By a vote of 5-4, Northampton County Council passed an ordinance Sept. 5 providing free sanitation products at the county’s 69 restrooms.

As defined by the ordinance, the products include soap, toilet paper, menstrual pads and tampons.

Director of Administration Nicole Pietrzak estimates $28,415 as startup cost for dispensers, and an additional $16,000 annually for feminine products.

Ordinance sponsor Commissioner Kelly Keegan explained to her colleagues that basic hygiene, cleanliness, human dignity and equity compelled her to bring this issue forward.

Making the argument menstruation is a normal bodily function, she reminded her colleague that a period cycle can start at any moment, and the ordinance provides a hygienic solution to those who might not have something on hand.

Commissioner John Goffredo, who voted against the ordinance, said he saw no logic in having dispensers with feminine products in male restrooms.

Local preparations for the nation’s 250th anniversary received a grant from county council of $100,000, which is part of the Lehigh Valley 250.

Northampton County Genealogical and Historical Society made the request to ensure the celebrations highlight the arts, culture and history of Northampton County.

Following the grant approval, Executive Lamont McClure released this statement:

“Lehigh Valley 250 offers a powerful partnership that offers Northampton County’s best opportunity to increase tourism, teach about our funding and just plain have a good time celebrating the birth of the greatest nation the world has ever known.”

Earlier in the meeting, a couple of county correctional officers addressed the podium during Courtesy of the Floor to express their concerns and frustrations with their working conditions. Among the points raised not enough compensation for the overtime due to staff shortages, as well as altered work schedule.”

During the Executive Address, McClure was asked by council members about contract negotiations. He explained it had gone to binding arbitration and the contract was settled, adding he was unable to comment on details.

McClure confirmed 35,500 mail-in voting applications have been received to date.