MINUTES FOR MARCH 18, 2024
THE ELDRED BOROUGH COUNCIL HELD THEIR REGULAR MONTHLY MEETING ON MARCH 18, 2024
@ 6:00PM AT THE ELDRED BOROUGH BUILDING.
COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT: DAN PLUMMER, JOE BAKER, PAT WALKER, BILLY BAIR AND
LAINIE KEPHART
OTHER OFFICIALS PRESENT: MAYOR ANDREW LATHROP, SECRETARY STEPHANIE MASON,
TREASURER LISA HANNAHS, ROADMASTER KEVIN CALDWELL AND ENGINEER JEFF SPENCER
MEETING CALLED TO ORDER AT 6:00 PM BY THE COUNCIL PRESIDENT DANIEL PLUMMER.
MOTION BILLY, PAT 2ND TO APPROVE THE AGENDA, AIF
MOTION PAT, JOE 2ND TO APPROVE THE PREVIOUS MEETING MINUTES, AIF
MOTION LAINIE, PAT 2ND TO APPROVE THE TREASURERS REPORT AND FINANCIAL CONDITION,
AIF
MOTION PAT, BILLY 2ND TO APPROVE THE BILLS TO BE PAID, AIF
Jeff goes over the engineer’s report and talks about the grant that was approved for the levee. He said it will take about a
year to complete the next step of the work that needs to be done to get the levee reaccredited. He said the next quarterly
update for DEP is being done now and that Greenland Construction is set to start on the sewer/water line replacement
project on April 1st. He talks about some of the reimbursements that need to be done tonight and said there will be monthly construction update meetings for the collection system starting in April. He said the chapter 94 report still had to be done
even though the old plant is only being used for another year. He also said the grant for the King Street work is being
worked on and will be applied for as soon as it’s done and that they should know something on that by the end of the year.
MOTION PAT, BILLY 2ND TO APPROVE WWTP CONTRACTORS PAY REQUEST IN THE TOTAL
AMOUNT OF $763,409.39, AIF
MOTION JOE, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE PENNVEST ME1454 REIMBURSEMENT REQUISITION #5
IN THE AMOUNT OF $763,409.39, AIF
MOTION LAINIE, PAT 2ND TO APPROVE PENNVEST ME77106 REIMBURSEMENT REQUISITION #5
IN THE AMOUNT OF $38,196.44, AIF
MOTION BILLY, JOE 2ND TO APPROVE PENNVEST ME1469 REIMBURSEMENT REQUISITION #1
IN THE AMOUNT OF $8,876.19, AIF
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE PENNVEST ME77115 REIMBURSEMENT REQUISITION #1
IN THE AMOUNT OF $282,726.05, AIF
Dan talked about the railroad boring that had to be done at the new plant
Council talked more about the feral cat ordinance and that with this in place the No Feline Left Behind group is not able
to come into the town and trap these feral cats to be fixed. If they want them to be able to come in and fix these stray cats
they will have repeal the ordinance completely
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE THE PROPOSED ORDINANCE TO REPEAL THE PREVIOUS
FERAL CAT ORDINANCE, AIF
Dan reminded everyone that spring cleanup will be on Monday May 20th and that the new basketball court lights have
been ordered
Council would also like to thank Eldred Borough Fire Department, Eldred Township Fire Department and Otto
Township Fire Department for all their help with burning the levee
Dan had Mo & Myrna talk about the pickleball court they would like to have put in. They would like to temporarily use
the pavilion until they can get something more permanent set up and they have a chance to see how many people would
actually be interested in playing. They are thinking for right now it would just be one night per week. Dan asked how big
the court would need to be for this and they gave Council the dimensions and said they had gotten a quote from
Armstrong’s to make a court. They said for right now they would set up and tear it down each time. Council said they
just ask that it is cleaned up each time and everything put back when they are done
MOTION LAINIE, PAT 2ND TO APPROVE ALLOWING THE PAVILION TO BE USED TEMPORARILY
FOR PICKLEBALL, AIF
Mary from the Port Library said that there has been great participation in the library from the Eldred residents and she
goes over some of the reports she has with her and she thanks the Borough for their donation
YWCA spoke about April being sexual assault awareness month and they are asking all towns to allow them to place
teal ribbons throughout the town to support the awareness
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE YWCA TO PLACE TEAL RIBBONS THROUGHOUT TOWN
FOR THE MONTH OF APRIL WHICH THEY WILL TAKE DOWN AFTER APRIL, AIF
Dan talks about the Treasurers hours and that Lisa’s hours have went up permanently to 24 hours due to the added extra
work of splitting the accounts which has made the number of accounts to handle double and all the reimbursements that
she has to handle for the sewer plant project and the collection system. Dan said he would just like to make that official
for her
MOTION PAT, JOE 2ND TO APPROVE THE TREASURERS HOURS TO PERMANENTLY BE CHANGED
TO 24 HOURS PER WEEK, AIF
Dan calls an executive session to discuss personnel matters at 6:28
Dan calls the meeting back to order at 6:43
Council talked about some of the Federal Covid grant money that is left and how bad of shape the sidewalks are in front
of 96 Main Street and the cemetery and that they have been bad for many years. Dan said Kevin is going to work on trying
to clean them up some where they have grown over and put in some gravel to try and help the drainage issue. Joe asked
about the sidewalk in front of the other cemetery as well. Dan said they could look at that as well but the other two sections
are the really bad areas. They also talked about King Street and possibly using some of the money for that if the Borough
doesn’t get the grant they are applying for
Dan talks about the 5 year pension audit that Lisa just had and that it went well. He said they were told by the auditor
that council needs to appoint Lisa as the CAO of the pension plan
MOTION LAINIE, PAT 2ND TO APPOINT LISA HANNAHS AS THE CAO OF THE PENSION PLAN, AIF
Dan turns the meeting over to Jeff to talk about the sewer tap inspections. They just want to make sure everyone is aware
that this will be taking place in the near future and that basement drains, downspouts, etc. can not be hooked into the
sewer system
Dan talks about the sewer savings account and how council feels about raising that to $2,000 per month to be put in
MOTION LAINIE, JOE 2ND TO APPROVE DEPOSITING $2,000 PER MONTH INTO THE SEWER
SAVINGS ACCOUNT, AIF
Council talked about the dump truck and that it’s 18 years old and may not pass inspection after this year. Dan said they
need to start thinking about a new one and how the Borough is going to finance it. He said Kevin had a hard time finding
parts for it the last time he had to make a repair and they put $7,000 into it a couple of years ago
Council talked about the military banners and that it’s hard to find volunteers to help put them up and take them down.
They didn’t get taken down in the fall and several of them have fallen this winter. They talked about possibly renting
something like a bucket truck to reach them. Joe said it only takes 3 guys to do the job. Council agreed that the banners
are very important to the town and need to be taken care of and that the Borough should help with this.
Dan wanted to remind everyone that garage sale days are May 4th
Council talked about the Memorial Day parade with the sewer and water line project going on and Dan said that
Greenland Construction said they will make sure that Main Street is cleaned up and ready for the parade
Council talked about possibly purchasing more millings to fix Campbell Alley and also to put some more on the park roads
Kevin estimates probably around 100 tons.
MOTION LAINIE, JOE 2ND TO APPROVE PURCHASING MILLINGS FOR CAMPBELL ALLEY AND THE
PARK ROADS, AIF
Council talks about the park needing another load of mulch this year for the playground
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE PURCHASING A LOAD OF MULCH FOR THE PARK
PLAYGROUND, AIF
Sue asked who is liable if someone is hurt playing pickleball, basketball or anything else at the parks. Council said
they aren’t exactly sure but the Borough does have liability insurance on all property. Dan talked about trying to repair
the old tennis court, they also talked about the possibility of lights for that eventually. They talked about all the events
and things that used to be held at the courts and the park
Council talked about and agrees that they are not going to paint the lines on Main Street this year with all the construction
going on and things being tore up
MOTION pat, Lainie 2nd TO ADJOURN MEETING AT 7:12PM, AIF
NEXT MEETING – APRIL 15, 2024 6:00PM
Respectfully,
Stephanie Bigley
Eldred Borough Secretary
MINUTES FOR FEBRUARY 19, 2024
THE ELDRED BOROUGH COUNCIL HELD THEIR REGULAR MONTHLY MEETING ON FEBRUARY 19, 2024
@ 6:00PM AT THE ELDRED BOROUGH BUILDING.
COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT: DAN PLUMMER, JOE BAKER, PAT WALKER AND LAINIE KEPHART
OTHER OFFICIALS PRESENT: MAYOR ANDREW LATHROP, SECRETARY STEPHANIE MASON,
TREASURER LISA HANNAHS AND ROADMASTER KEVIN CALDWELL
MEETING CALLED TO ORDER AT 6:00 PM BY THE COUNCIL PRESIDENT DANIEL PLUMMER.
MOTION LAINIE, PAT 2ND TO APPROVE THE AGENDA, AIF
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE THE PREVIOUS MEETING MINUTES, AIF
MOTION JOE, PAT 2ND TO APPROVE THE TREASURERS REPORT AND FINANCIAL CONDITION,
AIF
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE THE BILLS TO BE PAID, AIF
Trooper Eliason attended the Borough meeting and said that they are going to try to attend more meetings and be more
pro active in the Borough. He said to please reach out to them when needed and that they can’t help if they don’t know.
He gave a quick report for 2023 within the Borough. He said there were a total of 369 calls for service, 103 traffic stops,
32 citations, 6 crashes, 4 DUI, 88 general along with other calls for service
Dan goes over the engineers update and they talk a little about the new levee grant and the work that will be done for this
grant for the study. He said there is a call with PennVest tomorrow and closing for the collection system will be the 27th.
He said Jeff will also be working on applying for the grant for King Street
MOTION LAINIE, PAT 2ND TO APPROVE CONTRACTORS PAY REQUESTS IN THE TOTAL AMOUNT
OF $572,477.81, AIF
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE PENNVEST ME71454 REIMBURSEMENT REQUISITION #5 IN
THE AMOUNT OF $572,477.81, AIF
MOTION JOE, PAT 2ND TO APPROVE PENNVEST ME77106 REIMBURSEMENT REQUISITION #5 IN THE AMOUNT OF $35,794.11, AIF
Council talked about the new sewer plant and that it’s moving along good
Council talked about getting the new lights for the basketball courts ordered
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE ORDERING THE NEW LIGHTS FOR THE BASKETBALL
COURTS, AIF
Dan gave an update on the demo of 96 Main and said that the house is done and they are now working on the trees and
that they will then make repairs to the road to the cemetery
Mr. & Mrs. Lowman would like to move in a mobile home on their back property, they said the water would go to
Central Street and the sewer would come down King Street. They talked about hooking the new place into their existing
sewer on their property where they live just until the new collection system project is done and then it would be on it’s
own line. They said the trailer was ordered and will be delivered from Owl Homes and that Jack Bell will be doing the sewer
and water work. Council asked if they had contacted one of the inspection companies and they said they had not yet that they wanted to talk to council first and that they also need to talk to the planning commission. Council said they would need to
grant an easement on the property they live on for the sewer line to come down that property from the other just in case it
was ever sold. They talked about removing some trees and Pat said he was fine with that. Council talked more about the
temporary hookup to their sewer system and council agreed they were ok with this as long as it’s only temporary until the
new collection system is done. Council reminded them at that time they would need to pay the tap in fee for the new
property. Mrs. Lowman asked if they would have to pay this fee once or twice and council said they would only pay that
fee one time.
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE MR. & MRS. LOWMAN TO MOVE A NEW SINGLEWIDE ONTO
THEIR SECOND LOT ON KING STREET AND TO TEMPORARILY CONNECT THE SEWER TO THEIR
CURRENT SEWER LINE ON THEIR OTHER PROPERTY UNTIL THE NEW COLLECTION SYSTEM IS
DONE AT WHICH TIME IT WILL THEN HAVE IT’S OWN LINE. COUNCIL ALSO AGREES TO LET
THEM PAY THE TAP FEE IN TWO PAYMENTS, ONE NOW AND THE OTHER WHEN THE NEW SYSTEM
IS DONE, AIF
Dan talks about PTO/Vacation days, he said as of right now they can not be rolled over but they can be cashed in. He asked
the rest of council if they wanted to change this Joe said most places allow you to roll over so many days. Pat said maybe
let them roll over 40 hours per year but no more than that. Steph talked to council about Lisa and that because she is part time
she only ever gets 7 PTO days per year. She said that as of July Lisa will be here 2 years and that’s longer than anyone else
has stayed in that position and that she doesn’t get any other benefits because she is part time so could they consider giving
her some vacation time to go with her PTO days so that she has something to look forward to earning.
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE TO GIVE LISA HANNAHS THE SAME VACATION HOURS AND
ON THE SAME SCHEDULE AS THE FULL TIME EMPLOYEES, AIF
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE EMPLOYEES TO ROLL OVER NO MORE THAN 40 HOURS
EACH YEAR OF VACATION TIME THEY DIDN’T USE, AIF
Dan talks about the $224,000 grant the Borough was awarded for the next phase of the levee and he said they are going to
be talking to the fire department about burning the levee again this year before spring
Dan said Spectrum is still trying to get set up and changed over from Verizon
Council talked about spring cleanup for this year and if they were going to keep the payment amount the same
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE SPRING CLEANUP ON MAY 20, 2024 AND TO CHARGE THE
SAME $40 FEE AS LAST YEAR, AIF
Council talked about 118 Main Street and the brush pile and that the brush pile is only to be used by Borough residents and
it’s only for dumping small piles of yard brush or lawn clippings and there is supposed to be no contractor dumping. They
also talked about fires and there are supposed to be no residents having fires bigger than what will fit in a fire ring for
a camp fire
Lainie said she has been contacted by a couple of people about the Borough doing an Easter egg hunt in town for kids.
Council thinks it’s a good idea if someone is willing to volunteer, they talked about having age groups and maybe giving
out prizes. They all feel there isn’t enough time for planning for this year though but would like to plan on this for next year
Dan talked about the railroad boring, sewer bond, electric panels & poles, winter weather operations and UGI along with
other things that are being done at the new plant. He talked about things the Borough is having to pay out of pocket because
they were not figured in to be part of the project. He said the hope is that they will eventually be reimbursed for some of it at
the end if there is contingency available. He said most of these things should have been figured into the project to begin with
and the answer of not knowing what something would cost is not acceptable. He said it all could have been estimated
and then adjusted if need be but for these things to not have been figured into the project at all is just not acceptable. He said
there is also approximately $52,000 that was paid out in the beginning for the study stage that is not looking like it’s going
to be reimbursed. He said the collection system will be next to start trying to get the reimbursements.
Council talked about statements going out every quarter to all residents for sewer and garbage balances that way everyone
stays up on what their accounts are
Council talked about the Feral Cat Ordinance and possibly amending the ordinance to allow No Feline Left Behind to come
in and feed/trap these stray cats
MOTION LAINIE, PAT 2ND TO APPROVE AMENDING THE FERAL CAT ORDINANCE AT THE NEXT
MEETING, AIF
Stephanie went over the PAHAF program that helps low income households get caught up on their sewer and garbage
bills and that there is a resident that has applied for it but the Borough would need to become a vendor and set up with the
program
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE THE BOROUGH GETTING SET UP WITH THE PAHAF
PROGRAM, AIF
Mary asked about the light pole that was supposed to be repaired down by the pavilion and the big muddy hole that Penelec
has left there. Stephanie said she would get in touch with them and find out what’s going on
MOTION LAINIE, BILLY 2ND TO ADJOURN MEETING AT 6:58PM, AIF
NEXT MEETING – MARCH 18, 2024 6:00PM
Respectfully,
Stephanie Bigley
Eldred Borough Secretary
MINUTES FOR JANUARY 15, 2024
THE ELDRED BOROUGH COUNCIL HELD THEIR REGULAR MONTHLY MEETING ON JANUARY 15, 2024
@ 6:00PM AT THE ELDRED BOROUGH BUILDING.
COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT: DAN PLUMMER, JOE BAKER, PAT WALKER, BILLY BAIR AND
LAINIE KEPHART
OTHER OFFICIALS PRESENT: MAYOR ANDREW LATHROP, SECRETARY STEPHANIE MASON,
TREASURER LISA HANNAHS AND ROADMASTER KEVIN CALDWELL
MEETING CALLED TO ORDER AT 6:00 PM BY THE COUNCIL PRESIDENT DANIEL PLUMMER.
MOTION LAINIE, BILLY 2ND TO APPROVE THE AGENDA, AIF
MOTION LAINIE, JOE 2ND TO APPROVE THE PREVIOUS MEETING MINUTES, AIF
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE THE TREASURERS REPORT AND FINANCIAL CONDITION,
AIF
MOTION LAINIE, PAT 2ND TO APPROVE THE BILLS TO BE PAID, AIF
Dan goes over the engineers report and said the closing for the collection system is set for the end of February and
hopefully work will start sometime in March weather permitting. He said there is another Pennvest call scheduled for
February 20th and then the closing the 27th
MOTION BILLY, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE CONTRACTORS PAY REQUEST IN THE TOTAL AMOUNT
OF $451,992.29, AIF
MOTION PAT, JOE 2ND TO APPROVE PENNVEST ME71454 REIMBURSEMENT REQUISITION #4 IN
THE AMOUNT OF $451,992.29, AIF
MOTION JOE, PAT 2ND TO APPROVE PENNVEST ME77106 REIMBURSEMENT REQUISITION $4 IN
THE AMOUNT OF $26,309.94, AIF
Dan calls an executive session to discuss personnel matters at 6:06pm
Dan calls the meeting back to order at 6:32pm
Dan said council talked more about employee raises and that they have agreed to table that for now
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE CHANGING AMY FROM TEMPORARY PART TIME TO
TEMPORARY FULL TIME AND GIVING HER 7 PTO DAYS AND OFFERING HER HEALTH INSURANCE
AT HER EXPENSES IF SHE SO CHOOSES, AIF
Dan reads resolution #2024-01 for intent to reimburse pennvest
MOTION LAINIE, PAT 2ND TO APPROVE RESOLUTION #2024-01 FOR INTENT TO REIMBURSE PENNVEST,
AIF
Dan reads resolution #2024-02 for intent to reimburse Pennvest
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE RESOLUTION #2024-02 FOR INTENT TO REIMBURSE PENNVEST,
AIF
Dan talks about the county ARPA grant and that there is $20,000 available for parks. Council talked about using some of it
to get reimbursed for the millings they had purchased for the park roads as well as the mulch that was purchased for the playgrounds. They talked about purchasing more lumber and paint to repair 2 more sets of bleachers at the ball fields
And that would leave roughly $13,000 still available that they could possibly use to replace the lights that are in bad shape
at the basketball courts. Kevin has some quotes on this and it’s around $11,000
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE APPLYING FOR REIMBURSEMENT FROM THE COUNTY ARPA GRANT FOR MILLINGS, MULCH, BLEACHERS AND PAINT FOR THE PARKS, AIF
Dan goes over the email from PennDot for the update on the Main Street work. PennDot is agreeing to replace all drainage
from Chrisman Street to Mechanic Street as well as full depth roadway restoration 18” deep, new curbing, new inlets and
new sidewalks where it abuts the curb and ADA ramps. A rough estimate for this work is $4,741,500
Dan gave a quick update on the 96 Main demolition and that the county commissioners meeting will be the 18th and they
should award the bid for the work at that meeting and the contractor should start soon after that weather permitting. He
also added that the work does include the trees being removed
Dan talked about the new garbage account that had to be set up at the bank as well as a new company in quickbooks. He said
it is finally starting to all come together but it has been a lot more confusion and work than they originally thought it was
going to be. He said each account had to be gone into individually and several steps done in each one to make this work. He
said it also could not be completely set up to work until January 1st and that there were a lot of payments that had come in still combined during the week the office was closed for Christmas so there were close to 200 phone calls that had to be made to residents to change those payments into split payments being the state will not allow us to deposit any garbage money into the
sewer account as a combine payment as of January 1st. To say the least it has not been an easy task and it will take some time to work out all the kinks
MOTION LAINIE, BILLY 2ND TO ADJOURN MEETING AT 6:48PM, AIF
NEXT MEETING – FEBRUARY 19, 2024 6:00PM
Respectfully,
Stephanie Bigley
Eldred Borough Secretary
MINUTES FOR JANUARY 2, 2024
THE ELDRED BOROUGH COUNCIL HELD THEIR REORGANIZATION MEETING ON JANUARY 2, 2024
@ 6:00PM AT THE ELDRED BOROUGH BUILDING.
COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT: DAN PLUMMER, JOE BAKER, PAT WALKER, BILLY BAIR AND
LAINIE KEPHART
OTHER OFFICIALS PRESENT: MAYOR ANDREW LATHROP, SECRETARY STEPHANIE MASON,
TREASURER LISA HANNAHS AND ROADMASTER KEVIN CALDWELL
MEETING CALLED TO ORDER AT 6:00 PM BY THE COUNCIL PRESIDENT DANIEL PLUMMER.
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE THE AGENDA, AIF
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE THE PREVIOUS MEETING MINUTES, AIF
THE MAYOR ANDREW LATHROP SWEARS IN BILLY BAIR, PATRICK WALKER AND LAINIE
KEPHART TO THEIR COUNCIL SEATS
COUNCIL NOMINATIONS
BILLY NOMINATES DANIEL PLUMMER FOR COUNCIL PRESIDENT, AIF
LAINIE NOMINATES BILLY BAIR FOR COUNCIL VICE PRESIDENT, AIF
BILLY NOMINATES PATRICK WALKER FOR COUNCIL PRO TEMP, AIF
MOTION BILLY, LAINIE 2ND TO APPOINT PATRICK WALKER AS THE CODE ENFORCEMENT
OFFICER, AIF
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPOINT ROB STEBBINS TO THE WATER AUTHORITY, AIF
MOTION LAINIE, PAT 2ND TO APPOINT STEPHANIE BIGLEY AS BOROUGH SECRETARY, AIF
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPOINT LISA HANNAHS AS BOROUGH TREASURER, AIF
MOTION LAINIE, PAT 2ND TO APPOINT SUE FOWLER AS THE VACCANCY BOARD CHAIR, AIF
MOTION LAINIE, PAT 2ND TO APPOINT PHIL LABELLA TO THE PARK COMMISSION, AIF
Council talked about the federal covid money and using some of it for the pump station repair. They talked about the fact
that they have 5 years total to use the federal covid money. Dan said the Borough did receive the county covid money for
Mechanic Street & Bennett Street. They talked about the other county money that is available for the parks and they talked
about the basketball courts and lights. Dan said you have to spend the money upfront and then they will reimburse the
Borough for it. They talked about how much extra it would cost on top of what’s available to do that whole project. Billy
talked about the lights and that they are old and a danger, he said that at least needs to be done. They said the lights are
probably around $15,000 to get that done. Council agreed to talk more about this at the next meeting
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE USING THE FEDERAL COVID MONEY TO PAY FOR THE
BARDEN BROOK PUMP STATION REPAIR, AIF
Dan said the new garbage account has been set up at the bank and that they are going to have to have a special meeting
to sign some documents for the collection system closing on Monday January 8th at 6pm
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO ADJOURN MEETING AT 6:17PM, AIF
NEXT MEETING – JANUARY 15, 2023 6:00PM
Respectfully,
Stephanie Bigley
Eldred Borough Secretary
MINUTES FOR DECEMBER 18, 2023
THE ELDRED BOROUGH COUNCIL HELD THEIR REGULAR MONTHLY MEETING ON DECEMBER 18, 2023
@ 6:00PM AT THE ELDRED BOROUGH BUILDING.
COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT: DAN PLUMMER, JOE BAKER, PAT WALKER, BILLY BAIR AND
LAINIE KEPHART
OTHER OFFICIALS PRESENT: MAYOR ANDREW LATHROP, SECRETARY STEPHANIE MASON,
TREASURER LISA HANNAHS AND ROADMASTER KEVIN CALDWELL & ENGINEER JEFF SPENCER
MEETING CALLED TO ORDER AT 6:00 PM BY THE COUNCIL PRESIDENT DANIEL PLUMMER.
MOTION LAINIE, PAT 2ND TO APPROVE THE AGENDA, AIF
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE THE PREVIOUS MEETING MINUTES, AIF
MOTION BILLY, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE THE TREASURERS REPORT AND FINANCIAL CONDITION,
AIF
MOTION LAINIE, JOE 2ND TO APPROVE THE BILLS TO BE PAID, AIF
Dan goes over the engineers update and all of the dates for the preconstruction meeting for the collection system, the
PennVest closing for the collection system and other conference calls.
MOTION BILLY, PAT 2ND TO APPROVE 3 SEPARATE CONTRACTORS PAY REQUEST IN THE TOTAL
AMOUNT OF $564,439.32, AIF
MOTION BILLY, JOE 2ND TO APPROVE PENNVEST ME71454 REIMBURSEMENT REQUISITION #2 IN
THE AMOUNT OF $564,439.32, AIF
MOTION LAINIE, PAT TO APPROVE PENNVEST ME77106 REIMBURSEMENT REQUISITION #2 IN
THE AMOUNT OF $42,074.23, AIF
Dan talked about all of the extra work that these projects have created in the office on top of all the normal end of year
and beginning of year stuff. They talked about Lisa working more hours than normal and that would most likely continue
until these projects are completed. He talked about some of the reimbursements that have started to come in for the treatment
plant and that there are several things from the beginning of the project in the study phase that they are now finding out are
not reimbursable. They talked about not knowing until the end of the project exactly how much is not going to be reimbursed
that the Borough is going to have to pay on the line of credit out of pocket. They talked about what has been reimbursed so far
and that has been applied to the line of credit. Dan talked about John trying to help to get some of the other things reimbursed
but they don’t know for sure right now what will be and what will not through contingency money that is there. They talked
a little about the grant for King Street and that for the time being that is being delayed. They talked about the collection
system hopefully being done by the end of 2024 and the plant by the beginning of 2025
Dan gave an update on 96 Main Street and that they are waiting on the bids to come in and once they are awarded the
demo work will be able to start weather permitting. They talked more about the unsafe trees being removed as well
Dan talks about the new Sunshine law and that the meeting agenda can not to changed or anything added to it less that 24
hours prior to the meeting. He said they can no longer amend or add anything to the agenda during a meeting. He said if
something is brought up at a meeting by a resident they can talk about it but can not vote on anything and that it would
need to be added to the next meeting agenda.
Dan brought up employee Christmas bonuses and Pat said he was good with the same thing as last year
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE A $150 NET CHRISTMAS BONUS FOR EACH EMPLOYEE,
AIF
Dan brought up the employee raises that were previously given and that due to the cost of everything and the amount of
work load that there is going on that maybe they should give $.75 cents more per hour. He said they can not vote on this
tonight and for everyone to think it over for the next meeting and that it will be put on that agenda. Pat & Lainie talked
about their raises not being much at their own jobs. They all talked about the cost of everything going up so much
Council had talk about the meeting schedule for 2024 and if they should keep it the same or change it
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE KEEPING THE MEETING SCHEDULE THE SAME FOR 2024
THE 3RD MONDAY OF EVERY MONTH AT 6PM, AIF
Council went over the proposed budget for 2024
MOTION BILLY, PAT 2ND TO APPROVE THE 2024 BUDGET, AIF
Council talked about donations
MOTION PAT, JOE 2ND TO APPROVE A $250 DONATION TO THE PORT ALLEGANY AGAIN THIS YEAR,
AIF
They talked about the County ARPA grant and that the infrastructure part was approved and that there is also another
$20,000 one available for parks. They talked about the basketball courts and the lighting needing to be redone and that
Kevin is still working on the pricing for everything but it looks like it’s going to be well over the $20,000. They talked
about the millings, mulch and other small things that have been done that would also be eligible. They will discuss this
more at the next meeting
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO ADJOURN MEETING AT 6:45PM, AIF
NEXT MEETING – JANUARY 2, 2023 6:00PM
Respectfully,
Stephanie Bigley
Eldred Borough Secretary
MINUTES FOR NOVEMBER 20, 2023
THE ELDRED BOROUGH COUNCIL HELD THEIR REGULAR MONTHLY MEETING ON NOVEMBER 20, 2023
@ 6:00PM AT THE ELDRED BOROUGH BUILDING.
COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT: DAN PLUMMER, JOE BAKER, PAT WALKER, BILLY BAIR AND
LAINIE KEPHART
OTHER OFFICIALS PRESENT: MAYOR ANDREW LATHROP, SECRETARY STEPHANIE MASON,
TREASURER LISA HANNAHS AND ROADMASTER KEVIN CALDWELL & ENGINEER JEFF SPENCER
MEETING CALLED TO ORDER AT 6:00 PM BY THE COUNCIL PRESIDENT DANIEL PLUMMER.
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE THE AGENDA, AIF
MOTION BILLY, JOE 2ND TO APPROVE THE PREVIOUS MEETING MINUTES, AIF
MOTION LAINIE, PAT 2ND TO APPROVE THE TREASURERS REPORT AND FINANCIAL CONDITION,
AIF
MOTION LAINIE, BILLY 2ND TO APPROVE THE BILLS TO BE PAID, AIF
Jeff goes over his engineers update he talks about the grant that has been applied for to help get the levee recertified and that if it’s awarded it will require a 15% match. He said they submitted the quarterly DEP COA update for the sewer. He said they did receive DEP approval to change the backfill stone for the collection system and can now move forward with that. He said the monthly treatment plant meetings have started to stay updated on the progress and they are waiting for a closing date for the collection system project. The work for the collection system project is still on track to start once the weather breaks in early spring. They talked a little about the Multimodal grant and applying for it to help with the repairs on King Street. He said PennDot still does not have a complete scope of work yet for Main Street and the work that needs to be done there.
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE AWARDING THE BID TO GREENLAND CONSTRUCTION IN THE AMOUNT OF $4,059,350.00, AIF
MOTION BILLY, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE CONTRACTORS PAY REQUEST IN THE AMOUNT OF 4711,843.90, AIF
MOTION JOE, PAT 2ND TO APPROVE PENNVEST ME71454 REIMBURSEMENT REQUISITION #2 IN THE AMOUNT OF $711,843.90, AIF
MOTION LAINIE, JOE 2ND TO APPROVE PENNVEST ME77106 REIMBURSEMENT REQUISITION #2 IN THE AMOUNT OF $52,438.58, AIF
Billy asked if everything is on schedule and Jeff said yes
Mr. Perry would like to speak to everyone and read a letter that he has written, please see a copy of Mr. Perry’s letter below
LETTER TO THE ELDRED BOROUGH COUNCIL
Let me begin by congratulating those who have been reelected to another term.
With that I would also like to remind this council that your work has just begun. You have been
elected to a position of unique responsibility. One that consists of both service and
leadership. It is service in the respect that you serve the residents and businesses of
Eldred Borough both the minority and majority, the poor and rich, the young and old, the
affluent and the not so well off. You serve all residents not just your family, friends,
neighbors, or yourselves. Service means that one conducts themselves as no respecter of
persons. It’s not just service but also leadership.
One might define leadership as a set of behaviors used to help people align their
collective direction, to execute strategic plans, and to continually renew an organization. A
leader in this context needs to provide the direction, guidance and resources necessary to
create the best possible community within which to live and do business. Leadership in
concert with service should focus primarily on the growth and well-being of people and the
communities to which they belong. John Maxwell says a servant leader is someone
“whose actions and motivations reflect a selfless commitment to a cause, an organization,
or their community” This kind of leadership is visionary, focused not on what is but rather
on what can be. Servant leaders see the big picture, they think futuristically, they are not
maintenance driven but preemptive and developmental. They don’t wait for things to break
or go bad they anticipate and prepare for the best and the worst alike. In simple words,
leadership is about taking risks and challenging the status quo. Servant leaders set the
example and motivate others to achieve something new and better. They are able to
communicate convincingly to the organization the plan and process for progress. They are
able to challenge and encourage the organization to join them in this effort.
It will not be an easy task but this is what is needed for Eldred. I want to challenge this
council to begin asking and answering these questions, “Where do we want to see Eldred
Borough in 5 to 10 years?” “What will it take to get there?” “What needs to be done to
address the decline in population, the departure of small businesses, and the lack of
community growth?” “What can be done to make Eldred more inviting to potential
residents, businesses, and industry?” “How can we promote our community?” Most
importantly is the question “What is our vision for Eldred both now and in the future?” And
additionally, “What might be the plan and strategy necessary to make these things
There are a lot of good things about Eldred Borough. Such things as a strong
educational system that scores higher on aptitudes tests of various kinds than other
schools located in stronger socio/economic contexts, with better resources and larger
populations. The sports programs that take place here are second to none. I believe the majority
Our seasoned citizens are caring, friendly, and productive. The churches here are
supportive and active in community efforts. For the most part Eldred is a good place to live.
However there are also weaknesses. There is a concern for what is referred to as the
community blight, people care about their community and want it to look good. Residents
want to see the borough accomplish more than just maintenance and repairs. There is a
concern for the health and safety of the community, particularly for our children. What is
the plan for a police presence? Even if we can’t afford our own coverage right now what
about the future? And the answer can’t just be that the residents need to make phone calls
to the State Police. What is the plan to address the dangers of drug and alcohol
use/addiction in our community? All of the good we celebrate may quickly disappear if the
weaknesses are not addressed before they get worse. We need to purposefully provide for
the future well-being of the community, I want to see Eldred become a bright and booming
little community where people looking for a place to raise their family would want to live. I
am not alone in these sentiments as other residents have shared with me similar concerns.
We can do better and we can be better.
In addition to the things already shared are concerns and questions regarding the
progress on the recertification of the dike (I understand it is in the works but every day it
is delayed is costing residents more unnecessary costs for flood insurance, we can’t
afford to miss another deadline), street and road repairs beyond selective patching,
addressing damage caused by water drainage on certain streets, and many more. The
answers to these questions need to be more considerate and with some expression of
caring and priority. Residents do not mind being advised what they can do but they also
want to know what their elected council, servant leaders, might plan to do to address the
issues. People don’t want to hear long explanations of what can’t be done or excuses for
why our elected officials can’t or don’t want to do anything. It’s one thing to invite us to
join in the effort it’s another to pass the buck.
At this point I would like to challenge this council to intentionally commit to
spending time searching for a vision for Eldred Borough’s future. Spend some time
planning and strategizing efforts to correct some of the decline that has affected the
community over the years. Identify necessary resources and even outside consultation on
what is needed and how to make it happen. Can you connect with township, county,
state, and federal officials for resources and training? In addition to these efforts I would
suggest that you find ways to communicate more purposefully and directly with the
residents and businesses of Eldred Borough about what efforts are already taking place
and what your expectations and hopes are for the future. This could be done through a
quarterly or bi-annual newsletter, not just on the website but directly to the residents or
businesses. From this point forward I trust that you will be working hard for the future of
Eldred Borough and it’s residents and businesses. I know it will take time and require
patience and I don’t expect you to do it alone. Therefore, if there is any way that I can be
of service I am available and willing to work with you.
I have one last item that would like you to consider. Two meetings ago there was
a request made to the council to allow for a side-by-side Christmas Parade to take place
in the borough. When it was discussed at the meeting it seemed to me that there was a
reluctance to allow the side-by-sides to stage at the park. At the last meeting it seemed to
me that you were approving the use of the park as a staging area. I have spoken to
several individuals who have concerns about that and would like you to reconsider that
decision. In addition when the event was first brought up there was a comment made,
and I paraphrase, “there will obviously be alcohol involved.” I would like to ask the
borough to communicate to anyone who is participating that the use of alcohol will not be
permitted during the event within the borough limits, I consider this a health and safety
concern and the borough should not allow it.
Thank you for your time and attention to these concerns.
Jeremiah 29;11; Proverbs 29:18
Stephanie addressed Mr. Perry about the side by side parade and told him that something must have been misunderstood from the previous meeting and that there is no alcohol permitted during the parade. She said everyone has to register and sign a waiver form to participate in the event and that the waiver clearly states there will be no alcohol permitted. She said the waiver also states that they can only use the park road and can not be on the grassy areas of the park. She also stated that this waiver has been approved by
The Borough Solicitor as well as the Borough insurance company. Mr. Perry thanked her for clarifying this
Billy talked about the first time he was on Council and how much things have changed for the better being on the Council this time. He talked about the fact that taxes never got raised for years to have additional income to be able to do some of the repairs that needed to be done, roads were not being fixed at all and several other things were never getting done. It is talked about that there have not been any deadlines missed for the levee since this Council has taken over, that took place in previous years with a previous Council and that this Council has been working hard to get that corrected. Some of the jobs that have been done in the last couple of years were talked about such as Mechanic Street is finally fixed with all the drainage issues and getting it repaved, Bennett Street being repaved, repairs at the parks, millings repairing the park roads & better upkeep, the new fence on the curve on Main St, purchasing 96 Main St. to have it demoed and the property cleaned up, etc. They talked about the new sewer plant that is now being built as well as the new collection system to replace all the old lines. They talked about King Street and hoping that next year that street can get repaired. Council talked about the fact that there has been a lot of cleanup and repairs done in the last few years and that it takes time and money but they are trying. Billy said Dan is very involved and at the office everyday trying to be involved with everything that he can be. Lainie said people need to come to meetings so they know exactly what is going on and what is being worked on. Dan said it’s always this person and that person said but nobody attends the meetings to come talk to Council about concerns they may have or to know what is being done. He said they held a townhall meeting and only 7 people showed up
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE A $5.00 LATE FEE ON SEWER ACCOUNTS AND A $2.00 LATE FEE ON GARBAGE ACCOUNTS, AIF
Dan went over the tax resolution for the staying of the tax rate and not raising taxes for the 2024 year
MOTION LAINIE, PAT 2ND TO APPROVE THE STAYING OF THE BOROUGH PROPERTY TAX RATE AT 9.5 MILLS FOR THE 2024 YEAR, AIF
Dan went over the sewer rate resolution for 2024
MOTION JOE, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE THE 2024 SEWER RATE RESOLUTION TO RAISE SEWER RATES BY $7.00 PER MONTH FOR A TOTAL OF $55.00
MOTION LAINIE, PAT 2ND TO APPROVE THE 2024 PROPOSED BUDGET, AIF
Dan talked about the county ARPA grant that is available and how it works. He talked about all the work that has been done on Mechanic Street and that some of that could be reimbursed through the infrastructure part of this grant. He talked about the park portion of this grant and that some of the improvements could be reimbursed for that or they could look into the possibility of redoing the basketball courts and lighting. He said it’s something to think about for everyone.
MOTION PAT, BILLY 2ND TO APPROVE APPLYING FOR REIMBURSEMENT FOR THE MECHANIC STREET PROJECT THROUGH THE COUNTY ARPA FUNDS, AIF
Lainie thanked Dan for all his help and sitting with her all day on election day
Dan gave a quick update on 96 Main Street and that they have done the inspection, testing and pictures. He said that the Borough has requested to have the unsafe trees removed on the property as well and they have agreed to add those to the project
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO ADJOURN MEETING AT 6:45PM, AIF
NEXT MEETING – DECEMBER 18, 2023 6:00PM
Respectfully,
Stephanie Bigley
Eldred Borough Secretary
MINUTES FOR OCTOBER 16, 2023
THE ELDRED BOROUGH COUNCIL HELD THEIR REGULAR MONTHLY MEETING ON OCTOBER 16, 2023
@ 6:00PM AT THE ELDRED BOROUGH BUILDING.
COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT: DAN PLUMMER, JOE BAKER, PAT WALKER, BILLY BAIR AND
LAINIE KEPHART
OTHER OFFICIALS PRESENT: MAYOR ANDREW LATHROP, SECRETARY STEPHANIE MASON,
TREASURER LISA HANNAHS AND ROADMASTER KEVIN CALDWELL & ENGINEER JEFF SPENCER
MEETING CALLED TO ORDER AT 6:00 PM BY THE COUNCIL PRESIDENT DANIEL PLUMMER.
THE MEETING IS BEING RECORDED FOR THE PURPOSE OF TAKING THE MINUTES AND THEN
RECORDING WILL BE DESTROYED ONCE MINUTES ARE APPROVED.
Dan wanted to add the Fire Department to close the streets on Halloween night
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE THE AGENDA, AIF
MOTION BILLY, PAT 2ND TO APPROVE THE PREVIOUS MEETING MINUTES, AIF
MOTION JOE, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE THE TREASURERS REPORT AND FINANCIAL CONDITION,
AIF
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE THE BILLS TO BE PAID, AIF
Dan has Jeff go over his engineer’s report, he said there is no update on the levee as of right now. He said they will have
the sewer quarterly report done for the 30th due date. He said they should have the DBE approval done this week and
formally award official bids. He said the treatment plant began on the 20th and they have received the first contractors
request for payment. Jeff said he needs 3 motions tonight for payment and reimbursement. The start of the collection system
is still set for early spring as of right now. He said the grant they were hoping to apply for to use on King Street they will not
be able to do now due to the sewer camera issues. He said there will be another one in March that they can try for
MOTION BILLY, PAT 2ND TO APPROVE CONTRACTORS PAY REQUEST #1 IN THE AMOUNT OF
$382,883.22, AIF
MOTION JOE, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE PENNVEST ME71454 REIMBURSEMENT REQUISTION #1 IN
THE AMOUNT OF $520,875.78, AIF
MOTION LAINIE, JOE 2ND TO APPROVE PENNVEST ME77106 REIMBURSEMENT REQUISTION #1 ON
THE AMOUNT OF $812,892.54, AIF
Billy asked about the Barden Brook pump station repairs and Kevin said the parts should be in around the first week of
November
Dan talked about employee raises and that this needs to be decided now in order to figure it into the budget. Dan talks about
the cost of living going up so much for everyone. He feels they need to prioritize the employee’s they have and take care of
them. He said until now it’s been $.50 cents and hour pretty much each year and he said it needs to be more if they are going
to keep the good people they have. Lainie asked about the insurance last year and Dan said that was Kevin & Stephanie’s
raise last year that equaled about $.50 cents an hour and they really can’t take that away or that would be like taking away
their raise from last year. Pat said he is good with $1.25 per hour raise
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE EMPLOYEE RAISES FOR KEVIN, STEPHANIE & LISA AT
$1.25 PER HOUR, AIF
Dan talks about the printer, parts and upgrading it and that their have been a lot of issues with it and the company that
services it can’t even get some of the parts anymore as well as some of the software is so outdated that they can’t get it to
update. He talks about getting a new one for the office and said that Lisa does have one she is willing to sell that she had
purchased from Chris Mattie’s office. He goes over the prices of other used ones that are comparable to the one that she
has. Lisa said she also has toner and ink for it that should last close to two years. They had more talk about this and Mary
asked if that one can be updated and still able to get parts for it and they said yes
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE PURCHASING A PRINTER FROM LISA FOR $2,000, AIF
Dan talks about the 2024 sewer rates having to be raised $7.00 per month due to the Pennvest regulations. He said offering
a discount is not prohibited but because of the unknown it’s not really recommended right now. Lainie asked about the people
that don’t pay their bill on time and they talked about the late fees. Mary asked about doing some type of refund and Ernie
asked about a credit on accounts. Council talked about the fact that there are roughly 30 accounts that are more than 2 months behind every month and that they receive letters, are sent to collections and then given a judgement from Judge Todd’s office
and if they still do not pay there will be a lien put against their property. They said Pennvest bases everything on how much
the monthly bill is. Lisa talks about the Quickbooks upgrade and what needs to be done in order to accept separate payments
for sewer and garbage. Dan said Pennvest is requiring these to be split into two different accounts. They talked about the fact
that residents would need to start paying with two separate checks, one for sewer and one for garbage. They talked about the possibility of offering a discount on garbage if paid in full for the year rather than the sewer. Dan also said once all this is over
with in a couple of years and the projects are completed hopefully they will be able to go back to offering a discount on the
sewer.
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE OFFERING A $3.00 PER MONTH DISCOUNT ON THE GARBAGE
IF PAID IN FULL FOR THE YEAR BY THE LAST DAY OF JANUARY 2024, AIF
MOTION LAINIE, PAT 2ND TO APPROVE PURCHASING THE NEW COUPON BOOKS AND ALSO UPDATING
THE QUICKBOOKS SYSTEM, AIF
Dan talked about the 2024 property taxes. Council talked about not raising them again for next year especially being that the
sewer rates are already having to be raised. Council agreed though that this would need to be looked at again for the following
year
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE NOT RAISING PROPERTY TAXES FOR THE 2024 YEAR, AIF
Dan talks about the mowing for the 2024 year and how they have been doing it. Pat & Lainie both feel it has been working
well the way it is
MOTION LAINIE, PAT 2ND TO APPROVE MIKE GREEN AND DEB KELLY TO CONTINUE TO HANDLE
THE BOROUGH MOWING FOR THE 2024 SEASON, AIF
Council talked about one of the ditches that was put in on Clif-Nel on one of the residents properties and that it really needs
to be filled in and fixed. Council asked Kevin to get some stone put in the ditch
Council talked about not being able to apply for the grant that they were hoping to for King Street due to the sewer camera
being broke but that they can apply for the one in March. They talked about the fact that some of it will also depend on the collection system project.
Dan said the fire department would like permission to close down some of the streets Halloween night for trick or treating to
make it safer for the kids that are out
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE THE FIRE DEPARTMENT TO CLOSE DOWN THE BOROUGH
STREETS FOR TRICK OR TREATING, AIF
The atv Christmas parade was talked about and that the solicitor has approved the waiver that will need to be signed as well
as the insurance company and the PennDot permit has been received for closing Main Street. This will be held on
December 15th
The street lights were talked about again and Stephanie was asked to have the one on the corner of Elm & Bennett fixed
if possible before Halloween. Council understands that it is still under contract
Dan let everyone know that they are working with the County to get 96 Main Street demolished
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO ADJOURN MEETING AT 7:01PM, AIF
NEXT MEETING – NOVEMBER 20, 2023 6:00PM
Respectfully,
Stephanie Bigley
Eldred Borough Secretary
MINUTES FOR SEPTEMBER 20, 2023
THE ELDRED BOROUGH COUNCIL HELD A SPECIAL MEETING ON SEPTEMBER 20, 2023
@ 6:00PM AT THE ELDRED BOROUGH BUILDING.
COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT: DAN PLUMMER, JOE BAKER, PAT WALKER, LAINIE KEPHART AND
BILLY BAIR
OTHER OFFICIALS PRESENT: MAYOR ANDREW LATHROP, SECRETARY STEPHANIE MASON, ROADMASTER KEVIN CALDWELL, JEFF SPENCER ENGINEER
MEETING CALLED TO ORDER AT 6:04 PM BY THE COUNCIL PRESIDENT DANIEL PLUMMER.
MOTION LAINIE, PAT 2ND TO APPROVE THE AGENDA, AIF
Dan talked about the collection system bids and that there are 4 that came in
Jeff said the numbers are the totals of both the sewer & water project as it is a combined contract
Billy asked if the water had to choose the same contractor, Jeff said yes as it is one contract. They had more talk about the bids
MOTION PAT, BILLY 2ND TO APPROVE AWARDING THE COLLECTION SYSTEM PROJECT TO THE LOWEST RESPONSIBLE BIDDER WHICH IS GREENLAND CONSTRUCTION SUBJECT TO THE REVIEW AND APPROVAL BY THE ENGINEER AND BOROUGH SOLICITOR, AIF
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO ADJOURN THE MEETING AT 6:09 PM, AIF
NEXT MEETING – OCTOBER 16, 2023 6:00PM
Respectfully,
Stephanie Bigley
Eldred Borough Secretary
MINUTES FOR SEPTEMBER 18, 2023
THE ELDRED BOROUGH COUNCIL HELD THEIR REGULAR MONTHLY MEETING ON SEPTEMBER 18, 2023
@ 6:00PM AT THE ELDRED BOROUGH BUILDING.
COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT: DAN PLUMMER, JOE BAKER, PAT WALKER, BILLY BAIR AND
LAINIE KEPHART
OTHER OFFICIALS PRESENT: MAYOR ANDREW LATHROP, SECRETARY STEPHANIE MASON,
TREASURER LISA HANNAHS AND ROADMASTER KEVIN CALDWELL
MEETING CALLED TO ORDER AT 6:00 PM BY THE COUNCIL PRESIDENT DANIEL PLUMMER.
THE MEETING IS BEING RECORDED FOR THE PURPOSE OF TAKING THE MINUTES AND THEN
RECORDING WILL BE DESTROYED ONCE MINUTES ARE APPROVED.
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE THE AGENDA, AIF
MOTION JOE, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE THE PREVIOUS MEETING MINUTES, AIF
MOTION BILLY, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE THE TREASURERS REPORT AND FINANCIAL CONDITION,
AIF
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE THE BILLS TO BE PAID, AIF
Billy would like to add Mel Splain
Dan goes over the engineers report and talks about the closing on the plant. He said once the closing is done the contractors will be able to start work the next day. He said Wednesday will be the bid opening at 3pm for the collection system and a special meeting the same day at 6pm to award. Andy asked what streets the collection system would affect and council said Central, King, Main and some of the others. Lainie asked about the closings and Dan said the sewer plant would be the 20th and as of right now the collection system is set for November 15th. He said starting the project would most likely be early spring depending on the weather. He said the estimation for the new line work is approximately 9 mo. To complete and the pant is approximately 15-18 mo. They talked about King Street and the grant that they are hoping for to help complete that project. Sandra asked about the water lines & hydrants on Main Street and the low flow issues. Dan said he wasn’t sure and that would be a question for the water company. Pat said the firetrucks increase the flow when they use the hydrants. They talked a little about the bids coming in, the opening of bids and the special meeting that they will have for that.
Dan talked about the Barden Brook pump station that needs to have some work done on it and Kevin is worried it’s not it’s not going to last until the project if it’s not taken care of now. He said the alarm is going off a few times a week now.
MOTION BILLY, PAT TO APPROVE PURCHASING THE PARTS TO FIX THE BARDEN BROOK PUMP STATION, AIF
Stephanie talked about the side x side/ATV parade that some people would like to do through town. She explained that in order to get a permit to shut down Main Street for the parade Council would have to sponsor the event the same as they do for the Memorial Day parade. Council talked about this event and that there would need to be waivers signed stating that the Borough is not responsible for anyone participating in the event and that people could not ride on the levee’s or through the parks and there can be no alcohol permitted during the event. Stephanie said the insurance company would require the same things.
MOTION PAT, LAINIE TO APPROVE BEING A SPONSOR OF THE SIDE X SIDE/ATV PARADE EVENT AS LONG AS PARTICIPANTS REGISTER AND SIGN A WAIVER, AIF
Council talked about Halloween and trick-or-treating
MOTION LAINIE, PAT TO APPROVE TRICK-OR-TREATING IN THE BOROUGH ON TUESDAY OCTOBER 31, 2023 WITH A RAIN MAKEUP DAY OF WEDNESDAY NOVEMBER 1, 2023, AIF
Dan went over the bond council agreement for Nathan Karn for all of the pennvest paperwork/closing for the collection system
MOTION PAT, LAINIE TO APPROVE THE BOND COUNCIL AGREEMENT WITH NATHAN KARN FOR THE COLLECTION SYSTEM, AIF
Pat asked about 96 Main and if there was any new information on it. Dan said they are just waiting for the deed to come back
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO ADJOURN MEETING AT 6:29PM, AIF
NEXT MEETING – OCTOBER 16, 2023 6:00PM
Respectfully,
Stephanie Bigley
Eldred Borough Secretary
MINUTES FOR SEPTEMBER 11, 2023
THE ELDRED BOROUGH COUNCIL HELD A SPECIAL MEETING ON SEPTEMBER 11, 2023
@ 6:00PM AT THE ELDRED BOROUGH BUILDING.
COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT: DAN PLUMMER, JOE BAKER, PAT WALKER, LAINIE KEPHART AND
BILLY BAIR
OTHER OFFICIALS PRESENT: MAYOR ANDREW LATHROP, SECRETARY STEPHANIE MASON
MEETING CALLED TO ORDER AT 6:05 PM BY THE COUNCIL PRESIDENT DANIEL PLUMMER.
MOTION LAINIE, JOE 2ND TO APPROVE THE AGENDA, AIF
Dan Plummer introduces himself as the Council President and lets everyone know that Billy Bair the Council Vice President
is on his way he’s just running a few minutes late from coaching football. Dan also let everyone know that Pat Walker who is another council member and code enforcement officer is not able to make it to tonight’s meeting due to truck problems at
work. He said Pat is also up for reelection this year. Dan explains the purpose of this meeting is to get to know current Council members and candidates running for council. Dan asked everyone else to please introduce themselves. Andy Lathrop introduces himself as the Mayor and Dan adds that he also helps with anything emergency management related as well. Joe Baker
introduces himself as a current council member. Dan introduces Stephanie Bigley as the secretary. Lainie Kephart introduces
herself as a current council member that is up for reelection and that her name will need to be written in on the ballot.
Ernie Perry introduces himself as a new candidate running for a council seat and says he would like to be a part of the
community. Dan tells everyone to feel free to ask any of them any questions they would like to.
Steve Baldoni would like to know council’s opinion on the street lights. Stephanie said she could answer any questions he
has as she is the one that handles the street lights. Steve would like to know about a few that don’t seem to be working.
Stephanie explained that if they are the old sodium vapor lights they are still under contract and if Penelec comes out and
does anything to repair those lights even changing the bulbs it restarts the contract for another 5 years. She explains they
are trying to get all the old sodium vapor lights changed to the new LED lights and that there are only 16 left in town that
they are waiting for to come out of contract to change them. She said 8 just came out of contract and were converted to
the new lights 2 weeks ago. Amy snow asked about putting in more lighting in certain areas of town such as King Street
she said is pretty dark at night and could use more lights. Stephanie said she would talk to Penelec and see what would have
to be done to add some new poles and lights. Ernie said there is also one that is flashing on the corner of Elm & Bennett
Billy Bair introduces himself as Vice President of Council and told everyone that he was on council several years ago and
decided he wanted to be a part of it again and he is also up for reelection this year
Steve Baldoni asked what Council’s intentions and thoughts are on the sidewalks in town. Lainie & Dan said they don’t
belong to the Borough they belong to each property owner. Steve said he realizes that but some of them are in very bad shape
and he asked about grants that could possibly help with this. Dan talked about some of the grants out there that have been
looked into and how grants work and explained the matches on most grants and that a lot of them the Borough can’t afford
the match. They also pay the engineer to write grants so they have to consider everything involved before applying for any
grant. Billy talked a little about the money that used to be budgeted for local police that they now use to help blacktop a
street in town each year. They talked about all the work that got done on Mechanic Street this year and that their plans a to
start on King Street next year. They talked about a grant that is being applied for to help with this project. They are planning
to replace drains, catch basins, add more storm drains and blacktop as well as incorporating some of the drainage issues on
Central street. If the Borough can get this grant all work could be done in the same year but if they don’t then it would have
to be done a little at a time each year in sections. They are guessing this is approx.. a $150,000 project. They are also hoping
to incorporate this project in with the sewer & water line project that will be done so possibly all work can be done at the
same time. Dan went back to the issue of the sidewalks and also added that people don’t have to have a sidewalk and that
they are allowed to take them out but if there is a sidewalk on your property then the homeowner is responsible for maintaining
it. Joe also talked about a couple of years ago Stephanie had looked into a grant that would help each individual homeowner
fix their sidewalks but it went through the County and by each household income. The county had sent out a survey to each household to be filled out if they were interested and the Borough only received one of them back. There had to be at least 9 qualifying households for this project. They talked about some of the other eye sores in town and Mary asked Ernie how he
felt about Blight. He said it’s worse in the country and it didn’t stop him from moving here. Ernie asked if there was an
ordinance for this and council said yes there is but it’s a long process to enforce it and get anything done about it. Dan talked
about the constant battle with code enforcement as well as overdue sewer & garbage accounts. He said again it’s a very long
process of letters, collections, judgements, court, liens and sheriff sale. Ernie’s professional stand point as a pastor is to make
good relationships and be good neighbors with people by being nice. Dan said that is always tried first and that most of these
things could be avoided if people would just communicate with the office and make an effort but unfortunately that’s not
how it goes a lot of the time. He said we are willing to work with anyone but they have to communicate and make an effort.
Billy said all late fees stopped during covid and even after the Borough was able to start charging late fees again they didn’t
for an entire year later in efforts to try and help people that were still behind. The Borough did not start charging late fees
again until 2023.
Mary asked who was hired to help Kevin and Dan said Amie Fair. He said that she lives in Allegany and is fairly new to
the area. He said she is very experienced and willing to learn anything and that she had previously worked on the road
crew for another town. Mary asked if she was part time and council said yes. They said Kevin was in need of a second
pair of hands and she is working when he needs the extra help. They said Joe’s appointment is today so hopefully they
will know more this week how things are going for him and if the doctor will release him to come back to work. Dan said
again that this girl was not hired full time and was not hired to replace Joe it’s just for Kevin to have the extra help he
needs right now. He said again that she has been very willing to learn everything even including the sewer plant. He said
if she learns enough about it maybe she will even eventually be able to fill in running the plant for Kevin when he needs
time off in the future.
Steve asked if the Post Office was private property and Council said as far as they know it is. He asked who owns the levee
and Council said it is Borough property and the Borough does the upkeep. Steve is concerned about animal holes on the levee. Council said Kevin has worked on this and filled several and that the levee is inspected every year by Army Corp. & DEP
Phil would like to know if there is something that can be done about the speeding on Main Street. Dan said any issues of
anything in town to call the State Police. He said the more calls they get for issues the more they will be in town. Phil said a
lot of it is trucks coming through speeding. Dan said again for everyone to call PSP anytime there is an issue. Sandra said
maybe putting out some cones would help.
Sandra thanked Council for filling the holes on King Street. Dan said they had help from the other Townships and in turn
the Borough helps them to get theirs done. Everyone needs to work together in order to make it.
Lainie asked Ernie Perry if he would like to be on Council why this is the first meeting he has ever attended. Ernie said he
has just been busy and they have been trying to get adjusted after moving here about a year and a half ago. He said it’s not
for lack of interest he just didn’t put it in his schedule. Lainie asked if he intended to attend meetings from here on out. He
said as long as they don’t interfere with his church meetings. Dan said the meetings are always every 3rd Monday of the
month and that being on Council is just like a job. It is important to be at the meetings and there are always several issues to
be discussed and things to work through and that there has to be constant communication and presence by all Council members
in order to get things done. Dan said he is retired and he is at the office everyday for about an hour and a half just to keep up
on everything that is going on and to handle things on a daily basis. He said there is always lots of talking and research to be
done on things. He said Andy also stops several times a week just to check in and keep up on things.
Mary asked about the accreditation of the levee, Dan said the first part of the process is done and that grant was just closed out.
A new grant has been applied for reaccreditation study work and any construction that may need to be done. Council said
they are hoping for this grant to be able to continue the process and move forward.
