Slatington public meetings in 2025

Water/Sewer/Highway Workshop Committee

The Water/Sewer/Highway Workshop Committee meeting that was scheduled for Monday, December 22, 2025, has been cancelled. No agenda items will be considered or decided at this time.

Borough Council

The Slatington Borough Council will meet to approve Keystone Consulting Engineers as the zoning contractor and to vote on Resolution R-24-25 regarding employee wages. The meeting includes a public participation period and an executive session.

• Approval of Keystone Consulting Engineers as Borough Zoning contractor
• Vote on Resolution R-24-25 for employee wages
• Public participation period (3 minutes per person)
• Executive session to discuss items for the wage resolution
• Meeting held at 125 S. Walnut Street

The council approved Keystone Consulting Engineers as the borough's zoning contractor and authorized the manager to sign the agreement. It also approved Resolution R-24-25, setting wages for certain borough employees. The meeting was then adjourned by voice vote.

• Approved Keystone Consulting Engineers as borough zoning contractor (motion passed)
• Authorized Borough Manager Hambrecht to sign the zoning contract (motion passed)
• Approved Resolution R-24-25 for wages of certain borough employees (motion passed)
• Adjourned the meeting by voice vote (all in favor)

Finance Planning/Zoning, Public Safety, and Human/Community Services Committee

The Finance Planning/Zoning, Public Safety, and Human/Community Services Committee meeting scheduled for December 15, 2025, is cancelled.

The Finance/Planning/Zoning, Public Safety, and Human/Community Services Committee met on December 15, 2025. Members discussed rental licensing fees, signage for rear‑access homes, light‑pole color options, sale of old Christmas lights, a possible skill‑game tax, stop‑sign reflectors, budget items, and visioning for police, fire and community services. No formal decisions, approvals, denials, or votes were recorded.

Borough Council

Borough Council will consider adopting the 2026 budget and Ordinance 725 to set real-estate, per capita, and wage tax rates. The body will also discuss sewer and water infrastructure projects and contract extensions.

• Motion to adopt 2026 budget and Ordinance 725 fixing tax rates
• Payment of $344,979.44 to Ronnie C. Folk Paving for Maple Spring Rd
• Ordinance 726 regarding PennVest Loan not to exceed $993,340 for water meter modernization
• Resolution R-23-25 for a one-year extension on the trash and recycling collection contract
• Approval of 2026 Community Yard Sale dates: May 15-17 and September 11-13

The council adopted the 2026 municipal budget and approved Ordinance 725 setting real‑estate, wage, service, transfer and fire fund tax rates for fiscal year 2026. It also approved reflective aluminum signs for Ordinance 723 at a cost under $10,000. Community yard sales for 2026 were authorized, and the council adopted the 2026 meeting schedule.

• Approved 2026 budget (6‑0 roll call)
• Approved Ordinance 725 tax rates (6‑0 roll call)
• Approved Resolution R‑22‑25 for tax‑information liaison (voice vote)
• Approved reflective signs for Ordinance 723 (6‑0 roll call)
• Approved 2026 community yard sales (voice vote)
• Approved 2026 meeting schedule (voice vote)
• Approved payment of accounts payable (roll call)
• Amended agenda to open hearings for Ordinances 725 and 726 (voice vote)

Water/Sewer/Highway Workshop Committee

The Water/Sewer/Highway Workshop Committee meeting scheduled for November 24, 2025, is cancelled.

The scheduled Water/Sewer/Highway Workshop Committee meeting for November 24, 2025 was cancelled. No agenda items were considered, and no decisions were made.

Finance Planning/Zoning, Public Safety, and Human/Community Services Committee

The Finance/Planning/Zoning, Public Safety, and Human/Community Services Committee will discuss a range of topics. Items include rental license fees, light pole color options, sale of old Christmas lights, a proposed tax on skill games, and ordinance language for rear‑access home numbering. The meeting also covers stop‑sign reflector needs, budget matters, and visioning for police and fire services.

• Discussion of requiring rental licenses and increasing registration cost
• Discussion of light pole color choice (Grey, Black, or Green)
• Discussion of sale of old Christmas lights
• Discussion of adding a tax on skill games as additional revenue
• Ordinance 723 language changes for rear‑access home numbering

The committee voted to extend the rental registration response period from January 31 to March 315, starting in 2027. It approved black as the color for new Main Street light poles. It agreed to sell old Christmas lights for $50 each, with delivery scheduled for November 26, 2025. The meeting was formally adjourned after a motion was made and seconded.

• Extended rental registration response deadline to March 315, effective 2027
• Set new Main Street light pole color to black
• Approved sale of old Christmas lights at $50 each (delivery Nov 26, 2025)
• Motion to adjourn the meeting was made, seconded, and adopted

Borough Council

The Borough Council will consider bids for a water meter project and the advertisement of the preliminary 2026 budget. Members will also discuss a trash and recycling contract extension and PFAS water testing.

• Motion to authorize a one-year extension of trash and recycling contract with a 5 percent increase
• Discussion and possible award of bid for Water Meter Project
• Motion to advertise the preliminary 2026 budget
• Discussion of PFAS Settlement and possible water testing for PFAS contamination
• Motion to approve Community Tree Lighting event on December 5, 2025

The council approved the borough's accounts payable and transfers, adopted a $476,297 sewer‑cover commitment letter, and authorized a one‑year extension of the trash and recycling contract with a 5% CPI increase. It also passed a resolution to dispose of certain records and approved several community events, including a Thanksgiving dinner drive‑through, a public‑health vending machine, and a tree‑lighting ceremony.

