Steve Arbasak

The council meeting covered various departmental updates, including public safety initiatives such as the Verizon Cell Tower lease and a PennDOT road safety project, and the approval of a traffic signal maintenance plan. Water department updates focused on lead and copper inventory and DEP coordination, while community development reported on city cleanup initiatives and the upcoming Storybook Trail event. The city engineer provided updates on recreation facilities and code enforcement, and the solicitor discussed tax appeal timelines and property legal matters. The city manager reported on redevelopment paperwork and park project grants. Additionally, the police department announced upcoming testing, and the council heard public comments regarding property maintenance, illegal dumping, and infrastructure upkeep, including street light and sign lighting repairs.

The council discussed various reports including a grant for Public Works building repairs, water line and curb box maintenance, and the scheduling of a citywide cleanup event. Updates were provided on the Wayfinding Study, tax collection procedures, and baseball field maintenance. The solicitor reported on the draft Home Rule Charter, while the city manager noted insurance renewal discussions and event planning. Code enforcement provided updates on open cases and trash container requirements. Additionally, the council addressed public inquiries regarding building demolition processes, asbestos remediation, municipal structure, and a proposal for the purchase of a T-Mobile antenna lease.

The council discussed a potential purchase of a T-Mobile cell tower lease and requested a representative attend the next meeting. Updates were provided regarding the status of a new ballfield and plans for a community prayer walk. A city-wide cleanup event was organized in partnership with Allegheny County CleanWays, incorporating youth involvement and incentives for participants. Additionally, the Solicitor reported on unsafe structures and city property ownership, while the City Manager announced an extension for the Water Department RFP. The council also held a discussion on addressing approximately $6.9 million in delinquent taxes and established a plan to identify collectible accounts.

The commission agenda includes a review of the draft charter and a discussion regarding agenda items for the subsequent meeting.

Key discussions during the meeting included public safety reports, board and commission vacancies requiring appointments to the Planning Commission and Zoning Hearing Board, and a report from Public Works. The Council considered the award of the Duquesne Street Reconstruction and Lead/Copper Line Inventory and Replacement Contract, with Niando Construction, Inc. submitting the lowest bid. New Business also covered motions to accept bids for the Polish Hill Park basketball court resurfacing and to approve Environmental Planning and Design for a Wayfinding Study. Furthermore, the Council reviewed a request for use of public space for an Easter Egg Hunt and the approval of a Verizon Cable Franchise Agreement, pending solicitor review.