In a recent government meeting, discussions centered around the stormwater drainage issues affecting properties on North Constitution Avenue. The borough has received a permit from the Army Corps of Engineers and an estimated construction cost of $18,697 for necessary improvements. This cost falls below the public bidding threshold, allowing the borough to seek three contractor bids without a formal bidding process.

Residents raised concerns about a submerged drainage pipe that has reportedly been clogged for years, leading to flooding on private properties. Brad Hetty, a local resident representing affected property owners, emphasized the historical significance of the drainage system, stating that the pipe was once above ground and effectively drained stormwater into a nearby creek. He expressed worries that prolonged submersion may have damaged the pipe, potentially leading to further complications if not addressed during the upcoming construction work.

The meeting revealed a complex interplay of historical land development and current drainage challenges. Residents argued that recent construction of townhouses exacerbated the drainage issues, with some claiming that the new developments altered the natural flow of water, leading to increased flooding on their properties. Borough officials acknowledged the need for maintenance and dredging of the drainage system but faced pushback regarding the allocation of taxpayer funds for what some council members deemed a private property issue.

The council is expected to vote on the proposed construction work, which aims to restore proper drainage and alleviate flooding concerns. However, the discussions highlighted ongoing tensions between residents and borough officials regarding responsibility for stormwater management and the implications of past land development decisions. As the borough moves forward, the resolution of these issues will be crucial for the affected property owners and the community at large.