• Approved accounts payable and transfers (roll‑call vote)
• Approved Sewer Cover Commitment Letter for $476,297 (roll‑call vote)
• Authorized one‑year extension of trash and recycling contract with 5% increase (roll‑call vote)
• Approved Resolution R‑21‑25 to dispose of records per retention policy (roll‑call vote)
• Approved St John’s United Church Thanksgiving Day Dinner Drive‑Through (voice vote, all in favor)
• Approved installation of Public Health Vending Machine (voice vote, all in favor)
• Approved Venture Group/G.N. Chamber community tree‑lighting event on Dec 5, pending outlet repairs (voice vote, all in favor)
• Approved minutes of the October 13, 2025 meeting with corrections (voice vote, all in favor)

Water/Sewer/Highway Workshop Committee

The Water/Sewer/Highway Workshop Committee will discuss Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) projects and non‑CDBG projects. It will also consider repaving of Maple Spring Road and review departmental budgets, updates, and visioning. Additional items include an update on the water‑meter timeline and a discussion of water‑usage minimums.

• Discussion of CDBG projects
• Discussion of non‑CDBG projects
• Maple Spring Rd repaving
• Update on water meters timeline
• Discussion of water usage minimums

The Water, Sewer/Solid Waste, and Highway Committee discussed ongoing projects, budget items, and public‑health proposals but did not approve, deny, or adopt any measures. The only formal action was a motion to adjourn, which passed unanimously. All discussed items will be placed on future Council agendas.

• Adjourned meeting (all members in favor)

Finance Planning/Zoning, Public Safety, and Human/Community Services Committee

The Finance/Planning/Zoning, Public Safety, and Human/Community Services Committee will discuss a draft employee handbook, the Economic Development Committee, and a proposed tax on skill games as a new revenue source. They will also review budget items such as water line repairs, staff and contractor salaries for 2026, healthcare costs, and union contract negotiations. The Public Safety subcommittee will decide on the financing path for a new fire truck and consider a police vehicle replacement plan. The Human/Community Services subcommittee will consider a request for a Community Tree Lighting event on December 5, 2025.

• Discuss adding a tax on skill games as an additional revenue source
• Review draft employee handbook
• Decide financing path for the fire truck
• Review request for Community Tree Lighting event on Dec 5, 2025
• Budget discussions on water line repair, staff/contractor salaries, healthcare costs, and union contracts

The Finance/Planning/Zoning Committee agreed to the proposed revisions to the disciplinary portion of the draft employee handbook. Several items—including incorporation of the Economic Development Committee, a skill‑game tax proposal, budget repair quotes, and a review of Ordinance 723—were deferred to the November 10 council meeting. The Public Safety Committee tasked the borough manager with exploring financing options for a new fire truck and placed police vehicle rotation in the 2026 budget for council review. The Human/Community Services Committee also moved the proposed community tree‑lighting event to the November 10 council meeting.

• Approved revisions to the employee handbook disciplinary section
• Deferred Economic Development Committee incorporation proposal to Nov 10 council meeting
• Deferred skill‑game tax proposal ($100 per machine) to Nov 10 council meeting
• Deferred request for 2026 repair cost quotes to Nov 10 council meeting
• Tasked manager to explore fire‑truck financing with Transcend Finance
• Included police vehicle rotation in the 2026 budget for council consideration
• Deferred review of Ordinance 723 street‑numbering costs to Nov 10 council meeting
• Deferred community tree‑lighting event request to Nov 10 council meeting

Borough Council

The Slatington Borough Council will review and vote on several resolutions, including a request for a local share assessment grant to fund trickling filter covers at the wastewater treatment plant. The meeting also includes approval of Ordinance 724 to collect attorney fees on unpaid municipal claims, a FCC frequency‑sharing concurrence letter, and payment of sewer authority bills totaling $7,579.16. Additional items are updates on CDBG projects, public safety topics, and a $100 sand purchase for the Veterans Memorial.

• Resolution R-18-25: authorize application for a Northampton/Lehigh County Local Share Assessment grant for wastewater treatment plant trickling filter covers
• Resolution R-20-25: approve a Consent Order and Agreement (details attached)
• Ordinance 724: adopt collection of attorney fees and charges on unpaid municipal claims
• FCC TDMA Concurrence: approve statement to share a common frequency with Lancaster City
• Sewer Authority bills: Tad Miller $125.00; Hamburg, Rubin, Mullen, Maxwell & Lupin PC Services $7,387.50; David Frederick petty cash $66.66; total $7,579.16

The council adopted Ordinance 724, which permits adding attorney fees and charges to unpaid municipal claims. It also approved several financial items, including payment of accounts payable, a $2,000 donation to the America 250 NL PA Committee, and a $100 sand purchase for the Veterans Memorial. Additional actions included authorizing the borough manager to sign an FCC frequency‑sharing letter, adopting a resolution setting ZHB member pay at $42 per meeting, and approving the Lions Club Christmas Tree Sales fundraiser.

• Approved payment of bills and transfers (Accounts Payable) – passed by roll call
• Authorized Manager Hambrecht to sign FCC TDMA concurrence – passed by voice vote, all in favor
• Approved purchase of sand ($100) for Veterans Memorial – passed by roll call
• Approved Lions Club Christmas Tree Sales fundraiser (11/21‑12/30) – passed by voice vote, 5 Aye, 2 Abstain
• Adopted Resolution R-19-25 setting ZHB member pay at $42 per meeting – passed by roll call
• Approved Ordinance 724 adding attorney fees to unpaid claims – passed by roll call
• Authorized Attorney Young to complete garbage‑collection RFP – passed by voice vote, all in favor
• Approved $2,000 donation to America 250 NL PA Committee – passed by roll call

Water/Sewer/Highway Workshop Committee

The Water/Sewer/Highway Workshop Committee will discuss highway projects, including CDBG and non‑CDBG initiatives and repaving of Maple Spring Road. Members will review budget and visioning topics for highway, sewer, and water services. An update on the PennVest water‑meter program will also be presented.

• Maple Spring Rd repaving
• Discussion of CDBG highway projects
• Discussion of non‑CDBG highway projects
• Update on PennVest water meters
• Budget and visioning discussions for highway, sewer, and water

The committee passed a motion to adjourn the meeting at 7:18 PM with all members in favor. Members agreed not to raise water or sewer rates until additional data are analyzed. The committee also agreed to gather more information on water‑billing discrepancies and continue the discussion at a future meeting.

