Swissvale public meetings in 2025

Swissvale-Braddock Hills Regional Police Department

The Swissvale‑Braddock Hills Regional Police Department Board meeting will consider several motions, including hiring an administrative assistant, accepting a bid for financial services, approving the 2026 budget, and ratifying police officers’ union contracts. Each motion will be voted on by the board members. The meeting also includes routine reports and a motion to adjourn.

• Hire Lindsay Bagwell as Administrative Assistant at $21.54 per hour plus benefits
• Accept bid for financial services provided by Dione Hood
• Approve the proposed budget for 2026
• Ratify police officers’ union contract(s)
• Motion to adjourn

The board hired Lindsay Bagwell as the police department's administrative assistant at $21.54 per hour. It approved the proposed 2026 budget and voted to honor both the SPOA and Teamsters union contracts. The commission also adopted Swissvale's ICE‑policy resolution for the regional department.

• Hired Lindsay Bagwell as Administrative Assistant at $21.54/hr (all ayes)
• Approved 2026 police department budget (all ayes)
• Honored SPOA contract through 2025‑2026 (all ayes)
• Honored Teamsters contract and set negotiation for 2026 (all ayes)
• Extended Swissvale ICE‑policy resolution #25‑19 to regional department (all ayes)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:43 PM (all ayes)

Borough Council

The Swissvale Borough Council will vote on several finance actions, including adopting the 202 6 Budget, setting a 10.0‑mill tax rate for 2026, and approving fee adjustments for ALCOSAN services and commercial trash collection. A discussion item will consider the purchase of a recycling truck.

• Approve Resolution #2-5-31 adopting the 202 6 Budget
• Approve Ordinance #2-5-16 setting the tax millage at 10.0 mills for 2026
• Approve Resolution #2-5-32 increasing the ALCOSAN charge 7% and setting the Borough fee at 45% of the Alcosan rate
• Approve Resolution #2-5-33 re‑adopting the Borough Fee Schedule with higher commercial trash collection costs
• Discuss potential purchase of a recycling truck

The council adopted the 2026 municipal budget and set the tax millage at 10.0 mills for 2026. It approved a 7% increase to be passed on to ALCOSAN users and set the borough fee at 45% of the ALCOSAN rate. The borough fee schedule was re‑adopted with higher commercial trash collection costs. All motions passed unanimously.

• Approved Resolution #25-31 adopting the 2026 Budget (all Ayes)
• Approved Ordinance #25-16 setting tax millage at 10.0 mills for 2026 (all Ayes)
• Approved Resolution #25-32 passing a 7% ALCOSAN increase to users and setting borough fee at 45% of the rate (all Ayes)
• Approved Resolution #25-33 re‑adopting the Borough Fee Schedule with increased commercial trash collection costs (all Ayes)

Swissvale-Braddock Hills Regional Police Department

The Swissvale-Braddock Hills Regional Police Department board is meeting to handle routine business, including approving previous minutes, hiring an IT administrator, reviewing the proposed budget, and discussing a copier service contract. The agenda also includes scheduling a special meeting to approve the budget and discussing a request for proposals for a solicitor.

• Motion to hire David Nickel as IT administrator at $32.68/hour
• Presentation of proposed budget by Chief Watson
• Motion to discuss and approve copier service contract with PRECISION
• Motion to schedule special meeting to approve budget in December 2025
• Discuss Request for Proposal for Solicitor

The board approved several items, including hiring an IT administrator, adopting a copier contract, and setting future meeting dates. All motions passed unanimously. The board also scheduled a virtual special meeting to approve the budget on December 22, 2025.

• Approved minutes from November 10 meeting (All Ayes)
• Hired David Nickel as IT administrator at $32.68 hourly (All Ayes)
• Approved advertising of the 2025 budget (All Ayes)
• Approved copier service contract with Precision Copier Company (All Ayes)
• Scheduled virtual special meeting to approve budget on Dec 22, 2025 at 7:30 pm (All Ayes)
• Approved 2026 meeting schedule (All Ayes)
• Amended Oct 12 meeting to Oct 5 to avoid conflict with Indigenous Peoples Day (All Ayes)
• Agreed to move forward with solicitor RFP and request quotes (All Ayes)

Borough Council

The Swissvale Borough Council will approve the minutes from the October 29 and November 5 meetings, authorize a $2,500,000 general‑obligation note, and take several administrative actions. These actions include appointing Mickey McGlasson to the Transportation Advisory Committee, scheduling a special virtual meeting on December 17 to adopt the 2026 budget, and approving the 2026 meeting schedule. Reports from the mayor, council president, borough manager, and other officials will also be presented.

• Approve Ordinance #25-15 to issue a General Obligation Note up to $2,500,000 with a 24‑month interest‑only period
• Approve payment of borough bills (amount not specified in agenda)
• Appoint Mickey McGlasson to a two‑year term on the Transportation Advisory Committee
• Schedule a special virtual meeting on Dec 17, 2025 to adopt the 2026 budget and related ordinances
• Approve the 2026 council meeting schedule as presented

The council approved the minutes of the October 29 and November 5, 2025 meetings. It approved payment of $699,255.38 in borough bills. It authorized Ordinance #25-15 to issue a General Obligation Note for up to $2,500,000.00 with a 24‑month interest‑only period. It appointed Mickey McGlasson to the Transportation Advisory Committee, scheduled a special virtual meeting for December 17, 2025 to adopt the 2026 budget, and adopted the 2026 meeting schedule.

• Approved October 29 and November 5, 2025 meeting minutes (All Ayes)
• Approved payment of $699,255.38 in borough bills (All Ayes)
• Approved Ordinance #25-15 authorizing up to $2,500,000.00 non-electoral debt (All Ayes)
• Appointed Mickey McGlasson to a two-year term on the Transportation Advisory Committee (All Ayes)
• Approved advertisement of a special virtual meeting on Dec 17 2025 for the 2026 budget (All Ayes)
• Approved the 2026 meeting schedule as presented (All Ayes)

Borough Council

The council voted to adjourn the November 19, 2025 meeting. The motion was moved by S. Alfonso Wells, seconded by A. Stribling, and carried with all Ayes.

