Alburtis Mayor Kathleen Palmer swore in Tony Vanim as a police officer with the Alburtis Police Department at the council meeting Aug. 28.

An Alburtis resident for 20 years, Vanim recently retired from the state police after 21 years of service. His son, Andrew, daughter, Brooke and wife, Diane, accompanied Vanim as he took the oath of office.

An agreement outlining changes requested by Borough Engineer Dave Tettemer Aug. 14 for the Hills at Lock Ridge West subdivision was submitted to council for approval. The sewage pipes would change from iron to polyethylene and setbacks for several properties would be changed from 25 to 15 feet, and two commercial lots from 40 to 15 feet at the Hills at Lock Ridge West subdivision. Council approved the agreement.

President Steve Hill requested input from council about a written request for a donation to Meals on Wheels. Hill recalled in the past it was not the practice of the borough to use taxpayers' money to donate to private organizations and Knerr advised against it. Council agreed. Councilperson Sherryann Oels suggested and council agreed the request would be put in the newsletter.

Hill advised council he would attend the Lower Macungie Township meeting Sept. 6 to see about the park maintenance on the Spring Creed Road development. Zoning Officer David Kutzor also will attend.

An unnamed disabled veteran living in the borough has requested exemption from real estate taxes. "The law says if you are a disabled veteran you can ask for an exemption of real estate taxes," Solicitor David Knerr said. He explained the process of filling out and filing forms, qualifications and authorizations. Knerr said the borough can approve or disapprove the request.

"I feel they deserve it. They fought for our country," Councilperson Margaret McCormack said and Councilperson Kathleen Raines agreed. Council passed a motion approving the exemption, as the person had met all necessary requirements.

Upon examining the trees on Maple Court, the county forester determined the trees are healthy but should be sprayed with an environmentally safe insecticide, preferably in the spring of 2014, to exterminate the insects eating the leaves.

Council approved the purchase of a John Deere mower for $5,590, even though it is over the $5,500 set by council at their July 31 meeting.

Council also approved the purchase of a weed trimmer costing less than the $350 purchase price set by council July 31.