Ephrata public meetings in 2025

Regular Meeting

The Zoning Hearing Board will review the settlement of an appeal filed by Rise Up Towers, LLC regarding a denied variance for a commercial communications tower and fenced equipment compound at 110 W. Franklin St. in the Central Business District. The variance sought included placement, setback, and screening requirements under borough code sections 319-14(A)(b) and 319-26.A.(17)(b). The settlement was reached between the applicant and the Borough Council.

• Settlement of Rise Up Towers, LLC appeal over denied variance for communications tower at 110 W. Franklin St.

The Zoning Hearing Board denied Rise Up Towers' variance request after a 2‑2 procedural vote. An appeal was subsequently settled between the applicant and the Borough Council. The Board then voted to authorize Mr. Creme to sign the petition that finalizes the settlement, with all members voting in favor.

• Denied variance for Rise Up Towers tower (2‑2 procedural vote)
• Authorized Mr. Creme to sign settlement petition (unanimous)

Regular Meeting

The Zoning Hearing Board will consider four applications for special exceptions and variances. The board will also address a settlement regarding a communication tower appeal.

• Special Exception for a microbrewery at 1113 Steinmetz Rd.
• Variance for minimum lot area per dwelling unit at 14 W. Main St.
• Variances for parking and dimensions for a 7-efficiency apartment addition at 27 N. State St.
• Special Exception to demolish structures built before 1940 at 19, 23, and 27 E. Main St.
• Settlement of an appeal for a commercial communication tower at 110 W. Franklin St.

The Zoning Hearing Board approved its agenda and the corrected November minutes. It granted a special exception for a microbrewery at 1113 Steinmetz Rd and approved a variance for GPSC at 14 W. Main St. The board also gave party status to the Historic Preservation Trust and approved a special exception allowing demolition of bank buildings at 19, 23, and 27 E. Main St. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved meeting agenda (unanimously)
• Approved November 19, 2025 minutes with correction (unanimously)
• Approved Special Exception for 272 BBQ microbrewery at 1113 Steinmetz Rd (unanimously)
• Approved Variance for GPSC, LLC at 14 W. Main St (unanimously)
• Granted Party Status to Historic Preservation Trust (unanimously)
• Approved Special Exception for Ephrata National Bank demolition at 19, 23, 27 E. Main St (unanimously)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimously)

Voting Session

The Authority will consider the adoption of amended rules and regulations and a water capacity request for 839 South State Street. Members will also review a maintenance guarantee for Wyndale and the 2024-2025 audit report from Maher Duessel.

• Resolution 2025-08: Adoption of Amended Authority Rules & Regulations
• Water capacity request for 839 South State Street
• Wyndale maintenance guarantee
• Maher Duessel 2024-2025 Audit Report

The Ephrata Area Joint Authority board unanimously approved the meeting agenda, the November 13 minutes, the financial reports, and the payment of bills. It also unanimously tabled the Wyndale maintenance guarantee until January 2026, adopted Resolution No. 2025‑08 amending water service rules, and gave conditional approval to allocate 1 EDU (232.8 gallons per day) to the water project at 839 South State Street pending further recommendations.

• Approved agenda as posted (unanimous)
• Approved November 13, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved financial reports (unanimous roll‑call)
• Ratified payment of bills (unanimous roll‑call)
• Tabled Wyndale maintenance guarantee until Jan 2026 (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution No. 2025‑08 amending water service rules (unanimous)
• Conditionally approved allocation of 1 EDU (232.8 GPD) to 839 South State Street pending plan (unanimous)

Regular Meeting

The Ephrata Borough Authority will vote on Resolution No. 2025-10 to adopt the 2026 Budget and Program of Services, Resolution No. 2025-11 to adopt revised 2026 sewer rates, and Resolution No. 2025-12 to adopt revised 2026 stormwater rates. The meeting also includes updates on the WWTP No. 1 Biosolids Project and several payment requisitions. Additional discussion items cover the non‑residential waste program and Nissley manholes.

• Resolution No. 2025-10: 2026 Budget and Program of Services
• Resolution No. 2025-11: 2026 Revised Sewer Rates
• Resolution No. 2025-12: 2026 Revised Stormwater Rates
• Fulton Bank Requisition – 2022 Construction Fund – $40,484.70
• Landis Road Sanitary Sewer Replacement Project – $1,571.10 requisition

The Authority approved the amended 2026 Budget and Program of Services, removing the stormwater line item. It adopted revised sewer rates for 2026 and postponed the revised stormwater rates to the January 12, 2026 meeting. The board also authorized execution of the GHD Settlement Agreement and conditionally approved several sanitary sewer projects.

• Adopted amended Resolution No.2025-10: 2026 Budget and Program of Services (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution No.2025-11: 2026 Revised Sewer Rates (unanimous)
• Tabled Resolution No.2025-12: 2026 Revised Stormwater Rates for Jan 12, 2026 (unanimous)
• Authorized Chairman to execute GHD Settlement Agreement (unanimous)
• Conditionally approved Valley View Capital, LLC improvement agreement for sanitary sewer facilities (unanimous)
• Conditionally approved 355 East Fulton Street sanitary sewer design (unanimous)
• Conditionally approved 839 South State Street sewer service capacity request (unanimous)
• Conditionally approved 156 East Church Street sanitary sewer conveyance request (unanimous)

Voting Session

Borough Council will consider adopting the 2026 Budget and Program of Services and setting the 2026 real estate tax millage. The body will also review several land development plans and police department staffing and equipment contracts.

• Ordinance 1601 to set 2026 real estate tax millage at 2.55 mills
• Unbudgeted transfer of $4,000,000 from General Fund to Capital Reserve ($3M) and Mobile Equipment ($1M) funds
• Settlement agreement with Rise Up Towers, LLC for a facility at 110 West Franklin Street
• Four-year agreement with Clearview AI totaling $35,685.00
• Zoning amendment to permit Multifamily (Apartment) Dwellings in Neighborhood Commercial District-2

The council voted to accept the posted agenda with a unanimous motion. A second unanimous motion closed the public comment period for the remainder of the meeting. No other substantive actions were decided during this session.

• Accepted agenda as posted (unanimous)
• Closed public comment section (unanimous)

Committee Meetings

The Highway Committee will consider the 2026 Budget and Program of Services and the 2026 Street Improvements Program. Members will also discuss a draft ordinance for CBD parking and a final presentation on a comprehensive traffic study.

• 2026 Budget and Program of Services
• 2026 Street Improvements Program
• Mural Painting Agreement for CBD Traffic Signal Control Cabinets
• Resolution 2025-XX to temporarily modify paid parking operational times
• Draft ordinance for CBD Parking

The committee approved the posted agenda with a unanimous vote. It will recommend the 2026 budget, property‑owner notifications, a mural agreement, and a temporary paid‑parking resolution to the Borough Council. The committee also cancelled its December meeting unless an urgent matter arises.

• Approved meeting agenda as posted (unanimous)
• Cancelled December meeting unless an urgent matter presents itself

Committee Meetings

The Ephrata Budget and Finance Committee will vote on the 2026 proposed budget, real estate tax rate, and various fee schedules. The body will also authorize transfers to capital funds and approve appointments to borough boards.

• Resolution 2025-35: Adoption of 2026 Budget
• Ordinance 1601: Fixing the Real Estate Tax Rate for 2026
• Resolution 2025-36: Police Pension Contribution
• Resolution 2025-37: 2026 Schedule of Fees
• Resolution 2025-38: 2026 Refuse and Recycling Fees

The Budget and Finance Committee approved the posted agenda unanimously. It recommended that Borough Council adopt several resolutions, including the 2026 budget, tax rate ordinance, police pension contribution, fee schedule updates, and a $1 M transfer to the Mobile Equipment Fund plus $3 M to the Capital Reserve Fund. The committee also directed that the December 23 meeting be cancelled unless absolutely necessary.

• Approved meeting agenda as posted (unanimous)
• Recommended Borough Council adopt Resolution 2025-34 appointing board members
• Recommended Borough Council adopt Resolution 2025-35 adopting the 2026 budget
• Recommended Borough Council enact Ordinance 1601 fixing the tax rate at 2.55 mills for 2026
• Recommended Borough Council adopt Resolution 2025-36 setting police pension contribution at 5% of gross pay
• Recommended Borough Council adopt Resolution 2025-37 updating the 2026 fee and charge schedule
• Recommended Borough Council adopt Resolution 2025-38 revising refuse and recycling fees
• Recommended transferring $1,000,000 to the Mobile Equipment Fund and $3,000,000 to the Capital Reserve Fund

Committee Meetings

The Community Services Committee will approve its agenda and vote on the 2026 budget and program of services. It will also discuss the pickleball courts study results and plans for the December meeting.

• Approval of Committee Agenda (decision)
• 2026 Budget and Program of Services (decision)
• Pickleball Courts Study Summary and Questionnaire Results (discussion)
• December Committee Meeting planning (discussion)

The Community Services Committee approved the meeting agenda unanimously. It reviewed the proposed 2026 Budget and decided to recommend that the Budget and Finance Committee accept the committee's budget. The committee also cancelled its December meeting unless an urgent matter arises.

• Approved meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Will recommend 2026 budget to Budget and Finance Committee (no vote recorded)
• Cancelled December meeting unless urgent matter (no vote recorded)

Committee Meetings

The Development Activities Committee will review and act on several items, including the 2026 Budget and Program of Services, a Public Art Walk proposal, a temporary banner request, a stormwater management plan for 100 East Pine Street, and a zoning ordinance amendment for multi‑family dwellings in the NCD‑2 zone. The meeting will also discuss recent Zoning Hearing Board decisions and upcoming applications for a microbrewery, apartments, and demolition control. All items are listed on the agenda for the November 24, 2025 meeting.

• 2026 Budget and Program of Services
• Public Art Walk Proposal – Mainspring of Ephrata
• Temporary Banner Placement Request – Pilgrims Mennonite Church
• 100 East Pine Street Stormwater Management Plan
• Zoning Ordinance Text Amendment – Multi-Family Dwellings in NCD-2 Zone

The Development Activities Committee approved the meeting agenda unanimously. It reviewed the 2026 budget, a public art walk proposal, a banner request, stormwater plans, and several zoning and land‑development items, and will recommend each to Borough Council. The committee also cancelled its December meeting unless an urgent matter arises.

• Approved meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Recommend 2026 Budget and Program of Services to Budget and Finance Committee
• Recommend adoption of Resolution No. 2025-39 for public art walk
• Recommend approval of Pilgrims Mennonite Church banner request
• Recommend conditional approval of 100 East Pine Street stormwater plan
• Recommend waivers and conditional approval of Ephrata National Bank lot consolidation plan
• Recommend enactment of zoning amendment for multifamily housing in Neighborhood Commercial District‑2
• Cancelled December meeting unless urgent matter arises

Regular Meeting

The Zoning Hearing Board will consider three applications for variances or special exceptions. The board will also address a settlement regarding a previously denied communications tower appeal.

• Variance for sign size at Ephrata Recreation Center (130 S. Academy Dr.)
• Special Exception for a short-term rental at 743 N. State St.
• Special Exception for demolishing structures built before 1940 at 27 E. Main St.
• Settlement of appeal for a communications tower and equipment compound at 110 W. Franklin St.

The board unanimously approved the October 15, 2025 Zoning Hearing Board minutes. It approved a variance allowing the Ephrata Recreation Center to install a 26‑square‑foot digital sign, including a 10‑second message interval, with standard conditions. The board also unanimously approved a special exception for a short‑term rental at 743 N. State St. under section 319‑27(15). The Rise Up Towers appeal was deferred to the December meeting at the request of the borough and applicant.

• Approved October 15, 2025 Zoning Hearing Board minutes (unanimous)
• Approved variance for 26 sq ft Ephrata Rec Center sign (unanimous)
• Approved sign variance with 10‑second message interval, 26 sq ft (unanimous)
• Approved special exception for short‑term rental at 743 N. State St. (unanimous)
• Deferred Rise Up Towers appeal to December meeting

Regular Meeting

The Ephrata Planning Commission will meet to take action on a land development plan and a zoning text amendment. No discussion items are listed for this meeting.

• Ephrata National Bank Lot Consolidation and Land Development Plan
• Proposed Zoning text amendment

The commission approved its agenda and the minutes from the October 21 meeting by unanimous vote. It accepted the Ephrata National Bank lot consolidation and development plan, conditional on meeting HRG and Lancaster Planning Commission requirements and on a special exception from the Zoning Hearing Board, passing by a 3‑1 majority. The commission also unanimously approved a zoning text amendment allowing medical‑marijuana dispensaries, smoke shops, tobacco stores, and short‑term rentals in specified districts.

• Agenda approved (unanimous vote)
• October 21 minutes approved (unanimous vote)
• Accepted Ephrata National Bank lot plan pending HRG, Lancaster Planning Commission, and Zoning Hearing Board approval (3-1 majority)
• Approved zoning text amendment for medical‑marijuana dispensaries, smoke shops, tobacco stores, and short‑term rentals (unanimous vote)
• Meeting adjourned (unanimous vote)

Regular Meeting

The Shade Tree Commission will outline 2026 goals, review the budget, and plan planting for Pour Man’s Brewing. The group will also update the Tree City USA branding and track a borough-wide tree inventory.

• Review 2026 budget and planning goals
• Plan planting for Pour Man’s Brewing
• Update Tree City USA gateway sign status
• Review Tree Tender Training progress
• Update Central Business District tree mapping

The commission noted that the Tree City USA renewal application is underway and will continue through the end of the year. The draft of the 2026 Shade Tree brochure was reviewed, with additional assets to be sent to Richard for final layout. Pending items include fixing Main Street pavers, a budget request for Pour Man’s Brewing, a Tree Bank sign to be funded next year, and replacement of the maple tree at the Mainspring parking lot pending stump removal. No formal approvals, denials, or votes were recorded.

Committee Meetings

The Municipal Enterprises Committee will meet to address action and discussion items. The primary focus is the 2026 Budget and Program of Services.

• 2026 Budget and Program of Services
• Duplicate Utility Billing Statements

The committee unanimously approved the meeting agenda as posted. It decided to recommend the proposed 2026 budget to the Budget and Finance Committee. The committee asked staff to investigate whether landlords can receive duplicate utility billing statements electronically without extra cost to customers.

• Approved meeting agenda as posted (unanimous)
• Will recommend 2026 budget to Budget and Finance Committee
• Requested staff investigate electronic duplicate utility statements for landlords, no extra cost

Committee Meetings

The Personnel Committee will meet to consider salary increases for the Borough Manager and Chief of Police for 2026. The committee will also review the Salaried Employee Handbook and discuss personnel updates.

• 2026 salary increase for Borough Manager
• 2026 salary increase for Chief of Police
• Salaried Employee Handbook

The Personnel Committee unanimously approved the meeting agenda. It recommended a 4% salary increase for the Borough Manager in 2026 and supported the Mayor's proposal for a $4,000 plus 3.8% increase for the Chief of Police. The committee will present the updated Salaried Employee Handbook for approval at the December 1 combined Work/Voting Session. It noted the hiring of Trevor Greth as Director of Finance and the resignation of Mario Asencio.

• Approved meeting agenda unanimously
• Recommended 4% salary increase for Borough Manager (2026)
• Supported Mayor Mowen's recommendation for Chief of Police salary increase
• Will present updated Salaried Employee Handbook for approval at Dec 1 session
• Recorded hiring of Trevor Greth as Director of Finance effective Dec 2 2025
• Recorded resignation of Mario Asencio effective Jan 16 2026
• Recommended December meeting be held only if a pressing issue arises

Committee Meetings

The committee will decide on several personnel actions, including appointing a civil service position, offering probationary employment, and adding a temporary police officer slot. It will also consider the 2026 budget and program of services, a police accreditation consultation agreement, and a Clearview AI pricing agreement. In discussion, the committee will review the EMA report, fire company reports, police report, micromobility issues, and plans for the December meeting. The agenda also includes a fire tax discussion as old business.

• Civil Service Position Appointment
• Conditional Offer of Probationary Employment
• Temporary/One-Time Addition of Police Officer Slot
• 2026 Budget and Program of Services
• Clearview AI Pricing Agreement

The committee voted to approve the agenda as posted, with a unanimous motion. No other motions were voted on; the remaining items were recommendations to be forwarded to other bodies.

• Approved meeting agenda as posted (unanimous)

Voting Session

The Ephrata Area Joint Authority will review financial reports and vote on several easement agreements. The body is also considering items related to Wildflower Commons, STAYAPT Suites Hotel, and a new auto flusher.

• Wildflower Commons Improvement Agreement and Easement Agreement
• EASD Agreement of Perpetual Water Line Easement
• 515 North Reading Road, LLC Deed of Easement and Dedication of Water Facilities
• 202 Morning Drive Acknowledgement of Easement Agreement
• Purchase of new Joy Auto Flusher

The Ephrata Area Joint Authority Board adopted the posted agenda, approved the September 11 minutes, and ratified the financial reports and bill payments, all by unanimous roll‑call votes. The Board also unanimously approved the execution of multiple water‑related easement and dedication agreements, including conditional allocations for the STAYAPT Suites Hotel. All actions were recorded as unanimous decisions.

• Adopted agenda as posted (unanimous)
• Approved September 11, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved financial reports (unanimous)
• Ratified payment of bills (unanimous)
• Ratified execution of Wildflower Commons Improvement Agreement (unanimous)
• Conditionally approved Wildflower Commons Easement Agreement with GAF Realty (unanimous)
• Approved Perpetual Water Line Easement Agreement with EASD (unanimous)
• Conditionally approved 26 EDUs water allocation for STAYAPT Suites Hotel (unanimous)

Voting Session

Ephrata Borough Council will vote on several resolutions committing to HVAC, fire protection, and radio upgrades for local emergency services and the recreation center. The body is also reviewing a contract price increase for a circuits upgrade project and specific event requests. Various committee and department reports from October and the 3rd Quarter of 2025 are presented for approval.

• Change Order No. 0004 for Agostino Utilities, LLC increasing the Circuits #2 and #6 Upgrade Project price by $1,000.00 to a total of $430,150.76
• Resolution No. 2025-29 for Ephrata Rec Center HVAC and Fire Protection Upgrade Project
• Resolutions No. 2025-30, 2025-31, and 2025-32 for ambulance and fire company radio and station upgrades
• Hold Harmless Agreement for the property owner of 10 Parkview Heights Road
• Conditional approval for alcohol service at the Ephrata Rec Center event on November 15, 2025

The council voted to accept the agenda that had been posted on the borough website, and the motion carried unanimously. They also unanimously approved the minutes from the October 6 and October 13 meetings. A motion to close the public‑comment period was carried unanimously.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved October 6 & October 13 minutes (unanimous)
• Closed public comment section (unanimous)

Regular Meeting

The Ephrata Borough Authority will review progress on the WWTF No. 1 Biosolids Project and approve payments totaling $123,981.06. The meeting also includes a request for sanitary sewer capacity at 110 E. Pine Street and a discussion on the 2026 budget.

• WWTF No. 1 Biosolids Project update
• Approval of 2022 Construction Fund Requisition No. 31 ($61,991.03)
• 110 E. Pine Street sanitary sewer capacity request
• 300 W. Chestnut Street LP stormwater facility dedication
• Discussion on 2026 Budget

The board adopted the posted agenda and approved the October 13 minutes, financial reports, and payment of bills, all unanimously. It approved payment of invoices for the WWTF No. 1 Biosolids Project and other expenses. The board granted one HVU (237.6 gpd) of sanitary sewer capacity for a proposed single-family dwelling at 110 E. Pine Street, also unanimously. A conditional approval was given for the dedication of stormwater facilities at 300 W. Chestnut Street pending solicitor review.

