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Slatington resident pushes for safety improvements on Rt. 873

A resident raised concerns about speeding traffic on Route 873 at Slatington Borough Council’s meeting.

Kris Burek urged officials to address crashes along the 1200 block of Main Street, including one that damaged cemetery headstones.

Previously, vehicles have crashed into houses as they descended the hill into town.

Other crashes have also occurred.

Burek asked that the borough’s electronic speed sign be moved from the 900 block to the 1200 block.

Councilman Richard Kratz said the request would need to be reviewed by Police Chief William Borst, who was absent from the meeting.

Library roof

Lynne Fedorcha, treasurer of the Slatington Library, came to the council meeting to ask council to apply for the local share grant by Sept. 30.

Fedorcha said, “A well maintained library roof is essential — not just for protecting the building, but ensuring that the library remains a safe, welcoming place where residents of all ages can learn, connect and grow. By investing in this project, we are investing in the community’s long-term well-being.”

The library has obtained three quotes. Two companies recommend full roof replacement. Their estimates are $167,880 and $137,538.50.

A third company has advised that replacement may not be necessary, and instead offered to repair the roof for $16,593.

“We will be voting Tuesday at our meeting on which quote to accept, and that amount will be the basis of our grant application,” Fedorcha said.

Slatington would be responsible for submitting the application on behalf of the library.

The library will pay the $100 submission fee.

If the grant is awarded, the borough would receive the funds and pay the bills once submitted.

Council agreed to apply for the grant.

Fedorcha said, “Thank you, council, for your time and consideration. We truly appreciate your support as we work to preserve and strengthen our library. Together, we can make sure this resource continues to serve our community for many years to come.”

Sewer fees

Burek also asked for an update on her request to take a look at the ordinance for the water and sewer billing.

“For three months, a quarter, I was billed for 8,000 gallons and only used 4,000 gallons. That is wrong.”

Manager Roy Hambrecht said, “The new accounting system and water meters will be ready in August of 2026.”

Burek urged a change now, but Hambrecht said more information is needed.

Other business

Council also approved:

• A new siren for the firehouse, with a $4,646 bid awarded to Echo Communications.

• Adopted ordinances banning camping/loitering in public spaces and requiring visible rear-address signs for emergency access.

• Approved advertising Ordinance 724, allowing fees when properties go to sheriff’s sale.

• Authorized a $5,497 AT&T upgrade to the maintenance building’s network and signed an agreement with PPL Utilities to spot spray vegetation along its transmission line.

• Approved the 2026 police pension memorandum of understanding at $183,480.79.

• Purchased a new effluent pump for $14,450, replacing a 30-year-old model.

• Granted permission for the Northern Lehigh School District Homecoming Parade on Oct. 10.

Mayor Jeralyn Schoch also thanked businesses and organizations that donated to new Christmas lights on Main Street, including The China Inn, Boyer’s Hardware, Lions Club, Rentchler, 2nd Chance Shop, St. John’s Lutheran Church and the Ladies Auxiliary of the Slatington American Legion.

Speed is a concern on the Route 873 hill descending into Slatington. PATRICIA INGLES/SPECIAL TO THE TIMES NEWS