abc-logo
Taking care of your Loved One Is What We Do BEST!

It's no secret, most of us would like to stay in our own home as we age. Yet, sometimes our loved ones just need a little extra help to remain comfortable at home. That's where Always Best Care can help....we are dedicated to exceeding expectations....always

Please submit form to schedule a

Personal Care Consultation

Local Magic Personal Care Consultation

Please submit this form below and we will chat shortly!

This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Home Care In Macungie, PA

Home Care Macungie, PA

They say that your golden years are the best years of your life. For most older Americans, that's how it should be - a time to relax, reflect, and live life in a familiar place. After all, senior citizens in the U.S. have worked tirelessly to build a better economy, serve their communities, and raise families.

However, as seniors grow older, completing daily tasks like showering and enjoying activities such as visiting the historic Old ore wharf gets harder without someone by their side. Unfortunately, many older Americans aren't able to rely on their adult children for help. The reality in today's world is that family members do not have the skills or time to dedicate to caring for their parents. That's where Always Best Care Senior Services comes in.

Our in-home care services are for people who prefer to stay at home as they grow older but need ongoing care that family or friends cannot provide. More and more older adults prefer to live far away from long-term, institutionalized facilities and closer to the place where they feel most comfortable - their home. Home care in Macungie, PA is a safe, effective way to give your loved ones the care they need when they need it the most.

 In-Home Care Macungie, PA

location Service Areas

The Always Best Care Difference

Since 1996, Always Best Care has provided non-medical in-home care for seniors to help them maintain a healthy lifestyle as they get older. We are proud to have helped more than 25,000 seniors maintain higher levels of dignity and respect. We focus on providing seniors with the highest level of in-home care available so that they may live happily and independently.

Unlike some senior care companies, we genuinely want to be included in our clients' lives. We believe that personalized care is always the better option over a "one size fits all" approach. To make sure our senior clients receive the best care possible, we pair them with compassionate caregivers who understand their unique needs. That way, they may provide care accordingly without compromising their wellbeing.

The Always Best Care difference lies in life's little moments - where compassionate care and trustworthy experience come together to help seniors live a fruitful, healthy life. Whether you are an aging adult that can't quite keep up with life's daily tasks or the child of a senior who needs regular in-home services, Always Best Care is here to help.

×
TESTIMONIALS

“Always treated with respect and they showed care for my mother. Everyone was pleasant when I would call about different circumstances.”

David G.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“Always Best Care Senior Services provided very professional services that resulted in finding the best personal care facility fit for my mother. They have a passion for helping seniors and prioritize the health and well-being of their clients over everything else. I would highly recommend them when you are in a position of finding senior care services for your loved ones.”

Mary M.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“If your loved one needs in home care, I highly recommend Always Best Care of Bethlehem. Wonderful staff and excellent caregivers that go above and beyond what is expected of them!”

Carrie W.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“I am a current client of this provider Always best care cared for my mother. They have been amazing. My mother really likes her caregiver.”

jill F.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“Ken Good was so helpful and knowledgable when my elderly father needed in-home care. He actually came to the rehab center to meet us where my father was getting physical therapy after a fall. This way he was able to accurately access how much care my father would need and which caregivers would be the right fit. We were afraid we'd have to move him to a nursing home but fortunately we were able to set up in-home care. It's been four months now and we have been very happy with the caregivers who have been assigned to my father. Always Best Care is very responsive and flexible in adjusting hours as needed, somehow managing to keep the caregivers my parents have bonded with even though the hours have been reduced. We are happy our parents are able to age in place with care as they need it.”

Barbara T.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“Ken and Rebecca have been extremely helpful during the process of finding in-home care for my in-laws. They have been sensitive to our needs, diligent in their efforts to provide the best possible care, and consistent in their follow-up to see if things are satisfactory. We have been executing this process from out-of-state and the process has been very smooth. Through phone calls and face-to-face meetings when possible, both Ken and Rebecca have been professional, knowledgeable, and a pleasure to work with. I would highly recommend Always Best Care Senior Services.”

Jane T.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“Ken is a fantastic provider of in-home care in Doylestown. I highly recommend his team.”

Matthew R.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“Ken was the first person I really talked to when I found out my father was given a year to live. Instead of immediately looking at me like a business opportunity, he treated me like a close friend. He listened and treated me with complete kindness.. I have gotten to know Ken and his wife Rebecca and I can easily say that they are two of the most wonderful people I have ever met. There is nothing in this world I wouldn't trust them with. Especially the care of a loved one.”

Sheri C.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“Excellent in every respect.”

Andre C.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“The support provided by Ken and Rebecca Good (and all of their team) has been invaluable as the family navigates through dealing with the impact of our sister's illness to all of us. The structure with using ABC's online portal to evidence our sister's care is extremely beneficial in ensuring strong and coordinated communication. It is truly appreciative this technology is available and utilized by ABC. For those dealing with identifying care for a loved one, you would be smart to contact Always Best Care of Upper Buxmont.”

