No tax increase projected for Boyertown residents

At their Dec. 3 meeting, the Boyertown Borough Council continued discussions regarding the 2013 proposed budget

Currently, the budget will not require a tax increase for Borough residents.

However, water rates are projected to increase according to Council President Frank Deery. Added revenue is needed to compensate for lost revenue caused by a decline in consumption by industrial users, according to Borough Manager Patricia Loder.

Sewer rates, which were raised last year, will remain the same.

Council plans to approve the $1.5 million budget at their Dec. 26 meeting.

The budget is increased in expenses this year mostly as a result of increases in utilities, insurance and salaries.

There is also discussion to take place regarding the hiring of a full time police officer, a decision which has been delayed pending further discussion.

“We need another full time officer. We’re open to discussion regarding regionalization with Colebrookdale,” said Borough President Deery. “It’s an opportunity.”

In regards to planning, the council has approved Ordinance Number 07-2012 which amends the Colebrookdale Township Zoning Map by re-zoning approximately 24.50 acres of property located off County Line Road from its present split zoning district MDR/L-1 to L-1 Light Industrial Zoning District.

As the weekend approaches, Building a Boyertown prepares to kick off the holiday season the right way.

At their Dec. 3 meeting, the Boyertown Borough Council approved the BBB’s request to hold the ‘Decorate the Parking Meter Contest’ during their Chillin’ on Main event on Dec. 8 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

The council also approved the motion authorizing the Chief of Police to notify the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation of the Borough’s plan to close East Philadelphia Ave on Dec. 8 for the BBB event.

Santa be at the event from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. New to this year—a photographer taking photos of children Santa. Pets are invited to get their photos taken with Santa as well.

Last year’s event was attended by over 300 children, according to Main Street Manager Adrianne Blank.

Santa and Mrs. Claus will arrive on a Friendship Hook and Ladder Fire Company fire engine with the Boyertown Alumni band providing music and Let’s Get Dancing and Twirling Reflections parading alongside them.