• Motion to adjourn passed (unanimous)
• Agreed not to raise water and sewer rates without further data
• Agreed to obtain more information on water‑billing discrepancies

Finance Planning/Zoning, Public Safety, and Human/Community Services Committee

The Finance/Planning/Zoning, Public Safety, and Human/Community Services Committee will discuss a draft employee handbook, a $2,000 funding request from New Bethany 40, and the Zoning Hearing Board pay schedule of $42 per meeting or case. Additional topics include financing options for the fire track (LSA Statewide, PennVest, CDBG), union contract considerations, and budget and visioning discussions across all three areas.

• Review of $2,000 request from New Bethany 40 for municipal fund appeal
• Zoning Hearing Board pay schedule set at $42 per meeting or case
• Financing options for fire track: LSA Statewide, PennVest, CDBG
• Discussion of a second siren for public safety (may not be needed)
• Homecoming Parade planning (attachment)

The committee awarded the electrical work to Shafnisky Electric for $8,550 after a motion was passed. It rejected a $2,000 funding request from New Bethany 40. The $42 per‑meeting Zoning Hearing Board fee was added to the 2026 fee schedule, and Attorney Young was tasked with investigating an amusement tax.

• Awarded Shafnisky Electric $8,550 contract for electrical work (motion passed)
• Rejected New Bethany 40's $2,000 request for Municipal Fund Appeal
• Added $42 Zoning Hearing Board fee to 2026 fee schedule
• Assigned Attorney Young to investigate a potential amusement tax
• Approved review of draft employee handbook by the Union

Borough Council

The Slatington Borough Council will review financing for a new fire truck, update on Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) construction projects, and consider accepting bids for the Fifth Street CDBG project. The meeting also includes discussions on network upgrades, electrical repairs, and a settlement agreement with the DEP.

• Discussion on financing for a new fire truck
• CDBG project updates for Hill Street, Willow Ave, and Cherry St
• Fifth Street CDBG project bid opening and potential contract award
• Acceptance of settlement agreement with DEP
• Consideration of Kohl Brothers quote for new Effluent pump

The council approved the award of a $198,776.67 bid to G & B Construction for the Fifth Street CDBG project after a roll‑call vote. It also adopted Ordinances 722 and 723, approved a $4,646 fire‑siren purchase, and accepted a $5,497.37 network‑upgrade quote for the Maintenance Building. Additional actions included approving the Homecoming Parade request and advertising Ordinance 724.

• Awarded $198,776.67 to G & B Construction for Fifth Street CDBG project (motion passed)
• Approved $4,646 purchase of new fire siren from ECCO Communications, LLC (motion passed)
• Adopted Ordinance No. 722 prohibiting camping/residing/loitering in public spaces (motion passed)
• Adopted Ordinance No. 723 requiring rear‑access homes to display address signs (motion passed)
• Approved $5,497.37 quote from ET&T for network upgrades to Maintenance Building (motion passed)
• Approved Northern Lehigh School District Homecoming Parade on Oct 10, 2025 (voice vote, all in favor)
• Approved advertising of Ordinance 724 on attorney fees for delinquent accounts (motion passed)
• Approved minutes of previous meetings with corrections (voice vote, all in favor)

Borough Council

The Slatington Borough Council will hold a special meeting to consider adopting a Hazard Mitigation Plan resolution, potentially accepting bids and awarding the Maple Spring Improvement Project, and approving a previously authorized zoning settlement. The meeting includes standard procedural items and public participation.

• Adapt the Hazard Mitigation Plan Resolution
• Possible acceptance of bids and award of the Maple Spring Improvement Project
• Resolution to approve and affirm Zoning settlement previously authorized

The council adopted the Lehigh Valley 2024 Hazard Mitigation Plan update (Resolution R-15-25) and accepted bids for the Maple Spring Drive Improvement Project, both by voice vote. It awarded Ronny C. Folks Paving, Inc. a $480,857.75 contract for the Maple Spring Drive Improvements. The council also approved a zoning settlement (Resolution R-16-25). The meeting was adjourned by voice vote.

• Adopted Lehigh Valley 2024 Hazard Mitigation Plan update (Resolution R-15-25) – voice vote, all in favor
• Accepted bids for Maple Spring Drive Improvement Project – voice vote, all in favor
• Awarded Ronny C. Folks Paving, Inc. contract for Maple Spring Drive Improvements, $480,857.75 – motion passed (vote details not specified)
• Approved Zoning settlement (Resolution R-16-25) – motion passed (vote details not specified)
• Adjourned meeting – voice vote, all in favor

Water/Sewer/Highway Workshop Committee

The Water, Sewer, and Highway Workshop Committee will hold discussions on CDBG and non-CDBG projects. Members will review a quote from Kohl Brothers for a new effluent pump and provide an update on PennVest. The committee will also discuss visioning for highway, sewer, and water infrastructure.

• Discussion on CDBG and non-CDBG projects
• Review of Kohl Brothers quote for new effluent pump
• Update on PennVest
• Discussion on 100 Steps
• Visioning for highway, sewer, and water

The Water, Sewer/Solid Waste, and Highway Committee discussed upcoming CDBG and non‑CDBG projects, a camera addition at the sewer plant, and a new effluent pump quote, but no formal approvals were made. Councilor Schoch moved to adjourn, the motion was seconded by Councilor Schippers, and all members voted in favor. The meeting was adjourned at 7:06 PM.

• Motion to adjourn passed (unanimous)

Finance Planning/Zoning, Public Safety, and Human/Community Services Committee

The Finance, Planning, Zoning, Public Safety, and Human/Community Services committees will meet to review quotes for electrical and network upgrades. The body will also discuss emergency siren procurement and fire truck financing.

