Defective streetlights in Tamaqua aren’t providing much illumination.

“The streetlights are becoming a major public safety issue,” resident Mark Bower told borough council members Tuesday.

Because of a manufacturing defect, the lights have been glowing a purple hue. The borough is having the lights replaced at no cost as they are made available.

More and more lights, however, appear to be turning purple.

“It’s bad. There are some spots in town where it is really dark to be walking,” said Bower, chief of the South Ward Fire Company. “I see people out there and it’s getting really wicked.”

Jay Stidham, public works director, said he and solicitor Anthony Odorizzi have been in discussions with the light maker. He said they’re waiting for a response.

Also during the meeting, the Tamaqua American Legion advised council that the annual Veterans Day Parade will be held beginning at 10 a.m. Nov. 11 on Broad Street. The Tamaqua Police and Fire departments are helping to coordinate it.

The Owl Creek Reservoir Commission’s request to have Tamaqua Fire Police assist with parking and traffic control for its Saturday Fall Festival was approved. The event will begin at noon from the lower reservoir on Owl Creek Road and feature hayrides, food, games, a campfire, live entertainment by The McGeehan Duo, costumed characters, pumpkin decorating and crafts for children. Hayrides begin at noon, and haunted hayrides will be held from 6:30-10 p.m.

Tamaqua Mayor Nathan Gerace said that the Halloween Parade will be held Tuesday beginning at 7 p.m. on East Broad Street. The parade will end at the intersection of West Broad and Swatara streets.