Good evening. It's my pleasure to
welcome you to the May 12th, 2026
Council Business Meeting. Please join me
in standing the pledge of
>> please
>> to the flag of the United States of
America and to the republic for which it
stands one nation under God indivisible
with liberty and all
[clears throat]
>> council Woman Revzac
>> present.
>> Mayor Cooper present. [clears throat]
>> Councilwoman Provenza
>> present.
>> Councilman Wong
>> present.
>> Thank you.
>> Very good. Um we're actually going to
move ahead with item five, the swearing
in of both our new police officers and
junior council members. I invite officer
Josh Burrow and Juda join.
Um, welcome to Vir.
to um come to the town and let's just
swear both of you in um repeat after me.
I state your name. I, Joshua Martin. I,
James,
>> do solemnly swear or affirm
>> Do solemnly swear or affirm that I will
support
>> obey
>> and defend the Constitution of the
United States
>> and defend the Constitution of the
United States
>> of America of America
>> and the Constitution of the Commonwealth
of Pennsylvania
>> and the Constitution of the Commonwealth
of Pennsylvania. And that I will
discharge my duties And I will discharge
my duties of my office of my office with
fidelity and with fidelity and honor.
Congratulations.
Verona Burough is very delighted to
introduce a new program called
Pennsylvania Junior Council Member
Program.
We've received and approved two
exceptional applicants from Riverview
High School for our inaugural program.
We are very pleased to have them both
here tonight wearing them next. Please
welcome John Joseph and Ali Cox.
Amen. Repeat after me. I state your
name. John Moses. We solemnly pledge
>> We slely pledge
>> to serve as junior council persons
>> for the burrow of Rome
>> for the burrow of
>> I'm committed to serving
>> with integrity
>> and respect
>> for all residents
>> attending attend meetings faithfully
>> attend meetings faithfully
>> and uphold all official proceedings
>> and uphold of all efficient procedures.
>> act actively engaged in work
>> actively engaged in work
>> of the Burough Council
>> while learning the operations
>> of local government
>> representing the youth
>> represented the youth
>> and the broader community
>> with professionalism
>> and thoughtfulness
>> and thoughtfulness. By this oath,
>> By this oath,
>> I uphold the values
>> and the standards of Burough Verona.
>> And the standards of
>> Congratulations.
Does anybody else need to buried or
anything?
Tonight
we do have two registered comments from
the public. Before we begin with all of
our public comments, I do want to call
everyone's attention to the fact that
this year council have adopted a council
for the time that is displayed on the
wall behind you and I'm going to refresh
everyone's memory on
>> interactions with each other. Listen and
do not interrupt. Be on time and
prepared regularly. Attend meetings. Be
professional and respectful.
Do not use profanity or swear. Do not
personally attack another council
member. If it is needed, we will take a
break or recess. As far as interactions
with our public,
being kind to one another, sensitive and
caring, dressing appropriately, paying
attention, making eye contact,
acting with integrity and transparency,
not making faces, rolling eyes, sighing
or dismissing comments, remaining
neutral,
ensuring there is followup,
attending public events for vis
visibility in the community that we care
about.
and sharing information if anyone has a
meeting with a member of the public. As
a final reminder, criticism should be
directed to our council as a whole and
should not be directed at an individual
member. Uh it should not be a personal
attack and we would appreciate it if you
came to us also with any constructive
suggestions.
>> With that reminder being said, I'd like
to welcome first uh Jeff Pepper who's
going to talk to us about the pickle
ball courts at River Big Park. You have
the floor, Jack?
>> Well, thank you, Trish. Uh, could you
hear me? Okay.
>> Yes.
>> Great. Okay. I'm gonna share my screen.
>> And good. Okay.
>> Uh, so, hi everybody. Thanks for giving
me time on the agenda. Uh, my name is
Jeff Pepper. Uh, I live in Verona
Hilltop, just over the line into Pen
Hills. But I do consider myself to be an
honorary uh resident of Verona. Uh I
spearheaded the creation of the pickle
ball courts at Riverbank Park in 2019
and a few years ago I also led the
effort to uh uh build and install uh the
welcome signs that you see on Alligator
River Boulevard. Uh so I'm involved with
the Veroda Pickle Ball Club and I want
to talk to you about our goals for uh
resurfacing the park uh resurfacing the
courts.
Uh we'll try to keep this brief. Okay.
So the courts were resurfaced in 2020.
Uh prior to that uh it was an old
disused tennis court. Uh but we raised
money to uh to pay for the uh repair and
resurfacing of the courts. uh Verona
Burough uh contributed the nets which
are beautiful and the players and some
local businesses and nonprofits uh
donated all the money required to uh to
create the beautiful surface that you
see here in this picture from 2020. It's
been a while. Uh if you've seen the
courts recently, they're showing their
age. Uh, one of the reasons is that uh,
the Verona courts are probably the only
ones I know of that are in heavy shade
because of the large beautiful trees all
around the court that tends to uh, uh,
uh, encourage the growth of mold and
mildew. So, the courts are dark, they're
stained, the paint is wearing out, and
as you can see, there are a number of
large cracks. Uh, the we, the players,
have done a couple things. We hired a
power washing company two years ago to
come and power wash the courts. Didn't
really do very much. And then last year,
a few of us came in uh on the weekend
and applied mold and mildew remover to
the entire surface. Yeah, it didn't do
much good. Uh a lot of this is just dirt
that's accumulated over time, but it's
not the kind of dirt that can be removed
easily. And of course, the cracks are
the cracks.
So what we'd like to do is to get the
court uh resurfaced and bring it back to
the condition it was in uh six years
ago. Now the bureau has been working on
this. Burrow has applied for grants uh
from a couple of locations uh GTRP
and people's park and recreation.
Neither of those grants were approved.
Uh so we the pickle ball players uh are
ready and willing to contribute some
funds. So a few things. We've been
saving up money for a few years from
donations and court fees. We have $8,000
in the bank. We're expecting another
3,000 and change this year from uh
league fees. And we could probably raise
another $2,000 by just asking people for
money. So that gets us to available
contribution of 13,000 and change.
Uh we have two resurfacing proposals. Uh
they're both about the same number. Uh
the one that we prefer is from Altzman.
They're a very highly regarded company.
I believe they did the uh courts at um
Longwood at Oakmont and they came in at
$17,024.
Um so if looking at the budget, uh Alman
charges, as I said, 17,000 and change.
They require that the courts be cleaned
beforehand. So we have to bring in a
cleaning company for 1,500. That brings
the total cost, as you can see, to
18.5,000.
The contribution that we can make is
13,000. And so the additional funding,
basically the shortfall to get the work
done this year is 5,272.
And that's what we're asking uh Verona
Council for uh uh to to approve. Um I
should note that even though we don't
have the full 13,000 and change, we will
contribute that uh basically we'll go
into a bit of debt uh with the
anticipation of of raising that money
afterwards, which I'm confident that we
can do.
So just to re reiterate, uh what I'm
requesting tonight is that Ver Verona
Burough approve the resurfacing and
cleaning project, contract with these
two vendors, and get the work done this
summer. uh we'll contribute about oh
just over twothirds of of the uh the
cost and we're also willing to handle
any vendor interactions that are
required and of course we would work
with DPW.
So that's it. I'm happy to take
questions or uh comments.
>> Have any questions or comments? Go ahead
Kelly.
>> Um how long does this last?
Uh the the resurfacing lasts about 5
years in general. Uh I think that as I
said, Riverbank Park is unusual because
of the shade. So it may be a bit shorter
than that. It may be four years before
something has to be done. Uh I don't
believe we have to resurface the court
after four years, but I think some kind
of deep cleaning would be required at
that point. Other
questions or comments from council?
How
>> how often do you recommend the uh
surface be pressure washed to make you
to maintain it after?
>> Yeah, it's a good Yeah, it's a good
question. Uh we had one disappointing
experience with a pressure washing
company, but I think it was a it was a
bad a bad vendor as opposed to a bad
approach. and pressure washing obviously
is a you know a a well regarded process.
Uh I would say every two years would be
a good way to to keep the courts clean
and in good shape. Now one thing I do
have to mention um there is a problem
with runoff. Uh you're all familiar with
with the park. Sure. The area behind the
courts is sloped towards the courts and
every time it rains uh water seeps onto
the court and people track through the
mud and onto the courts. So a lot of the
discoloration that uh that you see is
not so much mold and mildew. It's just
accumulated dirt that's been ground in.
So, we have been talking uh about
another uh related project which is to
um regrade that area behind the pickle
ball courts, put in a path adjacent to
the back fence and have a French drain
that would basically carry the water
away from the courts and towards the
river. So, that would certainly help the
dirt and grime situation.
Hey, are there any other questions or
comments from council?
>> I'll ask one.
>> Um, so Jeff, is there something
in particular, unless I missed it, that
you are asking of this council at this
time?
>> Yes. Uh we're we're I guess I I'm asking
council to approve the resurfacing and
budget uh 5,272
to cover the shortfall in the funding
that will enable us to get the work done
this summer.
>> U very good.
Uh, Matt, did you want to comment at all
at this point about the GTP ban or did
you want to wait? So,
>> about the one that we're proposing to
submit for. Um, we were just proposing
the the 20206
GTRP. Uh, talking with Mr.
Representative McK Andrew's office. I he
suggested going after a a smaller grant
than what we've had in the past,
>> trying to focus in the um 40 to 50,000
range. Um so we were proposing going
after the resurfacing this year in just
that. The previous grants we had went
for had a lot more packaged with it,
fencing, parking. Uh this one was just
going to be focused solely on the the
resurfacing.
H uh Matt, I maybe you and I should talk
offline, but what I'm wondering is um do
you have any idea what the cost would be
of the resurfacing
plus that uh improvement to the back of
the uh of the park that I mentioned?
>> I'd have to take a look at it. Um it
could be even something that DW would
handle in house. So, we'd have to look
at it and assess exactly what needs to
be done.
>> Okay. And the other question is, uh, in
your opinion, what are the odds of, uh,
a re a resubmitted grant proposal being
approved?
>> Uh, so it's not going to be a
resubmitted one. It's a it's a different
one. The the last one we had applied for
work. Um, believe it was in the 100,000
range. It it included other items like
some parking um, and some restroom
renovations, I believe. Uh so talking
with Representative McAndrew, he
[clears throat] he suggested pairing it
down to a more reasonable size project.
Uh so looking just at the pickle ball,
um I can't can't speculate on what the
chances are, but I think it's a lot lot
higher than what previous attempts have
been.
>> Okay. Well, then let me suggest an
alternative uh proposal then. Um if we
can get a grant from uh I'm sorry, I
forget the acronym. If we can get a
grant from GTRP
to cover the resurfacing and that uh
water remediation uh issue in the back
of the court, um that would be better
than than just getting the resurfacing
done by itself. So, Matt, maybe you and
I could talk about uh putting together a
new proposal possibly with some uh
financial support from the players since
we do have the money already uh raised.
And maybe what we could do is put
together a revised uh proposal to cover
both of those tasks and hope for the
best. Uh if we get it, then that would
be great. If we don't get it, then maybe
we look at uh uh doing it ourselves uh
in 2027. Would that make sense?
>> Yeah. Uh um Jacob and I have preliminary
discussion on this. Um these grants
should be announced around the October,
November time frame. uh so we would know
if we were successful with it in time
for budgeting uh so that it could be
revisited if we weren't successful with
with the grant.
>> Great. Okay. In that case, let me
withdraw my my request and Matt uh I'll
get in touch with you tomorrow and maybe
we can sit down and talk about the
specifics of uh what we could propose to
uh GTRP. Would that make sense?
Um, yeah, if you Jeff, if you want to
get in touch with me for school, we'll
set it up. But thank you.
>> I'm sorry. Who's Who is that?
>> This is Jacob. We'll
>> Oh, Jacob.
>> Yeah.
>> Yeah, I'll do that. Okay. Uh, thank you
very much. I appreciate your time and
I'll sign off then.
>> Thank you, Jeeoff. We appreciate what
you do for our community.
>> Up next, we are joined by Aaron McDade.
is going to talk to us about some ideas
for street parking ticketing and
improvements in the garage.
[clears throat] Um,
861st Street.
>> Would you please turn my
>> Oh, I'm sorry.
>> Yeah.
>> Um, a little over a month ago, I
received ticket for violation of a
posted parking sign while parking in
front of my house at First and North. I
had heard through the grapevine that
ticketing had been suspended in my area
due to the ongoing gas line work and
since the work affected both the front
and side of my property I believe the
suspension applied to me too. Um after
receiving the ticket I posted on the
Facebook neighborhood watch web page
about the price of the ticket which was
double what I'd seen in the past
thinking maybe I missed an announcement.
Solomon replied that it was decided in
the March council meeting and many
others were as surprised as I was. I
checked the Burough web page and the
ecode, the Verona PD and Burough
Facebook pages. I even watched the
council meeting video on YouTube and I
couldn't find a written announcement
anywhere. Everywhere I looked, the
documentation showed the old rate. Like
many in town, I thought the ticketing
window corresponded to street sweeping,
but the street sweeper hadn't run since
fall.
Not so long ago, tickets were only $5.
Now they're 20 with a $25 late fee. When
I took my ticket to the burrow building
and spoke at the net to inquire
justified a ticket if there was no
reason to move a vehicle other than
explicitly avoiding a ticket, she
shrugged and said because the sign says
so. [clears throat]
When I called and spoke with Chief Desur
me that ticketing isn't going away.
Verona as a burough faces a lot of
challenges. Our millillage keeps going
up. Our enrollment in Verner has been
low enough for almost a decade to
jeopardize its long-term feasibility.
Our housing market is being artificially
inflated by non-resident flippers who
buy cheap, renovate cheap, and then
charge top dollar to sell. Nationally,
wages have stagnated while expenses have
ballooned. Many residents simply can't
afford a $20 ticket for parking in front
of their own homes while nothing even
happens, especially with no for formal
communication about the fine increase.
Recently, we were informed that if our
left wheels are facing the curb, we will
also be ticketed. Driving from my house
to Shannon Road on Friday night, I
counted 17 cars parked the wrong
direction.
Assuming that route of travel represents
conservatively four to 5% of the total
residential roadway in Verona, if
ticketing occurs seven days a week at
$20 per ticket, this could represent
approximately $2.4 million in annual
fines paid by our residents plus late
fees for an infraction that poses no
threat to public safety. Whereas
intersection turnarounds may actually
create a new real safety risk.
