During the Nov. 18 Macungie Borough Council meeting, Robert Glisson was appointed as borough manager. Glisson comes with an extensive background in local, county and state government operations. He has been a borough or township manager or been a municipality department head for over 15 years. His last position was held in Valley Township, Chester County, as the township manager.

Glisson has a bachelor’s degree in political science from Ursinus College in Collegeville. He is certified as a borough official by the Pennsylvania State Association of Boroughs. A Master Planner Certificate was received from the Pennsylvania Municipal Planning Education Institute.

Glisson also has a military background. He was honorably retired as a U.S. Marine Corps Major. He acquired public works management skills and specialized in logistics.

Glisson will be relocating within the required 20 mile radius.

In other business, the Macungie Police Department, Macungie Fire Department, EMS with many other area responders received a certificate of recognition from state Sen. Pat Browne, R-16th, for their response during the fire in Upper Macungie Township at the Heather Glen Senior Living structure fire in September. “As a result of the heroic actions, no lives were lost, few injuries occurred and damage to the structure was minimal. Through your courageous actions, you have proven to be heroes in the finest sense of the word,” Browne said.

The Macungie Police Department hosted a “Painting with the Police event” at Out of Our Minds studio. It was said 25 children attended this event.

Macungie police staffed and led the Macungie Halloween parade. Although the weather was not great, the parade was well attended and enjoyed by all. There were no incidents during the parade.

A representative of Friends of Macungie Institute talked about the Macungie Institute. It was suggested the Friends and council sit down to discuss the purpose of the institute and to make a plan on building use.

In the past, this building was labeled as a “gem.” The borough maintains the building. Residents are encouraged to express their views and suggestions.

Council President Chris Becker announced the borough was awarded a $450,000 grant from Commonwealth Financing Authority. This is for Phase IV of the Streetscape project.

There was an executive session held regarding personnel issues and Borough Manager Chris Boehm’s benefit package. Boehm will receive her accumulated sick days paid at $50 a day and money toward her medical insurance. Boehm’s last day is Dec. 31.