Borough Council
Regular MeetingWest Mifflin, PA · October 18, 2016
Minutes
OCTOBER 18, 2016 7935
COUNCIL OF THE BOROUGH OF WEST MIFFLIN met in regular session in the
Municipal Building Council Chambers on Tuesday, October 18, 2016 at 6:00 p.m. prevailing
time with Vice President Daniel Davis presiding.
ROLL CALL: Kushner Present Olack Present
Marone Absent Davis Present
Stupar Present Kostelnik Present
Stephenson Absent
Five members present, two absent (Stephenson, Marone). Mayor Kelly present.
CITIZENS COMMENTS ON AGENDA ITEMS:
Jim Jasinski 4100 Home Street questioned if funds for the fitness equipment could be used for
something else, perhaps a library. Mr. Kamuaf explained the funds do not come from the
Borough, but from the health insurance company which is part of their health and wellness
program. Mr. Jasinski questioned the software license fee. Mr. Kamauf explained this is a one-
time processing fee used to report health insurance costs to the IRS. Mr. Jasinski asked why
there is a wage difference between school crossing guards in West Mifflin Borough and Whitaker
Borough. Mr. Kamauf explained that the Borough of West Mifflin hires crossing guards for
West Mifflin and the Borough of Whitaker hires crossing guards for Whitaker.
Mr. Davis noted that Councilman Marone called in via phone.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES:
Motion by Olack, seconded by Kostelnik that the Minutes of the September 20, 2016 Council
Meeting be approved. Roll Call: Six ayes, no nays, one absent (Stephenson). Motion carried.
AGENDA ITEMS:
A. RESOLUTION OF THE BOROUGH OF WEST MIFFLIN, ALLEGHENY
COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA AGREEING TO THE CUSTODIAL AGREEMENTS
WITH WILMINGTON TRUST/M&T BANK ASSOCIATED WITH THE POLICE
AND NON-UNIFORMED EMPLOYEES PLANS AND AUTHORIZING THE
BOROUGH MANAGER TO EFFECTUATE ENGAGING WILMINGTON
TRUST/M&T BANK AS PENSION CUSTODIAN.
Motion by Olack, seconded by Kostelnik that the Resolution be adopted. Roll Call: Six
ayes, no nays, one absent (Stephenson). Motion carried. Resolution given No. 1301.
B. RESOLUTION OF THE BOROUGH OF WEST MIFFLIN, ALLEGHENY
COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA TAKING ACTION WITH RESPECT TO THE
BOROUGH OF WEST MIFFLIN 457 DEFERRED COMPENSATION PLAN.
Motion by Olack, seconded by Kushner that the Resolution be adopted. Roll Call: Six
ayes, no nays, one absent (Stephenson). Motion carried. Resolution given No. 1302.
OCTOBER 18, 2016 7936
C. Motion by Marone, seconded by Olack to approve purchase of fitness equipment from
Webster’s Fitness Products for Borough employee fitness center at a cost of Twenty-Six
Thousand Four Hundred Fifty-Two Dollars ($26,452.00) PA CO-STARS #14-059. Roll
Call: Six ayes, no nays, one absent (Stephenson). Motion carried.
D. Motion by Olack, seconded by Stupar to approve the software license agreement
between the Borough of West Mifflin and AMCA Systems, LLC for ACA TaxTract
Software at a cost of $2,295.00. License fee will cover the filing requirements for 2015
tax year for IRS Forms 1095-b and 1094-c. Roll Call: Six ayes, no nays, one absent
(Stephenson). Motion carried.
E. Motion by Olack, seconded by Kushner to approve the lease agreement between the
Borough of West Mifflin and the West Mifflin Soccer Club for use of the Soccer
Complex, lease to end December 31, 2017. Roll Call: Six ayes, no nays, one absent
(Stephenson). Motion carried.
F. Motion by Olack, seconded by Stupar to approve the hiring of Darlene Blakely as
substitute Crossing Guard at a wage of $11.22 per hour, pending successful completion of
background check and clearances. Roll Call: Six ayes, no nays, one absent
(Stephenson). Motion carried.
G. Motion by Olack, seconded by Kostelnik to approve the termination of Employee #804.
Roll Call: Six ayes, no nays, one absent (Stephenson). Motion carried.