I understand that revenue gaps are
always a challenge and change never
makes any everyone happy. But Verona's
biggest challenge is lack of trust
between the residents in the burrow and
among the resident themselves.
Changes must be thoughtful, transparent,
and mutually beneficial in order to
foster trust and renew the sense of
small town closeness we all love about
this town. To that end, I'd like to
offer business process analysis
consultation to council on a pro bono
basis to help come up with an
alternative revenue collection plan that
closes the gap without feeling excluded
to our residents.
I'm also happy to take questions if
anybody
you are there questions or comments from
council. How do we get you with
everybody else so you can hear what we
do and get your input?
>> Truthfully, um, my experience has just
been that the meetings are painfully
long and it's very, very hard to carve
out that kind of time when you have a
busy schedule, you work full-time,
you're a single parent, whatever the
case may be. Um, it's hard to make that
kind of a a time investment. Um, if the
meetings were shorter, um, I I
definitely would attend.
Period.
>> Thank you. Other questions or comments
for Aaron?
>> Thank you for coming out tonight.
Appreciate it.
>> We'll now be moving on to section seven,
comments from the public.
>> At this time, council will hear comments
on agenda and public related matters.
Please approach the podium or raise your
virtual hand. Clear clearly state your
name and address and try and limit your
comments to three minutes or less.
Comments should focus on burough
business policies or actions. Council
encourages thoughtful feedback on
decisions and performance while
maintaining respectful and constructive
dialogue. Are there any comments from
the public?
I've uh I've been fired from keeping
time.
[laughter]
>> Good evening. My name is Charlotte
Davidson. with Twin Bars Health
Ministry. I wanted to let everybody know
that the 250th celebration of our
country is coming along very well. Uh
I've already secured uh the permanence
through the borrow. I've secured the
health department. Uh I have the bands
that are going to play. I have people
that are going to donate to me gift
cards to uh we kind of like went towards
uh gift cards that were from a grocery
store because we felt that that was the
most needed thing besides other baskets.
It'll be probably about 40 baskets. The
20 of them I'm hoping to be gift cards.
Um, I wanted to ask the burrow if they
wanted to give this this to them like
they did three years ago and donate the
$500 towards the summer camp. Unless you
would like to just help me with the
250th anniversary
uh special that will be during July 11,
that would be acceptable also. So uh
whatever anybody would like to do, if
anybody would like to be part of the
250th,
please reach out to me. That's Shirley
Davis at 4128283412
or they can reach me at Bernie United
Methodist Church 412828
88844.
I have to think about that for a minute.
But uh I just wanted to say that
everything is going so well. I'm so
happy with everybody that has reached
out to me. And so if there's anybody
here or on the council that would like
to reach out to me, just please do.
Thank you for your time.
>> Charlie, I have a question for you. We
have time. Oh,
>> do you know I have a question?
>> Okay.
>> I can give you gift cards. Is that
>> That's Do you a basket still?
>> Uh I don't need a basket. I'm going to
put them in bags.
>> But you want you didn't because you
asked me specifically for like an animal
basket.
>> Oh, that would be great.
>> Okay.
Okay. Yes.
>> Um, Shirley, can you restate the date
and time for your fundraiser?
>> Uh, the fundraiser is going to be July
11th. It will be from noon till 7:00
>> where
>> uh it's going to be a railroad park from
the building all the way to
what would we say the platform
>> Thank you.
>> Perfect.
>> Uh the other thing that I'd like to ask
is if we could advertise it on your
website. how I think John had mentioned
something that to me about that before.
So that if there's any businesses that
anybody deals with that they know that
they would like to be part of this. Uh
and the last thing that I would like to
ask is that there is some special people
that I had asked uh to do something for
veterans.
And if anybody knows of our veterans,
please let me know. Uh I reached out to
Mickey Andrew's office. He's willing to
uh donate some flags and some other
things. So I think that we can cover
that and I think we could make it a
special day for everybody. sales. I hope
that that's what it will be. And I'm
cutting my music.
>> I also I just want to restate your ask.
You're asking for a $500 contribution
from the burrow and or some kind
>> or just helping me out.
[clears throat] That would be the setup
of the tables, the setup of the tents.
AJ has already said that he will
probably help me do that, you know, in
the evening. So, I can come down and
help him do that. Great. Yeah, if we
could connect about a list of other
inind contributions, that would be
great.
>> And then the other thing is the two big
tents that I'll have, I think they're 10
foot by 20 foot. I'm going to donate
those to the burrow maybe for another
year of fundraising for possibly the
newsletter, uh possibly, you know, the
summer lunch, you know, but it doesn't
have to be specifically one thing.
>> Okay,
>> perfect. Thank you.
What's the times again?
>> Um
>> 12 to 7.
>> Charlie, excuse me.
>> Um contact me for the newsletter. We'll
make sure that we do a really nice
>> I I already contacted Donald and said
send him
>> D and I are on the committee together.
>> Yes.
>> Good. So
>> to all the residents and businesses,
right?
>> Give you some good contact there.
>> Okay. Thank you. You're welcome. Surely
we have one last but not least question
of our junior guest.
>> So if you are looking for volunteers, do
you have a specific number in mind for
how many you are looking?
>> I would probably say at least 6 to 10
people. Okay, that would be you know so
everybody's standing there from 12 to 7,
you know, where we can give somebody a
break and then come back. And then the
last but not least will be the clean up
of everything. Pulling the garbage bags
out. We put the borrow.
>> That would be wonderful.
>> Okay.
>> Okay. Thank you.
>> Thank you.
Are there other comments from the
public?
>> I know this is reiterating. We talked
already, but um
>> could you tell ABC?
>> Oh, I'm sorry.
>> I'm Sylvia Sher, 759 Second Street,
Maryland.
And um so
we replaced most of our sidewalk two
years ago and we were told at that time
by the engineers in Rora that they were
going to replace the corner and two
slabs on either side for ADA. Well, it
has been two years and
um we're kind of getting a little
anxious about not having it done. Uh we
did have someone fall back in January.
She had some severe injuries. Thank God
she recovered from those. You know, our
our corner is heavily loose. Every
morning the kids are on that corner,
their school bus. They get on the bus
right there. Uh we also have a lot of
dog walkers and we also have a lot of
people that go to the church that walk
and that's raised about a good two
inches. So we did not replace it because
we was told it was going to be done by
running um through the toy grants or
whatever. But um and then we saw the
opposite corner had been done a month
ago which really raised our eyebrows as
to why. I understand that wasn't done by
county money apparently but and you're
waiting for this money to come from the
county. Now can we have a specific I
know you said this summer but is there
any specific time frame on that? Maybe I
should direct it to Mr. Yeah, our
engineer will be looking at us.
>> I have a meeting at the end of end of
this week to go over the plans. We were
slowed down with the snowstorms we had,
we were out and about surveying it uh
this winter, so we had some delays
there, but the plans are underway and
it's and that corner is being taken care
of. The corner across the street that
was more of a a legal action that
happened within council here. Uh but
that your order there is going to be
taken care of when it goes out in the
bid.
>> Well, we're concerned. We don't want
anybody else to fall because if that
happens, we're liable for being, you
know, for getting sued. So, we just want
to make sure that it's going to be taken
care of one way or another.
>> My question is, you're bringing this to
our attention and we're waiting. This is
not accessible. If somebody falls, it
should be on us at this point. And I
that's
>> because that's enough.
>> That's a good point. And that may
happen. I hope it doesn't. I hope nobody
falls
>> because
she just didn't see it. And you know,
she went. She had pretty big black eyes
and bruises all over her. Luckily, she
didn't break anything. I mean, I I
pushed for that sidewalk across the
street for you for a while, and it's
there was a girl that has um she's
impaired. She's impaired, so I pushed
for that so she could get her bus
here when you started this, but you
know,
>> happy to do what I can. I don't know
what I can do, but
>> Well, if they can
>> I can break the concrete up for you if
you'd like.
Well, I said we replaced that was bad,
but we didn't we didn't want to pay if
it was going to be redone.
>> I agree. Sure.
>> Okay.
Appreciate if I maybe could let you know
in advance when it might be done.
>> Yeah, we've been promised for two years.
>> Yeah.
>> I mean, you're you're promising me again
for the same thing and you don't know
when.
>> Wow. I I can show you the the status of
the plans. They're in in process and as
you saw the surveyor
kind of think it's a smack in the face
when you've been asking for two years
and you do the opposite corner.
>> Well, that was they said it was because
>> I mean that's kind of crazy and we do
have a lot of kids there all the time.
>> We understand your frustration. We're
going to fix this. Can I have your
>> We've been very patient. Two years is a
long time.
>> You have. We'll make sure our engineer
through our manager gets in touch with
you as soon as you have any.
>> Thank you.
>> Are there other comments from the
public?
>> Oh, I'm sorry. Go ahead. Judy Williams
534 Avenue.
Um
I I live on a dead end street, you know,
been there for so many years.
Um I've noticed I walk my dog up and
down the street and there's
several cars on the street that have out
of date um stickers in their windows. Is
there anything that can be done with
that? Because we're taking up parking
spaces that are limited.
that inspection stickers.
>> Yeah.
>> Yeah. I mean, there's one that's next to
>> Yeah. It's It expires in December.
>> I'll have the chief go out tomorrow and
look on both ships, daylight and evening
ships.
>> And also too, there's a car that's green
that's parked down by the cannon.
>> That's the one.
>> The one that's been there for a few
days.
>> Yeah. When did they take it away?
>> What day?
>> Oh, okay. because I drove by was still
there this afternoon.
Okay, that's I wanted to know. Oh, one
other thing I just want to say. Um, by
me walking the dog back the street and
everything, that hillside that is you're
going back and around the bend, all
those trees and everything because of
all the massive rain that we've been
having over the past few years and
everything, those trees are going to
come down and land on the street and
they're going to block the people that
are back street, they're not able to get
out. They're not little trees, they're
big trees. Where's it at? They're on the
on my side of the street. Yeah. As
you're going back the street and you
they kind of like the road kind of like
bends around the um the people house.
>> Okay.
>> Yeah. Except those house I mean those
trees are like way down like and they're
hanging out over the road. I mean I
don't go back there so but I don't want
anybody to get stuck back there cuz if
they need an ambulance or something,
>> you know they'd have to carry the person
down here. Yeah. Last year we had a
storm. We had to clear the street
because we knew the burrow was busy. So,
Bill, myself and other neighbors went
out with thaws and cleared the street.
>> Judy um or Susie actually or anyone you
would so kindly I know you walk a lot to
uh send pictures of these types of
things to manager at veronab.org.
>> Okay. I will actually meet her.
>> Sure. That'd be great.
>> Yeah,
>> I will be. I know. Yeah.
>> Um we'll make sure that
>> Thank you.
>> Anytime you're free.
>> Davis, 537 Bridge Avenue. Everybody here
is my address because I'm over here.
My first thing is in March we had that
car go over the hillside on Lower Ridge
and the guide rail is illegal. that's
there that P that Vona has had for years
there. When is the guard rail being put
in the legal guard rail, not the guide
rail?
>> That's still tied up with insurance. We
we got the claim from Green Acres for
the the quote for what it would cost to
reinstall and it was submitted to the
insurance company.
>> That and also on Lower Ridge, the house
that I guess just got sold at 444.
Has anybody drove down Ridge and look
through the front yard?
>> Oh yeah,
>> it's a junkyard. They're cleaning out
the house and they're throwing it all
out in the front yard. Where's the code
enforcement guy to get them?
>> That and then the back alley. They had a
mess out there. They have a dumpster
now, but there's still a mess out there.
So, it's got to be addressed because
[clears throat] heaven forbid if you
have too many things in your yard, code
of course are there to slap you for, oh,
you can't have that. You can't have
that. Well,
for me to get these people. It's
horrible. I have one picture. Anybody
would like to see it? I think I have two
pictures of the mess in that front yard.
It's a nice store and it looks bad from
anybody coming in.
Thank you.
>> Hi, Jacob.
>> Yeah, I was say our code enforcement
officer was out there today. Um actually
talked to the workers directly and the
person that's flipping house said is
supposed to be calling them. Um the code
enforcement officer is aware of both the
front yard and the hill. So we
>> we're working on that for it.
>> That is a mess.
>> I said my girlfriend she came in from
out of state and she came up she comes
up lower ridge to get on my part of
ridge and she says what the heck
happened there? I said oh they're
getting the house. She said but um it's
coming out this out the gate. It's
opening pushing open that gate. So, it's
just a matter of time before on the
road.
>> Thank you.
>> Thank you, Susan.
>> Other comments in the comments.
OD5
Avenue
>> with respect with all respect to the
opinions of those who are against the
directive to the Verona Police
Department to increase enforcement of
traffic and parking regulations. Through
these comments, my husband Jeff and I
want to express our support for
increasing enforcement of those laws, as
well as many of our 400 plus blockwatch
safety and crime prevention network
members who have contacted us to express
their support increased law enforcement.
It should be noted that the Pennsylvania
State Vehicle Codes, which incidentally
have been in existence for a countless
number of years, were written by our
state lawmakers for our safety, the
safety of pedestrians, vehicle
operators, and passengers statewide.
And to anyone who would argue that
parking violence have never been
enforced in Verona until now, I'd like
to say that their anger and negative
comments would be better served if
redirected to all of the Verona Burough
leaders of previous councils
who did not view the safety of every
resident as enough of a priority to
require ire that Verona police enforce
Pennsylvania's statewide vehicle code
regulations diligently and without pre
prejudice. Conversely, I would like to
publicly commend
members of this current council who
directed the Verona Police Office to
begin strictly enforcing the
Pennsylvania State Vehicle Code Title 75
parking and traffic regulations from
this point on. And in closing, I would
like to suggest to those in opposition
of such enforcement
to stop wasting their time complaining
to a local council and police force who
are bound by the state vehicle code
regulations.
I'd like to further suggest that they
spend their time voicing their
complaints about enforcing vehicle codes
that were designed to keep everyone safe
to their state representatives or
directly to the government who have the
power to change the law. unlike your
burough leaders and law enforcement who
only have the power to enforce the law.
>> Thank you.
>> Um I'm Linda Sam, 639 Athletic Street.
