted Ordinance No. 1232 on first reading – amending school bus zone for Seven Generations Charter School (7-0)
• Appointed Council members Sorg-McManamon and Balliet as alternates to Planning Commission (7-0)
• Adopted Resolution 2022-34 – conditional approval for development at 680 Ridge Street (7-0)
• Adopted Resolution 2022-33 – authorizing payment of $1,136,252.81 in bills and payroll (7-0)
• Approved August 15, 2022 Council minutes as drafted (7-0)

Zoning Hearing Board

The Emmaus Zoning Hearing Board will meet to hear one appeal from property owner Steven Schaffer regarding 124 E. Main St. The applicant seeks to build a residential garage, appeal a notice of violation about a shipping container, and requests several interpretations and a variance related to zoning ordinances. The board will decide on these requests at the meeting.

• Appeal of denial to construct garage
• Interpretation of Z.O. 306.3.I to permit garage
• Variance from Z.O. 806.4.A(1) to rebuild nonconforming garage beyond 18 months
• Appeal of notice of violation dated 6/15/22
• Property located in B-L zoning district

The Emmaus Zoning Hearing Board voted 3-0 to grant Steven Schaffer a building permit to rebuild a garage at 124 E. Main St., subject to conditions including compliance with setbacks and a 1,000 sq. ft. limit. The board also voted 3-0 that the zoning ordinance section 403.4.J(3) applies to the B-L district, upholding a notice of violation for a shipping container, and voted 2-1 to deny a variance to keep the container by equitable estoppel. The board voted 3-0 to deny that the current structure is non-conforming.

• Granted building permit to rebuild garage (3-0), subject to conditions
• Upheld notice of violation for shipping container; ruled 403.4.J(3) applies to B-L district (3-0)
• Denied variance to keep shipping container by equitable estoppel (2-1)
• Ruled garage must comply with all required setbacks (3-0)
• Ruled garage cannot exceed 1,000 sq. ft. (3-0)
• Denied that current structure is non-conforming (3-0)
• Voted 2-1 not to require removal of all other accessory structures

Borough Council Meetings

Council voted 6-0 to hire Adam Priest as Assistant EMS Chief at a prorated salary of $76,000 per year, with a path to Chief after meeting benchmarks. They also approved a Sunday Cyclocross event on September 11, 2022, and a Reach LV Youth Recovery Center event on August 26, 2022, both with fees. The Halloween Parade start time was changed to 7:00 p.m. in a 4-3 vote, with the mayor casting the deciding vote.

• Hired Adam Priest as Assistant EMS Chief at $76,000/year (6-0)
• Approved Sunday Cyclocross event on Sept 11, 2022 (6-0)
• Charged $180 fee for all-day soccer field use for Cyclocross (5-1)
• Approved Reach LV Youth Recovery Center event on Aug 26, 2022 (4-3, mayor tie-break)
• Allowed Reach LV option to reserve basketball court for $50 for 4 hours (6-0)
• Changed Halloween Parade start time to 7:00 p.m. (4-3, mayor tie-break)
• Adopted Ordinance 1229 removing disabled parking signs at 529 Minor and 234 Adrain (6-0)
• Adopted Resolution 2022-31 to dispose of certain municipal records (6-0)

Zoning Hearing Board

The Emmaus Zoning Hearing Board will meet to hear two appeals. One seeks a special exception to convert a garage into a hair salon, and the other requests variances to expand an auto repair garage. The board will decide whether to grant these requests.

• Appeal 10617: Stefanie Schmick, 302 N. 7th St., special exception for home occupation (hair salon) in R-M district
• Appeal 10618: SAMHR LLC, 11 N. 10th St., variance for 14' side yard setback (requested 1') in B-L district
• Appeal 10618: Variance to allow 51% expansion of nonconforming auto repair/detailing garage

The Emmaus Zoning Hearing Board approved a special exception for a home-based hair salon at 302 N. 7th St. and denied two variance requests for an auto repair garage expansion at 11 N. 10th St. The salon conversion was approved unanimously, while the garage expansion was denied due to setback and expansion limits.

