Borough of Arona

The meeting commenced with the Pledge of Allegiance. Under old business, the council unanimously accepted a bid from Josh Lovell for $2980.00 to repair a drain on Maple Street. Under new business, it was noted that Waste Management contacted the Borough regarding an extension to the garbage contract, as they are currently drafting a new proposal for the contract which expires in December 2024. Bills and receipts for the month were also accepted.

Key discussions during the meeting included the review of streets for the 2025 season, with a tentative list expected in April. A new council member was sworn in to serve out a vacated term. Financial matters involved reviewing and approving the current month's bills, with one addition noted. Under new business, the solicitor provided information regarding potential future actions, such as reducing council size via referendum or merging with neighboring municipalities. Operational items included arranging for the park port-a-john setup in early April and accepting the sole bid from Lawn Sharks for grass cutting services for the 2025 season. Research into blight and the Land Bank in Westmoreland County was noted as ongoing. The council also discussed potential fees for the upcoming softball season, including a suggested charge of $600 per team and the need for dirt on the infield.

The meeting commenced with the Pledge of Allegiance. The primary discussion centered on new business concerning the borough's garbage contract for the 2025-2027 period, which involves an expected substantial monthly increase in collection costs. The council solicitor advised exploring addition to Hempfield's COSTARS contract, though this was later determined not to be feasible due to contract specifics. The proposed new rates from Waste Management for regular and senior accounts were presented, and the council president will contact Waste Management to explore negotiation possibilities before awarding the contract.

The meeting included action taken on the storm drain project, where a bid of $8250.00 from Ed Ritenour Excavating was unanimously approved. In new business, a bid of $2650 from Josh Lovell Paving was approved to seal the walking track at the park. Under old business, ordinances discussed in August were forwarded to the Borough solicitor for review, with a representative expected in November. Additionally, the council is arranging for the code enforcement officer for Sewickley to attend the October meeting to discuss potential services. Efforts continue to resolve an issue concerning the Jerry George property.

Key discussions during the meeting included the lack of submitted bids for the 2025-26 snow/salt service season and an update regarding the Jerry George property. Under new business, the council addressed the need to determine tentative meeting dates compatible with the solicitor's schedule, as the legal group is unavailable on Mondays. Furthermore, the council noted that the Liquid Fuels audit was completed and they are awaiting the final report. A concern was raised regarding a tree on 1st Street dropping a significant amount of walnuts onto the roadway and the responsibility for cleanup.