• Adjourned meeting (all Ayes)

Shade Tree Committee

The Shade Tree Advisory Commission will discuss preparations for the TreeVitalize tree‑planting event on November 22, including volunteer coordination and refreshments. They will receive an update on the county‑funded water buffalo that will be delivered to aid watering of new trees. Additional items include a report on recent tree work at the Pollinator Garden and information on an Audubon Society habitat program. The commission also recapped a meeting about future plans for the Carrie Furnace site.

• Preparation for November 22 TreeVitalize planting (volunteer sign‑up, refreshments provided by POWER and pizza by Sarah Ansell)
• County‑funded water buffalo to be delivered to Swissvale (contacted Ned Brockmeyer to select the animal)
• Tree work at Pollinator Garden (transplanted new paw paws, noted groundhog burrow)
• Audubon Society program to help residents add native plants for pollinators and birds
• Recap of meeting at Dickson School discussing future plans for the Carrie Furnace site

Swissvale-Braddock Hills Regional Police Department

The Swissvale-Braddock Hills Regional Police Board will negotiate a collective bargaining agreement with the police officers' union and vote on applying for Local Share Account funds for vehicles and equipment. The board will also discuss solicitor proposals and vehicle design updates.

• Negotiate collective bargaining agreement with Swissvale Police Officers Association
• Apply for Local Share Account funds for vehicles and equipment
• Discuss request for proposals for new solicitor starting January 2026
• Discuss designs for vehicles, patches, and related items

The board approved minutes from the October 20 meeting with adjustments, including appointing interim solicitors and a two‑signature policy. It voted to enter negotiations with the Swissvale Police Officers Association and Teamster Local 205 for a collective bargaining agreement. The board adopted Resolution 1 of 2025 to apply for a Local Share Account for vehicles and equipment, and approved seeking proposals for a new solicitor starting January 2026. It also accepted designs for vehicles, patches and related items.

• Approved appointment of interim solicitors Robert McTiernan and Robert Garvin (All Ayes)
• Approved two‑signature requirement for signatures and checks (All Ayes)
• Approved entering negotiations for a collective bargaining agreement (All Ayes)
• Approved Resolution 1 of 2025 to apply for a Local Share Account for vehicles and equipment (All Ayes)
• Approved discussion and decision to solicit proposals for a new solicitor effective Jan 2026 (All Ayes)
• Approved acceptance of vehicle, patch and related item designs (All Ayes)

Borough Council

Borough Council will vote on a $1 million Tax Anticipation Loan and the approval of $939,027.88 in paid bills. The body is also deciding on several construction contracts, building code updates, and grant applications for community facilities.

• Tax Anticipation Loan through First Commonwealth Bank for $1,000,000.00
• Contract with Avelli Construction for $154,550.00 for sidewalks at 7604 Charleston Avenue
• Contract with Likar Roofing for $122,000.00 for the Swissvale Food Pantry at 2028 Noble Street
• Conditional Use request for POWER to operate a Day Care Center at 7436 McClure Avenue
• Ordinances #25-12 and #25-13 adopting 2021 International Fire and Property Maintenance Codes

The council approved the September 29 and October 6 meeting minutes and paid bills totaling $939,027.88. It authorized a $1,000,000 Tax Anticipation Loan, appointed seven members to the Transportation Advisory Committee, and approved multiple contracts, ordinances, grant applications, and parcel acquisitions. A motion also froze spending from the Council Discretionary Fund until federal program impacts are resolved.

• Approved September 29 and October 6 meeting minutes (All Ayes)
• Approved $939,027.88 in paid bills (All Ayes)
• Authorized $1,000,000 Tax Anticipation Loan at 6.05% interest (All Ayes)
• Appointed seven members to the Transportation Advisory Committee (All Ayes)
• Approved $154,550 Avelli Construction sidewalk contract (All Ayes)
• Approved $122,000 Likar Roofing food pantry roof contract (All Ayes)
• Adopted 2021 International Fire Code as Ordinance #25-12 (All Ayes)
• Frozen Council Discretionary Fund spending (All Ayes)

Borough Council

The Swissvale Borough Council will hold a 6:30 p.m. public hearing on a conditional use request from Power to operate a day‑care center at 7436 McClure Avenue. Council members will also consider three resolutions to submit grant applications: one for the Act 152 demolition program for ten structures, one declaring ten properties blighted, and one for a Community Development Block Grant to replace 16 ADA ramps on Monongahela Avenue. Additional agenda items include discussions of contracts for a food‑pantry roof replacement and sidewalk work at the Wilkins School Community Center, as well as code adoptions and other reports.

• Public hearing on Power's conditional use request to operate a day‑care center at 7436 McClure Avenue
• Resolution #25‑20 to submit an Act 152 grant application for demolition of 10 structures
• Resolution #25‑21 declaring ten properties blighted under the Urban Redevelopment Law
• Resolution #25‑22 to submit a Community Development Block Grant application to replace 16 ADA ramps on Monongahela Avenue
• Discussion of awarding a contract to replace the roof at the Swissvale Food Pantry

The borough council unanimously approved three resolutions: one to submit an Act 152 grant application to demolish ten structures, one to declare those ten properties blighted, and one to submit a Community Development Block Grant application to replace 16 ADA ramps on Monongahela Avenue. All motions passed with all Ayes. Other agenda items were discussed but no further actions were taken.

• Approved Resolution #25-20 to submit Act 152 demolition grant for ten properties (All Ayes)
• Approved Resolution #25-21 declaring ten properties blighted under Urban Redevelopment Law (All Ayes)
• Approved Resolution #25-22 to submit CDBG application for 16 ADA ramp replacements on Monongahela Avenue (All Ayes)

Swissvale-Braddock Hills Regional Police Department

The Swissvale‑Braddock Hills Regional Police Board will vote on board officer nominations and committee appointments. It will also appoint Charles Watson as Police Chief at his current contract rate and benefits. Additional appointments include a department administrator, solicitor, financial institution, insurance provider, health‑care benefits provider, pension advisor, payroll service, and civil service commission members.