• Granted special exception for hair salon at 302 N. 7th St. (3-0)
• Denied 14-foot side yard setback variance for garage expansion at 11 N. 10th St. (2-1)
• Denied variance to allow expansion of nonconforming structure by more than 25% (3-0)

Borough Council Meetings

The Emmaus Borough Council will hold its regular meeting, featuring a second reading of Ordinance 1230, which repeals and amends the Little Lehigh Creek Watershed Act 167 stormwater management ordinance. The council will also receive a presentation on a swimming pool study and consider several event requests, resignations, and appointments.

• Ordinance 1230: Repealing and amending the Little Lehigh Creek Watershed Act 167 stormwater management ordinance (2nd reading)
• Swimming pool study presentation by Brent Boyer, Aquatic Facility Design Inc.
• Event requests from Passport to History, FSX Fifth Street Cross, Emmaus Lioness Club, Jehovah's Witness, and St. Ann's Church Fall Fest
• Resignations from Shade Tree Commission, Joint Environmental Advisory Council, and Emmaus Ambulance Corps
• Resolution 2022-29: Approving financing plan for Phoebe-Devitt Homes project

The Emmaus Borough Council adopted Ordinance No. 1230, amending the stormwater management ordinance, and approved several hires and purchases, including a new public works employee, police sergeants, a sewer camera truck, and a police server. They also extended the refuse/recycling agreement with Whitetail Disposal and approved a change order for council chambers.

• Adopted Ordinance No. 1230 amending stormwater management (6-0)
• Hired Robert Leanch as full-time Public Works employee (6-0)
• Retained Sergeants Polster and Knoblauch as permanent police sergeants (6-0)
• Approved purchase of Public Works Sewer Camera Demo Truck for max $405,775 (6-0)
• Authorized purchase of Police Department Server from Hewlett Packard (6-0)
• Extended refuse/recycling agreement with Whitetail Disposal until 2023 (6-0)
• Approved change order for Council Chambers in amount of $10,585.20 (4-2)
• Adopted Resolution 2022-30 authorizing payment of bills totaling $1,839,275.95 (6-0)

Zoning Hearing Board

The Emmaus Zoning Hearing Board will meet on June 23, 2022, to hear four appeals. These include converting a commercial building to residential, expanding an office/community building, constructing townhouses, and converting a garage into a care unit. The board will decide on special exceptions and variances.

• Appeal 10613: Convert commercial building to residential at 218 Green St., add 282 SF addition
• Appeal 10614: Expand office/community building by 40% at 102 N. 10th St., request variances
• Appeal 10615: Construct three townhouses at 664-680 Ridge St.
• Appeal 10616: Convert garage into care unit at 624 Broad St., request variances

The Emmaus Zoning Hearing Board denied variances for a garage conversion at 624 Broad St. (3-0), granted a special exception for three townhouses at 664-680 Ridge St. (3-0), granted interpretations for a community building expansion at 102 N. 10th St. (3-0), and granted a special exception to convert a commercial building to residential at 218 Green St. (3-0).

• Denied variances for garage conversion at 624 Broad St. (3-0)
• Granted special exception for three townhouses at 664-680 Ridge St. (3-0)
• Granted interpretation that recreational facilities are permitted accessory use at 102 N. 10th St. (3-0)
• Granted special exception to convert commercial building to dwelling at 218 Green St. (3-0)

Borough Council Meetings

The Emmaus Borough Council is meeting to vote on several ordinances, including a second reading to remove a disabled parking sign on Ridge Street, a first reading to remove one on Minor Street, and a first reading to repeal and replace the Little Lehigh Creek watershed stormwater management ordinance. They will also consider a resolution approving a minor subdivision at 322-326 Franklin Street, and receive reports from committees and the mayor.

