A regular meeting of Washington City Council was held Thursday, March 5, 2015 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 Kenneth 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 after the Agenda Meeting on Monday,
March 02, 2015 to discuss personnel matters.
A motion was made by Councilman Westcott, seconded by Councilman Manning, and unanimously carried, to approve the minutes of the February 5, 2015 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:
• Chief Brookman gave 2 February reports. The Fire Department had 142 calls, 10 of those calls were for Peters Township and North Strabane Township. The Building Permit Department issued 9 permits in February with $1,676.75 fees collected. There have been 18 permits issued so far for this year with a total of $2,213.10 fees collected. Chief Brookman then referred to Motion #13 on the Agenda. This motion concerns John Riley who retired from the Fire Department on March 1st. Chief Brookman said that John was a 20-year veteran of fire service and will truly be missed. He was involved with school fund raisers, winter coat distribution and safety fairs. John will be missed by the many schools, day care facilities, and the entire community that he helped.
COMMENT: Councilwoman Tracie Graham asked if Dustin Danley would be taking over John’s position.
Chief Brookman stated that Dustin Danley will be responsible for the Fire
Prevention Program.
• Chief Luppino gave the Police Department’s February report. There were 645 calls for service, 7,200 miles patrolled, 65 traffic citations issued, 30 non-traffic citations, 43 criminal arrests and $810.00 in money collected for accident reports, incident reports, fingerprinting and reports.
• Ron McIntyre, Code Enforcement Officer, gave his February report. There were 137 calls for service, 43 violation notices mailed out, 10 citations issued, and $4,520.48 collected.
• Georgia Ballentyne spoke about Solid Waste and the transferring of funds. She asked if she was correct that funds were going to be transferred from the Solid Waste Fund into the General Fund – as this is what she read on this evening’s Agenda.
COMMENT: Mayor Davis said that it was the General Fund Reserve and the Capital Improvement Fund.
Georgia said that she speaks for many people here in the City that no money
should be transferred out of the Solid Waste Fund because that is the people’s
money. This money should be left in this fund; it should not be touched. Georgia
said that she believes that on December 22nd there was not supposed to be any
overage at all in that department – according to Mr. Manning. How can we
transfer money if there was not money left in the Solid Waste Fund? Georgia
asked if Mr. Manning would comment.
COMMENT: Councilman Manning said that he had no comment.
Georgia repeated, “no comment.” She then said that Mr. Manning said there was
no money . . . now we have quite a bit of money in there and that was only in
December. She said that she wants it documented that she feels that no money
should be transferred.
• Georgianna Farkus said that she, too, opposes the transfer of any money from the Solid Waste Fund. Her figures, as of last month, are $50,000.00 and that nothing has changed or been brought to anyone’s attention. Also, we are supposed to be collecting for delinquent taxes. Unfortunately people pass, properties are being sold and liens are put on the property. Before the meeting she said that she asked the Solicitor, but he did not want to put him on a spot . . . for the Right To Know Act . . . we as the people of the City have the right to know and have an updated statement – not just something that is handed to us which is not current. She showed this a few months ago and by now there should be a revision that should have been given to her. She continued by saying that she should not have to ask for updated information on her previous request. The information she previously received was bogus. She is addressing this to the Solicitor because she feels that the residents are getting the short end of the stick. The contract is coming up at the end of the year. Georgianna said that she opposes the line items that are being presented on the Agenda this evening. She said that she receives telephone calls from residents and she is presenting their voice as well. She said that she should not have to ask for another Right To Know Act since she has already asked for these documents. She then asked the Solicitor for this answer.
COMMENT: Solicitor Jack Cambest said that she – along with any resident of the City have the right to ask under the Right To Know Act in a valid form requesting a document. You have the right to any public document. You do not have the right to a document that has not been officially approved by Council. For instance, notes or drafts of items . . . the employee is technically not obligated to give that to you. You can only receive the final document that has been approved by Council. If it is your opinion that you believe that the figures on this form are not correct . . . he cannot comment on that. Jack suggested that she get this to Christy and he would take a look on what is questioned.
Georgianna said that the line items, which she feels the residents are being robbed on, with this transferring of the people’s money of this City that they have paid into, how are they going to take – she said that she is speaking of Motion #32, transferring that amount and put it into salaries, benefits and other expenses. She said that this is unacceptable. We pay garbage bills and every one has an overhead. How many people does it take to write up these bills . . . Georgianna said that she sees Lotus. Georgianna said that when she came into City Hall the other day to pay her taxes the head of that department had to wait for Lotus – that this department head could not get into the computer, she could not pull the information and she is the head of this office? Georgianna said that this was disturbing to her.
Georgianna then asked where the monies would be going from Motion #33 once they are transferred. Can this be explained?
COMMENT: Mayor Davis replied, “just as it is stated – from the Solid Waste to the General Fund. The General Fund is like our savings account.”
