Emmaus Public Library Directory Amy Resh attended the June 4 Macungie Borough Council meeting to provide an update on activities.

Resh said out of 3,074 library cards issued, 1,072 come from Macungie borough.

Resh also provided an update on the children’s wing expansion project which should be completed in October. A ribbon-cutting ceremony is planned for winter 2018/2019.

The summer reading program, “Libraries Rock” is for all ages and a kick-off party is scheduled 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. June 16 on the lawn of the library, 11 E. Main St., Emmaus.

Council Vice President Roseann Schleicher thanked everyone involved with the Memorial Day activities, including the Veterans of Foreign Wars, the Macungie Police Department, the fire department and all other volunteers.

Public Works will begin to make monthly reports at the meetings so residents can be informed on happenings in the borough.

The police department has a speed board on Walnut Street. The use of radar was discussed; however, Pennsylvania does not allow local boroughs and townships to use radar. Residents were encouraged to talk with their state representatives to change this law.

Concern was expressed over traffic backups going south due to the new light at Church Street. Traffic can back up past the railroad tracks. There are motorists who end up stuck on the railroad tracks when the train signal activates which then makes the gates come down, somewhat trapping the vehicle on the tracks. Motorists should remember to not stop on the railroad tracks. If there is congestion, stay back from the tracks. Council will look into a sign to post as a reminder.

A resident expressed gratitude at the meeting for work being done on Main Street, saying they feel safer.

Borough Manager Chris L. Boehm asked council for authorization to sell surplus property.

The borough is selling a 1990 leaf machine for $3,013 which was approved. A 1990 Chevy pickup truck will be sold for $1,954. The 2001 Case backhoe is being sold for $18,000.

The regional comprehensive plan was about to be approved; however, Emmaus is not signing the plan. Council said this is difficult because a lot of work has been put into this.

Credit card scanners are now in use at borough hall for payment of certain bills.

Discussion over the residential rental ordinance continues. Changes were proposed and noted. At the next borough council meeting, changes will be incorporated in the residential rental ordinance and it is expected approval will occur shortly thereafter.

Traffic Planning and Design, Inc. was approved for Phase 2 of the streetscape improvements.

The sewer lining project was put out for bid. A bid was awarded to National Water Main Cleaning for $279,005.

A resident expressed an interest in serving on the zoning hearing board; the candidate must complete a course first.