Ernie said he has been an ordained minister for the last 20 years and was an administrator of a Christian school as well. He
said running a church is a lot like running a non-profit and he has been able to do that. He says he was a pastor in Port
Allegany for 4 years and in Eldred for 5 years and has been a part of the community for the last 10 years. He said he has a
daughter that’s a senior at Otto Eldred High School. He said he would like to be involved and help and is not a stranger to
being a part of things like this. He said his wife is a good teacher and has good relationships at the school as well. He said
Lainie is right and that he should have been attending meetings and that he has no real excuse for not.
Dan told everyone to go out and vote and he said that Mary & Sandra are the only 2 that always attend meetings
Everyone talked about the fact that the Borough is going to have to raise the sewer rates and that Council does not get a say
in this, it is being mandated by Pennvest. Jack asked how much it will be going up and Council said $7.00 for 2024 and $7.00
more in 2025. Dan said this is a huge project and because of having to be rebid the project it’s now costing the Borough a lot
more money and the monthly payment for the sewer plant itself is going to be around $10,000 per month. Dan said again
building a new plant is being mandated by DEP and the rates are being mandated by Pennvest. Dan said the closing on the
plant is September 19 and the work can begin the day after. He said it is supposed to be approx. a 15mo. Project to complete.
MOTION BILLY, LAINIE 2ND TO ADJOURN THE MEETING AT 7:27 PM, AIF
NEXT MEETING – SEPTEMBER 18, 2023 6:00PM
Respectfully,
Stephanie Bigley
Eldred Borough Secretary
MINUTES FOR AUGUST 21, 2023
THE ELDRED BOROUGH COUNCIL HELD THEIR REGULAR MONTHLY MEETING ON AUGUST 21, 2023
@ 6:00PM AT THE ELDRED BOROUGH BUILDING.
COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT: DAN PLUMMER, JOE BAKER, PAT WALKER, BILLY BAIR AND
LAINIE KEPHART
OTHER OFFICIALS PRESENT: MAYOR ANDREW LATHROP, SECRETARY STEPHANIE MASON,
TREASURER LISA HANNAHS AND ROADMASTER KEVIN CALDWELL
MEETING CALLED TO ORDER AT 6:00 PM BY THE COUNCIL PRESIDENT DANIEL PLUMMER.
THE MEETING IS BEING RECORDED FOR THE PURPOSE OF TAKING THE MINUTES AND THEN
RECORDING WILL BE DESTROYED ONCE MINUTES ARE APPROVED.
MOTION LAINIE, PAT 2ND TO APPROVE THE AGENDA, AIF
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE THE PREVIOUS MEETING MINUTES, AIF
MOTION JOE, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE THE TREASURERS REPORT AND FINANCIAL CONDITION,
AIF
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE THE BILLS TO BE PAID, AIF
Lainie asked if Borough residents are still able to use the brush pile and Council said yes
Dan goes over the engineers update and lets everyone know the pre bid meeting will be 8/23/23 for the collection system
and 9/13/23 will be the bid opening. The closing for the sewer plant will be 9/19/2023. He said hopefully their will be no
more delays in anything
Council talked about the possibility of crosswalks being put in on the Dollar General side of town. Stephanie said she
spoke to PennDot about this and the Borough can put one in going from Chris Drive to cross the road near the Tasty
Freeze, however to put one in down by Dollar General there would need to be a study done by PennDot because there is
no existing road there to come off of
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE THE BOROUGH PUTTING IN A CROSSWALK FROM
CHRIS DRIVE, AIF
Dan said Mechanic Street is done and that a little extra had been purchased to finish the small section on Bennett Street
to the school. The total cost of blacktop was $22,908. Mr. Jarett's hours totaled 90 hours for the whole project. He said they
had help from all of the surrounding Townships Eldred, Ceres, Otto, Keating, Lafayette with labor and equipment and
Council would like to thank them for all their help.
Council talked about next year the plan is to start on King Street. They all agree that there is a lot of work to be done there
such as new piping, new catch basins, extra drainage to be put in and blacktop redone. They talked about a possible grant
that is available that could help them to be able to do the whole project in one year rather than just having to do small
sections each year. Dan said Jeff Spencer the engineer is going to walk King Street with Kevin on Wednesday to try
and put together a scope of work for everything that needs to be done. Billy asked if it could be incorporated into the
sewer & water line project. Dan said he is hoping that is a possibility. He said the paving for the sewer & water project will
not be the whole street.
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE STIFFLER & MCGRAW TO WRITE AND APPLY FOR THE
GRANT TO FIX KING STREET, AIF
Dan talked about a part time employee again to help Kevin. Pat said maybe they should wait until Joe knows if he is going
to be able to return to work and when. Council talked about the fact that Kevin needs help now and that there are things that
are not going to get done before winter if he doesn’t have help soon. They said this is not to replace Joe it is only to get
someone in here to help Kevin for right now. Pat said he is ok with hiring someone part time for right now. Joe said they
should have hired someone a month ago to help him
MOTION PAT, BILLY 2ND TO APPROVE HIRING SOMEONE PART TIME TEMPORARY TO HELP KEVIN WHILE JOE
IS OFF AT $18.00 PER HOUR AND $20.00 PER HOUR AFTER 90 DAYS AIF
Dan talked about the County Liquid Fuels again and that they needed to change the use of it from wages to street lighting
MOTION LAINIE, JOE 2ND TO APPROVE COUNTY LIQUID FUELS MONEY TO BE USED FOR STREET LIGHTING, AIF
Dan talked about the Borough mowing for next year and possibly changing it some, Pat and Lainie both said it’s working
how it is right now. Dan said they are doing a great job but it does cost a lot, he said so far this year the Borough has paid
out $17,000 between both contractors. They talked about getting a quote from them for next year
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE GETTING NEW QUOTES FOR MOWING IN 2024, AIF
Dan went over the pension financial requirements for the Borough
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE THE PENSION FINANCIAL REQUIREMENTS, AIF
Dan reads the DBE Solicitation Resolution number 2023-06
MOTION JOE, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE THE DBE SOLICITATION RESOLUTION NUMBER 2023-06, AIF
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO ADJOURN MEETING AT 6:34PM, AIF
NEXT MEETING – SEPTEMBER 18, 2023 6:00PM
Respectfully,
Stephanie Bigley
Eldred Borough Secretary
MINUTES FOR JULY 17, 2023
THE ELDRED BOROUGH COUNCIL HELD THEIR REGULAR MONTHLY MEETING ON JULY 17, 2023
@ 6:00PM AT THE ELDRED BOROUGH BUILDING.
COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT: DAN PLUMMER, JOE BAKER, PAT WALKER, AND LAINIE KEPHART
OTHER OFFICIALS PRESENT: MAYOR ANDREW LATHROP, SECRETARY STEPHANIE MASON,
TREASURER LISA HANNAHS AND ROADMASTER KEVIN CALDWELL
MEETING CALLED TO ORDER AT 6:00 PM BY THE COUNCIL PRESIDENT DANIEL PLUMMER.
THE MEETING IS BEING RECORDED FOR THE PURPOSE OF TAKING THE MINUTES AND THEN
RECORDING WILL BE DESTROYED ONCE MINUTES ARE APPROVED.
MOTION LAINIE, PAT 2ND TO APPROVE THE AGENDA, AIF
MOTION PAT, JOE 2ND TO APPROVE THE PREVIOUS MEETING MINUTES, AIF
MOTION LAINIE, JOE 2ND TO APPROVE THE TREASURERS REPORT AND FINANCIAL CONDITION,
AIF
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE THE BILLS TO BE PAID, AIF
Dan goes over the engineer’s update. He said Fema is requesting more information for the levee. There will be a contractor
meeting on July 19th and a conference call with Pennvest on August 17 and Pennvest closing has been moved to August 29th
for the treatment plant. Council had some talk about how long it will take for construction to start and that the weather will
also most likely be a factor as well
Kevin gave an update on Mechanic Street and that they are almost done with the right side and should be starting the left
side drainage this week. Plans are to pave the first week in August
They talked a little about raising taxes again for this next year and will make a final decision on this in October/November
They talked about the town hall meeting and that Dan will not be in town on the original date so do they want to reschedule
it
MOTION LAINIE, PAT 2ND TO APPROVE SETTING THE TOWNHALL MEETING FOR SEPTEMBER 11, 2023
AT 6PM AND THE ELDRED BOROUGH FIREHALL, AIF
Council talked about King Street and all the repair work that needs to be done there as far as better drainage and paving. They
talked about adding storm drains on both sides of King Street. They would like to plan for this project to start next year
Council talked about a couple of properties on King Street and also Edson Street that the Borough has been having to mow
that are vacant and they need to file liens against the owners. Dan said there have been several letters sent as well as invoices
but the Borough gets no response from the owners
Council had more talk about hiring someone part time and they went over some of the applications. They talked about the fact
that this is not to replace Joe in any way it’s just to get Kevin some help in the mean time while Joe is off work. They talked
about one of the applicants and that when Joe does come back he would be willing to just be on call if the guys needed some
extra help for certain jobs. They talked about needing another person at least for now. They talked about a starting wage and
what the Borough could do. Kevin talked about waiting until next month and see what Joe finds out at his next appointment
and go from there
Council talked about more crosswalks on Main Street near the Tasty Freeze and Dollar General area and asked Stephanie to
get information from PennDot on this
Dan talked about some resident calls that the Borough has had about break ins, things being stolen and racing on Main Street.
He wanted to let everyone know to call the State Police anytime anything happens, he said if they don’t know they can’t help
and if they get enough calls hopefully they will be around town more. Andy talked about another break in that happened just
outside of town
Dan talks about a complaint/rumor that they supposedly hired someone to run the backhoe because Kevin is not able to. He
wants everyone to know that this is not true, Kevin knows how to run a backhoe and other equipment and has done so for
years. The reason someone was hired for Mechanic Street help is because Kevin couldn’t do that big of a job by himself
Council talks about what to use the County Liquid Fuel money for this year
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE COUNTY LIQUID FUEL MONEY FOR WAGES, AIF
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO ADJOURN THE MEETING AT 6:32 PM, AIF
NEXT MEETING – AUGUST 21, 2023 6:00PM
Respectfully,
Stephanie Bigley
Eldred Borough Secretary
MINUTES FOR JUNE 29, 2023
THE ELDRED BOROUGH COUNCIL HELD A SPECIAL MEETING ON JUNE 29, 2023
@ 6:00PM AT THE ELDRED BOROUGH BUILDING.
COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT: DAN PLUMMER, JOE BAKER, PAT WALKER, BILLY BAIR AND
LAINIE KEPHART
OTHER OFFICIALS PRESENT: MAYOR ANDREW LATHROP, SECRETARY STEPHANIE MASON AND ROADMASTER KEVIN CALDWELL
MEETING CALLED TO ORDER AT 6:00 PM BY THE COUNCIL PRESIDENT DANIEL PLUMMER.
THE MEETING IS BEING RECORDED FOR THE PURPOSE OF TAKING THE MINUTES AND THEN
RECORDING WILL BE DESTROYED ONCE MINUTES ARE APPROVED.
Dan would like to add some things to the agenda, summer help, property taxes, 96 Main Street, July 19 and Townhall
meeting September 25, Kevin time off
MOTION LAINIE, JOE 2ND TO APPROVE THE AGENDA, AIF
Dan talked about Bill Jarrett for help on Mechanic Street and that they have no other options unless someone else has a
solution
MOTION BILLY, JOE 2ND TO APPROVE HIRING BILL JARRETT FOR HELP ON MECHANIC STREET AT
$40 PER HOUR, DAN-YES, LAINIE-YES, PAT-NO
Dan talked about the amount of time Kevin has to take off but he needs some help at the sewer plant to be able to do that.
Billy said he would help with this. Dan let everyone know that the summer help will be done next Friday. Council talked
about possibly hiring someone else part time until they know when Joe might be able to come back. They also talked about
having someone that can learn the sewer plant to be able to help with Kevin having time off. They talked about someone
working under Kevin’s operators license and also eventually getting their own. They talked about advertising for someone
part time and see how it goes
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE ADVERTISING FOR PART TIME PUBLIC WORKS HELP, AIF
Dan talked about property taxes and how all expenses have went up. He said the last time they raised taxes it was in 2020.
They also talked about wages that have also went up in the last 4 years along with all everyday expenses. Council talked
about the possibility of raising taxes a half of mill this next year to help cover some of the expenses that have went up
Dan let everyone know they are just waiting for the paperwork for 96 Main Street to proceed with that
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE PAYING THE TRASFER FEES AND OTHER FEES THAT WILL
HAVE TO BE PAID FOR THE PURCHASE OF 96 MAIN STREET, AIF
Dan let everyone know July 19 is the possible date for the contractors meeting and the Penvest closing is set for July 26
Council talked about doing a Townhall meet & greet, question & answer session possibly at the Firehall
MOTION JOE, LAINIE TO APPROVE HAVING A TOWNHALL COUNCIL SPECIAL MEETING
SEPTEMBER 25, 2023, AIF
MOTION PAT, BILLY 2ND TO ADJOURN THE MEETING AT 6:30 PM, AIF
NEXT MEETING – July 17, 2023 6:00PM
Respectfully,
Stephanie Bigley
Eldred Borough Secretary
MINUTES FOR JUNE 21, 2023
THE ELDRED BOROUGH COUNCIL HELD THEIR REGULAR MONTHLY MEETING ON JUNE 21, 2023
@ 6:00PM AT THE ELDRED BOROUGH BUILDING.
COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT: DAN PLUMMER, JOE BAKER, PAT WALKER, BILLY BAIR AND
LAINIE KEPHART
OTHER OFFICIALS PRESENT: MAYOR ANDREW LATHROP, SECRETARY STEPHANIE MASON,
TREASURER LISA HANNAHS AND ENGINEER JEFF SPENCER
MEETING CALLED TO ORDER AT 6:00 PM BY THE COUNCIL PRESIDENT DANIEL PLUMMER.
THE MEETING IS BEING RECORDED FOR THE PURPOSE OF TAKING THE MINUTES AND THEN
RECORDING WILL BE DESTROYED ONCE MINUTES ARE APPROVED.
MOTION LAINIE, PAT 2ND TO APPROVE THE AGENDA, AIF
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE THE PREVIOUS MEETING MINUTES, AIF
MOTION JOE, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE THE TREASURERS REPORT AND FINANCIAL CONDITION,
AIF
MOTION PAT, JOE 2ND TO APPROVE THE BILLS TO BE PAID, AIF
Dan has Jeff Spencer go over his engineers update. Jeff said the levee modeling has been submitted and that grant is
done. New grant paperwork has been submitted to try and get funding to cover the recertification. He said the funding offer
for the collection system should be July 19 and then advertise for bids for that project about a month after. Dan asked about
the winter months interfering with the work and if there are still issues with supplies and materials for the contractors. Jeff
said the bonds, contracts and insurance are taken care of now for the contractors for the treatment plant. July 26th at 10am is
the loan closing for Pennvest. They talked about the line of credit account through CNB staying open as a construction account
and that the Borough would receive reimbursement from Pennvest. They had some talk of how reimbursement would work.
Jeff said the next Pennvest conference call will be July 13 and that the preconstruction meeting needs to be set for mid July
and hopefully start construction in August. They talked about some of the Wright Road and Canfield Hollow customers
being changed to Township customers and the agreement with the Township to be signed tonight to have this changed.
Mary asked how much rates are going to go up and Dan said they are going to go over all that tonight
Dan said they are hoping to have Mechanic Street done before school starts and he talked about the situation of needing help
for Kevin to be able to get this project done. Dan talked about Bill Jarret and an experienced contractor that is willing to help
Kevin do the work and that he would want $40 per hr. He would be hired as a contractor not an employee and would be
working under his own insurance as well. Council feels that’s to much and that the Borough can’t afford it. Dan talks about
this guy being more experienced than just someone off the street and that Kevin needs the help. Kevin’s estimate is that he
would need this guy for approximately 100 hours. They talked about how much they feel the Borough can pay and they talked
about not knowing when Joe might be able to come back to work.
MOTION JOE, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE HIRING BILL JARRET FOR MECHANIC STREET HELP AT $30
PER HOUR, DAN,BILLY YES, PAT NO
Dan went over the Township agreement for the 9 Wright Road customers and that the Borough will be responsible for the
lines for 10 years because the Township has not been the ones collecting the money for these lines up until now the Borough
has. After the 10 years the Township will be responsible for the lines. He said the agreement is for 40 years. He said this will
start September 1st and the Borough will send out letters letting the customers affected know this.
MOTION PAT, JOE 2ND TO APPROVE THE AGREEMENT WITH THE TOWNSHIP FOR THE 9 WRIGHT
ROAD CUSTOMERS, AIF
Dan goes over the rate resolution and explained that Pennvest is requiring the sewer rates to be at $62 per month by May 1st
2025
MOTION JOE, BILLY 2ND TO APPROVE THE PENNVEST SEWER RATE RESOLUTION, AIF
Dan talks about having to rebid the sewer plant project and that because of this it has cost a lot more money than it originally
would have and therefor it is causing the rates to go up higher than it would have before
Dan talked about the State coming in for two days to do a 5 year highway account audit and that everything went well and
there were no findings
Dan talks about the fact that there are some residents in town that even with being sent letters will not keep up with their
properties. He talks about junk laying around as well as not mowing and weed eating. He talks about a few residents specifically
that are elderly that still keep their yards cleaned up and mowed nice and said if these elderly people can do it then there is no
reason every resident can’t do the same. They talked about how many letters have went out this year and last year for junk and
lawn mowing and that some people will clean up and some still will not. Some of these have been sent to Judge Todd’s office
to handle from that point. Dan explains that there is a process that they have to follow to get these things taken care of. Mary
talked about the church on King Street looking terrible.
Dan talked about 96 Main Street and that the School and County have approved the Borough’s bid for the property
Council talked about the sewer savings fund and if they still want to continue to put this money aside in case it’s needed. They
agree to do so
Council talked about having 4 no parking on pavement signs left outback and putting them up on Bennett Street
MOTION PAT, BILLY 2ND TO APPROVE PUTTING UP 4 NO PARKING ON PAVEMENT SIGNS ON BENNETT STREET, AIF
MOTION PAT, BILLY 2ND TO ADJOURN THE MEETING AT 6:46 PM, AIF
NEXT MEETING – July 17, 2023 6:00PM
Respectfully,
Stephanie Bigley
Eldred Borough Secretary
Special Meeting June 7, 2023
Attendance:
Council Members Present: Daniel Plummer, Joseph Baker, William Bair, Jr., Lainie Kephart and Patrick Walker
Other Officials Present: Mayor Andrew Lathrop, Treasurer Lisa Hannahs and Roadmaster Kevin Caldwell
Meeting Called to Order at (time) __6:00 PM_____
Motion to Approve Agenda:
By: 1st: Patrick Walker 2nd: Lainie Kephart , AIF
Discussions: Dan Plummer stated there are (2) Resolutions and (2) Loan Ordinances that need to be voted on.
Dan read page one the Ordinances individually and moved for a motion to approve the Resolutions and Ordinances.
No discussion on the motion.
Council Members voted on each Resolution and Ordinance as stated below:
Motion to Approve Resolution of Eldred Borough #2023-03 :
By: 1st: Joseph Baker 2nd: William Bair, Jr. , AIF, Aye
Motion to Approve Resolution of Eldred Borough #2023-04 :
By: 1st: Patrick Walker 2nd: Lainie Kephart , AIF, Aye
Motion to Approve Ordinance #2023-01 :
By: 1st: William Bair, Jr. 2nd: Patrick Walker , AIF, Aye
Daniel Plummer: Aye
William Bair, Jr. Aye
Joseph Baker Aye
Lanie Kephart Aye
Patrick Walker Aye
Motion to Approve Ordinance #2023-02 :
By: 1st: Lainie Kephart 2nd: Joseph Baker , AIF Aye
Daniel Plummer: Aye
William Bair, Jr. Aye
Joseph Baker Aye
Lanie Kephart Aye
Patrick Walker Aye
Additional discussions:
Daniel Plummer and Council Members discussed an invoice received from Core & Main LP for pipe for Mechanic Street.
Daniel Plummer moved for a motion to approve the discussed amount of $10,652.40 to pay for the pipe with Highway
Funds. Council members voted to use Highway Funds to pay the bill.
Motion to Approve Purchasing pipe with Highway Funds in the amount of $10,652.40 :
By: 1st: Patrick Walker 2nd: William Bair, Jr. , AIF Aye
Daniel Plummer made a Motion to adjourn the meeting.
Motion to Adjourn the meeting at (time) _6:15 PM__:
By: 1st: Patrick Walker 2nd: Lainie Kephart , AIF Aye
Meeting Adjourned
Sincerely,
______________________________________
Lisa Hannahs
MINUTES FOR MAY 15, 2023
THE ELDRED BOROUGH COUNCIL HELD THEIR REGULAR MONTHLY MEETING ON MAY 15, 2023
@ 6:00PM AT THE ELDRED BOROUGH BUILDING.
COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT: DAN PLUMMER, JOE BAKER, PAT WALKER, BILLY BAIR AND
LAINIE KEPHART
OTHER OFFICIALS PRESENT: MAYOR ANDREW LATHROP, SECRETARY STEPHANIE MASON,
TREASURER LISA HANNAHS, ROADMASTER KEVIN CALDWELL
MEETING CALLED TO ORDER AT 6:00 PM BY THE COUNCIL PRESIDENT DANIEL PLUMMER.
THE MEETING IS BEING RECORDED FOR THE PURPOSE OF TAKING THE MINUTES AND THEN
RECORDING WILL BE DESTROYED ONCE MINUTES ARE APPROVED.
Billy wanted to add First Street sewer issues to be talked about tonight
Mo Welch wanted to ask about a pickle ball court. Council asked for details of this which Mo doesn’t have yet. Council
said they are open to it if she could get them some more information
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE THE AGENDA, AIF
MOTION BILLY, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE THE PREVIOUS MEETING MINUTES, AIF
MOTION LAINIE, PAT 2ND TO APPROVE THE TREASURERS REPORT AND FINANCIAL CONDITION,
AIF
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE PAYING THE BILLS, AIF
Dan briefly goes over the engineers update and said they are still waiting on answers from Pennvest. He said Wright
Road customers should be changed over soon
Dan talked about spring cleanup and thanked the people that participated and said they wished more people had participated
and cleaned things up. They talked about more reminders next year and maybe sending out letters
Council talked about Joe still being out from his shoulder surgery and that Kevin needs help. They said that since
the post for help went up there have been 3 people to apply. Kevin has met with all 3 of them and Council and Kevin discussed the applicants
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE HIRING BRADLEY WALKER FOR SUMMER HELP AND DAN
RECUSED HIMSELF FROM VOTING, AIF
Dan talked about Mechanic Street and all the quotes Kevin got for pipe, catch basins and blacktop. Billy said anything that is
DOT approved they could use liquid fuels money for. Kevin said the catch basins would not be DOT approved with the
exception of one because they don’t need them to be that big for that street. Dan said they would look at how much they have available in the highway fund for some of the other things. They talked about needing that for salt and plowing as well. Dan
said it’s usually about $25,000-$27,000 per year that the Borough receives
MOTION BILLY, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE PURCHASING THE MATERIALS FOR MECHANIC
STREET, AIF
Dave asked about what the blacktop would cost and Council said around $20,000 just from the top of Mechanic to Bennett
Street. They talked about the drainage on Main Street and Dan said PennDot is aware and putting together a project for that
and blacktop of Main Street but right now that looks like 2026. He said they are trying to coordinate this with the sewer and
water project as well so it could possibly get moved up. Council said they are hoping to have Mechanic Street done by the
time school starts
Just a reminder that the June meeting is changed to Wednesday June 21st at 6pm
Dan talks about the Armstrong field across the tracks and that it’s in pretty bad shape and doesn’t really get used. He said
that Steph talked to Armstrong’s about this and maybe moving the memorial to the other field and taking this one out. They
were ok with doing this.
MOTION PAT, JOE 2ND TO APPROVE TAKING OUT THE OLD ARMSTRONG FIELD AND MOVING THE MEMORIAL TO THE OTHER FIELD, AIF
Dan talks about the upcoming liquid fuels audit with the Auditor General and that it will be a 5 year audit. He said
Steph & Lisa have been preparing for this for the last couple of weeks. He told everyone they had already had the local rep
here to look over this year and last years stuff and everything looked good
Dan talks about the levee grant resolution and applying for another grant for the study now to move forward. Dave asked if
this was for Fema and Council said yes. Council talked about all the issues with the levee not being accredited such as high
flood insurance rates and not being able to build anything new in the flood zone
MOTION LAINIE, PAT 2ND TO APPROVE APPLYING FOR THE LEVEE GRANT, AIF
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE LEVEE GRANT RESOLUTION 2023-02, AIF
Dan mentions that the 2022 audit with Ed Bysiek is done and went well
Dan let everyone know that the Borough received a letter from the S.W. Smith Library thanking them for the donation
Billy talked about the sewer issues that keep happening on First Street. Council talked about maybe sending out letters to
residents asking them to not put rags, towels, flushable wipes, etc. down any toilets/drains. These things continue to cause
backups and issues in the sewer system. They also talked about putting it on Facebook
Mary asked about the lady that was inquiring about putting in the 5th wheel camper. Dan said they have never heard anything
more from her
Andy asked about the parade and everyone meeting up. They decided they would all meet at 10:30 that morning and the
parade would start at 11:00. They talked about the new banner and buying more candy to hand out this year. Andy said the
church is also going to have a wagon for any Veterans that would like to ride on it.
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO ADJOURN THE MEETING AT 6:37 PM, AIF
NEXT MEETING – JUNE 21, 2023 6:00PM
Respectfully,
Stephanie Bigley
Eldred Borough Secretary
MINUTES FOR APRIL 26, 2023
THE ELDRED BOROUGH COUNCIL HELD A SPECIAL MEETING ON APRIL 26, 2023
@ 6:00PM AT THE ELDRED BOROUGH BUILDING.
COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT: DAN PLUMMER, JOE BAKER, PAT WALKER, BILLY BAIR AND
LAINIE KEPHART
OTHER OFFICIALS PRESENT: MAYOR ANDREW LATHROP, SECRETARY STEPHANIE MASON AND ROADMASTER KEVIN CALDWELL
MEETING CALLED TO ORDER AT 6:00 PM BY THE COUNCIL PRESIDENT DANIEL PLUMMER.
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE THE AGENDA, AIF
Council goes over the PennVest offer
MOTION JOE, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE ACCEPTING THE UPDATED PENNVEST FUNDING OFFER IN
THE AMOUNT OF $17,657,188.00 FOR THE WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANT PROJECT, AIF
Council goes over the contract bids
MOTION LAINIE, PAT 2ND TO APPROVE AWARDING CONTRACT 2022-1 FOR THE GENERAL/MECHANICAL WORK WITH ALTERNATIVES FOR THE WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANT PROJECT, TO LOBAR, INC.,
AS THE LOWEST RESPONSIBLE BIDDER WITH A BID OF $12,241,885.00, AIF
MOTION BILLY, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE AWARDING CONTRACT 2022-2, FOR HVAC WORK FOR THE WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANT PROJECT, TO MAZZA MECHANICAL SERVICES, INC., AS THE
LOWEST RESPONSIBLE BIDDER WITH A BID OF $355,000.00, AIF
MOTION JOE, PAT 2ND TO APPROVE AWARDING CONTRACT 2022-3, FOR PLUMBING WORK FOR THE WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANT PROJECT, TO W.C. ESHENAUR & SON, INC., AS THE LOWEST RESPONSIBLE BIDDER WITH A BID OF $251,240.00, AIF
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE AWARDING CONTRACT 2022-4, FOR ELECTRICAL WORK
WITH ALTERNATES TO HALLSTROM CLARK ELECTRIC, INC., IN THE AMOUNT OF $2,304,000.00, AIF
MOTION PAT, JOE 2ND TO ADJOURN THE MEETING AT 6:04 PM, AIF
NEXT MEETING – MAY 15, 2023 6:00PM
Respectfully,
Stephanie Bigley
Eldred Borough Secretary
MINUTES FOR APRIL 17, 2023
THE ELDRED BOROUGH COUNCIL HELD THEIR REGULAR MONTHLY MEETING ON MARCH 20, 2023
@ 6:00PM AT THE ELDRED BOROUGH BUILDING.
COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT: DAN PLUMMER, JOE BAKER, PAT WALKER, BILLY BAIR AND
LAINIE KEPHART
OTHER OFFICIALS PRESENT: MAYOR ANDREW LATHROP, SECRETARY STEPHANIE MASON,
TREASURER LISA HANNAHS
MEETING CALLED TO ORDER AT 6:00 PM BY THE COUNCIL PRESIDENT DANIEL PLUMMER.
THE MEETING IS BEING RECORDED FOR THE PURPOSE OF TAKING THE MINUTES AND THEN
RECORDING WILL BE DESTROYED ONCE MINUTES ARE APPROVED.
Pat said he has been hearing complaints about people putting trash in other people’s trash cans
Mary asked about the 446 Main St project, Dan said there is nothing set in stone yet and that PennDot is helping to put
together a plan for it. He said they are looking at storm drain issues along with paving
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE THE AGENDA, AIF
MOTION JOE, PAT 2ND TO APPROVE THE PREVIOUS MEETING MINUTES, AIF
MOTION BILLY, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE THE TREASURERS REPORT AND FINANCIAL CONDITION,
AIF
MOTION LAINIE, PAT 2ND TO APPROVE PAYING THE BILLS, AIF
Dan goes over the engineers update and explains further about the PennDot meeting and trying to combine Main Street
paving and storm water drains with the new sewer and water lines to go in
Council talked about the library in Port Allegany and the donation they are asking for. Council is in agreement that the
Borough can not afford that. Joe said his kids do use that library a lot. They talked about a donation for the Eldred library
as well
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE A DONATION OF $250 TO THE S.W. SMITH LIBRARY, AIF
Council would like to remind everyone that spring cleanup is May 8 and the cost is $40. Dan said he hung up some flyers
around town hoping to get the word out and that people would start cleaning things up
Dan reminded everyone that the PennVest meeting is on Wednesday the 19th and hopefully they should know something
on Thursday
Council thanked the Borough & Otto Township Firehalls for burning the levee on Main St
Council thanked the Houbens for the park donation
Dan let everyone know that the DEP inspection went very well and everything was good
Council wanted to remind everyone about the Memorial Day parade on May 29th and that the yard sale day in town is
May 6th. They said that Mo is trying to find vendors for that day
Dan talks to everyone about a lady that called who is looking at a piece of property up King Street and that she would like to
put a 5th wheel camper on it to live in. Council has discussion on having campers in town and Billy asked about taxes and
how that would work. Dan said if it’s a permanent structure it should be taxed just like anyplace else. Pat & Dan said they
would be ok with it as long as there are some conditions with it. They talked about possibly creating a new ordinance with conditions just for situations like this. They also talked about it needing to be at least a 1 acre lot. They talked about it having
to be connected to the water and sewer as well and that it would need to be made a permanent structure. Mary said there was supposed to be an ordinance created years ago that stated there were not to be any more trailers of any kind in town. Council & Steph said they are not aware of any ordinance like this. Steph said she has been going through all the ordinances for that reason
and talking to the Borough Solicitor about this subject. Council agreed to try and get more information from the lady before
making any kind of decision
Dan talked about a gentleman that stopped in the office from the Wounded Warrior Project and said they would like to hang
a banner across Main Street
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE THE WOUNDED WARRIOR BANNER ON MAIN STREET WITH
THE CORRECT PERMITS, AIF
Dan talks about maybe needing to get some summer help for some projects that need to be done. They talk about
needing to get the weed eating done on the sides of the Barden Brook levee being it didn’t get burned this year as well
as some painting and pressure washing. Council also talked about maybe some high school seniors that may need to
finish service hours before graduation
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE CONTACTING THE SCHOOL TO SEE IF THERE ARE ANY KIDS
THAT MAY NEED TO FINISH THEIR SERVICE HOURS, AIF
Andy asked about Mechanic Street and the paving getting done this year. Council said yes but they are not sure when yet
Andy talked about a lot of people speeding on Main Street and that someone is going to get hurt. Billy said the Police have
been in town a lot more than they used to be
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO ADJOURN THE MEETING AT 6:47 PM, AIF
NEXT MEETING – MAY 15, 2023 6:00PM
Respectfully,
Stephanie Bigley
Eldred Borough Secretary
MINUTES FOR MARCH 20, 2023
THE ELDRED BOROUGH COUNCIL HELD THEIR REGULAR MONTHLY MEETING ON MARCH 20, 2023
@ 6:00PM AT THE ELDRED BOROUGH BUILDING.
COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT: DAN PLUMMER, JOE BAKER, PAT WALKER, BILLY BAIR AND
LAINIE KEPHART
OTHER OFFICIALS PRESENT: MAYOR ANDREW LATHROP, SECRETARY STEPHANIE MASON,
TREASURER LISA HANNAHS, ROADMASTER KEVIN CALDWELL
MEETING CALLED TO ORDER AT 6:00 PM BY THE COUNCIL PRESIDENT DANIEL PLUMMER.
THE MEETING IS BEING RECORDED FOR THE PURPOSE OF TAKING THE MINUTES AND THEN
RECORDING WILL BE DESTROYED ONCE MINUTES ARE APPROVED.
MOTION LAINIE, PAT 2ND TO APPROVE THE AGENDA, AIF
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE THE PREVIOUS MEETING MINUTES, AIF
MOTION PAT, JOE 2ND TO APPROVE THE TREASURERS REPORT AND FINANCIAL CONDITION, AIF
MOTION BILLY, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE PAYING THE BILLS, AIF
Dan goes over the engineer update. They talked about the Legion possibly hooking into the sewer and having an agreement
with the Township
Mary Grace from S.W. Smith Memorial Public Library in Port Allegany goes over the numbers and talks about how many
Eldred people use the library there. She talks about how communication with Otto Township for more money was ignored
and they have now lost membership for their residents to the library and doesn’t want to see the same thing happen to Borough residents. She is asking for at least a $1.00 per capita donation from the Borough, she said the state would like it to be $5.00
but she understands that would be hard to do. Last year the Borough donated a flat $200. She goes over all the income and
expenses for the library. Dan asks what number she would be going by for the per capita donation and she said the 2020 census which was 765. They talked about tabling this till next meeting being that is a lot more money than last year. Council all agrees
to table until April meeting
Dan introduces Nathan Burgett, the director for McKean County Emergency Services. There was some talk of the box alarms
for each department and how they work on the first call. It has been recommended to have at least 5 departments on first alarm alarm call not just stand by. Every department in the area has gotten very small and doesn’t have as many volunteers as they
used to. By having more on first alarm you are insuring that you would have more people coming to a fire. Billy asked if the
County could just take over the box alarms and Nathan said no that is up to each department. Eldred Borough currently has 3
on first alarm call (Eldred Borough, Eldred Township & Otto Township) Dan talked about maybe the possibilities of
consolidating departments because there are not the amount of volunteers that there used to be and it would save each
department money. Denny Mong said they are open to talking about doing that. Kevin Cummings talked about funding to
help do that. Denny talked about previously trying to merge the ambulance crews but that it didn’t work out. Nathan said there
are agencies that can help with this and that the Government body has the authority to push to make this happen if it’s a safety
issue. Nathan said Jerry Ozog with VFIS can help with the consolidation process.
MOTION PAT, JOE 2ND TO APPROVE TRYING TO SET UP A MEETING TO DISCUSS THE POSSIBILITIES
OF CONSOLIDATION, AIF
Dan talks with Allen Fowler about the Legion’s interest in hooking up the new building to the sewer system. He said they
would also put in a commercial grinding system. They talked about how the line would need to be run and having an agreement
with the Township for this. Stephanie said she has talked to the engineers about this and they need to know what the square
footage of the building will be. Allen will get this information as soon as possible.
Council talked about the Memorial Day Parade and if they would like to participate in it again this year. They talked about
having a new banner made and candy purchased for the event as well.
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE COUNCIL TO PARTICIPATE IN THE MEMORIAL DAY PARADE
AS WELL AS PURCHASE A NEW BANNER AND CANDY TO BE HANDED OUT, AIF
Council talked about spring cleanup for this year and if the price should go up some to cover costs
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE SPRING CLEANUP IN THE BOROUGH TO BE HELD ON MONDAY
MAY 8, 2023 AND THE COST TO BE SET AT $40.00, AIF
Council talked with Denny & Kevin about the Fire Department burning the levee this year. Denny said they would help with it,
they just need to wait for the snow to be gone. Dan talked about the fact that it would save the Borough from having to rent a
boom mower this year to mow it. Kevin said in the month of April they could do it
Dan talks about getting some more millings from Hawbakers this year for some different projects that need done. He said they
don’t know the exact cost yet but that Kevin would like to get approx.. 60-80 tons
MOTION PAT, JOE 2ND TO APPROVE PURCHASING MORE MILLINGS FOR THIS YEAR FROM
HAWBAKERS, AIF
Council talked about The Nippers wanting to put up a new batting cage at Houben Park
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE NIPPERS TO PUT UP A NEW BATTING CAGE AT HOUBEN PARK
AND THAT THE NIPPERS ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR TAKING THE OLD ONE DOWN AND REMOVING IT
AND FOR MAINTAINING THE NEW ONE, AIF
Council talked about another Levee grant will be needed and having Jeff with Stiffler & McGraw to apply for this grant
MOTION JOE, PAT 2ND TO APPROVE HAVING JEFF SPENCER APPLY FOR ANOTHER GRANT FOR THE
LEVEE, AIF
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO ADJOURN THE MEETING AT 7:10 PM, AIF
NEXT MEETING – APRIL 17, 2023 6:00PM
Respectfully,
Stephanie Mason
Eldred Borough Secretary
MINUTES FOR FEBRUARY 27, 2023
THE ELDRED BOROUGH COUNCIL HELD THEIR SPECIAL MEETING ON FEBRUARY 27, 2023
@ 6:00PM AT THE ELDRED BOROUGH BUILDING.
COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT: DAN PLUMMER, JOE BAKER, PAT WALKER, BILLY BAIR AND
LAINIE KEPHART
OTHER OFFICIALS PRESENT: MAYOR ANDREW LATHROP, SECRETARY STEPHANIE MASON,
TREASURER LISA HANNAHS, ROADMASTER KEVIN CALDWELL, ENGINEER JEFF SPENCER AND
SOLICITOR ANDREA STAPLEFORD
MEETING CALLED TO ORDER AT 6:00 PM BY THE COUNCIL PRESIDENT DANIEL PLUMMER.
THE MEETING IS BEING RECORDED FOR THE PURPOSE OF TAKING THE MINUTES AND THEN
RECORDING WILL BE DESTROYED ONCE MINUTES ARE APPROVED.
MOTION JOE, PAT 2ND TO APPROVE THE AGENDA, AIF
Dan talks about the bids that came in today and also the additional funds needed from Pennvest
MOTION LAINIE, PAT 2ND TO APPROVE REQUESTING ADDITIONAL FUNDS FROM PENNVEST FOR
THE NEW SEWER PLANT, AIF
Council gives the names for the low bids
General – Lobar, Inc
Hvac contract – Mazza Mechanical Services
Plumbing – W.C. Eshenaur & Son, Inc.
Electrical – Hallstrom-Clark Electric, Inc.
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE AWARDING BIDS TO THE LOWEST BIDDERS CONTINGENT
UPON THE ENGINEERS REVIEW, AIF
Steph talked about the fact that there have been several questions about the Fire Departments and how they respond to house
fires and that she has talked with McKean County Emergency Services to try and get some clarification on this. She has
learned through this that it may be necessary to change some things with the call box alarms. Council would like to look into
this further and talk with the Fire Department and maybe also get the County to come to a meeting to better understand this
MOTION PAT, BILLY 2ND TO ADJOURN THE MEETING AT 6:14 PM, AIF
NEXT MEETING – MARCH 20, 2023 6:00PM
Respectfully,
Stephanie Mason
Eldred Borough Secretary
MINUTES FOR FEBRUARY 20, 2023
THE ELDRED BOROUGH COUNCIL HELD THEIR REGULAR MONTHLY MEETING ON FEBRUARY 20, 2023
@ 6:00PM AT THE ELDRED BOROUGH BUILDING.
COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT: DAN PLUMMER, JOE BAKER, PAT WALKER, BILLY BAIR AND
LAINIE KEPHART
OTHER OFFICIALS PRESENT: MAYOR ANDREW LATHROP, SECRETARY STEPHANIE MASON,
TREASURER LISA HANNAHS, ROADMASTER KEVIN CALDWELL
MEETING CALLED TO ORDER AT 6:00 PM BY THE COUNCIL PRESIDENT DANIEL PLUMMER.
THE MEETING IS BEING RECORDED FOR THE PURPOSE OF TAKING THE MINUTES AND THEN
RECORDING WILL BE DESTROYED ONCE MINUTES ARE APPROVED.
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE THE AGENDA, AIF
MOTION LAINIE, PAT 2ND TO APPROVE THE PREVIOUS MEETING MINUTES, AIF
MOTION JOE, BILLY 2ND TO APPROVE THE TREASURERS REPORT AND FINANCIAL CONDITION, AIF
MOTION BILLY, PAT 2ND TO APPROVE PAYING THE BILLS, AIF
Dan gives a quick update from Jeff
Dan talks about the June 19th meeting and needing to change it as Steph will be out of town
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE CHANGING THE JUNE 19, 2023 MEETING TO WEDNESDAY
JUNE 21, 2023 AT 6:00PM, AIF
Dan talks about the inspection company that the Borough has appointed right now being Erb Inspections and that there have
recently been some complaints from a few residents. He said Steph has talked to a few other Borough & Townships in the
area and they also have had some complaints and they now have 2 inspection companies that people can choose from to use
instead of just one. The other company is KNA Inspections out of Bradford. Council talked about not having just one solely appointed by the Borough and just letting residents choose who they would prefer to use
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE NOT HAVING AN EXCLUSIVE APPOINTED INSPECTOR FOR THE BOROUGH AND LETTING RESIDENTS CHOOSE WHICH ONE THEY PREFER TO USE, AIF
Council talked about 96 Main Street and that the original bidder has decided he did not want to enter into a legal agreement to purchase the property.
MOTION BILLY, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE REJECTING THE REPOSITORY BID FOR 96 MAIN STREET, AIF
Council had talk about the Borough possibly purchasing the property at 96 Main Street and having the County tear it down.
Pat asked about the grant money to do so and what if it wasn’t available once everything went through with the purchase. Dan
said they have talked to the County about the grant money and that should not be an issue. Dan explained that if they do this
they can’t do anything with the property for 5 years and that the Borough would need to keep up with the yard work during that time. They talked about the possibility of donating the property to the cemetery after the 5 years. Dan said the minimum bid is
$250 and there are actually 2 properties because the parking space across the street is actually a separate parcel. Council also
talked about the sidewalk in front of this property and the fact that it needs to be fixed. Mary asked if the County takes care of everything and Council said yes they will tear it down and haul everything away
MOTION PAT, JOE 2ND TO APPROVE PLACING A REPOSITORY BID FOR 96 MAIN STREET ON BOTH PROPERTIES AT $250 EACH, AIF
Dan talked about the late charges and the issues with doing the percentage charge and it would work better in the system to
go back to the flat fee late charge
MOTION LAINIE, PAT 2ND TO APPROVE CHANGING THE LATE FEE FOR THE 2023 YEAR TO $5.00, AIF
Dan explained that the Water Authority called and that Lance Baker needed to be reappointed to the Water Authority Board
MOTION LAINIE, BILLY 2ND TO APPROVE APPOINTING LANCE BAKER TO THE WATER AUTHORITY
BOARD, AIF
Council talks about the Quickbooks renewal being $549 this year and it’s up for renewal in a few weeks
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE THE QUICKBOOKS RENEWAL, AIF
Mary asked about the levee and where that stands. They explained the engineers are still working on everything
Dan reminded everyone that there will be a special meeting on February 27 at 6pm and the bid opening will be prior to that
at 4pm
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO ADJOURN THE MEETING AT 6:31 PM, AIF
NEXT MEETING – MARCH 20, 2023 6:00PM
Respectfully,
Stephanie Mason
Eldred Borough Secretary
MINUTES FOR JANUARY 16, 2023
THE ELDRED BOROUGH COUNCIL HELD THEIR REGULAR MONTHLY MEETING ON JANUARY 16, 2023
@ 6:00PM AT THE ELDRED BOROUGH BUILDING.
COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT: DAN PLUMMER, JOE BAKER, PAT WALKER, BILLY BAIR AND
LAINIE KEPHART
OTHER OFFICIALS PRESENT: MAYOR ANDREW LATHROP, SECRETARY STEPHANIE MASON,
TREASURER LISA HANNAHS, ROADMASTER KEVIN CALDWELL
MEETING CALLED TO ORDER AT 6:00 PM BY THE COUNCIL PRESIDENT DANIEL PLUMMER.
THE MEETING IS BEING RECORDED FOR THE PURPOSE OF TAKING THE MINUTES AND THEN
RECORDING WILL BE DESTROYED ONCE MINUTES ARE APPROVED.
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE THE AGENDA, AIF
MOTION BILLY, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE THE PREVIOUS MEETING MINUTES, AIF
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE THE TREASURERS REPORT AND FINANCIAL CONDITION, AIF
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE PAYING THE BILLS, AIF
Dan goes over the engineer’s report and talks a little about the call with Pennvest last week. He also talked about the opening
of the new bids on February 27 and then having a special meeting afterwards. He also reminded everyone of the changes for
some of the Wright Road customers but that the agreement paperwork is not done yet
Dan goes over and talks about the repository bid on 96 Main Street. The bidder’s father is attending the meeting on his son’s
behalf. Council explained to him that in order for them to approve this bid there would need to be a legal agreement between
the purchaser and the Borough stating that the purchaser agrees to have the house and property cleaned up with no code
violations within a certain amount of time and that there would also be a quit claim deed in case these things were not done.
Council went on to explain the previous issues with this property and why they would have these stipulations. The father
explains that him and his son have purchased several other properties from the county and fixed them up and that would be
their intention with this one as well. He talks more about fixing things up and making it look presentable. They are hoping to
get permission from the neighbor to be able to drive across their property to get to 96 Main to do some of the work being there
is no driveway. Joe asked if they would be doing all the work themselves and he said yes along with some help from the Amish.
He said they would like to start quickly on the outside work before the vegetation starts growing. Council talked about the
sidewalk also belonging to that property and needing to be repaired. He said they are aware of that as well.
Dan talks about the appeals board that deals with variances and such things. He said this was brought up due to some issues
with the Petruzzi permits. Dan talks about how this works and joining this board so that if there are issues where they are
needed it’s cheaper for the homeowner.
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE THE BOROUGH JOINING THE UPPER PINE CREEK GROUP, AIF
Dan talks about purchasing some Christmas decorations for the new fence that was put up around the curve for next year
MOTION PAT, BILLY 2ND TO APPROVE PURCHASING DECORATIONS FOR THE FENCE, AIF
Charlotte asked about the lights not working on all the wooden ones on Main Street this year. Council said they are aware
of that and hope to have them fixed by next year
Dan talked about the new street lights and a complaint they have had about it shinning in a house. He said they have talked
to Penelec and they will try to tilt the light some to help with this
Eric Johnson came in to also talk about 96 Main Street. Council talked to him about what would need to be done and what would
be expected by the Borough and a time frame to make it livable. They are thinking around 9 months, at least by the end of the
year. Council said they have been wanting it tore down but they would make an exception to this if they are willing to join into
this agreement. They went over again what they would expect and they said they would have the Solicitor draw up the legal paperwork. They said they would give them a few days to think about it and let the office know within a few days.
MOTION PAT, JOE 2ND TO APPROVE THE REPOSITORY BID FOR 96 MAIN STREET CONTINGENT UPON
THE LEGAL AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE BOROUGH AND ERIC JOHNSON. COUNCIL WILL REJECT THE
BID IF MR. JOHNSON DECIDES HE DOES NOT WANT TO ENTER INTO THIS AGREEMENT, AIF
Dan goes over the new sewer plant resolutions
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE 2023-1 RESOLUTION TO APPLY FOR PENNVEST FUNDS, AIF
MOTION BILLY, JOE 2ND TO APPROVE 2023-2 RESOLUTION FOR THE LETTER OF RESPONSIBILITY, AIF
Charlotte talked about the library and all the work that has been done there and that it’s all been done with grants and donation
and the work has been done by volunteers. She said they are not asking for money or anything but if the Borough would maybe consider not charging them sewer would greatly help being they are only open 12 days a month. Council has some discussion
about this and what they could do to help.
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE MAKING THE ELDRED LIBRARY EXEMPT FROM SEWER
CHARGES, AIF
Charlotte also asked about the ice issue on King Street, they all talked about the drainage that has been put in that is causing
some of this. They said right now all they can do is put down a lot of ice melt but they are hoping to eventually put in more
storm drains to help the issues
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO ADJOURN THE MEETING AT 6:42 PM, AIF
NEXT MEETING – FEBRUARY 20, 2023 6:00PM
Respectfully,
Stephanie Mason
Eldred Borough Secretary
MINUTES FOR DECEMBER 19, 2022
THE ELDRED BOROUGH COUNCIL HELD THEIR REGULAR MONTHLY MEETING ON DECEMBER 19, 2022
@ 6:00PM AT THE ELDRED BOROUGH BUILDING.
COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT: DAN PLUMMER, JOE BAKER, PAT WALKER, BILLY BAIR AND
LAINIE KEPHART
OTHER OFFICIALS PRESENT: MAYOR ANDREW LATHROP, SECRETARY STEPHANIE MASON,
TREASURER LISA HANNAHS, ROADMASTER KEVIN CALDWELL
MEETING CALLED TO ORDER AT 6:00 PM BY THE COUNCIL PRESIDENT DANIEL PLUMMER.
THE MEETING IS BEING RECORDED FOR THE PURPOSE OF TAKING THE MINUTES AND THEN
RECORDING WILL BE DESTROYED ONCE MINUTES ARE APPROVED.
John Petruzzi asked to be added to the agenda
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE THE AGENDA, AIF
MOTION BILLY, JOE 2ND TO APPROVE THE PREVIOUS MEETING MINUTES, AIF
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE THE TREASURERS REPORT AND FINANCIAL CONDITION, AIF
MOTION BILLY, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE PAYING THE BILLS, AIF
Dan goes over the engineer’s report and they talk a little about the levee grant and the collection system
Dan let everyone know that council was going into executive session and there were no notes to be taken at 6:04pm
Dan called the meeting back to order at 6:11 pm
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE REJECTING ALL BIDS FOR THE NEW SEWER PLANT PROJECT,
AIF
MOTION BILLY, PAT TO APPROVE READVERTISING FOR BIDS FOR THE SEWER PLANT PROJECT,
AIF
Council talked about the school zone again and the fact that there are still kids that live on the other side of Main Street and
still have to cross to get to school. They feel it’s a good idea to keep it a school zone and that PennDot has said that can be
done and kept that way being the school still owns the property
MOTION LAINIE, JOE 2ND TO APPROVE KEEPING THE SCHOOL ZONE ON MAIN STREET, AIF
Dan let everyone know that coupon books have been mailed out. He talked about the Wright Road customers and that
eventually the Township will be taking over the customers on the Township side of the road due to PUC issues. Lainie asked
if any of this would affect any of the Borough resident customers and he said no
Dan introduced John Petruzzi and they talked about the new roof that he had put on the insurance building and the issues he’s having with permits. John talks about recently purchasing the old body shop as well and wanting to also put a new roof on
that as well as garage doors. He talked about an email he received from Erb Inspections asking for all kinds of things and
involving engineers and architects. He says he’s trying to make things look better and this is costing more money for what
they are requiring. He’s asking if he can get a variance from the Borough to leave the insurance building roof alone. Dan
explained that the Borough doesn’t do anything in the office for permits and that is all handled by Erb Inspections and as far
as a variance they would need to talk to the Borough Solicitor about it and go from there because they are not sure if they can
do that
Dan went over the 2023 budget with everyone
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE THE 2023 ELDRED BOROUGH BUDGET, AIF
Dan went over the engineers agreement for 2023
MOTION BILLY, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE AND APPOINT STIFFLER AND MCGRAW AS THE ENGINEERS
FOR ELDRED BOROUGH FOR 2023, AIF
Council talked about Christmas bonuses for employees
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE A NET $150 CHRISTMAS BONUS FOR EACH OF THE 4
EMPLOYEES FOR 2022, AIF
MOTION BILLY LAINIE 2ND TO APPOINT STEPHANIE MASON AS THE BOROUGH SECRETARY FOR THE
2023 YEAR, AIF
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPOINT LISA HANNAHS AS THE BOROUGH TREASURER FOR THE 2023
YEAR, AIF
MOTION JOE, LAINIE 2ND TO APPOINT ANDREA STAPLEFORD AS THE BOROUGH SOLICITOR FOR THE
2023 YEAR, AIF
MOTION LAINIE, PAT TO APPOINT ED BYSIEK AS THE BOROUGH AUDITOR FOR THE 2023 YEAR, AIF
Council talked about parking on some of the streets being an issue especially during plowing season. They talked about some
other code enforcement issues and also having Pat sign all letters that go out. Pat agreed to do this
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO ADJOURN THE MEETING AT 6:30 PM, AIF
NEXT MEETING – JANUARY 16, 2023 6:00PM
Respectfully,
Stephanie Mason
Eldred Borough Secretary
MINUTES FOR NOVEMBER 21, 2022
THE ELDRED BOROUGH COUNCIL HELD THEIR REGULAR MONTHLY MEETING ON NOVEMBER 21, 2022
@ 6:00PM AT THE ELDRED BOROUGH BUILDING.
COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT: DAN PLUMMER, JOE BAKER, PAT WALKER, BILLY BAIR AND
LAINIE KEPHART
OTHER OFFICIALS PRESENT: MAYOR ANDREW LATHROP, SECRETARY STEPHANIE MASON,
TREASURER LISA HANNAHS, ROADMASTER KEVIN CALDWELL
MEETING CALLED TO ORDER AT 6:00 PM BY THE COUNCIL PRESIDENT DANIEL PLUMMER.
THE MEETING IS BEING RECORDED FOR THE PURPOSE OF TAKING THE MINUTES AND THEN
RECORDING WILL BE DESTROYED ONCE MINUTES ARE APPROVED.
Kevin added backhoe forks to the agenda
MOTION BILLY, PAT 2ND TO APPROVE THE AGENDA, AIF
MOTION PAT, JOE 2ND TO APPROVE THE PREVIOUS MEETING MINUTES, AIF
MOTION BILLY, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE THE TREASURERS REPORT AND FINANCIAL CONDITION,
AIF
MOTION LAINIE, PAT 2ND TO APPROVE PAYING THE BILLS, AIF
Dan goes over the engineer’s report and talks about the grant money for the levee. He said the treatment plant and the bidding process is still being evaluated and the Borough can not award any bids yet. He said it’s on hold until the review is done. He
said Jeff has a conference call tomorrow for more discission on this and hopefully we will know more after that. He said the agreement with the Township to change some of the Wright Road customers due to PUC issues is still in the draft status.
Dan went over the ambulance resolution 2022-05 and said that for now Eldred Borough will continue until the end of the year
and then the first of 2023 TLC will take over as the primary BLS for Eldred Borough
MOTION BILLY, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE THE NEW AMBULANCE RESOLUTION 2022-05, AIF
Dan talks about the mowing and the possibility of splitting up the work and not having just one person do everything. He said
they had them both requote all Borough property on each side Main Street. Dan explained how this would work if they decided
to do the mowing this way.
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE THE MOWING FOR 2023 TO BE SPLIT BETWEEN MIKE GREEN
AND DEB KELLEY, AIF
Dan talked about employee raises and health insurance. Council went over the handbook and talked about how it reads for insurance. Dan said Kevin and Steph are the only ones on the health insurance. They talked about the cost of the insurance and
how much the employees are paying of that right now. They talked about covering all of their insurance rather than a raise.
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE THE BOROUGH TO 100% PAY FOR KEVIN & STEPH’S HEALTH
INSURANCE IN LOU OF A RAISE, AIF
Council talked about the other 2 employees that don’t have health insurance and what to do for a raise for them
MOTION JOE, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE A $.50 PER HOUR RAISE FOR JOE & LISA, AIF
Dan talked about the late fee on sewer and garbage charges and about doing a percentage rather than a flat rate
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE AN 8% LATE FEE ON ALL SEWER AND GARBAGE RATES
EACH MONTH, AIF
Dan goes over the proposed budget for 2023 and asks if anyone has any questions about it
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE THE 2023 PROPOSED BUDGET, AIF
Dan reads over the Act 57 tax resolution and explained how it will work being this is something new
MOTION LAINIE, PAT 2ND TO APPROVE THE ACT 57 TAX RESOLUTION, AIF
Council talked about the real estate taxes for 2023 and that they are not going to raise taxes at this time
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE NOT RAISING PROPERTY TAXES FOR 2023, AIF
Dan talks about the white dodge pickup truck on First Street that has been sitting there for awhile and appears to be abandoned.
He said they have been trying to find out who owns it and have had no luck. They talked about trying to have it towed due to plowing issues
MOTION BILLY, PAT 2ND TO APPROVE GETTING THE ABANDONED TRUCK ON FIRST STREET TOWED
IF POSSIBLE, AIF
Council talked about the school zone and that the office has had some calls as to why this is still a school zone being the
preschool does not operate in that building anymore. Dan said the school board voted to have it removed which PennDot also
has to approve. Some of council does not agree and said there are still kids that live on the other side of Main Street that have
to cross the road to get to the elementary school. They would rather it stay a school zone. Council agrees to table this until the
next meeting
Kevin talked about the forks for the backhoe and that they need to be installed. He said Mark Shuey is able to do the work and
he has a quote from him
MOTION BILLY, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE MARK SHUEY TO DO THE WORK ON THE BACKHOE FOR
THE NEW FORKS, AIF
Mary thanked Steph for the work on the street light project and said how nice it is to finally have them all done. She also let
Council know that they fixed the road behind their house. Council tanked her for doing so
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO ADJOURN THE MEETING AT 6:37 PM, AIF
NEXT MEETING – DECEMBER 19, 2022 6:00PM
Respectfully,
Stephanie Mason
Eldred Borough Secretary
MINUTES FOR OCTOBER 17, 2022
THE ELDRED BOROUGH COUNCIL HELD THEIR REGULAR MONTHLY MEETING ON OCTOBER 17, 2022
@ 6:00PM AT THE ELDRED BOROUGH BUILDING.
COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT: DAN PLUMMER, JOE BAKER, PAT WALKER, BILLY BAIR
OTHER OFFICIALS PRESENT: MAYOR ANDREW LATHROP, SECRETARY STEPHANIE MASON,
TREASURER LISA HANNAHS, ROADMASTER KEVIN CALDWELL
MEETING CALLED TO ORDER AT 6:00 PM BY THE COUNCIL PRESIDENT DANIEL PLUMMER.
THE MEETING IS BEING RECORDED FOR THE PURPOSE OF TAKING THE MINUTES AND THEN
RECORDING WILL BE DESTROYED ONCE MINUTES ARE APPROVED.
