The Borough of Northampton is concerned about the condition of its streets across town resulting from street cuts performed by UGI.

To address the issue, the borough is updating its ordinance so street restoration takes place much sooner.

Council members have been complaining for months that companies retained by UGI have not completed the restoration in a timely fashion. Many streets in the borough were left in what was described as deplorable condition throughout the winter and continuing into spring.

"I think we need to change our street cut ordinance. A neighboring community requires money to be escrowed for each street cut and it must be restored within 90 days or else they restore it and use the escrowed (CQ) funds. Our ordinance gives them 180 days and they are not required to post bond," borough Manager Gene Zarayko told council.

In matters involving the public works department, Councilman Keith Piescienski, public works and sewer chairman, reported on the status of a sewer blockage in the 1000 block of Main Street. Personnel believed the blockage was cleared May 28; however, it was discovered there was a plastic insert that got stuck in the line and would occasionally block it. The crew made the necessary repairs.

Councilman Anthony Lopsonzski Sr. reported applications for the Knox- Box systems by local businesses have not been coming in as they should.

"We may need to request that the firemen visit the businesses that have ignored our letter," he said.

The Knox-Boxes allow firefighters to gain immediate access to the property when a fire occurs, without further delay and damage to the structure.

Council will maintain a summer tradition by meeting only once in July and August, then returning to two meetings a month in September.

Council approved Zarayko's request to hold meetings open to the public on July 16 and Aug. 20.

Council was informed the borough received the quarterly franchise fee from Service Electric in the amount of $6,332.

Also, as a result of citizens raising concerns over the increase in lead levels at Northampton Generating Co., the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection will hold a public hearing at the Northampton Memorial Community Center at 6 p.m. June 30.

"Please make an effort to attend and listen to the group's concerns," Zarayko advised council.