HAWLEY, PA — Their questions and concerns were varied and elicited much discussion as borough residents addressed an attentive Hawley council.

First to speak was Duane Austin, who inquired as to what kinds of animals could be kept within the borough. She was surprised to learn that the planning commission has no restrictions on the type of animal. When she stated that she should get a goat to help with lawn maintenance, Mayor Kevin Hawk commented that the borough could use one too. Council president Ann Monaghan noted that unless otherwise prohibited, such as the keeping of an exotic animal as a pet, there were no restrictions on livestock. She stated that she knows there are roosters within the borough because she can hear them. Borough solicitor Robert Bernathy added that a resident can bring a course of action if such animals become a nuisance or if the situation rises to the level of endangering health, safety or welfare, and that if the keeping of such animals causes the disturbance of the peaceable and quiet enjoyment of one’s property, a private action can be undertaken.

Jackie Quiepo, the proprietor of Doodles & Such on Main Street in Hawley, asked about the abundance of yard sales and signs promoting them. She averred that some houses have yard sales every weekend and that these proprietors are purchasing merchandise for resale. She was advised that such sales are limited to three per address in a calendar year, and that not more than four signs can advertise the sale. A yard sale must be permitted by the borough and that documentation of such should be displayed during the sale. Police Chief Dan Drake stated that establishing a case sufficient to hold up in court can be difficult, and is bolstered by the testimony of witnesses as to the resale of merchandise at such a sale. Bernathy noted that fines can be levied in the amount of $50, $100 or $300 depending on the number of offenses.

Linda Arnold asked about property maintenance codes pertaining to high grass at three Belmont Avenue properties. Council members assured her that the code officer would be alerted to the situation.

Jeannette Graff asked for an update on ambulance service. Tim Rowley from Commonwealth Ambulance reported that the service was seeking office space as well as parking for an ambulance within the borough, which he stated would cut down on response time. Monaghan offered space within the borough building, and Mayor Hawk offered his office. Hawk said the space “isn’t much,” but after Rowley stated that Commonwealth would be required to pay fair market value for the space, Hawk retracted his comment saying that it was “a very nice office,” which amused all present.

The Fourth of July parade will step off at 12 noon from Spring Street to Bingham Park, where the annual carnival will be held following the parade.