Denise O.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“Very few businesses or even people come from a place of compassion and a good heart. Always Best Care does. The client always comes first as does their health and well-being, and the family seeking the best for their loved ones. Thank you Ken for all you did for my parents!”

Mary C.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“I am a current client of this provider Ken and Rebecca go above and beyond for their clients, as do their staff. They handled emergent situations for my grandmother when we were on vacation - staying with her the entire time at the hospital. Ken also did significant research for our decision to put her in an assisted living community. I highly recommend Always Best Care.”

Jill K.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“Ken and Rebecca were a godsend in our search for care for our elderly father. Both Ken and Rebecca were incredibly compassionate, empathetic and caring. In addition, they were knowledgeable and had a wonderful process for determining the needs of the family, the needs of the specific individual and finding an appropriate match for a caregiver to meet those needs. I can't say enough about the services provided by Always Best Care. Ken always went above and beyond, he knew the questions to ask, and how to navigate all the red tape of various organizations (Veterans Administration, etc.) AND he diligently does site visits to the facilities he references so he is able to speak from experience about the quality of care at the facilities under consideration. If you are in need of advice and assistance in caring for a family member I recommend Ken and Rebecca and Always Best Care with no reservations.”

Lisa E.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“Very good, prompt attention to an unexpected need for day care in home for Mother-in-law. Ken is very well versed in available providers and other services needed at this time.The day care providers dealt well with her memory problems.”

Earl P.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“Ken & Rebecca were very helpful & knowledgeable with resources in helping me care for my Mom during an extremely difficult time. It was great finding two people who cared & listened to my situation. I never felt alone in my difficult decision making process.”

Howard S.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“Both Rebecca and Ken were very easy to talk with and were very interested in getting to know my father. They went out of their way to help us as our plans changed from in home care to personal care. They explained the process and were with us every step of the way to answer questions and provide support. I would use them again in a minute.”

Gretchen L.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“I am a current client of this provider Always Best Care provides extremely caring, compassionate help for my mom, I live out of town, and can't be there myself very often. But this business goes all-out to take care of my mom. I don't know what we would do without them.”

KJack
×
TESTIMONIALS

“Your loved ones will be in great care with Always Best Care of Greater Bethlehem.”

Bobbi D.

What is Non-Medical Senior Care in Macungie, PA?

lm-check

Home is where the heart is. While that saying can sound a tad cliche, it is especially true for many seniors living in America. When given a choice, older adults most often prefer to grow older at home. An AARP study found that three out of four adults over the age of 50 want to stay in their homes and communities as they age.

lm-check

When you begin to think about why, it makes sense. Home offers a sense of security, comfort, and familiarity.

lm-check

The truth is, as we age, we begin to rely on others for help. When a family is too busy or lives too far away to fulfill this role, in-home senior care is often the best solution. Home care services allow seniors to enjoy personal independence while also receiving trustworthy assistance from a trained caregiver.

lm-check

At Always Best Care, we offer a comprehensive range of home care services to help seniors stay healthy while they get the help they need to remain independent. As your senior loved one gets older, giving them the gift of senior care is one of the best ways to show your love, even if you live far away.

 Senior Care Macungie, PA

Types of Elderly Care in Macungie, PA

To give our senior clients the best care possible, we offer a full spectrum of in-home care services:

Personal Care

Personal Care Services

If your senior loved one has specific care needs, our personal care services are a great choice to consider. Personal care includes the standard caregiving duties associated with companion care and includes help with tasks such as dressing and grooming. Personal care can also help individuals with chronic conditions like diabetes.

Common personal care services include assistance with:

  • Eating
  • Mobility Issues
  • Incontinence
  • Bathing
  • Dressing
  • Grooming

Respite Care Macungie, PA
Home Helper

Home Helper Services

Sometimes, seniors need helpful reminders to maintain a high quality of life at home. If you or your senior has trouble with everyday tasks like cooking, our home helper services will be very beneficial.

Common home helper care services include assistance with:

  • Medication Reminders
  • Meal Preparation
  • Pet Care
  • Prescription Refills
  • Morning Wake-Up
  • Walking
  • Reading
 Caregivers Macungie, PA
Companionship Services

Companionship Services

Using this kind of care is a fantastic way to make life easier for you or your senior loved one. At Always Best Care, our talented caregivers often fill the role of a companion for seniors. That way, older adults can enjoy their favorite local activities, such as visiting Kalmbach Memorial Park with friends while also receiving the care they need daily or weekly.

Common companionship services include:

  • Grocery Shopping
  • Transportation to Appointments
  • Nutritional Assistance
  • Conversation
  • Planning Outings
  • Completing Errands
  • Transportation to Community
  • Events and Social Outings
Home Care Macungie, PA
Respite Care

Respite Care Services

According to AARP, more than 53 million adults living in the U.S. provide care to someone over 50 years old. Unfortunately, these caregivers experience stress, exhaustion, and even depression. Our respite care services help family caregivers address urgent obligations, spend time with their children, and enjoy nearby activities. Perhaps more importantly, respite care gives family members time to recharge and regroup. Taking personal time to de-stress reduces the risk of caregiver burnout. So, if you've always wanted to eat at the local Savory Grille or visit Macungie Memorial Park, don't feel bad. Doing so is great for both you and your loved one.