• Quotes for council room audio system upgrades
• ET&T quote for Maintenance Building network upgrades
• Electrical quotes for Fire Dept 30-amp circuit, Maintenance Building exterior lights, Water Plant interior lights, and downtown 200 Amp service replacement
• Two quotes for emergency sirens
• Financing update for a new fire truck

The Finance/Planning/Zoning Committee approved several changes to the borough employee handbook. Paid holidays were increased from eight to twelve. Vacation accrual will be limited to full days and 4% days, bereavement leave for extended family was expanded to three days, military leave was added, and a jury‑duty pay deduction rule was adopted.

• Adopted employee handbook amendment to increase paid holidays to 12
• Approved vacation policy change to allow only full‑day and 4%‑day accruals
• Extended bereavement leave to three days for in‑laws, aunt, and uncle
• Added military leave provision guaranteeing position during deployment
• Established jury‑duty pay rule: employees receive regular pay minus jury compensation

Borough Council

The Slatington Borough Council will meet to approve minutes, hear committee reports, and discuss ordinances including a camping ban and address signage requirement. Public safety, highway, and finance committees will present updates on fire truck financing, CDBG projects, and zoning adjustments.

• Ordinance No. 722: ban on camping/residing/loitering in public spaces
• Ordinance No. 723: require rear-home address signs (Borough to pay)
• Penn Vest loan approval for $993,340 for new water meters and real-time data system
• Resolution R-14-25: Municipal Curative Amendment for Zoning Ordinance adjustments
• CDBG project updates for Hill Street, Willow Ave, and Cherry St

The council approved the minutes from the July 14 meeting and authorized advertising for Ordinances 722 and 723. It also approved community events—a bike ride and the Peach Festival—by voice vote. The council voted to move the police pension holdings from Truist to Principal and adopted Resolution R-14-25, a municipal curative amendment concerning the zoning ordinance. Accounts payable and transfers were approved as presented.

• Approved minutes of the July 14, 2025 meeting (voice vote, all in favor)
• Approved advertising for Ordinance No. 722 (roll call vote, passed)
• Approved advertising for Ordinance No. 723 (roll call vote, passed)
• Approved DLNHC bike ride request for Sept 13, 2025 (voice vote, all in favor)
• Approved St. John’s UUC Peach Festival for Aug 23, 2025 (voice vote, all in favor)
• Approved transition of police pension holdings from Truist to Principal (roll call vote, passed)
• Approved Resolution R-14-25 municipal curative amendment (roll call vote, passed)
• Approved accounts payable and transfers as presented (roll call vote, passed)

Borough Council

The Borough Council will discuss and take possible action regarding the CDBG Cherry Street project. This includes potentially rescinding a previous rejection of the bid to accept and award the project.

• Possible rescission of the 7/14 motion to reject the Cherry Street bid
• Possible acceptance of the Cherry Street bid
• Possible award of the Cherry Street CDBG project

The council rescinded a prior motion to reject the Cherry Street bid and then accepted the bids as presented. It approved awarding the Cherry Street CDBG project to Bracalente Construction Inc. for $148,628.50. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Rescinded 7/14/25 motion to reject Cherry Street bid (voice vote, all in favor)
• Accepted Cherry Street bids as is (voice vote, all in favor)
• Awarded Cherry Street CDBG project to Bracalente Construction Inc. for $148,628.50 (roll call passed)
• Adjourned meeting (voice vote, all in favor)

Water/Sewer/Highway Workshop Committee

The Water/Sewer/Highway Workshop Committee will meet to discuss the status of municipal infrastructure. Members will review reports on the water filtration and sewer plants and discuss various highway projects.

• Discussion on CDBG and non-CDBG highway projects
• Review of 'State-of-the-Sewer Plant' report by Duane Szczesny
• Review of 'State-of-the-Water Filtration Plant' report by Steve Martinez
• Discussion on '100 Steps' and visioning for infrastructure

The Water, Sewer/Solid Waste, and Highway Committee held a workshop on July 28, 2025. Members discussed ongoing CDBG projects, non‑CDBG road work, sewer plant staffing, grease‑trap issues, and water‑plant upgrades, but no formal approvals, denials, or votes were recorded. The meeting was adjourned at 7:39 PM.

Finance Planning/Zoning, Public Safety, and Human/Community Services Committee

The Finance/Planning/Zoning, Public Safety, and Human/Community Services committees will meet to discuss administrative and safety updates. The body will review an employee handbook and plan for a September bike ride. Discussions will also cover emergency management staffing and safety sirens.

• Developing a job description for a new Emergency Management Director
• Investigation of two safety sirens
• Proposal to place street addresses on the rear of houses with rear access
• Request for approval of a Delaware & Lehigh National Heritage Corridor bike ride on September 13, 2025
• Review of draft employee handbook

Finance Planning/Zoning, Public Safety, and Human/Community Services Committee

Three borough committees will meet to discuss administrative updates, public safety measures, and community events. The session includes reviews of the employee handbook and the creation of a job description for a new Emergency Management Director.

• Review of draft employee handbook
• Developing job description for Emergency Management Director to replace Ron Hausman
• Investigation of two safety sirens
• Proposal to place street addresses on the rear of houses with rear access
• Approval request for a September 13, 2025, bike ride by the Delaware & Lehigh National Heritage Corridor

The Finance/Planning/Zoning, Public Safety and Human/Community Services Committee discussed several items, including an employee handbook, an emergency management director position, and a safety siren quote. The committee agreed to develop an ordinance that would require rear‑facing house address signs with standardized design. Other requests, such as a bike ride and a peach festival, were noted for future council agenda consideration.

• Agreed to develop ordinance mandating rear house address signage (no vote recorded)

Borough Council

The Borough Council will discuss awarding bids for 2025 CDBG projects and consider a Zoning Ordinance Amendment. The meeting includes reviews of the 2022 Audit Report and various public safety and infrastructure updates.