Mayor Kelly questioned Council about discussion at the last meeting of a drone purchase that
was supposed to be put on this month’s agenda. He said this was agreed upon pending review of
information sent to Council. Mr. Davis said he had discussed this with Councilmembers for
further review. He said this was delayed for further consideration because he didn’t believe there
was enough information. Mayor Kelly said any discussion with Councilmembers should have
been discussed with him according to Borough Code. He said this was agreed upon at an official
meeting and this was to be included in this month’s agenda. Mayor Kelly believed he was
back-doored on this subject.
Mr. Davis said he believed he didn’t have enough information and all he received from Chief
Kelly were brochures from three manufacturers. Mayor Kelly argued this was discussed in great
length and every department in the Borough could benefit by having the drone. Mr. Davis said
he still would like more discussion on this subject with SHACOG but did note the Borough does
have a license for the drone.
Andy Quayle said we have a registered pilot in the Borough where SHACOG does not have a
qualified pilot nor a certificate of authorization with the FAA. He said that the drone that
SHACOG has is an older model and is located in Robinson Township. He also added the
purchase of the drone would be paid out of the Federal Forfeiture Fund.
Mayor Kelly added that the drone that SHACOG has doesn’t come close to the qualifications and
technical ability of what we would use this for. He again said the item was approved by everyone
sitting here tonight. Mr. Kamauf said it wasn’t approved. Mr. Kamauf argued just because it
was discussed doesn’t set the agenda.
Mr. Olack said he was in favor of the drone but questioned whether we have policies and
procedures in place for the use of the drone. Mayor Kelly said once we see the capabilities of the
drone we will then set policies and procedures. He said this will all be in place before it takes
the first flight. Mr. Olack said he didn’t want to buy it and then find out its not capable for what
is needed. He asked if Mr. Quayle can test out the drone before the purchase. Mr. Quayle added
he is qualified to test out the drone and will be available.
OCTOBER 18, 2016 7937
Mr. Kostelnik asked since we have three quotes, will we go with the least expensive. Chief
Davies said all three are basically the same and the one recommended is the cheapest. Mr. Olack
asked if Mr. Quayle would be the only operator. Chief Davies said Mr. Quayle would train other
operators since he is licensed to train as well as operate. Mr. Marone said he is in favor of the
drone as long as we have all the procedures in place. Mr. Olack asked Mr. Quayle if he has ever
flown this type of drone to which he answered yes he has. He said this is the best of the drone
models. Mr. Quayle said along with Chief Davies, they have studied in great depth policies and
procedures to be put into place. He added the FAA defines a lot of the policies as well as
airspace since we are so close to the Allegheny County Airport. When asked how long it takes
to train others to operate the drone, he said not long at all.
Mr. Olack asked how long it will take to get the policies and procedures and wondered if the
solicitor should get involved. Chief Davies said probably a month. This would be spelled out
how and who could use it after training. Chief Davies said there is still substantial work to be
done with the FAA but we are required to have the drone first to register with the FAA. Mr.
Davis asked about liability. Mr. Quayle said this would be covered under most municipal
insurance companies along with additional insurance at a minimal cost.
Mr. Davies said these are all concerns that members of Council still have to address along with
overtime pay for officers who are scheduled to operate the drone. He told Mayor Kelly that
Council is in favor of the drone but we still don’t have all the answers yet. Mr. Davis said this
will be tabled until next month and by that time we should have all questions answered. Mr.
Quayle said he will try to obtain a drone for demonstration at the next work session. Solicitor
DiLucente said he will be in touch with Mr. Kamauf since we are so close to the airport.
DEPARTMENTAL REPORTS:
Community Development………………………………………..………….Walter B. Anthony
Mr. Anthony read the Community Development Report for the month of September 2016.
Police……………………………………………………………………………Chief Ken Davies
Chief Davies read the Police Department Report for the month of September 2016.
Chief Davies said that once again the Department has been selected to participate in the next
wave of the States’ aggressive driving detail.
Chief Davies reminded everyone that Halloween will be Monday, October 31st from 6-7:30 p.m.
and asked drivers to use additional caution.
