Glossary of Terms

Ordinance 

An ordinance is a local law set forth by the governing body. Anytime the Mayor and Council wish to pass a local law or ordinance, it must be introduced at a public meeting. Once it is introduced, the Borough publishes the ordinance in the legal section of a local paper. The publication indicates the date and time established by the governing body for a public hearing on the ordinance. At the public hearing, the ordinance is read by the title and then the floor is opened to members of the public who wish to make comments on the ordinance. After the public is finished commenting, the public hearing is closed and the members of the Borough Council vote on the ordinance. If passed, the ordinance is again published in the local paper and takes effect immediately upon publication. The only exception is bond ordinances which take effect 20 days after publication.

Resolution
A resolution is a formal expression of opinion, will or intent of a governing body. Resolutions are passed at the same meeting they are introduced. Most administrative matters are handled by resolution. Examples or resolutions include awarding contracts for the purchase of equipment and materials, and hiring professionals, (Engineers, Attorneys, etc)

Proclamation
A proclamation is a document given by the Mayor and Council to formally recognize an individual, an organization, a special event, an achievement, or cause. Proclamations are generally read at the public meetings and presented to the person or group being recognized. Examples of proclamations include recognizing Borough residents who have given service to the Borough or preformed acts of heroism.