We're talking about junkyards. Come in
my backyard and look at the house behind
my house. We've got cars that are
uninspected behind the fence there. We
have two carts that you know drag behind
cars with no license plates. Car parked
in front of the house with no license
plate on and a complete junkyard back
here. I've been looking at it for 30
years. I've complained about it and no
one does anything about it.
>> What?
>> What's the address?
>> Uh 56
565 votes.
>> Linda, would you be able to send us a
photo?
>> I certainly can. You sent me several
photos.
>> Okay. Where do you want me to send them?
>> Manager at veronab.org.
>> Okay.
>> Thank you.
>> Okay.
>> Thank you.
>> Thank you. Other comments from the
public?
>> My name is Gary Sher and I just want to
uh from 759 Second Street. I just want
to ask why are we having a pre cleaning
done every week? Why can't we have this
done like once a month? Uh is there a
reason we were having to have this done
every every week? I mean, the streets
ain't that dirty. I mean, I don't I'm
disastrous and I think it would be a way
of cutting some of the expenses off the
barrel. I mean, I think I worked in
Oakland. I work in different towns and
and when I worked in these towns, they
clean once a week and then because we
parked down there when we working down
there probably like once a month that it
occurs in these other towns. I don't
understand why we do it every week.
>> Noted, Gary. Um could you restate the
intersection near where you live?
>> Corner second and seventh.
>> Okay. So it's more in the hilltop.
>> Yes.
>> Okay. Curious if anyone else has
comments on what Gary has brought up.
Thank you, Gary.
>> Thank you. Other comments from the
public?
>> No other comments from the public.
>> Any online?
Okay.
>> Um, very good. Um
this an item for additional agenda
items. First, last night um the burrow
received
an a quote uh from Redneck Landscaping
Services who currently does the
landscaping in the burrow. This would be
an extension of our current services to
include landscaping at the Dwood
Memorial um prior to Memorial Day. Um
and would include uh removing dead rose
bushes, unwanted plants, and pulling all
the debris away for $2,218.72.
Um is there a motion to add this
approval to the action items on
tonight's agenda?
I'll make a motion to add the proposal
from reset landscaping service to the
agenda as a motion to accept.
>> Very good. There is a motion first by
councelor Carpenter to add this. Is
there a second? A second by councelor
Penza. Are there any comments or
questions? All those in favor say I.
>> I.
>> Are there any opposed?
>> Great. Uh I should say we will be
allowing additional public comment on
these additional agenda items.
[clears throat] Secondly, uh last night
council received the recognation letters
of two members of Verona Parks and
Recreation Board. Um the first was from
Leslie Set. The second is from Bonnie
Wilhel. Um is there a motion to add
these two resations to uh action items
under tonight's agenda?
I'll make a motion to add the resations
of Leslie Setlock and Bonnie Wilpoint to
our motion list.
>> There's a motion by councelor Carer. Is
there a second?
>> I'll second.
>> Second by councelor Sperling. Any
questions or comments? All those in
favor say I.
>> I. Are there any opposed?
>> We'll be adding that. Um
>> uh thirdly, uh council has received um
several complaints from WY members and
um even board members about the actions
of a particular current representative
of Rona's parks and recreation board,
Vince Loa. Um at this time, I'm going to
ask if there is a motion to remove Vince
Loa from our parks and recreation board.
I'll make that motion.
>> Motion by councelor Sperling. Is there a
second?
>> Second.
>> Second by uh councelor Rodriguez. Are
there any comments or questions? All
those in favor say I.
>> I. Are there any opposed?
>> No.
Uh
>> well
if it's clear
>> you do not have to have a roll.
>> Okay. Let the record reflect that that
agenda item is added with a vote of six
yes to one no
>> Mr. Long.
>> Mr. Long. Um, in accordance with current
Pennsylvania Sunshine Act requirements,
we now must allow an additional period
of public comment on these non uh agenda
items, initial non-aggenda items. Um, so
at this time, I will pause if there are
any additional comments on those
specific three additions to this agenda
for tonight.
>> I see no one approaching the podium.
Leah, I just have a quick question for
the last one that you just mentioned.
Can we let everybody know why we are
requesting them be removed or is that
you have to
>> I mean I think everybody should
understand what he's saying.
>> This is a period of public comment any
of those three items. So if you have
public comment you want to bumper on one
of those three you're permitted to do
that at this time because it wasn't on
the agenda earlier.
>> Well that's what I'm asking whenever it
comes up.
>> It's not right now. Okay. Well, my name
is Lean Sportswater. I'm sure everybody
knows me. Um, I'm from I live on P
Street
and um the reason that that I'm letting
you guys all know the reason that I
personally have brought it up to remove
Vince is um his wording, if you look on
his Facebook post since he was not um
reelected
um he has done nothing but complain
about Verona. every single post is
something negative. And
aside from the personal things that he
has written about me and my family and
the tragedy that we went through, he is
doing nothing but talking bad about
making every like black mark that he
could point out and he's making it all
public. So that's why we have asked that
he be removed. That that's my opinion.
If you guys have other reasons, I'm sure
everybody else can say their other
reasons, but I want to make sure
everybody knows why I Yeah,
>> thank you.
>> I also have um screenshots and pictures
if anybody wants to read them.
>> They're right here.
>> Yeah, I can hand them out.
Whatever.
>> Our heart everybody can see. Our heart
goes out to you and your families for
what you George.
If there are no additional comments on
those three additional agenda items
either in the room or online, we will
proceed with our agenda to section 8.
The first report for this evening is the
council president's report myself.
I'm going to start with item two. As a
reminder, the primary election is next
Tuesday. Uh polls will be open from 7 am
to 8:00 pm. With the election, we are
suspending what would normally be our
scheduled super committee workshop
meeting for next week. So, this will be
the only meeting for this month. Um in
light of that as well, you will see that
the agenda is a little bit longer than
normal. We carried over a few items we
would nor reserve for that meeting. Um
just in the spirit of keeping things
moving forward with the absence of that
meeting. So, just wanted to clarify uh
that when I'll be hearing next week.
Uh the other item is I've mentioned this
previously, but I just want to remind
council and I will
uh get around to writing this up
probably for our next business meeting.
Um, but firstly, I should back up with
something that Jacob, our burough
manager, will be reminding everyone,
which is a previously adopted policy
that um, council members should go
through Jacob for contact with both our
burough engineer and also our burough
solicitor as well as all of our staff.
Um, and similarly for members of the
public, that's just to ensure fiscal
responsibility. Um, I promise you D's
been doing a great job at relaying all
of our comments, questions, and
concerns, but we just want to make sure
that we're being mindful of the cost of
these things every time we call them.
Um, they rightfully charge for their uh
good services and we also want to make
sure that we're um using uh taxpayer
funds efficiently and in general making
good efficient decisions as a group. Um
so uh in line with that um I also want
to remind everyone what I was saying uh
in previous meetings this year that uh
agenda items should not be brought to
the agenda without first having be being
vetted through the most appropriate
committee again just to ensure
efficiency. So um every time we bring
something up um we'll start pushing back
to say uh have our committee the most
appropriate committee to first met that
idea again just to ensure efficiency of
our meetings and our discussions um here
with everyone. Um we've talked whether
or not we want to go back to advertising
still something on the table for
discussion. Um additionally we will be
having some uh shifts on coies that will
be uh formally announced soon. Uh but
that is what's coming up. Um last but
not least in relationship to that um in
part due to the absence of a workshop
super committee this month as well as
the timeliness of a few issues um a few
ordinances were drafted for tonight's
meeting um normally the process would
take a little more time and go through a
lot more um discussion. Would you want
to elaborate on that at all? Yeah. Um
that we have generally been working on
council.
Although it takes a longer time for
things to uh get done, it really works
best to be fiscally responsible as well.
um to bring up anything that you might
want to um have addressed by all of us
first and then we can discuss it then we
can decide what how we want to proceed
then ask Mr.
Alexander if he would go ahead and make
uh put together an ordinance is that if
that's what we would decide about any
particular topic um and then bring it
back then we would make a vote to
advertise that particular ordinance and
then when the next meeting would come
after there's time for advertisement
vote for the ordinance. So, it does take
depending on the timing and like if
there's an election in the way or
whatever, it can take like a month uh or
two months to get an ordinance passed.
The reason for doing it that way is that
if we ask for an ordinance to be written
before we have a conversation about it,
what if when we have a conversation
about it, we decide we don't think that
an ordinance is needed in that
particular topic, but we have already
paid the solicitor to write an ordinance
that we never had an opportunity to
discuss
um ahead of time. And so I just like us
all to remember to bring what we are
interested in talking about to council
and then we can figure out about whether
we want to do an ordinance about it and
and [clears throat] proceed in that
manner.
>> Correct. Is that
>> what you're looking for?
>> Yes. Give that additional clarification.
There will always be more urgent or
emergency items and if we can keep in
mind our policies and processes that
would ensure an efficient process,
fiscally responsible process. Um lastly,
as noted on the agenda for tonight, uh
an executive session was held
immediately prior to this meeting at 6
PM regarding the discussion of personnel
specifically of our boards and board
members. Um that's all I have. If there
are no questions or comments tonight, we
move on next to the mayor's report.
Mayor Dave.
>> Yes. Once again, I'd like to um
congratulate the two new officers that I
sworn, Joshua Maro and Danny Roa.
Um we do have a full force again with
few part- timerrs and fulltimers and
would like to thank the chief also for
being so diligent in going out and
um attracting new members, you know, to
the police force. And also to the two
junior council members, um
um John Moses and Alli Costa.
Congratulations.
Um I hope you learn a lot
and um we'll be seeing a lot of you. A
couple things I have. Um I want to talk
about abandoned houses and dem
demolition. Um, we've done that for
years and years and um, it's getting to
the point where it's costing us money.
Um, and I know some going to say, well,
we'll get a grant, but the grant or the
grant comes from we the people. We are
paying for this stuff. You know, the
demolitions, we're paying for cutting
grass. They should be being charged all
these um, properties. U, we should be
having record of them. And I've been
saying this for years, not only to this
council. um every two weeks we cut the
grass, it should be $100, if not more,
automatically. And it should be added on
to the type of uh lean on the home. Uh
by the time we're done, probably in the
year, you know, 20, you know, 30, Veron
may be a rich town because I mean, we're
not getting no money anyways, but we
still need to keep track of these
properties we're maintaining. I got one
across from me that I would like buying.
I'm not saying this just because it's
across from me, but the grass hasn't
been touched. And uh there's a company
that owns it. It's MLK Management LLC up
in Cranberry. I've called them several
times. They have no idea. They don't own
the property. They have no property in
Toronto whatsoever. Oh, you know what?
Maybe I'll just go over and uh get and
build what I want on it. Um and I've
called them several times. No one knows
nothing about the property.
>> I'm sorry.
>> We typically [clears throat] do mean the
properties we maintain but we don't
>> I mean we can't maintain every property
at time there. You know there's pretty
understand but that's why we get them in
her pockets. That's not acceptable like
that lady she's cutting her neighbor's
grass.
>> Right. We have one on Wwood Assa and
we've been doing you know continue to
send letters to the guy. I just say
nothing gets done. We need to be more,
you know, active on these things and
really hit these people hard.
>> Who's who's responsible and following?
>> Whoever owns property.
>> No, no. I mean, we're sending them.
>> Well, I guess we we need to keep track
of it first, but we don't have that
property.
>> Who does that? Who's going to keep
track?
>> Well, it should be, you know, in the
office to keep track of that. You know
the burrow the street department keeps
[clears throat] track of what they do
the address so they turn it into the bur
>> right
>> I don't know
>> right people
>> right sure
>> yeah no we we have kept track and named
and sent letters but unfortunately
[clears throat] we don't
>> but it's some may
if that if mk would ever decide that
they do own the property and decide to
sell it when the sale would take place
that's when your lean would be applied
and the person who's selling would not
get the money that would be totaled up
in the lean. Um we would get that the
sale.
>> Yeah.
>> The other thing I have is Matt I don't
know if you know but I you know the
railroad behind this they're putting
more tracks in and they have every right
to do that. You know it's their
property. They have every right to
expand. Um, but do we and I have on my
list, you know, the large trucks on the
burrow roadway and I know we have to
have trucks in the community for
deliveries, you know, especially down in
this area, um, bunting over there and
what have you. I don't have a problem
with that. But what I am concerned about
is, you know, what are they going to do
over there? Or, you know, I hope they're
not going to do what they do at the
bottom of 909 because when they assumed
the lot of this property over here, uh,
they were going to put a, um, terminal.
Okay. They have trucks coming in and
out. Um, do you know exactly what
they're going to do over there? They've
not submitted any plans and
unfortunately they don't have to. Uh we
just dealt with this in East Deer. They
built an entire office garage facility
and because they fall under the purview
of the federal government, they don't
have to submit one one building permit
at all.
>> So I had I had heard the same thing as
you of a possible train to truck
>> offload station. Uh but they've not
submitted anything. Well, if anybody
goes down the bottom of 909, they have a
street sweeper running probably, you
know, 16 hours a day because of the sand
that comes out of, you know, big trucks
and, you know, they can't continuously
suck it up. That's what I'm worried
about. I'm not worried about the
everyday, you know, uh, deliverance. I'm
not talking about that. But I, you know,
worried about, you know, what are they
going to do? They going to start coming
on the street. And if so, I believe we
could take a b they have to take a bond
out for any damage on the street. we we
could require a road bond for local
streets.
>> And and the other thing that you know,
my concern is um you see a lot of these
railroad cars um with graffiti on it.
Okay. And you know, we're trying to
upgrade our community and if you come
down Center Avenue, this whole area over
at the other end of the, you know, is
wide open, you know, and you're going to
have it. I I don't know. I'm just
saying, you know, you may have cards
there with a lot of graffiti on there.
Um, I know, uh, years ago I had the
chief at the time call them because it
had some, uh, you know, swear words on
it and they did cooperate and move it.
You know, immediately I told them I
wanted it removed. Um, I don't know
what, you know, as an attorney, but um,
we probably don't have nothing.
I think very little uh power over the
railroad if any.
>> See back in 1857 I think it was
Vanderbilt you know he started to rail
you know the Continental Railroad and
the government you know they gave the
railroads everything back then and it
just continued year after year up until
today. It's very hard to do anything
because they're more or less protected
by the federal government.
