Aleppo Township

The board discussed community support for House Bill 504 related to renewable energy and considered a funding request for a new fire siren for the Aleppo Volunteer Fire Company. Additionally, the board addressed the non-renewal of the salt contract by Compass Minerals, reviewed insights from the Allegheny League of Municipalities Spring Educational Conference, and noted upcoming conference details.

The board discussed a request from a resident regarding support for community solar legislation, requiring the resident to demonstrate broader community interest before further consideration. Additionally, the manager recommended opting into the Allegheny County CDBG and Home Program to maintain eligibility for potential future grants. The board also reviewed an engineering proposal from HRG Engineering to utilize remaining grant funds for various road improvements, including milling, paving, and sealing projects on Rhodes Avenue, Nancy Drive, Hill Road, and Weber Road.

The board meeting covered several operational and financial matters. Key discussion topics included a report from the police chief on monthly call volume, a public works update regarding road maintenance and deer health, and a letter of appreciation from a local volunteer firefighter. The board approved an agreement for the deputization of the deputy tax collector, exonerated the treasurer for 2024 real estate tax collections, and authorized property tax refunds under Act 172. Financial approvals included the January bill list, ratification of payroll transfers, and several fund transfers from the Liquid Fuels Fund to the General Fund. Additionally, the board designated authorized check signers for the General Fund account, discussed potential zoning ordinance updates, received a project status update on intersection visibility, and heard from a State Representative regarding pending landslide and sinkhole insurance legislation.

The board approved a resolution for inclusion in the Allegheny County Community Development Block Grant and HOME Investment Partnerships Programs for 2027-2029. Additionally, they accepted an engineering services proposal for the Rhodes Avenue Landslide Rehab Phase 2 project and approved financial items, including the February bill list and multiple transfers from the Liquid Fuels Fund to the General Fund for road salt invoices. Discussions also addressed concerns regarding potential AI Data Center development, support for House Bill 504, the upcoming annual Aleppo Earth Day Community Cleanup, and a donation to the Sewickley Memorial Day Committee.

The workshop meeting agenda covered several significant items for the upcoming year and operational matters. Discussions included the 2026 Real Estate Tax Millage Ordinance, which is set to remain at 3.5 mills, and the 2026 Budget Ordinance, both scheduled for legislative approval later in December. Operational updates included scheduling the annual Christmas Tree Recycling program for January 5, 2026, and detailing the ongoing Christmas light recycling program, where proceeds benefit a children's coat drive. The Board reviewed the final form of the new PILOT Agreement with Masonic Village, which will be presented for approval later. New business involved scheduling the Reorganization Meeting for January 5, 2026, and establishing the 2026 meeting dates for Workshop and Legislative sessions. Financial matters included a final $125,000 payment toward the Deer Run Pump Station reconfiguration project and reviewing the annual $40,000 contribution to the Aleppo Township Authority for the sewer budget. A change order was authorized for guide rail replacement along Rhodes Avenue to include an additional section using grant funds. The Board also discussed the process for making appointments to various Township boards and commissions for terms beginning in 2026. The meeting concluded with an executive session concerning legal advice related to the PILOT agreement negotiations.