• Resolution 2022-28: Approve revised preliminary/final minor subdivision plan for 322-326 Franklin Street
• Ordinance 1228 (2nd reading): Remove residential disabled parking sign across from 628 Ridge Street
• Ordinance 1229 (1st reading): Remove residential disabled parking sign across from 529 Minor Street
• Ordinance 1230 (1st reading): Repeal Ordinance 1011 and amend Little Lehigh Creek watershed stormwater management ordinance
• Purchase of breathing air compressor for Fire Department

The Emmaus Borough Council approved Resolution 2022-28 for the revised preliminary/final minor subdivision plan at 322-326 Franklin Street. Council also approved the August 20 Handmade Mystic event at Triangle Park, adopted Ordinance 1228 removing a disabled parking sign, and passed first readings of Ordinances 1229 and 1230. Several other administrative actions were taken, including approving a construction security release and retaining a police officer.

• Approved Resolution 2022-28 for revised subdivision plan at 322-326 Franklin Street (7-0)
• Approved Handmade Mystic event for August 20, 2022 at Triangle Park (6-1)
• Adopted Ordinance 1228 removing disabled parking sign across from 628 Ridge Street (7-0)
• Adopted first reading of Ordinance 1229 removing disabled parking signs across from 529 Minor St and 234 Adrain St (7-0)
• Adopted first reading of Ordinance 1230 repealing and replacing stormwater management ordinance (7-0)
• Granted construction security release for Seven Generations Charter School Gymnasium, $138,385.85 (7-0)
• Retained Officer Brandon Sacks as permanent full-time police officer (7-0)
• Authorized $4,000 payment toward breathing air compressor for Emmaus Fire Department (7-0)

Zoning Hearing Board

The Zoning Hearing Board will meet on May 26, 2022, to hear requests for variances and special exceptions. The items include proposals for residential additions, apartment developments, and changes in building use.

• Variance for a 336 SF addition at 119 Dell St.
• Proposal for a 6-unit apartment building at 306 Broad St.
• Special exception to change non-conforming use at 202 S. 6th St.
• Conversion of single family home to two-unit apartment at 640 Furnace St.

The Emmaus Zoning Hearing Board denied a variance to convert a single-family home at 640 Furnace St. into a two-unit apartment building, citing lack of legal hardship. The board granted a side yard setback variance and non-conforming expansion for an addition at 119 Dell St., a special exception with conditions for a pool company at 202 S. 6th St., and variances for a proposed 6-unit apartment building at 306 Broad St. Rear, including an alternative to allow two principal buildings less than 20 feet apart.

• Denied variance to convert 640 Furnace St. to two-unit apartment (3-0)
• Granted 3.4' side yard setback variance and 8% non-conforming expansion at 119 Dell St. (3-0)
• Granted special exception for pool company at 202 S. 6th St. with condition to install 6' fence (3-0)
• Granted 472 SF per unit lot area variance for 6-unit building at 306 Broad St. Rear (3-0)
• Voted interpretation not applicable for two principal buildings (3-0)
• Granted alternative to permit two principal buildings less than 20' apart (2-1)

Borough Council Meetings

The Emmaus Borough Council is meeting to consider several items, including a first reading of Ordinance 1228 to remove a residential disabled parking sign across from 628 Ridge Street. The council will also decide on a water truck lease bid, consider reappointing Alan Sylvestre to the Recreation and Entertainment Commission, and review a conditional approval for a major subdivision at 303 Franklin Street. Several seasonal hires for the pool are also on the agenda.

• Ordinance 1228: Remove disabled parking sign across from 628 Ridge Street (1st reading)
• Decision on water truck lease bid
• Resolution 2022-25: Conditional approval of Nonnemacher major subdivision at 303 Franklin Street
• Reappointment of Alan Sylvestre to Recreation and Entertainment Commission
• Hire seasonal pool lifeguards, cashier, and concession stand staff

The Emmaus Borough Council approved a 5-year contract with the Emmaus Professional Firefighters Local 5004, hired Timothy Kline as a police officer contingent on exams, and promoted Kevin Schmidt to sergeant. They also approved a $831,294.29 bill list and conditionally approved a subdivision at 303 Franklin Street.

