The Towamensing Township Board of Supervisors and Eric George, president of the Towamensing Township Fire Company and Fire Police Captain had a discussion about the guidelines for junior firefighters at the August meeting.

Chair Guy Seifert explained, “I’m not sure the child labor laws are being followed, and they must be followed. We need to see a written policy.”

Seifert explained that there are different parameters for the total hours that can be worked for 14- to 16-year-olds and 16- to 18-year-olds. He said, “Junior firefighters are critical to our company.”

He added that he will talk to the new administration of the fire company.

The township failed two areas of the Relief Association audit, not having an EIN number and the need to do inventory.

The Relief Association has rules and guidelines for financial support to firefighters and their families. A letter will be sent to Fire Company President Robert O’Donnell that the Township would like “An update/timeframe when they will bring the fire company into compliance.”

The fire company reported 10 emergencies for the month of July.

The Palmerton Library’s request for a letter of support for a grant they are seeking for restoration was approved.

During public comment resident John Rickey asked if shipping containers are permitted on residential properties. The board responded that they are aware of the property he was referring to, and they have issued a violation as the permit for the container was denied. The owner of the 52-foot container wants to appeal that decision.

The historical commission noted that all of the exterior of the one room schoolhouse has been completed and saved from more deterioration. Next year, they “hope to do the inside and look to the future for what we will do with the building,” said Chair Don Bonnet.