Council of the Municipality of Murrysville

Regular Voting Meeting – Wednesday, March 21, 2018 Council of the Municipality of Murrysville held a Regular Voting Meeting on Wednesday, March 21, 2018, at 7:00 p.m. in the Municipal Building. Present at the meeting were Council members Tony Spadaro, Dayne Dice, Toni Brockway, Josh Lorenz, and Carl Stepanovich. Also present were Mayor Synan, Chief Administrator James Morrison and Solicitor George Kotjarapoglus. Council members Jamie Lee Korns and Loren Kase were absent from the meeting. REGULAR VOTING MEETING AGENDA Mayor Regis Synan Welcomes Eagle Scouts Nicholas Skwarko, Noah Rhea, and Michael Rossi Mayor Synan introduced: Noah Rhea of Troop 205. Noah came to the podium with his parents, and spoke of the chimney swift tower he built for Westmoreland Conservancy on Morosini Reserve for his Eagle Scout project. Mayor Synan presented Noah with a Citation and congratulations. Nicholas Skwarko of Troop 205. Nicholas came to the podium with his parents, and spoke of the cross and benches that he made for Beulah Church for his Eagle Scout project. Mayor Synan presented Nicholas with a Citation and congratulations. Michael Rossi of Troop 208. Michael came to the podium and spoke of the ax yard and woodshed he made at Scouting Knob for his Eagle Scout project. Mayor Synan presented Michael with a Citation and congratulations. Mr. Lorenz offered his congratulations to the Eagle Scouts on behalf of Council as well. UNLISTED AMENDMENTS: None. CONSENT CALENDAR ITEMS: A. Accounts Payable Mr. Stepanovich asked about Cohen Municipal Planning and if that fee is the same monthly fee or if it varies from month to month. Mr. Morrison said it varies. B. Cash Investments and Transfers Mr. Spadaro moved to approve the consent calendar items. Mr. Stepanovich seconded. All present voted aye. Motion approved. MAYOR’S COMMENTS: FR Graduate Spencer Lee won the NCAA wrestling championship in his weight class. March for the Parks is Sat., March 24. White Valley VFD Spaghetti Dinner is on Sunday, March 25. slh Regular Voting Meeting – Wednesday, March 21, 2018 Paws in the Park Egg Hunt and Kids’ Egg Hunt are both on Friday, March 23 at Murrysville Community Park. CHIEF ADMINISTRATOR’S COMMENTS: The Municipality was notified by PennDOT that the Kemmerer Hollow Bridge replacement will begin next month. The large pine tree that has been a blind spot for years is also coming down as part of that project. Garbage is delayed one day as of today, so it will be pushed ahead one day. Friday’s pickup will be Saturday. The Public Works department starts their 4-10 hr days on May 14, through August 31. COMMUNITY INPUT: Larry McShea is with the Murrysville Area Soccer Association. He is speaking to request the help of Council to assist in improving the condition of their home field at Murrysville Community Park, Field 1 (the lower field). He stated that it has significant problems with poor drainage. In the spring season often they don’t have the ability to use that field for extended periods of time. He mentioned that he is aware of some discussions of putting turf down on the field. They would support that, however, if that is not feasible he would like to come up with a solution to make the field usable for them, as the Association has great need for it. LIAISON COMMENTS AND COMMITTEE REPORTS: Ms. Brockway reported that Library Board met on Thursday, March 15. They discussed their circulation stats for the last three years. The adults remain positive for both fiction and non-fiction, but the juveniles were down, countywide. Also in the data, program attendance has been very good there, especially with the juveniles. Also, the Westmoreland Library Network Technology Infrastructure project continues, to provide uniform high bandwidth upgrades throughout the county. It has not begun yet in Murrysville. Mr. Dice reported that FTMSA met on March 15. There was a bid opening for a new roof for FTMSA. The bid was awarded to Tuscano Metal Roofing. They were the lowest bidder in both 30 and 40 year options. FTMSA went with the 40 year option for $327,000. Mr. and Mrs. Wolfe were there, seeking answers to their ongoing problems. The Pucketa Creek Agreement came up. The solicitor for FTMSA said he was confident and hopeful that a solution would be reached, just many parties involved and delays. There was some discussion of the 537 plan. There was also some discussion regarding the DEP meeting and the flow study that they are going to be doing in the near future. Mr. Stepanovich reported that the Environmental Action Committee has not met. WORKSHOP ITEMS 9. Administration 10. Engineering 11. Community Development slh Regular Voting Meeting – Wednesday, March 21, 2018 12. Public Works and Parks A. A discussion of proposed improvements at the Murrysville Community Park. Ms. Greene presented a Powerpoint presentation for the proposed improvements. The area directly above the Miracle Field and below the baseball fields is where the focus is for this proposed improvement plan. An