Swissvale public meetings in 2022

Borough Council

The Swissvale Borough Council will vote on the 2023 budget, a 9.0 mill tax rate, and a $600,000 tax anticipation loan. They will also consider accepting a $6.5 million loan for a new municipal building, appoint new fire engineers, and approve ordinances on tax waivers and bamboo regulation.

• Approve 2023 budget (Resolution #22-17) and 9.0 mills tax rate (Resolution #22-18)
• Accept $6.5M loan from First Commonwealth Bank for new Municipal Building at 5.1% interest
• Approve $600,000 TAN loan at 5.23% interest
• Appoint three full-time Fire Department Engineers (Fry, Mahoney, Butler)
• Ordinance #22-7 prohibiting new bamboo planting and regulating existing bamboo

Borough Council approved the 2023 budget and maintained the tax millage at 9.0. The council also accepted a financing proposal for a new Municipal Building and approved several personnel appointments and vehicle purchases.

• Adopted 2023 Budget (All ayes)
• Set 2023 tax millage at 9.0 mills (All ayes)
• Approved $600,000 TAN Loan with First Commonwealth Bank at 5.23% interest (All ayes)
• Accepted financing proposal for new Municipal Building up to $6,500,000 (All ayes)
• Approved $410,311.51 in paid bills (All ayes)
• Appointed Shatera Wilson as Administrative Assistant at $19.53/hour (All ayes)
• Appointed Robert Fry, Joseph Mahoney, and Matthew Butler as full-time Fire Department Engineers (All ayes)
• Approved Ordinance #22-7 prohibiting the planting of bamboo within the Borough (All ayes)

Borough Council

Swissvale Borough Council discussed hiring an administrative assistant and three full-time firefighters, the 2023 budget with no millage change, a $600,000 tax anticipation loan, and up to $6.5 million in financing for the Municipal Building. They also reviewed vehicle purchases, several ordinances, and a lease with Woodland Hills School District. No final votes were taken; most items are slated for action at the next regular meeting.

• Proposed 2023 budget with no millage rate change
• $600,000 Tax Anticipation Note for 2023
• Municipal Building financing: up to $6.5M at 5.1% interest
• Purchase of two police vehicles, a garbage truck, and a dump/pickup truck
• Anti-Discrimination Ordinance to be advertised Dec 22, vote Jan 4

The Borough Council held a discussion-based meeting to review the proposed 2023 budget, a $600,000 Tax Anticipation Note, and financing for the Municipal Building. No formal votes were recorded for the agenda items; resolutions for the budget and millage rate are scheduled for the next regular meeting.

• Adjourned meeting (All Yes)

Shade Tree Committee

The Swissvale Shade Tree Committee discussed upcoming tree plantings, including a rescheduled TreeVitalize planting on December 3rd and recent plantings in Regent Square. They also discussed future events such as a spring pruning and a tree learning event at Universal Academy.

• Two trees to be planted on Hampton Ave side of 7920 Westmoreland Ave this weekend
• TreeVitalize planting in Regent Square held October 29th, submitted by Amanda Fisher
• November 19th TreeVitalize planting in Swissvale moved to December 3rd, 9-12 am
• One tree eliminated from Washington Ave near old railroad bridge due to potential bridge replacement
• Bagworms removed from Arborvitae trees at Church & Braddock parklet

Borough Council

Swissvale Borough Council approved several actions, including a lease with Woodland Hills School District for office space, a CDL training program for DPW employees, and applications for state and federal funding. They also appointed a Police Committee Liaison and heard reports on community events and infrastructure projects.

• Approved lease of 5,000 sq ft at 7600 Evans Street for $2,500/month
• Authorized CDL training for DPW employees at $4,900 per employee
• Approved Resolution #22-14 for RACP funding for Municipal Building construction
• Approved Resolution #22-15 for CDBG funding for Schley Avenue sewer line replacement
• Appointed Charlene Christmas as Police Committee Liaison

Borough Council approved a lease for office space at 7600 Evans Street and authorized funding applications for a new municipal building and sewer repairs. Council also approved paid CDL training for DPW employees and appointed a new Police Committee Liaison.

• Approved lease of ~5,000 sq ft at 7600 Evans Street for administrative and police offices at $2,500/month
• Approved Resolution #22-14 to apply for RACP funding for Municipal Building construction
• Approved Resolution #22-15 to apply for CDBG funding for Schley Avenue sewer line and manhole replacement
• Authorized MOU for Borough-paid CDL training for DPW employees (All Ayes)
• Appointed Charlene Christmas as Police Committee Liaison for a 2-year term (All Ayes)
• Approved $672,306.12 in paid bills (All Ayes)
• Approved minutes from September 28 and October 5, 2022 meetings (All Ayes)

Borough Council

Swissvale Borough Council will discuss authorizing a formal application for a $2.5 million state grant for the Borough Building, and consider leasing office space from the Woodland Hills School District at the former West Junior High School for $2,500/month. They will also review a vehicle replacement plan, a proposed Anti-Discrimination Policy, and a CDBG application for sewer work on Schley Avenue.