At the end of the day, our goal is to become a valuable part of your senior's daily routine. That way, we may help give them the highest quality of life possible. We know that staying at home is important for your loved one, and we are here to help make sure that is possible.

If you have been on the fence about non-medical home care, there has never been a better time than now to give your senior the care, assistance, and companionship they deserve.

 In-Home Care Macungie, PA

Benefits of Home Care in Macungie, PA

Always Best Care in-home services are for older adults who prefer to stay at home but need ongoing care that friends and family cannot provide. In-home care is a safe, effective way for seniors to age gracefully in a familiar place and live independent, non-institutionalized lives. The benefits of non-medical home care are numerous. Here are just a few reasons to consider senior care services from Always Best Care:

Always Best Care offers a full array of care options for patients at all levels of health. With our trusted elderly care services, your loved one will receive the level of care necessary for them to enjoy the highest possible quality of life.

Request More Information vector

Aging in Place: The Preferred Choice for Most Seniors

While it's true that some seniors have complicated medical needs that prevent them from staying at home, aging in place is often the best arrangement for seniors and their families. With a trusted caregiver, seniors have the opportunity to live with a sense of dignity and do so as they see fit - something that is unavailable to many older people today.

In-home care makes it possible for millions of seniors to age in place every year. Rather than moving to a strange nursing home, seniors have the chance to stay at home where they feel the happiest and most comfortable.

Here are just a few of the reasons why older men and women prefer to age at home:

How much does a senior's home truly mean to them?

A study published by the American Society on Aging found that more than half of seniors say their home's emotional value means more than how much their home is worth in monetary value. It stands to reason, then, that a senior's home is where they want to grow old.

With the help of elderly care in Macungie, PA, seniors don't have to age in a sterilized care facility. Instead, they can age gracefully in the place they want to be most: their home. In contrast, seniors who move to a long-term care facility must adapt to new environments, new people, and new systems that the facility implements. At this stage in life, this kind of drastic change can be more harmful than helpful.

Institutional care facilities like nursing homes often put large groups of people together to live in one location. On any given day, dozens of staff members and caregivers run in and out of these facilities. Being around so many new people in a relatively small living environment can be dangerous for a seniors' health and wellbeing. When you consider that thousands of seniors passed away in nursing homes during the COVID-19 pandemic, opting for in-home care is often a safer, healthier choice for seniors.

Aging in place has been shown to improve seniors' quality of life, which helps boost physical health and also helps insulate them from viral and bacterial risks found in elderly living facilities.

For many seniors, the ability to live independently with assistance from a caregiver is a priceless option. With in-home care, seniors experience a higher level of independence and freedom - much more so than in other settings like a nursing home. When a senior has the chance to age in place, they get to live life on their own terms, inside the house that they helped make into a home. More independence means more control over their personal lives, too, which leads to increased levels of fulfillment, happiness, and personal gratification. Over time, these positive feelings can manifest into a healthier, longer life.

More independence, a healthier life, and increased comfort are only a few benefits of aging in place. You have to take into consideration the role of cost and convenience. Simply put, it's usually easier and more affordable to help seniors age in place than it is to move them into an institutional care facility. According to the US Department of Housing and Urban Development, seniors who age in the comfort of their homes can save thousands of dollars per month.

In-home care services from Always Best Care, for instance, are often less expensive than long-term solutions, which can cost upwards of six figures per year. To make matters worse, many residential care facilities are reluctant to accept long-term care insurance and other types of payment assistance.

With Always Best Care's home care services, seniors and their families have a greater level of control over their care plans. In-home care gives seniors the chance to form a bond with a trusted caregiver and also receive unmatched care that is catered to their needs. In long-term care facilities, seniors and their loved ones have much less control over their care plan and have less of a say in who provides their care.

 Elderly Care Macungie, PA

Affordable Care

In-home care is a valuable resource that empowers seniors to age in place on their own terms. However, a big concern for many families and their loved ones is how much in-home care costs. If you're worried that in-home care is too expensive, you may be pleasantly surprised to learn that it is one of the most affordable senior care arrangements available.

Typically, hiring an Always Best Care in-home caregiver for a few hours a week is more affordable than sending your loved one to a long-term care facility. This is true even for seniors with more complex care needs.

At Always Best Care, we will work closely with you and your family to develop a Care Plan that not only meets your care needs, but your budget requirements, too. Once we discover the level of care that you or your senior need, we develop an in-home care plan that you can afford.