• Approved 5-year contract with Emmaus Professional Firefighters Local 5004 (7-0)
• Hired Timothy Kline as police officer contingent on Act 120 and exams (7-0)
• Promoted Kevin Schmidt to police sergeant contingent on probation (7-0)
• Approved Resolution 2022-25 conditionally approving subdivision at 303 Franklin Street (7-0)
• Approved Resolution 2022-26 for bill list totaling $831,294.29 (7-0)
• Approved bid from First Columbia Bank and Trust for water service truck at 3.1% (7-0)
• Adopted Ordinance No. 1228 on first reading to remove disabled parking sign across from 628 Ridge Street (7-0)
• Authorized Emmaus Arts Commission to paint and place 3 picnic tables at Triangle Park (7-0)

Borough Council Meetings

The Emmaus Borough Council will review a second reading of Ordinance 1227 regarding the International Property Maintenance Code. The meeting also includes reports from various committees and the Mayor's proclamations.

• Second reading of Ordinance 1227 amending the International Property Maintenance Code
• Resolution 2022-23: PennDOT traffic signal approval application
• Resolution 2022-24: Bill List
• Mayor's Proclamations for International Compost Week, Police Week, EMS Week, and Public Works Week

The Emmaus Borough Council adopted Ordinance No. 1227, amending the International Property Maintenance Code § 5-602, on its second reading. The council also adopted the Borough of Emmaus Emergency Operations Plan and Resolution 2022-23 for traffic signal approval at Chestnut and 6th Streets. All votes were unanimous (7-0).

• Adopted Ordinance No. 1227 amending International Property Maintenance Code § 5-602 (7-0)
• Adopted Borough of Emmaus Emergency Operations Plan (7-0)
• Adopted Resolution 2022-23 for PennDOT traffic signal approval at Chestnut and 6th Streets (7-0)
• Adopted Resolution 2022-24 authorizing payment of May 2, 2022 bill list totaling $674,144.57 (7-0)
• Adopted April 18, 2022 Council Minutes as drafted (7-0)

Borough Council Meetings

The Emmaus Borough Council is meeting to consider several resolutions, including a sewage planning module for properties on Franklin Street, grant applications for greenways and community development, and the approval of the bill list. They will also hear a presentation on 2022 summer events and discuss various communications, including a road closure request and parking concerns.

• Resolution 2022-20: Sewage Planning Module for 322 & 326 Franklin Street
• Resolution 2022-21: DCED Greenways Grant Application
• Resolution 2022-19: CDBG Grant Application
• Resolution 2022-22: Bill List
• Request for road closure by April Maddona

Borough Council Meetings

The Borough Council is scheduled to hold second readings for ordinances regarding street excavation resurfacing and parking restrictions near the police department. The council will also consider a first reading for an ordinance amending property maintenance codes.

• Ordinance 1225: Second reading regarding street excavation resurfacing requirements
• Ordinance 1226: Second reading establishing parking restrictions near the Emmaus Police Department
• Ordinance 1227: First reading regarding International Property Maintenance Code amendments
• Purchase of flashing crosswalk signals
• Hiring of Madison Buchanan as EMT

The Emmaus Borough Council adopted two ordinances on second reading: one updating street opening resurfacing requirements and another establishing parking restrictions near the police department. They also gave first reading to a property maintenance code amendment and approved a flashing pedestrian crossing signal for Harrison Street. A $8,500 donation from the Emmaus 5k was accepted for pedestrian safety signs.

