A regular meeting of Washington City Council was held Thursday, September 11, 2014 at 7PM in Council Chambers, 55 West Maiden Street, Washington, Pennsylvania. Mayor Brenda Davis, presiding, opened the meeting.
ROLL CALL:
Councilwoman Tracie Graham – Present
Councilman Ken Westcott – Present
Councilman Joseph Manning – Present
Councilman Terry Faust – Present
Mayor Brenda Davis – Present
SOLICITOR: John F. Cambest, Esquire – Present
MOMENT OF SILENCE
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE TO THE FLAG
Mayor and Council held an Executive Session prior and following the Agenda Meeting on Monday, September 8, 2014 to discuss personnel and litigation.
A motion was made by Councilman Westcott, seconded by Councilman Manning, and unanimously carried, to approve the minutes of the August 7, 2014 regular meeting of Washington City Council.
Mayor Davis then opened the public participation portion of the meeting. Those signed in to speak were as follows:
- Ron McIntyre gave the August report for the Code Enforcement Department. There were 135 calls of service, 75 violation notices mailed out, and 17 citations issued. There are demolitions in our City: 570 Jefferson Avenue, 830 Chartiers and 302 Ridge Avenue. The total revenue received for this month is $6,107.59
- Chief Chris Luppino gave the monthly report for August. It is as follows: 1,031 calls of service, 10,278 miles patrolled, 133 traffic citations issued, 76 non-traffic citations issued and 70 criminal arrests. The total amount of money collected for August which include permits, reports and release forms is $1,290.00
- Reverend Patrick Barkey signed in along with Chris Blackwell. Chris Blackwell was the spokesman on behalf of Immaculate Conception Church and their request for a reduction in the building fee permit amount from $7,500.00 to $3,750. He thanked Mayor and Council for this motion being placed on our Agenda. The church is going to undergo some renovations to improve its general appearance in the community. The church is located at 119 W. Chestnut Street and is one of the nicer buildings in this area. If a reduction is granted the church will use this money towards additional renovations in improving the quality of the building. The church is a non-profit organization.
- Chief Linn Brookman gave 2 reports for the month of August. The Fire Department had 156 calls of service with 38 medical. Chief Brookman stated that there is a serious drug and heroine problem in our City. In the last 2 days there were 6 overdoses. The overdoses have occurred in private businesses, in restrooms of businesses at all hours – day and night. Out of the 6 overdoses there were 5 who survived. It is getting bad on the streets.
The Building Permit department issued 176 permits so far for the year with 17 issued in August. Total revenue this month is $2,755.25 with year-to-date revenue at $32,795.
- Robert Griffin spoke about the importance of diversity within the City and it hiring practices. He would like the City to develop a written diversity action plan so that there is no confusion as to what community residents could or should be doing to address diversity within the City in terms of hiring practices along with what Mayor and Council are actually doing. This has to be a two-way street. Robert said that Chief Luppino was very helpful in his ideas of developing a brochure that will list the steps needed to become a Police Officer in regards to the Act 120 Certification and when the testing will actually be done. There was also talk of advertisements and publications to be done outside the City of Washington, which would list testing dates. Reaching out to guidance counselors in the schools would also be helpful. Robert went onto say that there was an audit done for the City of Washington, which stated that hiring diversity was an issue that has to be addressed. Again, a written diversity action plan needs to come from the City with the support of the community – a step-by-step plan of action to move this train forward. Robert said, “we have to roll up our sleeves and do the hard work to make this happen”. He thanked Councilman Manning for his help, since this past April, to fund and pay for – not through the City’s coiffures, the ACT 120 training . . . how minority candidates through that ACT 120 program/ certification, make sure they are taking the test when dates are announced. Robert said he is going to keep coming to meetings and that he is available to assist with the written diversity action plan.
- Tom Schneck talked about the Neighborhood Yard Sale for the Neighborhood Watch is going to be this Saturday from 9AM to 3PM. It will be held at the West Washington United Methodist Church. Tom had the following concerns: the street sweeper is still broken down, and also there are 2 storm sewer grates missing on May Avenue. Councilman Westcott will take care of these grates tomorrow morning. There are so many weeds along the curbs, which are creating problems with people parking. The curbs all need to be painted yellow as well. It was brought to Tom’s attention that there is a difference between the fire code which states 5 feet from the property line to the house. The zoning ordinance states 8-1/2 feet from the property line to the house. Tom would like to see these coincide and be 5 feet. That way there could be more property developed and put back on the tax roles. A house with the fire code can be 20 feet wide, but with the zoning ordinance it would only be 13 feet wide. It is near impossible to build a house that is 13 feet wide. This will also add to the beautification of our City.
COMMENT: Mayor Davis asked Ron McIntyre to make a note of this for next week’s Zoning meeting so that our consultant is aware of this.
There being no further public participation, Mayor Davis closed this portion of the meeting.