Georgianna said, “then it is going to disappear.”
COMMENT: Mayor Davis said that it is going to go into our
savings account and who knows what it will be used for.
Georgianna said that, “again, she has a right as a citizen of the City of
Washington to say no to this.” She said that she is very adamant about this
because this money was paid to Solid Waste and that is where it should remain.
Not disappear for whatever else.
COMMENT: Mayor Davis said that the other motion was to transfer from the Solid Waste into the Capital Improvement Fund. Our Capital Fund is set up because there is an extra 5% mils that is on our real estate taxes that you pay, an extra 5% that is put aside that goes towards Capital Improvement projects every year within our budget. So this $139 thousand dollar transfer is going into our Capital Improvement Fund. It is extra money that is going into another line item.
Georgianna said that this is money that is being over-collected.
COMMENT: Mayor Davis said that this $214,000.00
is a pretty substantial surplus.
Georgianna said, “so if someone is a mathematician . . . exactly how much should
we be charged for our garbage?”
COMMENT: Mayor Davis replied, “that is a very good question.”
Georgianna said that she said $100.00 and other people said $116. She said that
she thinks that this is outrageous. Someone really needs to get down to the nitty
gritty on this and quit over-charging the people of the City.
COMMENT: Mayor Davis said that maybe our $243.00 rate is set
too high . . . if we have an extra $400,000.00 in the bank,
and that we are looking to empty out of that account. Maybe the
rate that the folks are paying for garbage collection is set too high.
Georgianna then directed this statement to Councilman Manning. “You can not
embarrass me for things that I believe in. I will be outright and come and pound
this into the ground every month, month after month. It is my right to bring this
to the public’s attention that we are being over-charged on this garbage. It is
stealing our money by moving this money into another line item. We should be
able to reserve that in our garbage bills.”
There being no further public participation, Mayor Davis closed this portion of the meeting.
COMMENT: Mayor Davis asked for clarification on L, M. N,
O and P listed in Motion #2 under the 17 payments. She asked for
what Department these are for as they are coming out of the
Downtown Revitalization Project. Mayor Davis asked if anyone
knew who John Whithead is in the amount of $724 dollars?
Councilman Faust said that John Whitehead is an
electrician, but does not know what department this is charged to.
Councilman Westcott said, “yes John is an
electrician.”
Mayor Davis said that this helps, at least, a little bit.
“Do we know who added these to the Agenda, does anyone
know?”
Councilman Faust said that Alloy-Oxygen is a
vendor, so that is (M & N). Crystal Sound (L) is with
communications with the Fire Department and / or the Road
Department. He continued by saying that a lot of these are
looking like Fire Department and /or general businesses of one
who actually had services done.
Councilman Manning said that (Q) is actually truck
service or vehicle maintenance. (Q) is the Fire Department.
Mayor Davis asked Councilwoman Graham if she
knew what (Q) would be for?
Councilwoman Graham said she did not know. She
asked Chief Brookman (in the audience) if this would be for
oxygen for the Fire Department.
Chief Brookman said that the only item he has is
(Q).
Christy Thomas, City Clerk, asked if she could
respond. She said that Lynn gave her this list of items. Christy
added these to the Agenda.
Mayor Davis said that l, m, n, o and p be omitted
from Motion #2. However, Mayor Davis asked if we have
money in the Dowtown Revitalization because didn’t we buy
the backhoe out of there?
Councilman Westcott said, “no we used Capital.”
Mayor Davis said that she thought the left-over
money that was in the Downtown to buy that?
Councilman Westcott said yes that a portion of that
was used for the backhoe. You are right.
Mayor Davis said that she does not want to approve
payments and not have the proper funds for them.
Mayor Davis asked if Council was in favor of
striking l, m, n. o and p until clarity was given.
Mayor Davis said that the motion would now be as follows:
Take action to approve payment a through k, and also q.
A motion was made by Councilman Westcott, seconded by Councilwoman Graham, and unanimously carried, to approve payment to AKF Court Reporting & Trial Technologies in the amount of $1,511.25 RE: Jerry Ray Case. Each Invoice is listed below and includes separate
billing amount:
Invoice #249752 (Certified Transcript) $648.50
Invoice #249754 (Certified Transcript) $862.75
CHARGE 01.60/486-350 (Misc. Expenditures – Insur. Liability, Etc.)
