Ben Gilberti

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.

Key discussions during the workshop meeting included the unanimous appointment of Frances Amatucci to serve as Aleppo Township Commissioner. Old business involved an update on the Act 172 Volunteer Tax Credit Exonerations list, which will be presented at the subsequent legislative meeting. New business topics included the designation of new authorized signers for the PNC Bank General Fund Account, the exoneration of the Tax Collector for 2024 Real Estate Taxes, and the execution of a deputization agreement with Jordan Tax Service for tax collection. The Board also recognized Public Works Supervisor Tim Scott and the Public Works Department via a letter of thanks for their efforts during severe winter weather. Citizen participation featured a presentation requesting the Board's support for Community Solar legislation (HB504) and a request for the Township to proactively review zoning ordinances regarding AI computer facilities and data centers.

Key discussions included the approval of Pay Request No. 1 to Access Limited Construction for the Rhodes Avenue emergency landslide stabilization, amounting to $400,850, which reflected a $10,000 cost reduction. The Board approved transfers from the Liquid Fuels Fund to the General Fund to cover road salt invoices. Police and Public Works reports were presented, noting December activity, including salt supply management despite shortages and addressing damage caused by a Waste Management truck on Sewickley Ridge Drive. The Board adopted a new policy for seeking Township endorsement. A resident's request for a stop sign and tree removal at the intersection of Sewickley Ridge Drive and Rockledge Drive was reviewed, leading to the decision to proceed with trimming lower tree branches initially. An Executive Session was held to receive legal advice regarding potential code enforcement items with litigation potential.

The meeting focused on reorganization activities and various appointments. Key actions included the nomination and election of the President and Vice President of the Board of Commissioners. Several Township officials, agencies, and tax collectors were appointed, including the Township Solicitor, Secretary, Engineer, Real Estate Tax Collector, Delinquent Real Estate Tax Collector, Earned Income Tax Collector, and Local Services Tax/Business Privilege Tax Collector. Additionally, the Official Depository and Newspaper publications were appointed. Old business included a plan to revisit the Township Policy for Seeking Township Endorsement at a subsequent Legislative Meeting, and new business announced the dates for the ALOM Spring Educational Conference 2026.

The workshop meeting addressed an update on the Township Secretary Position, indicating that the first round of interviews was completed and an offer is anticipated soon. The draft 2026 Budget was presented, which includes no proposed real estate tax increase and outlines projections for revenue, expenses, savings for paving projects, and contributions to the equipment fund. Key scheduling changes were announced: the December Legislative Meeting was moved to December 22, 2025, and the November 17, 2025 Legislative Meeting was cancelled due to lack of quorum. Information regarding registration for the ALOM Spring Conference 2026 and the Newly Elected Officials Course, which the Township will fund for any newly elected Commissioner, was shared. The Board also held an Executive Session to discuss potential legal matters and personnel issues.