• Appointment of Charles Watson as Police Chief at his current contract rate and benefits
• Appointment of Cheryl Sorrenito as part‑time department administrator
• Appointment of First National Bank as the financial institution for checking accounts
• Appointment of Duncan Insurance Group as the provider for workers’ compensation, liability, and vehicle insurance
• Appointment of ADP as the payroll service provider

The board elected Kevin Hanes as President, Cassandra Schaffer as Vice‑President, Angela Stribling as Secretary, and Christopher Ansell as Treasurer. The board also appointed Charles Watson as Police Chief and approved the department’s official name, a part‑time administrator, and several service providers. All motions passed unanimously.

• Elected Kevin Hanes President of the Board (unanimous)
• Elected Cassandra Schaffer Vice‑President of the Board (unanimous)
• Elected Angela Stribling Secretary of the Board (unanimous)
• Elected Christopher Ansell Treasurer of the Board (unanimous)
• Appointed Charles Watson as Police Chief at his current contract rate (unanimous)
• Adopted "Swissvale‑Braddock Hills Regional Police Department" as the official department name (unanimous)
• Appointed Cheryl Sorrentino as Part‑Time Department Administrator (unanimous)
• Appointed First National Bank as the financial institution for checking accounts (unanimous)

Shade Tree Committee

The Shade Tree Committee discussed soil sampling results for the Church & Braddock parklet and preparations for a TreeVitalize planting on November 22. The body also coordinated the delivery of a water buffalo for the borough through the PA DCNR Bureau of Forestry.

• Acquisition of a county-funded water buffalo to be shared with other municipalities
• Soil amendment of 5-10-10 fertilizer for the Chinese Elm at Church & Braddock parklet
• Planning for November 22 TreeVitalize planting of 25 new street trees
• Recap of September 20 County-wide Tree Committee Meeting in Oakmont

Borough Council

The Borough Council will vote on authorizing a General Obligation Note for debt and approving over $1.1 million in paid bills. The meeting includes decisions on police contract amendments and several infrastructure and community funding contracts.

• Ordinance #25-11 to authorize a General Obligation Note not to exceed $2,500,000.00
• Contract with Avelli Construction for $154,550.00 for sidewalk replacement at 7604 Charleston Avenue
• Contract with Likar Roofing for $122,000.00 for roof replacement at 2028 Noble Street
• MOU with Swissvale Police Officers Association regarding pay rates, 12-hour shifts, and a DROP pension study
• Approval of paid bills totaling $1,113,497.31

The council approved the minutes from the August 27 and September 3 meetings and authorized payment of $1,113,497.31 in bills. It adopted Ordinance #25-11, allowing the borough to issue a General Obligation Note up to $2,500,000. Several discretionary fund grants were approved and two contract proposals were tabled.

• Approved minutes of Aug 27 and Sep 3 meetings (all Ayes)
• Approved paid bills totaling $1,113,497.31 (all Ayes)
• Approved Ordinance #25-11 to issue up to $2,500,000 General Obligation Note (all Ayes)
• Approved license agreement for access at 2116 South Braddock Avenue (all Ayes)
• Tabled Avelli Construction sidewalk contract for $154,550 (all Ayes)
• Tabled Likar Roofing roof contract for $122,000 (all Ayes)
• Approved $11,850 discretionary fund for property purchase on Woodstock Avenue corridor (all Ayes)
• Approved $2,650 discretionary fund for brick‑road apprenticeship program (all Ayes)

Borough Council

The Swissvale Borough Council will discuss several infrastructure contracts and a significant loan for the Borough Building project. The meeting includes a presentation on a Vacant Lot Study and interviews for the Transportation Advisory Committee.

• Proposed ordinance to borrow $2.5 million for the Borough Building project
• Contract for roof replacement at the Swissvale Food Pantry
• Contract for sidewalk replacement at the Wilkins School Community Center
• Easement request adjacent to 2116 South Braddock Avenue
• Animal Control Contract

The council voted to adjourn the meeting at 8:29 p.m. with all members in favor. No other agenda items were approved, denied, or formally adopted during this session.

• Motion to adjourn passed (All Ayes)

Shade Tree Committee

The Shade Tree Advisory Commission will review recaps of recent tree‑related meetings and discuss soil sampling results for a Chinese Elm at Church & Braddock parklet. It is considering a proposal to obtain a water buffalo, sized 4 ft × 8 ft or 4 ft × 6 ft, to be mounted on a borough Ford F550 truck for tree watering. No decisions are recorded; the committee will await soil test results and explore possible federal funding. Members also plan to attend a county‑wide Tree Committee meeting on September 20, 2025.

• Recap of August 14, 2025 virtual meeting on evaluating damage to public trees from utility or construction work
• Recap of August 20, 2025 Canopy Alliance walk‑about at Liberty Green Park evaluating tree health issues
• Soil sampling at Church & Braddock parklet to assess health of a Chinese Elm
• Proposal to acquire a water buffalo (4 ft × 8 ft or 4 ft × 6 ft) for mounting on a borough Ford F550 truck for tree watering
• Planned attendance at County‑wide Tree Committee Meeting on September 20, 2025

Borough Council

The Swissvale Borough Council will meet on September 3, 2025, to decide on several ordinances, resolutions, and contracts. Key actions include approving paid bills totaling $586,222.50, adopting a parking ordinance on Columbia Avenue, and passing a Climate Action Plan. The council will also review contracts for rock salt and loan counsel services, and allocate discretionary funds.

