A former auto junkyard on the Indian Hill section of Franklin Township is now littered with trash and thousands of tires, according to neighbors, who voiced concern Tuesday to the Franklin Township supervisors.

The residents, who didn't state their names during the meeting, said they have been complaining about the property for months and are unhappy nothing has been done about it.The supervisors said they discussed the matter with their solicitor, attorney William Schwab, and were advised the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection is handling the matter.The supervisors said they were advised not to take action or DEP would put the onus on the township."We don't want every resident to have to pay, especially if the DEP will do the cleanup," Supervisor Robin Cressley said.The residents said a tire fence 4 to 5 feet high is being erected on the property.They told the supervisors they are concerned about the Zika virus and other diseases that occur from mosquitoes that breed on tire piles.The property in question is not visible from the road.The supervisors said they will ask the zoning officer if any action has been taken regarding zoning violations.The residents said besides the tires lying loose, three buses are being filled with tires.In other business• The supervisors said garbage collection, scheduled for Labor Day, Sept. 6, will be made on Tuesday, Sept. 7.• The fire police were given permission to assist with the Lehighton Area Halloween Parade on Oct. 15. The rain date is Oct. 16.• The fire department will be allowed to participate in the Lehighton Halloween Parade. In addition, they can participate in the truck parade and dedication program at Mahoning Valley Fire Company on Sept. 17.