During the June 19 Catasauqua Borough Council meeting, borough Manager Glenn Eckhart reported that, year to date, the borough’s revenues are running ahead of the budget, while expenses are below budget.

He also reported S&P Global Ratings reported Catasauqua initiated substantial structural improvements and should report its first break-even year since 2015.

Council approved a resolution requesting a Greenways Trails and Recreation Program grant of $196,644.10 from the state Commonwealth Financing Authority to be used for renovations to Catasauqua Park and Candy Cane Park and the creation of an additional park at the southwest corner of 14th and Poplar streets.

In addition, borough council adopted a resolution requesting a flood mitigation program grant of $500,000 from the Commonwealth Financing Authority to install new storm drains and road improvements along Walnut Street.

Eckhart noted the assistance with the Iron Works project by the Lehigh County Redevelopment Authority is appreciated. The authority was re-established in April by the Lehigh County Board of Commissioners. Its first project is the Iron Works redevelopment in Catasauqua.

According to consultant Chad Helmer, the authority believes a successful redevelopment of the property could generate more than $1 million in additional tax revenues each year, new jobs and substantial long-term economic benefits for Catasauqua.

In other business, council approved an agreement with iWorQ Systems for a cloud-based computer software system that can help with the processing of rental lease agreements and code enforcement and permits. The cost is $8,000 per year, with a startup fee of $5,400.

Council also passed an amendment to the stormwater management ordinance to address the prohibition of unauthorized non-stormwater discharge erosion and sediment controls. This applies to construction activities involving earth disturbances of 1 acre or more and post-construction stormwater management for new development and redevelopment projects.

An ordinance was adopted to restrict unattached truck trailers and all other trailers from parking on public streets. Specifically, no truck trailer or any type of trailer can be parked on any street without the necessary equipment constructed or designed for the purpose of pulling or drawing the trailer.

Dale Hein, Catasauqua Area School District Board of Education member, reported Catasauqua residents will have a decrease in millage in school taxes for next year.

Catasauqua Mayor Barbara Schlegel noted there will be a reading of the Declaration of Independence and tours of the George Taylor House, 35 S. Front St., starting 9 a.m. July 4. For further details, visit the GTH Facebook page.