Um,
so that that's my concern. You know, you
know, let's get our attention. Like I
said, they have every right to, you
know, build or whatever, but you know, I
think it's very unfair to the community
that we don't know their intentions, you
know, especially with the trucks coming
in and out. And we're really going to
have to do something at that point. Uh,
the other thing I have is, uh, Memorial
Day parade is at the end of the month.
Um, date
is
>> May 25th. May 25th.
>> Uh, yes. May 25th. I was looking up. And
we're going to be closed in, um, East
Railroad Avenue at 8 8:00 a.m. and a
parade starts at 9:30. So, uh, East
Railroad will be closed from Center
Avenue to, uh, James Street.
And the parade will start at 8:30. I'm
sorry, 9:30. And uh every year it gets
bigger and bigger. So there'll be uh
actually two uh World War II veterans in
the prey from Verona this year. Um
Luchi who lives up on the hilltop up
there. He's 94 96 and Mr. Lolo goes on
center.
That's [clears throat] all I have at
this time.
>> I just wanted to add to that.
>> The uh after the parade is over, it ends
up in a cemetery that's in Oakmont, but
I think it's called the Veron Cemetery.
>> Oakmont cemetery.
>> Yeah. Um they have a great um service
and uh presentation that they do with
music and the dev release and it it's
very powerful. So, um, if you feel like
coming back up to that, it it's really
worthwhile. I do it every year. It's
been amazing. [clears throat]
>> Thank you. Uh, we should, uh, perhaps
put that on our board. And I see for
tonight there is a action item to
contribute.
Thank you, mayor, and everyone here.
this wonderful event, all the
communities and uh we look forward to
seeing the letter and seeing as well.
Uh any other questions or comments for
the mayor? If not, the next report is
the bureau manager report. Uh Jacob,
>> thank you. Um bear with me one moment
while I share my screen.
Sorry. [laughter]
So, I'm gonna start with
the quarterly report. Um,
so
January, this is January to March only.
Um, so it doesn't reflect April or May.
Um, you know, I I joined uh right in the
middle of March. Um so hopefully these
will be more regularly occurring and on
time. Um but this is going to be a brief
overview. Um very highlevel picture of
the finances um for the bureau.
Um so this is our budget summary. Um
we so the total revenue is just over a
million dollars for the year. Um that is
significantly more than in previous
years. we see that YI that's year
overyear um total expenditures uh just
under that so our net income is uh
202,000
um here with our kind of our budget I
would note the big thing is um it is
improved significantly since last year
[snorts] um you know April is really
when property taxes come in um so it's
good that we're kind of already ahead of
uh ahead of schedule with everything um
the major revenue highlights
Um, real estate taxes is always our our
biggest thing. Um, sanitation revenue is
is higher than typically expected. Um,
which is good to kind of prevent any
sort of um, increase in cost. It gives
us a little bit of buckle room there.
Um, intergovernmental revenue um is up
significantly and I believe that's
probably due to the strong parking um,
the fines that's generated from that. Um
the ticketing system that was
implemented recently uh thanks to Chief
Vessel uh really helps us collect money
whenever we do send out a ticket. Um it
there there's a cost there. There's a
manpower cost to even get that amount of
money. So by having it go electronically
that does help uh actually see some of
those that revenue from um
revenue variances and timing issues. Um
so the business license revenue is below
prior year. Uh this is due to collection
timing. Um there's a lot of these like
the rental license collections lagging.
Um the biggest issue here is manpower in
the office. Um it takes hours to to go
through and properly sort these um and
make sure that the collection is is
timely and it's correct. Um I'm sure
most people know that's just me and
Teresa in the office. Um it can take
some time to get through these, but we
have some ways to implement uh some
methods that we're going to implement to
hopefully speed things up. Um you know,
maybe not this year, but hopefully next
year. Um
so,
um we're we're going after grant
funding. Um you know, I had a reporter
call me today and was kind of discussing
some of the roads that that are paved.
We do rely pretty heavily on grants,
especially for major improvements. Um
and we're going to continue that. uh you
know I want to be aggressive with uh
these major projects and using the money
that is available through the state
federal government some of the county
level to to obtain um the improvements
that we need to see in our community.
So major expenditures um you know the
police department saw some some increase
due to staffing changes. Um that's
something you know this is reflected in
quarter one when the staffing changes
were made. Uh we worked chief dust
worked pretty hard to recoup some of
those costs. Um so this might be
different in quarter two. Uh the
engineering costs are are pretty high.
Um and that kind of goes back to uh
ensuring we're as efficient as possible
with communication. Um Matt does a
fantastic job with any project that we
put him on. um you know, we want to make
sure that his efforts are focused um for
the benefit of the bureau. Um legal
services are evaluated due to sheriff's
sale. Um and winter operations anytime
we have a major snowstorm um you know it
is it is a hit to to the budget. Um so
you know next year something to look at
is working that in having a more clear
goal for um those winter uh
expenditures.
Um so these are some um some other
observations. Uh so health care um the
full-time officer wages um it's always
going to be the most expensive thing. Uh
salary cost. Um health care we recently
last meeting um I went through the
process of changing over our healthcare
to uh municipal benefit services. we're
going to see some savings there. Um at
the bonus of better benefits for
employees. Um uniform and onboarding
costs whenever you know changes hands
whenever you have turnover that will
always have an increased cost uh to the
budget. However, you know we're working
on and we have some um uh some policies
in place that we're looking to implement
to help uh reduce that cost. Um
maybe possibly looking to uh reduce
overtime. Um some methods uh you know
anything with staffing is is is a huge
expense um but needed. We we need police
officers u people working the office. Um
yeah so this is for public works. Um as
I mentioned previously the snow
emergency in the winter operations
increased cost more salt. There's a lot
of overtime for those. Um, vehicle
repair costs. Something that will be
discussed a little bit later is the
street sweeper repair. Um, the vehicles
are old. I think street sweeper is 21
years old I think. Um, with that just
increased cost every year. Um, we did
expect
uh we had lower um road expenditures
which is good which we get from liquid
fuel account. Um, and our public works,
you know, it's it's been pretty stable,
um, luckily. Uh, but we do have to kind
of keep our eye on longerterm projects.
Like you said, you know, those vehicles,
what point are you putting more money
into it than it would be for down
payment on a new vehicle? Um, so some
more recommendations, monitor police
personnel and healthcare costs closely.
Um, you know, th those are are big
undertakings. It's difficult to do. um
you know evaluating legal engineering
authorization controls um making sure
that we are as efficient as possible. Um
you know and unfortunately this is part
of the reason why we we strongly
discourage general um members of the
public reaching out to them. Um you know
we want to make sure that their time is
is well spent. Um so uh continue
pursuing grants and um we are hoping to
do a mid-year budget review a little
more in depth hopefully in June or July.
for that. Yeah. And uh that is the uh
quarterly budget review. [clears throat]
>> Okay. So, um
>> are there any questions or comments for
Jacob on the finance review?
>> Thank you very
Thank you.
Okay. So, uh the next ite um as uh kind
of been mentioned um we have some
advisory boards and commissions. We we
have some vacancies. Um you know, these
are volunteer positions. Um they they
are impactful. Um you know, we we're
looking to to fill some of these. Um so
if you have any interest um if you know
somebody you know I would encourage them
to reach out to me um so we can kind of
start start the process for appointments
um you know everyone up here um most of
the council me I mean all the council
members are volunteer um and so we we
greatly appreciate anybody that's
willing to kind of put forth their time
um to work on some of the issues in the
burrow um and with that um this kind of
came about too through website updates
um I've heard from a couple of people
about some of the issues of the website.
Um, I will say it's some of the fixes
are not as simple. Um, so we utilize
WordPress, we have G Unity that we
contract with. Um, so I'm starting to
learn the process for making changes.
Um, I'm able to make some of the minor
changes, but some of the the bigger ones
um, you know, that will be coming
through in the next couple weeks of of
correcting things. If you ever see
anything too, I would encourage you to
reach out. Um, you know, I can start the
process for getting it corrected. Uh,
and then as I touched on in the
quarterly report, uh, communication
policy, um, you know, the
administration's job is in short, you
know, to be aware of kind of every
aspect that's going on in the bureau. Um
if members are kind of going outside of
those channels of communication um
members whether it be members of the
public or people within this that work
in this building um you know we want to
ensure that we're aware of things that
are going on. We don't want to be
emailing about things twice. Um as Nancy
mentioned both uh and Matt, they do
excellent jobs. Uh they're very helpful.
Um, but it does it does cost uh and we
need to be mindful of of what we're
doing to make sure that it is in line
with council's vision.
Um, and yeah, that's all I have for my
report.
>> Questions or comments from council,
>> can you remind us how the public can get
in touch with you?
>> Yes. So, um, if you call the office, uh,
412-82880,
um, you'll get a hold of Teresa during
our regular office hours. Um, you know,
she can always pass along a message. Uh,
the fastest way usually is through
email, uh, manager.org.
Um, if you have anything, you know,
please email me. Um, I heard a couple of
issues about code enforcement. Always
take a picture, always email me. Um, we
send those. Teresa files them right away
uh with Jamie, our code enforcement
officer.
>> Thank you, Jacob, for your report. Um,
would you walk us through next item, the
public works?
>> Yes. So, public works for April, um,
probably the biggest thing that people
notice, um, is line painting on East
Railroad. Um, that happened at the
beginning of May. Uh some of the prep
work though did take place in April. Um
it's something we're really working
through. Um you know I I fully agree
that the lines need painted. Uh it does
take some manh hours to accomplish that
and try to work through kind of a
systematic way to get lines painted. Um
DPW worked on repairing water lines at
Cribs Field. Uh a lot of what they
focused on was park related. Um, you
know, as we transitioned to the warmer
months, the parks needed some some
additional care. Um, and that included,
you know, removing some of the the um
the snow items that were on the the
trucks had to be removed. Um, they did
pick up millings for Arch and Penn
Street. Uh, a lot of it, so about 20
tons. Uh, they removed graffitis. They
took a lot of care of Riverbank Park. We
had uh last meeting some requests sent
over um that they they took care of
them. I think there's they reduced some
of bolts. They trimmed some trees and
some branches. Um they did some work.
They put up the alleyway the alley name
signs, the ones that we got in. We're
doing a third of those this year, third
of them following year. Um so we also
ordered uh the face um signs for the
two-hour parking. So that'll be a
process too of going around and swapping
out adding that to each sign. Um they
installed a speed sign on Second Street.
Uh a pole for the Roger Duffy sign. The
back is going to be put on uh sometime
next week. Um so it look nice and and uh
good Memorial Day. Um they patched
potholes on Center Second West Railroad,
Seldon and Penn. Uh and the street
sweeper repairs. Um those took a lot of
time. Uh they had the street sweeper
since October. Um, and it was a lot of
money to repair that. Uh, but now we're
back up to a regular scheduled uh,
maintenance on it. And they repaired a
swing at uh, cribs and they did some
minor items. Um, overall though, they
spent a little more than a third of
their time working on parks. The other
60% was on road.
>> That's all for DBW.
>> I'm loving the DPW report. That's
fantastic. Thank you for doing that. I
did have one question though. Um not
necessarily DPW related unless it is.
Before you came on for me, there were
some um issues regarding the poles that
have the lights that were knocked down
from various accidents or the lights
don't work. I am not sure at this point
if we've made any progress. I think it's
a pretty complicated thing because we
have to have these special engineers or
electricians come to hook or pull this
[clears throat] up. Do we know anything?
Chief, do you know anything about the
lights? Has anything happened?
>> I can ask. The lights have got knocked
down an accident. Um, similar to the
guardrail on Ridge.
>> Yeah,
>> it it's going through insurance right
now.
>> It's been like four years. So that's
something that Jason is is kind of
helping with um because he knew a lot
more about them.
>> Okay.
>> Prior to joining,
you know, it also go through
>> already
found.
So, we got a a quote to replace the
foundation. The insurance company said
that they felt it was too high.
[clears throat] I believe Jason then
responded that like it's your job to get
the book like we're not doing your your
work for you. Uh I believe that that
quote or that um insurance claim that
started under the previous was
[clears throat] some paperwork to get
caught up on and everything. So, I know
Jacob and I I kind of brought Jacob up
with the speed and he's been talking to
Jason about that one.
>> Well, see, we should be, you know, also
going through our insurance company.
That's their responsibility. Anytime we
have an accident in my son's business,
we go directly to our insurance company.
You handle this is why we're paying
premiums, right?
>> You know, it shouldn't be internal, you
know, internal, you know, then try to
handle it. Let that's why we're paying
them. Let them handle. Tell them we want
this resolved as soon as possible.
>> Yeah. The the first couple of polls that
I know that were knocked down, it's been
many, many years.
>> Yeah.
>> Since that happened. The one is on South
right by Bill Caves.
>> I believe we I'll double check the name,
but I believe we do have the for that
one.
>> Yeah. I think it's laying down in the
garage. Yeah. But it's not that simple
to just hook up the wires, you know, to
to put that, you know, some specialty in
order to make make that go be installed.
>> So, what's the
>> reach out to insurance for escalation
event? Let our insurance company, the
burrow's insurance handle it,
>> right?
>> That's who needs to handle it. But
that's why we're paying.
>> But in terms of the one that we already
have the pole,
>> we need to find out who the people are
that need to be contacted for their
specialty in doing the electrical
connection. And those poles are big and
very heavy
>> and you might need some special
machinery to actually lift it up. I'm
not sure,
>> but we need to contact those people,
whoever they are.
>> Okay. So we hear two actions. One is
>> two different
>> contacting the harsh insurance company.
Two is finding the correct electrical
specialty.
>> I'll give AJ a call. Um he's he's worked
with a couple. It's just a matter of
wiring. They might have to go to the
next junction box, but I think it was
overly electric he worked with on the
bar. Uh he would be able to do it. I
mean if if our guys aren't able to. So,
I'll I'll touch base with AJ and get him
started on that.
>> You guys will work together.
>> I do believe there are also some lights
that the poles are fine. It's just the
lights are out and I thought you could
just change a light bulb, but apparently
you can't do that. [clears throat] It's
more complicated than that.
>> Do you have a
>> I don't have it on me, but I'll get
>> What's that? If you give me a list,
we'll
>> never give you a list.
>> Any other questions or comments on
things related to public works?
>> If not, we'll move on to the code
enforcement report. Uh Jake, would you
walk through that as well?