A motion was made by Councilman Westcott, seconded by Councilwoman Graham, and unanimously carried, to approve payment to Sigcom Communications Corp. in the amount of $13,443.24 (Invoice #00019708, PO # 00119) for the following:
15 M.B. (DTX) 72-76, NEMA Flat Radio 1-Way, No Relays, 4 Zone and
15 M.B. Installation Kits – Surface Antenna (72-76 MHz)
CHARGE 33/411-376 (Gamewell Maintenance)
A motion was made by Councilman Westcott, seconded by Councilwoman Graham, and unanimously carried, to approve payment to Commonwealth Abstract and Closing Services, Inc. in the total amount of $1,950.00 for Title Services. Each Invoice is listed below and includes separate billing amount:
Invoice #C5280 (Millcraft Investments) $175.00
Invoice #C5281 (Deborah G. & Barbara P. Hahn) $175.00
Invoice #C5282 (C. E. Kurowski) $175.00
Invoice #C5291 (Apostolic Faith Chapel) $175.00
Invoice #C5307 (A & J Properties, Inc.) $150.00
Invoice #C5324 (Washington Parking Authority) $150.00
Invoice #C5325 (Washington Parking Authority) $150.00
Invoice #C5327 (Washington Parking Authority) $150.00
Invoice #C5330 (Washington Parking Authority) $150.00
Invoice #C5369 (Ernest & Peggy Ruscello) $350.00
(Includes Add’l Expenses)
Invoice #C5416 (Marc J. Hankins) $150.00
CHARGE 01.13/404-314 (Solicitor – Legal Services & Costs)
A motion was made by Councilman Westcott, seconded by Councilwoman Graham, and unanimously carried, to approve payment to CT Consultants in the amount of $5,362.50 for Phase III (through 1/31/2015). CHARGE 60.00/489-000 (Downtown Revitalization Project)
A motion was made by Councilman Westcott, seconded by Councilwoman Graham, and unanimously carried to approve payment to Widmer Engineering in the amount of $1,700.00 to verify row on Salt Shed. CHARGE 01.43/430-313 (Engineering Services)
A motion was made by Councilman Westcott, seconded by Councilwoman Graham, and unanimously carried to approve payment to Widmer Engineering in the amount of $2,250.00 for 2015 January items. CHARGE 01.43/430-313 (Engineering Services)
A motion was made by Councilman Westcott, seconded by Councilwoman Graham, and unanimously carried, to approve payment to Widmer Engineering in the amount of $2,055.00 for Dunn Avenue Sidewalk. CHARGE 01.43/430-313 (Engineering Services)
A motion was made by Councilman Westcott, seconded by Councilwoman Graham, and unanimously carried, to approve payment to Widmer Engineering in the amount of $500.00 for Business District Revitalization – Phase III. CHARGE 01.43/430-313 (Engineering Services)
A motion was made by Councilman Westcott, seconded by Councilwoman Graham, and unanimously carried, to approve payment to Dodaro, Matta, and Cambest, P.C. in the amount of $5,051.50 for services rendered through 2/25/2015 and includes monthly retainer.
CHARGE 01.13/404-310 (Solicitor Professional Services)
A motion was made by Councilman Westcott, seconded by Councilwoman Graham, and unanimously carried, to approve payment to Skelly & Loy in the amount of $40,655.10 for Engineering (8/2014 – 12/2014). CHARGE 66.00/446-310 (Catfish Creek)
A motion was made by Councilman Westcott, seconded by Councilwoman Graham, and unanimously carried, to approve payment to Gary Metzinger Cement Contractor in the amount of $97,493.95 for Payment #6 (ARMY CORP). CHARGE 66.00/446-310 (Catfish Creek)
A motion was made by Councilman Westcott, seconded by Councilwoman Graham, and unanimously carried, to approve payment to Ashley Truck Service in the amount of $8,966.80 for repairs to Engine 9. 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 Treasurer’s Department payment to Portnoff Law Associates, LTD in the amount of $13,160.00 for 2014 Real Estate Delinquency Notices.
CHARGE 24/403-236 (Delinquent Tax Fees)
A motion was made by Councilman Westcott, seconded by Councilman Manning, and unanimously carried, to approve Treasurer’s Department payment to Portnoff Law Associates, LTD in the amount of $12,495.00 for Delinquency Notices: 357 @ $35.00
CHARGE 20.00/427-325 (Solid Waste Postage)
A motion was made by Councilman Westcott, seconded by Councilman Manning, and unanimously carried, to approve Treasurer’s Department payment to CPS statements.com, Inc. in the amount of $3,893.46 for print and process of Solid Waste Statements & Postage.
CHARGE 20.00/427-325 (Solid Waste Postage)
A motion was made by Councilman Westcott, seconded by Councilman Manning, and unanimously carried, to approve Treasurer’s Department payment to CPS statements.com, Inc.
in the amount of $2,866.27 for print and process City Property Tax Bills.
CHARGE AS FOLLOWS: $1,037.61 01.24/403-210 (City Treasurer –
Materials & Supplies)
$1,828.66 01.24/403-325 (City Treasurer –
Postage)
A motion was made by Councilman Westcott, seconded by Councilman Manning, and unanimously carried, to approve Treasurer’s Department payment to AgRecycle, Inc. in the amount of $2,080.00 for Composting Contract — Req. #2.