• Approve $586,222.50 in paid bills
• Adopt Ordinance #25-09 to prohibit parking on northern side of Columbia Avenue near Westmoreland Avenue
• Adopt Ordinance #25-10 to approve Swissvale’s Climate Action Plan
• Approve $2.5 million General Obligation Note with Loan Counsel fees not to exceed $____________
• Allocate $5,000 in Council Discretionary Funds for Welcoming America, Inc. membership

The council adopted a Climate Action Plan and a parking restriction ordinance, and approved resolutions for a property purchase and employee interactions with ICE. It also approved two contracts for rock salt and loan counsel services, and approved payment of $586,222.50 in bills. An allocation of $5,000 from discretionary funds was tabled.

• Approved minutes of July 30 and August 6 meetings (All Ayes)
• Approved payment of bills totaling $586,222.50 (All Ayes)
• Adopted Ordinance #25-09 restricting parking on north side of Columbia Ave (All Ayes)
• Adopted Ordinance #25-10 adopting Climate Action Plan (All Ayes)
• Approved Resolution #25-18 for acquisition of 7710 Francis St (All Ayes)
• Approved Resolution #25-19 on borough employee interactions with ICE (All Ayes)
• Approved contracts: Compass Minerals for rock salt at $88.32/ton and Dinsmore & Shohl for loan counsel (fees ≤ $2,000) (All Ayes)
• Tabled allocation of $5,000 from discretionary funds for Welcoming America membership (All Ayes)

Borough Council

The Swissvale Borough Council will meet to discuss the Climate Action Plan, the hiring of loan counsel for the Borough Building Bridge Financing, and a proposed ordinance regarding interactions with ICE. The agenda also includes a presentation on a Vacant Lot Study and items related to police, animal control, and salt bids.

• Presentation on Vacant Lot Study
• Discuss Climate Action Plan adoption
• Discuss loan counsel for FCB Loan
• Discuss Patrol Officer hiring
• Discuss ICE interaction ordinance

The council approved borrowing $2.5 million from First Commonwealth Bank to fund the borough building bridge project. A motion to adjourn the meeting passed unanimously. The council also set new meeting dates for September 29 and October 6.

• Approved borrowing $2.5 million from First Commonwealth Bank
• Motion to adjourn passed unanimously (All Ayes)
• Rescheduled regular meetings to Sept 29 and Oct 6
• Scheduled demolition on Washington Street Bridge to begin Sep 15
• Trash collection for Rankin Borough to start Sep 5
• Borough office closed Sep 1 for Labor Day; trash/recycling delayed a day; street sweeper not run Monday
• Amnesty program recovered over $17,000 in back garbage fees; deadline Oct 31

Shade Tree Committee

The commission reviewed plans for sidewalk construction and tree management at the Wilkins School Community Center. Members also discussed the status of a TreeVitalize application for 26 new trees. The body coordinated attendance for upcoming regional tree management events.

• Proposed removal of a large maple tree between Milton Street and WSCC and a horse chestnut on Charleston Avenue
• Proposed planting of 2-3 new trees on the WSCC hillside and one flowering tree near Milton Street and Charleston Avenue
• Application for 26 TreeVitalize plantings, including 11 trees in Regent Square and 4 at 7436 McClure Avenue
• Plan for a three-foot wide tree lawn on the new Charleston Avenue sidewalk
• Recap of July 26 tree care event at Wilkins School Community Center

The committee recapped the July 26 tree‑care event at Wilkins School Community Center and noted the need for better coordination with the center and its volunteers. It reviewed borough plans for new sidewalks, EV‑charging stations, and the removal and planting of trees on the WSCC property, but no formal actions were approved. The Fall 2025 TreeVitalize application now lists 26 trees after a site visit and added tree locations. Members also listed upcoming attendance at regional tree‑management meetings and events.

Borough Council

Borough Council will vote on intermunicipal agreements with Rankin Borough for trash collection and Braddock Hills Borough to create a joint Regional Police Department. The body is also reviewing grant applications for infrastructure and demolition, as well as the purchase of a new vehicle.

• Intergovernmental Cooperation Agreement with Braddock Hills Borough for a joint Regional Police Department starting January 1, 2026
• Intermunicipal Cooperation Agreement with Rankin Borough for trash collection at an initial annual cost of $175,000.00
• Purchase of a 2025 Chevrolet Tahoe for $59,155.47 with financing at 5.80% interest
• Grant applications for Raymond Street reconstruction, demolition of ten structures, and a Business District study
• Ordinance #25-08 to establish a Transportation Advisory Committee

The council approved the purchase of a 2025 Chevrolet Tahoe for $59,155.47 and its financing at a 5.80% interest rate. It adopted intermunicipal cooperation agreements with Rankin Borough for trash collection and with Braddock Hills Borough to create a regional police department effective Jan. 1 2026. It also adopted resolutions to seek grant funding for Raymond Street reconstruction, demolition of ten dilapidated structures, and a study of the Swissvale Business District.

• Approved purchase of 2025 Chevrolet Tahoe for $59,155.47 (4 Ayes, 1 No)
• Approved financing of the Tahoe at 5.80% interest (4 Ayes, 1 No)
• Adopted Ordinance #25-06 for trash‑collection cooperation with Rankin Borough (All Ayes)
• Adopted Ordinance #25-07 for police‑department cooperation with Braddock Hills Borough (All Ayes)
• Adopted Intergovernmental Cooperation Agreement with Braddock Hills for regional police department effective Jan 1 2026 (All Ayes)
• Adopted Resolution #25-15 to apply for grant to reconstruct Raymond Street (All Ayes)
• Adopted Resolution #25-16 to apply for grant to demolish ten dilapidated structures (All Ayes)
• Adopted Ordinance #25-08 to establish a Transportation Advisory Committee (All Ayes)

Borough Council

The Borough Council will discuss several intergovernmental agreements and the creation of a Transportation Advisory Committee. The meeting includes discussions on applying for GEDTF and Main Street Matters grants.

