On Wednesday, Aug. 7, Quakertown Borough Council conditionally approved plans for the 103 Quaker Safety, LLC property located at 103 South Main Street. The plan details the conversion of an industrial building into 23 apartments. Several conditions were outlined.

            The approval of the land development resolution depended upon the project complying with all borough zoning ordinances, the attainment of all appropriate certifications from all necessary Pennsylvania agencies, approval from the water and sanitation department, submission of all required documents to the borough solicitor, all plans approved by the engineer, and the applicant pay for all fees related to the project.

            In addition, approval is contingent upon various requirements for roadways, traffic and stormwater management.

            In other business, council authorized applying for a Department of Community and Economic Development grant for Quakertown Alive!. The grant is for $50,000 and is a matching grant. These funds are available within their budget.

            "This is an unusual grant. An open grant. We would like to have input from council," said Borough Manager Scott C. McElree said.

           The municipality can be approved for the grant and then decide where they would like to utilize the funds. There are various projects the borough has under discussion.

            Council voted unanimously to participate in the Lawn Conversion Program developed by the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources. The program aims to increase habitat, decrease soil erosion, assist in stormwater management.

            The borough will designate 1.2 acres, located at the Quakertown Amphitheater, and .6 acres at the community park. The program also includes the control of noxious weeds within the meadows. There will also be signage and educational plaques placed by the meadows.

            Council approved McElree's request to proceed with creating a list of viable candidates to fill a position within the police department. The testing process will allow the department to select prospective candidates. McElree will lead the process.