Saturday
May 18, 2024 
Souderton Borough Council approved the purchases of one new patrol vehicle and one used patrol vehicle to replace two aged vehicles. The new 2023 police vehicle will cost the borough about $38,000 but, fully equipped, it will run more than $52,000. The two aged patrol cars will be auctioned off on Municibid and the proceeds from the sales will be used to help offset the upcoming car purchases.
Borough Manager Stacy Crandall reported that pool membership is now open.
Councilor Donna Rogers reported that Council’s Public Outreach Committee will have a table at 3rd Fridays, a community night-out event that runs monthly from May through October.
The Saturday Public Outreach at the borough office may be discontinued due to lack of participation by the public, but an alternative venue is being considered.
Jessica Cimini, Souderton Connects Manager, updated council on upcoming community events; 3rd Fridays planning is underway, food trucks and vendors are being booked. She indicated that the success of the 3rd Fridays could mean expansion of the event farther up or down Main Street this year.
Ribbon cuttings were held for the Cinema Brewery in the Broad Theater lobby and the new Legacy Barber Company shop at 602 E. Broad St.
Mayor Dan Yoder announced that Concert Sundaes are scheduled for June 2 through Aug. 4 with 10 shows. The concerts are free. The ice cream sundaes, along with other foods, are available for purchase.
Police Chief Brian Newhall also announced a significant reduction in February arrests (75%, per the chief’s report). Major crimes were down 27% but minor crimes rose 25%. Souderton also saw 10 car crashes in February with only one injury.
Fraud continues to be an almost daily issue in the borough. The chief advised council and the public, “If you do not know somebody, do not send them money.”
The chief also spoke about a March $105,000 grant obtained through Rep. Steve Malagari that will help pay for needed police equipment. Newhall is also looking into additional grants that will help the police department.
During the public comment period one resident and business owner complained about the overgrowth and general eyesore of a property at School Lane and Broad Street. Complaints have been made, but the poor conditions remain. The resident is tired of cleaning the area up himself and now it is starting to roll over into his property and business. Manager Crandall advised she will investigate the matter.
Another resident complained about the storm drainage on School Lane across from the Telford Summit Street Park. Street markings have recently been sprayed in blue.
Public Works Director Steve Coll advised that the street markings are due to Telford Public Works’ initial process of a NovaChip project at that site. Steve will investigate the drainage issue.
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