Two representatives from the Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce attended the March 7 Macungie Borough Council meeting. Ashley Lorah and Hayden Rinde told council of the support provided to municipalities and mentioned small grants available to businesses in Macungie experiencing hardships.

According to the chamber website, “Businesses can apply for up to $15,000 to help with COVID-19 related expenses. Lehigh County Commissioners have approved this grant program and partnered with the Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce to distribute $2.5 million of American Rescue Plan Act Funds to Lehigh County small businesses with 100 or fewer employees.

?“This grant is eligible to businesses who have not already received funding through Lehigh County under the American Rescue Plan Act in 2021. Businesses that have not received a grant through Lehigh County or received a grant in 2020 under the Cares Act through Lehigh County are eligible to apply.

“Funds will be awarded on a first come, first served basis. 1099 forms may be issued as this grant is subjected to taxes.”

Upcoming events include celebrating National Wine Day with the East Penn Chamber of Commerce. This is a virtual tasting event; drink and dessert kits will be available for pick up 4-6 p.m. May 25 at Mid-Adlantic Technology Professionals, 555 Harrison St., Emmaus. Tickets must be reserved by May 20 through the chamber.

A ribbon-cutting event will be held for Comprehensive Chiropractor, 6465 Village Lane #11, Macungie 5-7 p.m. May 18. The representatives also told council there is a seat available for a representative from Macungie.

Some negative comments have been received about the bump-outs. Some are not maintained, some have plantings not conducive for Main Street. Council is looking for grants to get some uniformity and provide plantings easy to maintain.

A resolution was proposed for placing banners across Main Street (Route 100). This is an annual occurrence. Resolution 2022-08 was approved.

The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation made a payment in the amount of $3,320 for the road turn back annual maintenance.

There was an executive session over personnel matters. John Brown was chosen as Macungie’s office manager.