At the Jan. 2 Northampton Borough Council meeting, council President Julia Kutzler noted the ongoing issue of tractor-trailers and other large vehicles improperly parked in borough parking lots needs to be addressed.

Tractor-trailers improperly parking in a public parking lot overnight is called a “bobtail” in trucking slang parlance. This is the actual semi-truck without an attached trailer. Kutzler lamented that, with all the things council is grappling with, this issue needs addressing, and it should not be ignored.

Kutzler said services from borough Solicitor Stephanie Steward may be needed to deal with the matter. Steward said she would assist as necessary.

Steward added, in addition to dealing with the improper parking, she will be updating, as needed, the borough’s code enforcement ordinance.

In his report, Mayor Anthony Pristash noted there are a number of outdoor projects that, like every year, slow down in the winter for a variety of reasons. He suggested residents be patient and understand the projects are not forgotten.

In closing comments on the matter, Pristash said residents cultivating patience is important.

Council approved resolutions 1 through 4 establishing fees for permits and licenses, appointing a sewage enforcement officer and appointing David Shields as the official building code official for 2025.

Ordinance 1237 was approved, which fixes the borough tax rate at 14 mills for 2025.

All resolutions and ordinances are available for review by visiting northamptonboro.com or by calling the borough office.

Council reappointed Donald Szerencits and Kenneth Hall to the planning commission, each for four-year terms that expire Dec. 31, 2028.

Horwith Leasing Inc. was granted preliminary and final approval for a land development plan to install relocatable storage units on an existing impervious gravel lot at its site.

Borough Assistant Manager Jerry Serensits was granted permission to receive reimbursement for education he pursues to expand his knowledge to better discharge his duties.

In his code and police committee report, Councilman Trevor Stone noted the two recently hired police officers had their first day Jan. 6.

Stone added residential and commercial fee collection increased 5% from the previous year. A new system for code enforcement citations is being developed by the borough solicitor and council, Stone reported.

Councilwoman Bonnie Almond, in her fire and health committee report, said Northampton Fire Department will be holding a breakfast 8-11 a.m. Jan. 12. Visit northamptonfire42.com for more information.

In the building, land and recreation committee report, Councilwoman Judy Haldeman noted the fees at the borough’s municipal swimming pool are expected to rise for this year’s pool season. The increases are possible for daily and family season passes.

Haldeman also noted the borough received a $20,000 grant from Grow NORCO for improvements at Canal Street Park.

Borough Manager Brian Welsko said the borough received notification that half of a grant for $7,000 was approved for assisting the Movies in the Park program for this summer at Municipal Park.

The next borough council meeting will be held 7 p.m. Jan. 16 at the municipal building, 1401 Laubach Ave. It is a hybrid meeting, with both in-person and virtual options. Visit northamptonboro.com for information to access the meeting virtually and view a copy of the agenda.