A motion was made by Councilman Westcott, seconded by Councilman Manning, and unanimously carried, to approve refund to Dwayne Wilson in the amount of $288.00 for Park Shelter Fees paid for Baby Shower. Baby Shower was cancelled due to baby being born early. CHARGE 01.00/367-673 (Park Shelter Fees)
A motion was made by Councilman Westcott, seconded by Councilman Manning, and unanimously carried, to approve refund to Juliann Williams in the amount of $375.00 for Park Shelter Fees paid for Birthday Party. Party was cancelled due to injury of person hosting it. CHARGE 01.00/367-673 (Park Shelter Fees)
A motion was made by Councilman Westcott, seconded by Councilman Manning, and unanimously carried, to approve refund to ARM Security Inc. in the amount of $75.00 for Transient Merchant Permit for August 2014, which was never utilized. CHARGE 01.00/321/261 (Licenses and Permits – Transient Retailers Licenses)
A motion was made by Councilman Westcott, seconded by Councilman Manning, and unanimously carried, to approve refund to Bankers Settlement & Abstract Inc. in the amount of $175.00 for Dye Test to be done at 806 Allison Avenue. Sales deal fell through. CHARGE 01.00/361-652 (Dye Test Fees)
A motion was made by Councilman Westcott, seconded by Councilman Manning, and unanimously carried, to approve payment to Widmer Engineering in the amount of $720.00 for Salt Shed Project. CHARGE 85.00/438-000 (LSA Funds)
A motion was made by Councilman Westcott, seconded by Councilman Manning, and unanimously carried, to approve payment to Pro-Am Safety, Inc. in the amount of $2,788.00 for (20) Attack Hoses with Couplings. CHARGE 33.00/411-370 (Fire Protection – Vehicle Maintenance & Repairs)
A motion was made by Councilman Westcott, seconded by Councilman Manning, and unanimously carried, to approve payment to Susan Foster Blank, Esquire in the amount of $345.00 for the following breakdown for Parcel No. 760-004-00-02-0002-00:
Title Search $300.00
Tax Lien Certificate 5.00
Copies 40.00
(256 Linn Avenue)
CHARGE 01.13/404-314 (Solicitor — Legal Services & Costs)
A motion was made by Councilman Westcott, seconded by Councilman Manning, and unanimously carried, to approve payment to Susan Foster Blank, Esquire in the amount of $345.00 for the following breakdown for Parcel No. 760-019-00-03-0011-00:
Title Search $300.00
Tax Lien Certificate 5.00
Copies 40.00
(262 Locust Avenue)
CHARGE 01.13/404-314 (Solicitor — Legal Services & Costs)
A motion was made by Councilman Westcott, seconded by Councilman Manning, and unanimously carried, to approve payment to Susan Foster Blank, Esquire in the amount of $335.00 for the following breakdown for Parcel No. 770-030-00-01-0005-00:
Title Search $300.00
Tax Lien Certificate 5.00
Copies 30.00
(123 Woodland Avenue)
CHARGE 01.13/404-314 (Solicitor — Legal Services & Costs)
A motion was made by Councilman Westcott, seconded by Councilman Manning, and unanimously carried, to approve payment to Susan Foster Blank, Esquire in the amount of $290.00 for the following breakdown for Parcel No. 730-005-00-01-0024-00:
Title Search $250.00
Tax Lien Certificate 5.00
Copies 35.00
(160 N. Main Street)
CHARGE 01.13/404-314 (Solicitor — Legal Services & Costs)
A motion was made by Councilman Westcott, seconded by Councilman Manning, and unanimously carried, to approve payment to Susan Foster Blank, Esquire in the amount of $279.00 for the following breakdown for Parcel No. 730-005-00-02-0020-00:
Title Search $250.00
Tax Lien Certificate 5.00
Copies 24.00
(138 N. Main Street)
CHARGE 01.13/404-314 (Solicitor — Legal Services & Costs)
A motion was made by Councilman Westcott, seconded by Councilman Manning, and unanimously carried, to approve payment to Susan Foster Blank, Esquire in the amount of $777.75 for the following breakdown for Parcel No. 720-001-00-00-0004-00:
Title Search $675.00 (2 Chains)
Tax Lien Certificate 5.00
Copies 97.75
(8-22 W. Chestnut Street and 93-95 N. Main Street)
CHARGE 01.13/404-314 (Solicitor — Legal Services & Costs)
A motion was made by Councilman Westcott, seconded by Councilman Manning, and unanimously carried, to approve payment to Robinson Pipe Cleaning Co. in the amount of $1,920.00 for sewer cleaning and televising at Burton, Wylie, Sumner Avenues, and Beau Street. CHARGE 01.42/438-210 (Public Works – Road Maintenance & Repairs)
A motion was made by Councilman Westcott, seconded by Councilman Manning, and unanimously carried, to approve payment to Robinson Pipe Cleaning Co. in the amount of $1,920.00 for sewer cleaning and televising at Burton Avenue and also at Jefferson and Beau Avenues. CHARGE 01.42/438-210 (Public Works – Road Maintenance & Repairs)
A motion was made by Councilman Westcott, seconded by Councilman Manning, and unanimously carried, to approve payment to Premier Safety & Service, Inc. in the amount of $11,926.98 for Draeger UCF 9000 TIC Truck Kit NFPA includes camera, desktop charger, charging cords, IFU software disc, crawling plate, truck mount and retractable lanyard, NFPA version. CHARGE 99.00/400-260 (Pema-Fire Grant Account)