In addition to our flexible care options, families should also consider the following resources to help offset potential home care costs:

If your loved one qualifies, Medicaid may help reduce in-home care costs. Review your PA's Medicaid program laws and benefits, and make sure your senior's financial and medical needs meet Medicaid eligibility requirements.
Attendance and aid benefits through military service can cover a portion of the costs associated with in-home care for veterans and their spouses.
Many senior care services like in-home care are included in long-term care insurance options. Research different long-term care solutions to find a plan that provides coverage for senior care.
Home care can be included as part of a senior's private insurance plan. Read over your loved one's insurance policy carefully or speak with their insurance provider to determine if in-home care is covered.
Depending on the life insurance plan, you may be able to apply your policy toward long-term care. You may be able to use long-term-care coverage to help pay for in-home elderly care.
 Senior Care Macungie, PA

Compassionate Care. Trusted Caregivers.

When you or your senior loved one needs assistance managing daily tasks at home, finding a qualified caregiver can be challenging. It takes a special kind of person to provide reliable care for your senior loved one. However, a caregiver's role involves more than meal preparation and medication reminders. Many seniors rely on their caregivers for companionship, too.

Our companion care services give seniors the chance to socialize in a safe environment and engage in activities at home. These important efforts boost morale and provide much-needed relief from repetitive daily routines. A one-on-one, engaging conversation can sharpen seniors' minds and give them something in which to be excited.

At Always Best Care, we only hire care providers that we would trust to care for our own loved ones. Our senior caregivers in Macungie, PA understand how important it is to listen and communicate with their seniors. A seemingly small interaction, like a short hug goodbye, can make a major difference in a senior's day. Instead of battling against feelings of isolation, seniors begin to look forward to seeing their caregiver each week.

Understanding the nuances of senior care is just one of the reasons why our care providers are so great at their job.

Unlike some senior care companies, our caregivers must undergo extensive training before they work for Always Best Care. In addition, our caregivers receive ongoing training throughout the year. This training ensures that their standard of care matches up to the high standards we've come to expect. During this training, they will brush up on their communication skills, safety awareness, and symptom spotting. That way, your loved one receives the highest level of non-medical home care from day one.

Assisted Living Referral Services

While it's true that many seniors prefer to age at home, sometimes in-home care isn't the best fit. For those seniors and their families, choosing an assisted living facility makes more sense. Unfortunately, finding the optimal care facility is easier said than done in today's day and age. That's when Always Best Care's assisted living referral services begin to make a lot of sense.

Assisted living is a form of housing intended for seniors who require varying degrees of medical and personal attention. Accommodations may include single rooms, apartments, or shared living arrangements. Assisted living communities are typically designed to resemble a home-like environment and are physically constructed to encourage the independence of residents.


Respite Care Macungie, PA

At assisted living communities, seniors receive help with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and eating. They may also benefit from coordination of services with outside healthcare providers, and monitoring of resident activities to ensure their health, safety, and well-being. Caregivers who work at assisted living communities can also provide medication administration and personal care services for older adults.

Other services offered within assisted living communities can include some or all of the following:

  • Housekeeping
  • Laundry
  • Recreational Activities
  • Social Outings
  • Emergency Medical Response
  • Medication Monitoring
  • Family Visitation
  • Personal Care
 Caregivers Macungie, PA

At Always Best Care, our representatives can match your senior's emotional, physical, and financial needs with viable assisted living communities nearby. Results are based on comparative data, so you can select the best choice for you or your loved one.

Always Best Care works closely with local senior living communities to gain valuable knowledge that we then use to help seniors and their loved ones make informed decisions. This information can include basic care and rent, resident availability, and services provided. Because Always Best Care is compensated by these communities, we provide senior living referral services at no extra cost to you.

Some of the most popular assisted living communities to consider in our area include the following:

  • The Willow
  • Lehigh Commons
  • Legend of Allentown
  • Complete Care at Lehigh Center
  • Country Meadows Retirement Communities
Home Care Macungie, PA

For many seniors, moving into a senior living community revolves around how and when they want to make a transition to more involved care. Some seniors are more proactive about transitioning to independent living. Others choose to remain home until their care needs or other requirements are satisfied. Remember - our staff is here to help. Contact our office today to learn more about assisted living communities and how we can find a facility that exceeds your expectations.

 In-Home Care Macungie, PA

Taking the First Step with Always Best Care

The first step in getting quality in-home care starts with a personal consultation with an experienced Always Best Care Care Coordinator. This initial consultation is crucial for our team to learn more about you or your elderly loved one to discover the level of care required. Topics of this consultation typically include:

A discussion of your needs and how our trained caregivers can offer assistance in the most effective way

lm-right-arrow
01

A draft of your care plan, which includes highly detailed notes and a framework for the care that you or your senior will receive

lm-right-arrow
02

Discuss payment options and help coordinate billing with your insurance provider

lm-right-arrow
03

Our caregivers are trained to spot changes that clients exhibit, like mental and physical decline. As your trusted senior care company, we will constantly assess and update your Care Plan to meet any new emotional, intellectual, physical, and emotional needs.

If you have never considered in-home care before, we understand that you and your family may have concerns about your Care Plan and its Care Coordinator. To help give you peace of mind, know that every team member and caregiver must undergo comprehensive training before being assigned to a Care Plan.