• Adopted agenda as posted – motion carried unanimously
• Approved October 13, 2025 minutes – motion carried unanimously
• Approved financial reports – motion carried unanimously
• Ratified payment of bills – motion carried unanimously
• Approved payment of WWTF No. 1 Biosolids Project invoices totaling $61,991.03, $35,894.63, $3,464.80, $18,308.00, $4,323.60 – motion carried unanimously
• Approved one HVU (237.6 gpd) sanitary sewer capacity for 110 E. Pine Street residential unit – motion carried unanimously
• Conditional approval for dedication of stormwater facilities at 300 W. Chestnut Street pending solicitor review – motion carried unanimously

Work Session

The Ephrata Borough Council work session will review several committee recommendations, including a personnel appointment and multiple infrastructure grant commitments. Council members will vote to authorize the appointment of Yvonne Allard as Assistant Borough Manager and direct the council president to execute her employment agreement. The meeting also discusses a stormwater fees agreement for 10 Parkview Heights Road, a fundraiser request for the Ephrata Recreation Center, and several fire and ambulance equipment upgrade projects that would involve grant applications.

• Authorize appointment of Yvonne Allard as Assistant Borough Manager (Personnel Committee)
• Stormwater Fees Agreement for 10 Parkview Heights Road (Budget and Finance Committee)
• Resolution 2025-29: Commitment to Ephrata Recreation Center HVAC and fire protection upgrade
• Resolution 2025-30: Commitment to Ephrata Ambulance radio and fleet upgrade, grant request
• Resolution 2025-33: Commitment to Pioneer Fire Company Station traffic unit project, grant request

The council voted to accept the posted agenda without changes, passing the motion unanimously. It also approved the appointment of Yvonne Allard as Assistant Borough Manager and authorized the Council President to sign her employment agreement, also by unanimous roll‑call vote. No other substantive actions were taken during the work session.

• Agenda acceptance motion carried unanimously
• Appointment of Yvonne Allard as Assistant Borough Manager approved unanimously

Committee Meetings

The Budget and Finance Committee will meet to discuss the 2026 budget and review the 3rd quarter 2025 budget. The committee will also address a stormwater fees agreement for 10 Parkview Heights Rd.

• Stormwater Fees Agreement for 10 Parkview Heights Rd.
• 2026 Budget review and discussion
• 3rd Quarter 2025 Budget Review
• Delinquent Utility Accounts
• Borough Solicitor Invoices

The Budget and Finance Committee approved the agenda as posted, with a unanimous vote. No action items were taken during the meeting. The committee heard presentations on 2026 funding requests and received updates on delinquent accounts and staff invoices, but no further action was required.

• Approved meeting agenda (unanimous)

Committee Meetings

The Community Services Committee will review the third quarter 2025 budget and discuss a pickleball feasibility study. No formal action items are scheduled for this meeting.

• Budget Review - 3rd Quarter 2025
• Pickleball Feasibility Study

The committee accepted the posted agenda without changes, with a unanimous vote. It recommended that the borough conditionally approve a church service request for Whistle Stop Plaza on Dec. 21, 2025, pending insurance. It also recommended authorizing an agreement with the Ephrata Baseball Association for Grater Park field use and maintenance. The committee discussed and supported moving forward with a luminary display for the nation’s 250th anniversary.

• Approved meeting agenda (unanimous)

Committee Meetings

The Development Activities Committee will review two action items concerning the Ephrata Recreation Center: a request for a Clare Point Derby fundraiser and a resolution to commit grant funds for HVAC and fire‑protection upgrades. It will also discuss follow‑up on a flag installation at The Point, upcoming zoning hearing board decisions for October and November, and a review of the borough’s third‑quarter 2025 budget. The meeting is scheduled for 6:30 PM at Borough Hall, 124 S. State Street.

• Ephrata Rec Center – Clare Point Derby fundraiser request
• Resolution – Ephrata Rec Center HVAC and fire protection grant commitment
• Flag at “The Point” – South State Street at South Reading Road (SR 0272) follow‑up
• Zoning Hearing Board – October decisions (2 applications)
• Zoning Hearing Board – November applications (3)

The committee voted to accept the agenda as posted, with the motion carried unanimously. No other substantive actions or approvals were taken at this meeting.

• Approved meeting agenda (unanimous)

Committee Meetings

The Highway Committee will meet to discuss a proposed PennDOT crosswalk installation, an update on restricted parking at 46-48 East Main Street, and CBD parking. The meeting will also include a review of the 3rd Quarter 2025 budget.

• Proposed PennDOT Crosswalk Installation
• Restricted Parking Area – 46-48 East Main Street (Update)
• CBD Parking
• Budget Review - 3rd Quarter 2025

The committee approved the meeting agenda with a unanimous vote. It will recommend that the Borough Council conditionally approve the VFW parade street closure, the Toys for Tots bike‑load event closure, and the PennDOT traffic‑signal detector replacements. The committee also discussed parking changes and asked staff to draft a new parking ordinance for the next meeting.

• Approved meeting agenda as posted (unanimous)
• Will recommend conditional approval of VFW parade street closure (Oct. 29‑30)
• Will recommend conditional approval of Toys for Tots bike‑load event street closure (Dec. 15)
• Will recommend approval of traffic‑signal detector replacements for 2026‑2027
• Directed staff to draft a parking ordinance for review at the Oct. 27 meeting

Regular Meeting

The commission will consider routine approvals of the meeting agenda and the minutes from the August 19, 2025 meeting. It will also discuss a proposed amendment to the borough's zoning text. No other items are on the agenda.

• Approval of agenda
• Approval of August 19, 2025 meeting minutes
• Review of proposed zoning text amendment

The commission approved the meeting agenda and the minutes from the August 19, 2025 meeting, each by unanimous vote. It then recommended approval of a text amendment to Neighborhood Commercial District 2 to allow apartments and selected uses, contingent on a thorough analysis of the zoning ordinance. All motions passed unanimously.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved August 19, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Recommended approval of NCD-2 text amendment, pending thorough analysis (unanimous)

Civil Service Commission Meeting

The Civil Service Commission will meet to certify the eligibility list for police officer candidates. The meeting also includes the approval of the July 7, 2025, meeting minutes.

• Certification of Eligibility List for Police Officer Candidates

Committee Meetings

The Municipal Enterprises Committee will meet to consider a change order for circuit rebuilds. The committee will also conduct a review of the 2025 third quarter budget.

• Change Order #4 for Circuit Rebuild #2 and #6
• Third Quarter 2025 Budget Review

The Municipal Enterprises Committee met on September 15, 2025 and approved Change Order #1, Change Order #2, and Change Order #3 for the Circuit Rebuild project. Change Order #1 changes the tangent arm to a double dead‑end; Change Order #2 replaces the lower set of crossarms at West Pine Street and Duke Street; Change Order #3 adds two poles and an anchor on West Pine Street due to the WERT Walking Trail. The meeting agenda was accepted unanimously. Councilman Buohl asked staff to investigate low water pressure on Spring Garden Street/East Walnut Street and dirty water at the Ephrata Cloister.

• Approved Change Order #1 for Circuit Rebuild (tangent arm to double dead‑end)
• Approved Change Order #2 for Circuit Rebuild (replace lower crossarms at West Pine & Duke)
• Approved Change Order #3 for Circuit Rebuild (install two poles and anchor on West Pine)
• Approved meeting agenda unanimously

Committee Meetings

The Personnel Committee will discuss the borough's employee handbook and provide updates on personnel matters. No action items are scheduled for approval at this meeting. The next meeting is set for November 17, 2025 at 4:30 PM.

• Employee handbook – discussion
• Personnel updates – discussion

The committee accepted the posted agenda without changes. No other actions were taken; the employee handbook and staffing advertisements were discussed but not decided.

• Approved meeting agenda (unanimous)

Committee Meetings

The Public Safety Committee will review and vote on grant commitments for the Ephrata ambulance radio and fleet, Lincoln Fire Company radio upgrade, Ephrata Recreation Center HVAC and fire protection, and Lincoln Fire Company station renovation. The meeting will also include reports on the EMA, fire companies, and the third‑quarter public safety budget, as well as a discussion on the fire tax. An update from the Friends of Ephrata Police Foundation will be presented.

• Ephrata Ambulance Radio and Fleet Upgrade Grant Commitment
• Lincoln Fire Company Radio Upgrade Grant Commitment
• Ephrata Rec Center HVAC and Fire Protection Grant Commitment
• Lincoln Fire Company Station Renovation Grant Commitment
• Fire Tax Discussion

The committee unanimously approved the amended meeting agenda. It decided to forward the School Resource Officer agreement to the Ephrata Area School District and participating municipalities. The committee also authorized further exploration of a traffic‑control company proposal for crossing‑guard services.

• Approved amended agenda (unanimous)
• Agreed to forward SRO Agreement to school district and municipalities
• Authorized further exploration of traffic‑control company crossing‑guard proposal

Regular Meeting

The Zoning Hearing Board will review two Special Exception applications for short-term rentals. One request is for 119 E. Main St. in the Central Business District, and the other is for 164 Park Ave. in the Residential Medium Density Zoning District. The meeting will also include routine approval of the agenda and the August 20, 2025 meeting minutes.

• Special Exception for short-term rental at 119 E. Main St., Central Business District
• Special Exception for short-term rental at 164 Park Ave., Residential Medium Density Zoning District
• Approval of agenda
• Approval of August 20, 2025 meeting minutes

The board approved the June 18, 2025 Zoning Hearing Board minutes. It then granted a Special Exception under §319‑27(15) for short‑term rental use at 119 E. Main St, and a separate Special Exception for 164 Park Ave. Both approvals were unanimous.

• Approved June 18, 2025 Zoning Hearing Board minutes (unanimous)
• Approved Special Exception for short‑term rental at 119 East Main Street (unanimous)
• Approved Special Exception for short‑term rental at 164 Park Avenue (unanimous)

Regular Meeting

The Ephrata Borough Authority is meeting to approve financial reports and payments for ongoing infrastructure projects. The body will review progress on the WWTF No. 1 Biosolids Project and the Landis Road Sanitary Sewer Replacement Project.

• WWTF No. 1 Biosolids Project: Fulton Bank Requisition No. 30 for $40,583.20
• Landis Road Sanitary Sewer Replacement Project: Fulton Bank Requisition No. 6 for $37,119.11
• Landis Road Sanitary Sewer Replacement Project: Change Order No. 3 regarding contract price
• Wildflower Commons: Sanitary Sewer Plan Review #4 and Improvement Agreement
• Payments to vendors including Pure Blue USA LLC, Central Penn Propane, Pollu-Tech, Inc., and Becker Engineering

The Authority unanimously approved the posted agenda and the September 8 minutes, adopted the financial reports, and ratified all listed bill payments. It approved payments for the WWTF biosolids project and the Landis Road sanitary sewer replacement, accepted a $301.72 reduction to the Landis Road contract, gave conditional approval to the Wildflower Commons sewer plan, and approved an improvement agreement to install sanitary sewer services at Wildflower Commons.

• Approved meeting agenda as posted (unanimous)
• Approved September 8, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved financial reports (unanimous)
• Ratified payment of bills (unanimous)
• Approved WWTF No. 1 biosolids project invoices (unanimous)
• Approved Landis Road sanitary sewer replacement payments (unanimous)
• Approved change order decreasing contract price to $441,698.28 (unanimous)
• Approved improvement agreement for sanitary sewer facilities at Wildflower Commons (unanimous)

Voting Session

The Borough Council will approve minutes from September meetings and several committee reports. It will adopt a Memorandum of Understanding with the Lancaster County Planning Department for faster plan reviews, authorize a School Resource Officer agreement, and consider conditional street closures, traffic signal upgrades, and a grievance settlement with the IBEW. The council will also approve a series of checks and ACH transactions dated October 1, 2025.

• Approve MOU with Lancaster County Planning Department for expedited plan reviews
• Authorize execution of School Resource Officer (SRO) agreement for Ephrata Area School District
• Conditionally approve street closures for Jack Frost parade (South State St) and Toys for Tots event (East Main St)
• Approve traffic signal vehicle detection modifications at three signalized intersections
• Approve grievance settlement agreement with the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW)

The council approved the posted agenda and the September meeting minutes, both by unanimous vote. A motion to close the public comment period for the remainder of the agenda was also carried unanimously. The council accepted the reports from the Budget and Finance, Development Activities, Public Safety, Highway, Municipal Enterprises, and Community Services committees.

• Approved agenda as posted (unanimous)
• Approved September 2 and September 8 minutes (unanimous)
• Closed public comment section for the rest of the agenda (unanimous)
• Accepted committee reports (unanimous)

Work Session

The Ephrata Borough Council will consider three change orders for the Circuits #2 and #6 Upgrade Project, each raising the contract price. The council will also authorize an agreement with the Ephrata Baseball Association for use and maintenance of the baseball field at Grater Park and adopt Resolution No. 28 to repeal and replace the borough’s Right-to-Know policy. Additional items such as a zoning amendment proposal, a school resource officer agreement, and event requests will be discussed but not acted upon.

• Change Order #0001 for Circuits #2 and #6 Upgrade, increase $3,150.00, total $402,590.76 (Agostino Utilities, LLC)
• Change Order #0002 for Circuits #2 and #6 Upgrade, increase $3,150.00, total $406,280.76 (Agostino Utilities, LLC)
• Change Order #0003 for Circuits #2 and #6 Upgrade, increase $22,870.00, total $429,150.76 (Agostino Utilities, LLC)
• Authorization of agreement with Ephrata Baseball Association, Inc. for use and maintenance of the baseball field at Grater Park
• Adoption of Resolution No. 28 repealing and replacing the borough’s Right-to-Know policy

The borough council adopted Resolution No. 28, repealing and replacing the Right‑to‑Know policy. It approved three change orders that increased the contract for the Circuits #2 and #6 upgrade project, raising the total to $429,150.76. The council also authorized an agreement with Ephrata Baseball Association, Inc. for use and maintenance of the baseball field at Grater Park. No public comments were received.

• Adopt Resolution No. 28 repealing and replacing the borough’s Right‑to‑Know policy (unanimous)
• Approve Change Order 0001 for Circuits #2 and #6, increasing contract by $3,150.00 to $402,590.76 (unanimous)
• Approve Change Order 0002 for Circuits #2 and #6, increasing contract by $3,690.00 to $406,280.76 (unanimous)
• Approve Change Order 0003 for Circuits #2 and #6, increasing contract by $22,870.00 to $429,150.76 (unanimous)
• Authorize agreement with Ephrata Baseball Association, Inc. for use and maintenance of the baseball field at Grater Park (unanimous)

Committee Meetings

The committee will review a request from the Ephrata Church of the Brethren to hold an outdoor service at Whistle Plaza. It will discuss plans to celebrate the United States' 250th anniversary with luminaries along the WERT. It will also consider three proposals for renovating the local baseball field.

• Request by Ephrata Church of the Brethren to use Whistle Plaza for an outdoor service
• Discussion of a 250th anniversary celebration with luminaries along the WERT
• Consideration of three proposals to renovate the baseball field

The Community Services Committee approved the posted agenda unanimously. It recommended that Borough Council conditionally approve the Ephrata Church of the Brethren’s request to use Whistle Stop Plaza on Dec. 21, 2025, pending a certificate of insurance. It also recommended that Council authorize a usage and maintenance agreement with the Ephrata Baseball Association for the Grater Park baseball field. The committee discussed luminaries for the WERT celebration and asked Mainspring for finalized details, but no decision was made.

• Approved meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Recommended conditional approval of Whistle Stop Plaza use (pending insurance)
• Recommended authorizing agreement with Ephrata Baseball Association for Grater Park field

Committee Meetings

The Highway Committee will review three action items: a request from Ephrata VFW Post 3376 for the Jack Frost Parade and Trunk or Treat event, a street closure request from the Ephrata Toys for Tots organization, and applications to PennDOT for traffic signal modifications. The committee will also discuss a proposed restricted parking area at 46-48 East Main Street and parking in the central business district.

• Jack Frost Parade and Trunk or Treat event request – Ephrata VFW Post 3376
• Street closure request – Ephrata Toys for Tots Organization
• PennDOT applications for traffic signal modifications
• Restricted parking area proposal – 46-48 East Main Street
• CBD parking discussion

The Highway Committee approved the posted agenda with a unanimous vote. The committee will recommend that Borough Council conditionally approve a VFW parade street closure and a Toys for Tots bike‑load event, pending insurance and permits. It will also recommend approval of Penn DOT traffic‑signal detector replacements for 2026‑2027. The committee discussed parking changes and directed staff to draft a parking ordinance for the October 27 meeting.

• Agenda approved unanimously

Committee Meetings

The Budget and Finance Committee will meet to discuss municipal funding requests and delinquent utility accounts. The body will also review Borough Solicitor invoices and the checks and ACH register.

• Municipal funding requests
• Delinquent utility accounts
• Borough Solicitor invoices
• Checks and ACH register

The committee accepted the posted agenda without changes. The motion to approve the agenda was moved by Ms. Aronson, seconded by Mr. Armstrong, and carried unanimously. No other actions or decisions were taken during the meeting.

• Approved meeting agenda as posted (unanimous)

Committee Meetings

The Development Activities Committee will consider a memorandum of understanding with the Lancaster County Planning Department and vote on proposed amendments to the borough’s zoning ordinance concerning short‑term rentals and vape shops. It will also discuss a flag installation at The Point on South State Street at South Reading Road and review upcoming Zoning Hearing Board decisions and applications.

• Memorandum of Understanding with Lancaster County Planning Department
• Proposed amendment to zoning ordinance for short‑term rentals
• Proposed amendment to zoning ordinance for vape shops
• Flag installation at The Point, South State Street at South Reading Road
• Zoning Hearing Board September decisions (0) and October applications (2)

The Development Activities Committee approved the meeting agenda unanimously. It recommended that the Borough Council authorize the Council President to sign a Memorandum of Understanding with the Lancaster County Planning Department. The committee decided no further action is needed on two short‑term rental applications and will not send the solicitor to the zoning hearing.

• Approved meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Recommended Council authorize President to execute MOU with Lancaster County Planning Department
• Decided no further action on short‑term rental applications for 119 East Main St. and 164 Park Ave; solicitor not sent
• Will ask solicitor to make minor revisions to draft zoning ordinance and resubmit
• Staff will contact Greg Morrongiello and Tretlin to discuss proposed flagpole at The Point

Regular Meeting

The Shade Tree Commission will receive status updates on new Tree City USA stickers, the Shade Tree brochure, and the ongoing tree inventory. Members will review planting plans for the Pour Man’s Brewing 2026 Main Street project and discuss wording for the Tree Bank park sign. Updates on Tree Tender training and the Maple tree at Mainspring parking lot will be provided. The commission will also continue discussion of the 2026 budget, noting the October deadline.

• Status update on gateway signs and Tree City USA stickers
• Review of Tree Bank park sign wording for Kurt Brown
• Planning for Pour Man’s Brewing 2026 Main Street planting
• Updates on Tree Tender training and volunteer status
• Continue discussion of the 2026 budget (due by October meeting)

The commission distributed copies of the current Ephrata Gateway Signage Program and noted that sign size criteria need verification. Review of the 2026 Shade Tree brochure, tree cell plans for Main Street, and the Tree Bank sign were all deferred, with budget estimates to be included in a future council request. The Maple tree replacement at Mainspring parking lot is awaiting confirmation that the stump has been removed. The budget proposal will be discussed by email and at the October meeting before submission to the council.

