Alburtis Borough Council met May 30 and approved a series of community and infrastructure initiatives.

The meeting was called to order 7 p.m. and began with public comment, where a resident asked why benches and barriers were blocking the handicap parking area at the Alburtis Area Community Center.

Council suggested she contact the AACC board to request handicap access.

Council unanimously approved the meeting minutes from May 14 and also authorized the payment of borough bills. The bills totaled $81,134.21, dating back to the previous meeting date.

Mayor Kathleen Palmer then delivered her report. She said the Macungie Police Department gave thanks to the Alburtis Police Department for assisting them with the shooting in Macungie May 14. She also gave an impassioned speech, commending the police department for the work they do. She pleaded for residents to call the police if they see suspicious or bad behavior and to not just run to social media.

Following the mayor’s remarks, the borough engineer’s report was reviewed, providing updates on current projects. A question was asked about the finishing work for the Bicentennial Village progress.

Borough Manager Stephen Nemeth said he would reach out. Councilman John Aleszczyk was also concerned about the expenses for the borough engineer, noting the borough needs to be careful it does not get out of hand.

The fiscal consultant’s report was then approved without much discussion.

Under new business, council discussed the proposal to rehabilitate the infield at Raines Park. The upgrade is designed to ensure long-term usability for local baseball and softball teams, and it marks the latest investment in recreational infrastructure for the borough. There is more work needed before the full scope and cost of the rehab work can be presented.

Council approved a contract with Current Software Applications, Inc., for a new utility billing system, citing the need for an improvement. The current system is not integrating with the borough’s software.

In a continued effort to bolster green initiatives, council gave the go-ahead to apply for a grant through the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Bare Root Tree Program. If awarded, the grant will allow the borough to plant new trees throughout the community.

The last item was a notice Lower Macungie is replacing the Gun Club Road Bridge. Gun Club Road will be closed after June 11 and should reopen before Aug. 25 in correlation with the start of the school year.

With all items on the agenda approved, the meeting was adjourned.

The next Alburtis Borough Council meeting will take place 7 p.m. June 11 at the Alburtis Borough building, 260 Franklin St.