At the end of the day, we only hire the best of the best at Always Best Care. Whether you need home care in Macungie, PA 24-hours a day or only need a respite for a couple of hours, we are here to serve you.

When you're ready, we encourage you to contact your local Always Best Care representative to set up a Care Consultation. Our Care Coordinators would be happy to meet with you in person to get to know you better, discuss your needs, and help put together a personalized Care Plan specific to your needs.

 Elderly Care Macungie, PA

Latest News in Macungie, PA

‘It was very disturbing’ – Lower Macungie Twp. residents react to black bear sighting on Halloween

LOWER MACUNGIE TWP., Pa. - Some Lower Macungie Township residents woke up on Halloween morning to quite a fright when a black bear was spotted outside their homes.We spoke with a bunch of witches and skeletons out and about who had some mixed thoughts and feelings about trick or treating alongside a bear."It's b...

LOWER MACUNGIE TWP., Pa. - Some Lower Macungie Township residents woke up on Halloween morning to quite a fright when a black bear was spotted outside their homes.

We spoke with a bunch of witches and skeletons out and about who had some mixed thoughts and feelings about trick or treating alongside a bear.

"It's been happening a lot lately in the area, but definitely, I didn't expect it in front of our house,” said Tracy Fey.

Fey looked at her doorbell camera video early in the morning. She figured any movement would be the usual suspects.

"I thought it was a squirrel. And when we looked and saw otherwise, it was very disturbing,” explained Fey.

Ambling across the front yard of her Lower Macungie Township home was a large black bear, just in time for Halloween. The bear was the talk of the town as the zombies, vampires and ghouls came out for the township’s annual trick or treat night.

Some residents feel like it's all tricks and no treats.

"I wish there were more bears in the neighborhood to keep the teenagers in at night,” said Adam Clark, a neighbor and parent of trick or treaters.

For others, the thought of a new neigh-bear isn't as inviting.

"Would you give candy to a bear if it came up to your door?”, asked 69 News Reporter Cierra Genelle to trick or treaters.

"I would probably give a bear anything to get it away from me,” said Ruby Meyer, a parent of trick or treaters in the neighborhood.

"I would give it candy and then I would tame it,” explained Henry Sloane, wearing a Halloween costume mask.

“If it chased after me I probably would. I would just drop some candy on the floor,” said Juliette Schaffer, dressed as a vampire.

The Pennsylvania Game Commission says the bear was seen in at least three different places throughout the township on Tuesday. Officials said it would almost certainly want to avoid a group of people - like trick or treaters.

So, while it's unlikely the bear will ring any doorbells in search of some Halloween sweets, officials recommend playing it safe and removing things that can attract a bear like bird feeders, pet food and trash outside.

As for advice: if you do see it, "Not confronting them. Staying away. I'm not an expert,” said Fey. “But she is,” Fey said in costume, while holding her daughter Maya.

We hadn’t heard of any spooky bear appearances in Lower Macungie Township as of Halloween night but there were a few recent bear sightings about two weeks ago in Bethlehem Township.

So, we may have ourselves a little Halloween twilight zone mystery here, as to whether or not it's that same bear.

Local farm grocery to open in former Upper Macungie bike shop

UPPER MACUNGIE TWP., Pa. — A new organic grocery featuring food from local farms may soon come to Upper Macungie Township.Independent contractor Bill Kuklinski and farmer Reuben DeMaster are partnering to open an organic grocery store at 8150 Hamilton Blvd. in Breinigsville.The site formerly was home to the bicycle shop Cycledrome.DeMaster co-owns Willow Haven Farm in Weisenberg Township. He said the store would be an expansion of the small shop located on the farm, which sells food from his and other local farms....

UPPER MACUNGIE TWP., Pa. — A new organic grocery featuring food from local farms may soon come to Upper Macungie Township.

Independent contractor Bill Kuklinski and farmer Reuben DeMaster are partnering to open an organic grocery store at 8150 Hamilton Blvd. in Breinigsville.

The site formerly was home to the bicycle shop Cycledrome.

DeMaster co-owns Willow Haven Farm in Weisenberg Township. He said the store would be an expansion of the small shop located on the farm, which sells food from his and other local farms.

Farmer Reuben DeMaster of Willow Haven Farm

“We are trying to extend the hospitality of the farm to a wider area,” DeMaster said. “And we see everything that we do on the farm as hospitality.

“We're trying to feed people and to build people's health, really supporting the people that are looking to live a healthy lifestyle.”

Upper Macungie Zoning Hearing Board approved the use at a hearing Wednesday, clearing the way for its opening.

Kuklinski said he plans to settle on the property by Friday, March 8.

What would the store be like?

Tentatively named Willow Haven General Store, the grocery would be open from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesdays through Saturdays.

It would have three employees at any given time and 3,800 square feet of floor space. DeMaster's current shop on his farm, which would continue to operate, is about 400 square feet.

