Babette K. Legler

Key discussions and actions included the appointment to a council seat vacated by Shannon Barron, with an analysis of term length based on the borough charter versus state law resulting in a two-year term commitment for the appointee. The Council moved to voluntarily remove a deed restriction concerning the sale of alcoholic beverages at 978 Greentree Road, but tabled the vote pending further research into the restriction's origin. Resolutions were adopted concerning ACT 152 Funds for structure demolition and setting wages/benefits via Ordinances #1915, #1916, and #1917. Finance actions involved ratifying February 2026 invoices and approving March 2026 invoices, along with reappointments to the Library Board. The Public Safety Committee outlined six goals, including addressing traffic calming and the police chief vacancy. A motion to permit overnight parking on Rhodes Avenue failed. The Public Works and Infrastructure Committee awarded the Whiskey Run Stream Restoration contract. During public comment, significant discussion centered on the I-376 realignment project proposed by PennDOT, its potential impact on traffic volume and safety, and the need for improved audio/visual capabilities for remote viewing.

The meeting included public comment primarily focused on the proposed P376 realignment project by PennDOT. Concerns raised included potential increased noise volume due to a noise barrier on Parkview, traffic volume increases on Mansfield Avenue due to realignment of the Green Tree Road northbound exit, and the increased risk of wrong-way crashes due to repurposed ramps. Residents also voiced concerns regarding traffic congestion on Popppler Street if the ramp modification proceeds as planned, and requested that physical deterrents be considered to limit right turns onto Mansfield Avenue. A discussion on the sign ordinance addressed businesses operating illuminated signs past the 11 p.m. restriction, noting that the ordinance may be antiquated concerning modern LED signage. It was proposed to enforce the existing ordinance after notifying businesses and to refer the matter to the Planning Commission for review and update recommendations. Separately, the council discussed traffic calming measures for School Street and Roads Avenue as part of the School Street Roads Act study, including surveying residents regarding the installation of road humps and radar speed signs.

The meeting commenced after executive sessions were held to discuss legal and personnel matters. The council acknowledged February as Black History Month and recognized President's Day. Key actions included adopting a resolution to revise the meeting agenda structure to improve transparency by adding public comment segments both before and after council business and moving the Mayor's report earlier. A community pride presentation honored Janice Adamsky, a lifelong resident and community servant, for her decades of dedication and work in the borough's administrative offices, including launching traditions like the farmers market and October Fest. The Mayor's report covered outreach from state and county representatives, a reflection on presidential leadership styles, exploration of utilizing a social worker team (Assertive Community Treatment - ACT) for non-dangerous situations, updates on Planning Commission and Zoning Hearing Board interviews, police staffing for the NFL draft, recognition for a police department fundraiser supporting Unity Presbyterian Church, preparations for the Volunteer Fire Department banquet, plans to meet with stakeholders regarding Point Park turf field usage, and a plan to advance the consideration of speed humps on certain streets. The Mayor also reported on visiting a local restaurant that had previously received a proclamation.

The document records a budget workshop meeting concerning the presentation of the Manager's Proposed 2026 Budget. Key discussion points included a recommended half-mill property tax increase, which equates to approximately $75 annually for an average homeowner assessed at $150,000. Concerns were raised regarding the current affordability crisis and potential county reassessments affecting tax burdens. The presenter suggested eliminating non-essential capital expenditures, such as replacing carpeting, adding a vestibule at the fire hall, and repaving parking lots, to potentially avoid the tax increase. Discussions also touched upon potential shortfalls in funding for bridge projects and the unknown cost of the swimming pool project, as bids had not yet closed. The overall general fund budget increase was noted as $435,000, primarily driven by contractual salary and benefit increases, and a $70,000 increase in the waste management contract. The budget presentation covered multiple funds, including the General Fund, Capital Fund, Storm Water Fund, and others, noting that fund balances are typically zeroed out annually, necessitating transfers from unrestricted reserve funds to balance the General Fund.

The meeting included the adoption of Resolution #1381, setting the Council Meeting Order of Business, and Resolution #1382, designating the Executive Director of Char-West COG to request ACT 152 funds for structure demolition. Key new business involved accepting the resignation of Shannon Barron effective January 27, 2026, and several appointments and reappointments to the Planning Commission and the Zoning Hearing Board. Finance actions included ratifying January 2026 invoices and approving February 2026 invoices, along with making reappointments and new appointments to the Library Board. Public Safety addressed authorizing an ordinance amendment for overnight parking on Rhodes Avenue and reappointing a member to the MRTSA Board. In Public Works, the Council moved to award the Whiskey Run Stream Restoration contract to Meadville Land Services, Inc. Mayor Schenck discussed future items including the Trumble Street Bridge project, negotiations with Point Park University for turf on a field, ongoing pool issues, and defining the scope of the Mayor's role. The Council President outlined priorities focused on expanding resident engagement, improving A/V capabilities, proposing workshop meetings, and reviewing the budgeting process.