Ephrata public meetings in 2022

Regular Meeting

The Ephrata Zoning Hearing Board will hold a public hearing to consider a request for a special exception or variance to host weddings at 904 W. Main Street, including outdoor food, beverages, and live music. The applicant also seeks variances for parking, signage, and to allow 9 rental units in a bed and breakfast. The property is in a Residential Low Density zoning district.

• Special exception under §319-11 for a use not specifically regulated (weddings)
• Variance under §319-44(A)(C)(4)&(21) for parking spaces
• Variance under §319-52(A) for additional signage
• Variance under §319-26(A)(12) for 9 rental units in a bed and breakfast
• Property at 904 W. Main Street, owned by Rebecca and David Gallagher

Committee Meetings

The Public Safety Committee is meeting to consider appointing a police officer and to discuss a ladder truck lease agreement. The agenda also includes old business regarding the Lancaster Harm Reduction Project. No other action items are listed.

• Appointment of Police Officer Candidate Elizabeth Dexter effective March 20, 2023
• Discussion of Pioneer Ladder Truck Lease Agreement
• Old business: Lancaster Harm Reduction Project

The committee agreed to move a Pioneer Ladder Truck lease agreement forward to the next voting session. Members postponed a presentation from the Lancaster Harm Reduction Project until at least February 2023. No other formal votes were recorded.

• Approved meeting agenda as posted (unanimous)
• Agreed to move Pioneer Ladder Truck lease agreement forward to next voting session
• Postponed Lancaster Harm Reduction Project presentation until at least February 2023

Regular Meeting

The Ephrata Borough Authority will consider adopting the 2023 budget and program of services, appoint a solicitor, and approve several resolutions including a data-sharing agreement and bank account updates. It will also review and potentially approve payments totaling over $595,000 for the WWTF No. 1 Biosolids Project, and discuss a sanitary sewer request from Gables at Richard Avenue.

• Resolution 2022-13: Adopting the 2023 Budget and Program of Services
• Payments for WWTF No. 1 Biosolids Project: Lobar, Inc. $515,995.00; GHD, Inc. $37,003.44 and $38,088.95; American Testing Laboratories $3,404.00; Becker Engineering $1,248.75
• Resolution 2022-14: Appointing a Solicitor and Assistant Solicitor
• Resolution 2022-15: Approving Lancaster County Water and Sewer GIS Data-Sharing Agreement
• Gables at Richard Avenue sanitary sewer request for collection, conveyance, and treatment

The Authority adopted the 2023 Budget and Program of Services and approved a sanitary sewer request for Gables at Richard Avenue. The board also appointed legal counsel and authorized a GIS data-sharing agreement with Lancaster County.

• Adopted 2023 Budget and Program of Services (Resolution 2022-13) (unanimous)
• Approved Fulton Bank Requisition No. 10 for WWTF No. 1 Biosolids Project (unanimous)
• Appointed Law Firm of Salzmann Hughes, P.C. as Solicitor and James R. McManus, III as Assistant Solicitor (unanimous)
• Approved GIS data-sharing agreement with Lancaster County (Resolution 2022-15) (unanimous)
• Approved updating bank account signers and authorizations (Resolutions 2022-16 and 2022-17) (unanimous)
• Approved sanitary sewer request for Gables at Richard Avenue for 5,702.4 gallons per day (unanimous)

Voting Session

Ephrata Borough Council will consider adopting the 2023 budget and setting the property tax rate at 2.25 mills. They will also vote on a new five-year collective bargaining agreement with the Ephrata Law Enforcement Association and several other routine approvals.

• Adopt 2023 budget and set property tax rate at 2.25 mills
• Approve 2023-2027 collective bargaining agreement with Ephrata Law Enforcement Association
• Approve final land development plan for 1300 West Main LLC
• Authorize up to $1,500,000 for a new fire truck, with 36% from Lincoln Fire Company and 64% from the borough
• Appoint three police officer candidates: David Johnston, Evan Frees, and Joshua Hausler

Council adopted the 2023 Budget and Program of Services and set the 2023 property tax rate at 2.25 mills. They also approved a five-year collective bargaining agreement with the Ephrata Law Enforcement Association and authorized funding for a new Lincoln Fire Company truck.

• Approved 2023 Budget and Program of Services (Unanimous)
• Fixed 2023 property tax rate at 2.25 mills (Unanimous)
• Approved 2023-2027 Collective Bargaining Agreement with Ephrata Law Enforcement Association (Unanimous)
• Approved funding for Lincoln Fire Company truck not to exceed $1.5M, split 64% Borough and 36% Company (Unanimous)
• Approved Final Land Development Plan for 30-unit building at 1300 West Main LLC
• Appointed police officer candidates David Johnston, Evan Frees, and Joshua Hausler (Unanimous)
• Approved $1,000 monthly retroactive stipend for Interim Borough Manager (Unanimous)
• Approved new Borough logo (Carried)

Work Session

The Ephrata Borough Council is holding a work session to discuss items from committee meetings, including the 2023 proposed budget, a real estate tax rate ordinance, and various appointments. The council will also review a land development plan for 1300 West Main Street LLC, a School Resource Officer agreement, and a truck lease resolution for the Lincoln Fire Company. Not all items may advance to a formal vote.

• 2023 Proposed Budget and Program of Services Resolution
• Ordinance Fixing the Real Estate Tax Rate for 2023
• 1300 West Main Street LLC Land Development Plan
• School Resource Officer Agreement
• Lincoln Fire Company Truck Lease Resolution

Council unanimously approved the appointment of three police officer candidates. Several committee recommendations regarding the 2023 budget, tax rates, and land development were reviewed for future voting sessions. The Personnel Committee also established a monthly stipend for the Interim Borough Manager.

• Accepted Civil Service Commission certified list of police candidates (unanimous)
• Appointed David Johnston as police officer effective Jan 16, 2023 (unanimous)
• Appointed Evan Frees as police officer effective Feb 13, 2023 (unanimous)
• Appointed Joshua Hausler as police officer effective March 20, 2023 (unanimous)
• Approved $1,000 monthly retroactive stipend for Interim Borough Manager
• Approved amended meeting agenda (unanimous)

Committee Meetings

The Public Safety Committee will consider appointing three police officer candidates to the Ephrata Borough Police Department, with start dates in January, February, and March 2023. The committee will also review the Civil Service Commission's certified list of eligible candidates.

• Approve Civil Service Commission certified list of eligible police officer candidates
• Appoint David Johnston as police officer effective January 16, 2023
• Appoint Evan Frees as police officer effective February 13, 2023
• Discuss appointment of Joshua Hausler as police officer effective March 20, 2023

The Public Safety Committee accepted the Civil Service Commission's certified list of eligible police officer candidates. The committee then approved the conditional appointments of three individuals to the police department for 2023.

• Accepted Civil Service Commission certified list of eligible police officer candidates (unanimous)
• Appointed David Johnston as police officer candidate effective Jan 16, 2023 (unanimous)
• Appointed Evan Frees as police officer candidate effective Feb 13, 2023 (unanimous)
• Appointed Joshua Hausler as police officer candidate effective March 20, 2023 (unanimous)

Committee Meetings

The Special Projects Committee is meeting to consider a single action item: approval of a new logo for the borough. No discussion items are listed. The next meeting date is to be determined.

• Approval of new logo

The Special Projects Committee reviewed a new Ephrata Borough logo selected by the Task Force Committee. The committee recommended that Borough Council approve logo #2 during the December meeting.

• Approved meeting agenda as posted (unanimous)
• Recommended Borough Council approve logo #2

Committee Meetings

The Ephrata Civil Service Commission is meeting to approve the agenda and minutes from the previous meeting, and to discuss the creation of a police officer eligibility list and a staffing update. This is a routine administrative meeting with no public hearings or major financial decisions.

• Creation of Police Officer Eligibility List
• Staffing Update
• Approval of October 4, 2022 Meeting Minutes

Committee Meetings

The Community Services Committee is meeting to consider action and discussion items, including an increased cost for dog park signage, a vigil held at Whistle Stop Plaza, the 2023 budget and program of services, providing electricity and shade structures at the dog park, and Concerts by the Creek. The agenda also includes old business, a request from Mainspring regarding rental fees for Whistle Stop Plaza, and an executive session on a real estate matter.

• Increased cost for dog park signage
• October 29, 2022 vigil at Whistle Stop Plaza
• 2023 budget and program of services
• Providing electricity at dog park
• Request from Mainspring to keep rental fee for Whistle Stop Plaza events

The Community Services Committee agreed to cover additional dog park sign manufacturing costs up to $1,000. The committee decided that Mainspring of Ephrata will manage Whistle Stop Plaza rentals, provided the Borough receives a Certificate of Insurance. A recommendation was made to add the Grater Park Restroom Floors Capital Project to the 2023 budget.

• Approved covering dog park sign manufacturing costs exceeding $2,535.75 (not to exceed $1,000)
• Decided Mainspring of Ephrata shall manage Whistle Stop Plaza rentals with a Certificate of Insurance naming the Borough as additional insured
• Recommended adding Grater Park Restroom Floors Capital Project to the 2023 budget
• Approved meeting agenda as posted (unanimous)
• Agreed to cancel the December 27, 2022 meeting unless urgent matters arise

Committee Meetings

The Ephrata Highway Committee will meet to consider action items including the 2023 Street Improvements Program with curb and sidewalk condition evaluations, and a proposed construction plan and agreement with Comcast for Tom Avenue. Discussion items include the 2023 proposed budget and program of services, the West Main Street/Oak Street intersection, parking meters, and old business such as the December 2022 committee meeting. Miscellaneous items include Apple Street truck traffic. The agenda is largely procedural and discussion-oriented, with no final votes listed.

• 2023 Street Improvements Program – Curb and Sidewalk Condition Evaluations
• Comcast Cable Communications Proposed Construction Plans and Agreement – Tom Avenue
• 2023 Proposed Budget and Program of Services
• West Main Street / Oak Street Intersection
• Parking Meters

The Highway Committee reviewed property improvement requirements for 2023 street work and Comcast's plans for underground cable installation. The committee will recommend that Borough Council authorize staff to notify property owners of sidewalk and curb requirements and conditionally approve Comcast's installation plans.

• Approved meeting agenda as posted (unanimous)
• Recommended Borough Council authorize staff to notify property owners of curb, sidewalk, and tree removal requirements
• Recommended Borough Council conditionally approve Comcast's installation of 505 linear feet of underground cable on Tom Avenue
• Recommended Budget and Finance Committee accept the proposed 2023 Budget and Program of Services
• Cancelled the December 27, 2022 meeting

Committee Meetings

The Development Activities Committee is meeting to consider action on a land development plan for 1300 West Main Street LLC. Discussion items include the 2023 budget and program of services, the Ephrata Public Library lease, and zoning applications, including one postponed from November.

• 1300 West Main Street LLC Land Development Plan
• 2023 Budget and Program of Services
• Ephrata Public Library Lease
• Review December Zoning Applications (1 Postponed from November)

The Development Activities Committee recommended that Borough Council approve a land development plan for a 30-unit multi-family building at 1300 West Main Street. The recommendation includes approving three waiver/modification requests subject to specific signage and comment requirements. The Committee also recommended acceptance of the proposed 2023 Budget and Program of Services.

• Recommended Borough Council approve 3 waiver/modification requests and final land development plan for 1300 West Main Street
• Recommended Budget and Finance Committee accept the proposed 2023 Budget and Program of Services
• Approved meeting agenda as posted (unanimous)
• Decided to cancel December meeting unless urgent needs arise

Committee Meetings

The Budget and Finance Committee will consider and likely recommend the 2023 proposed budget, a budget resolution, and an ordinance fixing the real estate tax rate for 2023. The committee will also act on appointments for treasurer, solicitor, tax collector, and boards, as well as authorized signers for bank accounts and a truck lease for Lincoln Fire Company.

• 2023 Proposed Budget and Program of Services
• Ordinance Fixing the Real Estate Tax Rate for 2023
• Police Pension Resolution
• Lincoln Fire Company Truck Lease
• Appointment of Real Estate Tax Collector for 2023

The Committee reviewed several resolutions and ordinances for Council approval on December 12, including the 2023 Budget and Program of Services. They recommended a tax rate of 2.25 mills and the appointment of Ms. Aronson to the public library board. The Committee also recommended updates to bank signers and the appointment of the Borough Treasurer.

• Recommended Resolution 2022-37 appointing Ms. Gerhart as Borough Treasurer and Assistant Secretary
• Recommended Resolution 2022-38 and 2022-39 through 2022-46 updating bank signers
• Recommended Ms. Aronson for the vacant Ephrata Borough Public Library board position
• Recommended Resolution 2022-47 for the 2023 Budget including $30,000/year for police training range and $63,665 for park maintenance
• Recommended Ordinance 1571 fixing the 2023 tax rate at 2.25 mills
• Recommended Resolution 2022-48 setting Police Pension Fund contributions at 5% of gross pay
• Recommended Resolution 2022-50 appointing Lancaster County to collect 2023 real estate taxes
• Recommended Resolution 2022-51 appointing Solicitor and Assistant Solicitor

Committee Meetings

The Ephrata Public Safety Committee will meet on November 21, 2022, to consider a School Resource Officer Agreement and discuss the October police and emergency management reports, the 2023 budget, a proposed firearms range, and other public safety matters. The meeting is open to the public at Borough Hall.

• School Resource Officer Agreement (action item)
• 2023 Budget Review
• Proposed Firearms Range
• Upgrades of Borough Property Camera System
• Public Safety Concerns at Whistle Stop Plaza

The Committee recommended that Borough Council authorize the School Resource Officer Agreement. It also proposed adding $30,000 annually to the Capital Budget for 2023, 2024, and 2025 for a police firearms range.

• Recommended Borough Council authorize the School Resource Officer Agreement
• Recommended adding $30,000 to the 2023, 2024, and 2025 Capital Budgets for the Police Firearms Range
• Approved meeting agenda (unanimous)

Committee Meetings

The Municipal Enterprises Committee will discuss the proposed 2023 budget and program of services, along with free electric accounts, EV chargers, holiday lights, and an APPA legislative rally. No action items are scheduled; all items are for discussion only.

• 2023 Proposed Budget and Program of Services
• Free Electric Accounts
• EV Chargers
• Holiday Lights
• APPA Legislative Rally

The Committee reviewed the proposed 2023 Budget and Program of Services and will recommend its acceptance to the Budget and Finance Committee. Members requested staff develop guidelines for free electric accounts and provided guidance on holiday lighting. No formal action items were decided.

• Approved meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Recommended acceptance of proposed 2023 Budget and Program of Services
• Requested staff recommendations for free electric account guidelines
• Directed that holiday lights remain lit through February
• Agreed to hold December meeting only if urgent matters arise

Committee Meetings

The Special Projects Committee is meeting to approve a new logo for the borough. The only action item is the logo approval; the rest of the agenda is procedural, including setting the next meeting date.

• Approval of new logo
• Next meeting date set for December

The Committee reviewed proposed logo designs but determined they require further refinement. QNTM will revise the designs for presentation at a future meeting.

• Approved meeting agenda as posted (unanimous)
• Deferred logo selection pending further refinement by QNTM

Regular Meeting

The Ephrata Zoning Hearing Board will hold a public hearing to consider a request for a special exception or variance to host weddings at 904 W. Main Street, including outdoor food, beverage, and live music use. The applicant also seeks variances for parking, signage, and to allow 9 rental units in a bed and breakfast. The property is in a Residential Low Density zoning district.

• Special exception under §319-11 for a use not specifically regulated
• Variance under §319-44(A)(C)(4)&(21) for parking spaces
• Variance under §319-52(A) for additional signage
• Variance under §319-26(A)(12) for 9 rental units in a Bed and Breakfast
• Property at 904 W. Main Street, Ephrata, PA

Committee Meetings

The committee will discuss compensation for the Interim Borough Manager. The meeting also includes updates on personnel and the Borough Manager vacancy.

• Compensation for Interim Borough Manager
• Borough Manager Vacancy Update
• Salaried Employee Handbook

The Personnel Committee decided against hiring a consultant for the Borough Manager vacancy, opting instead for an in-house search. The committee also held an executive session to evaluate the Police Chief, with a recommendation to be provided to the full Council.

• Decided against hiring a consultant for the Borough Manager search
• Approved the meeting agenda (unanimous)

Regular Meeting

The Ephrata Borough Authority will consider approving multiple payments totaling over $543,000 for the WWTF No. 1 Biosolids Project, along with other action items including a resolution to update account access for ENB Wealth Solutions, a data-sharing agreement with Lancaster County, a sewer request for 21 West Locust Street, a proposal for a pumping station capacity evaluation, and the transfer of a dump truck from the borough. The board will also discuss the 2023 budget and receive engineering and operations reports.

• Approval of Fulton Bank Requisition No. 9 for WWTF No. 1 Biosolids Project, including payments to Lobar, Inc. ($358,552.26), Garden Spot Electric ($129,600.00), and GHD, Inc. ($45,563.48)
• Resolution 2022-12: Updating contact info, signers, and online access for ENB Wealth Solutions account
• Lancaster County Water and Sewer GIS Data-Sharing Agreement for the Water and Sewer Growth Area Capacity Project
• Sanitary sewer request for 21 West Locust Street, Ephrata Borough
• Transfer of ownership of a 2012 Ford F350 4X4 dump truck with plow and salt spreader from Borough of Ephrata to Ephrata Borough Authority

The Board approved several payments for the WWTF No. 1 Biosolids Project and authorized a $12,000 pumping station capacity evaluation. A sanitary sewer request for 21 West Locust Street was approved, and the Board adopted a resolution to update ENB Wealth Solutions account access.

• Approved Fulton Bank Requisition No. 9 for WWTF No. 1 Biosolids Project (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 2022-12 to update ENB Wealth Solutions account signers and access (unanimous)
• Approved sanitary sewer request for 21 West Locust Street for 237.6 gallons per day (unanimous)
• Authorized $12,000 unbudgeted expenditure for Becker Engineering pumping station evaluation (unanimous)
• Approved transfer of 2012 Ford F350 dump truck to Ephrata Recreation Center, contingent on Borough Council approval (unanimous)
• Tabled Lancaster County Water and Sewer GIS Data-Sharing Agreement until December meeting
• Ratified payment of bills (unanimous)
• Received and filed financial reports (unanimous)

Voting Session

Ephrata Borough Council will consider several action items including approval of a preliminary land development plan for the Zimmerman Subdivision, authorization for zoning ordinance text amendments, adoption of a new dog park ordinance, and a $298,879 purchase of a 2023 Case 721G wheel loader. The meeting also includes approval of various reports and committee recommendations.

• Preliminary Land Development Plan for Zimmerman Subdivision (1 sheet, dated Aug 26, 2022, by DH Enterprises)
• Authorization to move forward with zoning ordinance text amendments
• Reimbursement to Ephrata Recreation Center for HVAC repairs ($9,748.03)
• Purchase of 2023 Case 721G Wheel Loader ($298,879.00) from Groff Tractor and Equipment
• Adoption of Ordinance No. 1570 to add Chapter 223, Dog Parks, to Borough Code

Borough Council approved several capital purchases, including a new wheel loader and library lighting. The council also adopted a new ordinance establishing rules for public dog parks and approved a preliminary land development plan for the Zimmerman Subdivision.

• Approved purchase of 2023 Case 721G Wheel Loader for $298,879.00 (Unanimous)
• Adopted Ordinance No. 1570 establishing rules and regulations for public dog parks (Unanimous)
• Approved $46,612.11 bid to Facility Solutions Group for library LED lighting (Unanimous)
• Approved Preliminary Land Development Plan for Zimmerman Subdivision (Unanimous)
• Authorized $9,748.03 reimbursement to Ephrata Recreation Center for HVAC repairs (Unanimous)
• Approved transfer of 2012 Ford F350 Dump Truck to Ephrata Borough Authority (Unanimous)
• Authorized Change Order #3 for Gross Run project not to exceed $20,000 (Unanimous)
• Approved Extraordinary Give event at Whistle Stop Plaza for Nov 18, 2022 (Unanimous)

Voting Session

The Ephrata Area Joint Authority is holding its regular voting session. Action items include resolutions to update contact and signer information on two bank accounts, a resolution to allow bill payments between meetings up to $165,000 per month, a GIS data-sharing agreement for a water and sewer capacity project, and the purchase of a new auto flusher. The operations report includes an update on Highpoint Church.

