South Whitehall residents are concerned over a recent shooting at the nearby Econo Lodge motel, 1151 Bulldog Drive.

They filled the room at the Aug. 3 board meeting and asked commissioners and police to take action to safeguard the area.

Police Chief John Christman said about five shots were fired in the July incident which also involved a pistol whipping.

He added no one was hit by the shots.

One bullet, however, reached the Lehigh Valley Home and Garden Center, 4220 Crackersport Road.

Employee Morris Pulley reported the business property abuts the Econo Lodge.

“We had to close and send staff and customers home,” Pulley said.

Nearby resident Dave Burke recalled when he bought his house 38 years ago, the motel was “the cream of the crop,” but now it is worrisome to have something so problematic sitting only a few blocks away from his home.

“There have been a succession of incidents at this motel,” Burke said. “It is a nuisance.”

Built more than 50 years ago as a Holiday Inn, the motel at the Routes 309 and 22 intersection was a showplace for travelers, and its banquet room was the scene for many elegant occasions.

Burke noted things started to change about five years ago when the establishment started taking in permanent tenants who did their cooking outside.

At that time, neighbors also pleaded for help from commissioners.

The motel owner then said he could not make a go of it without having some long-term rentals.

Reports of alleged drug dealing and unsavory activities were raised at that time and at this meeting.

Board President Christina “Tori” Morgan commented on the matter.

“We have been working on this diligently,” Morgan said. “Some aspects are still under investigation.”

Attorney John Harrison has been hired to work on Econo Lodge issues.

He explained his mission.

“I have met and spoken with elected officials,” Harrison said. “I am charged with looking at all potential avenues to see what we can do to move forward.

“We are looking at zoning and will try to coordinate with the criminal side.

“We will find out if we need administrative search warrants.

“We’ll try to do this as quickly as we can, promptly and legally.”

Christman also commented on the issue.

“There is crime going on,” Christman said. “We will increase patrols there.

“We’re well aware of it and want to help. We’re working with the district attorney’s office on enforcement options.”

He noted residents can help by calling police at 610-437-5252 with information.

Morgan advised residents to report concerns to township Manager Renee Bickel who will provide answers or refer concerns to appropriate staff.

Commissioner Glenn Block, who lives two blocks away from the Econo Lodge, offered support to motel neighbors.

“Rest assured, we’re on it, and we’re going to get the answers,” Block told residents.