Alburtis Borough Council met Sept. 27 for its regular meeting, engaging in discussions encompassing a spectrum of community matters.

Council President Ron DeIaco initiated the proceedings with a call to order and a public comment session. There were none.

Mayor Kathleen Palmer’s report featured a notable guest, Lehigh County Assistant District Attorney Gavin Hollihan. Palmer said she has known Hollihan for a long time and reflected on his distinguished career and congratulated him on his new appointment as district attorney.

Hollihan addressed council, asking for any questions.

There were questions about serious crimes, including guns and drugs, reaching the Alburtis area. He assured those in attendance harsher penalties will be a priority to deter this type of behavior from increasing.

Police Chief Tony Alsleben, “I have known him for 23 years. I’ve worked closely with him in my previous employment. The county is going to benefit (from his appointment).”

The minutes from the Sept. 13 meeting were approved, as well as the list of bills for payment. Questions were raised about the process in which police uniforms were purchased. It was determined there was a miscommunication about the usage of police officer allotments.

A comprehensive fiscal consultant’s report offered insights into the borough’s financial health. Concerns were raised by Councilman John Aleszczyk on the status of the general fund. The borough will be receiving reimbursements for ongoing projects.

Next, administrative matters took center stage.

A conditional use hearing at 121 S. Main St., proposed by 410 Enterprises, LLC, was the first item. The proposal involves converting the building into one commercial unit and five residential units in the main building, plus a single-family dwelling in the existing carriage house. However, the plan brought to the meeting showed six residential units, which meant they did not have enough parking spaces. A new, updated plan will be brought to a future meeting for consideration.

The Bicentennial Village Project bid award followed. The council argued about rising costs, the project being over budget and whether they should move forward with the project altogether. It was decided this project would be discussed again at the next council meeting Oct. 11.

Lockridge residents are invited and encouraged to attend the meeting, as well as any concerned residents. The meeting will take place at the Alburtis Community Center to accommodate a larger crowd.

The annual report concerning the Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System program reflected the borough’s dedication to environmental responsibility.

The Minimum Municipal Obligation for pension funds in 2024 was reviewed and approved.

Allocation of state pension aid and the estimated allocation for liquid fuels in 2024 were discussed, contributing to the maintenance of local roads. The allocation for the state pension aid totaled $81,076. The estimated liquid fuel allocation for 2024 is $65,803.99.

The 2023 Commonwealth state aid allocation was received supporting the Volunteer Fire Relief Association of the local fire company. The allocation of $14,967.84 under Act 205 will support fire relief efforts.

Additionally, council discussed Emmaus Borough’s notice of a 45-day public comment period regarding a newly proposed official map by Emmaus.

The next Alburtis Borough Council meeting will be held 7 p.m. Oct. 11.