City Council

Steelton Borough Council Meeting June 1, 2009 The regular monthly meeting was called to order at 6:31 p.m. by Vice-President, Stephen J. Shaver, with the pledge of allegiance, followed by a moment of silence. In Attendance: Absent: Dennis Heefner Jeffery L. Wright Michael Albert Michael Kovach Stephen Shaver Lisa Wiedeman-Krosnar MaryJo Szada Mayor Thomas Acri David A. Wion, Solicitor John M. DeSanto, Jr., Secretary Treasurer Kathleen D. Handley, Assistant Secretary Treasurer Dennise Hill, Executive Assistant APPROVAL OF MINUTES: There were no minutes presented for approval. EXECUTIVE SESSIONS HELD BETWEEN MEETINGS: (Secretary DeSanto): Mr. DeSanto said he had nothing to report at this time. PUBLIC COMMENT: Agenda Items Only There were no comments. Mr. Shaver deviated from the agenda and proceeded to Page three (3) under New Business. Lisa Myers, CFE, CPA, FCPA, Boyer & Ritter Certified Public Accountants – Presentation of Audited 2008 Financial Report. Mr. Shaver noted that Lisa Myers was not able to attend tonight’s meeting and her presentation will be rescheduled. Frank J. Leber, Esq., Rhoads & Sinon, LLP – Present Reimbursement Resolution 2009-R-14. Mr. Leber introduced his partner Paul Lundeen. Mr. Leber explained that this Resolution has been prepared to create an opportunity for the Borough to use their general funds to pay certain costs relating to the Storm Sewer and Sanitary Sewer Separation Project and 1  Steelton Borough Council Meeting June 1, 2009 the Water Treatment Plant and Distribution System improvements, pending reimbursement. Jay Wenger, Managing Director, Susquehanna Group Advisors, Inc. – Present RFT Project Update. Mr. Wenger said that with the Engineering and permitting fees, it appears the financing should be for between 1.6 and 2 million dollars. He said he will proceed tomorrow with the electronic distribution of request for proposals to the banks with the deadline to enable consideration at the June 15, 2009 Council Meeting. Mr. Heefner noted that since some of these expenses are for water, should the Authority be paying those costs. Mr. Wenger responded that they can and they will, but this is being done on their behalf and they will reimburse the Borough for their share of the expenses. Mr. Leber pointed out that it seemed to be a good idea to combine the financing instead of having two (2) additional borrowings. RESOLUTION 2009-R-14, A RESOLUTION OF INTENT TO ISSUE BONDS TO FINANCE CAPITAL PROJECTS AND TO ALLOCATE A PORTION OF THE PROCEEDS THEREOF TO THE PAYMENT OF CERTAIN EXPENDITURES TO BE MADE TOWARD SUCH PROJECT PRIOR TO THE ISSUANCE OF SUCH BONDS, was presented for Council’s consideration. On a motion made by Mr. Heefner, seconded by Mr. Albert, Council Members present voted unanimously to adopt RESOLUTION 2009-R-14, as presented. Mr. Leber said they will take this as their instruction to proceed. Mr. Heefner said that he spoke with Mr. Leber about leasing the street sweeper and found out why the Borough can’t lease the sweeper, because of the Unit Debt Act. Mr. Heefner asked Mr. Leber to explain how the Borough can get the sweeper now because the sweeper will cost $30,000 more next year and the Borough will receive less for a trade-in next year. Mr. Leber explained that under Pennsylvania Law, a municipal lease is not the best option and added that community oriented banks may be easier to deal with. Mr. Leber said that if Council wishes, he and Mr. Wenger could contact banks on the Borough’s behalf as a separate matter to see if they can get the Borough favorable financing. Mr. Musser - Update on Grants. Mr. Musser stated that there is a balance from 2008 CDBG Funds that must be spent before November. There is about $102,000 allotted for the Adams Street project that can be spent on land acquisition, demolition, or site readiness. Approximately, $34,000 has 2  Steelton Borough Council Meeting June 1, 2009 been set aside for street lighting. PP&L was paid directly and this money cannot be reimbursed to the Borough by CDBG. The Borough should submit invoices for an additional $34,000. Mr. Musser said $57,000 was allotted for Code Enforcement salaries, of which $34,000 has been drawn down. Mrs. Zell has invoices that will be submitted to George Connor. He clarified that Code Enforcement salaries are subsidized by CDBG funds. Mr. Musser stated that $12,000 is pending for the Steelton Senior Center. Ms. Kline is to follow up by June 15th regarding this matter. He stated that $14,000 (from the 2003 fund) was transferred into the Adams Street fund. Regarding the H20 applications, they are due by August and a decision is to be made by November. If the project is not funded in Round 1, it will roll over to Round 2. Mr. Musser updated Council on the HRA Grant saying there is $205,000 from the State for Adams Street, as well. He said $50,000 must be spent by June 30th and recommended using