• Resolution 2022-7: ENB Wealth Solutions account updates
• Resolution 2022-8: Peoples Security Bank account updates
• Resolution 2022-9: Approve interim bill payments up to $165,000/month
• Lancaster County Water and Sewer GIS data-sharing agreement
• New Joy Auto Flusher purchase

The Board approved a GIS data-sharing agreement with Lancaster County for infrastructure planning. It also authorized up to $15,000 for professional services to address the New Joy Auto Flusher issue. Additionally, the Board updated bank account authorizations and established a monthly bill payment limit.

• Adopted Resolution 2022-7 updating ENB Wealth Solutions account signers (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 2022-8 updating Peoples Security Bank account signers (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 2022-9 limiting monthly bill payments between meetings to $165,000 (unanimous)
• Approved GIS data-sharing agreement with Lancaster County Planning Department (unanimous)
• Approved unbudgeted expense not to exceed $15,000 for New Joy Auto Flusher professional services (unanimous)
• Approved October 13, 2022 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Ratified payment of bills (unanimous)

Borough Council

The Uniform Construction Code Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing to consider a request for relief from Chapter 10 of the 2015 IBC regarding ceiling height and protruding objects on circulation paths. The applicant seeks a headroom of 78 inches instead of the required 80 inches at 169 Martin Avenue. The property is owned by Wellspan Health.

• Public hearing on November 10, 2022 at 5:00 p.m. in Council Chambers
• Request for 78-inch headroom instead of required 80-inch minimum
• Property located at 169 Martin Avenue, Ephrata, PA
• Applicant: Matthew Peffley of WSP USA; Owner: Wellspan Health

Work Session

The Borough Council held a work session to review committee recommendations. No final votes were taken on substantive items, as the committee reports were presented for future action at the November Borough Council meeting.

• Approved meeting agenda as posted (Unanimous)

Committee Meetings

The Community Services Committee will consider awarding a contract for lighting replacement at the Ephrata Public Library, a request from Mainspring to host the 'Extraordinary Give' event, and a request to waive rental fees for Whistle Stop Plaza. They will also discuss a dog park rules ordinance, including increased sign fees and temporary shelter requirements, and review the third quarter budget report.

• Bid Award #22-6 for lighting replacement at Ephrata Public Library
• Request from Mainspring to host the 'Extraordinary Give'
• Discussion of Dog Park Rules Ordinance, including increased sign fees and temporary shelter requirements
• Third Quarter Budget Report
• Request to keep rental fee for Whistle Stop Plaza events

The Community Services Committee recommended awarding Bid #22-6 to Facility Solutions Group for lighting replacement at Ephrata Public Library at $46,612.11, with a Keystone Grant covering half. They also recommended approving Mainspring's Extraordinary Give event at Whistle Stop Plaza on November 18, 2022, and adopting Chapter 223 (Dog Parks). No final decisions were made; all items will go to Borough Council in November.

• Recommended awarding Bid #22-6 to Facility Solutions Group for library lighting replacement at $46,612.11 (unanimous)
• Recommended approving Mainspring's Extraordinary Give event at Whistle Stop Plaza on Nov 18, 2022, subject to insurance certificate (unanimous)
• Recommended adopting Chapter 223, Dog Parks (unanimous)
• Discussed but tabled decision on additional dog park sign fees pending cost estimate
• Discussed zoning for temporary shelters at churches; no action taken
• Discussed 3rd Quarter Budget Report; no concerns raised
• Discussed requesting Ephrata Public Library report on Concerts by the Creek; no formal action

Committee Meetings

The Development Activities Committee will consider a zoning ordinance text amendment and preliminary plan approval for the Zimmerman Subdivision. Discussion items include third quarter budget review, proposed traffic circulation changes and a no-smoking perimeter at Borough Hall, and Ephrata Rec Center bills. The committee will also review October zoning decisions and one postponed November zoning application.

• Zoning Ordinance Text Amendment Changes
• Preliminary Plan Approval for the Zimmerman Subdivision
• Ephrata Rec Center Bills
• Third Quarter Budget Review
• Proposed Traffic Circulation Changes at Borough Hall

The Development Activities Committee reviewed proposed zoning text amendments adding a definition for 'short term rental' and recommended Borough Council authorize the approval process. The committee also recommended approval of the Zimmerman Subdivision preliminary land development plan subject to comments, and reimbursement of $9,748.03 to the Ephrata Recreation Center. No final decisions were made; all actions are recommendations to Borough Council.

• Recommended Borough Council authorize zoning text amendments including short-term rental definition
• Recommended Borough Council approve Zimmerman Subdivision preliminary plan subject to HRG and Lancaster County Planning comments
• Recommended Borough Council reimburse Ephrata Recreation Center $9,748.03 for contractor payment
• Authorized payment of four repair bills for Ephrata Recreation Center, each $640 or less

Committee Meetings

The Budget and Finance Committee is meeting to discuss the 2023 budget, third-quarter finances, and potential revenue sources. No formal action items are listed; the meeting is for discussion only.

• 2023 Budget Review and Discussion
• Third Quarter Budget Review
• Free Electric Accounts
• Solicitor Invoices (James R. McManus III, Salzmann Hughes, P.C.)
• Credit Card Fees/Civic Pay

The Budget and Finance Committee discussed the proposed 2023 budget and is willing to consider a tax increase to help balance the deficit. Staff will review capital projects for possible deferral. No formal decisions were made; the meeting was procedural.

• Agenda approved unanimously
• No action items were presented
• Committee will consider a tax increase for 2023 budget
• Staff to review capital projects for possible deferral
• Meeting time for Sept–Nov 2023 set to 7:30 PM

Committee Meetings

The Ephrata Borough Highway Committee is meeting to act on a resolution to dispose of a motor vehicle and discuss several items, including a heavy equipment purchase, a parking kiosk, and a third-quarter budget review. They will also review old business on the South Oak Street Bridge and discuss Apple Street truck traffic. The next meeting is scheduled for November 28, 2022.

• Resolution 2022-XX: Disposition of a Motor Vehicle
• Discussion: Heavy Equipment Purchase
• Discussion: Parking Kiosk
• Discussion: 3rd Quarter 2022 Budget Review
• Old Business: South Oak Street Bridge

The Highway Committee voted to recommend Borough Council approve the transfer of a 2012 Ford dump truck to the Ephrata Borough Authority and the purchase of a 2023 Case 721G Wheel Loader for $298,879. The committee also discussed a parking kiosk presentation, reviewed the third-quarter budget with no concerns, and noted a PennDOT letter deferring bridge railing replacement.

• Recommended approval of asset transfer of 2012 Ford F350 dump truck to Ephrata Borough Authority
• Recommended approval of $298,879 purchase of 2023 Case 721G Wheel Loader from Groff Tractor via CoStars contract
• Noted PennDOT letter changing Oak Street Bridge railing replacement to Priority Code 3, deferring to next major improvement
• Removed bridge railing item from future Highway Committee agendas

Regular Meeting

The Ephrata Zoning Hearing Board will hold a public hearing on October 19, 2022, to consider a request for a special exception or variance to host weddings at 904 W. Main Street. The applicants also seek variances for outdoor food/beverage and live music, parking, signage, and to allow 9 rental units in a bed and breakfast. The property is in a Residential Low Density zoning district.

• Special exception/variance for wedding venue at 904 W. Main St.
• Variance for outdoor courtyard food/beverage and live music
• Variance for parking spaces under § 319-44(A)(C)(4)&(21)
• Variance for additional signage under § 319-52(A)
• Variance for 9 rental units in a bed and breakfast under § 319-26(A)(12)

Regular Meeting

The Ephrata Borough Planning Commission is meeting to approve the September 2022 minutes and review a preliminary/final subdivision plan submitted by Luke Zimmerman. No other substantive items are on the agenda.

• Approval of September 2022 meeting minutes
• Luke Zimmerman preliminary/final subdivision plan

Committee Meetings

The Municipal Enterprises Committee will consider action items including an Everstream pole attachment agreement and Comcast path forward approval. Discussion items include a Gross Run LSI change order request, Q3 budget review, 2023 electric budget, power supply congestion, and EV chargers. The next meeting is scheduled for November 21, 2022.

• Everstream Pole Attachment Agreement
• Comcast Path Forward Approval
• Gross Run LSI Change Order request
• Q3 Budget Review and 2023 Electric Budget
• EV Chargers discussion

The Municipal Enterprises Committee voted to recommend that Borough Council approve a pole attachment agreement with Everstream, subject to the company's signature. The committee also recommended approval of a change order for the Gross Run Streambank Restoration Project. No final decisions were made; all action items are recommendations for the November 14, 2022 council meeting.

• Recommended council authorize Everstream pole attachment agreement (unanimous)
• Recommended council approve change order for Gross Run Streambank Restoration Project (unanimous)
• Deferred action on Comcast situation pending communication with senior manager
• Requested staff provide 2023 electric budget numbers for review
• Requested staff engage Chargepoint to begin charging fees for EV chargers

Committee Meetings

The Ephrata Borough Public Safety Committee is meeting to discuss the September 2022 police and emergency management reports, public safety concerns at Whistle Stop Plaza, and potential security upgrades for borough property, including security cameras. The committee will also review the third quarter 2022 budget and discuss the Fire Study Group. No formal action items are on the agenda.

• September 2022 Monthly Police Reports
• Public Safety Concerns at Whistle Stop Plaza
• Security Upgrades of Borough Property
• Ephrata Borough Security Cameras
• Third Quarter 2022 Budget Review

The Public Safety Committee met on October 17, 2022, but took no formal action items. Discussions included police monthly reports, homeless individuals sleeping under the caboose at Whistle Stop Plaza, and security upgrades at Borough parks. No decisions were made; the meeting was procedural and informational only.

• No action items were presented or voted on; the meeting was discussion-only

Voting Session

The Ephrata Area Joint Authority will vote on several action items, including updating bank account contacts and signers, approving final reductions of financial security for four developments, and entering a GIS data-sharing agreement. They will also discuss Pennsylvania Senate Bill 597 on water quality and water fees for unimproved properties, plus consider a rate increase and deferring capital projects.

• Resolution 2022-5: Ephrata National Bank account updates
• Resolution 2022-6: Peoples Security Bank account updates
• Final financial security reductions for Creek Corner Development, Ephrata Crossing East, Ephrata Crossing Phase 2, Lakeside Villas
• Lancaster County Water and Sewer GIS data-sharing agreement
• Discussion: PA Senate Bill 597 (Water Quality Accountability Act) and water fees for unimproved properties

The Ephrata Area Joint Authority approved final release of escrowed funds for Creek Corner Development, Ephrata Crossing East, Ephrata Crossing Phase 2, and Lakeside Villas, all unanimously. The board also adopted resolutions updating bank signers for Ephrata National Bank and Peoples Security Bank. A GIS data-sharing agreement was tabled for solicitor review. A visitor raised concerns about water discharge from an auto flush system on private property, which will be added to the November agenda.

• Approved final release of escrowed funds for Creek Corner Development (unanimous)
• Approved final release of escrowed funds for Ephrata Crossing East (unanimous)
• Approved final release of escrowed funds for Ephrata Crossing Phase 2 (unanimous)
• Approved final release of escrowed funds for Lakeside Villas (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 2022-5 updating Ephrata National Bank signers (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 2022-6 updating Peoples Security Bank signers (unanimous)
• Tabled Lancaster County Water and Sewer GIS Data-Sharing Agreement for solicitor review

Committee Meetings

The Personnel Committee is meeting to discuss a personnel update and evaluations for the police chief, as well as old business regarding the salaried employee handbook. No action items are listed, so the meeting is primarily for discussion.

• Discussion of personnel update
• Evaluations for police chief
• Salaried employee handbook (old business)

The Personnel Committee decided not to hire a consultant for the Borough Manager search and expressed satisfaction with an in-house strategy. The committee also discussed evaluating the Police Chief and will make a recommendation to full Council at a special Executive Session. No formal action items were approved.

• Rejected hiring a consultant for Borough Manager search
• Satisfied with in-house search strategy by Amanda Eberly
• Will recommend Police Chief evaluation to full Council at special Executive Session

Regular Meeting

The Ephrata Borough Authority will consider approving multiple invoices and payments for the WWTF No. 1 Biosolids Project, including a $61,461.54 payment to Lobar, Inc. and several GHD, Inc. invoices. The board will also vote on resolutions to adopt new bylaws and update bank account signers, and will discuss a sanitary sewer capacity request for 48 E. Mohler Church Road and a data-sharing agreement with Lancaster County.

• Approval of Fulton Bank Requisition No. 8 for WWTF No. 1 Biosolids Project, including Lobar, Inc. payment of $61,461.54 and GHD invoices totaling $27,799.49
• Resolution 2022-9: Adopting the Authority's By-Laws and ratifying prior action
• Resolutions 2022-10 and 2022-11: Updating Ephrata National Bank account contacts, signers, and online access
• Sanitary Sewer Conveyance and Treatment Capacity Request for 48 E. Mohler Church Road, Ephrata Township
• Lancaster County Water and Sewer GIS Data-Sharing Agreement for the Water and Sewer Growth Area Capacity Project

The Ephrata Borough Authority approved Fulton Bank Requisition No. 8 for the WWTF No. 1 Biosolids Project, totaling $90,346.60 across five invoices. The board also adopted three resolutions: Resolution 2022-9 adopting the Authority's by-laws, and Resolutions 2022-10 and 2022-11 updating bank account contact information, signers, and online access. A sanitary sewer capacity request for 48 E. Mohler Church Road was approved for 243.9 gallons per day.

• Approved Fulton Bank Requisition No. 8 for the WWTF No. 1 Biosolids Project, totaling $90,346.60
• Adopted Resolution 2022-9 adopting the Authority's by-laws and ratifying prior action
• Adopted Resolution 2022-10 updating Ephrata National Bank account contact, signers, and online access
• Adopted Resolution 2022-11 updating a second Ephrata National Bank account contact, signers, and online access
• Approved sanitary sewer capacity request for 48 E. Mohler Church Road at 243.9 gallons per day
• Approved minutes of the September 12, 2022 meeting
• Received and filed financial reports
• Ratified payment of bills

Voting Session

The Ephrata Borough Council is meeting to vote on land development plans, street closures for community events, and financial disbursements. The session includes decisions on public safety grants and traffic regulations for Railroad Avenue.

• Preliminary Land Development Plan for Morgan Truck LLC
• Release of $12,560.00 for land development at 40 and 44 Bethany Road
• Biannual disbursement of $86,347.00 to Mainspring of Ephrata
• Resolution No. 2022-35 for experimental traffic and parking in the 300 block of Railroad Avenue
• Street Opening and Gas Service Extension Agreement with UGI for 98 Highland Avenue

Ephrata Borough Council approved several routine items including a $86,347 biannual disbursement to Mainspring of Ephrata, purchase and installation of Sharps containers in Whistle Stop restrooms, and conditional approvals for street closures for a New Year's Eve celebration, Veterans Day flag hanging, and the Jack Frost parade. The council also adopted experimental parking regulations on the 300 block of Railroad Avenue and approved a gas service line to 98 Highland Avenue. All votes were unanimous.

• Approved $86,347 biannual disbursement to Mainspring of Ephrata (unanimous)
• Approved purchase, installation, and disposal of Sharps containers in Whistle Stop restrooms (unanimous)
• Conditionally approved revised street closure times for New Year's Eve celebration (unanimous)
• Approved gas service line to 98 Highland Avenue and authorized agreement with UGI (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution No. 2022-35 for experimental traffic/parking regulations on 300 block of Railroad Avenue (unanimous)
• Approved Christmas Eve service at Whistle Stop Plaza by Ephrata Church of the Brethren (unanimous)
• Approved final design of memorial stones at Dog Park (unanimous)
• Approved Mainspring of Ephrata request to place luminaries on WERT and Winters Memorial for Veterans Day (unanimous)

Committee Meetings

The Ephrata Civil Service Commission is meeting to handle routine administrative items, including approving the previous meeting's minutes and selecting a polygraph examiner for the 2022/2023 police officer hiring process. The commission will also receive updates on staffing and the current hiring process.

• Approval of polygraph examiner for Police Officer 2022/2023 hiring process
• Approval of July 11, 2022 meeting minutes
• Staffing update
• Update on current Police Officer 2022/2023 hiring process

Work Session

Council discussed adding retention and new hire bonuses to a PCCD grant application for the police department, but took no final vote. The item will be voted on at the October 10 voting session. Council also reviewed committee reports on rezoning, land development, and event requests, with most actions recommended for approval at the next meeting.

• Added PCCD grant discussion to the agenda by unanimous vote
• Approved the meeting agenda as amended by unanimous vote
• Discussed but did not vote on adding retention bonuses to the PCCD grant application
• Committee recommended not moving forward with rezoning 183 S. Market Street (2-0 vote)
• Committee recommended approving preliminary land development plan for Morgan Truck LLC at 485 Wenger Drive
• Committee recommended tabling zoning text amendments until short-term rental definition is provided
• Committee recommended releasing $12,560.00 for land development improvements at 40 and 44 Bethany Road
• Committee recommended conditional approval of New Year's Eve Celebration revised event requests

Voting Session

The Borough Council will meet for a special session to appoint an interim Borough Manager and Secretary. The body will also consider updating authorized signers for the ENB Money Management Group and Ephrata National Bank.

• Appointment of Interim Borough Manager / Secretary
• Resolution to update ENB Money Management Group Authorized Signers
• Resolutions to update Ephrata National Bank Authorized Signers

Ephrata Borough Council appointed Nancy E. Harris as Interim Borough Manager/Secretary after Michael R. McKenna resigned on September 16, 2022. The council also adopted resolutions updating authorized signers for ENB Money Management Group and Ephrata National Bank. All votes were unanimous.

• Appointed Nancy E. Harris as Interim Borough Manager/Secretary (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 2022-26 updating ENB Money Management Group authorized signers (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolutions 2022-27 through 2022-34 updating Ephrata National Bank authorized signers (unanimous)

Committee Meetings

The Budget and Finance Committee will consider a contribution request from Mainspring and discuss civic contribution requests, solicitor invoices, and the check and ACH register. Old business includes credit card fees and potential revenue sources. The meeting is largely routine financial oversight.

• Mainspring contribution request
• Civic contribution requests
• Solicitor invoices: James R. McManus III, Salzman Hughes, P.C.
• Check and ACH register
• Credit card fees/Civic Pay and potential revenue sources

The Budget and Finance Committee reviewed Mainspring of Ephrata's bi-annual funding request and will recommend Borough Council authorize the disbursement of $86,347 at their October meeting. The committee also heard presentations for 10 Civic Contribution requests and made adjustments to be incorporated into the draft 2023 budget. No final decisions were made; all items are recommendations for full Council action.

• Recommended $86,347 disbursement to Mainspring of Ephrata (unanimous committee vote)
• Reviewed 10 Civic Contribution requests; adjustments to be included in draft 2023 budget
• Reviewed solicitor invoices; noted higher fees due to current workload
• Reviewed check register; two items flagged for follow-up by staff

Committee Meetings

The Community Services Committee will consider requests for a Christmas Eve service at Whistle Stop Plaza, a fee waiver for plaza rentals, approval of memorial stone designs for the Dog Park, and luminaries for Veterans Day. They will also discuss tree placement at the Dog Park. The meeting is procedural, with no major policy changes.

