Documents Jul 23, 2018

Minutes

Ebensburg Borough Council Meeting Minutes - July 23, 2018

Meeting Details:

Attendance:

Present: Susan Barber (Vice President), Theresa Jacoby, Scot May, Dave Kuhar, Cecilia Houser
Absent: Doug Tusing (President), John Cobaugh
Others Present: Mayor Randy Datsko, Borough Manager Daniel Penatzer, Solicitor Blair Pawlowski, Police Chief Terry Wyland, Public Works Director Jeff Evans, Community Development Director Danea Koss, Recreation Director Dirk Johnson, and representatives from local media.
Audience: 22 residents

Several residents expressed strong opposition to the proposed sidewalk project, particularly on East Sample Street.

Ms. Pat Kelly (624 E. Sample St. ) stated that neighbors have prepared an impact statement covering issues like trees, sidewalks, snow removal, and financial impact. She was concerned that the project details were already finalized.
Mr. George Kopchik (616 E. Sample St. ) agreed that sidewalks were not needed on his block due to low traffic but supported adding curbs. He noted the project is a significant expense following the sewer project.
Mr. Dave Ott (708 E. Sample St. ) questioned the need for new sidewalks, noting none have existed on his street since 1954.
Mr. Josh Yoder (501 E. Sample St. ) asked if the Council had walked the entire length of East Sample Street and shared his concerns about the project.
Mr. Michael Owatt (612 North Caroline St. ) expressed frustration, believing no one from the borough had consulted residents and that they do not want the sidewalks.

A motion to approve the consent agenda was made by Mr. Kuhar and passed unanimously. The items included:

Approval of the June 25, 2018 meeting minutes.
Approval of the Financial Statement and quarterly transfers.
Final approval for a land development application for Ebensburg Animal Hospital at 922 Rowena Drive.

Mr. Tom Grambling, Vice President of the Pennsylvania State Association of Boroughs, presented awards for dedicated service:

Mayor Datsko presented a certificate to Solicitor Blair Pawlowski for 45 years of dedicated service to the Borough.

Water/Wastewater Committee:

Wastewater Plant Operations: A written report from plant supervisor Mark Wirfel (who was absent) noted that 34 million gallons of clean water were returned to Howells Run, and 15. 8 tons of sludge were sent to the landfill in June.
Wastewater Project: The project is proceeding in the southern sections of the borough. Connection notices will be sent to approximately 30 customers soon.

Recreation Committee:

Paddle Boats: The idea of adding paddle boats to Lake Rowena is being reconsidered, as Lakemont is selling its fleet. The Council referred the matter to the Recreation Board for research and a recommendation on liability, storage, staffing, and maintenance.

Street Committee:

Stop Signs: The committee reviewed stop signs following last month's discussion. Any necessary actions will be added to the next agenda.
Sidewalk Project: Mr. Penatzer reported that design is underway and three of four public meetings have been held. A key issue remains for East Sample Street between Caroline and Roberts Streets. While the ordinance requires sidewalks on the south side, many residents prefer them on the north side to avoid conflicts with existing driveways. The Council will review other streets (West Triumph, North Caroline) and decide on potential ordinance changes next month.

Administration Committee: No report.

Fireworks:

The Borough currently lacks an ordinance regulating fireworks. Act 43 of 2017 allows municipalities to regulate "display fireworks" but not "consumer fireworks. "
The Council and Solicitor agreed to follow Act 43 of 2017, which prohibits consumer fireworks on public property and within 150 feet of any building.

Garbage Collection:

Mr. Penatzer reported that garbage collection issues discussed last month have significantly improved, though some isolated instances remain.

Zoning Amendment:

The Planning Commission recommended amending the Zoning Ordinance to permit Bed & Breakfasts (B&Bs) in all residential districts where residential occupancy is already allowed.
Ms. Jacoby made a motion to grant tentative approval to Ordinance #644, which will be advertised for public inspection.

Truck Replacement:

A 2009 Ranger pickup was totaled in an accident. The Council approved the purchase of a Ford F-150 or smaller pickup from the State bid list. The trailer involved was also a total loss, and a mower is being repaired.

Police Department: Chief Wyland reported on recent fireworks incidents and a Drug Take Back Day scheduled for July 27th.
Public Works Department: Mr. Evans reported on water plant activities, including increased chemical use due to algae, and a pump station repair at the Industrial Park.
Community Development Department: Ms. Koss announced the Downtown Shutdown for the upcoming Friday, with street closures at 6 p. m. and a band performing from 8-11 p. m. Homecoming events will be held on Saturday, concluding with music and fireworks at Lake Rowena.
Recreation Department: No report.
Ebensburg Planning Commission: No report.
Ebensburg Zoning Board: No report.

With no further business, Ms. Jacoby made a motion to adjourn, which passed unanimously. The meeting was adjourned at 8:10 p. m.

Minutes Recorded by: Danea Koss, Community Development Director