MOTION BILLY, PAT 2ND TO APPROVE THE AGENDA, AIF
MOTION PAT, JOE 2ND TO APPROVE THE PREVIOUS MEETING MINUTES, AIF
MOTION JOE, PAT 2ND TO APPROVE THE TREASURERS REPORT AND FINANCIAL CONDITION, AIF
MOTION PAT, BILLY 2ND TO APPROVE PAYING THE BILLS, AIF
Jeff Spencer talked about the levee recertification and that they will be submitting to Fema at the end of the month. He said
there is a $6,700 fee for submitting that he is going to try to avoid because of the mistakes in the map. He said the quarterly
DEP update will be at the end of the month as well. He said they will be submitting to PennVest shortly as well for the sewer
line project. He said they ended up with 12 bids for 4 contracts for the plant. He said they will be requesting to PennVest to
start early due to the contractors having trouble getting their supplies. He said the Borough will still be using the line of credit
to pay for everything until PennVest closes and is available to reimburse. Jeff talked about the issues with the few Township customers the Borough has and most likely not being able to get granted and exception. They are suggesting to possibly bill for those 8 in a lump sum per month and turn them over to the Township. He said the Township would own and maintain the main
line from there. He said there would need to be an intermunicipal agreement between the Borough & the Township. Council has more discussion on this.
MOTION BILLY, PAT 2ND TO APPROVE AN INTERMUNICIPAL AGREEMENT WITH ELDRED TOWNSHIP
TO TAKE OVER THE WRIGHT ROAD CUSTOMERS, AIF
Council talked about the fact that if they don’t do this it could cost a lot of money and possibly not get granted the exception.
Jeff and Council talked about the driveway on the property the Borough purchased for the sewer plant and that there needs
to be an easement for the Brown’s property so their land is not landlocked. Jeff suggests putting in the agreement that if the
Brown’s make any changes or improvements to the driveway that it would first need to be approved by the Borough.
MOTION PAT, JOE 2ND TO APPROVE THE EASEMENT FOR THE DRIVEWAY TO THE BROWN’S, AIF
Council talked about the conference call tomorrow at 2pm with PennVest and that local share grants will be announced at
their November meeting. Jeff goes over the bids that came in for the new treatment plant. He talked about the bidding process
and the contractors, he explained the difference between the general base bids and with the alternates. They had more
conversation about all the bids and the costs of everything. He said the Borough is going to have to apply to PennVest for a
little more funding and that the current closing is set for January 10, 2023. He said if they give the go ahead for contractors to
start they will most likely start billing immediately. Dan asked some questions about how the billing would work. They talked
about needing to use the line of credit until PennVest goes through. Jeff said there should still be enough available on the line
of credit until the PennVest loan closes. Jeff talked about the schedule being tight due to the corrective action plan. Billy
asked if anyone has ever worked with some of the contractors. Some of the contractors Jeff and some of Council are familiar
with and some they are not. They had more talk about doing the project with and without alternates. Jeff said they would never
get this low of pricing again and that this is the best PennVest offer he has ever seen.
MOTION BILLY, PAT 2ND TO APPROVE THE NEW SEWER PLANT PROJECT WITH ALTERNATES, AIF
Jeff talks about the ordinance that pertains to the amount of money that is being barrowed from PennVest for the
engineering portion and also the treatment plant itself. He said Council needed to pass an ordinance agreeing to pay this
money back.
MOTION PAT, BILLY 2ND TO APPROVE AND PASS ORDINANCE NUMBER 2022-05 AGREEING TO PAY
THE LOAN AMOUNT BACK TO PENNVEST FOR ENGINEERING COSTS, AIF
MOTION BILLY, JOE 2ND TO APPROVE AND PASS ORDINANCE NUMBER 2022-06 AGREEING TO PAY
THE LOAN AMOUNT BACK TO PENNVEST FOR THE NEW TREATMENT PLANT, AIF
Dan talked about the mowing quotes and what is cost this year to contract out the work. Council talked about what to do for
next year and Kevin said he would like to have them do it again next year. Pat asked Kevin what work they still had left to do
this year. They talked about cleaning out ditches, storm drains, Mechanic Street, etc. Council said that by contracting out some
of the mowing it gives the guys more time to work on other things that need to be done. The also said the guys may be more
busy next year as well with the new sewer plant going in. They talked about with the expenses of everything going up that sooner
or later taxes are going to have to go up. They talked about possibly contracting out all the Borough mowing for next year rather than just the two parks. They discussed if they wanted to split it between the two of them or give all the mowing to one person. Kevin and Andy both said Mike took a lot of extra time on things to make sure they looked very good and that he was always communicating throughout the year and they feel he should get the majority of the work. Billy thinks it should be given to just
one person. Mary doesn’t feel the other park should be taken from Deb and that she did a good job as well. They had more talk about this and how to divide it up if that’s what they decided to do. Council agreed to table the mowing until the next meeting
Dan talked about IU-9 contacting the Borough about possible internships with students. He said it would only be 1-2 hours at a
time and a couple days per week
MOTION PAT, BILLY 2ND TO APPROVE WORKING WITH IU-9 TO DO AN INTERNSHIP WITH STUDENTS,
AIF
Dan said the Borough had been contacted by the residents that used to own 65 King Street for a refund. He said they had paid
in advance for the year and had just sold their property
MOTION BILLY, PAT 2ND TO APPROVE REFUNDING THE PREVIOUS OWNERS OF 65 KING STREET THE REMAINING AMOUNT LEFT ON THEIR ACCOUNT, AIF
Council had discussion on the current sewer rates and if they should be raised next year. They said Otto Refuse is going to raise
the garbage pickup rate $2.00 for 2023.
MOTION PAT, JOE 2ND TO APPROVE KEEPING THE SEWER RATE THE SAME FOR 2023, AIF
MOTION JOE, PAT 2ND TO APPROVE OFFERING A $3.00 PER MONTH DISCOUNT ON THE SEWER RATE IF PAID IN FULL FOR THE ENTIRE YEAR BY JANUARY 31, 2023, AIF
MOTION PAT, BILLY 2ND TO APPROVE STEPHANIE TO ORDER 2023 COUPON BOOKS, AIF
Council talked about Swift Reach and the fact that the cost for that service is going to double. This service and cost is split
between the Borough & Water Authority. Dan talked about the fact that the Borough has only ever used this service a couple
of times in the last 3 years
MOTION PAT, BILLY 2ND TO APPROVE DISCONTINUING THE SWIFT REACH CALL SERVICE FOR
THE BOROUGH, AIF
Dan told everyone that the 3 year contract they had with Ed Bysiek for doing the Borough audits has expired. He said they will
need to sign a new contract if they wish to have him keep doing the audits. He said his price has went up just like everything
else but that he does a very good job and is very knowledgeable of the Borough after the last 3 years of doing the audits
MOTION PAT, JOE 2ND TO APPROVE SIGNING A 3 YEAR CONTRACT TO KEEP ED BYSIEK AS THE
BOROUGH AUDITOR FOR THE NEXT 3 YEARS, AIF
Dan talked about the boom mower and possibly needing to rent one for next year for the levee being they have not been able
to get the fire department to burn it in the spring. Billy asked if it would help with inspections and Kevin said yes. It was $2,000
per week the last time they rented one
MOTION PAT, JOE 2ND TO APPROVE BUDGETING TO RENT A BOOM MOWER FOR 2023, AIF
Dan talked about Joe hurting his back and shoulder and workers comp not paying his wages for doctors appointments.
Billy said Cutco does pay their employees a certain amount of time. They talked about the fact that from here on out the appointments all need to be scheduled within work hours. They also talked about him using the company truck for appointments
MOTION PAT, BILLY 2ND TO APPROVE PAYING JOE WARNICK UNTIL 3PM FOR HIS WORKERS COMP DOCTORS APPOINTMENTS, APPROVE HIM TAKING THE COMPANY TRUCK AND TO REIMBURSE HIS VACATION TIME HE HAS ALREADY USED FOR APPOINTMENTS, AIF
Andy wanted to let everyone know the 4k run at the church is this Sunday from 3-5
Mary talked about the road behind their house and wanted to know if it would be ok if they fixed it. Dan said next year if they
were able to get millings they would do some work to it as well. Council had no objections to this
MOTION PAT, BILLY 2ND TO ADJOURN THE MEETING AT 7:44 PM, AIF
NEXT MEETING – NOVEMBER 21, 2022 6:00PM
Respectfully,
Stephanie Mason
Eldred Borough Secretary
MINUTES FOR SEPTEMBER 14, 2022
THE ELDRED BOROUGH COUNCIL HELD THEIR REGULAR MONTHLY MEETING ON SEPTEMBER 14, 2022
@ 6:00PM AT THE ELDRED BOROUGH BUILDING.
COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT: DAN PLUMMER, JOE BAKER, LAINIE KEPHART, PAT WALKER, BILLY BAIR
OTHER OFFICIALS PRESENT: MAYOR ANDREW LATHROP, SECRETARY STEPHANIE MASON,
TREASURER LISA HANNAHS, ROADMASTER KEVIN CALDWELL
MEETING CALLED TO ORDER AT 6:00 PM BY THE COUNCIL PRESIDENT DANIEL PLUMMER.
THE MEETING IS BEING RECORDED FOR THE PURPOSE OF TAKING THE MINUTES AND THEN
RECORDING WILL BE DESTROYED ONCE MINUTES ARE APPROVED.
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE THE AGENDA, AIF
MOTION PAT, JOE 2ND TO APPROVE THE PREVIOUS MEETING MINUTES, AIF
MOTION PAT, JOE 2ND TO APPROVE THE TREASURERS REPORT AND FINANCIAL CONDITION, AIF
NO BILL APPROVAL NEEDED TONIGHT
Dan gives the engineers report and said they have gotten the needed permits from Erb Inspections. He talks about the
meeting on the 21st and the bid opening meeting that will take place on October 10
Council had talk about the donation for the Port Allegany Library and Mary had a question about the library income.
They talked about different expenses they have
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE A $200 DONATION TO THE PORT ALLEGANY LIBRARY, AIF
Dan talked about the contracted mowing. Mary asked if they were done for the year. Council said not yet and they had
discussion about when they should have them stop for the year. Council talked about if they should do the same next year
and that most likely the price would go up some. There was talk about the new sewer plant project next year and how much
time the guys would actually have to be able to spend on mowing. They agreed to have the contractors give quotes for next
year and all Borough property before the next meeting
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE GETTING QUOTES FOR ALL BOROUGH MOWING FOR 2023,
AIF
Council talked about finishing up the paving and sidewalks in the next few weeks on the bottom of Mechanic Street and
about starting mid Mechanic Street next spring. Pat asked if they still had pipe left and Kevin said no they will need to
get more. They also talked about King Street and the drainage issues there. They talked about more pipe and storm drains
Denny Mong is here to talk about the Borough Ambulance Services and he gives written notice that they will no longer
provide ambulance coverage after 12-31-2022. He said this has been a very hard decision to come to however they just do
not have enough volunteers to help. He said the plan would be to find another ambulance service to take over 1-1-2023 and
they are suggesting TLC Ambulance Service. TLC is also present and talked about other areas they are covering for BLS
and that they could take over at the end of the year. They had more talk about getting everything put together and a new
resolution done. TLC had an ambulance call and had to leave the meeting. Mary asked if they had anyone assisting them
tonight and they said it would be Port Allegany. Denny said the 911 center is already aware of everything
Council talked about Halloween and what night would be the best to do trick-or- treating
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE TRICK-OR-TREATING FOR HALLOWEEN ON MONDAY
OCTOBER 31ST FROM 6PM-8PM WITH A RAIN DATE OF TUESDAY NOVEMBER 1ST FROM 6PM-8PM, AIF
Dan let everyone know Kevin’s license for the sewer plant is all taken care of and he is good for everything at the sewer
plant
Lisa talks about the Gym building and explains the sewer charges for this building and that the apartment that belongs to
Chris is empty and has been for the last couple of years. She said normally he comes to the US for a couple weeks out of the
year but has not been here since before Covid started but that they have been paying sewer all along for this apartment. She
said they are not able to shut off the water to just that apartment because it’s just one meter for the entire building. She’s asking
to eliminate the sewer bill for just that one apartment
MOTION PAT, BILLY 2ND TO APPROVE ELIMINATING THE SEWER BILL FOR THE ONE VACANT
APARTMENT IN THE GYM BUILDING, AIF
Dan also talks about the Gold Eagle Hotel and how they were behind on their payments but that they are now almost caught
up. He talked about the circumstances for them at this time and that they are charged 4 sewer charges each month, 2 for the
bar, 1 for their residence and 1 for the other apartment that is empty. He said that Penny has told him the bar is not open and
the apartment has not been rented in a few years and that she is requesting to eliminate some of the sewer charges. Council
had more talk about this
MOTION PAT, BILLY 2ND TO APPROVE ELIMINATING 2 SEWER CHARGES FOR THE GOLD EAGLE
HOTEL AS LONG AS THE BAR IS CLOSED. IF THE BAR REOPENS THE CHARGES WOULD THEN START AGAIN, AIF
Andy talked about the First Church of God and that the kids Jr. church would like to do a 5k walk. He said they are working
on getting it all mapped out and that they would use the sidewalks in town and that people must register for the event. He
said it would be October 23 and it would be used as a fundraiser. Pat said it would be good to have Fire Police there. Sandra
asked about doing the same for Halloween. Denny Mong said they could do that
MOTION PAT, BILLY 2ND TO ADJOURN THE MEETING AT 6:38 PM, AIF
NEXT MEETING – OCTOBER 17, 2022 6:00PM
Respectfully,
Stephanie Mason
Eldred Borough Secretary
MINUTES FOR AUGUST 15, 2022
THE ELDRED BOROUGH COUNCIL HELD THEIR REGULAR MONTHLY MEETING ON AUGUST 15, 2022
@ 6:00PM AT THE ELDRED BOROUGH BUILDING.
COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT: DAN PLUMMER, JOE BAKER, LAINIE KEPHART, PAT WALKER
OTHER OFFICIALS PRESENT: MAYOR ANDREW LATHROP, SECRETARY STEPHANIE MASON,
TREASURER LISA HANNAHS, ROADMASTER KEVIN CALDWELL AND PUBLIC WORKS EMPLOYEE
JOE WARNICK
MEETING CALLED TO ORDER AT 6:00 PM BY THE COUNCIL PRESIDENT DANIEL PLUMMER.
THE MEETING IS BEING RECORDED FOR THE PURPOSE OF TAKING THE MINUTES AND THEN
RECORDING WILL BE DESTROYED ONCE MINUTES ARE APPROVED.
Mary asked about the levee inspection and Kevin & Stephanie said they have not received the report yet. She also asked
where Council stands on the motorized scooters that kids are riding around town if someone gets hit. She said she almost hit
one the other day because they are riding in the roads and not paying attention to cars. They had some talk about the gas ones
versus electric and the fact that they are basically kids toys and not a lot they can do. It was suggested to possibly try and talk
to the parents or contact police
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE THE AGENDA, AIF
MOTION JOE, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE THE PREVIOUS MEETING MINUTES, AIF
MOTION LAINIE, PAT 2ND TO APPROVE THE TREASURERS REPORT AND FINANCIAL CONDITION, AIF
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE THE BILLS TO BE PAID, AIF
Dan goes over the engineers update with everyone
Dan talked about yard and property cleanup and wanted to thank all the people that received letters and are making an effort
to clean up their property. He said commercial properties are next to start receiving letters to clean up their properties as well.
Pat asked about 64 King Street and who was going to mow it again. Dan said the guys just did it again about two weeks ago.
Pat asked about contracting it out and there was talk about this again
Dan introduced Mary the director from the SW Smith Library in Port Allegany. She gives a brief background of how the
Borough got involved with the library back in 1975. She said currently there are 224 active accounts with them from Eldred Borough. She said 103 have checked out actual books and 707 checkouts came from their virtual services. She said there is
even more that use computers, wi-fi service, printers and copiers. She said the Borough gave a $200 donation for the services
of Borough residents, she said this leaves just over $9,000 to make up for. She said the Borough would need to continue to
make a donation of as much as possible each year in order for these services to continue to be free to Borough residents. She
said she needs to know if the Borough is in to continue to do this and how much their financial contribution will be. She said
Eldred Township has decided to stay and made their donation. Dan said they will talk about it and put it on next months agenda.
She also said they are very involved with the school. Mary asked if the schools contribute. She said no but they are supposed to
and they are next on the list for her to talk to.
Dan talks about the PennVest offer and explains that there are 2 loans for the plant because they require the engineer fees to be separate. He talks about the offer and how much the Borough will have to pay back. They figure it will be a payment of around $2,000 per month. He said the next thing is the collection system and they are hoping that payment will be about the same. He
told them the Bradford Era called right after finding out about the PennVest offer looking for comment. Council told everyone
they have no intentions of raising sewer rates this year next year unless PennVest requires them to. Lainie asked when they
would start breaking ground and Dan said as of right now it looks like probably around March of 2023.
Dan talked about the guys working on Mechanic Street and Kevin said they are hoping to have the rest of the pipe in by the
end of the week. They said once the collection system project is started the curbs will also be fixed. They talked about some sidewalks that are also going to need to be replaced. They talked about paving and budgeting every year around $20,000 to
pave a piece of Borough road every year. Kevin said that would do approximately a ½ mile each year with what previous prices have been.
Dan talked about the contracted mowing and asked the rest of Council to take a few minutes and checkout the parks and the
work they have done. He said they need to decide what they are going to do for next year at the next meeting. Lainie asked if
more things have gotten done since they don’t have as much mowing to do now. She asked if the bleachers were done and
Kevin said no but there have been many other things that have gotten done around town because they have had more time this
year. They talked about not being sure how involved the guys will need to be next year as well with the new sewer system
project and that taking up more of their time. They talked about how more things need to get done in order to hire out mowing
again.
Council talked about changing the September meeting due to conflicts
MOTION JOE, PAT 2ND TO APPROVE CHANGING THE SEPTEMBER MEETING TO SEPTEMBER 14, 2022, AIF
MOTION PAT, JOE 2ND TO APPROVE AND ACCEPT THE PENNVEST OFFER, AIF
Dan talked about the lawyer that was recommended for the PennVest closing and they went over the quotes
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE NATHAN W. KARN, SR. EVEY BLACK ATTORNEYS LLC FOR THE PENNVEST CLOSING, AIF
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE THE ENGINEERS TO DO THE ADVERTISING NESSESARY FOR THE BIDDING PROCESS, AIF
Sandra talked about Edson Street needing some more dirt in the hole from making water repairs. Pat asked Kevin to put some
dirt in these areas. They talked about the fact that the digging and work that has been done on Mechanic Street without a
backhoe would have cost somewhere around $6,000 so over time the backhoe was a very good investment with the projects
the Borough needs to do
There was some talk again about the levee and burning it and that it looks bad not being done. They talked about Portville and
the mower they have to keep up with theirs
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO ADJOURN THE MEETING AT 6:58 PM, AIF
NEXT MEETING – SEPTEMBER 14, 2022 6:00PM
Respectfully,
Stephanie Mason
Eldred Borough Secretary
MINUTES FOR JULY 18, 2022
THE ELDRED BOROUGH COUNCIL HELD THEIR REGULAR MONTHLY MEETING ON JULY 18, 2022
@ 6:00PM AT THE ELDRED BOROUGH BUILDING.
COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT: DAN PLUMMER, JOE BAKER, LAINIE KEPHART, PAT WALKER
AND BILLY BAIR
OTHER OFFICIALS PRESENT: MAYOR ANDREW LATHROP, SECRETARY STEPHANIE MASON,
TREASURER LISA HANNAHS, ROADMASTER KEVIN CALDWELL AND PUBLIC WORKS EMPLOYEE
JOE WARNICK
MEETING CALLED TO ORDER AT 6:00 PM BY THE COUNCIL PRESIDENT DANIEL PLUMMER.
THE MEETING IS BEING RECORDED FOR THE PURPOSE OF TAKING THE MINUTES AND THEN
RECORDING WILL BE DESTROYED ONCE MINUTES ARE APPROVED.
Lainie asked about another fire department being able to burn the levee. Pat said he would check on this. Dan asked Pat if
he knew where the property line is at the fire department. He said there have been complaints about the high weeds and their
trying to figure out who they belong to. Pat said he would call Bob, Council thinks they are on both properties.
Mr. Murphy talked to Council about his sewer and garbage bill for the property he purchased at 141 Main He said he didn’t
realize he was being charged sewer and garbage since March until he received a statement. He said they didn’t move into the property until June. Dan talked about the water needing to be shut off in order to turn off the sewer. Council agreed to taking
the garbage charges off the bill from March-May since nobody was living there and there was no garbage being put out.
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE THE AGENDA, AIF
MOTION PAT, BILLY 2ND TO APPROVE THE PREVIOUS MEETING MINUTES, AIF
MOTION JOE, PAT 2ND TO APPROVE THE TREASURERS REPORT AND FINANCIAL CONDITION,
AIF
MOTION BILLY, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE THE BILLS TO BE PAID, AIF
Dan goes over the engineers update with everyone and they talked about some of the permits. They talked about the Pennvest application being submitted and their meeting on the 20th and that they should know something from them in the next couple
of weeks
Dan talked about the September meeting and that he will not be here and would they like to move it back a week to Thursday
the 15th.
MOTION JOE, PAT 2ND TO APPROVE MOVING THE SEPTEMBER COUNCIL MEETING TO THURSDAY
THE 15TH, AIF
Dan let’s everyone know about the Covid money and how much was used for the new railing and the new sewer camera.
Steph said she has talked to PSAB about the 2nd half of the money and that has not yet been released and they don’t have a
release date as of yet
Council informed everyone that Kevin now his all of his hours for a full license and as soon as DEP has their meeting in
August he should be good
Council thanked Mike Davis for his donation to the ball park bleachers
Dan talks about code enforcement on commercial properties. He said the back side of businesses on Main Street look terrible
and if residents are being made to clean up their properties the businesses need to do the same
MOTION BILLY, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE SENDING OUT LETTERS TO BUSINESSES TO CLEAN UP
THEIR PROPERTIES, AIF
Dan said they need to renew the utility contract
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE RENEWING THE BOROUGH UTILITY CONTRACT, AIF
Dan talked about 51 Edson Street and the grass never being mowed and that they won’t respond to the Borough. He said
the guys cut it and got it cleaned up and the Township guys helped as well. They talked about the break down of charges
and Dan talked about charging the property owner for the Townships hours as well and paying that to the Township as
this was different than the normal everyday helping out between the towns
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE CHARGING FOR THE HOURS WORKED BY THE TOWNSHIP EMPLOYEES AND PAYING THEM FOR IT, AIF
Dan talked about 64 King Street as well and that if the land owner doesn’t respond the guys will be sent back up to do the
yard maintenance again and if the invoices still are not paid they will be sent to Judge Todd’s office. Pat asked about
possibly contracting this kind of work out rather than the Borough employees doing it. Dan said they could check into it.
Lainie asked if they have responded to anything that has been sent to them and Steph said no
Dan talked about placing 2 liens on properties that have not paid their bill. He talked about some payments that are starting
to come in on other accounts with the letters and collections going out. They had some talk about the possibility of the
Ole Blu being sold
Dan talked about possibly getting some new file cabinets and moving the old ones out to the storage room. He said Lisa has
a bunch of them for sale and they asked her how much she wanted for them and Lisa said $175 each. They had more talk
about this
MOTION BILLY, PAT 2ND TO APPROVE THE PURCHASE OF 3 FILE CABINETS FROM LISA, AIF
Council talks about the feral cat issue and the no feline left behind program and the fact that they can’t do anything in the
Borough because of the ordinance against feeding the feral cats. They talked about how the program works and council
feels there isn’t really much they can do. The program will only take so many cats and fix them and then they bring them
back so while it may help a little it’s not going to fix the problem with the stray cat issue
Dan went over the KOS contract renewal for the copier
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE THE KOS CONTRACT FOR THE COPIER, AIF
Council had some discussion about the dog barking ordinance as well
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO ADJOURN THE MEETING AT 6:50 PM, AIF
NEXT MEETING – AUGUST 15, 2022 6:00PM
Respectfully,
Stephanie Mason
Eldred Borough Secretary
MINUTES FOR JUNE 20, 2022
THE ELDRED BOROUGH COUNCIL HELD THEIR REGULAR MONTHLY MEETING ON JUNE 20, 2022
@ 6:00PM AT THE ELDRED BOROUGH BUILDING.
COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT: DAN PLUMMER, JOE BAKER, LAINIE KEPHART, PAT WALKER
AND BILLY BAIR
OTHER OFFICIALS PRESENT: MAYOR ANDREW LATHROP, SECRETARY STEPHANIE MASON,
ROADMASTER KEVIN CALDWELL AND PUBLIC WORKS EMPLOYEE JOE WARNICK
MEETING CALLED TO ORDER AT 5:58 PM BY THE COUNCIL PRESIDENT DANIEL PLUMMER.
THE MEETING IS BEING RECORDED FOR THE PURPOSE OF TAKING THE MINUTES AND THEN
RECORDING WILL BE DESTROYED ONCE MINUTES ARE APPROVED.
Dan added code violations to the agenda
MOTION LAINIE, PAT 2ND TO APPROVE THE AGENDA, AIF
MOTION BILLY, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE THE PREVIOUS MEETING MINUTES, AIF
MOTION JOE, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE THE TREASURERS REPORT AND FINANCIAL CONDITION,
AIF
MOTION BILLY, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE THE BILLS TO BE PAID, AIF
Dan went over the engineer’s update. Billy talked about more funding for the levee. Dan said the Army Corp is coming in
July to do their levee inspection. Dan talked about the new sewer plant and funding through Pennvest and that there will
be a meeting with them on July 20th.
Dan talks about the treasurers position and Kendal leaving due to her taking a full time position somewhere else. He said she
has agreed to stay on and try to help out some in the evenings for a little while. They talked about the applications that have
come in and that Lisa Hannahs has the most experience for the position. Council had more talk about Lisa and the rate of pay
to hire her.
MOTION BILLY, JOE 2ND TO APPROVE HIRING LISA HANNAHS FOR THE TREASURERS POSTION
STARTING JULY 5, 2022 FOR 20 HOURS PER WEEK AT $17.00 PER HOUR, AIF
Dan talks about the Borough Solicitor and not being satisfied with the work he’s doing. He talked about things that have
taken place that they needed his help and he doesn’t respond for days/weeks. He said that Andrea Stapleford who was the
old police lawyer has been highly recommended.
MOTION JOE, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE HIRING ANDREA STAPLEFORD AS THE BOROUGH SOLICITOR,
AIF
Council said the Memorial Day parade went very well and they wanted to thank Mo Raught, Joe Bennett and Chuck Sherman
for all their help. They said they would like to get a bigger banner and a flag with Borough on it for next year
Council talked about getting the sewer camera purchased with some of the covid money and that the price has gone up some.
Kevin talked about the camera, transmitter, locator and snake. Pat asked if there was enough for all of it and Dan said yes
but there are still other things to be done as well. He said the railing was just under $20,000. They talked about some of the
other things such as the basketball courts and lighting that also need to be done and also a truck. They talked about the sewer
savings fund as well. Pat asked about using some sewer money with it. They talked about $15,000 out of covid money and
$1,000 out of sewer
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE THE PURCHASE OF A SEWER CAMERA, TRANSMITTER,
LOCATOR AND SNAKE AND TO USE $15,000 OUT OF COVID MONEY AND $1,000 OUT OF SEWER, AIF
Dan talked about holiday and vacation pay. He said the guys worked a couple of hours on Memorial Day and they need to
decide how they are paid overtime for that. He said they get paid 8 hours of straight holiday pay already. There was more
discussion between council about this
MOTION PAT, BILLY 2ND TO APPROVE ANY WORK ON A HOLIDAY IS A MINIMUM OF 2 HOURS OF PAY
AND THE EMPLOYEE WOULD RECEIVE THEIR 8 HOURS HOLIDAY PAY PLUS DOUBLE TIME FOR THE HOURS THEY WORK, AIF
Council talked about vacation time and the way it stands right now if it’s not used by the employee’s anniversary date they
loose it. Joe said they used to be able to get paid for what they didn’t use. They had more talk about this and Billy asked how
much time full time employees get. Stephanie said the first 3 years is one week vacation and 7 days of PTO time, after 3
years it’s 2 weeks of vacation
MOTION PAT, BILLY 2ND TO APPROVE IF AN EMPLOYEE DOESN’T USE THEIR VACATION/PTO TIME
BY THEIR ANNIVERSARY DATE THEY CAN GET PAID FOR IT, AIF
Dan talked about the railroad agreement that needed to be done and approved for the sewer plant
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE THE RAILROAD AGREEMENT, AIF
Dan talked about 51 Edson Street and the yard being very high and the many complaints they are getting about it. He said
there have been letters sent and phone calls made to the property owner with no response. He said the last letter they were
told they had 5 days to have it taken care of or the Borough would do it and charge them for it. Mary asked if the taxes had
been paid on the property and Council was not sure. Mary also asked about 64 King Street and Stephanie explained that they
have been working for a while now to find out who owns that one and get ahold of them but they aren’t having much luck
with it
Dan talked about the collection process and how it all works. He said right now the Borough has 4 that have gone far enough
in the process that the option is sheriff sale or a lien against them. He said to file for a sheriffs sale it’s $142.50 per property.
Dan said most people come in after getting a letter from the Borough but you have some that still don’t so that’s when the
collection process starts. Dan said 2 are individual residents and 2 are businesses.
Dan talked about the bleachers and working on getting them replaced. He said the Sullivan field is first and then they will
start working on the other ones that need replaced. Joe said they all really need to be replaced they are old. Council agreed
that they will all be done by the end of next summer. Joe talked about sponsors to help pay for them. Joe said the Armstrong
field hasn’t been used. Joe said the backstop is all rotten and needs to be taken down. Council talks more about the fields
and that the Armstrong field needs work. Mary asked about the batting cage that had been previously talked about for the
other park and council said they have not heard anymore about it.
Dan talked about code violations and how the process works and asked the rest of council how they want to handle this
if people don’t respond. They talked about turning it over to Judge Todd. Andy asked about charging the property owner
if the Borough guys have to go cut lawns or remove junk and also charging them for gas and wear and tear on equipment.
Lainie said she agrees with doing that. Dan said they will get more guidance from Judge Todd’s office
Joe wants his health insurance cancelled by the end of the month
Lewis Green asked about his property on Main Street and the violation letter that he received. Joe asked if letter were
being sent to other people as well and council said yes. They talked about the old Brown house needing to be condemned.
Joe said how can you send out letters to other people but not do anything about that house. Council said they agree and
have looked into that place but that it would cost the Borough a lot to tear it down and get rid of it. They talked about
there not being an entrance now to that property since the new fence went up
MOTION BILLY, PAT 2ND TO ADJOURN THE MEETING AT 7:05 PM, AIF
NEXT MEETING – JULY 18, 2022 6:00PM
Respectfully,
Stephanie Mason
Eldred Borough Secretary
MINUTES FOR MAY 16, 2022
THE ELDRED BOROUGH COUNCIL HELD THEIR REGULAR MONTHLY MEETING ON MAY 16, 2022
@ 6:00PM AT THE ELDRED BOROUGH AMBULANCE BUILDING.
COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT: DAN PLUMMER, JOE BAKER, LAINIE KEPHART AND BILLY BAIR
OTHER OFFICIALS PRESENT: MAYOR ANDREW LATHROP, SECRETARY STEPHANIE MASON,
TREASURER KENDAL SLATER, ROADMASTER KEVIN CALDWELL
MEETING CALLED TO ORDER AT 6:00PM BY THE COUNCIL PRESIDENT DANIEL PLUMMER.
THE MEETING IS BEING RECORDED FOR THE PURPOSE OF TAKING THE MINUTES AND THEN
RECORDING WILL BE DESTROYED ONCE MINUTES ARE APPROVED.
MOTION BILLY, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE THE AGENDA, AIF
MOTION BILLY, JOE 2ND TO APPROVE THE PREVIOUS MEETING MINUTES, AIF
MOTION LAINIE, BILLY 2ND TO APPROVE THE TREASURERS REPORT AND FINANCIAL CONDITION, AIF
MOTION BILLY, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE THE BILLS TO BE PAID, AIF
Dan gives the engineers update. Lainie asked about the condemnation that wouldn’t agree to the easement and Dan said the engineers are working with the lawyer on this
Dan talked about the purchase of the backhoe and that it has been delivered. He said the original quote was $118,000 and
the actual cost ended up being $112,000. They talked about the covid money not being able to be used to make payments and
if they had put money down the interest rate was actually going to be higher and wouldn’t have made much of a difference in
the monthly payments. He said the first payment has been made and came out of general fund. He said next month the plan is
for the payment to come out of highway fund and then the following out of sewer fund and just keep rotating it each month. He
said covid money can be used for other things that desperately need done such as a new railing, sewer camera, basketball courts
and lights and if there is money left over they could put that away towards a truck next year or the year after. Joe asked what
needed to be done at the courts and they said the basketball court itself and all the lights are in need of repair or being replaced. They said this will likely be a next year project. They talked about the need for a sewer camera as well. Gail asked about doing
a raffle and Billy said they can’t do that. Andy asked about the railing being done and Dan & Kevin said that will be covid
money and is scheduled to be done next month. Lotter & Lotter will be doing the railing work. All of council was in agreement
to still stick to these plans that were previously voted on.
Dan talked about the previous police budget being approximately $43,000 per year and he feels they should take half of that
money each year and pave something in town. He said they can also add some highway money to that each year to help get
some of that done. He said the final agreement with Otto to end the police department has been signed and Otto issued the
Borough a check for $32,000 for the money owed. They had more talk about the police and the state police responding in the Borough.
Kevin and Dan talked about Mechanic Street and Main Street and the work that needs to be done on both. Kevin said he is
working with the state to get 7 storm drains replaced along with pipe and blacktop. They talked about the cost to do all of this
and he asked about the Borough helping to purchase the catch basins if PennDOT would replace all of them.
MOTION BILLY, JOE 2ND TO APPROVE PURCHASING CATCH BASINS FOR MAIN STREET IF PENNDOT AGREES TO REPLACE THEM AND DO THE WORK, AIF
Dan talks about the Pennvest resolution that needs to be done and he reads resolution number 2022-05
MOTION LAINIE, JOE 2ND TO APPROVE THE PENNVEST RESOLUTION NUMBER 2022-05, AIF
Dan talked about Kendall taking a full time job but staying on and still helping out a few hours in the evenings and maybe
on the weekends. They talked about some of the things that could still be handled that way. Council decided to try it and see
how it works out. Dan talked about the applications that have been received so far and that there is really only one that would
fit the job well but she won’t be available until after the end of June. They had more talk about this position and what to do
from here
Council would like to thank Liberty Township for allowing the Borough to barrow the bucket truck to replace brackets and
help hang the flags and banners
Gail Newman said she had a video of the old grocery store if anyone would like to see it. She said the building itself isn’t in that
bad of shape inside. She also talked about the other old grocery store. Council all said everyone would love to have a grocery
store in town again but there is just no one to purchase it and do that. They talked about other old buildings being empty and the possibility of asbestos
Andy talked about the Memorial Day parade and said he thinks it would be nice if council walked in the parade and maybe
trying to get some cars together for some of the elderly people in town to ride in as well. They all agreed this would be a good
idea
MOTION BILLY, LAINIE 2ND TO ADJOURN THE MEETING AT 6:44 PM, AIF
NEXT MEETING – JUNE 20, 2022 6:00PM
Respectfully,
Stephanie Mason
Eldred Borough Secretary
MINUTES FOR APRIL 11, 2022
THE ELDRED BOROUGH COUNCIL HELD THEIR REGULAR MONTHLY MEETING ON APRIL 11, 2022
@ 6:00PM AT THE ELDRED BOROUGH AMBULANCE BUILDING.
COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT: DAN PLUMMER, PAT WALKER, JOE BAKER, LAINIE KEPHART AND
BILLY BAIR
OTHER OFFICIALS PRESENT: MAYOR ANDREW LATHROP, SECRETARY STEPHANIE MASON,
TREASURER KENDAL SLATER, ROADMASTER KEVIN CALDWELL, BOROUGH EMPLOYEE JOE WARNICK,
OTTO TOWNSHIP SUPERVISOR CJ KALUZA, AND BRADFORD ERA REPORTER JIM MILLER
MEETING CALLED TO ORDER AT 6:00PM BY THE COUNCIL PRESIDENT DANIEL PLUMMER.
THE MEETING IS BEING RECORDED FOR THE PURPOSE OF TAKING THE MINUTES AND THEN
RECORDING WILL BE DESTROYED ONCE MINUTES ARE APPROVED.
MOTION PAT, BILLY 2ND TO APPROVE THE AGENDA, AIF
MOTION BILLY, PAT 2ND TO APPROVE THE PREVIOUS MEETING MINUTES, AIF
MOTION PAT, JOE 2ND TO APPROVE THE TREASURERS REPORT AND FINANCIAL CONDITION, AIF
THERE ARE NO BILLS FOR APPROVAL AT THIS TIME
Billy said he talked to Bobby Windsor and Denny Mong about burning the levee and Pat said he had talked to them as well.
They talked about doing it this week because once it turns green it can’t be done. Dan talked about having to spend a lot of
money again to have it mowed if they didn’t do it again this year. Dan said money would have to be cut for other things if that happens again. He also talked about the money that the Borough sends to the Fire Dept. every month and that may change if this isn’t done again this year. He said this is the 3rd year in a row that they haven’t done it and they start asking them to plan for this
in December.
Dan talked about the engineers update and gave everyone time to look it over. Billy talked about the levee not being accredited
and the flood insurance everyone has to have. Billy said he has talked to some people about the purchase of the old grocery store building and that part of the problem is having to pay for flood insurance that is so expensive. Gail Newman said she thought
maybe a group of people could go together and purchase the building like a co-op and maybe put some kind of grocery store in.
She said she has been trying to talk to people about it and that it’s needed so badly in town. Bill said Andrews owns the building now and it’s been turned into a big garage. Billy said there are some things in the works and to be patient and hopefully
something good will happen with it. Mary said she hopes whatever is done with it that it will include groceries. Dan said their all
for someone trying to do something with it and agreed that the town needs a store again. They talked about the other old grocery store also sitting there empty. CJ talked about it being cheaper to build a new building rather than fixing the old one.
Council gave a reminder that spring cleanup is May 16
Dan talked about the ordinance 2022-04 to disband the OE Regional Police Dept. He said it’s already been shut down this is
just to finalize everything
MOTION PAT, BILLY 2ND TO APPROVE ORDINANCE NUMBER 2022-04 TO DISBAND THE OE REGIONAL POLICE DEPT., AIF
Council talked about the resolution to rescind a prior resolution that made Phoenix EMS the ALS ambulance service for Eldred Borough. Billy explained the situation and that the Borough had been contacted by the county and they were informed due to
some circumstances Phoenix could no longer be the ALS service for the Borough. He said at the moment Port Allegany is the
ALS service for the Borough and Priority Care is the backup. He said BLS is still the Borough. TLC EMS, LLC is here tonight
and they are starting up as well. They said they are waiting on the state for approval of their license. Billy explained that Port Allegany is also volunteer the same as the Borough and that if they were not available it would go to the next available such
as Priority Care. Bill asked if they could come from across state lines and they said yes.
MOTION BILLY, JOE 2ND TO APPROVE THE NEW RESOLUTION FOR AMBULANCE COVERAGE IN THE BOROUGH, AIF
Dan talked about some confusion with Otto Township and our guys all working together. He introduced CJ Kaluza who is an
Otto Township supervisor. CJ said the employees working together and equipment sharing has a lot to do with the insurance liability. Kendall & Stephanie said they talked to the Borough’s insurance company today and that each municipality’s
insurance will cover their employees even if they are working in another municipality. They also said as far as barrowing
equipment the Borough is always covered for other equipment up to $25,000 and if more is needed just to let them know and
they can up that coverage just for the time the equipment is being used. Stephanie also brought up that last year there was an
Eldred Township employee that got hurt in Otto Township and there were no issues with coverage and that Eldred Townships insurance covered their employee. There was more talk about the employees working together and helping each other and that
this is needed being that each municipality is so small and that they have been doing this for years. Billy asked who the
Township had for insurance and CJ wasn’t sure. Stephanie did say that the Borough’s insurance did recommend having and intermunicipal agreement for this and she said she would work on that. Scott said he’s heard many reasons why their no longer working together. Billy said the Borough really doesn’t have equipment to share but they do have man power to help others.
CJ said he agrees they need to work together but it does need to be even. They talked about keeping track of time spent in each
place and council said the Borough guys already do this on their time sheets. Jim asked if this will be addressed at the Otto
meeting and CJ said yes.
Dan gave an update on the police and the new agreement for splitting up the assets. Dan talked about the vehicles as well as
the money left in the checking account. He said they get the charger and equipment and pay the Borough $27,000 and that they don’t know yet what they want to do with the explorer. He said hopefully they will know more tomorrow.
Dan talked about the railing on the curve on Main St. that needs to be replaced. He said so far they have only been able to
find 2 places that were willing to quote the project. He said it would be chain-link fence this time. Kevin said Lotter & Lotter
has done work for the Borough before and feels they would be the better company to go with. Jack said he thought Suburban
did all the work for Otto and they did a good job. Dan asked if anyone else knew of anyone
MOTION PAT, BILLY 2ND TO APPROVE LOTTER & LOTTER TO DO THE FENCE WORK FOR THE
BOROUGH, AIF
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE USING COVID MONEY FOR THE FENCE WORK, AIF
Dan talked about the backhoe and purchasing one. He talked about the cost of renting one and not having the option of
barrowing one. He talked more about the covid money and using some of it towards the purchase as well. A suggestion was
$40,000 from covid money, $10,000 from general, $10,000 from sewer and $10,000 from highway for a down payment on one.
He said Kevin has talked to several different dealers and that they can get Costar pricing from Foster Wineland. He said this is something that would last years & years and is very much needed. Bill asked who is qualified to run it and council said both
Kevin & Joe are. Lainie said she really doesn’t want to use sewer money towards it. Pat said he’s good with it and Andy said
it’s needed and Lainie agreed as well. Dan talked about maybe trying to put around $60,000 down on it and that would put the monthly payments somewhere around $1,000 per month. Mary asked if this could be purchased without raising taxes. Dan
said as long as he’s on council taxes will not be raised to purchase equipment or for a police department.
MOTION PAT, JOE 2ND TO APPROVE THE PURCHASE OF A NEW BACKHOE FROM FOSTER WINELAND,
AIF
Dan talked about the late charge percentage on the sewer bills. He talked about doing a flat charge instead of a percentage for
next year. He talked more about collections and eliminating the rental registration. He said they try to work with people as long
as they make a consistent effort and communicate with the Borough but if they do not they are being sent to collections. Bill
asked if they ever get the full amount when they send someone to collections and council said yes.
MOTION PAT, BILLY 2ND TO APPROVE THE LATE CHARGE RATE TO BE $5 PER MONTH STARTING IN
2023, AIF
Dan talked about the tree in the park and that part if it came down last year during a storm. He said the whole tree needs to
come down as it’s unsafe. CJ said there’s a company by the name of Undercut Tree Service that may be able to help as well.
Council said they have 2 quotes so far. Kevin said he would check with Undercut. Mary asked if it would be replaced with
another tree and Billy said they will talk about that.
MOTION LAINIE, PAT 2ND TO APPROVE HIRING A TREE SERVICE TO REMOVE THE DAMAGED TREE IN
THE PARK, AIF
Kevin said they are in need of a new street saw, he said the one they have is old and small. He has a quote from Costa’s in Smethport to purchase one. He talked about the possibility of maybe using the money from the flow meters to pay for it
MOTION PAT, JOE 2ND TO APPROVE PURCHASING A NEW STREET SAW, AIF
Dan said the guys have a bunch of scrap metal to take in and that Kevin would like to use the money from that to replace
some hand tools that they need
MOTION BILLY, PAT 2ND TO APPROVE THE PURCHASE OF NEW HAND TOOLS WITH THE SCRAP METAL MONEY, AIF
Dan said the Borough needs to purchase mulch for the park this year and that 2 loads will be needed this time in order to have
it to DCNR requirements. CJ talked about Scotts rubber mulch and that it would last a lot longer. Council talked about looking
into the rubber mulch and also checking with DCNR to be sure it was allowed to be used
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE THE PURCHASE OF MULCH FOR THE PLAYGROUND, AIF
Council talked with Jack about stone digging at the pit for the Borough and the Water Authority. The cost would be $2500
and that would be split between the Water Authority and the Borough
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE TO HAVE JACK DO THE STONE DIGGING AND SPLIT THE COST WITH THE WATER AUTHORITY, AIF
Dan let everyone know about the garage sale days/summer fest in town on May 14, 2022 and that if anyone was interested in becoming a vendor to contact Mo Welch
Mary asked if anything was new with 96 Main. Dan said the Borough declined the last bid that was put in on it to make it a
rental property. There was some more talk about this property and the bad shape it’s in
MOTION PAT, BILLY 2ND TO ADJOURN THE MEETING AT 7:34 PM, AIF
NEXT MEETING – MAY 16, 2022 6:00PM
Respectfully,
Stephanie Mason
Eldred Borough Secretary
MINUTES FOR MARCH 21, 2022
THE ELDRED BOROUGH COUNCIL HELD THEIR REGULAR MONTHLY MEETING ON MARCH 21, 2022
@ 6:00PM AT THE BOROUGH OFICE.
COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT: DAN PLUMMER, PAT WALKER, JOE BAKER, LAINIE KEPHART AND
BILLY BAIR
OTHER OFFICIALS PRESENT: MAYOR ANDREW LATHROP, SECRETARY STEPHANIE MASON,
TREASURER KENDAL SLATER, ROADMASTER KEVIN CALDWELL AND BRADFORD ERA REPORTER
JIM MILLER
MEETING CALLED TO ORDER AT 6:00PM BY THE COUNCIL PRESIDENT DANIEL PLUMMER.
THE MEETING IS BEING RECORDED FOR THE PURPOSE OF TAKING THE MINUTES AND THEN
RECORDING WILL BE DESTROYED ONCE MINUTES ARE APPROVED.
MOTION BILLY, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE THE AGENDA, AIF
MOTION LAINIE, JOE 2ND TO APPROVE THE PREVIOUS MEETING MINUTES, AIF
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE THE TREASURERS REPORT AND FINANCIAL CONDITION, AIF
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE THE BILLS TO PAY, AIF
Dan asked for an update about burning the levee. Billy said he talked to Bob Windsor and they are working on trying to
get enough people together to help
Dan talked about the engineers update and the timeline for the new plant
Jim Miller asked what the engineer update was for and Dan explained about the new sewer plant and lines that will be going
in. They talked about how much the new plant will be able to handle and the project will take approximately 3 years to be
complete
Dan gave an update on the police and that the police board voted unanimously to shut it down. He said they agreed to split
the money in the checking account which would be $16,000 for each municipality. He said Otto is going to keep the newer
car and agreed to pay the Borough $10,000 for their half of the car. They agreed to sell the suv and split the money with the Borough for that. Dan introduced Jim Miller and said he works for the Bradford Era. Dan said they have been trying to better
and figure out the police situation for the last 18 months and it was not just the Borough that decided to end the police
department. He said things just are not working or getting better for the amount of money that it’s costing. Dan said that
Otto said months ago that if things didn’t change they were going to be done. Andy talked about cutting the police budget
because of the fact that Otto had to pay $29000 for their ambulance service this year and they couldn’t afford to do both.
He said they had tried prior to that to have more patrolling hours but they didn’t have any luck filling those hours. He said
they had also tried to get a full time officer but that didn’t work out either. He said at Decembers meeting they went from
50 hours to 10 hours and cut the budget by $20,000 on each side so that Otto had the money to pay for their ambulance. Dan
talked about the February Borough council meeting and council voting to withdrawal from the Regional Police. Dan said at
the March police meeting Eric asked what it was going to take to be done with everything and shut it down. Dan motioned to
cease operations and shut everything down and Eric seconded and all were in favor. He talked about the discussion that took
place about dividing up the assets and that at first they didn’t agree but in the end they did. Dan said this was on March 2nd
and Eric was supposed to bring a check the next day but he decided he wanted to have a formal agreement written between
the two towns. Dan & Andy were in agreement with this however they have not heard anything more since that day and texts
and phone calls are not being returned and the police solicitor says she’s has not heard anything from them. Dan said
everything is being portrayed as it was all just the Borough that wanted out of this and said that is not true it was both towns
and then Otto changed. Billy said he attended the last police meeting and that things have been very deceiving through all this.
Jim said he can see where it would be. Jim said it’s in his last article from the Otto meeting that they will have to raise taxes
to pay for this. Pat said he doesn’t think Otto residents are going to want that if taxes have to be raised. Jim said he’s not sure residents do either. They had more discussion on how much money it takes to run a part time police department let alone a full
time officer. Pat said the Borough was paying all that money and not getting any coverage. Dan said the bottom line is they just want it to be over and done. Jim said he apologizes if he misreported something previously. Pat asked if they are still using the Borough’s ORI number. Dan & Andy said no they are applying for their own. Dan said he doesn’t think the whole picture of everything is out to Otto residents and Jim agreed that residents don’t really know what’s going on other than the couple that
attend the meetings. Jim asked for Dan’s approval before his article goes in the paper and Dan agreed. Jim said he’s against this
kind of policing and told a story of something that had taken place with a family member. Dan & Andy talked about the school
zone and the amount of people that speed through there everyday and the fact that they would never write anyone a ticket for it. They all agreed that tickets should be written for speeding through a school zone especially.
Dan talked about the seasonal mowing and meeting with both of them to go over everything. Dan went over the quotes with
council and said this if them using their own equipment and gas. They talked about the summer help and that if they got kids
to participate this year what other things they could work on. Pat asked if these prices are locked in and Dan said yes unless gas
just went sky high then they may need to adjust them a little if that happened. He said this would free up the guys to do other projects that really need to be done this year.
MOTION PAT, BILLY 2ND TO APPROVE MIKE GREEN TO DO THE BOROUGH MOWING AT THE PARK
ACROSS THE TRACKS AND DEB KELLY TO DO THE MOWING AT THE PARK BY THE SCHOOL, AIF
Jim asked if this was something new and they said yes
Dan reminded everyone that the April meeting has been changed to the 11th
Dan talked about giving Kendall a raise and talked about the things she has taken on and that she’s doing a good job
MOTION BILLY, JOE 2ND TO APPROVE GIVING KENDALL A $1.00 PER HOUR RAISE, AIF
Jim Housler talked about the Nippers baseball and that they would like to put up a batting cage at the Ron Houben Park that
would be a permanent fixture. Dan asked if everything to do with it would be the Nippers responsibility and he said yes.
Billy & Kevin talked about where the water & sewer lines run and that they would need to stay away from that area. Mary
asked if it would affect parking and Jim wasn’t sure. Jim Miller said sometimes they can be a distraction.
MOTION PAT, BILLY 2ND TO APPROVE LOOKING INTO THE BATTING CAGE OPTIONS FOR THE
NIPPERS, AIF
Jim also talked about the possibility of putting a permanent fixture in the middle of the park for spraying logos for
advertisement rather than the traditional banner advertisements. Council said they would need more information on this as
well as what it would look like. He said there is approximately $4900 left in the Eldred account and they would like to use
that money to improve things for the kids. He talks about some of the other things they have done and that the fields across
the tracks really need to have some work done to them.
Dan talks about rental registration and how it works and the possibility of doing away with it. He said a lot of people feel like
their being punished for owning rental property within the Borough. Mary asked what this is for and said that she’s never heard
of it so council explained further. Pat said he would be ok with stopping rental registration now and talk about other possibilities later on. They also talked some about changing the late fee and late sewer and garbage accounts.
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE DOING AWAY WITH THE RENTAL REGISTRATION, AIF
Dan let everyone know the 2021 audit report was on the table if anyone would like to look at it
Sandra asked about garage sale days for the Borough and Stephanie said the Borough actually doesn’t handle that but that
she would get in touch with Mo Welch and see if she could find out any information on this. Council talked about spring
cleanup and that the date of May 16 was available for this
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE SPRING CLEANUP TO BE HELD ON May 16, 2022 AND THE
CHARGE FOR THIS SERVICE WOULD BE $35.00 THIS YEAR, AIF
Dan said the Quickbooks system is due to be updated and Kendall explained it is all subscription based now
MOTION BILLY, PAT 2ND TO APPROVE THE RENEWAL OF QUICKBOOKS, AIF
Dan talked about 96 Main Street and that there is a new repository bid on it. Dan said the people are wanting to use it as
a rental property. Council’s concern for this is that it will not be cleaned up enough to be suitable living conditions. Billy
asked about condemning it. Steph said she is waiting on a call from Bradford city to find out how to go about all of this and
how it works. The county had referred her to them. Pat asked if they had to vote tonight about this and Dan and Stephanie
said yes. Mary asked if they know this person and council said no. They said it would take a lot of money to fix this place up
and that it really needs to be torn down.
MOTION BILLY, PAT 2ND TO DENY THE REPOSITORY BID FOR 96 MAIN STREET, AIF
Dan talked about needing to hire someone to hang their license at the sewer plant. He explained the process and what took
place that this needs to happen for the next 3 months. He said they have found someone that is qualified and willing to do so
for $200 per month. He said this would not change anything for Kevin and he will still be doing the same things
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE HIRING ERIC DART TO HANG HIS LICENSE AT THE SEWER
PLANT FOR $200 PER MONTH, AIF
Dan talked about the resolution for the Dep Corrective Action Plan and that it needed to be updated because the project for the
sewer plant and collection system has been moved back a few months
MOTION BILLY, PAT 2ND TO APPROVE THE DEP RESOLUTION, AIF
Mary said she has some reservations about some of the things that were talked about for the park. Council said they will talk
more about it at the next meeting before any decisions are made. Joe talked about the Bradford Little Legue putting up a
batting cage and they wanted other towns to do the same thing. Council said they will get more information about exactly what
they want to do.
Dan talked about talking to the Borough Solicitor today and having him write and send a letter to Otto Township asking
where everything stands and what had been agreed upon in the last police meeting. Billy & Dan both thanked Jim Miller for
coming out tonight and told him he is always welcome
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO ADJOURN THE MEETING AT 7:22 PM, AIF
NEXT MEETING – APRIL 11, 2022 6:00PM
Respectfully,
Stephanie Mason
Eldred Borough Secretary
MINUTES FOR FEBRUARY 21, 2022
THE ELDRED BOROUGH COUNCIL HELD THEIR REGULAR MONTHLY MEETING ON FEBRUARY 21, 2022
@ 6:00PM AT THE BOROUGH OFICE.
COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT: DAN PLUMMER, PAT WALKER, JOE BAKER, LAINIE KEPHART AND
BILLY BAIR
OTHER OFFICIALS PRESENT: MAYOR ANDREW LATHROP, SECRETARY STEPHANIE MASON,
TREASURER KENDAL SLATER, ROADMASTER KEVIN CALDWELL AND SOLICITOR CASEY GRAFFIUS
MEETING CALLED TO ORDER AT 6:00PM BY THE COUNCIL PRESIDENT DANIEL PLUMMER.
THE MEETING IS BEING RECORDED FOR THE PURPOSE OF TAKING THE MINUTES AND THEN
RECORDING WILL BE DESTROYED ONCE MINUTES ARE APPROVED.
MOTION PAT, BILLY 2ND TO APPROVE THE AGENDA, AIF
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE THE PREVIOUS MEETING MINUTES, AIF
MOTION BILLY, PAT 2ND TO APPROVE THE TREASURERS REPORT AND FINANCIAL CONDITION, AIF
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE THE BILLS TO PAY, AIF
Dan reminded the rest of council about talking to the fire department about burning the levee
Dan gave an update on the covid grant money. He said that he & Stephanie had talked to PSAB about what things the money
can be used for and because there was revenue lost it can be placed under that and used for anything that the general fund
would typically pay for. They talked about the railing on Main St. and also a sewer camera. Dan also talked about the Local
Share Grant that is available and that it is highly competitive but there is no match for this grant. They talked about having
Jeff write the grant for a backhoe and sewer camera and that they could be combined into one application and that Jeff’s fee
would be between $1500-$5000 depending on what they decided to do. Pat said he was good with it and that the Borough
really needs a backhoe. Dan talked more about a backhoe and the work they could do with one and not have to worry about barrowing one from another municipality. They talked about if the Borough doesn’t get the grant and possibly using the
second half of the covid grant money along with some sewer & general money towards a down payment on one.
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE TO HAVE THE ENGINEERS TO PREPARE AND SUBMIT THE
LOCAL SHARE GRANT FOR THE BOROUGH, AIF
MOTION DAN, BILLY 2ND TO APPROVE RESOLUTION NUMBER 2022-02 FOR THE LOCAL SHARE GRANT,
AIF
MOTION JOE, PAT 2ND TO APPROVE USING THE FLOW METER MONEY TO PAY THE ENGINEERS TO
WRITE THE LOCAL SHARE GRANT, AIF
Dan talked about the Regional Police and the Borough pulling out of the department, but that Otto Township wants to keep
the local police. He said Casey Graffius the Borough solicitor is here tonight to give the council recommendations for how to
handle this. Dan asked about the agreement being terminated and all assets being divided between the two towns. Casey said
there is no other reasonable way to look at it and that’s what the agreement clearly states if it is terminated. He said he has had correspondence with the police solicitor and doesn’t expect her to disagree. Dan said the police meeting is in 9 days and that at
least a couple of the board members would like to vote to cease operations immediately and freeze all assets. Dan and Andy
said once this is done and everything is divided then Otto could start their own local police department. Casey agreed that is probably the best thing to do. Council would like Casey to write a letter to the Otto solicitor explaining all of this. Billy said he
hates to not have local police in the Borough but that they have tried everything and it’s just not working. Casey asked how it
works with the school SRO and who pays for that. Billy said the school gets grant money to help pay for that. Dana said with
only so many hours available that the hours spent at the school also takes away from patrolling time. Billy said he feels the information they were getting was wrong and feels the Borough was thrown under the bus. Dan said that Otto had to pay more
for ambulance service and because of this they had cut the police budget to help them pay for this but now somehow they have
the money to run the department on their own. Dan said they can do what they want and that’s fine they just want the Borough
to move on and be done. He said they just don’t want to go back and forth with lawyers and cost both towns more money than necessary. They talked more about the name and operating number needing to be changed. Dan asked about the monthly check
to the police and do they need to keep sending that. Casey said it depends on what happens at the next police meeting and if they cease operations immediately and disband then no but if they don’t do that and you don’t send it then technically the Borough
would be in breech of the contact. Mary asked how much the payment is and council said it was $3400 but after lowering the
police budget it’s now $1600 per month. Pat said to wait and see what happens at the next police meeting. Dan asked Casey
exactly how they needed to motion at the meeting and he said cease operations and disband immediately, freeze and split all
assets. Dan talked about the police having keys to the building and asked if they should change the locks. Casey said that is
totally up to council, but he does not see any problem with that. Andy said in the agreement it says that one car is supposed to
be at the Borough, should they insist that one of them is brought to the Borough until everything is divided. Casey said the
easiest thing to do would be to freeze everything and leave them where they are for now until everything is sorted out. He said
they shouldn’t be able to drive the vehicles during that time. Dan talked about code enforcement and how that would work
without local police. They talked about appointing a code enforcement officer to report any violations to the office and then Stephanie would send out the letters and if the resident doesn’t correct the problem it would then be sent as a criminal complaint
to Judge Todds office.