• Request from Ephrata Church of the Brethren for Christmas Eve service at Whistle Stop Plaza
• Request from Mainspring to keep rental fee paid for Whistle Stop Plaza events
• Approval of final design of memorial stones at Dog Park
• Request to place luminaries along WERT and Winters Memorial on November 11 for Veterans Day
• Discussion on location of trees at Dog Park

The Community Services Committee voted to recommend that Borough Council approve a Christmas Eve church service at Whistle Stop Plaza, subject to insurance. They also recommended approving the final design of two memorial stones for the dog park and a Veterans Day luminary event along the WERT and Winters Memorial. No final decisions were made; all items require Council approval.

• Recommended approving Christmas Eve service at Whistle Stop Plaza (unanimous)
• Recommended approving final design of dog park memorial stones (unanimous)
• Recommended approving Veterans Day luminary event along WERT and Winters Memorial (unanimous)
• Deferred discussion on Mainspring retaining Whistle Stop Plaza rental fee to next meeting

Committee Meetings

The Development Activities Committee will consider several action items, including a zoning map change for properties on South Market Street and West Main Street, preliminary plan approval for Morgan Truck LLC, a zoning ordinance text amendment, and a drawdown request for 40-44 Bethany Road. They will also review recent zoning decisions and applications. The meeting is scheduled for September 26, 2022, at 6:30 PM.

• Zoning map change request for 183 South Market Street/1368 West Main Street (account 260-5858100000)
• Morgan Truck LLC preliminary plan approval
• Zoning Ordinance text amendment changes
• 40-44 Bethany Road drawdown request
• Review of September zoning decisions (2) and October zoning applications (1)

The Development Activities Committee voted 2-0 not to move the rezoning request for 183 S Market Street out of committee, effectively denying it. The committee also recommended Borough Council approve the preliminary land development plan for Morgan Truck LLC at 485 Wenger Drive, subject to staff and county comments. A proposed zoning text amendment regarding parking spaces was tabled until the next meeting to allow staff to define 'short term rental'. A final drawdown request for $10,000 in land development improvements for two apartment buildings at 40 and 44 Bethany Road was recommended for council approval.

• Rezoning for 183 S Market Street denied (2-0 vote to not move out of committee)
• Preliminary land development plan for Morgan Truck LLC at 485 Wenger Drive recommended for approval on October consent agenda
• Proposed zoning text amendment on parking spaces tabled until next committee meeting
• Final drawdown of $12,560 for improvements at 40 and 44 Bethany Road recommended for council approval on consent agenda

Committee Meetings

The Ephrata Borough Highway Committee is meeting to consider several action items, including special event requests for New Year's Eve, Veteran's Day, and the Jack Frost Parade, as well as a UGI request to install gas service at 98 Highland Avenue. They will also discuss adopting a 90-day experimental traffic and parking regulation in the 300 block of Railroad Avenue, along with other topics like ParkMobile and the South Oak Street Bridge pedestrian railing. The meeting is scheduled for September 26, 2022, at 5:30 PM at Borough Hall.

• Revised Mainspring of Ephrata Special Event Request – New Year’s Eve Celebration
• Railroad Avenue Street Closure Request – Veteran’s Day Special Event
• Cocalico Valley VFW Post 3376 Request – Jack Frost Parade
• UGI Request to Install Gas Service – 98 Highland Avenue
• Resolution 2022-XX Adopting 90-Day Experimental Traffic and Parking Regulations in 300 Block of Railroad Avenue

The Highway Committee reviewed and will recommend Borough Council conditionally approve revised event planning requests for Mainspring of Ephrata's New Year's Eve Celebration, including earlier street closures and later reopening. The committee also recommended conditional approval for a Veterans Day flag hanging event on Railroad Avenue and the annual Jack Frost parade street closure. Additionally, the committee recommended approval of a UGI natural gas service line to 98 Highland Avenue and adoption of experimental parking regulations on the 300 block of Railroad Avenue.

• Recommended conditional approval of revised New Year's Eve Celebration street closures (1:00 PM to 3:00 AM) subject to Incident Support Plan and PennDOT permit
• Recommended conditional approval of Railroad Avenue closure on Nov 11 for Veterans Day flag hanging and hot chocolate stand
• Recommended conditional approval of South State Street closure on Oct 26 for Jack Frost parade
• Recommended approval of UGI natural gas service line to 98 Highland Avenue with Street Opening and Gas Service Extension Agreement
• Recommended adoption of Resolution No. 2022-35 for experimental parking regulations on 300 block of Railroad Avenue

Committee Meetings

The Ephrata Borough Public Safety Committee is meeting to discuss public safety matters, including the August 2022 monthly police reports, an emergency management report, and concerns at Whistle Stop Plaza. The committee will also discuss security upgrades for borough property and old business items, including a grant program and a fire study group. No action items are on the agenda for this meeting.

• August 2022 Monthly Police Reports
• August Emergency Management Report
• Public Safety Concerns at Whistle Stop Plaza
• Security Upgrades of Borough Property
• Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency Local Law Enforcement Support Grant Program

The Public Safety Committee discussed public safety concerns at Whistle Stop Plaza, including drug use and needle disposal. The committee decided to keep exterior restroom doors locked and to move forward with installing Sharps containers in the Whistle Stop restrooms, pending cost and budget approval. No formal action items were voted on; all items were discussion only.

• Kept Whistle Stop restroom exterior doors locked, to be re-evaluated in one month
• Moved Sharps container installation in Whistle Stop restrooms to an action item for Borough Council
• Decided not to place Sharps containers in Ephrata Park restrooms at this time
• Requested that the Lancaster Harm Reduction Project be added as a discussion item for the next meeting
• Requested that security upgrades of Borough property be added as a discussion item for the next meeting

Regular Meeting

The Ephrata Zoning Hearing Board will hold a public hearing on September 14, 2022, to consider two applications. The first is an appeal by Rebecca and David Gallagher of a Notice of Violation and Cease and Desist order for their property at 904 West Main Street. The second is a request by Chelsea Clark to change a nonconforming use from office to retail at 24 Orange Street.

• Appeal of May 6, 2022 Notice of Violation and Cease and Desist order for 904 West Main Street
• Violations cited: uses not specifically regulated (§319-11), freestanding wall and window signs (§319-52(A)), off-street parking and loading (§319-44(A)(C)(4)&(12)), additional requirements for specific principal uses (§319-25(A)(12)(a)&(f))
• Change of nonconforming use from office to retail at 24 Orange Street under §319-65.F
• Property at 904 West Main Street is in Residential Low Density district; 24 Orange Street is in Medium-Density Residential district

Regular Meeting

The Ephrata Borough Planning Commission is meeting one week early to approve August minutes, review Morgan Truck Body LLC's preliminary/final land development plan, and discuss proposed zoning ordinance amendments. No final decisions are made at this meeting; it is a review and discussion session.

• Morgan Truck Body LLC preliminary/final Land Development Plan
• Proposed Zoning Ordinance amendments
• Approval of August 2022 meeting minutes

Committee Meetings

The Ephrata Borough Personnel Committee is meeting to discuss several personnel matters, including an update on personnel, the Business Office Administrator job description, and the salaried employee handbook. The committee will also discuss evaluations for the Borough Manager and Chief of Police. No action items are listed for this meeting.

• Personnel update discussion
• Business Office Administrator job description
• Salaried Employee Handbook
• Evaluations for Borough Manager and Chief of Police

The Personnel Committee met on September 13, 2022, and discussed several personnel matters, including a new part-time hire for Human Relations tasks, the acceptance of the Director of Finance position by Karen Gerhart, and plans to re-advertise the Business Office Administrator position. No formal votes or decisions were taken.

• No action items were presented or voted on at the meeting.

Regular Meeting

The Ephrata Borough Authority will consider approving payments for the WWTF No. 1 Biosolids Project, including a $296,958.96 application from Lobar, Inc., and other invoices. They will also discuss a GIS data-sharing agreement with Lancaster County and a sanitary sewer capacity request for a single-family dwelling at 7 Whitetail Drive. A discussion item on PA Senate Bill 597, the Water Quality Accountability Act, is also on the agenda.

• Approval of Fulton Bank Requisition No. 7 with payments to Lobar, Inc. ($296,958.96), Becker Engineering ($641.25 and $576.25), and Be Fenced, LLC ($5,550.00)
• Lancaster County Water and Sewer GIS Data-Sharing Agreement for the Water and Sewer Growth Area Capacity Project
• CDM Smith, Inc. sanitary sewer conveyance and treatment capacity request for 7 Whitetail Drive, East Cocalico Township
• Discussion of PA Senate Bill 597 – Water Quality Accountability Act

Voting Session

The Council will vote on several committee recommendations including gas main extensions, vehicle purchases, and new ordinances. Items include updates to stormwater management, tree regulations, and dog park rules.

• Reimbursement of $4,271.66 to the Rec Center
• Lease with option to purchase a 2016 Ford Transit Van from Apple Ford of York
• Gas main extensions along North Academy Drive and Fairview Avenue via UGI
• Sale of a 1997 Ford L-8000 Dump Truck via public auction
• Ordinance No. 1569 regarding Stormwater Management

Ephrata Borough Council approved a lease-purchase agreement for a 2016 Ford Transit van for police use, adopted a new stormwater management ordinance, and enacted a shade tree commission ordinance. The council also approved gas main extensions, a dump truck auction, dog park rules, and a VFW trunk-or-treat event. All votes were unanimous.

• Approved Resolution 2022-23 authorizing a lease with option to purchase a 2016 Ford Transit van from Apple Ford of York for police use.
• Enacted Ordinance No. 1569 replacing Chapter 275 (Stormwater Management) of the Borough Code.
• Enacted Ordinance No. 1568 establishing a Shade Tree Commission and regulating trees in Chapter 297.
• Approved gas main extensions along North Academy Drive (60 feet) and Fairview Avenue (220 feet) with UGI.
• Approved disposition of a 1997 Ford L-8000 dump truck via public auction on Municibid.
• Approved dog park rules and a request to add toy breed fencing with a 65-inch-wide gate.
• Approved VFW Auxiliary trunk-or-treat event in Borough Hall parking lot on October 26, subject to insurance.
• Ratified payment of bills totaling $1,753,399.52 (checks 48830–49134 and ACH register).

Work Session

The Ephrata Borough Council is holding a work session to discuss and potentially act on several items, including a lease agreement for a new fire truck, a zoning map change request, and two ordinances related to stormwater management and shade trees. The zoning map change for 183 South Market Street/1368 West Main Street is tabled for a future meeting. The agenda also includes presentations, committee reports, and opportunities for public comment.

• Resolution No. 2022-23: Lease with option to purchase for a Seagrave fire truck
• Zoning map change request for 183 South Market Street/1368 West Main Street (tabled)
• Ordinance No. 1569: Stormwater management
• Ordinance No. 1568: Regulating trees and establishing a Shade Tree Commission
• Resolution No. 2022-24: Disposition of 1997 L-800 dump truck with plow (value $2,000+)

The work session covered multiple committee reports and presentations but took no final votes. Council heard a ParkMobile presentation on contactless parking payments, discussed a rezoning request at 183 South Market Street that was tabled, and reviewed a proposed police van purchase and a fire truck lease agreement. Several action items were recommended for approval at the September 12 voting meeting.

• Agenda approved unanimously (procedural)
• Rezoning at 183 South Market Street tabled to September committee meeting
• Police van purchase (2016 Ford Transit) moved forward from committee without objection
• Pioneer ladder truck lease discussed but vote delayed pending receipt of vehicle title
• Trick-or-treat recommended for October 31, 6-8 PM, with rain date November 1
• UGI gas main extensions at North Academy Drive and Fairview Avenue recommended for approval
• 1997 Ford dump truck disposition via public auction recommended
• Dog park rules and toy breed area fencing recommended for approval

Committee Meetings

The Budget and Finance Committee will consider a resolution authorizing signers for ENB Money Management Group and discuss the 2023 pension certification report. They will also discuss an exit audit of accounting records, electric vehicle charger fees, a land bank program, solicitor invoices, and the check and ACH register. Old business includes credit card fees and Civic Pay. The meeting is scheduled for August 22, 2022, at 6:30 PM at Borough Hall.

• Resolution 2022-22: ENB Money Management Group authorized signers
• 2023 Pension Certification Report discussion
• Exit audit of accounting records from former Director of Administration and Finance
• Electric Vehicle Charger Fees discussion
• Land Bank Program discussion

The Budget and Finance Committee voted unanimously to recommend that Borough Council adopt Resolution 2022-22 updating the ENB Authorized Signers Form and authorize the Borough Secretary to certify the 2023 Pension under Act 205. No other decisions were made; discussion items included an exit audit with no issues, potential EV charger fees (referred to another committee), and solicitor review of a Land Bank agreement.

• Approved meeting agenda as posted (unanimous)
• Recommended Council adopt Resolution 2022-22 updating ENB Authorized Signers Form
• Recommended Council authorize Borough Secretary to certify 2023 Pension under Act 205

Committee Meetings

The Development Activities Committee will consider a zoning map change request for 183 South Market Street and 1368 West Main Street, and review two upcoming zoning applications, including an appeal at 904 West Main Street and a use change at 24 Orange Street. The committee will also approve bills for the Rec Center. No old business items are listed.

• Zoning map change request for 183 South Market Street/1368 West Main Street (Account 260-5858100000)
• Appeal from Zoning Officer determination at 904 West Main Street (rescheduled from July)
• Change from one non-conforming use to another at 24 Orange Street
• Rec Center bills approval
• Review of August zoning decisions (0) and September applications (2)

The committee discussed a request to rezone a portion of Residential Medium Density (RMD) to Residential Low Density (RLD) at 183 South Market Street. The Planning Commission recommended against the change, citing inconsistency with the 2014 Comprehensive Plan. Councilmen Zimmerman and Barr moved to table the discussion until the September meeting to consult with the Borough Solicitor, and the item was tabled. The committee also recommended that Borough Council authorize HVAC repair payments for the Ephrata Recreation Center and allow staff to approve invoices under $2,000.

• Tabled rezoning request for 183 South Market Street until September committee meeting
• Recommended Council authorize $4,271.66 reimbursement to Rec Center and direct payments of $376.50 and $243.00 to Ames Mechanical
• Recommended Council authorize staff to approve Rec Center repair invoices under $2,000 with monthly summaries to committee

Committee Meetings

The Community Services Committee will consider a request from the Cocalico Valley VFW to hold a Trunk or Treat event in the Borough Hall parking lot on October 26 from 7:30 PM to 9 PM. The committee will also review proposed dog park rules for approval, discuss a request from Ephrata Unleashed for a toy dog area, and receive an update on dog park construction, including neighbor concerns.

• VFW Trunk or Treat event in Borough Hall parking lot, Oct 26, 7:30-9 PM
• Proposed dog park rules review for approval
• Ephrata Unleashed request for toy dog area
• Update on dog park construction
• Neighbor concerns for dog park

The Committee reviewed and recommended approval of the Ephrata Unleashed Dog Park Committee's proposed rules, with modifications including a definition of excessive barking and a requirement for signage on the toy breed area. They also recommended allowing a fenced 20' x 30' toy breed dog area inside the small dog run, with a gate no less than 65" wide, to be paid for by the dog park committee. Additionally, the Committee will recommend Borough Council approve the VFW Auxiliary's request to use the Borough Hall parking lot for a trunk or treat event on October 26th, subject to insurance. No other action items or discussion items were addressed.

• Recommended Borough Council approve VFW Auxiliary trunk or treat event on October 26th, subject to insurance certificate
• Recommended adopting dog park rules with Rule No. 10 as proposed by Ephrata Unleashed (unleashing in corral area)
• Recommended adding excessive barking definition from Borough Code §214-3.(3) to dog park rules
• Recommended signage at corral entrance: 'ONE DOG AT A TIME' (provided by Ephrata Unleashed)
• Recommended approval of 20' x 30' fenced toy breed dog area inside small dog run, with gate ≥65" wide and signage defining toy breeds as ≤10 pounds
• Requested Borough Staff give final design approval on fencing height and materials for toy breed area

Committee Meetings

The Ephrata Borough Highway Committee is meeting to consider action items including two UGI gas main extensions and gas service installations, and a resolution to authorize the disposition of a 1997 Ford dump truck. Discussion items include a no-parking loading zone request, Apple Street truck traffic, and pedestrian railing at South Oak Street Bridge. The next meeting is scheduled for September 26, 2022.

• UGI gas main extension and gas service at 305 North Academy Drive
• UGI gas main extension and gas service at 960 & 970 Fairview Avenue
• Resolution 2022-XX to dispose of 1997 Ford L-8000 dump truck with plow
• No parking/loading zone request at 333 Railroad Avenue
• South Oak Street Bridge pedestrian railing/vehicle barrier discussion

The Ephrata Highway Committee voted unanimously to recommend Borough Council approve three UGI gas main extensions (North Academy Drive, Fairview Avenue) and authorize the sale of a 1997 Ford dump truck via public auction. They also discussed a 90-day experimental parking restriction on Railroad Avenue and reviewed ongoing projects.

• Recommended Council approve UGI gas main extension ~60 ft on North Academy Drive to 305 North Academy Drive (unanimous)
• Recommended Council approve UGI gas main extension ~220 ft on Fairview Avenue to 960 and 970 Fairview Avenue (unanimous)
• Recommended Council approve disposition of 1997 Ford L-8000 dump truck via Municibid auction (unanimous)
• Directed staff to draft resolution for 90-day experimental parking restriction on Railroad Avenue near 333 Railroad Avenue (discussion only)

Regular Meeting

The Zoning Hearing Board will hold a public hearing regarding an appeal of a Notice of Violation and Cease and Desist order. The appeal concerns the use of the property located at 904 West Main Street.

• Public hearing for appeal of Notice of Violation and Cease and Desist order
• Appeal regarding uses not specifically regulated (§ 319-11)
• Appeal regarding freestanding wall and window signs (§ 319-52(A))
• Appeal regarding off-street parking and loading (§ 319-44(A)(C)(4)&(12))
• Appeal regarding requirements for specific principal uses (§ 319-25(A)(12)(a)&(f))

Regular Meeting

The Ephrata Planning Commission will meet to approve past minutes and discuss several zoning matters. Key items include a proposed zoning district map change for the Sensenig tract at 183 South Market Street, a review of parking requirements, and proposed zoning ordinance amendments. These are discussion and review items, not final decisions.

• Zoning district map change for 183 South Market Street (Sensenig tract)
• Review of zoning parking requirements
• Review of proposed zoning ordinance amendments
• Approval of meeting minutes from September 2021, March 2022, and April 2022

Committee Meetings

The Municipal Enterprises Committee is meeting to discuss and potentially act on several items, including a request for prequalification related to Gross Run, adoption of a stormwater ordinance, and updates on trash services. The committee will also review a FERC complaint regarding Quakertown, an AMP Board of Trustees election, forestry project concerns, and Comcast issues. The next meeting is scheduled for September 19, 2022.

• Gross Run Request for Prequalification
• Stormwater Ordinance Adoption
• Trash Update
• Quakertown FERC Complaint
• AMP Board of Trustees Election

The Municipal Enterprises Committee met on August 15, 2022, and reviewed two action items. The Committee will recommend Council pre-qualify contractors for the Gross Run Stream Bank Restoration Project and repeal/replace the Stormwater Management Ordinance (Ordinance No. 1569) at the September 12, 2022 meeting. No final decisions were made; these are recommendations for Council action.

• Approved meeting agenda as posted (unanimous)
• Will recommend Council pre-qualify contractors for Gross Run Stream Bank Restoration Project
• Will recommend Council repeal and replace Stormwater Management Ordinance (Ordinance No. 1569)
• Cleared staff to run for American Municipal Power Board of Trustees seat
• Withdrew tree clearing from Forestry Management Plan on N. Maple St. from consideration

Committee Meetings

The Public Safety Committee will consider a four-year purchase agreement for a 2016 Ford Transit van and discuss a Pioneer ladder truck lease. They will also review July police and emergency management reports, set the Trick or Treat date, and revisit public safety concerns at Whistle Stop Plaza.