• Possible award of CDBG projects for Hill Street, Willow Ave, and Cherry St
• Discussion and possible motion regarding Zoning Ordinance Amendment
• Resolution R-12-25 for a Police vehicle via LCA Grant
• Sewer Authority bills totaling $4,764.36
• Review of 2022 Audit Report

The Council approved the minutes from the June 9, June 16, and June 23, 2025 meetings by voice vote. A motion to approve the presented bills and transfers was passed by roll‑call vote, with all listed councilors voting yes. No other motions were adopted.

• Approved June 9, June 16, and June 23, 2025 meeting minutes (voice vote, all in favor)
• Approved payment of bills and transfers as presented by Treasurer (roll‑call ayes: David Schnaars, Zachari Halkias, Ryan Mayberry, Aaron Schoch, Kevin Steckel, William Schippers, Ronald Kratz)

Water/Sewer/Highway Workshop Committee

The Water/Sewer/Highway Workshop Committee will hold discussions on CDBG and non-CDBG projects. Members will also discuss visioning for sewer and water services and the PPL Transmission Line on Mountain Dr.

• CDBG projects discussion
• Non-CDBG projects discussion
• PPL Transmission Line (Mountain Dr)
• Sewer and water visioning

The Water, Sewer/Solid Waste, and Highway Committee held discussions on CDBG projects, road work, and utility issues but did not approve any actions. The only formal action was a motion to adjourn, which passed unanimously. No other decisions were recorded.

• Motion to adjourn approved (unanimous)

Water/Sewer/Highway Workshop Committee

The Water/Sewer/Highway Workshop Committee will hold discussions on infrastructure projects and long-term visioning. The meeting includes reviews of CDBG and non-CDBG projects and specific utility concerns.

• Discussion on CDBG projects
• Discussion on non-CDBG projects
• PPL Transmission Line (Mountain Dr)
• Cell Phone Tower
• Visioning for highway, sewer, and water systems

The Water, Sewer/Solid Waste, and Highway Committee Workshop met on June 23, 2025 in Slatington. Members discussed CDBG projects, highway repairs, sewer contract updates, and water issues, but no formal approvals or rejections were recorded. The only action taken was a motion to adjourn, which was seconded and approved unanimously. The meeting ended at 7:01 PM.

• Adjourned meeting at 7:01 PM (motion passed unanimously)

Finance Planning/Zoning, Public Safety, and Human/Community Services Committee

The committee recessed to an executive session at 7:57 PM and reconvened at 8:01 PM. Councilor Kratz moved to adjourn, seconded by Councilor Mayberry, and the motion carried. No substantive policy decisions were made during the meeting.

• Recessed to executive session (7:57 PM)
• Adjourned meeting (motion carried)

Borough Council

The Borough Council will discuss police and fire department updates and review several financial proposals. The body is deciding on fund transfers for sewer authority bills and a proposal to invest balances with Key Bank.

• Proposal to invest Slatington balances with Key Bank
• Transfer of $22,762.56 to pay Sewer Authority bills
• Approval of 2025 MMO worksheet for Police Pension Plan
• Presentations by Acela regarding MS4 and the 100 Steps
• Review of 2022 Audit Report

Council voted unanimously to continue the 100 Steps project despite new cost estimates that could exceed the $400k grant. They also approved several financial items, including the police pension plan, a Key Bank investment, and a General Code contract. A real estate appraisal was authorized for property adjacent to the Water Plant.

• Approved motion to continue 100 Steps project (voice vote, all in favor)
• Approved $190,453.48 for 2025 Police Pension Plan (roll call, all in favor)
• Approved investing $4,500,000 balance with Key Bank (roll call, all in favor)
• Approved contracting General Code for $19,500 with $1,195 annual fee (roll call, all in favor)
• Approved Kennel Animal Control Contract with edit (voice vote, all in favor)
• Approved transfer of $22,762.56 for Sewer Authority bills (roll call, all in favor)
• Approved payment of Assistant Treasurer's time and travel ($418.13) (roll call, all in favor)
• Approved real estate appraisal on property adjacent to Water Plant on Welshtown Rd (roll call, all in favor)

Water/Sewer/Highway Workshop Committee

The committees discussed CDBG projects, a proposed kennel contract for the sewer plant, and a possible purchase of property adjacent to the water plant, but no votes were taken on those items. Councilor Schippers moved to adjourn, seconded by Councilor Steckel, and the motion carried unanimously at 7:19 PM. No other decisions were recorded.

• Adjourned meeting at 7:19 PM (motion by Schippers, seconded by Steckel, unanimous)

Finance Planning/Zoning, Public Safety, and Human/Community Services Committee

The Finance, Planning, Zoning, Public Safety, and Human/Community Services committees will hold a workshop to discuss various municipal operations. Key topics include staffing for the fire department and the implementation of a Greenways grant for Roosevelt Park.

• Discussion on hiring a full-time Fire Chief versus using General Code
• Roosevelt Park Greenways Grant construction timing and matching funds
• Financing options for a new fire truck
• Potential 2026 donation to Slatington Senior Center
• Foreclosure process for property adjacent to the Water Plant

Borough Council

This regular meeting includes a motion to pass a resolution for a Greenways Grant to remodel Roosevelt Park, with discussion of bifurcation and matching funds. Council will also consider approval of minutes, special presentations including swearing-in of new officers and introduction of the Slatington Senior Center, and several community event requests. Other items include a rental inspection program update, discussion of speed bumps on E. Church Street, and an update on the P-Card policy.

• Motion to pass a Resolution for the Greenways Grant to remodel Roosevelt Park
• Motion to approve block party at Maple Springs Acres on Pine Tree Drive on August 9, 2025
• Motion to approve fundraiser by Northern Lehigh Swimming Pool Association at Main and Grove Street on June 12, 2025
• Discuss speed bumps for the 300 block of E. Church Street
• Update on Rental Inspection Program and tenant list availability

The council approved hiring two additional full‑time police officers, bringing the department up to staffing parity. It also approved the Treasurer’s presented bills and transfers, and granted permits for a block party, a swimming‑pool fundraiser, and a fire‑department community day. The council agreed to install an electronic speed sign on E. Church Street and to purchase two more electronic speed signs for other locations.