Committee Meetings

The Municipal Enterprises Committee will consider approving three change orders for the Circuit Rebuild #2 and #6 projects. The meeting is scheduled for September 15, 2025, at 5:30 PM at Borough Hall.

• Approve Change Order #1 for Circuit Rebuild #2 and #6
• Approve Change Order #2 for Circuit Rebuild #2 and #6
• Approve Change Order #3 for Circuit Rebuild #2 and #6

The Municipal Enterprises Committee approved the meeting agenda unanimously. It then approved Change Order #1, Change Order #2, and Change Order #3 for the Circuit Rebuild project. Councilman Buohl asked staff to investigate low water pressure on Spring Garden Street and East Walnut Street and dirty water at the Ephrata Cloister.

• Approved meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Approved Change Order #1 for Circuit Rebuild – change tangent arm to a double dead‑end
• Approved Change Order #2 for Circuit Rebuild – replace lower crossarms at West Pine St and Duke St
• Approved Change Order #3 for Circuit Rebuild – install two poles and an anchor on West Pine St due to WERT Walking Trail interference

Committee Meetings

The Personnel Committee will meet on September 15, 2025 at 4:30 PM in Borough Hall, 124 S. State Street, Ephrata. The committee will discuss the employee handbook and provide personnel updates. No formal actions are scheduled for this meeting.

• Employee handbook – discussion item
• Personnel updates – discussion item

The Personnel Committee met on September 15, 2025 at Borough Hall. A motion to accept the posted agenda was made, seconded, and carried unanimously. No other actions were taken; the committee discussed the upcoming employee handbook revision and advertised staffing positions.

• Approved meeting agenda (unanimous)

Committee Meetings

The Public Safety Committee will meet to take action on a School Resource Officer (SRO) agreement. Members will also discuss reports from the EMA, fire companies, and police, as well as a potential agreement with the Foundation for K-9.

• SRO Agreement action item
• Agreement to move forward with Foundation for K-9
• Fire Tax discussion
• Crossing Guard discussion
• Friends of Ephrata Police Foundation update

The committee unanimously approved the meeting agenda as posted. It agreed to forward the School Resource Officer agreement to the Ephrata Area School District and participating municipalities for consideration. The committee also authorized further exploration of a crossing‑guard management proposal that would shift supervision costs to the school. No other formal actions were taken.

• Approved meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Agreed to forward SRO agreement to school district and municipalities
• Authorized further exploration of crossing‑guard management proposal

Voting Session

The Ephrata Area Joint Authority will consider a request from Martin Energy to not extend the water main to the limits of its property. The Authority will also discuss the bulk water customer rate. Routine items include approval of the agenda, minutes, financial reports, and bill payments.

• Martin Energy request to not extend water main to property limits
• Discussion of bulk water customer rate
• Approval of agenda as presented
• Approval of minutes from August 14, 2025
• Approval of financial reports and payment of bills

The board unanimously adopted the posted agenda, approved the August 14 minutes, approved the financial reports, and ratified payment of bills. After discussion, the board agreed to move forward with creating a policy for bulk water rates. No action was taken on the Martin Martin Energy water‑main waiver request because it was withdrawn.

• Adopted agenda as posted (unanimous)
• Approved August 14, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved financial reports (unanimous via roll call)
• Ratified payment of bills (unanimous via roll call)
• Agreed to develop a bulk water rate policy (decision)
• No action on Martin Energy water‑main waiver request (withdrawn)

Voting Session

Ephrata Borough Council will consider subdivision plans for 232 South Reading Road and 355 East Fulton Street. The body is also deciding on a new schedule of fees, a Fire and EMS event charges policy, and interim finance director services.

• Final Subdivision Plan for 232 South Reading Road
• Final Subdivision Plan for 355 East Fulton Street
• Resolution #2025-25 2025 Schedule of Fees
• Resolution #2025-27 grant application for Electric Division Facility Project
• Agreement with Government Finance Solutions for interim Finance Director services

The council voted unanimously to accept the posted agenda, to approve the August 4 and August 11 meeting minutes, and to close the public comment period early. No other substantive actions were taken during this session.

• Approved agenda as posted (unanimous)
• Approved August 4 and August 11 minutes (unanimous)
• Closed public comment section (unanimous)

Regular Meeting

The Ephrata Borough Authority will review and approve financial reports, pay bills, and receive updates on the WWTF No. 1 Biosolids Project and the Landis Road Sanitary Sewer Replacement Project. No new decisions are scheduled; the meeting is primarily procedural with routine approvals.

• WWTF No. 1 Biosolids Project update from GHD, Inc.
• Landis Road Sanitary Sewer Replacement Project payments totaling $191,863.24
• Fulton Bank requisitions for $36,139.40 and $191,863.24
• JKNG, LLC request for sanitary sewer capacity in East Cocalico Township

The Authority unanimously approved the meeting agenda, the August 11 minutes, the financial reports, and ratified payment of bills. It also approved payments for the WWTF No. 1 Biosolids Project and the Landis Road sanitary sewer replacement, and authorized the Certificate of Substantial Completion for the Landis Road project. Finally, the Authority gave conditional approval for JKNG, LLC’s request for a 650 GPD sanitary sewer conveyance.

• Approved meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Approved August 11, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved financial reports (unanimous)
• Ratified payment of bills (unanimous)
• Approved payment of listed WWTF No. 1 Biosolids Project invoices (unanimous)
• Approved $191,863.25 payment for Landis Road sanitary sewer replacement (unanimous)
• Authorized execution of Certificate of Substantial Completion for Landis Road project (unanimous)
• Conditional approval of 650 GPD sewer conveyance request for JKNG, LLC (unanimous)

Work Session

The Borough Council is holding a work session to review recommendations from various committees. Discussions include potential zoning amendments, land development plans, and fee schedules.

• Borough Zoning Ordinance Amendment to add apartment use in NCD2 Zone
• Land Development Plans for 232 South Reading Road and 355 East Fulton Street
• Resolution 2025-25 regarding the Schedule of Fees
• Request to allow fireworks at 217 N. Reading Road for Ephrata High School football games
• Request to waive rental fees for Northern Lancaster County Chamber of Commerce at Grater Park

The council amended the agenda to add two action items and then approved both. It authorized an exemption to allow fireworks at 217 N. Reading Road during the 2025 Ephrata High School football home games. It also granted the Northern Lancaster County Chamber of Commerce use of the Grater Park pavilion and bathroom facilities on September 5, 2025, waiving the rental fee.

• Agenda amended to include fireworks and pavilion waiver items (unanimous)
• Authorized fireworks exemption at 217 N. Reading Road for high school games (unanimous)
• Granted pavilion and bathroom use waiver for Chamber event on Sep 5, 2025 (unanimous)
• Scheduled appointment of Mackenzie Wood as alternate on Zoning Hearing Board for Sep 8 vote
• Motion to adjourn adopted (unanimous)

Committee Meetings

The Ephrata Highway Committee will meet to approve its agenda and discuss two action items: a request from Mainspring of Ephrata to install a bike rack in the central business district (CBD) and a resolution to temporarily modify paid parking operational times. The committee will also receive updates on street improvement projects and review CBD parking issues.

• Mainspring of Ephrata requests bike rack installation in the CBD
• Resolution 2025-XX proposes temporary changes to paid parking operational times
• Street improvement projects update
• CBD parking review

The committee accepted the posted agenda with a unanimous vote. It reviewed a bike‑rack request and a paid‑parking resolution, and will recommend both to Borough Council at the September meeting. No other actions were decided at this session.

• Approved meeting agenda as posted (unanimous)

Committee Meetings

The Budget and Finance Committee will meet to act on pension reports, board appointments, and a schedule of fees. Members will also discuss utility accounts, solicitor invoices, and grant sponsorships.

• Resolution 2025-24 Board and Commissions Appointments
• Resolution 2025-25 Schedule of Fees
• Fire Company Event Charges
• Delinquent Utility Accounts
• Borough Solicitor Invoices

The committee unanimously approved the posted agenda. It appointed Trent Shupp as an alternate to the Zoning Hearing Board. The committee directed staff to draft a new event billing policy for fire and ambulance organizations, allowing four free labor hours and billing only costs over $500. It also authorized a refund of $156.76 to the Pioneer Fire Company for Invoice 12956.

• Agenda approved (unanimous)
• Appointed Trent Shupp as alternate to Zoning Hearing Board (unanimous)
• Directed staff to draft event billing policy (unanimous)
• Authorized refund of $156.76 to Pioneer Fire Company (unanimous)

Committee Meetings

The Community Services Committee will meet to discuss a request from the Northern Lancaster County Chamber of Commerce to use facilities at Grater Park and review the Rail Trail Extension Project. The next meeting is scheduled for September 22, 2025.

• Discussion of Rail Trail Extension Project
• Request for Pavilion and Bathroom use at Grater Park

The committee approved the posted agenda without any changes, with a unanimous vote. It also recommended that the Borough Council waive the rental fee for the pavilion and restroom facilities at Grater Park on September 5, 2025, from 6:30 AM to 9:00 AM. No other actions were decided.

• Approved meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Recommended waiver of pavilion rental fee for Sep 5 event

Committee Meetings

The Development Activities Committee will review and vote on four action items, including a permit fee waiver for a bike park sign and zoning amendments to allow apartments in the NCD2 zone. Two land development plans for properties on South Reading Road and East Fulton Street will also be considered. The committee will discuss follow-ups on a flag installation and recent zoning hearing board decisions.

• Mainspring of Ephrata requests waiver of permit fees for Bike Park Sign
• Amendment to Borough Zoning Ordinance to add apartment use in NCD2 Zone
• 232 South Reading Road Land Development Plan
• 355 East Fulton Street Land Development Plan

The Development Activities Committee approved the meeting agenda unanimously. It recommended that Borough Council waive the $55 sign permit fee for a new sign at the Ephrata Bike Park while the $4.50 construction code fee must be paid. The committee directed staff to forward a zoning amendment request for multifamily use to the Planning Commission and Lancaster County Planning Commission, and it will recommend council approval of two subdivision plans with specified conditions. Additional items discussed included a larger flagpole at The Point and upcoming zoning amendments for short‑term rentals and vape shops.

• Approved meeting agenda as posted (unanimous)
• Recommended waiving $55 sign permit fee for bike park sign; $4.50 code fee required
• Directed staff to submit Mountain Springs Offices LLC zoning amendment request to Planning Commission and Lancaster County Planning Commission
• Will recommend council approve waiver/modification and final plan for 232 South Reading Road, subject to comment resolution
• Will recommend council approve waiver/modification and final plan for 355 East Fulton Street, subject to utility and sewer conditions
• Noted Zoning Hearing Board variances granted for 867 West Main Street; no further action
• Discussed larger flag and flagpole at The Point; staff to arrange further meeting
• Borough Solicitor drafting zoning amendments for short‑term rentals and vape shops for future review

Regular Meeting

The Ephrata Zoning Hearing Board will review a variance request from Vath Properties, LLC to convert an existing building at 867 W. Main St. into eight two-bedroom apartment units. The board will also approve the meeting agenda and minutes from June 18, 2025.

• Variance request for 867 W. Main St. to convert building into 8 two-bedroom apartments
• Relief sought under Ephrata Code sections 319-12, 319-20, and 319-23(D)

The board approved variances under sections 319-12, 319-20, and 319-23(D) of the borough code for the property at 867 W. Main St., allowing an addition and conversion to eight two‑bedroom apartments. The motion passed by a majority vote with Mr. Sullenger opposed. The board also unanimously approved the June 18, 2025 Zoning Hearing Board minutes and closed testimony.

• Approved June 18, 2025 Zoning Hearing Board minutes (unanimous)
• Closed testimony (motion carried)
• Approved variances for 867 W. Main St. under sections 319-12, 319-20, 319-23(D) (majority, 1 opposed)

Regular Meeting

The Planning Commission will meet to review final and subdivision plans for three specific properties. The body will also approve the agenda and minutes from the July 15, 2025, meeting.

• Final Plan review for 232 South Reading Road
• Subdivision plan review for 355 East Fulton Street
• Final Plan review for 1103 W. Main Street

The commission unanimously approved the minutes of the May 20, 2025 meeting after a correction. It also unanimously approved the final plan for 232 South Reading Rd, including a waiver for the stormwater loading ratio and noting the pending Highway Occupancy Permit. For the subdivision at 355 East Fulton Street, the commission waived preliminary plan requirements, treated the submission as a final plan, and approved it subject to HRG comments and an electric service determination. The review of the final plan for 1103 West Main Street was tabled until the next meeting.

• Approved May 20, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved final plan for 232 South Reading Rd with stormwater waiver (unanimous)
• Waived preliminary plan requirements for 355 East Fulton Street, treating it as final plan (unanimous)
• Approved 355 East Fulton Street plan subject to HRG comments and electric department determination (unanimous)
• Tabled review of final plan for 1103 West Main Street (no vote)

Regular Meeting

The Borough of Ephrata Shade Tree Commission is reviewing updates on gateway signs, brochures, and the ongoing tree inventory project. The body is planning 2026 Main Street plantings for Pour Man’s Brewing and initiating 2026 budget discussions.

• 2026 Main Street Planting planning for Pour Man’s Brewing
• 2026 Budget discussion
• Tree Bank and Park Sign wording for quote
• Maple at Mainspring parking lot update
• Status update on gateway signs

The commission did not approve any actions. The application for updated Tree City USA signage, the 2026 shade tree brochure, and the municipal handbook review were all deferred to the next meeting. Research on tree cell costs and a tree replacement at Pour Man’s Brewing were assigned for future study. A suggestion for a Tree Bank sign text and QR code was discussed but not adopted.

Committee Meetings

The Personnel Committee will meet to take action on job descriptions for the Assistant Borough Manager and Director of Finance. The committee will also discuss personnel updates.

• Job description for Assistant Borough Manager
• Job description for Director of Finance
• Personnel updates

The committee voted to accept the posted agenda with a unanimous motion. It reported satisfaction with the Assistant Borough Manager and Director of Finance job descriptions and will forward them to the September voting session. In-person interviews for the Human Resource Manager are scheduled for August 22, and three crossing‑guard positions remain vacant. The committee entered an executive session before adjourning.

• Approved meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Job description language for Assistant Borough Manager approved for advancement
• Job description language for Director of Finance approved for advancement

Committee Meetings

The Public Safety Committee will review reports from the EMA, fire companies, and police. Members will discuss the fire tax and an agreement to move forward with a foundation for K-9s.

• Fire Tax discussion
• Agreement to move forward with Foundation for K-9
• EMA, Fire Company, and Police reports
• Friends of Ephrata Police Foundation update

The committee voted to accept the agenda as posted, with Ms. Aronson moving, Mr. Armstrong seconding, and the motion carrying unanimously. No other actions were taken; the remaining items were discussed or noted for future follow‑up.

• Approved meeting agenda as posted (unanimous vote)

Voting Session

The Ephrata Area Joint Authority will hold a voting session to approve financial reports, pay bills, and act on three revised water and energy plans. No major policy decisions are scheduled, and the meeting includes routine operational updates.

• Martin Energy: Revised Final Plan
• PPL Service Center: Water Plan Review #4 / Agreement
• Foxcraft Cabinets: Water Plan Review #2

The Authority unanimously approved the meeting agenda, June 12 minutes, financial reports, and payment of bills. It granted conditional approval for PPL Electric Utilities' water facility design, pending completion of administrative items, and similarly conditionally approved Foxcraft Cabinets' water design. The board declined to act on Martin Energy's waiver request, stating no action is required until more information is received.

• Agenda approved (unanimous)
• June 12, 2025 minutes approved (unanimous)
• Financial reports approved (unanimous roll call)
• Payment of bills ratified (unanimous roll call)
• Conditional approval of PPL Electric Utilities water facility design (unanimous)
• Conditional approval of Foxcraft Cabinets water facility design (unanimous)
• No action taken on Martin Energy waiver request (board deferred)

Voting Session

The Ephrata Borough Council will vote on appointing a manager to a nonprofit board, awarding a $305,920 HVAC contract, and enacting an ordinance for economic development incentives. The session also includes renewing a winter maintenance agreement and establishing a police intergovernmental agreement.

• Award contract for Ephrata Public Library HVAC system to Frey Lutz Corporation for $305,920.00
• Enact Ordinance No. 1599 for police intergovernmental cooperation with West Cocalico Township
• Enact Ordinance No. 1600 adding new economic development incentives for reduced electric rates
• Award bid for Circuit Rebuild to Agostino Utilities in the amount of $530,917.20
• Renew Municipal Winter Maintenance Services Agreement with PennDOT for the 25-26 season

The borough council unanimously appointed Greg Zimmerman as Vice President. It also adopted Resolution #2025‑22, appointing a registered elector to fill a council vacancy. The council administered the oath of office to newly appointed council member Alan Armstrong.

• Appointed Greg Zimmerman as Vice President of Council (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution #2025‑22 to appoint a registered elector to a council vacancy (unanimous)
• Administered oath of office to Alan Armstrong, appointed council member from Fourth Ward (unanimous)
• Approved the meeting agenda as posted (unanimous)
• Approved July meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Closed public comment period until end of agenda (unanimous)

Regular Meeting

The Ephrata Borough Authority will approve payments for the WWTF No. 1 Biosolids Project and the Landis Road Sanitary Sewer Replacement Project, including a requisition for $126,700.17. The meeting will also include a job conference progress report on the biosolids project.

• WWTF No. 1 Biosolids Project: Job conference progress report
• WWTF No. 1 Biosolids Project: Approval of Assignment of BFT Agreement to EBA
• Landis Road Sanitary Sewer Replacement Project: Fulton Bank Requisition No. 4 ($126,700.17)
• Landis Road Sanitary Sewer Replacement Project: J. Phillips Excavating Application for Payment No. 4 ($113,197.37)
• Landis Road Sanitary Sewer Replacement Project: Becker Engineering Invoice No. 28539 ($13,502.80)

The board adopted the posted agenda and approved the July 14 minutes. It ratified several financial payments and gave conditional approvals for sewer‑related projects, while denying a request to split a sewer lateral. All motions passed unanimously.

• Adopted agenda as posted (unanimous)
• Approved July 14, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved Assignment of BFT Agreement to EBA (unanimous)
• Conditionally approved Lobar, Inc. payment $1,000 pending assignment (unanimous roll call)
• Approved $126,700.17 Landis Road sanitary sewer replacement payment (unanimous roll call)
• Conditionally approved Foxcraft Cabinets sanitary sewer plan review #3 (unanimous)
• Denied 355 East Fulton Street sewer lateral split request (unanimous)
• Conditionally approved Entech Engineering 6,475 GPD sewer capacity request (unanimous)

Work Session

The Ephrata Borough Council is holding a work session to review recommendations from various committees. Discussions include new economic development incentives for electric rates and a police services agreement with West Cocaiico Township.