amphitheater, Destination Playground, Splash Pad and the amenities to support those are the three things being looked at. There are two concepts, being two different areas. Plan A is as previously mentioned. Plan B is the amphitheater being located away from the other site, in a field at the intersection of Farm and Wiestertown Road. This gives the other site more space for growth and active recreation. The goal from the Master Plan last year was to bring structures and amenities to encourage activity for people of all ages, abilities and interests in the community. This proposed plan is the start of that. Ms. Greene went on to describe options for the Destination Playground: Natural, Traditional and Themed playground concepts. The splash pad is a playground that sprays water. This would be a small area, being 6-8 features. There are two different types of splash pad systems: potable to sewage and recirculation. There are pros and cons to each system. She showed a cost comparison. Recirculation system is estimated to cost $314,200. The potable to sewage system is estimated to cost $220,700. She showed examples of the types of amphitheaters that have been researched. They are all a kit that arrives and would be installed on a concrete base. This would be used for Movies in the Park, Concerts in the Park, etc., and could be rented out for special events. She also spoke of having restrooms with a changing area near the splash pad and playground. Mr. Hilty spoke of the land and different options for the amenities with both Plan A and Plan B. He provided drawings of both areas and described the walking paths, parking areas, etc. He noted that with Plan B they are not proposing restroom facilities at this time, but port-a-john’s servicing this area. He showed pros and cons for both options. The cost estimates are: playground: $200,000 for 50x100ft, $100,000 for 50ft diameter, etc. Public Works would provide work for the playground and splash pad, estimating that cost to be $61,000 for material in-house and contracted at $405,000 for a total of $475,000 for the playground, splash park and parking area. For the amphitheater in Site A would be $100,000, material and in-house cost of $75,000 and contracted at $195,000, totaling approximately $270,000. Site B: material and in-house cost of $75,000 and contracted at $150,000, totaling approximately $235,000. The playground, etc. at Site A and the amphitheater at Site B seems to be the preferred option at this time. Mr. Morrison added that at Site B parking can be supported at the Dog Park as well. The rough estimated total cost would be $700,000. Right now, there is the potential commitment of $200,000 from a private source and the remaining cost estimated would be out of the bond issued that was floated last year ($2Million to consolidate emergency services debt). $1Million was to refund the emergency service fund and $1Million to be used for improvements at the park based on the planning study. He said, if approved, they would like to begin on the splash pad and equipment being done this summer, and the amphitheater would be a fall project. This was opened up for discussion/comments. Ms. Brockway asked about restrooms being put at Site B, if it is less expensive. Mr. Hilty said this would cost another $85,000-$90,000. She asked where the closest restrooms would be (aside from having port-a-john’s). Mr. Morrison stated that would be at Miracle Field. He said there are funds available to add the restrooms, but the Municipality is trying to use the money wisely. He stated there is an option with the amphitheater to provide two backrooms, for changing, food, etc. Those were included in the estimated price. There would just be an additional $10,000-$20,000 for utilities to be run over there. Mr. Dice asked about an annual cost to operate the splash park. Mr. Morrison said the maximum cost is slh Regular Voting Meeting – Wednesday, March 21, 2018 estimated to be about $15,000 annually. Of course, this would depend on the weather. Mr. Stepanovich and Mr. Spadaro prefer Site B. Mr. Lorenz asked what maintenance or repair costs would be, in addition to the splash park, on an annual basis. Mr. Morrison said he could get those estimates. Mr. Lorenz asked from an insurance standpoint, how this project would affect the premiums for the parks insurance policy. Mr. Morrison said they would be added to the fixed assets. He will check into the annual costs associated with adding these amenities to the policy. Mr. Lorenz asked about revenue possibilities with the proposed improvements. Ms. Greene stated that this was discussed, and the amphitheater will be able to be rented. However, they are unsure about the others at this point, but they will look into that further if the project moves forward. Mayor Synan commented that he likes Site B as well. Mr. Lorenz also stated that he believes the restrooms are necessary in the amphitheater area. He would like Mr. Morrison to get answers to his questions and all agreed it can be brought back as an action