BY STACI WILSON

Leatherstocking Gas Company provided an update to New Milford Borough Council Thursday, Aug. 6, noting easements are still needed before construction can begin on the natural gas distribution lines.

Katrina Colvin-Stilts said the company had hoped to begin construction the previous week, but said easements are needed from borough residents. Some had expressed interest in holding a signing night during evening hours, she told council.

In order to accommodate resident requests, Leatherstocking will hold an easement signing night, Thursday, Aug. 13, 6-9 p.m. at the borough building. The borough will also utilize the phone alert system to let residents know of the date and time.

As of Thursday, about 50 easements had been received; it was noted that no easements are needed for residents along Routes 848, 11 and 492.

Colvin-Stilts also mentioned the natural gas vendor fair with over 100 attendees held in July at Blue Ridge Park. She said the extra chicken barbecue had been donated to the local food bank.

Mayor Scott Smith said the borough has someone videotaping the town prior to the construction of the gas lines; but he also recommended residents take pictures of their own properties.

Church Street resident John McCarty presented council with a petition to have a lighted sign installed in the borough that would highlight events in the town. Several types of lighted signs were discussed, with costs reported to be under $1,000.

Councilman Rick Ainey said he had been looking at an LED sign; and resident Eleanor Lempke advocated for a sign that would “keep the feel” of the look council had discussed for the borough of adding in antique gas lighting in the park.

The borough has been looking into installing a sign in the community. At the meeting, the council’s economic development committee members said they would join in on the search for the sign board. Lempke and McCarty said they would also help with researching sign options and help council determine which sign to get.

Council expressed its support for Susquehanna County Housing Redevelopment Authority to construct additional townhouse style apartments near the Creekside Apartment building.

A group utilizing Blue Ridge Park facilities came under fire by council for not picking up trash. Other concerns were also noted by council members, as well as Parks and Recreation members. A letter will be sent to the organization’s board members outlining the borough’s concerns.

The Parade of Lights will be held Saturday, Oct. 24.