Emmaus Borough Council increased the price of annual restaurant health inspections from $75 to $85 at the Oct. 7 meeting.

New businesses serving food will also have to pay a $100 fee for a site plan review by the borough health officer. There was previously no fee for the service.

"We did some research and it turns out (Emmaus' rates) are very low compared to other municipalities in the area," Councilman Jeff Shubzda said.

Shubzda went on to tell council other municipalities have rates ranging from $220 to $450 annually.

Mayor Winfield Iobst proclaimed this week as Fire Prevention Week in the borough. The theme of the week will be prevention of kitchen fires. Iobst said two of every five home fires start in the kitchen.

"I call on the people of Emmaus to take the steps needed to make their homes and families safe from house fires," Iobst said.

The mayor also announced Trick-or-Treat Night will take place 6 to 8 p.m. Oct. 31.

A new tree donation policy was enacted at the meeting. Interested citizens should contact the Shade Tree Commission to donate for the cost of a tree in the borough. The donor and the commission will decide what type of tree to plant and the tree will be purchased from an approved nursery for residents to enjoy.

Organic community garden plots will again be available next year. Plots will cost $15 for residents and $25 for nonresidents with a maximum of two plots per person.

Council also approved a waiver for an open fire fee for Emmaus High School's annual Homecoming Parade and Bonfire Oct. 10.

Also approved was the sale of popcorn on the Emmaus Triangle by Boy Scout Troop 70 Oct. 13.