CHARGE 20.00/489-000 (Solid Waste – Misc. Expenditures)
A motion was made by Councilman Manning, seconded by Councilman Westcott, and unanimously carried, to approve Budget Transfer of $10,163.77 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 Westcott, and unanimously carried, to approve Budget Transfer of $24,373.48 FROM 85.00/100-000 (LSA Funds) TO 66.00/100-000 (Catfish Creek Project Funds)
A motion was made by Councilman Faust, seconded by Councilman Manning, and unanimously carried, to approve Memorandum Of Understanding (MOU):
MAYOR AND COUNCIL TAKE ACTION TO APPROVE THE 1ST PAYMENT
TO FIRST SECURITY FINANCE IN THE AMOUNT OF $12,962.18 FOR THE
GUARANTEED ENERGY SAVINGS PROGRAM TO BE CHARGE TO
ACCOUNT 77.00/409-700 (CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT FUND) TO BE
APPROVED AT THE NEXT REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING ON 3/5/2015.
A motion was made by Councilman Faust, seconded by Councilman Manning, and unanimously carried, to approve Memorandum Of Understanding (MOU):
MAYOR AND COUNCIL TAKE ACTION TO APPROVE FILING THE
DCNR 2015 RECREATION GRANT TO BE APPROVED AT THE NEXT
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING ON 3/5/2015.
A motion was made by Councilman Faust, seconded by Councilman Manning, and unanimously carried, to approve Memorandum Of Understanding (MOU):
MAYOR AND COUNCIL APPROVE RESOLUTION #2 OF 2015 TO ALLOW
THE MAYOR TO SIGN PLANS AND RIGHT OF WAY DOCUMENTS FOR
THE PHASE III PROJECT TO BE APPROVED AT THE NEXT REGULAR
COUNCIL MEETING ON MARCH 5, 2015.
A motion was made by Councilman Faust, seconded by Councilman Westcott, and unanimously carried, to approve Memorandum Of Understanding (MOU):
MAYOR AND COUNCIL TAKE ACTION TO APPROVE FILING THE DCED
2015 GREENWAYS RECREATION GRANT TO BE APPROVED AT THE
NEXT REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING ON 3/5/2015.
A motion was made by Councilman Faust, seconded by Councilman Westcott, and unanimously carried, to approve Change Order #6 with Gary Metzinger Cement Contractor, Inc. for Catfish Creek Storm Site 4 Project.
A motion was made by Councilman Faust, seconded by Councilman Manning, and unanimously carried, to approve Payment #4 to Gary Metzinger Cement Contractor in the amount of $35,721.19 (this amount will be reimbursed from Growing Greener Funds).
CHARGE 96.00-489-000 (Marcellus Shale Impact Fee Fund)
COMMENT: Councilman Faust said that this is the project that
we have been working on, and this is the general contractor at the
Pond. We are coming to closure and this is the final billing. There
is some retainage still for some items that are existing for some
tree planting which will occur in the Spring time. Everyone should
go out and view the Pond. It is beautified and will get better
because we are planning some other things.
A motion was made by Councilman Manning, seconded by Councilman Westcott, and unanimously carried, to approve application for Subdivision for Lou Lombardi – 140 Highland Avenue.
A motion was made by Mayor Davis, seconded by Councilman Westcott, and unanimously carried, to RESCIND below listed motion, which was previously approved – and Approve CORRECTED motion listed:
RESCIND: A motion was made by Mayor Davis, seconded by Councilwoman Graham, and unanimously carried, to approve purchase of two (2) Ford AWD Interceptor’s SDN with graphics and fully outfitted at a cost of $31,746.10 per car. Total for two (2) cars being $63,492.20 CHARGE 49.00/410-740 (US Justice Capital Grant Fund) and CHARGE 77.00/410-700 (Capital Improvement Police Fund)
CORRECTED MOTION: Approve purchase of two (2) Ford AWD Interceptor’s SDNs with graphics and fully outfitted. Approve payments to the following vendors:
o Tri-Star Motors, 930 Route 22 West, Box 307, Blairsville, PA 15717 in the amount of $39,690.00 for two (2) 2015 Ford Interceptors.
o Team Force Inc., 148 Platt Drive, Johnstown, PA 15904 in the amount of $13,102.20 for equipment installation.
o Layton Graphics, 129 Carwyn Drive, Johnstown, PA 15904 in the amount of $1,200.00 for graphics for two (2) Police units.
CHARGE TO THE FOLLOWING ACCOUNTS:
a) 49.00/410-740 (US Justice Department Capital Grant Fund) in
the amount of $31,460.00
b) 77.00/410-700 (Capital Improvement Police Fund) in the
amount of $22,532.20
TOTAL AMOUNT: $53,992.20
A motion was made by Councilman Manning, seconded by Councilwoman Graham, to approve letter of retirement from Fire Fighter John D. Riley, effective March 1, 2015, pay all monies due him, and amend the Salary Ordinance accordingly.
