Northampton council approves fire training prop contract, circus permit and bids for refuse collection; several community requests granted

The Borough of Northampton Council voted on a series of routine and programmatic items during a public meeting, approving a fire department training-prop purchase, permits for a traveling circus and community events, and the issuance of a request for proposals for municipal refuse collection.

The council voted to accept the lone bid for a fire-training prop from Taylor Systems LLC for $121,250, after the borough solicitor reviewed the paperwork and found it in order. Council members moved and seconded the measure and the motion carried.

The council also granted a permit request from Big Top Circus to set a 76-foot-by-106-foot tent on borough parkland from Sept. 8 through Sept. 14. The applicant proposed weekday performances at 6 p.m., Saturday shows at 2:30 p.m., 5 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., and Sunday shows at 2:30 p.m. and 5 p.m.; the circus estimated roughly 250 guests per show. Council members noted the organizer’s prior positive references and that the troupe required only a water hookup; the permit was approved with conditions discussed at the meeting, including a written assurance that no animals would be part of the shows.

Council authorized the borough to issue an advertisement seeking proposals for residential refuse collection, processing and recycling services. The meeting packet set a submission deadline of Tuesday, Sept. 30, with bids to be opened Thursday, Oct. 2. The new contract was stated to take effect Jan. 1, 2026.

A resident’s request for a handicap parking space on the 300 block of Stewart Street was approved on the police chief’s recommendation.

The council approved a request from the Northampton Exchange Club to place two signs recognizing Marty Fellow at the bandshell in Municipal Park. The packet contained mockups of the two proposed signs and council approved the placement after discussion; two members registered opposition during the roll call.

The council also approved the Exchange Club’s request to hold the annual Jack Frost parade on Thursday, Oct. 16, starting at 7 p.m., with a rain date of Oct. 23.

Other routine business included approval of minutes from the borough’s July 3 public workshop and July 17 regular meeting and a motion to pay the borough’s bills. Several council members thanked volunteers for recent borough events (farmers market, pool season and Movies in the Park) and noted upcoming community activities tied to the council’s approvals.

Votes and formal actions were recorded during the meeting minutes and reflected in the agenda packet.

Ending: Council members closed the meeting after final motions; an executive session earlier in the evening had addressed personnel matters.