Lansford Borough Council President Bruce Markovich told council that a grant for $7,500 for work on the community parks have been approved.

“We have hired H. Edward Black and Associates from Harrisburg to redesign Kennedy Park, including sidewalks, lighting, and electrical systems, Ashton Park; and upgrades to the skate park,” Markovich said.

Black & Associates are expected to be in the area in May to begin preliminary work.

“That’s good news,” Markovich said. “We’re finally going to get this approved project designed and get some work done.”

In other business, council voted to advertise a motion to reduce sewer transmission fees from $90 to $60. Council plans to have the new rate in effect by the time the new bills are sent out Feb. 15.

Bids for properties

Lansford Solicitor Robert Yurchak told council to deny bids on two properties that were being auctioned by Carbon County Tax Claim.

One property is at 118 West Ridge Street.

“In talking to Jimmy (Dean, Zoning officer) the person who actually bid on it gave him a hard time over another property, saying he bid on another property and didn’t realize it was condemned,” Yurchak said. “This is the same person, he lives in Philadelphia, and he bid a total of $1,250 for that building. I recommend we deny that bid.”

The bid was made by Conor Rodgers of CRT Services, Philadelphia.

The other property is at 512 East Kline Avenue. A bid was received from an LLC from Long Beach, California.

“What chances would we have in enforcing anything from Long Beach, California?” Yurchak asked. Council voted to decline both bids.

Fire company expenses

Council voted to table the payment of invoices turned in by the American Fire Company #1. The invoices are for receipts for the second half of 2022 in the amount of $11,331.37.

“We will be meeting with them to discuss the bills and to discuss their budget,” Markovich said.

Secretaries

A motion was approved to give a 3% pay raise to borough secretary Wendy Butrie.

A motion was made to change the employment status of Shantel Lauer, assistant borough secretary, from part-time to full-time effective Jan. 15. She will be paid $20.23 and hour.