MOTION BILLY, LAINIE 2ND TO APPOINT PATRICK WALKER AS THE BOROUGH CODE ENFORCEMENT OFFICER, AIF
Council talks about the seasonal mowing and the guys needing help this summer and that summer help doesn’t usually end up
being a lot of help to them. They talked about the two quotes they got from Mike Green and Deb Kelly who are both residents
of the Borough. Kevin said if they could at least have someone to take care of the two parks that would help them a lot to be
able to get other things done. Dan said the guys can’t do it all so either way their going to have to pay someone to do some of
these things. Billy asked if this had to be decided tonight and council said no they could table it until next meeting. Mary
Sullivan said Mike does a great job and they better not wait to lock him in or he won’t be available.
Dan asked Kevin about the bleachers being replaced at the fields across the tracks and Kevin said they have everything ready to install them as soon as the weather is good enough
Dan explained the low income assistance program for sewer charges and that if someone applied and was approved the
program would pay the past due balance directly to the Borough.
MOTION PAT, JOE 2ND TO APPROVE BEING A VENDOR FOR THE LIHWAP PROGRAM, AIF
Kevin talked to council about the railing on Main St. and what they would like it replaced with. He said his thoughts are that
it’s not really used for a hand railing and maybe chain-link would be better. Council told him to look into the cost of it and they would decide next month
Dan talked about 96 Main St and that the Borough can bid on the property. Council talked about tearing it down and possibly donating the property to the cemetery. Billy said he believes there is some act that if the cemetery folds it would come back
to the Borough. Billy said he’s not sure how he feels about purchasing this property. Dan said they just don’t want anyone
living there and that it needs to be torn down. Mary asked about the piece across the road and council said they believe that’s
part of it. Council agreed to talk more about this next month
Dan talked about the subdivision proposal from the county for the access road to the new tower where the old tv tower used
to be and that they needed council approval
MOTION PAT, BILLY 2ND TO APPROVE THE COUNTY SUBDIVISION PROPOSAL, AIF
Council talked about the April meeting and that Stephanie would be out of town on that Monday so they would like to
change the meeting for that month
MOTION PAT, BILLY 2ND APPROVE TO CHANGE THE APRIL 2022 COUNCIL MEETING TO MONDAY
APRIL 11, 2022, AIF
Dan said they need to approve the quote for the vegetation spraying for this year that needs to be done in May
MOTION JOE, PAT 2ND TO APPROVE THE QUOTE FOR VEGETATION SPRAYING IN MAY, AIF
Dan talked about Chet Tanner and him filling in at the sewer plant a couple weekends per month to give Kevin a
break at
least every other weekend. He also does the same thing at the Keating Township plant
MOTION PAT, BILLY 2ND TO APPROVE HIRING CHET TANNER TO FILL IN AT THE SEWER PLANT
AT $20.00 PER HOUR, AIF
The Mayor Andrew Lathrop gave a quick update on the police situation and said the Borough is spending a lot of money
for nothing to have local police. He said the hours have also been cut and even prior to that you never see anyone on patrol.
Dave Southard brought up people tearing up the park. Pat said maybe putting up trail cameras would help. They talked
about the dump pit as well. They talked about people speeding through town as well. Everyone agreed on all of these things
but also agree the local police were not correcting any of these things and that state police are in town more than local
MOTION PAT, joe 2ND TO ADJOURN THE MEETING AT 7:29 PM, AIF
NEXT MEETING – APRIL 11, 2022 6:00PM
Respectfully,
Stephanie Mason
Eldred Borough Secretary
MINUTES FOR JANUARY 17, 2022
THE ELDRED BOROUGH COUNCIL HELD THEIR REGULAR MONTHLY MEETING ON JANUARY 17, 2022 @ 6:00PM
AT THE BOROUGH OFICE.
COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT: DAN PLUMMER, PAT WALKER, JOE BAKER, LAINIE KEPHART
OTHER OFFICIALS PRESENT: MAYOR ANDREW LATHROP, SECRETARY STEPHANIE MASON,
ROADMASTER KEVIN CALDWELL
MEETING CALLED TO ORDER AT 6:00PM BY THE COUNCIL PRESIDENT DANIEL PLUMMER.
THE MEETING IS BEING RECORDED FOR THE PURPOSE OF TAKING THE MINUTES AND THEN
RECORDING WILL BE DESTROYED ONCE MINUTES ARE APPROVED.
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE THE AGENDA, AIF
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE THE PREVIOUS MEETING MINUTES, AIF
Dan let everyone know that due to the weather Kendall would not be at tonight’s meeting so there would not be a treasurers
report tonight
Dan asked about the Fire Department and the burning of the levee in the spring. Billy said he plans to attend the next Fire Department meeting to discuss this with them. He plans to let them know about the issues with DEP & FEMA and that
otherwise it is approx. $4,000 to mow it and it’s still not done right and that it has to be done this year.
Council talked about the COVID grant money and the final rule that just came out for what the money can be used for. Dan
said a lot of what’s in the final rule doesn’t apply to the Borough, they talked about things they can’t do with the money and
that there are still a lot of gray areas even in the final rule. Stephanie will have to call DCED to get some further clarification
on some things. Pat would like to look into lost wages due to covid. Dan talked about a sewer camera, the railing on Main
Street and the basketball courts & lights. Dan said they still don’t know about any additional money from the County.
MOTION LAINIE, PAT 2ND TO APPROVE STEPHANIE TO LOOK INTO USING THE MONEY FOR LOST
WAGES, MAIN STREET RAILING, SEWER CAMERA, BASKETBALL COURT AND LIGHTS, AIF
Dan talked about Eric still being willing to help at the sewer plant and with EDMR’s if needed. They talked about Joe & Billy
also helping out so that Kevin can have a few days off. Dan said if that doesn’t work then they will have to figure something
else out.
Dan talked about the grant that the Borough didn’t get to recreate the modeling of the levee and talked about the possibilities of repurposing the current grant to be used for this. Dan & Pat talked about what steps to take from here and that it’s going to
depend on what grants the Borough can get as to how far they can go to try and get the levee reaccredited. Mary asked what the downside is if they can’t get it reaccredited, council said the residents having to have flood insurance. Billy said it also has to do with any new building of business. Mary asked about the modeling and council said it is missing from years ago
Dan talked about Kevin needing to take a couple more classes, one that is mandatory and one for credit hours that he needs
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE KEVIN TO TAKE THE MANDATORY ONLINE CLASS, AIF
MOTION PAT, DAN 2ND TO APPROVE KEVIN TO TAKE THE CLASS IN STATE COLLEGE IN MARCH, AIF
Stephanie explained that she had been contacted by the County about wanting to place a glass recycling dumpster over at the
old tennis courts. Council had some concerns and had discussion on this. Pat said maybe give them the number to the Fire Department about placing one there, they really aren’t comfortable having it next to the park where kids are playing.
MOTION LAINIE, PAT 2ND TO DENY THE GLASS RECYCLING GROUP TO PUT A DUMPSTER AT THE
OLD TENNIS COURTS, AIF
The Mayor Andrew Lathrop gave the Police report for December
Traffic Stops – 2
Citations Issued – 2
Warnings – 2
Criminal Complaints – 2
Juvenile Complaints – 2
General Complaints – 14
Arrest Totals – 1
Police Assist Calls – 1
Fire Assist Calls – 2
Miles Patrolled – 517
Hours Worked – 138
He talked about Otto having issues with having City of Bradford for ambulance service and what they have to pay for this
and because of it the Police budget has to be cut. He said they are down to 2 four hour shifts per week and a two hour shift for
admin work. He said the budget has been cut by approx. $20,000 each for the Borough and Otto Township. Council said they
don’t even see the Police out anywhere anymore. Mary said she feels it’s a waste of money. Pat asked how long the Borough
would have to wait to withdrawal. Dan said they can do it anytime, they would need to draft a letter and it would take 8 months
to terminate the agreement between the Borough and Otto Township. Pat & Lainie both feel they should get rid of them because
it’s not working and not getting any better. Council agreed that they are spending more money than before and seem to have way less coverage. They also talked about the possibility of having to raise taxes next year if they keep the local Police. Joe said the amount of miles they are showing patrolling in a month and only stopping 4 vehicles is ridiculous. They talked about other Townships not having local Police. Billy asked what the plan would be if the Borough got rid of them. Council said State Police. Andy talked about the email Matt Splain had sent and only wanting an SRO there when they called for one. They talked about
the fact that the school also lost the after school Y program. Mary said that previously she felt the Borough needed to try and
keep the Police and that they have done that and it’s not working. Lainie asked if everything could be sold and they said yes. Joe asked if the Borough could change their mind in the future if they chose to and Dan said yes the agreement would just have to be changed again. Mary said she had wanted
To keep the local Police before but the Borough is not getting the coverage that they are paying for so it’s not worth it. There
was more talk of them only giving warnings when they are out instead of tickets or arresting anyone. Billy said it’s hard to see it
go but for the money it’s costing the Borough their not getting what they need.
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE SENDING OTTO TOWNSHIP A WITHDRAWAL LETTER FOR THE
BOROUGH FROM THE OE REGIONAL POLICE, AIF
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO ADJOURN THE MEETING AT 7:13 PM, AIF
NEXT MEETING – FEBRUARY 21, 2022 6:00PM
Respectfully,
Stephanie Mason
Eldred Borough Secretary
MINUTES FOR JANUARY 3, 2022
THE ELDRED BOROUGH COUNCIL HELD THEIR REORGANIZATION MEETING ON JANUARY 3, 2022 @ 6:00PM
AT
THE BOROUGH OFICE.
COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT: DAN PLUMMER, BILLY BAIR, PAT WALKER, JOE BAKER, LAINIE
KEPHART
OTHER OFFICIALS PRESENT: MAYOR ANDREW LATHROP, SECRETARY STEPHANIE MASON,
TREASURER KENDALL SLATER, ROADMASTER KEVIN CALDWELL, LISA HANNAHS NOTARY
LISA SWEARS IN ANDREW LATHROP AS MAYOR
MEETING CALLED TO ORDER AT 6:00PM BY THE MAYOR ANDREW LATHROP. THE
MEETING IS BEING RECORDED FOR THE PURPOSE OF TAKING THE MINUTES AND THEN
RECORDING WILL BE DESTROYED ONCE MINUTES ARE APPROVED.
THE MAYOR SWEARS IN DANIEL PLUMMER, WILLIAM BAIR, JR., PATRICK WALKER AND JOSEPH
BAKER TO COUNCIL
MOTION PAT, DAN 2ND TO APPROVE THE AGENDA, AIF
BILLY NOMINATES DAN AS COUNCIL PRESIDENT, AIF
PAT NOMINATES BILLY AND COUNCIL VICE PRESIDENT, AIF
BILLY NOMINATES PAT AS PRO TEMP, AIF
MOTION PAT, JOE 2ND TO APPOINT STEVE TROUPE TO THE WATER AUTHORITY BOARD, AIF
MOTION PAT, BILLY 2ND TO APPOINT STEPHANIE MASON AS BOROUGH SECRETARY, AIF
MOTION BILLY, PAT 2ND TO APPOINT KENDALL SLATER AS BOROUGH TREASURER, AIF
MOTION BILLY, PAT 2ND TO APPOINT PATTI BELL AS VACANCY BOARD CHAIR, AIF
MOTION PAT, BILLY 2ND TO APPOINT TERRY BELL TO THE ZONING BOARD, AIF
MOTION JOE, PAT 2ND TO APPOINT PHIL LABELLA TO THE PARK COMMISSION, AIF
Dan talked about the fact that they still need someone else for the zoning board
Kevin talked about JJ Honeydipping and having issues with them showing up when their supposed to. He said he would
like to check around for someone new, he also said they are under new ownership
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE GETTING BIDS FOR SLUDGE HAULING, AIF
Dan talked about raises again for Kevin & Joe. He said that other operators in the area are making approximately $2.00 an
hour more than Kevin and that they had previously agreed upon $1.25 an hour raise before. Council had more discussion on
this and also Kevin taking over the sewer plant completely. There was more talk about Kevin taking everything over. Pat asked
if there had to be two licenses there. Dan said no DEP would like there to be but it’s not required. They also talked about Kevin having people he could call on if he needs help. They talked more about a raise for Kevin and Andy said if he’s running the
plant then he should be paid right for it.
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE KEVIN TAKING OVER THE SEWER PLANT COMPLETELY AND
ALSO AN ADDITIONAL RAISE OF $.75 PER HOUR, AIF
Kevin talked about Joe getting more of a raise as well over the $.50 per hour for the 2022 year. Council talked about him
possibly being the backup person under Kevin. Kevin said regardless of the sewer plant he’s very valuable with his knowledge
and the work he does and that he should make more. Council talked about the other Townships & Borough’s and what they are making. Lainie suggested giving him $19.00 per hour. Dan talked about also giving Kendall a raise in the future as well and
said that she’s doing a very good job and learning fast. They also talked about wages that have gone up in the last 2 years and
with that and everything else there is a chance they may need to look at raising taxes next year. Joe said if you want to keep good people then you have to pay them.
MOTION LAINIE, PAT 2ND TO APPROVE GIVING JOE A RAISE TO $19.00 PER HOUR, AIF
Dan talked about the invoice and quote from Nate Rogers for setting up one of the new computers and having him do the
second one when it comes in
MOTION PAT JOE 2ND TO APPROVE PAYING THE INVOICE TO NATE ROGERS, AIF
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE THE QUOTE FROM NATE ROGERS TO SET UP THE SECOND COMPUTER, AIF
MOTION BILLY, PAT 2ND TO ADJOURN THE MEETING AT 6:32 PM, AIF
NEXT MEETING – JANUARY 17, 2022 6:00PM
Respectfully,
Stephanie Mason
Eldred Borough Secretary
MINUTES FOR DECEMBER 20, 2021
THE ELDRED BOROUGH COUNCIL HELD A MONTHLY MEETING ON DECEMBER 20, 2021 @ 6:00PM AT
THE BOROUGH OFICE.
COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT: DAN PLUMMER, BILLY BAIR, PAT WALKER, LAINIE KEPHART AND
JOE BAKER
OTHER OFFICIALS PRESENT: MAYOR ANDREW LATHROP, SECRETARY STEPHANIE MASON,
TREASURER KENDALL SLATER, ROADMASTER KEVIN CALDWELL, ERIC BARTON PLANT OPERATOR
MEETING CALLED TO ORDER AT 6:00PM BY THE COUNCIL PRESIDENT DAN PLUMMER. THE
MEETING IS BEING RECORDED FOR THE PURPOSE OF TAKING THE MINUTES AND THEN
RECORDING WILL BE DESTROYED ONCE MINUTES ARE APPROVED.
Lainie asked about information being updated on the website and Stephanie said she would look at it and update
MOTION BILLY, PAT 2nd TO APPROVE THE AGENDA, AIF
MOTION LAINIE, PAT 2ND TO APPROVE THE PREVIOUS MEETING MINUTES, AIF
MOTION BILLY, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE TREASURERS REPORT AND FINANCIAL CONDITION, AIF
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE THE BILLS TO BE PAID, AIF
Dan talked about the Engineers update and explained the Borough did not get the grant to help pay for the modeling of the
levee. He talked about the options with not getting the grant money and what it will cost. He said maybe it would help if
residents and businesses called the congressman and complained about the levee not being accredited and put pressure on
them.
Dan asked if there was any questions or comments on the 2022 budget, no one had anything
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND APPROVE TO ADOPT THE 2022 BUDGET, AIF
Council talked about the employee Christmas bonus and that last year they had done $150 net pay after taxes
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE A $150 NET PAY AFTER TAXES CHRISTMAS BONUS FOR EACH EMPLOYEE, AIF
Council talked about PA Rural Water being interested in purchasing the Borough’s 2 flow meters. Dan explained that these
meters are older models and the engineers could not use the data from them. PA Rural Water has offered the Borough $4,000
for the 2 meters
MOTION BILLY, PAT 2ND TO ACCEPT THE OFFER OF $4,000 FROM PA RURAL WATER FOR TWO FLOW METERS, AIF
Pat asked how long flow meters are usually good for and Kevin & Eric said a couple of years. Council talked about if they
should purchase new ones or if they should hire it out if and when it needs to be done again. Council then talked about a
sewer camera really needing to be purchased. They talked about the possibility of using the $4,000 from the flow meters
towards a sewer camera.
They talked about the levee also having to have camera work done as well. Kevin said that is normally done by Pipe-Eye.
Dan talked about Kevin getting his license and a raise for him. Pat said he was all for that since he got his license.
Council had discussion on this and what the raise should be.
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE KEVIN FOR A $1.25 PER HOUR RAISE, AIF
Council talked about donations for this year and that last year they had done $100 for the Library and Senior Center.
MOTION BILLY, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE DONATING $200 EACH TO THE ELDRED LIBRARY AND
THE ELDRED SENIOR CENTER, AIF
Dan talked about the letter of intent needing to be approved for DCED to come in and give free help for Quickbooks
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE DCED TO COME IN AND GIVE FREE HELP FOR
QUICKBOOKS, AIF
Dan went over the annual engineer’s agreement to keep Stiffler & McGraw as the Borough engineers for 2022
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE STIFFLER & MCGRAW AS THE BOROUGH ENGINEERS
FOR 2022, AIF
Council talked about the January meetings and let everyone know the reorganization meeting will be January 3, 2022
and the regularly scheduled January meeting is January 17, 2022. Steph said she talked to Lisa from Mattie’s office and
she has agreed to come to the meeting as the notary
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE THE 2022 MEETINGS TO BE HELD THE 3RD MONDAY OF
EACH MONTH IN THE BOROUGH OFFICE, AIF
Council had discussion on payment and set up of the new office computer. They said Nate Rogers is the person that set it up. Council had more discussion on how long it took him and payment. Council decided to table this until they talk more to
Nate and have more information
Mayor Lathrop Gives the November Regional Police report
Non Reportable Accidents – 1
Traffic Stop Citations – 5
Citations Issued – 2
Warnings – 3
Criminal Complaints – 2
Juvenile – 3
General Complaints – 20
Arrest Totals – 1
Miles Patrolled – 539
Hours Worked – 169
Andy talked about doing interviews for a fulltime officer, he said the one scheduled for last Friday didn’t show up
and there is another set up for this Thursday. They talked about the meeting with Mr. Splain and the SRO position.
Dan & Andy said by the letter he later sent them it appears he only wants approximately 200 hrs. in a 10 month
period. Currently it’s been 10-15 hrs. per week. They said if they do hire a full time officer the part time officers
would no longer be on the regular schedule. They said hiring a full time officer isn’t going to be cheap. They talked
about some of the differences between having a full time officer verses what they have now.
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO ADJOURN THE MEETING AT 6:38PM, AIF
NEXT MEETING – JANUARY 3, 2022 6:00PM
Respectfully,
Stephanie Mason
Eldred Borough Secretary
MINUTES FOR NOVEMBER 15, 2021
THE ELDRED BOROUGH COUNCIL HELD A MONTHLY MEETING ON NOVEMBER 15, 2021 @ 6:00PM AT
THE
BOROUGH OFICE.
COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT: DAN PLUMMER, BILLY BAIR, PAT WALKER, JOE BAKER, LAINIE
KEPHART
OTHER OFFICIALS PRESENT: MAYOR ANDREW LATHROP, SECRETARY STEPHANIE MASON,
TREASURER KENDALL SLATER, ROADMASTER KEVIN CALDWELL, ERIC BARTON PLANT OPERATOR
MEETING CALLED TO ORDER AT 6:00PM BY THE COUNCIL PRESIDENT DAN PLUMMER. THE
MEETING IS BEING RECORDED FOR THE PURPOSE OF TAKING THE MINUTES AND THEN
RECORDING WILL BE DESTROYED ONCE MINUTES ARE APPROVED.
Stephanie added 3 things to the agenda Port Allegany Library, quotes for mowing next summer, barrowing the bucket truck
from otto to put up Christmas decorations
MOTION BILLY, PAT 2nd TO APPROVE THE AGENDA, AIF
MOTION PAT, JOE 2ND TO APPROVE THE PREVIOUS MEETING MINUTES, AIF
MOTION BILLY, PAT 2ND TO APPROVE TREASURERS REPORT AND FINANCIAL CONDITION, AIF
MOTION PAT, JOE 2ND TO APPROVE THE BILLS TO BE PAID, AIF
Dan gives an update from Jeff for the sewer plant. Billy has concerns about the Main Street manholes because of plowing.
Dan asked him to talk to Kevin & Jeff about this.
Dan talked about Casey Graffius and him being the new Borough Solicitor
MOTION PAT, BILLY 2ND TO HIRE CASEY GRAFFIUS AS THE NEW BOROUGH SOLICITOR, AIF
Dan talked about the burning of the levee again and working with the Fire Department to make sure this gets done in the
spring
Dan talked about the Police Department and that they have started the process of possibly putting on a full time officer
without having to raise taxes
Dan reads the sewer and garbage rate resolution and explains the sewer rates are going up $3.00 per month and garbage is
going up $1.00 per month and if paid in full for the entire year by the end of January 2022 residents can save $3.00 per month
MOTION PAT, BILLY 2ND TO APPROVE THE SEWER & GARBAGE RATE RESOLUTION FOR 2022, AIF
Dan reads the 2022 real estate resolution and explains Borough real estate taxes will not be going up
MOTION BILLY, JOE 2ND TO APPROVE THE 2022 REAL ESTATE RESOLUTION, AIF
Council talked about the proposed 2022 budget
MOTION BILLY, PAT 2ND TO APPROVE THE 2022 ELDRED BOROUGH BUDGET, AIF
Dan introduced Casey Graffius to everyone as the new Borough Solicitor
Council talked about code inspection/building permits and that Mark Grassi was no longer handling this. They talked about a company by the name of Erb Inspections and that they have come very highly recommended. Mary asked some questions
about how the Borough knows if people have gotten a building permit and Stephanie explained how this works
MOTION PAT, JOE 2ND TO APPROVE ERB INSPECTIONS AS THE NEW CODE INSPECTION COMPANY
FOR THE BOROUGH, AIF
Dan talked about the county repository sale for 96 Main Street and the biding process. He explained the bid has to be approved
and accepted by the Borough and the school. If both do not agree and accept then the county will decline the bid and it starts all
over again. If both agree then the county will approve the bid. Dan explained the letter says the person that bid on the property intends to live there. Council talked about the shape of the house and what it would take to make it livable. Council had more discussion on this and Casey gave some explanations as to how this works as well. Council has concerns it won’t be cleaned
up and taken care of.
MOTION BILLY, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE TO DECLINE THE BID FOR 96 MAIN STREET, DAN RECUSES HIMSELF FROM VOTING EVERYONE ELSE AIF
Billy talked about Nate Rogers setting up the new office computer for Kendall and that he will be in touch with him to set up
a time
Dan talked about Kevin being off work with Covid and possible covid pay for employees. He said there is no longer a mandate
for employee covid pay. Council had discussion on this and feel they should pay something for time off due to covid.
MOTION PAT, BILLY 2ND TO APPROVE COVID PAY FOR BOROUGH EMPLOYEES FOR A TOTAL OF 80
HOURS IF NEEDED AND TO BE PAID WITH ARP MONEY IF ALLOWED, AIF
Dan talked about Kevin getting his operating license to run the sewer plant. Council still wants to keep Eric for the time being
and have him continue to work with Kevin and teach him things he still doesn’t know. Council had more discussion on this.
Eric said he does Sunday’s so that Kevin doesn’t have to come in. Billy said they have to figure out something else though
where Kevin can have more weekends off. Mary asked if Kevin will still be doing other things as well. Council said yes the
sewer plant is not full time. She asked if Joe was planning to retire this next year and council said they do not know he hasn’t
told them that. Eric said it’s great that Kevin passed his test that’s it’s very hard however he doesn’t feel he is ready to be completely on his own yet. He said that’s nothing against him there is just a lot to learn and he himself still learns new things
all the time.
Dan talked about the Port Library and them needing a donation from the Borough for Borough residents to be able to continue
to use the library for free. Kendall explained how this has all worked in the past and council had more discussion on this.
MOTION BILLY, PAY 2ND TO APPROVE A $200 DONATION TO THE PORT ALLEGANY LIBRARY, AIF
Dan talked about the quotes for possibly hiring some outside help for mowing next summer. Council had discussion on the
quotes and how much time this could free up for Kevin & Joe to be able to do other things that need to be done. They agreed
to talk more about this after the first of the year.
Stephanie talked about barrowing the bucket truck from Otto if possible to take down the flags and put up the Christmas
decorations on Main Street.
Dan let everyone know he was going on vacation for the next 2 weeks
Mayor Lathrop Gives the October Regional Police report
Non Reportable Accidents – 2
Traffic Stop Citations – 3
Citations Issued – 1
Warnings - 5
Criminal Complaints – 3
Juvenile - 1
General Complaints – 20
Arrest Totals – 1
Fire Assist Call - 1
Miles Patrolled – 699
Hours Worked – 122.5
MOTION PAT, BILLY 2ND TO ADJOURN THE MEETING AT 7:07PM, AIF
NEXT MEETING – DECEMBER 20, 2021 6:00PM
Respectfully,
Stephanie Mason
Eldred Borough Secretary
MINUTES FOR OCTOBER 18, 2021
THE ELDRED BOROUGH COUNCIL HELD A MONTHLY MEETING ON OCTOBER 18, 2021 @ 6:00PM AT
THE
BOROUGH OFICE.
COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT: DAN PLUMMER, BILLY BAIR, PAT WALKER, JOE BAKER, LAINIE
KEPHART
OTHER OFFICIALS PRESENT: MAYOR ANDREW LATHROP, SECRETARY STEPHANIE MASON,
TREASURER KENDALL SLATER, ROADMASTER KEVIN CALDWELL, ERIC BARTON PLANT OPERATOR,
JEFF SPENCER AND JOE WINSLOW BOROUGH ENGINEERS
MEETING CALLED TO ORDER AT 5:59PM BY THE COUNCIL PRESIDENT DAN PLUMMER. THE
MEETING IS BEING RECORDED FOR THE PURPOSE OF TAKING THE MINUTES AND THEN
RECORDING WILL BE DESTROYED ONCE MINUTES ARE APPROVED.
Mary Margarette would like to add the street lights and also the ball fields to the agenda
MOTION LAINIE, PAT 2ND TO APPROVE THE PREVIOUS MEETING MINUTES, AIF
MOTION PAT, JOE 2ND TO APPROVE THE AGENDA, AIF
MOTION LAINIE, PAT 2ND TO APPROVE TREASURERS REPORT AND FINANCIAL CONDITION, AIF
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE THE BILLS TO BE PAID, AIF
Mary asked what McGowan property was on the bills to be paid and Kendall said it is property & liability insurance
Dan turned the meeting over to Jeff Spencer the Borough engineer. Jeff said they are still waiting for an update on the
modeling for the levee. He said they are currently working on the water collection and currently trying to locate manholes.
He said they have a couple of guys coming next week to do some camera work and help Kevin with this. He has also been
working on the sewer lateral ordinance that would make it necessary for the lateral to be tested prior to a property being
sold. He has with him the intermunicipal agreement between the Borough and the Water Authority for the replacing of water
and sewer lines. The Borough council will need to sign this tonight and the Water Authority will sign it at their meeting on
Wednesday night. He said they are working on permits, the easement processes, getting the water well test done at the new
site and also the railroad agreement. He said there will be an annual fee from the railroad for running a line under the railroad.
He said they just did all the color selections for the exterior and interior of the new plant. He said they are also still working on
getting through some environmental issues with DEP about the blue salamander and also mussels and once these are dealt with
then they can apply for other permits. Jeff needs the Act 537 signed at tonight’s meeting just in case things are delayed any
because of this. He said Eldred Township is also trying to do their sewer planning and figure out how many they may be able
to bring on. Depending on how many the plant would need to expand. Council had more discussion on this. Jeff said right now
this is all discussion not decisions on anything. Dan asked what the timeline is for them to decide so Jeff can make the necessary changes to the plant. Jeff said he wouldn’t change the plant right now it’s being set up as planned. He said it may happen down
the road. They had some discussion on the generators and that the existing generator at the plant needs to be checked. Kevin said
it is operational. They said the 2 pump station generators are good. Council had agreed on a new generator for the new plant. Jeff went over everything that he needs signed. Dan asked if he had a copy of the sewer lateral ordinance and Jeff said yes and he
would leave it with them to look over. They discussed the Act 537.
MOTION LAINIE, JOE 2ND TO APPROVE SIGNING THE ACT 537, AIF
Council talked about the garbage rates for 2022 and that Otto Township is going to raise their part by one dollar per month
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE GARBAGE RATE FOR 2022 TO $19.00 PER MONTH, AIF
Council discussed the sewer rates for 2022, they talked about the new plant coming in and also what Pennvest would
eventually have the rates set at
MOTION JOE, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE THE PROPOSED SEWER RATE FOR 2022 TO BE $48.00 PER
MONTH, AIF
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE ORDERING THE 2022 COUPON BOOKS WITH A $3.00 PER
MONTH DISCOUNT TO RESIDENTS IF PAID IN FULL BY JANUARY 31, 2022 FOR THE YEAR, AIF
Council had discussion about the Police board and that two people need to be appointed for the 2022 year
Dan Plummer nominated Andrew Lathrop for the Police board
MOTION DAN, BILLY 2ND TO APPOINT ANDREW LATHROP TO THE OE REGIONAL POLICE BOARD,
AIF
Billy Bair nominated Daniel Plummer for the Police board
MOTION BILLY, LAINIE 2ND TO APPOINT DANIEL PLUMMER TO THE OE REGIONAL POLICE BOARD,
AIF
Council talked about the mowing of the levee and talking to the Fire Department early in the year about making sure it gets
burned next year. The Borough had to rent equipment this year to get it taken care of and it cost $6,000 to do it. Billy said he
would talk to Kevin. It has to be done in the early spring before it turns green. Dan said Kevin and Joe can help and Billy also
said he would help.
Council talked about the possibilities of hiring seasonal mowing help in the summer for other areas the borough takes care of
and that this would give the guys more time to concentrate on other things that need to be done. Dan said it cost the Borough approximately 8-10 weeks of wages at 40 hours per week for two guys to cut grass for this year. Council had more discussion
on this and getting price quotes from a few local people that could do some of the mowing. They talked about also still have
summer help and the programs that provide that.
Dan talked about the property easement resolution and that Eldred Township has given the Borough permission to use the
eminent domain process for the easement of this property. Council said there is only one property owner that won’t agree to
the easement to put the pipe in. Dan reads the resolution to everyone.
MOTION PAT, BILLY 2ND TO APPROVE THE RESOLUTION FOR EMINENT DOMAIN FOR THE PROPERTY EASEMENT, AIF
Council talked about the employees health insurance plan that is renewing and to keep it the same as it is now it will go up approximately $1,000 for the year. Stephanie explained the differences in the plan choices
MOTION BILLY, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE KEEPING THE HEALTH INSURANCE PLAN THE SAME, AIF
Council had discussion on employee raises and holiday time for 2022. Dan talked about the last raise Stephanie recently got
and how much Kendall was hired at. They talked about the fact that there are some federal holidays that employees currently do
not have off. Pat feels the girls already got their raises but feels the guys should get some kind of raise. There was more talk of
all this between council
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE GIVING JOE AND KEVIN A $.50 PER HOUR RAISE STARTING JANUARY 2022 AND TO GIVE ALL EMPLOYEES AND ADDITIONAL PAID HOLIDAY WHICH WILL BE
GOOD FRIDAY, AIF
Council talked about the summer office hours and if they should keep them that way permanently or change them back
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE KEEPING THE SUMMER OFFICE HOURS AS PERMANENT HOURS,
AIF
Council talked about Nicole Larsen resigning as the Borough solicitor due to personal reasons. They had discussion on a new solicitor and said that Casey Graffius out of Bradford has been highly recommended to them and he is also the solicitor for the Water Authority
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO ACCEPT NICOLE LARSEN’S RESIGNATION, AIF
MOTION TO APPROVE HAVING CASEY GRAFFIUS ATTEND THE NEXT COUNCIL MEETING TO HIRE AS
THE NEW SOLICITOR, AIF
Council talked about the office computers and that they are old and need to be replaced. Kendall explained the research she has
done for the computers and went over pricing. Dan said up to $1,000 can be used each year from highway money for office equipment.
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE PURCHASING NEW COMPUTERS FOR THE OFFICE, AIF
Council talked about and IT person to come in and transfer data and set up new computers. Billy said he knew someone and
Patti said the school has an IT person as well.
MOTION PAT, JOE 2ND TO APPROVE TO HIRE AN IT PERSON TO SET UP COMPUTERS IN THE OFFICE,
AIF
Mary asked about the street lights that were just replaced and converted to LED and if more could be done in town. Stephanie explained that she is working with First Energy to get all eligible lights in town converted and changed to LED lights
Mary asked about the bleachers being redone at the ball fields and will they be done before the start of next ball season.
Kevin said they have all the new boards in and painted and are working on getting them installed and they should be done
before next ball season
Kevin talked about Mechanic Street and removing a sidewalk where they are doing storm drains, he said they have talked to
the homeowner and they would like it removed. It does not connect to another sidewalk as that one was already removed
sometime prior
MOTION PAT, BILLY 2ND TO APPROVE REMOVING A SIDEWALK ON MECHANIC STREET AS LONG AS HOMEOWNER IS OK WITH IT, AIF
Andy talked about the Police Department and Don being off to have surgery and that the other 3 part time officers all have
other full-time jobs and he doesn’t feel they have enough coverage nor are they getting what they are paying for. Andy talked
about some of the equipment they have upgraded and also training they have sent the officers to. Billy told everyone to go to a meeting so they can understand what is going on with the Police Department. Patti asked how long the Borough would have to
wait to get out of the contract for the Police if they chose to. Dan said they can vote to withdraw and at the end of 8 months they would be done and no longer responsible financially after that. There was more discussion on the Police Department. Eric said
they feel like with what they are already paying they could have a full-time officer. Patti said they would still need part time
though. Eric said no State Police would cover when Regional Police aren’t on duty. Eric said they have tried with the part time
and it’s not working or getting better and Dan agreed. Dan said they have raised the pay for officers from what it was but it’s
still not enough. He said they are currently talking to one that can work 1 or 2 days per week.
Mayor Lathrop Gives the September Regional Police report
Criminal Complaints – 2
General Complaints – 22
Arrest Totals - 2
Miles Patrolled – 555
Hours Worked – 184
MOTION BILLY, PAT 2ND TO ADJOURN THE MEETING AT 7:13PM, AIF
NEXT MEETING – NOVEMBER 15, 2021 6:00PM
Respectfully,
Stephanie Mason
Eldred Borough Secretary
MINUTES FOR SEPTEMBER 20, 2021
THE ELDRED BOROUGH COUNCIL HELD A MONTHLY MEETING ON SEPTEMBER 20, 2021 @ 6:00PM AT THE
BOROUGH OFICE.
COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT: DAN PLUMMER, BILLY BAIR, PAT WALKER AND JOE BAKER
OTHER OFFICIALS PRESENT: MAYOR ANDREW LATHROP, SECRETARY STEPHANIE MASON, TREASURER KENDALL SLATER, ROADMASTER KEVIN CALDWELL
MEETING CALLED TO ORDER AT 6:00PM BY THE COUNCIL PRESIDENT DAN PLUMMER. THE
MEETING
IS BEING RECORDED FOR THE PURPOSE OF TAKING THE MINUTES AND THEN RECORDING WILL
BE DESTROYED ONCE MINUTES ARE APPROVED.
MOTION PAT, BILLY 2ND TO APPROVE THE AGENDA, AIF
MOTION PAT, BILLY 2ND TO APPROVE THE PREVIOUS MEETING MINUTES, AIF
MOTION BILY, PAT 2ND TO APPROVE TREASURERS REPORT AND FINANCIAL CONDITION, AIF
MOTION PAT, JOE 2ND TO APPROVE THE BILLS TO BE PAID, AIF
Billy talked about the access road/alleyway just before 2nd Street and that some gravel needs to be put in there to cover up
and exposed line. Kevin said they would take care of it.
Dan goes over the engineers report with everyone and said the engineers would be here for the October meeting
Dan gives a brief park update for the DCNR repairs that need to be made. He said the guys are working on this and the only
thing that won’t get done until spring is the new mulch to go in.
Council talks about a new concrete pad going in beside the salt shed, they said the current one needs to be replaced along with
a couple of boards on the salt shed. This is all eligible to use highway money to pay for it. Kevin said it would be approximately $2,000 to replace it.
MOTION PAT, JOE 2ND TO APPROVE REPLACING THE CONCRETE PAD NEXT TO THE SALT SHED AND
ALSO A COUPLE BOARDS ON THE SALT SHED, AIF
Council talked about Halloween and trick or treating in the Borough
MOTION PAT, JOE 2ND TO APPROVE TRICK OR TREATING FOR HALLOWEEN TO BE HELD FROM
6PM-8PM ON SATURDAY OCTOBER 30TH 2021 WITH A BAD WEATHER RESCHEDULE DATE OF SUNDAY OCTOBER 31ST 2021 6PM-8PM IF NEED BE, AIF
Council discussed Council meeting pay and that it has been at $25 per meeting for a very long time. Dan said Eldred Township Supervisors receive $35 per meeting and Otto Township Supervisors receive $100 per meeting. Council had more discussion on
this and Pat said he suggests $75 per meeting for the Borough
MOTION PAT, JOE 2ND TO APPROVE RAISING COUNCILS PAY TO $75 PER MEETING STARTING JANUARY 2022, AIF
Council talked about one of the pickup trucks needing new tires before it’s inspected in October
MOTION PAT, JOE 2ND TO APPROVE PURCHASING NEW TIRES FOR THE PICKUP TRUCK, AIF
The refuse collection rate was talked about for 2022. Dan said Otto is talking about raising it $1 per month and Eric confirmed
this. Council said they will talk more about it at the October meeting
Dan informed everyone that Kevin passed his wastewater exam, he said they are waiting now to see how many more hours he
will need to be licensed. Everyone congratulated Kevin
Dan read the Berkheimer resolution that needs to be passed to add Kendall to the account
MOTION PAT, JOE 2ND TO APPROVE THE BERKHEIMER RESOLUTION TO ADD KENDALL TO THE
ACCOUNT, AIF
Council gave an update on the Mechanic Street project and said they are hoping to have the catch basins done in October.
Kevin said they have to wait until the gas company is done. They also talked about hot patch and if they get it from Hawbaker’s
it’s DOT approved and they can use highway money to pay for it but they may have to order more than they actually need from them. Council had more discission on this.
MOTION PAT, JOE 2ND TO APPROVE PURCHASING HOT PATCH, AIF
Mayor Lathrop Gives the May Regional Police report
Citations Issued – 4
Criminal Complaints – 3
Juvenile Complaints - 2
General Complaints – 6
Miles Patrolled – 517
Hours Worked – 177
MOTION BILLY, PAT 2ND TO ADJOURN THE MEETING AT 6:25PM, AIF
NEXT MEETING – OCTOBER 18, 2021 6:00PM
Respectfully,
Stephanie Mason
Eldred Borough Secretary
MINUTES FOR AUGUST 16, 2021
THE ELDRED BOROUGH COUNCIL HELD A MONTHLY MEETING ON AUGUST 16, 2021 @ 6:00PM AT THE
BOROUGH OFICE.
COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT: DAN PLUMMER, BILLY BAIR, PAT WALKER AND LAINIE KEPHART
OTHER OFFICIALS PRESENT: MAYOR ANDREW LATHROP, SECRETARY STEPHANIE MASON,
ROADMASTER KEVIN CALDWELL
MEETING CALLED TO ORDER AT 6:00PM BY THE COUNCIL PRESIDENT DAN PLUMMER. THE
MEETING
IS BEING RECORDED FOR THE PURPOSE OF TAKING THE MINUTES AND THEN RECORDING WILL
BE DESTROYED ONCE MINUTES ARE APPROVED.
Stephanie would like to add a report from DCNR for the park to the agenda
MOTION PAT, BILLY 2ND TO APPROVE THE AGENDA, AIF
MOTION PAT, BILLY 2ND TO APPROVE THE PREVIOUS MEETING MINUTES, AIF
MOTION BILY, PAT 2ND TO APPROVE TREASURERS REPORT AND FINANCIAL CONDITION, AIF
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE THE BILLS TO BE PAID, AIF
Dan talked about and went over the engineers update for the levee & sewer plant. Lainie asked about the one property owner that wouldn’t sign the easement agreement. Council explained this person has ignored the letters and phone calls and is now in the imminent domain process. Lainie asked if it will hold up the process and council said it may a little but there are other things that can go ahead and move forward.
Dan talked about having another backup/emergency sewer plant operator and that Griff Beckham had come in to meet with them about that possible position. Billy talked about him getting laid off from Dressers next year and him possibly going to school to get licensed if he liked the work. Council had discission if they want to put this on hold until next year and see where things are for everyone at that point.
Dan talked about Kendall Slater and hiring her for the open treasurer position and they discussed her hours and pay.
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE HIRING KENDALL AT $14.00 PER HOUR WITH $.50 INCREMENT RAISES EACH MONTH TO BE AT $16.00 PER HOUR IN JANUARY 2022 AND HER HOURS WILL BE MONDAY-THURSDAY 9AM-2PM, AIF
Council talked about the sewer plant tap fee and if it should be raised. Billy talked about when it was raised before. They talked about if the Township taps in and them paying a tap fee. Council had discussion on price and raising it. Kevin talked about what residents are paying over in Keating Township to tap in.
MOTION BILLY, PAT 2ND TO APPROVE RAISING THE TAP FEE TO $2,000.00, AIF
Dan talked more about the easement process and waiving the tap fee for those 3 Township residents
MOTION BILLY, JOE 2ND TO APPROVE WAIVING THE BOROUGH PORTION OF THE TAP IN FEE FOR THE 3 TOWNSHIP CUSTOMERS THAT HAVE GRANTED EASEMENTS TO THE BOROUGH FOR THE NEW SEWER PLANT, AIF
Mayor Lathrop Gives the May Regional Police report
Traffic Stops – 9
Citations Issued – 4
Warnings – 5
Criminal Complaints – 2
General Complaints – 14
Police Assist Calls – 1
Fire Assist Calls – 2
Miles Patrolled – 504
Hours Worked – 197.5
MOTION BILLY, LAINIE 2ND TO ADJOURN THE MEETING AT 7:02PM
NEXT MEETING – SEPTEMBER 20, 2021 6:00PM
Respectfully,
Stephanie Mason
Eldred Borough Secretary
MINUTES FOR JULY 19, 2021
THE ELDRED BOROUGH COUNCIL HELD A MONTHLY MEETING ON JULY 19, 2021 @ 6:00PM AT THE
BOROUGH OFICE.
COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT: DAN PLUMMER, JOE BAKER, BILLY BAIR AND LAINIE KEPHART
OTHER OFFICIALS PRESENT: MAYOR ANDREW LATHROP, SECRETARY STEPHANIE MASON,
ROADMASTER KEVIN CALDWELL
MEETING CALLED TO ORDER AT 6:00PM BY THE COUNCIL PRESIDENT DAN PLUMMER. THE
MEETING
IS BEING RECORDED FOR THE PURPOSE OF TAKING THE MINUTES AND THEN RECORDING WILL
BE DESTROYED ONCE MINUTES ARE APPROVED.
Billy would like to add the tree that came down in the park to the agenda
The Bundy’s would like to add the new no parking signs to the agenda
MOTION LAINIE, JOE 2ND TO APPROVE THE AGENDA, AIF
MOTION LAINIE, JOE 2ND TO APPROVE THE PREVIOUS MEETING MINUTES, AIF
MOTION BILY, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE TREASURERS REPORT AND FINANCIAL CONDITION, AIF
MOTION BILLY, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE THE BILLS TO BE PAID, AIF
Bill Sr. asked what KOS was on the bills to be paid. Council answered it’s the contract for the copier
Dan gave the sewer plant update from the engineers. Bill Sr. asked about a perk test on the new property and Billy said they don’t have to do that for the plant
Dan talked about the Water Authority replacing their lines when the Borough does the sewer lines. He said the Solicitors are working on this and the water meeting is Wednesday. He also talked about the easements getting signed and that one of the three has not been
Council talked about a backup/emergency sewer plant operator and that this has been advertised and there is someone coming in on Thursday. Dan asked if council still wants to have Billy do the emergency backup work when needed. Eric said it’s nice to have Billy because he already knows the plant and is right here in town. Lainie said she does agree and Billy said he’s talked with Kevin and Eric about doing this. Bill Sr. asked about having a Borough employee with a license and council said no they have Eric with his license for the plant. Dan explained that Eric also has to be ok with who is working at the plant under his license as well. They talked about Kevin being back in training and doing his test again in August and it would be about another 2 years after he passes the test to have his license.
MOTION LAINIE, JOE 2ND TO APPROVE BILLY BEING THE EMERGENCY BACKUP OPERATOR FOR THE SEWER PLANT AND PAYING HIM $20 PER HOUR TO RUN THE PLANT WHEN NEEDED UNDER ERIC’S LICENSE, AIF
The Bundy’s talked about concerns they have with the new no parking on pavement signs. They asked about the dirt part on the other side and council said no it’s only on the pavement. She said she feels it’s unrealistic for people that may not have a driveway or room in their driveway or when you have a get together and have other people there. Council explained that this is being done around town because of the school and buses being able to get through, emergency vehicles and also plowing in the winter and that there have been several complaints from residents as well about not being able to get through some of the streets because of people parking on both sides of the road. Bill Sr. asked about parking on King St. and council said there will also be signs going up there for no parking on pavement on one part and the rest will be parking only on the North side. Council said it’s the extended periods of time that people leave their vehicles there that they are most concerned with.
Dan talked about the donations made from the Sullivan family and also Cory Creed for the parks and council thanked them for these donations
Billy talked about the tree that came down in the park after the storm the other day and Kevin said he thinks they can take it down. Billy would like a tree put back in it’s place and council would like to say thank you to everyone that helped with the cleanup of the tree.
Dan said Haines & Company will be coming to the office Wednesday morning to look at the Quickbooks system and that this was already started before Shelley had left. He said they are a CPA firm and have dealt with the Borough books in the past and they charge $112 per hour.
MOTION BILLY, JOE 2ND TO APPROVE HAINES & COMPANY COMING TO HELP WITH QUICKBOOKS, AIF
Dan talked about the American Rescue Plan Grant and that the Borough has received the money from that for this year. He also explained there may be more money available from the County and that Stephanie filled out and submitted the survey for this to the County
Dan talked about the Personnel update, Haines & Company coming in, Sue James looking over everything and her assessment on it and Trish Hagg coming in and helping as well and making sure taxes are taken care of. He said the Borough has advertised the treasurer’s position and had approximately 8 responses. He talked about the ones that have applied and the issues with each. He said at the moment there is nobody else applying and even the temp agency is not having any luck finding anyone. He said if the temp agency did come up with anyone it would cost the Borough approximately $20.25 per hour to hire someone through them. Dan said they don’t have a lot of options and this is Steph’s 5th week trying to do everything herself. Council had more discussion on this. Dan said the bottom line is Steph needs to be paid more for what she’s doing and already wasn’t making what she should have been before all this. He said he feels she should be given a raise to $18.00 per hour and it be backdated to the day she started doing it all as well as 3 extra days of PTO. He said she also has all the coordination of the new sewer plant as well to deal with. Eric said they pay Jeanie $18.00 per hour at Otto Township. Lainie asked if this would be a temporary raise or permanent and the rest of council said permanent. Bill Sr. said she should get at least half of what Shelley was making for a raise. Lainie said she understands and agrees but raises are usually only given once a year and Joe said there is nothing saying they can’t give a raise. Dan said nobody is going to work for what they have been paying. They had more discussion about this and Dan said if you want to keep employees then you have to pay them right. They talked about raises as a whole in January. Lainie asked Steph if she would prefer $18 per hour and 3 more days of PTO or $19 per hour and Steph said she would prefer $19 per hour.
MOTION BILLY, JOE 2ND TO APPROVE GIVING STEPHANIE A RAISE TO $19.00 PER HOUR AND BACK PAY TO JUNE 21, 2021 FOR THE RAISE DIFFERENCE, AIF
Mayor Lathrop Gives the May Regional Police report
Traffic Stops – 9
Citations Issued – 4
Warnings – 5
Criminal Complaints – 2
General Complaints – 14
Police Assist Calls – 1
Fire Assist Calls – 2
Miles Patrolled – 504
Hours Worked – 197.5
The Mayor said all officers went to a drug training in Jamestown and they all felt it was very beneficial. He talked about Don going on light duty because he has to have shoulder surgery. They all talked about the Regional Police being out and State Police being out more. Lainie said she would like to see them up Wright road and that they never see them up there. Everyone had more discussion on the Police and also an SRO at the schools. Eric said the school can get funding for that.
MOTION BILLY, LAINIE 2ND TO ADJOURN THE MEETING AT 7:02PM
NEXT MEETING – August 16, 2021 6:00PM
Respectfully,
Stephanie Mason
Eldred Borough Secretary
MINUTES FOR JUNE 21, 2021
THE ELDRED BOROUGH COUNCIL HELD A MONTHLY MEETING ON JUNE 21, 2021 @ 6:00PM AT THE
BOROUGH OFICE.
COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT: DAN PLUMMER, PAT WALKER., JOE BAKER, BILLY BAIR AND
LAINIE KEPHART
OTHER OFFICIALS PRESENT: MAYOR ANDREW LATHROP, SECRETARY STEPHANIE MASON,
ROADMASTER KEVIN CALDWELL
MEETING CALLED TO ORDER AT 6:00PM BY THE COUNCIL PRESIDENT DAN PLUMMER. THE
MEETING
IS BEING RECORDED FOR THE PURPOSE OF TAKING THE MINUTES AND THEN RECORDING WILL
BE DESTROYED ONCE MINUTES ARE APPROVED.
Lainie would like to ad sidewalks to the agenda to be discussed
MOTION BILLY, JOE 2ND TO APPROVE THE AGENDA, AIF
MOTION LAINIE, BILLY 2ND TO APPROVE THE PREVIOUS MEETING MINUTES, AIF
MOTION BILY, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE TREASURERS REPORT AND FINANCIAL CONDITION, AIF
MOTION BILLY, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE THE BILLS TO BE PAID, AIF
Dan told everyone Jeff will not be here tonight but has sent an updated report for each council member
Dan said Shelley has submitted her resignation effective immediately for personal reasons
MOTION BILLY, JOE 2ND, DAN 3RD PAT NAY, LAINIE NAY MOTION CARRIED TO ACCEPT SHELLEY’S RESIGNATION
Council had some discussion about this and talked about placing an ad to replace the treasurer. They discussed pay
and hours and talked about office help and Hagg’s helping out to get the Borough through the next few weeks. Their
fee is $35 per hr.
MOTION BILLY, JOE 2ND, LAINIE 3RD, DAN 4TH, PAT NAY MOTION CARRIED TO HIRE HAGG’S TO HELP
AS NEEDED
MOTION BILLY, PAT 2ND TO APPROVE PLACING AN AD FOR TREASURER, AIF
Mary asked about Shelley helping to train and council said no not at this time
Dan talked about the housing authority and payment in lieu of taxes. Dan wanted to be clear that he was not blaming Shelley
for this, he said she was told in 2019 that it belonged to the Borough and it was to be deposited into the account so that’s what
she did and then did the same in 2020. This year 2021 she questioned it because of the way it was broken down on the paper
work looking like some was supposed to go to the school and the county and she took it to Dan. There were phone calls made
to housing, the county, the solicitor and other borough’s to make sure it was handled right. Lainie said you would think
someone would have noticed this before from the school or the county. Dan said the money has been divided and the checks
have been sent. Lainie asked if housing gets a discount on taxes and council said they don’t pay taxes this is in lieu of taxes.
Lainie thinks the taxes for housing should be looked further into. Council said that’s really between the county and housing.
Mary said they are a tax-exempt entity. Lainie asked if the amount had changed over the years, Dan said he wasn’t sure and
Billy said he had never even seen it before when he was on. Dan said they weren’t here when things took place earlier on but
they are trying to make sure things are being done right now. They talked some about how the money is divided up between everyone.
Council goes into executive session at 6:27pm to discuss personnel matters, no notes taken
Dan called the meeting back to order at 6:56pm
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE CHANGING THE SUMMER OFFICE HOURS TO 8AM-5PM
MONDAY-THURSDAY AND 8AM-12PM ON FRIDAY AND WILL LOOK AT THIS AGAIN IN THE FALL, AIF
Council would like to thank the Otto Eldred Class of 1970 for the donations they made to the park
Council would also like to thank Taylor & Armstrong for the donation they made of hot patch to the park road
Dan explained the Water Authority had a meeting with the Borough engineer and they are going to move forward with
replacing water lines at the same time the Borough is replacing sewer lines. Lainie asked about the water meetings and
someone from council attending them and council agreed that a council person should.
Dan talked about being contacted by The Ole Blue and them not paying their sewer charges being they were not open,they
currently owe $760.00. He said Shelley had talked to him about relief money out there and also calling the office to have it
shut off. Council discussed this
MOTION PAT, JOE 2ND TO APPROVE THE OLE BLUE STILL PAYING THEIR SEWER BILL CHARGES
THROUGH COVID, AIF
Council talked about a call that was received about the bleachers needing work done on them at the ball fields. Kevin talked
about what needs to be replaced and repaired and the approximate cost would be around $2,000. Council talked about having
the summer help here and they could help with these repairs. Mary asked which fields and Kevin said all of them
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE REPAIRING ALL THE BLEACHERS, AIF
Council talked about mowing the levee and having an inspection. They talked about renting a boom mower and the cost is 1
week $1800 or 1 month $5400 Kevin explained how the charges work. Lainie asked about barrowing one from another Borough
or Township. Kevin said nobody has one available right now. Pat asked who would run it and Kevin said he would.
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE RENTING A BOOM MOWER TO MOW THE LEVEE FOR ONE
MONTH IF NEEDED THAT LONG, AIF
Dan talked about Kevin going back to wastewater training class and then retaking the exam. The cost of the exam is $105 and
there is no charge for the class
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE KEVIN GOING TO WASTEWATER TRAINING AND RETAKING
THE EXAM, AIF
Lainie talks about the sidewalks in town being so bad. Council all agrees they need to be fixed however that’s up to each
individual homeowner to do. Billy said this is not something the Borough can take over due to the liability issues. Dan said
Nicole has this ordinance and they can look into it further. Lainie asked if there is some kind of grant that could help with this.
Dan said it’s something that can be looked into further when it comes back.
Mayor Lathrop Gives the May Regional Police report
Reportable Accidents – 2
Non Reportable – 1
Traffic Stops – 2
Citations Issued – 2
Non Traffic – 6
Warnings – 2
Criminal Complaints – 3
Domestic – 2
Juvenile – 3
General – 12
Arrest Total – 4
Fire Assist Call – 2
Miles Patrolled – 460
Hours Worked – 129
He said they are still looking for 2 part time officers and there have been complaints about there not being enough coverage
for what their paying. Council had more discussion about the police and the hours their putting in. Andy said they can’t afford
to hire someone full time. Dan said if the other Townships would join it would help. Billy talked about some break-ins around
town that have happened.
MOTION BILLY, LAINIE 2ND TO ADJOURN THE MEETING AT 7:22PM
NEXT MEETING – July 19, 2021 6:00PM
Respectfully,
Stephanie Mason
Eldred Borough Secretary
MINUTES FOR MAY 17, 2021
THE ELDRED BOROUGH COUNCIL HELD A MONTHLY MEETING ON MAY 17, 2021 @ 6:00PM AT THE
BOROUGH OFICE.
COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT: DAN PLUMMER, PAT WALKER., JOE BAKER AND
LAINIE KEPHART
OTHER OFFICIALS PRESENT: MAYOR ANDREW LATHROP, SECRETARY STEPHANIE MASON,
TREASURER SHELLEY BATT, ROADMASTER KEVIN CALDWELL, ENGINEERS JEFF SPENCER AND LJ
MEETING CALLED TO ORDER AT 6:00PM BY THE COUNCIL PRESIDENT DAN PLUMMER. THE
MEETING
IS BEING RECORDED FOR THE PURPOSE OF TAKING THE MINUTES AND THEN RECORDING WILL
BE DESTROYED ONCE MINUTES ARE APPROVED.
MOTION LAINIE, PAT 2ND TO APPROVE THE AGENDA, AIF
MOTION LAINIE, PAT 2ND TO APPROVE THE PREVIOUS MEETING MINUTES, AIF
MOTION LAINIE, PAT 2ND TO APPROVE TREASURERS REPORT AND FINANCIAL CONDITION, AIF
Shelley said she has copies of the audit if anyone would like to see it
MOTION LAINIE, PAT 2ND TO APPROVE THE BILLS TO BE PAID, AIF
Dan introduced Jeff and LJ the engineers, Jeff talked about applying for a grant for the levee for the modeling to be done. He
talked about the DEP corrective action plan, flowmetering, smoke testing, etc. and that DEP is reviewing everything for the
sewer plant study. He talked again about some of the costs and once they get an approval from DEP they can move forward.
He talked about a resolution that needs to be approved tonight. He said they have talked to the landowners about the pipe that
needs to be put in for the new plant. He talked some about the meeting with DEP & Pennvest and how the financing will work.
He said they will know what their offer is next summer and the Borough won’t know rates until then. LJ talked about a fence
around the new plant and what type of gate they want for it, they decided on a slide gate. They also talked about lighting for
security and the NPDES permit and the draft for this as well. He said there were a few changes made to the draft and we should
here from them soon. Dan asked if they could talk some about the Township coming into the plant. They said there are currently
8 Township customers and an agreement for 90 more to come in at some point when they move forward with that. He also talked about some other possible expansions. Lainie asked about Wright Rd and Canfield. Dan asked where DEP is as far as the
Township is concerned and he said he’s not heard anything on that but eventually DEP will make them do it. Mary asked if Pennvest thought the town could handle this financially. Jeff said they will look at the financial status to see affordability.
