Neglected properties were concernedly discussed by Summit Hill Borough Council Tuesday night.

One member of the council complained about how some property owners allow weeds to grow, not only in yards but also on walkways and in front of residences.

Meanwhile, a resident of the borough complained to the council that a rat problem exists in her neighborhood, and that there are numerous things that could be attracting them.

The council member, Joanie Morana, said she frequently takes walks in the community and “it really bothers me a lot how bad our town looks.” This is especially true for abandoned properties.

Not only are they eyesores, she said, but they are health hazards.

So bad are some overgrown areas that she walks in the street instead of on sidewalks. Even the sidewalks are overgrown with weeds in some locations.

She asked if the borough could somehow cut weeds if the property owner doesn’t.

Council vice president Joseph Weber said there is a concern for liability if the borough workers go onto private property.

“I don’t think anyone wants our town to look this bad,” she said.

Weber agreed stating that it is “as bad as ever.”

Morana said that places which are abandoned are the worst and “nobody’s going to clean them up.”

“The problem is getting worse considerably,” Weber said. He suggested that if the borough would clean up properties, and the borough isn’t reimbursed, that a lien be placed on the property.

Morana said people are visiting the town for special events such as the Hootenanny and “I can’t imagine what they think.”

Weber said some people have well-manicured yards “but the curb line looks like heck.”

Kim Graver, who lives on West Holland Street, said there is a rat problem in her neighborhood.

She said she caught three of them and feels one reason they’re such a problem is because of high grass at a nearby residence.

In addition, there is an accumulation of stuff between two buildings as well as “out of control” bushes which might attract them.

“This will be addressed,” Weber said.

Chief of Police Todd Woodward said the zoning officer has been issuing tickets to violators. He said a total of 31 citations were recently mailed.

He said sometimes it is hard to reach the property owner. In one case where a citation was issued, the property owner lives in California.

He said citations can be given but “we can’t force them to cut their grass.” Sometimes repeat citations are given.

He urged that anyone seeing such problem existing to report it to the borough.