Easton Honors County, Builder for Courthouse Restoration

Easton City Council commended and West Ward contractor Nick Alfero Wednesday evening for the historic restoration work that was recently completed on the original 1860s portion of courthouse.

Mayor Sal Panto praised the work, noting that also did much-needed restoration work on the building's cupola the year prior, a task no other contractor wanted to attempt. He also thanked the county for undertaking the historic preservation, saying such projects add a lasting value to the neighborhood.

Panto added that Northampton County has also recently given the city $76,000 in support of the program.

In accepting the honor on behalf of the county, Executive John Stoffa noted that 29 coats of paint in five colors were removed from the exterior 150-year-old .

He added that he's ordered the cupola lights to be turned on regularly at night this year to help highlight the structure, which he estimated will cost the county about $1,000 annually.

“Out of a $300 million budget, I think we can afford that,” Stoffa said.

Councilman Mike Fleck noted that Alfero is a regular supporter of the local community.

“I want to thank you for everything you've done in the city, especially in the West Ward,” Fleck said, adding that Alfero has been particularly supportive of the Weed and Seed program, including donating the space on the company's garage door for last year.