Dan introduced Dylan Schweikart and he talked about paying for garbage and using his dumpster rather than having to pay for garbage. He talked about the trailer park, Fox’s, rental apartment building and Clif Nel. He said there is already a dumpster at
Fox’s and he would put another one at the trailer park. Lainie talked about the trailer park and her concerns about all the cats
there and them getting into it. Dylan said he would put a structure around it and it would have a lid that stays closed. He
explained where he would put it and he would be responsible for the cleanup if there was garbage out from cats, other animals,
etc. Council agrees to this but will revoke the privilege if it’s not kept up with.
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE DYLAN SCHWEIKART TO STOP PAYING FOR GARBAGE PICKUP
AND FOR HIS TENANTS TO USE HIS COMMERCIAL DUMPSTERS, AIF
Dan talked to the rest of council about possibly doing a sewer savings account and putting $1,000 per month in this to have
money already put away towards helping to make the payments on the new plant when that time comes.
MOTION LAINIE, PAT 2ND TO APPROVE A SEWER SAVINGS ACCOUNT, AIF
MOTION LAINIE, PAT 2ND TO APPROVE ELDRED BOROUGH TOWNWIDE YARD SALES TO BE SATURDAY JUNE 26, 2021, AIF
Eric talked about a new flow meter for the sewer plant because it would give them an automatic 24 hour reading. He s
aid it would be a more consistent reading than it is now. He said they would also be able to check the flows on their phones
at anytime. The cost for the meter is $2950 plus $300 per year to Verizon. Pat asked how old the current meter is and
Kevin said 2 years. Pat asked if there was a warranty and Joe said 1 year. Council had more discussion on this.
MOTION PAT, JOE 2ND TO APPROVE PURCHASING THE NEW FLOW METER FOR THE SEWER PLANT,
AIF
Dan talked about the levee resolution for the grant the Borough is applying for, dan reads the resolution
MOTION PAT, LAINIE TO APPROVE THE RESOLUTION # 2021-05, AIF
Dan talked about Billy filling in some at the sewer plant occasionally for some weekends and in case of an emergency. Pat &
Lainie questioned if it’s ethical and legal being that he’s on council. Stephanie said it is legal that they have already previously looked into this. Pat said they had decided to not do this when Joe had gotten on council and was an employee because they
felt it was a conflict of interest so he wasn’t sure about this either. Dan said he felt that was a little different being that Joe was
a fulltime employee that would not be the case with this. He said Billy is learning the sewer plant from Eric so that he is able to
help out to give Kevin a break because right now he’s here 7 days a week and we also need a backup in case of an emergency
and this would only be in those cases not a fulltime employee. He said it also has to be someone that Eric is comfortable with working under his license. Pat asked to table this until next meeting and council agreed.
Dan talked about sludge removal and now doing it every week due to there being more sludge now that things are being done
right.
Jeff said this is a good thing and that when the new plant is done the reed beds will take care of this.
Sandra asked about the water meetings and a council member attending them. Dan said yes they are trying to get that set up.
Pat talked about Central Street and said if they have anymore water leaks they will be starting the whole project. Dan said if anything sewer breaks the Borough will have to do the same. Mary asked about someone from the water coming to the council meetings as well.
MOTION LAINIE, PAT 2ND TO ADJOURN THE MEETING AT 6:47PM
NEXT MEETING – June 21, 2021 6:00PM
Respectfully,
Stephanie Mason
Eldred Borough Secretary
MINUTES FOR APRIL 19, 2021
THE ELDRED BOROUGH COUNCIL HELD A SPECIAL MEETING ON APRIL 19, 2021 @ 6:00PM AT THE
BOROUGH FIREHALL.
COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT: DAN PLUMMER, PAT WALKER, BILLY BAIR JR., JOE BAKER AND
LAINIE KEPHART
OTHER OFFICIALS PRESENT: MAYOR ANDREW LATHROP, SECRETARY STEPHANIE MASON,
TREASURER SHELLEY BATT, ROADMASTER KEVIN CALDWELL
MEETING CALLED TO ORDER AT 6:00PM BY THE COUNCIL PRESIDENT DAN PLUMMER. THE
MEETING
IS BEING RECORDED FOR THE PURPOSE OF TAKING THE MINUTES AND THEN RECORDING WILL
BE DESTROYED ONCE MINUTES ARE APPROVED.
MOTION BILLY, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE THE AGENDA, AIF
MOTION JOE, BILLY 2ND TO APPROVE THE PREVIOUS MEETING MINUTES, AIF
MOTION BILLY, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE TREASURERS REPORT AND FINANCIAL CONDITION, AIF
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE THE BILLS TO BE PAID, AIF
Shelley talked about the bill to the CPA for Ed Bysiek and why there was and extra fee for some of the extra work that he did.
Dan explained this a little further and said he will need to get prior approval next time before doing the work. Shelley said she
feels that he may not have enough knowledge of quick books for what she needs. She would like to have Erica from Haines
and Company come into the office and go over the books with her and go from there.
MOTION PAT, BILLY 2ND TO APPROVE HAVING HAINES AND COMPANY COME MEET WITH SHELLEY,
AIF
Dan introduced Jeff Spencer to give the engineers report and update. He said they have not heard anything from Thompson’s
office on the levee and they are going to apply for a grant. He talked about the collection system and he’s going to leave a copy
of everything with the Borough. He said there will be a meeting at the Borough office on May 17th at 1pm with DEP to discuss
the loan process and they may want to see the plant and the new site. Pennvest will be calling in for this meeting as well. He
gave Eric & Kevin explanation of the plant layout. The NPDES permit renewal draft is in and the Borough has 45 days to
respond to some of the things DEP is asking for. Jeff will help to write the letter to DEP. He gives an overview of everything
and talks about testing that needs to be done. He talks about Main Street and the clay pipe and more than 25% reduction of inflowtration and that they may require flow metering to be done again. Dan asked when they will know exactly what pipe needs
to be replaced. Jeff said they will send DEP what they feel needs to be done and see if they accept that. There was some talk between Jeff and council about some of the old lines. They talked about the horse power of some of the pumps, the map, some of
the lines that need to be replaced and the pump stations. Eric feels DEP will want flowmeters. Billy asked about being away
from the concrete culvert and Jeff said a 30 foot buffer to that culvert and that some changes can still be made it’s still in the
study phase. Jeff goes over the cost for the entire project and tells everyone to remember this is still study level and some things
can be a little higher and some things a little lower. He talks about the funding for the new plant and this is current projected and
the 20 year Pennvest is the best one. He also talks about applying for grants to help as well, he said the numbers shown are with
and without grant money. He said the schedule for the new plant is June 2024. Dan asked what would be the worst case scenario
for the collection system payment and Jeff said $12,000 but that is wort case with no grant money. He also said if that happened
the Borough would turn it down and then reapply. Council continued to discuss the cost of the projects. Jeff said again this is still
in the study phase and they don’t know how it will work out yet but with his experience this is the worst case scenario. Council
said residents are going to want to know how much their sewer bill is going to be. Jeff said they won’t know that for sure until
they make a loan offer. Jeff talked about maybe doing a newsletter for the sewer plant to help keep residents informed as we progress.
Dan talked about the new ambulance resolution and Billy talked about Phoenix and that they would not only help with
ambulance but also fires, emt classes and other events. Dan reads the resolution to change from Priority Care to Phoenix.
Lainie asked about the right to refuse care and Pat said you have the right to refuse anyone.
MOTION PAT, BILLY 2ND TO APPROVE THE NEW AMBULANCE RESOLUTION, AIF
Dan talks about updating ordinances and said there are several that need to be updated. He talked about the new sewer lines
and property maintenance and that Nicole is working on these.
Council talked about a small property transfer at the trailer park
MOTION BILLY, PAT 2ND TO APPROVE THE PROPERTY TRANSFER FROM KIO’S TO SCHWEIKART, AIF
Dan talked about permit applications and Mary asked if there was a fee. Council said there is no fee it’s just so the Borough
has record of everything. They talked about permits with Mark Grassi and the County. Jack said if it’s under 1000 sq. ft you
don’t need one.
Mayor Lathrop had to leave the meeting and Dan took over as Mayor and Billy as President
Shelley talked about needing a new locking file cabinet for the Borough and the Police to share and splitting the cost of it with
the Police Department
MOTION LAINIE, PAT 2ND TO APPROVE PURCHASING A NEW FILE CABINET AND SPLITTING THE COST WITH THE POLICE DEPARTMENT, AIF
Council talked about the summer program through Career Link. They pay the whole wage and at the moment they have 5
people interested. Dan explained the program will pay to have each person for 240 hours total. He also said 2 of the people are
Cole & David both of which have worked at the Borough before.
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE HIRING COLE AND DAVID FOR SUMMER HELP, AIF
Dan Explained they were paid $11 between the Borough and the PA Slip program and that this year it’s $9.50 through Career
Link. Council talked about possibly doing a performance bonus for them at the end of the summer.
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE A PERFORMANCE BONUS FOR SUMMER HELP AT THE END OF
THE SEASON OF UP TO $350 MAXIMUM, AIF
Billy talked about the AC unit in the office needing to be replaced and Pat talked about a picnic table for outside as well.
Council talked about Kevin purchasing these items and also upping Kevin’s purchasing abilities without a council vote.
MOTION LAINIE, PAT 2ND TO APPROVE KEVIN’S PURCHASING ABILITIES UP TO $500 WITH APPROVAL FROM TWO COUNCIL MEMBERS, AIF
Billy talked about upgrading the computers in the office and doing Shelley’s now and then Steph’s in January
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE UPGRADING OFFICE COMPUTERS, AIF
Billy talked about the blower motor. Pat asked what the price was for each and Billy said $1,281 and that’s cheaper than
having them rebuilt
MOTION LAINIE, PAT 2ND TO APPROVE PURCHASING ONE BLOWER MOTOR FOR THE PLANT, AIF
Council talked about street signs that are ordered and will be put up as soon as they come in. There are no parking on pavement
and speed limit signs. Lainie talked about Wright Road needing speed limit signs. Dan said they ordered 15 new signs. Pat
asked when summer help would be starting. Dan said their hoping Cole as soon as he can and the rest when school is out.
Dan talked some more about the new signs and ordinance and once it’s done tickets will be issued if not obeyed.
Billy & Dan talked about a sewer camera and why it’s going to be needed for this new sewer plant project. They talked about putting money away each month towards this, a camera is between $12,000-$13,000. Eric said they are also going to need a detector. Council said they will get this information from him and look into it.
Council talked about the museum wanting to have a reenactment next August 2022
MOTION BILLY, PAT 2ND TO APPROVE THE MUSEUM TO PUT TOGETHER A PLAN FOR A REENACTMENT, AIF
Billy reminded everyone about the state sweeping Main Street tomorrow
Dan told everyone about him and Andy going to the school to meet with the 3rd grade to explain a little about local government.
He said the kids were very excited and they made cards for them and took pictures. He said they offered the school a field trip
for the kids if they would like to learn more.
Mary asked about burning the dike. Council said they may not be able to do it again this year due to coordinating issues and everything starting to turn green. Pat said it takes 8 fire fighters and they have not had enough people to help. She asked why it
has to be done and Council said DEP requires it and if it can’t be burnt then it will have to be mowed and weedeated.
Dan gave the Mayors report
Reportables – 1
Non Reportables – 2
Traffic Stops – 18
Citations Issued – 10
Warnings – 8
Criminal – 3
Domestic – 1
Juvenile – 2
Vandalism – 1
General – 20
Arrest Total – 1
Fire Assist Calls – 2
Miles patrolled – 819
Total Hours Worked – 161.75
Billy asked how things were going with the Police Department. Dan said good and talked about some of the new equipment
being purchased and upping their pay to $15.00 per hr. There has been some talk of a full time officer but money is the hang up
for this to happen. Eric said they would love to hire full time but just can’t do that yet and they are trying to get the department
to where it needs to be first. He said they need to be more financially set to do that.
MOTION PAT, BILLY 2ND TO ADJOURN THE MEETING AT 7:34PM
NEXT MEETING – May 17, 2021 6:00PM
Respectfully,
Stephanie Mason
Eldred Borough Secretary
MINUTES FOR MARCH 17, 2021
THE ELDRED BOROUGH COUNCIL HELD A SPECIAL MEETING ON MARCH 17, 2021 @ 5:30PM AT THE
BOROUGH FIREHALL.
COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT: DAN PLUMMER, PAT WALKER AND BILLY BAIR JR.
OTHER OFFICIALS PRESENT: MAYOR ANDREW LATHROP, SECRETARY STEPHANIE MASON,
TREASURER SHELLEY BATT, ROADMASTER KEVIN CALDWELL
MEETING CALLED TO ORDER AT 5:26PM BY THE COUNCIL PRESIDENT DAN PLUMMER. THE
MEETING
IS BEING RECORDED FOR THE PURPOSE OF TAKING THE MINUTES AND THEN RECORDING WILL
BE DESTROYED ONCE MINUTES ARE APPROVED.
MOTION PAT, BILLY 2ND TO APPROVE THE AGENDA, AIF
Dan Explained there will be an ambulance service meeting and a new resolution created between the Borough and the Fire Department for service.
Council talked about spring cleanup for this year
MOTION PAT, BILLY 2ND TO APPROVE SPRING CLEANUP TO BE May 3, 2021 AND THE FEE WILL BE
$30.00, AIF
Council wants to add a sign to Elm Street for no parking on pavement due to the fire trucks getting out. They also want to
add new speed limit signs throughout the Borough to help with speeding and highway fund money can be used for this
MOTION BILLY, PAT 2ND TO APPROVE PURCHASING AND PUTTING UP NEW SIGNS THROUGHOUT THE BOROUGH, AIF
Council discussed the ordinance about unregistered vehicles and that there have been some complaints about multiple vehicles
and unregistered vehicles, they talked about amending this ordinance. Pat said he is not ok with dictating how many vehicles someone can have or going on private property to check vehicles. Council decided to leave this issue until next meeting to be discussed when they had a full council.
Council talked about a couple of residents that had questioned how far you have to build from the property line in the Borough. Council said there is an ordinance that says 5 feet from the property line
Council let everyone know they have plans to burn the dike in April weather permitting
Council talked about a drain pipe on the sewer plant road that is washing out and needs to be replaced
MOTION BILLY, PAT 2ND TO APPROVE PURCHASING AND REPLACING THE PIPE ON SEWER PLANT
ROAD, AIF
Dan asked if anyone had any questions and Jacob wanted to know more about the unregistered vehicles and would it include motorcycles. Dan explained the issues is someone having a bunch of junk cars on their property and there was more discussion about unregistered vehicles
Dan introduced Jeff Spencer with Stiffler & McGraw to give updates on the sewer plant. Jeff first gave the regular monthly
report and said they are still waiting for the update for the grant for the levee. He explained that the Wastewater Treatment Plant Improvement Projects Act 537 Special Study is out for review for 1 month and then he will send it to DEP. He talked a little
about the chapter 94 report and the licensee operator going from CWM to Eric Barton as the primary operator. He asked when exactly this is taking place and Dan said April 1, 2021. Jeff also said in the last 24 hours they were made aware of some covid money available to some municipalities through the county. Dan said Stephanie will look into this. He also said he needs
signatures for the chapter 94 report so that can be sent in.
Jeff gave an update on the collection system and talked about the study and showed a map of the entire collection system. He
gave a quick recap from April of last year on the Corrective Action Plan with DEP and explained that’s why these things have
to be done and a new plant built. He explained how all of this works the study, planning and building. He talked about the flow metering that has already been done and they have good solid data from that. He also talked about pump station hours, camera
work and smoke testing. Eric asked if there was an area that was worse than others and Jeff said yes. He went over this with everyone and what they saw with the testing. He explained there are a lot of little things that add up to big things. He talks about places that had spikes according to the flow meter testing. He said most of these are where things have not been replaced yet.
He also talked about places that still have terracotta pipe throughout the town. He said they are trying to figure out the most important places to hit first such as places with terracotta pipe and showed the higher spikes. Eric asked about relining and Jeff
said that’s not really an option. There are 6 areas looked at and an estimation of 11,000 feet of replacement and pump stations, replace the mains and then the laterals to the property lines. He said some places do replace from the main all the way to the foundation wall. He said if you do this though then you own the lateral for the entire loan. He said as of now they are designing
to the property line. Jeff and Eric discuss some of these options and Jeff gives some examples of each way. Eric talked some
about Otto replacing the pump stations there. Jack asked about the curb stop ordinance and there was discussion with everyone about this. They talked about Edson Street and clay tile pipe still being there, Billy said any broken or clay tile are going to have
to be replaced. Jeff would like to get together and discuss this more and he said he will leave the maps he brought with the Borough. He said the cost right now is roughly 3.2 million for construction and 4.4 million once everything is added in such as engineer fees, the study, etc. He explained you have to do the study in order to get the money to build it. He also said there may
be a need to flush and pressure test for DEP but that is not part of the project at this time. He said pump station generators are in pretty good shape. Jake asked if the plant site has been set yet and Jeff said yes and talked about the Urbatch property. He asked about it being located in the Township and Jeff said yes it would be and there would be a pump station where the current plant is now. He said they tried to keep it in the Borough but it just wasn’t possible. Matt asked who owns the property and Jeff said the Borough now owns it and it was purchased from the Urbatch’s. Jack asked about dealing with the railroad and said they usually want to charge a monthly fee. Jeff said they have not yet but they deal with the railroad all the time and said it’s usually an annual fee. Mary asked about Township residents hooking into the new system. Dan explained how this would work if they hooked in. Jeff & Dan talked about the expense and the agreement with the Township if they come in. Jeff also said the plant would be big enough to handle it for the East side sewer extensions. In the event that the Township decides to extend sewer to other areas (North, South) the new plant site layout provides space to be able to expand and construct additional tanks as necessary.
Matt asked if they would have to pay tapping fees. Council said yes and explained how that would work.
Sandra Smith asked how much was paid for the property and where the money came from. Jeff said $17,000 and the money
came from a line of credit with CNB Bank and he explained how the loan and financing process works. Matt asked how far up Canfield it will go and they said all the way to the line. There was some more discussion about the lines and how far everything would go. They said at some point DEP will force the Township to start tapping in. Jeff said if anyone had any further questions
to let the Borough know. Dan reminded everyone the meetings will be changing to the 3rd Monday of each month starting in
April at 6pm and will be back at the Borough office.
MOTION PAT, BILLY 2ND TO ADJOURN THE MEETING AT 6:29PM
NEXT MEETING – APRIL 19, 2021 6:00PM
Respectfully,
Stephanie Mason
Eldred Borough Secretary
MINUTES FOR MARCH 10, 2021
THE ELDRED BOROUGH COUNCIL HELD A MONTHLY MEETING ON MARCH 10, 2021 @ 6:00PM AT THE
BOROUGH FIREHALL.
COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT: DAN PLUMMER, PAT WALKER AND BILLY BAIR JR.
OTHER OFFICIALS PRESENT: MAYOR ANDREW LATHROP, SECRETARY STEPHANIE MASON,
TREASURER SHELLEY BATT, ROADMASTER KEVIN CALDWELL
MEETING CALLED TO ORDER AT 5:59PM BY THE COUNCIL PRESIDENT DAN PLUMMER. THE
MEETING
IS BEING RECORDED FOR THE PURPOSE OF TAKING THE MINUTES AND THEN RECORDING WILL
BE DESTROYED ONCE MINUTES ARE APPROVED.
Mary Sullivan would like to add speeding on Elm Street to the agenda
MOTION BILLY, PAT 2ND TO APPROVE THE AGENDA, AIF
MOTION PAT, JOE 2ND TO APPROVE PREVIOUS MEETING MINUTES, AIF
MOTION BILLY, PAT 2ND TO APPROVE THE TREASURERS REPORT AND FINANCIAL CONDITION, AIF
MOTION PAT, BILLY 2ND TO APPROVE THE BILLS TO BE PAID, AIF
Dan talked about Eric Barton and bringing him on as a consultant for the sewer plant. Kevin would work under his license
once CWM is gone as of April 1st. The Borough would pay Eric $200 per month to hang his license as the primary operator and
help train Kevin. Eric will be at the meeting with the engineers next week and any further meetings he’s needed at. Pat asked
about having to have a second license. Dan said it is not required but they do need to have a backup person and they are working
on this. Billy said the good thing about Eric is he will have the experience for the new plant. He said this is nothing against
Kevin it’s just that the Borough has to have a licensed operator until Kevin finishes his.
MOTION PAT, JOE 2ND TO APPROVE ERIC BARTON AS A CONSULTANT FOR THE SEWER PLANT, TO
HANG HIS LICENSE AND ALSO TRAIN KEVIN, AIF
Council talked about the ambulance service and needing to create a new resolution. Aaron Adkins introduced himself from
Priority Care Ambulance Service. He said they have been covering the Borough for approximately the last 10 years. He talked
about their billing policy and that no patient will ever get billed after insurance, they accept whatever the insurance pays. Billy
said they used to send bills to patients. Aaron said in the last 10 years they have not done this. He said the charge the fire
department $250 each time they are called out and that they have an outstanding balance with them now but they are not
concerned about that it’s not about the money it’s about the community. He said their not out for the money they want to help
the fire department and the community. He said he is an EMT himself and teaches classes, he said they invest in the community
and they’ve turned down millage in the past. He said the other company only being in business for 6 months is a concern. Billy asked who owns Priority Care now. Aaron said Brian is still the owner but he has control of everything. He said Priority Care is located in Smethport and Phoenix is located in Norwich Township a little farther away. They discussed some of the billing
charges, he said Medicare pays them $600 and Medicaid pays $200. Aaron talks about the expense of the medications on the ambulance. He said everyone receives the same care regardless of what insurance someone has or if they have no insurance. Pat asked what their charges are and Aaron said their standard charge is $12,000 plus a mileage charge. Steve talked about a couple
of years back meeting with some state reps about charges and millage. Steve also talked more about insurance and a mutual aid agreement with the other ambulance crews in McKean County. Aaron said last year they had a total of 114 transports and 8
assists for the Borough and so far this year there has been 30 calls. Andy asked if the Borough is keeping their ambulance and
crew. Council said yes this is only for backup. Aaron wants to continue service in the Borough and help the community. Billy
said we need to get all the fire departments working together. Dan said they don’t know exactly all the reasons they are wanting
to change services but the bottom line is they need to come to an agreement for the community. Steve said 911 calls whoever
is available. Dan showed and talked about the previous resolution and said the council’s responsibility is to make sure there is coverage in the Borough. Pat explained how an ambulance call works and how it’s dispatched. Aaron is worried that Phoenix is
not going to be able to handle coverage. Dan said they will be in touch to set up a meeting.
Dan said there was a call from a resident that owns a business in the Township with a commercial dumpster and he would like
to know if he can take his garbage from his home to his commercial dumpster rather than having garbage pickup in the Borough. Billy said as long as he can show proof of owning a business such as a tax ID# he doesn’t have a problem with it. Joe said his concern is everyone wanting to do this. Billy said this would be on an individual case by case basis and they would have to own
a business. Dan said Otto Refuse would also be notified to not pick anything up from his residence. Mary Sullivan asked if the Township has garbage pickup like the Borough. Billy said each homeowner can choose whoever they want in the Township.
MOTION PAT, BILLY 2ND TO APPROVE MR. PAYNE TO TAKE HIS GARBAGE FROM HIS RESIDENCE IN
THE BOROUGH TO HIS DUMPSTER AT HIS BUSINESS IN THE TOWNSHIP, AIF
Billy talked about Mechanic Street and what needs to be done. Pat asked if they start the work at the top how far down Mechanic Street will it go. Billy said as far as they can financially this year. He would like to see the focus be on that street this year and
get as much done as they can. Pat asked about Central Street and Dan said Central Street is sewer and Mechanic Street is general. He said they are waiting for DEP to tell them if Central Street is one of the mandatory ones to be fixed because if it is it can be included in the financing. Pat asked about any other major projects as of now. Billy said 2 other catch basins as of now and
Kevin said there are some other small projects.
Mary asked if the Borough would get any stimulus money. Council said they were not aware of any.
Council talked about changing the meetings to the 3rd Monday of every month so that Eric would be able to attend the meetings
and keep up on what’s going on with the sewer plant.
MOTION BILLY, PAT 2ND TO APPROVE CHANGING THE MONTHLY MEETINGS TO THE 3RD MONDAY
OF EVERY MONTH AT 6PM, AIF
Council talked about a special meeting for next week on Wednesday March 17 with the engineers to discuss the new plant.
MOTION BILLY, PAT 2ND TO APPROVE A SPECIAL MEETING FOR MARCH 17, 2021 AT 5:30PM AT THE
ELDRED BOROUGH FIRE HALL, AIF
Shelley talked about a grant for the levee that the engineers need to work on
MOTION PAT, JOE 2ND TO APPROVE THE ENGINEERS TO WORK ON A GRANT FOR THE LEVEE, AIF
Dan explained that the PA Slip program for summer help has been put on hold by the state for this year and will not be
available. They are having a meeting on Tuesday with Career Links to talk about another program and see if the Borough
can qualify for that for summer help. Mary asked if the Borough advertises for summer help and Billy said yes.
Council said Otto Refuse is available to do spring cleanup on May 3, 2021
MOTION BILLY, PAT 2ND TO APPROVE SPRING CLEANUP FOR THE BOROUGH ON MAY 3, 2021 AND THE CHARGE WILL BE $30.00, AIF
Dan said the office will be back opened to the public as of Monday and he talked some about the states recommendations as of
now.
Mary talked about Elm Street and people speeding and kids being outside playing. She thought maybe some children at play
signs might help. Dan said speed limit signs need to be put up on all streets and this is already being looked into. Dan talked
about a new officer that has been brought on part time as well. There was more discussion about the issues of people speeding
in town and Council said they are working with the Police on this.
Andy gave the Police report for February and said they have been getting a lot in the school zone.
Non Reportable – 1
Traffic Stops – 9
Citations Issued – 13
Non Traffic – 1
Warnings – 4
Criminal – 8
Domestic – 1
Juvenile – 4
General – 12
Arrest Total – 2
Assist Calls – Police – 3, Fire – 3
Miles Patrolled – 953
Hours Worked – 114
Dave Southard asked about the total cost of the new sewer plant. Council said they don’t have that exact number yet. He also
asked about the street lights. Billy said they are working on this now and they will all be slowly changed to led lights. Shelley explained how this is going to work and how they will be replaced. Dave asked about the levee and being reaccredited. The engineers are working on this and trying to get it done. Shelley talked about the modeling and what steps are next.
MOTION BILLY, PAT 2ND TO ADJOURN THE MEETING AT 7:17PM
NEXT MEETING – APRIL 19, 2021 6:00PM
Respectfully,
Stephanie Mason
Eldred Borough Secretary
MINUTES FOR FEBRUARY 10, 2021
THE ELDRED BOROUGH COUNCIL HELD A MONTHLY MEETING ON FEBRUARY 10, 2021 @ 6:00PM AT THE
BOROUGH FIREHALL.
COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT: DAN PLUMMER, LAINIE KEPHART, JOE BAKER, PAT WALKER AND
BILLY BAIR JR.
OTHER OFFICIALS PRESENT: MAYOR ANDREW LATHROP, SECRETARY STEPHANIE MASON,
TREASURER SHELLEY BATT, ROADMASTER KEVIN CALDWELL
MEETING CALLED TO ORDER AT 5:57PM BY THE COUNCIL PRESIDENT DAN PLUMMER. THE MEETING
IS BEING RECORDED FOR THE PURPOSE OF TAKING THE MINUTES AND THEN RECORDING WILL BE DESTROYED ONCE MINUTES ARE APPROVED.
MOTION PAT, BILLY 2ND TO APPROVE THE AGENDA, AIF
MOTION JOE, PAT 2ND TO APPROVE PREVIOUS MEETING MINUTES, AIF
MOTION PAT, JOE 2ND TO APPROVE THE TREASURERS REPORT AND FINANCIAL CONDITION, AIF
MOTION LAINIE, PAT 2ND TO APPROVE THE BILLS TO BE PAID, AIF
Dan introduced Joe Cucuzza who is a sewer plant operator. Dan said they have spoke to him about the possibility of hanging
his license at the sewer plant once CWM is done. Joe explained that he is only ok with hanging his license as a secondary
license and the Borough would have to have another primary operator with a license. Dan asked him about possibly running
the plant if that was need and Joe said he would not have the time to do that. Council had discussion on the operations of the
sewer plant and operators. He said they have also been in contact with Eric Barton about being the primary operator and doing training with Kevin and that Eric is interested.
Dan talked about the 3 quotes for the work that is needed on Central Street. He said the Borough is waiting for the report for
DEP that will tell what lines have to be replaced. If the street is on the list then it could possibly be included in the work for the
new sewer plant. If it’s not then the Borough needs to try and at least wait until CWM is done at the sewer plant once the
Borough isn’t paying out all that money to them each month. Dan explained the solicitor recommends still getting quotes even though this is only a line replacement and not required to have quotes. Jack said if the water line goes it has to be done and the
water company can’t wait. Dan said they understood that and the Borough would have to do the same thing if the sewer line
went.
Dan said Stiffler & McGraw are working on a plan to get the levee reaccredited. Shelley asked about the flood mitigation grant
that will be up in June and said she would talk to Jeff about this. Billy said when it comes time to get rid of the old plant they
will have to take the levee into consideration with everything they do and that it would all need to be hauled out of there.
Dan explained that a new resolution needed to be passed for the engineers to replace the 2021-02 resolution that was passed
at the last meeting for the new sewer plant.
MOTION BILLY, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE RESOLUTION NUMBER 2021-03 WILL SUPERSEDE THE
PREVIOUS RESOLUTION 2021-02, AIF
Council discussed the ambulance service and that the old resolution needs to be updated. They talked about the fire department giving a 45 day notice if they decide they want to change the ambulance service. Lainie is concerned that Phoenix doesn’t have enough experience or people. Pat said they now have 2 ambulances and 2 crews running for them.
Council will go over all the information they have in their folders and they will discuss this further at the next meeting. They
also explained this is a backup to the Borough ambulance and that Phoenix has said they would not charge patients more than
what their insurance pays. Lainie said Priority Care also sent an email saying they would not do that either. Lainie also said management has now changed at Priority Care. Dan said whatever is best for the town is what they want to do.
Dan said there was a call from a resident that owns a business in the Township and he has a commercial dumpster there and
would like to know if he can take his garbage from his home in the Borough to his dumpster in the Township. Pat & Joe both
said no they don’t feel there should be an exception being there is an ordinance saying you can’t take it out of the Borough.
Council had more discussion on this and decided to get more information about this situation and discuss it again at the next meeting.
Dan explained Joe has a doctor’s appointment on the 18th and that workers comp is asking if Joe can come back to work on
light duty.
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE JOE NOT TO COME BACK TO WORK UNTIL THE DOCTOR
GIVES THE OK THAT HE IS 100% HEALED, AIF
Dan talked about Eric Barton and that he has offered to help with the sewer plant once CWM is done. He would be like a
consultant to help Kevin at the plant and also help teach Stephanie how to do EDMR reports as well as hang his license at the
plant. Jack said you have to have a primary operator and Kevin can help that person. Dan said they will need to talk to Eric
further about all this.
MOTION BILLY, PAT 2ND APPROVE HIRING ERIC BARTON PENDING HE IS WILLING TO HANG HIS
LICENSE AT THE PLANT AND WORK AT THE PLANT, AIF
Lainie & Billy talked about other possible people that may have an operator license as well.
Andy gave the Police report for January
traffic stops – 26
citations issued – 10
non traffic – 1
warnings – 16
criminal complaints – 4
domestic – 1
juvenile – 2
general – 27
arrests – 2
assist calls police – 2
assist calls fire – 1
miles patrolled – 881
hours worked – 121
Dan said there is much better communication going on with the Police Department and they have also purchased some
new equipment. Pat asked if they were going to bring someone on full time or just part time. Dan said only 3 full time officers
for right now.
Lainie asked if the zoning board position has ever been filled and Council responded no they have not had anyone interested.
MOTION PAT, BILLY 2ND TO ADJOURN THE MEETING AT 6:48PM
NEXT MEETING – MARCH 10, 2021 6:00PM
Respectfully,
Stephanie Mason
Eldred Borough Secretary
MINUTES FOR JANUARY 13, 2021
THE ELDRED BOROUGH COUNCIL HELD A MONTHLY MEETING ON ANUARY 13, 2020 BY ZOOM DUE TO NOT BEING ABLE TO HOLD AN IN PERSON MEETING WITH COVID AND QUARANTINE ISSUES. DUE TO TECHNICAL ISSUES COUNCIL WAS NOT ABLE TO HAVE THE PUBLIC LOG ONTO THIS CALL. THE MEETING WAS HANDLED THIS WAY WITH RECOMMENDATIONS FROM PSAB AND THE BOROUGH SOLICITOR.
COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT: DAN PLUMMER, LAINIE KEPHART, JOE BAKER, PAT WALKER AND
BILLY BAIR JR.
OTHER OFFICIALS PRESENT: MAYOR ANDREW LATHROP, SECRETARY STEPHANIE MASON,
TREASURER SHELLEY BATT
APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA BILLY, PAT 2ND, AIF
APPROVAL OF PREVIOUS MEETING MINUTES PAT, BILLY 2ND, AIF
APPROVAL OF THE TREASURERS REPORT AND FINANCIAL CONDITION JOE, PAT 2ND, AIF
APPROVAL OF THE BILLS TO BE PAID PAT, JOE 2ND, AIF
Dan reads and explains the resolution for plan revision for the WWTP with DEP
APPROVAL OF RESOLUTION NUMBER 2021-02 FOR THE WWTP BILLY, PAT 2ND, AIF
Billy nominates Phil Labella for the Water Authority Board
MOTION JOE, BILLY 2ND TO APPOINT PHIL LABELLA TO THE WATER AUTHORITY BOARD, AIF
Council talked about the possibilities of changing ambulance service and that the Fire Dept. has brought this up to them for discussion. The current ambulance provider right now is Priority Care and the other possibility is Phoenix. This is just being talked about at the moment. Council has been in contact with the Solicitor to be sure of how this needs to be handled. Joe asked if there was an issue with Priority Care. Billy said some of the EMT’S were having some issues with them. Pat said he had an issue with them when he was charged $17,000 when he personally had to use them. Pat wants to know who has the right to decide who the backup is. Dan said they are working with the Solicitor to get those answers. There will be more discussion on this at the next Council meeting.
Dan talks about the meter equipment that is needed at the sewer plant once the contract is up with CWM and the Borough takes it back over.
MOTION BILLY, PAT 2ND TO START PURCHASING THE METER EQUIPMENT THAT’S NEEDED FOR THE SEWER PLANT, AIF
Dan explained the issues with Central Street and what needs to be fixed and should they start purchasing the materials.
MOTION PAT, JOE 2ND TO START PURCHASING THE MATERIALS FOR CENTRAL STREET PROJECT, AIF
Council talked about the railing on Main Street and that DOT will not fix it. Council feels it’s a liability and really needs to be fixed. Dan said Jack Bell said he would donate some pipe for the project if it would work.
MOTION BILLY, LAINIE 2ND TO GET A QUOTE TO FIX THE MAIN STREET RAILING, AIF
Dan explained a resident had questioned about the Borough plowing the church alley. Church alley is not recognized by DOT as a street only as a right of way. Council agreed it’s to narrow, not an actual road, there’s no place to put the snow and it would be a liability for the Borough if it would tear up the alley trying to plow it.
MOTION BILLY, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE NOT PLOWING CHURCH ALLEY, AIF
Council talked about Central Street and the amount it’s going to cost to do the work. Kevin is working on getting quotes for this project.
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO ADJOURN MEETING AT 4:46PM
NEXT MEETING – FEBRUARY 10, 2021 @ 6:00PM
Respectfully,
Stephanie Mason
Eldred Borough Secretary
MINUTES FOR DECEMBER 10 & 11, 2020
THE ELDRED BOROUGH COUNCIL HELD A MONTHLY MEETING ON NOVEMBER 10 & 11 2020 BY PHONE DUE TO NOT BEING ABLE TO HOLD AN IN PERSON MEETING WITH COVID AND QUARANTINE ISSUES. DUE TO TECHNICAL ISSUES COUNCIL WAS ALSO NOT ABLE TO HOLD A VIRTUAL MEETING. THE MEETING WAS HANDLED THIS WAY WITH RECOMMENDATIONS FROM PSAB.
COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT: DAN PLUMMER, LAINIE KEPHART, JOE BAKER, PAT WALKER AND
BILLY BAIR JR.
OTHER OFFICIALS PRESENT: MAYOR ANDREW LATHROP, SECRETARY STEPHANIE MASON,
TREASURER SHELLEY BATT
COUNCIL PRESIDENT DAN PLUMMER PHONE MEETING TOOK PLACE ON 12/10/2020 AT 10:48AM
COUNCIL VICE PRESIDENT BILLY BAIR PHONE MEETING TOOK PLACE ON 12/10/2020 AT 11:33AM
COUNCIL MEMBER JOE BAKER PHONE MEETING TOOK PLACE ON 12/10/2020 AT 12:01PM
COUNCIL MEMBER PAT WALKER PHONE MEETING TOOK PLACE ON 12/10/2020 AT 1:08PM
ELDRED BOROUGH MAYOR PHONE MEETING TOOK PLACE ON 12/10/2020 AT 1:41PM
COUNCIL MEMBER LAINIE KEPHART PHONE MEETING TOOK PLACE ON 12/11/2020 AT 4:10PM
APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA DAN PLUMMER, BILLY BAIR, JOE BAKER, PAT WALKER, LAINIE KEPHART, AIF
APPROVAL OF PREVIOUS MEETING MINUTES DAN PLUMMER, BILLY BAIR, JOE BAKER, PAT WALKER, LAINIE KEPHART, AIF
APPROVAL OF THE TREASURERS REPORT AND FINANCIAL CONDITION DAN PLUMMER, BILLY BAIR, JOE BAKER, PAT WALKER, LAINIE KEPHART, AIF
APPROVAL OF THE BILLS TO BE PAID DAN PLUMMER, BILLY BAIR, JOE BAKER, PAT WALKER, LAINIE KEPHART, AIF
APPROVAL OF RETAINING STIFFLER & MCGRAW AS THE ELDRED BOROUGH ENGINEERS FOR 2021, DAN PLUMMER, BILLY BAIR, JOE BAKER, PAT WALKER, LAINIE KEPHART, AIF
APPROVAL OF 2021 BUDGET DAN PLUMMER, BILLY BAIR, JOE BAKER, PAT WALKER, LAINIE KEPHART, AIF
APPROVAL OF DONATIONS TO BE MADE OF $100 EACH TO THE ELDRED LIBRARY, ELDRED SENIOR CENTER, OAK HILL CEMETARY, LAMPHIER CEMETARY. DAN PLUMMER, BILLY BAIR, JOE BAKER, PAT WALKER, LAINIE KEPHART, AIF
APPROVAL OF EMPLOYEE CHRISTMAS INCENTIVE OF $150 EACH DAN PLUMMER, BILLY BAIR, JOE BAKER, PAT WALKER, LAINIE KEPHART, AIF
APPROVAL OF SHELLEY BATT AS TREASURER FOR THE 2021 YEAR DAN PLUMMER, BILLY BAIR, JOE BAKER, PAT WALKER, LAINIE KEPHART, AIF
APPROVAL FOR PSAB TO CONTINUE HANDLING THE BOROUGH PENSION PLAN DAN PLUMMER, BILLY BAIR, JOE BAKER, PAT WALKER, LAINIE KEPHART, AIF
BILLY BAIR NOMINATED DAN PLUMMER AND ANDREW LATHROP FOR THE POLICE BOARD. VOTES FOR EACH WERE DAN PLUMMER, BILLY BAIR, JOE BAKER, PAT WALKER, LAINIE KEPHART, AIF
APPROVAL OF THE ENGINEER SERVICE AGREEMENT FOR THE NEW PLANT DAN PLUMMER, BILLY BAIR, JOE BAKER, PAT WALKER, LAINIE KEPHART, AIF
APPROVAL TO START THE NEW STREET LIGHT CONTRACT AND FOR SHELLEY TO HANDLE THIS DAN PLUMMER, BILLY BAIR, JOE BAKER, PAT WALKER, LAINIE KEPHART, AIF
APPROVAL TO WAIT ON THE CENTRAL STREET PROJECT UNTIL ABSOLUTLEY NESSESARY DUE TO THE FUNDS BEING TO LOW DAN PLUMMER, BILLY BAIR, JOE BAKER, PAT WALKER, LAINIE KEPHART, AIF
APPROVAL FOR DAN PLUMMER TO HANDLE EVERYDAY BUSINESS THROUGH COVID BILLY BAIR, JOE BAKER, PAT WALKER, LAINIE KEPHART, AIF
NEXT MEETING – JANUARY 13, 2021 @ 6:00PM
Respectfully,
Stephanie Mason
Eldred Borough Secretary
MINUTES FOR NOVEMBER 11, 2020
THE ELDRED BOROUGH COUNCIL HELD A MONTHLY MEETING ON NOVEMBER 11, 2020 @ 6:00PM IN THE
BOROUGH OFFICE.
COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT: DAN PLUMMER, LAINIE KEPHART, JOE BAKER, PAT WALKER AND
BILLY BAIR JR.
OTHER OFFICIALS PRESENT: MAYOR ANDREW LATHROP, SECRETARY STEPHANIE MASON,
TREASURER SHELLEY BATT, ROADMASTER KEVIN CALDWELL
MEETING CALLED TO ORDER AT 5:59PM BY THE COUNCIL PRESIDENT DAN PLUMMER. THE MEETING
IS BEING RECORDED FOR THE PURPOSE OF TAKING THE MINUTES AND THEN RECORDING WILL BE DESTROYED ONCE MINUTES ARE APPROVED.
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE THE AGENDA, AIF
MOTION PAT, BILLY 2ND TO APPROVE PREVIOUS MEETING MINUTES, AIF
MOTION BILLY, PAT 2ND TO APPROVE THE TREASURERS REPORT AND FINANCIAL CONDITION, AIF
MOTION BILLY, JOE 2ND TO APPROVE THE BILLS TO BE PAID, AIF
Dan introduced the engineers from Stiffer & McGraw to speak. LJ explained the plant and how it works. He also gave their recommendations for the new plant and explained the different plants that can be put in. He said the pumps will all be housed inside as it is easier to keep up with maintenance and they last longer not being outside in the elements. The SBR plant is their recommendation to be put in. John shows a map of the recommended plant and how everything will work. He talks about the 3 reed beds which would be 70 x 35 each and that every 7-10 years they would need to be cleaned out. He said harvesting of the reeds as contaminated waste every year or bi-annually. This is all in place of having to have sludge removal each month. He said the Borough will need to budget for this each year though so it is not so much money to come up with every 7-10 years. He said there would still need to be sludge removal each year in the extremely cold months. They also explained how a press compressor works and that it goes into a dumpster and that has to be hauled away. This option would also require another building. John said the press is more expensive to run. The engineers said they need council to make some of these decisions tonight in order to move forward with the act 537. They also need a decision on the generator and if they want diesel or natural gas. They said the generator that’s there will not run the new plant. Billy asked Kevin if it can be used someplace else and he said yes. The engineers also need a definite on which property they are going to choose for the new plant. John went over questions that DEP will have for the property they choose. The levee would also play a part in it if they decide to keep it where it is now. There also has to be a wetland survey done and the current site has over 3 acres of wetlands that would have to be relocated. Fema also may not allow the current location land to be built up as far as it has to be because of the levee. John said some of these issues if not approved could also affect financing. He said the other site is out of the flood zone and does not have much wetlands. Council discussed the two properties. Mary asked if the other site their referring to is still the Urbatch property and council said yes. The engineers said their recommendation is the Urbatch property and it would be cheaper. John explained the funding for the new sewer plant project. He said there will also be grants that can be applied for. They also explained how it would work if the Township did come into the plant as well. Mary asked what happens to the current plant once the new one is running. They said it would be decommissioned and demolished eventually. Mary asked how much this is going to cost roughly overall. They said 12-13 million.
MOTION PAT, BILLY 2ND TO APPROVE THE REED BEDS FOR THE NEW SEWER PLANT, A NATURAL GAS GENERATOR AND THE URBATCH PROPETY FOR THE NEW PLANT SITE, AIF
The engineers gave a few more updates on the flowmeters, smoke testing and that they are still working on the levee. The engineers will rework the plan for the Urbatch property and then get everything to council. He said they should start the study on the Urbatch property and not wait due to the consent order agreement with DEP.
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE STARTING THE PROCESS OF THE STUDY ON THE URBATCH PROPERTY AND MOVING FORWARD, AIF
They said they will start the survey now and have the rest by the December meeting.
Dan talked about the 2 mini therapeutic chickens and allowing an exception for the residents to keep them.
MOTION BILLY, PAT 2ND TO APPROVE AN EXCEPTION TO ALLOWING THE RESIDENT TO KEEP THE 2 THERAPEUTIC CHICKENS THEY HAVE AND LIMITING THEM TO ONLY THE 2 THEY CURRENTLY HAVE, AIF
Dan explained the cd at Hamlin Bank and that it will be rolled over into a reserve account for future projects
MOTION PAT, JOE 2ND TO APPROVE ROLLING OVER THE CD AT HAMLIN BANK, AIF
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE DAN PLUMMER AND STEPHANIE MASON TO SIGN AT THE BANK FOR THE CD TO BE ROLLED OVER, AIF
Dan reads the sewer resolution for the 2021 sewer rates. It will be going up $3.00 to $45.00 per month
MOTION PAT, BILLY 2ND TO APPROVE THE RESOLUTION TO RAISE SEWER RATES FOR 2021, AIF
Dan explained the tax resolution and that taxes will not be raised for the 2021 year
MOTION BILLY, PAT 2ND TO APPROVE NOT TO RAISE TAXES FOR THE 2021 YEAR, AIF
Dan reads the amended Otto Refuse agreement and explains the change to how the charges will now be. Council talked about not giving an early payment discount next year. Mary asked why they wouldn’t offer a discount. Dan asked the rest of council how they felt about offering a discount again. They all discussed this and Pat said he felt they should.
MOTION PAT, JOE 2ND TO APPROVE THE CHANGES TO THE OTTO REFUSE AGREEMENT, AIF
MOTION PAT, JOE 2ND TO APPROVE OFFERING RESIDENTS A $2.00 PER MONTH DISCOUNT ON SEWER AND GARBAGE IF PAID IN FULL FOR THE YEAR BY JANUARY 31, 2021, AIF
Dan & Shelley talked about the proposed budget
MOTION BILLY, PAT 2ND TO APPROVE THE PROPOSED 2021 ELDRED BOROUGH BUDGET, AIF
Dan asked Kevin to explain the dry hydrant that the Fire Department would like to put in at the stone pit rather than using town water. The Fire Department would pay for this.
MOTION BILLY, PAT 2ND TO APPROVE PUTTING IN A DRY HYDRANT AT THE STONE PIT FOR THE FIRE DEPARTMENT, AIF
Kevin explained the John Clay quote for the work that needs to be done. Council decided to table this since the work doesn’t need to be done for a while.
Kevin explained that PA Rural Water would be coming to do the smoke testing and how it will be done. This needs to be done due to not having enough data from the flow meters due to not having enough rain.
Shelley explained a no match grant available for $34,000 for the park/basketball court. She said she found out there would have to be engineer work done for this. Mary asked what it’s for and Shelley explained the lights and the basketball court. Shelley said it would also have to be made ADA accessible. Council discussed this. Council doesn’t feel they want to pursue this grant because of the upfront cost for the engineers and it’s a highly competitive grant.
Dan & Shelley talked about changing the street lights to LED.
Dan talked about raises for all 4 employees.
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE A $.50 PER HOUR RAISE FOR ALL 4 EMPLOYEES STARTING JANUARY 1, 2021, AIF
Dan reads the resolution for the withdrawal letter for CWM and for Dan and Billy to be the signers
MOTION PAT, BILLY 2ND TO APPROVE THE CWM WITHDRAWAL LETTER AND FOR DAN AND BILLY TO BE THE SIGNERS, AIF
Dan and Don explained the possibilities of putting in drug collection containers that the police department would like to place at the Borough office. Don said he would be the one to handle all of it and no Borough employee would have to have anything to do with it.
MOTION BILLY, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE THE POLICE DEPARTMENT PLACING A DRUG COLLECTION CONTAINER AT THE BOROUGH OFFICE, AIF
The Mayor gave the police report for the month of October. Andy said it was nice to have the police chief at the meeting tonight. Don said they are still having issues in the school zone. Pat said he’s happy to see him pulling people over on Main St. Mary asked if most of the speeders are local and Don said yes. Don said 36 mph is the average speed people are doing through town.
MOTION PAT, BILLY 2ND TO ADJOURN THE MEETING AT 7:40PM
NEXT MEETING – DECEMBER 9, 2020 6:00PM
Respectfully,
Stephanie Mason
Eldred Borough Secretary
Monthly Meeting Minutes
MINUTES FOR JULY 12, 2020
THE ELDRED BOROUGH COUNCIL HELD A SPECIAL MEETING ON JULY 12, 2020 @ 2:00PM AT THE
ELDRED BOROUGH FIRE DEPARTMENT.
COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT: DAN PLUMMER, LAINIE KEPHART, JOE BAKER, PAT WALKER AND
BILLY BAIR JR.
OTHER OFFICIALS PRESENT: MAYOR ANDREW LATHROP, SECRETARY STEPHANIE MASON,
TREASURER SHELLEY BATT, BOROUGH SOLICITOR NICOLE LARSEN
MEETING CALLED TO ORDER AT 2:00PM BY THE COUNCIL PRESIDENT DAN PLUMMER. THE MEETING
IS BEING RECORDED FOR THE PURPOSE OF TAKING THE MINUTES AND THEN RECORDING WILL BE DESTROYED ONCE MINUTES ARE APPROVED.
Dan talked about an income survey that the Borough could possibly do through the County that may help with grants. The
Borough as a whole would need to be under a certain income threshold to qualify. The county would send out 320 surveys
within the Borough and they would need to receive back at least 240.
Billy talked about the flags and flowers in town for the Lions Club and also the military banners. He said there is help greatly needed with these things and Billy asked if anyone was interested in helping with this and if so to come talk to him after the meeting.
Dan explains to everyone what the purpose of this meeting is for. He said this meeting is not to defund the Police, it’s not political
in any way and it’s not about the State Police bill. Dan said everyone needs to be respectful and don’t interrupt when someone else is talking. Please talk one at a time and state your name for note taking purposes. This is to get input from residents of the town as
to if they want local Police or not. When the meeting is over there will be forms for everyone to fill out to vote. Anyone that could not make it to the meeting today can come by the office Monday-Friday and vote until Friday July 24, 2020. If there is anyone that can’t make it to the office Dan will take it to them just call the office to let him know. Dan said if everyone can not be cooperative through the meeting the Council will adjourn and make the decision on their own at the August meeting. Dan introduced Nicole Larsen the Borough Solicitor and said she is there to also help answer questions. Dan also introduced Jeff Rhinehart, Dave Crowe, Mike Ogilvie and Eric Barton from surrounding Townships who can also help answer questions.
Dan explained the points of interest sheet and introduced the Council to everyone. Rob Kemp said he thought they had already
done away with the Police and asked about shooting off fireworks in the Borough. Matt Windsor said there is no ordinance saying they can’t.
Theresa Shields would like to know what the money that’s paid to the Police covers. Dan said the overall running of the
department.
Dan introduced Don Nies Chief of Police. Don said the OE Regional Police Department was started in 2004. He said in 2019 there were a total of 658 calls between the Borough & Otto and 311 of those were in the Borough. There were 151 in office calls,
records, etc. They receive $250 per quarter towards a Police car fund. Other money received is used for operating costs, maintenance, personnel insurance, fuel, etc. Matt Windsor asked how much money came in from the community. Don said he
would estimate approx.. $4,000 from donations. They also went out of town to try and get donations. He said they had 96 calls in their 200 hours within the Borough, that’s 10-30 calls per month inside the Borough. He said there were 234 calls to the State
Police from the Borough. Bill asked how many calls from the Township and he said 200. Bill asked why Otto doesn’t pay more when they are a lot bigger than the Borough. Matt said that was the agreement in 2004. Don said the ordinances can only be enforced by them and the State Police will not handle ordinances. Don said he can now also check messages from home off the voicemail for the Police Department. Bill asked why an extra $600 was given last year to the department. Don said because even with the donations they had received there wasn’t enough for them to finish out the year. Don said there were a lot of extra things that came up with the cases they had that took extra time. Don & Craig both came in to deal with the meth lab and these are extra cases that take extra time aside from normal hours. Don said there are a lot of calls and things that happen that people don’t know about and Don talks about some examples of these. He also said State Police can’t be here as much as they can.
Rhoda Colebert said she does not think the Regional Police should be gotten rid of and feels they are very much needed and there should be no question about it.
Ann Slavin said they had an incident up Barden Brook and they called the State Police but they took a very long time to show up. She feels they should have called Regional Police and they would have been there a lot sooner.
Chris Schwab said people complain about them not being on duty and answering calls but they have been called out at 3am and
they respond. Chris said they want to do their job and they have cases their working on now. He said when they are out they
respond and they respond quickly. He said they try to get donations everywhere to help financially. He said their hours were cut
last year due to extra things that came up. He talks about being over budget previously and how hard they have worked to get that
in check and make things work with the money they have. He said 911 knows to call Don & Chris when there is an emergency.
He talks a little about a case that took a lot of extra hours. Don talked about the pharmacy and what took place with that and
because they know the towns people, they were able to get further than the State Police. Craig Switzer said if people think there is no Police here things are going to get much worse. He gives examples of times State Police couldn’t have handled certain things
in the same way because they don’t know the residents like the local Police do. He talked about the budget being low but still
trying to operate the best they can. Pat asked if the budget needs to go up how much would they be asking for next year. Don said
in 16 years they have only raised it 4 times. Billy said people have gotten mad in the past when taxes go up. He said Council takes
a lot of heat for raising taxes so the financial part of this is a big thing for everyone. Craig said at one time there was a grant available that could have helped but nobody would look into it.
Dana Shields who used to be Police Chief talks about them not being self-sustaining with everything they have to do including training. He said most people don’t realize what all is involved. Local Police can come out when needed a lot more than State Police. He also said part time Police can not be full time Police as well. He talks about how many hours are involved just in investigations. He talks about maybe changing the structure of the Police Department and about the expenses of the cars and equipment and why it needs to be a flexible schedule. He also said we do need to work with the State Police as well. Dana gave some examples of things that took place when he was working local Police.
Patti asked if taxes are going to go up if they kept local Police. Dan & Billy said yes they would eventually. Dan said expenses
will go up and they don’t make enough now. Nicole said there are some grants out there right now that may be worth checking
into because of COVID.
Jeff Rhinehart said he handles the Township ordinances because they don’t have local Police. He also said Eldred Township did
not pull out of the Police agreement back in 2004. He said they had never formally agreed to it to begin with.
Ann asked if the State Police charged for their services as of right now and Council said no. Billy said they don’t think that bill
will pass. Patti asked if it did would both State & local Police have to be paid and Council said yes.
Chris said if that did happen however the State Police wouldn’t dedicate a car to this area and that they do not have enough staff.
He said Shinglehouse Police budget is $86,000 and they also just received an SRO grant so they will have that as well now.
Sweden Township budget is $120,000 and they also received a grant. Chris also talked about money they have to pay upfront and wait to get reimbursed. Payroll is hard with their budget and it’s hard to keep officers when their only paid $11.00 per hr. Chris
said he gives his hours to some of the other guys that really need them. He’s worked Regional Police since 2010and he said a lot
of times the officers buy their own equipment themselves because there’s not enough money there. They would also like to talk to the Supervisors about the EMS Squad to possibly reallocate money, maybe split it up to help the Police budget as well.
Dave Southard said a lot of people are unaware that don’t attend Council meetings but the Borough is basically robbing Peter to
pay Paul right now. Dave gave several examples of things that have happened and have cost a lot of extra money. He asked the Police what if the Borough can’t give you more money. He said Council is trying to get grants and do everything they can to keep things going.
Billy said the sewer stuff has nothing to do with this Council. He said there were a lot of things done wrong in the past. Chris
asked how do you prioritize what’s most important to pay for. Nicole said they have to Federal & State mandate prioritize first.
Dan talked about some of the surrounding Townships and if they have local Police coverage or not. Lori Gross asked everyone to please not argue with each other and that we need the local Police but everyone needs to work together to figure this out. Pat said there are others that don’t want the Police. Lori said the town needs a full-time officer. Pat said we are here to see what everyone wants. Rhoda said if people cared they should be here at the meeting.
Myrna Hagg said she wants the Police even if taxes do go up and feels we really need the Police this day and time. Rhoda asked
if anyone was working on a Police grant. Billy said that’s not the Borough. Nicole read some of the agreement to be clear to everyone and how things are structured and the Police commission would do this.
Darlene Covert asked if the Police could stop some of the semi’s that are flying through town and write tickets as well that would generate money. Don explained they only receive a small portion of every ticket that is written. He gives examples of this and
where all that ticket money goes. He said there is also court time involved and it doesn’t leave any money left over. He also explained that grants are for places that have full-time departments or at least one full-time officer. He said they have only asked
for 4 increases in all these years and feels that’s very respectful. He said they could have asked for more money every year but
they didn’t do that. He said they all really care about the community and the people in it.
Dana said Eldred Township doesn’t pay for Police coverage but Regional Police have still handled things in the Township. Don
said that’s a mutual aid case when State Police are not available. Matt said people have to pay for emergency services. Don said
the school also gave extra money to help with Police things. Don talks about Foster Township and having full-time officers. Bill
said he is for the Police Department and is happy to see them out doing things. He would like to have a Police car here in town.
Don said when they moved to Duke Center they had asked previous Council about keeping their office at the Borough building
as a satellite office and they were told no because old Council wanted to turn that room into a handicap bathroom but never did. Chris said where the cars are right now when there is an emergency, they can be to them faster because of where the officers live. Chris said there was an incident a couple of weeks ago up Chris Drive and they were off duty and they weren’t called out to it.
He said the response time from State Police was approx.. 45 minutes and the response time from Port Allegany & Smethport was approx.. 17 minutes. Pat asked about how long it takes Regional Police to get here. Don said 7 minutes for him to get to his car. Andy asked about the phone not being answered and calls not being returned sometimes for 4-5 days. Don said they are not
full-time they are only part-time and they check calls and now they can check voicemail from home as well.
Brandon would like a number of what it would cost to put on a full-time officer. Dan said they are guessing approx..
$30,000-40,000 per year plus benefits. Dan talks about how much Port Allegany Police make, however they are much larger
than Eldred. Dan said they will do whatever the residents want them to do and that’s the point of all this is to find out exactly
what the residents want. He said what exactly do they want to see and what changes would they like made. Brandon asked about their hours and can they up their hours and possibly up taxes for them to be able to do so. Dan said if the town votes to keep them then more discussion needs to take place on how they want everything to be.