item at the next meeting on April 4. COUNCIL ACTION ITEMS 13. Administration A. Consider approval of a request by FRAA for the installation of scoreboards at Murrysville Community Park and by Franklin Regional Panthers 11U at Chambers Park. Ms. Brockway moved to approve. Mr. Dice seconded. Mr. Morrison commented that the cost of acquisition and installation should be the responsibility of the above organizations, and if the scoreboards would become in a state of disrepair the Municipality has the right to remove them. Mr. Lorenz said he would like to add that the proposed design be submitted to staff for approval prior to erection. There are three proposed amendments to the motion: the cost of the initial improvement and maintenance be the responsibility of the two organizations, if they fall into a state of disrepair the Municipality may step in and do what it sees fit, and also that the permitted improvements be submitted to the Municipal staff and approved by such before being erected. Mr. Spadaro moved to approve with amendments. Mr. Dice seconded. Upon a roll call vote on the amendment to the original motion: Mr. Spadaro – yes, Ms. Brockway – yes, Mr. Lorenz – yes, Mr. Stepanovich – yes, Mr. Dice – yes. Motion approved. Upon a roll call vote on the original motion, as amended: Mr. Spadaro – yes, Ms. Brockway – yes, Mr. Lorenz – yes, Mr. Stepanovich – yes, Mr. Dice – yes. Motion approved. B. Consider Municipal Risk Management (MRM) as the carrier for all commercial insurances for April 1, 2018 to March 31, 2019. Ms. Brockway moved to approve. Mr. Spadaro seconded. slh Regular Voting Meeting – Wednesday, March 21, 2018 Ms. Heming provided some background on the property, auto and casualty insurance for the Municipality, which renew every April 1. The Municipality has used First National Insurance for at least 25 years. They have been wonderful to work with. She said every year they will contact the companies that the Municipality usually deals with for insurances. The quotes that came this year were from MRM (the present carrier), Travelers and Glatfelter. MRM gave a quote comparable to what the Municipality is paying this year. Travelers auto insurance is never competitive, mainly because of the exposure with the Police Department. Glatfelter did not quote because of the Channel 19 exposure, the website exposure and all of the costs incurred with the recent traffic signal accidents. With the quote from MRM being a couple thousand dollars more than this year, she feels that is the best way to go. The coverages are all the same. She explained attachments she provided to council. This cost is covered in the budget, no excess money is needed, just council’s approval to renew the contract with MRM. Mr. Spadaro asked about the “public officials increase due to an open claim”. He asked what that was. Ms. Heming replied that is the Marathon Gas incident, and this is not something that can be “closed”. Mr. Dice asked if there is anyone else out there that will quote the Municipality, as MRM is the only one of the three that did. Ms. Heming said it depends on the market. The premiums have been consistent with MRM. She also said that she was contacted by a firm that specializes in helping local government recoup damages related to traffic incidents, as described earlier. Mr. Morrison and she are going to look into this. Upon a roll call vote: Mr. Spadaro – yes, Ms. Brockway – yes, Mr. Lorenz – yes, Mr. Stepanovich – yes, Mr. Dice – yes. Motion approved. 14. Community Development A. Consider approving the submission of the revisions to the Municipal Zoning Ordinance and the Subdivision and Land Development Ordinance addressing Landscaping to the Westmoreland County Planning Department for Required 45-day review. Mr. Stepanovich moved to approve. Mr. Spadaro seconded. Mr. Cohen stated this is a follow up to the discussion at the last meeting regarding the proposed changes to landscaping and moving it from Zoning to the SALDO and making other improvements to the codes. Mr. Lorenz clarified the process for new council members. The Municipality has to submit the proposed revisions to the County. If the Municipality makes any substantial changes after it is sent to the County for review and comment, it has to be sent back to them before adoption. This is the first step in that. Upon a roll call vote: Mr. Spadaro – yes, Ms. Brockway – yes, Mr. Lorenz – yes, Mr. Stepanovich – yes, Mr. Dice – yes. Motion approved. B. Consider approval of S-11-16, Bella Molise Housing Development, School Road South, opposite General Forbes Road, 11 lots, R-1 Zoning slh Regular Voting Meeting – Wednesday, March 21, 2018 Ms. Brockway moved to approve. Mr. Spadaro seconded. Mr. Cohen presented the plan drawing. This has been sent to PennDOT, revisions made to the plan, and the permit should be issued by PennDOT within 90 days. This process started in 2016, and many changes have been made. This has now been reviewed and recommended for approval by staff, with the conditions noted in the attached briefing. The applicant came to the podium. Mr. Lorenz asked if the applicant is in agreement with the staff recommendations as listed in Item 6 of the briefing. The applicant replied, “yes”. Upon a roll call vote: Mr. Spadaro – yes, Ms. Brockway – yes, Mr. Lorenz – yes, Mr. Stepanovich – yes, Mr. Dice – yes. Motion approved. 