A motion was made by Councilman Westcott, seconded by Councilman Manning, and unanimously carried, to approve payment to North Central Highway Safety Network, Inc. in the amount of $9,539.85 for Reimbursement #6. CHARGE 90.00/489-000 (NCHS Grant Acct)
A motion was made by Councilman Westcott, seconded by Councilman Manning, and unanimously carried, to approve payment to North Central Highway Safety Network, Inc. in the amount of $9,664.91 for Reimbursement #7. CHARGE 90.00/489-000 (NCHS Grant Acct)
A motion was made by Councilman Westcott, seconded by Councilman Manning, and unanimously carried, to approve payment to North Central Highway Safety Network, Inc. in the amount of $9,797.46 for Reimbursement #8. CHARGE 90.00/489-000 (NCHS Grant Acct)
A motion was made by Councilman Westcott, seconded by Councilman Manning, and unanimously carried, to approve payment to Widmer Engineering in the amount of $480.00 for Salt Shed Project. CHARGE 85.00/438-000 (LSA Funds)
A motion was made by Councilman Westcott, seconded by Councilman Manning, and unanimously carried, to approve payment to Widmer Engineering in the amount of $5,140.00 for Campbell Avenue Storm Water. CHARGE 96.00/446-000 (Marcellus Shale)
A motion was made by Councilman Westcott, seconded by Councilman Manning, and unanimously carried, to approve payment to Widmer Engineering in the amount of $360.00 for Recycle Center. CHARGE 77.00/454-700 (Capital Improvement)
A motion was made by Councilman Westcott, seconded by Councilman Manning, and unanimously carried, to approve payment to Widmer Engineering in the amount of $630.00 for 2014 City Council July Items. CHARGE 96.00/446-000 (Marcellus Shale)
A motion was made by Councilman Westcott, seconded by Councilman Manning, and unanimously carried, to approve payment to Widmer Engineering in the amount of $2,070.00 for Jefferson & Wylie Emergency Repair. CHARGE 96.00/446-000 (Marcellus Shale)
A motion was made by Councilman Westcott, seconded by Councilman Manning, and unanimously carried, to approve payment to Maxwell Concrete Contracting in the amount of $1,500.00 for ADA ramp and curb at 55 W. Hallam Avenue. CHARGE 01.42/438-210 (Public Works – Road Maintenance & Repairs)
A motion was made by Councilman Westcott, seconded by Councilman Manning, and unanimously carried, to approve payment to Citizens Library in the amount of $333,332.00 for 1st and 2nd Reimbursements Keystone Grant. CHARGE (Citizens Library HVAC Project)
A motion was made by Councilman Westcott, seconded by Councilman Manning, and unanimously carried, to approve payment to CPSstatements.com, Inc. in the amount of $1,822.60 for print and process of 2014 Rental Registration forms. CHARGE 84.00/413-240 (Rental Registration Fund – Operating Expenses)
A motion was made by Councilman Westcott, seconded by Councilman Manning, and unanimously carried, to approve payment to Dodaro, Matta & Cambest, P.C. in the amount of $4,678.06 for services rendered through 8/27/2014 and includes September 2014 retainer. CHARGE 01.13/404-310 (Solicitor Professional Services)
A motion was made by Councilman Westcott, seconded by Councilman Manning, and unanimously carried, to approve payment to Traffic Control Equipment & Supplies Co., Inc. in the amount of $450.00 for (10) pushbutton freeze proof — (pedestrian button). CHARGE 03.00/433-378 (Liquid Fuels Fund — Traffic Signal Maintenance)
A motion was made by Councilman Westcott, seconded by Councilman Manning, and unanimously carried, to approve payment to Traffic Control Equipment & Supplies Co., Inc. in the amount of $506.00 for Pedestal Pole with 2 each 12” signals including installation. (Dwayne Pratt assisted with installation to keep the cost down. This incident was a hit and run). CHARGE 03.00/433-378 (Liquid Fuels Fund — Traffic Signal Maintenance)
A motion was made by Councilman Westcott, seconded by Councilman Manning, and unanimously carried, to approve payment to Bruce Dillie in the amount of $2,750.00 for parking space line painting. CHARGE 17/445-240 (Parking Operating Expenses/Maintenance)
A motion was made by Councilman Westcott, seconded by Councilman Manning, and unanimously carried, to approve payment to Tedesco Excavating & Paving, Inc. in the amount of $64,967.87 CHARGE 77.00/426-610 (Capital Improvements)
A motion was made by Councilman Westcott, seconded by Councilman Manning, and unanimously carried, to approve payment to Gary Metzinger Cement Contractor in the amount of $63,828.00 which is Payment #1. CHARGE 66.00/446-310 (Catfish Creek Fund)
A motion was made by Councilman Westcott, seconded by Councilman Manning, and unanimously carried, to approve payment to ABM Building Solutions – Canonsburg in the amount of $1,047.00 for maintenance agreement (8/1/2014 – 7/31/2015). CHARGE 77.00/409-700 (Capital Improvement)
A motion was made by Councilman Manning, seconded by Councilman Wescott, and unanimously carried, to approve City of Washington’s Trick or Treat date/time to be on Friday, October 31, 2014 from 6 to 7:30PM.