Rhoda asked if the Police feel they need more hours. Dan said they most likely do and they need more money too. Dan talked
about when he was the town cop for a couple of months and he said there is no question they are under paid. Bobby Southard
wants to know how much this is going to cost if they are kept. She said she knows taxes will go up but she wants to know how much. Dan said they will continue to ask questions to residents about what they want. Billy said they also need to talk to Otto Township and see what they can work out as well so they can’t answer that right now. She said people are going to want to know how much taxes are going to go up. Pat said there are also a lot of people that can’t pay their taxes now without them going up.
Dan said it’s just like the sewer and that rates are going to have to go up.
Mary asked if we pulled out of the Regional Police would we still have to pay for them for a year. Nicole said notice would need
to be given to Otto 1 year prior and then there could also be transition costs after that. The Borough would still have coverage within that first year. Lori asked why there was not an end date set in the agreement when it was created. Council said they were
not a part of that back then so they can’t answer that. Dan explained the agreement in a little more detail. Bill asked if in that year could the Borough prepare for another Police Department. Dan said yes they could but everything needs to be talked about with
Otto first. Dan said we can explore options. Nicole said you have to look at the cost of that as well.
Dan asked if anyone had any further questions and no one did
MOTION PAT, BILLY 2ND TO ADJOURN THE MEETING AT 3:41PM, AIF
NEXT MEETING – AUGUST 12, 2020 6:00PM
Respectfully,
Stephanie Mason
Eldred Borough Secretary
MINUTES FOR JULY 8, 2020
THE ELDRED BOROUGH COUNCIL HELD A MONTHLY MEETING ON JULY 8, 2020 @ 6:00PM IN THE
BOROUGH OFFICE.
COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT: DAN PLUMMER, LAINIE KEPHART, JOE BAKER AND
BILLY BAIR JR.
OTHER OFFICIALS PRESENT: MAYOR ANDREW LATHROP, SECRETARY STEPHANIE MASON,
TREASURER SHELLEY BATT AND ROADMASTER KEVIN CALDWELL
MEETING CALLED TO ORDER AT 6:01PM BY THE COUNCIL PRESIDENT DAN PLUMMER. THE MEETING
IS BEING RECORDED FOR THE PURPOSE OF TAKING THE MINUTES AND THEN RECORDING WILL BE DESTROYED ONCE MINUTES ARE APPROVED.
MOTION BILLY, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE THE AGENDA, AIF
MOTION BILLY, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE PREVIOUS MEETING MINUTES, AIF
Shelley explains the treasures report and the budget vs. actual and she said income for the Borough may be lower due to COVID. She said the sewer account is not in good shape and there are 39 residents in the 90 days past due. She said the sewer account is
at approximately $5500 at the moment and there could be as much as $50,000 in bills coming in the near future. If the agitator
needs to be replaced that alone is $23,000-$24,000. Patti asked where the $50,000 is coming from. She also asked where the Borough is going to come up with that kind of money. Patti asked if the people running the plant are doing what their supposed to
be doing. Billy said the biggest of those expenses would be the agitator if it has to be replaced. He also said he’s only seen the agitators be run before on really hot days. Patti and Mary asked why CWM isn’t telling the Borough about things that need to be done before there bad. Kevin said he has questioned if the agitators need to be run and has not really received a clear answer yet. Terry asked about having them rebuilt rather than replacing them if they needed to be. Kevin said they are to old and they can’t
get parts for them anymore. Terry suggested maybe a machine shop could make parts for them. Kevin said this is something he would look into. Patti & Mary asked why all of a sudden do the agitators need to be run if they weren’t really being used before. Kevin said they had to be run for the new permits for the sewer plant. Mary asked what exactly CWM was hired for. Dan said
they were not on Council at the time but it is his understanding that they were the only ones previous Council could get to run
the plant after both employees quit. Billy said they run all day to day operations of the plant and he gets a report every month of
all the numbers. Dan said he’s called several people and there’s nothing the Borough can do to get out of the contract early. Mary asked if Council feels their doing a good job. Council said they feel their doing the bare minimum. Terry asked why they
couldn’t have gotten a new person from Otto or something rather than hiring a big company like this. Andy said they also had his nephews name and number but never called him. Dan said he couldn’t answer this as none of them were on Council at the time.
Dan said the Borough is already preparing for when CWM is done. Andy said there is also another operator in Custer City. Dave asked who runs the Otto plant. Kevin responded Eric Barton. Dan talked about retaining someone else until Kevin had all his
hours done to be certified. Dave asked if Kevin’s classes had been put on hold due to COVID. Council said yes they have. Dan explained that Kevin & Joe are down at the sewer plant as much as possible to learn everything they can before CWM is done.
He also explained the general fund is going to have to help the sewer fund get by due to DEP things that have to be done and
fixed.
MOTION BILLY, LAINIE TO APPROVE PAYING THE BILLS, AIF
Billy talked about the Lions Club needing help with the flags and flowers and that there is also help needed with the military banners. Council decided to bring this up at the town meeting on Sunday to see if people would be interested in helping with
this.
Council talked about Mechanic Street and said 2 catch basins and the cross pipe are in as well as the patched blacktop and the
grass is seeded. Dan said the next step will be another catch basin as money is available. Dan talked about the ditch being scraped
as well to help with drainage. Dave talked about people mowing their yard and blowing their grass in the road and it then plugs
the drains.
Council said there will be a town meeting on Sunday July 12, 2020 at 2pm and the Borough Firehall to discuss the OE Regional Police. Dan said this meeting is for discussion with the residents not to defund the Police and has nothing to do with politics or what’s going on in the world. Council wants input from the town and what they want for Police coverage. Patti asked if the
decision will be based on who is at the meeting. Dan said as long as the meeting goes well and people are respectful, they will get
a chance to vote that day and voting will stay open for 2 weeks at the Borough office for residents. If someone is unable to get to
the office Dan will take the sheet to them. Mary asked what time the meeting will be and Dan said 2pm. Andy asked why voting
was going to be open for 2 weeks. Dan said they want to be sure all residents have enough time to get to the office to vote. Dan explained the voting sheet they are planning to use and how it will work. Patti asked if the State Police will be there to explain
how things would be handled with them if the Borough didn’t have local coverage. Council said they were not aware of them planning to be there. Billy said the only thing they wouldn’t handle would be code/ordinance enforcement. Dan explained how
the local Police handle that now. Patti said they just want all the facts of everything. Patti asked why the Borough joined with Otto
to begin with rather than just having a Borough cop. Council said they do not know as they were not here then. Andy said
residents need to ask questions at this meeting. Shelley said the Borough pays Regional Police $29,500 per year. Dave asked how Otto affords to pay them as well. Council said they can’t really answer that but Otto does have more people and more tax revenue coming in than the Borough does. Dan said the Borough Solicitor will be at the meeting as well to help answer questions. Terry asked what would happen to the vehicles if they didn’t keep the Police. Council said they don’t have an exact answer to that yet. Mary asked if Otto would be at the meeting and Dan said they have been informed of it but he wasn’t positive at the moment.
Patti talked about an incident in town where they needed the local Police and couldn’t get in touch with them. Patti asked who
the boss was. Andy replied Don Nies Chief of Police. Billy said Council can make this decision on their own but are choosing not
to and want the town to be involved.
33 Elm Street has an issue with an old pipe running through their yard that may be an old sewer pipe. Water comes through it and
is washing out their driveway. Billy said Kevin and Joe are going to check into it to see if it is an old sewer pipe and if so what needs to be done to fix the issue.
Dan said the Borough has been dealing with 96 Main St. and 123 Main St. with collections, tall grass and littering/garbage issues. Both addresses have been given notice. 123 Main has 20 days to clean up or the next step will be taken which will be court and possible sheriff’s sale.
MOTION BILLY, LAINIE TO APPROVE MOVING FORWARD WITH SHERIFF’S SALE IF NEED BE, AIF
Patti asked about the railing on the curve. Billy said it’s being looked into. Mary asked who owns the house and Council
responded the Browns.
Council gave a quick update on the Engineers report
Dan talked about a town wide income survey that the Borough could do through the County that could help with possible grant money. It would be very important for people to fill this out or it could hurt more than help to get grant money. Mary asked
about the Census and how much response there has been. Stephanie said it’s around 60% right now. Patti suggested bringing up the income survey at the town meeting on Sunday.
The Mayor didn’t have any numbers for the Police Department since they have not had their meeting yet
Council gave a sewer plant update and talked about the different potential sites and the bank financing. Dan explained the 2 proposed sites it has been narrowed down to. If the Borough built a new plant where the old one is now they would have to build
the ground up 18 inches above the levee. Patti asked if they would have to do the same things on these other sites. Dan said there would be some prep work. Patti asked how many acres they had to have. Council said 2-3 acres. Dave asked why the levee is not certified. Dan said there are things that have to be done every 5 years and they did not get done the last time, so now it’s like the levee doesn’t exist. It’s a long process to get it all fixed but it’s being worked on.
MOTION BILLY, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE MOVING FORWARD WITH THE URBATCH PROPERTY AS THE PREFERRED SITE, AIF
Council went over the two financing options which are CNB Bank & Northwest Bank for the line of credit for the sewer plant.
Dan said Jeff inquired through 5 banks and we received 2 proposals back. Dan explained the proposals and what the engineers recommend, which is CNB 4 years. Dan explained more about how it will work with this bank for the line of credit.
MOTION BILLY, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE GOING WITH CNB BANK FOR THE LINE OF CREDIT, AIF
MOTION LAINIE, BILLY 2ND TO ADJOURN THE MEETING AT 7:20PM, AIF
NEXT MEETING – AUGUST 12, 2020 6:00PM
Respectfully,
Stephanie Mason
Eldred Borough Secretary
MINUTES FOR JUNE 16, 2020
THE ELDRED BOROUGH COUNCIL HELD A SPECIAL MEETING ON JUNE 16, 2020 @ 5:00PM IN THE
BOROUGH OFFICE.
COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT: DAN PLUMMER, LAINIE KEPHART, PAT WALKER, JOE BAKER AND
BILLY BAIR JR.
OTHER OFFICIALS PRESENT: MAYOR ANDREW LATHROP, SECRETARY STEPHANIE MASON, ROADMASTER KEVIN CALDWELL AND PUBLIC WORKS EMPLOYEE JOE WARNICK
MEETING CALLED TO ORDER AT 5:00PM BY THE COUNCIL PRESIDENT DAN PLUMMER. THE MEETING
IS BEING RECORDED FOR THE PURPOSE OF TAKING THE MINUTES AND THEN RECORDING WILL BE DESTROYED ONCE MINUTES ARE APPROVED.
MOTION BILLY, PAT 2ND TO APPROVE THE AGENDA, AIF
Dan talked about a quote that came in from Pipeye for the cameraing of the Levee for DEP. The quote is $4827 and this is required to be done every 5 years.
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE THE QUOTE FROM PIPEYE TO CAMERA THE LEVEE, AIF
Dan told everyone the reason we’re here is to formulate a plan to do the Mechanic Street project. He said they do not have an exact timeline or know exactly how much money it’s going to take but they want to at least start a step by step plan. He said Council is going to walk Mechanic Street to discuss and see each project that needs to be done. He said the Borough is also looking for grant money that could possibly help and that this could be a 3-5 year project to be completely finished. Patti asked if there was money previously allotted for this project. Jack said that was only to fix sewer lines, not for blacktop and other projects. Dan said they will fix the mud problem this summer. Barb Close said the dirt and dust are terrible for the people that live right there. She also asked why other streets are being and have been fixed but not Mechanic Street. She said you can’t even walk down the street because of the big rocks and mess. Dan said it will be fixed. Barb said she feels their street has been looked over and over for many years. Dan said whatever happened in the past is the past and this Council will not ignore the problems.
Council walked Mechanic Street and started the plans for repairs to be made.
. Start immediately to keep the street swept and as clean as possible every week
. Clean ditch line all the way to Bennett Street
. Replace a crossover pipe and 2 catch basins
. Blacktop baring any other prep work that could come up between now & then
MOTION PAT, BILLY 2ND TO APPROVE PURCHASING THE PIPE AND CATCH BASINS FOR MECHANIC STREET, AIF
MOTION BILLY, LAINIE 2ND TO ADJOURN THE MEETING AT 7:11PM, AIF
NEXT MEETING – JULY 8, 2020 6:00PM
Respectfully,
Stephanie Mason
Eldred Borough Secretary
MINUTES FOR JUNE 10, 2020
THE ELDRED BOROUGH COUNCIL HELD A MONTHLY MEETING ON JUNE 10, 2020 @ 6:00PM IN THE
BOROUGH OFFICE.
COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT: DAN PLUMMER, LAINIE KEPHART, PAT WALKER AND
BILLY BAIR JR.
OTHER OFFICIALS PRESENT: MAYOR ANDREW LATHROP, SECRETARY STEPHANIE MASON,
TREASURER SHELLEY BATT, ROADMASTER KEVIN CALDWELL AND ENGINEER JEFF SPENCER
MEETING CALLED TO ORDER AT 5:58PM BY THE COUNCIL PRESIDENT DAN PLUMMER. THE MEETING
IS BEING RECORDED FOR THE PURPOSE OF TAKING THE MINUTES AND THEN RECORDING WILL BE DESTROYED ONCE MINUTES ARE APPROVED.
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE THE AGENDA, AIF
MOTION BILLY, PAT 2ND TO APPROVE PREVIOUS MEETING MINUTES, AIF
Shelley talks about the treasurer’s report & financial condition. She explains the sewer fund is low and talks about bills that need
to be paid. She explained the Whitman bill and also talked about blacktop for Mechanic Street. Shelley also explained that
through the COVID-19 there have been several people behind on paying their sewer and garbage bills.
MOTION BILLY, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE THE TREASURER’S REPORT AND FINANCIAL CONDITION, AIF
Shelley explained to Council what bills need to be paid. Billy asked Jack about one part of his bill for Elm Street and Jack responded that part is $150. Dan talked about some money that needs to be transferred from the sewer fund to the general fund
and not transferring it right now with the sewer fund being low. He said the Borough may need to at some point have the general fund help the sewer fund and this needs to be watched very closely. Billy said a lot of the reason the sewer fund is low is having
the expense of CWM at just over $7,000 every month. Billy let everyone know about loosing power at the sewer plant today and
it caused issues with all the outlets and Terry Norton had to be called out to the plant.
Shelley asked if Council wanted all current bills paid right now. Patti asked about the $4,000 that needs to be paid to DEP and
what it’s for. Dan explained it is for violations found over the last 6 years. Patti asked why it has taken so long to get a bill for
this if it’s been going on for that long. Billy & Jeff both explained some of the things that caused this over the years and things
that were addressed and several things that were let go.
MOTION BILLY, PAT TO APPROVE PAYING THE BILLS, AIF
Dan explains the DEP report and the violations further for the sewer plant DEP approved the changes for the Consent Order Agreement that the engineers put together. Jeff Spencer gave an update on the Levee and explained it’s still on hold because of
the missing paperwork and they are working to get a meeting with FEMA about this. Jeff also talked about the sewer plant violations and the Corrective Action Plan process to fix the immediate issues at the plant. He also discussed a few of the
possibilities for a new sewer plant. He talked about the study to be done, the flow meters and how the study will work. It’s a
4 year project and updates are given quarterly to DEP. The order for a new plant would be a study, design, permit and build.
The first thing right now is to sign and send the agreement back to DEP and then barrowing money once the Borough has all
the information. He talks about the plant being old and explains something needs to be done. He also talked about the possibility
of joining with the Township and this may be something to talk about as it would help with barrowing money as well. There are 3 sewer flow meters installed right now. They will be moved among 13 locations total, throughout the Borough over the next several months. There have been 6 different sites looked at as possible sites for a new sewer plant.
The NPDES permit was just done and renewed so this helps with some of the testing that would have needed to be done
otherwise. A grant from DCED has been applied for but has been postponed until September due to COVID.
MOTION BILLY, PAT 2ND TO APPROVE THE DEP CONSENT ORDER AGREEMENT AND RESOLUTION, AIF
Dan reads the resolution to everyone.
Billy nominates Joe Baker for the Council vacancy
MOTION BILLY, LAINIE 2ND TO APPOINT JOE BAKER TO COUNCIL, AIF
The Mayor swears in Joe Baker
Dan talked about Jordan leaving who was hired for summer help because he has had another job opportunity
MOTION PAT, BILLY 2ND TO APPROVE HIRING CALEB JAMES FOR SUMMER HELP THROUGH THE PA
SLIP PROGRAM, AIF
Dan talks about Mechanic Street issues and concerns. Dan said the Borough is going to fix Mechanic Street and it’s not going to
be ignored anymore. Dave Southard asked if he’s talking about the whole street or just part of it. Dan said eventually yes but they need to start with other issues first such as the mud. Dan said they have already talked with Jack about the project and what needs
to be done. Dan said pressure from residents about fixing it is not going to help the situation or make it go any faster. He said this Council will not ignore the issues and will work to get them taken care of.
Dan talked about Council having a town meeting sometime in July on a Sunday to discuss things such as a backhoe for the
Borough, Police options and a possible municipal agreement. Dan said the Borough did not buy a backhoe and they are not
voting to buy a backhoe right now, it’s only something to be talked about. It was dropped off free of any charges to try out.
Billy explained a bill for $22,000 for work that has been done and that maybe it would be cheaper if the Borough had the
equipment to do the work ourselves. Terry talks about the backhoe the Borough used to have and that they got rid of it. Billy
said that backhoe was junk. Patti said she doesn’t understand how the Borough can justify buying a backhoe when there’s no
money for other things. Council explained this is just something to be talked about and considered and would save money in the long run.
Dan brought up a possible municipal agreement and having this with other townships & Boroughs and that it would be good to
have for insurance reasons as well.
Council talked about the local Police and finding out what the residents may want. Council would like a town meeting for this
and maybe have some type of petition for this where Borough residents can vote on what they would like for Police coverage. Council told Chief Nies this is nothing against him or any other officer whatsoever it’s just something to be discussed with the
town.
Council talked about a farm animal ordinance which would prohibit any type of farm animal inside the Borough that is not considered a household pet.
MOTION LAINIE, BILLY 2ND TO ADOPT THE FARM ANIMAL ORDINANCE, AIF
The Mayor signs the new ordinance and Dan reads it to the public
Patti asked about a pot belly pig that’s in the house and Council responded that would be considered a household pet
Dan reads a quote from Jeffery & Associates for playground mulch 70 yards at $2133.00. Patti asked if it could come from somewhere cheaper. Billy explained it has to be a certain type of mulch. Stephanie said Kevin had checked with others but this
was the cheapest for this type.
MOTION BILLY, PAT 2ND TO APPROVE PURCHASING THE PLAYGROUND MULCH FROM JEFFERY & ASSOCIATES, AIF
Jeff Rhinehart talks about the Lions Club and needing help with flags, decorations and flowers. Jeff would like the Borough to formally take this over as the Lions Club just does not have the manpower to do it anymore. Jeff said they would still cover the
cost for everything. Dan asked how much time is involved and Jeff said a couple of hours to put everything up and about the
same to take it all down. Patti asked about the Borough putting up the other banners as well. Pat asked how long that usually
takes and Jack said usually about 2 days. They talked about volunteers, Patti said Joe already volunteers and is there every year
to help. Billy asked if the Borough would be responsible if anything got broke and would it be a liability. Council decided to
think it all over a little more and make a decision at the next meeting.
Council let everyone know there would be town yard sales on Saturday June 20, 2020.
Shelley explained there had been a phone call about the pavilion for the Rounsville benefit and not charging them. Several
people said they believed it had been changed to Eldred Township.
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE NOT CHARGING THE PAVILION RENTAL FEE FOR THE ROUNSVILLE BENEFIT IF THEY DECIDE TO HAVE IT THERE, AIF
Dan explained there had been some calls from businesses about discounted or dropped sewer charges through COVID. Several people talked about there being a lot of different things out there that businesses could apply for to help with money.
MOTION BILLY, PAT 2ND TO NOT APPROVE A DISCOUNT THROUGH COVID, AIF
Shelley explained there is $1500 in county liquid fuels money that she needs to know what Council wants it used for. She
explains this is county money not state.
MOTION PAT, BILLY 2ND TO APPROVE COUNTY LIQUID FUEL MONEY TO BE USED FOR WAGES, AIF
Council talked about parking on First Street and how there have been complaints & concerns about people parking on both sides
and traffic can’t get through at times. Patti said every other street is parking on one side only. Pat said firetrucks & EMS could
not get through if they needed to with cars parked on both sides.
MOTION PAT LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE PARKING ON THE RIGHT SIDE OF FIRST STREET ONLY, AIF
Pat asked about the tall grass on Edson Street. Dan said Shelley had not been able to get in touch with them so far. He said she
will send a letter soon delivered by the Police and from there it will go to the court if not resolved.
Lainie said she had been contacted by Joel Gilfert about a donation of top soil for the cemetery
MOTION LAINIE, PAT 2ND TO APPROVE A LOAD OF TOP SOIL FOR THE CEMETERY, AIF
MOTION PAT, BILLY 2ND TO ADJOURN THE MEETING AT 7:13PM, AIF
NEXT MEETING – JULY 8, 2020 6:00PM
Respectfully,
Stephanie Mason
Eldred Borough Secretary
MINUTES FOR MAY 13, 2020
THE ELDRED BOROUGH COUNCIL HELD A MONTHLY MEETING ON MAY 13, 2020 @ 6:00PM IN THE
BOROUGH OFFICE.
COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT: DAN PLUMMER, LAINIE KEPHART, PAT WALKER AND
BILLY BAIR JR.
OTHER OFFICIALS PRESENT: MAYOR ANDREW LATHROP, SECRETARY STEPHANIE MASON,
TREASURER SHELLEY BATT AND ROADMASTER KEVIN CALDWELL
MEETING CALLED TO ORDER AT 6:03PM BY THE COUNCIL PRESIDENT DAN PLUMMER. THE MEETING
IS BEING RECORDED FOR THE PURPOSE OF TAKING THE MINUTES AND THEN RECORDING WILL BE DESTROYED ONCE MINUTES ARE APPROVED.
MOTION BILLY, PAT 2ND TO APPROVE THE AGENDA, AIF
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE PREVIOUS MEETING MINUTES, AIF
MOTION PAT, BILY 2ND TO APPROVE BILLS TO BE PAID, AIF
Billy asked Kevin about the hose that was purchased from Ace Hardware. Kevin explained the old one got broke when CWM
used it and a new one had to be purchased.
Billy talked about JJ Honeydipping doing the sludge removal from the sewer plant and that it would save money in the long run rather than having CWM do it. Otto Township uses JJ Honeydipping as well. Dan explained the difference in price and how
much each can haul. JJ Honeydipping is also more local out of Bradford. Billy wants a call to be made to JJ to be sure they are
ready to do this now before talking to CWM and changing this. Stephanie will make the calls.
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE HIRING JJ HONEYDIPPING FOR SLUDGE REMOVAL, AIF
MOTION PAT, BILLY 2ND TO APPROVE CLEANUP DAY TO BE SET FOR JUNE 22, 2020, AIF
Kimberly asked about the fee for cleanup day. Shelley said it was $30.00 and already previously voted on
Dan talked about 2 people hired for the PA Slip Intern Program and asked Council if they wanted to pay them more than the required $10.35 per hour. Council discussed this and decided on $11.00 per hour.
MOTION PAT, BILLY 2ND TO APPROVE PAYING THE SUMMER INTERN HIRES $11.00 PER HOUR, AIF
Dan let everyone know that Todd Wheaton resigned today effective immediately and he read Todd’s resignation letter to
everyone.
MOTION PAT, BILLY 2ND TO ACCEPT TODD’S RESIGNATION, AIF
Shannon Brown talks about the tax extension and that it is not mandatory but if the Borough decides to do it she needs the dates
to stay the same as the County. Lainie asked what those dates are and Shannon said it would be extended until August 31, 2020 instead of May 31, 2020. She also explained there would need to be a resolution to extend it. Council feels they should follow
the same as the County.
MOTION LAINIE, PAT 2ND TO APPROVE THE TAX RESOLUTION EXTENSION, AIF
Dan signs and reads the Resolution to everyone
Council talked about Ehrlich Vegetation Management for the spraying of the Levee
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE HIRING EHRLICH FOR THE SPRAYING OF THE LEVEE, AIF
Billy talks to everyone about people riding any kind of ATV’s on the Levee and that this can not happen because it causes ruts
and that could cause serious problems for the reaccreditation of the Levee
Dan talks about the water training program that is being offered in Coudersport to become licensed. The classes have been postponed due to COVID-19 but will be rescheduled
MOTION BILLY, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE SENDING KEVIN TO WATER TRAINING, AIF
MOTION PAT LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE BILLS PAID AND PURCHASES MADE DURING COVID-19, AIF
Dan explained that everything has been finalized and done for the NPDES Permit for the sewer plant
MOTION BILLY, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE THE $500 NPDES PERMIT FEE, AIF
Dan talks about the DEP Corrective Action Plan Agreement and what has already been done for this and that it has been looked
at by the Engineer and also the Solicitor. He also explained the Engineer wrote a counter letter to DEP and this needs to be
approved and sent out by the end of the week.
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE THE ENGINEERS LETTER TO DEP, AIF
Billy talks about the flow meter testing that is about to be done and PA Rural Water is coming to help with this. Kevin explains
how the testing will work and how they can isolate it in case there are any issues. Kevin sent their plan for this to the Engineers
and they were in agreement with it. Dan talks about some of the studies that need to be done and money that will need to be barrowed for this.
Billy talks about setting up a meeting with DEP, Army Corp. and Fema to talk about some paperwork that can not be found.
The Engineers are trying to help with this
Dan talks about an email the Borough received from a resident that has concerns about a neighboring property in town. He said
there has already been paperwork filed about the property. Shelley said Judge Todd said this can be dealt with on June 1, 2020
The Mayor gives the Regional Police report for April
Accident Totals – Non Reportables – 3
Citation Totals – Traffic Stops – 7, Warnings – 7
Summons Served – 2
Incident Totals – Disturbances – 2, All Other – 8
Assist Totals – Police – 1, Fire/EMS – 3
The Mayor also said that Chris Claycomb is resigning and that he will be at the June meeting but then is done after that
Dan explained that the Regional Police have been sent to 2 different properties within the Borough to address property issues
Lainie asked about the wall that is falling down next to Main Street and Shelley explained that she has already talked to the
property owner and they have agreed to address it after everything lifts from the COVID-19 Virus
Kimberly talked about her Father’s Estate and the sewer charges and about the account going to collections. Shelley & Dan explained there have been no late charges assessed or collections through the COVID-19. Kimberly said they did not receive
a coupon book for that property. Shelley explained what is in the computer. Dan said if they come to the office and meet with Shelley they can work on getting the account straightened out. Kimberly said because of COVID-19 they can not get the name
on the deed changed. Dan explained it can not be changed in the Borough system until the deed is changed. He said whoever is paying the bill needs to get with Shelley to straighten it out.
Kimberly asked if there is still a Police Department. Council responded yes the Borough still has the Regional Police and that
after things are lifted from COVID there will be a town meeting to discuss this. Billy said they feel this is a town decision and
not just a Council decision. Dan also said they would like to have this meeting with other Surrounding Borough’s & Townships. Council explained this will be after all restrictions are lifted and they are hoping for a big turnout and input from everyone. Dan
also explained if the town decided to not have Regional Police the Borough would still have to pay them for one more year as
that’s part of the contract. Andy talked about the State Police already being in town and stopping cars for speeding. Council also talked about the new State Police bill that’s trying to pass.
Kimberly asked about the deadline for payment for cleanup day. Council responded Friday May 19, 2020 and the cost is $30.00.
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO ADJOURN THE MEETING AT 6:57PM, AIF
NEXT MEETING – JUNE 10, 2020 6:00PM
Respectfully,
Stephanie Mason
Eldred Borough Secretary
EMERGENCY MEETING
MINUTES FOR MARCH 25, 2020
THE ELDRED BOROUGH COUNCIL HELD AN EMERGENCY MEETING MEETING ON MARCH 25, 2020 @ 1:00PM IN THE BOROUGH OFFICE PARKING LOT DUE TO THE COVID-19 DISASTER EMERGENCY
COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT: DAN PLUMMER, TODD WHEATON, PAT WALKER AND
BILLY BAIR JR.
OTHER OFFICIALS PRESENT: MAYOR ANDREW LATHROP, SECRETARY STEPHANIE MASON
MEETING CALLED TO ORDER AT 12:58PM BY THE COUNCIL PRESIDENT DAN PLUMMER.
Todd asked exactly what this was for and Stephanie explained that according to the County and PSAB they needed to do a resolution to the Declaration of Disaster Emergency to extend it as the first one is only good for 7 days.
Dan reads the resolution to Council and asks if there are any questions. Billy asked if anything in it was different from the first one. Stephanie said the only difference is that it says its extended terms until rescinded.
MOTION TODD, BILLY 2ND TO APPROVE THE RESOLUTION TO THE DECLARATION OF DISASTER EMERGENCY, AIF
MOTION TODD, BILLY 2ND TO ADJOURN THE MEETING AT 1:06PM, AIF
NEXT MEETING – APRIL 8, 2020 6:00PM
Respectfully,
Stephanie Mason
Eldred Borough Secretary
MINUTES FOR MARCH 11, 2020
THE ELDRED BOROUGH COUNCIL HELD A MONTHLY MEETING ON March 11, 2020 @ 6:00PM IN THE
BOROUGH OFFICE.
COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT: DAN PLUMMER, TODD WHEATON, LAINIE KEPHART, PAT WALKER AND
BILLY BAIR JR.
OTHER OFFICIALS PRESENT: MAYOR ANDREW LATHROP, SECRETARY STEPHANIE MASON,
TREASURER SHELLEY BATT AND ROADMASTER KEVIN CALDWELL
MEETING CALLED TO ORDER AT 6:00PM BY THE COUNCIL PRESIDENT DAN PLUMMER. THE MEETING
IS BEING RECORDED FOR THE PURPOSE OF TAKING THE MINUTES AND THEN RECORDING WILL BE DESTROYED ONCE MINUTES ARE APPROVED.
Dan asked if anyone had anything they would like to add to the agenda
Billy would like to add an update on the security cameras
Sandra Chase asked if the Borough would put something out to the town about the Census and how important it is to be filled
out. She also wanted to know about a report on the Police. Dan said the Mayor would be giving a report on the Police during the meeting.
MOTION PAT, TODD 2ND TO APPROVE THE AGENDA, AIF
MOTION TODD, PAT 2ND TO APPROVE PREVIOUS MEETING MINUTES, AIF
Dan introduced the Auditor Ed Bysiek. Ed informed everyone of how the audit works and what they look at to give a report of all financials. Ed said he gives a clean unmodified opinion that everything looks good and that Shelley is doing a great job. He does recommend that the Borough look into a line of credit for times they are waiting for tax money to come in. He also said it wouldn’t be a bad idea for employees to sign off on their time sheets. Dan also informed everyone that Ed & his assistant had come to the office previously and had offered for the office to call them anytime with questions and they would be happy to help. Dan added that they have been very nice people to work with.
MOTION BILLY, PAT 2ND TO APPROVE THE TREASURES REPORT AND FINANCIAL STATEMENT, AIF
Shelley talked about liquid fuel money and tax money that has come in and bills to be paid. Patti Bell asked if the Catalone bill was for the Main Street sewer repair and if the total cost for repairs was the Borough’s responsibility. Billy explained that it was.
MOTION PAT, TODD 2ND TO APPROVE THE BILLS TO BE PAID, AIF
Dan resigned from the zoning board
MOTION BILLY, PAT 2ND TO ACCEPT DAN’S RESIGNATION, AIF
MOTION TODD, PAT 2ND TO APPOINT BOB WINDSOR JR. III TO THE ZONING BOARD, AIF
Patti Bell asked who was on the Zoning Board with Terry. Council responded Eric Brundage and now Bob Windsor Jr. III. Patti asked how the public was supposed to know the Zoning Board was looking to fill positions if it was never put out there. Stephanie explained it had been posted on the Website & also Facebook back in December and that’s how Eric had seen it and contacted the office, Eric confirmed this.
Stephanie explained the ECS&R recycling event to take place in July at the Fairgrounds for hazardous waste and electronics
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE SETTING UP THE ECS&R RECYCLING EVENT IN JULY, AIF
Oak Hill Cemetery contacted the Borough about being in need of donations to help take care of the cemetery. Residents do not feel it’s fair to give to one and not the other. Council split the only donations they were able to give this year between the Police, Senior Center and Library.
MOTION PAT, TODD 2ND TO APPROVE NOT MAKING A DONATION TO OAK HILL CEMETERY AT THIS TIME DUE TO FINANCIAL REASONS, AIF
Dan talked about having Jack Bell dig for more stone
MOTION TODD, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE JACK BELL TO DIG FOR MORE STONE, AIF
Dan talks about the EMA Coordinator and how the previous Mayor did this and they would like to have the new Mayor Andy to take this over.
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPOINT ANDREW LATHROP AS EMA COORDINATOR, AIF
Dan talks about the sewer & garbage bills that are 90 days or more past due and how the process works to send someone to collections. He talks about why it may be a good idea to consider changing the policy of sending to collections after 60 days past due rather than 90 days past due. Mary Sullivan asked if the Borough has a lot of customers that are that far behind on payments. Shelley responded that there are several behind and the collections process takes a long time. Pat said 90 days past due is pretty standard for being sent to collections. Council had discussion of how many days past due it should be before people are sent to collections. Todd asked if the Borough would be stuck paying more fees if the policy was switched to 60 days rather than 90 days. Shelley said that any fees go to the customer that’s behind. Pat asked if it would really make a difference if it was changed. Terry Bell suggested 30 days. Eric Brundage asked if there would be a notice sent out to let residents know about this change. Dan & Billy both responded yes. Billy asked if it’s mainly renters or homeowners that are behind. Dan said it’s a little of both but that bills go to the landowners. Billy said the Borough can also do sheriff’s sale if not paid.
MOTION BILLY, PAT 2ND TO APPROVE CHANGING THE PAST DUE COLLECTION POLICY FROM 90 DAYS TO 60 DAYS, AIF
Council had discussion about spring cleanup. Kevin said he would like to take tires out of being a part of spring cleanup
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE SPRING CLEANUP TO BE MAY 18, 2020 AS LONG AS THIS WORKS FOR ALL SURROUNDING BOROUGHS AND TOWNSHIPS THAT ARE HELPING WITH THIS AND IF NOT IT CAN BE CHANGED TO FIT THE SCHEDULE. THERE WILL ALSO NOT BE ANY PICK UP OF TIRES, ELECTRONICS OR HAZARDOUS MATERIAL, AIF
Dan talked about the CWM contract and that it had been sent to the solicitor for review. She recommended the Borough talk to CWM about trying to somehow cut down some of the cost given the financial condition the Borough is in. Billy explained we could possibly save some money each month by changing who hauls out the sludge. Council is waiting on a quote from JJ Honeydipping. Patti asked how many times CWM could raise the rates and Council responded only once a year. Dan also talked about Joe Cucuzza that operates the Ford City plant and how he is willing to hang his license at the Eldred sewer plant until Kevin gets his full license once CWM is done. Dan said he would do this for a couple hundred dollars a month. Dave Southard asked if he could help train as well. Council responded that may be a possibility.
MOTION BILLY, TODD 2ND TO APPROVE RETAINING JOE CUCUZZA WITHOUT PAY FOR THE TIME BEING AND THEN PAY HIM $200 PER MONTH TO HANG HIS LICENSE NEXT MARCH, AIF
Shelley explained the grant for sewer the sewer repairs for DEP and that we have not gotten the DEP recommendations and by the time that comes in and is finalized it will be past the grant deadline. Bill Bair Sr. asked about the plans for a new sewer plant. Council responded the discussions for that are still another 12-18 months out.
Shelley gave an update on the levee and that there is a digital file that they are trying to find. Jeff with Stiffler & McGraw recommends a meeting with FEMA to try and figure out how to handle this if the file is not found. E&M said they do not have it and the other engineers have gone out of business. We do not know at the moment how long this is going to take. Dan explained they are in close contact with Jeff to get the levee taken care of.
Billy asked if the Borough was still going to be able to get the levee grant money. Shelley said yes but it needs to be approved before it can go any further. Shelley said this is only for engineering fees and she showed everyone the breakdown of all the fees for the grant.
MOTION BILLY, PAT 2ND TO APPROVE MOVING FORWARD WITH THE GRANT, AIF
Dan said there is a potential resident that wants to know if she can have a pot belly pig in the Borough
MOTION PAT, TODD 2ND TO APPROVE RESIDENTS TO HAVE A POT BELLY PIG AS A PET. THE POT BELLY PIG WILL FALL UNDER THE SAME ORDINANCE AS THE DOG ORDINANCE, AIF
Sue Fowler asked about the stray cat issue. Stephanie & Billy explained this is being worked on
Pat talked about the office hot water tank and how it’s been running a lot lately and that it would most likely be cheaper in the long run to replace it with something smaller.
MOTION PAT, BILLY 2ND TO APPROVE REPLACING THE OFFICE HOT WATER TANK, AIF
Stephanie talked about the PA Slip program and also the Title One program to help pay for summer help. Todd asked if the Borough used the Title One program as well would the Borough offer the difference in pay so those interns would make the same as the ones in the Slip program. Council was in agreement to do this. Lainie asked about safety measures being in place to have kids working here. Kevin said there would be and that he could use 2 interns for the summer.
MOTION TODD, BILLY 2ND TO APPROVE USING BOTH THE PA SLIP & THE TITLE ONE PROGRAM FOR SUMMER HELP AND FOR INTERNS OF BOTH PROGRAMS TO BE PAID THE SAME, AIF
Stephanie explained that Matt Splain had called and asked about the school using the old tennis court to park a trailer of supplies to redo the Elementary School roof. Billy suggested that it would need to somehow be roped off to keep anyone out of there so the Borough is not liable for someone getting hurt. Billy said the old tennis courts really need to be taken out down the road. Mary Sullivan asked about the school using it for parking. Council responded it would all be looked at down the road.
MOTION TODD, PAT 2ND TO APPROVE THE SCHOOL TO USE THE OLD TENNIS COURTS FOR SUPPLIES TO DO THE NEW ROOF AS LONG AS THE SCHOOL HOLDS LIABILITY DURING THAT TIME, AIF
Billy gave an update on the security cameras and said they do have a hard drive and he has it set up to keep video for one month. Council discussed where everyone would like the cameras to be set up. Eric Brundage asked if they were connected to any kind of security company. Billy said they are not it’s all in house.
Pat suggested building a picnic table for the girls in the office to be able to eat lunch outside on nice days. Council said they would discuss this at the next meeting.
The Mayor gives a Police update that he had for January & February. January there was 1 DUI arrest, 1 misdemeanor arrest, 1 domestic call and 3 disturbance calls. The total stops for January was 42. For February 1 DUI arrest, 1 misdemeanor arrest and 3 disturbance calls. The total stops for February was 12. The Mayor explains he was asked at the Police meeting if the Borough was planning to do away with the Regional Police. Patti said she was also told the same thing today by an officer. Dan explained the proposed State Police charges and how it would affect the Borough with also having part time Regional Police if it was passed. Council would like to know how Borough residents feel about this and their thoughts on keeping the Regional Police. Council explained the coverage would not change but the price to have both would increase. Dan also explained it would take a full year to get out of the Police contract. Pat said the majority of Police he sees in town are State Police. Council also said that several of the surrounding Boroughs & Townships do not have local Police, only State Police coverage. Patti asked what happens to the cars and equipment if the Regional Police were dissolved. Council said they were not sure about this and that was something they would need to look into. Council explained they would still have the same coverage as it does right now but it would cost almost $15,000 more per year. The Mayor said the Borough can not afford that much more money every year. Pat talked about the State Police being around more than they used to be and how often they are first to calls. Todd suggested a meeting with Otto Township and Pat suggested a town meeting. Patti asked about one of the ambulances being sold. Pat explained one of them is being sold as it is not being used. Patti wanted to know if the EMS service was still going to exist. Pat said yes and none of this had to do with the Borough and these decisions were Fire Department and EMS decisions. Pat said the Fire Department is in desperate need of volunteers. Pat & Billy explained the Borough is trying to help the Fire Department in any way they can.
Dave Southard asked if there was a sub shop going in the old grocery store. Council said there had been some talk of it but at this point it’s just rumor.
Mary Sullivan asked if the meeting took place with Matt Splain and if the Borough would get any money from that. Council said the agreement with the school is they will help with the upkeep of all the fields. Mary asked about fixing the road going into the park. Patti asked if park money could be used to do this. Pat said maybe the Borough could also help with grading the dirt roads. Billy said he knew that Highway Fund money could not be used to make these repairs. Pat said he would look into this and how the Borough could make these repairs.
Patti asked if something could be put on Facebook asking residents for help one Sunday to hang the banners on Main Street. Stephanie said yes just to let her know when she would like it to be posted and she will take care of it.
Council thanked everyone for coming out to the meeting
MOTION PAT, TODD 2ND TO ADJOURN THE MEETING AT 7:39PM, AIF
NEXT MEETING – APRIL 8, 2020 6:00PM
Respectfully,
Stephanie Mason
Eldred Borough Secretary
MINUTES FOR FEBRUARY 12, 2020
THE ELDRED BOROUGH COUNCIL HELD A MONTHLY MEETING ON FEBRUARY 12, 2020 @ 6:00PM IN THE
BOROUGH OFFICE.
COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT: DAN PLUMMER, TODD WHEATON, LAINIE KEPHART, PAT WALKER AND
BILLY BAIR JR.
OTHER OFFICIALS PRESENT: MAYOR ANDREW LATHROP, SECRETARY STEPHANIE MASON AND TREASURER SHELLEY BATT
MEETING CALLED TO ORDER AT 6:00PM BY THE COUNCIL PRESIDENT DAN PLUMMER. THE MEETING
IS BEING RECORDED FOR THE PURPOSE OF TAKING THE MINUTES AND THEN RECORDING WILL BE DESTROYED ONCE MINUTES ARE APPROVED.
Dan asked if anyone had anything they would like to add to the agenda, nobody had anything to add
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE THE AGENDA, AIF
MOTION BILLY, PAT 2ND TO APPROVE PREVIOUS MEETING MINUTES, AIF
Dan asked Shelley about the financial report. Shelley gave an explanation of the report and explained the CWM invoice for the shields pump station repair. Shelley also explained the other CWM invoice for the EDMR reports. The charge is $100 per mo. Stephanie is going to try to learn how to do these reports in house to save the Borough that money each month. Billy asked about the Pipeye quote and the 4 hours being billed. It was explained that is their flat minimum charge. Stephanie will also talk to the school about sharing in some of the charges.
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE THE TREASURERS REPORT & FINANCIAL STATEMENT WITH THE EXCEPTION OF PIPEYE UNTIL STEPHANIE TALKS TO THE SCHOOL, AIF
Bill Bair Sr. asked if the school could try to say it was the Boroughs responsibility. Billy explained that Mr. Splain was very willing to work with the Borough to fix the sewer issues and he does not foresee any problems.
Billy talks about the security cameras and how they can be programmed to turn on and shut off at certain times and also for motion. Pat would like for all of them to be set up outside at each entry. Billy explains he needs to check the hard drive to see if they will hold memory. Dan explained that all passwords to the cameras have been changed. Todd would like an extra camera to be put on the back of the building.
Shelley gives the flood mitigation update and explains the Borough has been granted an extension until June 30, 2021. She also spoke with Jeff Spencer at Stiffler & McGraw to see what exactly the grant money can be used for. Jeff recommends it is used for engineer fees. You can submit the invoices and get 85% back towards the match. Shelley also explained the engineer bill is around $18,000. The Borough is still waiting on modeling paperwork to come in that Jeff needs as well. All of this will need to be put together and decided on prior to the extension running out.
Dan brought up the school use of the Borough fields for March, April & May. Mr. Splain would like to set up some rules for these fields such as no alcohol, smoking, etc. Todd asked about the school being responsible for all the cleanup of the fields after these events. Dan explained they would be and they have also offered to help with repairs and upkeep of the fields. Dan said Mr. Splain is very open to helping maintain the fields. Andy asked about Sunday softball games and would it affect that. Todd explained it would not affect that and that school sports are not played on Sundays.
MOTION PAT, TODD 2ND TO APPROVE THE SCHOOL USE OF THE BOROUGH FIELDS AND TO SET THE RULES FOR THIS, AIF
Dan explained the sewer refund policy and how this would work.
MOTION TODD, PAT 2ND TO APPROVE THE SEWER REFUND POLICY, AIF
Billy explains the pump repair that needs to be done at the main station and the quote from Whitman’s in the amount of $1519.55. Lainie asked about the maintenance of the pumps. Billy explained he wasn’t sure about this but he would find out. Billy also recommends Whitman’s to do the work.
MOTION BILLY LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE THE WHITMAN QUOTE AND THEM TO DO THE WORK AT THE MAIN STATION, AIF
Billy & Dan talk about the quote that was given to the Borough from CWM to have the chlorine contact tank cleaned out. Billy explained it’s part of the CWM contract for them to do this. The quote is $1920. Todd asked how often this needs to be done. Billy is not sure but he will find out all the details of everything. Billy also said he knows it needs to be done but wants more details about it. Council has agreed to table this to be talked about more at the next meeting.
MOTION TODD, PAT 2ND TO APPROVE IF NECESSARY, TO CLEAN OUT THE CONTACT TANK PRIOR TO THE NEXT MEETING, AIF
Dan explained comp time for Borough employees in leu of overtime pay and banking the extra time. He explained how it can be taken, used and paid for. Pat explained it’s basically spreading out their overtime from winter over the course of the year. Billy explained it would be a win for the employees and the Borough both. Dan explained it will be capped at 200 hours. Employees can not use more than 40 hours per week. Employees must still have approval for their time off and this can be approved by any council member.
MOTION PAT, BILLY 2ND TO APPROVE EMPLOYEE COMP TIME POLICY, AIF
Dan explained there was a separate account for the pavilion fund. Council talked about rolling it into the general fund as a separate line item just for the pavilion. Dan explained this money can only be used for the pavilion.
MOTION TODD, PAT 2ND TO APPROVE ROLLING THE PAVILLION FUND INTO THE GENERAL FUND, AIF
Dave Southard asked about work getting done in the park and said there is a lot of work that needs to be done. Dan explained they have been looking into possible grants and he talked about the money match for some of these as well as what’s required. He also talked about the engineer’s involvement and how donated volunteer work time and materials could also help as part of the match.
Dan explained the monthly fee to CWM and that it will be going up 5% for a total of $7644 per month as of April 1st 2020 and it does state in their contract that they can raise their fee 5% annually. Pat asked when their contract will be done and Shelley responded March 2021. Dan said they have to have a 90 day notice before ending the contract. Todd asked when Kevin will be taking his test and Dan said April.
Dan talked about the sewer and garbage bills only being put in the landowner’s name and not the tenants name if the property is a rental.
MOTION BILLY, TODD 2ND TO APPROVE SEWER AND GARBAGE ACCOUNTS TO BE IN THE LANDOWNER’S NAME ONLY, AIF
Dan talked about grant writing training for Stephanie & Shelley. He feels that any kind of training would be helpful and beneficial.
MOTION LAINIE, PAT 2ND TO APPROVE PAYING FOR ONLINE GRANT TRAINING THROUGH PITT FOR STEPHANIE & SHELLEY, AIF
Billy explained the McWapec meeting that’s coming up and what it is. Dan asked if any members of council were interested in going. Billy said the Eldred Borough hosted this event one time previously when he was on council. Nobody was interested in attending the event at this time.
ECS&R recycling event was talked about for July and tabled until the next council meeting.
Dan asked about having the Borough name put on all big equipment. Jack Bell suggested having Cousins make the decals for this.
MOTION TODD, PAT 2ND TO APPROVE THE ELDRED BOROUGH NAME BE PUT ON ALL BIG EQUIPMENT, AIF
Billy talked about the use of the credit card for employee travel expenses. Council feels the employee should pay expenses out of pocket and then be reimbursed with turn in of receipts except in the case of overnight hotel expenses. Dan would like a cap to be put on meal expenses if they are not included in training.
MOTION TODD, PAT 2ND TO APPROVE CREDIT CARD STAYING IN THE OFFICE EXCEPT WHEN NEEDED FOR AN OVERNIGHT HOTEL STAY FOR TRAINING AND A CAP OF $50 PER DAY FOR MEAL EXPENSES, AIF
Billy explained the ongoing sewer issues on Main Street and that there are things that are going to need to be done to fix these issues. He said the price for the pipe to make these repairs is $3369.67. Kevin explained how much pipe needs to be replaced.
MOTION TODD, PAT 2ND TO APPROVE PURCHASING WHATEVER IS NEEDED TO MAKE THE SEWER LINE REPAIRS, AIF
MOTION PAT, TODD 2ND TO ADJOURN THE MEETING AT 7:41PM, AIF
NEXT MEETING – MARCH 11, 2020 6:00PM
Respectfully,
Stephanie Mason
Eldred Borough Secretary
MINUTES FOR JANUARY 8, 2020
THE ELDRED BOROUGH COUNCIL HELD A MONTHLY MEETING ON JANUARY 8, 2020 @ 6:00PM IN THE
BOROUGH OFFICE.
COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT: DAN PLUMMER, TODD WHEATON, LAINIE KEPHART, PAT WALKER AND
BILLY BAIR JR.
OTHER OFFICIALS PRESENT: MAYOR ANDREW LATHROP, SECRETARY STEPHANIE MASON, TREASURER SHELLEY BATT AND PUBLIC WORKS KEVIN CALDWELL
MEETING CALLED TO ORDER AT 6:00PM BY THE COUNCIL PRESIDENT DAN PLUMMER. THE MEETING
IS BEING RECORDED FOR THE PURPOSE OF TAKING THE MINUTES AND THEN RECORDING WILL BE DESTROYED ONCE MINUTES ARE APPROVED.
Dan asked if anyone had anything they would like to add to the agenda. Billy added the water authority board. Eric Brundage
would like to be added to speak with council about the open position on the zoning board. The agenda was modified to show
both of these.
MOTION PAT, BILLY 2ND TO APPROVE THE AGENDA, AIF
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE PREVIOUS MEETING MINUTES, AIF
Shelley let’s council know that she has some concerns on the financial report and how much money was left in the general fund
to operate on until taxes come in. Dan explains to everyone how much taxes, insurance and wages cost each month. Dan explains that they may need to take money from someplace else to get by until tax money comes in such as from the savings. Todd asked
if that money can be put back once tax money comes in and if it can be earmarked so that the Borough has it for next year when
this happens again. Dan talks about not spending any extra money even for overtime. Todd also wants to be sure they are very
frugal with the money. Todd asked if the savings account was already earmarked for anything and council agreed that it was not.
MOTION PAT, BILLY 2ND TO APPROVE CLOSING THE SAVINGS ACCOUNT AND PLACING THAT MONEY UNDER MISCELLANEOUS IN THE GENERAL FUND, AIF
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE TREASURERS REPORT, AIF
Shelley asked council about the park fund being rolled into the general fund instead of being separate. Mary Margaret Sullivan asked if there has been a meeting yet with Matt Splain about the park. Council said there has not and Stephanie explained that
she has called a couple of times to set this up but she would try again. Billy said there is work that needs to be done at the park. Todd asked about possibly charging for use of the park for tournaments and such things as that could help with park expenses.
Billy said he wasn’t sure that they could charge for use of the park because it’s a public park and they would need to look into it.
Pat said people need to at least be aware that they are responsible to clean up the park after having an event there. Shelley
explained there is already a line item in the budget for the park.
MOTION TODD, PAT 2ND TO APPROVE ROLLING THE PARK FUND INTO THE GENERAL FUND, AIF
Shelley informed council that Stiffler & McGraw charged the Borough less for the grant they wrote and the NPDES permit
renewal than they had originally quoted.
MOTION TODD, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE PAYING THE BILLS, AIF
Mary Margaret Sullivan asked about the new coupon book and if someone paid in full upfront and then sold their property
before the end of the year would the Borough reimburse them that money. Shelley explained they would not that would be something the home owner would have their lawyer handle in the closing process with the new owners.
Billy would like to nominate Eric Brundage for the zoning board
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPOINT ERIC BRUNDAGE TO THE ZONING BOARD, AIF
Billy would like Eric to get in touch with Terry Bell to get more information on the zoning board
Billy would like to nominate Bob Windsor for the Water Authority Board
MOTION PAT, TODD 2ND TO APPOINT BOB WINDSOR TO THE WATER AUTHORITY, AIF
Kevin explains the drills outback have both now burnt up and are no longer working and they are in need of new ones. He
explains that Hull is the cheapest place he could find to purchase them from.
MOTION PAT, TODD 2ND TO APPROVE THE PURCHASE OF THE NEW DRILLS FOR THE PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT, AIF
Dan asked council about changing the policy for purchasing limits for Kevin so he didn’t always have to wait until a meeting
when they need something. Pat would like to have a council member over the public works employees that could make those decisions. Todd also explains if there is ever an emergency, they can ok that prior to a meeting as long as they make sure to
still bring it up in the next meeting with an explanation.
Dan explained there are some things in the handbook that need to be changed and or clarified a little better such as vacations,
PTO time, benefits and holidays. Holidays are not clearly specified if an employee must be there 90 days prior to receiving
holiday pay. Some things also show as January to January and some are from hire date to anniversary date and not clearly
specified. Pat said when he used to work for the Borough it was always January to January rather than anniversary to
anniversary. Todd asked for a copy of the handbook and agreed that some of these things were not completely clarified.
Todd explained you do have to be an employee for a full year prior to receiving a one week vacation. Todd said Kevin should
get his one week of vacation in April and then again in January 2021. Pat asked that since Joe was a rehire how is his vacation
going to work. Shelley asked if Joe had his vacation as of now. The rest of council agreed that Joe would not have his vacation
time until he’s been here for a full year. Todd said the handbook does not explain this completely and maybe they should pro
rate it. Pat said he also feels all vacation and PTO time you should have to use it or loose it.
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE ALL BENEFITS, INCENTIVES AND HOLIDAY PAY ARE NOT GIVEN UNTIL AFTER THE 90 DAY PROBATION PERIOD, AIF
MOTION TODD, PAT 2ND TO APPROVE CHANGING THE POLICY TO 7 DAYS OF PTO AFTER 90 DAYS OF EMPLOYMENT AND 1 WEEK OF VACATION AFTER 1 FULL YEAR OF EMPLOYMENT AND IT WOULD BE ANNIVERSARY DATE AFTER THAT FOR BOTH EACH YEAR, AIF
Todd would like for each council member to take the time to read and understand the handbook.
Council feels that someone should be going to the water authority meetings. Jack Bell said that someone from council used to
go but that nobody has for a long time. Billy explained that the Borough does not want to take over the water authority and that
is not the purpose of this. It is simply to have good relations between the water authority and the Borough. Jack said the meetings
are the 3rd Wednesday of each month. Dan would like everyone to think about this and have a decision by next month’s meeting.
Council would also like to appoint members to be the point of contact over certain things such as the sewer plant, public works, the levee, etc. Kevin explained who was there for the levee inspection with the U.S. Army Corps. Todd said he thinks Stiffler & McGraw are involved with everything to do with the levee and are aware of everything. There was council discussion about the levee and what needs to be done to get reaccredited. Billy explains things that will need to be done to make that happen. Todd asked how early they can burn the dike before everything gets green. They feel maybe in March depending on the weather. Dan would like everyone to think all of this over and decide what council members would like to be over which departments.
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO ADJOURN THE MEETING AT 7:08PM, AIF
NEXT MEETING – FEBRUARY 12, 2020 6:00PM
Respectfully,
Stephanie Mason
Eldred Borough Secretary
MINUTES FOR JANUARY 6, 2020
THE ELDRED BOROUGH COUNCIL HELD A MEETING ON JANUARY 6, 2020 @ 6:00PM IN THE BOROUGH OFFICE.
COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT: DAN PLUMMER, TODD WHEATON, LAINIE KEPHART AND PAT WALKER
OTHER OFFICIALS PRESENT: MAYOR ANDREW LATHROP, SECRETARY STEPHANIE MASON, PUBLIC WORKS JOE WARNICK
MEETING CALLED TO ORDER AT 6:03PM BY THE MAYOR. THE MEETING IS BEING RECORDED FOR THE PURPOSE OF TAKING THE MINUTES AND THEN RECORDING WILL BE DESTROYED ONCE MINUTES ARE APPROVED.
ANDREW ASKED IF ANYONE HAD ANYTHING THEY WOULD LIKE TO ADD TO THE AGENDA
MOTION TODD, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE THE AGENDA, AIF
THE MAYOR ANDREW LATHROP SWORE IN LAINIE AND TODD
The mayor asked Dan Plummer if he accepts the 4 year seat he was voted into and Dan declined the seat and chose to stay in his current seat.
MOTION TODD, LAINIE 2ND TO APPOINT BILLY BAIR JR. TO DAN PLUMMERS DECLINED COUNCIL SEAT, AIF
BILLY ACCEPTS THE COUNCIL SEAT
BILLY WAS SWORN IN BY THE MAYOR
The Mayor reads Joe Warnicks council resignation letter
MOTION TODD, LAINIE 2ND TO ACCEPT JOE’S RESIGNATION, AIF
The Mayor asked for nominations for council president.
Todd nominated Dan Plummer
MOTION BILLY, LAINIE 2ND TO APPOINT DAN PLUMMER AS COUNCIL PRESIDENT, AIF
The Mayor asked for nominations for council vice president
Lainie nominated Billy Bair Jr. for Vice President of council
MOTION LAINIE, TODD 2ND TO APPOINT BILLY BAIR JR. AS VICE PRESIDENT OF COUNCIL, AIF
Todd nominated Pat Walker to fill the resigned council seat of Joe Warnick
MOTION TODD, LAINIE 2ND TO APPOINT PAT WALKER TO COUNCIL, AIF
The Mayor swore in Pat
The Mayor turned the meeting over to the council president Dan Plummer
Billy nominated Pat Walker for Pro Temp of council
MOTION BILLY, LAINIE 2ND TO APPOINT PAT WALKER AS COUNCIL PRO TEMP, AIF
Dan explains to the rest of council that they need to appoint board members
MOTION TODD, LAINIE 2ND TO APPOINT STEPHANIE MASON AS SECRETARY, AIF
MOTION LAINIE, PAT 2ND TO APPOINT SHELLEY BATT AS TREASURER, AIF
MOTION PAT, TODD 2ND TO APPOINT STEPHANIE MASON AS THE OPEN RECORDS OFFICER, AIF
MOTION LAINIE, PAT 2ND TO APPOINT NICOLE LARSEN AS THE BOROUGH SOLICITOR, AIF
MOTION TODD, PAT 2ND TO APPOINT MARK GRASSI AS BUILDING INSPECTOR, AIF
MOTION BILLY, PAT 2ND TO APPOINT STIFFLER & MCGRAW AS THE ENGINEERS, AIF
MOTION BILLY, LAINIE 2ND TO APPOINT PATTI BELL AS THE VACANCY BOARD CHAIR, AIF
MOTION TODD, LAINIE 2ND TO APPOINT TERRY BELL & DAN PLUMMER TO THE ZONING BOARD, AIF
Billy Bair Jr. explains the zoning board and what’s involved with it. Dan asked if the zoning board approves zoning or if the
county does. Billy responded that the zoning board would make those decisions. Bill Bair Sr. would like to know what the old grocery store is zoned. Billy Bair Jr. explained that it is zoned commercial and that there is a map that shows all commercial property in the Borough. Dan said Stephanie would call the county to see if they can get an extention on filling the 3rd seat for
the zoning board.