Public Works………………………………………………………….………Richard Marecic
Mr. Marecic read the Public Works Report for the month of September 2016.
Mayor Kelly said he spoke with the general contractor about the Homeville Bridge. He said
completion should be done prior to Thanksgiving. He asked Mr. Marecic to take a look at Grant
Avenue Extension which was the designated detour for Port Authority. The road is bad due to
the volume of busses that traveled this detour and he believes the Borough should not be
responsible for the repair. Mr. Kostelnik added that our County Councilman should be contacted
OCTOBER 18, 2016 7938
as well. He also said he is looking into a shared road with the city of Pittsburgh which needs
repaired.
Recreation……………………………………………………………………Anthony DiCenzo
Mr. DiCenzo reported the following:
a. The last phase of the Basketball Courts should be done shortly.
b. A representative from Duquesne Light has asked for more information in regards to the
lighting at the Basketball Courts. We should know more by the end of the year if we will
be awarded the grant.
c. The annual Halloween Event will be October 29th from 10 a.m. till noon at the
Community Park.
d. Light up night will be held December 1st.
e. The Father/Daughter dance will be held February 18th at Westwood.
EMS………………………………………………………………………..Chief Todd Plunket
Chief Plunkett read the EMS Report for the month of September 2016.
REPORT OF THE MAYOR:
Mayor Kelly said most of his report has already been covered.
Mayor Kelly spoke of the damage done by ATVs and dirt bikes at the Community Park.
When asked if there will be a grand opening for the Homeville Bridge, Mayor Kelly said
everyone he spoke to about this just wants the bridge opening without any further delay.
Mayor Kelly said he spoke to Gander Mountain and was surprised to hear of their closing. He
said the store is downsizing throughout the corporation.
REPORT OF THE SOLICITOR:
Mr. DiLucente said he has received, reviewed and analyzed the custodial agreement with
Wilmington Trust/M&T Bank.
Mr. DiLucente thanked Mr. Kamauf for acting on the fitness equipment. He said this is of no
cost to the Borough.
Mr. DiLucente said there has been no new interest in the old Borough Building.
Mr. DiLucente said he is reviewing the permit for Lamar Advertising.
REPORT OF THE ENGINEER:
Mr. Balewski said he is reviewing subdivision plans for the old Busy Beaver lot and Home
Depot. Work should be completed this week on the Community Park Basketball Court. Fencing
is also expected to be done this week. Contract closeout expected by the end of the month along
OCTOBER 18, 2016 7939
with final payment. The detailed survey on the Adult Fitness Park is completed. Options for
expanding the pavilion and parking at the Community Park is being reviewed.
REPORT OF THE BOROUGH MANAGER:
Mr. Kamauf read the Finance Report for the month of September 2016.
Mr. Kamauf said the new budget was discussed at the work session. He said this will be
advertised and he will have a proposed budget for public inspection for November 1st and then he
will schedule a public hearing.
Mr. Kamauf asked Mr. DiLucente if we can prohibit ATVs at the parks. Mr. DiLucente said this
would have to be rationally related to the prevention of such motor vehicles. For instance, if the
Borough’s insurance policy would not permit such type of activity then it could be rationally
related to the prohibition. Mr. Kamauf said he would like to discuss this further with Mr.
DiLucente at next month’s work session.
PAYMENT OF BILLS:
Motion by Olack, seconded by Kushner that all bills properly approved by the
Finance Committee be paid. Roll Call: Five ayes, no nays, two absent (Stephenson, Marone).
Motion carried.
NEW BUSINESS:
None.
CITIZENS COMMENTS:
Clark Callahan 718 Camp Hollow Road said he closed on his home July 2015. Prior to the
purchase he questioned the side road (Linda Lane) and was told by several Borough employees
this road was a Borough road down to 125 feet. His realtor checked with Allegheny County that
stated it is a Borough road down 125 feet. Mr. Callahan wants to put in a driveway but because
Linda Lane is in such poor shape, his home would be flooded since he is in a low spot. Mr.
Anthony commented that Linda Lane had never been adopted by the Borough and is a private
street. Mr. Callahan said he spoke to the inspector from the Borough who inspected the home
prior to his purchase along with others in the office who told him this was a borough road. He
added he would have never purchased the property if he knew this was a private road. Mr.
