Jason Binder

The council discussed various reports and administrative matters. Key items included a financial update, a report on police activity for February 2026, and updates on standing committees such as finance, public works, public safety, and parks and recreation. The council approved a contract extension for IT services, the purchase of two new truck chassis and related equipment, and authorized a conditional internship offer in code enforcement. Additional business included the adoption of a resolution for real property tax refunds, the approval of a contract for demolition services, and a discussion regarding additional features for the borough's information accessibility subscription service.

The meeting included the swearing-in and welcoming of two new police officers, Officer Patrick Canavy and Officer Bryce Rafferty. The Mayor's report detailed police activity for January 2026, including numerous traffic stops, criminal arrests, and the reading of a Proclamation of Disaster Emergency due to depleted rock salt supplies following severe winter weather. Council approved several personnel appointments, including a Zoning Hearing Board alternate and members for the Recreation Committee. Finance actions involved approving the January check register, various inter-fund transfers, and approving a $97,600 contract with Environmental Planning and Design (EPD) for a multi-municipal comprehensive plan and zoning ordinance update, funded in part by a $100,000 MAP grant. Public safety actions included the approval to purchase a new police pursuit vehicle and outfitting for it, along with a contract for Taser units and an extension for license plate reader services. The Council also authorized cooperation with the Allegheny County Department of Human Services A Team Initiative Program and approved disciplinary action against a borough employee.

The Council meeting agenda included an Executive Session, followed by Public Comments. Key discussions involved personnel appointments, including members for the Vacancy Board, Civil Service Commission, Planning Commission, and Zoning Hearing Board. The Finance committee addressed the Treasurer's Report for December 2025, approval of the Check Register totaling $852,245.60, authorization of Interfund Transfers totaling $469,697.34, and motions related to reopening and advertising the 2026 Budget and Tax Levy Ordinance. The Parks and Recreation committee announced acceptance into the Bird Town Program, upcoming events, and motions to approve agreements for fireworks ($12,000) and a band (up to $3,000) for Community Day. Public Safety motions included agreements for the Policy Management Platform ($22,737.20) and Camera/License Plate Readers ($6,553.75). The Council also approved a two-year employment agreement for the Borough Manager and accepted several resolutions concerning tax collection committee appointments and authorizing bank account signatories.

The meeting began with a reorganization ceremony, including the administration of oaths of office to newly elected officials, such as Mayor Ana J. Martin and Council members, by District Magistrate Thomas Miller. During the proceedings, the condition of the streets following snowfall was commended. Key administrative actions included the election of Lori Sherid as Council President and George Pambachis as Vice President. Several official appointments were confirmed via motion and vote, including John Palio as Borough Secretary, Treasurer, and Right to Know Request Officer, Chief Jason Binder as a Right to Know Officer for the police department, Pen Pen ENR Inc. as Borough Engineer, and Tucker and Arsburg as Borough Solicitor. Motions were passed to table the appointments for various boards and commissions, as well as council committee appointments, until the next meeting. The council also established the recurring schedule for council meetings and workshops.

The agenda for this meeting focuses on the formal reorganization of the Council. Key items include the administration of the Oath of Office to the newly elected Mayor and Council Members by a Magisterial District Judge. The agenda also covers the nomination and election of the President of Council, Vice President of Council, and President Pro-Tem. Furthermore, appointments are scheduled for various official positions, including Borough Secretary, Borough Treasurer, Right to Know Officers, Borough Engineer, and Borough Solicitor. Appointments to various Boards and Commissions, such as the Vacancy Board, White Oak EMS, and Library Board, are also planned, along with the presentation of Council Committee Appointments and the establishment of dates and times for future Council meetings and workshop meetings.