>> Yeah. Um so, Jamie Shaw, our code
enforcement officer, provided his
monthly report. Um there was a couple
things that even today he was out um
looking into for us. Last month, there
was 13 new cases, 20 initial code
inspections, 16 follow-up inspections,
12 courtesy notices, nine violation
letters, um, three district justice
charges, and two citations issued. Um,
one of the things that code enforcement
looks for first is compliance. Um, we
want, that's why we do the courtesy
notices. We want people to comply with
our codes first. Um, so a lot of these,
you know, they're going through the
process of citations. Hopefully, they
don't end up that way. Um, but Jamie is
on top of them. Um, and a lot of them
that everything he's been doing about
50% of it is occupancy inspection. The
other half is code enforcement. It's
pretty even split there. Um,
80% of cases are open, 20% of them are
closed. Um, that number is going to
change as they progress, as people
comply with uh the codes. Um, and again,
you know, if there are code concerns,
please reach out, please send an email.
Um, pictures are always useful. Um, you
know, some days Jake is able to take
care of it, you know, right then and
there. Um, so yeah, please send an email
if you have any any concerns.
>> Thank you, Jacob. Are there any
questions from council on the code
enforcement report? Yeah, just real
quick. I'm looking at all these numbers
and I may not be able to decipher answer
one question, but do you have an idea,
Jacob,
roughly like of all of this activity
that happens, how many um resolutions
occur like percentage wise, like where
people just comply when they get their
courtesy notice and everything's taken
care of. So, we'd have to pull some data
for that. Um, you know, versus probably
started with Jamie looked on how many on
the first courtesy notice the compliance
fell with. Um, this report doesn't, you
know, what we can see is our active
cases this month,
>> 20% of them were closed, 80% of them
remain open. Um,
>> and you know, some of these larger
issues, they can take weeks to to
resolve because there's there's a legal
process that has to work with.
>> Yeah. just was curious, you know, how
how it's working out because there were
a couple people who were um sharing some
concerns about um code violations
[clears throat] and and
>> whether or not, you know, they're
getting taken care of, whether they're
not taking care of just curious. Yeah,
>> usually I I mean it's it's hard thing to
to see for for individuals. Um you know,
when we send a letter out to somebody to
comply, you know, that can take some
time. Um but if they have questions they
can always reach out to our office.
[clears throat]
>> Other questions or comments? Not we'll
move on to F the report.
>> You have a copy of my report for the
month of April. 247 calls with 161 last
year. Uh nothing of note. Um
there is something to note. Uh for those
that are new to council um
since last June, I have been in
honestly battle with Echo Realy at
Rivertown Shops. They have given us
graciously access to the cameras down
there, but they have not updated them.
They are not functioning all the time.
They were horrible. They were the worst
cameras I've ever seen. Um, a lot of
activity happens down at Echo Rail or
excuse me, at Rivertown Shops and at one
point I met with their team, management
team and their attorney and they
throwing away um our camera access. So,
for those that want to know why we can't
always solve everything and we're asking
for help down there, it's because Echo
Realy is tying our arm behind our back.
Who doesn't want to see the
correspondence? I have it right here. Um
so just so you're aware um the burrow
through grants we installed two cameras
down at the intersection which has
helped us tremendously. Obviously we
can't put cameras down in private
property. Um I was informed that they
are going to be bought out by another
company. I'm trying to be preemptive in
getting on board with whoever buys uh
the property try to get something going
here. Um, also I'm in talks with all the
businesses down there to have a meeting
here at council chambers at some point
in time, discuss issues down there. Um,
it's nothing with the police, it's more
so with Echo Realy, just trying to be
that middleman to try to get these
issues resolved um and move forward. Um,
I had finished my end of the stamp
grant. Um, obviously I had a setback. I
had wanted everything submitted by
today. Um, I'm looking to have all
invoices submitted by the end of the
week so that we can get final payment
out there and wrap up stamp grant phase
one. Um, all the cameras are up. All the
cameras are working. They're working
fantastic. We're solving more cases that
way. I can't be h I couldn't be happier.
[clears throat] Anyone wants to see the
new cameras? They're crystal clear. We
can see license plates like you would
not believe.
>> Is that everywhere?
>> No, it's not everywhere. I'm getting to
another thing. Okay.
>> Taking over. I have tried to do as much
training as possible. We're a little
short changed in the budget of the
training. We're doing a lot of free
training. One's going to be Sunday. Um,
you know, one of the things probably can
attest to reasons why there's litigation
with police train. So, we're trying to
do as much training as possible. Um, as
I previously reported, I'm waiting on
agreement between River School District
to have access to the cameras, exterior
cameras only, and a burner to cover that
end of town. um you know preliminary
they agreed upon it obviously there's
some fine tuning they're updating
equipment it's going to be directory
right to the station along with the
other things
um
about cameras at Riverbank Park I know
there was some confusion about the
burough having a camera down there goal
is to have cameras down there obviously
cost is an issue infrastructure is an
issue and we're looking to address that
there is some camera on the pole. No one
knows where it came from. There's no
records. Furough has no records of where
that camera came from. I have reached
out with um Davis Communications to see
if we can retrofit that. Um there's
already a power supply there if you know
try to minimize cost to get at least
that camera up to cover that part of the
uh part of street area. Um it's a busy
time for year. It's a couple weeks out
because it's it's you know they're
installing like crazy. They're doing all
sorts of work. So that's um you know
that's in the uh in the works trying to
get a camera down there. Um in the intro
um also you mentioned about the website.
We previously redid our websites. Well,
we're doing it again. Um this time one
of the officers, new officers, he has a
degree in website design and management
and he's taking it upon himself to do
it. It's going to be extremely
interactive and a lot more high speed so
that you can just do everything you want
for the police. We may even get to the
point where you can do online reports um
filing reports to the police. So that's
going to be launched towards the end of
this week early next week. Other than
that, does anyone have anything?
>> Yes. Um sorry, go ahead.
>> I just have a question. What is school
cross whenever we fill in for school
crossing?
>> Oh, I just we're talking about
everything.
>> Okay. So it's not like Okay.
Um, Matt, can you share with everyone uh
your thoughts about adding an additional
to a second potential poll at Riverbank
Parker versus Art Street?
>> Yes. So, I had reached out to a contact
at light. I haven't heard back from them
yet
a new pole or at minimum putting conduit
underneath the road while it's ripped
open. Uh I haven't heard back from them
yet, but that will be t if we need to it
will be taken care of during the street
paving.
>> Thank you. But um I was just wondering
these cameras that you're installing
or what
specific like what are they
>> there overview cameras of specific uh
intersections within the burrow. One of
them's actually right behind me looking
at us. um and they go directly into the
station and they record for a certain
amount of time. Um hight traffic areas
uh mainly um this stamp grant that we
got um awarded and executed it upgraded
a lot of our cameras. We got to add some
more cameras in we didn't have it. As we
go through the stamp process key area
I'd like to add a more for you know
safety purposes.
>> Does it come from like a specific
company or
>> um Davis Communications who our
contractor is? They've been phenomenal.
Um they're new to the area giving us
good price.
>> Any else
>> question other questions or comments for
council the chief
>> not thank you for your service
appreciate your report. Next we have the
fire chief of the board
>> council report was submitted to review.
Uh in summary, um the fire company
responded to 18 calls for Mont
Lakeville. Those include one residential
fire, one extinguished fire, two smoke
conditions, one brush fire, one smoke
investigation, two odor investigations,
three residential fire alarms, three
partial fire alarms, non carbon monoxide
alarm, one natural gas leak, one water
condition, and one vehicle accident. Uh,
of those 18 calls, eight of those were
in the burrow of Verona and we provide
mutual aid. Four calls into Pen Hills,
three calls into Oakmont, two calls in
Palo and one call.
>> Very good. Questions or comments from
council?
Thank you for your service.
Next, we have the EMS report.
Council, do you mind? Yes, sir. Sure.
Um, for the month of April,
uh, Lower Valley Ambulance Service
treated um, 11 ALS patients, eight BLS
patients. They did eight fire standbys,
six They had six refusals, we had two
lift assists,
uh, one mutual aid response,
and I don't know, four known transport
or other, a total of 40 calls.
>> Any questions or comments on EMS report?
Very good. Thank you. With that, we'll
move next to the solicitor's report. Mr.
Alexander.
>> Thank you, President. Uh, I did submit a
written report. It's in your packet. I
do see that there is a item under my
report discussion and possible action on
Zoom policy. We've had a a Zoom policy
here. Ever since CO um back when we were
all required to
um appear virtually and when COVID came
to an end, we continued that Zoom call
for the residents so that you know some
people complain that our meetings are
too late. Uh they can't you know they
can't get here because they're putting
their kids to bed to bed. Some people
complain it's too late and they're going
to bed because you know for whatever
reason. Um, but it's come to a point in
time where there's been some talk uh on
council to maybe do away with that that
Zoom policy. It's sort of reached this
end. Look at you guys here today. This
is fantastic. We have a I don't remember
the last time we had a pull council
chambers like that like this. So, uh
there is some consideration on council
to do away with that zoom policy and
return to the council chambers uh in
person each and every meeting.
So, that's uh that's the discussion on
the floor at this point.
>> Would anyone like to comment on the Zoom
policy this time?
Well,
The Zoom policy at this point is
basically that we'll have Zoom.
>> Uh we currently have Zoom. We have
>> participation through Zoom instead of
coming into the meeting. You never know
when it's going to break down. Those are
the things that people bring in.
>> Yes. Okay. So part of our policy is that
they can participate
and they comment from Zoom. Some places
they live stream the meetings but um
don't allow people unless they
pre-register to comment from Zoom. Um I
would like to point out that our
wonderful recordings that we have
available after the meeting for people
to watch who can't make it at all come
from having Zoom.
>> Um I personally think Zoom is great. I
think people have been very respectful
on Zoom when we had the old method.
Currently, we're using a different
method which is called a webinar.
It's an upgrade and it allows people to
be on Zoom but we can't necessarily see
them and they can't see who else is on
Zoom. They only know that they're on
Zoom and if they want to speak um you
know hopefully we're keeping good enough
track uh of it. We had a glitch last
month, but you have to figure it out a
way to fix it. I personally am a fan of
Zoom. I like it.
>> That's sort of what you're mentioning is
sort of like a live stream where if
you're sitting at home, I'm watching a
live stream on YouTube or whatever else.
Anybody can watch it. Who nobody knows
watching? I mean, who's not watching it?
>> Right. Right. That that's similar to
that, but
I don't know which community is doing
it, but everybody has their own way of
doing it. Some people don't do it at
all. I I believe this is a way to be
more transparent and open for the entire
community. Uh for those who can't make
it at all, other Tuesday night, you
know, then they can watch the meeting
tomorrow or Thursday or whatever.
>> I Yes. And I curious to see what the
public's comments are on our current
hybrid format and I will make it to
public comment being um are there any
other questions or comments? uh either
on Zoom or for Mr. Alexander from
council office settings.
>> Thank you, Mr. Alexander. Uh we will
move on now to the engineers report with
[clears throat]
>> Hey M.
Um one thing that did not make my report
that I did reach out to the the the line
[clears throat] painting on ARB. Uh so
that is still temporary line painting.
Um the contractor did not get back to me
yet today. Uh but that's on my radar. Um
it is it's uh contracts through Angelino
which is just a no fun but they use
parking lot line painting for the
[clears throat] lines. Uh they do use
the thermal plastic so it is weather
dependent. Um they have to have 50
degrees and and rising. So that's why it
might not have been done but uh my last
correspondence with them did say May. So
as soon as I have an update from them
I'll pass along to the council for that.
And that will I did reference on that
will include the the parking lines along
ARB.
>> Can I just clarify that I remember many
months ago we were sitting here and I I
want to make sure I'm remembering this
correctly that the agreement is that
when Penn or Kim in this case came in
and paid the agreement was they were to
replace all lines that were there when
they covered it up with the new saving.
>> Correct. Yeah. So any any of the uh the
crosswalk lines or stump bars uh the the
center lines and then the the parking
lines, those will all be replaced.
>> Fantastic. Thank you.
>> Uh along with my my written report, just
a few minor updates. Um item three, the
the second second and final payment um
that's under review for signatures that
does include reimbursement of design
costs to that project. Uh we came in
under budget of construction. So we're
able to get design cost reimburseed for
that.
>> And for the public, that's the 2022 PA
small water se
>> that that would work along center
avenue.
>> Uh did uh finally receive notification
from county uh item 66 for the act 152
demo of the 523 East Railroad. Uh we
received the environmental clearance and
the asbestous report back. Uh the cog
emailed that to me today. Uh so we're
looking at a late May advertisement with
a June bid opening on that. Um
same goes for item 10, the CD51
um ADA ramps. Uh that's going to be the
same bid schedule uh late May
advertisement with a June bid opening.
Uh I did I was in coordination with the
water company. Um as everyone's aware
that the gas line was replaced on North
Avenue. uh the gas line or the water
company is going to be coming in here in
the in the next few weeks getting their
water line replaced. That way when we
pave it's brand new, you know, no more
no more breaks, no more emergency dates.
So that will be good. Um so we're moving
forward getting getting our uh project
out the door and bid. Uh that way we'll
just wait for the water to finish theirs
and then we'll get paving there.
Uh we did for item 12, we did receive
the uh CCTV quote. We approved that. So,
we're just waiting on the schedule to
get the camera in and silent way there
and finalize the specs and move that
project.
Uh, and then as we discussed uh earlier
uh item 18, we do have a a resolution on
the agenda to apply for the Greenways
Trails and Recreation Grant. Um,
unfortunately, as Jeff had mentioned
earlier, uh, with the grant due at the
end of May and it requires a resolution,
there's not much time to make a an
adjustment for the drainage. I do feel
that's something that we can review with
DPW and probably handle in house though.
And that's all I have unless there's
questions.
>> I have two questions. Um, North Avenue
or sidewalk still grass area is all done
for everybody. So there's just rubber on
top.
>> Yeah. Um I don't have an exact time
frame, but when I met with people's gas
last week, they're moving in what they
call their hard state. So it's going to
be
>> fix is all I want.
>> Yes. All the sidewalks, all the grass
will be fixed by um people's gas that
they tore up. Talking with Oakmont
water, they're going to try to make all
their connections in the street and
reduce as much digging as they have to
do laterally. Uh there could be one or
two that they still have to take back to
the sidewalk, but whatever they they
touch they'll restore as well.