A motion was made by Councilman Manning, seconded by Councilman Westcott, and unanimously carried, to approve City of Washington’s 2015 Agenda Meeting and Council Meeting dates/times along with General Work Sessions.
AGENDA MEETINGS – 6PM* COUNCIL MEETINGS – 7PM**
January 5, 2015 January 8, 2015
February 2, 2015 February 5, 2015
March 2, 2015 March 5, 2015
April 6, 2015 April 9, 2015
May 4, 2015 May 7, 2015
June 1, 2015 June 4, 2015
July 6, 2014 July 9, 2015
August 3, 2015 August 6, 2015
August 31, 2015 September 3, 2015
October 5, 2015 October 8, 2015
November 2, 2015 November 5, 2015
December 7, 2015 December 10, 2015
* All Agenda Meetings will be held at 6PM.
** All Council Meetings will be held at 7PM.
General Work Sessions may be held Mondays and Thursdays between the hours of 8:30AM and 9PM.
All Meetings will be held in Council Chambers, 55 West Maiden Street, Washington, PA, unless otherwise noted.
A motion was made by Councilman Manning, seconded by Councilman Westcott, and unanimously carried, to approve payment to Pietragallo Gordon Alfano Bosick & Raspanti, LLP in the amount of $1,151.50 for Bill No. 248625, Matter No. WW-105211 – through July 3, 2014 CHARGE 01.60/486-350 (Misc. Expenditures – Insurance Liability, Etc.)
A motion was made by Councilman Manning, seconded by Councilman Westcott, and unanimously carried, to approve Change Order No. 2 related to the Second Supplemental Intergovernmental Agreement. This is for the yard drain in the amount of $14,342.10 – this cost will be paid for by the Library.
A motion was made by Councilman Westcott, seconded by Councilman Manning, and unanimously carried, to approve Memorandum Of Understanding (MOU) that will approve and authorize Waller Corporation’s (4) Change Orders as follows:
- CO GC – 014 Pour Stop Modifications (Steel Framing) $1,300.00
- CO GC – 015 Steel Framing Gap at Roof (Column B & C) 00
- CO GC – 017 Steel Framing / Deck Gap at Floor (Column B) 00
- CO GC – 018 Precast Accent Band 00
_________
TOTAL: $3,434.00
A motion was made by Councilman Manning, seconded by Councilman Westcott, and unanimously carried, to approve payment to PNC Bank in the amount of $748,621.99 for ACT 205 Distressed Pension Collections through 8/31/2014. CHARGE 79.00/483-000 (Act 205 Distressed Pension Fund – Pension Contributions)
A motion was made by Councilman Westcott, seconded by Councilman Manning, and unanimously carried, to approve to appoint David Hughey to the permanent position of Mechanic in the Public Works Department effective 9/26/2014.
COMMENT: Councilman Westcott said that he is doing a great job.
A motion was made by Councilman Manning, seconded by Mayor Davis, and unanimously carried, to approve to enter into Cooperation Agreement with the Washington County Redevelopment Authority for the Multi-Municipal Information Sharing and Truck Scale Project No, LS 13-36.
A motion was made by Councilman Westcott, seconded by Councilwoman Graham, and unanimously carried, to approve Change Order #2 for Catfish Creek Stormwater Management Project Site 4 to Gary Metzinger Cement Contractor in the amount of $3,278.05 for the Relocation of Temporary Stockpile.
A motion was made by Councilman Manning, seconded by Councilman Faust, and unanimously carried, to approve to enter into an agreement (Revolving Credit Demand Note) with The Redevelopment Authority of Washington County to advance the City, up to $350,000 of Redevelopment Authority funds at an annual interest rate of 3.0% secured by RACP grant funds to carry out the construction activities for the Washington Park project.
COMMENT: Councilman Faust stated that this is a pass-through account, the RACP funds that the City has. The County was gracious enough to help us with this endeavor. We do not have $350,000 lying around. This is to no cost to the City. Councilman Faust thanked the County for giving us this loan as this keeps the project going for future development at the Park.
A motion was made by Councilman Manning, seconded by Councilman Westcott, and unanimously carried, to approve to accept the 2015 minimum municipal obligations as follows:
Police Pension Plan $ 949,015.00
Officers & Employees Retirement System 102,991.00
Firemen’s Pension Plan 1,008,765.00
A motion was made by Mayor Davis, seconded by Councilman Manning, and unanimously carried, to approve to enter into Washington Economic Development Project Amendment No. 17 Agreement between EG & G, a division of CT Consultants, Inc., and the City of Washington for Phase III – South Main Street – Railroad Street to Park Avenue not to exceed $19,500.
