A new public warning siren, an Environmental Advisory Committee, catalytic converter thefts and more were discussed at Monday evening’s Telford Borough Council meeting.
Council approved funding for a new fire department public warning siren. The siren, which will be located in the Telford Train Station adjacent to Penn St., will broadcast emergency alerts throughout the borough. The project has received $50,000 in grant funding and is expected to be complete in 6-10 weeks.
Council also approved a revised proposal to install recording equipment in council chambers to enable livestreaming of council meetings. The revisions include new equipment better suited to the space, including a 4k high resolution automate camera with 10X optical zoom and a Stem Ceiling microphone array for full room coverage and audio.
Council tabled a motion to advertise an ordinance to establish an Environmental Advisory Committee (EAC) to add clarifying language about the purpose and functions of the committee. Borough manager Kyle Detweiler noted that the Northern Montgomery County Recycling Commission is encouraging municipalities to establish EACs to unlock the full potential of state grant funding. The committee would consist of 5-7 volunteers, tasked with advising Telford Borough about environmental conservation.
In his report to the board, police chief Randy Floyd discussed the recent spate of catalytic converter thefts, with four such incidents hitting residential neighborhoods in the past week. Catalytic converters are auto parts that convert car exhaust fumes into less harmful gases. They are worth hundreds of dollars due to their containment of precious metals. Floyd noted that the thefts are a region-wide issue and typically target Hondas, Kias and larger vehicles.
In other news, council member Meredith Torres detailed an Indian Valley Regional Planning Commission proposal to replace the 132 SEPTA bus route with a rideshare service akin to Uber and Lyft. Torres said that service will feature smaller buses outfitted with bike racks and Wi-Fi. Fares will be $2 for SEPTA card owners, $2.50 cash and free for seniors. Torres said the proposal will be presented to the SEPTA board, with the goal of implementing the service towards the end of the year.
In his report to the board, John Taylor discussed a proposal to join the Hometown Heroes Banner Program, which honors local veterans with banners displayed throughout local municipalities. Taylor said that the borough is currently in the process of determining community interest, material costs and banner locations.
In addition, Dan Wurst and Liz Herman of Telford Happenings announced some upcoming community events, including the So You Think You Can Cook cooking competition on March 6, an Easter Egg Hunt on March 23 and the Telford Night Market on Wednesday evenings from May 29 to August 28.
The next Telford Borough Council meeting is on March 11 at 7:30 p.m. For more information, visit telfordborough.org.
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