• Ordinance No. 1600: New economic development incentives for reduced electric rates
• Ordinance No. 1599: West Cocaiico Township Police Services Agreement
• Agostino Utilities: Award of Circuit Rebuild of Circuits 2, 6 and 4 Project
• Ephrata Public Library: Frey Lutz Corporation proposal for HVAC RTUs and Control System replacement
• PennDOT: Municipal Winter Maintenance Services Agreement Renewal Letter

The council unanimously accepted the posted agenda for the meeting. It also unanimously approved the Ephrata Reformed Presbyterian Church's request to use Whistle Stop Plaza for an event on August 6, pending a Certificate of Insurance. The meeting was then adjourned by motion of the council.

• Agenda acceptance motion carried unanimously
• Approved Whistle Stop Plaza use for church event (unanimous)
• Motion to adjourn the meeting carried

Committee Meetings

The Budget and Finance Committee will meet to discuss financial reports and administrative appointments. No formal actions are scheduled for this meeting.

• 2nd Quarter 2025 Budget Review
• Mainspring Board of Director Appointments
• Delinquent Utility Accounts
• Borough Solicitor Invoices
• Checks and ACH Register

The Budget and Finance Committee approved the meeting agenda unanimously. It will recommend that Council adopt Resolution 2025-22 to appoint Karen Gerhart, Borough Manager, to fill a vacant board position. The committee reviewed the Q2 2025 budget report, solicitor invoices, and June check registers and determined no further action was needed.

• Approved meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Recommended Council adopt Resolution 2025-22 to appoint Karen Gerhart (pending)
• Reviewed Q2 2025 Budget Report – no further action required
• Reviewed solicitor’s June invoices – no further action required
• Reviewed June Check and ACH Registers – no further action required

Committee Meetings

The Community Services Committee will meet to consider requests regarding flag placement and public space usage. The body will also conduct a review of the 2025 second quarter budget.

• Request to place flags at Winters Memorial
• Request from Ephrata Reformed Presbyterian Church to use Whistle Stop Plaza
• 2nd Quarter 2025 Budget Review

The Community Services Committee approved the meeting agenda as amended unanimously. It decided to recommend that the Borough Council grant Fulton School's request to place small U.S. flags at the Winters Memorial for Veterans Day and Memorial Day. It also recommended that the Council approve the use of Whistle Stop Plaza on August 6, 2025 for a Vacation Bible School event, pending a Certificate of Insurance. No further action was required on the 2nd Quarter 2025 Budget Report.

• Approved meeting agenda as amended (unanimous)
• Recommended granting Fulton School flag request
• Recommended approving Whistle Stop Plaza use on Aug. 6, 2025 pending insurance
• No further action required on 2nd Quarter 2025 Budget Report

Committee Meetings

The Highway Committee will meet to act on a PennDOT winter maintenance contract renewal and a request from Mainspring of Ephrata for the 2025 Christmas Tree Lighting. The body will also discuss the 2nd Quarter 2025 budget and parking in the Central Business District.

• PennDOT Municipal Winter Maintenance Contract renewal
• Mainspring of Ephrata 2025 Christmas Tree Lighting Event request
• 2nd Quarter 2025 Budget Review
• CBD Parking discussion

The Highway Committee unanimously approved the meeting agenda. It will recommend that Borough Council reactivate the PennDOT Municipal Winter Maintenance Services Agreement for the 2025‑26 season, which projects a $16,013.87 reimbursement, and authorize the Borough Secretary to execute the renewal. The Committee will also recommend conditional approval of Mainspring of Ephrata’s request to move the street‑closure start time to 2:00 PM on Friday, November 28, 2025, pending a revised PennDOT special‑events permit.

• Approved meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Recommended reactivating PennDOT winter maintenance agreement for 2025‑26
• Recommended conditional approval of street‑closure time change for Nov 28 2025

Committee Meetings

The Development Activities Committee will consider requests for the Rhythm and Brews 2026 event and HVAC replacements at the Ephrata Public Library. Members will also discuss zoning matters regarding short-term rentals, vape shops, and a garage rebuild at 229 Washington Avenue.

• Rhythm and Brews 2026 event request for Ephrata Recreation Center
• HVAC RTU replacements for Ephrata Public Library
• Zoning discussion on short-term rentals and vape shops
• Zoning application for 229 Washington Avenue to rebuild garage with living quarters
• 2nd Quarter 2025 Budget Review

The Development Activities Committee unanimously approved the meeting agenda as posted. It decided not to provide funding for a larger flag and flagpole at The Point. The committee also voted unanimously to send the Borough Solicitor to the August 20 zoning hearing for a variance request at 229 Washington Avenue.

• Approved meeting agenda as posted (unanimous)
• Denied funding for larger flag and pole at The Point
• Voted unanimously to send Borough Solicitor to zoning hearing for 229 Washington Ave variance

Committee Meetings

The Public Safety Committee will meet to decide on the renewal of the police services contract with West Cocalico Township. The body will also review the second quarter budget and discuss the fire tax.

• Renewal of the Police Services Contract with West Cocalico Township
• 2nd Quarter Budget Review
• Fire Tax Discussion

The Public Safety Committee unanimously approved the meeting agenda. It also approved moving forward with the renewal of the police services contract with West Cocalico Township for the next five years. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Approved meeting agenda as posted (unanimous)
• Approved renewal of police services contract with West Cocalico Township (no vote tally recorded)

Committee Meetings

The Municipal Enterprises Committee will consider an Economic Development Ordinance and review bid results for circuit rebuilds. The committee will also discuss the 2025 second quarter budget review.

• Economic Development Ordinance
• Bid results for Circuit Rebuild of #2, #6 and #4
• 2nd Quarter 2025 Budget Review

The Municipal Enterprises Committee approved the meeting agenda unanimously. It decided to recommend that Borough Council adopt Ordinance No. 1600, adding new economic development incentives. It also recommended awarding a $530,917.20 contract to Agostino Utilities for the circuit rebuild. No other actions were taken.

• Approved meeting agenda as posted (unanimous)
• Committee will recommend Borough Council enact Ordinance No. 1600 (economic development incentives)
• Committee will recommend awarding $530,917.20 contract to Agostino Utilities for circuit rebuild

Committee Meetings

The Special Projects Committee is meeting to consider one action item regarding gateway signage. No other discussion items are listed on the agenda.

• Approval of Gateway Signage Application for Amvets Post 136

The committee unanimously approved the meeting agenda as posted. It also approved the gateway sign application from Amvets Post 136. No further Council action is required for the sign. Public Works will install the signs in late July or early August.

• Approved meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Approved Amvets Post 136 gateway sign request

Regular Meeting

The Shade Tree Commission is discussing the 2026 budget and planning for tree plantings on Main Street. The body is reviewing the use of modular tree cell technology to support root growth and protect sidewalks.

• Planning and budgeting for 2026 Main Street planting with Pour Man’s Brewing Company
• Technical review of tree cell systems including Silva Cells
• Review of Main Street inventory and data collection form with Boy Scouts Troop #73
• Review of Shade Tree Brochure template and Handbook
• Update on Tree Bank and Park Sign

The commission reviewed the initial design for the 2026 Shade Tree brochure and began gathering assets. It continued discussion of phase 1 Main Street tree plantings and explored costs, grants, and manufacturers for the 2026 budget. The group contacted a printer for a Tree Bank sign and will decide wording at the August meeting. No formal approvals or votes were recorded.

Regular Meeting

The Ephrata Planning Commission will meet to review a final plan and a subdivision plan. The body will also vote on the meeting agenda and previous minutes.

• Review of the Final Plan for 232 South Reading Road
• Subdivision Plan Review for 355 East Fulton Street

The commission approved the minutes from the May 20, 2025 meeting unanimously. It voted to table the review of the final plan for 232 South Reading Rd, sending it to the next meeting. It also moved to continue the subdivision plan review for 355 East Fulton Street at the August meeting, with all members in favor.

• Approved May 20, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Tabled review of Final Plan for 232 South Reading Rd (all in favor)
• Continued Subdivision Plan review for 355 East Fulton St to August meeting (all in favor)

Voting Session

The Borough Council will vote on several personnel appointments, including a new Borough Manager and a police sergeant. The meeting includes decisions on multiple infrastructure contracts and a law enforcement agreement with Adamstown Borough.

• Appointment of Karen Gerhart as Borough Manager
• Contract for 2025 Street Improvements awarded to Pennsy Supply, Inc. for $453,770.11
• Contract for roof replacement at 190 Old Mill Road awarded to Bachman's Roofing for $30,648
• Ordinance No. 1598 to provide police services to Adamstown Borough through 2030
• Contract for traffic engineering services awarded to Rettew Associates, Inc. for $42,900

The council voted to accept the posted agenda and to approve the minutes from the June 5, 2025 meeting, each motion carried unanimously. No other resolutions or contracts were adopted during this session.

• Agenda accepted (unanimous)
• June 5, 2025 minutes approved (unanimous)

Regular Meeting

The Authority is meeting to approve payments for the WWTF No. 1 Biosolids and Landis Road Sanitary Sewer projects. The body will also consider sewer capacity requests from the Village of East Cocalico and StayAPT Hotel.

• Payment of $30,470.59 to Lobar, Inc. for WWTF No. 1 Biosolids Project
• Payment of $70,312.37 for WWTF No. 1 Biosolids Project including Garden Spot Mechanical, Inc. and others
• Payment of $108,176.33 for Landis Road Sanitary Sewer Replacement Project
• Sanitary sewer capacity requests from Village of East Cocalico and StayAPT Hotel
• HRG Retainer Agreement for Stormwater Sewer Condition Assessment

The Ephrata Borough Authority unanimously approved the meeting agenda, June 9 minutes, financial reports, and ratified pending bill payments. It granted conditional approvals for a PPL Electric Utilities improvement agreement and for sanitary sewer capacity requests from the Village of East Cocalico and StayAPT Hotel. The board also approved a change order for J. Phillips Excavating contract times and a retainer agreement with HRG for stormwater assessment. All motions carried unanimously.

• Approved meeting agenda as posted (unanimous)
• Approved June 9 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved financial reports (unanimous)
• Ratified payment of bills (unanimous)
• Approved payment to Lobar, Inc. $30,470.59 (unanimous)
• Approved change order for J. Phillips Excavating contract times (unanimous)
• Conditional approval of PPL Electric Utilities Corp. improvement agreement (unanimous)
• Conditional approval of Village of East Cocalico sewer capacity request (25,553 GPD) (unanimous)

Civil Service Commission Meeting

The Commission will discuss voiding the current police officer eligibility list and approving the 2025 hiring process to fill a vacancy. The meeting includes an agency staffing update regarding recruiting, promotions, and retirement.

• Proposal to void the Police Officer eligibility list established in November 2024
• Approval of the 2025 hiring process for a vacancy
• Agency staffing update on recruiting, promotions, retirement, and a new Sergeant

Work Session

The Ephrata Borough Council is holding a work session to discuss items from various committee meetings. The body will review proposed appointments to the Zoning Hearing Board and Planning Commission, as well as several infrastructure contracts.

• Award of contracts to Rettew Associates, Inc. for traffic signal upgrades and Pennsy Supply, Inc. for street improvements
• Formation and partial funding of a Police K-9 Program
• Resolution No. 2025-14 to temporarily modify paid parking operational times
• Award of contract to Bachman’s Roofing for Haller House roof replacement
• Execution of Adamstown Borough Police Services Agreement (Ordinance No. 1598)

The Ephrata Borough Council approved a series of committee recommendations, including updates to bank authorized signers, appointments to the Zoning Hearing Board and Planning Commission, a police sergeant promotion, formation of a police K‑9 program, and several contract awards. The council also adopted Resolution 2025‑14 to permit temporary modifications to the operational times of paid parking, passing the motion unanimously. No public comments were received and no items were denied or tabled.

• Approved Resolution 2025‑15: Update authorized signers with Ephrata National Bank (ENB) Wealth Solutions
• Approved Resolution 2025‑16: Update authorized signers with Fulton Bank
• Approved Resolution 2025‑19: Appoint successor to vacancy on Zoning Hearing Board
• Approved Resolution 2025‑20: Appoint successor to vacancy on Planning Commission
• Approved promotion of Officer John Garver to Sergeant
• Approved formation and partial funding of a Police K‑9 program
• Adopted Resolution 2025‑14 permitting temporary modifications to paid‑parking operational times (unanimous)
• Awarded contract to Rettew Associates, Inc. for traffic signal upgrades

Committee Meetings

The committee will consider a proposal for roof replacement at Haller House. Members will also review zoning applications and decisions for several properties and discuss short-term rentals.

• Haller House roof replacement proposal
• Zoning application for apartment units at 867 West Main Street
• Zoning decisions for 1 East Main Street, 241 East Walnut Street, 55 New Street, and 219 East Main Street
• Discussion on short-term rentals
• Follow-up on flag at South State Street and South Reading Road (SR 0272)

The Development Activities Committee approved the agenda without opposition. It recommended that Borough Council award a $30,648 roof replacement contract to Bachman's Roofing, Building & Remodeling, Inc. for the Haller House at 190 Old Mill Road. The committee also directed staff to research ownership of the flag and pole at The Point and instructed the interim borough manager to request a legal memo on short‑term rentals.

• Approved meeting agenda as posted (unanimous)
• Recommended awarding $30,648 roof contract to Bachman's Roofing, Building & Remodeling, Inc.
• Directed staff to research ownership and maintenance of the flag and pole at The Point
• Directed interim borough manager to request legal memo on short‑term rentals
• No further action required for zoning hearing board review of 867 West Main Street
• No further action required for zoning hearing board decisions for 1 East Main St, 241 East Walnut St, 55 New St, and 219 East Main St

Committee Meetings

The Highway Committee is meeting to decide on award recommendations for street improvements and traffic engineering services. The body will also consider requests regarding parking lot usage and signage in the central business district.

• Bid #25-4 Street Improvements award recommendation
• Traffic Engineering Services award recommendation
• Request for Franklin Street Parking Lot wayfinding signage by Mainspring of Ephrata
• Request to paint traffic control boxes in CBD by Mainspring of Ephrata
• Resolution 2025-XX to temporarily modify paid parking operational times

The committee unanimously approved the meeting agenda as posted. It adopted Resolution No. 2025-14 to temporarily modify paid parking operational times through September 30, 2025. The committee directed staff to contact the property owner at 22 Lake Street about a roof overhang that trucks sometimes strike.

• Approved meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution No. 2025-14 to modify paid parking times (temporary)
• Directed staff to contact property owner at 22 Lake Street regarding roof overhang

Committee Meetings

The Budget and Finance Committee will vote on authorized signers for financial accounts and fill vacancies on the Zoning Hearing Board and Planning Commission. The body will also discuss economic development funding and delinquent utility accounts.

• Resolution 2025-20 regarding Economic Development Funding
• Appointment of successors for Zoning Hearing Board vacancies
• Appointment of a successor for a Planning Commission vacancy
• Authorized signers for Ephrata National Bank, Fulton Financial Advisors, and Morgan Stanley Smith Barney
• Discussion of delinquent utility accounts

The Budget and Finance Committee approved the meeting agenda unanimously. It reviewed and will recommend eight resolutions for the July 14 Council voting session, covering bank signers, officer naming, retirement account removals, and municipal contributions. The committee also agreed to recommend appointments of Ms. Thompson to the Zoning Hearing Board and Mr. Castillo Romero to the Planning Commission.

• Approved meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Recommended adoption of Resolution 2025-15 (bank signer update)
• Recommended adoption of Resolution 2025-16 (Fulton Bank signer update)
• Recommended adoption of Resolution 2025-17 (Morgan Stanley Smith Barney officers)
• Recommended adoption of Resolution 2025-18 (remove former employees from retirement accounts)
• Recommended adoption of Resolution 2025-19 (appoint Ms. Thompson to Zoning Hearing Board)
• Recommended adoption of Resolution 2025-20 (appoint Mr. Castillo Romero to Planning Commission)
• Recommended adoption of Resolution 2025-21 (future municipal contributions to Mainspring of Ephrata)

Committee Meetings

The Community Services Committee is meeting to discuss three action items. The body will review requests regarding the WERT switch house, a T-Mobile Hometown Grant, and a memorial bench.

• Request from Mainspring to repurpose the Switch House along the WERT
• T-Mobile Hometown Grant
• Request to place a memorial bench in the Ephrata Unleashed Dog Park

The Community Services Committee approved the meeting agenda unanimously. It will recommend that the Borough Council approve Mainspring's request to use an abandoned switch house for storage. It will also recommend council support for a $50,000 grant application by the Ephrata Community Ambulance Association and allow JoAnn Laska to donate a bench with a memorial plaque to the Ephrata Unleashed Dog Park.

• Approved meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Recommend Borough Council approve Mainspring's use of abandoned switch house for storage
• Recommend Borough Council support $50,000 grant application for Ephrata Community Ambulance Association
• Recommend Borough Council allow JoAnn Laska to donate bench with memorial plaque to dog park

Regular Meeting

The Zoning Hearing Board is meeting to consider special exceptions and variances for four properties. These requests involve converting an industrial building to commercial use, establishing short-term rentals, and adding internal self-storage units.

• Special exception or variance for WMJ Properties to convert an industrial building to commercial use at 1 E. Main St.
• Special exception for a short-term rental at 241 E. Walnut St. (Marc Devita)
• Special exception for internal self-storage units at 55 New St. (DMJ, LLC)
• Special exception for a short-term rental at 219 E. Main St. (Wilmer King)

The Zoning Hearing Board approved its meeting agenda and the May 16 minutes unanimously. It then approved three special exceptions: a short‑term rental at 1 E. Main St (unanimous), a short‑term rental at 219 E. Main St (2‑1 vote), and interior self‑storage units at 55 New St (unanimous). The meeting was adjourned by unanimous vote.

• Approved meeting agenda (3‑0)
• Approved May 16, 2025 minutes (3‑0)
• Approved Special Exception for short‑term rental at 1 E. Main St (3‑0)
• Approved Special Exception for short‑term rental at 219 E. Main St (2‑1, Ochs voted against)
• Approved Special Exception for interior self‑storage units at 55 New St (3‑0)
• Adjourned meeting (3‑0)

Regular Meeting

The Borough of Ephrata Shade Tree Commission is meeting to review 2025 Arbor Day activities and resume the Main Street inventory process. The body will also begin planning and budgeting for 2026 plantings at Pour Man’s Brewing Company.

• Review of Arbor Day 2025 activities
• Main Street inventory collection with Boy Scouts Troup #73
• Planning and budgeting for Pour Man’s Brewing Company Main Street Planting 2026
• Sourcing for Tree Bank and Park Sign

The commission reviewed Arbor Day sticker availability, potential Boy Scout sponsorship, and tree inventory plans. It noted pending grant applications, a bridge need for the rail‑trail extension, and tree health issues at the Tree Bank. No actions were approved, denied, or formally tabled at this meeting.

Committee Meetings

The Municipal Enterprises Committee will meet to discuss an economic development rate document and budget transfers from the Electric Fund. The committee will also review old business regarding a solar plant.

• Economic Development Rate Document
• Budget Transfers from Electric Fund
• Solar Plant

The Municipal Enterprises Committee met on June 16, 2025 and approved the agenda as posted, with the motion carried unanimously. No other actions were taken; the committee only discussed draft ordinance language and requested staff reports. No substantive decisions were made beyond the agenda approval.

• Approved meeting agenda as posted (unanimous)

Committee Meetings

The Personnel Committee is meeting to discuss personnel updates. The agenda includes discussions on Public Works Department oversight and current job vacancies and searches.