A motion was made by Councilman Faust, seconded by Councilman Manning, and unanimously carried, to approve the Park Budget transfer of $500.00 FROM 53/454-213 (Tennis Court Supplies) TO 53/454-210 (Park Office Supplies).
A motion was made by Councilman Faust, seconded by Councilman Manning, and unanimously carried, to approve the Park Budget transfer of $1,200.00 FROM 53/454-300 (Professional Services – Instructor) TO 53/454-240 (Miscellaneous Operating Expenses).
A motion was made by Councilman Faust, seconded by Councilman Manning, and unanimously carried, to approve the Park Budget transfer of $150.00 FROM 53/454-213 (Tennis Court Supplies) TO 53/454-211 (Swimming Pool Supplies).
A motion was made by Councilman Faust, seconded by Councilman Manning, and unanimously carried, to approve the Park Budget transfer of $150.00 FROM 53/454-341 (Advertising/Printing) TO 53/454-211 (Swimming Pool Supplies).
A motion was made by Councilman Faust, seconded by Councilman Manning, and unanimously carried, to approve the Park Budget transfer of $350.00 FROM 53/454-370 (Vehicle Maintenance) TO 53/454-211 (Swimming Pool Supplies).
A motion was made by Councilman Faust, seconded by Councilman Manning, and unanimously carried, to approve the Park Budget transfer of $350.00 FROM 53/454-380 (Playground Maintenance) TO 53/454-211 (Swimming Pool Supplies).
A motion was made by Councilman Manning, seconded by Councilman Westcott, and unanimously carried, to approve the Budget transfer of $15,957.00 FROM 85.00/100-000 (LSA Funds) TO 66.00/100-000 (Catfish Creek Project Funds).
A motion was made by Councilman Manning, seconded by Councilman Faust, and unanimously carried, to approve the Budget transfer of $1,479.64 FROM 99.00/492-900 (PEMA-Fire Grant Acct) TO 01/33/411-370 (Fire Vehicle Maintenance). This is to reimburse the purchase of a remote area lighting system through a PEMA Grant.
A motion was made by Councilman Westcott, seconded by Councilman Manning, and unanimously carried, to approve Transit payment to MV Transportation Inc., in the amount of $47,027.07 for contracted public transit fixed route services performed in August 2014, to be paid from the Mass Transit Account upon verification by the Finance Department that the stated transit funds are available. CHARGE 28.00/447-455
A motion was made by Councilman Westcott, seconded by Councilman Manning, and unanimously carried, to approve Transit payment to Washington County Transportation Authority in the amount of $8,040.52 for contracted public transit paratransit services performed in July 2014, to be paid from the Mass Transit Account upon verification by the Finance Department that the stated transit funds are available. CHARGE 28.00/447-455
A motion was made by Councilman Westcott, seconded by Councilman Manning, and unanimously carried, to approve Transit payment to Coen Oil Company in the amount of $13,226.56 for the purchase of fuel for the public transit vehicles, to be paid from the Mass Transit Account upon verification by the Finance Department that the stated transit funds are available. CHARGE 28.00/447-231
A motion was made by Councilman Westcott, seconded by Councilman Manning, and unanimously carried, to approve Transit payment to PA American Water in the amount of $345.39 for Water Service including activation fees and usage at the ITF (new transit center), to be paid from the Mass Transit Account upon verification by the Finance Department that the stated transit funds are available. CHARGE 28.00/447-240
A motion was made by Councilman Westcott, seconded by Councilman Manning, and unanimously carried, to approve Transit payment to Bankcard Services in the amount of $364.88 for interest charges, Knox Box purchase and Go Daddy website services, to be paid from the Mass Transit Account upon verification by the Finance Department that the stated transit funds are available. CHARGE 28.00/447-240
A motion was made by Councilman Westcott, seconded by Councilman Manning, and unanimously carried, to approve Transit payment to Comcast in the amount of $200.92 for farebox networking August & Sept. including all late fees, to be paid from the Mass Transit Account upon verification by the Finance Department that the stated transit funds are available. CHARGE 28.00/447-240
A motion was made by Councilman Westcott, seconded by Councilman Manning, and unanimously carried, to approve Transit payment to WJPA Radio in the amount of $175.00 for advertising during the Wash High-Waynesburg game, to be paid from the Mass Transit Account upon verification by the Finance Department that the stated transit funds are available. CHARGE 28.00/447-310
A motion was made by Councilman Westcott, seconded by Councilman Manning, and unanimously carried, to approve Transit payment to Wash High Band Aids in the amount of $100 for advertising in the Wash High Football Program, to be paid from the Mass Transit Account upon verification by the Finance Department that the stated transit funds are available. CHARGE 28.00/447-310
A motion was made by Councilman Westcott, seconded by Councilman Manning, and unanimously carried, to approve Transit payment to B&W Insurance Agency, Inc. in the amount of $755.00 for the 2005 Ford F350 Transit Vehicle insurance to be paid from the Mass Transit Account upon verification by the Finance Department that the stated transit funds are available. CHARGE 28.00/447-310
A motion was made by Councilman Westcott, seconded by Councilman Manning, and unanimously carried, to approve Transit payment to Quality Quick in the amount of $318.80 for Metro and Hopper Schedules, to be paid from the Mass Transit Account upon verification by the Finance Department that the stated transit funds are available. CHARGE 28.00/447-310
