Jeffrey Bergsten

The council discussed the potential multi-year agreement for a surveillance system and public safety concerns. Actions taken included approving participation in the Keystone Purchasing Network for a vehicle fuel contract, amending the code to remove an on-street handicap parking space, and approving various public works contracts, including construction inspection services, landscaping and stormwater maintenance agreements, and water treatment plant computer equipment upgrades. The council also reaffirmed the execution of a small water and sewer program agreement, passed resolutions related to utility reimbursement and cost-sharing for road projects, and awarded construction contracts for paving local roads and curb/ADA pedestrian ramp rehabilitation. Furthermore, they approved the land development plan for the Jim Thorp Center at Dickinson College and accepted the termination of a community development block grant administration agreement in favor of a new professional services agreement.

The council meeting included a public hearing regarding the 2026 Community Development Block Grant annual action plan, where the goals and eligible activities were presented. A citizen provided public comment regarding noise disturbances from early morning trash collection activities, and the council directed him to follow up with the planning department. The council also approved a land development plan for the Carlisle Area School District Middle School project, which is part of a larger district-wide K-8 reconfiguration strategy to address enrollment shifts and aging infrastructure.

The Council workshop featured a proclamation for Sexual Assault Awareness Month, including an update from the YWCA regarding their ongoing crisis services, prevention education in local schools, and planned simulation events. The Council also received a presentation from Gannet Fleming regarding updates on the biosolids upgrade project and the pilot testing of treatment technologies for perfluorinated compounds. The discussion focused on evaluating Granular Activated Carbon versus ion exchange as a treatment method, with a final recommendation to advance with Granular Activated Carbon due to its operational advantages in backwashing and managing fouling.

This document outlines strategic objectives for the Borough of Carlisle, focusing on Vision Zero and Active Transportation Goals. It aims for the adoption of an Active Comprehensive Transportation Plan by 2027 and the implementation of a Vision Zero Action Plan by 2033 to eliminate traffic fatalities and severe injuries on public streets. Key strategies include improving roadway design, reducing speeds through traffic calming measures, and encouraging safer road-user behavior for all multimodal users, particularly cyclists and pedestrians.

The board reviewed the annual community pool report, which detailed attendance, staffing, and maintenance activities. Discussions also covered the Comprehensive Recreation Park and Open Space Plan, including the selection of a consulting firm, project scope, and funding sources. The board addressed the renewal of a vulture management services contract, the installation of an AED and climate-controlled cabinet at Letort Park, and an inquiry regarding the addition of pickleball courts at Biddle Mission Park. Additionally, the board noted an upcoming hearing regarding unauthorized tree removals.