• Resolution to apply for $2.5M Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program grant for Borough Building
• Lease terms for space at former West Junior High School: $2,500/month rent, Swissvale pays utilities, cleaning, snow removal
• Vehicle replacement plans for Police, Fire, and Public Works departments
• Proposed Anti-Discrimination Policy and formation of Human Relations Commission
• Resolution to apply for CDBG funding to replace sanitary sewer line on Schley Avenue

The meeting consisted primarily of discussions regarding grant applications, vehicle replacement, and office leasing. Council reached agreement on the date for the annual budget presentation and authorized the advertising for a substitute crossing guard.

• Set annual budget presentation for November 21, 2022, at 6:00 p.m. via Zoom
• Approved advertising for an additional substitute crossing guard
• Approved proposed sign for the pollinator garden lot

Shade Tree Committee

The Swissvale Shade Tree Advisory Commission is discussing tree care and planting activities, including upcoming TreeVitalize plantings in October and November, and the completion of the Church & Braddock parklet. They also reviewed the results of a September tree care event and addressed tree requests. The meeting is a regular business meeting with updates and planning discussions.

• Tree care event on September 24th cleaned and mulched tree pits along Edgewood Avenue; at least five trees marked for removal
• Two Prairifire Crabapple trees planted at 7920 Westmoreland Ave and 7002 Church St
• October 29th TreeVitalize planting in Regent Square; four trees from Swissvale application included
• November 19th TreeVitalize planting in Swissvale; signup on WPC website
• Church & Braddock parklet completion discussed; Borough Council willing to allocate funds

The Shade Tree Advisory Commission discussed plans for a November 19th TreeVitalize planting in Swissvale and noted that Borough Council is willing to fund completion of the Church & Braddock parklet, which was started before COVID. The committee also reported that two Prairifire Crabapple trees were planted at 7920 Westmoreland Ave and 7002 Church St after the Fall 2022 TreeVitalize application was submitted. No formal votes or decisions were recorded; all items were discussed or reported.

• No formal votes or decisions recorded; all items were discussion or reports only

Borough Council

Swissvale Borough Council approved routine actions including bills, appointments, a police vehicle purchase, and a grant application. They also authorized spending up to $5,200 for a monument honoring Darrin Poindexter at Collingwood Park, and heard reports on infrastructure and community events.

• Approved paid bills totaling $1,234,636.41
• Appointed Anthony Peduzzi as full-time Patrolman
• Authorized purchase of 2022 Ford Interceptor Utility for $35,748 plus $13,257 upfitting
• Approved Resolution #22-13 for grant application to Gaming Fund for Les Getz Memorial Park improvements
• Authorized up to $5,200 for Darrin Poindexter monument at Collingwood Park

The Swissvale Borough Council approved all motions on the agenda, including paying $1,234,636.41 in bills, appointing a full-time patrolman and a building committee liaison, denying a pension application, applying for a grant for park improvements, purchasing a police vehicle, and funding a monument for Darrin Poindexter. All votes were unanimous except for one abstention on the liaison appointment.

• Approved $1,234,636.41 in paid bills (unanimous)
• Appointed Anthony Peduzzi as full-time Patrolman (unanimous)
• Appointed Abby Miser as volunteer Building Committee Liaison (unanimous, Miser abstained)
• Denied pension benefits application for Officer Frank Chianese (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution #22-13 for grant application to Gaming Fund for Les Getz Memorial Park improvements (unanimous)
• Authorized purchase of 2022 Ford Interceptor Utility for $35,748 plus $13,257 upfitting (unanimous)
• Authorized up to $5,200 for Darrin Poindexter monument at Collingwood Park (unanimous)

Borough Council

The Swissvale Borough Council is holding an agenda meeting to discuss several items, including hiring a full-time police officer, purchasing police vehicles, appointing a Building Committee Liaison, applying for a grant for Memorial Park improvements, and the Church Street Parklet. No votes are scheduled; these are discussion items only.

• Discussion of hiring a full-time police officer
• Discussion of purchasing police vehicle(s)
• Discussion of resolution to submit grant application for Memorial Park improvements
• Discussion of appointment of Building Committee Liaison
• Discussion of Church Street Parklet

The meeting was primarily a discussion session with no formal votes on substantive items. Council discussed using ARPA funds for a Church Street Parklet stormwater feature, hiring a full-time police officer from a list of three candidates, a grant application for Memorial Park improvements, and the purchase of a police vehicle. No decisions were made; actions are expected at a future regular meeting.