• Discussion of Public Works Department oversight
• Discussion of job vacancies and searches

The committee unanimously approved the posted meeting agenda. It voted to enter an Executive Session to discuss a personnel matter. The committee approved a motion recommending that Borough Council approve a grievance settlement agreement with the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers. No other formal actions were decided.

• Approved meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Approved motion to enter Executive Session
• Approved recommendation for Borough Council to approve IBEW grievance settlement

Committee Meetings

The Public Safety Committee will meet to vote on police personnel and service contracts. Members will also discuss reports from emergency services and a fire tax.

• Promotion of Sergeant
• Formation of a Police K-9 Program
• Renewal of the Police Services Contract with Adamstown
• Fire Tax discussion

The Public Safety Committee voted unanimously to approve the meeting agenda and moved forward three action items: promoting Officer John Garver to sergeant, forming a police K-9 program contingent on a signed agreement with the Friends of the Ephrata Police Foundation, and renewing the police services contract with Adamstown for five years. No final votes were taken; these recommendations will go to the full council.

• Approved meeting agenda as posted (unanimous)
• Moved forward promotion of Officer John Garver to Sergeant
• Moved forward formation of Police K-9 Program, contingent on signed agreement with Friends of the Ephrata Police Foundation
• Moved forward renewal of police services contract with Adamstown for five years

Voting Session

The Ephrata Area Joint Authority is meeting to adopt its budget and program of services for 2025-2026. The body will also consider changes to water rates and specific rates for water sold to Akron Borough.

• Resolution No. 2025-02: Adopting 2025-2026 Budget and Program of Services
• Resolution No. 2025-03: Adopting Revised Water Rates effective 07-01-25
• Resolution No. 2025-04: Establishing rate for water in excess of 50,000 gallons per day sold to Akron Borough
• Lincoln Tank: PADEP Public Water Supply Permit Application
• Wildflower Commons: Waiver Request

The Ephrata Area Joint Authority unanimously approved the 2025-2026 budget and program of services, revised water rates effective July 1, 2025, and a rate for water sold in excess of 50,000 gallons per day to Akron Borough. The board also approved several resolutions designating authorized signers for accounts at various banks, authorized the chairman to execute a permit application for the Lincoln Tank project, and granted a waiver for a second meter pit at Wildflower Commons. All votes were unanimous.

• Adopted 2025-2026 Budget and Program of Services (unanimous)
• Adopted revised water rates effective 07-01-25 (unanimous)
• Set rate for water in excess of 50,000 gallons per day sold to Akron Borough (unanimous)
• Designated authorized signers for accounts at Ephrata National Bank/ENB Wealth Solutions (unanimous)
• Designated authorized signers for accounts at Fulton Financial Advisors (unanimous)
• Designated authorized signers for accounts at Peoples Security Bank and Trust (unanimous)
• Authorized chairman to execute PADEP permit application for Lincoln Tank project (unanimous)
• Granted waiver for second meter pit at Wildflower Commons (unanimous)

Regular Meeting

The Authority is meeting to approve payments and change orders for wastewater and sewer infrastructure projects. The body will also designate authorized signers for bank accounts and review a retainer agreement for a stormsewer project.

• WWTF No. 1 Biosolids Project: Fulton Bank Requisition No. 25 for $36,378.43
• Lobar, Inc.: Change Order No. 6 for unforeseen conditions totaling $31,369.55
• Landis Road Sanitary Sewer Replacement Project: Fulton Bank Requisition No. 2 for $36,836.22
• HRG: Retainer agreement for South Market Street Stormsewer Replacement Project
• Resolutions 2025-08 and 2025-09: Designating authorized signers for bank accounts

The Authority adopted the posted agenda and approved the May 12, 2025 minutes. It unanimously approved the financial reports, ratified bill payments, and authorized several project-related payments and contracts, including the WWTF No. 1 biosolids invoices, a change order for Lobar, Inc., roof repairs for the WWTP, and the Landis Road sewer replacement. The board also passed resolutions designating authorized signers for accounts at Ephrata National Bank/ENB Wealth Solutions and Fulton Financial Advisors, and approved a retainer with HRG and conditional approvals for Wildflower Commons capacity and PPL sewer design. All motions passed unanimously.

• Adopted meeting agenda as posted (unanimous)
• Approved May 12, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved financial reports (unanimous)
• Ratified payment of bills and WWTF No. 1 biosolids invoices (unanimous)
• Conditional approval of Lobar, Inc. Change Order No. 6 (unanimous)
• Approved Richard L. Sensenig Company roof repair proposal (unanimous)
• Approved Landis Road sanitary sewer replacement project payments (unanimous)
• Approved resolutions designating authorized signers for Authority accounts (unanimous)

Voting Session

Ephrata Borough Council will vote on several infrastructure projects and administrative appointments. Key actions include awarding a trail extension contract and appointing an interim Borough Manager.

• Award Bid #25-3 to Mason Dixon Contractors, LLC for $327,650 for the Warwick to Ephrata Trail Extension Project
• Appoint Karen Gerhart as Interim Borough Manager and Secretary (June 1 to August 31, 2025) at a $145k annual salary equivalent
• Enact Ordinance 1597 to establish a Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee
• Approve Stormwater System Lease and Management Agreements with the Ephrata Borough Authority
• Conditionally approve closing South State Street between West Franklin Street and Fulton Street on June 24, 2025

The council unanimously approved the posted agenda and the minutes from May meetings. A motion to close public comments was also carried unanimously. No other substantive actions or votes were recorded.

• Approved agenda as posted (unanimous)
• Approved May 5 and May 12 minutes (unanimous)
• Closed public comment section (unanimous)

Committee Meetings

The Budget and Finance Committee will meet to act on appointments for boards and commissions. The body will also discuss utility account delinquencies, municipal funding, and audit reports.

• Resolution No. 2025-13: Boards and Commissions Appointments
• Delinquent Utility Accounts
• EPAC Municipal Funding Update
• 2024 Maher Duessel Audit Reports
• Solar Plant Revenue

The Budget and Finance Committee approved the posted agenda unanimously. It recommended that Borough Council adopt Resolution 2025-13 to appoint Mr. Andrew Malmgren to the Ephrata Borough Authority Board. The committee also directed staff to prepare a $150,000 funding contribution for Mainspring for 2025 and future years due to reduced solar‑field revenue.

• Approved meeting agenda as posted (unanimous)
• Recommended Council adopt Resolution 2025-13 to appoint Mr. Malmgren to Authority Board
• Directed staff to develop $150,000 funding contribution for Mainspring for 2025 and future years

Committee Meetings

The Community Services Committee will review five action items, including a request to adopt the Railroad House on E. Fulton Street and a proposal to create a Recreation Board. Other items include a feasibility study for pickleball courts and a recommendation for a WERT Extension Award.

• Request to adopt Railroad House on E. Fulton Street
• Request to use The Whistle Stop Plaza for a Live Nativity
• Ephrata Borough Pickleball Courts Feasibility Study
• WERT Extension Award Recommendation
• Creation of a Recreation Board

The committee approved the meeting agenda unanimously. A request from Mainspring of Ephrata was tabled until the June meeting at the request of Mainspring. The committee also made recommendations to the Borough Council regarding a live Nativity scene, a feasibility study for pickleball courts, awarding a rail‑trail extension contract to Mason Dixon Contractors, and enacting an ordinance to create a Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee.

• Agenda approved as posted (unanimous)
• Mainspring request tabled until June meeting

Committee Meetings

The Ephrata Highway Committee will meet on May 27, 2025, to discuss a street closure request for a local fire company event, receive an update on a comprehensive traffic study, and review signage and parking concerns. The meeting is procedural with no formal decisions listed.

• Street closure request for Pioneer Fire Company Open House
• Comprehensive Traffic Study Presentation - Update
• Signage request for 22 Lake Street
• CBD Parking Issues - Update
• Contractor Parking discussion

The committee approved the posted agenda without any changes, with a unanimous vote. No other actions were decided; the remaining items were noted for future recommendation or discussion.

• Approved meeting agenda as posted (unanimous)

Regular Meeting

The Ephrata Zoning Hearing Board will review three public notices: a special exception or variance for converting an industrial building at 1 E. Main St. to commercial use, a variance for a commercial communication tower at 110 W. Franklin St., and a special exception for a short-term rental at 241 E. Walnut St.

• Special exception or variance for conversion of industrial building at 1 E. Main St. to commercial use
• Variance for commercial communication tower and fenced equipment compound at 110 W. Franklin St.
• Special exception for short-term rental at 241 E. Walnut St.

The Zoning Hearing Board denied the variance request for Rise Up Towers LLC after a tied vote. The board also moved the WMJ Properties special‑exception hearing and the short‑term‑rental application hearing to June 18, 2025, and granted party status to the short‑term‑rental applicant. The April 20, 2025 board minutes were approved and the meeting was adjourned.

• Denied variance for Rise Up Towers communications tower (vote tied 2‑2, 1 disqualified)
• Continued WMJ Properties special‑exception hearing to June 18, 2025 (unanimous)
• Continued short‑term‑rental hearing to June 18, 2025 (unanimous)
• Granted party status to short‑term‑rental applicant (unanimous)
• Approved April 20, 2025 Zoning Hearing Board minutes (unanimous)
• Rearranged agenda order: Item 2 moved to Item 1, Item 1 moved to Item 2 (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Regular Meeting

The Planning Commission will review a final plan for 232 South Reading Road and a request from Trileaf for the Rise Up Towers Project at 110 West Franklin Street. The body will also review a letter to the Greenways, Trails and Recreation Grant Program.

• Final Plan review for 232 South Reading Road
• Trileaf request for Rise Up Towers Project at 110 West Franklin Street
• Letter to the Greenways, Trails and Recreation Grant Program

The Planning Commission unanimously approved the March 18, 2025 meeting minutes. It voted to table the review of the Final Subdivision/Land Development Plan for 232 South Reading Rd. The commission unanimously supported the grant application to the Greenways, Trails and Recreation Grant Program for REC center upgrades. It found insufficient information on the Rise Up Towers project and adjourned the meeting.

• Approved March 18, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Tabled review of 232 South Reading Rd subdivision plan (unanimous)
• Supported Greenways, Trails and Recreation grant application (unanimous)
• Determined insufficient information for Rise Up Towers project request
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Regular Meeting

The Shade Tree Commission is meeting to review 2025 Arbor Day activities and plan for 2026. The body will discuss the Main Street inventory process and future planting projects.

• Review of Arbor Day 2025 activities
• Main Street inventory collection involving Boy Scouts Troup #73
• Planning and budgeting for 2026 Main Street planting at Pour Man’s Brewing Company
• Sourcing and vision for Tree Bank and Park signs

The commission reviewed Arbor Day activities, including tree planting status and distribution of Tree City USA stickers and flags. They talked about updating the shade‑tree brochure, a 2026 tree‑planting event with Pour Man’s Brewing, and volunteer strategies for a tree inventory in the central business district. The group also considered possible uses for the Tree Bank property and a request to sell T‑shirts at the visitor’s center, but no actions were approved or denied.

Committee Meetings

The Municipal Enterprises Committee is meeting to consider lease and management agreements for the stormwater system. Members will also review bid results for specific circuit rebuilds and discuss new rates for five CBD customers.

• Stormwater System Lease Agreement with Ephrata Borough Authority
• Stormwater System Management Agreement with Ephrata Borough Authority
• Bid results for Circuit Rebuild of #2, #6 and #4
• Proposed new rate for 5 CBD customers

The Municipal Enterprises Committee met on May 19, 2025 and unanimously approved the posted agenda. The committee recommended that Borough Council approve a stormwater system lease and a stormwater management agreement with the Ephrata Borough Authority, and also recommended rejecting a non‑compliant electric‑circuit bid. It further requested staff have the borough solicitor draft an ordinance to provide electric rate relief for large commercial customers that promote economic development.

• Approved meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Recommended council approve Stormwater System Lease Agreement
• Recommended council approve Stormwater Management Agreement
• Recommended council reject sole non‑compliant electric bid
• Requested solicitor draft electric rate‑relief ordinance

Committee Meetings

The Personnel Committee will meet to consider several action items, including the ratification of a limited scope contract with Paragon Consulting and approval of an unbudgeted expense from the General Fund. The committee will also discuss the evaluation process and personnel updates. An executive session is scheduled for a personnel matter.

• Ratification of limited scope contract with Paragon Consulting
• Approval of unbudgeted expense from General Fund
• Ratification of payment to Paragon Consulting
• Ratification of action on contract with Paragon Consulting
• Discussion of evaluation process and personnel updates

The committee unanimously approved the posted meeting agenda. A motion to go into executive session to discuss a personnel matter was also approved unanimously. No substantive contracts or expenses were decided; the committee will recommend actions to the Borough Council.

• Approved meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Approved motion to enter executive session (unanimous)

Committee Meetings

The Public Safety Committee will meet to review reports from the EMA and police. Members will discuss the creation and operation of a police canine program.

• Discussion of Police Canine Program creation and operation
• EMA Report
• Police Report
• Friends of Ephrata Police Foundation update
• Retirement of Sergeant Philip Snavely

The committee voted to accept the agenda as amended, with the motion carried unanimously. No other actions or approvals were taken during the meeting. Discussion items included a police canine program request, fire/EMS tax models, and updates from the Friends of Ephrata Police Foundation.

• Approved meeting agenda as amended (unanimous)

Voting Session

Ephrata Borough Council will vote on several committee recommendations including police contracts, sewer ordinances, and park usage requests. The body is also considering a grant application for HVAC and fire protection upgrades at the Ephrata Recreation Center.

• 3-year Motorola contract for police camera data storage totaling $80,712
• Ordinance No. 1596 regarding Industrial Waste Pretreatment for sewers
• Release of financial security: $12,977.25 to NR Pennsylvania Associates, LLC and $2,937.24 to Good Samaritan Services
• Resolution No. 2025-12 for Ephrata Recreation Center HVAC and Fire Protection grant funding
• Plan modification for 1369 West Main Street

The Ephrata Borough Council voted unanimously to accept the meeting agenda, to approve the minutes from the April 7, April 14 and April 14 sessions, and to close the public comment period. No other substantive actions were voted on during this session.

• Approved meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Approved April session minutes (unanimous)
• Closed public comment section (unanimous)

Regular Meeting

The Authority will review progress and payments for the WWTF No. 1 Biosolids Project. Members will also consider several agreements and resolutions regarding the stormwater utility, including the 2025 budget and fee schedule.

• Fulton Bank Requisition No. 23 for $220,326.67
• Fulton Bank Requisition No. 24 for $18,990.00
• Resolution 2025-06: Adopting 2025 Stormwater Budget
• Resolution 2025-07: Adopting a Reasonable and Uniform Stormwater Fee Schedule
• Sanitary sewer capacity for 21 Industrial Way, Denver

The board unanimously adopted the 2025 stormwater budget, authorizing $1,592,785 in revenue and $1,055,009 in appropriations. It also adopted a uniform stormwater user‑fee schedule effective May 12, 2025. Additional unanimous actions included approving several payments, lease agreements, and a sanitary sewer capacity increase for 21 Industrial Way.

• Adopted 2025 stormwater budget with $1,592,785 revenue and $1,055,009 appropriations (unanimous)
• Adopted uniform stormwater fee schedule (unanimous)
• Approved payment of $220,326.67 for 2022 Construction Fund Fulton Bank Requisition No. 23 (unanimous)
• Conditionally approved payment of $18,990.00 for Bioforcetech invoice pending reimbursement (unanimous)
• Approved stormwater system lease, management agreement, rates, rules, and credit manual (unanimous)
• Approved 66 EDU’s (15,447 gpd) sanitary sewer capacity for 21 Industrial Way, Denver (unanimous)
• Approved financial reports (unanimous)
• Approved payment of bills (unanimous)

Voting Session

The Ephrata Area Joint Authority will meet to review financial reports and payment of bills. The body will discuss the proposed budget for 2025-2026. Engineering and operations reports are also on the agenda.

• Discussion of 2025-2026 Proposed Budget
• Approval of financial reports
• Approval of payment of bills

The board adopted the posted agenda, approved the April 10 minutes, and ratified the financial reports and bill payments, all by unanimous roll‑call votes. The board also agreed to proceed with the presented 2025‑2026 budget, with a final version to be emailed in early June before the June 12 vote. No public comments were made. The next meeting is scheduled for June 12, 2025.

• Adopted agenda as posted (unanimous)
• Approved April 10, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved financial reports (unanimous roll‑call)
• Ratified payment of bills (unanimous roll‑call)
• Board agreed to move forward with proposed 2025‑2026 budget (decision, no vote tally recorded)

Work Session

The Borough Council is holding a work session to discuss items previously reviewed by committees. Topics include zoning amendments for winter shelters and two-family dwellings, as well as several local business and community requests.

• Ordinance No. 1595: Amend Zoning Code to permit winter shelters as an accessory use
• Approval of Subdivision and Land Development Plan for 1369 West Main Street
• Resolution No. 2025-12: Grant funding request for Ephrata Recreation Center HVAC and Fire Protection upgrades
• Ordinance No. 1596: Revise maximum allowable concentration limits for special pollutants in sewers
• Motorola Solutions: 3-year extension of body worn camera data storage subscription

The council voted to accept the posted agenda with a unanimous motion. Public comments were heard, including opposition to the stormwater fee and concerns about a pending financial security release. Mayor Ralph Mowen announced he will not sign Ordinance No. 1595, though he will not veto it. The meeting was then adjourned by a unanimous vote.

• Agenda accepted (unanimous)
• Meeting adjourned (unanimous)

Committee Meetings

The Development Activities Committee will act on several items including a resolution for the Ephrata Recreation Center HVAC and fire protection upgrade, a subdivision and land development agreement at 1369 West Main Street, and requests to reduce or release financial security. Discussion items include a first-quarter budget review, zoning applications and decisions, and a flag review at South State Street and Reading Road.

• Resolution for Ephrata Recreation Center HVAC & Fire Protection Upgrade Project
• Subdivision & Land Development Agreement at 1369 West Main Street
• Request to Reduce Financial Security (Final) for Good Samaritan Services
• Inspiration Brewing Company: alcohol request for Concerts on the Creek
• Review of short-rental zoning application at 241 East Walnut Street

The Development Activities Committee approved the posted agenda by unanimous vote. It will recommend that the Borough Council reduce final financial security for Good Samaritan Services and for NR Pennsylvania Associates LLC. It will also recommend granting Inspiration Brewing Company a beer‑sale permit for Concerts by the Creek, waiving the Preliminary Plan Requirement for 1369 West Main Street, and supporting a grant request for the Recreation Center HVAC and fire‑protection upgrade.

• Approved meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Recommended Borough Council reduce final financial security for Good Samaritan Services
• Recommended Borough Council reduce final financial security for NR Pennsylvania Associates LLC
• Recommended Borough Council grant beer‑sale permit to Inspiration Brewing Company (subject to insurance and PLCB permit)
• Recommended Borough Council waive Preliminary Plan Requirement for 1369 West Main Street (subject to HRG comments)
• Recommended Borough Council pursue grant for Recreation Center HVAC and fire‑protection upgrade

Committee Meetings

The Highway Committee will meet to act on requests regarding parking lot use and a street closure. Members will also discuss central business district parking, ADA accessibility, and the first quarter 2025 budget.

