Sometimes heated discussion between Montoursville Borough officials and a man requesting placement of a trailer in the 1000 block of Broad Street for a business highlighted action at Monday night's council meeting.
Ultimately, borough officials told Charles DeSanto he needs to come up with a land development plan before he can be considered for approval.
"Until he gets that, there is nothing that can be done with it," explained borough engineer Todd Pysher.
But DeSanto, who wants to set up a food stand at Montour Beverage, argued that he already has been approved by the Lycoming County Planning Commission.
He said he wants to set up the food stand in Montoursville where he has had other businesses.
Rob Guerin, owner of Montour Beverage, 1001 Broad St., said he, too, wants to see DeSanto's business in the borough.
But Pysher was adamant that DeSanto must come up with a land development plan.
Guerin said that people who pay taxes in Montoursville should be given a chance to do business here.
He asked Pysher if he paid taxes in the borough.
Pysher said he did not, but made it clear DeSanto must follow the proper procedures.
"The amount of time spent trying to get around the rules could have been spent trying to comply," he said.
At one point, Scott Gardner, who identified himself as DeSanto's attorney, said the county planning commission recommended the plan for approval.
But borough solicitor Garth Everett said county planners do not approve borough plans.
"He's asking for a 9- by 13-foot trailer on a property and to sell some sandwiches," Guerin told council. "Approve it."
Pysher said everyone must follow the rules.
"Sorry. You are going to have to follow the process," said Council President Robert Brobson.
DeSanto was advised to take his plans before the borough planning commission.
In other matters, council hired Glen Hawbaker for rock hauling for the Mill Street project. Hawbaker submitted the low bid of $123,150.
Council established water tap-in fees for any new residential ($1,458) or commercial buildings in the borough. Commercial buildings are assessed a higher rate.
Council briefly discussed the fate of the Fall Festival Commission.
It was noted that the last two members of the commission have resigned.
Council discussed placing a newspaper advertisement to find new members for the commission.
"I'd like to see the Fall Festival continue," Mayor John Dorin said.
Borough officials said the $2,700 remaining in the Fall Festival account could be held by the borough and later turned over to another commission once it becomes established.