15. Engineering A. Consider approval of Ordinance #992-18, an ordinance accepting a 4.42 acre parcel of land for use as open space in the Fair Oaks Plan of Lots. Mr. Kotjarapoglus recommended that this motion be tabled for two weeks. There are some things that need to be worked out behind the scenes before this is ready for voting. Mr. Stepanovich moved to table this Item 15A for the next meeting on April 4. Upon a roll call vote on the motion to table: Mr. Spadaro – yes, Ms. Brockway – yes, Mr. Lorenz – yes, Mr. Stepanovich – yes, Mr. Dice – yes. Motion approved. 16. Public Works and Parks A. Authorize to advertise for Material Bids Mr. Dice moved to authorize. Ms. Brockway seconded. Mr. Bell said this is an annual commodities bid for signs, line painting, guiderails, etc. This is done every March and will be effective June 1. Upon a roll call vote: Mr. Spadaro – yes, Ms. Brockway – yes, Mr. Lorenz – yes, Mr. Stepanovich – yes, Mr. Dice – yes. Motion approved. Mr. Spadaro complimented Mr. Bell and the Public Works crew on the great job they have done on the roads once again with snow removal. It is appreciated. B. Authorize to advertise for bids for Deer Carcass Removal on Municipal streets Mr. Spadaro moved to authorize. Mr. Stepanovich seconded. Mr. Bell said this is a three-year contract. This is a 24/7 service. slh Regular Voting Meeting – Wednesday, March 21, 2018 Upon a roll call vote: Mr. Spadaro – yes, Ms. Brockway – yes, Mr. Lorenz – yes, Mr. Stepanovich – yes, Mr. Dice – yes. Motion approved. C. Consider approval of a memorial bench donation to be placed in Murrysville Community Park Ms. Brockway moved to approve. Mr. Stepanovich seconded. Ms. Greene spoke of a bench request for MCP that was received from a resident in honor of a family member. This was approved at last week’s Parks & Recreation Commission meeting. This is for final approval. Public Works will work with the family to find an appropriate location when the weather is better. Upon a roll call vote: Mr. Spadaro – yes, Ms. Brockway – yes, Mr. Lorenz – yes, Mr. Stepanovich – yes, Mr. Dice – yes. Motion approved. 17. Old Business: Mr. Morrison stated he approached Markosky Engineers at the request of council concerning the price for the Logan Ferry Study. They came back with a proposal which removed the lump sum figure for the meetings and brought the cost to $65,600, and added that the hourly rate for the meeting would be $160/hour + mileage rate, which cost will be controlled by the Municipality as it moves forward with the planning process. Mr. Lorenz asked what the original bid was. Mr. Morrison said he believes it was $79,900. Second, Mr. Morrison researched the Racquet Club issue, and said the bond was released. It was a landscaping bond and the process began in February of 2016. The bond was released in August of 2016. It went through five different meetings. It was released with a note from the solicitor that noted the bond was just for the landscaping not the building sufficiency, as that is an open issue. He noted that he has never seen it before, but it was an amendment of a double motion which is all recorded in the meeting minutes. Bottom line is there are issues with the building, both in a matter of taste and materials used. Third, the seismic testing is almost done. They are in the suburban areas now, as the phone calls to the office have increased. Residents are assuming that these receivers are being placed on their property, but they are being placed behind the curb in the municipal right of way. The solicitor has responded to the inquiries, which was posted on the website and the calls have since reduced. They are anticipated to be done with the seismic testing at the end of the month. 18. New Business: Mr. Stepanovich commented that he had his grandchildren to Miracle Field and the new playground equipment is great. 19. Executive Session Council adjourned to an Executive Session at 9:02 p.m. to discuss a personnel matter and a real slh Regular Voting Meeting – Wednesday, March 21, 2018 estate matter and reconvened at 9:10 p.m. There was no action coming out of the session. 20. Action Items: Mr. Morrison will gather information on the park plan for next meeting. Mr. Morrison will provide a general summary on the Racquet Club so council can discuss and pursue, as necessary and appropriate. 21. Adjournment Mr. Spadaro moved to adjourn. Mr. Dice seconded. All present voted aye. Motion approved. The Council meeting concluded at 9:12 pm. The Regular Voting Meeting was broadcast on local government Channel 19. A true copy of the Council meeting DVD is available for the public to purchase from the Municipality of Murrysville and is in the Murrysville Public Library for review. slh