it for engineering fees for Adams Street. Mr. Musser noted that there is not enough time to acquire any property with that by the end of June. Mr. Musser said there is a $10,000 recreation grant that is pending a response from the Borough. Mr. Musser stated that he hopes to have a handle on all outstanding grants by the end of June. Mayor Acri asked about the pavilion at the boat launch. Mr. Musser said that he has received no notices. He noted there may be a $90,000 balance to be used for that but; Mr. DeSanto should determine what, if any extension was given or if any modifications were made to the request. Mr. Heefner asked if CDBG funds can be used to repair streets. Mr. Musser stated that, that money can be used for that but a modification must be made by the Borough and approved by the County Commissioners. On a motion made by Mr. Heefner, seconded by Mr. Albert, Council Members present unanimously voted to have staff get a proposal from HRG for their engineering costs/fees. Mr. Shaver asked Mr. DeSanto to look at the outstanding amount left in the boat launch fund that was awarded by DCNR. Mr. Shaver also asked the Neighborhood and Economic Development Committee to identify properties on Adams Street to be purchased. 3  Steelton Borough Council Meeting June 1, 2009 COMMUNICATION: Jennifer Berkich – Request to reserve East End Park on Wednesday, June 20th from 2pm to 6pm for her son’s 2nd birthday. On a motion made by Mr. Albert, seconded by Dr. Szada, Council Members present unanimously voted to approve this request. PA Dept of Environmental Protection – Letter of acknowledgement to Mayor Acri of selection of the Borough of Steelton as one of the entities with which the EPA will pursue negotiations to award a cooperative agreement for an assessment grant funded through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) of 2009. This is related to grant awards for cleanup and revitalization of Brownfield sites. This was submitted for Council’s information. Dauphin County Planning Commission – Memorandum of new fee schedule for Dauphin County review/approval of Subdivision and Land Development Plans. (Only change was to add a maximum fee of $3000 for all types of plans.) This was submitted for Council’s information. PA Dept of Environmental Protection – Regarding Application for Act 537 Sewage Facilities Planning Assistance approval and award of $75, 637.33 for reimbursement. Mr. Shaver stated that original request was for $76,000. Some of the expenses were not reimbursable. This was submitted for Council’s information. Edward A. Ellinger, P.E. HRG, Inc. – Summary of Engineering Activities April 20th through May 18th, 2009. This was submitted for Council’s information. UNFINISHED BUSINESS: Dennise Hill – Follow up on the Hot & Spicy Festival Event. Miss Hill stated that the event went very well. Keystone reported that this was the largest crowd since the festival was held in the Borough. 4  Steelton Borough Council Meeting June 1, 2009 Miss Hill also thanked the Public Works Department and the Steelton Police Department for all of their work to help the Hot & Spicy Festival and the Memorial Day Parade a success. She stated that she could not have done this without them. On a motion made by Mr. Albert, seconded by Mrs. Wiedeman-Krosnar, Council Members present unanimously have a letter placed in Miss Hill’s personnel file for a job well done on both events. Solicitor Wion – Discussion of traffic study in area of N. Front Street and Locust Streets RE: (2) 15 minute parking spots in front of Steelton Pharmacy and presentation of proposed Resolution 2009-R-15, establishing (2) “Parking Time Limited” zones. by Public Works that there is a parking space beside the (2) we are designating as 15 minute Parking. Mr. Heefner stated that he was recently informed by Public Works that there is a parking space beside the (2) we are designating as 15 Minute Parking but, the meter for the space is 1/2 block away. He asked if Council wanted to consider making this space 15 minute parking also. It was the consensus of Council Members present that the third space should remain metered. On a motion made by Mr. Albert, seconded by Mrs. Wiedeman-Krosnar, Council Members present unanimously voted to adopt Resolution 2009-R-15, as presented. Solicitor Wion – Presented Resolution 2009-R-16 Appointing Patsy Taylor-Moore to the Borough of Steelton Planning Commission. On a motion made by Mr. Heefner, seconded by Mr. Albert, Council Members present unanimously voted to adopt Resolution 2009-R-16, as presented. Dennis Heefner – Discussion on updated proposal for grass cutting from Center City Building Services. Mr. Heefner stated that he has been researching a one year trial of having an outside contractor cut the grass at properties owned by the Borough. It is estimated that this will save the Borough $8,000-10,000. Mr. Shaver said that since the