>> And do you have any updates on screens
>> or
ADA?
>> I I apologize. I'll double check.
>> Okay.
>> Yeah. Sorry.
>> I just have a question, the same
question. Do we have a timeline for the
painting of our street? Uh we just
received the signed contract back from
uh the uh paper this morning. I'll have
them over to the office this week for
the burrow signature
meeting uh sometime next week. Uh so
then once we meet with the contractor,
we'll have a better idea of what their
schedule is for moving it.
>> Okay.
Do we want to explore possibility of
LSA?
>> Uh, so we're still under the design on
that. I know initially um some some
residents expressed concern of the
bricks. So we were looking at options of
the the decorative crosswalks. Uh so
some of those details are still up in
the air. Uh but we can we can look at a
speed up or two on that.
part of the large street.
>> Correct.
>> Yeah, that was part of the project.
>> Any other questions or comments from
Matt?
>> Uh traffic lights.
>> That grant was submitted. Uh I'll double
check on when they announced them. I
believe it's sometime in September. They
announced.
>> Final questions or comments for Mr.
Pitch?
Okay, very good. Thank you for your
report.
>> Uh, next we'll be moving on to item K,
council member remarks and committee
updates since this meeting will take the
place of both our meetings this month.
Um, first up we have councelor Pvenza
make her announcements.
>> Thank you, Madam President, and good
evening everyone. Great to see house.
Thank you all for being here and show
you care about your town. Thank you.
We're going to start with newsletter.
We're currently working on our autumn
editions and um that should be coming
out around the end of the month, maybe a
little bit sooner. And the due date is
going to be Saturday, August 1. So, if
you can possibly get your items even
sooner, that would be great. Please try
to do that. has been a big help to Don
myself and a few of the other people on
committee and chamber of commerce the
next meeting will be held on Tuesday May
the 26 700 p.m. here in our building and
uh Chief Tom you have any comments you
would like to make u regarding the
chamber of commerce
>> uh nothing off the top of my head that I
can think of car cruise August Saturday
August Saturday, August 8th. There we
go.
>> Yep. Here before we know it.
>> Thank you.
>> Also, I would like to add to that uh
chamber Verona Chamber of Commerce that
uh has always given um scholarships
uh to the Riverview School Verona kids.
Uh the William McKenley scholarship.
This year there was 11 applicants and
the VR training province granted each of
them $1,000. So it's $11,000
>> to every kid that applies for the grant.
>> That's great.
>> That is a wonderful story
>> and it's been going on probably for
the William
>> he was a police officer
killed the line of duty. remember that
very vividly.
I was actually the first recipient,
believe it or not, of that scholarship.
>> Still here to talk about [clears throat]
um next is Twin Barrow Ministries and
the next dinner is going to be on
Wednesday, May the 27th at the Verona
Methodist Church and that's from 4:30 to
6:30.
uh historical society. Our next meeting
is going to be held Thursday, May the
21st at 7 PM here in our Bur building
and the speaker's name is Tom Powers and
he is from the Lawrenceville Historical
Society and he will present on the Blox
Centennial and much much more. Sounds
like an interesting night and all are
welcome and do bring a friend.
along. I did call them and they had
nothing current going on now.
And um are there any questions or
comments?
>> I just wanted to comment that council
will be serving up the community in
August. I believe that's the 26th at the
church.
>> I'm sorry.
>> August 26th will be when we are serving
as council at the community dinner.
>> Oh, okay. They they didn't give me that
information. Thank you.
>> August 26.
>> We're sponsoring that.
>> Okay. I'm sorry I wasn't aware of this.
I apolog.
>> Next up, we have councelor Sperling.
>> Uh yeah.
[clears throat] Um so we had uh the LTAP
walkth through um April 27th.
Um
we also had a um we reapplied for a
grant uh safe streets and roads for all
in the amount of thousand. Was that a
reubmission that we did?
>> Yes.
>> Okay. All right. And that goes well
hopefully will go towards LA.
>> Yes. Okay. Um,
and then I have a application
information session May 19th for
a possible grant in the amount of either
10,000, 30,000 or $50,000
from the Alageney County Health
Department, Department of Aging. Um, so
I'll know more of the guidelines and you
know what um what [snorts] that entails.
Um,
yeah. So that's all I have.
>> Any questions or comments for councelor
Sterling?
>> Yeah,
>> that grant you just mentioned
>> is there a possibility that we could get
more information about it and have a
conversation that's council about it.
>> Yeah, absolutely.
>> Do any due date? The only thing I'm
doing is going to the information
session and it'll give me all that
information like what qualify guidelines
and then once I get all of that
information I'll bring it back and we
can decide if we you know even qualify
or
so.
>> Yes.
>> Okay. Thank you.
>> Got it.
>> I'm just saying we skipped over the
Jones down street um inquiry regarding
the oneway and the need for addition. I
was going to bring it up later if you'd
like.
>> Oh, since they sent it to me.
>> It sounds like it's been resolved. So,
>> yeah, I was just going to bring it up so
the people that gave it to me knew I
brought it up.
>> Any other questions or comments?
>> Not. Next, we have Councelor Carpenter's
report.
>> Oh, great.
>> Um, thank you.
>> I just uh wanted to reiterate what the
mayor already said in terms of junior
counsel, Ally and John. Welcome.
>> It It's uh
>> something that I've wanted to help
happen uh for many many months and I'm
glad that you guys are here. I'm very
excited. Thank you. Um
I wanted to uh let people know this
doesn't really necessarily have that
much to do with finance, but I want to
mention I'm going to put these somewhere
so people can have them. There is a van
or bus, whatever you want to call it,
that is um administered through the
senior center in um Oakmont, but it
serves both Oakmont and Verona. And um
I'm going to refer to it to the other
grant in a second that that involves
Oakmont and Verona. [clears throat]
Anybody who is believe 60 or older can
use this bus. If you don't have
transportation, you can't drive, your
car is in the shop, it doesn't matter.
It's only a dollar. And if you need to
go to the grocery store, all the
information about how you can use that
is on this paper when it's hanging in
the hallway there on your way out. Um,
so I'm trying to spread the word. I'm on
the board over there as well that this
is available for people who need a ride
for a dollar. it it is a bit limited.
It's through access now. We used to run
it ourselves, but the the center didn't
really have the money to sustain that.
So, I just I just want to let there's
flyers here. You want to come up after
the meeting, you can have one. Um, so
that's available to everybody. In
regards to the senior center, uh
current's got the healthy aging grant
and um we uh had a meeting with a few of
the people over at the senior center and
put together a preliminary budget for
close to the total of $9,500.
The women over here are excited to have
this um opportunity to to have a grant
to do many of the things that they want
to do. Um they're going to be having
students there who are going to do some
art things with the seniors. Um and so
we're going to be paying for some of the
supplies. That's exactly what this grant
is about. Um, we're also going to have
some informational
uh meetings with the executive director
there, Barbara, to go to Deanour and
Monroe Towers and talk to the seniors
there and maybe get them more interested
in taking the van and coming to the
center, getting out of their apartment,
[clears throat] especially with summer
coming. And then the other thing is the
tea talks people can come to which is
bas basically gonna be like come to the
senior center and for this thing you
don't have to be 60 you don't have to be
a senior it's going to be like story
time but from the perspective and uh
whole tea talks that's what they want to
do there's also a men's copy um and
their uh
newsletters online on their uh website.
So, I just want to mention that plans
are being formed and implemented for
that um grant. Uh and the only other
thing I want to say is the Verona Garden
Club had their plant sale on Saturday.
The weather was terrible, but that
didn't keep people away because we sold
everything. And that's the first time
we've ever done that.
>> So, we were very excited. We didn't buy
as much, so that helped. But uh yeah,
and we're going to do it again next year
and boost which we'll be bringing back
next year. That's my report.
>> Okay.
>> Oh, I'm sorry. Yes, cog. Um
she Okay. So, the COG meeting was 17
minutes. [laughter]
I just tell you it's clean. But the one
thing that pertains to Verona that came
out of the con meeting is uh they do uh
bid requests and RFPs or whatever and
they did one for the sewer lining on
Parker Street and the lowest possible
bid was Roson Pike and we approved that
at COG for $148,450.
So that's cost.
>> Very good.
>> Thank you. questions or comments for
council car?
>> I have. [clears throat]
>> So, $10,000 for parts and crafts. That's
it.
>> No, no, no. It's other things. It's It's
for all of those things I mentioned.
>> That adds $10,000.
>> Uh, yeah. when you add up how many
people we are anticipating coming and
the supplies that we need or um you know
refresh I mean this is you can ask
Curtis after
>> I just want to touch it I guess
>> yeah um how [laughter] it's it uh
>> the the grant itself outlined those
types of things to to enhance
>> Oh senior participation
>> yeah we're doing they they they came up
with three different projects. U the
arts thing is once uh is it once a week
or once a month?
>> A week for several weeks. So it adds up
you know whatever
>> runs all the year
>> December I think maybe December
>> several several weeks start
>> students are doing the the I don't
remember where the students coming from
>> or
>> some place and they're the ones that are
that are doing these presentations and
you know so it seems I'm not in charge
of planning any of that but for our
other creative people on the board of
doing that.
>> Any other questions or comments?
>> Thank you for your report.
>> You're welcome.
>> Uh, councelor Long and Councelor Jalis.
Uh, you don't have any agenda items for
tonight. Is there anything you wanted to
add?
>> I was going to skip to the handbook.
>> Okay, great. Uh then pastor Rodriguez,
you are okay, do you want to go over the
ordinances? How do you want to do this?
>> Well, I don't you go ahead
jump into a little
sick.
>> So, if you don't know, I interrupted you
here. Um, and basically in Pittsburgh in
the city, they file an ordinance and law
and they sent this to us to just add it
to our ordinance and then we would send
it to our local vets which we only have
one so that they would adapt to it. It's
illegal anyway, but it's just to bring
attention to it, I guess. Um, the next
one would be a noise ordinance. We don't
have one. So
>> noise
in that we've been here two hours. I
said noise
>> word
noise is a little tricky because what's
loud to somebody might not be loud other
people and of course scrutinize those a
little more than they scrutinize other
>> this is just a thing that supposedly we
don't have
>> No I don't think we do
>> I don't I think Charlie
>> I just
chief
that's why I submitted I'm just doing X.
>> Okay. Um let me pause you for one
second. It sounds like the first one you
discussed the cat decline is kind of
like a copy and piece from a larger
regional issue.
>> Right. That's what
>> um so are there any questions or
comments on that one in particular?
Come on.
>> [clears throat]
>> We don't we don't have it again here
>> in your attachment should be
>> they don't have the actual verbage of
the one for so
>> you know it would be something that next
workshop meeting will be discussed
>> yeah I have the whole thing which is
from the city
okay so so we would you I would like to
see that and
>> it doesn't you can't do anything anyway.
So like if you went and try to do it I
mean it's already
>> and who's
>> um new to her. Yeah.
>> Oh it's not includ
ordinance I said I just I basically just
sent him a link um to Oakmont because
not taking a new ordinance
anything about that. So I just took
about how about if you're out in your in
your home and they go up and they they
have this radio going boom boom
>> that's why
I'm ask
>> um next one boat ordinance. So, I've had
complaints about people parking in yards
and on the streets. And also, since
we're having the bike path, it's pretty
important to bring this up because
people park their boats there from what
I hear. Um, so
basically, you can't park in the front
yard or
on the street for a certain amount of
hours. Um, there is a whole ordinance
that Craig made that is up to everybody
else. I'm just li Don't shoot the
messenger. I'm just here to deliver.
People ask um a no soliciting ordinance.
We need this.
>> What does that mean?
>> Unless you're a nonprofit. Girl Scouts.
>> I think we have one.
>> Basically, it's it's too not open.
>> It means it beefed up.
>> Honestly, people can speak for
themselves. I don't think there should
be no solicitation within the burough
proper whatsoever because
>> I'm not sure I'm not sure the law
provides for that but we'll we'll check
around
>> because it's 2026 if you can't look
something up on the internet there's a
problem
>> not everyone can I get that but you know
we're selling Verizon solar panels stuff
that people don't need. A lady yesterday
had a paper and it said he gave it to
her and then I asked her for dates and
she basically made something.
I I think we we need to get more uh
aggressive with the permitting. If they
want a solution of ground, they have to
have permit and they have to they have
to come in in certain only certain
that's the protocol. They're not doing
it.
>> They're not doing it.
>> The problem is these people are coming
from outside of Pennsylvania. They don't
know what So for me to site someone,
they're doing their job.
>> I will give you I will give you an
example. what happened to to us
personally just just a few days ago and
with the solar panel rep that came over
and he was being overly and I have it on
video overly aggressive.
>> Why did you I should I'm not even but he
and he came he came to our house at at
8:30 in the evening
>> and he he's talking to my brother on the
borch. My brother is sitting there
talking for 15 minutes and my brother's
like, "No, no, no, no, no, no, no.
anyone
talk about
the Rodriguez because as it was pointed
out by councel we don't have um a
version in our packets tonight to
advertise so we will have to continue
the discussion although
>> I think I think they need
fully prepared too concepts right now
>> right uh so we'll be looking for initial
feedback right now about whether or not
we want to
with I'll be finalizing a draft war and
then moving forward with advertising
next month.
>> You guys no soliciting
>> we're keep
the next one
>> matters
on public comment till the end. Um I
think council is in agreement however
that would be ideal if it is legally
permissible. It's a little we
>> I think there are probably exceptions
but um
>> to look at I brought those up. Greg, can
you talk about the dangerous dog? Maybe
>> about the dangerous dog.
>> Yes.
>> We had an incident with with the
dangerous dog here recently.
>> No ordinance.
>> I understand.
>> Oh, okay. Sorry.
>> Yeah, there is a there's a dangerous dog
statute and Kelly wants to put into
effect
that we do put in restrictions against
dangerous dogs. Um so that we can
enforce that locally in addition to the
state statute
uh which has jurisdiction over that too.
>> Great. Um can you give a high level
overview of the so what would constitute
a cell?
>> Um I mean variety of things I would say
attacks first but you know there are
different ways that you could perceive
that. So I guess
>> I think the state identifies the
dangerous dog
>> tax a human or an animal. That's it.
>> Yeah. But this one has
>> unprovoked
>> there's a whole link to this. So that's
why
you
can open it.