• Interviewed Abby Miser for Building Committee liaison position; no vote taken.
• Discussed hiring a full-time police officer from top 3 candidates; no vote taken.
• Discussed resolution to apply for $200,000 grant for Memorial Park improvements; no vote taken.
• Discussed purchase of police vehicle (~$36,000 plus $15,000 upfit) to replace totaled vehicle; no vote taken.
• Discussed Church Street Parklet cost estimate and overall plan for vacant lots; no vote taken.
• Continued discussion on matching funds for Darin Poindexter memorial at Collingwood Park; no vote taken.

Borough Council

The Swissvale Borough Council is meeting to vote on routine administrative items, including approving $313,440.78 in paid bills, creating a new Public Works Superintendent position, and appointing a Building Committee Liaison. The council will also consider two ordinances, one extending the joint water authority agreement and another adding a stop sign, plus a resolution to acquire vacant land.

• Approve paid bills totaling $313,440.78
• Create Public Works Superintendent position at $24.37/hour
• Approve Ordinance #22-04 extending Wilkinsburg-Penn Joint Water Authority for 50 years
• Approve Ordinance #22-05 adding stop sign at Roslyn Street and Milligan Avenue
• Approve Resolution #22-12 to acquire vacant land at Tax Parcel ID 235-P-1 via Vacant Property Recovery Program

The Swissvale Borough Council unanimously approved creating a Public Works Superintendent position, appointed Matthew Dillard to it at $24.37/hour, and promoted Louis Sitzman to Police Sergeant. They also approved ordinances extending the Wilkinsburg-Penn Joint Water Authority for 50 years, adding a stop sign, and a resolution to acquire vacant land. All actions passed unanimously.

• Approved creation of Public Works Superintendent position (unanimous)
• Appointed Matthew Dillard as Public Works Superintendent at $24.37/hr (unanimous)
• Promoted Louis Sitzman to Police Sergeant pending exams (unanimous)
• Approved Ordinance #22-04 extending water authority 50 years (unanimous)
• Approved Ordinance #22-05 adding stop sign at Roslyn & Milligan (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution #22-12 to acquire vacant land at 2 Farkas Place (unanimous)
• Authorized CORE Architects and LSSE Engineers to proceed to design development (unanimous)
• Approved pollinator garden agreement with Humane Action Pittsburgh (unanimous)

Borough Council

The Swissvale Borough Council is holding an agenda meeting to discuss several items, including a presentation on the Municipal Building design, the creation of a Public Works Superintendent position, a police promotion, and multiple ordinances related to traffic and the Wilkinsburg-Penn Joint Water Authority. The meeting also includes interviews for a Building Committee Liaison and discussions on a vacant property program and a proposed pollinator garden agreement.

• Presentation from CORE Architects and LSSE Engineering on Municipal Building design
• Discussion of creating a Public Works Superintendent position
• Ordinance to add a stop sign at Milligan Avenue and Roslyn Street
• Ordinance to remove 'Right Turn Does Not Stop' at Schoyer Avenue and Monongahela Avenue
• Proposed agreement with Humane Action Pittsburgh for pollinator garden on Edgewood Avenue (Tax Parcels 178-D-111 and 178-D-115)

The Swissvale Borough Council held a regular meeting with no formal votes or final decisions. Council interviewed Michael O'Connor for a Building Committee liaison position but deferred appointment to a future meeting. Several items were discussed for potential action at the next meeting, including a Public Works Superintendent position, a police sergeant promotion, and ordinances on the WPJWA charter, stop signs, and a pollinator garden agreement.

• Interviewed Michael O'Connor for Building Committee liaison (no appointment made)
• Tabled Public Works Superintendent creation and appointment to next meeting
• Discussed police sergeant promotion; two candidates passed exams, appointment possible next meeting
• Discussed ordinance to extend WPJWA charter by 50 years (no vote)
• Discussed stop sign ordinance at Milligan Ave & Roslyn St (no vote)
• Discussed ordinance to remove 'Right Turn Does Not Stop' at Schoyer & Monongahela Aves (no vote)
• Discussed Vacant Property Recovery application adjacent to 2 Farkas Place (no vote)
• Discussed Humane Action Pittsburgh pollinator garden agreement (no vote)

Borough Council

The Swissvale Borough Council will vote on several items, including a road salt contract with Cargill, declining Norfolk Southern's offer to transfer the Washington Street Bridge, creating a new Superintendent position in Public Works, and supporting Senate Bill 912. They will also consider establishing construction liaison positions for the Municipal Building and a pollinator garden agreement with Humane Action Pittsburgh.

• Approve contract with Cargill, Inc. for road salt at $88.96 per ton for 2022-2023 winter
• Decline Norfolk Southern Corporation's offer to transfer Washington Street Bridge ownership
• Create Superintendent position in Department of Public Works and adopt job description
• Approve Resolution 22-11 supporting Senate Bill 912
• Approve paid bills totaling $588,551.01

The Swissvale Borough Council approved a road salt contract with Cargill, Inc. at $88.96 per ton for the 2022-2023 winter season, with one dissenting vote. They also voted to decline Norfolk Southern's offer to transfer ownership of the Washington Street Bridge after construction of a new bridge. The council tabled the creation of a Public Works Superintendent position to continue union negotiations, and approved several other items including a resolution supporting Senate Bill 912, creating construction liaison positions, and a pollinator garden agreement.