• Adopted Ordinance No. 1225 amending street excavation resurfacing requirements (7-0)
• Adopted Ordinance No. 1226 establishing parking restrictions near the police department (7-0)
• Gave first reading to Ordinance No. 1227 amending the International Property Maintenance Code (7-0)
• Approved purchase of a flashing pedestrian crossing signal on Harrison Street near Lincoln Elementary School (7-0)
• Granted Fields at Indian Creek, LLC request for credit reduction for Phases IV and V (7-0)
• Adopted Resolution 2022-17 authorizing payment of the April 4, 2022 bill list totaling $547,108.36 (7-0)
• Accepted $8,500 donation from Emmaus 5k for flashing pedestrian crossing signs

Borough Council Meetings

The Emmaus Borough Council will hold its regular meeting, featuring first readings of two ordinances: one amending street excavation resurfacing requirements and another establishing parking restrictions near the police department. The council will also decide on a lawn mowing bid, review committee reports, and consider conditional approvals for developments.

• Ordinance 1225: Amends street excavation resurfacing requirements (1st reading)
• Ordinance 1226: Establishes parking restrictions near Emmaus Police Department (1st reading)
• 2022 Lawn Mowing and Trimming Bid decision
• Resolution 2022-14: Conditional approval for 303 Franklin Development
• Resolution 2022-15: Conditional approval for 33 E Minor Street Development

Council awarded the 2022 lawn mowing and trimming bid to All Year, Inc. for three years with three optional one-year extensions, at $94,774 for 2022, $95,721.24 for 2023, and $97,636.17 for 2024. Council also gave first reading to two ordinances: one amending street excavation resurfacing requirements (No. 1225) and one establishing parking restrictions near the police department (No. 1226). Resolutions were adopted conditionally approving land development plans for Seven Generations Charter School and a subdivision at 303 Franklin Street, and a full-time paramedic was hired.

• Awarded 2022 lawn mowing bid to All Year, Inc. for 3 years plus 3 optional 1-year extensions (7-0)
• Adopted Ordinance No. 1225 on first reading amending street excavation resurfacing requirements (7-0)
• Adopted Ordinance No. 1226 on first reading establishing parking restrictions near police department (7-0)
• Approved temporarily covering 15-minute parking signs on Jubilee Street during construction (7-0)
• Adopted Resolution 2022-15 conditionally approving Seven Generations Charter School land development plan (7-0)
• Adopted Resolution 2022-14 granting waiver requests for subdivision at 303 Franklin Street (7-0)
• Hired Adam Priest as full-time paramedic contingent on background check (7-0)
• Adopted Resolution 2022-16 authorizing payment of bills totaling $462,705.03 (7-0)

Borough Council Meetings

The Emmaus Borough Council is meeting to consider several items, including a second reading of an ordinance to add residential disabled parking signs at 568 Broad Street and 243 Adrain Street. The council will also consider resolutions conditionally approving a land development plan for the Iron Works Apartments at 300 Furnace St and a plan revision for 303 Franklin Street. Committee reports include a proposal for materials testing for borough building renovations and a request to hire a Public Works Director.

• Ordinance 1224: Add residential disabled parking sign and assign permitted parking space at 568 Broad St and 243 Adrain St (2nd reading)
• Resolution 2022-11: Conditionally approve revised preliminary/final land development plan for 300 Furnace St LLC (Iron Works Apartments)
• Resolution 2022-12: Plan revision for new land development (sewage facilities planning module) at 303 Franklin St
• Hillis-Carnes Engineering proposal for materials testing for Borough Hall, Central Fire and Ambulance Station, and Police Station renovations
• Resolution 2022-13: Bill list approval

Council conditionally approved the revised preliminary/final land development plan for the 144-unit Iron Works Apartments at 300 Furnace St, adding a clubhouse, pool, and 330 parking spaces. Council also adopted ordinances for disabled parking signs, hired a new Public Works Director, and approved payments and engineering proposals.