• Parking lot use request from Boy Scout Troop 73
• Street closure request from Compleat Restorations
• CBD parking issues discussion
• ADA accessibility and kiosk location concerns
• 1st Quarter 2025 Budget Review

The committee accepted the posted agenda without amendment, with a unanimous vote. It decided to recommend that the Borough Council conditionally approve Boy Scout Troop 73's request to use the Locust Street parking lot for the 2025 Fair, pending proof of insurance. It also will recommend conditional approval of a road‑closure request for Lemon Street on September 20, 2025, subject to review and resident notification. Further parking and ADA kiosk issues were discussed for future meetings.

• Approved meeting agenda as posted (unanimous)
• Will recommend conditional approval of Boy Scout Troop 73 parking request to Borough Council
• Will recommend conditional approval of Lemon Street road‑closure request to Borough Council

Committee Meetings

The Budget and Finance Committee will meet to discuss several financial reports and accounts. No formal actions are scheduled for this meeting.

• 1st Quarter 2025 Budget Review
• Delinquent Utility Accounts
• Solar Plant Revenue
• 2024 Free Electric Report
• Borough Solicitor Invoices

The committee accepted the agenda as posted with a unanimous vote. No other actions or decisions were taken during the meeting.

• Approved meeting agenda as posted (unanimous)

Committee Meetings

The Community Services Committee will consider five action items, including a proposal to create a Parks and Recreation Board, requests to revitalize the baseball field at Grater Park, install a sign at Eicher Arts Center, use Whistle Stop Plaza for a ghost tour, and allow Pour Man's Brewing to use a portion of the WERT. Discussion items include a review of the 1st quarter 2025 budget. The meeting will also approve the committee agenda.

• Proposal to create a Parks and Recreation Board
• Request to revitalize the baseball field at Grater Park
• Request to install an informational sign in front of the Eicher Arts Center
• Request to use Whistle Stop Plaza as a meeting place for Ghost Tour of Ephrata
• Request from Pour Man's Brewing to use a portion of the WERT

The Community Services Committee approved the meeting agenda unanimously. The committee recommended that the Borough Council authorize a Parks and Recreation Board, approve revitalization of the Grater Park baseball field, allow an informational sign at the Eicher Arts Center, permit the Historical Society to use Whistle Stop Plaza for ghost tours, and approve a Fun Run on the Warwick to Ephrata Rail Trail. No other actions were decided at this meeting.

• Approved meeting agenda (unanimous)

Committee Meetings

The Public Safety Committee will consider a 3-year contract extension with Motorola and an unbudgeted expenditure for a foundation purchase. Discussion items include the first-quarter budget review, a proposed Community EMS tax or fee, and updates on a new prison and central booking. The meeting also features a K-9 officer demonstration and a report on nuisance activity.

• Motorola 3-year contract extension to 5/23/2027
• Unbudgeted expenditure for Foundation Purchase
• Discussion of Community EMS Tax / Fee
• Update on new prison / central booking / live-scan
• K-9 Officer Visit / Demo

The Public Safety Committee approved the meeting agenda unanimously. It agreed to move forward a three‑year Motorola body‑camera data storage contract costing $80,712. The committee also approved moving a $714.76 purchase of two trauma kits forward and designated the community EMS tax/fee discussion as a recurring item.

• Approved meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Moved Motorola 3‑year contract extension ($80,712) forward
• Moved trauma kits purchase ($714.76) forward
• Assigned community EMS tax/fee discussion as recurring item

Committee Meetings

The Municipal Enterprises Committee will act on an ordinance to amend Chapter 259 on Industrial Waste Pretreatment. They will also discuss the 2025 Member Long-Term Load Forecast, a first-quarter budget review, a solar plant status update, and a new rate structure for the Central Business District (CBD).

• Ordinance amending Chapter 259 Industrial Waste Pretreatment
• 2025 Member Long-Term Load Forecast
• 1st Quarter 2025 Budget Review
• Solar Plant Status Update
• New Rate Structure for CBD

The Municipal Enterprises Committee unanimously approved an amendment to the meeting agenda to add AMP’s Ephrata Long‑Term Load Forecast and its approval memo. The committee decided to recommend that Borough Council enact Ordinance No. 1596 to amend Ordinance 259 on industrial waste pretreatment. It also recommended that Council authorize staff to sign and return the Long‑Term Load Forecast memo, subject to consultant GDS approval.

• Approved agenda amendment adding AMP’s Long‑Term Load Forecast (unanimous)
• Recommended Borough Council enact Ordinance No. 1596 to amend industrial waste pretreatment ordinance
• Recommended Borough Council authorize staff to sign and return Long‑Term Load Forecast memo, pending GDS approval

Committee Meetings

The Personnel Committee will meet to discuss the employee evaluation process. The agenda includes an executive session for a personnel matter and a discussion item on evaluation procedures. No action items are scheduled.

• Executive session called for a personnel matter
• Discussion of evaluation process

The committee unanimously approved the posted meeting agenda. It also approved a motion to go into executive session to discuss a personnel matter. No other actions were taken.

• Approved meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Approved motion to enter executive session (unanimous)

Regular Meeting

The Ephrata Borough Council will vote on three zoning relief requests: a special exception to convert an industrial building at 1 E. Main St. to commercial use, a variance for a commercial communication tower and equipment compound at 110 W. Franklin St., and a variance to subdivide land at 355 East Fulton St. for a new lot. All items are public hearings with decisions expected at this meeting.

• Special exception or variance for WMJ Properties to convert industrial building at 1 E. Main St. to commercial use under Section 319-26.A.(19)
• Variance for Rise Up Towers, LLC to place a commercial communication tower and fenced equipment compound at 110 W. Franklin St., with relief from setback and screening requirements
• Variance for Valley View Capital, LLC to subdivide 355 East Fulton St. into a new lot, seeking relief from lot width and setback rules in the Residential Medium Density District

The Zoning Hearing Board approved the March 19, 2025 meeting minutes. It granted party status to MainSpring of Ephrata and other requestors. The board also voted to continue the special‑exception hearing for 1 E Main St. to the May 21, 2025 meeting at 7:00 p.m.

• Approved March 19, 2025 Zoning Hearing Board minutes (unanimous)
• Granted party status to MainSpring of Ephrata and other petitioners (unanimous)
• Continued the special‑exception hearing for 1 E Main St. to May 21, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. (unanimous)

Voting Session

Ephrata Borough Council will hold a voting session on April 14, 2025, to decide on multiple action items including a zoning ordinance to permit winter shelters, a ground lease for a cell tower, and various contracts and resolutions. The meeting also includes proclamations, committee reports, and approval of financial reports.

• Adoption of Ordinance No. 1595 to permit winter shelters as an accessory use in certain zoning districts
• Approval of ground lease with Rise Up Tower LLC for a tower at 110 West Franklin Street
• Approval of contract for HVAC equipment replacement at Ephrata Recreation Center
• Authorization to purchase up to 2,843 SRECs at a price not to exceed $33.75 each
• Entering into Municipal Agreement for Ambulance Service with Ephrata Community Ambulance Association

The council voted to accept the agenda as posted on the website and at Borough Hall. They also approved the minutes from the March 3 and March 10 sessions. Finally, the council closed the public comment period for the remainder of the meeting.

• Approved meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Approved March 3 and March 10 minutes (unanimous)
• Closed public comment section (unanimous)

Regular Meeting

The Ephrata Borough Authority will receive an update on the WWTF No. 1 Biosolids Project from GHD, Inc. and consider approval of related requisitions and invoices totaling $26,730.40. A resolution authorizing financing for capital improvements to sanitary sewer facilities is up for action. Discussion items include the 2024 audit report and development of a stormwater utility, including fee implementation.

• WWTF No. 1 Biosolids Project update and job conference progress report from GHD, Inc.
• Requisitions for the 2022 Construction Fund: Fulton Bank requisition No. 22 for $7,381.60 and multiple invoices from Salzmann Hughes and Becker Engineering totaling $19,348.80
• Resolution 2025-05 authorizing and approving financing for capital improvements to sanitary sewer facilities
• Sanitary sewer plan reviews: Hackman Living Trust (Improvement Agreement #4) and 1369 West Main Street (Final Subdivision and Land Development Plan #1)
• Stormwater utility discussion: mass mailing and fee implementation and budget

The board unanimously approved the agenda, prior meeting minutes, financial reports, and payment of listed invoices. It adopted Resolution 2025‑05, authorizing a $3 million sewer revenue bond for capital improvements to the sanitary sewer system. Additional unanimous actions included executing a BRG agreement, approving the Hackman Living Trust sewer design pending review, and approving the 1369 West Main Street sewer plan with four EDU capacity. The 2024 Maher Duessel audit report was accepted without findings.

• Approved meeting agenda as posted (unanimous)
• Approved March 10, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved financial reports (unanimous)
• Ratified payment of bills and listed invoices (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 2025‑05 authorizing $3 million sewer revenue bond (unanimous)
• Executed BRG agreement (unanimous)
• Approved Hackman Living Trust sanitary sewer design, contingent on review (unanimous)
• Approved 1369 West Main Street sanitary sewer plan with 4 EDU capacity (unanimous)

Voting Session

The Ephrata Borough Council is holding a public hearing to consider proposed Ordinance No. 1595, which would amend the zoning code to permit winter shelters as an accessory use in certain zoning districts and define where two-family dwellings are allowed. The ordinance also removes existing provisions for temporary extreme cold weather emergency shelters. Public comments are restricted to this ordinance and are limited to borough residents, taxpayers, or organizational representatives.

• Proposed Ordinance No. 1595 to amend Chapter 319 Zoning to permit winter shelters as accessory uses in designated districts and update two-family dwelling allowances
• Removal of temporary accessory extreme cold weather emergency shelter provisions from the table of allowed uses
• Public comment period limited to 3.5 minutes per speaker, with sign-in required

The Ephrata Borough Council conducted a public hearing on Ordinance No. 1595 to amend zoning for winter shelters and two‑family dwellings. Several residents voiced objections and one resident asked for clarification. The meeting adjourned at 7:12 PM without a vote or formal decision on the ordinance.

Voting Session

The Ephrata Area Joint Authority will vote on a resolution to commit to a generator upgrade project and apply for state grant funding, including matching funds. They will also consider granting relief from separate service line requirements for a proposed four-unit apartment at 1639 W. Main Street. Discussion items include public works distribution system maintenance and engineering and operations reports.

• Resolution 2025-1: Commit to EAJA Generator Upgrade Project and authorize grant application to PA Small Water and Sewer Grant program
• Request from W. Main St. Associates for relief from separate service lines for 4-unit apartment project at 1639 W. Main Street
• Approval of financial reports and payment of bills
• Public Works Distribution System Maintenance discussion

The Authority Board unanimously adopted Resolution 2025-1, authorizing a grant request of up to $365,352 and committing $64,475 in matching funds for the EAJA generator upgrade project. The board also approved a waiver allowing a single 4" service line for the proposed four‑unit apartment at 1369 W. Main Street. Earlier motions to adopt the agenda, approve March 13 minutes, approve financial reports, and ratify payment of bills all passed unanimously.

• Approved meeting agenda as posted (unanimous)
• Approved March 13, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved financial reports (unanimous)
• Ratified payment of bills (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 2025-1 authorizing grant request and matching funds for EAJA generator upgrade (unanimous)
• Approved waiver for single 4" service line at 1369 W. Main Street (unanimous)

Work Session

Ephrata Borough Council will discuss committee recommendations and actions at its April 7 work session, including a tabled zoning ordinance to permit winter shelters and define two-family dwelling districts, resolutions modifying paid parking times and authorizing FTR auctions, and an ambulance service agreement.

• Ordinance No. 1595: Amend Chapter 319 Zoning to permit winter shelters as accessory use and define two-family dwelling districts (tabled from March)
• Resolution No. 2025-10: Temporarily modify operational times of paid parking in the Borough
• Resolution No. 2025-11: Authorize participation in annual and long-term FTR auctions
• Ephrata Community Ambulance Association, Inc.: Municipal agreement for ambulance service provision
• Mainspring of Ephrata: Whistle Stop Plaza event alcohol request (time-sensitive)

The council unanimously approved the agenda as posted. It also adopted Resolution No. 2025-11, authorizing participation in the Annual and Long‑Term Financial Transmission Rights (FTR) auctions. Resolution No. 2025-10 on temporarily modifying paid‑parking hours was tabled for a vote on April 14. The meeting was then adjourned unanimously.

• Agenda accepted (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 2025-11 for FTR auction participation (unanimous)
• Resolution 2025-10 on paid‑parking hours tabled for April 14
• Meeting adjourned (unanimous)

Committee Meetings

The Community Services Committee will vote on a management agreement for the Ephrata Recreation Center and discuss two requests: one to revitalize the baseball field at Grater Park, and another from the Shade Tree Commission to display the Tree City USA flag at Whistle Stop Plaza.

• Action item: Ephrata Recreation Center Management Agreement
• Request to revitalize the baseball field at Grater Park
• Request from Shade Tree Commission to display Tree City USA flag at Whistle Stop Plaza

The Community Services Committee approved the meeting agenda unanimously. The committee recommended that the Borough Council enter a Management Agreement with the Ephrata Recreation Center for the community swimming pool, pending insurance approval. Discussion on revitalizing the Grater Park baseball field was postponed to the next meeting. The committee expressed support for flying the Tree City USA flag at Whistle Stop Plaza.

• Approved meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Recommended Borough Council enter Management Agreement for community swimming pool
• Supported display of Tree City USA flag at Whistle Stop Plaza

Committee Meetings

The Development Activities Committee will meet to take action on HVAC equipment for the Ephrata Recreation Center and a bike share shed request. Members will also discuss a parking garage partnership and review zoning applications for three properties.

• Ephrata Recreation Center HVAC equipment replacement
• Mainspring of Ephrata bike share shed request on Fulton Street
• Parking garage partnership between ENB and Ephrata Borough
• Zoning variance application for 1 East Main Street
• Zoning variance applications for 110 West Franklin Street and 355 East Fulton Street

The Development Activities Committee approved the meeting agenda unanimously. It will recommend that the Borough Council approve the HVAC equipment replacement contract for the Ephrata Recreation Center and waive the permit fee for electric work at the Bike Share Shed. The committee expressed no objections to further discussion on the parking garage partnership with Ephrata National Bank and took no further action on a March zoning decision. It also decided not to refer the solicitor for three April zoning applications.

• Approved meeting agenda as posted (unanimous)
• Recommended Borough Council approve HVAC equipment replacement contract for Recreation Center
• Recommended Borough Council waive permit fee for electric to Bike Share Shed
• Stated no objections to continuing discussion on parking garage partnership with Ephrata National Bank
• Determined no further action required on March zoning decision
• Decided not to refer solicitor for Warehouse/Industrial application at 1 East Main Street
• Decided not to refer solicitor for Commercial Communications Tower and Fenced Equipment Compound at 110 West Franklin Street
• Decided not to refer solicitor for Subdivision application at 355 East Fulton Street

Committee Meetings

The Highway Committee will consider a request from the Ephrata Farmers Day Association regarding the 106th Ephrata Fair. The committee will also discuss a comprehensive traffic study consultant presentation, potential parking changes, and PennDOT traffic counting on borough roads.

• Consideration of Ephrata Farmers Day Association, Inc. request for the 106th Ephrata Fair
• Update on comprehensive traffic study with consultant presentation
• Consideration of potential parking changes
• Update on PennDOT traffic counting on municipally owned roads

The Highway Committee unanimously approved the meeting agenda as posted. The Committee adopted a resolution to temporarily allow free parking on Saturdays and Sundays and at the Railroad Station parking lot, while keeping the 2‑hour time limit in effect.

• Approved meeting agenda as posted (unanimous)
• Approved temporary free weekend parking and at Railroad Station lot (resolution)

Committee Meetings

The Budget and Finance Committee will meet to review financial records and property leases. The body will also discuss delinquent utility accounts and revenue from the solar plant.

• Pennsylvania State Mayors’ Association 2025 Conference
• Delinquent Utility Accounts
• Solar Plant Revenue
• Ephrata Borough Property Leases
• Borough Solicitor Invoices

The Budget and Finance Committee unanimously approved the meeting agenda as posted. The committee adopted a recommendation that Borough Council authorize Mayor Mowen to attend the 2025 Pennsylvania State Mayors’ Association Annual Conference and cover registration, lodging, meals, and related expenses. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Approved meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Recommended council authorize Mayor Mowen’s attendance at 2025 PA State Mayors’ Association conference and cover expenses

Regular Meeting

The Ephrata Zoning Hearing Board will hold a public hearing and decide on a variance request from Misty Schillaci to keep more than six chickens, including a rooster, at 1224 Lincoln Heights Avenue, a property in the Residential Low-Density Zoning District. The board will also consider approval of the prior meeting's minutes and adjourn.

• Variance request by Misty Schillaci to keep more than 6 chickens and a rooster at 1224 Lincoln Heights Ave., contrary to Section 319-27.D.(12)(d) of the Borough Code.
• Property is in a Residential Low-Density Zoning District.

The board approved the meeting agenda and the February 19, 2025 minutes unanimously. Party status was accepted unanimously. After testimony, the board voted to deny the variance request for keeping 18 chickens and a rooster, with a 3‑1 majority. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Approved February 19, 2025 Zoning Hearing Board minutes (unanimous)
• Accepted party status for petitioners (unanimous)
• Denied variance request for >6 chickens and a rooster (3-1)
• Closed testimony (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Regular Meeting

The Ephrata Shade Tree Commission is meeting to finalize preparations for the annual Arbor Day planting on Saturday, April 26. Items include a proclamation from the mayor's office, marking planting locations, coordinating with Pa One Call for utility locates, and arranging media coverage and tools. The commission will also review an invoice and delivery from Roots for 3 Canaan Fir and 2 White Spruce trees.

• Proclamation signed by mayor's office for Arbor Day
• Approval of tree-planting locations by Zach
• Coordination with Pa One Call for digging
• Invoice and delivery of 3 Canaan Fir and 2 White Spruce trees from Roots
• Arrangements for media coverage and planting equipment (buckets, shovels, sign-in sheet)

The commission confirmed plans for the April 26 Arbor Day tree planting, with three Canaan fir and two white spruce trees to be delivered by Roots on April 25, and Public Works digging holes. Ephrata officially received Tree City USA designation, with a press release and flag request pending Borough approval. No formal votes were taken; all items were planning and coordination.

• Confirmed Arbor Day tree species and delivery date (April 25)
• Set PA One Call deadline for April 10
• Scheduled Chandra to attend Borough Council meeting on April 7
• Confirmed Richard will chair April 15 meeting
• Noted Tree City USA designation received
• Agreed to pursue Borough approval for Tree City flag
• Noted Pourman's Brewery interest in 2026 street tree installation

Regular Meeting

The Ephrata Planning Commission will hold a regular meeting on March 18, 2025, to review a subdivision/land development plan for 1369 West Main Street. The agenda also includes approval of the meeting agenda and minutes from January 21, 2025.

• Review of subdivision/land development plan for 1369 West Main Street
• Approval of January 21, 2025 meeting minutes

The Ephrata Borough Planning Commission voted unanimously to recommend approval to Borough Council of a subdivision and land development plan for 1369 West Main Street, which would split the 0.471-acre tract into two lots: one with the existing single-family home and one for a new two-story, four-unit multi-family dwelling. The commission also approved a waiver of the preliminary plan requirement. The plan will now go to Borough Council for final action.

• Approved motion to recommend approval of 1369 W Main St subdivision plan to Borough Council (unanimous)
• Approved waiver of preliminary plan requirement for 1369 W Main St (unanimous)

Committee Meetings

The Ephrata Borough Public Safety Committee will meet on March 17, 2025, at 6:30 PM at Borough Hall. No action items are scheduled. Discussion items include the EMA report, a municipal agreement for provision of ambulance service, police reports, and nuisance activity.