About 80% of the food sold would be from local farms, and the vast majority of the rest would be organic, DeMaster said.

Kuklinski said prices would be on the higher end but comparable with chain supermarkets.

“I think the people that are shopping for organic at Wegmans or Whole Foods are going to find that our prices are right at that level,” Kuklinski said.

Kuklinski said he and his wife support Willow Haven Farm mainly because of the health benefits of eating locally grown, organic food.

“One of our slogans is, 'Eat different, eat healthy. Put real food in your body,'” Kuklinski said. “Food is medicine. We wouldn't be so sick if people would just eat a little bit better.”

There is not yet a set opening date, but DeMaster said he hopes to open in May.

DeMaster said he will soon start a crowdfunding campaign to raise money for the store. He said more information would be posted on the Willow Haven Farm Facebook page soon.

Manufacturing facility proposed at same site as warehouse planned in Upper Macungie

UPPER MACUNGIE TWP., Pa. — The site of the controversial warehouse plan along Route 100 may instead host a manufacturing facility.The township Zoning Hearing Board is currently deliberating a plan for a 150,000-square-foot warehouse at 110 PA Route 100.Now, the Upper Macungie Planning Commission is slated to review a new plan for a manufacturing facility at the same l...

UPPER MACUNGIE TWP., Pa. — The site of the controversial warehouse plan along Route 100 may instead host a manufacturing facility.

The township Zoning Hearing Board is currently deliberating a plan for a 150,000-square-foot warehouse at 110 PA Route 100.

Now, the Upper Macungie Planning Commission is slated to review a new plan for a manufacturing facility at the same location, according to its agenda.

The Upper Macungie Planning Commission will meet at 7 p.m. Wednesday in the township municipal building. The meeting will also be streamed on YouTube.

The proposed manufacturing facility at the site would be 150,400 square feet, about the same size as the proposed warehouse. It is unlikely both the warehouse and manufacturing facility could exist on the same lot.

Assistant Township Manager & Director of Community Development Kalman Sostarecz

Assistant Township Manager & Director of Community Development Kalman Sostarecz said developers can propose separate plans for the same plot of land at the same time, though that does not usually happen because it is expensive to create a land use plan.

In the case of two proposed plans on the same lot, if the second plan is approved, it would nullify the first.

Sostarecz said the original warehouse plan has “nothing to do” with the new plan for a manufacturing facility.

Nearing a compromise on warehouse

The lot at 110 PA Route 100 is in the township’s Light Industrial zoning district. Some types of manufacturing are permitted “by right” in that district, meaning a land owner has the right to use the land for that purpose.

Conversely, warehousing is permitted by “special exception” in that district, meaning it needs to be approved by the township Zoning Hearing Board, a quasi-judicial body.

When a warehouse is allowed by “special exception,” that means it is an allowed use as long as the property owner proves the warehouses will not harm the township any more than another warehouse plan, Sostarecz said previously.

Representatives from Prologis, the property's owner, asked the township Zoning Hearing Board to appeal township staff's determination that the original warehouse plan is not allowed under its laws.

Both Upper Macungie Township and Star Hospitality Group Inc., owners of Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Allentown West next to the property, were objectors during the hearings.

But at the Upper Macungie Zoning Hearing Board meeting Wednesday, representatives from all sides said they were nearing a compromise. They plan to agree to conditions of approval for the project instead of having the Zoning Hearing Board rule on it.

None of the parties revealed any details about the potential compromise.

Lower Macungie budget retains low taxes, foresees significant waste rate hike

LOWER MACUNGIE TWP., Pa. — Lower Macungie Township's budget shifts some tax revenues, but a hike in the waste rate hike is on the horizon.The budget, now up for public review and which the township Board of Commissioners expects to adopt Dec. 7, keeps the low 1% resident earned income tax and 1% local reality transfer tax the same as 2023.Half of the earned income tax and local realty transfer tax is to go to East Penn School District, which raised property taxes 2.5% ...

LOWER MACUNGIE TWP., Pa. — Lower Macungie Township's budget shifts some tax revenues, but a hike in the waste rate hike is on the horizon.

The budget, now up for public review and which the township Board of Commissioners expects to adopt Dec. 7, keeps the low 1% resident earned income tax and 1% local reality transfer tax the same as 2023.

Half of the earned income tax and local realty transfer tax is to go to East Penn School District, which raised property taxes 2.5% for the current school year.

The budget also keeps the voter-supported 0.15% earned income tax for open space and 0.25 millage real estate tax, with a 50% homestead exclusion towards the Lower Macungie Library.

It also keeps a $52 local services tax for all people working in the township earning more than $12,000 a year.

Despite no take rate hikes, tax revenue for the township is expected to increase, as new building developments continue in the township.

The final $32 million budget shifts from the prior budgets to form a separate solid waste tax in anticipation of heightened rates as a result of the need for a new contract.

Township Manager Bruce Beitel said budgeting has been "very conservative" in revenue forecasting in case of economic downturn, and there would be no change of service to residents.