And that basically means three people
can write in to us to say this they
think is dangerous and then we can
address it rather than police.
>> I think that is something that most
community a lot of communities are
adopting.
>> I mean it's a little too late. Sorry but
>> um and the last thing I have is not an
ordinance. Um not sure if anybody saw
this on the news. It's called a chimney
swift and it was in the news um over in
Torrenum and it looks Does anybody know
what I'm talking about?
>> Okay. It looks like a chimney and
basically the the birds falling from the
south they're taking all the chimneys
away basically or they're closed in
correct.
So basically the birds have nowhere to
go. So this is to help preserve the
birds. They're I guess they're I can
tell you guys where you can find this.
This is on Trip Live actually. Um, I
don't know if you'll be able to see
these, but it actually looks like
it looks like a chimney. That looks like
smarty pants, but it looks like a
chimney if you can see it. And
basically, you put it wherever they tell
you to. So, I'll have this guy that that
runs this. He's going to come speak and
he'll talk to us all about the
information. So, I'm not the best on
this, but I thought it would be cool for
the kids to learn about just helping the
community, but just bringing these
animals back and
I don't know, I'm just trying to get all
the kids involved and everybody else to
give you something different. So,
hopefully this will maybe
bring the community a little bit. I
don't know.
>> I commend your productivity and your
your research this month. Thank you so
much. And in general,
>> um I understand you will arrange for a
guest speaker on I'm just waiting here
to get back which page that sounds good.
So we'll continue that as
we give you more information.
>> So that is a lot. Um are there any
questions or comments from council for
council? Um
>> perhaps even just generally about any
hesitations perhaps or go ahead.
>> I just need some direction on what
council would do and do a final board
final draft. I just I'm wondering with
the since we don't officially have any
bets in town
and we skip and have the
>> No, it's not negotiable. What's the
What's the difference? Why Why does it
matter? What if we have one tomorrow?
>> Great. So, what's so why not do it?
>> And I do have a comment about the Zoom.
Um, I do agree with not having is a
waste of time. I think it's foolish and
it's way too long and
>> yes noted. Um, Kelly, would you if you
could select um your top three to push
forward at this time, what would they be
or which ordinances?
>> Um, I don't know. The dangerous tech for
sure. I assume I think probably the boat
because the street um and us you know
>> I already have a version of I do already
have a version of the code.
>> Okay. So then
>> yes I am uh no soliciting for sure. So
then that just there's only three left.
So that's that I guess.
>> Yeah. I like the idea of the float
storage on the street,
>> but I thought
>> it is the only thing we are river town.
>> That's why
>> that for sure.
>> Yes. So we have our topic
>> and
[clears throat] there's already
>> great.
>> Thank you so much. Um,
come back to item nine. Uh,
>> um, I'm going to leave us in section 10
ordinary items. Um,
to accept the bills from April 2026 and
a motion to approve the minutes of March
10th and March 17, 2026.
>> We doing one at a time.
Thank you.
>> I I'll make a motion to accept the bill
from April of 2026
>> and the minutes.
>> Okay, that's all right. We have a motion
by council
2026. Is there a second? Second by
councel Provenza. Any questions or
comments? All those in favor? I are
there any opposed? Motion carries. Uh,
next I'll need a motion to approve the
minutes for March 10th and March 17th.
I'll make the motion.
>> Motion by councelor Carpenter to approve
the minutes. Is there a second?
>> Second by councelor Rodriguez. Any
questions or comments? All those in
favor say I.
>> I. Are there any opposed?
>> Motion carries. Uh, this brings us to
second 11, new business, a discussion
and possible action for construction
equipment storage ordinance.
Whose item is that?
>> Oh, there it is. Sorry.
>> Basically, what that is is um
give you an example up on um South
Avenue. There was a excavator, small
excavator there probably for nine months
or so.
And finally, um, I had a police chief,
uh, get it towed down to our burrow
building. So now we own an excavator
because nobody has complained. We called
the um, gas company, which they were
doing the work down there on South
Avenue. They some contracted the
company. No one has claimed it. So, you
know, I I says take it.
Nobody, you know, they don't have titles
to them. So, as far as I'm concerned, we
own them. We own it. If they somebody
does come back, we need to charge them
storage per [laughter] per week, you
know. Um, we all got to move our cars
for street sweeping and it's been there
for months, but we own an excavator. And
the other thing is, um, down on um I
think it's Sheridan Avenue, there was a
um a asphalt and cement cutter down
there. an infant down there probably for
six, eight months also.
And um we discussed this at the last
meeting and I had said, you know, why
have crew go down and take that too? But
apparently
somebody has taken it's gone. And once
again, we're not a parking lot for
construction companies to leave their
equipment here. You know, get in and
out.
And I understand, you know, at least a
two weeks allowance to get the equipment
off. Like when they did North Yeah.
North Avenue, the water company
subcontracted the company and they were
parked up by the ball field, but they
removed everything right away. So that's
why we need to put something in place um
you know on the for
any questions or comments on that new
business item.
We have it in here.
>> This is not the workshop meeting. That's
why brought up.
>> Thanks, Mayor.
>> All right. Uh we will move forward with
section 12, the action items for
tonight.
First we have item A, motion to approve
the equipment and training reimbursement
policy. Chief Vessel has provided a
revised policy for equipment and
training reimbursement. At this time,
council must move to adopt the equipment
and training reimbursement policy as
attached is included in everyone's
packet for tonight and she has noted it
as well. This time I will accept a
resolution to adopt equipment and
training reimbursement policy.
I'll make a motion to approve the
equipment of training and nursing
policy.
>> Thank you. We have it first by councelor
Fvenza. Is there a second?
>> I will second the motion.
>> Second by councelor. Any questions or
comments?
>> What
are the highlights of what's different
than what we currently have or do we
>> do not have anything in place?
>> Okay. This is a mechanism to go after
funds
>> to go after for um police like if
someone gets their equipment paid for by
us and they leave really quickly, we get
the money back from them.
>> Through that policy, correct?
>> Okay. Thank you.
>> All those in favor say I.
>> I.
Motion carries. Item 12B. Motion to
approve the GTRP grant application. The
bureau will be applying for a grant to
resurface our pickle ball courts park.
The grant requires a resolution
acknowledging that this application is
being made. Is there a motion to
resolution for this grant?
>> I'll make that motion
>> first by councelor Sperling. Is there
>> second by councelor Carpenter. Any
questions or comments?
Favor say I. I. Are there any opposed?
Motion carried.
>> Item C.
Police Chief Desel has interviewed and
recommended the hire of Nisty Barisa for
the position of chief of chief.
[laughter]
>> I
for the position of police secretary. Uh
at this time I will accept a motion to
move forward with hiring a seed. Make a
motion to hire Misty Barisca as police
secretary.
>> First by councelor Carpenter. Is there a
second?
>> Second by councelor Rodriguez. Any
question or comments?
>> All those in favor say I.
>> I.
>> Are there any post?
>> Motion carries. Welcome award.
Don't take it.
>> Wilson resation.
Leah Wilson has provided Verona Council
with a letter indicating her resignation
from the Verona Civil Service
Commission. Verona Council would like to
thank Miss Wilson for her service to the
Bureau of Verona. At this time, I will
entertain a motion to accept her
resignation that is included with your
practice.
I make that motion. We have
>> first by councelor. Is there a second?
>> Second.
>> Second by council me. Are there any
questions or comments? All those in
favor say I. I.
>> Are there any opposed?
>> Motion carries. Thank you.
[clears throat]
Um
we have discussed several ordinances
tonight. However, at this time, I will
accept a motion to table item E, vape
shop ordinance and item H through M, the
additional ordinances,
until a further date.
>> Okay. I will make a motion to table item
12E and items 12 H through N. No, H
through
>> M
>> M as in Mary. uh until a future
department. Where's the front?
>> I'll say so.
>> Okay, very good. We have a first by
councelor Carpenter to table item E and
item H through M under control action
items and third department. The second
by councelor Sterling. Are there any
question?
All those in favor say I. I
>> are there any opposed? Motion to table
carried. Item F. Motion to remove Frank
Paradise, San Sha Walter, and Roy
Tarbert from the planning commission
board.
Due to recent vacant beach indicated by
the planning commission chair, council
must move to remove Frank Paradise
shelter and corporate planning
commission board. This time I will
accept a motion for their removal.
I'll make a motion
to remove Frank Paradise, Dan Show
Walter, and Lori Park
from the planning commission board as
indicated by the planning commission
chair.
>> Very good. We have a first by councelor
Carpenter. Is there a second?
Second by council Rodriguez. Any
questions or comments?
Appoint them and all board members will
their service to burrow. All those in
favor say I.
>> I.
>> Are there any opposed? Motion carries.
Item G, motion to adopt the advertised
IPMC ordinance. That's the international
property maintenance code. The last b at
the last business meeting, council voted
to advertise an ordinance adopting the
updated version of the international
property maintenance code. This
ordinance has been properly advertised
by our bureau solicitor. At this time, I
will entertain a motion to proceed with
the adoption of the latest edition of
IPS.
>> Make that motion to adopt the It's the
2021
>> 2021.
>> I think it's important that we put the
year in there.
>> Yes.
>> Change it too much. So, motion to adopt
the 2021.
>> Thank you. We have a motion by councelor
Carpenter. Is there a second?
>> I'll second.
>> Second by councelor Sterling. Are there
any questions or comments?
>> All those in favor say I.
>> I.
>> Are there any oppos? Motion
>> carries.
Item N,
>> Memorial Day parade donation. In years
past, Verma Burough has donated money to
those organizing our annual Memorial Day
parade. Last year, the bureau donated
$300 to the Verona Font Memorial Day
committee. I will entertain a motion at
this time to once again make a donation
of $300 to the parade and its
organizers. I will make a motion
make a donation for Memorial Day or
>> motion by
second by council. Any questions or
comments? All those in favor say I. I.
>> Are there any oppos?
Next we have added item item O.
Uh this is a motion to accept uh Leslie
Satlocks and Bonnie Wilhold's letters of
resignation from our parks and
recreation sword that were received and
distributed through council last night.
Is there a motion to accept these res?
Okay. I'll make a motion to accept the
resignation of Bonnie Licka
from the parks and recreation.
>> Thank you. I have a motion first by
councelor Carpenter. Is there a second?
>> I'll second by councelor Sperling. Are
there any questions or comments? Once
again, just thank you both for your
service. All those in favor say I.
>> I. Are there any post?
Motion carries. Item two, uh, we also
added a motion to accept a recent
proposal proposal for Resnic landscaping
for services at the Jo Boy Memorial in
the amount of
[clears throat]
>> 2000
2,218.72.
>> Thank you. [snorts]
>> Is there a motion to approve that cost?
Yes.
I'll make a motion to um accept the
total from McLean for $2,218.72.
>> Very good. Motion by council carpenter.
Is there a second?
questions or comments or
>> um will this be done?
>> So, this is in addition to the 10,000
bag.
>> Okay. Will it be done before Memorial
Day?
>> Yeah. Okay, cool. They're going to do it
as they remulch. They always remulch
ahead of Memorial Day.
>> That's why it's a little bit cheaper. Um
they're putting plants in.
>> Okay.
at all. Oh, I already said that. The
garden club's going to be donating $700
for that extra cost.
>> Are there any other questions or
comments? All those in favor say I.
>> I.
>> Are there any opposed?
>> Last we have added item R.
Council
has received comments regarding favor of
a current board member um in Slot or
Parks and Recreation Board. Um after a
deliberation of executive session and
discussion with the public, um we have
uh at this time decided to add this item
and I will motion to remove Vince Flo
from the parks and recreation board.
>> I'll make some motion. Motion by
councelor Sperling. Is there a second?
>> Second.
>> Second by councelor Rodriguez. Are there
any comments or questions?
>> Um, I'll make a comment. Uh, I I'm doing
this with with some hesitation, although
I don't disagree
with the ultimate decision. I do think
that u Mr. Florida contributed quite a
bit to the town over the years
uh with parks and racks and helped to
make some improvements with the parks
and helped to plan uh some recreational
events that took have taken place over
the last um many years. Uh but because
of his um
inappropriate commenting on Facebook and
the upset that he's caused our
community, I'm I
have to go
here.
>> Are there any other questions or
comments?
All those in favor say I. I.
>> Are there any opposed?
Motion carries.
[clears throat]
>> Before we proceed to item 13, comments
public. I did skip over item nine under
business employee handbook review. Given
the time I'm sh
table.
>> It's up to the council.
run down for about a minute and then
to the June table
>> to clarify to table item 9A
meeting first table.
>> Any questions or comments? All those in
favor say I.
>> Item 13, comments from the public. At
this time, council will once again
council will once again hear comments on
public related matters. Please approach
your virtual hand. State your name and
address and try and limit your comments
to three minutes or less. comments focus
on burough business policies or actions
encourage encourages thoughtful feedback
on decisions and performance while
maintaining respectful and construct
I have a term for avenue
um I've noticed that you know we have
the garbage truck that comes up the
street but there's a neighbor that lives
back the street that has this oversized
gimple and he parks it on the street and
our garbage truck has a heck of a time
trying to get through here. Now, I'm
just wondering, he has like one of those
big cabs that people have grass or
whatever, but his isn't enclosed and
everything, but it's like takes up more
than more than half of the half of the
half the street. He also has a um little
pulley thing, the gate that he carries
that along too sometimes. He parks that
at neighbor yards. Um, I'm just I'm just
wondering I'm just wondering if when
or how big can vehicles be parked on a
street like that and something came I'm
just worried that if a fire truck came
up and we have that the ambulance is up
there and all that kind of stuff. How
are they going to get through?
>> I mean that and then another thing I
have one other question on um North
Avenue. I have a sister who lives on
North Avenue and she's lives on a lower
part and I'm sure the police are know
about this because they called my car
because I was parked in a handicap spot.
I mean I have a handicap but anyway um
um are commercial vehicles allowed to be
parked on the main street?
>> Yes.
>> Are they really?
>> Yes or
>> thank you. Do you want an ordinance now?
>> [laughter]
[laughter]
>> Thank you.
>> Just three three quick things. I don't
understand this whole debate about the
zoom thing when council was paying for
taxpayer money. Both the solicitor and
our Cassboro manager a lot of money who
said, "You know what? You don't
advertise for Zoom. you advertise for
person inperson meetings. So why do we
have it just get rid of the zoom? I I
you know somebody wants it bad enough
they're going to be able to find out
from seven eight people and then calling
administration on it.
