The regular monthly meeting of the Nesquehoning Borough Council was held on Wednesday, a week earlier than usual due to the upcoming Thanksgiving holiday.

During the meeting council voted to approve a preliminary 2012 budget and indicated a General Fund budget to be set at $1,441,343.47. The budget does not include any tax increases. This amount shows a $5,000 decrease from the 2011 budget.Council members entered into an executive session to discuss negotiations and litigations. The police chief contract was tabled until the December session pending a review by solicitor Robert T. Yurchak.Yurchak announced that both the Police Pension Plan Amendment Ordinance and the Property Maintenance Ordinance had been advertised and council voted to approve the adoption of both ordinances.Fire Chief John McArdle displayed pet oxygen masks for dogs and cats that can be utilized by ambulance or fire personnel during an emergency. The cone-shaped masks are designed to fit over the animal's face and will be utilized to administer oxygen to the animal. Nine masks were donated to the borough thanks to the generosity of several residents and businesses after a "large outcry" for the devices.McArdle recognized the need for the devices but stated that human life and safety would be the primary concern. Included with the pet masks were instructions on how to perform pet

C.P.R.McArdle also said that there are still some smoke detectors available for free for Nesquehoning residents who may need them.In reference to the recent snowstorm that knocked out power for most of the area, council President Mark Stromelo said, "Prepare for the worst. You never know when it is going to come."Borough superintendent Louie Paul said that the bikes that have been accumulated at the borough police station have been washed and had the tires filled with air and are ready to be given away. The borough will hold a free Chinese Auction in council chambers this Saturday from 9-11 a.m. The auction is for the children of Nesquehoning. All bikes will be auctioned as is and parents must be present to sign a release form.The borough is still accepting applications for part-time sanitation pickers. Interested parties should contact the borough office.The tentative date for the

D.A.R.E. program graduation is Dec. 15 at the Panther Valley Elementary School.There will not be any Crime Watch meetings during the winter months. The next meeting will be in March.The next borough council meeting will be held Wednesday, Dec. 21 at 7 p.m.