Council Committee of the Whole

November 6, 2019 6:30 P.M. – CONDITIONAL USE HEARING, Anne Anderson, 25B Moser Road Solicitor Garner opened a hearing at 6:30 p.m. on the request of Anne Anderson to permit a message therapy center at the property located at 25B Moser Road. Mr. Garner entered several Council exhibits into evidence. Ms. Anderson was sworn in and testified that her business, “Birds of a Feather” was previously located in Lower Pottsgrove Township and she has owned the business for five years. She testified that the business will be open at 9:00 a.m. or 10:00 a.m. and close at 7:00 p.m. or 8:00 p.m. and noted that sufficient parking exists in the rear of the building. Ms. Anderson also confirmed that her clients must be 18 year of age or older. Solicitor Garner closed the hearing at 6:52 p.m. and advised that Council has 45 days to render a decision. COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING The November 6, 2019 Committee of the Whole meeting was called to order at 7:00 p.m. by President Weand in the Council Meeting Room, Pottstown Borough Hall, 100 East High Street, Pottstown, PA. ATTENDANCE Councilors present were Ryan Procsal, Carol Kulp, Donald Lebedynsky, Trenita Lindsay, Dan Weand, and Rita Paez. Also present were Borough Manager Justin Keller, Solicitor Charles Garner, Mayor Stephanie Henrick and Borough Secretary Virginia Takach. Councilor Kirkland was absent. INVOCATION President Weand requested a moment of silence. PLEDGE ALLEGIANCE TO THE FLAG COUNCIL PRESIDENT DAN WEAND President Weand referred to the Urban Land Institute’s comments in its recent report. He advised that the report confirms that “Pottstown is not shrinking.” He commended the leadership, not only the Council but also the Staff of the Borough and its resources. President Weand added that certain measures such as the recession period were out of the Borough’s control but will be focused to address key priorities and make measurable progress. He also commended the Efficient Methods Committee and the Ordinance Review committee among others working to streamline and simplify processes throughout the organization. LIFE SAVING AWARD Mayor Henrick and Chief Markovich presented a citation to Officer Gregory Fritz for his heroic efforts on September 8, 2019 wherein he responded to a mother in labor. The baby’s umbilical November 6, 2019 cord was around his neck and Officer Fritz removed the cord and the baby boy began breathing on his own. The mother and baby boy were transported to Pottstown Hospital and were released in excellent condition on September 13, 2019 thanks to the quick and professional actions of Officer Fritz. The Mayor added that this is a fitting and honorable closing to Officer Fritz’s career as a Pottstown Police Officer. PRESENTATION – EMPLOYEE SERVICE AWARDS President Weand and Manager Keller presented the third annual years of service awards to the following employees: James Maurer, Keith Place, Monica Maymi-Diaz, Andie Graham and Stephanie Drobins for 5 years of service; Janice Lee and Brad Gibson for 10 years of service; Charles Hallman, Terry Jones and Kathleen Hafer for 15 years of service; Kristina Pennypacker for 20 years of service; Kim Bainbridge for 25 years of service; Sandi Chieffo for 30 years of service; and Doug Yerger for 45 years of service. PRESENTATION – KAREN C. LEWANDOWSKI, RETIREE President Weand presented a Resolution to Karen Lewandowski upon her retirement after 20 years of service to the Borough, in the presence of her family and co-workers. RESOLUTION NO. 2019-28 WHEREAS, Karen C. Lewandowski has served the Borough of Pottstown as a dedicated employee since 1999; and WHEREAS, during her career with the Borough she served in a number of different capacities including Finance Department Account Clerk II, Accounts Clerk 1/Cashier’s Office, Licensing & Inspections Department Administrative Assistant II; and WHEREAS, for the past two years Karen has worked in the position of Public Works Administrative Assistant II and during that time she served our residents regarding street conditions, trash/recycling removal and water distribution concerns, in order that residents could receive the best level of customer service possible; and WHEREAS, Karen’s presence at Borough Hall will be truly missed by the people that have worked with her. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT AND IT IS HEREBY RESOLVED by the Mayor and Town Council that Karen C. Lewandowski is officially recognized for the outstanding service she has provided the Borough of Pottstown through 20 years of employment; and further that she is extended best wishes for a happy and well-deserved retirement. Adopted at Pottstown Borough Hall, 100 East High Street, this 6th day of November 2019. PRESENTATION – EDGEWOOD CEMETERY, ANDREW MONASTRA, ESQ. Attorney Andrew Monastra, along with Dr. Elliott Menkowitz, was present to provide a proposal to develop certain areas of the Edgewood Cemetery located at 989 East High Street and bordered by Keim, Edgewood and Beech Streets. The proposal included the maintenance of the grounds and buildings, including grass cutting, repair of old burial markers and installing fencing. Mr. Monastra added that the area could possibly connect to the bike trail and provide trail head stop. He also commended Dr. Elliott Menkowitz for continuing to maintain the brush, weeds and debris November 6, 2019 at his own expense. He also noted that in the past few years, volunteers have been able to raise $25,000 to continue the maintenance of the cemetery. Attorney Monastra explained the possible creation of a columbarium or mausoleum and also the establishment of a pet cemetery and scatter garden. The proposal also included mixed use buildings along the Beech Street and High Street area. Mr. Monastra added that if approved by Council and after acquisition, the organization would contribute an annual donation to the Borough in the amount of $5,000 for years 1, 2 and 3 and $10,000 for years 4 and 5, adding that this proposal establishes tax income for the two parcels after the first year. Solicitor Garner commented that there will be zoning and environmental issues to consider permitting mixed use facilities. President Weand directed the Manager and Staff to move forward with the proposal. SUBCOMMITTEE REPORTS a. Infrastructure – Councilor Kulp reported that the Memorial Park, Phase III project is near completion. The dog park has been repaired along with the damaged fields. She added that Licensing and Inspections is busy with property transfers and the water and sewer project along Wilson and Washington Streets is almost finalized. Councilor Kulp noted that the Closed Loop project will be completed in the near future. b. Economic Development – Ms. Lee-Clark announced the 6th anniversary of Lily’s grill and reviewed upcoming businesses and announced the proposed use of the Mercury building to be a boutique hotel. She also reviewed the holiday celebrations beginning with Small Saturday, November 30th and Santa arriving on Saturday December 7th at the Riverfront Park, followed by the tree lighting in Smith Family Plaza. Ms. Lee-Clark announced that J. J. Radigans is expected to open towards the end of November. c. Transportation – There was no meeting. d. Ordinance Review Committee – Councilor Procsal had no new updates. e. Efficient Methods Committee – Councilor Lebedynsky noted that software updates were a topic of discussion and reviewed with Licensing & Inspections staff and to interface with Finance. BOARDS & COMMITTEE REPORTS a. Emergency Services Reports – Chief Hand reported that there were 99 calls last month with one having $44,000 damage to a home. He also noted that over 50 fire safety events were scheduled throughout the Borough and the schools. He added to Doug Yerger’s commendation of 45 years with the Borough noting that he is a life-time member of the Fire Department with over 40 years with North End Fire Company wherein he served as Assistant Chief. November 6, 2019 b. Human Relations Commission – Marcia Levengood advised that November is Native American Heritage month. Other events include Veterans’ Day, November 11th and Thanksgiving, November 28th. She also announced several upcoming seminars and events associated with the Commission, regarding racism, history and open dialogues. Ms. Levengood noted that the Commission’s next meeting on November 13th will include a presentation from the Montgomery County LGBTQ council. c. Land Bank – Deb Penrod reported that the first grant application will be filed next week and a meeting will be scheduled with Montgomery County officials. A Blight to Bright breakfast is scheduled for December 5th. d. Library – Ms. Penrod also reviewed events at the Library including a free booster seat event. She also advised that a pamphlet for restaurants and things to do in the Borough is being formed. She added that on November 8th, Bill Haley, Jr. will provide a talk on his new book, Crazy Man. e. Ricketts Community Center – Councilor Lindsay reported that the Center hosted a “trunk or treat” event. f. Pottstown School District – Councilor Lindsay also reported that a discussion took place regarding a Kindergarten center at the Edgewood School. Another meeting is set for November 8th, 9:00 a.m. MAYOR’S REPORT Mayor Henrick reviewed the October events, including the Explore PA town-wide tour. She added that she participated in the ULI study and toured several new businesses and was a judge at the Carousel of Flavor. She also reviewed the upcoming holiday events throughout town. MANAGER’S REPORT Manager Keller announced