• Agreement with Braddock Hills for shared police services
• Intergovernmental Cooperation Agreement with Rankin Borough for Trash Collection
• Ordinance to form a Transportation Advisory Committee
• Grant applications for GEDTF and Main Street Matters programs
• Site distance issue at Columbia Avenue and Westmoreland Avenue

The council discussed several agenda items, including a legislative liaison, site safety, grant applications, and various ordinances, but no votes were recorded on those proposals. The only formal action was the motion to adjourn, which passed unanimously. The meeting concluded at 9:04 p.m.

• Motion to adjourn passed unanimously (all ayes) at 9:04 p.m.

Shade Tree Committee

The commission discussed the status of a Fall 2025 TreeVitalize application and coordinated a cleanup event for July 26. Members reviewed the results of a June 14 tree care event on Edgewood Avenue. The body also noted the resignation of member Mike Takacs.

• Fall 2025 TreeVitalize application containing approximately 24 trees
• July 26 cleanup event at Braddock Avenue and WSCC hillside
• June 14 tree care event on Edgewood Avenue
• Coordination with Western Pennsylvania Conservancy to cut tree pits in new Regent Square sidewalks

The commission noted and thanked Mike Takacs for his resignation from the Shade Tree Advisory Commission. No formal votes or approvals were recorded. The meeting focused on a recap of recent tree care events, the status of the Fall 2025 TreeVitalize application, and preparations for the upcoming Braddock Avenue and WSCC hillside cleanup.

Borough Council

Borough Council will vote on financial measures, including a revolving line of credit and paid bills. The meeting also includes proposals to adopt updated building and fire codes and a new lease for a former school building.

• Approval of paid bills totaling $1,065,961.22
• Revolving Demand Line of Credit through First Commonwealth Bank up to $1,500,000.00 at 5.9% interest
• Lease agreement with Woodland Hills School District for 7600 Evans Street at $3,750.00 per month
• Adoption of the 2021 International Property Maintenance Code and 2021 International Fire Code
• Council Discretionary Fund expenditure of $4,500.00 for Sheriff Sales

The Swissvale Borough Council approved a revolving demand line of credit with First Commonwealth Bank for up to $1,500,000 at 5.9% interest, limited to 36 months for interim grant financing. The council also approved the June 4 and May 28 meeting minutes, paid bills totaling $1,065,961.22, a new lease with Woodland Hills School District, adoption of the 2021 International Property Maintenance and Fire Codes, a $4,500 discretionary fund for sheriff sales, and a resolution to destroy certain municipal records.

• Approved May 28 and June 4 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved paid bills of $1,065,961.22 (4 Ayes, 1 abstain)
• Approved $1.5 M revolving line of credit at 5.9% (unanimous)
• Approved lease of former school building at $3,750/month (unanimous)
• Adopted 2021 International Property Maintenance Code (unanimous)
• Adopted 2021 International Fire Code (unanimous)
• Approved $4,500 council discretionary fund for sheriff sales (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution #25‑14 to destroy certain municipal records (unanimous)

Borough Council

The Borough Council will discuss the adoption of updated Property Maintenance and Fire Codes. The meeting includes discussions on a line of credit with First Commonwealth Bank and a lease agreement with Woodland Hills School District.

• Adoption of updated Property Maintenance Code
• Adoption of updated Fire Code
• Lease agreement with Woodland Hills School District
• Line of credit with First Commonwealth Bank
• Possible ordinance concerning tethered dogs

The council voted to adjourn the June 25, 2025 meeting at 7:58 P.M. The motion was made by Shawn Alfonso Wells, seconded by Fred L. Quinn, and passed with all ayes. No other formal decisions were recorded during the meeting.

• Adjourned meeting at 7:58 P.M. (all ayes)

Borough Council

The Borough Council will vote on forming a regional police department with Braddock Hills Borough. The meeting includes decisions on fire department staffing, streetscape funding, and the adoption of a transportation plan.

• Approval of a Regional Police Department with Braddock Hills Borough effective January 1, 2026
• Ordinance #25-04 adopting the Active Transportation Plan
• Payment of Borough bills totaling $445,494.52
• Resolution #25-13 declaring 2453 and 2462 Woodstock Avenue as dangerous and blighted
• Expenditure of $5,950.00 for street sign toppers with the Borough logo

The council adopted Ordinance #25-04, establishing the Active Transportation Plan, and approved a resolution to form a Regional Police Department with Braddock Hills Borough effective Jan. 1, 2026. It also extended the emergency declaration from the April 29, 2025 storms for an additional 60 days, approved a grant application for the Multimodal Transportation Fund, and declared two Woodstock Avenue structures dangerous and blighted. Additional actions included approving the meeting minutes, $445,494.52 in paid bills, and promoting Anthony Lewis to Shift Commander in the fire department.

• Approved minutes of April 30 and May 7 meetings (all Ayes)
• Approved paid bills totaling $445,494.52 (all Ayes)
• Promoted Anthony Lewis to Shift Commander, Swissvale Fire Department (all Ayes)
• Adopted Active Transportation Plan (Ordinance #25-04) (all Ayes)
• Approved grant application (Resolution #25-12) for Multimodal Transportation Fund (all Ayes)
• Declared 2453 & 2462 Woodstock Ave structures dangerous and blighted (Resolution #25-13) (all Ayes)
• Extended Emergency Declaration 60 days to Aug 4, 2025 (all Ayes)
• Approved formation of Regional Police Department with Braddock Hills Borough effective Jan 1, 2026 (all Ayes)

Borough Council

The Borough Council will hold demolition clearance hearings and discuss several administrative and public safety matters. Key agenda items include the potential formation of a regional police department with Braddock Hills and the adoption of an Active Transportation Plan.

• Demolition clearance hearings for 2453 and 2462 Woodstock Avenue
• Fire Department hiring for one Shift Commander, three Engineers, one Fire Marshal, and four Part-Time Firefighters
• Potential ordinance banning unsupervised tethered dogs
• Resolution for a Multi-Modal Fund Grant Application
• Discussion on forming a Regional Police Department with Braddock Hills

The council discussed several agenda items, including demolition clearances, fire department hiring, and a potential dog ordinance, but no votes or approvals were recorded. The only formal action was the motion to adjourn, which passed unanimously. No substantive decisions were made at this meeting.

