Macungie Institute’s black bear is crumbling. Public works recommended the bear be removed due to safety concerns. Children have been seen climbing on the bear which poses safety concerns.

Council voted to replace the bear at the Oct. 7 Macungie Borough Council meeting. There was no decision on the replacement at this time as Angela Faidley, Out of Our Minds Art Studio, has a proposal for the space.

The refuse contract in Macungie is up for renewal with a 3 percent increase. The yearly rate is $192.50 and the quarterly rate is $48.13. This was approved by council.

The annual humane society agreement was approved for animal control services.

In other business, council asked residents to voice their support for a federal grant for a waterfront project located in Allentown along the Lehigh River. The project would include a commuter road and trail which would close one of the largest gaps in the D & L Trail. This project has many positive aspects for the region, including reduced roadway congestion, economic development and more diverse transportation in the Valley.

This grant is a highly competitive national program. Council members said there is an extreme need to hear from area residents. To assist the area in qualifying for this $21 million grant, residents must show support by contacting Sean Poole at Sean.poole@dot.gov through Nov. 11.

There was an executive session Oct. 7 to discuss borough manager candidates.