HAWLEY, PA — By a unanimous vote of those present, the Hawley Borough Council approved Commonwealth Health Emergency Medical Services (CHEMS) to be the primary EMS responder for the borough on a temporary basis. The action was taken based on anecdotal information and feedback the council has received regarding Hawley Ambulance’s responses to EMS calls. A representative from Hawley Ambulance was not present at the meeting.

CHEMS had, until this change, served as the back-up provider of emergency service for Hawley. The organization is based in Scranton and serves five counties.

After a protracted bidding process, Maiocco Excavating Company from Lake Ariel was the successful bidder on the levee repair project with a total cost of $308,460. Ten companies had been provided with bid information. The bids received from three of those companies were opened at the meeting. A low-interest loan is being sought to fund the project through the Pennsylvania Infrastructure Investment Authority (Pennvest).

Online bids will be sought for material and supplies through a program called PennBid. The program is of no cost to the borough and opens up the bid process for more suppliers and contractors to offer their services to the borough. Michele Rojas was authorized to establish an on-line account for the borough.

The Boy Scouts have 30 bird feeders to be installed in the town parks. The toddler playground is complete and the fence around the community garden has been erected; the garden site will be ready for next year. Donations amounting to $110 have been received for maintenance and repairs to the bandstand.

Pete Robinson was administered the oath of office by Mayor Kevin Hawk as a new member of the Hawley Fire Police.

The annual Halloween parade will step off at 5:30 p.m. on October 31 followed by a Trunk or Treat at the park. Those wanting to participate in the Trunk or Treat should register with the borough office.