Hawley Borough Council explores funding options

SUSAN WADE
Posted 2/15/17

HAWLEY, PA — At its regular February 8 meeting, members of the Hawley Borough Council considered di-verse funding sources to address current and long-term needs. Such sources range from pursuit …

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Hawley Borough Council explores funding options

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HAWLEY, PA — At its regular February 8 meeting, members of the Hawley Borough Council considered di-verse funding sources to address current and long-term needs. Such sources range from pursuit of grant monies to incorporating technology to increase speed and efficiency in making payments to the borough.

Michelle Rojas presented several grant funding opportunities, and the council moved to pursue several. After consideration of alternative strategies, the council voted unanimously to apply for grant funding for analysis and study leading to the establishment of a new levy near The Pines. The council agreed that it was the better long-term solution and could possibly minimize the need for flood insurance for a greater number of residents, as opposed to less comprehensive programs.

Police Chief Daniel Drake confirmed the need for additional bullet-proof vests to replace older vests no longer certified. Such replacements are paid for by grant monies.

The council also voted unanimously to pursue grant funding for a cigarette-litter prevention program, which includes educational programs as well as receptacles for butts. Discussion ensued about the placement of the receptacles; some will be located by the park entrance.

The Community Conservation Partnership is a funding source for park rehabilitation and development, and funds will be sought for fencing of the proposed community garden.

A spillway generator, a less conventional approach, could provide electricity for street lights, saving money. Such a project requires that the generator be located near the lights. Noting that street lighting is a significant budget line item, Council President Ann Monaghan stated that anything that might save money should be looked at.

Another proposal was an app or text form of payment for fees, fines, etc. Vice President Elaine Herzog inquired as to whether the size of the population was a factor in the feasibility of this idea. It was agreed by all that this idea should be pursued, but with a much lower priority than other ideas discussed.

It was noted that $6,500 was received from Palmyra Township for police equipment upgrades.

Pat Bartleson will investigate sources of funding for weatherization of buildings.

Mike Dougherty reported that the Boy Scouts will address repairs to the river trails and that the school district will spruce up the birdhouses. The council voted unanimously to waive the fee for the Race Against Suicide 5K Run/Walk.

Borough solicitor Robert Bernathy reported that an enforcement action will be commenced regarding the property at 706 Church St. The owners of the property are in violation of two borough ordinances.

He also reported that Hawley DG LLC, owner of the Hawley Dollar General, has not responded to a request to address hazardous conditions at its property at 24 Main Street. The council directed Bernathy to contact Hawley DG with the notice that they must respond within a specified period of time (10 days) or face fines for ignoring safety concerns.  

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