• Four-year purchase agreement with Municipal Capital Finance for a 2016 Ford Transit Van from Apple Ford of York
• Discussion of Pioneer Ladder Truck Lease
• July 2022 Monthly Police Reports
• July Emergency Management Report
• Trick or Treat Date

The Public Safety Committee approved moving forward two action items: a four-year purchase agreement with Municipal Capital Finance for a used 2016 Ford Transit van (total cost $74,377.28 including lease costs) and a 15-year lease agreement with Ephrata Pioneer Fire Company for a ladder truck ($1,171,219.42). Both items were moved forward with no objections from committee members. The committee also discussed several items including a proposed resolution for Trick or Treat on October 31st with a rain date of November 1st, and public safety concerns at Whistle Stop Plaza.

• Approved moving forward purchase of 2016 Ford Transit van for $74,377.28 total (unanimous)
• Approved moving forward 15-year ladder truck lease with Pioneer Fire Company for $1,171,219.42 (unanimous)
• Moved Trick or Treat date discussion to action item with proposed Oct 31 date, Nov 1 rain date, 6-8 PM
• Agreed to place Whistle Stop Plaza safety concerns on next month's agenda
• Agreed to increase police presence and spot checks at Whistle Stop Plaza bathrooms

Committee Meetings

The committee will discuss updates regarding the Borough Branding and Communications Project. There are no action items scheduled for this meeting.

• Borough Branding and Communications Project update

The Special Projects Committee approved the agenda as posted and discussed the branding and PR/communications reports with QNTM's Eric Kazda. They decided to hold a branding task force meeting before the scheduled September 19 meeting, and directed staff to cancel the next Special Projects meeting in favor of the task force meeting. No formal action items were taken.

• Approved meeting agenda as posted (unanimous)
• Directed staff to cancel next Special Projects meeting for task force meeting

Voting Session

The Ephrata Area Joint Authority is holding a voting session to consider awarding a bid for the SR 0322 water main relocation project, approving construction period services for a water system extension, and authorizing bank signers. They will also discuss a potential rate increase and deferring capital projects, along with other operational items.

• Bid award for SR 0322 Water Main Relocation Project (Bid EAJA2121-2)
• Construction period services for Wyndale Development water extension in Clay Township
• Resolution 2022-3: ENB Money Management authorized signers
• Resolution 2022-4: Peoples Security Bank & Trust authorized signers
• County ARPA grant application

The Ephrata Area Joint Authority awarded the SR 0322 Water Main Relocation Project to DOLI Construction Corporation for $1,748,971, subject to conditions. They also approved construction period services for the Wyndale Development water extension, adopted two resolutions for authorized signers, and authorized a County ARPA grant application for a GIS water modeling project. All votes were unanimous.

• Awarded SR 0322 Water Main Relocation Project to DOLI Construction Corporation for $1,748,971 (unanimous)
• Approved Construction Period Services Proposal for Wyndale Development water extension (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 2022-3: ENB Money Management Authorized Signers (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 2022-4: Peoples Security Bank & Trust Authorized Signers (unanimous)
• Authorized submission of County ARPA Grant Application for GIS Water Modeling Project (unanimous)

Regular Meeting

The Ephrata Borough Authority is meeting to approve financial reports, bills, and action items, including payments for the WWTF No. 1 Biosolids Project and a resolution updating authorized signers for ENB Money Management. They will also discuss a County ARPA grant application and receive engineering and operations reports.

• Approval of payments for WWTF No. 1 Biosolids Project: GHD invoice $45,702.37, Lobar application $189,836.01, American Testing invoice $3,429.00
• Resolution 2022-8: ENB Money Management Authorized Signers
• Authority By-Laws review
• Lancaster County Water and Sewer GIS Data-Sharing Agreement for the Water and Sewer Growth Area Capacity Project
• Discussion of County ARPA Grant Application

The Ephrata Borough Authority unanimously approved Fulton Bank Requisition No. 6 for the WWTF No. 1 Biosolids Project, including payments to GHD, Lobar, and American Testing Laboratories. They also adopted Resolution 2022-8 updating ENB Money Management authorized signers and revised the Authority By-Laws. A GIS data-sharing agreement with Lancaster County was tabled until the September meeting for further review.

• Approved Fulton Bank Requisition No. 6 for WWTF No. 1 Biosolids Project (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 2022-8 updating ENB Money Management authorized signers (unanimous)
• Adopted revised Ephrata Borough Authority By-Laws (unanimous)
• Tabled Lancaster County Water and Sewer GIS Data-Sharing Agreement until September meeting

Voting Session

The Council will vote on several committee recommendations including land sales, zoning amendments, and construction contracts. Items include a road work bid, gas service extensions, and temporary street closures for local organizations.

• Award $81,535.00 bid #22-5 to H & P Construction, Inc. for areas 1, 2, 3, and 4
• Rezone a portion of 183 South Market Street from Residential Medium Density to Residential Low Density
• Approve street and parking lot closures for Ephrata Pioneer Fire Company on August 27, 2022
• Authorize natural gas service line installation at 226 West Pine Street via UGI
• Approve Boy Scout Troop 38 request to use parking lots during the 2022 Ephrata Fair

The Ephrata Borough Council unanimously approved several actions, including authorizing staff to prepare a zoning map amendment to rezone the Residential Medium Density portion of 183 South Market Street to Residential Low Density, subject to Planning Commission review and a public hearing. The council also awarded a carpet replacement bid, approved the sale of land to the school district, and ratified payments totaling $1,879,990.80.

• Authorized zoning amendment for 183 South Market Street (unanimous)
• Awarded Bid #22-5 to H & P Construction for $81,535 (unanimous)
• Approved sale of land to Ephrata Area School District for $53,000 (unanimous)
• Approved Mainspring of Ephrata event on Aug 24 (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 2022-21 supporting Keystone Communities designation (unanimous)
• Approved hold harmless agreement for 1 East Main Street (unanimous)
• Conditionally approved Pioneer Fire Company street closures for Aug 27 (unanimous)
• Ratified bills totaling $1,879,990.80 (unanimous)

Work Session

The Ephrata Borough Council will hold a work session to discuss and potentially approve several items, including a zoning map change request for two properties, an agreement for the sale of real estate with the school district, and a cooperative agreement for police officer eligibility exams. The agenda also includes various event requests, a bid award for carpet replacement, and a shade tree ordinance amendment.

• Zoning Map Change Request - 183 South Market Street/1368 West Main Street (Account # 260-5858100000)
• Ephrata Area School District - Agreement for Sale of Real Estate
• Bid #22-5 Award Recommendation - Carpet Replacement at Borough Hall
• Lancaster County Chiefs of Police Association - Cooperative Agreement of Eligibility Examination for Police Officer
• Shade Tree Ordinance - Amendment

The Ephrata Borough Council held a work session on August 1, 2022, and approved a cooperative agreement with the Lancaster County Chiefs of Police Association for police officer eligibility examinations. The council also discussed recommendations from several committees, including a proposed land sale to the school district, a rezoning request, and a shade tree ordinance, but these items were not voted on at this session. No other formal decisions were made.

• Approved Lancaster County Chiefs of Police Association Cooperative Agreement for police officer eligibility exams (unanimous)

Committee Meetings

The Budget and Finance Committee is meeting to review second-quarter 2022 budget and pension reports, discuss the Land Bank Program, and review solicitor invoices and the check/ACH register. No action items are listed, so the meeting is primarily for discussion and review. Old business includes credit card fees/Civic Pay and potential revenue sources.

• 2nd Quarter 2022 Budget Review
• 2nd Quarter 2022 Pension Review
• Land Bank Program discussion
• Solicitor invoices review
• Check and ACH register review

The Budget and Finance Committee met on July 25, 2022, and approved the meeting agenda as posted. They received a presentation on the Lancaster County Land Bank Authority's revitalization program and expressed interest in pursuing it, but took no formal action. Staff reports on the 2nd Quarter Budget and Pension reviews, Solicitor invoices, and check registers required no further action.

• Approved meeting agenda as posted (unanimous)
• Heard presentation on Lancaster County Land Bank Authority; no action taken
• Received 2nd Quarter 2022 Budget Review; no action required
• Received 2nd Quarter 2022 Pension Review; no action required
• Received Solicitor and Assistant Solicitor invoices; no action required
• Received Check and ACH registers for June; no action required

Committee Meetings

The Community Services Committee will meet to consider a request from Fulton Elementary students to place small flags by the Major Winters Memorial before Veterans Day and Memorial Day. No other action, discussion, or old business items are listed.

• Request to place small flags by Major Winters Memorial before Veterans Day and Memorial Day

The Community Services Committee voted to approve the agenda and reviewed a request from Fulton School to place small US flags by the Winters Memorial before Veterans Day and Memorial Day 2023, with removal after each holiday. The committee will recommend Borough Council grant the request, subject to receipt of a certificate of insurance naming the Borough as additional insured. No other substantive decisions were made; a discussion item raised concerns about the dog swim event's optics but no action was taken.

• Approved meeting agenda as posted (unanimous)
• Recommended granting Fulton School flag placement request, subject to insurance certificate

Committee Meetings

The Development Activities Committee will consider several action items, including a bid for carpet replacement at Borough Hall, a request for support from Mainspring of Ephrata, and an agreement to sell real estate to the Ephrata Area School District. They will also discuss zoning map changes for two properties and review recent zoning decisions and applications.

• Agreement for Sale of Real Estate - Ephrata Area School District offer to purchase
• Carpet replacement at Boro Hall – bid award
• Hold harmless request for electric easement – 1 East Main Street
• Zoning map change request – 183 South Market Street/1368 West Main Street
• Zoning Hearing Board application for 904 West Main Street solicitor attendance

The Development Activities Committee met on July 25, 2022, and made several recommendations to Borough Council. They recommended approving a Mainspring of Ephrata event, a resolution of support for a Keystone Communities designation, a hold harmless agreement for 1 East Main Street, awarding a carpet replacement bid, selling land to the Ephrata Area School District, and rezoning a portion of 183 South Market Street. The committee voted against sending the solicitor to a zoning hearing for 904 West Main Street.

• Recommended approving Mainspring's Wednesdays at the Whistle Stop event on Aug 24, subject to insurance and permits
• Recommended adopting a resolution of support for Keystone Communities designation, subject to solicitor approval
• Recommended approving hold harmless agreement for 1 East Main Street, with owner paying legal fees
• Voted 2-1 against sending solicitor to zoning hearing for 904 West Main Street
• Recommended awarding bid #22-5 to H & P Construction for $81,535 for carpet replacement
• Recommended selling 56,370 sq ft land to Ephrata Area School District for $53,000 for softball field
• Recommended rezoning portion of 183 South Market Street from RMD to RLD (2 yes, 1 abstain)

Committee Meetings

The Ephrata Borough Highway Committee is meeting to consider several action items, including a street closure and parking lot use request from the Ephrata Pioneer Fire Company, a fundraiser request from Boy Scout Troop 38, and a proposal from Becker Engineering for construction observation services. The committee will also discuss a UGI request to install gas service at 226 West Pine Street, a no-parking/loading zone request at 333 Railroad Avenue, signage ordinance conflicts in the Central Business District, and pedestrian railing or vehicle barrier options for the South Oak Street Bridge. Old business includes parking meters, and miscellaneous items include Apple Street truck traffic.

• Street closure and parking lot use request from Ephrata Pioneer Fire Company
• Boy Scout Troop 38 fundraiser request
• Becker Engineering proposal for construction observation services
• UGI request to install gas service at 226 West Pine Street
• No-parking/loading zone request at 333 Railroad Avenue

The Highway Committee reviewed and will recommend Borough Council conditionally approve requests from the Ephrata Pioneer Fire Company for street closures and parking lot use, from Boy Scout Troop 38 for parking lot use during the Ephrata Fair, and a proposal from Becker Engineering for construction observation services. The Committee also recommends approval of a UGI gas service line to 226 West Pine Street. No final decisions were made; all recommendations are subject to Council action at the August 8, 2022 meeting.

• Recommended conditional approval of Fire Company street closure and parking lot use (unanimous)
• Recommended conditional approval of Boy Scout Troop 38 parking lot use (unanimous)
• Recommended conditional approval of Becker Engineering construction observation proposal (unanimous)
• Recommended approval of UGI gas service line to 226 West Pine Street (unanimous)

Regular Meeting

The Ephrata Zoning Hearing Board will hold a public hearing on an appeal by property owners Rebecca and David Gallagher against a May 6, 2022 Notice of Violation and Cease and Desist order from the Zoning Officer. The order concerns unregulated uses, signage, off-street parking, and specific principal use requirements at 904 West Main Street in a Residential Low Density district. The board will decide whether to uphold or overturn the order.

• Appeal of Notice of Violation and Cease and Desist for 904 West Main Street
• Violations cited: §319-11 (uses not specifically regulated), §319-52(A) (freestanding wall and window signs), §319-44(A)(C)(4)&(12) (off-street parking and loading), §319-25(A)(12)(a)&(f) (additional requirements for specific principal uses)
• Property located in Residential Low Density zoning district
• Applicants/owners: Rebecca and David Gallagher, 920 W. Main St., Ephrata, PA

Committee Meetings

The committee will discuss trash and recycling concerns, a Comcast update, and a forestry project update. There are no action items scheduled for this meeting.

• Trash and Recycling Concerns discussion
• Comcast Update discussion
• Forestry Project Update discussion

The Municipal Enterprises Committee met on July 18, 2022, and approved the posted agenda unanimously. No action items were considered. The committee discussed ongoing trash pickup issues, a potential forestry project on N. Maple St., and the Comcast issue, with updates to continue at future meetings.

• Approved meeting agenda as posted (unanimous)

Committee Meetings

The Ephrata Borough Public Safety Committee is meeting to discuss public safety matters, including the June 2022 police and emergency management reports, the police officer hiring process, a ladder truck lease, and third-party building code inspections. No action items are on the agenda; all items are for discussion only.

• June 2022 Monthly Police Reports
• June Emergency Management Report
• Police Officer Hiring Process Update
• Pioneer Ladder Truck Lease
• Third-Party Commercial Building Code Inspection Companies

The Public Safety Committee approved a cooperative agreement with the Lancaster County Chiefs of Police Association for preliminary eligibility exams for police officer hiring, to be forwarded to the August 1 work session. The committee also discussed police reports, hiring updates, and a fire truck lease, but took no other formal votes.

• Approved Lancaster County Chiefs of Police Association Cooperative Agreement for police officer eligibility exams (unanimous)
• Amended agenda to add the cooperative agreement item (unanimous)
• Accepted amended agenda (unanimous)

Committee Meetings

The Special Projects Committee will vote on amending the Shade Tree Ordinance and discuss several ongoing projects, including the Veterans Memorial Parkway, borough branding, and website redesign. The meeting is scheduled for July 18, 2022, at Borough Hall.

• Ordinance amendment to Shade Tree Ordinance
• Tree City USA designation discussion
• Veterans Memorial Parkway Project update
• Borough Branding Project update
• Website and Online Customer Portal Redesign update

The Special Projects Committee voted unanimously to recommend that Council adopt a final draft ordinance regulating shade trees, establishing a shade tree commission, and empowering the codes department to enforce it. The committee also discussed a tree care services proposal for the FY2023 budget and received updates on several projects, but took no other formal action.

• Approved meeting agenda as posted (unanimous)
• Recommended Council adopt shade tree ordinance (unanimous)

Voting Session

The Ephrata Area Joint Authority is holding its regular voting session. Action items include awarding a bid for the SR 0322 water main relocation project and approving a construction period services proposal for the Wyndale Development water system extension. Discussion items include considering a rate increase and deferring capital projects.

• Bid award for SR 0322 Water Main Relocation Project (Bid EAJA2121-2)
• Construction period services proposal for Wyndale Development water system extension in Clay Township
• Consideration of a rate increase
• Consideration of deferring capital projects

Regular Meeting

The Ephrata Borough Authority will consider approving payments for the WWTF No. 1 Biosolids Project, including a $462,994.29 application from Lobar, Inc. They will also discuss updates to the authority by-laws and review sanitary sewer capacity requests for two developments: 11 Long Avenue (Cocalico Coffee Crafters) and The Crossings at Cocalico.

• GHD, Inc. invoice #380-0014277 for $29,822.27
• Lobar, Inc. application for payment No. 1 for $462,994.29
• Becker Engineering invoice #23241 for $1,350.00
• Sanitary sewer capacity request for 11 Long Avenue - Cocalico Coffee Crafters
• Sanitary sewer capacity request for The Crossings at Cocalico

The Ephrata Borough Authority approved additional sanitary sewer capacity for two properties: 247 gallons per day (500 total) for Cocalico Coffee Crafters at 11 Long Avenue, and 188 HVUs for The Crossings at Cocalico. The board also approved Fulton Bank Requisition No. 5 for the WWTF No. 1 Biosolids Project, totaling $494,166.56 in payments. By-law revisions were discussed but tabled for a future meeting.

• Approved additional 247 gpd (500 total) sewer capacity for Cocalico Coffee Crafters (unanimous)
• Approved 188 HVUs sewer capacity for The Crossings at Cocalico (unanimous)
• Approved Fulton Bank Requisition No. 5 for WWTF No. 1 Biosolids Project (unanimous)
• Approved agenda as posted (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of June 13, 2022 (unanimous)
• Received and filed financial reports and ratified bill payments (unanimous)
• Tabled by-law revisions pending further review

Voting Session

The Ephrata Borough Council will vote on several committee recommendations, including infrastructure projects and financial consulting. The meeting includes decisions on sidewalk requirements, parking lot use for fundraisers, and the appointment of a board trustee.

• Award Bid #22-3 for dog park construction to CPA Pavement Services, Inc. for $225,000.00
• Proposal for Finance Director Assistance from Government Finance Solutions at $150 per hour
• Exit audit of outgoing Finance Director by Maher Duessel for a cost not to exceed $5,500
• Reduction of sidewalk improvement requirements by 410 square feet at 664 Pointview Avenue
• Approval of natural gas service line installation to 200 Terrace Avenue

Ephrata Borough Council unanimously approved several actions, including awarding a $225,000 contract for dog park construction to CPA Pavement Services, Inc., and ratifying emergency hires for finance director assistance and an exit audit. They also approved multiple highway-related items, including a sidewalk deferral for the Bires property, a Boy Scout fundraiser, and a gas line installation. All votes were unanimous.

• Awarded Bid #22-3 for dog park construction to CPA Pavement Services, Inc. for $225,000 (unanimous)
• Ratified GFS finance director assistance at $150/hour (unanimous)
• Ratified Maher Duessel exit audit for $5,500 (unanimous)
• Approved reducing Bires sidewalk requirement by 410 sq ft with deferral agreement (unanimous)
• Conditionally approved Boy Scout Troop 73 Ephrata Fair parking fundraiser (unanimous)
• Approved UGI gas service line to 200 Terrace Avenue (unanimous)
• Approved three additional monitoring wells at Turkey Hill, 903 S. State St. (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 2022-19 on recording destruction and 2022-20 on consent agenda (unanimous)

Committee Meetings

The Civil Service Commission is meeting to discuss staffing updates, approve voiding the January 2022 police officer eligibility list, and approve the 2022/2023 hiring process for police officers. The agenda is otherwise procedural, including approval of minutes and the agenda itself.

• Approval to void the January 10, 2022 Police Officer Eligibility List
• Approval of the Ephrata Police Officer 2022/2023 Hiring Process
• Staffing update

Work Session

The Ephrata Borough Council will discuss and potentially ratify agreements for finance director assistance and an exit audit of the outgoing finance director, along with other committee actions. Items include a dog park bid award, a salary increase for Michael McKenna, and various resolutions. The meeting is a work session, so most items are for discussion rather than final decision.

• Ratification of GFS proposal for finance director assistance
• Ratification of Maher Duessel exit audit agreement
• Bid 22-3: Construction of Dog Park – Bid Award
• Resolution 2022-19: Procedures for destruction of meeting recordings
• $5,000 salary increase for Michael McKenna retroactive to July 1, 2022

The Ephrata Borough Council held a work session on July 5, 2022, and approved a $5,000 salary increase for Borough Manager Michael McKenna, effective retroactively to July 1, 2022, based on a positive review after his probationary period. The council also discussed several action items to be voted on at the July 11 voting session, including hiring a finance director assistant, an exit audit, and various street and event approvals. No final decisions were made on these items during the work session.