• Approved hiring two new full‑time police officers (Mayor thanked Council)
• Approved payment of bills and transfers presented by the Treasurer (motion passed, roll call)
• Approved block party at Maple Springs Acres on Aug 9, 2025 (voice vote, all in favor)
• Approved Northern Lehigh Swimming Pool fundraiser on June 12, 2025 (voice vote, all in favor)
• Approved Fire Department Community Day on June 28, 2025 with vendor alcohol request (voice vote, all in favor)
• Agreed to place an electronic speed sign on the 300 block of E. Church Street (committee decision)
• Planned purchase of two additional electronic speed signs for other locations (manager statement)

Water/Sewer/Highway Workshop Committee

This is a committee workshop meeting with no formal votes. The Highway Committee will hear a state-of-the-department report, discuss CDBG and non-CDBG projects, speed bumps on the 300 block of E. Church Street, and Borough Ordinance 472 on contractor requirements. The Sewer Committee will discuss plant operations and a manager for the kennel at the sewer plant. The Water/Special Sewer Committee will hear a water plant update and a report on recruiting a replacement for Steve Martinez, plus a quote for converting air valves to motorized.

• John Bolton to present state of the Highway Dept.
• Discussion of CDBG and non-CDBG projects
• Speed bumps proposed for 300 block of E. Church Street
• Borough Ordinance 472 (contractor requirements after road repair)
• Quote to convert air valves to motorized at water plant

The Highway Committee discussed road safety on the 300 block of E. Church Street and agreed to place an electronic speed sign there. President Schnaars will move the item onto the next regular Council agenda. No other formal actions were recorded.

• Electronic speed sign to be installed at 300 block of E. Church St – agreed by committee

Finance Planning/Zoning, Public Safety, and Human/Community Services Committee

This is a committee workshop meeting for the Finance/Planning/Zoning, Public Safety, and Human/Community Services committees. Members will discuss a request from the Northern Lehigh Swimming Pool Association to use the corner of Main and Grove Street for a fundraiser on June 12, 2025, along with updates on SFM Consulting and the Economic Development Committee. No decisions are made; all items are for discussion only.

• Request from Northern Lehigh Swimming Pool Association to use Main and Grove Street corner for a fundraiser on June 12, 2025, from 3:00-7:00 PM
• Discussion concerning SFM Consulting
• Update on Economic Development Committee
• Visioning topic discussed across all three committees

The Finance/Planning/Zoning, Public Safety, and Human/Community Services Committee met on April 21, 2025. Members discussed topics such as SFM Consulting, economic development staffing, rental reporting, a police commendation, a community day event, and a swimming pool fundraiser request, but no proposals were voted on or formally approved. The only action taken was a motion to adjourn, which was seconded and carried. No other decisions were recorded.

• Adjourned meeting (motion by Councilor Kratz, seconded by Councilor Mayberry)

Borough Council

The Slatington Borough Council will hold a public hearing to consider proposed Ordinance 721, which addresses snow removal regulations. This is the sole item on the agenda; no other business is scheduled.

• Public hearing on Ordinance 721 (Article 1 Section 159-2 subsection A) entitled 'Snow Removal'

The borough council corrected the March 10 council minutes and the March 17 and 24 committee minutes. A motion to approve the amended minutes was made, seconded, and passed by voice vote. No other substantive actions were decided.

• Approved amended minutes for the March 10 council meeting and March 17 & 24 committee meetings (voice vote)

Water/Sewer/Highway Workshop Committee

This is a workshop committee meeting with discussion items only; no votes or final decisions are scheduled. Members will review CDBG and non-CDBG projects, a compressor maintenance plan, an audit of sewer treatment costs, and the recruiting process to replace a water-plant staff member.

• Discussion on CDBG and non-CDBG projects
• Atlas Copco compressor maintenance plan (proposed five-year instead of annual)
• Review of Special Report on Audit of Sewer Treatment Costs and Charges
• Report on recruiting process for Steve Martinez’s replacement
• Discussion on managing the kennel at the Sewer Plant (Animal Control)

The Water, Sewer/Solid Waste, and Highway Committee Workshop met on March 24, 2025. Members discussed CDBG and non‑CDBG projects, a compressor maintenance plan, and departmental updates, and asked that several items be placed on the next regular Council agenda. The only formal action was a unanimous motion to adjourn the meeting at 7:12 PM. No approvals, denials, or other decisions were recorded.

• Adjourned meeting at 7:12 PM (unanimous)

Finance Planning/Zoning, Public Safety, and Human/Community Services Committee

The Finance/Planning/Zoning, Public Safety, and Human/Community Services committees will hold a workshop meeting to discuss several topics. These include a potential ordinance to limit converting single-family homes into apartments, a resolution to switch investment services from Wells Fargo to PIGIT, and requests for park events and alcohol sales. No votes are scheduled; all items are for discussion only.

• Discussion of possible ordinance to restrict turning single-family homes into apartments
• Wells Fargo Advisors ending service on 4/1/25; proposed resolution to use PIGIT as alternative
• General safety discussion regarding personnel and police investigation room
• Request from Northern Lehigh Recreation to use Victory Park for concerts on June 20, July 11, August 1, and August 15
• Request for alcohol sales at Day in the Park at Victory Park on July 19 from 2:00 PM to 9:00 PM

The meeting was a workshop with no formal votes. Committees discussed police department needs, including hiring more officers, purchasing additional body cams and tasers for $26,658, and obtaining grants for vehicles. They also reviewed park event requests from Northern Lehigh Recreation, discussed a possible ordinance on single-family home conversions, and considered switching financial services from Wells Fargo Advisors to PIGIT. No decisions were made.

