Despite complications in tax collection as a result of COVID-19, East Penn Township will not be raising taxes. The board of supervisors voted unanimously to keep the tax rate at 8.135%. Chairman William G. Schwab stated that East Penn is “in good shape.”

Kathy Henderson delivered the annual report for the Lehigh Canal and Recreation Commission. This all-volunteer organization is funded through multiple grants, Carbon County, and the seven “municipalities that are co-owners of the D&L Trail stretching from Lehigh Gorge State Park south to Lehigh Gap Nature Center.”

During the pandemic, the commission has estimated that trail usage “increased approximately 400%.”

Henderson said the commission used the time during the pandemic for maintenance and improvements “including repainting bike lanes on the Bridge Street Bridge into Weissport.”

They are also working with the Minsi Trails Council to develop “a list of projects that would qualify as Boy Scout Eagle projects.”

Residential complaints about speeding on Route 895 were discussed, but since those roads are governed by the state, only the state police can take action.

Schwab encouraged residents “to contact the state police” concerning issues.

Water issues on Lizard Creek Road are also governed by the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation, and Schwab committed to reaching out to the local PennDOT garage to voice residential complaints about pooling and flooding.

The East Penn offices will be closed in observance of Thanksgiving on Nov. 26 and 27.