• Municipal Agreement for Provision of Ambulance Service (discussion)
• Police Reports (discussion)
• EMA Report (discussion)
• Nuisance Activity (discussion)

The Public Safety Committee reviewed and expressed support for a proposed Municipal Agreement for Provision of Ambulance Service with Ephrata Community Ambulance Association, Inc., which would make Ephrata Ambulance first due. The committee will recommend that Borough Council authorize entering into the agreement. No other formal decisions were made; other items were informational only.

• Approved meeting agenda as posted (unanimous)
• Recommended Borough Council authorize Municipal Agreement for Provision of Ambulance Service with Ephrata Community Ambulance Association, Inc.

Committee Meetings

The Municipal Enterprises Committee will consider approving the replacement of Solar Renewable Energy Certificates (SRECs) for lost production at the solar plant. They will also discuss a new rate structure for five CBD electric customers, rules for free electric accounts as part of a cost-of-service study, and summer 2024 power cost projections. Additionally, the committee will consider allowing the borough logo to be used for a golf tournament.

• Approval for Replacement SRECs for Lost Production of Solar Plant
• New Rate Structure for 5 CBD Electric Customers
• Free Electric Accounts conclusion for Cost of Service Study
• Power Cost Summer 2024 and Monthly Cost Projections
• Approval to Use Borough Logo for Golf Tournament

The Municipal Enterprises Committee approved the agenda as posted and discussed several items. They approved the use of the Borough logo for a golf tournament benefiting EASS at no cost to the Borough. The committee also discussed reducing the Electric Distribution charge for five large commercial customers in the Central Business District and moved the Free Electric Accounts discussion to an action item for future resolution.

• Approved meeting agenda as posted (unanimous)
• Approved use of Borough logo for EASS golf tournament at no cost to Borough
• Moved Free Electric Accounts discussion to action item for future Cost of Service Study

Committee Meetings

The Personnel Committee is meeting to discuss updates to the evaluation process. The meeting includes an executive session to address a personnel matter.

• Discussion of updating evaluation process
• Executive session regarding a personnel matter

The Personnel Committee met on March 17, 2025, and unanimously approved the posted meeting agenda. No action items were taken. The committee discussed updating the annual evaluation process, agreeing to explore consolidating it with PMP reviews via an online format. An executive session was held to discuss a personnel matter.

• Approved meeting agenda as posted (unanimous)
• Held executive session on personnel matter (5:11 PM - 5:28 PM)

Voting Session

The Ephrata Area Joint Authority is holding a voting session to approve financial reports and bills for January and February 2025. The board will also discuss a review of a recent boil water notice and public works distribution system maintenance. No action items are scheduled for this meeting.

• Discussion: Review of boil water notice – summary and outstanding concerns
• Discussion: Public works distribution system maintenance
• Approval of financial reports for January and February 2025
• Approval of payment of bills for January and February 2025

The Ephrata Area Joint Authority held a routine voting session, approving the meeting agenda, the January 29, 2025 minutes, financial reports, and ratifying bill payments, all unanimously. No action items were considered. Discussion focused on a boil water notice from a West Queen Street main break, valve maintenance concerns, and ongoing engineering projects.

• Approved meeting agenda as posted (unanimous)
• Approved January 29, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved financial reports (unanimous)
• Ratified payment of bills via roll call (unanimous)

Regular Meeting

The Ephrata Borough Authority will consider a GHD Inc. update on the WWTF No. 1 Biosolids Project and approve multiple requisitions, including $83,620.24 from Fulton Bank. The board also takes up financing and change orders for the Landis Road Sewer Replacement and a Route 322 Pumping Station upgrade proposal.

• Approval of Fulton Bank Requisition No. 21 for $83,620.24 from the 2022 Construction Fund
• Garden Spot Mechanical payment of $62,627.90 including Change Order No. 5 ($14,771.00)
• Garden Spot Electric payment of $16,781.24 including Change Order No. 6 ($6,799.15)
• M&T Bank financing proposal for Landis Road Sewer Replacement
• Route 322 Pumping Station Upgrade Project proposal

The Ephrata Borough Authority approved a $83,620.24 requisition for the WWTF No. 1 Biosolids Project, including payments to Garden Spot Mechanical and Garden Spot Electric. The board also authorized a note issuance for the Landis Road Sewer Replacement, approved a time extension and payment for J. Phillips Excavating, and approved Becker Engineering's design scope for three pumping stations. All motions passed unanimously.

• Approved Fulton Bank Requisition No. 21 for $83,620.24 for biosolids project (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 2025-04 authorizing note issuance for Landis Road sewer replacement (unanimous)
• Approved Change Order No. 1 time extension for J. Phillips Excavating (unanimous)
• Approved Payment Application No. 1 for $9,826.99 to J. Phillips Excavating (unanimous)
• Approved Becker Engineering scope and fee for Route 322 West pumping station upgrades (unanimous)
• Authorized notification to Clay Township about 11 properties not connected to sewer (unanimous)

Voting Session

The Ephrata Borough Council will consider several committee recommendations at its March 10 voting session, including authorizing a police canine program, setting 2025 pool admission rates, and entering an intergovernmental agreement with Ephrata Township for Parkview Heights Road improvements. Other action items include approving concert permits for two breweries at Grater Park, a yard waste agreement with Columbia, and an unbudgeted $13,400 expense for a cardboard dumpster. The meeting also includes approval of minutes, reports, and a proclamation for the Ephrata Lions Club Centennial.

• Authorize police canine program and fundraising with Friends of Ephrata Police Foundation
• Set 2025 pool admission rates for annual membership and daily use via Resolution 2025-09
• Adopt Resolution 2025-07 for intergovernmental cooperation with Ephrata Township on Parkview Heights Road improvements
• Approve Concerts by the Creek permits for Rural City Beer Company and Black Forest Brewery at Grater Park
• Authorize unbudgeted $13,400 from Sanitation Fund to purchase cardboard dumpster from Mid-Atlantic Waste Systems

Ephrata Borough Council approved a series of committee recommendations, including a 5% non-resident and 2.5% resident pool membership rate increase, beer sales at Concerts by the Creek, and authorization for the police to pursue grants for a K-9 program. The council also approved several resolutions, including a price adjustment for bituminous materials, disposal of a 2008 Chevrolet Impala, and an intergovernmental agreement with Ephrata Township for Parkview Heights Road improvements. All motions passed unanimously.

• Approved pool rate increases: 5% for non-residents, 2.5% for residents, and $1 more for day passes (Resolution 2025-09).
• Approved beer sales at Concerts by the Creek for Rural City Beer Company and Black Forest Brewery, subject to insurance and PLCB permits.
• Authorized police to pursue grants and fundraising for a Police Canine Program.
• Approved the 48th Annual Firecracker 5 Mile Race and Fun Run on July 4, 2025, subject to review and insurance.
• Adopted Resolution 2025-05 for bituminous material price adjustments in street improvement bids.
• Adopted Resolution 2025-06 to dispose of a 2008 Chevrolet Impala via public auction.
• Adopted Resolution 2025-07 for an intergovernmental agreement with Ephrata Township for Parkview Heights Road improvements.
• Approved a $13,400 unbudgeted expense from the Sanitation Fund for a cardboard dumpster.

Work Session

This is a work session agenda where committees report on items discussed in detail. Notable discussion items include a proposed zoning ordinance to allow winter shelters as accessory uses, multiple alcohol requests for concerts, and several resolutions for road improvements and property dispositions. Council may move items forward for future action, but no final votes are expected at this session.

• Ordinance 1595: amend zoning to permit winter shelters as accessory use and define two-family dwelling districts
• Hold Harmless Agreement for 22 4 Mason Drive
• Rural City Beer Company and Black Forest Brewery alcohol requests for Concerts on the Creek
• Resolution 2025-07: intergovernmental cooperation with Ephrata Township for Parkview Heights Road improvements
• Ephrata Community Pool 2025 pricing discussion

The Ephrata Borough Council held a work session on March 3, 2025, where the main actions were ratifying the Borough Manager's job description and approving the agenda. The meeting was largely devoted to public comments, with numerous residents and business owners expressing concerns about the downtown parking kiosks, citing declines in sales and frustration with the payment system. Residents also raised concerns about high utility bills, which officials attributed to cold weather and increased consumption. No formal decisions were made on these issues during the work session.

• Approved agenda as posted (unanimous)
• Ratified Borough Manager's job description (unanimous)

Committee Meetings

The Development Activities Committee will meet on February 24, 2025 to vote on several action items, including hold harmless agreements, alcohol requests for Concerts on the Creek, a conservation memorandum of understanding, and proposed zoning ordinance amendments for temporary shelters. Discussion items include a potential parking garage partnership with ENB, review of zoning applications and decisions, a tower lease, and unpaid rental permits.

• Hold Harmless Agreement for 224 Mason Drive
• Alcohol requests for Concerts on the Creek from Rural City Beer Company and Black Forest Brewery
• 2025 Memorandum of Understanding with Lancaster County Conservation
• Zoning Ordinance Amendments: Temporary Shelters
• Discussion of ENB and Borough parking garage partnership

The Development Activities Committee reviewed several action items and will recommend Borough Council approve a Hold Harmless Agreement for 224 Mason Drive, grant beer sales permits to two breweries for Concerts by the Creek, authorize a conservation MOU, and enact Ordinance 1595 to amend the Zoning Ordinance regarding temporary shelters. No final decisions were made; all items are recommendations to Borough Council.

• Recommended approval of Hold Harmless Agreement for 224 Mason Drive, subject to solicitor approval and fence removal language
• Recommended granting beer sales request for Rural City Beer Company at Concerts by the Creek, subject to insurance and PLCB permit
• Recommended granting beer sales request for Black Forest Brewery at Concerts by the Creek, subject to insurance and PLCB permit
• Recommended authorizing execution of Lancaster County Conservation 2025 MOU
• Recommended enacting Ordinance 1595 to amend Zoning Ordinance for temporary shelters
• Recommended authorizing a letter to Zoning Hearing Board opposing variance for 1224 Lincoln Heights Avenue

Committee Meetings

The Highway Committee will consider four action items, including a resolution authorizing a price adjustment for bituminous materials and another for disposing of a 2008 Chevrolet Impala. Discussion items include an update on parking kiosk complaints and a comprehensive traffic study (presentation postponed). The meeting may also approve a request for the Firecracker 5 Mile Run and an intergovernmental cooperation agreement.

• Resolution authorizing price adjustment for bituminous materials
• Resolution authorizing disposition of a 2008 Chevrolet Impala
• Resolution authorizing entrance into an intergovernmental cooperation agreement
• Committee request application for Firecracker 5 Mile Run
• Parking kiosk complaints and financial update discussion

The Highway Committee reviewed four action items and will recommend Borough Council approve them: conditional approval of the 48th Annual Firecracker 5 Mile Race, adoption of Resolution 2025-05 for bituminous material price adjustment, Resolution 2025-06 for auctioning a 2008 Chevrolet Impala, and Resolution 2025-07 for an intergovernmental agreement with Ephrata Township for Parkview Heights Road improvements. The committee also discussed the draft Comprehensive Traffic Study Update and parking kiosk complaints, with no further action on the latter.

• Recommended conditional approval of Firecracker 5 Mile Race (unanimous)
• Recommended adoption of Resolution 2025-05 for bituminous price adjustment
• Recommended adoption of Resolution 2025-06 for auctioning 2008 Impala
• Recommended adoption of Resolution 2025-07 for Parkview Heights Road cooperation

Committee Meetings

The Budget and Finance Committee will meet to determine delegates for the PSAB annual meeting. Members will also discuss delinquent utility accounts, the Dog Park Committee, and solicitor invoices.

• PSAB Annual Meeting delegates
• Delinquent Utility Accounts
• Dog Park Committee
• Borough Solicitor Invoices
• Checks and ACH Register

The Budget and Finance Committee met on February 24, 2025, and approved its agenda. The committee will recommend that Borough Council authorize attendance and payment for the 2025 Pennsylvania State Association of Boroughs' Annual Meeting, and appoint Mr. Richard as voting delegate and Mr. Zimmerman as alternate delegate. The committee also discussed delinquent utility accounts, declining to grant relief, and reviewed volunteer interest forms for the Dog Park Committee, noting two applicants do not meet residency criteria.

• Approved meeting agenda as posted (unanimous)
• Will recommend council authorize PSAB Annual Meeting attendance and expenses
• Will recommend Mr. Richard as PSAB Voting Delegate and Mr. Zimmerman as Alternate Delegate
• Restated position to pursue all delinquent utility accounts in full, denying settlement request
• Requested reposting Dog Park Committee volunteer notice due to non-resident applicants

Committee Meetings

The Community Services Committee will meet to decide on 2025 pool pricing and a pool management agreement. The body will also consider several requests for the use of public spaces and discuss baseball field renovations at Grater Park.

• 2025 Pool Pricing
• Pool Management Agreement
• Baseball field renovations at Grater Park
• Easter Egg Hunt use of Grater Park
• Girl Scout cookie sales at Whistle Stop Plaza

The Community Services Committee met on February 24, 2025, and recommended that Borough Council adopt Resolution 2025-09 to increase pool membership rates by 5% for non-residents and 2.5% for residents, with day passes rising by $1. The committee also recommended allowing the American Legion to host an Easter egg hunt on Borough property and authorizing an information box at the Community Gardens. A Girl Scout cookie sale request was withdrawn, and a management agreement discussion was tabled to April.

• Recommended Resolution 2025-09: pool rates up 5% non-resident, 2.5% resident, day passes +$1
• Recommended allowing American Legion Easter egg hunt on Borough property
• Recommended authorizing information box at Community Gardens
• Girl Scout cookie sale request withdrawn; no action
• Tabled management agreement discussion to April

Regular Meeting

The board will conduct its annual reorganization and appoint a solicitor. Additionally, the body will hold a public hearing regarding a special exception request for a short-term rental.

• Appointment of Nikolaus & Hohenadel, LLP as ZHB Solicitor
• Special Exception hearing for short-term rental at 42 N. Church St. (Jesse Beiler)

The Ephrata Zoning Hearing Board unanimously approved a Special Exception for a short-term rental (Airbnb) at 42 N. Church St., subject to Borough Ordinance requirements and a condition that the property manager's contact information be provided. The applicant, Jesse Beiler, plans to use the home as an Airbnb while traveling overseas. The board also approved the agenda, prior minutes, and retained its chair, vice-chair, and solicitor.

• Approved Special Exception for short-term rental at 42 N. Church St. (unanimous)
• Approved meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Approved January 15, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Retained James Kiefer as Chairperson (unanimous)
• Retained Chad Ochs as Vice-Chairperson (unanimous)
• Retained Nikolaus & Hohenadel, LLP as solicitor (unanimous)

Committee Meetings

The Municipal Enterprises Committee is meeting to consider a yard waste agreement with the Borough of Columbia and a PMEA Board appointment. Members will discuss a new rate structure for large commercial and industrial customers in the CBD and provide an update on the solar plant.

• Yard waste agreement with the Borough of Columbia
• PMEA Board appointment
• Solar REC’s recommendation
• New rate structure for large commercial and industrial customers in the CBD
• Feasibility of natural gas for new peak shaving generators

The Municipal Enterprises Committee reviewed and will recommend Borough Council authorize a Municipal Yard Waste Agreement with Columbia Borough for calendar year 2025, with automatic one-year extensions. The committee also recommended appointing Bruce Haws to the PMEA Board and approving council attendance at APPA, AMP, and PMEA conferences. The Solar REC recommendation was tabled pending additional seller information, and several other items were tabled to the March meeting.

• Recommended Borough Council authorize Municipal Yard Waste Agreement with Columbia Borough
• Recommended Borough Council adopt Resolution 2025-08 appointing Bruce Haws to PMEA Board
• Tabled Solar REC recommendation pending additional seller's information
• Recommended Borough Council approve council attendance at APPA, AMP, and PMEA Conferences
• Tabled Free Electric Accounts discussion until March meeting
• Tabled Garage Cost Reductions until March meeting

Committee Meetings

The Personnel Committee is meeting to discuss key projects and initiatives. The discussion will focus on goals leading up to the retirement of Nancy Harris and objectives for Chief McKim for the remainder of the year.

• Review of projects and goals for Nancy Harris prior to retirement
• Review of projects and goals for Chief McKim for the rest of 2025

The Personnel Committee met on February 18, 2025, and approved the posted agenda unanimously. No action items were taken. The committee discussed Nancy Harris's key projects before her retirement, including establishing a Stormwater Authority, recruiting an electrical engineer, and studying electric rates. Chief McKim outlined police department goals, such as leadership training and increased community patrols.

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

Committee Meetings

The Public Safety Committee will consider a formal exploration of a police canine program and discuss the EMA report, code violations and quick ticket process, a police report, and nuisance activity. An executive session on a contract is also planned.

• Formal exploration of Police Canine Program (presentation)
• Discussion of EMA report
• Discussion of code violations and quick ticket process
• Discussion of police report
• Discussion of nuisance activity

The Public Safety Committee approved moving forward with authorization for the police department to pursue grant opportunities and work with the Friends of the Ephrata Police Foundation for a Police Canine Program. The committee also received reports on emergency management and code enforcement, with no other formal decisions made.

• Approved moving forward authorization for police canine program grant pursuit and fundraising (unanimous)
• Approved meeting agenda as posted (unanimous)

Committee Meetings

The Special Projects Committee will vote to approve a gateway sign for Ephrata Toastmasters and discuss possibly relocating the 272 South Gateway sign. The next committee meeting is scheduled for March 17, 2025.

• Approval of Ephrata Toastmasters Gateway Sign
• Discussion of possible relocation of 272 South Gateway Sign

The Special Projects Committee approved a gateway sign renewal application from Ephrata Cloister Toastmasters, with no Council action required. The Committee also discussed relocating the 272 South gateway at Musselman Lumber but decided it was unnecessary; instead, it agreed to illuminate the sign per land development plan conditions.

• Approved gateway sign renewal for Ephrata Cloister Toastmasters (unanimous)
• Decided not to relocate 272 South gateway at Musselman Lumber
• Agreed to illuminate Musselman Lumber gateway sign per land development plan

Regular Meeting

The Ephrata Borough Authority is meeting to approve financial reports and pay bills, with action items focused on the WWTF No. 1 Biosolids Project. They will consider a progress report from GHD Inc. and approve requisitions and invoices totaling over $90,000. Three resolutions updating authorized signers at Ephrata National Bank are also up for adoption. No discussion items are listed.

• WWTF No. 1 Biosolids Project update from GHD Inc. with job conference progress report
• 2022 Construction Fund Requisition No. 20 for $45,358.05 from Fulton Bank
• GHD Inc. invoices: No. 380-0063460 for $14,719.50 and No. 380-0064335 for $28,517.05
• Becker Engineering Invoice No. 27628 for $1,200.00
• Resolutions 2025-01, 2025-02, and 2025-03 updating authorized signers at Ephrata National Bank

The Ephrata Borough Authority approved a $45,358.05 requisition for the WWTF No. 1 Biosolids Project, covering invoices from GHD, Becker Engineering, and Salzmann Hughes. They also approved resolutions updating authorized signers for Ephrata National Bank accounts. The board heard updates on the biosolids project, including testing schedule concerns and overtime costs, but took no action on those items.

