The Borough of Weissport is the recipient of a Liberty Tree, a project that is being coordinated with America250PA, the organization that is working towards the 250th Anniversary of the United States of America.

The Liberty Tree project is based on a moment in history. During the American Revolutionary War, the Sons of Liberty often convened under the nation’s original Liberty Tree in Boston, to discuss their opposition to British rule in the colonies.

This historic tree became a beacon of hope to colonists and a symbol of American freedom. In an attempt to stymie these colonists, the British destroyed Boston’s Liberty Tree. Suddenly, patriots throughout the 13 colonies began to designate new Liberty Trees.

The last known original Liberty Tree sat on the campus of Saint John’s University in Maryland, until it was destroyed by Hurricane Floyd in 1999. Today, seeds from a scion of the original tree are being collected, grown into seedlings, and planted across the Commonwealth.

Generously sponsored by and in partnership with the Pennsylvania Freemasons, America250PA’s Liberty Tree Project includes a certified Liberty Tree planted in each of Pennsylvania’s 67 counties.

In Carbon County, the Liberty Tree has been planted in the Weissport Borough Park. A dedication ceremony will be held at noon June 15, rain or shine, in the park.

Dignitaries from around the area will participate, the public is welcome.

Other business

Councilman Joe Foster submitted his resignation as head of the Borough’s Public Works Department Supervisor to seek new challenges and opportunities. Foster will continue to serve on the borough council as vice president.

Borough Council is seeking to hire additional part-time help to do work such as grass cutting, weed trimming, and additional tasks. Interested persons can contact the Weissport Borough Office at 610-377-5606.

Police

Weissport Chief of Police Matthew Williams submitted his monthly police report.

During the month of May, there were 17 calls. four traffic violations, three suspicious person calls, three Quality of Life issues, and additional calls.

Williams said the new body camera was working well.

“The body camera works very well, no issues, very good,” he stated. “We had an issue where we needed it, and it served its purpose.”

On a related issue, they discussed a property on White Street that has litter and junk all over the property. Chief Williams said he would check on it, and have the Borough’s code officer, Brent Greene, investigate.