On Tuesday evening, Bally Borough Council agreed to review a tree maintenance ordinance that it is considering.  The borough is concerned about liability if a property owner's tree falls on a neighboring property and causes damage. 

            Councilman Matt Gehman expressed concern about entering private property to determine if a tree is dead or dangerous.

            Councilman Josh Sloan noted while an ordinance might be necessary, he is concerned about a property owner who might have several large trees that need to be removed.  Tree removal can be a significant expense for a resident struggling with financial issues.  Prior to the possible adoption of the ordinance, the borough will post its proposed ordinance on its website for residents' perusal and comments.

            Bally has a small leak in its drinking water source.  The borough intends to shut off water to several residences for a short time to repair the leak.  After the water is turned back on, the affected residences must boil their water.

            The borough announced that all the sewer repairs that cost Bally approximately $375,000 are beginning to pay off with a sewer system that is running efficiently. 

            Street sweeping is expected to begin next week, followed by curb painting.  The borough intends to apply for a grant to repair curbs along Cherry Street.

            In other news, the borough council agreed to place Berks County Library books for public use outside the municipal building.  Sloan explained it is a great way for a small town without a library to encourage literacy.

            Years ago, Bally veterans raised money for Bally's war memorial.  At a certain point the borough began to cover the maintenance of the war memorial from the borough's general fund.  The borough replaces lights at the memorial along with flags.  There are two certificates of deposit (CD) left from the original donation that total $2,263.  The council agreed to liquidate the CDs when they come due on July 11th.  The money will be added to the borough's general fund.

            The all-volunteer Eastern Berks Fire Company fundraising drive is ongoing.  The fire company's chicken barbecue will be held on August 20th at the Bally fire station.  The fire company holds a weekly raffle on its Facebook page.  Fire Chief Mike Mutter noted in his monthly report that summer is a difficult time for the volunteer fire company because firemen go on vacation.

            Council President Glenn Mutter informed the borough council that Bally Community Ambulance expects to raise the rates it pays its nurses, paramedics, and emergency medical technicians in the near future.