• Approved Cargill road salt contract at $88.96/ton (6-1)
• Declined Norfolk Southern bridge ownership transfer (unanimous)
• Tabled Public Works Superintendent position creation and appointment
• Approved Resolution #22-11 supporting Senate Bill 912 (unanimous)
• Created Municipal Building construction liaison positions (unanimous)
• Approved drafting pollinator garden agreement with Humane Action Pittsburgh (unanimous)
• Approved use of 7700 Edgewood Ave for pollinator garden (3 yes, 4 abstain)
• Approved paid bills totaling $588,551.01 (unanimous)

Borough Council

Swissvale Borough Council will discuss several administrative and policy items, including ratifying a salt supply agreement with Cargill for the 2022-2023 winter season, creating a Public Works Superintendent position, securing a towing company, forming a Building Advisory Committee, supporting House Bill 912, a proposed bamboo ordinance, and a pollinator garden collaboration. Departmental reports will also be given. No final votes are listed; these are discussion items.

• Ratify Cargill salt supply agreement via SHACOG for 2022-2023 winter
• Create and appoint Public Works Superintendent position
• Secure towing company for defined services
• Resolution to support House Bill 912
• Proposed bamboo ordinance

The Swissvale Borough Council held an agenda meeting on July 27, 2022, discussing several items but taking no formal votes. They discussed ratifying a salt supply agreement with Cargill for the 2022-2023 winter season, creating a Public Works Superintendent position, and pursuing a towing contract. Council expressed support for partnering with Humane Action Pittsburgh on a pollinator garden and for a resolution supporting Senate Bill 912. No formal decisions were made; all items were discussion-only.

• Discussed ratifying Cargill salt supply agreement at $88.96/ton for 2022-2023 (no vote)
• Discussed creating Public Works Superintendent position at $23.31/hour (no vote)
• Discussed pursuing towing company contract to lower fees (no vote)
• Discussed forming Borough Building Advisory Committee (no vote)
• Discussed supporting Senate Bill 912 (no vote)
• Discussed proposed bamboo ordinance (no vote)
• Discussed partnering with Humane Action Pittsburgh on pollinator garden (no vote)

Shade Tree Committee

The Swissvale Shade Tree Committee is discussing routine tree maintenance, including a damaged tree on Delaware Ave, new tree plantings, and updates on the TreeVitalize grant. They are also coordinating with the new DPW Director and planning installation of Tree City USA signs.

• Tree damaged by string trimmer at 2019 Delaware Ave
• New DPW Director and Finance Director hired
• Tree City USA signs to be installed
• Fall 2022 TreeVitalize application submitted, decision expected in August
• 20 new Universal Academy trees planted; Tulip Trees on Hampton need watering

Borough Council

Swissvale Borough Council will vote on several actions, including appointing a Public Works Director and Finance Director, adopting a COVID-19 vaccine mandate for new employees, and amending the traffic code to allow handicapped parking enforcement with $100 fines. They will also consider a resolution for PennDOT grass mowing, a subdivision along Carrie Furnace Boulevard, and designating an Artist in Residence.

• Appoint Public Works Director (salary not listed)
• Appoint Finance Director (salary not listed)
• Adopt policy requiring COVID-19 vaccination for new Borough employees
• Ordinance 22-03: handicapped parking fines of $100 per incident
• Resolution 22-10: PennDOT grass mowing at Parkway East on-ramp, Monongahela Ave, $3,605.36 annually

The Swissvale Borough Council approved several personnel actions, including appointing Jordan D'Ambrosio as Public Works Director at $75,000 and Vickie Longanecker as Finance Director at $57,500, and adopted a policy requiring COVID-19 vaccination for all new employees. The council also adopted Ordinance 22-03 on handicapped parking penalties, approved Resolution 22-10 for PennDOT grass mowing, approved a subdivision along Carrie Furnace Boulevard, designated Real Time Interventions as Artist in Residence, and approved paid bills of $830,601.53. All votes were unanimous.

• Appointed Jordan D'Ambrosio as Public Works Director at $75,000 (unanimous)
• Appointed Vickie Longanecker as Finance Director at $57,500 (unanimous)
• Adopted policy requiring COVID-19 vaccination for new employees (unanimous)
• Adopted Ordinance 22-03 on handicapped parking penalties (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 22-10 for PennDOT grass mowing at $3,605.36 annually (unanimous)
• Approved subdivision along Carrie Furnace Boulevard (unanimous)
• Designated Real Time Interventions as Artist in Residence (unanimous)
• Approved paid bills of $830,601.53 (unanimous)

Borough Council

The Swissvale Borough Council is holding an agenda meeting to discuss several items, including increasing the fine for illegal handicapped parking from $50 to $100, renewing a grass mowing agreement with PennDOT, and approving a subdivision along Carrie Furnace Boulevard. They will also consider a COVID-19 vaccination policy for new employees, hiring for Finance and Public Works Directors, and other community items. No final votes are scheduled; these are discussion items.

