A crowded Newry Borough Council meeting last evening, initially marked by contentious debate over the potential closure of Catfish Road, concluded with a surprising surge of community spirit and cautious optimism. The subject of the dispute is a deteriorating 100-year-old culvert spanning a stream on the borough’s eastern edge. With minimal tax revenue and uncertain grant prospects, the tiny municipality faced a significant challenge in funding a repair that officials estimated could cost between $45,000 to $350,000. The high cost prompted fears of a permanent road closure, a prospect that attendees, including representatives from emergency services and local schools, made clear was unacceptable due to the substantial detours it would cause. Borough officials clarified they had no intention of closing the road without a plan in place. The meeting took a positive turn when several residents offered their expertise and resources to bridge the financial gap. Donna Meiser, owner of Leighty’s Farm Market, volunteered to launch a community fundraising campaign. Additionally, a local excavating contractor’s father offered the possibility of a favorable bid, and a retired specialist in Fiber Reinforced Polymer expressed willingness to help source a cost-effective culvert replacement.
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