Callahan said even if the borough repaired part of the road he would work to keep it up. Mr.
Davis said the Borough will investigate this matter along with Mr. Anthony and will get back in
touch with him.
Jim Jasinski 4100 Home Street questioned the opening of the Lowe’s Home Improvement
Store. Mr. Kamauf said the opening should be at the beginning of December.
Mr. Jasinski asked if we are prepared for the upcoming winter snow removal. Mr. Marecic said
we are ready to go.
OCTOBER 18, 2016 7940
Tracy and Joseph Bileck 2209 Worton Boulevard said he heard that Century III Mall was being
purchased by UPMC. He also wanted to know the due date of the re-opening of the Homeville
Bridge.
Mayor Kelly explained we have had several discussions with potential purchasers. We’ve been
asked to honor their non-disclosure clause which is not to talk about this while they’re
negotiating with other parties. As far as the bridge, Mayor Kelly said it should be open by
Thanksgiving.
Mr. Bileck asked if the park on Kansas Street will be improved. Mr. DiCenzo said a grant will
pay for the improvement of the park
ADJOURNMENT:
Motion by Olack, seconded by Kushner that the Meeting be adjourned. Meeting adjourned at
7:20 p.m.
Agenda
LEGISLATIVE MEETING
WEST MIFFLIN BOROUGH COUNCIL
October 18, 2016
6:00 P.M.
1. Call to Order
2. Moment of Silent Prayer
3. Pledge of Allegiance
4. Roll Call
5. Citizen Comments on Agenda Items Only: All citizens wishing to make comments or remarks on agenda
items numbered 6, 7 or 14 will be granted three minutes.
6. Motion to approve the minutes of the September 20, 2016 Legislative Meeting.
7. Unfinished Business Requiring Official Action:
A. RESOLUTION OF THE BOROUGH OF WEST MIFFLIN, ALLEGHENY COUNTY,
PENNSYLVANIA AGREEING TO THE CUSTODIAL AGREEMENTS WITH WILMINGTON
TRUST/M&T BANK ASSOCIATED WITH THE POLICE AND NON-UNIFORM EMPLOYEES PLANS AND
AUTHORIZING THE BOROUGH MANAGER TO EFFECTUATE ENGAGING WILMINGTON
TRUST/M&T BANK AS PENSION CUSTODIAN.
B. RESOLUTION OF THE BOROUGH OF WEST MIFFLIN, ALLEGHENY COUNTY,
PENNSYLVANIA TAKING ACTION WITH RESPECT TO THE BOROUGH OF WEST MIFFLIN 457
DEFERRED COMPENSATION PLAN.
C. Motion to approve purchase of fitness equipment from Webster’s Fitness Products for Borough
employee fitness center at a cost of Twenty-Six Thousand Four Hundred Fifty-Two Dollars
($26,452.00) PA CO-STARS #14-059.
D. Motion to approve the software license agreement between the Borough of West Mifflin and AMCA
Systems, LLC for ACA TaxTrack Software at a cost of $2,295.00. License fee will cover the filing
requirements for 2015 tax year for IRS Forms 1095-b and 1094-c.
E. Motion to approve the lease agreement between the Borough West Mifflin and the West Mifflin Soccer
Club for use of the Soccer Complex, lease to end December 31, 2017.
F. Motion to approve the hiring of Darlene Blakely as substitute Crossing Guard at a wage of $11.22 per
hour, pending successful completion of background check and clearances.
G. Motion to approve the termination of Employee #804.
8. Departmental Reports
a. Community Development - Walter B. Anthony
b. Police - Chief Ken Davies
c. Public Works - James Hess
d. Recreation - Anthony DiCenzo
9. Report for EMS – Chief Todd Plunkett
10. Report of the Mayor - Christopher Kelly
11. Report of the Solicitor - Evashavik, DiLucente & Tetlow, LLC
12. Report of the Engineer – Chester Engineering
13. Report of the Manager - Brian Kamauf
14. Motion to approve payment of bills as approved by the Finance Committee.
15. New Business.
16. Citizen Comments by Prior Request to be placed on the Agenda.
17. Motion to adjourn.
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