MOTION PAT, BILLY 2ND TO APPOINT PHIL LABELLA TO PARK COMMISION, AIF
Dan asked council who would like to be on the bank accounts and signature cards
MOTION TODD, BILLY 2ND TO APPROVE STEPHANIE MASON, PAT WALKER, DAN PLUMMER AND
ANDREW LATHROP TO BE ON ALL BANK ACCOUNTS AND SIGNATURE CARDS, AIF
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE CHANGING THE OFFICE AND SEWER PLANT ALARM CODES, AIF
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE CHANGING THE CALL LIST FOR THE ALARM TO ANDREW LATHROP, DAN PLUMMER, BILLY BAIR JR., PAT WALKER & TODD WHEATON, AIF
Billy Bair Jr. asked if Kevin should be put on the call list and council agreed that a council member would call Kevin if need be.
The Mayor asked if they will all have a copy of the contacts. Stephanie said she would get a copy for all of council.
Dan asked council how they wanted to handle Joe’s hiring and benefits as far as if he’s considered a new hire or a rehire and
when he is eligible for his benefits.
MOTION PAT, BILLY 2ND TO APPROVE JOE BEING A REHIRE AND MAKE HIM IMMEDIATELY ELIGIBLE
FOR HIS BENEFITS, AIF
Dan asked council about paying Kevin $1.00 per hour more rather than a gas card allowance to compensate him for not being
Able to take the Borough truck home.
MOTION LAINIE, TODD 2ND TO APPROVE GIVING KEVIN A RAISE OF $1.00 PER HOUR EFFECTIVE IMMEDIATELY, AIF
The council discussed if there is something they can do to compensate Kevin for the left over PTO time he has from 2019 that
he was not able to use.
MOTION LAINIE, TODD 2ND TO APPROVE KEVIN TO USE HIS LEFT OVER PTO TIME FROM 2019 BY THE
END OF JANUARY 2020, AIF
Dan explains changing the dates of the uniform allowance from December & June to January & July. Billy Bair Jr. asked Joe
if they would like to have actual uniforms. Joe said no he would prefer not to. Pat asked if he was ok with the allowance rather
than uniforms and Joe said yes.
MOTION LAINIE, PAT 2ND TO APPROVE CHANGING THE UNIFORM ALLOWANCE DATES TO THE FIRST
PAY CHECK OF JANUARY AND JULY EACH YEAR, AIF
The Mayor asked if it was legal to do other business at this meeting. Dan & Stephanie responded that yes it was and they had
talked with the solicitor before hand.
Todd asked about the money that was put into Kyles pension being he wasn’t here the 2 years. Dan explained they will need
to look at this and make changes at a later meeting.
Bill Bair Sr. asked if there was going to be a sub shop put in the old grocery store building and how they could do that. Dan explained that they do not know yet what’s going to be going in there and they would need to find that out.
MOTION BILLY, LAINIE 2ND TO ADJOURN THE MEETING AT 6:49PM, AIF
NEXT MEETING – JANUARY 8, 2020 6:00PM
Respectfully,
Stephanie Mason
Eldred Borough Secretary
MINUTES FOR DECEMBER 17, 2019
THE ELDRED BOROUGH COUNCIL HELD A MONTHLY MEETING ON DECEMBER 17, 2019 @ 7:00PM IN THE BOROUGH OFFICE.
COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT: DAN PLUMMER, TODD WHEATON, LAINIE KEPHART AND PAT WALKER
OTHER OFFICIALS PRESENT: SECRETARY STEPHANIE MASON, TREASURER SHELLEY BATT AND ROAD MASTER/PUBLIC WORKS KEVIN CALDWELL
MEETING CALLED TO ORDER AT 7:00PM BY PAT WALKER. PAT STATES THE MEETING IS BEING RECORDED FOR THE PURPOSE OF TAKING THE MINUTES AND THEN RECORDING WILL BE DESTROYED ONCE MINUTES ARE APPROVED.
PAT ASKED IF ANYONE HAD ANYTHING THEY WOULD LIKE TO ADD TO THE AGENDA
TODD NOMINATED ANDREW LATHROP FOR MAYOR
MOTION LAINIE, TODD2ND TO APPOINT ANDREW LATHROP AS MAYOR, AIF. ANDREW WAS SWORN IN BY SHELLEY.
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE THE AGENDA, AIF
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE PREVIOUS MEETING MINUTES, AIF
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE TREASURES REPORT, AIF
Shelley explains some of the bills to council as well as a couple of mayor association registrations
MOTION PAT, TODD 2ND TO PAY BILLS, AIF
MOTION PAT, TODD 2ND TO APPROVE PAYING FOR WHICHEVER MAYOR’S ASSOCIATION ANDREW CHOOSES, AIF
MOTION TODD, PAT 2ND TO DONATE $100 TO THE SENIOR CENTER AND $100 TO THE LIBRARY, AIF
Dan explains the CPA firm and things that have taken place and that they would like to terminate their services immediately and bring the bookkeeping back in house.
MOTION LAINIE, PAT 2ND TO TERMINATE CPA FIRM IMMEDIATELY, AIF
Dan explained they would like to hire Shelley back permanently at $15.00 per hour for 24 hours per week to replace the CPA firm.
Shelley would also be responsible for code enforcement, tracking and working on grants as well as the bookkeeping duties and consolidating the books. Billy Bair asked if Shelley would be going around doing code enforcement. Dan explained this will be determined as we go further down the road. Todd mentions that Kevin will also report things that he sees back to the office.
MOTION LAINIE, PAT 2ND TO HIRE SHELLEY AT $15.00 PER HOUR FOR 24 HOURS PER WEEK, AIF
SHELLEY ACCEPTS THE COUNCILS OFFER
Dan reads the 2020 proposed tax ordinance to everyone and explains the tax increase to 9.5 ml
MOTION TODD, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE THE 2020 TAX ORDINANCE, AIF
Dan reads the resolution for the 2020 sewer rate increase and explains it’s going up $2.00 for a total of $42.00 per month.
MOTION PAT TODD 2ND TO APPROVE THE 2020 SEWER RATE INCREASE RESOLUTION, AIF
Dan talks about Kevin driving the Borough truck home everyday to Smethport and that it would save the Borough money if the truck stayed in the Borough. Billy Bair asked about the Borough compensating Kevin in some way if he was no longer going to be able to drive the truck home as this was part of his compensation when he was hired. Dan talked about a gas allowance and Pat suggested a raise rather than a gas allowance.
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND FOR KEVIN TO NOT DRIVE THE BOROUGH TRUCK HOME AFTER THE FIRST OF THE YEAR AND COUNCIL AGREES TO COME UP WITH SOME OTHER COMPENSATION BY THE NEXT MEETING, AIF
Dan gives an update on the meeting with DOT and explains that the Borough is not allowed to change the speed limit. Dan also explained the Borough can get signage for the middle of the roads and reflective lights for the signs free of charge from DOT and that the Borough can also paint school on the road in front of the school. Billy Bair asked if painting was talked about with DOT and Dan said it was.
Dan explains to everyone that they need to hire a new public works employee and they would like to hire Joe Warnick.
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO HIRE JOE AT $17.00 PER HOUR AND THAT IF THERE IS TRAINING NEEDED TO MAINTAIN HIS SEWER PLANT LICENCE HE WILL DO THAT, AIF
JOE ACCEPTS THE OFFER
Pat asked Joe when he would like to start and Joe said anytime. Joe will start on 12/18/2019
Dan explains the auditor for 2019, he gives the quotes for Hamilton & Musser, Haines & Company and Ed Bysiek. Dan said that Ed Bysiek was highly recommended to the Borough and is cheaper.
MOTION TODD, PAT 2ND TO HIRE ED BYSIEK TO HANDLE THE AUDIT FOR 2019, AIF
MOTION LAINIE, PAT 2ND TO APPROVE CHANGING THE CHECKING ACCOUNTS TO SEPARATE THE BOROUGH ACCOUNTS SO IT’S EASIER TO KEEP TRACK OF EVERYTHING AND TO BUY NEW CHECKS FOR THIS, AIF
Dan explains Toney Clarke is the current Borough solicitor and that the secretary has been calling new local lawyers and other local Boroughs to find a better fit. Nicole Larsen was very highly recommended by the Port Allegany Borough. Dan also explains she will not require a retainer. Patti Bell asked about a previous bill from Toney Clark and if it got resolved. Council explained that it did and the Borough did not owe him that money.
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO HIRE NICOLE LARSEN AS THE NEW ELDRED BOROUGH SOLICITOR, AIF
Dan asked Jack Bell about Mechanic Street and if the Borough should wait until spring and better weather before making repairs. Jack explained the dirt would be covered with cold patch and it should be ok for plowing and traffic to get through. Kevin & Pat feel it should wait until spring and better weather. Jack said it should only take about 2-3 weeks at the most to complete the project. Dave Southard feels it needs to be done now. Dan asked if the temperatures and snow will affect it. Jack replied that it should not. Billy Bair asked if the Borough already has the pipe and Kevin replied that yes they already do. Terry Bell said if it’s not done now then their taking a chance of the line breaking and then having more problems. Jack said they could start the project right after the holidays. Lainie suggested calling the residents and letting them know beforehand. Council asked that there be no planned overtime for this project.
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE FIXING MECHANIC STREET RIGHT AFTER THE HOLIDAYS AND THAT THERE BE NO PLANNED OVERTIME, AIF
MOTION TODD, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE CHANGING THE COUNCIL MEETINGS TO THE 2ND WEDNESDAY OF EVERY MONTH AT 6PM FOR THE 2020 YEAR, AIF
Patti Bell asked why they were switching to Wednesdays and council explained it’s a conflict with school events.
Dan gives an update about the DEP meeting from the 13th. He explains there will be a 2 phase plan for the sewer plant. He said the engineers will do a study of how to keep the plant running and a study for the new plant that will need to be built in 5-7 years. Dan explains the engineers will handle most of this with some help from the Borough. He also explains the Borough will need a loan to make the new plant happen and the Township will then have to be incorporated into the Borough sewer. He explains we can not ignore this and we have to do whatever DEP tells us. Dan also explains that the sewer rates for the Borough are low and that the state may end up setting them in order to qualify for grants for the sewer. Council says the sewer rates should increase each year. Billy Bair asked about CWM and Dan explained that the Borough has a 2 year contract with them. If the council decided to end the contract early they would need to talk to the solicitor about this. DEP also requires 2 licensed available operators at all times. Dan said they will look at this closer next fall.
MOTION TODD, PAT 2ND TO APPROVE USING STIFFLER & MCGRAW AS THE BOROUGH ENGINEERS FOR THE 2020 YEAR, AIF
Dan updated everyone on the new coupon book and explained that everyone should receive them around Jan. 3-4
It was asked why it can’t be set up where people could pay online. Shelley explained there would be a credit card fee that the Borough would have to pay. Dan said they would look into if maybe it could be set up where the customer pays the fee if they choose to pay this way. Jack Bell said this is how the water authority does it as well.
MOTION PAT, TODD 2ND TO APPROVE THE 2020 BUDGET, AIF
Dan explains there may be some changes through the year as expenses can always change. Todd explains that separating the books will change things some as well. Everyone agrees that splitting up the books will make things easier for everyone to understand.
Sandra Chase said the meeting minutes don’t explain the coupon books completely. Dan explained that everyone will receive information on this with their coupon book and you can always call the office with any questions as well.
MOTION PAT, TODD 2ND TO ADJORN THE MEETING AT 8:20PM, AIF
NEXT MEETING – JANUARY 6, 2020 6:00PM
Respectfully,
Stephanie Mason
Eldred Borough Secretary
MINUTES FOR NOVEMBER 19, 2019
THE ELDRED BOROUGH COUNCIL HELD A SPECIAL MEETING ON NOVEMBER 19, 2019 @ 7:00PM IN THE BOROUGH OFFICE.
COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT: DAN PLUMMER, TODD WHEATON, LAINIE KEPHART, AND PATRICK WALKER
OTHER OFFICIALS PRESENT: SECRETARY STEPHANIE MASON, SHELLEY BATT AND ROAD MASTER/PUBLIC WORKS KEVIN CALDWELL
DAN PLUMMER MOVED TO THE MAYORS SEAT IN HIS ABSENSE
MEETING CALLED TO ORDER AT 7:03PM BY PATRICK WALKER. PATRICK STATES THE MEETING IS BEING RECORDED FOR THE PURPOSE OF TAKING THE MINUTES AND THEN RECORDING WILL BE DESTROYED ONCE MINUTES ARE APPROVED.
MOTION TODD, LAINIE 2ND FOR PAT TO RUN THE MEETING, AIF
Matt Splain wanted to speak with Council about an agreement to have in place to use the Borough sports fields like they have with the high school (such as schedules, maintenance and rules). Secretary will set up a meeting with Mr. Splain and Council to discuss an agreement about the fields. Mr. Splain would also like the netting to be addressed.
MOTION LAINIE, TODD 2ND TO APPROVE THE AGENDA, AIF
MOTION LAINIE, TODD 2ND TO APPROVE THE PREVIOUS MEETING MINUTES, AIF
MOTION LAINIE, TODD 2ND TO APPROVE THE TREASURES REPORT, AIF
Dave Southard would like to know why we are purchasing things from Costa’s in Smethport rather than from Smith’s in Eldred. Dave said Smith’s would consider giving the Borough a discount. Dan said it’s most likely because Kevin lives in Smethport but that they would look into changing that and purchase more locally here in town.
Dan asked the rest of Council and also the public if anyone remembered seeing the Borough lawyer at the 10/15/2019 meeting and nobody did.
MOTION TODD, LAINIE 2ND TO PAY BILLS EXCEPT THE BILL FOR THE LAWYER THAT THERE IS A QUESTION ON, AIF
MOTION TODD, LAINIE 2ND TO ACCEPT THE MAYOR SHANNON WEIKERT RESIGNATION, AIF
Patti Bell asked what the Mayor does and what his duties are. Council explained he helps the Police as a board member. If there was a natural disaster, he would also be the point of contact. The Mayor would also be a tie breaker vote. Council asked if anyone would like to apply for the Mayors position. Billy Bair said that Andrew Lathrop may be interested in the Mayors position and should be to the meeting in a little while.
MOTION LAINIE, TODD 2ND TO ADVERTISE TO FILL THE MAYORS SEAT, AIF
MOTION TODD, LAINIE 2ND TO LET KYLE WILCOX GO IMMEDIATLEY, AIF
MOTION TODD, LAINIE 2ND TO PAY KYLE WILCOX THROUGH FRIDAY 11-22-2019, AIF
Patti Bell voiced that she did not feel Council should be discussing the terminated employee in front of everyone. Council explained that they had to motion and vote on the decision at a public advertised meeting. Patti asked if he knew this was coming and Council replied that felt he most likely did.
MOTION LAINIE, TODD 2ND TO ADVERTISE FOR THE PUBLIC WORKS POSITION, AIF
Proposed budget was given to Council and the public for review. Dan explained the numbers and budget information to everyone. Dan said originally they were approximately $59,000 short in the beginning on the general fund and how they had worked to cut everything down as much as they could to get it to balance. He also explained they are proposing to raise taxes by 2 mills. Dan said they are also going to work to cut down on overtime as well as cutting down on capital construction and purchases. Dan also explained the sewer rate is also going to go up by $2.00 per month. He said there is just no choice but to raise taxes and sewer to keep up with everything.
Lori Gross would like to know on page 3 of 9 where it lists the secretary & treasurer, who they are and exactly what their being paid. Lori also would like to know more about the contributions and what is the deciding factor of who they give contributions to. Council explains these things are on the agenda to be discussed tonight and that they just aren’t to them yet.
Dave Southard would like to know about the levee and money to get that taken care of. Dan explained there is a grant being worked on for this. Mr. Southard explains he is concerned for the people that are having to pay for flood insurance. Billy Bair explained that when all this is done they would then rezone for the flood zone. Dan said he will be able to answer more questions after January when we get more information back.
MOTION LAINIE, TODD 2ND TO APPROVE PROPOSED BUDGET, AIF
MOTION TODD, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE RAISING TAXES 2 MILLS FOR 2020, AIF
MOTION TODD, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE RAISING THE SEWER RATE $2.00 PER MONTH, AIF
Dan explains to the public what the Borough is paying the CPA firm and all the work that is involved in the Borough office with sending everything back and forth with the CPA every week. He explains that this is costing the Borough more money than it would to hire Shelley on permanently to handle the same things that the CPA is. Dan explained that they would like to terminate the CPA firm as of the end of November and hire Shelley back at 24 hours per week at $15.00 per hour and explains what Shelley would be responsible to do. Patti Bell wants to know how this was ever justified to begin with. Todd explains that things were not told thoroughly and honestly to the previous Council. Dan said Shelley already knows the job and would be the best one to do it. Lori Gross would like to know who is going to do the audit. Dan said they do not have to use them to do the audit and he feels they could find someone cheaper and they are working on this.
PATRICK ASKED FOR A MOTION TO BE MADE TO STOP USING THE CPA AND HIRE SHELLEY BACK FOR 24 HOURS PER WEEK. TODD WOULD LIKE TO TABLE THIS UNTIL THE NEXT MEETING, AIF
Dan gives an update on the Penndot that the meeting has been rescheduled for December 10 at 11am in regards to the new speed limit signs.
Council explains to the public that they would like to change from the traditional monthly billing to a coupon book to help save money. Todd asked if this would hurt the towns bronze status and Dan explained there are other ways to get the newsletter and other information out to the public so the town doesn’t loose that status. Shelley explains how many bills are sent out each month and how much time is spent in the office doing this. Dan explains there are other Boroughs that use the coupon books as well and could help us with it. The coupon books would have late penalties and savings for early payments printed on them.
MOTION TODD, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE CHANGING FROM THE TRADITIONAL BILLING TO THE COUPON BOOK FOR 2020 AND $2.00 OFF PER MONTH IF PAID EARLY AND IN FULL PRIOR TO JANUARY 30, 2020, AIF
MOTION TODD, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE THE PSAB MEMBERSHIP FOR TRAININGS, AIF
Dan explained the Borough did not get the grant for main street and that they are going to talk to other Boroughs to get information on what they have done and how they have gotten grants to help update things. He also explains how much is spent on renting poles for lighting and he would like to change that.
Don Neis spoke on behalf of the Regional Police to let everyone know the police budget is gone for the year and they are in need of money to keep officers on the road. He explains that liability and car insurance both went up as well as they have to pay for blood work and lab tests for drugs up front and then have to wait to be reimbursed. As of right now they have 200 hours per month for officers to be out and if the budget doesn’t go up for them they will have to knock down to 100 hours per month. Don also reads a letter from DOT about how they will loose more money if they are not out at least 40 hours per week. Mark Burns spoke about Foster Township and how they have 4 full time officers and explained how even the State Police don’t have enough officers and how our local officers are even more needed. He also explains how things would work if the State Police took over. He said that Otto is in the same boat as the Borough. He said we all need to look at long term and how we’re going to survive in the future. Patti Bell asked about grants and he explained that most grants are only for full time police. Don explained they are always trying to get donations for equipment they need such as body cams, tasers, lighting in the vehicles and vests. Don also explained that Old Home Days and the school pay them for the security they provide.
MOTION TODD, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE THE SUBDIVISION IN CLIF-NEL, AIF
MOTION TODD, LAINIE 2ND TO RETURN THE CHECK FOR THE PAVILLION RENTAL THAT WAS NEVER USED, AIF
MOTION TODD, LAINIE 2ND TO POST UNOFFICAL MEETING MINUTES ON THE WEBSITE, AIF
MOTION TODD, LAINIE 2ND TO TABLE ANYTHING THAT CAN WAIT UNTIL THE NEXT MEETING, AIF
MOTION TODD, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE SENDING ONLY ONE PERSON TO THE OUT OF TOWN SEWER TRAINING AND TO TRANSFER OUR EXTRA SEAT TO THE SMETHPORT BOROUGH, AIF
MOTION TODD, LAINIE 2ND TO CANCEL KEVIN’S HOTEL STAY FOR THE OUT OF TOWN SEWER TRAINING AS HE HAS FAMILY THERE HE CAN STAY WITH, AIF
MOTION TODD, LAINIE 2ND TO GET KEVIN PESTICIDE TRAINING, AIF
MOTION TODD, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE THE PURCHASE OF A NEW WIRING HARNESS FOR THE PLOW TRUCK, AIF
MOTION TODD, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE THE RESOLUTION FOR STIFFLER & MCGRAW TO WRITE THE GRANT, AIF
MOTION TODD, LAINIE 2ND TO GIVE THE REGIONAL POLICE $600 TO HELP THEM FINISH OUT THE YEAR, AIF
MOTION TODD, LAINIE 2ND TO ADJOURN THE MEETING AT 8:47PM
NEXT MEETING – DECEMBER 17, 2019 7:00PM
Respectfully,
Stephanie Mason
Eldred Borough Secretary
MINUTES FOR NOVEMBER 4, 2019
THE ELDRED BOROUGH COUNCIL HELD A SPECIAL MEETING ON NOVEMBER 4, 2019 @ 4:23PM IN THE BOROUGH OFFICE.
COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT: DAN PLUMMER, TODD WHEATON, LAINIE KEPHART, JEREMY PRESSCOTT AND PAT WALKER
OTHER OFFICIALS PRESENT: MAYOR SHANNON WEIKERT, SECRETARY STEPHANIE MASON AND ROAD MASTER/PUBLIC WORKS KEVIN CALDWELL
MEETING CALLED TO ORDER AT 6:30PM BY DAN PLUMMER. DAN STATES THE MEETING IS BEING RECORDED FOR THE PURPOSE OF TAKING THE MINUTES AND THEN RECORDING WILL BE DESTROYED ONCE MINUTES ARE APPROVED.
MOTION TODD, JEREMY 2ND TO APPROVE THE AGANDA, AIF
MOTION TODD, JEREMY 2ND TO SWEAR IN PAT WALKER, AIF. SHANNON SWORE IN PAT
MOTION JEREMY, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE THE SEWER PLANT RESOLUTION, AIF
Dan gave an update on the CPA firm about how much it’s costing and they are looking at other possible options. Patti Bell asked how much the CPA firm is actually doing and can we stop using them at any time. Billy Bair asked if the price includes the audit that will have to be done. Dan answered no to the price including the audit. Todd and Jeremy both said they think the audit was included in the CPA price. Stephanie will contact them tomorrow to clarify this. Pat Walker asked what it would cost to have an employee do the same job. Dan explained that they need to research more of the differences as far as employee vs. CPA.
Dan gave a budget update just to let everyone know it is being worked on and they are about half way through it and they will present it at the November 19 meeting.
Dan let everyone know there is a meeting on Thursday November 7 with PennDot about the 25Mph signs. Billy Bair asked how far down Main Street the signs are going to go. Dan responded that he will talk more about that with the Police Dept. and PennDot on Thursday. Joe Warnick said the ordinance will need to be changed to change the speed limit and it’s going to cost money to change the ordinance and the signs. Bill Bair Sr. would like to know why Council wants to change the speed limit. Dan & Todd explain the speed limit change is to help for general safety concerns and also school safety concerns. Patti Bell asked if there would be more Police presence to help control the speed. Todd asked if the money spent on the signs would be better spent on the Police and more hours.
Kevin spoke to give everyone an update on the pumps. Kevin states that there are 2 pumps and a grinder pump down. The grinder pump should be ready in 1-2 weeks. Once the grinder pump is ready CWM will install. CWM is also in the process of fixing the pump at the Shields lift station. There is also a pump down at the main sewer plant and they have someone coming tomorrow to look at it and work on fixing that one. Billy Bair said the blades are supposed to be gapped and to make sure that gets done. Jeremy said they also need to be cleaned every 6 months.
Joe Warnick asked if the grease traps are being checked, Kevin was unsure of this but would check with CWM. Lainie asked about another letter being sent out to the businesses reminding them of the grease issue. Jeremy would like for another letter to be sent out as well. Bill Bair Sr. asked how long all this is going to take to have repaired. Jeremy responded that it would take a few weeks to a couple of months. Jeremy also explained that the pumps are not getting any prime and they think they are clogged. Dan explains that they are trying to get everything repaired as soon as possible. Joe Warnick and Billy Bair explain that it has been approximately 9 years since these pumps were put in. Pat Walker asked about the warranty on the pumps. Dan explained the warranty was only good for one year. Dan let everyone know they would have more information for the next meeting.
MOTION PAT, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE PAYING FOR THE FLOW METER. AIF
Dan explained to everyone that they are looking into the possibility of a coupon book for sewer and garbage instead of mailing paper bills each month. Dan explained that this could save money on the billing. Billy Bair asked if the percentage for late fees would be able to be printed on the coupons. Stephanie responded that yes the late fee percentage would be printed on the coupons.
Bill Bair Sr. asked if the sewer is going to go up. Dan explained that the rates are most likely going to go up. Dan also explained that the sewer plant is 45 years old and we also need to be thinking about ways to pay for a new plant in the future. Bill Bair Sr. asked if they have talked to other Boroughs and Townships to see how they paid for new sewer plants. The secretary will look into this.
Shannon made the Council aware of a membership that could be purchased for the PSAB for $450 per year. This membership would include free training webinars all year for Council and staff.
Shannon read a letter a letter from Kimberly a former council member about Borough paperwork that she was returning with Shannon.
Dan called an executive session for personnel matters at 7:28pm
Dan called the meeting back to order at 8:11pm
MOTION PAT, JEREMY 2ND TO ADJORN THE MEETING AT 8:13PM, AIF
NEXT MEETING – NOVEMBER 19, 2019 7:00PM
Respectfully,
Stephanie Mason
Eldred Borough Secretary
MINUTES FOR NOVEMBER 2, 2019
THE ELDRED BOROUGH COUNCIL HELD AN EMERGENCY MEETING ON NOVEMBER 2, 2019 @ 4:23PM IN THE BOROUGH OFFICE TO DISCUSS REPAIR OF THE SEWER PUMP THAT MALFUNCTIONED.
COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT: DAN PLUMMER, TODD WHEATON AND LAINIE KEPHART.
OTHER OFFICIALS PRESENT: MAYOR SHANNON WEIKERT
OTHERS PRESENT: SHELLEY BATT AND PAT WALKER
MEETING CALLED TO ORDER AT 4:23PM BY DAN PLUMMER. DAN STATES THE MEETING IS BEING RECORDED FOR THE PURPOSE OF TAKING THE MINUTES AND THEN RECORDING WILL BE DESTROYED ONCE MINUTES ARE APPROVED.
Repairs need to be made to the shaft of the malfunctioning pump. The pump is still running but is clogged and not running any water through it.
Todd wants to know if once the grinder pump is replaced if that will help this to not happen again. While CWM is there to fix the shaft they will also be looking at what to do for preventative maintenance.
Everything needs to be well cleaned out prior to fixing shaft and replacing grinder pump while the clogged is being cleaned out.
MOTION TODD, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE FIXING THE SHAFT OF THE PUMP, AIF
MOTION TODD, LAINIE 2ND TO APPROVE HAVING THE PUMP AT THE PLANT LOOKED AT TO DETERMINE WHAT IS WRONG WITH IT.
MOTION TODD, LAINIE 2ND TO ADJORN THE MEETING AT 4:35PM, AIF
NEXT MEETING – NOVEMBER 19, 2019 7:00PM
Respectfully,
Stephanie Mason
Eldred Borough Secretary
MINUTES FOR October 21, 2019
THE ELDRED BOROUGH COUNCIL HELD A SPECIAL MEETING ON October 21, 2019 @ 6:00 PM, THE MEETING WAS CALLED TO ORDER AT 7:00 PM ONCE COUNCIL HAD A QUORUM IN THE BOROUGH OFFICE.
COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT: DAN PLUMMER, TODD WHEATON AND JEREMY PRESCOTT.
OTHER OFFICIALS PRESENT: MAYOR SHANNON WEIKERT
MEETING CALLED TO ORDER AT 7:00PM BY JEREMY. JEREMY STATES THE MEETING IS BEING RECORDED FOR THE PURPOSE OF TAKING THE MINUTES AND THEN RECORDING WILL BE DESTROYED ONCE MINUTES ARE APPROVED.
Resolution act for grinder pump brought to attention by Shannon
The public was asked if they wanted to add anything and nobody did.
MOTION TODD, DAN 2ND TO APPROVE THE AGENDA, AIF
MOTION TODD, DAN 2ND TO ACCEPT KIMBERLY’S RESIGNATION, AIF
TODD NOMINATED LAINIE FOR COUNCIL DAN 2ND AIF. LAINIE WAS SWORN IN BY SHANNON
MOTION DAN, TODD 2ND TO ACCEPT MARKS RESIGNATION, AIF
TODD NOMINATED DAN FOR PRESIDENT LAINIE 2ND, AIF
MOTION JEREMY, LAINIE 2ND TO APPOINT SHELLEY BATT AS TEMPORARY SECRETARY/TREASURER TO HELP TRAIN STEPHANIE, AIF
Council asked to postpone discussion on signs and lights until November meeting.
Jeremy asked about rebuild of the grinder pump. Need resolution, Jeremy states there is only a couple of weeks to have grinder pump on premises.
Council asked secretary to write a letter to DOT prior to November meeting for 25 MPH sign change. The public would also like the secretary to look into flashing lights to gain attention to help get people to slow down.
MOTION JEREMY, TODD 2ND TO APPROVE THE RESOLUTION FOR THE DEFECTIVE GRINDER PUMP TO BE REBUILT 10-21-19. RESOLUTION WAS READ BY DAN PLUMMER, THE AMOUNT TO REBUILD THE PUMP IS $23,000, AIF
MOTION TODD, LAINIE 2ND TO SPEND UP TO $35 FOR THE SECRETARY TO PURCHASE A DIGITAL RECORDER FOR THE PURPOSE OF NOTE TAKING DURING MEETINGS, AIF
Council asked for the CPA contract discussion to be added to the agenda for the November monthly meeting. The CPA contract ends at the end of 2019.
The public is asking for the 2020 budget to be made public prior to the next meeting.
MOTION TODD, LAINIE 2ND TO PAY BILLS, AIF
MOTION LAINIE, TODD 2ND TO CHANGE PASSWORDS, LOCKS & ALARM CODES AT THE OFFICE, AIF
MOTION LAINIE, TODD 2ND TO NOT CHANGE PASSWORDS, LOCKS AND ALARM CODES AT THE SEWER PLANT AS OF RIGHT NOW, AIF
COUNCIL WENT TO EXECUTIVE SESSION AT 7:31PM TO DISCUSS PERSONNEL MATTERS
MEETING CALLED BACK TO ORDER AT 7:57PM FROM EXECUTIVE SESSION BY DAN
MOTION TODD, JEREMY 2ND TO PAY STEPHANIE $14.00 PER HOUR UNTIL AFTER HER 90 DAY PROBATION PERIOD AND THEN $15.00 PER HOUR AFTER THAT, AIF
MOTION TODD, JEREMY 2ND TO KEEP SHELLEY ON AS NEEDED UNTIL THE END OF THE YEAR AND PAY HER $13.00 PER HOUR TO TRAIN STEPHANIE, AIF
THE PUBLIC WOULD LIKE TO SEE A SECOND PERSON IN THE OFFICE AT LEAST PART TIME.
MOTION TODD, JEREMY 2ND TO ADJORN THE MEETING, AIF
NEXT MEETING – NOVEMBER 19, 2019 7:00PM
Respectfully,
Stephanie Mason
Eldred Borough Secretary
MINUTES FOR October 15, 2019
THE ELDRED BOROUGH COUNCIL HELD A REGULAR MONTHLY MEETING ON October 15, 2019 AT 7:00 PM IN THE BOROUGH OFFICE.
COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT: KIMBERLY WEIKERT, TODD WHEATON AND MARK SOUTHARD.
OTHER OFFICIALS PRESENT: MAYOR SHANNON WEIKERT
MEETING CALLED TO ORDER AT 7:03PM
EXECUTIVE SESSION CALLED AT 7:06PM
MEETING BACK TO ORDER AT 7:25PM
MOTION TODD, MARK 2ND TO APPROVE MINUTES FROM PRIVIOUS MEETING. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
MOTION MARK, TODD 2ND TO ACCEPT TREASURERREPORT/FINANCIAL AIF
MOTION TODD, MARK 2ND TO PAY BILLS AIF
NOMINATIONS FOR COUNCIL – DAN PLUMMER, LAINIE KEPHART, PATRICK WALKER
MOTION MARK, TODD 2ND TO APPOINT DAN PLUMMER. SWORN IN BY SHANNON WEIKERT
MOTION MARK, TODD 2ND TO APPROVE HIRING STEPHANIE MASON AS THE NEW SECRETARY 3 APPROVE DAN PLUMMER NO
MOTION TODD, MARK 2ND TO SEND THE NEW SECRETARY TO TRAINING (PSAB) AIF
MOTION TODD, MARK 2ND TO BOND SECRETARY AIF
KIMBERLY WEIKERT RESIGNED EFFECTIVE NOW 7:39PM AND LEFT
MARK NOMINATED DAN PLUMMER AS PRESIDENT AIF
MOTION MARK, TODD 2ND TO APPOINT LAINIE KEPHART. SWORN IN BY SHANNON WEIKERT
MARK RESIGNED EFFECTIVE NOW 7:46PM AND LEFT
DUE TO THESE RESIGNATIONS NOT BEING ACCEPTED PROPERLY EVERYTHING BEYOND THIS POINT IN THE MEETING WILL HAVE TO BE READDRESSED WITH A QUORUM OF COUNCIL AT THE NEXT MEETING
MOTION TODD, LAINIE 2ND TO APPOINT PATRICK WALKER. SWORN IN BY SHANNON WEIKERT
Council asked for new secretary to look into cell phone for Kevin
MOTION PATRICK, LAINIE 2ND TO HIRE SHELLEY BATT AS ASSISTANT SECRETARY TEMPORARILY TO TRAIN NEW EMPLOYEE AIF
Discussion was had on Kevin being in need of tools such as weedeaters & attachments as well as street saws
Shannon is going to check with bank about check signing
MOTION PATRICK, LAINIE 2ND TO ADD 25MPH SIGN NEAR CEMETARY AND ALSO LOOK INTO FLASHING LIGHTS BY THE SCHOOL AIF
MOTION TODD, PAT 2ND TO ADJOURN AT 8:48PM MOTION CARRIED AIF
NEXT MEETING – NOVEMBER 19, 2019 7:00PM
Respectfully,
Stephanie Mason
Eldred Borough Secretary
MINUTES FOR SEPTEMBER 25, 2019
THE ELDRED BOROUGH COUNCIL HELD A SPECIAL MEETING ON SEPTEMBER 25, 2019 AT 7:00 PM IN THE BOROUGH OFFICE.
COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT: KIMBERLY WEIKERT, TODD WHEATON AND MARK SOUTHARD.
OTHER OFFICIALS PRESENT: SECRETARY LOU ANN HURRLE.
Kimberly moved to the Mayor’s seat as he was absent. Jeremy called the meeting to order.
MOTION TODD, MARK 2ND TO APPROVE THE AGENDA. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Jeremy explained that there were interviews on Monday.
Patti Bell asked for Jeremy to speak up.
MOTION MARK, TODD 2ND TO APPOINT KIMBERLY MILLER AS SECRETARY TREASURER. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Mary Margaret Sullivan asked how much is she going to be paid. Patti Bell asked what are her qualifications.
Jeremy offered that Kimberly is qualified and has both bookkeeping and administrative experience.
Council discussed rate of pay to start at $14 and after completed trainings a dollar raise will bring the rate at $15.00 per hour.
Jeremy explained Kimberly will start on Monday. Patti asked if that was enough time to train. Lou Ann responded that Kimberly is capable of using the resources that will be left behind.
Patti Bell asked if she knows what she’s getting into. Council responded that the candidates were all briefed.
Doug Stannard asked about a contract for accounting services. Mary Margaret asked what will the company do? Council responded most treasurer work. Patti asked how long the contract is for. Council responded one year.
MOTION TODD, MARK 2ND TO TABLE THE OTHER AGENDA ITEMS. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Public asked about the open council seat. Council replied that it would be appointed at the next meeting.
Pattie Bell asked if that person would finish that term out. Council replied yes.
Doug Stannard reported that the dike was never burned this year and the weeds at the curbs were not cut and street sweeping never occurred this year. Jeremy responded that there were new employees this year and he would follow up with those items. Todd replied that the fire department did not have time as they have not in the past to burn the dike while it was dry enough. Deb Plummer asked if it is just the council that appoints the open council seat. Jeremy replied yes. Patti Bell asked what the probation period for the new employee is. Mark responded 90 days.
MOTION MARK, TODD 2ND TO ADJOURN AT 9:00 PM. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
NEXT MEETING -October 15, 2019 7:00 pm.
Respectfully,
Lou Ann Hurrle
Eldred Borough Secretary
MINUTES FOR SEPTEMBER 17, 2019
THE ELDRED BOROUGH COUNCIL HELD A REGULAR MONTHLY MEETING ON SEPTEMBER 17, 2019 AT 7:00 PM IN THE BOROUGH OFFICE.
COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT: KIMBERLY WEIKERT, WAYNE KING, TODD WHEATON AND MARK SOUTHARD.
OTHER OFFICIALS PRESENT: MAYOR SHANNON WEIKERT AND SECRETARY LOU ANN HURRLE.
Kimberly called the meeting to order and asked for additions to the agenda.
KIMBERLY CALED FOR AN EXECUTIVE SESSION TO DISCUSS PERSONNEL MATTERS AT 7:02 PM.
KIKMBERLY CALLED THE METING BACK TO ORDER AT 7:30 PM.
Kimberly added personnel matter and handbook to the agenda.
MOTION MARK, WAYNE 2ND TO APPROVE THE AGENDA. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
MOTION WAYNE, TODD 2ND TO APPROVE THE MINUTES FOR THE PREVIOUS MONTHLY MEETINGS. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
MOTION MARK, TODD 2ND TO APPROVE THE FINANCIAL AND TREASURER’S REPORT. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
MOTION MARK, WAYNE 2ND TO PAY THE BILLS AND RATIFY THE ACTIONS OF THE TREASURER. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Kimberly asked for public input. There was none.
Kimberly announced the resignation of the Treasurer as of September 27, 2019. Council wished her well and accepted her resignation.
Patti Bell asked if council would hire new. Kimberly said that council will advertise for office personnel.
The pension joinder was discussed and signed.
MOTION MARK, WAYNE 2ND TO APPROVE THE PENSION JOINDER AND CORRECT AN OVERPAYMENT FOR 2016 FROM THE STATE. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Kimberly discussed commercial insurance and council compared policies offered by several companies.
MOTION WAYNE, MARK 2ND TO APPROVE MCGOWEN AND ASSOC. AS THE NEW COMMERCIAL INSURANCE AGENTS FOR THE BOROUGH OF ELDRED. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Dental and Vision benefits to be paid for by the employees was discussed.
MOTION MARK, TODD 2ND TO ACCEPT THE HIGH MARK POLICY. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Journal entries were decided to be tabled for next meeting.
Quotes were discussed for soda ash. Wayne pointed out that a pallet will last a year.
MOTION TODD, WAYNE 2ND TO APPROVE BARBER CHEMICALS QUOTE FOR SODA ASH. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Truck repair quotes were discussed.
MOTION TODD, WAYNE 2ND TO APPROVE SMETHPORT COLLISION TO REPAIR THE TRUCK. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Terry Bell asked what happened to the truck. Wayne responded that there was a backing accident.
Approving job descriptions and current handbook were discussed.
MOTION WAYNE, MARK 2ND TO APPROVE CURRENT JOB DESCRIPTIONS AND HANDBOOK. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Terry Bell stated that he could not hear council. Kimberly apologized and offered the public to move forward.
Kevin updated the council on public works projects. He asked for six more ton of hot patch. Kevin asked for bright colored shirts to be purchased for public works, Wayne and Todd pointed out the uniform allotment should cover that. Todd also expressed that there are vests out back for their use. Lou Ann reported that Kyle to paint the office sign as it is peeling. Council agreed he should do this. Kyle had also expressed concern over the placement of the volleyball net in the park. Todd will talk to Jame Thomas about the safety of it. Kevin asked council what should be included on his budget notes. Council gave him some guidance on what they were looking for.
MOTION WAYNE, TODD 2ND TO PURCHASE SIX TON OF HOT PATCH. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Council reviewed the sewer operator report.
Halloween trick or treat hours were discussed.
MOTION WAYNE, MARK 2ND TO ALLOW TRICK OR TREATING ON OCTOBER 31ST FROM 6 PM TO 8 PM. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
MOTION MARK, TODD 2ND TO SEND KYLE WILCOX AND KEVIN CALDWELL TO PRWA SEWER OPERATOR TRAINING AND ALLOW FOR OVER NIGHT STAY FOR EACH OF THE 12 TRAININGS. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Purchasing a new toddler swing was tabled for next year.
MOTION MARK, WAYNE 2ND THE INTENT TO ADOPT THE COUNTY SHORT TERM RENTAL ORDINANCE. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Discussion was had on alternatives to allow for better marking a no parking area for the ATA bus at the senior center. Betsy Slade voiced her concerns while driving the ATA bus and cars continually park in the no parking area.
Lou Ann will contact PennDOT to see what can be done and if there are any permits or procedures that need to be applied.
Shannon said he will follow up with the police department.
Hamilton & Musser proposal was talked about again for accounting services.
MOTION MARK, WAYNE 2ND TO ACCEPT HAMILTON & MUSSER’S PROPOSAL. KIIMBERLY YAY, TODD NAY. MOTION CARRIED.
MOTION MARK, TODD 2ND, TO ADVERTISE FOR A FULL TIME OFFICE PERSONNEL POSITION. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Lou Ann reported that there were a few changes to the multi-modal transportation grant. Kimberly informed the council that she is not working on the compactor grant any longer. Discussion was had on the budget process. Lou Ann outlined some dates that the budget process must meet. Lou Ann talked about the housing rehab grant application for $70,000. Lou Ann offered information on a kayak launch and that our engineers have put together some drawings and estimates at no cost.
Kimberly offered information on a foresting ordinance that some municipalities have. Kimberly discussed the levee re-certification and shared a letter that our engineers sent to FEMA requesting he use of their studies reports for the process.
Shannon gave a police update. There were 41 traffic stops, 27 incidents, 3 assists for the month of August. The police now have a cell phone available to the officer on duty to help for better response to calls. The ticketing process has become smoother as there is now internet in the cars and equipment to issue on site. A new hire has been made; the department is waiting for the officer’s paperwork to be complete.
MOTION MARK, TODD 2ND TO DONATE A LAPTOP FROM THE BOROUGH TO THE POLICE DEPARTMENT. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Kimberly asked if there were any public questions. There were none.
Kimberly read a resignation letter from Wayne King effective September 20, 2019. She regretfully accepted and thanked Wayne for his service.
MOTION MARK, TODD 2ND TO ACCEPT THE RESIGNATION OF WAYNE KING. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
MOTION MARK, TODD 2ND TO ADVERTISE AN OPEN COUNCIL SEAT. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Kimberly called for interested parties to submit a letter of interest to the office. She then asked for public input. There was none.
MOTION MARK, TODD 2ND TO ADJOURN AT 9:00 PM. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
NEXT MEETING -October 15, 2019 7:00 pm.
Respectfully,
Lou Ann Hurrle
Eldred Borough Secretary
MINUTES FOR AUGUST 20, 2019
THE ELDRED BOROUGH COUNCIL HELD A REGULAR MONTHLY MEETING ON AUGUST 20, 2019 @ 7:00 PM IN THE BOROUGH OFFICE.
COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT: KIMBERLY WEIKERT, WAYNE KING, TODD WHEATON AND MARK SOUTHARD.
OTHER OFFICIALS PRESENT: MAYOR SHANNON WEIKERT AND TREASURER SHELLEY BATT.
Kimberly called the meeting to order and asked for additions to the agenda.
MOTION TODD, WAYNE 2ND TO APPROVE THE AGENDA. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Lainie Kephart asked if the special meeting on July 29th was supposed to have advertised. She said it was not in the Bradford Era. Kimberly explained that it was in the Olean Times Herald and that is all that is required.
MOTION TODD, WAYNE 2ND TO APPROVE THE MINUTES FOR THE PREVIOUS MONTHLY MEETINGS AND WORK SESSION. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
MOTION WAYNE, TODD 2ND TO APPROVE THE FINANCIAL AND TREASURER’S REPORT. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
MOTION TODD, WAYNE 2ND TO PAY THE BILLS AND RATIFY THE ACTIONS OF THE TREASURER. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Lainie complained about the minutes from the previous meeting, protesting that the documentation of her having complained about trees on Main Street should be changed to portray that she simply asked about trees on Main Street. Lainie clarified that she was now complaining.
MOTION TODD, WAYNE 2ND TO CHANGE APPROVED MINUTES TO SAY LAINIE KEPHART “ASKED” NOT “COMPLAINED” IN AUGUST 7TH WORK SESSION MINUTES. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Lainie expressed that the PSAB class was discussed last meeting.
MOTION TODD, WAYNE 2ND TO SEND KEVIN TO THE PSAB PUBLIC WORKS MANAGEMENT TRAINING. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
MOTION MARK, WAYNE 2ND TO ADOPT THE PENSION RESOLUTION READ BY KIMBERLY. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
MOTION TODD, MARK 2ND TO USE LIQUID FUELS ON WAGES WHERE APPLICABLE. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
MOTION TODD, MARK 2ND TO APPROVE MCGOWEN INSURANCE COMPANY TO GET QUOTES. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Kevin gave an update on public works.
MOTION WAYNE, TODD 2ND TO APPROVE THE PURCHASE OF 6 MORE TONS OF BLACK TOP. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Aaron of CWM gave an operator report on the sewer plant.
Mark Shuey asked what was the cause of the failure of the grinder pumps, was it electrical or mechanical? He wanted to know if the gear box was oiled well if it is accessible. Its not clear what caused the failure, sometimes they were out. It’s more mechanical. Gear box is accessible and yes, they are maintained. A crane truck should pull it out every two years to check it out.
Dave Southard asked if CWM is training our employees. CWM explained that they are not right now. Lainie Kephart also wanted to know why not. Aaron explained that their employees do the work. That would be between you and the Borough. Lainie asked if there was anyone local that CWM was using. Aaron said there is an employee from Shinglehouse that works.
Lainie asked if there were any responses to the grease trap letters sent out and said that they must not have been if there is still grease in the lines.
CWM said that after the lines are cleaned then it will be clear where the grease may be coming from.
Aaron will get a quote on a timer for the blowers.
Mark Shuey asked if for the blower was replaced, is there another rebuilt or blower on hand?
Aaron said he thinks there is a quote being worked on for rebuild.
MOTION WAYNE, MARK 2ND TO APPROVE CWM QUOTES #45 AND #33 FOR REPAIRS TO THE SEWER PLANT EVEN IF IT IS OVER THE COST QUOTED. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Dave Southard asked what was being done about the levee re accreditation? Kimberly let him know that the engineers are working on what can be done right now.
Lainie asked if there is a grant to cover all of it? Kimberly let her know that there I a grant to cover some of it.
Dave Southard asked if the Army Corps come every year and do they charge? Kimberly said they come every other year and no charge.
Kimberly read a complaint letter about a sign on Main St that has a swear word on it. Shannon explained that the police have looked at this complaint and that there is not anything that the borough or police can do legally. An officer has offered to talk with the sign owner.
MOTION TODD, WAYNE 2ND TO DISCONTINUE WORK SESSIONS FOR THE REMAINDER OF 2019. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
MOTION MARK, WAYNE 2ND TO APPROVE KIMBERLY TO ATTEND FALL CONFERENCE. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
MOTION MARK, TODD 2ND TO ALLOW FOR THE BRUSH PILE TO BE BURNED AND THENCHIPPED ONCE PER MONTH AS NEEDED. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Shannon reported updates on the police department. Internet is available in the cars allowing for more efficient ticketing. They will be more available as a cellphone is now available to police. There have been some money saving changes in the police office. There has also been a new hire.
MOTION TODD TO ADJOURN AT 9:00 PM. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
NEXT MEETING -September 17, 2019 7:00 pm.
Respectfully,
Lou Ann Hurrle
Eldred Borough Secretary
MINUTES FOR AUGUST 7, 2019
THE ELDRED BOROUGH COUNCIL HELD A WORK SESSION ON AUGUST 7, 2019 @ 6:00 PM IN THE BOROUGH OFFICE.
COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT: KIMBERLY WEIKERT, WAYNE KING, TODD WHEATON, JEREMY PRESCOTT AND MARK SOUTHARD.
OTHER OFFICIALS PRESENT: TREASURER SHELLEY BATT AND SECRETARY LOU ANN HURRLE
Jeremy called the meeting to order as the Mayor was not in attendance.
Kevin explained that he will need bigger risers for the manholes on Elm. He also asked for 9 ton of hot patch to fill potholes around town. Discussion was had on how far the 9 ton would go in town.
MOTION TODD, MARK 2ND TO PURCHASE RISERS FOR THE MANHOLES ON ELM STREET. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Kevin would like a Sherwin Williams account opened for the Borough; the discounts will be beneficial.
MOTION MARK, WAYNE 2ND TO OPEN AN ACCOUNT FOR SHERWIN WILLIAMS. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Lou Ann reported that shots that are required and recommended to work in the sewer plant and on sewer lines have started to be received by public works employees and the out of pocket costs are being requested to be refunded.
MOTION WAYNE, TODD 2ND TO PAY THE OUT OF POCKET COSTS FOR REQUIRED IMMUNIZATIONS. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Lou Ann reported that the Army Corps of Engineers will be coming to inspect the levee August 13 or 14. Kevin has been taking care of the weeds and preparing for their visit.
Todd suggested that maybe next year if the Eldred Fire Department is unable than Otto may be able to burn the levee.
Lou Ann offered that the Post Office is looking to secure gravel from the State or Federally and will need help spreading it. She explained that this would be looked at as an inter-governmental working and beneficial to the Borough.
MOTION WAYNE, TODD 2ND TO SPREAD GRAVEL FOR THE POST OFFICE. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Lou Ann presented information on a public works management class through PSAB.
Wayne talked about the CD and reminded Council that $30,000 will need to be used for the levee in 2020.
Shelley offered a bill from Bissetts and said that if it is paid before the next meeting there will be a $19.00 savings.
MOTION TODD, MARK 2ND TO PAY THE BISSETTS BILL. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
A quote for first aide classes was talked about for $100.00 per person any day after 5pm the trainer is available.
Terry Norton quoted $3,008.00 for 8 of the Basketball lights to be replaced.
Shelley talked about insurances such as dental and vision that she has found for Kevin and Kyle. The Council must decide to form a group to allow for the rates she had gotten. The policies will be fully paid for by the employees. Commercial insurance companies are gathering quotes for us, Shelley explained. McGowen would like to talk to Council directly at the next work session.
Changing the rate that the Borough pays for short term disability from 80/20 to 75/25. This would be a $13.20 difference Shelley reported. Council decided to keep the 80/20.
Jeremy called an executive session to discuss personnel matters at 6:30 pm.
Jeremy called the meeting back to order at 7:20 pm.
Lainie Kephart asked about a tree on Main Street blocking the view of traffic from King St.
MOTION TODD TO ADJOURN AT 7:50 PM. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
NEXT WORK SESSION – September 4, 2019 6:00 pm.
NEXT MEETING – August 20, 2019 9:35 pm.
MINUTES FOR JULY 29, 2019
THE ELDRED BOROUGH COUNCIL HELD A SPECIAL MEETING ON JULY 29, 2019 @ 6:00 PM IN THE BOROUGH OFFICE TO DISCUSS A RESOLUTION ALLOWING FOR APPLICATION TO A GRANT.
COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT: KIMBERLY WEIKERT, WAYNE KING, TODD WHEATON AND MARK SOUTHARD.
OTHER OFFICIALS PRESENT: MAYOR SHANNON WEIKERT AND SECRETARY LOU ANN HURRLE
Wayne called the meeting to order as Kimberly came to meeting at 6:10 pm. Lou Ann read a resolution to allow for Eldred Borough to apply for a Commonwealth Financing Authority Multi-Modal Transportation Fund grant in the amount of $2,166,792.00 to purchase signage, benches, waste receptacles, install missing sidewalks, repair existing sidewalks, replace street lighting with LED time-period lighting and replace and repair catch basins on Main Street in Eldred between Mechanic Street and King Street.
MOTION TODD, MARK 2ND TO ADOPT RESOLUTION TO APPLY FOR CFA FUNDING. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Kimberly signed the resolution.
MOTION MARK, WAYNE 2ND TO HAVE ALL PASSWORDS NEEDED TO DO BUSINESS WITHIN THE BOROUGH AVAILABLE TO COUNCIL. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
MOTION TODD TO ADJOURN AT 7:00 PM. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
NEXT WORK SESSION – August 7, 2019 6:00 pm.
NEXT MEETING – August 20, 2019 9:35 pm.
Respectfully,
Lou Ann Hurrle
Eldred Borough Secretary
MINUTES FOR JULY 3, 2019
THE ELDRED BOROUGH COUNCIL HELD A WORK SESSION MEETING ON JULY 3, 2019 @ 6:00 PM IN THE BOROUGH OFFICE.
COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT: KIMBERLY WEIKERT, WAYNE KING, TODD WHEATON AND MARK SOUTHARD.
OTHER OFFICIALS PRESENT: MAYOR SHANNON WEIKERT, SECRETARY LOU ANN HURRLE AND TREASURER SHELLEY BATT.
Kimberly called meeting to order and asked for additions to the agenda. Wayne had a few additions and Lainie Kephart added a hole on Canfield Hollow.
Kimberly called for an executive session for the personnel discussions at 6:06 pm.
Wayne called the meeting back to order at 6:19 pm.
Shelley explained details of the pension change from Mockenhaupt services to PSAB.
MOTION TODD, WAYNE 2ND TO HAVE PSAB HANDLE THE PENSION. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Shelley asked council if they would like to encumber or use the County Liquid Fuel. Council agreed that it can be used for the Mechanic Street project.
MOTION TODD, WAYNE 2ND TO USE THIS YEARS AND LAST YEARS COUNTY LIQUID FUEL. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
MOTION WAYNE, TODD 2ND TO PURCHASE 2 SETS OF ADA PARKING SIGNS. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Shannon expressed that Wayne had talked to Don Nies about having the police department take care of the Property Maintenance Ordinance. It was decided that the process would be redundant.
Discussion was had on supervisory titles for employees.
MOTION WAYNE, TODD 2ND TO APPOINT THE TITLE OF ROADMASTER PUBLIC WORKS SUPERVISOR TO KEVIN CALDWELL. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
MOTION TODD, WAYNE 2ND TO APPOINT THE TITLE OF OFFICE MANAGER TO LOU ANN HURRLE. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Council ok’d the purchase of ice daily for public works employees.
The purchase of a vacuum was discussed.
MOTION TODD, MARK 2ND TO ALLOW FOR THE REGULAR PURCHASE OF CLEANING SUPPLIES AND EQUIPMENT IN THE OFFICE. MOTION CARRIED.
Lainie Kephart talked about a hole in the road at Canfield Hollow at Kio’s trailer court. Wayne said Kevin will check it out.
Debbie Plummer brought up that the township had purchased flashing lights for the high school speed zone.
Lou Ann will contact PennDOT again about approval to put flashing lights at the Borough’s school zone and find the cost on them. Deb Plummer then asked who puts up the hanging plants in the Borough Kimberly answered the Lions Club.
Shannon talked about a letter that he received about a gentleman that was pulled over for using his cell phone while driving. Shannon clarified that although it is not illegal to talk on your phone in Pennsylvania, an officer can and may assume that you are texting while you are dialing a cell phone and pull you over.
Sue Fowler asked if the borough would look into flashing lights in the school zone. Lou Ann will do that. Patti Bell asked who is responsible for the metal handrail on Main Street at the retaining wall. Wayne answered that has been the subject of debate with PennDOT for some time.
MOTION MARK TO ADJOURN AT 7:30 PM. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
NEXT WORK SESSION – August 7, 2019 6:00 pm.
NEXT MEETING – July 16, 2019 7:00 pm.
Respectfully,
Lou Ann Hurrle
Eldred Borough Secretary
MINUTES FOR JUNE 11, 2019
THE ELDRED BOROUGH COUNCIL HELD A SPECIAL MEETING ON JUNE 11 2019 @ 9:00 AM IN THE BOROUGH OFFICE.
COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT: WAYNE KING, TODD WHEATON, JEREMY PRESCOTT AND MARK SOUTHARD.
OTHER OFFICIALS PRESENT: TREASURER SHELLEY BATT.
Wayne called meeting to order.
Discussion was had on the handbook Mark and Wayne had no additions. Todd asked to table it for the June 18th meeting.
MOTION TODD, MARK 2ND TO APPROVE THE PURCHASE OF CONCRETE AT $456.00 BEFORE TAX. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
MOTION TODD, MARK 2ND TO HIRE JUSTIN FRENCH THROUGH WORK EXPERIENCE PROGRAM. MOTION CARRIED.
MOTION MARK, TODD 2ND TO HIRE COLE SEBASTIAN AND MARK MILLER AT $8.50 PER HOUR FOR SUMMER HELP. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Kevin requested more hours to keep up while Kyle is away. Todd suggested waiting to see if the summer help makes a difference.
Todd mentioned that the Hometown Hero banners are twisted, Patti Bell said there is nothing they can do about it.
Todd mentioned that the public is concerned about the whistle not going off, Wayne asked for Terry Norton to be called.
Discussion was had about LED lights being installed at the basketball courts. Terry should be asked for a quote.
MOTION TODD TO ADJORN AT 9:30 AM. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
NEXT WORK SESSION – July 3, 2019 6:00 pm.
NEXT MEETING – June 18, 2019 7:00 pm.
Respectfully,
Lou Ann Hurrle
Eldred Borough Secretary
A REGULAR MONTHLY MEETING ON MAY 21, 2019 @ 7:00 PM IN THE BOROUGH OFFICE.
COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT: PRESIDENT KIMBERLY WEIKERT, WAYNE KING, TODD WHEATON AND MARK SOUTHARD.
OTHER OFFICIALS PRESENT: MAYOR SHANNON WEIKERT, SECRETARY LOU ANN HURRLE AND TREASURER SHELLEY BATT.
Kimberly called meeting to order and asked for additions to the agenda.
