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LEHIGH VALLEY WEATHER

Northampton Borough council lauds workers

The Borough of Northampton deployed all personnel to deal with Hurricane Sandy last week.

The storm's howling strong winds raised havoc and inflicted damage to roofs and siding, trees, utility lines and poles and the bandshell at the borough's municipal park off Laubach Avenue and Smith Lane.

Borough council was provided a preliminary assessment of Sandy's destruction at Thursday's meeting.

The entire borough family, from the fire department, fire police, administration, public works and police were lauded by council members as they reporting team efforts in responding to calls. Personnel, it was said, took a proactive role to ensure the town's safety when the power went out.

Kenneth Hall, fire police captain, said his unit received 20 calls, reporting there was no power for up to 24 hours.

There were trees down and part of the bandshell in the park damaged.

"There was no real severe damage," he said.

Fire Chief Bob Solderich said two volunteers firefighter crews were stationed round the clock on standby to respond to calls from the station on Lerchenmiller Drive, along with its water rescue unit. Police patrols were kept busy across the borough.

Police Chief Ron Morey remained on duty, at times with Mayor Thomas Renock, removing tree branches which obstructed traffic and posed safety issues as they blew aimlessly on streets.

Councilman Robert McHale thanked all borough personnel, volunteers and full time employees for their efforts in dealing with Sandy.

His words were echoed by each council member.

Council President John Yurish said the effort "was outstanding" by all in the borough.

"I am very proud to say I live in Northampton ... As a family, we are at the apex of what we are," said Councilman Anthony Lopsonzski Sr.