A motion was made by Councilman Westcott, seconded by Councilman Manning, and unanimously carried, to approve Transit payment to PhDesigned in the amount of $2,185.00 for new website design, to be paid from the Mass Transit Account upon verification by the Finance Department that the stated transit funds are available. CHARGE 28.00/447-310
A motion was made by Councilman Westcott, seconded by Councilman Manning, and unanimously carried, to approve Transit payment to Washington-East Washington Joint Authority in the amount of $31.32 for Sewage at the ITF (new transit center), to be paid from the Mass Transit Account upon verification by the Finance Department that the stated transit funds are available. CHARGE 28.00/447-240
A motion was made by Councilman Westcott, seconded by Councilman Manning, and unanimously carried, to approve Transit payment to Waller Corporation #14 in the amount of $221,118.20 for contracted services for ITF performed through August 2014 to be paid from the Buses & Equipment Account upon verification by the Finance Department that the stated transit funds are available. CHARGE 27.00/447-743
A motion was made by Councilman Westcott, seconded by Councilman Manning, and unanimously carried, to approve Transit payment to Controlled Climate Systems, Inc. #8 in the amount of $5,400.00 for HVAC contracted services for ITF performed through August 2014, to be paid from the Buses & Equipment Account upon verification by the Finance Department that the stated transit funds are available. CHARGE 27.00/447-743
A motion was made by Councilman Westcott, seconded by Councilman Manning, and unanimously carried, to approve Transit payment to Allegheny City Electric #6 in the amount of $45,737.60 for Electrical contracted services for ITF performed through August 2014, to be paid from the Buses & Equipment Account upon verification by the Finance Department that the stated transit funds are available. CHARGE 27.00/447-743
A motion was made by Councilman Manning, seconded by Councilman Westcott, and unanimously carried, to approve the Transit’s one-year contract extension of the ADA Paratransit contract with Washington County Transportation Authority, from October 1, 2014 through September 30, 2015, at a rate of $4.19 per revenue mile in accordance with the original Agreement.
A motion was made by Councilman Manning, seconded by Councilman Westcott, and unanimously carried, to approve the Transit’s Interoperability Agreement between Port Authority and Regional Transit Agencies related to the Connect Card project (Agreement was reviewed by Solicitor Cambest).
A motion was made by Councilman Manning, seconded by Councilman Westcott, and unanimously carried, to approve the Transit’s five-year extended service/warranty agreement with Scheidt & Bachmann for fareboxes at an annual cost of $9,024. Five year cost is $45,120, with option for an additional five years at an additional cost of $49,346.93. (Copy attached – agreement was reviewed by Solicitor Cambest).
A motion was made by Councilman Manning, seconded by Councilman Westcott, and unanimously carried, to approve the Transit budget transfer of $25,893 from the General Fund, Municipal Service Fee in Lieu of Taxes 01.00/362-600 to Buses and Equipment Fund 27.00/392-900, to pay local capital match share of September contractor invoices for transit center construction.
A motion was made by Councilman Manning, seconded by Councilman Westcott, and unanimously carried, to approve the Transit Department to explore a Consolidation proposal as presented to consider establishing a consolidated Authority with Washington City Transit, Washington County Transportation Authority and Mid Mon Valley Transit Authority by 2015.
A motion was made by Councilman Manning, seconded by Councilman Westcott, and unanimously carried, to approve the Transit’s two agreements with West Penn Power Company related to providing permanent electrical power to the transit center: 1) a Right of Way Agreement; and 2) an Electrical Service Agreement, with a construction cost for underground service of $11,232.21
A motion was made by Councilman Manning, seconded by Councilman Westcott, and unanimously carried, to approve the Transit item: Gannett Fleming to proceed with the preferred option for underground electrical service connection for the new Transit Center at an estimated cost not to exceed $18,000.00 (This figure includes West Penn Power’s cost of $11,232.21).
A motion was made by Councilman Manning, seconded by Councilman Westcott, and unanimously carried, to approve the Transit’s five (5) Change Orders:
GC-023 MSE Wall $39,500.00
GC-024 Temporary Generator $3,340.00
GC-09B Time Extension $54,503.00
EC-001 Fan Blower Disconnect $975.00
EC-002 Elevator Wire Disconnect $1,745.00
A motion was made by Councilman Westcott, seconded by Councilwoman Graham, and unanimously carried, to approve to declare the property located at 160 N. Main Street, Washington, Pennsylvania 15301, parcel 730-005-00-01-0024-00, a public nuisance and authorizing the Code Enforcement Department to abate the public nuisance. Releasing the property to the Washington County Redevelopment Authority for demolition.
A motion was made by Councilman Westcott, seconded by Councilwoman Graham, and unanimously carried, to approve to declare the property located at 144 South Main Street, Washington, Pennsylvania 15301, parcel 740-001-00-02-0014-00, a public nuisance and authorizing the Code Enforcement Department to abate the public nuisance. Releasing the property to the Washington County Redevelopment Authority for demolition.
