As staff of the South Whitehall’s Parks and Recreation Department began preparations for the new lighted holiday village at Covered Bridge Park, they realized the Mill House, 2503 Wehr Mill Road, needs exterior improvements.

“The white house is showing its age,” Director of Public Works Bob Ibach told commissioners at a recent meeting. “We need to complete some cosmetic changes to the building to improve the appearance of the house.”

The project includes painting the stucco walls, downspouts and gutters, and the basement door.

A total of 10 windows will be replaced on the south and west sides of the house, as will structurally deficient porch columns.

The board agreed to transfer $17,000 in funds to public works for the refurbishment.

The board also granted permission for the parks and recreation department to begin design work on entrance signs for Covered Bridge Park.

A bid of $5,430 was awarded to Publication Design as the first step in the project expected to total $60,000.

The bid provides for design and development of park signs, three meetings to discuss goals and options, finalization of the design, and transmission to a manufacturer.

Parks and Recreation Department Manager Randy Cope said the new signs will provide a more welcoming first impression for park visitors.

In other business, commissioners approved the concept of an Intermunicipal Mutual Aid Police Cooperation Agreement between South Whitehall and Upper Macungie police departments.

The purpose is to provide for better coordination of effort, to ensure adequate staffing and equipment are available, and to provide mutual assistance in the minimum time possible without confusion.

South Whitehall Acting Chief John Christman commented on the item.

“We work very closely with Upper Macungie police,” Christman said. “Our policies are very similar. This streamlines our partnership.”

Representatives of both townships will work to draft an ordinance on the mutual aid agreement.