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LUZERNE — To burn or not to burn?
That is the question on the minds of borough residents and one of the issues addressed at this month’s Borough Council meeting.
The issue of the burn ordinance was raised initially at the May 6 council work session, where many residents raised concerns for the safety surrounding an allegedly “ambiguous” burn ordinance.
“Luzerne Borough has a burn ordinance, but it has come to our attention that some residents blatantly abuse it,” said council President Mike Jancuska. “Some are blatantly burning garbage, which is not what the ordinance states.”
Residents came out in numbers to voice their opinions on the burn ordinance issue, among other concerns.
“I personally support open burning,” said Tim Casey. “I think the solution is to educate the people. For the people who call and complain, offer them a copy of the ordinance. Inform them.”
“I feel like the only way to make this stick is to have heftier fines,” added 31-year borough resident Diane McHugh. “Make it worth it for the borough.”
The council, after discussion, decided to table the issue until the June meeting.
In the interim, Councilwoman Mary Ellen Schell said any concerned residents should call the borough office to receive their own copy of the current burn ordinance as it stands, free of charge.
In other matters, a motion passed to fill the vacant council spot left by the late Bill Turcan, who died on April 5 at the age of 73. His wife, Deanna Turcan, filled the vacancy.
“My husband did a great job for Luzerne and I would like to continue his work,” said Deanna Turcan. “I hope I’ll do as good a job as he did.”
An electronics pickup will be held June 11 and 12. Free of charge for all residents, the cleanup initiative covers all forms of electronic equipment. To participate, residents must call the borough and register the electronics they are disposing of and leave them curbside. Residents are reminded that for disposal, televisions must not have cracked screens.
The council will meet next at 7 p.m. on June 10.