• Adopted Ordinance No. 1224 for disabled parking signs at 568 Broad St and 243 Adrain St (7-0)
• Approved Resolution 2022-11 conditionally approving Iron Works Apartments land development plan (7-0)
• Approved Resolution 2022-12 for sewage facilities planning module at 303 Franklin St (7-0)
• Hired Lawrence Carl as Director of Public Works at $92,000 salary, start date April 4, 2022 (7-0)
• Reappointed Michael Gibson to Planning Commission until 4/1/2026 (7-0)
• Accepted Hillis-Carnes Engineering proposal for Borough Hall, Fire, and Police renovations (7-0)
• Approved Resolution 2022-13 authorizing payment of $911,104.95 in bills and payroll (7-0)
• Adopted February 22, 2022 Council minutes as drafted (7-0)

Borough Council Meetings

The Emmaus Borough Council is holding its regular meeting with an amended agenda. The council will consider bids, hear requests for a charity bike ride and a food donation, receive committee and board reports, and vote on retaining two probationary firefighters. The meeting also includes accepting the resignation of the Public Works Director.

• Event request for Monkey Knife Fight Against Cancer Charity Bike Ride on April 9, 2022 at Community Park
• Cedarbrook Sportsmen Fish Food Donation Request
• Resolution 2022-10: Bill List
• Retention of probationary Firefighter Michael Himes and Firefighter Joshua Schmale
• Accept resignation from Stanley Rugis – Public Works Director

The Emmaus Borough Council accepted the resignation of Stanley Rugis as Public Works Director, effective 3/3/2022, after an executive session on a personnel issue. The council also adopted the February 7, 2022 minutes and Resolution 2022-10 authorizing payment of bills totaling $671,263.68. No other substantive decisions were made; most agenda items were procedural or reports.

• Accepted resignation of Stanley Rugis as Public Works Director effective 3/3/2022 (7-0)
• Adopted Resolution 2022-10 authorizing payment of February 22, 2022 Bill List totaling $671,263.68 (7-0)
• Adopted February 7, 2022 Council Minutes as drafted (7-0)

Borough Council Meetings

The Borough Council will review construction bids for the Town Hall, Central Station, and Police Station. The meeting also includes a first reading of an ordinance to add residential disabled parking spots on Adrain Street and Broad Street.

• Construction bids for Town Hall, Central Station, and Police Station
• Ordinance 1224: Adding disabled parking at 243 Adrain Street and 568 Broad Street
• Resolution 2022-7: Sale of a rifle to Lehigh County for $1,500.00
• Swearing in of Police Chief Apgar
• Request from Run Lehigh Valley, LLC to hold the Emmaus 5 Miler on June 4, 2022

Council approved a $9,904,000 general contracting bid from Skepton Construction for the Town Hall, Central Station, and Police Station project, including alternates #1, #2, and #3. The bid was $600,000 less than expected. Council also approved several other actions, including a food truck event, pool amenities, and various appointments and resolutions.

• Approved $9,904,000 construction bid to Skepton Construction (7-0)
• Granted Run Lehigh Valley request for Emmaus 5 Miler on June 4, 2022 with alcohol at Triangle Park (7-0)
• Adopted Ordinance 1224 on first reading for disabled parking signs at 243 Adrain St and 568 Broad St (7-0)
• Approved Food Truck Event at Emmaus Community Park on April 30, 2022 (7-0)
• Approved purchase of pool amenities: 2 basketball hoops, aqua zip, aqua climb, 10' slide (7-0)
• Adopted Resolution 2022-5 closing out CCP grant and Resolution 2022-6 for DCNR grant application (7-0)
• Approved sale of rifle to Lehigh County for $1,500 (7-0)
• Approved $983,335.32 in bills and payroll (7-0)

Zoning Hearing Board

The Emmaus Zoning Hearing Board will meet on January 27, 2022, to hear an appeal by Craig Smith for a property at 495 E. Harrison St. The applicant proposes to convert an existing garage and apartment building into a two-unit apartment building and requests a variance from the Table of Uses and Zoning Ordinance 402.1.O. The site is in an R-L zoning district.

