The Borough of Alburtis Council convened Feb. 28 to discuss and approve only a few short agenda items. The meeting, held 7 p.m. at borough hall, 260 Franklin St., saw the participation of council members and borough officials, including Mayor Kathleen Palmer and Borough Manager Stephen Nemeth.

The meeting began with the customary call to order followed by the recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance.

Members of the public were allowed to voice their opinions during the public comment session; however, none were received.

Palmer delivered her report, highlighting the Alburtis Borough maintenance workers for their work clearing the recent snowfall on the roads. Additionally, although not in attendance, Police Officers Chris Lubenetski and Ray Bulger were commended for their work responding to a missing person in the borough. Following this, the council unanimously approved the meeting minutes from Feb. 14.

The next portion of the meeting was dedicated to financial matters.

The council approved the payment of bills, amounting to $96,227.57 dating back to the previous meeting. Additionally, the fiscal consultant’s report was reviewed and accepted.

The meeting then turned to the administration agenda.

Financial Consultant Chris Basile was in attendance to discuss the borough’s escrow accounts. The biggest use of escrows for the borough is on infrastructure projects. Developers pay into third-party escrow accounts before they can begin work. Basile explained these type of accounts work as a protector for the borough, especially against developers who do not complete their work or do not reimburse the borough.

He also answered questions from council members on the borough’s budget and financial plan. He concluded by saying the cash flow is, “OK” within the borough.

Next, a request was received for a firework display at the Alburtis Area Community Center. The display will take place July 3, with a rain date scheduled July 6. The owner of the fireworks company, Shooting Star Fireworks, was in attendance to answer questions.

There were concerns by council on the fallout zone of the fireworks, especially with the elementary school and surrounding houses being nearby. Council members were also concerned with only having a $1 million insurance policy. Consequently, the fireworks request was denied in a split 3-2 vote, with two council members abstaining due to being associated with the AACC.

Council then quickly discussed ideas for different locations or if there was a possibility for the fireworks company to get a higher insurance policy. Council President Ron DeIaco said council members are open to discussing the fireworks request at a later meeting.

Council received the Bi-county Lehigh Valley Hazard Mitigation Plan Draft Document. This initiative helps in ensuring the safety and well-being of its residents in the face of potential hazards. The plan needs to be updated every five years. The plan was sent out for public review and comment.

Lastly, council acknowledged the receipt of a 2021 recycling grant award totaling $2,914.38.

Following this, the meeting was adjourned.

The next regular meeting of the Alburtis Borough Council is scheduled 7 p.m. March 13 and will take place at Alburtis Borough Hall, Franklin Street.