At its July 27 workshop meeting, Catasauqua Borough Council considered a draft ordinance regarding backyard fire pits that may include a permitting cost.

The cost of the permit is not yet decided. The ordinance is expected to be completed in October.

Councilman Brian McKittrick said this is being done for public and fire safety. Resident complaints indicate some residents are building large backyard fires in a variety of fire pits. The ordinance, with a permit cost attached, will regulate the size of the fire pit and hold residents accountable for neighborhood safety.

In other business, Councilman Brian Bartholomew asked borough Manager Steven Travers if the borough is addressing the issue of property owners, both residential and businesses, not taking care of their property. Travers said now that the magisterial district judge office is open again, the borough can begin to follow up with public nuisance issues.

Council, along with the borough manager, may look into a ticketing system to deal with these nuisance issues, which include high grass, weeds and property neglect.

Travers said the council-requested complaint letter to Pennsylvania Department of Transportation is in draft form. A question was raised regarding the grant PennDOT just awarded the borough for the Iron Works project.

Council will review the draft letter. The letter is a response expressing frustration for the much-delayed Race Street bridge project.

It was reported the leak at the municipal pool continues. Over a recent weekend, the pool’s water level dropped 6 inches. Travers reported an inspection by professionals is planned within the week to determine the origin of the leak.

Under new business, Engineer Brent Shiver reported the planned agreement signing with PennDOT can occur in September. The project involves bridge work at Race and Lehigh streets and is expected to begin in January. The project’s anticipated completion is within three years.

The Race Street bridge is a widening project, whereas, Lehigh Street bridge is a replacement. There are efforts to change the truck traffic routes in the borough to enhance safety.

The next regular council meeting is 7 p.m. Aug. 3 at the borough municipal building, 90 Bridge St. The meeting is a hybrid involving a virtual Zoom attendance and allows for in-person attendance. Seating is limited. Contact the borough office to reserve a seat.