The township will continue to pay off debt for the community center, and a debt of $6,142,000 it took on last year for land bought with the township's Open Space Fund.

Township employees got raises, though some lower than proposed, but elected officials did not.

Remaining funds from the $3.4 million from the American Rescue Plan were diverted to the capital projects fund and general fund, Beitel said.

Notable waste management increases

The budget restructures waste-related items into a new Solid Waste Fund, while anticipating increases related to solid waste and the need for new contracts.

Doing that effectively removed $2,500,000 from the General Fund.

Beitel has said annual trash bills will increase from $360 to $576, including a 60% rate increase for the last four months of 2024.

He said that's based on observations of new contracts made across other municipalities, including South Whitehall Township.

"This is increases that we're seeing across the market," Beitel said.

The cost of collecting curbside yard waste is expected to increase from $403,000 to $500,000 and charges from the township's garbage collection contract with Waste Management from $2,650,000 to $3,270,000.

"The cost of trash, it's going to go up tremendously with our next contract, as it has in other communities already around the Valley," Commissioner Brian Higgins said.

"Really without any control on our end other than to get the best deal we can."

Total regular solid waste charge revenue is anticipated to increase from $3,330,000 in 2023 to $4,000,000 in 2024. New revenue of $250,000 is expected from yard waste site permits for residents to use a yard waste drop-off site.

The current contract with Waste Management ends in August.

"The cost of trash, it's going to go up tremendously with our next contract as it has in other communities already around the valley, really without any control on our end other than to get the best deal we can."
Brian Higgins, Lower Macungie Township commissioner

"I think we wanted to start having that conversation so that people could understand the costs associated with our yard waste operation, as well as that curbside collection," Beitel said.

"Residents may be disappointed with their garbage bill, if we see the kind of raise that we saw in South Whitehall or other neighbors in the future. Try to help them understand that that's what the market is seeing for various contracts."

The sewer fund proposes a 5% rate increase, which also was implemented in 2023. The increase would bring sewer charge revenue up to $4,935,000 from $4,700,000.

There now are 11,145 customers billed for sewer services at $86.20 per quarter. The new increase would amount to an increase of $4.20 per quarter, for a total of $361.60 annually for the typical customer, up from $344.80 according to the township.

Capital projects of $1,260,000 for 22,000 feet of cured-in-place plastic pipe lining and $160,000 to support an Upper Macungie Line upgrade on Mill Creek Road are budgeted for the sewer department.

Total sewer fund expenditures are budgeted to increase about $400,000 to $5,407,600.

Beitel said the township should be mindful that Lehigh County Authority continues to increase costs each year to accomplish capital improvement projects and will re-evaluate rates in the third quarter.

Department goals for 2024

During budget meetings, Beitel noted goals for township departments.

He said Parks and Facilities hopes to:

Recreation listed as goals expanding programming, special events and partnerships with local businesses. Beitel also said the township will continue expanding youth tennis and golf programs, and consider a pickleball league and court programming.

Community and Economic Development's goals are to implement an online zoning map on the township website to assist residents and developers, establish a rental registration program, and administer major development projects such as Lehigh Valley Town Center and Topgolf.

Under capital project goals, the township listed replacing the Gun Club Road bridge, repairing or replacing the Chestnut Street culvert, designing and permitting Smith Lane Bridge, the Saurkraut Extension mast arm and no trucks signage, and traffic pre-emption devices.

Macungie reveals deal to officially swap to Lower Mac Fire Services

MACUNGIE, Pa. — A three-year agreement to swap Macungie's fire services from the embattled Macungie Volunteer Fire Department to Lower Macungie Fire Department passed unanimously on first reading Monday.That lines up the services to officially be adopted by the end of the year.The agreement comes on the heels of a months-long process. Concern about the Macungie Vo...

MACUNGIE, Pa. — A three-year agreement to swap Macungie's fire services from the embattled Macungie Volunteer Fire Department to Lower Macungie Fire Department passed unanimously on first reading Monday.

That lines up the services to officially be adopted by the end of the year.

The agreement comes on the heels of a months-long process. Concern about the Macungie Volunteer Fire Department came to a head in August when department officials failed to produce a requested audit.

Concerns also were raised about the number of active and available firefighters on the service.

"The Macungie Borough Council has determined that it is in the best interest of the residents of Macungie Borough to designate the Lower Macungie Fire Department as the official fire protection unit for the Borough of Macungie."
Ordinance approved Monday by Macungie Borough Council

"The Macungie Borough Council has determined that it is in the best interest of the residents of Macungie Borough to designate the Lower Macungie Fire Department as the official fire protection unit for the Borough of Macungie due to ongoing concerns relating to the Macungie Volunteer Fire Department’s mismanagement and its ability to respond to fires," the ordinance that officially marks the change states.

In recent months, Lehigh County Dispatch has dispatched nearby fire companies in addition to the Macungie Volunteer Fire Department because of concerns about staffing and potential response times, according to council.

Borough and fire company officials said they aren't sure what will happen to the assets of the Macungie Volunteer Fire Department in the long term after the swap.

