At the July 3 Catasauqua Borough Council meeting, council Vice President Howard Cunningham, chair for public safety, announced the borough is looking to have a ban on all fireworks in Catasauqua. There reportedly have been several issues involving the unsafe handling of fireworks.

People do not have to have them ignited at the time of police presence. If they are caught about to set off fireworks, residents could still be fined.

Police Chief Douglas Kish said the fines seem to be in order but does not believe prison time would result.

In other news, Lehigh County Redevelopment Authority has created a grant opportunity for blighted properties in Whitehall and North Whitehall townships and Catasauqua Borough.

The grant is to bring in $500,000 from the Pennsylvania Department of Economic Development. The funds would be divided among the three municipalities. Each would receive $150,000, with $50,000 remaining for administrative costs. As of now, these are the only municipalities having this opportunity. Many agreed at the meeting it is an honor for the borough to be included.

It was discussed that state Sen. Nick Miller, D-14th, and state Rep. Jeanne McNeil, D-133rd, are looking for Catasauqua Borough’s updates regarding legislation for dogs. It’s reportedly been some time since this was addressed, especially in reference to the handling of aggressive dogs.

In the 14th Street school area, there have been changes to signs, it was mentioned. Several signs have been added, removed or moved to ensure increased safety. A fine will be instituted for dropping off children in the wrong place.

There is a potential for children to be hurt when using the crosswalk. It was noted vehicles often speed through the area. It was suggested a warning sign, specifically saying “slow,” be placed in the street for additional efficacy.

At the meeting, it was announced the borough has three full-time vacancies in the police department, resulting in an increase in overtime, difficulty covering all shifts and staff reportedly being overloaded.

Councilwoman Jill Smerdon said she was concerned about the safety and welfare of children at school. She added if police are not hired, officers may be pulled from the school buildings to cover shifts, and there is a potential for danger. Children could be occasionally left unprotected. Kish assured her this was not going to be a problem and hopes the staffing issue may be addressed by August.

Smerdon mentioned $11,000 is available to refurbish the pool and possibly create a splash park. The issue of whether it would be a safe and worthwhile endeavor is being investigated.

In other matters, J.P. Mascaro & Sons has reportedly been missing several trash pickups. Some residents said they had their trash outside for pickup for more than a week. Borough Manager Glenn Eckhart proposed adjusting the next payment to Mascaro to be $5,000 less. It was noted it may be difficult to address the problem because other garbage companies are not placing bids for the trash removal contract.