At the May 18 meeting, Emmaus Borough Council opened proceedings with the Pledge of Allegiance before hearing comments during the public appeals portion of the meeting.

Council acknowledged the resignation of Councilwoman Kate Watt, effective June 11. Her departure will create a vacancy on borough council and initiate the appointment process typically used to fill an unexpired term. Borough residents who have lived in the community for at least one year and are registered voters are eligible to apply for the position. Council noted the application period will be limited.

Anne Zayaitz, president of the Emmaus Public Library, thanked council for providing funding for security camera upgrades at the library. She also announced the Emmaus Public Library’s new website is now operational and encouraged community members to visit and explore the updated platform.

Zayaitz further provided an update on the library’s planned entrance renovation project, which is scheduled to begin this summer. She noted approximately one-third of the necessary funding has already been secured through donations and expressed appreciation for the continued support and contributions from the community.

Following the announcements, a resident addressed council regarding concerns surrounding high school parking issues. The matter has been an ongoing topic of discussion, with council noting the public safety committee continues to work with the school district in an effort to identify potential solutions.

Among the evening’s special presentations was a recommendation from the borough’s historical commission for a new gateway entrance sign. Entrance signs are commonly used by municipalities to establish community identity while enhancing the visual appearance of key entry points into a town or borough.

Although no representative from the historical commission was present, Borough Manager Shane Pepe delivered a brief presentation outlining the proposed design, location and anticipated timeline for the sign’s installation. Council approved the proposal with the condition the sign incorporate Emmaus’ traditional green and gold color scheme.

Council members then reviewed and approved the minutes from the May 4 meeting as part of routine business.

Council addressed several operational and financial matters requiring formal action. Members moved forward with an emergency medical services billing request for proposals process intended to secure or continue ambulance billing and revenue collection services. EMS billing has become increasingly important for municipalities and emergency service providers as departments continue facing rising operational costs and increasing demands on personnel and equipment.

Council also considered bids connected to the borough’s 2026 Community Development Block Grant projects. Community Development Block Grant funding, commonly referred to as CDBG funding, is frequently used by municipalities for projects involving public infrastructure improvements, accessibility upgrades, neighborhood revitalization efforts and assistance programs intended to benefit residents. Council approved awarding the bid to Zgura’s Concrete Services Inc.

Personnel and board changes also occupied a portion of the evening’s discussion during communications.

Council acknowledged the immediate resignation of Neil Valois from the Recreation and Entertainment Commission while approving the reappointment of Debbie Kirkpatrick to an additional three-year term extending through May 2029.

Mayoral business included the presentation of Proclamation 2026-643 recognizing Memorial Day. The observance honors members of the United States Armed Forces who died while serving their country and precedes local ceremonies and commemorative events held throughout the region.

Committee reports highlighted ongoing projects and operations across multiple borough departments.

Council first addressed development-related business through Resolution 2026-20 concerning a sewage facilities planning module for properties located at 181-183 Ridge St. Pennsylvania municipalities are required to complete planning modules when proposed development projects may affect sewer service capacity or infrastructure needs, making such approvals a routine but necessary part of the development process.

Council also approved several personnel actions related to seasonal staffing and emergency service operations. Members authorized the hiring of Sarah Greene as a summer intern, approved Koli Esterly and Autumn Binder for concession stand positions and approved Maxwell Kennedy as a part-time emergency medical technician. Seasonal hiring and recreation staffing typically increase during warmer months as community programming and outdoor activities expand.

Financial matters were also addressed during the meeting. Council approved the borough bill list through Resolution 2026-21 and authorized a contract with Caselle for utility bill mailing services. According to council, the agreement with Caselle is expected to generate an initial savings of approximately $4,700, along with minimum annual savings of $700 moving forward. Members also reviewed significant revenues and expenses for the first half of May as part of ongoing budget monitoring efforts.

Council President Chris DeFrain announced committee restructuring may occur in the near future due to scheduling considerations and meeting availability.

The next Emmaus Borough Council meeting will be held 6 p.m. June 1 at the Emmaus Borough Hall, 28 S. Fourth St., Emmaus.