• Motion to adjourn the meeting at 7:54 PM approved (all ayes)

Shade Tree Committee

The Shade Tree Committee reviewed storm damage from April 29 and discussed compiling a tree damage list for an insurance claim. Members also addressed a rescheduled CONNECT x Canopy Alliance meeting, the Tree City USA designation for 2024, and a Fall 2025 TreeVitalize grant application with specific address requests. Future care projects include tree mulching, tree pit signs in Regent Square, and a June 14 cleanup event on Edgewood Avenue.

• Storm damage list being compiled for borough insurance claim, including older maple trees on Edgewood Avenue busway
• Tree requests for Fall 2025 TreeVitalize grant at 7101 Harrison, 7042 McClure, 7434 Washington, 7445 McClure, and 7118 Schoyer Avenues; deadline June 2, 2025
• Tree pit cleaning and mulching event scheduled for June 14, 2025 along Edgewood Avenue busway
• Tree mulching and pit work done April 26 in Regent Square Business District with Girl Scout troop
• Tree City USA sign to be placed on Braddock Avenue near Kenmawr Bridge

The Shade Tree Advisory Commission reviewed damage from the April 29 storm and assigned members to compile a tree service list and update the TreeKeeper database. The meeting with CONNECT x Canopy Alliance was rescheduled for May 29, 2025. Plans were made to install a Tree City USA sign on Braddock Avenue and to hold a tree‑pit cleaning and mulching event on June 14, 2025. No formal approvals or votes were recorded.

• Jordan D’Ambrosio to provide list of trees needing DPW or arborist service (pending)
• Gib Miller to update the Excel tree inventory and TreeKeeper database (pending)
• CONNECT x Canopy Alliance meeting rescheduled to May 29, 2025, 9‑11:30 am at Tree Pittsburgh facility
• Gib Miller to place a Tree City USA sign on the pole at the Braddock Avenue entrance near Kenmawr Bridge (planned)
• Flyer for the June 14, 2025 tree‑pit cleaning and mulching event to be prepared by Gib Miller (planned)
• Gib Miller to email the flyer to SSTAC members for posting on community sites (planned)

Borough Council

Borough Council will vote on an interim financing proposal for the Swissvale Municipal Building Project and several grant applications for park and community center improvements. The meeting includes approvals for paid bills and discretionary spending for local events and maintenance.

• Interim financing proposal from First Commonwealth Bank for the Swissvale Municipal Building Project at 6.08% interest
• Approval of paid bills totaling $873,400.09
• Contract of $23,800.00 to A Multitask Site Developing Company for Phase 2 of Les Getz Memorial Park cleanup
• Discretionary expenditures: $13,000 for Juneteenth, $23,800 for Memorial Park cleanup, and $4,000 for Swissvale Food Pantry
• Grant applications for Les Getz Memorial Park, the new Municipal Building, Carrie Furnace Connector trail, and Wilkins School Community Center

The council unanimously approved the minutes of the March 26 and April 2 meetings. It also approved $873,400.09 in paid bills, an interim financing proposal for the municipal building at a 6.08% interest rate, and waived a $71.55 real‑estate tax penalty. Discretionary fund expenditures of $13,000 for Juneteenth, $23,800 for Memorial Park cleanup, and $4,000 for the food pantry were approved, and a $23,800 contract was awarded for Phase 2 of the park cleanup. Resolutions to apply for state grant funding for park improvements, the municipal building, the Carrie Furnace Connector trail study, and the Wilkins School community center were adopted, and the disaster declaration was extended for 30 days.

• Approved minutes of March 26 and April 2 meetings (all Ayes)
• Approved paid bills totaling $873,400.09 (all Ayes)
• Approved interim financing proposal from First Commonwealth Bank at 6.08% interest (all Ayes)
• Waived $71.55 real‑estate tax penalty for Brandon Jennings and Shenay Jeffrey (all Ayes)
• Approved $13,000 Council Discretionary Fund for Juneteenth celebration (4 Ayes, 1 No)
• Approved $23,800 Council Discretionary Fund for Memorial Park "dump" cleanup (all Ayes)
• Awarded $23,800 contract to A Multitask Site Developing Company for Phase 2 of Les Getz Memorial Park cleanup (all Ayes)
• Extended the disaster declaration and adopted a resolution to extend it for 30 days (all Ayes)

Borough Council

The Swissvale Borough Council will discuss setting a public hearing date for demolition clearance hearings for 2453 and 2462 Woodstock Avenue (proposed May 28), a loan proposal for interim financing of the Borough Building, and placement of a composting unit at Memorial Park. They will also review grant application resolutions, Council Discretionary Fund requests, a resident's request to waive penalties on a late interim tax bill, and policies on mailing interim tax bills and street closure permits. Departmental reports from police, fire, public works, and others will be presented.

• Discuss setting public hearing date for demolition of 2453 and 2462 Woodstock Avenue (proposed May 28 at 6:30 p.m.)
• Discuss resolutions for grant applications
• Discuss placement of a composting unit at Memorial Park
• Discuss a loan proposal for interim financing for the Borough Building
• Discuss a resident request to waive penalties on a late interim tax bill

The council discussed setting a public hearing for demolition of 2453 and 2462 Woodstock Avenue and noted a $30,000 grant for removal. They reviewed grant applications, a composting unit proposal, a loan for interim financing, and discretionary fund requests, but no motions were recorded to approve or deny them. The only vote was to adjourn the meeting, which passed unanimously.

• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Shade Tree Committee

The Shade Tree Committee discussed upcoming Earth Day and Arbor Day events, a county-wide tree committee meeting, and coordination with the CONNECT x Canopy Alliance. They noted that Swissvale was again designated a Tree City USA, but their TreeVitalize grant request for Spring 2025 was not approved. A meeting to inspect the Swissvale Pollinator Garden is planned for April 27.