A motion was made by Councilman Westcott, seconded by Councilwoman Graham, and unanimously carried, to approve to declare the property located at, 256 Linn Avenue, Washington, Pennsylvania 15301, parcel 760-004-00-02-0002-00, a public nuisance and authorizing the Code Enforcement Department to abate the public nuisance. Releasing the property to the Washington County Redevelopment Authority for demolition.
A motion was made by Councilman Manning, seconded by Councilwoman Graham, and unanimously carried, to approve to appoint Mayor Brenda Davis as the designee representative to the Local Share Account (LSA) Review Committee.
A motion was made by Councilman Manning, seconded by Councilwoman Graham, and carried, to approve request made by Immaculate Conception Church, located at 119 Chestnut Street, to reduce building permit fee to $3,750.
COMMENT: Councilman Terry Faust said that he is sincerely stating that he appreciates that this money is being put back into the church. He has a consistency and realizes that the church is a non-profit. The constituents that he serves are looking to supply revenue to operate the City. He hopes that one will understand and accept the fact that he is staying consistent with what he has done previously with non-profit organizations.
Councilman Manning said that he is going off with what Councilman Faust has said. He said that they would all like to help wherever they can. The City has recently come out of bad times — being close to bankruptcy. The City has a number of non-profit agencies, and if the City would begin here then there would be no stopping it. We could not justify voting in favor of this project and not a different project by another non-profit organization. Like Councilman Faust said, “I applaud what you are doing.” Immaculate Conception Church is one of the most beautiful buildings that we have in the City. Councilman Manning said that he made his first Holy Communion and Confirmation at Immaculate Conception. However, he has to take his role here in representing the public by putting their interest first. He said that he hopes that it can be appreciated when the vote is taken.
Mayor Davis said that she wanted to point out that earlier this year that this Council authorized 50% reduction to the Citizen’s Library on their building permit fee; and also in the past, the building permit fee was waived at a 50% of the fee when the Washington High School made renovations. Mayor Davis wanted the public to know that it does happen.
ROLL CALL:
Councilwoman Tracie Graham – Yes
Councilman Ken Westcott – No
Councilman Joseph Manning – No
Councilman Terry Faust – No
Mayor Brenda Davis – Yes
ELECTED OFFICIALS:
Councilwoman Tracie Graham – No comment.
Councilman Ken Westcott touched on what Tom Schneck stated earlier. There was a driver who hit into the side of the street sweeper. It will be repaired. Also, Mr. Griffin, there are things we can work on. Hopefully, working with your group and along with the DEP recommendations we will facilitate in the things that you are asking us to do to correct these problems.
Councilman Joseph Manning has 2 motions that he needs to put forth. This is a little bit of housekeeping from Accounts and Finance. There are several accounts that are opened that can be folded into our General Budget.
A motion was made by Councilman Manning, seconded by Councilman Westcott, and unanimously carried, to authorize the Treasurer/Director of Accounts & Finance to close the following bank accounts and transfer all balances to the General Fund:
- Arts & Heritage Festival Fund (Approx Balance: $2,798.05)
- Park Pavilion Updates Grant Fund (Approx Balance: $4.36)
A motion was made by Councilman Manning, seconded by Councilman Faust, and unanimously carried, to authorize the Treasurer/Director of Accounts & Finance to close all PA Invest Bank Accounts and transfer the balances to the following Washington Financial Bank accounts:
- General Fund PA Invest to General Fund (Approx Balance: $3,441.96)
- Liquid Fuels PA Invest to Liquid Fuels Fund (Approx Balance: $82.55)
- General fund Reserve PA Invest to General fund Reserve
(Approx Balance: $484.13)
- Contingency Reserve PA Invest to General Fund Reserve
(Approx Balance: $637.94)
- Downtown Project Revitalization Fund PA Invest to Downtown Project
Fund (Approx Balance: $200.04)
- Capital Improvement Fund PA Invest to Capital Improvement Fund
(Approx Balance: $656.60)
Councilman Manning said that going off of Chief Brookman’s report – there has been an increase in heroine use throughout the City. He asked Chief Brookman to look into the possibility of supplying the Fire Engines as well as Police apparatus with Narcan (the nasal application form). This may end up saving a life. He encourages the Mayor and the Director of Public Safety to work with their Chiefs and investigate the possibility of this. Many times when a 911 call goes out, especially if it is late at night, a Police car or a Fire Engine will arrive first. I would encourage both of you to look into doing this for the community. Councilman Manning thanked Robert Griffin for recognizing him for things they have worked on in the past. He encourages Robert to continue to come to the meetings. He also hopes that everyone will reflect on today’s date and what it means to all Americans.