quote is for $6,000, two more quotes or proposals will be needed. Mr. Wion stated that if a quote is more than $10,000, the project must be bid; if it is under $10,000 three (3) quotes are needed. On a motion made by Mr. Heefner, seconded by Mr. Albert, Council Members present unanimously voted to accept the quote for $6,825 for grass cutting by Center City Building Services, pending two additional quotes. Mr. Heefner stated that he will get two more quotes via telephone calls. Dr. Szada asked who will be responsible for liability insurance. Mr. Wion said that the individual 5  Steelton Borough Council Meeting June 1, 2009 contractor will have to show proof of their own insurance for their personnel. However, the Borough has coverage under current liability insurance. Secretary Treasurer DeSanto – Update on roof repair. Mr. DeSanto stated that the repairs will begin late Friday afternoon; weather permitting, or early Monday morning. The company will need to put a man lift near the building and will possibly place it in the rear parking lot where the police vehicles are parked. Secretary Treasurer DeSanto and Assistant Secretary Handley – Presentation and recommendation on Solid Waste Removal Bids. Mr. DeSanto stated that four quotes were received. York Waste submitted the lowest bid for four cans, unlimited recycle containers, and one bulk item per week. It is staff’s recommendation to award the bid to York Waste for 5 years. The yearly cost is as follows: 1. $214.18 2. $220.80 3. $228.00 4. $234.60 5. $241.80 Don Isabella from York Waste was present and Mr. Heefner asked if a five year contract is better than a three year contract. Mr. Isabella stated that a five year contract is more beneficial for both the Borough and York Waste. Language in the contract is included that bases the contract on real-time costs and he does not see a change in the industry that will impact the Borough. Dr. Szada asked if York Waste has looked into recycling more items than just plastic and aluminum. Mr. Isabella stated that currently, York Waste can recycle: newspaper, cardboard, and many other paper products, due to fibers. Mr. Isabella stated that he can provide a list of items to be sent out in the Borough newsletter. On a motion made by Mr. Heefner, seconded by Mr. Albert, Council Members present unanimously voted to award the bid to York Waste Disposal, Inc., and to authorize execution of a contract with York Waste Disposal, Inc. for five years. NEW BUSINESS: Gloria Hairston; 238 Lincoln Street – Requesting establishment of a recreation program in the Borough. Ms. Hairston stated that she has seven children and it has been brought to her attention that they are becoming a nuisance in the neighborhood. She is requesting that the 6  Steelton Borough Council Meeting June 1, 2009 basketball courts hours be extended to 11PM or a recreation center be established to give kids in the Borough something positive to do. Mr. Shaver stated that he appreciates her offer to help. He referred this issue to the Neighborhood and Economic Development Committee. Mayor Acri stated that the recreational programs were stopped because it was a partnership between the Borough and the School District but, the District stopped contributing and it became a baby sitting service. Dr. Szada stated that the park is currently open until 8PM. It is a possibility that a decision can be made to keep them open later. Dr. Szada urged Ms. Hairston to get a group of parents together and chaperone at the parks. This won’t cost any money and parents will know where their children are. She stressed that there must be supervision. Chief Spangler stated that the 8PM closing time was specifically implemented because of differing opinions of when dusk is. OTHER BUSINESS: Letter of Transmittal from HRG with Bound Publication for Public Review – Publication of HRG’s ACT 537 Special Study of Combined Sewer Overflows Long Term Control Plan. Mr. DeSanto said this is for Council’s information. This is available for public review. Secretary DeSanto – Informing Council that an Executive Session is needed to discuss personnel matters, land acquisition and potential litigation. There were no comments. AUDIENCE PARTICIPATION: Lena Jefferson; 258 Lincoln Street – Requested support and security in her neighborhood. Ms. Jefferson submitted a letter, accompanied by a petition, expressing frustration from several residents on Lincoln Street. She stated that residents are afraid to confront the youth and some people will not come out of their own homes. She is asking for the police to increase their patrol. She said they often find paraphernalia and she cleans trash every day. She agrees that kids deserve a place to go, but, she also feels that adults deserve peace in their own neighborhood. She stated that curfew needs to be enforced, and stated that she will continue coming before Council until something