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LEHIGH VALLEY WEATHER

Yard waste facility discussions continue

Alburtis Borough Council held its second regular meeting of the month May 29.

In public comments, a resident spoke about a new home being built on Second Street, which is adjacent to their property. They were upset they weren’t notified about the new construction, about the amount of construction vehicles and equipment being stored on the neighboring property and about some damage done.

It was explained the builder did not follow the plan and council was apologetic this situation occurred. The vehicles and equipment are now gone and the builder is coming back to fix the damage.

A second resident spoke up about abandoned vehicles in the borough, specifically damaged or uninspected vehicles. Police Chief Tony Alsleben explained council needs to pass an ordinance allowing the Alburtis Police Department to take action. A motion was approved for the solicitor to research and draft an ordinance, although the specifics still need to be determined. Council thanked the resident for bringing this situation to its attention.

Mayor Kathleen Palmer did not have any items to report.

Next, council approved the minutes from the May 8 meeting and authorized the bills for payment dated May 29. The fiscal consultant’s report was reviewed and accepted.

The meeting then moved to the administrative portion.

The first item discussed was the yard waste facility update. Borough Manager Steve Nemeth said he reached out to neighboring municipalities and not one approved a permit allowing Alburtis residents to use their facilities. He said most of them are having similar issues with unlawful use of their facilities.

Council, with resident input, discussed if they were to keep and pay for the local yard waste facility. The main issue is borough funds are tight due to the recent large infrastructure projects. They decided to cut the dumpsters from the budget due to the unlawful use by outside contractors.

A motion was approved to begin exploring fencing options and other security measures surrounding the yard waste area. Ultimately, nothing was officially decided and this item will be on the next agenda.

Council unanimously passed Ordinance 586, which amends Chapter 59 of the Alburtis Codified Ordinances to establish regulations for the installation and maintenance of mailboxes within the public right -of-way. The ordinance includes requirements for obtaining permits, standards for mounting poles or containers, maintenance obligations and duties of property owners to provide mailboxes for tenants. Existing installations must comply by Dec. 1 and penalties for violations were established.

Council approved a request from the Alburtis Area Community Center for increased police presence, road closures and garbage assistance for the upcoming carnival and community day events occurring July 3-6.

Council acknowledged a letter from the Lower Macungie Fire Department requesting advertisers for its centennial book, commemorating 100 years of service and dedication to the community. Council decided to spend $300 for a half-page advertisement.

The borough manager then opened a public comment period for the Lehigh Valley Transportation Study, encouraging residents to participate in discussions about regional transportation planning and improvements. However, there was not much discussion.

Following the administrative session, council held an executive session to discuss personnel matters. With no other items on the agenda, the meeting was adjourned.

The next Alburtis Borough Council meeting will be held 7 p.m. June 12 in borough hall, 260 Franklin St., Alburtis.