>> [clears throat]
>> The other thing I was wondering about is
the park and run advisory committee that
you've accepted resignations on, but
started back in the day when I was on
council and it but started with
representatives from both Verona and
Oakmont council as well as Verona and
Oak community members and it was to
maintain and share responsibility all
the parks in the twin burrows. So why do
we have this? It evidently is the fund
now. I mean I don't hear anything about
it. So why don't we get rid of the parks
and recognizory committee all together?
Why are we wasting our time on this? And
the other thing I wanted to
telephone polls, leaning telephone
polls. At the mayor's suggestion, I
contacted Dukane Light back on December
29th, 2025 [clears throat] because a
windstorm pretty terrific windstorm came
through and people were calling me
because the wire going from my house to
telephone pole was leaning and like in
two days the garbage truck was going to
be coming down. I was concerned that it
was going to connect. So, I called 911
at the mayor's suggestion and the next
thing I know, the police were sitting
out in front of my house. Nobody came up
to talk to me about this.
And then I get my pajamas on watching TV
and Dukane light came down. I thought it
was the armed forces. Three tankers came
down complete with the buckets and
everything and I thought they're going
to change the telephone pole right now.
The guy I think was the supervisor that
came up and he says, "No, there's
nothing we can do about that wire. It's
inactive." I says, "Well, I you know, I
told the mayor [laughter] that this
wasn't an emergency. I told 911 it
wasn't an emergency." I said, "So, do
what you have to do. I mean, I don't
know." I said, "I'm more concerned about
that pole over there because every time
we get a torrential downpour or
windstorm, the pole leans a little bit
more." And I imagine those light
fixtures on it are pretty heavy. If that
pole comes down, somebody's going to get
hurt or something's going to get
damaged.
>> So, who I mean, I I said this to the the
supervisor and he looked at the bolts
and he says, "Yeah, it probably should
be replaced."
>> Well, this was the second time that I've
called about that B.
>> I won't be calling the third time. I
hope nobody gets hurt because now I'm
bringing it to council and I would think
it's Corona's responsibility to figure
out what to do with this meeting full.
>> Thank you.
>> Yeah. Uh can we help elevate that?
[clears throat]
>> Other comments from the public?
>> Sorry. Go ahead.
>> We're not used to this.
>> Neither are we.
This is second time for me. Great.
[clears throat]
>> Candy's time. I don't know how to get
this off here.
>> Don't worry. I already know I'm going to
be shut up. I'm not going to take your
um I'm sure you guys have all received
my email. You know what I'm upset about.
You know why I'm upset. My son and my
puppy were attacked. My dog was
literally ripped to shreds. in my son's
arms. We have asked council to do
something um not only about the neighbor
um but we have also asked to put in an
ordinance for sorry an ordinance for um
fezes
fezes are updated. We have reached out
to um
chief I've done everything on my vents.
I've done my homework. Um the fences are
not safe especially the fence that I'm
referring to. You guys all know what
fence I'm referring to the neighbor. Um,
not only did the one dog come through
it, they still have another dog that is
attempting to come through it jumping on
the fence, the fence is used, it's not
even a fence, it's chicken wire. So, I
asking that we add into the ordinance
that
whoever can go out and check fences on
the ordinance that we wrote up, we
talked with um state dog warden, we
talked to other um facilities that house
dogs and things like that. We've looked
up everything that we can um along with
the fences and checking everything. We
think it'd be a good idea for um
residents to have to register their dog
within our burrow as well. They're
animals, not just dogs, cats, dogs. We
used to do it before with stickers and
put them on our door for the firemen,
for police, ambulance, whatever. I think
if you guys know of what animals people
are bringing into the burrow, it's
easier to keep a checklist to check
their fencing and check to make sure
that things are the way it's supposed to
be. If you don't have a fence and you
let your dog out, it has to be out of
chain. Dog has to be controlled. But
when you have a fence like that and
you're using the excuse of the fence up
that doesn't hold anything, what's the
point of having a fence? Not only um is
it a safety issue for obviously us
because we've already gone through it.
We're trying to prevent this to happen
to anybody else. Um, it's right next to
the park. It's not a dog park. It's a
playground. If it wasn't a puppy, what
if it's a kid? I understand that the
ordinances aren't important to
everybody. They weren't even important
to me, but now they are. They're not
important until they are important. But
this needs to be brought up. It's not
just this one house. I'm sure there's a
million other houses that have fences
that are coming down. It's just a safety
issue.
So, I'm asking that you guys add that
into the ordinances. Um, I have the
wording. I have paperwork from everyone
that I talked to, including Dave Morton.
Um, he also told me and Mr. Rodriguez
that if anybody needed to talk to him,
he is more than welcome to talk to
anybody, he cannot come in person, but
he said he can be available on the phone
during a meeting if need be. So, if
anybody wants to talk to them and get
some more wording or a better picture on
something should be done or what could
be done, I'm more than willing to pass
on the information.
I did speak with him. Um, there was a
suggestion to chip the dogs and cats. I
don't know how you guys feel about that.
I mean, I found your dog the other day.
I'm not sure if he's chipped or not
because I didn't go that far. Um, but it
does really help someone like me because
I mean I don't typically get friendly
cats, but dogs. Yeah. And then we scan
them and then I can find them in
seconds. I know. I mean, we have the
scanner outside for you guys, but
>> you guys already know that the animals
are in the borrow. It makes it easier.
And again, for the environment, if I
fall or if he falls and I'm not home,
they're going to know that I have two
dogs in my house. or if our house tech
and we're not there because I have dogs.
>> Um,
also I do have one more thing. Um, I
mean I have large dogs and I walked
mastiff the other day and I had a little
dog ch and you would think it'd be my
fault because I have a large dog. So it
does come in handy. Also, I do carry and
I'm just I don't know the age for this,
but I do carry a mace which has a it's
it's a gel and it has a dye in it. So,
if I sprayed your dog, it's better than
hurting it. And I you can't wipe it off.
So, if I call him here to help us, you
can't say that's not my dog. Just a
suggestion because I'm tired of getting
chased by dogs. So,
>> but unfortunately, my 12-year-old is not
legally allowed to pick that. though
we're stuck right now walking opposite
directions and things cuz the fence is
just it's useless. Anybody can go.
>> Can you explain to them how it is? So
like typically like a
>> it's chicken wire. It's literally
chicken wire and the dog is a large free
dog which I have nothing against any
dog. That dog want to attack. I don't
care that dog still there. But I do care
that they can't control it. Not only
with it their other dog already attacked
once. Now this one is trying to do the
same thing. So, not only do we not feel
safe in our house that we live in, we
can't have company over. Um, I know you
guys know that I'm baked with children.
I do a lot of union bait today. I have
kids at my property all the time. I
can't do that anymore. It's just not
safe. So, but when the dog jumps on the
fence, they literally bend all the way
down like that. There is nothing.
>> When you have a fence, you know that the
top
>> and it is top.
>> There is none. So, it just folds. So you
can just literally just
>> please forward us all the information
including the contacts.
>> Um and then I don't want you to be all
the
>> So there there is there is something in
E code 360 under 9912 and it says every
vicious animal determined by the bird
around shall be confined by its owner.
>> This dog is not considered vicious.
There's a big there's a big fine line
for that. They're not considered vicious
until they attack and a judge has to
>> Yeah.
You guys are not legally.
>> So let's
propose so that we could
>> so you guys can then dangerous rather
than us going to court because I still
haven't even this thing happened on
April 20th and we still haven't received
any court paperwork or anything yet. So
it's still
>> like a month. Do you know what I mean?
But a month is a long time especially
when you're talking about children and
they played around. Um, I've also talked
to the pickle ball people and they're
scared death to be there also because of
that same dog. Our neighbors, there's a
ton of neighbors that come out. So, the
paper that she has that Kelly brought up
with the three people coming up to say
that they're worried about this dog. I
have way more than that already that we
can present. Craig, are there other are
there other uh burrows that have
regulations on um like
real big dogs as far as like putting
them in um like pens like outside like
>> there are certain like size they have to
be or
>> right there's there's there's dangerous
animal ordinances that we're looking at.
>> Are they dangerous?
>> Right. We can't leave the dog,
>> right?
>> Only a
deciding.
>> Very good. Any other questions, comments
on the
>> I have pictures. Um I have video of the
dog going after people after people on
the street. Um the new the dog that's
still there, not the new dog. The other
dog is not there. There's only one dog
there, but it's still a whole situation.
if you could forward pictures of the
fence. Um to
>> absolutely I already sent them to the um
code.
>> I I think I would have to look, but I
think code enforcement looked at it. Um
and I I think the issue though is that
you're correct. The ordinance isn't
strong enough to go after them right
now.
>> Right.
>> So that's why I'm saying the ordinances
aren't important until they're
important.
>> It may not be important to you guys, but
it's very important to me. And see if
you walk down there, you'll see you'll
understand by walking down the street.
>> Thank you.
>> See, this is you guys. This is Liam's
service dog that um was gifted to us
after the puppy incident. So if you see
Liam um he is already in training to be
a therapy service dog but um he's
already earned some of his
accreditation. So that's why he's here
too.
>> What's his name?
>> Keith.
>> Who was he named after?
>> We didn't name him.
You have to tell them who you are.
>> Penry 432.
I just wanted to say my friends are
scared to walk past their house. One of
them got a basketball from their house.
They went to their house and grabbed a
big shovel and grabbed the shovel
because their toys. So they were all
scared to go post
and
they lost a couple
and sometimes they won't even be close
to
saying
the dog that attack. They're saying that
it's actually not doing.
So Max was the dog that catally
gone and they're still calling other
[clears throat]
like hurry up Max.
>> It's basically an
>> That's a very well-trained dog.
>> Either that or he's just so bored of
[laughter]
It won't be very well.
>> All right. Good evening. I'll make this
quick. Dave Matlin, 722 Bruno Street.
Um, just wanted to welcome, congratulate
our new junior council members. Um,
>> and I'm happy to help mentor them. I
appreciate [clears throat]
um council president uh asking me to
help be a mentor to my best um and uh
yeah look forward to working with them
and helping them understand the uh how
things work.
>> Can you help me and Kurt too? [laughter]
>> Yeah, it's going to cost a little bit
more than
I'm getting paid for them but sure we
can. Um so my real quick my um comment
was just um in favor [clears throat] of
keeping the Zoom hybrid format. Um, I I
think that we've made a lot of
technological advances as a bureau to uh
make it easier for the public to engage
with the bureau, whether it's um better
[clears throat] cameras, um, bill pay
online or ticket pay online, um, all
sorts of things, you know, improved
website. This, I mean, there's like 10
people online tonight. I've seen much
more than that. If someone's ill, sick,
caring for a family member, whatever,
it's a way for them to stay engaged and
stay tuned. I know it [clears throat]
was brought up earlier someone about how
people engage and and coming to meetings
and not everyone can make it. And I
mean, this is great to see this
attendance in person, but not everyone
can make it for three hours every
Tuesday or two Tuesdays a month. So, I
would just vote. And I know there's
[clears throat] other people that feel
strongly who can't be here tonight to to
keep the the Zoom in place. It's already
being done. We already have the
equipment for [clears throat] it. Um
it's it's it's an investment. We're
already recording it for YouTube or, you
know, to be recorded and stored online.
So I hope that continues as well. Just
seems like the whole package isn't much
difficulty to keep it going. So that's
my comment. Thanks everyone. Appreciate
it.
>> Appreciate it. Other comments from the
public?
>> Hi, my name is Sandra Schooler 420 North
Avenue and my comment is about the
handling of after the incident.
Um,
last week we got together with a group
of organizations
that gifted Liam, not only the dog,
but that care services for him mentally,
um, money to take care of things, a
store gifted him gift cards just to try
and bring his spirits up. And my problem
is is that was in Beaver County. We were
in Alageney County. He has not heard one
thing from anybody in Verona. His town
he has lived in for 13 years
and that's really disappointing to me.
His mother has been a part of this
community for a very long time. Whether
you've had problems with her or not,
it's not said that it's her mom. This
happened to her. And if you put out
there on Facebook like that, it is
really disappointing. It's disappointing
to this.
I take pride in Verona. I I like
everybody in Verona, but I really
appreciate a little bit more concern and
compassion for somebody who's going
through.
>> Okay. Thank you.
>> Other comments on the
play may there's uh three uh students
from Riverview.
you guys from the um and ladies from
civic class.
>> Yeah.
>> So, don't use the excuse tomorrow
morning that you are late because it's
10 o'clock.
[laughter]
>> Welcome to the council meeting. Thanks
for coming.
>> I do have one more question. Can you let
me know when you guys
or
like
have one coming online?
Jen, you're good.
>> Hi, this is Jen at 455 North
Avenue. Um, I have been on Zoom for the
last three hours listening to this while
I babysat council member's kids, while I
cook dinner, while I supported my
family, while I tried to maintain my
commitment to the town. We have come a
long way since 2020, you know, with
technology, with transparency, with
communication.
I'm not sure why we're having a
conversation to get rid of Zoom. We
should be wanting to have as much
communication with the town folks as
much as possible. Whether it be inerson
meetings, whether it be writing emails
to the bureau manager, whether it's
saying hi to our chief, our new chief,
whether it's saying hi to the fire, we
want to have open conversations and
dialogue and and have relationships with
those who are in charge of our town, but
also who live in our town. So I really
would like to make a plea for us to
reconsider any thought on getting rid of
a communication like Zoom or webinar
whatever format you want to choose. I
think this sort of format needs to take
place. I have a medically disabled child
as you all know. Um June is coming up.
It's survey awareness month and our
daughter was recognized last year for
the illness. I've been in the hospital
over 20 different times and a lot of
times I've been in the hospital
listening to Zoom meetings to advocate
for different things that affect my
family and affect the town. So I would
highly recommend that we do not go back
in time um and we stay with the modern
times of keeping Zoom, keeping dialogue
with the town people wherever they are.
Whether it be in Verona, whether it be
in the hospital at Children's Hospital,
whether it be out of state, we want
people to be engaged how they can be
with the town. So, please consider this
um my vote as long as possible. Thank
you.
>> Thank you, Jen.
See no further hands raised or anyone
approaching the podium. This time, I
will take a motion for
>> adjournment to first partner. Is there a
second? Third
question about that favor say hi.