Emmaus Borough Council convened April 20, to address a relatively short agenda.

The meeting opened 6 p.m. with the call to order, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance and a period for public comment.

Emmaus resident Mike Gibson voiced his opposition to a zoning decision located at 215-217 Ridge St. He was disappointed the zoning hearing board provided a parking variance to the property and fears it will eventually cause issues.

Several neighbors stood and spoke up against this variance, wishing council would consider them instead of just passing variance after variance.

Mayor Lee Ann Gilbert announced April 25 will be “Drug Take Back Day” at Emmaus Borough Hall, 28 S. Fourth St., 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Council then received a special presentation from representatives of the Emmaus Rotary Club, who provided an update on the annual summer festival, a long-standing community event that draws thousands of residents and visitors to the borough each year. The event is scheduled June 6, with free entry 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. There will be food trucks, beverages, arts and craft vendors and live music performances.

Council approved the minutes from its April 6 meeting before moving into official business.

Under communications, members approved an application from the Emmaus Veterans Committee to proceed with its annual Memorial Day event May 25, starting 9:30 a.m., at the Veterans Memorial Triangle.

Council also approved the reappointment of Dustin Grim to the Emmaus General Authority, ensuring continuity on the board that oversees critical infrastructure such as water and sewer systems.

There were no reports from the borough engineer or solicitor.

There were also no items to address in unfinished business, new business and items not on the agenda.

Committee reports further detailed the borough’s ongoing work across multiple areas.

The public works committee shared notes from its April 13 meeting, while the health, sanitation and codes committee announced its next meeting for April 21, as it continues to oversee regulatory and public health matters.

Due to the variance issue mentioned in public comments, Nate Brown, who heads the health, sanitation and codes committee, said he hopes people can attend the next meeting and work with him to find better solutions for everyone.

The solicitor stated there is still time to appeal the variance.

The parks and recreation committee advanced the reappointment of Alan Sylvestre to the recreation and entertainment commission for a new three-year term, a move that supports continuity in planning events and maintaining recreational programming.

The committee also reviewed notes from its recent meeting, underscoring preparations for seasonal activities as warmer weather approaches.

Additional committee reports, including general administration and community relations, planning and development, outlined upcoming meetings and ongoing initiatives tied to borough operations and long-term planning.

Financial matters were addressed through the budget and finance committee, which presented Resolution 2026-18 approving the latest bill list.

Council also reviewed significant revenues and expenses for the first half of April, maintaining its regular oversight of municipal finances amid broader economic pressures facing local governments.

In personnel actions, council approved the hiring of Scott Ringle as a part-time paramedic, bolstering emergency medical services staffing and Allison Fontaine as a lifeguard for the 2026 pool season, reflecting preparations for summer recreational operations.

Following no additional public comment and remarks under the president’s business, council adjourned into executive session to discuss personnel and legal matters before concluding the meeting.