KULPMONT - Borough council ratified its 2013 tax levy ordinance at a meeting Tuesday night, with property taxes remaining at 18.5 mills.
The ordinance passed on a 4-0 vote, with Phil Schiccatano, Stephanie Niglio, Stephen Motyka and Nicholas Bozza approving. Council members Bruno Varano, Clarence Deitrick and Joseph Winhofer were absent.
Council said revenue from 12.5 mills will go toward general purposes, and three mills each will be used to pay for street lighting and fire protection.
It is expected taxes may increase in 2014 as the borough continues plans for a new borough office and garage to replace its current facility, the former Wilson Grade School.
Snow issues
With Varano, president, and Deitrick, vice president, absent, solicitor William Cole opened the meeting and conducted the night's first order of business, naming Scicchitano as president pro tempore to run the meeting.
In his monthly report, Mayor Myron Turlis spoke about issues that cropped up during the snowstorms in December.
"We had some private contractors that blocked an intersection with the snow pile they made, and threw snow in the street after clearing it from a business," Turlis said. "The next time this happens, the contractors will be hit with a fine."
He reminded borough residents that if any snow of six inches or more is forecast, all vehicles should be moved off Chestnut Street (Route 61) for the duration of the storm and until the street can be plowed. Those who fail to heed the warning will be fined and pay the cost of towing, he said.
Also, a 24-inch path must be shoveled on sidewalks at all borough residences and businesses within 24 hours of snow ending.
Wood burner complaints
The mayor also spoke about people using wood burners.
"I've gotten a number of complaints about people burning pallets, paneling and other items, causing an unpleasant odor for their neighbors," Turlis said. "I ask that if you have a wood burner, please use the appropriate wood for it."
Borough workers will pick up Christmas trees until Friday, Feb. 1. Residents of Chestnut Street are asked to put their trees in the back of properties to avoid traffic congestion on the highway.