Thomas Kusinsky

The board meeting included a proclamation honoring the Franklin Regional Wrestling Team. A public hearing concerning a liquor license transfer was opened and subsequently continued to a future date to correct a public notice address discrepancy. Council appointed a new member to a vacant seat, appointed a new Finance Director, and authorized the advertising of an ordinance regarding the Code Appeals Board. Keystone Collections was approved as the stormwater billing service provider, while a resolution regarding the Stormwater Credit Manual was tabled. Additional actions included appointing a tax collection liaison, approving a disabled veterans real property tax exemption, and rescheduling a future council meeting due to Election Day. Finally, a contract for the 2026 Overlay Project was awarded to the lowest bidder.

The commission reviewed and recommended approval for the Eat 'n Park relocation project, involving store remodeling and a new drive-through window. Two other land development applications concerning returfing projects at Haymaker Park and Franklin Regional School District were tabled pending the resolution of outstanding stormwater and land development comments. Additionally, the commission held an advisory discussion regarding a conceptual plan for the Westmoreland Heritage Trail trailhead and reviewed proposed updates to the zoning ordinance pertaining to solar farms and data centers.

The meeting included the election of Commission officers for the year 2026. The Planning Commission reviewed a minor subdivision application for Jones Contracting Plan No. 1. Key discussion topics included property access via private streets, maintenance responsibilities, compliance with slope and stormwater management requirements, and the necessity of fire department review for emergency vehicle access. The Commission ultimately directed the applicant to redesign the lot lines and incorporate specific notes regarding NPDES permitting before forwarding the application to the Council for final approval.

The council recognized a volunteer for the annual award and discussed administrative and operational matters. Key topics included the implementation of a stormwater credit system and the review of the stormwater fee billing services, including the approval of a request for proposals for these services. The council approved the purchase of tarps for youth ballfields to mitigate weather-related maintenance issues. Additionally, the council established a formal financial reporting policy for volunteer fire companies and authorized the advertisement for bids for road materials, signs, and line painting. The meeting also included an executive session regarding a legal matter.

The council discussed various administrative, development, and operational matters. Key topics included a review of the draft Stormwater Credit Manual and stormwater billing services, the approval of a cost of living adjustment for retirees, and the authorization to dispose of certain municipal records. Appointments were made to the Environmental Advisory Council and the Library Board. Furthermore, the council approved the relocation land development project for Eat'n Park and awarded contracts for a crack sealing project and various road materials for the Department of Public Works. Community concerns regarding speeding on North Hills Road and beekeeping zoning ordinances were also addressed.