• Western Pennsylvania Conservancy denied TreeVitalize grant request for Spring 2025 due to high volume of requests
• Swissvale again designated Tree City USA for 2024
• Arbor Day proclamation to be read by Mayor Swartzwelder at Swissvale Borough cleanup on April 26
• County-wide tree committee meeting on April 26 hosted by Fox Chapel
• Pollinator Garden check and tree health inventory scheduled for April 27 at 1 pm

Borough Council

The Borough Council will vote on expenditures for park cleanups, a new mural, and materials testing for the Borough Building. The meeting includes proposals to change police hiring rules and declare three specific properties as dangerous and blighted.

• Proposed $404,816.28 in paid bills
• Proposed $22,000 for Memorial Park cleanup and $22,000 for Les Getz Memorial Park Phase 1
• Proposed $21,000 contract with Construction Engineering Consultants for Borough Building materials testing
• Ordinance #25-03 for a Delinquent Garbage Fee Amnesty Program from May 1 to October 31, 2025
• Resolution #25-07 declaring 7509 Melrose Street, 7305 Denniston Avenue, and 2114 Monongahela Avenue as dangerous and blighted

The council approved the February 26 and March 5 meeting minutes and authorized payment of $404,816.28 in bills. It appointed Perry Recker to the Shade Tree Advisory Committee, hired Alex Noll as a full‑time police officer, and ratified a Black History Month award. Several discretionary‑fund projects were approved, including a mural, park‑dump cleanup, and fire‑bell restoration, and the council waived bridge demolition requirements.

• Approved minutes of Feb 26 and Mar 5 meetings (All Ayes)
• Approved paid bills totaling $404,816.28 (All Ayes)
• Hired Alex Noll as a full‑time entry‑level police officer (All Ayes)
• Ratified Black History Month Award to “June the Barber” (5 Ayes, 1 abstention)
• Approved $11,400 mural on Irvine Street side of DPW Building (All Ayes)
• Waived Section 10‑132 for Washington Street Bridge demolition work (5 Ayes, 1 opposed)
• Approved Ordinance #25‑03 Delinquent Garbage Fee Amnesty Program (All Ayes)
• Approved Resolution #25‑07 declaring three structures dangerous and blighted (All Ayes)

Borough Council

The Borough Council will hold a public hearing on a Verizon cable franchise renewal and demolition clearance hearings for three properties. Members will discuss several proposed ordinances, including a Garbage Amnesty Program and Air BnB regulations related to the 2026 NFL Draft.

• Demolition clearance hearings for 7509 Melrose Street, 7305 Denniston Avenue, and 2114 Monongahela Avenue
• Public hearing for Verizon cable franchise renewal
• Request for overnight and weekend work on the Washington Street Bridge
• Proposed ordinance for the Garbage Amnesty Program
• Proposed Air BnB Ordinance regarding the 2026 NFL Draft

The council reviewed appointments, blight declarations, bridge work requests, discretionary fund proposals, and several other topics, but no motions were adopted on those items. The only recorded vote was to adjourn the meeting, which passed unanimously. No other decisions were formally approved, denied, or tabled.

• Adjourned meeting (all ayes) – motion moved by S. Alfonso Wells, seconded by A. Stribling

Shade Tree Committee

The commission reviewed the status of the 2024 Tree City USA application and the Spring 2025 TreeVitalize application. Members discussed the future maintenance of the Pollinator Garden and potential community composting sites. The body also noted upcoming street tree additions for the Monongahela Avenue Streetscape project.

• Installation of Tree City USA signs on Braddock Avenue, Monongahela Avenue, and Columbia Avenue
• Volunteer cleanup event at the Pollinator Garden scheduled for March 29, 2025
• Proposed composting bins at the Pollinator Garden and Dickson School on Schoyer Avenue
• Addition of approximately 12 new street trees for the Monongahela Avenue Streetscape initial phase
• Arbor Day proclamation event planning for April 26, 2025

Borough Council

The Swissvale Borough Council will vote on several motions including a $775,000 street sweeper purchase, a grant application for Les Getz Memorial Park improvements, and ordinances on delinquent garbage fee amnesty and warrantless arrests. They will also appoint a board member and approve welcome signs.

• Purchase of a 2025 Elgin Brown Bear Electric Street Sweeper from A&H Equipment for $775,000
• Resolution #25-05 authorizing a grant application to the Department of Community and Natural Resources for Les Getz Memorial Park improvements
• Ordinance #25-04 codifying warrantless arrests by the Swissvale Police Department
• Ordinance #25-03 enacting a Delinquent Garbage Fee Amnesty Ordinance from May 1 to July 31, 2025
• Council Discretionary Fund expenditure of $7,370 for new Swissvale Welcome Signs

The council approved the purchase of a 2025 Elgin Brown Bear Electric Street Sweeper for $775,000, and approved a $458,503.99 paid bills list. A delinquent garbage fee amnesty ordinance was tabled until next month. The council also approved a grant application for Les Getz Memorial Park improvements and codified warrantless arrest authority for police.

• Approved $458,503.99 in paid bills (all ayes)
• Appointed Brittany Swartzwelder to Enterprise Zone Corporation of Braddock Board (all ayes)
• Approved $7,370 for Swissvale Welcome Signs (all ayes)
• Approved posting Resolution #25-03 with amendment (6-0, 1 abstention)
• Approved grant application for Les Getz Memorial Park improvements (all ayes)
• Approved $775,000 purchase of Elgin street sweeper (all ayes)
• Tabled Ordinance #25-03 delinquent garbage fee amnesty (all ayes)
• Approved Ordinance #25-04 warrantless arrests (all ayes)

Borough Council

The Swissvale Borough Council will hold an agenda meeting on February 26, 2025, discussing several potential ordinances and resolutions. Key topics include a proposed ordinance to allow warrantless arrests and a resolution to apply for funding for Memorial Park improvements. The council will also discuss purchasing an electric street sweeper and setting public hearing dates for demolition clearances and a Verizon franchise agreement. All items are in the discussion phase, with no final votes scheduled.

