Emmaus Borough Council opened its March 2 meeting with the call to order and the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by the first round of personal appeals and the community minute. Council then approved the minutes from its Feb. 17 meeting and reported no formal bidding decisions requiring action.

Under communications, members formally acknowledged a letter of retirement from Police Detective Christian Gill. Borough Manager Shane Pepe expressed appreciation for Gill’s service to the borough, noting the announcement comes amid broader transition within the police department following recent leadership changes.

“He was a wonderful asset, and he will definitely be missed,” Pepe said.

The borough engineer and solicitor had no reports for the evening, and there were no items to address under unfinished or new business. Council also had nothing to consider under items not listed on the agenda. Mayor Lee Ann Gilbert did not have a report either.

The parks and recreation committee advanced a significant funding measure, recommending approval of Resolution 2026-10 to authorize submission of an application to the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources for a Park Rehabilitation and Development Grant. Council unanimously approved the resolution, enabling the borough to pursue state funding for improvements to local parks. DCNR grants are competitive statewide programs designed to support recreation infrastructure, playground upgrades and community park enhancements, often requiring a local match.

The public safety committee confirmed its next meeting date as it continues oversight during a period of police department transition.

Under general administration, council reviewed and approved a cellular phone and mobile device use policy, formalizing guidelines for borough-issued devices to ensure appropriate and secure use. Meeting notes were accepted and the next committee meeting date was announced.

The budget and finance committee presented Resolution 2026-11 approving the latest bill list, which council adopted. Members also reviewed significant revenues and expenses for February, along with the monthly budget performance report, providing a snapshot of the borough’s financial standing early in the fiscal year. Meeting notes from February were entered into the record.

The public works committee confirmed its next meeting date but required no immediate action items.

The health, sanitation and codes committee accepted meeting notes from Feb. 17 and announced its upcoming meeting schedule.

The community relations, planning and development committee did not have anything to report and only confirmed its upcoming meeting schedule as well.

Council also received reports from the recreation and entertainment commission and the Friends of the 1803 House, both of which provided updates on programming and preservation efforts. The 1803 House, a historic borough property, continues to serve as a focal point for community heritage activities.

During the borough manager’s report, council approved the rehiring of returning pool and concession employees for the 2026 season, ensuring staffing continuity ahead of summer operations.

Council later moved into executive session to discuss legal and personnel matters related to zoning and planning before adjourning.

After the executive session concluded, no action was taken. The regular council meeting was then adjourned.

The next Emmaus Borough Council meeting will take place 6 p.m. March 16. Official meetings are held at borough hall, 28 N. Fourth St.