Possible set back issues with the Lansford American Fire Company's new building have brought construction to a halt.

Lansford Borough Council discussed the issue at Wednesday night's regular meeting.According to correspondence from Josh Sweinhart, president of Wood Originals, the company had to suspend work on the fire company building effective Nov. 6 as a result of issues with zoning setbacks and winter weather. The correspondence also stated that no further work will be scheduled until required permits are issued.Council was uncertain if there is an issue with the setbacks, which are the distances a building or other structure is set back from a street or road, a river/stream, a shore or flood plain, or any other place which is deemed to need protection. After some discussion, the board agreed to look into the local setback ordinance to see if it's possible to allow Wood Originals to continue work without a special permit and a zoning board hearing."I will research it and will track down what we have in our code. I have done the zoning before…" offered Councilwoman Mary Soberick.Council President Rose Mary Cannon informed council that the budget committee has made great progress and will be able to present the budget for approval in December. In a budget related manner, Lansford American Fire Company #1 requested an allotment of $11,200 in tax monies be included in the 2014 budget $6,000 to pay for heating fuel, $2,800 for vehicle fuel, and $2,400 for electricity. The estimated consumption of fuel was 3000 gallons. Cannon mentioned there is already local service tax money appropriated for the purpose of fire department expenses.Carbon County Commissioner Wayne Nothstein, in cooperation with Sen. John Yudichak, offered an invitation to all elected officials within the region to attend a meeting at 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 20. The meeting will be held in the commissioner's meeting room on the third floor of the Carbon Court House Annex. According to Nothstein's letter, the topics of discussion at the meeting will include, but won't be limited to, shared services, health insurance, public safety, and bridge issues. It is intended to help elected leaders find ways to reduce costs and become more efficient in delivering services to constituents.Councilwoman Samantha Yasson reported that, according to correspondence from the Lehighton Ambulance Association, the association responded to about 125 calls since Aug. 1.Councilman Lenny Kovach announced the new borough dump truck has arrived. There is a problem with the paint job and Kovach is working with the dealership and KME on getting the issue resolved.Council granted Lansford Alive permission to use Kennedy Park and Cartwright Street on Nov. 30 for their tree lighting and horse and wagon ride.A quality of life ordinance will be advertised and is up for discussion in December. The ordinance sets penalties for certain violations of the property maintenance rules and regulations.