During the July 1 Macungie Borough Council meeting, administration requested an upgrade in their utility billing software utilized for borough water, sewer and refuse billing.

The challenges with the current UBmax software, noted by Borough Manager John Brown, include poor technical support (ending in 2024), poor interface between the Badger meter reading software and UBmax creating errors, program interface is difficult to use, late fees must be manually entered and adjusted monthly and online payments are difficult for customers.

Utility Billing Hub would replace the UBmax software. FrontDesk is the customer portal for online payments. The initial cost will be $7,020 with an annual cost of $5,020. The motion was approved.

Administration also approved the purchase of a special piece of equipment to help to clear sewer lines. The equipment is a 2100 Vector Jetter Model 27501-3126 2003. The item is a vehicle with a tube like structure that goes into the sewer line. Brown said Macungie has spent several million dollars lining sewer mains and laterals. This equipment enables rapid response to issues that arise (clogs) and clean out. Lower Macungie Township purchased a new vehicle; no bids were received via municibid which allows Macungie to purchase the equipment.

A proposal was submitted for a resolution of stormwater problems on Race Street where it meets Main Street (Route 100). This proposal will be studied and considered.

The solicitor is working on an ordinance to resolve parking problems with larger vehicles. A suggested proposal was discussed but will be reviewed further.

At the June 17 meeting, a Macungie police report was provided showing 234 calls during the month of May. A traffic study completed in May on the 200 block of West Main showed 5,573 vehicles traveled through the area in two days. The highest speed was 61 mph; the average speed was 38 mph. The study also showed 3,803 vehicles were above the speed limit.

Carole Christman Koch sent a letter to council requesting they start a Hometown Heroes program in Macungie.

An executive session was held for legal, personnel and real estate issues.

The next Macungie Borough Council meeting will be held 7:30 p.m. July 15 at the Macungie Institute, 510 E. Main St., Macungie.