• Ordinance to increase handicapped parking fine from $50 to $100
• Resolution to renew PennDOT grass mowing agreement at Monongahela Avenue on-ramp
• Subdivision approval for land along Carrie Furnace Boulevard
• Policy requiring COVID-19 vaccination for new employees
• Hiring of Finance Director and Public Works Director

The Swissvale Borough Council held an agenda meeting on June 29, 2022, discussing several items but taking no formal votes. They discussed increasing the fine for illegal handicapped parking from $50 to $100, renewing a PennDOT grass mowing agreement, approving a subdivision along Carrie Furnace Boulevard, and a COVID-19 vaccination policy for new employees. No final decisions were made; these items were for discussion only.

• Discussed ordinance to increase handicapped parking fine from $50 to $100 (no vote)
• Discussed resolution to renew PennDOT grass mowing agreement for $3,605.36 annually (no vote)
• Discussed approving subdivision of RAAC land along Carrie Furnace Blvd with conditions (no vote)
• Discussed policy requiring COVID-19 vaccination for new employees (no vote)
• Discussed hiring of Finance Director and Public Works Director; offers accepted (no vote)
• Discussed designating Realtime Productions as Artist in Residence for 2022 (no vote)
• Discussed collaboration with Humane Action Pittsburgh for pollinator garden (no vote)
• Discussed regulating running bamboo; solicitor to draft ordinance (no vote)

Shade Tree Committee

The committee reviewed the installation of Tree City USA stickers and discussed a donation from SEDCO for two additional signs. Members are also coordinating watering for Universal Academy trees and planning a weeding event for June 25.

• Installation of two new Tree City USA signs at Braddock Avenue, Kenmawr Bridge entrance, and Commercial Street
• Submission of the Fall 2022 TreeVitalize application for 19 trees
• Installation of watering bags on twenty Universal Academy trees
• Proposed tree care event on June 25 at 9:00 am to weed pits on Noble, Waverly, and Washington

Borough Council

The Swissvale Borough Council will vote on approving minutes, ratifying the hiring of two part-time police officers, and passing a motion to support Senate Bill 912, the Fair Chance Housing Act. The agenda also includes routine reports from borough officials and a motion to approve paid bills.

• Ratify hiring of Matthew Titmus as part-time Police Officer
• Ratify hiring of Anthony Peduzzi as part-time Police Officer
• Motion to support Senate Bill 912, Fair Chance Housing Act
• Approve paid bills (amount not specified)
• Approve minutes of April 27 and May 4 meetings

The Swissvale Borough Council ratified the hiring of two part-time police officers, Matthew Titmus and Anthony Peduzzi, with one abstention each. A motion to support Senate Bill 912, the Fair Chance Housing Act, was tabled for further review. The council also approved the minutes and paid bills totaling $433,189.00.

• Approved minutes of April 27 and May 4 meetings (all ayes)
• Ratified hiring of Matthew Titmus as part-time police officer (abstain: A. Salisbury)
• Ratified hiring of Anthony Peduzzi as part-time police officer (abstain: A. Salisbury)
• Tabled motion to support Senate Bill 912 (all ayes)
• Approved paid bills of $433,189.00 (all ayes)

Borough Council

Swissvale Borough Council is holding an agenda meeting to discuss several personnel and community items. Key discussions include ratifying the hiring of two part-time police officers, a summer public works program, requiring COVID-19 vaccinations for all new hires, and financial assistance requests from the Woodland Hills School District and Swissvale Library for the library project.

• Ratify hiring of Matthew Titmus as Part-Time Police Officer
• Ratify hiring of Anthony Peduzzi as Part-Time Police Officer
• Discuss summer DPW Work Program
• Discuss requiring COVID-19 vaccinations for all new hires
• Discuss financial assistance for Swissvale Library project from Woodland Hills School District and Swissvale Library

Council discussed requiring COVID-19 vaccinations for all new hires, with support from some members, but tabled the discussion to allow the solicitor to draft a policy. They also discussed ratifying the hiring of two part-time police officers, Matthew Titmus and Anthony Peduzzi, who have already begun working, but no formal vote was recorded. A request for $300,000 from the library and school district was discussed but not approved; council expressed support but considered the amount too high.

• Tabled COVID-19 vaccine mandate for new hires to allow solicitor to draft policy
• Discussed ratifying hiring of part-time police officers Matthew Titmus and Anthony Peduzzi (no vote recorded)
• Discussed $300,000 library funding request; not approved, council to explore other support
• Noted executive session held for personnel matters

Borough Council

The Swissvale Borough Council is deciding on several contracts, including a $209,930 sewer line replacement, and multiple DPW building improvements totaling over $600,000. They will also vote on acquiring two vacant properties, ordering demolition of nine blighted properties, and authorizing talks on curbside EV charging. The meeting includes routine approvals of minutes, bills, and reports.

