Michael Gray

The commission held a reorganization meeting where officers for 2026 were elected: John as chairman, Chuck as vice chairman, and Jack as secretary. During the subsequent regular meeting, the primary discussion topic involved proposed revisions to the Zoning Ordinance, specifically concerning Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs), including the deletion of an item under the intent of proposed ADUs, determining the section for ADU items addition, and the removal of text following the certificate of occupancy for attached ADUs.

The meeting included an executive session to discuss legal and personnel matters. Key agenda items involved ratification of 2024 EMS Tax fund disbursements for Emergency Management and the Rillton Volunteer Fire Company. The Board considered disbursing the total 2025 EMS Tax Money among six entities. Several appointments were addressed, including Tom Couch to the Planning Commission and Matt Yarkovich to the Cultural Commission. The Board ratified the Declaration of Disaster Emergency related to Winter Storm Fern. Authorization was granted to advertise bids for several engineering projects, including the Rillton Area Cross Drain and Paving project, Crabapple Lake Dredging and Dam Repair (Phase 1), and the 2026 Hot Mix Paving and Shot and Chip Programs. Approval was sought for a Participation Agreement with DGS CoStars for salt purchases and to advertise proposals for annual purchases of asphalt, stone, pipe, catch basins, and inlets. The revised Response Plans for four Volunteer Fire Companies were reviewed. Additionally, the Board discussed a streetlight request, authorized attendance at a Municipal Roundtable event, approved attendance and stipends for a county supervisors convention, appointed members to the Event Committee, authorized event planning, and approved use of a park pavilion for a library yard sale. Finally, various bills and payrolls for different funds were presented for payment approval.

The main discussion during the new business section focused on various subdivision revision options, which are scheduled to be reviewed again at the subsequent meeting.

Key discussions during the meeting included reviewing correspondence, such as MAWC revenue reports and delinquent accounts lists, and a letter regarding an expiring contract with National Gas and Electric. Old business involved updates on the application to purchase SSMSA submitted to PaPUC, noting that a settlement was reached regarding a hearing, and the ongoing transition issues with Jordan Tax Service concerning past customer payments, which was tabled. An escrow document was finalized pending execution upon closing. New business focused on several resolutions: Resolution 3 of 2025 concerning proposed rate changes upon closing with PAWC was approved, and two LSA grant applications, one for Lowber and one for Sutersville, were approved. A discussion regarding the Jordan Service Charge on delinquent customers was tabled until the December meeting. Board members also reported on maintenance performed, including replacing a battery at the Lowber generator and maintenance on fuses and a battery charger.

The Zoning Board meeting is scheduled to take place at the Sewickley Township Municipal Building. The document outlines procedures for public comment submission, including mailing options and email submission deadlines prior to the meeting. Information is also provided for persons with disabilities requiring auxiliary aids or accommodations to participate in the proceedings.