• No formal decisions or votes taken; all items were discussion only
• Discussed purchasing 2 additional body cams and tasers for $26,658 (5-year payback)
• Reviewed Northern Lehigh Recreation's requests for Victory Park events (no action)
• Discussed possible ordinance to restrict converting single-family homes to apartments
• Discussed switching from Wells Fargo Advisors to PIGIT for financial services (no action)

Borough Council

The Slatington Borough Council will vote on appointing William Borst as full-time police chief, removing his interim status. They will also consider a revised snow removal ordinance, approve a P-Card policy for cardholder signatures, discuss transitioning financial software, and address hiring for highway and water department positions.

• Motion to appoint William Borst as full-time police chief
• Motion to approve revised Snow Removal Ordinance
• Motion to approve P-Card Policy for cardholder signatures
• Discussion on transitioning billing/financial/budgeting software
• Approval to post jobs for highway staff replacements and water position

The Slatington Borough Council approved William Borst as full-time police chief, removing his interim status, and adopted a fire services fee schedule. The council also authorized several administrative actions, including a Clear Gov subscription, job postings, and a $35,796 refurbished drive for the sewer plant. A budget review revealed a projected $244,000 cost for Transcend Finance services and a potential overtime misuse investigation.

• Approved William Borst as full-time police chief (voice vote, all in favor)
• Adopted fire services fee schedule (roll call, all in favor)
• Authorized Clear Gov subscription (roll call, all in favor)
• Authorized advertising for positions 6 months in advance (voice vote, all in favor)
• Authorized advertising of amended Snow Removal Ordinance (roll call, all in favor)
• Approved P-Card Policy for cardholder signatures (voice vote, all in favor)
• Approved $35,796 refurbished drive for sewer plant (roll call, all in favor)
• Approved hiring seasonal employee per union contract (voice vote, all in favor)

Borough Council

This regular meeting includes council actions on appointing a police chief, adopting a fire services fee schedule, approving a revised snow removal ordinance, and authorizing a P-Card policy. Other items cover hiring for upcoming staff retirements, budget review, a sewer equipment purchase, and updates on LED lighting.

• Motion to approve William Borst as full-time police chief, removing interim status
• Resolution to adopt a fee schedule for billing and collection of fire services
• Motion to approve the revised Snow Removal Ordinance
• Motion to approve P-Card Policy for cardholder signatures
• Purchase of a rebuilt drive for Sewer/Solid Waste (see attached quote)

The Slatington Borough Council approved William Borst as full-time police chief, removing his interim status. The council also approved a fire services fee schedule, a Clear Gov subscription, advertising for the amended Snow Removal Ordinance, and a $35,796 refurbished drive for the sewer plant. The finance committee reported a $244,000 projected cost for Transcend Finance services and discussed a potential misappropriation of overtime funds, with legal recourse possible pending investigation.

• Approved William Borst as full-time police chief (voice vote, all in favor)
• Adopted fire services fee schedule (roll call, all in favor)
• Authorized Clear Gov subscription (roll call, all in favor)
• Authorized advertising of amended Snow Removal Ordinance (roll call, all in favor)
• Approved P-Card policy for cardholder signatures (voice vote, all in favor)
• Approved purchase of refurbished sewer plant drive for $35,796 (roll call, all in favor)
• Approved posting jobs for highway staff replacements (voice vote, all in favor)
• Approved hiring seasonal highway employee per union contract (voice vote, all in favor)

Water/Sewer/Highway Workshop Committee

The Water/Sewer/Highway Workshop Committee will discuss CDBG and non-CDBG projects, a consent agreement requiring three staff at the sewer plant, and the purchase of a rebuilt drive for the sewer system. Recruitment planning for replacements of highway supervisor John Bolton and water supervisor Steve Martinez is also on the agenda. No formal decisions are scheduled; these are discussion items.

• Consent agreement requires three staff at sewer plant
• Discussion on purchasing a rebuilt drive for sewer
• Person to manage kennel at sewer plant (Animal Control)
• Start recruiting process for John Bolton's replacement (highway) late summer/early fall
• Start recruiting process for Steve Martinez's replacement (water) late summer/early fall

The Water, Sewer/Solid Waste, and Highway Committee workshops met on February 24, 2025. They approved starting the recruiting process for replacements for John Bolton and Steve Martinez, and discussed hiring a third sewer plant employee and purchasing a rebuilt drive. No formal votes were taken; decisions were made by committee agreement.

• Approved starting recruiting process for John Bolton and Steve Martinez replacements (committee agreement)
• Discussed hiring third sewer plant employee, pending Council approval
• Discussed purchasing rebuilt drive for failing filter, to be placed on next Council agenda

Finance Planning/Zoning, Public Safety, and Human/Community Services Committee

The Finance, Planning, Zoning, Public Safety, and Human/Community Services committees will meet to discuss several funding and operational requests. The body will review a request for $27,772.00 to help NOVA purchase power stair chairs and discuss a snow removal ordinance.

• Request for $27,772.00 in Borough funding for NOVA power stair chairs
• Discussion on transitioning from Account Mate to another vendor
• Discussion on selling an old police Crown Vic
• Discussion on a Snow Removal Ordinance regarding expectations
• Visioning discussions across all three committees

The committee workshop was held on February 17, 2025, with discussions only; no formal votes or decisions were made. Topics included a funding request from NOVA for power stair chairs, transitioning from Account Mate software, selling an old police Crown Vic, snow removal ordinance expectations, and general safety and visioning discussions.

• Discussed NOVA request for $27,772 balance funding for power stair chairs
• Discussed transition from Account Mate to another vendor
• Discussed selling old police Crown Vic
• Discussed snow removal ordinance expectations
• Discussed general safety regarding personnel
• Discussed visioning for all committees

Borough Council

The Borough Council will discuss public safety measures, including a new ordinance for fire service cost recovery and the addition of a police officer. The body is also reviewing funding requests for emergency equipment and community event permits.