• Approve $209,930 contract with Independent Enterprises for Denniston Avenue Sanitary Sewer line replacement
• Approve $182,168 contract with Newman Plumbing for DPW Building plumbing and underground piping
• Approve $138,270 contract with Plavchak Construction for concrete curbs, sidewalks, and handicap ramps at DPW Building
• Approve $113,474.30 contract with El Grande Industries for bituminous pavement replacement at DPW Building
• Order demolition of nine properties including 7714 Edgewood Avenue, 7540 Ormand Street, and 2520 South Braddock Avenue

The council unanimously appointed Greg Bachy as Borough Manager effective May 5, 2022, at an annual salary of $99,000. They also approved several contracts for infrastructure projects, including sewer line replacement and DPW building improvements, and authorized demolition of nine blighted properties. Resolutions were passed to acquire two vacant properties through the Vacant Property Recovery Program. The council authorized discussions on curbside EV charging but did not enter a contract.

• Appointed Greg Bachy as Borough Manager at $99,000/year (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution #22-08 for vacant land acquisition at 7507 Calumet St (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution #22-09 for vacant land acquisition at 7676 Highland Ave (unanimous)
• Approved $209,930 contract with Independent Enterprises for Denniston Ave sewer line (unanimous)
• Approved $182,168 contract with Newman Plumbing for DPW building plumbing (unanimous)
• Approved $138,270 contract with Plavchak Construction for DPW concrete work (unanimous)
• Approved $113,474.30 contract with El Grande Industries for DPW pavement (unanimous)
• Ordered demolition of 9 properties for blight (unanimous)

Borough Council

Swissvale Borough Council is holding an agenda meeting to discuss several items, including awarding a contract for the Denniston Avenue Sanitary Sewer Replacement Project, contracts for the DPW Building, handicapped parking fines, the appointment of a borough manager, and two vacant property recovery applications. The council will also discuss authorizing further talks on curbside electric vehicle chargers. Departmental reports and public comment are also scheduled.

• Discuss awarding contract for Denniston Avenue Sanitary Sewer Replacement Project
• Discuss awarding contracts for DPW Building
• Discuss handicapped parking fines
• Discuss appointment of Borough Manager
• Discuss two Vacant Property Recovery Program Applications

Council supported drafting an ordinance to increase the handicapped parking fine from $50 to $100, with the solicitor to prepare and advertise it. They also discussed awarding a sewer replacement contract, DPW building contracts, and a borough manager appointment, but no formal votes were taken on these items. Two vacant property recovery applications were discussed and supported for approval.

• Supported drafting ordinance to increase handicapped parking fine to $100
• Discussed awarding Denniston Avenue sewer contract to Independent Enterprises ($209,930 bid)
• Discussed DPW building contracts with three bids opened April 26
• Discussed appointment of Borough Manager with ongoing negotiations
• Supported two Vacant Property Recovery Program applications for lots adjacent to 7509 Calumet St and 7674 Highland Ave
• Discussed authorizing conversations with Tucker Arensberg and Green Edge for EV charging stations

Shade Tree Committee

The Swissvale Shade Tree Committee reviewed the successful April 2 TreeVitalize planting at Universal Academy, discussed upcoming tree maintenance and watering plans, and considered future planting and garden projects. The meeting was largely a status update and planning session, with no formal votes or decisions requiring public action.

• April 2 TreeVitalize planting at Universal Academy drew about 30 volunteers
• UpstreamPGH to provide watering bags for summer, filled by Swissvale DPW
• 26-30 blueberry bushes ordered, delivery expected around April 20
• Potential fall planting with Western Pennsylvania Conservancy, applications due July/August
• Discussed planting ideas for empty lots on Woodstock and LaClair Garden cleanup with Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy

Borough Council

The Swissvale Borough Council is meeting to consider several personnel actions, including hiring five part-time firefighters, accepting a resignation, and contracting for accounting services. They will also vote on a resolution to apply for $250,000 in county funding for demolitions, approve a flax farming agreement on borough property, and approve payment of bills totaling $933,962.44.

• Hire 5 part-time firefighters pending background checks
• Accept resignation of Assistant Finance Director Dione Hood effective April 8, 2022
• Approve $4,500/month contract with Dione Y. Hood Bookkeeping and Accounting Services
• Approve Resolution #22-07 to apply for $250,000 from Allegheny County for demolitions
• Approve paid bills of $933,962.44

The Swissvale Borough Council approved a $4,500 per month agreement with Dione Y. Hood Bookkeeping and Accounting Services for accounting and payroll services, effective April 9, 2022, with one abstention. The council also hired five part-time firefighters, accepted a resignation, made several board appointments, and approved a resolution to apply for $250,000 in demolition funding.

