Hellertown Borough Council had a brief but productive meeting August 3, mostly centering on discussion of COVID-19-related cancellations and adjustments.

Council President Thomas Rieger warned that “tough calls” would have to be made in the future, as soon as the next meeting Aug. 17. The borough has several popular events, such as Concerts in the Park and the annual Saucon Valley Spirit Parade, scheduled for September and October, and although Rieger said they are hoping for “good news,” the events will likely have to be modified or even canceled based on Governor Tom Wolf’s current restrictions. As it stands, outdoor gatherings of 250 or more people are prohibited in Pennsylvania.

Mayor David Heintzelman congratulated Maria Tsirigotakis and her Main Street business Salon Mia on 13 years in the borough. He then thanked the Hellertown/Lower Saucon Chamber for recognizing local entrepreneurs including Tsirigotakis during its ‘Virtual Awards Ceremony: Hellertown Heroes & Lower Saucon Lifesavers,’ held the evening of July 29.

Sadly, he also reported that Neighbors Home and Garden on Main Street closed its doors for good July 31, putting a wrap on its 30 years of business in the borough. He also added his thoughts on the upcoming likely cancelation of events mentioned by Rieger, saying their decisions are “always in the best interest for the community.” Rieger added, as many businesses are still struggling in the current economy, “the biggest thing anybody in Hellertown can do is to support our local restaurants and businesses.”

There was some discussion on heavy rains coming with Hurricane Isaias, with Lieutenant Chris Scherer of Dewey EMS saying that he planned to keep an eye on normal flood-prone areas, such as the new Water Street bridge built in September.

Borough Manager Cathy Hartranft gave an update on one of the prior meeting’s major topics of discussion, the planned Art Walk. She indicated that it would be located at Borough Authority Park and the team led by Erica Shorb had been in talks with Heintzelman on fundraising efforts needed to proceed with the venture.

The final order of business before adjournment was from Rieger who informed the council that all borough meetings, including October’s 2020 budget hearings, are likely to continue on the Webex platform through the fall.