that flyers will be distributed in the utility bills outlining the new trash regulations. He noted that new gray trash totes will be delivered in the near future. He also provided an update on the new parking kiosks and with the help of Ms. Penrod, brochures are being finalized and distributed to businesses. There will a plan to offer parking permits for businesses, residents or visitors to park in any lots #1 through 6, with more information to follow. Mr. Keller also reported that 2.7 miles of paving is complete and the water and sewer replacement project will be completed in the near future. He also advised that the Closed Loop System is close to being completed and waiting for PennDOT to go live with the signals. Mr. Keller also reported on his meeting with Representative Ciresi and DCED to review the H2O and Small Water and Sewer grants, which will allow for funding for the arch systems in Pottstown and should have resolutions requesting applications for the regular agenda. POTTSTOWN COLLISION CENTER, 601 & 619 WEST HIGH STREET Solicitor Garner reviewed the request of the Pottstown Collision Center for a land development plan. He noted that the Planning Commission has recommended approval of the plan and the November 6, 2019 waivers as outlined in Engineer’s letter, including a contribution of $500 per tree as required by ordinance. Solicitor Garner added that the previous conditional use has been appealed and is still under review in County Court. The plan can be approved subject to a favorable outcome of the County Court’s decision. CERTIFIED LOCAL GOVERNMENT RENEWAL Mr. Keller explained the request of the Pennsylvania State Historical and Museum Commission to authorize a resolution continuing the Borough’s participation in the Certified Local Government plan. This offers assistance in funding and technical support for rehabilitation of historic properties at no cost to the Borough, along with a new feature of adding a certified architect for applicants considering restoration of historic properties and requested Council’s approval of the resolution. LAWN AND RIGHT OF WAY EXTENSION OF CONTRACT Mr. Keller explained the request of exercising the Borough’s option of extending the existing 2019 Lawn Maintenance contracts for a one-year period. SPORTS ENTERPRISES – LEASE RENEWAL Mr. Keller also explained the request to renew the lease with Sundstrom Fields and recommended authorization to extend. RESOLUTIONS - H20 AND SMALL WATER AND SEWER GRANTS Mr. Keller reiterated his request to approve applications for the H2O and the Small Water and Sewer Grant programs to assist in the stormwater arches throughout the Borough. He added that the Small Water grant is a maximum of $500,000 with a 15% match and the H2O grant is a maximum of $20 million with a 50% match. He also noted that the $280,000 grant already received from the Commonwealth Financing Agency could be used for the match. Mr. Keller advised that resolutions and exact numbers will be provided Tuesday evening. ORDINANCE FOR 401A DEFINED CONTRIBUTION PLAN Mr. Keller requested that Council authorize the Solicitor to advertise an ordinance establishing the 401A defined contribution plan for AFSCME employees hired after January 1, 2020. SLY FOX 5K’S Mr. Keller reviewed the requests of Sly Fox to hold 5K’s on January 1, 2020 and February 2, 2020. COMMENTS FROM CITIZENS PRESENT a. Nelson Swartley, 565 Wilson Street – noted that the home on Wilson Street is experiencing flooding in the basement and has had 30 clean-ups regarding the flooding. He added that he hired a specialist to solve the issue and is now pumping Pottstown water out of the house. He added that November 6, 2019 he met with Mr. Yerger who was very helpful and also attended the Authority meeting in December 2018 and is still awaiting a response and is asking for some relief. Mr. Keller advised that he review this matter with the Public Works Director. COUNCILORS’ GENERAL DISCUSSION Councilor Paez commented that she is very happy to see positive things coming into Pottstown. Councilor Lindsay reviewed the events at which she attended and thanked the Mayor for not changing the date for Trick or Treating in town. She also attended the Pottstown Children’s Discovery Museum event and the La’s Desserts ribbon cutting. Councilor Procsal thanked all involved with the successful Halloween Parade. Mayor Henrick praised the hotdogs at the Very Best Weiner Shop and wished all a Happy Thanksgiving. President Weand announced that he has appointed Councilor Lindsay to join Councilor Kirkland to report on the Rickets Center. EXECUTIVE SESSION President Weand recessed the meeting to executive session at 8:45 p.m. for one item of personnel. ADJOURNMENT President Weand adjourned the meeting at 9:15 p.m. Attested, Justin M. Keller Borough Manager