• Ordinance 720 to enable fire services to recover costs for equipment and materials used in emergency incidents
• Discussion on approving an additional police officer
• Request for $27,772.00 in Borough funding for NOVA to purchase power stair chairs
• Proposed $5,000.00 2024 donation to Slatington Public Library
• Discussion on discontinuing the ARRO contract in favor of Acela for MS4 services

The Slatington Borough Council approved Ordinance 720 enabling fire services to recover costs for emergency incidents, along with Resolution 08-25 establishing a fee schedule. They also hired an additional police officer and a part-time code enforcement officer, and affirmed a $5,000 donation to the library. A request from NOVA for funding of power stair chairs was tabled pending contribution details from other municipalities.

• Approved Ordinance 720 for fire services cost recovery (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 08-25 fire services fee schedule (unanimous)
• Hired an additional police officer (voice vote, all in favor)
• Affirmed $5,000 donation to Slatington Public Library (unanimous)
• Appointed Wanda Owens to library board 3-year term (voice vote, all in favor)
• Approved Venture Group community concerts on June 19, July 17, Aug 21, 2025 (voice vote, all in favor)
• Approved Springside Sportsmen Club Kid's Fishing Contest on April 26, 2025 (voice vote, all in favor)
• Approved hiring of 2nd part-time code enforcement officer (19 hrs/week) (roll call, 6-1)

Water/Sewer/Highway Workshop Committee

The Water/Sewer/Highway Workshop Committee will discuss possible CDBG and non-CDBG projects with architect John Lee, review equipment replacements, and address management of the kennel at the Sewer Plant. The meeting includes committee member discussions and public participation.

• Discussion on possible CDBG projects and non-CDBG projects with architect John Lee at 105 6th Street (Kern Alley)
• Review of equipment to be replaced for Highway
• Person to manage kennel at Sewer Plant (Animal Control)
• Water/Special Sewer Committee member discussion

The meeting was primarily informational, with no formal votes taken. The Highway Committee discussed upcoming CDBG-funded road projects on Willow Avenue, Cherry Street, and Hill Street, with construction expected by October 2025. The Sewer Committee discussed potential improvements to the sewer plant and kennel issues, but no decisions were made. The meeting adjourned without substantive action.

• No formal decisions or votes taken during the meeting
• Discussed CDBG projects for Willow Avenue, Cherry Street, and Hill Street
• Discussed possible PennDOT Multimodal grants for non-CDBG roads
• Discussed replacing leaf vac and street sweeper with grant funding
• Discussed selling Crown Vic police vehicle; placed on next Finance/Public Safety agenda
• Discussed PADEP recommendation to install covers over trickling filters at sewer plant
• Discussed kennel issues at sewer plant; manager to contact dog rescues for MOU

Finance Planning/Zoning, Public Safety, and Human/Community Services Committee

This workshop meeting of three Slatington committees—Finance/Planning/Zoning, Public Safety, and Human/Community Services—will discuss several items, none of which are final votes. Key discussions include a request from NOVA to fund the remaining $27,772 for power stair chairs, a proposal for the borough to take ownership of the historic bedbug cave property, and a review of a letter from New Bethany seeking support for homeless services. The committees will also consider making the Economic Development and Town Beautification Committee an official part of the borough and affirm a $5,000 donation to the Slatington Public Library.

• Review request from NOVA for $27,772 balance on $72,178 power stair chairs after $44,406 grant
• Historical Society proposal for borough to take ownership of bedbug cave property
• Discussion on making Economic Development and Town Beautification Committee an official borough committee
• Review letter from New Bethany seeking municipal support for homeless crisis
• Affirm $5,000 2024 donation to Slatington Public Library

The Finance, Public Safety, and Human/Community Services Committees met on January 20, 2025. They discussed but did not vote on several items: a $5,000 contribution to NOVA for power stair chairs (contingent on other townships), a request from the Northern Lehigh Historical Society for the Borough to take ownership of Bedbug Cave property, and a $5,000 donation to the Slatington Public Library. The Public Safety Committee declined to support New Bethany's $2,000 request for homeless assistance. No formal decisions were made; items were recommended for future council agendas.

• Reviewed NOVA request for $5,000 toward power stair chairs; to be placed on next Council agenda
• Discussed possible Borough takeover of Bedbug Cave property; deed to be provided
• Agreed not to pursue New Bethany's $2,000 homeless assistance request
• Reviewed police staffing update; eligibility test pending
• Affirmed $5,000 2024 donation to Slatington Public Library; to be placed on next Council agenda

Borough Council

The Borough Council will consider several resolutions to establish fees, employee wages, and tax collection for 2025. The body will also discuss streetlight conversions and a project presentation for 105 6th Street.

• Resolution R-01-25: $90.00 per dwelling unit quarterly garbage and refuse fee
• Resolution R-06-25: Appointment of Elite Revenue Solutions as 2024 delinquent tax collector
• Proposed agreement with PPL to convert streetlights to LED
• Resolution R-03-25: Appointment of Campbell, Rappold & Yurasits as FY 2025 auditor
• Special presentation by architect John Lee regarding 105 6th Street (Kern Alley)

The Slatington Borough Council approved several resolutions setting the 2025 garbage fee at $90 per dwelling unit per quarter, establishing police pension member payments, appointing an auditor and delinquent tax collector, and setting Borough fees. It also approved a resolution for employee wages after executive session, authorized a fire company billing ordinance for advertising, approved LED streetlight conversion, conditionally approved a hatchery roof, and approved Borough-wide purchase cards. The council tabled a property issue involving Kern Alley and a Lehigh Engineering contract to committee/executive session.

• Approved Resolution R-01-25 setting garbage fee at $90 per dwelling unit per quarter (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution R-02-25 for police pension fund member payments for 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution R-03-25 appointing Campbell, Rappold & Yurasits as FY 2025 auditor (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution R-04-25 establishing Borough fees for FY 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution R-05-25 for 2025 employee wages after executive session (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution R-06-25 appointing Elite Revenue Solutions as delinquent tax collector (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution R-07-25 authorizing LED streetlight conversion agreement with PPL (unanimous)
• Approved Borough-wide purchase cards (unanimous)