Renea Holden

The February voting meeting covered several key agenda items. Motions were approved to authorize the advertisement for bids for refuge and recycling collection services, as the current contract expires on June 30, 2026. The Council also approved the February 2026 bill list and addendum. Additionally, a motion was passed to advertise and accept employment applications for the Department of Public Works. Committee reports included updates on code enforcement statistics (26 violations identified, 14 occupancy inspections, 12 permits issued) and plans for future monthly reports. The Mayor reported on department activities, including thanking Public Works for snowstorm response, noting police statistics for January (10 criminal arrests/citations, 27 traffic stops), and recognizing police officer James Quattro for bravery during a house fire rescue. The Mayor also confirmed continuity of commitment to the monarch butterfly pledge and reported on community developments such as the opening of the Adela Center and Lucatina restaurant. Library updates detailed successful events, rescheduled clinics, free tax preparation services, and upcoming programs.

Key discussions included the advertisement of a Request for Bids (RFB) for refuse and recycling collection services, as the current contract expires on June 30, 2026. The Council also approved the February 2026 Bill List and Addendum. Public Works was authorized to advertise to accept resumes for open positions within the Department of Public Works. Code Enforcement reported 26 violations identified in January 2026. Committee reports covered ongoing efforts regarding the garbage contract, the goal of filling all open positions by year-end, and plans for community engagement concerning new businesses. The Mayor reported on January 2026 police activity, extensive statistics for 2025, and training completed by officers. The Mayor also announced intentions to conduct civil marriage ceremonies.

The agenda for the meeting covered several administrative and operational matters. Key discussions included engaging the Cohen Law Group for a franchise fee audit and cable franchise renewal negotiations with Verizon of PA, Inc. Motions were scheduled regarding executing a Lease Agreement with Congressman Chris Deluzio for office space, and accepting a proposal for commercial cleaning services for the Municipal Building. Financial items addressed the approval of the March 2026 Bill List and authorizing the purchase of two parking kiosk machines, partially funded by an LSA Grant. Public Works items involved authorizing a payment application for the Lexington Court Retaining Wall Project and permitting the Carnegie Youth Athletic Association to utilize various fields. Public Safety considered adopting a resolution to create a handicapped parking space. Code Enforcement and Community Development involved adopting a resolution to remain included in the Allegheny County CDBG and HOME programs for 2027-2029, and authorizing a street closure request for a local business event.

The meeting commenced with the call to order for the Carnegie Council voting meeting for January, followed by the pledge of allegiance and roll call confirming a quorum. Key actions included approving the minutes from previous meetings held on December 8th, December 15th, 2025, and January 5th, 2026. The Council appointed delegates for the Allegeney County Southwest Collection District, the Char West Council of Governments, the Congress of Neighboring Communities Group Connect, and the Andrew Carnegie Free Library and Music Hall Board of Trustees. An appointment was also made for the Carnegie Borough Shade Tree Commission. Motions were passed to authorize the borough manager's contract renewal effective January 1st, 2026, and to adopt an ordinance amending sewer and sewage disposal regulations. The January 2026 bill list was approved. Further actions included authorizing a pay application for the Lexington Court retaining wall project and adopting a resolution establishing a handicap parking space. Public commentary addressed concerns regarding the Mayor's previous statements on immigration enforcement, the library's usage statistics and upcoming events (including a new veteran interview series and an exhibit on Civil War nurses), and parking/traffic flow issues near the Islamic Center on Fridays. Additionally, a resident raised concerns regarding Nelson Tree Service reportedly using borough park land for parking in violation of borough ordinance, prompting a discussion about an informal agreement for emergency services.

The meeting agenda included several motions under Administration/Parks and Recreation, notably to advertise a Request for Bids (RFB) for refuse and recycling collection services, as the current contract expires on June 30, 2026. The Finance agenda proposed approval of the February 2026 Bill List and Addendum. Public Works and Engineering planned to advertise to accept resumes and applications for the Borough of Carnegie Department of Public Works. Other scheduled items included committee reports, Manager's Report, Mayor's Report, ACFLMH / CCDC Update, and periods for general public comment and council good and welfare.