• Appeal 10608 by Craig Smith for 495 E. Harrison St.
• Proposal to convert existing garage and apartment building into a two-unit apartment building
• Variance requested from Table of Uses and Z.O. 402.1.O
• Site located in R-L zoning district
• Meeting at St. John's UCC, 139 N. 4th St., and via Zoom

The Emmaus Zoning Hearing Board voted 2-0 to deny a use variance requested by Craig Smith to convert a garage and apartment building at 495 E. Harrison St. into a two-unit apartment building. The denial was based on the proposed use not being permitted in the R-L Zoning District and the applicant's failure to demonstrate a unique hardship. The applicant may appeal the decision to the Lehigh County Court of Common Pleas within 30 days of receiving the written decision.

• Denied use variance for conversion to two-unit apartment at 495 E. Harrison St. (2-0)

Borough Council Meetings

The Emmaus Borough Council is meeting to decide on an environmental abatement contract with Sargent Enterprises Inc., and to consider a request to change the date of the 2022 Snowblast event. They will also discuss a request for reappointment to the Arts Commission and receive reports from the borough engineer and solicitor. Committee reports cover topics like hiring a police chief, a DEP consent order on PFAS, and a collective bargaining agreement.

• Environmental Abatement Contract - Sargent Enterprises Inc.
• Request to change date for 2022 Snowblast event
• Karri Schreppel Request for Reappointment to the Arts Commission for a Term Expiring 2/7/2025
• DEP Consent Order and Agreement - PFAS
• Easement Agreement for Parcels Located on S 5th Street, Emmaus

The Emmaus Borough Council hired Deputy Chief Jason Apgar as Chief of Police, effective February 7, 2022, following a search that narrowed 98 applicants to 3 finalists. The council also approved an asbestos removal bid, appointed committee members, and entered into a collective bargaining agreement with the Public Works union.

• Hired Jason Apgar as Chief of Police, start date Feb 7, 2022 (7-0)
• Approved $164,624 asbestos removal bid by Sargent Enterprises (7-0)
• Appointed Todd Ackerman to Southwest Comprehensive Planning Committee, Mike Gibson as alternate (7-0)
• Granted Fields at Indian Creek Letter of Credit Reduction, contingent on engineer review (7-0)
• Approved Consent Order and Agreement with DEP (7-0)
• Appointed 2022 Employee and Volunteer Safety Committee members (7-0)
• Entered into Collective Bargaining Agreement with Teamster's Local #773 for Public Works (7-0)
• Adopted Resolution 2022-4 authorizing payment of $439,775.70 in bills and payroll (7-0)

Borough Council Meetings

The Council will administer oaths of office to the Mayor and three Councilmembers before electing a new Council President and Vice President. The meeting also includes decisions on bids for Central Station renovation equipment and various administrative appointments.

• Oath of Office for Mayor LeeAnn Gilbert and Councilmembers Anders, Labenberg, and Baumgartner
• Awarding bids for a $28,000 office trailer and a $120,000 mobile home for Central Station Renovation
• Appointment of John Stover to the Vacancy Board
• Hiring of Sherry Palinkas as Police Department Data Entry Clerk
• Approval of Grant and Eisenhofer as PFOS Legal Counsel

The Emmaus Borough Council held its reorganization meeting, swearing in incumbents and appointing Brent Labenberg as Council President and Chris DeFrain as Vice President. The council approved the purchase of a house and office trailer from Phoenix Contracting LLC for $128,000, adopted Resolution 2022-1 appointing numerous officials, and approved several other actions including alcohol permits for Emmaus Main Street Partners events, a 30-day labor contract extension, and a loan from the General Fund to the Sewer Fund.

• Elected Brent Labenberg Council President (7-0)
• Elected Chris DeFrain Council Vice President (7-0)
• Approved $128,000 bid from Phoenix Contracting LLC for house and office trailers (7-0)
• Granted alcohol sales permits for Farewell to Summer Festival and Old-Fashioned Christmas (7-0)
• Adopted Resolution 2022-1 appointing borough officials (7-0)
• Approved 30-day contract extension with Teamsters Local Union #773 (7-0)
• Authorized loan from General Fund to Sewer Fund if needed (7-0)
• Adopted Resolution 2022-2 approving $329,992.58 in bills (7-0)