• Approved $5,000 salary increase for Borough Manager Michael McKenna (unanimous roll call)
• Approved amended agenda adding personnel salary adjustment item (unanimous)
• Discussed hiring GFS for Finance Director assistance at $150/hour (to be ratified July 11)
• Discussed Maher Duessel exit audit for $5,500 (to be ratified July 11)
• Discussed reducing Bires sidewalk requirement by 410 sq ft with deferral agreement (to be voted July 11)
• Discussed Boy Scout Troop 73 parking fundraiser with $1,500 compensation (to be voted July 11)
• Discussed Christmas in Ephrata 2022 event requests (to be voted July 11)
• Discussed UGI gas line to 200 Terrace Avenue (to be voted July 11)

Committee Meetings

The Budget and Finance Committee is meeting to discuss several financial matters, including proposals for finance consultant services and an exit audit, a county grant for the Gross Run Project, solicitor invoices, and the check and ACH register. They will also revisit old business on credit card fees and potential revenue sources. No action items are listed.

• Proposal for Finance Consultant Services by Government Finance Solutions
• Proposal for Exit Audit by MaherDuessel
• County ARPA Grant Award – Gross Run Project
• Solicitor Invoices
• Check and ACH Register

The Budget and Finance Committee approved two emergency actions: hiring Government Finance Solutions for finance director assistance at $150/hour plus expenses, and hiring Maher Duessel for an exit audit of the outgoing finance director at a not-to-exceed cost of $5,500. Both agreements will be executed immediately and recommended for Council ratification on July 11. The committee also noted a $500,000 grant from Lancaster County for the Gross Run Stream Restoration project.

• Approved Finance Director Assistance agreement with GFS at $150/hour plus expenses (unanimous)
• Approved exit audit agreement with Maher Duessel at not-to-exceed $5,500 (unanimous)
• Recommended Council ratification of both agreements at July 11 meeting

Committee Meetings

The Community Services Committee will consider awarding Bid Number 22-3 for construction of a dog park. This is the only action item on the agenda; no discussion, old business, or miscellaneous items are listed.

• Award Bid Number 22-3 for construction of dog park

The Community Services Committee recommended awarding Bid #22-3 for the construction of the dog park to CPA Services, Inc. at a total cost of $225,000. The recommendation will go to the Borough Council for final approval at its July meeting. The committee also discussed making plans public and adding electric service to the park.

• Recommended awarding Bid #22-3 to CPA Services, Inc. for dog park construction ($225,000 total)
• Approved meeting agenda as posted (unanimous)

Committee Meetings

The Development Activities Committee will discuss a zoning map change request for two properties, a parking lease agreement with the American Legion, and zoning parking requirements. They will also review zoning decisions and applications, including an appeal for 904 West Main Street. An executive session on a real estate matter is scheduled.

• American Legion Parking Lease Agreement
• Zoning map change request for 183 South Market Street/1368 West Main Street
• Discussion of zoning parking requirements
• Review of July zoning application: 904 West Main Street appeal
• Executive session on real estate matter

The Development Activities Committee agreed to a request from the American Legion for the Borough to plow their entire parking lot, adding about 42,000 square feet to the current 31,000 square feet plowed. Staff will prepare a lease amendment for Council action. The committee also discussed a rezoning request for the Sensenig Roofing tract and parking requirement changes, but took no action on those items.

• Approved request to plow American Legion parking lot (unanimous)
• Directed staff to prepare lease amendment for Council action

Committee Meetings

The Ephrata Borough Highway Committee is meeting to discuss and potentially act on several items, including curb and sidewalk requirements at 664 Pointview Avenue, requests from local groups, and a gas service installation. They will also discuss the parking management plan, street closure processes, and ongoing items like the South Oak Street Bridge. The committee may forward recommendations to Borough Council for action at their July 11, 2022 meeting.

• Curb and sidewalk installation requirements at 664 Pointview Avenue
• Boy Scout Troop 73 fundraiser request
• UGI request to install gas service at 200 Terrace Avenue
• Revised Monitoring Well Agreement with Turkey Hill
• Municipal Winter Maintenance Services Agreement renewal with PennDOT

The Highway Committee met on June 27, 2022, and approved its agenda. It reviewed six action items, all of which will be recommended to Borough Council for approval at the July 11, 2022 meeting. These include a sidewalk deferral agreement with the Bires, conditional approval for Boy Scout Troop 73 parking fundraiser, conditional approval for Christmas in Ephrata events, approval of a UGI gas service line, approval of additional monitoring wells for Turkey Hill, and reactivation of the winter maintenance agreement. No final decisions were made by the Committee; all items are recommendations to Council.

• Approved agenda as posted (unanimous)
• Recommended Council approve 410 sq ft sidewalk deferral for Bires property (unanimous)
• Recommended Council conditionally approve Boy Scout Troop 73 parking fundraiser (unanimous)
• Recommended Council conditionally approve Christmas in Ephrata 2022 requests (unanimous)
• Recommended Council approve UGI gas service line to 200 Terrace Avenue (unanimous)
• Recommended Council approve Turkey Hill monitoring wells, denied USTIF letter in lieu of bond (unanimous)
• Recommended Council reactivate 2022-2023 winter maintenance agreement (unanimous)

Committee Meetings

The Personnel Committee is meeting to discuss personnel matters, including a vacancy for the Director of Finance and Administration, a personnel policy review project, and ELEA collective bargaining agreement negotiations. The committee will also consider resolutions on the destruction of meeting recordings and the use of a consent agenda. The meeting includes an executive session for a personnel matter.

• Resolution to establish procedures for destruction of public meeting audio/video recordings
• Resolution to expedite public business via consent agenda
• Discussion of Director of Finance and Administration vacancy
• Personnel Policy Review Project
• ELEA CBA negotiations

The Personnel Committee approved its agenda and agreed to bring forward two resolutions to full Council: one establishing procedures for destroying public meeting audio/video recordings after minutes are adopted, and another documenting the use of a consent agenda. The committee also discussed the Director of Finance vacancy, recommending reverting the title from Assistant Borough Manager and contracting with Government Finance Solutions for budget work. No final votes were taken on these items; they were only recommendations for Council action.

• Approved meeting agenda as posted (unanimous)
• Agreed to forward resolution on standard destruction of meeting recordings to Council
• Agreed to forward resolution on consent agenda use to Council
• Recommended reverting Assistant Borough Manager title to Director of Finance
• Confirmed August 1 workshop on evaluation guidelines

Committee Meetings

The Public Safety Committee is meeting to discuss the May 2022 police reports, the emergency management report, and the fire study group. No action items are listed, so the meeting is primarily for discussion and review.

• May 2022 Monthly Police Reports
• May Emergency Management Report
• Fire Study Group

The Public Safety Committee met on June 20, 2022, and approved the agenda as posted. No action items were presented. The committee discussed the May 2022 police reports, including the new Park, Walk, and Talk program and an armed robbery investigation, as well as the emergency management report and fire department equipment issues. No formal decisions were made.

• Approved meeting agenda as posted (unanimous)

Committee Meetings

The Special Projects Committee is meeting to discuss several ongoing initiatives, including Mainspring of Ephrata, the Veterans Memorial Parkway Project, a Shade Tree Ordinance rewrite, a Borough Branding Project, and audio/video upgrades for live-streaming council meetings. No action items are scheduled; all items are for discussion only.

• Discussion of Mainspring of Ephrata
• Update on Veterans Memorial Parkway Project
• Update on Shade Tree Ordinance Rewrite
• Update on Borough Branding Project
• Audio/Video technology updates for live streaming in council meeting rooms

The Special Projects Committee met on June 20, 2022, and approved the agenda unanimously. No action items were taken. Discussions included a Shade Tree Commission art project for Veterans Memorial Parkway, a Shade Tree Ordinance rewrite, Mainspring's Main Street designation request, brand development, and audio/video upgrades for Council Chambers.

• Approved meeting agenda as posted (unanimous)
• No action items taken

Committee Meetings

The Municipal Enterprises Committee will meet to approve an agenda and take action on appointing an alternate to the AMP Board of Trustees. Discussion items include trash and recycling concerns with Republic, energy live pricing results, a Comcast update, and a historic lamp post update, plus old business on forestry project concerns.

• Appointment of alternate to AMP Board of Trustees
• Trash and recycling concerns with Republic
• Energy live pricing results
• Comcast update
• Historic lamp post update

The Municipal Enterprises Committee approved its agenda and recommended that Council appoint Jaime Snyder, Hatfield Borough Manager, as the alternate to the American Municipal Power Board of Trustees at the July 11, 2022 Council meeting. The committee also discussed trash pickup issues with residents and Republic Services, an energy purchase contract for 2023-2025, the ongoing Comcast issue, and lamp post restoration. No other formal decisions were made.

• Approved meeting agenda as posted (unanimous)
• Recommended Council appoint Jaime Snyder as AMP Board alternate

Regular Meeting

The Ephrata Borough Authority is meeting to approve routine items and take action on several engineering matters. Key actions include approving payments for the WWTF No. 1 Biosolids Project, extending a consulting contract, and considering a sanitary sewer capacity request for Two Cousins Pizza.

• Fulton Bank Requisition No. 4 for WWTF No. 1 Biosolids Project: GHD invoice $26,278.34, building/zoning permit $9,983.60, Becker Engineering invoice $202.50
• Extension of contract for consulting services by D. Robert Thompson (Becker Engineering)
• Sanitary sewer conveyance and treatment capacity request for Two Cousins Pizza, 1215 N. Reading Road, Stevens

The Ephrata Borough Authority approved Fulton Bank Requisition No. 4 for the WWTF No. 1 Biosolids Project, covering invoices from GHD, the Borough, and Becker Engineering. They also approved a sanitary sewer capacity request for Two Cousins Pizza and ratified bill payments. The meeting was otherwise routine, with reports and updates.

• Approved Fulton Bank Requisition No. 4 for WWTF No. 1 Biosolids Project (unanimous)
• Approved 506 gallons per day sanitary sewer capacity request for Two Cousins Pizza (unanimous)
• Ratified payment of bills (unanimous roll call)
• Approved meeting agenda as posted (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of May 9, 2022 meeting (unanimous)
• Received and filed financial reports (unanimous)

Voting Session

The Ephrata Area Joint Authority is holding its June voting session. Members will vote on the proposed 2022/2023 budget and program of services, and on an unbudgeted expense of up to $50,000 for emergency repairs to the Lincoln Tank. The meeting also includes routine approvals of minutes, financial reports, and bills.

• Resolution 2022-2: 2022/2023 Proposed Budget and Program of Services
• Lincoln Tank: Unbudgeted Expense up to $50,000 for Emergency Repairs
• Approval of Minutes: May 12, 2022
• Approval of Financial Reports
• Approval of Payment of the Bills

The Ephrata Area Joint Authority approved an unbudgeted expense of up to $50,000 for emergency repairs to the Lincoln Tank, which was leaking 15-30 gallons per minute. The board also adopted Resolution 2022-2 for the 2022/2023 proposed budget and program of services. Discussions included a possible future rate increase and deferring non-mandatory capital projects, but no formal action was taken on those items.

• Approved unbudgeted expense up to $50,000 for Lincoln Tank emergency repairs (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 2022-2: 2022/2023 Proposed Budget and Program of Services (unanimous)
• Approved amended meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of May 12, 2022 (unanimous)
• Received and filed financial reports (unanimous)
• Ratified payment of bills (unanimous)

Work Session

The Ephrata Borough Council is holding a combined work and voting session to discuss and act on various committee recommendations. Key items include awarding a $569,085.38 street improvement contract, adopting resolutions for new fees and power supply contracts, and approving several development agreements. The meeting also includes routine approvals of minutes, reports, and checks.

• Award Bid #22-2 for 2022 Street Improvements to New Enterprise Stone & Lime Co., Inc. for $569,085.38
• Adopt Resolution 2022-16 adding fees for body-worn camera and mobile video recordings footage
• Authorize unbudgeted expenditures of $214,037.37 for Park Avenue and Marion Terrace street improvements and $15,800.00 for traffic signal vehicle detection replacements
• Approve Pletcher Fire Protection, LLC quote for fire alarm system at Public Works Building for $19,564.46
• Authorize execution of subdivision and stormwater agreements for 219 East Fulton Street with Roger S. Leed and Margaret D. Leed

The Ephrata Borough Council held a combined work session and voting session, approving a $569,085.38 street improvements bid and several unbudgeted expenditures from the Highway Aid Fund. The council also adopted resolutions establishing fees for police body-worn camera footage, authorized a communications services agreement, and approved a settlement agreement with Alchemy Renewable Energy. All motions were carried unanimously.

• Awarded Bid #22-2 2022 Street Improvements to New Enterprise Stone & Lime Co., Inc. for $569,085.38 (unanimous)
• Authorized $214,037.37 unbudgeted expenditure from Highway Aid Fund for Park Avenue and Marion Terrace street improvements (unanimous)
• Authorized $15,800 unbudgeted expenditure from Highway Aid Fund for vehicle detection upgrades at two intersections (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 2022-16 adding fees for Body-Worn Camera and Mobile Video Recordings footage (unanimous)
• Approved proposal from Quantum Dynamix, LLC for brand development and 12-month communications services (unanimous)
• Authorized signing of Settlement Agreement and PPA Amendment with Alchemy Renewable Energy (unanimous)
• Approved Pletcher Fire Protection quote for fire alarm system at Public Works Building for $19,564.46 (unanimous)
• Approved Consent Agenda authorizing Subdivision and Land Development and Operation and Maintenance Agreements with Roger S. Leed and Margaret D. Leed (unanimous)

Committee Meetings

The Ephrata Borough Community Services Committee will meet on May 23, 2022, at 4:30 PM at Borough Hall. The main action item is a request from Mainspring to place a sign on a lamp post in Whistle Stop Plaza. The committee will also discuss a dog park sign. No old business or miscellaneous items are listed.

• Request from Mainspring to place sign on lamp post in Whistle Stop Plaza
• Discussion of dog park sign

The Community Services Committee approved a request from Mainspring of Ephrata to attach an 18" x 24" sign advertising free community Wi-Fi to a lamp post in Whistle Stop Plaza, with the condition that it not affect the pole's structural integrity. The committee did not approve a proposed 6' x 4' sign for the Ephrata Unleashed Dog Park because it exceeded zoning limits, and instead agreed to table the design until a new Borough logo is available.

• Approved Mainspring of Ephrata's Wi-Fi sign on Whistle Stop Plaza lamp post (unanimous)
• Denied dog park sign exceeding 10 sq ft zoning limit
• Tabled dog park sign design until new Borough logo is available

Committee Meetings

The Ephrata Borough Highway Committee is meeting to discuss and potentially act on several items, including curb and sidewalk requirements at 664 Pointview Avenue, applications for traffic signal approvals at three intersections, a street closure request from Wellspan Ephrata Community Hospital, and a bid award recommendation for 2022 street improvements. The committee will also consider an unbudgeted expenditure for Park Avenue and Marion Terrace street improvements and a resolution on price adjustments for bituminous materials. Discussion items include the August 2019 Parking Management Plan, street closure procedures, and pedestrian railing at the South Oak Street Bridge.

• Curb and sidewalk installation requirements at 664 Pointview Avenue
• Traffic signal approval applications: South Reading Road & South Academy Drive & Old Mill Road; North State Street & Locust Street; South State Street & Fulton Street
• Third Street closure request – Wellspan Ephrata Community Hospital
• Bid #22-2 Award Recommendation – 2022 Street Improvements
• Unbudgeted expenditure – Park Avenue and Marion Terrace Street Improvements

The Highway Committee reviewed and will recommend Borough Council conditionally approve requests for the 103rd Ephrata Fair, a Lincoln Heights block party, and a UGI gas main extension. The committee also discussed sidewalk requirements with property owners and parking meter replacement, directing staff to provide more information. No final decisions were made; all recommendations are subject to council approval.

• Recommended conditional approval of Ephrata Fair activities (Sept 19-24, 2022) subject to PennDOT permit and insurance
• Recommended conditional approval of Lincoln Heights block party (Sept 17, 2022) subject to traffic control plan
• Recommended conditional approval of UGI gas main extension subject to agreements, $53,624.42 payment, and insurance
• Directed staff to meet with Bires property owners to confirm sidewalk/curb requirements
• Directed staff to provide parking management plan for kiosk discussion at May 23 meeting

Committee Meetings

The Development Activities Committee reviewed three action items and will recommend Borough Council approve them: the Ephrata Public Library's conference room improvements with staff installing an outlet, Morgan Truck Company's sketch plan with a public use easement for a future trail, and a residential subdivision at 219 East Fulton Street creating four lots. The committee also reviewed the 1st Quarter Budget Report with no concerns and noted no new Zoning Hearing Board applications.

• Recommended approval of Ephrata Public Library conference room improvements, with staff to install an outlet (unanimous)
• Recommended authorization for staff to issue HRG sketch plan comments to Morgan Truck Company LLC
• Recommended approval of 219 East Fulton Street subdivision as final land development plan, subject to HRG comments, with three waiver requests
• Reviewed 1st Quarter Budget Report with no concerns raised

Committee Meetings

The Municipal Enterprises Committee will consider approving an Alchemy agreement and receive updates on Comcast, FTR/ARR auction results, power purchasing, and forestry project concerns. Old business includes a solar sign and erroneous call-outs. The next meeting is scheduled for June 20, 2022.

• Alchemy Agreement Approval
• Comcast Update
• FTR/ARR Auction Results
• Power Purchasing Update
• Forestry Project Concerns

The Municipal Enterprises Committee approved its agenda and reviewed an updated trash route proposal from Republic Services, recommending Council approve the new routes at their May 9, 2022 meeting. The committee also discussed the 1st Quarter budget, solar sign placement, Alchemy Lost Energy Charges, a Comcast dispute, and a potential lineman training facility at the former State Police Barracks. No final decisions were made on these discussion items.

• Approved meeting agenda as posted (unanimous)
• Recommended Council approve updated Republic Services trash routes

Committee Meetings

The Ephrata Borough Public Safety Committee is meeting to consider a fee recommendation for Act 22 of 2017 requests and to discuss several public safety updates. These include the April 2022 monthly police reports, a body-worn camera update, the April emergency management report, and an update from Pioneer Fire Company. The committee will also discuss an ordinance authorizing Pioneer Fire Co. to recover costs from property owners' insurance.

• Fee recommendation for Act 22 of 2017 requests
• April 2022 monthly police reports
• Body-worn camera update
• Ordinance authorizing Pioneer Fire Co. to recover costs from property owners' insurance
• April emergency management report

The Public Safety Committee met and approved the meeting agenda as posted. No action items were taken. The committee received the March 2022 police report, an emergency management update, a first-quarter budget review, and an update from the Pioneer Fire Company.

• Approved meeting agenda as posted (unanimous)

Committee Meetings

The Special Projects Committee will vote on a service agreement for a communications and public relations project. They will also discuss updates on the website and online customer portal redesign, the Veterans Memorial Parkway project, and a shade tree ordinance rewrite. The meeting is scheduled for May 16, 2022, at 7:30 PM at Borough Hall.

• Approval of Service Agreement for Communications and Public Relations Project
• Update on Website and Online Customer Portal Redesign Project
• Updates on Veterans Memorial Parkway Project
• Shade Tree Ordinance Rewrite

The Special Projects Committee reviewed and will recommend that full Council approve a service agreement with Quantum Dynamix, LLC for communications and public relations services, with costs split between brand development ($17,250-$21,500) and a 12-month ongoing strategy ($4,500/month). The committee also discussed updates on the website redesign, Veterans Memorial Parkway, and Shade Tree Ordinance rewrite, but took no final action on those items.

• Recommended approval of Quantum Dynamix communications contract (unanimous committee vote)

Voting Session

The Authority will review the proposed 2022/2023 Budget and Program of Services. The session includes consideration of a change order for the Pine and Walnut Street Tank Rehabilitation and requests for Lancaster County ARPA funds.

