Palmerton finds, repairs water leaks

Palmerton Borough workers have found the sources of water leaks that have been plaguing the area over the past few weeks.

Three leaks have been located and repaired, alleviating the excessive pressure put upon the borough’s water pumps.

“Two were 3 feet apart on the 600 block of Mauch Chunk Road, and one of them was near the intersection of Mauch Chunk and Tunnel,” borough Manager Rodger Danielson said.

There is one potential leak left in the area of the East Plant, though Danielson said that it should be repaired within the week.

“Everything seems to be getting back under control,” sewer, solid waste and water Chairman Bill Gallagher reported.

Officials first noticed the leak when water pumps began running nearly constantly, as opposed to shutting off in the evening in order to allow the reserve tanks to fill.

Danielson said that residents should still keep an eye out for water in unusual areas, and report any incidents to borough hall as soon as possible.

Other business

• The council approved a Pace-Makers Association request to close down Fourth Street between Delaware Avenue to Franklin Avenue from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on June 16 for a car show.

• The Volunteer Service Credit Program was officially adopted by the council, allowing volunteers with the Palmerton Fire Department and any other fire department or emergency medical service within and contiguous to Carbon County to receive either a $150 Earned Income Tax Credit or a $150 Real Property Tax Credit.

• Aaron Groover was approved as a volunteer firefighter.

• Lynn Miller was approved for a part-time secretary position at the Borough Hall and the police department.