Former Council President Chris Becker was offered the borough manager position during the Macungie Borough Council meeting June 7. Becker was offered a salary of $84,000 and a benefit package. Council expects to hear from Becker in the next two weeks; if he accepts, he would begin employment in July. This was decided during an executive session.

Becker ended his term as council president in 2019.

Macungie Borough Council met virtually for their regularly scheduled meeting with reorganization on the agenda. Council accepted Vice President Roseann Schleicher’s resignation with regret. Several council members praised her ability to locate information even from years ago and her many contributions and said she will be missed.

John Yerman will remain as president, Angela Ashbrook was appointed vice president and Todd Rutledge as vice president pro temp. There is a search for an additional council member.

Greg Hutchison was considered for the planning commission. This appointment will be held until after a council member is chosen as Hutchison is seeking that position.

The Cotton Street pedestrian bridge was discussed. A resident raised concerns about the cost to taxpayers, although a large portion of the bridge was funded by a grant. Yerman said he observed 25 pedestrians a day using the bridge making it very worthwhile as well as safer for walking and other roadside activities.

The retaining wall is moving forward with a land use application needed. The application is due by June 25.

The retention pond at the end of Willow Street has been enlarged but has a new problem. It is attracting a large amount of frogs and residents are complaining about the noise from the frogs. This will be investigated.

Main Street Streetscapes Phase 4 is near completion. Phase 5 will move on to the next step which is authorizing funds of $42,750 from a grant. Phase 6 on the northbound side will cost $500,000; if expanded to Chestnut Street the cost will rise to $1 million. They are currently looking into grants.

Macungie is looking into reopening facilities. Pennsylvania has said mandates for COVID-19 protection will end June 28.

The Cotton Street rain garden is near completion and needs to be inspected.

Resolution 2021-08 was accepted for the sale of the 1998 International dump truck. Numerous bids were received with the highest being $5,800.

A Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development/Commonwealth Financing Authority local share account grant was awarded in the amount of $84,632 which is to be used for Macungie Institute’s heating and cooling system.

The Lantek quote for Macungie computer installation and upgrades was approved for $2,160.