• 2022/2023 Proposed Budget and Program of Services
• Entech Engineering, Inc.: DN Tanks, LLC Change Order No. 1 (Pine and Walnut Street Tank Rehabilitation)
• Lancaster County ARPA Funds Request for projects

The Authority approved the 2022/2023 proposed budget and program of services, which does not include a rate increase. They also approved a change order for the Pine and Walnut Street Tank Rehabilitation and agreed to submit three projects for Lancaster County ARPA funds. All motions were unanimous.

• Approved 2022/2023 proposed budget and program of services (unanimous)
• Approved DN Tanks, LLC Change Order No. 1 for Pine and Walnut Street Tank Rehabilitation (unanimous)
• Agreed to submit ARPA fund requests for Rebuild of Well #4, Update GIS for Water Modeling, and Loop Water Main/Dead End Elimination (unanimous)
• Approved meeting agenda as posted (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of April 14, 2022 (unanimous)
• Received and filed financial reports (unanimous)
• Ratified payment of bills (unanimous)

Voting Session

Borough Council will consider several land subdivision waivers and a final plan for 219 E. Fulton Street. The body is also reviewing requests for street closures and a natural gas main extension on West Franklin Street. Various committee recommendations regarding appointments and consulting services are on the agenda.

• Authorization of $357,464 in American Rescue Plan expenditures for public safety, technology, and legal fees
• Final Land Subdivision Plan for 219 E. Fulton Street
• Payment of $53,624.42 from UGI Utilities, Inc. in lieu of pavement restoration for West Franklin Street gas main extension
• Consulting agreement with Government Management Services, LLC at $3,000 per month through December 31, 2022
• Conditional approval of requests for the 103 Ephrata Fair and a closure of West Chestnut Street

Ephrata Borough Council approved several routine items and committee recommendations, including authorizing $357,464 in American Rescue Plan Act expenditures for public safety compensation, technology, and legal fees. They also adopted Resolution 2022-15 for board appointments, approved a consulting agreement with GMS Funding Solutions, and conditionally approved the 103rd Ephrata Fair, a street closure, and a UGI gas main extension. All votes were unanimous except where noted.

• Approved $357,464 in ARPA expenditures (unanimous roll call)
• Adopted Resolution 2022-15 for board appointments (unanimous)
• Authorized GMS Funding Solutions consulting agreement (unanimous roll call)
• Approved final subdivision plan for 219 E. Fulton Street (unanimous)
• Conditionally approved 103rd Ephrata Fair requests (unanimous)
• Conditionally approved Lincoln Heights street closure (unanimous)
• Conditionally approved UGI gas main extension (unanimous roll call)
• Approved updated trash routes from Republic Services (unanimous)

Regular Meeting

The Ephrata Borough Authority is meeting to approve routine financial reports, bills, and minutes, and to take action on the WWTF No. 1 Biosolids Project. This includes approving a requisition payment to Fulton Bank and acknowledging conditions for a floodplain management permit for the WWTP #1 Solids Processing & Handling Upgrades Project. An update on the biosolids project will also be discussed.

• Approval of Fulton Bank Requisition No. 3 for WWTF No. 1 Biosolids Project, including GHD, Inc. invoice for $21,614.32 and Becker Engineering invoice for $1,113.75
• Acknowledgement of floodplain management permit conditions for WWTP #1 Solids Processing & Handling Upgrades Project
• Discussion of GHD, Inc. update on WWTF No. 1 Biosolids Project

The Ephrata Borough Authority approved Fulton Bank Requisition No. 3 for the WWTF No. 1 Biosolids Project, covering invoices from GHD, Inc. and Becker Engineering. They also authorized the secretary to execute the DEP Floodplain Management Permit acknowledgement. All votes were unanimous. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved Fulton Bank Requisition No. 3 for WWTF No. 1 Biosolids Project (unanimous)
• Authorized execution of DEP Floodplain Management Permit acknowledgement (unanimous)
• Approved meeting agenda as posted (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of April 11, 2022 meeting (unanimous)
• Received and filed financial reports (unanimous)
• Ratified payment of bills (unanimous)

Work Session

The Ephrata Borough Council held a work session to discuss land development procedures and review committee actions. The Budget and Finance Committee approved the appointment of individuals to the Ephrata Public Library Board and authorized $357,464 in expenditures under the American Rescue Plan Act. The Development Activities Committee approved a final land development plan for 219 E. Fulton Street and authorized staff to issue sketch plan comments for Morgan Truck Company, LLC.

• Resolution 2022-15 appointing individuals to the Ephrata Public Library Board and Intermunicipal Group Representatives
• Authorization of $357,464 in 2022 American Rescue Plan Act expenditures under the Revenue Loss Provision
• Approval of unbudgeted expenditure for GMS Funding Solutions, LLC to assist with grant funding and low-interest loans
• Approval of three waiver/modification requests and final land development plan for 219 E. Fulton Street
• Approval of updated trash routes by Republic Services

The Ephrata Borough Council held a work session on May 2, 2022, where it discussed but did not vote on substantive matters. A citizen's request for a temporary street closure for an HVAC replacement was added to the May 9 voting session agenda for a vote. The council also reviewed land development procedures and heard committee reports, with several items recommended for action at the next meeting.

• Added Scott Cover's street closure request to May 9 voting agenda
• Approved meeting agenda as posted (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 8:52 PM

Committee Meetings

The Ephrata Borough Budget and Finance Committee will consider two action items: a resolution appointing members to boards and commissions, and authorization of 2022 American Rescue Plan expenditures. Discussion items include the 2021 audit report, first-quarter budget and pension reviews, solicitor invoices, and a guest presentation from GMS Funding Solutions. Old business covers credit card fees and potential revenue sources.

• Resolution 2022-15: Appointment of Boards and Commissions
• Authorize 2022 American Rescue Plan Expenditures
• 2021 Maher Duessel Audit Reports
• 1st Quarter Budget Review
• Guest Presentation – GMS Funding Solutions

The Budget and Finance Committee met on April 25, 2022, and approved its agenda. The committee discussed and will recommend adoption of Resolution 2022-15 (appointments to boards/commissions) and authorization of $357,464 in American Rescue Plan Act expenditures for 2022, allocated to public safety, technology, and legal fees. They also reviewed the 2021 audit report, first quarter budget, pension review, and other reports, with no further action required on those items.

• Approved meeting agenda as posted (unanimous)
• Will recommend adoption of Resolution 2022-15 (board/commission appointments)
• Will recommend authorizing $357,464 in ARPA expenditures (revenue loss provision)
• Reviewed 2021 audit report (unmodified opinion) - no action
• Reviewed 1st Quarter Budget Review - no action
• Reviewed pension, solicitor, and check registers - no action

Committee Meetings

The Ephrata Highway Committee is meeting to consider several action items, including a property owner's request for relief from sidewalk installation requirements, a request from the Ephrata Farmers Day Association for the 2022 fair, and a street closure request for the 1300 block of Marilyn Avenue. Discussion items include a UGI gas main extension request on West Franklin Street, the first quarter 2022 budget review, and signage/ordinance conflicts. Old business includes parking conditions on East Main Street, pedestrian railing on South Oak Street Bridge, and truck traffic on Apple Street.

• Property owner request for relief from sidewalk installation requirements
• Ephrata Farmers Day Association request for 2022 Ephrata Fair
• Lincoln Heights Planning Committee street closure request for 1300 block of Marilyn Avenue
• UGI gas main extension request on West Franklin Street
• South Oak Street Bridge pedestrian railing / vehicle barrier

The Highway Committee reviewed three requests and will recommend conditional approval to Borough Council at its May 9, 2022 meeting: the 103rd Ephrata Fair activities, a Lincoln Heights block party street closure, and a UGI gas main extension. The committee also discussed sidewalk requirements with property owners and directed staff to gather more information on parking kiosks. No final decisions were made; all items are recommendations to Council.

• Recommended conditional approval of Ephrata Fair activities subject to PennDOT permit and insurance (unanimous)
• Recommended conditional approval of Lincoln Heights block party street closure subject to traffic control plan (unanimous)
• Recommended conditional approval of UGI gas main extension subject to agreements, $53,624.42 payment, and insurance (unanimous)
• Directed staff to meet with Bires property owners to confirm curb/sidewalk requirements
• Directed staff to provide August 2019 Parking Management Plan for kiosk discussion

Committee Meetings

The Development Activities Committee will review a library conference room upgrade request and sketch plan comments for Morgan Truck Body LLC. The meeting also includes discussion of a residential subdivision plan at 219 East Fulton Street and a first quarter budget review.

• Ephrata Public Library conference room upgrade request
• Sketch Plan Release of Comments for Morgan Truck Body LLC, 485 Wenger Drive
• Residential Subdivision Plan Approval for 219 East Fulton Street
• First Quarter Budget Review

The Development Activities Committee met and reviewed three action items, all of which will be recommended to Borough Council for approval at upcoming meetings. The committee approved its agenda unanimously. No final decisions were made by the committee itself; all items are recommendations to Borough Council.

• Approved meeting agenda as posted (unanimous)
• Recommended Borough Council approve Ephrata Public Library conference room improvements, with staff to install an outlet subject to library providing supplies
• Recommended Borough Council authorize staff to issue HRG sketch plan comments to Morgan Truck Company LLC
• Recommended Borough Council approve three waiver/modification requests and final land development plan for 219 East Fulton Street, subject to HRG comments

Regular Meeting

The Ephrata Borough Planning Commission is meeting to review three development plans, including a sketch plan by Morgan and a preliminary/final land development plan by Leed. They will also discuss the annual planning commission report and review parking requirements in the zoning ordinance.

• Morgan sketch plan
• Leed Preliminary/Final Land Development Plan
• Review of Zoning Ordinance parking requirements
• Annual Planning Commission report

Committee Meetings

The Municipal Enterprises Committee will consider approving a Republic Service change request and discuss the Q1 budget, a solar sign, and updates on Alchemy and Comcast. Old business includes the former State Police barracks renovation and net metering.

• Republic Service change request approval
• Q1 budget review
• Ephrata Solar Sign discussion
• Former State Police barracks renovation
• Net metering discussion

The Municipal Enterprises Committee approved its agenda and reviewed a request from Republic Services for updated trash routes, recommending Council approve them at the May 9, 2022 meeting. The committee also discussed the 1st Quarter budget, solar sign placement, Alchemy Lost Energy Charges, a Comcast dispute, and a potential lineman training facility at the former State Police Barracks. No final decisions were made on these discussion items.

• Approved meeting agenda as posted (unanimous)
• Recommended Council approve updated trash routes from Republic Services

Committee Meetings

The Ephrata Borough Public Safety Committee is meeting to discuss the March 2022 monthly police reports, the March emergency management report, and a first-quarter public safety budget review. No action items are listed on the agenda, so the meeting is focused on discussion and review of these reports.

• March 2022 Monthly Police Reports
• March Emergency Management Report
• 1st Quarter Public Safety Budget Review

The Public Safety Committee meeting on April 18, 2022, was procedural, with no action items. The committee approved the agenda as posted and discussed the March police report, emergency management, budget review, and Pioneer Fire Company update. No formal decisions were made.

• Approved meeting agenda as posted (unanimous)

Committee Meetings

The committee will hear presentations from Taylor Brand Group and Quantum Dynamix regarding a communications and public relations project. Discussion items include the website and online customer portal redesign and the Veterans Memorial Parkway project.

• Presentation from Taylor Brand Group
• Presentation from Quantum Dynamix
• Website and Online Customer Portal Redesign Project
• Veterans Memorial Parkway Project

The Special Projects Committee heard presentations from two communications firms and voted to recommend Quantum Dynamix of Lancaster, PA for a communications and public relations services agreement. The committee directed staff to develop a service agreement with an implementation plan for review at the next meeting. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Recommended Quantum Dynamix for communications services (unanimous)
• Directed staff to draft service agreement with implementation plan

Voting Session

The Authority will review financial reports, bill payments, and ARPA funds. The session includes discussions on water meter pits for Ephrata Crossing Phase 4 and unbudgeted requests for meter reading equipment and well membrane replacement.

• Royer Building Fire Service Tap (Medveczky Associates, Ltd.)
• Ephrata Crossing Phase 4: 2” Water Meter Pits
• Unbudgeted purchase of two handheld meter reading devices and cradles
• Increase to Well 4 Membrane Replacement Project
• ARPA Funds

The Ephrata Area Joint Authority approved several action items, including a fire service tap for the Royer Building, installation of a 1.5-inch meter in a plastic pit for Ephrata Crossing Phase 4, and two unbudgeted capital purchases. All motions passed unanimously. The board also discussed potential ARPA funding applications for water infrastructure projects.

• Approved 2-inch fire service tap at Royer Building (unanimous)
• Approved 1.5-inch meter in plastic pit for Ephrata Crossing Phase 4 (unanimous)
• Approved purchase of meter reading equipment up to $30,000 (unanimous)
• Approved $30,000 unbudgeted increase for Well 4 Membrane Replacement (unanimous)

Committee Meetings

The Ephrata Borough Civil Service Commission is meeting to approve prior minutes and receive an update on the Lancaster Chiefs of Police Association Consortium Testing. The agenda is otherwise routine, with no major decisions or public hearings listed.

• Approval of minutes from January 3 and January 10, 2022 meetings
• Update on Lancaster Chiefs of Police Association Consortium Testing

Voting Session

The Borough Council will consider a final land development plan and several code waivers for 1300 West Main Street. The meeting also includes decisions on dog park planning, road closures for construction, and an amendment to the employee retirement plan.

• Final Land Development Plan and four code waivers for 1300 West Main LLC at 1300 West Main Street
• Ordinance No. 1567 to amend the retirement plan for employees not represented by collective bargaining
• Stormwater management plan and planning waiver for the dog park
• Lane closure on northbound Bethany Road between East Fulton Street and East Main Street for B.R. Kreider & Son, Inc.
• Release of $3,000 for grant application fees for the Gross Run Streambank Restoration Project

The Ephrata Borough Council approved several routine items, including a retirement plan ordinance, a dog park waiver, and various construction-related requests. The most significant action was the withdrawal of a waiver request for a traffic impact study for the proposed 30-unit apartment building at 1300 West Main Street, after which the council tabled the final land development plan pending the study's completion. A motion to approve a change to curbside trash pickup was withdrawn for further discussion.

• Enacted Ordinance No. 1567 amending the retirement plan vesting schedule (unanimous)
• Approved waiver of planning for the dog park (unanimous)
• Approved waivers #2 and #3 for 1300 West Main LLC (unanimous)
• Tabled final land development plan for 1300 West Main LLC pending traffic study
• Withdrew motion to approve curbside trash pickup change
• Approved Change Order #2 for Gross Run Streambank Restoration Project (unanimous)
• Approved $3,000 grant application fees for Gross Run project (unanimous)
• Approved $3,226,173.18 in bills and ACH register (unanimous)

Regular Meeting

The Ephrata Borough Authority is meeting to approve financial reports, bills, and the 2021 audit, and to act on several action items including a large biosolids project payment and multiple sanitary sewer capacity requests. They will also discuss extending a sewer line and sewer credits for pool use.

• Approval of 2021 Audit of Financial Statements
• Fulton Bank Requisition No. 2 for WWTF No. 1 Biosolids Project: GHD invoice $13,938.89 and Bioforcetech invoice $996,300.00
• Resolution No. 2022-7: Approval and Execution of Change Orders
• Sanitary sewer capacity requests for C.B. Burkholder, Wabash Landing Phase 3, and 190 E. Church Street
• Discussion: Hackman Living Trust request to extend sewer to easternmost corner of Proposed Lot 2

The Ephrata Borough Authority approved the 2021 audit, authorized Fulton Bank Requisition No. 2 for the WWTF No. 1 Biosolids Project (including payments to GHD and Bioforcetech), and adopted Resolution No. 2022-7 for change orders. It also approved three sanitary sewer capacity requests and voted to eliminate sewer credits for pool use. All votes were unanimous.

• Approved 2021 Audit of Financial Services (unanimous)
• Approved Fulton Bank Requisition No. 2 for WWTF No. 1 Biosolids Project (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution No. 2022-7 for change orders on Biosolids Project (unanimous)
• Approved 487.8 GPD sewer capacity for Diehm & Sons (unanimous)
• Approved 17,204 GPD sewer capacity for Wabash Landing Phase 3 (unanimous)
• Approved 253 GPD sewer capacity for 190 E. Church Street (unanimous)
• Eliminated sewer credits for pool use (unanimous)

Work Session

The Ephrata Borough Council will hold a work session to discuss and potentially approve several items, including an ordinance amending the borough retirement plan vesting schedule, a land development plan for 1300 West Main LLC, and various requests for road and sidewalk closures. The council will also consider approving 2022 community pool rates and a resolution for participation in financial transmission rights auctions. Some items, such as the mobile hygiene units, have been tabled to a later meeting.

• Ordinance No. 1567: Amending vesting schedule of Ephrata Borough Retirement Plan effective Feb 28, 2022
• 1300 West Main LLC: Approval of Land Development Plan
• Resolution 2022-14: Authorizing participation in Annual and Long-Term Financial Transmission Rights (FTR) Auctions
• Ephrata Community Pool: Approval of 2022 Rates
• B. R. Kreider & Son, Inc.: Bethany Road Lane Closure Request

The Ephrata Borough Council held a work session on April 4, 2022, where they unanimously adopted Resolution 2022-14 authorizing participation in Financial Transmission Rights auctions and approved the 2022 Ephrata Community Pool rates. The council also discussed the proposed 1300 West Main LLC apartment building, with several members expressing concerns about traffic, parking, and building aesthetics, and Vice President Martin opposing a waiver of the traffic study. No final decision was made on the land development plan, which is scheduled for a vote at the April 11 voting session.

• Adopted Resolution 2022-14 authorizing participation in FTR auctions (unanimous)
• Approved 2022 Ephrata Community Pool rates (unanimous)
• Added Earth Day Community Garden Kick-Off Event to agenda (unanimous)
• Received accreditation certificate for Ephrata Police Department
• Discussed 1300 West Main LLC land development plan; no vote taken
• Tabled LCRA Mobile Hygiene Units discussion to April 25 committee meeting

Committee Meetings

The Community Services Committee is meeting to decide on 2022 community pool rates and to consider requests from Mainspring's Dog Park Committee to place a memorial stone and sign at the proposed dog park. They will also discuss a request to hold a community event at Lincoln Heights Playground with a food truck, and review a Keystone Grant award announcement and a proposed Christmas tree program.

• 2022 Community Pool Rates
• Memorial stone at proposed dog park
• Sign at proposed dog park
• Lincoln Heights community event with food truck
• Keystone Grant award announcement

The Community Services Committee met on March 28, 2022, and discussed several items. They favored a 5% pool membership increase for residents and 10% for non-residents, plus a 5% increase in day passes, to be voted on at the April 4 Council Work Session. They had no objections to the proposed locations for the dog park sign and memorial monument, pending final design approval by Council. They also supported Courtney Sollenberger's request to use Lincoln Heights Playground for a community event with two food trucks on May 18, 2022, with conditions. No formal votes were taken on these items; the only formal action was approving the agenda.

• Approved meeting agenda as posted (unanimous)
• Favored 5% pool membership increase for residents, 10% for non-residents (to be voted on by Council)
• Favored 5% increase in pool day passes (to be voted on by Council)
• No objection to dog park sign and memorial monument locations (final designs need Council approval)
• Supported allowing Lincoln Heights Playground use for food truck event with conditions (cones, sidewalk service)

Committee Meetings

The Budget and Finance Committee will consider enacting Ordinance No. 1567, which amends the borough's retirement plan for non-union employees to establish eligibility and vesting rules for those with service hours on or after February 28, 2022. The committee will also discuss delinquent utility accounts, potential revenue sources, and other financial matters.

