The Lower Macungie Board of Commissioners approved a plan for a major employer coming to the township at its meeting Dec. 20, 2018.

First Commonwealth Federal Credit Union was approved by commissioners to open its headquarters and branch in the Trexlertown Business Center development in the 6100 block of Hamilton Boulevard. The architecture planned ties in with township requirements and will go along with the other building within this area.

The commissioners also approved plans for Cedarbrook Road Industrial Park Land Development. This development will not have much new construction just upgrading and replacing current equipment for the new company. The company, New Enterprise Store and Lime Co., will occupy the area Eastern Industries occupied.

The property is located next to Ciocca Subaru. A concern is accessing the property. There is no access from the Route 222 bypass, which has additional traffic concerns due to apartment development on Cetronia Road in South Whitehall Township. The plan was approved despite this problem.

In other meeting news, Tony Alsleben is not seeking reappointment to the public safety commission. His term expired Dec. 31, 2018. Ann Bartholomew is not seeking reappointment to the planning commission. Her term expired Jan. 1. However, she will continue with her involvement with the historical society.

A township resident complimented Lehigh County Authority and others for a water main replacement project. Those involved were complimented for their efficiency and professionalism.

The 2019 budget and tax levy was approved by the commissioners. There is no tax increase. The real estate tax will remain at .5 mills. There is also no sewer increase.

The homestead tax will see a slight increase in the exempt rate which will result in a small decrease for residents. The fee schedule has small changes. During the year, commissioners and staff will keep an eye on these fees for the following year.

Lower Macungie Township Engineer Alan Fornwalt presented an updated report on various projects. The Mill Race Road bridge project is completed. The signage will be replaced soon. The Wild Cherry bridge will be upgraded. Traffic signals have been upgraded at various intersections within the township. The Sauerkraut Road extension is in the final stages of adjusting details.

Orchard Road will have its existing culvert replaced due to deterioration. The Wild Cherry parking lot had some difficulty due to a conflict with PPL. The conflict has been resolved and the final step of paving will occur in the spring.