• Approved $4,500/month accounting services agreement with Dione Y. Hood (all ayes, Salisbury abstained)
• Hired Matthew Butler, Sean Cook, Zachary Cummings, William Kline, and Adam Riddle as part-time firefighters (all ayes)
• Accepted resignation of Dione Hood as Assistant Finance Director effective April 8, 2022 (all ayes)
• Appointed Lisa Whitney to Planning Commission (term to 2025), James Carroll to Zoning Hearing Board (term to 2026), Michelle McCord to Civil Service Commission (term to 2027), Tonja Ayala to Recreation Advisory Committee (term to 2025) (all ayes)
• Approved Resolution #22-07 to apply for $250,000 from Allegheny County for demolition of multiple properties (all ayes)
• Approved agreement for flax planting on Borough property at Monongahela Avenue (all ayes)
• Approved paid bills totaling $933,962.44 (all ayes)

Borough Council

The Swissvale Borough Council is holding an agenda meeting to discuss several items, including appointments to boards and commissions, scheduling demolition clearance hearings, a proposed Flax growing project on Borough property, applying for Act 152 funds for demolition, and hiring part-time firefighters. The council will also discuss Finance Department positions in executive session. Departmental reports will be given by police, code and fire, climate action committee, public works, and the borough manager.

• Discuss appointments to Boards and Commissions
• Discuss scheduling demolition clearance hearings
• Discuss proposed Flax growing project on Borough property
• Discuss applying for Act 152 funds for demolition
• Discuss hiring of Part-Time Firefighters

The Swissvale Borough Council held an agenda meeting with no formal votes. They scheduled demolition clearance hearings for April 27, discussed a proposed flax growing project on borough property, and heard a presentation on residential EV charging. Council also discussed hiring part-time firefighters and applying for Act 152 demolition funds.

• Scheduled demolition clearance hearings for April 27 at 6 p.m.
• Discussed flax growing project; council supportive, liability to be reviewed
• Discussed applying for Act 152 funds for demolition; resolution needed
• Discussed hiring part-time firefighters; interviews scheduled for April 4
• Heard presentation on residential EV charging by Internodal, LLC

Shade Tree Committee

The committee approved a plan to plant 20 trees around Universal Academy on April 2nd. Members discussed preparations for the event, including site preparation by DPW and volunteer registration through WPC. Upstream PGH reported they are considering a grant for an urban forest intern.

• Approval of TreeVitalize application for Spring 2022
• Planting of 20 trees at Universal Academy on April 2nd
• Discussion regarding potential urban forest intern grant from Upstream PGH

Borough Council

Swissvale Borough Council is holding its regular meeting with several action items. The council will vote on an ordinance to permit keeping chickens and bees, approve multiple police and fire department personnel hires, and consider contracts including a $206,707.03 Motorola Solutions radio purchase. They will also consider resolutions for employee premium payments, a COVID-19 vaccination incentive, a fee schedule update, and a grant application for street repaving.

• Ordinance #22-02: revise zoning to permit keeping chickens and bees with permitting/inspection process
• Contract with Motorola Solutions: $206,707.03 for 62 APX4000 portable radios for Police and Fire
• Resolution #22-03: one-time March 2022 premium payments — $1,150 full-time, $700 part-time employees
• Resolution #22-04: $600 one-time payment to fully vaccinated employees (booster excluded) before May 15, 2022
• Resolution #22-06: apply for DCED/Commonwealth Financing Authority funding to repave various streets

The Swissvale Borough Council approved a zoning ordinance permitting chickens and bees, hired new police and fire personnel, and approved contracts for engineering services and new radios. All motions passed unanimously.

• Approved Ordinance #22-02 permitting chickens and bees (unanimous)
• Hired Ignatius Bondi as entry-level patrol officer (unanimous)
• Hired Kain Loureiro as part-time patrol officer (unanimous)
• Appointed Joshua Carlini as Shift Commander in Fire Department (unanimous)
• Hired Steven Schwab as part-time firefighter (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution #22-03 one-time premium payment to employees (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution #22-04 $600 COVID-19 vaccination incentive (unanimous)
• Approved $91,155 contract with LSSE for engineering services (unanimous)

Borough Council

The Swissvale Borough Council is meeting to discuss several agenda items, including a zoning amendment to permit keeping chickens and bees, a resolution to set fees for those permits, an ordinance requiring recycling at community events, awarding a civil engineering contract for the Municipal Building project, and hiring for police and fire departments. The meeting also includes presentations recognizing Black History Month, discussion of the Local Services Grant Program, ARPA funds, and departmental reports.

