WATSONTOWN — Need Watsontown Borough Council remind those with potty mouths — there are children around.
At the committee meeting Monday, officials concurred there is a problem with profanity and older kids hanging around the Eighth Street Park, meant specifically for younger children.
“It’s sad for the little children,” said president Harriet Miller. “Parents are afraid to take them there.
“I have no tolerance for that behavior.”
Mayor Bob Brown added he’s aware that vulgar things have been written on park equipment.
Despite that, Police Chief Dennis Derr said there have been no complaints. Miller said it’s just a matter of everyone “speaking under their breath.”
The solicitor suggested that council’s parks and recreation committee come up with official rules and regulations for the park.
Further into the discussion, vice president Harry Hefty suggested using 24-hour silent video surveillance, a type were anyone with Internet access could monitor the park. He said it’s likely someone would be looking at it, considering the number of people who own and use emergency scanners.
“They could watch and report (any suspicious activity),” Hefty said.
Brown said because of the poor quality of most surveillance video it would be a waste. However, council member Keith Forney believes there is some better quality equipment available and it may be worth taking a look at.
Council is also looking into cleaning up another kind of filth, by possibly purchasing steel, pole-mounted receptacles for down along the towpath. The cost would be $195 each for three. They want to see the area a little cleaner and provide a place for people to throw their garbage without opening the door to vandals. Council member Ralph Young isn’t even sure if people would throw their trash away properly. He’s seen paper laying next to cans right along Main Street.
Hefty then suggested the borough first try a cheaper option, chaining a garbage can down for people to use.
Also at the meeting, Forney said the stone bridge in the community park needs to be addressed. The concrete support has worked it’s way out and stones are cracking. If the officials want to preserve the bridge, they should re-pour concrete and re-point the stone this summer.
And, in just a nick of time, council approved a $2,000 contribution to the Forth of July committee. There is a full day of events in Watsontown this Friday.

Jeff Shaffer: 570-742-9671
jeff@standard-journal.com