• Ordinance No. 1567: Amends retirement plan for non-union employees, establishing eligibility date and vesting schedule
• Update on delinquent utility billing accounts
• Discussion of Mainspring request for audit vs. review
• Review of borough solicitor and assistant solicitor invoices
• Discussion of credit card fees and Civic Pay

Committee Meetings

The Development Activities Committee will consider several action items, including a request for weekly mobile hygiene units at the Ephrata Public Library, a planning waiver and stormwater plan for the dog park, and land development approval for 1300 West Main LLC. They will also discuss the Planning Commission's 2021 annual report and recent zoning decisions.

• Request from Lancaster County Redevelopment Authority for weekly mobile hygiene units at Ephrata Public Library
• Waiver of planning for the dog park
• Stormwater management plan approval and modification for the dog park
• Land development plan approval for 1300 West Main LLC at 1300 West Main Street
• Review of March zoning decisions (1) and April zoning applications (0)

Committee Meetings

The Ephrata Borough Highway Committee will meet to consider several action items, including lane and sidewalk closure requests, asset disposition, and a parking lot reservation. The committee will also discuss a proposal to oppose state legislation allowing heavier truck weights, which could be forwarded to the Borough Council for action at its April 11 meeting. Other discussion items include signage and ordinance conflicts, and old business on the South Oak Street Bridge and Apple Street truck traffic.

• Bethany Road lane closure request by B.R. Kreider & Son, Inc.
• South State Street sidewalk closure request by Horst Construction
• Disposition of 2010 Ford Expedition
• Rose Alley closure request by UGI Utilities, Inc.
• Parking spaces reservation for a POD at Locust Street Parking Lot

Committee Meetings

The committee will review several action items including requests and change orders. Discussion topics include forestry work on N. Maple St., updates on Alchemy and Comcast, and the APPA Safety Award.

• Republic Service Change Request Approval
• FTR Strategy Approval
• Gross Run Change Order Approval
• N. Maple St. Forestry Work discussion
• Net Metering discussion

The Municipal Enterprises Committee met on March 21, 2022, and reviewed several action items, but made no final decisions. The committee will recommend approval of a change to curbside trash pickup, a strategy for the Financial Transmission Rights Auction, and a change order for the Gross Run Streambank Restoration Project at upcoming meetings. The meeting was otherwise procedural, with no substantive decisions made.

• Approved meeting agenda as posted (unanimous)
• Recommended approval of curbside trash pickup change (to be voted April 11, 2022)
• Recommended approval of FTR auction bidding strategy (to be voted April 4, 2022)
• Recommended approval of Change Order #2 for Gross Run Streambank Restoration and $3,000 grant application fees (to be voted April 11, 2022)

Committee Meetings

The Special Projects Committee is meeting to discuss several projects, including a website and online customer portal redesign, a communications and public relations project, and the Veterans Memorial Parkway Project. There are no action items on the agenda, so no formal decisions are scheduled. The committee will also revisit old business regarding the Shade Tree Commission's ordinance rewrite.

• Website and Online Customer Portal Redesign Project
• Communications and Public Relations Project
• Veterans Memorial Parkway Project
• Shade Tree Commission – Ordinance Rewrite

The Special Projects Committee met and took no formal action items. They discussed updates on the website redesign project, a communications and public relations project, the Veterans Memorial Parkway Project, and a draft rewrite of the Borough's Shade Tree Ordinance. The committee was encouraged to review the draft ordinance and provide comments for a final draft.

• Approved meeting agenda as posted (unanimous)
• No action items were presented or voted on

Regular Meeting

The Ephrata Zoning Hearing Board will hold a public hearing to consider a variance from the minimum 25-foot rear yard setback requirement for the property at 21 Andrew Avenue, located in a Residential Low Density district. The applicant, Roger Mast, seeks relief under section 319-20.A. of the Borough Code. The meeting is scheduled for March 16, 2022, at 7:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers.

• Variance request for rear yard setback at 21 Andrew Avenue
• Property in Residential Low Density zoning district
• Applicant: Roger Mast, 21 Andrew Avenue, Ephrata, PA
• Public hearing on March 16, 2022 at 7:00 p.m.
• Accommodations deadline: March 9, 2022

Regular Meeting

The Ephrata Borough Planning Commission is meeting to reorganize by selecting a Chairperson and Vice-Chairperson, approve past meeting minutes, and review one new preliminary/final land development plan submitted by 1300 W Main St LLC. The meeting is scheduled for 7:00 PM on March 15, 2022.

• Reorganization: selection of Chairperson and Vice-Chairperson
• Approval of June, July and August 2021 meeting minutes
• 1300 W Main St LLC – Preliminary/Final Land Development Plan review

Committee Meetings

The Ephrata Borough Personnel Committee is meeting to discuss several personnel-related topics, including updates from the police chief and borough manager, a communication initiative, consultant activities, job descriptions, and council workshop dates. They will also address old business items such as ELEA CBA negotiations and the salaried employee handbook, and confirm the 2022 council retreat. No action items are listed for this meeting.

• Police Chief Update
• ELEA CBA Negotiations
• 2022 Council Retreat
• Communication Initiative
• Job Descriptions

Voting Session

Borough Council is meeting to vote on several municipal contracts, ordinances regarding parking and electric vehicles, and funding requests. The session includes decisions on public event permits and personnel changes within the utilities department.

• Street Crack and Joint Sealing contract awarded to CriLon Corporation for $49,995.80
• Traffic engineering services contract for Rettew Associates, Inc. in the amount of $16,975.00
• Funding of $67,503.75 for Mainspring of Ephrata
• Ordinance No. 1566 establishing regulations and penalties for Electric Vehicle Parking spaces
• Release of $24,440.00 for completed storm water improvements at 300 West Chestnut Street

Ephrata Borough Council approved funding of $67,503.75 for Mainspring of Ephrata as budgeted, and approved several other items including contracts, ordinances, and event permits. The council also approved the creation of a Water Operations Manager position and merged the Utilities Manager and Chief Utilities Engineer into a Director of Utilities position. All motions were carried unanimously.

• Approved $67,503.75 funding for Mainspring of Ephrata (unanimous)
• Approved $16,975.00 traffic engineering contract with Rettew Associates (unanimous)
• Awarded Bid #22-1 street crack and joint sealing to CriLon Corp for $49,995.80 (unanimous)
• Enacted Ordinance No. 1565 adjusting two-hour parking regulation on East Main Street (unanimous)
• Enacted Ordinance No. 1566 establishing Electric Vehicle Parking Space regulations (unanimous)
• Approved creation of Water Operations Manager position (unanimous)
• Approved merging Utilities Manager and Chief Utilities Engineer into Director of Utilities (unanimous)
• Approved $1,779,601.82 in checks and ACH register (unanimous)

Regular Meeting

The Ephrata Borough Authority will consider approving multiple construction contracts and invoices for the WWTF No. 1 Biosolids Project, including general, HVAC, and electrical work. They will also review requests for sanitary sewer capacity and extension for two planned residential lots, and a waiver request for a grinder pump station. Financing options for the biosolids project will be discussed.

• Approve GHD, Inc. invoice for Ephrata Solids Processing and Handling Design
• Execute construction contracts with Lobar, Inc., Garden Spot Mechanical, and Garden Spot Electrical for biosolids project
• Diehm & Sons request for sewer capacity for two residential lots and extension to easternmost corner of Lot 2
• Waiver request for single grinder pump station at 1161 Steinmetz Road
• Discussion of financing for WWTF No. 1 Biosolids Project with Raymond James

The Ephrata Borough Authority approved multiple contracts for the WWTF No. 1 Biosolids Project, including general, HVAC, and electrical construction, and approved bond financing for the $10 million project debt. The board also approved a sewer capacity request for two residential lots, deferred a sewer extension request, and conditionally approved a grinder pump waiver.

• Approved GHD invoice payment breakdown for biosolids design ($4,790 total)
• Approved Becker Engineering invoice for biosolids project
• Approved Lobar construction contract for general construction
• Approved Garden Spot Mechanical HVAC construction contract
• Approved Garden Spot Electrical electrical construction contract
• Approved sewer capacity for two planned residential lots (Diehm & Sons)
• Deferred sewer extension to easternmost corner of Lot 2 pending additional info
• Conditionally approved grinder pump waiver for 1161 Steinmetz Road

Voting Session

The Authority will review financial reports and approve payments of bills. Action items include an unbudgeted capital expenditure for the Church Avenue water line tie-in upgrade and several service requests.

• Church Avenue Water Line Tie In Upgrade unbudgeted capital expenditure
• QualTek Wireless landlord consent for AT&T Cell Site – Lincoln
• Diehm & Sons, Inc. proposed public water service for Hackman Living Trust
• Medveczky Associates, Ltd. fire service tap for Royer Building

The Ephrata Area Joint Authority approved an unbudgeted capital expenditure of $19,473.30 for a water line tie-in upgrade on Church Avenue and Cloverbrook Drive, approved a QualTek Wireless equipment update at 1301 Apple Street, and approved a lateral service line for Lot #1 of the Hackman Living Trust. The board tabled a fire service tap request for the Royer Building pending staff review. All votes were unanimous.

• Approved $19,473.30 unbudgeted capital expenditure for Church Avenue water line tie-in upgrade (unanimous)
• Approved QualTek Wireless equipment update at 1301 Apple Street (Lincoln) subject to permits (unanimous)
• Approved lateral service line to Lot #1 for Hackman Living Trust, deferring main line connection until Lot #2 development (unanimous)
• Tabled Medveczky Associates fire service tap request for Royer Building pending staff review (unanimous)

Work Session

This work session includes discussions on various committee reports, including budget reimbursements, service contracts, and personnel positions. The council will also review proposed amendments to parking regulations and electric vehicle space usage.

• Ordinance 1565: Adjusting two-hour parking regulation on East Main Street
• Ordinance 1566: Regulating designated Electric Vehicle parking spaces
• Bid 22-1: Award of street crack and joint sealing bid to CriLon Corporation
• Myers Janitorial Service: Borough Hall cleaning service contract
• Rettew Associates, Inc.: Traffic Engineering Services proposal

The Ephrata Borough Council held a work session to review committee reports and upcoming action items. No formal votes were taken during this session; all action items are scheduled for the March 14, 2022 voting session. The council heard a presentation on the Lead-Free Families program and discussed various committee recommendations.

• Approved meeting agenda as posted (unanimous)
• Heard presentation on Lead-Free Families program
• Reviewed committee action items for March 14 voting session
• Noted Development Activities Committee voted down mobile hygiene units on Library property
• Acknowledged Police Department accreditation by PLEAC

Committee Meetings

The Ephrata Borough Highway Committee is meeting to consider several action items, including ordinances on parking and electric vehicle spaces, a request to release financial security, and a temporary road closure. They will also discuss bids for asphalt crack sealing and other topics. The meeting is scheduled for February 28, 2022, at 5:30 PM at Borough Hall.

• Ordinance adjusting 2-hour parking regulation on 100 block of East Main Street
• Ordinance for designated electric vehicle parking spaces on public property
• Request to release financial security for 300 West Chestnut Street, LP
• Request to temporarily close Rose Alley for UGI
• Bid #22-1 award for asphalt crack and joint sealing

The Highway Committee met on February 28, 2022, and reviewed multiple action items to recommend to Borough Council for their March 14, 2022 meeting. These recommendations include conditionally approving the 4th Annual Memorial Day 5K Run and the 45th Annual Firecracker Run, awarding a $16,975 professional services contract to Rettew Associates for traffic signal improvements, enacting two ordinances (parking time limits and electric vehicle parking), releasing $24,440 in financial security, authorizing Rose Alley closures for UGI gas work, and awarding a $49,995.80 crack sealing bid to CriLon Corporation. No final decisions were made by the Committee; all items are recommendations to Borough Council.

• Recommended conditional approval of Memorial Day 5K Run (unanimous)
• Recommended conditional award of $16,975 traffic signal design contract to Rettew Associates
• Recommended conditional approval of 45th Annual Firecracker Run
• Recommended enactment of Ordinance No. 1565 (parking time limit adjustment)
• Recommended enactment of Ordinance No. 1566 (EV parking regulations)
• Recommended release of $24,440 storm water financial security, leaving $3,768
• Recommended authorization of Rose Alley closures for UGI gas service work
• Recommended award of $49,995.80 crack sealing bid to CriLon Corporation

Committee Meetings

The Budget and Finance Committee will consider action items including appointing a PSAB voting delegate, authorizing conference attendance expenses, and approving a $67,503.75 funding request from Mainspring. Discussion items include a pilot program update, PLGIT term investments, solicitor invoices, and the check and ACH register. Old business includes credit card fees, expanding borough parking, and potential revenue sources.

• Appoint Vic Richard as PSAB Voting Delegate
• Authorize attendance and expenses for 2022 PSAB Conference
• Approve Mainspring funding request of $67,503.75
• Discuss PLGIT term investments
• Review credit card fees and Civic Pay

Committee Meetings

The Ephrata Borough Community Services Committee will consider requests from Troop 38 to use Whistle Stop Plaza for flower sales on two weekends in April and May, and a request from Mainspring to install a shade system in the plaza courtyard. The committee will also discuss a dog park, receive an update on the community pool, and consider a proposed Christmas tree program.

• Troop 38 flower sales at Whistle Stop Plaza, April 15-17 and May 6-8
• Mainspring shade system installation for Whistle Stop Plaza courtyard
• Dog park discussion
• Community pool update from Jim Summers
• Proposed Christmas tree program

The Community Services Committee recommended Borough Council approve Boy Scout Troop 38's Easter and Mother's Day flower sales at Whistle Stop Plaza, subject to insurance. It also favored keeping the dog park in the parks system, naming it 'Ephrata Unleashed', and opening it to the public without membership. The committee supported Mainspring's grant application for a shade canopy but deferred other details, and tabled pool rate decisions to the next meeting.

• Recommended approval of Easter flower sale at Whistle Stop Plaza (April 15-17) subject to insurance
• Recommended approval of Mother's Day flower sale at Whistle Stop Plaza (May 6-8) subject to insurance
• Favored keeping dog park in parks system with advisory Citizen Committee
• Favored naming dog park 'Ephrata Unleashed'
• Favored making dog park open to public without membership
• Favored allowing site lighting in dog park parking area
• Supported Mainspring's grant application for shade canopy at Whistle Stop Plaza
• Deferred pool rate increase and closing date to March 28 meeting

Committee Meetings

The Development Activities Committee will consider several action items, including a request for a hold harmless agreement to place a fence in a stormwater easement at 424 Lake Street, a 2022 retainer package for municipal engineering services from HRG, a revised cleaning contract, a memorandum of understanding with the Lancaster County Conservation District, and a request to provide mobile hygiene units at the Ephrata Public Library. They will also discuss alcohol service at two Mainspring events at Whistle Stop Plaza, review zoning decisions and applications, and address a letter about traffic impacts from a development in Ephrata Township.

• 424 Lake Street: Hold harmless agreement for fence in stormwater easement
• HRG 2022 retainer package for municipal engineering services
• Revised Borough Hall cleaning contract due to entity name change
• Lancaster County Conservation District MOU
• Mobile hygiene units at Ephrata Public Library; alcohol at Whistle Stop Plaza events

Committee Meetings

The Municipal Enterprises Committee will meet to consider action items including a yard waste disposal agreement and conference approvals, and discuss the purchase of FTR/ARR, medical list procedures, solar lost energy, and net metering policy. The meeting is scheduled for February 22, 2022, at 5:30 PM at Borough Hall.

• Yard Waste Disposal Agreement
• APPA, PMEA, AMP Conference Approvals
• FTR/ARR Purchase Approval
• Solar Lost Energy Update
• Net Metering Policy

The Municipal Enterprises Committee met on February 22, 2022, and approved its agenda unanimously. The committee reviewed and will recommend that Council authorize the Borough Manager to approve an agreement with Columbia Borough for receiving municipal yard waste, pending solicitor review. It also recommended Council authorize reimbursement for staff and council attendance at three energy conferences. No final decisions were made; all recommendations are subject to Council action on March 14, 2022.

• Approved meeting agenda as posted (unanimous)
• Recommended Council authorize Borough Manager to approve yard waste agreement with Columbia Borough, pending solicitor review
• Recommended Council authorize reimbursement for conference attendance (APPA, PMEA, AMP)

Committee Meetings

The Ephrata Borough Public Safety Committee is meeting to consider the 2022 EHS Animal Crew Sheep Project Proposal and to discuss the 2021 fourth quarter and annual police reports, January 2022 monthly police reports, and the January emergency management report. The meeting is scheduled for February 22, 2022, at Borough Hall.

• 2022 EHS Animal Crew Sheep Project Proposal
• 2021 Fourth Quarter Police Report
• 2021 Annual EPD Report
• January 2022 Monthly Police Reports
• January Emergency Management Report

Committee Meetings

The Special Projects Committee is meeting to discuss several projects, including a redesign of the borough website and online customer portal, a communications and public relations project involving social media, and a review of the Shade Tree Commission's responsibilities and a rewrite of its ordinance. No action items are listed for this meeting; all items are for discussion only. The next meeting is scheduled for March 21, 2022.

• Discussion of Borough Website and Online Customer Portal Redesign
• Discussion of Communications and Public Relations Project (incl. Social Media)
• Review of Shade Tree Commission responsibilities and rewrite of ordinance

The Special Projects Committee met on February 22, 2022, and unanimously approved the meeting agenda as posted. No action items were taken. The Committee discussed the upcoming website and online customer portal redesign with current provider Civic Plus, and reviewed a draft scope of work for a communications and public relations project. They requested that a local firm be engaged if possible.

• Approved the meeting agenda as posted, unanimously.
• Discussed the website and online customer portal redesign project with Civic Plus, expected to take 8-9 months.
• Reviewed a draft scope of work for a communications and public relations project.
• Requested that a local firm be engaged for the PR project, if possible.
• Discussed the ongoing Shade Tree Ordinance update and heard an update from the Shade Tree Commission chair.

Regular Meeting

The Ephrata Zoning Hearing Board will hold a public hearing to consider a use variance for a temporary shelter at 118/120 E. Locust St. in the Central Business District. The applicant, Good Samaritan Services, seeks relief under section 319-14.A. of the Borough Code. The meeting is scheduled for February 16, 2022, at 7:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers.

• Use variance for temporary shelter at 118/120 E. Locust St.
• Applicant: Good Samaritan Services, Ephrata, PA
• Relief sought under section 319-14.A. of Borough Code
• Public hearing in Central Business District

Committee Meetings

The Ephrata Borough Personnel Committee is meeting to consider action items including an executive session on a personnel issue and organizational chart revisions. Discussion items include updates on the borough manager, communications, social media position, consultant activities, job descriptions, and future workshop dates. The committee will also address old business items such as the 2022 Council Retreat and the Salaried Employee Handbook.

• Executive session on personnel issue
• Organizational chart revisions
• Social media position update
• 2022 Council Retreat
• Salaried Employee Handbook

The Personnel Committee met on February 15, 2022, and approved the meeting agenda as amended. They discussed creating a Water Operations Manager position and merging Utilities Manager and Chief Utilities Engineer into a Director of Utilities role, but no formal action was taken on these items. Other discussions included the Borough Manager's update, communication policies, and future workshops, with several items tabled to the next meeting.

• Approved meeting agenda as amended (unanimous)
• Removed Executive Session details from published agenda (unanimous)
• Tabled job descriptions discussion to next meeting
• Tabled Salaried Employee Handbook discussion to next meeting

Voting Session

The Borough Council will vote on several action items including land development escrow releases, equipment purchases, and cultural arts grants. The session also includes discussions regarding street closures for events and water system construction detours.

• $70,044.50 escrow fund release to Cloister Associates, LP for 130 North Reading Road
• Purchase of a John Deere 2025R Compact Utility Tractor for $22,511.00
• Trade-in of a 2003 John Deere 4110 tractor for $8,000.00
• $10,500.00 in total Cultural Arts Grant Awards to local organizations
• Street detours on West and East Fulton Streets and Bethany Road for water system improvements

Ephrata Borough Council approved the purchase of a John Deere 2025R compact utility tractor for $22,511, along with the trade-in of an older tractor. They also conditionally approved several events, including the Purple & Gold 5K run, a New Year's Eve celebration, and a K-9 Eggstravaganza, subject to insurance and safety requirements. The council adopted three resolutions regarding tax exoneration, sale of personal property, and records disposition, and approved $10,500 in cultural arts grants.

