A Nesquehoning medical facility on the west end of town will soon be open for business.

During borough council's monthly meeting on Wednesday, Terry Purcell, vice president of ambulatory and support services at Blue Mountain Health System, approached council to request a change in the parking plan for the health system's new medical facility, located in a portion of the Kovatch Ford building on West Railroad Street."We would like a handicap drop-off spot in front of the office," Purcell said, noting that he previously met with the borough streets department regarding the request and state requirement.Before granting Purcell's request, Councilman Don DeMarco said the state guidelines say this needs to be done, adding that this spot will not be a parking spot, but rather a posted area in front of the main entrance for patient drop-offs, ambulances and vans.Vehicles would be allowed to remain there for only up to 15 minutes to allow for the driver to help the patient in to the building."If they are going by state guidelines and they are saying it's a need, then I don't see a problem," DeMarco said.The new medical facility would offer outpatient services, including a laboratory, X-ray and therapy services; an ExpressCare center through a partnership with Lehigh Valley Health Network; and a family practice office for Dr. John Bosi.Lisa Johnson, vice president of public relations and marketing at Blue Mountain Health System, said this morning that the facility will be surveyed by the state Department of Health on March 4, with plans to open the center for outpatient services on March 5. Once open, it will have office hours from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.Bosi's practice will open a few days earlier, on Monday, Johnson said; adding that the ExpressCare is expected to open on June 1.Council President David Hawk said parking on the south side block of Railroad Street, directly across from the medical center, should be restricted during office hours to maintain two lanes of travel. After hours, parking will be allowed on that side of thestreet.Councilman Frank Jacobs again asked that people would not be parking in this spot, and Purcell confirmed that it would only be used as a drop-off spot.Council said the health system would be required to pay for the signage for the project, but said they saw no reason why this request should not be granted.They then voted to approve the request.In other matters, council accepted a letter of retirement, effective immediately, from Althea Higgins, office clerk. They will send her a letter of appreciation for her service.The borough is now seeking applicants to fill the 35-hour full-time position.Any interested party should submit an application to the borough hall by March 6.