The July 6 Hellertown Borough Council virtual meeting covered several topics of interest, including the widespread use of fireworks in the area, the resumption of youth sports in August and other community projects.

Mayor David Heintzleman spoke about the pervasiveness of fireworks in Hellertown and its surrounding communities. He said that he rode with a borough police officer for a few hours on Independence Day and “(commends) officers on how they tactfully handled those in violation.” Police Chief Robert Shupp said they received 10 complaints through the 911 center and several more through the borough’s non-emergency phone line. He also said they made one criminal arrest.

Both Heintzleman and Shupp had some tips for residents going forward, both in relation to using fireworks as well as reporting their misuse. “If fireworks are landing on your property or you feel it’s dangerous or unsafe, please call the non-emergency number or 911 if it’s that dangerous,” Shupp said. “Please don’t ever feel that we are too busy… to address the issue.” Heintzleman added that while Hellertown had a number of complaints, “we were nothing like the City of Bethlehem.” He reminded residents not to file complaints anonymously, as that makes it more difficult for police to conduct follow-up calls or visits after their initial response.

Fire Chief Mike Maguire described one incident that caused a garage fire with no injuries and asked residents to “use extreme caution using fireworks or even burning.” Heintzleman added that he has also become more aware and educated on the topic of military veterans who suffer from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, or PTSD, and how fireworks can trigger extreme stress for them and others with similar disorders, saying, “I think we as neighbors should be very cognizant of that issue that it’s not all fun and games for them.” He also mentioned that it was the state which legalized the use of fireworks. “If you have a problem with fireworks, please contact your state representative,” he said.

Council also voted to table the motion to approve the 2020 Saucon Valley Youth Sports User’s Agreement, contingent upon receipt of a COVID-19 release, as well as the ability to add any additional restrictions that come in the future. They expressed concerns over their ability to follow all guidelines, particularly the football program, for which practices are scheduled to begin Aug. 1. There was some uncertainty about restroom use and spectator capacity, among other issues. The motion was tabled, as the council is scheduled to meet once more before that starting date and they are asking for a written plan for compliance to review at that meeting.

The annual Movies in the Park series in August was also discussed. The Hellertown-Lower Saucon Chamber of Commerce presents the event, which takes place in Dimmick Park. As in previous years, Mobile Technology Graphics is donating use of a big screen to display the movie. Public bathrooms will remain closed and physical distancing and mask use will be required. Council Vice President Philip Weber said, “We have to give (residents) something to do. We’ve taken everything else away because of what’s going on.”

Council expressed its preference that the event be styled like a drive-in theater, as they feel it is safer and allows less room for any potential issues to arise. The Dewey Fire Company fireworks, another August community event, was officially approved, after local businesses and residents stepped up to fund the event. They will be held on the Steel Club country club’s property, although the exact location is yet to be determined.

Shupp also spoke about attending the Courageous Conversations event June 30 at Shiloh Baptist Church in Easton, which was a summit between police, elected officials and black community leaders to discuss recent racial tensions across the country. He said it was attended by “every police chief in the county,” as well as Northampton County District Attorney Terry Houck.

Borough Manager Cathy Hartranft noted that the borough office remains closed to the public, although they are now allowing folks by appointment, maintaining social distancing and masks are required.

Gil Stauffer of the Hellertown Historical Society gave an update in which he said many artifacts are currently being digitized.

Matt Marcincin of the Hellertown Borough Library Board of Trustees noted that the Hellertown Area Library is now open under amended hours and is following CDC guidelines.

Lastly, Council President Thomas Rieger reminded everybody of the upcoming Saucon Valley Restaurant Week, which will be held July 19 through 25. The popular event promotes borough eateries, many of whom offer special pricing, discounts and other attractions during the event.