• Zoning amendment to allow chickens and bees
• Fee schedule update for chicken/bee permits and third-party inspections
• Ordinance to require recycling at community events and ban burning recyclables
• Contract award for Civil Engineering services for Municipal Building project
• Hiring of entry-level patrol officer and Fire Department hiring

The Swissvale Borough Council held an agenda meeting with no formal votes. They discussed adopting a zoning amendment to permit chickens and bees, a fee schedule resolution, a recycling ordinance, and ARPA fund allocations. Council directed the manager to apply for a Local Services Grant for paving and discussed hiring for police and fire departments.

• Directed manager to apply for Local Services Grant for paving
• Discussed zoning amendment for chickens and bees (no vote)
• Discussed ARPA fund allocation for premium pay, vaccine incentive, and radios (vote next week)
• Discussed hiring entry-level patrol officer and fire shift commander (no vote)

Borough Council

The Swissvale Borough Council is meeting to take several actions, including ratifying a collective bargaining agreement with the police union, approving a design contract for a new municipal building, and accepting a litigation settlement. The agenda also includes routine approvals of minutes, resolutions, and paid bills.

• Ratify Collective Bargaining Agreement with Swissvale Police Officers Association (2022-2026)
• Approve CORE Architects contract for new Municipal Building design at 7% of construction costs plus up to $20,000
• Approve Ordinance #22-01 restricting parking on Princeton Place
• Accept settlement with Wilson's Night Out for $3,395.97
• Approve paid bills totaling $398,122.96

Council approved a contract with CORE Architects for design of the new Municipal Building at 7% of construction costs plus up to $20,000 for reimbursables, despite public comment requesting a delay. Council also ratified a police union contract, approved a parking restriction ordinance, and accepted a litigation settlement with Wilson's Night Out.

• Approved CORE Architects contract for municipal building design (7% of construction costs + up to $20,000) (6-0-1)
• Ratified Collective Bargaining Agreement with Swissvale Police Officers Association (2022-2026) (all ayes)
• Appointed Weldianne Scales as Tri-COG Land Bank Delegate, Angela Stribling as Alternate (all ayes)
• Approved Ordinance #22-01 restricting parking on Princeton Place (all ayes)
• Approved Resolution #22-01 affirming Thomas S. Barr Jr. as elected Real Estate Tax Collector (all ayes)
• Approved Resolution #22-02 appointing council members as check signers on borough accounts (all ayes)
• Accepted settlement with Wilson's Night Out for $3,395.97 (all ayes)
• Approved paid bills totaling $398,122.96 (all ayes)

Borough Council

The Swissvale Borough Council is holding an agenda meeting with a public hearing on amending the zoning ordinance to permit keeping chickens and bees. The council will discuss several items, including a proposed parking ban on Princeton Place, allocating $50,000 in ARPA funds for security cameras, awarding a design contract for the new Borough Building, ratifying a police union contract, and other administrative matters.

• Public hearing on zoning amendment to permit chickens and bees
• Proposed ordinance to prohibit parking on certain areas of Princeton Place
• Allocation of $50,000.00 ARPA funds for camera purchase and installation
• Contract award to CORE Architects for new Borough Building design
• Ratification of Collective Bargaining Agreement with Swissvale Police Officer's Association

The Swissvale Borough Council held an agenda meeting on January 26, 2022, discussing several items but taking no final votes. The proposed $50,000 ARPA-funded camera purchase was tabled pending further information. Council also discussed a zoning amendment for chickens and bees, a contract with CORE Architects for the new borough building, and a proposed ordinance for personal EV charging stations, but no formal decisions were made.

• Tabled $50,000 ARPA camera purchase pending more info
• Discussed zoning amendment for chickens and bees (county review pending)
• Discussed CORE Architects contract for new borough building design (7% fee)
• Discussed EV charging station ordinance, tabled for further exploration
• Set March 25 deadline for board/commission applications, interviews March 30, appointments April 6
• Scheduled executive session for police union contract ratification before Feb 2 meeting

Shade Tree Committee

The Swissvale Shade Tree Committee discussed updates on grant applications and tree-related projects. They are awaiting notification on the Spring 2021 TreeVitalize application and have submitted the Tree City USA application. The committee also discussed potential tree walks and a possible grant for an urban forest intern, but no decisions were made.

• TreeVitalize application: no update, notification expected by end of February
• Tree City USA application submitted to Arbor Day Foundation
• Discussion of Borough tree walks to update tree inventory, no plans made
• Upstream PGH considering grant for urban forest intern to update tree inventory
• New Swissvale Climate Action Committee formed, survey deadline end of January

Borough Council

The Swissvale Borough Council held its reorganization meeting, swore in newly elected officials, and elected Christopher Ansell as council president and Weldianne Scales as vice president. Council members were appointed to various committees, and a proclamation was approved declaring the week of April 11, 2022 as Local Government Week. Public comments raised concerns about holiday communication and employee appreciation, with discussion only.

• Elected Christopher Ansell as council president (unanimous)
• Elected Weldianne Scales as vice president (unanimous)
• Appointed council members to standing committees
• Approved proclamation for Local Government Week (April 11, 2022) (unanimous)