COMMENT: Councilman Faust extended a thank you to Chief
Brookman for his kind words. This opens up the candidates for the
hiring of future firemen. He said that he has only known John
Riley for a short term in his life. He could not have met a greater,
more influential individual He said that John Riley has
always had empathy, was caring and sincere to anyone he has
come in contact with and the teaching that John Riley expressed
throughout his duties as a fireman. Councilman Faust said that he
really appreciates John and hates to see him go. Unfortunately, he
will move on as we all do.
Mayor Davis thanked John for his years of service.
He definitely will be missed by the community with all of the involvement he has done. For the three short years that she has been in Office . . . she always saw John Riley at an event. Hopefully, he will come back and volunteer here in the City.
A motion was made by Councilman Westcott, seconded by Councilman Manning, and unanimously carried, to approve letter of retirement from Phillip M. Russell, effective March 9,
2015, pay all monies due him, and amend the Salary Ordinance accordingly.
COMMENT: Councilman Westcott thanked Marty for all of the
years (31 years) with the City. This is the first time that he knew
that Marty’s actual name was Phillip. We are going to miss him.
He was a great worker.
Mayor Davis said, absolutely. She thanked Marty
for his years of service and wished him the best of luck.
A motion was made by Councilman Manning, seconded by Councilwoman Graham, and
unanimously carried, to approve to advertise for Fire Fighter Candidates.
A motion was made by Councilman Manning, seconded by Councilman Faust, and unanimously carried, to approve the hiring of Cynthia Griffin as Treasurer’s Department Collection Clerk, and amend the Salary Ordinance accordingly. This position is under the Local SEIU #668 Contract. Start Date: Monday, March 23, 2015.
A motion was made by Councilman Manning, seconded by Councilwoman Graham, and unanimously carried, to approve the following (2) Citizens Library Invoices (to be paid for by
Citizens Library) for the (2) specified Application NOs:
o Payment to Professional Mechanical Sales & Service Inc. in the amount of $17,885.67 for Application No. 10R.
o Payment to Professional Mechanical Sales & Service Inc. in the amount of
$25,000.00 for Application No. 11R.
A motion was made by Mayor Davis, seconded by Councilman Westcott, and unanimously carried, to approve to enter into Cooperation Agreement with the Redevelopment
Authority for the Intermodal Transit Center LSA Project.
A motion was made by Councilman Westcott, seconded by Councilman Manning, and unanimously carried, to approve to award the following contracts for the Intermodal Transit
Facility Project pending review by JMT, Inc., Project Architect:
o General Contract: Fleeher Construction $168,225.00
o Electrical Contract: Allegheny City Electric $ 93,700.00
o Mechanical Contract: Controlled Climates $110,500.00
A motion was made by Councilman Manning, seconded by Councilman Westcott, and carried, to approve the following Change Orders for the Transit Center construction project:
M-001 Storage of HVAC roof top units $4,090.00
M-002 Smoke Detector Test Units $ 851.00
E-005 Replace recessed light fixture $ 507.00
E-006 Change in routing of electrical conduit $5,945.00
E-007 Conduit repair on East Chestnut St. $ 639.00
ROLL CALL: Councilwoman Tracie Graham – Yes
Councilman Kenneth Westcott – Yes
Councilman Joseph Manning – Yes
Councilman Terry Faust – No
Mayor Brenda Davis – Yes
A motion was made by Councilman Westcott, seconded by Councilman Manning, and unanimously carried, to approve the corrected dollar amount of previously approved Change
Order:
CO-029 Stainless Steel Downspout $1,440.00
(Incorrectly listed as $1,400 on January 8, 2015 City Council Agenda)
A motion was made by Councilman Manning, seconded by Councilman Westcott, and unanimously carried, to authorize Robin Gostic and Joe Thomas to attend PPTA Act 44
training in Monroeville On April 20 / 21, 2015, at a cost of $190.00 per person ($380.00 total).