Councilman Terry Faust stated that the Pool revenues for 2014 were higher than in 2013 and 2011. The exception was that in 2012 there were some 90-degree temperatures, which brought an increase in Pool pass sales. Wednesday night swims were added this year. Considering the rainy, cooler summer the Pool did well compared to most other years. The new shelter and newly painted Pool added to the facility to make it more inviting to the public. With continued improvements planned at the bathhouse it is going to be even nicer at the Pool in the future. The 32nd (annual) 5K Labor Day Classic Race was held on Monday, September 1st. It started at 9AM from the area in front of the Stone Pavilion and concluded at approximately 10:15AM in front of the Pathways of Southwestern PA building in Washington. The Director of the Race is Thomas M. Carter. This is on behalf of the Washington Christian Outreach located at 119 Highland Avenue here in Washington. Also, Councilman Faust discussed the work that is progressing with the Pond Project. Removal of dirt and debris from the Pond is continuing. A large amount of dirt has been moved by large dump trucks up to the area of the future Dog Park. The roads were fairly messy with mud during that time, but they will improve when that part of the project is done – possibly in a week or so. He apologizes for the debris and the mud but we will get through this as it is just temporary. Councilman Faust also acknowledged the September 11th date.
Mayor Brenda Davis has the following motion that she wants to put forth:
A motion was made by Mayor Davis, seconded by Councilman Manning, and unanimously carried, to authorize the sale of 500 to 600 surplus parking meters, which were replaced with the transition to digital meters, by placing them for sale on the Public Surplus website at a minimum bid price of $1 per meter head, and further authorize that any parking meters not sold through the website may then be sold for scrap. (Scrap estimate is 17 cents a pound – each meter head is approximately 3 pounds).
Mayor Davis mentioned that on the Agenda this evening demolitions have been authorized to occur. These are just the first of many to come. In the next 60 to 90 days we will conduct another Public Hearing . . . we have a list longer than the amount of money that we have. So, we are going to continue to Fight Blight, raise the properties and lien the properties. We have to start gaining our neighborhoods back so that we don’t have all the deteriorated properties that are un-kept by the irresponsible property owners. We are using our Redevelopment Authority money to move this plan forward. We are going to execute the enforcement to recoup our money on our liens. We are aware that Blight is an on-going problem in our City. Also, Mayor Davis wanted Robert Griffin, from the NAACP, to know that in July of this year the City hired an independent consultant to update our rules and regulations regarding our Civil Service testing. That is because the law has changed this year and the Civil Service presented to Council asking that an update occur. We are currently undertaking this process. Our consultant is ready to put that before Mayor and Council so that we can completely go over it along with the updated policies and procedures. He has also prepared a plan of action. Mayor Davis said that she believed that Mr. Griffin had a copy of this — How to Focus on Diversity in Your Community. This also outlines the guidelines on implementing this plan. So, what Mr. Griffin is asking for is what we have already started to work on. We understand there are flaws, and fortunately we are in a position to update our rules and regulations and take a look at an action plan that has never, ever, ever been presented to Council before or even asked for consideration. Mayor Davis thanked the Civil Service Commission for all their hard work in meeting and volunteering their time with all of these groups to make sure the City of Washington gets it right.
Mayor Davis stated that the City received a call this week from State Senator Tim Solobay and from State Representative Brandon Neuman’s office stating that they have been advocating for a grant in the amount of $95,000.00, which the City has received. This is for the Dunn Avenue Sidewalk Project where approximately 1,800 feet of sidewalk will be constructed and added from East Maiden Street up to the entrance of the Park. Folks will be able to walk to the Park and actually have a safe place to walk. We cannot thank them enough for this project amount.
Mayor Davis reminded everyone that our Town Hall Meeting will be held on Tuesday, September 23rd at Washington High School Gymnasium. It will begin at 7PM – she urges all to attend. Your ideas can build a better Washington. This meeting will focus on improving safety and preventing crime in neighborhoods and creating a greater sense of community within Washington. All families, individuals, schools, churches, businesses, organization for the Greater Washington PA area are asked to attend. Some panelists who been asked to attend and have already confirmed their attendance are: confirmed their attendance: District Attorney, Gene Vittone, Washington High School Superintendent, Dr. DiLorenzo along with 3 school board members, Mary Jo Podgurski from Washington Teen Outreach, Joyce Ellis from the Lemoyne Center, Bob Griffin from the NAACP, our Chief of Police and myself. An invitation is extended to members of our Council — they are setting some seats aside for you.
A March for Peace is being held on Saturday, October 4th at 10AM. We are gathering at W & J Campus. It was suggested that this walk should be a March for Peace versus the previous name of Stop The Violence March. This year the 5th grade students have been asked to write an essay on how to make Washington a better place to live. We will read a few of these essays on the day of this March for Peace.
The Washington City Building will be closed on Monday, October 13, 2014 in observance of Columbus Day holiday. Regular office hours will resume on Tuesday, October 14, 2014 at 8:30AM.
The next regular meeting of Washington City Council will be held on Thursday, October 9, 2014 at 7PM in Council Chambers. The Agenda Meeting will be held on Monday, October 6, 2014 at 6PM, also in Council Chambers.
A motion was made by Councilman Manning, seconded by Councilwoman Graham, and unanimously carried, to adjourn meeting.
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Brenda Davis, Mayor
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Christy S. Thomas, City Clerk