• Approved $45,358.05 in invoices for WWTF No. 1 Biosolids Project (unanimous)
• Approved Resolutions 2025-01, 2025-02, 2025-03 updating bank authorized signers (unanimous)
• Approved financial reports (unanimous)
• Ratified payment of bills (unanimous)
• Approved meeting agenda as posted (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of January 13, 2025 meeting (unanimous)

Voting Session

Borough Council will consider several police promotions and the approval of a Preliminary Land Development Plan for 232 South Reading Road. The session includes votes on fire service ordinances, public event permits, and the establishment of a dog park advisory committee.

• Promotions for two Police Lieutenants and four Police Sergeants
• Preliminary Land Development Plan for 232 South Reading Road
• Unbudgeted expenditure of $28,420 for a Forenscope TM device via PCCD grant
• Ordinances No. 1592 and 1593 regarding Fire Emergency Services Reimbursement and Fire Insurance Escrow
• Resolution 2025-04 to establish a Citizen Advisory Committee for the Ephrata Unleashed Dog Park

Ephrata Borough Council approved multiple police promotions, enacted ordinances for fire emergency services reimbursement and fire insurance escrow, and approved a preliminary land development plan for 232 South Reading Road. The council also approved several event permits and resolutions, including a $28,420 unbudgeted expenditure for a Forenscope device. All votes were unanimous.

• Approved police promotions to lieutenant and sergeant (unanimous)
• Enacted Ordinance No. 1592 for fire emergency services reimbursement (unanimous)
• Enacted Ordinance No. 1593 for fire insurance escrow (unanimous)
• Approved $28,420 unbudgeted expenditure for Forenscope device (unanimous)
• Approved preliminary land development plan for 232 South Reading Road (unanimous)
• Approved conditional event permits for triathlon, fireworks, and other events (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 2025-04 establishing dog park citizen advisory committee (unanimous)
• Ratified checks and ACH register totaling $2,212,312.83 (unanimous)

Work Session

The Ephrata Borough Council will discuss several committee-recommended items at this work session, including two new ordinances related to fire emergency cost reimbursement and insurance proceeds for fire losses, as well as a resolution establishing a citizen advisory committee for the dog park. Proposed events from Mainspring of Ephrata and the Recreation Center, and a preliminary plan approval for 232 South Reading Road, are also on the agenda. No final votes are expected at this work session.

• Ordinance 1592: Adding fire emergency services cost reimbursement for volunteer fire departments.
• Ordinance 1593: Requiring insurers to transfer proceeds for fire losses to pay delinquent taxes or repair costs.
• Ordinance 1594: Amending park rules to prohibit overnight parking and other prohibited acts.
• Resolution 2025-04: Establishing a citizen advisory committee for the Ephrata Unleashed dog park.
• Preliminary plan approval for 232 South Reading Road.

The Ephrata Borough Council held a work session on February 3, 2025, where they discussed but did not vote on several items, including resolutions on tax exoneration and records disposition, ordinances on fire cost reimbursement and insurance proceeds, and various event requests. The only formal action was approving the agenda as posted. No substantive decisions were made, as this was a discussion session.

• Approved agenda as posted (unanimous)
• Discussed Resolution 2025-01 on tax exoneration for borough-owned parcels
• Discussed Resolution 2025-02 on records disposition
• Discussed Ordinance 1592 on fire emergency services cost reimbursement
• Discussed Ordinance 1593 on insurance proceeds for fire losses
• Discussed Ordinance 1594 on parks and recreation prohibited acts
• Tabled Hold Harmless Agreement for 224 Mason Drive
• Discussed multiple event requests and resolutions

Voting Session

The Ephrata Area Joint Authority will hold a voting session to elect officers, approve minutes and financial reports, and take action on three items: a matching funds commitment letter for a Susquehanna River Basin Commission grant for a 2025 leak detection upgrade, a deed of dedication for water facilities from Property Investing and Management for Ephrata Crossing-Phase 3, and an agreement to construct water facilities from Morgan Truck Body. They will also discuss the Akron Interconnect.

• Susquehanna River Basin Commission – Consumptive Use Mitigation Grant Matching Funds Commitment Letter for 2025 Leak Detection Upgrade Project
• Property Investing and Management, Inc.: Ephrata Crossing-Phase 3 – Deed of Dedication of Water Facilities
• Morgan Truck Body, LLC: Agreement to Construct Water Facilities
• Discussion: Akron Interconnect

The Ephrata Area Joint Authority held a routine voting session with no public comments and no action items. The board unanimously approved the meeting agenda, the January 29, 2025 minutes, financial reports, and ratified the payment of bills. Discussion items covered a boil water notice from a West Queen Street water main break, distribution system maintenance concerns, and ongoing engineering projects.

• Approved meeting agenda as posted (unanimous)
• Approved January 29, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved financial reports (unanimous)
• Ratified payment of bills via roll call vote (unanimous)

Committee Meetings

The Ephrata Borough Budget and Finance Committee will vote on two resolutions: exonerating taxes on borough-owned properties and approving records disposition. Discussion items include the fourth-quarter 2024 budget review, purchase order carryovers, and an unbudgeted expenditure. The committee will also receive updates on police security at inauguration events, a grant report, delinquent utility accounts, and solicitor invoices.

• Resolution 2025-01: Exonerating taxes on borough-owned properties
• Resolution 2025-02: Disposition of records
• 4th Quarter 2024 budget review
• Ephrata Police security at inauguration events
• Delinquent utility account update

The Budget and Finance Committee met on January 27, 2025, and reviewed two resolutions: one to exonerate taxes on Borough-owned properties and another to authorize disposition of specific records. The Committee will recommend that Borough Council adopt both resolutions at their February 10, 2025 meeting. No other formal actions were taken; the rest of the meeting consisted of informational updates and discussions.

• Recommended Resolution 2025-01 exonerating taxes on Borough-owned properties for Council adoption
• Recommended Resolution 2025-02 authorizing disposition of specific records for Council adoption
• Approved meeting agenda as posted (unanimous)

Committee Meetings

The Community Services Committee is meeting to vote on resolutions and ordinances regarding local parks and public events. Members will also review the 2024 fourth quarter budget and a pool management agreement.

• Resolution to establish a Citizen Advisory Committee for Ephrata Unleashed Dog Park
• Ordinance to prohibit overnight parking at Ephrata Park
• Fourth of July Fireworks request
• Request to place luminaries on WERT on November 11, 2025
• Request to adopt a portion of WERT

The Community Services Committee reviewed several action items and will recommend Borough Council adopt Resolution 2025-04 to establish a citizen advisory committee for the Ephrata Unleashed Dog Park, and enact Ordinance No. 1594 to prohibit overnight parking in Borough Parks. The Committee also recommended conditional approval for the Fourth of July fireworks at Lincoln Heights Outdoor Recreation Area and for Luminaries on the WERT, both subject to insurance requirements. No final decisions were made; all items are recommendations to Borough Council.

• Recommended adoption of Resolution 2025-04 to establish citizen advisory committee for Ephrata Unleashed Dog Park
• Recommended enactment of Ordinance No. 1594 amending Chapter 221 to prohibit overnight parking in Borough Parks
• Recommended conditional approval of fireworks at Lincoln Heights Outdoor Recreation Area subject to Incident Support Plan and insurance
• Recommended conditional approval of Luminaries on WERT from E. Fulton St. to Queen St. subject to insurance

Committee Meetings

The Development Activities Committee will act on a preliminary plan for 232 South Reading Road and other items including a hold harmless agreement and event requests. Discussion items include the 4th quarter budget review, Mainspring of Ephrata's objectives, a Rise Up Tower lease, and zoning decisions. A short-term rental application at 42 North Church Street is also scheduled for review.

• Preliminary plan approval for 232 South Reading Road
• Hold harmless agreement for 224 Mason Drive
• Rhythm & Brews event request at Ephrata Recreation Center
• Rise Up Tower lease and draft plans (discussion)
• Short-term rental zoning application at 42 North Church Street (discussion)

The Development Activities Committee reviewed several items and made recommendations to Borough Council. They recommended approving a subdivision and land development plan for 232 South Reading Road, subject to conditions, and recommended granting event permits for the Rec Center and Mainspring, subject to insurance and permit requirements. The Hold Harmless Agreement for 224 Mason Drive was tabled pending more information.

• Tabled Hold Harmless Agreement for 224 Mason Drive pending more info
• Recommended granting Rhythm & Blues Event permit for Grater Park, subject to insurance and PLCB permit
• Recommended granting Mainspring Happy Hour permit (May-Aug), subject to insurance and PLCB permit
• Recommended granting Mainspring First Saturday Events permits, subject to insurance and PLCB permit
• Recommended approving subdivision plan at 232 S Reading Rd with one waiver, two deferrals, and HRG comments

Committee Meetings

The Ephrata Borough Highway Committee will meet to consider several event-related street closure requests and a resolution to dispose of a 2012 Freightliner street sweeper. Discussion items include a fourth-quarter budget review, 2025 street improvement projects with Ephrata Township, a comprehensive traffic study presentation, and ADA accessibility updates for parking kiosks.

• IM ABLE Foundation's 'Got the Nerve' Triathlon event request
• Ephrata Rec Center requests for 4th of July fireworks and Memorial Day 5K street closures
• Mainspring of Ephrata requests for Christmas Tree Lighting and Veterans Day event street closures
• Resolution 2025-XX authorizing disposition of a 2012 Freightliner Elgin Whirlwind street sweeper
• Discussion of 2025 street improvements cooperative projects with Ephrata Township

The Highway Committee reviewed several event requests and recommended conditional approval to Borough Council, including the IM ABLE Foundation's 'Got the Nerve' Triathlon, the Ephrata Rec Center's July 4th road closure and Memorial Day 5K, and Mainspring of Ephrata's Tree Lighting and Veterans Day events. The Committee also recommended adopting Resolution No. 2025-03 to auction a 2012 street sweeper. No final decisions were made; all recommendations are subject to Council approval.

• Recommended conditional approval of 'Got the Nerve' Triathlon (unanimous)
• Recommended conditional approval of July 4th South Academy Drive closure (unanimous)
• Recommended conditional approval of Memorial Day 5K (unanimous)
• Recommended conditional approval of Tree Lighting & Santa's Arrival (unanimous)
• Recommended conditional approval of Veterans Day Railroad Avenue closure (unanimous)
• Recommended adoption of Resolution No. 2025-03 for street sweeper auction (unanimous)

Regular Meeting

The Planning Commission will reorganize by electing a chairperson and vice-chairperson, then consider approval of the agenda and prior meeting minutes. The main action item is a preliminary/final plan review for 232 South Reading Road.

• Reorganization: election of chairperson and vice-chairperson
• Approval of November 19, 2024 meeting minutes
• 232 South Reading Road Preliminary/Final Plan review

The Ephrata Borough Planning Commission approved the preliminary/final plan for 232 South Reading Road, with one member opposing due to concerns about housing density and layout. The commission also approved a deferral for street curb and sidewalk requirements and waived a reverse frontage lot requirement. The plan still needs to address comments from the January 14, 2025, engineering review.

• Approved preliminary plan for 232 South Reading Road (majority, Leed opposed)
• Approved deferral for Street Curb and Sidewalk Requirement (unanimous)
• Waived Section 281-31.D, Reverse Frontage Lots on Arterial Streets (unanimous)
• Approved meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Elected William Rohrbach as Chairperson (unanimous)
• Elected Roger Leed as Vice-Chairperson (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of November 2024 meeting (unanimous)

Regular Meeting

The Ephrata Shade Tree Commission will discuss 2025 goals, a tree inventory mapping update, and the addition of 16 trees to the database. A key item is a proposal for a Tree Bank sign, which requires approval from the township. The commission will also plan for Arbor Day and receive an update on Main Tree City USA status.

• Tree Bank sign proposal seeking township approval
• 16 trees cataloged for addition to the tree bank database
• 2025 Arbor Day planning and letter to Borough Council
• Tree inventory mapping and review of Tree Sheet outline
• Main Tree City USA under national review

The Ephrata Shade Tree Commission held a regular meeting with no major decisions. The only formal action was unanimous approval of an invitation to participate in Arbor Day 2025, which will be sent to Borough Council. Other items were discussions or updates, including the tree inventory, Tree City USA application status, tree bank plans, and a proposed sign.

• Approved Arbor Day 2025 participation invitation (unanimous)

Committee Meetings

The committee is meeting to discuss energy procurement and electric utility management. No formal actions are scheduled for this meeting.

• Block energy purchase discussion
• Solar plant status update
• 4th Quarter budget review
• Electric rate for 130 E. Main Street
• Review of free electric accounts and electric garage cost reductions

The Municipal Enterprises Committee met on January 20, 2025, and approved the meeting agenda as posted. No action items were taken. Discussions included the Block Energy Purchase for 2026-2028 at $47.76/Mwh, solar plant inverter repairs, the 4th Quarter 2024 budget report, electric rates at 130 E. Main Street, and cost reductions for the Electric Division Garage. The Free Electric Accounts discussion was tabled to February 18, 2025.

• Approved meeting agenda as posted (unanimous)
• Tabled Free Electric Accounts discussion to February 18, 2025

Committee Meetings

The Public Safety Committee will consider action items including approval of an unbudgeted expenditure for a reimbursable grant, promotion of lieutenants and sergeants, and two proposed ordinances establishing fire emergency services reimbursement and a fire insurance escrow. Discussion items include an EMA report, 4th quarter 2024 budget review, police reports, and a WERT safety request. The meeting includes a scheduled executive session for contract discussion.

• Approve unbudgeted expenditure for reimbursable grant
• Approve promotion of lieutenants and sergeants
• Proposed ordinance establishing fire emergency services reimbursement
• Proposed ordinance establishing a fire insurance escrow
• WERT safety request discussion

The Public Safety Committee moved forward several action items, including an unbudgeted $28,420 expenditure for a Forenscope device (reimbursable by a PCCD grant), promotions of multiple officers to lieutenant and sergeant effective February 10, 2025, and two proposed ordinances on fire emergency services reimbursement and fire insurance escrow. These items were moved forward for further consideration, not final approval. The committee also discussed EMA reports, a budget review, and police reports, and held an executive session on a contract.

• Moved forward unbudgeted $28,420 Forenscope purchase (PCCD grant reimbursable)
• Moved forward promotions: Lockhart, Randolph to Lieutenant; Thorp, Kertsman, Cook, Allen to Sergeant
• Moved forward ordinance authorizing fire emergency services insurance billing
• Moved forward ordinance establishing fire insurance escrow
• Approved meeting agenda as posted (unanimous)

Regular Meeting

The Ephrata Zoning Hearing Board will hold a public hearing on an application from LCW Holdings, LLC for a special exception to demolish a pre-1940 structure at 237 E. Fulton St., a variance for the main door facing a street, and a 12-month extension to obtain the required permit. The property is in a Residential High-Density Zoning District.

• First hearing: Special exception for demolition of principal structure built before 1940 at 237 E. Fulton St. under Section 319-33.B
• Variance request for requirement that main door face a street under Section 319-23.D
• Request for 12-month extension (total 30 months) to obtain permit under Section 319-79.G.(1)

The Zoning Hearing Board approved a combined request for a special exception to demolish a pre-1940 dwelling, a variance for the main door facing, and a 12-month extension at 237 E. Fulton St. The applicant, LCW Holdings, LLC, plans to replace the existing single-family home with two multi-family buildings totaling 12 units. The motion carried by majority vote with one opposed.

• Approved meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Approved December 18, 2024 minutes (unanimous)
• Closed testimony (unanimous)
• Approved combined demolition special exception, door variance, and 12-month extension (majority, one opposed)

Regular Meeting

The Ephrata Borough Authority will reorganize by electing officers and appointing a solicitor and engineer, then consider several action items. Key decisions include approving a $219,381.55 requisition for the WWTF No. 1 Biosolids Project and authorizing construction contracts with J. Phillips Excavating and Hauling. The board will also discuss three sanitary sewer capacity requests from neighboring townships and receive an informational update on the stormwater utility.

• Requisition No. 19 from Fulton Bank's 2022 Construction Fund for $219,381.55 to Lobar, Inc. (Application for Payment No. 30)
• Authorizing execution of construction contracts with J. Phillips Excavating and Hauling conditioned on funding
• East Cocalico Township Water Authority: sanitary sewer capacity request for Water Treatment Plant GUDI Upgrade Project
• Becker Engineering: sanitary sewer capacity request for Electric Division Complex (Ephrata Borough)
• Diehm and Sons: sanitary sewer capacity request for Enterprise Road Realty LLC Lot 6 (Clay Township)

The Ephrata Borough Authority approved a $219,381.55 payment for the WWTF No. 1 Biosolids project, conditionally approved a construction contract for the Landis Road Sanitary Sewer Replacement Project pending funding, and approved three sanitary sewer capacity requests. The board also reorganized for 2025, reappointing all officers and professionals. No public comments were made, and the meeting adjourned after an executive session.

• Approved $219,381.55 payment to Lobar, Inc. for biosolids project (unanimous)
• Conditionally approved J. Phillips Excavating contract for Landis Road sewer project pending funding (unanimous)
• Approved 8,020 GPD sewer capacity request for East Cocalico Township Water Authority (unanimous)
• Approved 135 GPD sewer capacity request for Becker Engineering (unanimous)
• Approved 340 GPD sewer capacity request for Diehm and Sons (unanimous)
• Reappointed officers and professionals for 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved financial reports and ratified bill payments (unanimous)

Civil Service Commission Meeting

The Ephrata Civil Service Commission will consider approving its 2024 annual report and certify eligibility lists for the positions of Police Lieutenant and Police Sergeant. These certifications will establish the pool of candidates eligible for promotion.

• Certification of eligibility list for Police Lieutenant
• Certification of eligibility list for Police Sergeant
• Approval of 2024 Civil Service Commission Annual Report

Voting Session

The Borough Council will consider the ratification of several administrative documents, including by-laws, ethics guidelines, and performance evaluation processes. The body will also review financial reports and approve a register of checks and ACH payments.

• Ratification of By-Laws, Rules of Order, and Code of Ethics/Conflicts of Interest Guidelines
• Approval of Performance Evaluation Guidelines for the Borough Manager and Chief of Police
• Approval of December 2024 General Ledger Report
• Approval of November 2024 Lincoln Fire Company report
• Approval of checks 55477 through 55737 and the ACH Register dated January 2, 2025

The Ephrata Borough Council unanimously approved the agenda, minutes, and reports, and ratified a series of personnel and governance documents. It also approved checks and an ACH register totaling $2,467,499.33. No substantive policy decisions or project approvals were made beyond these routine ratifications.

• Approved agenda as posted (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from Dec 1 and Dec 9, 2024 meetings (unanimous)
• Approved December 2024 General Ledger and November 2024 Lincoln Fire Company reports (unanimous)
• Ratified personnel and governance documents including by-laws, code of ethics, and performance evaluation guidelines (unanimous)
• Ratified checks #55477-#55737 and ACH register totaling $2,467,499.33 (unanimous)

Civil Service Commission Meeting

The Civil Service Commission is meeting to organize positions and establish its 2025 meeting schedule. The body will review the 2024 Annual Report and schedule a special meeting regarding the promotional process.

• Approval of November 18, 2024 meeting minutes
• Organization of positions
• Establishment of 2025 meeting dates: April 7, July 7, and October 6
• Review of 2024 Civil Service Commission Annual Report
• Scheduling of a special meeting for the promotional process