A motion was made by Councilman Manning, seconded by Councilwoman Graham, and unanimously carried, to approve Transit payment to MV Transportation Inc., in the amount of $45,527.23 for contracted public transit fixed route services performed in February 2015, 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 Manning, seconded by Councilwoman Graham, and unanimously carried, to approve Transit payment to Washington County Transportation Authority in the amount of $10,761.75 for contracted public transit paratransit services performed in January 2015, 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 Manning, seconded by Councilwoman Graham, and unanimously carried, to approve Transit payment to Washington-East Washington Joint Authority in the amount of $11.30 for March 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 28.00/447-359
A motion was made by Councilman Manning, seconded by Councilwoman Graham, and unanimously carried, to approve Transit payment to PA American Water in the amount of $345.86 for February Water Service, Usage and Late Fees at the ITF, to be paid from the Mass Transit Account upon verification by the Finance Department that the stated transit funds are available. CHARGE 28.00/447-359
A motion was made by Councilman Manning, seconded by Councilwoman Graham, and unanimously carried, to approve Transit payment to West Penn Power in the amount of $934.05 for January-February Electric Service, Usage and Late Fees at the ITF, to be paid from the Mass Transit Account upon verification by the Finance Department that the stated transit funds are available. CHARGE 28.00/447-359
A motion was made by Councilman Manning, seconded by Councilwoman Graham, and unanimously carried, to approve Transit payment to Comcast in the amount of $103.63 for farebox service & networking, 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 28.00/447-359
A motion was made by Councilman Manning, seconded by Councilwoman Graham, and unanimously carried, to approve Transit payment to Coen Oil Company in the amount of $8,719.67 for the purchase of fuel in January 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 Manning, seconded by Councilwoman Graham, and unanimously carried, to approve Transit payment to Verizon in the amount of $420.13 for landline Services & Late Fees associated with the ITF, to be paid from the Mass Transit Account upon verification by the Finance Department that the stated transit funds are available.
CHARGE 28.00/447-359
A motion was made by Councilman Manning, seconded by Councilwoman Graham, and unanimously carried, to approve Transit payment to Bankcard Services in the amount of $1,654.21 for interest charges, Comcast Carbonite, PPTA seminars and Hotel 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 Manning, seconded by Councilwoman Graham, and unanimously carried, to approve Transit payment to Nancy Basile in the amount of $442.75 for reimbursement for travel expenses to FTA grant seminar, 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 Manning, seconded by Councilwoman Graham, and unanimously carried, to approve Transit payment to WJPA Radio in the amount of $350.00 for advertising during the AAA Wrestling Championships, 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 Manning, seconded by Councilwoman Graham, and unanimously carried, to approve Transit payment to Waller Corporation #19 (CO #034) in the amount of $502.00 for General contracted services for ITF performed through January 2015 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 Councilwoman Graham, and unanimously carried, to approve Transit payment to Allegheny City Electric, Inc. #12 in the amount of $18,905.00 for Electrical contracted services for ITF performed through February 2015, to be paid from 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 payment to PNC Bank in the amount of $590,994.25 for
ACT 205 Distressed Pension Collections through 2/28/15.
CHARGE 79.00/483-000 (Pension Contributions)
A motion was made by Councilman Faust, seconded by Councilman Manning, and unanimously
carried, to approve Resolution NO. 3 OF 2015:
BE IT RESOLVED, BY AUTHORITY OF THE COUNCIL OF THE
CITY OF WASHINGTON, WASHINGTON COUNTY, AND IT IS
HEREBY RESOLVED BY AUTHORITY OF THE SAME, THAT THE
MAYOR OF THE SAID MUNICIPALITY IS AUTHORIZED AND
DIRECTED TO SUBMIT THE ATTACHED APPLICATION FOR
TRAFFIC SIGNAL APPROVAL TO THE PENNSYLVANIA
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION AND TO SIGN
THIS APPLICATION ON BEHALF OF THE MUNICIPALITY.
A motion was made by Councilman Manning, seconded by Councilman Westcott, and unanimously carried, to approve Resolution NO. 4 of 2015:
A RESOLUTION OF THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WASHINGTON, WASHINGTON COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA, APPROVING THE TRANSFER OF A CATERING CLUB LIQUOR LICENSE LID #3325, LICENSE #CC-2695, INTO THE CITY OF WASHINGTON FROM THE BOROUGH OF CHARLEROI.
A motion was made by Councilman Faust, seconded by Councilman Manning, and unanimously carried, to approve Resolution NO. 5 of 2015:
2015 DCNR RECREATION GRANT
WHEREAS, THE CITY OF WASHINGTON DESIRES TO UNDERTAKE THE FOLLOWING PROJECT: WASHINGTON PARK POND TRAIL AND ACCESS PROJECT.
WHEREAS, THE CITY OF WASHINGTON DESIRES TO RECEIVE FROM
THE DEPARTMENT OF CONSERVATION AND NATURAL RESOURCES A GRANT FOR THE PURPOSE OF CARRYING OUT THIS PROJECT.
A motion was made by Councilman Faust, seconded by Councilman Manning, and unanimously carried, to approve ratify Agreement between the International Brotherhood of General
Teamsters Local Union #585 and the City of Washington – retroactive to January 1, 2015.
(This Contract will include the corrections discussed in Executive Session – with term and current language in Contract.)
COMMENT: Councilman Westcott said that he wanted to strike
one item from the Contract that Mayor and Council agreed to. It is
that Class A qualification goes back to the original Contract.
Mayor Davis asked what about the Contract length
being at 5 years.
Councilman Westcott asked that this discussion go
into Executive Session.
Mayor Davis stated that there would be a 5-minute
recess.
Mayor Davis stated that the Council Meeting will now resume.