is done. 7  Steelton Borough Council Meeting June 1, 2009 Mr. Heefner said that he understands what Ms. Jefferson is saying. The Borough recently went through the same situation with residents on Fourth Street. He stated that neighbors must be willing to testify. If residents post No Trespassing signs in their yards, offenders can be arrested. Mrs. Wiedeman-Krosnar asked if the teenagers that are loitering live in the area. Ms. Jefferson said that some of them do. Dr. Szada asked if she knows who the kids are. She said yes. Dr. Szada said that she should go to the parents. Ms. Jefferson stated that many people won’t go to parents in fear of retaliation. Mrs. Wiedeman- Krosnar thanked Ms. Jefferson for facing the problem and being willing to take the time to solve it. Iris Brown; 236 Lincoln Street – Requested support and security in her neighborhood. Ms. Brown stated that she is a lifelong resident of the Borough. Recently, her tires have been deflated, her house has been broken into, and she had to move her daughter and grandson out of her house. Lastly, Ms. Brown moved out of the house in January because of the constant noise and disruption in the neighborhood. She stated that Steelton Police officers pulled her over for not making a complete stop at a stop sign but, they refuse to address the drug activity that occurs on the street every day. She is requesting help from the police and Borough Council. Natalie Bowman; 249 Lincoln Street - Requested support and security in her neighborhood. Ms. Bowman stated that she is a lifelong resident of the Borough. She has 15 years of experience working with the Dauphin County Probation office. There are solutions. She stated that there are kids roaming the streets at all hours of the night. She asked if Council would consider donating one of the many empty buildings on Front Street. Kids can work with groups, such as Habitat for Humanity, to repair the buildings and use them as a recreation center. Kids will realize the hard work it takes to keep a home and then will have more pride in their home and other homes in the community. Mrs. Wiedeman-Krosnar stated that she is working with Dr. Wortham to start a Junior Council Program. It is projected to begin next school year. COUNCIL’S CONCERNS: Dr. Szada: stated that Saturday and Sunday were good programs however, there were not many people there. She would like to see more people from the Borough attend. For future events, a plan needs to be devised to get more people to come out. 8  Steelton Borough Council Meeting June 1, 2009 Mrs. Wiedeman-Krosnar: notified everyone that the Steelton Senior Center is running a gift card fundraiser. A percentage of the proceeds go directly to the center. The maximum percentage is 13%. It ends June 12th and she encouraged everyone to support their efforts. Mr. Albert: had no comment. Mr. Albert was excused at 8:25 p.m. Mr. Heefner: had no comment. Mr. Shaver: had no comment. Mayor Acri: had no comment. On a motion made by Dr. Szada, seconded by Mr. Heefner, the Council meeting recessed into executive session at 8:30 p.m., to discuss personnel matters, land acquisition and potential litigation. The regular meeting re-convened at 9:32 P.M. On a motion by Dr. Szada, seconded by Mrs. Wiedeman-Krosnar, Council Members present voted unanimously to hire Thomas Zimmerman as a seasonal employee at the rate of $9.18 an hour beginning June 2, 2009. On a motion by Mr. Heefner, seconded by Mrs. Wiedeman-Krosnar, Council Members present voted unanimously to change the status of John Trish from part-time to full-time Code Enforcement Officer at his current rate, with life and disability insurance, vacation and sick leave, and no health benefits as mutually agreed. On a motion by Dr. Szada, seconded by Mrs. Wiedeman-Krosnar, Council Members present voted unanimously to exonerate Donald J. and Kimberly A. Waltman, from the Borough Personal Tax in the amount of $139.00. Mr. Waltman supplied proof that he was not a resident of the Borough in 2003. Mr. Wion informed Council members that he gave Mrs. Zell copies of the proposed Zoning Ordinance to distribute to the members of the Planning Commission and Zoning Board for their review. Mr. Wion said they have forty-five (45) days to schedule a public hearing, which would be the middle of July or beginning of August. Mr. Wion said that it should be a day that all seven (7) Council persons could attend and the public hearing must be advertised. After discussion it was agreed to hold the public hearing at the Steelton VFW. ADJOURNMENT: 9  Steelton Borough Council Meeting June 1, 2009 There being no other business before Council, on a motion by Dr. Szada, seconded by Mr. Heefner, the meeting adjourned at 9:45 P.M. Respectfully submitted, _____________________________ _______________________________ John DeSanto, Jr. Dennise Hill Borough Secretary Executive Administrative Assistant 10