Solicitor previews multiple proposed code and fee changes, from recording fees to vegetation standards

Borough Solicitor Kyle Miller walked council through several pending ordinance and fee changes that will be brought forward for consideration.

Miller said Act 22 allows municipalities to charge to produce police audio and video recordings and that a proposed resolution would authorize such fees; Chief Richard Herron provided operational input because the fee policy will also apply to new basketball-court cameras. The solicitor also described a proposed Noxious Vegetation Resolution that currently sets grass at 10 inches but includes a recommendation from the code official to reduce the threshold to 6 inches and increase penalties from $25 to $50–$100. On abandoned vehicles, the current owner-appeal window is five days and a request was made to reduce it to three days. Miller said U&O permit fees are being considered on a square-footage basis to better account for large commercial properties, and he outlined proposed language changes to food and mobile-vendor regulations that will be discussed again at a town-hall meeting.

Why it matters: These proposed changes affect enforcement, resident obligations, small businesses operating in public spaces and the costs the borough can recover for record requests and inspections. Councilors asked clarifying questions and the Solicitor indicated several items will be refined before a formal vote.

Next step: Specific ordinances and resolutions will return for further review and will be placed on future meeting agendas.