A motion was made by Councilman Faust, seconded by Mayor Davis, and unanimously carried, to
approve to enter into a lease contract with Xerox for a W7835PT copy machine for the Washington Police Department with the monthly lease payments of $227.64 CHARGE 01.15/410-210 (Materials & Supplies – Police Department).
A motion was made by Councilman Manning, seconded by Councilman Westcott, and unanimously carried, to submit DEP Technical Assistance Grant.
A motion was made by Councilman Manning, seconded by Councilman Westcott, and unanimously carried, to approve purchase of Network Storage Server (NAS) from Midrange Plus Services Inc, in the amount of $9,857.50 CHARGE 96.00/407-000 (Marcellus Shale Impact Fee Fund – Information Technology Services)
A motion was made by Councilman Manning, seconded by Councilman Westcott, and carried, to approve the Budget Transfer of $175,000.00 FROM Solid Waste 20.00/492-900 TO General Fund 01.00/392-995 for 2014 Reimbursement of salaries, benefits, and other expenses.
ROLL CALL: Councilwoman Tracie Graham – No
Councilman Kenneth Westcott – Yes
Councilman Joseph Manning – Yes
Councilman Terry Faust – Yes
Mayor Brenda Davis – No
COMMENT: Mayor Davis said that last year’s budget was
allocated $150,000.00 to be transferred. She said that she was not
sure why the $25,000.00 increase but as it is listed here it is more
than actually what was in the budget.
A motion was made by Councilman Faust, seconded by Mayor Davis, and carried, to
approve the Budget transfer FROM Solid Waste 20.00/492-900 TO General Fund Reserve
46.00/392-900 in the amount of $75,000.
COMMENT: Mayor Davis wanted to state on the record that
as of December 31, 2011, which was the month before she took
Office, there was $94,875.33 carried over in the Solid Waste
account – so, $94,000. As of 3 years later, December 31, 2014, the
amount in the Solid Waste Fund is $605, 871. 31 That is about ½
of a million dollars in 3 years in excess that that Fund has
generated based on the rate of $243.00 per household. So, my
point is that the City of Washington’s rate for Solid Waste is set
too high – it needs to be lowered. If we have ½ of a million dollars
surplus in the bank over a 3-year period, and I am saying ½ of a
million because I just read it is actually $605,000.00, so I am
deducting the $92,000.00 before I came into Office, I think that
the taxpayers deserve a lower garbage bill because they pay very
high real estate taxes as it is. We live right beside our neighbors
so it does not take much for the hauling company to come into the
City and to get back out of the City several hours later. They are
getting 50, 60, 75 homes on one street. They are not going 4 or 5
miles down the road and only picking up 2 households. Mayor
Davis said, that it is her opinion, that our rate that is set is too high.
If we have extra money to be transferred into a General Fund
Reserve or a Capital Improvement Project – and the folks that paid
their garbage bill with that — it should be their decision on whether
or not they want to move that money into the savings account or
into the Capital Improvement Project. Mayor Davis stated,
“don’t get me wrong, I am completely for Capital Improvement
Projects, but we have other funding sources for that such as the
Marcellus Shale Act 13 and the LSA. So, there are other areas that
we can do the infrastructure and Capital Improvement Projects. So
the folks that walk in here and bring their green paper to the Solid
Waste counter and pay the $243.00 per year . . . Mayor Davis said
that she is not sure that they were expecting that money to go
towards Stormwater Projects, she is not sure that they expected
that money to actually be going into the savings account. She
believes that their expectation was to pay the contracted amount in
which the City is contracted for garbage collection – which at this
point it’s at $814,000. So it is not over a million dollars and we
can add the Administration fees in. We are currently doing a time
study for the month of March so we can see exactly how much
time is spent on garbage collection. So, when we do go to bid this
out again at the end of the year we will have an accurate amount
of what is to be charged to that line item for Administration costs.
Now, the motion prior to that to transfer $175,000.00 – and last
year it was set at $150,000.00 – and this year it is set at $225,00.
That’s why we are doing a time study to see how much our people
spend dealing with garbage; and if it totals $225,000.00 I have no
choice to accept it. But, if it comes in at $100,000.00 then
someone else has some explaining to do, not me.
ROLL CALL: Councilwoman Tracie Graham – Yes
Councilman Kenneth Westcott – Yes
Councilman Joseph Manning – Yes
Councilman Terry Faust – Yes
Mayor Brenda Davis – No
A motion was made by Councilman Faust, seconded by Mayor Davis, and carried, to
approve FROM Solid Waste 20.00-492-900 TO Capital Improvement Fund
77.00/392-900 in the amount of $139,574.
ROLL CALL: Councilwoman Tracie Graham – Yes
Councilman Kenneth Westcott – Yes
Councilman Joseph Manning – Yes
Councilman Terry Faust – Yes
Mayor Brenda Davis – No
A motion was made by Councilman Westcott, seconded by Councilman Manning, and carried, to Earmark Capital Improvement Funds – $139,574.00 for Public Works
Stormwater Projects.