No members of the Macungie Volunteer Fire Department spoke at the meeting, but prior public discussions at council meetings involved representatives from the fire company stating that the organization is in-operation and can do its job.

Borough fire costs to increase

The borough will give the township $90,000 annually, split into two in April and October, in addition to Pennsylvania Volunteer Fire Relief passthrough payments from the state.

The agreement is reflected in the borough's 2024 budget.

Payments by the borough will not be made directly to the fire department, but go toward insurance costs, recruitment and retention incentive programs, station utilities, maintenance and operations expenses, and vehicle and equipment replacement programs.

Joint Municipal Agreement by LehighValley Newsdotcom on Scribd

Annual funding adjustments may occur up to 5% from the prior annual amount, with 90 days notice before the end of the year required for any cost increase notice.

An additional one-time contribution to the township of $10,000 also is listed for capital improvements to the fire department in the first year of service.

Each municipality is listed to be entitled to a full right of reasonable audit.

Lower Macungie agreement also passed

Also Monday, council approved a joint municipal agreement establishing the contribution agreements with Lower Macungie Township.

It will be on the agenda of the next meeting, Dec. 18, to be signed and approved by borough council, along with a final vote of the ordinance codifying the swap.

It states that Lower Macungie Fire Department officers and municipal officials agree to meet annually to review services, and would require them all to meet if there are complaints related to fire protection and rescue services.

The agreement also states that the township will provide workers' compensation insurance and expenses and be the lead coordinator of services.

The agreement automatically will extend in one-year terms, with any termination of the agreement having to be made in writing at least 90 days in advance of the end of the calendar year or intent to terminate.

The agreement requires quarterly and annual reports consisting of the nature and number of calls, and financial statements and/or audit reports.

It can be modified only by written agreement of all parties.

A similar agreement exists between Lower Macungie Township and the Borough of Alburtis, according to Lower Macungie fire officials during a presentation in August to Macungie about its services.

Chief pushes back

Macungie Volunteer Fire Department Chief Mike Natysyn pushed back on the council's moves and decision, saying the company is "fully active," still responding to calls and is fully staffed.

Natysyn said an audit was given in September, and that a group of former fire company volunteers took funds from the department and told the borough council incorrectly that others had quit the fire department and that it was shut down.

He said litigation is ongoing involving some former members.

He said he still is unclear why the borough is taking these steps, and believes response times in the borough would be slower with an outside department.

"That's a million-dollar question that nobody knows," Natysyn said. "In the department, we're all scratching our heads thinking, 'What's going on?'

"We're fully service. We have the trucks that, on demand, we get out on the calls. You know what I mean? I mean, we can figure this out ourselves. And when you ask the borough, they don't give us any answers."

Council President Ron Karboski said council, based on current worries, wants to ensure homes are protected.

"It's been quite clear to everyone, they didn't fulfill the requirements of answering specific questions we had with regard to the wellness of the fire company," Karboski said.

"Suspicions that we have based on some of the reports that they've given to us, and all the creditors that have submitted requests for payment to the borough makes us believe that the fire department is not run well.

"And when none of the volunteer firefighters that show up here at our meetings are from anywhere but 40 miles away, we know we don't really have an organized, well-run fire department."

Natysyn insisted the department has 15 to 18 members, and said it was not unusual for some members to live out of the municipality where they volunteer.

At a Nov. 23 borough council meeting, Borough Manager John Brown said they had so far found more than $30,000 in unpaid invoices, while Karboski insisted the borough has observed lack of financial controls, misconduct and a staff of only eight firefighters, some residing so far away that response times could be impacted.

In responding to the debts and unpaid invoices the fire company holds, such as a mechanic's holding of a truck, Natysyn pointed to the withholding of half of the annual borough funds in August by the borough in as a primary cause for invoices to go unpaid.

"That's because we didn't get out $25,000," Natysyn said. "With them holding the money that's why we're in debt. Once we get the money we can get us out of debt. They're holding the money to try to break us."

Under recent borough budgets, the fire company was allocated $50,000 annually split into halves.

Karboski and other council members, however, were convinced it was time to move forward with their plans, and cited the lack of a complete verified audit as requested, as well as other concerns.

"That's a simple answer. We don't know if they're legitimate debts," Karboski said.

"Because when a department is not properly run, then those debts can be anything. We need to be sure that the taxpayers of Macungie's funds are passed through from us towards firefighting services."

"We just hear more different things going on," Councilman Greg Hutchison said. "You know, they owe this money, that money, this money, and people quit."

"The Fire Company was really good years ago."

Council members say a financial report was submitted, but that it was not an audit as requested.

A report to borough council in 2017 illustrated similar concerns with the fire department.

Disclaimer:

This website publishes news articles that contain copyrighted material whose use has not been specifically authorized by the copyright owner. The non-commercial use of these news articles for the purposes of local news reporting constitutes "Fair Use" of the copyrighted materials as provided for in Section 107 of the US Copyright Law.