• Approved purchase of John Deere 2025R tractor for $22,511 with $8,000 trade-in
• Approved use of West and East Fulton Streets and Bethany Road as detour for water project
• Conditionally approved Purple & Gold 5K run on April 23, 2022
• Conditionally approved Mainspring's New Year's Eve Celebration with street closures
• Adopted Resolution 2022-11 exonerating taxes on Borough-owned properties
• Adopted Resolution 2022-12 establishing procedure for selling personal property under $2,000
• Adopted Resolution 2022-13 authorizing disposition of Borough records
• Approved $10,500 in 2022 Cultural Arts Grant Awards

Regular Meeting

The Ephrata Borough Authority is meeting to approve routine financial reports and bills, appoint Salzmann Hughes, P.C. as assistant solicitor, and update bank account authorizations. They will also consider several sanitary sewer capacity requests for new developments, including a subdivision and a warehouse, and discuss the solids processing upgrade project.

• Resolution 2022-1: Appoint Salzmann Hughes, P.C. as Assistant Solicitor
• Resolutions 2022-2 to 2022-6: Update Ephrata National Bank account contacts and signers
• Approve GHD invoice for Ephrata Solids Processing and Handling Design
• Approve Becker Engineering invoice for WWTF No. 1 Biosolids Project
• Sanitary sewer capacity requests for East Mohler Church Road subdivision (9 homes), 425 S. Muddy Creek Road warehouse, and 36 Muddy Creek Church Road apartment building

The Ephrata Borough Authority approved all action items, including appointing Salzmann Hughes, P.C. as assistant solicitor, updating bank account authorizations, and approving sewer capacity requests. It also ratified financial reports and bill payments. No public comments were made.

• Adopted Resolution 2022-1 appointing Salzmann Hughes, P.C. as Assistant Solicitor/Legal Firm.
• Adopted Resolutions 2022-2 through 2022-6 updating Ephrata National Bank account contact info, signers, and online access.
• Approved payment breakdown for GHD invoice No. 380-0007413 ($4,000 total) with $526.32 from Akron Borough and $3,473.68 from the Regional Capacity account.
• Approved payment of Becker Engineering invoice No. 22457 for the WWTF No. 1 Biosolids Project.
• Approved 10 HVUs for the East Mohler Church Road subdivision (nine new homes) in Ephrata Township.
• Approved 1,000 gallons per day for a new warehouse at 425 South Muddy Creek Road, East Cocalico Township.
• Approved 1,012 gallons per day for a proposed 4-unit apartment building at 35 Muddy Creek Church Road, East Cocalico Township.
• Ratified payment of bills and received and filed financial reports.

Voting Session

The Ephrata Area Joint Authority is holding its regular voting session. The main action item is a resolution to designate Ephrata National Bank as the depository for its accounts. The meeting also includes routine approvals of minutes, financial reports, and bill payments, plus an engineering update.

• Resolution 2022-1: Ephrata National Bank Resolution for Depository Account
• Approval of minutes from January 13, 2022
• Approval of financial reports
• Approval of payment of bills
• Engineering update

The Ephrata Area Joint Authority met on February 10, 2022, and approved the agenda, minutes, financial reports, and bill payments unanimously. They adopted Resolution 2022-1 to update depository account signatories with Ephrata National Bank. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting included only routine approvals and an engineering update.

• Approved meeting agenda as posted (unanimous)
• Approved January 13, 2022 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Received and filed financial reports (unanimous roll call)
• Ratified payment of bills (unanimous roll call)
• Adopted Resolution 2022-1 updating bank signatories (unanimous)

Work Session

The Council will hold a work session to discuss committee actions regarding borough finances, land development, and public safety. Topics include tax exonerations for borough-owned parcels and various community event requests.

• Resolution 2022-11: Exonerating the Borough from paying 2022 real estate taxes on borough-owned parcels
• Resolution 2022-12: Establishing a procedure for selling personal property valued under $2,000.00
• Fulton Bank Land Development (130 North Reading Road): Request to reduce financial security
• Good Samaritan Shelter: Zoning application for a use variance at 118 East Locust Street
• Purchase of John Deere 2025R Compact Utility Tractor

The Ephrata Borough Council held a work session on February 7, 2022, where the only formal action was approving the agenda and swearing in Robert Focht as a police officer. All substantive items—including resolutions on tax exoneration, property sales, records disposition, and various committee action items—were discussed but deferred to the February 14 voting session. The council also noted that Good Samaritan Services withdrew its zoning variance application for 118 W. Locust Street, and heard public comments on that matter.

• Approved meeting agenda as posted (unanimous)
• Swore in Robert Focht as Ephrata Police Officer
• Noted withdrawal of Good Samaritan Services' use variance application for 118 W. Locust Street
• Deferred all committee action items to February 14 voting session

Committee Meetings

The Budget and Finance Committee will consider three resolutions: exempting taxes on borough-owned properties, establishing a procedure for selling personal property valued under $2,000, and authorizing records disposition. They will also discuss the fourth quarter 2021 budget, pension review, American Rescue Plan final ruling, and other financial matters.

• Resolution 2022-11: Exonerating taxes on borough-owned properties
• Resolution 2022-12: Procedure for selling personal property valued less than $2,000
• Resolution 2022-13: Disposition of records authorization
• 4th Quarter 2021 Budget Review
• Final ruling on American Rescue Plan

The Budget and Finance Committee met on January 24, 2022, and approved its agenda. The committee reviewed and will recommend that Borough Council adopt three resolutions at its February 14, 2022 meeting: exonerating taxes on Borough-owned properties, establishing a procedure for selling Borough personal property valued under $2,000, and authorizing disposition of Borough records. No final decisions were made by the committee; all actions are recommendations to Council.

• Approved meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Recommended Resolution 2022-11 exonerating taxes on Borough-owned properties
• Recommended Resolution 2022-12 establishing procedure for selling Borough personal property under $2,000
• Recommended Resolution 2022-13 authorizing disposition of Borough records

Committee Meetings

The Ephrata Community Services Committee is meeting to take action on a Cultural Arts Grant and discuss several community items. The agenda includes a request for a K-9 Eggstravaganza event, an update on the Dog Park, a review of the fourth quarter budget, and a discussion of the Christmas Tree Program. No next meeting date was set.

• Cultural Arts Grant action item
• K-9 Eggstravaganza event request discussion
• Dog Park update
• Community Services Fourth Quarter Budget Review
• Christmas Tree Program discussion

The Community Services Committee recommended $10,500 in 2022 Cultural Arts Grant awards for Borough Council approval, including $3,500 for Ephrata Public Library and $3,000 for EPAC. It also recommended approving a K-9 Eggstravaganza dog park fundraiser at Haller Homestead Park on April 9, 2022, subject to insurance requirements. The committee discussed the dog park site plan timeline and 4th quarter budget review, with no further action on those items.

• Recommended $10,500 in Cultural Arts Grants for Council approval
• Recommended approval of K-9 Eggstravaganza at Haller Homestead Park, subject to Certificate of Insurance
• Approved meeting agenda unanimously

Committee Meetings

The Committee will discuss a request to reduce financial security for the Fulton Bank project. Members will also review fourth quarter budget figures, recent zoning applications, and traffic impacts at 1522 Lincoln Heights Avenue.

• Financial security reduction request from Cloister Associated LP for Fulton Bank project
• Alcohol service request from Mainspring for Whistle Stop Plaza event
• Use variance for a homeless shelter at 118 W Locust St
• Traffic impact discussion regarding 1522 Lincoln Heights Avenue

The Development Activities Committee voted to recommend Borough Council approve two items at their February 14 meeting: reducing financial security for Cloister Associates' Fulton Bank project and allowing Mainspring to serve alcohol at a New Year's Eve event. They also agreed to bring a zoning variance request for a homeless shelter at 118 East Locust Street to full Council for discussion, and to email zoning applications to Council when meetings are cancelled.

• Approved meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Recommended approval of Fulton Bank financial security reduction (will appear on Consent Agenda)
• Recommended approval of Mainspring alcohol permit for New Year's Eve event
• Agreed to email zoning applications to Council when committee meetings are cancelled
• Agreed to bring homeless shelter variance request to full Council work session

Committee Meetings

The Ephrata Highway Committee is meeting to decide on several action items, including purchasing a new John Deere tractor, disposing of an old one, approving a 5K race request, and approving a state route detour for a water main project. They will also discuss a New Year's Eve event request and a parking restriction, and review old business items like the Q4 2021 budget and bridge/truck traffic issues.

• 2022 John Deere 2025R Compact Utility Tractor Purchase
• Disposition of Assets – 2003 John Deere 4110 Compact Utility Tractor
• Ephrata Area Education Foundation Purple & Gold 5K Race Request
• Proposed State Route Detour for Ephrata Area Joint Authority Water Main Installation
• 2-Hour Parking Restriction – East Main Street

The Highway Committee met on January 24, 2022, and approved its agenda. It reviewed several action items and will recommend that Borough Council approve the purchase of a new John Deere tractor for $22,511 (including an $8,000 trade-in), the disposal of an old tractor, conditional approval of the Purple & Gold 5K Run, approval of a detour for a water main project, and conditional approval of a New Year's Eve celebration. These are recommendations, not final decisions, as Borough Council will vote on them at its February 14, 2022 meeting.

• Approved meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Recommended purchase of John Deere 2025R tractor for $22,511 (with $8,000 trade-in)
• Recommended disposal of 2003 John Deere 4110 tractor via trade-in
• Recommended conditional approval of Purple & Gold 5K Run on April 23, 2022
• Recommended approval of Ephrata Fair detour for water main project
• Recommended conditional approval of New Year's Eve Celebration street closures
• Directed staff to install proper parking signage (completed 1-26-2022)
• Directed staff to draft ordinance reducing 2-hour parking zone

Regular Meeting

The Ephrata Zoning Hearing Board will hold a public hearing to consider a use variance for a temporary shelter at 118 E. Locust St. in the Central Business District. The applicant, Good Samaritan Services, seeks relief under section 319-14.A of the Borough Code. The board will decide whether to grant the variance.

• Use variance for temporary shelter at 118 E. Locust St.
• Applicant: Good Samaritan Services, Ephrata, PA
• Relief sought under section 319-14.A of Borough Code
• Public hearing on January 19, 2022 at 7:00 p.m.

Committee Meetings

The Ephrata Public Safety Committee will consider certifying a civil service police officer eligibility list and a hiring recommendation. They will also discuss the monthly police report, a crime scene vehicle update, the fourth quarter budget report, and the monthly emergency management report.

• Certification of Civil Service Police Officer Eligibility List
• Police Officer Hiring Recommendation
• Fourth Quarter Budget Report
• Crime Scene Vehicle Update
• Monthly Emergency Management Report

The Public Safety Committee unanimously approved the Civil Service List of eligible police officer applicants and recommended hiring Nicholas Zollner as a police officer effective March 14, 2022, subject to a one-year probationary period. Both actions will be forwarded to Borough Council for a vote. The committee also discussed police reports, the crime scene truck, the 4th quarter budget, and emergency management updates.

• Approved Civil Service List for police officer applicants (unanimous)
• Approved hiring Nicholas Zollner as police officer effective March 14, 2022 (unanimous)

Committee Meetings

The Special Projects Committee is meeting to discuss several projects, including a borough logo redesign, a website and online customer portal redesign, and its social media presence and strategy. The committee will also discuss a remote meeting participation policy and review the Shade Tree Commission's responsibilities and a rewrite of its ordinance. No action items are listed for this meeting.

• Borough Logo Redesign
• Borough Website and Online Customer Portal Redesign
• Social Media Presence and Strategy
• Remote Meeting Participation Policy
• Shade Tree Commission – Review of Responsibilities and Rewrite of Ordinance

The Special Projects Committee discussed but took no formal action. Members unanimously agreed not to pursue a logo redesign until the Borough's website is updated and social media strategies are implemented. Staff committed to preparing scopes of work for the website redesign and social media management projects.

• Agreed to postpone logo redesign until website and social media are updated (unanimous)
• Staff to prepare scope of work for website redesign
• Staff to prepare scope of work for social media management

Committee Meetings

The Municipal Enterprises Committee will take action on the disposition of street light standards and discuss the Q4 budget report, updates on solar site and lost energy charges, options for reducing erroneous electric call-outs, and a net metering policy. The next meeting is scheduled for February 21, 2022. This is a preliminary agenda and may be revised.

• Action: Disposition of Street Light Standards
• Discussion: Q4 Budget Report
• Discussion: Update on Solar Site/Lost Energy Charges
• Discussion: Options for Reducing Erroneous Electric Call-Outs
• Discussion: Net Metering Policy

The Municipal Enterprises Committee discussed several items but made no final decisions. They recommended Borough Council authorize the disposition of old street light standards, contingent on a proposed ordinance change. They also reviewed the Q4 budget, received updates on the solar site and facility, and discussed reducing erroneous electric call-outs, requesting more information before any policy changes.

• Recommended Borough Council authorize disposition of old street light standards, if necessary

Voting Session

The Ephrata Area Joint Authority is holding its annual reorganization meeting, electing officers and appointing the solicitor, engineer, and Right-to-Know officer. The board will also consider participating in the Low-Income Household Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP) and a request from T-Mobile to update equipment on the Cindia Lane Water Tank (Lincoln Tank).

• Election of Chairman, Vice Chairman, Treasurer, Assistant Treasurer, Secretary, and Assistant Secretary
• Appointment of Solicitor, Engineer, and Right-to-Know Officer
• Action item: PA Department of Human Services Low-Income Household Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP)
• Action item: T-Mobile request for consent to update equipment on the Cindia Lane Water Tank (Lincoln Tank)

The Ephrata Area Joint Authority unanimously approved T-Mobile's request to update equipment at the Lincoln Tank (50 Cindia Lane), subject to staff confirming no antenna expansion. The board also ratified the LIHWAP vendor agreement, approved financial reports and bill payments, and re-elected officers for 2022.

• Approved T-Mobile equipment update at 50 Cindia Lane (Lincoln Tank), subject to no antenna expansion (unanimous)
• Ratified Low-Income Household Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP) vendor agreement (unanimous)
• Approved financial reports (unanimous roll call)
• Ratified payment of bills (unanimous roll call)
• Re-elected Thomas Reinhold as Chairman, Gary Landis as Vice Chairman, Steve Sawyer as Treasurer, Greg Schmuck as Assistant Treasurer, Michael McKenna as Secretary, Debra Bartow as Assistant Secretary (unanimous)
• Appointed Russell, Krafft and Gruber, LLP as Solicitor (unanimous)
• Appointed Gannett Fleming as Engineer (unanimous)
• Appointed Stephanie Fasnacht as Right-to-Know Officer (unanimous)

Regular Meeting

The Ephrata Borough Authority is meeting to handle routine business and several action items. Key decisions include approving a payment for the solids processing design, considering two sanitary sewer capacity requests, and ratifying a bid date extension for the WWTP #1 solids processing and handling upgrades construction project. The meeting also includes reorganization and election of officers.

• Bid date extension for WWTP #1 Solids Processing and Handling Upgrades Construction Project
• GHD, Inc. invoice No. 380-0005444 payment approval for solids processing design
• Sanitary sewer capacity request from 1300 West Main, LLC
• Sanitary sewer capacity request from SWS Ventures, LLC for Tommy's Express Car Wash in Ephrata Township
• Low-Income Household Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP) discussion

The Ephrata Borough Authority awarded three construction contracts for the WWTP #1 Solids Processing and Handling Upgrades project, totaling approximately $11,045,940, contingent on bond documents and staff review. The board also approved sewer capacity requests for two properties, ratified a bid extension, and reorganized its officers for the year.

• Awarded Contract #1 (General Construction) to Lobar, Inc. for $7,832,940 (unanimous)
• Awarded Contract #2 (HVAC) to Garden Spot Mechanical for $868,000 (unanimous)
• Awarded Contract #3 (Electrical) to Garden Spot Electric, Inc. for $2,345,000 (unanimous)
• Approved 31 HVU sanitary sewer capacity request for 1300 West Main, LLC (unanimous)
• Approved 16,715 gallons per day sanitary sewer capacity request for SWS Ventures, LLC (Tommy's Express Car Wash) (unanimous)
• Ratified extension of bid opening date for WWTP #1 project to January 13, 2022 (unanimous)
• Approved payment breakdown of GHD invoice No. 380-0005444 (unanimous)
• Ratified LIHWAP vendor agreement with PA Department of Human Services (unanimous)

Voting Session

The Borough Council is meeting to vote on a new collective bargaining agreement with IBEW Local 1600. The session includes the appointment of individuals to boards and commissions and updates to bank account authorizations. Council will also consider the ratification of various borough policies and guidelines.

• Conditional approval of collective bargaining agreement with IBEW Local 1600
• Resolution 2022-04 appointing individuals to Boards and Commissions for 2022
• Resolutions 2022-05 through 2022-10 updating bank account signers and access at Ephrata National Bank
• Ratification of 11 council documents including By-Laws, Telecommunications Policy, and Code of Ethics
• Approval of checks 46942 through 47209 and the ACH Register dated December 29, 2021

Ephrata Borough Council conditionally approved a new collective bargaining agreement with IBEW Local 1600, effective January 1, 2022, pending ratification by the union's membership. The council also adopted several resolutions, including appointments to boards and commissions, and ratified payments totaling $1,928,685.82. All votes were unanimous.

• Approved IBEW Local 1600 collective bargaining agreement (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 2022-04 appointing boards/commissions members (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolutions 2022-05 through 2022-10 updating bank account authorizations (unanimous)
• Ratified payment of bills totaling $1,928,685.82 (unanimous)
• Approved agenda and prior meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Ratified council documents including by-laws and policies (unanimous)

Committee Meetings

The Ephrata Borough Civil Service Commission is meeting for a routine organizational session. The agenda contains only standard procedural items such as call to order, pledge, roll call, old business, organization of positions, other business, and adjournment, with no specific decisions or discussion items listed.

• Organization of positions for the commission

Work Session

The Ephrata Borough Council will hold a reorganization meeting and work session on January 3, 2022. The council will swear in newly elected officials, elect officers, and consider several resolutions and committee recommendations, including the hiring of a new police officer and the purchase of a new truck.

• Oath of office for Mayor Ralph E. Mowen and council members
• Resolution 2022-01 and 2022-02: Appointing Debra M. Bartow as Assistant Secretary and Treasurer
• Resolution 2022-03: Appointing James R. McManus III as Solicitor and Salzmann Hughes, P.C. as Assistant Solicitor
• Police Officer Hiring: Robert M. Focht, conditional offer effective January 31, 2022
• A&H Equipment Quote: Authorization to purchase a 2022 Tandem Axle International Chassis with Beauroc Stainless Steel Bed

The Ephrata Borough Council held a work session on January 3, 2022, and approved several resolutions and actions. They appointed Debra M. Bartow as Assistant Secretary and Treasurer, appointed James R. McManus III as Solicitor, approved the hiring of Robert Michael Focht as a Police Officer effective January 31, 2022, and authorized the purchase of a 2022 tandem axle International chassis with a Beauroc stainless steel bed for $181,681.00 from A&H Equipment. All motions carried unanimously.

• Approved Resolution 2022-01 appointing Debra M. Bartow as Assistant Secretary (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 2022-02 appointing Debra M. Bartow as Treasurer (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 2022-03 appointing James R. McManus III as Solicitor and Salzmann Hughes, P.C. as Assistant Solicitor (unanimous)
• Approved the certified list of eligible police applicants (unanimous)
• Approved hiring Robert Michael Focht as Police Officer effective January 31, 2022 (unanimous)
• Authorized purchase of 2022 tandem axle International chassis with Beauroc stainless steel bed for $181,681.00 from A&H Equipment (unanimous roll call)