ROLL CALL: Councilwoman Tracie Graham – Yes
Councilman Kenneth Westcott – Yes
Councilman Joseph Manning – Yes
Councilman Terry Faust – Yes
Mayor Brenda Davis – No
A motion was made by Councilman Westcott, seconded by Councilman Faust, and unanimously carried, to approve purchase of 2015 Ford F-250XL, 4 X 4 Pickup, with plow and
spreader for $45,675.00 CHARGE 77.00/430-700 (Public Works – Capital
Improvements Fund)
FIRST READING OF ORDINANCE NO. 1867 BILL NO. 3 OF 2015
AN ORDINANCE OF THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WASHINGTON, WASHINGTON COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA, AMENDING ARTICLE 1 – BONDS, SECTIONS 44-2 AND 44-4, REQUIRING THE CITY CONTROLLER, DIRECTOR OF ACCOUNTS AND FINANCE, CITY CLERK, AND CITY TREASURER TO POST BOND TO THE CITY; ESTABLISHING THE AMOUNT OF BOND.
*** No Vote Required ***
A motion was made by Councilman Westcott, seconded by Councilman Manning, and unanimously carried, to approve and authorize the advertisement and publication of proposed City
Ordinance NO. 1867 Bill NO. 3 of 2015.
COMMENT: Councilman Faust asked what this is.
Mayor Davis said that this is for the advertisement
of the Ordinance.
ELECTED OFFICIALS:
Councilwoman Tracie Graham – No comment.
Councilman Kenneth Westcott thanked Rodney Barry (who was in the audience) and the Street Department for working together. He said that he felt it would be a fair contract not only to the employees but also to the City of Washington. Marty was an asset for many years with the Street Department. We will miss him. We will be looking to hire. He said that he was not sure how soon but the hiring will be done.
Councilman Westcott thanked John Riley. He said that there are many children in the Washington School District who are very fortunate to have coats because of John’s efforts during the coat program, and also his efforts towards fire prevention. John was very excited when he got his new fire extinguisher unit. He has been very committed to the educating the public which he did a great job at doing. We will miss him.
Councilman Westcott said to pray for warm weather. This has been a very rough winter. We are having a tough time getting cinders because they are going to the gas sites. Also, the salt is starting to be rationed. We are hoping to have enough for the next few days. Everyone is going back to day shift next week, the weather is turning warmer. Councilman Westcott said that everyone will notice the Public Works Department filling pot holes.
Councilman Joseph Manning said, “good luck to Marty and to John.”
Councilman Terry Faust said the same goes to Marty and to John. Very nice words to both of them. Also, we will be having a Run For All Your Heart, untimed 5K walk/run, hosted by Emmalea Beck and Elijah Frazier who are seniors at Washington High School. This event will be on the Washington Park cross country-course. No awards will be presented, but there will be a Chinese Auction, refreshments, and food at the finish line. The event will be at the Washington Park Main Pavilion on March 29, 2015 from 11AM to 1PM. This will benefit the Washington Health Center Cardiology Department. There is a $10.00 donation. If further information is needed please contact Christy as she will be able to furnish any information.
Mayor Brenda Davis noticed that while the Executive Session was being held, Mr. Thomas placed a note on that he would like to say something. Mayor Davis explained that she knows he has not been to many of the meetings. Procedurally, how we do the opening with the Public Participation is when the folks are able to ask questions and speak. She did not want Mr. Thomas to think that she was ignoring him. Mayor Davis told Mr. Thomas that he is free to come up after the meeting to discuss whatever he wanted to discuss.
Mayor Davis conveyed some good news regarding the Farmer’s Market folks along with the Redevelopment Authority opened bids for the pavilion on Main Street. She received a telephone call this afternoon from the President of the Farmer’s Market and she will be working on a press release. They are looking at the lowest, qualified bidder. The contract will be awarded. This has been long awaited for. Mayor Davis said that this fundraising started 5 years ago. These folks have worked really hard for this to happen. It has been a great collaboration with the City’s officials and the College showed that by coming together and working together for the community – wonderful things have happened. Mayor Davis said that she cannot thank the Farmer’s Market folks enough as well as her colleagues here.
The Washington City Building will be closed on Friday, April 3, 2015 in observance of
Good Friday holiday. Regular office hours will resume on Monday, April 6, 2015 at
8:30AM.
The next regular meeting of Washington City Council will be held on Thursday, April 9, 2015 at 7PM in Council Chambers. The Agenda Meeting will be held on Monday, April 6, 2015 at 6PM, also in Council Chambers.
A motion was made by Councilman Westcott, seconded by Councilman Manning, and unanimously carried, to adjourn meeting.
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Brenda Davis, MAYOR
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Christy S. Thomas, CITY CLERK