Rev. Dr. Paul W. Knappenberger of Saint John’s United Church of Christ started the April 15 Emmaus Borough Council meeting with an appeal to the council. He requested changes to the zoning ordinance under section 306 and 402.II in regard to the allowed usage for places of worship.

St. John’s was recently denied having a theater in the fellowship hall by the Emmaus zoning board. Knappenberger requested more flexibility be given to churches in the borough for activities and events taking place in their space. He stated the church held a play during Christmas with 400 to 500 people in attendance. He claimed the theater would draw more crowds and could spur local business.

Council stated the decision would be discussed later at a committee level.

In other zoning news, Ordinance 1188 and Ordinance 1189 have been approved. The only amendment made was the size adjustment to the 96-gallon recycling containers.

Mayor Lee Ann Gilbert issued the oath of office to part-time police officers Troy Leonard and Justin Williams as the Emmaus Police Department welcomed four new members. Brent Hampshire and Alfred Kloss were not in attendance, but were hired as auxiliary officers. Leonard and Williams were welcomed by Police Chief Charles Palmer and were handed their badges.

Additionally, the Emmaus Police Department announced Ruthann Phillips resigned from her position as an animal control officer. The borough is looking for someone to fill her position.

There were also new hires in the public works department. James Yoachim and Jeffrey Kratz have been selected from the last six candidates. Borough Manager Shane Pepe said, “We were very impressed with the talent pool from top to bottom. We were very impressed with Mr. Yoachim’s qualifications. I mean look at them, what does he not have?”

Council anticipates two to three more retirees from the public works department in the near future. “Individuals with 15, 20, 30 years of experience …, ” Pepe said. When this happens, the council will move to a priority hiring list from the previous candidates, though this does not guarantee that someone will be chosen immediately.

Nonprofit organizations that work in Emmaus and serve the community can now rent the Arts Pavilion for a reduced fee. The parks and recreations committee decided upon a $40 fee to rent the pavilion Monday through Friday. Weekends and holidays will remain at full price.

In the community, Council Member Jeff Shubzda gave a report on last weekend’s Earth Day event. Over 100 volunteers arrived to pick-up garbage around the area. Additionally, there was a shredding event sponsored by state Sen. Pat Brown, R-16th and an electronic recycling party.

The Emmaus Kiwanis Club is hosting their annual Easter Egg Hunt next weekend. The event will take place 1 p.m. April 20. The event is for children 10 and under.