• Discuss adoption of an ordinance to allow for warrantless arrests
• Discuss a resolution to apply for funding for improvements at Memorial Park
• Discuss the purchase of an Electric Street Sweeper
• Discuss Verizon Franchise Agreement and set a Public Hearing Date
• Discuss adoption of an ordinance for the Garbage Amnesty Program

The Swissvale Borough Council held an agenda meeting and discussed multiple upcoming items, including setting public hearing dates for demolition clearance and a Verizon franchise agreement for March 26. The council also discussed moving forward with the purchase of an electric street sweeper for $775,000, funded by a Health Department grant, and applying for a park improvement grant. No formal votes were taken; all items were discussion-only.

• Set demolition clearance hearing for March 26 meeting
• Set Verizon franchise public hearing for March 26 at 6:15 P.M.
• Discussed ordering electric street sweeper at $775,000, funded by Health Department grant
• Discussed submitting grant application for Memorial Park improvements ($250,000-$300,000)
• Discussed advertising for Shade Tree Advisory Commission vacancy
• Discussed advertising for alternate Civil Service Commission member
• Discussed appointing representative to Enterprise Zone Corporation of Braddock Board
• Discussed Council Discretionary Fund request for welcome signs ($7,370)

Borough Council

Council will consider approval of six construction contracts totaling over $8 million for the Swissvale Municipal Building project, set compensation for elected officials, and make appointments to boards. Also on the agenda are a vacant property acquisition, a welcoming community resolution, and a grant application for the Food Pantry renovations.

• Approve $5,625,000 contract with DiMarco Construction for general construction of Municipal Building
• Approve ordinances setting compensation: Council $4,190/yr, Mayor $5,000/yr, Tax Collector $12,000/yr
• Approve Resolution #25-02 acquiring vacant property at 2012 Collingwood Avenue adjacent block
• Approve Resolution #25-03 affirming Swissvale as a welcoming community for all
• Approve grant application to Commonwealth Financing Authority for Swissvale Food Pantry renovations

The council approved six construction contracts totaling about $8.1 million for the Swissvale Municipal Building project, each passing 6-1 with Councilmember B. Swartzwelder voting no. It also approved ordinances setting 2025 elected official compensation, appointed several board and commission members, and passed resolutions on welcoming community and a food pantry grant application.

• Approved $5,625,000 general construction contract with DiMarco Construction (6-1)
• Approved $860,000 electrical contract with A-1 Electric (6-1)
• Approved $812,000 mechanical contract with K and K Mechanical Services (6-1)
• Approved $377,700 plumbing contract with McRandal Company (6-1)
• Approved $393,000 technology contract with Horizon Information Services (6-1)
• Approved $81,500 fire protection contract with Mongiovi & Son (6-1)
• Approved Ordinance #25-01 setting council pay at $4,190 and mayor pay at $5,000 annually
• Approved Resolution #25-02 for vacant property acquisition at 2012 Collingwood Avenue

Borough Council

The Borough Council will hold an agenda meeting to discuss several items, including board and commission appointments, Black History Month awards, building bids, and compensation for council, mayor, tax collector, and garbage fee collector. Also on the agenda are a garbage fee amnesty program, a vacant property recovery application, and Woodlawn Avenue parking issues. Departmental reports from police, fire, public works, borough manager, council president, and solicitor will be presented. No votes are scheduled; this is a discussion session.

• Discuss Borough Building Bids
• Discuss Council and Mayor Compensation
• Discuss Tax Collector Compensation and Garbage Fee Collector Compensation
• Discuss Garbage Fee Amnesty Program
• Discuss Vacant Property Recovery Program Application and Woodlawn Avenue Parking Issues

Council discussed rebidding the borough building project after new bids totaled $8,149,200, and agreed to change the garbage fee collector's commission to a flat $4 per unit per bill. Appointments for five boards and Black History Month awards will be made at the next regular meeting. An ordinance setting council salaries at $4,190 and mayor at $5,000 was advertised and can be adopted next week. No formal votes were taken on these items at this agenda meeting.

• Agreed to change garbage fee collector commission to flat $4 per unit per bill
• Discussed rebid borough building project totaling $8,149,200
• Advertised ordinance capping council salary at $4,190 and mayor at $5,000
• Scheduled board and commission appointments for next regular meeting
• Scheduled Black History Month awards for next regular meeting

Borough Council

The Borough Council will consider approving over $1.2 million in paid bills and the hiring of five part-time firefighters. The meeting includes decisions on a municipal building demolition payment and a lot consolidation on Noble Street.

• Approval of paid bills totaling $1,232,640.51
• Final payment of $36,000.00 to Gil Berry and Associates for Borough Municipal Building demolition
• Ratification of five part-time firefighter hires: Alisa Innocenti, Christopher Snedeker, Brett Steele, Nathan Hezlep, and Terry Newbegin
• Resolution 25-01 to join the South Hills DUI Task Force
• Approval of Mbembo Lot Consolidation Plan at 2115 and 2117 Noble Street

The council ratified the hiring of five part-time firefighters, approved a $36,000 final payment to Gil Berry and Associates for the borough building demolition, and appointed members to a Climate Resilience Plan Committee. It also approved participation in the South Hills DUI Task Force, a lot consolidation on Noble Street, and set trash fee collection compensation at $4.00 per bill.

• Ratified hiring of five part-time firefighters (all ayes)
• Approved $36,000 final payment to Gil Berry and Associates (all ayes)
• Appointed Climate Resilience Plan Committee members (all ayes)
• Approved Resolution 25-01 for South Hills DUI Task Force participation (all ayes)
• Approved Mbembo Lot Consolidation Plan at 2115/2117 Noble Street (all ayes)
• Set trash fee collection compensation at $4.00 per bill (all ayes)
• Approved paid bills totaling $1,232,640.51 (all ayes)
• Approved minutes of Nov 20 and Dec 4 meetings (all ayes)