As most know, or at least the one or two of you who read this website, I’ll be taking a seat on the West Easton Council in January. During the primaries the theme of those who were successful and what most people wanted, if results of the election were any indication, was a change.
While hardly a complete list, here’s some of what you might expect to see brought up at council meetings in 2016. I should make it clear the subjects mentioned below is not an indication that changes are guaranteed to happen – only that discussions will likely arise during upcoming meetings.
The 2016 Budget. Is there room for a lower mil rate than previously reported? Should we wait a year and see what unexpected costs might arise, before cutting deeper into the reserve? The budget will be one of the first topics discussed.
A fresh look at those businesses West Easton gives work to, why, and relationships. It may be time to seek price comparisons from other suppliers and vendors to see if there is a possible cost savings on some jobs that are given to third parties.
Re-examining the requirement that every item sought from the borough must be accompanied by a Right To Know Law (RTKL) Request.
Availability of approved council minutes for the public to obtain a hard copy. In addition, the minutes will be more detailed than past practice provided.
Attracting residents to serve on boards and committees.
The bell and locked door during business hours at the Municipal Building.
Lengthening the public comment time at council meetings back to 5 minutes, from the 3 minute change approved by the previous council.
An official borough website. The proposed 2016 budget and previous council has allocated money for developing a website for residents. A strictly business website, unlike this one. The website would be owned and controlled by the Borough of West Easton.
Councilpersons attending conferences. Past practice had the same individual attending all conferences for elected officials.
A Neighborhood Watch Program that would be supported and promoted by the Council, since we only have State Police. This would depend more on residents, than the governing body, to become effective.
These are only some of the items that may be discussed. There are other issues, including staffing, office hours, payroll, equipment, proposed projects, and those which may have to be conducted in executive session.
Disclaimer: On January 4, 2016, the owner of WestEastonPA.com began serving on the West Easton Council following an election. Postings and all content found on this website are the opinions of Matthew A. Dees and may not necessarily represent the opinion of the governing body for The Borough of West Easton.