MOTION MARK, TODD 2ND TO APPROVE THE AGENDA. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
MOTION TODD, MARK 2ND TO APPROVE THE APRIL 16 MINUTES WITH CORRECTIONS. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
MOTION MARK, WAYNE 2ND, TO APPROVE THE MAY 1 WORK SESSION MINUTES. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
MOTION TODD, MARK 2ND TO APPROVE THE TREASURER’S REPORT. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
MOTION MARK, WAYNE 2ND TO THE ACTIONS OF THE TREASURER. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
MOTION WAYNE, TODD 2ND TO APPROVE THE BILLS TO BE PAID. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Kimberly gave the floor to Lori Gross who read a letter that she wrote asking for a tee shirt to be removed from lines across Edson Street. Council thanked her and expressed that it would be taken care of.
Terry Bell asked why the fire department got a warning about their grass being too long. Council expressed that there is a property maintenance ordinance that is enforced through out the borough. Lou Ann confirmed that there were over 30 warnings issued recently. Kimberly expressed that she was one of the residents that received a warning.
Discussion was had on setting the park pavilion and restroom hours.
MOTION TODD, MARK 2ND TO PURCHASE PAVILION AND RESTROOM SIGNAGE. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
The handbook discussions were tabled for June work session.
Debbie Plummer, Terry Bell and Lori Gross expressed concern on property on Main Street being an eyesore. Council explained that the ordinance has been enforced at that property and continues to receive violations. Kevin offered an update on the duties that he has been performing.
Kimberly thanked the Lions Club for the flowers on Main Street and Patti Bell for the banners.
Lainie Kephart reported that there has been a person in an unmarked car and no uniform at the plant on the weekends. Council replied that they will follow up on that.
Kimberly explained that the request for chairs is being included in the compactor grant.
Lainie Kephart reported that there has been a water leak on her street. Jack will look into it. Shelley expressed that the pension can be handled solely by PSAB. She will provide information for Council to consider. She also suggested updating the joinder agreement while changes are being made. Discussion was had on Hamilton & Musser’s proposal. Having them take over the accounting and dropping Shelley’s hours to 10 per week was discussed.
MOTION TODD, MARK 2ND TO KEEP SHELLEY’S HOURS AT 20 PER WEEK, 5 DAYS PER WEEK AT 4 HOURS PER DAY WITH THE ALLOWANCE OF FLEXIBILITY ON BILLING AND MEETING DAYS. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Kevin expressed that he would like first aid training for himself and Kyle. Terry informed him that the fire department does that. Todd will get in touch with them.
A proposal from Stiffler & McGraw was read to carry out the recertification process for the levee.
MOTION MARK, WAYNE 2ND, TO ACCEPT STIFFLER AND MCGRAW’S PROPOSAL. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Shannon read a resolution allowing for a banner to be erected over Main Street for a Hometown Hoedown.
MOTION TODD, WAYNE 2ND TO ADOPT THE BANNER RESOLUTION. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Lainie Kephart asked which officer was on duty on a particular night and complained that they almost hit her car. Shannon took the information to follow up with the department.
Todd expressed that he had been told that the pharmacy had left messages for the police and that no response was had. Deb Plummer complained about a man selling puppies on a corner in the borough. Shannon took her information as well.
Shannon updated the council on police happenings and thanked Dandy Mart for a $500.00 donation. There were 36 traffic stops, 1 arrest, 22 incidents and 3 assist calls in April.
MOTION TODD TO ADJORN AT 8:30 PM. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
NEXT WORK SESSION – June 5, 2019 6:00 pm.
NEXT MEETING – June 18, 2019 7:00 pm.
Respectfully,
Lou Ann Hurrle
Eldred Borough Secretary
MINUTES FOR MAY 1, 2019
THE ELDRED BOROUGH COUNCIL HELD A WORK SESSION ON MAY 1, 2019 @ 7:00 PM IN THE BOROUGH OFFICE.
COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT: PRESIDENT KIMBERLY WEIKERT, WAYNE KING, TODD WHEATON AND MARK SOUTHARD.
OTHER OFFICIALS PRESENT: MAYOR SHANNON WEIKERT, SECRETARY LOU ANN HURRLE AND ENGINEER JEFF SPENCER.
Kimberly called meeting to order.
MOTION WAYNE, MARK 2ND TO HIRE KYLE WILCOX AT $17.00 PER HOUR AND 40 HOURS PER WEEK. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Health insurance for Kevin and Kyle were talked about. Jeff Spencer reported on their services for April. He outlined the services available to council ranging from construction to rain gardens. Jeff offered that he can attend all or just some of the monthly meetings. He covered the chapter 94 report. Wayne asked why the sludge at the plant is being hauled in liquid form. Jeff responded that that is something that may be more efficient right now at least for the first so many loads. He will meet with CWM and make sure that it is the most efficient and cost-effective method. Jeff talked about the CAP and that the final item Phase II CBDG and plant renewal in March of 2020 is upcoming. This means that there will be additional sampling this year. This process should begin in October. He urged that the township and borough should get together to discuss the intermunicipal agreement. He asked that council decide soon on the levee accreditation services as the funding will need to be used. He talked about the history of the de-accreditation of the levee and the steps that will need to be taken to re accredit the levee. He passed a proposal around for council to consider. Kimberly had questions on the geotechnical engineers. Jeff replied that he had gotten a few prices. He suggested that he will submit the findings to FEMA as a plan to complete the processes that they are requiring and hope that they will grant a provisional accreditation. Jeff suggested deciding on the proposal by June’s meeting so that they may begin. Jeff said that the grant is a saving grace for the borough and that whoever is responsible for securing it is as well. Lou Ann offered a summary of a letter received by DCNR September 2018 that requested that the borough make the pavilion and restrooms available to the public during reasonable hours. Mary Margaret Sullivan voiced concerns over vandalism and requested to know the consequences of not complying. Lou Ann will find out for her as they are not outlined in the letter. Mark suggested having the police make rounds as they are out to check on the buildings. Kimberly replied that these are regulations and we have to follow them. Kimberly talked about Hamilton & Musser CPA services. The cost of their services includes reporting and audits and will save the borough money as we will not have to pay for them additionally. Todd would like to talk about Shelley’s hour as she would not need 30 hours per week at that point if Hamilton and Musser are taking care of the accounting. Kimberly suggested ten hours per week. Wayne had said that she was hired for 20 and she is at 30 now. Todd asked about what kind of work would Shelley be handling for Hamilton and Musser. Would she fax the accounts payable to Musser and do local banking? Wayne and Todd had a discussion on Shelley’s hours. Todd asked to table it until next meeting. Laine Kephart asked if the company is local. Kimberly said that they are remote services and experts in the field. They handle several boroughs and the Pennsylvania Association of Borough’s Audits. Wayne agrees that they are good for the borough and will save money for the borough and asked what if Shelley leaves. Kimberly said that that will be something to deal with if she does, but people are upset with all of the money spent right now and this is a solution.
MOTION MARK, WAYNE 2ND TO CONTRACT HAMILTON AND MUSSER FOR CPA SERVICES AND MOVE SHELLEY’S HOURS TO TEN PER WEEK WHEN THEY ARE ESTABLISHED. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Kimberly discussed the upcoming PSAB conference. She said a motion is needed to designate a voting delegate.
MOTION MARK, WAYNE 2ND TO ELECT KIMBERLY AS VOTING DELEGATE FOR PSAB. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Lou Ann reported that Kevin needs some supplies for repairing edge of Mechanic Street in some areas and posts at the park. Todd said that the fire department will hose off Main street if needed for the painting of lines.
Lou Ann asked if she could start a tool drive for the tool library.
MOTION MARK, TODD 2ND TO ALLOW FOR THE START OF THE TOOL LIBRARY. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Wayne asked about moving the trailer at the sewer plant to allow for storage and remove it as it is an eyesore. He talked about cleaning that area up.
Kimberly had talked to several townships and found that they are very willing to help our borough if we need. Wayne suggested a large meeting to make sure everyone is on the same page.
Brandon Freer asked if snowmobiles are included in the ATV Ordinance. Wayne replied that they are. Todd talked about a fishing pier and relayed an idea his son had about digging a small pond at the gravel pit. Mark thought this was a good idea. Wayne asked about the insurance liabilities.
MOTION TODD TO ADJORN AT 8:30 PM. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
NEXT WORK SESSION – June 5, 2019 6:00 pm.
NEXT MEETING – May 21, 2019 7:00 pm.
Respectfully,
Lou Ann Hurrle
Eldred Borough Secretary
MINUTES FOR APRIL 16, 2019
THE ELDRED BOROUGH COUNCIL HELD A REGULAR MONTHLY MEETING ON APRIL 16, 2019 @ 7:00 PM IN THE BOROUGH OFFICE.
COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT: PRESIDENT KIMBERLY WEIKERT, WAYNE KING, TODD WHEATON AND MARK SOUTHARD.
OTHER OFFICIALS PRESENT: MAYOR SHANNON WEIKERT, SECRETARY LOU ANN HURRLE AND TREASURER SHELLEY BATT.
Kimberly called meeting to order and informed the public that this meeting would be recorded for note taking purposes with the tape to be destroyed upon approval of the minutes.
Kimberly called an executive session to discuss personnel matters at 7:02 pm.
Kimberly called the meeting to order at 7:35 pm.
MOTION TODD, MARK 2ND TO APPROVE THE AGENDA. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
MOTION TODD, MARK 2ND TO APPROVE THE MINUTES FOR MARCH 6, MARCH 19 APRIL 1 AND APRIL 8. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Council examined the Treasurer’s report. Shannon confirmed that the hometown Hero Banner payment was not an expense, but just a pass through of payments received. Shelley expressed that this was true.
Todd mentioned that the cost of street lighting had gone up and is over budget. Kimberly asked Shelley if the usage of highway funding was reflected in the budget. Shelley confirmed that it was not and expressed that this was something she would like to fix with the CPA while they are correcting other accounting mistakes of the past.
MOTION WAYNE, TODD 2ND TO APPROVE THE TREASURER’S REPORT. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
MOTION WAYNE, MARK 2ND TO PAY THE BILLS AND RATIFY THE ACTIONS OF THE TREASURER. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Shelley presented a pension release request to be approved by council. Kimberly explained that council needed to approve the amount being requested.
MOTION MARK, WAYNE 2ND TO APPROVE ROBIN MAZURKIEWICZ PENSION REQUEST. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Shelley reported that the borough had received $2,140.00 in restitution and presented a bill from the forensic auditor to be paid. Council confirmed that this bill was included in the restitution ordered from the defendant. Council then agreed to pay the forensic auditor.
Wayne reported that he had talked to Jack at the Water Authority about the Mechanic Street project. The cost of the work at the gravel pit to be done opening and closing the street for the project sand and blacktop were discussed to be split proportionately by the Water Authority and the Borough. Kimberly asked for an estimated project total. Wayne said approximately $16,000,00. Wayne reported that the Borough already has the pipe and fittings. Todd asked if the pit is sufficient for our needs. Wayne confirmed that it is. Kimberly replied that June sounds good to start that project.
MOTION TODD, MARK 2ND TO KEEP SHELLEY AT 20 HOURS PER WEEK AT 5 HOURS PER DAY EXCEPT WHEN THAT IS INCONVENIENT FOR HER ON BILLING DAYS AND SUCH. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Kevin expressed that it would be helpful for Kyle and him to have first aid training in the event that either of them are hurt.
Todd will check with the fire department. Shannon read a resolution to allow for a banner to cross Main Street.
MOTION WAYNE, TODD 2ND TO START THE MECHANIC STREET PROJECT. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Lou Ann explained that she had been in touch with ECS&R (the recycling company that provides collection event services) and the McKean County Fairgrounds. There is an available date of June 29th for a collections event to be sponsored by Eldred Borough. A grant to DEP is being prepared to cover costs and offer a reduced rate for county residents. Jake Knapp asked if it will be a drop off only event. Lou Ann confirmed that it would be.
Kimberly read Resolution Act 99-2018 that ratified the acceptance of CWM Environmental Services contract on April 1, 2019.
MOTION MARK, WAYNE 2ND TO ADOPT RESOLUTION RATIFYING ACTIONS OF COUNCIL ON APRIL 1, 2019 IN ACCORDANCE WITH ACT 99-2018. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Kimberly read an update from CWM (the new sewer plant operating company):
CWM took over the operation of the facility April 1st:
- Immediately we slowed the return rates at the plant to allow better treatment of the
sewage. This will also reduce the effect heavy rains have on the plant.
- The grinder in the main lift station has been pulled and is currently being evaluated.
Soon, we will provide a quote to either rebuild or replace this item.
- A load of sludge was removed from the chlorine contact tank. This contact tank is the
final tank at the plant. It should contain no sludge but was nearly full when we took over
operations. If the plant flow increase from rains it would push this sludge to the river.
The photo shows the sludge level one foot below the surface of the water. This tank is
approx.. 5’ deep. The tank is now clean.
- The lift stations need to be secured better. Currently there are lids that anyone could lift
and fall into. A common solution to this is a chain-link fence around them.
- The lift stations contain a lot of grease will need cleaned soon. We can produce a quote
to have this completed. I suggest investigating the local restaurants to see if they have a
grease trap or at least a program to reduce it entering the system.
- The sewage plant creates sludge at the bottom of the clarifiers. This sludge is returned
to aeration tanks, which creates the “activated sludge treatment process.” Once too
much sludge is accumulated, the operator can simply open the waste valve and close
the return valve to “waste” sludge. There is no way that anyone could have used these
valves in a long time. The south tank valve required wd-40 and a 4’ pipe wrench to open
and we still cannot open the north tank waste valve. We will continue to work this valve
to attempt to open. If not we will remove and take it apart.
- Currently there isn’t an air control valve for one of the skimmers at the plant. We will
investigate what it would take to install on.
- The influent has a composite sampler installed but it seems as if it hasn’t ran in a while.
Is the board aware of another sampler that would have been used for the effluent?
The letter continued to state that a complete list is being compiled and a meeting at the plant is being coordinated. Bill Bair Jr. addressed the council. He wanted to express that tubes at the plant were installed incorrectly and a repair was made causing equipment to not work properly. Discussion broke out among the public about the report from CWM. Kimberly called for order.
Lou Ann reported that the webcam to allow for streaming of the meetings should be working for the next month’s meeting. Lou Ann began to report an update from Kevin. Mary Margaret Sullivan asked for clarification on who Kevin is. Lou Ann responded that he is the new public works employee Kevin Caldwell.
Lou Ann reported that he had looked at and cleaned catch basins at Elm and Bennett, Cliff Nel, and through out town. He has opened the restrooms for the season at Houben Park and is fixing a water leak at the restrooms in Memorial Park. Emptied trash on Main Street, and is installing a chain and lock at the Sewer Plant in an area of concern. Bill Bair Sr. reported that his drain was cleaned out but is receiving on oily residue and continues to clog as it has a 6” pipe rather than an 8 “pipe. Wayne thanked him for the information and replied that perhaps the oil is from the blacktop. Lainie Kephart asked if Kevin had a map of the boundaries of the borough as her storm drain is still clogged. Ms. Lasher stated that hers at First Street is clogged. Natalie Whittemore stated that hers at Central Street was also clogged. Lou reminded the public that Kevin is new and his report may have been meant to say that he is still working on getting through all of the drains. She also stated that the public should call with any concern that they may have so that it may be addressed. Lou Ann continued that she will relay these storm drains locations to Kevin so that he may take care of them. Shelley reported that a formal letter came outlining findings on the liquid fuel audit. She relayed the offered solutions to correct the deficiencies reported. Mark and Wayne suggested that a three-year payment plan be put into effect to rectify the findings.
MOTION WAYNE, MARK 2ND TO PAY LIQUID FUELS BACK OVER A THREE-YEAR PERIOD THE AMOUNT NEEDED TO SATISFY THE 2018 LIQUID FUEL AUDIT FINDINGS. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Shelley reported that the CPA had finished a compilation for the 2018 audit. The audit should be done by the end of April. Beginning of May. Shelley then asked council to consider allowing for the CPA to make corrections to the financial accounts of the Brough that they have suggested.
MOTION TODD, WAYNE 2ND TO ALLOW HAINES AND COMPANY TO RECTIFY THE ACCOUNTING DEFICIENCIES WITHIN THE BOROUGH ACCOUNTING SYSTEM. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Shelley reported that as a result of enacting the pension forfeiture act, the borough will not need to submit the employer’s contribution for approximately 10 years. She included that any state aid received for the pension will also need to be returned. Council agreed that this was good news. Shelley reported that the UPMC group plan would close if the group plan and the existing employee needed an individual plan.
Lou Ann reported that the Chapter 94 report did not make it to DEP in time and will most likely result in a $500.00 fine from DEP. This was due to a lack of timeliness in the reporting of information to the engineer who had repeatedly asked for the same information from sewer plant employees starting in November. This is not seen to be an issue again as CWM and Stiffler are in consistent contact. Shelley reported that 15 Edson Street will be going up for Judicial Sale in June. This would be the last chance to file for lien on the property before all claims to the property are relived. The cost to file for a lien was determined to outweigh the chance of actual collection in this case by council.
Kimberly read a letter from the Sport Boosters requesting the purchase of ads from the public in a publication set up to be a fundraiser for the school sports organization. Lou Ann offered to make copies for anyone interested. Kimberly announced that budget assessment should begin soon for the 2020 year.
Under long range planning Kimberly expressed that she and Lou Ann had discussed the development of a community tool library. This is a program available in other towns that is a collection of tools for public use to borrow. There is grant money she elaborated that can be used to fund the purchase of equipment and the borough would need ta storage area for the tools. Jake Knapp said that he realized that the grant would fund the startup of such a program but how would it fund future expenses like tool repair, replacement and fuel? Lou Ann responded that this program can be funded by a grant and that it would be wonderful if the borough were to secure one to fund the startup of this. Another more common way a tool library is started is by donations. The equipment would be lent out on an as is basis and an assessment of inventory would be kept track of. There is a late fee that can be assessed to encourage equipment return, but this is really a community service and effort kind of program. A library can be as big or as small as the facilitator would like and offer any kind of tool you’d want. Bill Bair Sr. asked about a list of volunteers to offer help to those unable to be included.
Kimberly talked about updates to the compactor grant. She explained that she is including updates to the borough building to allow for handicap accessibility and opening more space for a meeting area. Natalie Whittemore requested that she include microphones in that grant. Todd asked about the smell of a compactor. Lou Ann responded that the company had shown specs of the units and that they are self-containing. She shared that the company suggested checking out the compactors behind malls and hospitals and that these are noninvasive. Lou Ann updated council on Property Maintenance ordinance enforcement. She would like to contact Judge Todd’s office to start the season with any considerations that he may have for the borough’s enforcement program. Todd updated the council on the river launch efforts he is still working on getting land to place a launch. Wayne asked if CDBG funds can be used for the end of Mechanic Street. Kimberly talked about taking Kevin around and showing him our levee system and what needs to be looked out for. Shannon updated the council on the police department works. He reported that an in-car internet and ticketing system is almost fully usable. He presented monthly figures for how many cases have been worked on and calls answered for the month of March. Water Authority reported that the water leaks are all addressed. Kimberly asked if they were due to the spring thaw, Jack reported that this was partially true. Public requested time for input. Dave Southard asked if Mechanic Street project would include blacktopping the entire road. Wayne responded that it would happen next year. Mark Shuey asked if the storm drains are going to be included. Andy Lathrop asked who called Norwich Township for the sewer plant operator position. Lou Ann responded that she did not have her notes in front of her on her phone calls. But it was one of the townships contacted either by herself or the engineer. And that they were not able to help us. Andy Lathrop asked why our truck was in Smethport. Wayne said it is protocol for the public works employees to have the truck. Natalie offered information on Bill Todd. Lainie Kephart asked if taxes are going to be raised. Kimberly replied that they can only go up one time per year and that it has already been done this year.
MOTION TODD TO ADJORN AT 9:10 PM. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
NEXT WORK SESSION – May 1, 2019 6:00 pm.
NEXT MEETING – May 21, 2019 7:00 pm.
Respectfully,
Lou Ann Hurrle
Eldred Borough Secretary
MINUTES FOR APRIL 8, 2019
THE ELDRED BOROUGH COUNCIL HELD A WORK SESSION ON APRIL 8, 2019 @ 6:00 PM IN THE BOROUGH OFFICE.
COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT: PRESIDENT KIMBERLY WEIKERT, WAYNE KING, TODD WHEATON, JEREMY PRESCOTT AND MARK SOUTHARD.
OTHER OFFICIALS PRESENT: MAYOR SHANNON WEIKERT AND SECRETARY LOU ANN HURRLE
PUBLIC PRESENT: JEREMY MOREY MCKEAN CTY PLANNING, SHERRI GEARY MCKEAN CTY ECONOMIC AND DEVELOPMENT, PATTI BELL, SANDRA CHASE, LAINIE KEPHART, TERRY BELL, DALE ROUNSVILLE, DAVE SOUTHARD, ANDY LATHROP, JUDY WARNICK, MARY SULLIVAN, JOE SPLAIN, BILL BAIR JR, AND OFFICER DON NEIS.
Kimberly called meeting to order and expressed that the work session is being recorded and that the tape will be destroyed. She gave the floor to Jeremy Morey. He expressed that Lou Ann had invited him to offer technical assistance from the county to the borough and to hear what the council’s priorities are. Jeremy expressed that last year he had met with Kimberly to outline GIS (geographic Information Systems) or online mapping. These services will help to map what ever the Borough is looking to map out. This could cover road maintenance and costs, water lines, sewer lines and what ever else you would want to map. Planning he suggests the Borough looks at updating the zoning it was last updated in the 70’s and should be looked at if the public and council agrees. It helps with development; it is not meant to limit the development just designate where different kinds of developments happen within the borough.
Sherri Geary with the Department of Economic and Development introduced herself. She said that Eldred had interest in community development and offer technical assistance and that she was aware of an offer that Chris Gulotta had extended to the Borough for planning purposes. He is in the county working on downtown development and she had a conversation on what it would take to develop downtown main street in Eldred. Looking at infrastructure improvement and how they can help. The hard work is on its way with sewer and water. In regard to community planning it is usually a public endeavor and focus group ideas and visions that prioritized community development. It involves green space, parks, mixed use development, sidewalks, signage streetlights. Can work with Chris on she brought Mt Jewett’s plan and it helps them to access money to do their street scape. It is a good way to start with the street scape aspect and fighting the blight space.
Kimberly said it’s just trying to get everything off of the ground. Sherri said they started with MAP program and this allowed the communities to only have to put in about $12,000 as a match and this also outlines a plan and gets that rolling so that you are not always working in emergency plan. Chris can put together a vision for the community and the county can partner with him and the borough would not feel like they are taking on the whole project at once. This helps to provide a road map and then it keeps the plan in action.
Kimberly asked about the borough spearheading a community owned grocery store. Sherri said there would certainly be funding for it. Lou Ann explained that she had information on 3 communities that had done this. Sherri offered providing a feasibility study. And offered to meet with the wholesaler that owns the building. Lou Ann will put a meeting together with Sherri and the wholesaler to talk about the small business development and dept of agriculture possibly helping with funding. Kimberly said that would help local economy to provide a farmer’s market.
Andy Lathrop asked about the cost of these programs? Jeremy and Sherri expressed that it would not. The GIS Jeremy added, would but it is not set just yet but it would be a rate.
Applications were passed around for the open positions.
Spring Cleanup costs were discussed.
MOTION TODD, JEREMY 2ND TO KEEP THE PRICE OF SPRING CLEANUP AT $30.00 AND TIRES AT THE SAME COST AS LAST YEAR. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Lou Ann will confirm the pick up date and that Otto will still help.
Kimberly expressed that she had talked with Keating Township and that they will be willing to help us with whatever we may need.
Billy Bair Jr. asked about putting out TVs for pickup. Council replied that no electronics are allowed. They gave the floor to Lou Ann to talk about a recycle program that she had looked into.
ECSR is a recycling company that will come in and run the whole program. They will take electronics, tires and hazardous materials like paint. ECSR will take the registrations and payment and they will apply for a grant that will allow them to offer reduced rates to residents for the service.
Council agreed to allow this collection event to take place at the Borough for the residents for the county.
Dave Southard told the council that he and Marty had taken the flag down at the park and Larry Johnston at the Legion had supplied a free replacement flag. The council and public thanked Dave and Council directed Lou Ann to send a thank you letter to the Legion. A new flag for the borough building was asked to be purchased from the Legion. Dave informed the council that he would be repairing a bench at the park as well. Council thanked him.
Mary Margaret Sullivan asked if there is a flag at Houben park. It was expressed that during baseball season there is one in use at the park.
Terry asked who is taking care of the park right now. Patti Bell asked if you still call Phil to rent the pavilion. The council replied yes; Phil is still taking care.
Dave Southard asked about minutes and how do you get to see them. Kimberly replied that Lou Ann would probably know that best. Lou Ann replied that minutes are available on the website and in person at the office. Copies are .25 per sheet.
Dave asked that Larry Johnston be mentioned in the minutes as providing the flag.
MOTION TODD, JEREMY 2ND TO THANK THE LEGION IN A LETTER. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Todd asked if the Legion sells the flags.
MOTION MARK, TODD 2ND TO PURCHASE A FLAG FROM THE LEGION. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Kimberly informed council that the insurance company asked for the names and licenses of any driver of council that may drive any company vehicles even for a short time period or distance.
The handbook was discussed and it was asked that a draft be typed up for review.
Patti Bell asked if the handbook would be something that is public. Council agreed that it should be and is very basic and universal although it has been catered to our Borough’s needs.
Kimberly asked for public input.
Joe Splain asked if our new plant workers were at the plant on Saturday. The council confirmed that they were.
A catch basin on Main Street near Tastee Snax was pointed out as needing attention by Todd.
Billy Bair Jr. mentioned that PennDOT has plans to do road work along Main street this year. Kimberly mentioned the low volume dirt and gravel training and grant. Billy mentioned that he also has a hole at his catch basin.
PennDOT Connects was talked about being pursued for the fixing the irrigation issues and the repairing of Main Street. This program encourages the cooperation amongst different levels of government and agencies to improve the safety and quality of life with in a PennDOT area.
Billy said I don’t know why the irrigation issue is a big deal if they are going to fix it anyway. He digressed and said that he does know that it is a big deal, but if PennDOT is going to fix it why is this an immediate issue. Lou Ann expressed that they are not going to replace the retaining wall or sidewalks or lights without taking part in the PennDOT connects program which allows for them to pay for up to 80 percent of the cost of the project and funding can be had to pay for the borough’s 20 percent. Billy suggested getting on that if they are coming through the area this summer.
Lainie asked isn’t the sidewalks the homeowners’ responsibility? That is what has been expressed through the years. Council let her know that having a grant to pay for that helps the homeowners and that it is their responsibility. Replacing the street lights and that saving the Borough money was discussed.
Mosquito spraying was talked about by Jeremy and Billy asked if there would be a map for that Jeremy said that there is one.
Judy asked for after hours emergency phone numbers to be put on the back of the bill.
Why have separate Work Sessions and Meetings?
Council expressed having the work sessions are to last one hour and inform the council of items that need research for the meeting. Having them at the same date provides no time for answers to be found so that business can be taken care of at meetings.
Sandra chase presented an agenda of questions and topics for update by council.
Kimberly addressed them as follows: handbook addition suggestion of including the requirement of ongoing trainings and certifications beneficial to positions and the community. Kimberly expressed that this is a requirement in the new handbook.
Status of grant update on sewer and line replacement on Main Street, Kimberly relayed that money granted to the borough by Department of Economic and Development to re-certify the levee must be used by June of 2020 and this is the focus right now. Dave Southard asked What is wrong with the levee. Council explained nothing, it is a matter of having proof that it is sound and provides protection against flooding so that FEMA will recognize it that way in their mapping process.
Has Martin Causer been approached concerning the paving conditions on Main? Kimberly said this was expressed to him but he is really inundated by everyone and all of their problems. Billy asked if the Township is still working on combining with the Borough Sewer plant. Council had expressed that the pressure from DEP to combine has gone to the wayside but this is something still being worked on. Who is working on the river trail was answered that Todd is looking into that and land in the Township is being considered for a launch. Ambulance service Shannon relayed that Wayne had expressed interest in pursuing and continuing to find a solution when he came back, so hopefully that can move forward. Shannon offered that Sandra’s suggestion in posting the numbers on the cases that police are working on being posted is a good idea to share on the website for the public.
Don expressed that details are sensitive information, but the numbers are a good idea. Kimberly reported that the Borough meetings have been changed to allow for news reporters to come and write in the paper a write up on meetings. They have been invited to come and do that with no avail. This will be requested of them again. Kimberly thanked Patti Bell for all of her service to the Borough in the Hometown hero banner program. She reported that they are very large and beautiful and there are over 80. Lou Ann asked if she still needed help to put them up. Patti expressed that she has received many offers of help. Council let her know to ask if she does need that. The possibility of a phone tower in Eldred was talked about. Mark talked about Armstrong Communications having a hold on the area of sorts. Terry Bell talked about the cost of a tower. Kimberly expressed possibly lobbing for a tower. Kimberly went through a list of acronyms consistently used by the council and their meanings. A list was asked to be put on the website.
Andy Lathrop asked about the cost of the new company taking care of the sewer plant and where did the borough come up with the money for that company. Kimberly explained that money was already in the budget. Wayne explained that the cost of the company is less than the cost of the two employees that were at the borough. Wayne said that it still leaves money to hire another employee. The hiring of two more employees and where the money is going to come from was discussed.
Dave Southard asked for the length of the contract with CWM. Todd clarified that the two-year contract will allow for the certification of the new employees to take over the operation of the plant when that contract is over. Kimberly reminded the public that funding is available to help fund the new employees for a period of time.
Kimberly called an executive session for the purposes of discussing personnel matters at 7:30 pm.
The meeting was called back to order at 8:15 pm
MOTION TODD, MARK 2ND TO HIRE KEVIN CALDWELL AT $18.00 PER HOUR AT 40 HOURS PER WEEK STARTING APRIL 15, 2019. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
MOTION WAYNE, MARK 2ND TO APPROVE THE AGENDA. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
MOTION TODD TO ADJORN AT 10:30PM. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
NEXT WORK SESSION – May 1, 2019 6:00 pm.
NEXT MEETING – April 16, 2019 7:00 pm.
Respectfully,
Lou Ann Hurrle
Eldred Borough Secretary
MINUTES FOR APRIL 1, 2019
THE ELDRED BOROUGH COUNCIL HELD A SPECIAL MEETING ON APRIL 1, 2019 @ 6:00 PM IN THE BOROUGH OFFICE.
COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT: PRESIDENT KIMBERLY WEIKERT, WAYNE KING- VIA PHONE, TODD WHEATON, JEREMY PRESCOTT AND MARK SOUTHARD.
OTHER OFFICIALS PRESENT: MAYOR SHANNON WEIKERT AND SECRETARY LOU ANN HURRLE
Kimberly called meeting to order, announced that the meeting would be recorded for note taking purposes and announced that each resident wanting to speak would be offered 3 minutes each to hold the floor.
Debbie Plummer addressed the council. She asked if Jeremy would gain anything by Joe Warnick resigning from the borough’s employment. Jeremy expressed that he did not. She asked about an incident involving garbage left at a brush only Borough owned site. She continued that she did not feel that a person who has a vendetta against someone should not be able to sit on a board and vote on matters that would affect that person. She continued to ask if there was garbage cleaned up left by Jeremy at that site. Jeremy said he cleaned up garbage and that there was no problem after that incident and none of this is based on personal issues. She expressed concern for Joe Warnick. She then rallied for verbal back up from the public present.
Bill Bair Jr. asked about the last council seat opening and stated that there was an issue with the paperwork and that the way Mark Southard got on was shady. Lou Ann replied that Charles Lasher’s resignation was not accepted immediately and that left him on council for a month because there was not able to be a council meeting sooner and Mark was not sworn in to council until the following month. It was a slower process than usual, but not illegal. Billy asked about Kimberly’s demeanor while asking for Joe’s and Zack’s resignations. Kimberly responded that she had not asked for them. Billy asked who else was there and expressed that Shelley was there. Kimberly clarified that just she and Mark were there and reiterated that she did not demand a resignation.
Deb Kelley asked what plan B was for the plant and is that being hired out. Kimberly expressed that there are temporary plant solutions and two positions to be discussed later in the meeting. No decisions have been made just yet about that. Lainie Kephart asked why a resignation was demanded of Joe and Zack. Kimberly replied that she did not. Lainie stated that then someone is lying. She then asked if they were asked to go to a training seminar and if they had legitimate reasons for not being able to attend. Kimberly replied that they would not be here when the trainings were going to take place. Kimberly expressed that discussing specific employee incidents would be a breach of their privacy. Employees can talk about whatever they would like to and as an employer she does not have that freedom, Kimberly said. She continued that Joe said he would not be here and when asked where he would be, he said his last day would be April 5th. Lainie then asked if Jeremy would be running the plant and taking Joe’s job. Kimberly said that is not at all the plan. Lainie warned everyone to remember that Jeremy is not taking Joe’s job. She then asked that this be noted in the minutes and stated that a lot of the minutes are not posted on the website. Judy Warnick, she said that the reason Joe resigned was all of the pressure that they have given him for the past 5 years. He had said that when Mark came out and asked him about going to that seminar and Joe said no, Mark demanded to know why he wasn’t going to the seminar. Joe let him know that he would be retiring. He said that Kimberly then demanded that in writing now. Beth Freer asked if the employees consented to the use of cameras. Kimberly replied that it is a public building and notices are posted. Employees were aware at the meeting when they were approved. Cameras were also placed at the advice of the Borough Solicitor after an embezzlement case had been addressed, Kimberly clarified. Patti Bell asked where the camera in the shop is facing. Zach Lasher answered at Joe’s desk. Council lead any residents wishing to see to the monitor to see what is visible on the cameras. Debbie Plummer pointed out that the front office camera is not a close enough view of the front desk. Jeremy informed the public that the shop camera is three times as far from Joe's desk and that a truck is generally blocking the view of the desk area. The cameras are meant to protect Borough property not necessarily to monitor employees, Jeremy stated. He thanked her for pointing that out. Debbie Plummer suggested moving the office camera closer to the front desk to monitor what is going on up there. Mark Shuey asked what the plan is for coverage of road maintenance duties, he expressed that he realized that the Council has a plan for the sewer plant employee coverage. Kimberly reported that all of that is going to be discussed under new business and that council realizes that it is not just the sewer plant that needs taken care of, but all of the town’s duties. Jack Bell asked if the council had asked Joe and Zach to come back. Todd and Wayne replied that they had. Lainie Kephart asked if they would come back. Todd expressed that the sense he got was no. Wayne said that Joe said that he did not want to come back. Wayne also reminded Zach that there is an executive session that Joe was invited to too and that would be something discussed. Kim Lollier asked if there are issues with a person who has been working in the Borough for 35 years, what is going to happen when you bring a new person in and treat him the way Joe’s been treated, where are you going to find a person willing to do it? Wayne asked who says that Joe’s been treated badly? The public stated Joe does. Wayne continued that he has been on the council for 14 years total since the 1990’s. He has talked to Joe and he had some issues, but being treated badly was not one of them. Natalie Whittemore interjected that she had attended a meeting a long time ago and she was treated badly. Kimberly reminded the public that the discussion is about Joe Warnick. Debbie Plummer said it is about the whole thing. She has lived here only 5 years. She can only imagine how the people who have lived here their whole life feel. They feel as though the town is imploding on itself. There has to be a happy medium, Debbie continued, it is rude to mumble, everyone needs to hear you. She said that she personally would not want to sit on the council. Everyone just needs to work together to find a solution. Mark informed the public that it hurts him and council to be told that they do not care, because he does, that’s why he is there. He implored the public to find someone to replace him if you think he does not care. Mark Shuey asked how often do any of the council stop to see how Joe and Zach are and see if they need anything. Kimberly said she used to. Mark replied that he does give Kimberly credit for that. He stated that he remembers her doing that when he worked at the Borough. Wayne said if Zach is there, he can answer that question. Kimberly apologized for her not being as present as of late due to circumstances in her life and would like to be at the office more. She continued that she really does care she has lived here her entire life. She knows Joe and Zach cares as we all do. We want to see the best for the Borough, Kimberly stated. The council did not want to make this difficult on purpose, Kimberly said. She went on to say that things just did not work out the way we all wanted it to. She apologized for rumors and that many people have gotten the wrong idea. The council appreciates Joe's service, he has gotten up at 3 am to plow and fix a sewer leak and he will bring Zach with him and the council appreciates them, Kimberly expressed. A member from the public quietly asked why did you treat them the way you did? Kimberly responded that perhaps you have an idea of what happened that may not be exactly the truth. Dave Southard said that the rumor has it that Otto and Ceres are not going to help anymore. Kimberly reminded Dave that his statement was based on rumor and that is the part that cannot be helped with. Dave wants to know who is going to help with getting the streets ready for Memorial Day Parade. Kimberly replied that the council cannot make them help. Patti Bell asked if council realizes what the borough is losing and Bill Bair Sr. asked do you realized the hardship that they are putting us in? Dave Southard asked where are we going to get equipment from and complained about the state of Mechanic Street. Kimberly agreed that it is in bad shape. Dave continued to say that it was nice that all the guys got together to have coffee and lunch. Bill Bair Sr. stated that his concern is that taxes may be raised to solve these problems. Kimberly expressed that Mechanic Street is a project that is in the midst of trying to be funded. This it a hard job she continued, and the council is each doing their best to do what is right for the town. Tina Windsor asked why does Wayne King not have live in the borough and physically attend meetings to be on council. Wayne responded that his address is Eldred Borough, he is a tax payer in Eldred Pa. Tina asked if there was a number of meetings that a council member needs to attend in order to stay on council? Kimberly replied that there is not. Tina Windsor asked how raises work? Do you take money from other employees to give another a raise? Kimberly explained that Council does not, it is budgeted for raises. Judy Warnick brought up details from a lawsuit that Joe Warnick lost with the Borough. Judy mentioned that uniforms were taken away and Lou Ann got a raise. Kimberly expressed that the Borough gives them a stipend. Zach stated that his portion of health insurance went up and no council person came out and explained that this would happen. It was all done at a meeting he continued that not one of the council even know all that they do out back. He mentioned that Jeremy watched his summer help all summer. Jeremy said that council tries to put some kind of structure in place and documentation processes and each time they are faced with opposition by the workers. Lainie Kephart said that you should be aware of what is being done in your borough. Jeremy agreed. Jeremy talked about Park Avenue repairs and excessive cost that resulted from employees purchasing unauthorized supplies. Beth Freer asked if you treat your employees so good, why could you not say just one good thing about them last meeting. Dale Rounsville asked where are we going to get the money from? Why are the young people leaving this town? Kimberly thanked everyone for their comments. Brandon Freer asked why there is not a list of duties for the guys out back to complete? Jeremy said that was something tried to be implemented and argued about by employees. Tina Windsor asked if there is a list of weekly chores and points out a white board in the room. Jeremy again stated that that board is a result of the council trying to do that and again there was kickback over it. Mark Shuey asked if there is a third party that handles HR for talking to the employees in situations like this? Has anyone gotten together with other municipalities, the county and the tax office to see that secretaries’ wages are similar? Kimberly expressed that they have. Zach said that they all have just one person who runs the office. Kimberly explained that this borough works with Kane, Emporium and Ridgeway and Coudersport and other members of MCWAPEC (McKean, Warren, Potter and Elk Counties). Why is the Mayor sitting there and saying not one word was asked. Kimberly explained that the duties of the Mayor are limited to breaking a tie in a vote, marrying people, and heading the police commission. Wayne stated that Borough Code lays out duties. Zach complained about a raise in his health insurance again. Kimberly went into detail on the raise in costs that the council was facing and choices that were available at the time and the final choice that was made. Mark Southard elaborated that he was at the meeting in the public that night. Mark continued that Kimberly fought the hardest to get the best for Zach and Joe. The issue of letting the employees know individually about changes was discussed. Penny Kahle expressed that plenty of people have to pay fully for their health insurance. She stated that people do not like change. Debbie Plummer asked when the new jobs will be posted. Kimberly pointed out that it is on the agenda. Dave Southard asked for the flag at the park to be changed. Zach said we don’t take care of that. Debbie Plummer asked if there is a way to fix this with the employees. She stated that she can tell something has transpired that maybe not everyone knows both sides. She would like to see Joe go out with pride. Kimberly responded that there is an executive session scheduled that the employees have been invited to allow for a discussion with them to happen. She thanked the public for coming and hoped that they would return. She stated that Joe is not here, but wished he would join them. Dan Plummer stood up to say this town is upset and there is not a question of who’s at fault and asked the council to be more open and ask the town what they would like and get some input before business is done. People are mad and he is sure there is fault on both sides, Dan said. Kimberly agreed and thanked him. She continued that every month the back of the bill invites all to come. It is on the website and Facebook and yet this doesn’t happen. Kimberly thanked him. Brandon Freer asked about the meetings being moved to a larger facility. Beth Freer agreed that many residents are guilty of not attending the meetings. Dave Southard asked about the supermarket and if it is the council’s job to do something about the grocery store. Kimberly said it is not something that the council would typically do, but there has certainly been discussion.
Lou Ann explained that the planning commission director and the director of economic development for the county would be at the next meeting. They may be able to help with a project idea that she has been looking into to help bring a grocery store to Eldred. Lou Ann suggested that public come to the meeting to help project that this is what the public wants in Eldred. Judy asked that the alarm system phone numbers are changed and asked for handicap parking at the Borough office.
Kimberly called an executive session. Zach asked that the Council discuss his personnel issues in the meeting and then put his requests in writing. Cobra was discussed Lou Ann reported that Cobra may not go into effect if both of the employees are gone as they make up the entire group plan and the plan may close after one is no longer on it. Zach was asked if he was interested in Cobra and he had said he was not. An administrative fee for Cobra was discussed. Council decided to set the administrative fee for Cobra at 2.5%.
MOTION TODD, MARK 2ND TO SET THE ADMINISTRATIVE FEE FOR COBRA AT 2.5 %. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Discussion was had on how many vacation hours and PTO hours are left for Joe and Zach. Todd said that the check for vacation should be separate from the last paycheck.
Lainie Kephart asked to add that if they pay ahead for their health insurance, it should be paid until the end of April and the Cobra is only available after their policy is over. Lou Ann explained that UPMC had informed the borough that their coverage would end on the last day of their employment unless the council chose to extend coverage at the expense of the Borough.
Judy said that she had called UPMC on Friday and they had told her that the council could decide to carry coverage until the end of the month. She continued to say that she called Lou Ann to ask for a Medicare form on Friday to be filled out and that the date that coverage ended on that form was filled out as April 5, 2019. Judy complained that this was done outside of a meeting. Lou Ann had responded to Judy. She confirmed that Judy had called Friday to ask for a form to be filled out that day for her and that she needed it right away. Lou Ann continued that she had told Judy that the council could choose to extend health insurance past that date and invited her and Joe to come to the executive session to discuss this with council. Lou Ann said it was at that point that she wrote Joe and Zach to invite them to the executive session. Judy had expressed that she needed this paperwork right away and could not wait. Lou Ann explained that she filled it out and kept a blank copy in the event that council extended insurance. Jeremy asked Judy to clarify what this form was for and she explained it was for prescription coverage. Jeremy explained that with the pay schedule and the vacation pay out, it will provide for 2 to 3 additional coverage. Todd asked exactly when coverage would end. Lou Ann said UPMC said the last day of their employment is the last day of their coverage. Discussion was had. Kimberly asked Zach if he would like coverage to continue into his vacation pay. Zach said he would not want that. Judy said not to take out insurance of Joe's vacation.
Jeremy suggested that the Borough pays for the remainder of April and that the premiums do not come out of their vacation pay. Todd asked if that was OK for Zach. He had said yes. Jeremy also said that normally the borough pays out half of the remainder of vacation. In this case he suggests paying out full. Todd said if nothing else this will be a gesture of good will.
MOTION JEREMY, TODD 2ND TO PAY HEALTH INSURANCE UNTIL THE END OF APRIL AND VACATION THAT IS LEFT IN FULL. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
MOTION JEREMY, MARK 2ND TO REGRETFULLY EXCEPT JOE AND ZACH’S RESIGNATION FROM EMPLOYMENT AT THE BOROUGH OF ELDRED. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Ryan from CWM Environmental Services approached the council as their proposal for services to man the borough plant was being considered. Wayne asked if the contract covers the lift stations. Mark asked if the sludge removal was in addition. Mark Shuey if it is hauled in liquid form and suggested the company consider drying the sludge. Todd asked if the company would bring collection system problems to the borough’s attention as their contract does not include the collection system.
Todd confirmed that it is a 2-year contract. Ryan explained that the company will build a plan that will outline issues and a plan to address those issues. The lab services were confirmed to be compatible. Mark Shuey asked for a preliminary walk through in the plant to outline what the issues may be. Ryan had said that the company will not just fix things, there will always be notice and suggestions for approval. Kimberly confirmed with Ryan that he had a chance to walk through the plant and he had. Brandon Freer asked what the difference in price is. Ryan asked that the price be kept private if the job will be open for bids. Kimberly asked that the council look at the figures that were available to compare the budget to the cost of CWM services and that it is within the budget and there is money left over. Lou Ann asked if there is a contract shorter than 2 years. Ryan said that they do not. Kimberly explained that there are 2 programs that the borough is looking at to fund training and asked if CWM is able to train new employees of the borough to become operators and accept that funding. Ryan confirmed that they could. Kimberly explained that CWM will train the new employees to become operators and get the plant up to par. Jeremy explained that violations have been had from DEP and that trainings that keep employees up to date on what the plant needs and what testings are required could avoid future violations. Kimberly stated that CWM is definitely is in the budget. Todd confirmed that the borough will need an operator starting Friday. Lou Ann confirmed that all individual operators contacted were overwhelmed already and expressed that our plant would need too much attention from them. Brandon Freer asked the council to read the contract over. Council individually expressed that they have and asked any questions that they have had. Mark Shuey asked CWM if they have assessed the plant to see if there are any unmanageable problems. Ryan expressed again that they will let the borough know before any dollars are spent so that they may prepare and decide. Todd expressed the real issue is that the borough has four days to provide coverage for the plant in accordance to DEP regulations. Todd asked Zach if he would be willing to train a new operator. Zach responded that he would not under the circumstances. Debbie Plummer stated that really ties the council’s hands. After discussion council made a motion.
MOTION TODD, TO HIRE CWM. Patti Bell interrupted to ask to say something. Kimberly reminded her that there was a motion on the table.
TODD RESCINDED HIS MOTION.
Patti said that she realized that the decision to hire CWM is cut and dry and a done deal. She continued to ask who is going to take care of the rest of their jobs not plant related and is that going out for bid. Wayne said that is what the council is trying to work on. Patti asked who is going to get the streets ready for the parade. Wayne repeated that this is what they are working on, one thing at a time. Patti asked what to do Saturday morning if something happens. Wayne said that they are working on it. Beth Freer asked if the borough had contacted surrounding towns to see if they can help. The council confirmed that they had and their operators are manning their plants and do not have time to add our plant.
MOTION TODD, JEREMY 2ND TO ACCEPT CWM PROPOSED CONTRACT FOR SEWER PLANT SERVICES. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Brandon Freer asked the contract cost. Kimberly read the contract at $7280. Per month with sludge removal at a rate of .20 per gallon. Brandon asked why the borough couldn’t keep the 2 employees we had. Kimberly reminded him that the employees resigned.
Byron from Veterans’ Services at Careerlink introduced himself and explained that Lou Ann had invited him to the meeting to explain the funding and services that he can offer the borough. He offered to screen applicants and that they can work with CWM in funding the training for the new employees and mentioned the SLIP program that Lou Ann had already secured for the Borough. The Slip program will pay a portion of the salary for a new employee and on the job training funding can pay for the training for another employee. The Veterans’ services programs and encumbered employee program can help to pay for up to 50 % of an employee’s wages for up to 6 months. He had explained that Careerlinks is looking to create a circle of operators that could help in situations like this, but it is not something that has come to fruition. Byron explained that the sewer plant operator training is a two-year endeavor so the CWM contract is very compatible to this route. The Borough can refer the applicants to Careerlinks also. He said that the on the job training funding could possibly be used after the SLIP funding is used on one employee too.
Kimberly expressed that the council is interested in hiring a road worker. Byron left his contact information and said that his services do not cost anything. Council asked historically how long does it take to fill a position. Byron expressed it is a hit or miss process. It can take several weeks to find the right applicant. Council thanked Byron for coming.
MOTION TODD, MARK 2ND TO POST A JOB OPENING IN CAREER LINKS AND THE PAPER. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Kimberly explained that the Borough was awarded the SLIP (PA State/ Local Internship Program) funding for a sewer plant operator intern and signed the agreement. Kimberly explained that the program will start in May. Lou Ann said she had talked to the administrator of the program and the borough is able to hire now and apply the funding later because they are aware of our situation.
Kimberly asked public for input. Deb Kelli asked to have her sewer lines marked. Jeremy expressed that PA One call would send out a request for that to happen. Joe Splain commended the council on their reserve that they have shown tonight. Shannon thanked the public and council for both showing restraint as this is very stressful and hard for all parties. Paul Oliver talked about change being hard and that the council is trying to keep taxes low and in doing that people get mad about changes required. He did say that a little more communication would be helpful and that he knows that when emotions are high that may be hard, and he wouldn’t want this job. He continued that change is more easily accepted with communication. Mark thanked Paul. Discussion was had on being able to broadcast the meetings on webcam.
MOTION TODD TO ADJORN. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
NEXT WORK SESSION – May 1, 2019 6:00 pm.
NEXT MEETING – April 16, 2019 7:00 pm.
Respectfully,
Lou Ann Hurrle
Eldred Borough Secretary
MINUTES FOR MARCH 19, 2019
THE ELDRED BOROUGH COUNCIL HELD THEIR REGULAR MEETING MARCH 19, 2019 @ 7:00 PM IN THE BOROUGH OFFICE.
COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT: PRESIDENT KIMBERLY WEIKERT, WAYNE KING- VIA PHONE, TODD WHEATON, JEREMY PRESCOTT AND MARK SOUTHARD.
OTHER OFFICIALS PRESENT: MAYOR SHANNON WEIKERT AND TREASURER SHELLEY BATT.
CITIZENS PRESENT: SANDRA CHASE, JACK BELL, PATTI BELL, TERRY BELL AND MARK SHUEY.
Kimberly called meeting to order, announced that the meeting would be recorded for note taking purposes and asked for additions to the agenda. Jeremy asked to add Low Volume Dirt and Gravel training. Patti Bell asked for help putting up banners up.
MOTION JEREMY, MARK 2ND TO APPROVE THE AGENDA. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Kimberly confirmed that Terry Bell would like to be the Zoning Board Officer, and he agreed that he did. Kimberly asked if the Borough got a list of Water Authority members, Jack confirmed that it was relayed.
MOTION MARK, JEREMY 2ND TO APPROVE MINUTES. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
MOTION JEREMY, MARK 2ND TO APPROVE THE TREASURER’S REPORT. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
MOTION TODD, JEREMY 2ND TO PAY BILLS AND RATIFY THE ACTIONS OF THE TREASURER. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Patti Bell expressed that the weekend before the Memorial Day parade she would like help to get the hometown hero banners up. The need for a bucket truck was expressed. It was agreed that a lot of people should be willing to help. Jack expressed that there would also be the need for traffic control. Jeremy asked when will they be up until, Patti said that that is at the discretion of the Borough. Christmas decorations were talked about and getting a hold of the Lions Club to help.
The Borough will get a hold of Patti when help is found.
Shannon said a letter from Bob Cummings came expressing that the Volunteers at the ambulance department work hard and that it is difficult to meet demands and wants to make sure that the Borough looks at all of the options when deciding what to do in a solution to the ambulance issues that we are facing. Wayne says he will address this issue when he gets back.
Kimberly said the employee handbook would be addressed in the executive session. Low Volume Dirt and Gravel was talked about by Jeremy. He expressed that trainings needed to be attended if the resulting grant is to be applied to.
Road workers receive more points than council for attendance on the grants. Registration is tomorrow expressed Jeremy for the March training and there is another in August. Kimberly had said there were several places in the borough that would qualify for the funding. It was decided that Mark will ask Joe or Zach to attend.
A trainee for sewer plant operator through SLIP rather than a summer help employee was discussed. This would coincide with the compactor grant and having an extra employee to man that truck also. The application for SLIP (PA State/ Local Internship Program) was changed as this was expressed to be more along the lines of what this grant is for and will up the chances of receiving this grant. Kimberly said summer help would possibly be just something the borough pays for again. Jeremy expressed that this may be beneficial in the case of employees retiring. Wayne said that the borough would not be able to keep as much summer help and they would have to take these duties over. Minimum qualifications for a trainee position was talked about. Accounting classes and local economic development training courses online for free that do lead to certifications.
MOTION MARK, JEREMY 2ND TO APPROVE ONLINE CLASSES FOR SHELLEY AND LOU ANN. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
County recycling program was described by Shelley. There is no cost to the borough just workers for the day are required. Shelley expressed that Lou Ann had asked for council to consider allowing the surrounding townships to drop off refuse as well. Kimberly had elaborated on the program. Jack expressed that Eldred and Otto Township are not willing to help the Borough anymore. Kimberly asked for clarification. Jack said they have not been here in a week and a half due to the cameras. Kimberly said that cameras are to monitor the Borough property in a public building under the advice of the Borough solicitor. Todd asked about the location of the cameras. The camera locations were confirmed. Jeremy expressed that the cameras are not placed to monitor the employees all day, they are to protect the borough property. They are not audio, not looked at every day. They are for incidents, council expressed.
MOTION TODD, JEREMY 2ND TO APPROVE SPRING CLEAN UP FOR MAY 6, 2019. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Confirmation of price was talked about, it was asked to be clarified.
MOTION TODD, JEREMY 2ND TO APPROVE OFFICE HOURS OF 8 AM TO 4 PM FOR APRIL 2ND THROUGH THE 4TH, WITH SHELLEY OFF ON FRIDAY. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Jeremy will attend a mosquito meeting tomorrow. Shelley outlined the results from the pension audit and some findings that were had. The Auditor will return this week to close out the audit.
Mark Shuey expressed that the mosquito spraying is not as efficient as larvicide and the Smith’s should be approached in getting permission to use larvicide. Jeremy replied that after the meeting he may have more information. Mark expressed that the spraying that they are talking about will not address the larvae only the adults. Jeremy was not sure, but will bring it up at the meeting. Kimberly talked about the compactor grant and that Department of Agriculture has asked that the restroom expansion and ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990) compliance improvements needed on Borough property should be included and the Mechanic Street improvements should be applied for through a separate grant. Todd asked for clarification on the compactor and it’s uses again. Kimberly said that the Borough would be in charge of its own garbage collection and Casella Waste would take away the refuse and the borough would actually make money with this program. Mark Shuey expressed that a third person would definitely be needed at that point. Council agreed. Kimberly mentioned that at the last MCWAPEC ((McKean, Warren, Potter, Elk, Cameron county assoc.) meeting, a financial forecasting service was offered and will be looked into by the borough through PSAB (Pennsylvania State Associations of Boroughs).
MOTION TODD, MARK 2ND TO APPROVE A PUBLIC ARTS PROGRAM IN THE PARK AS LONG AS THERE IS NO COST TO THE BOROUGH. WAYNE VOTED NO. MOTION CARRIED.
It was discussed that the next step in the development of a river trail would be to meet with the Township. Patti Bell asked for clarification. Todd expressed that it is a launch that is being looked at and that it would need to be at the Township property on the other side of the plant downstream more towards the Township. Kimberly asked who would be willing to meet with the Township. Todd expressed that he would contact Jeff Rhinehart.
Chelsea at McKean County Redevelopment and Housing is preparing a competitive grant for Eldred’s last phase of Infiltration reduction on King Street. Kimberly talked about the Flood mitigation grant to re certify the levee. Our engineer will be at the May Work Session to talk about the next steps to start that process. That money must be spent by June 2020.
Shannon updated on new police officer and code enforcement officer for Otto Township. Computers and printers are installed in the cars. Patti Bell asked if Craig Switzer is still on the force. Shannon had replied that he is. Traffic has not been worked on lately, cases have been in the works and these have had priority.
EXECUTIVE SESSION FOR PERSONNEL MATTERS WAS CALLED AT 8:31 PM.
MEETING CALL TO ORDER AT 10:28 PM
MOTION TODD TO ADJORN AT 10:30 PM. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
NEXT WORK SESSION – April 1, 2019 6:00 pm.
NEXT MEETING – April 16, 2019 7:00 pm.
Respectfully,
Lou Ann Hurrle
Eldred Borough Secretary
MINUTES FOR MARCH 6, 2019
THE ELDRED BOROUGH COUNCIL HELD WORK SESSION MARCH 6, 2019 @ 6:00 PM IN THE BOROUGH OFFICE.
COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT: PRESIDENT KIMBERLY WEIKERT, WAYNE KING- VIA PHONE, JEREMY PRESCOTT AND MARK SOUTHARD.
OTHER OFFICIALS PRESENT: MAYOR SHANNON WEIKERT, SECRETARY LOU ANN HURRLE
CITIZENS PRESENT: JOE WARNICK.
Kimberly called meeting to order.
MOTION JEREMY, MARK 2ND TO APPROVE PAYMENT OF THE QUILL BILL. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Zach would like to call Gruff Electric to look at the generator at the sewer plant. Joe elaborated on the ongoing issues that the generator has had.
Council discussed having Gruff provide an outline of the problem and pricing on the fix. Joe informed council that Gruff would likely fix the generator when he is here. Council prefers that they are called before it is fixed if it is a minor problem then that will be fine, if it is a major fix and cost then council would need notified and kept up to date on what is being done at the plant.
Shelley had asked council to consider her hours for some time that she had requested off. Lou Ann will be out of the office for 3 days in March. Council had decided that the hours that Shelley should work for the three days Lou Ann is off is 8 to 4 and that the extra time earned during those days should cover Shelley’s days off.
Discussion was had on Robin’s pension request and her non payment of restitution as of date. Council asked for the DA’s office to be called to find out repercussions of non-payment. Quotes from a CPA firm were given to council. Kimberly suggested council review the information for next meeting. Jeremy Morey and Jeff Spencer would separately like to come to a meeting. Council asked to invite Jeff for April’s meeting and Jeremy for May work session.
Jeremy asked that the Low Volume Dirt and Gravel grant be looked into.
Joe reported to council that he is low on road salt and that our supplier cannot provide any more to use. Taylor and Armstrong have provided a quote of $2464 per load and the office is waiting for pricing from other providers.
MOTION JEREMY, MARK 2ND TO HAVE JOE PURCHASE SALT IF NEEDED. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
MOTION MARK TO ADJORN AT 9:45 PM. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
NEXT WORK SESSION – April 3, 2019 6:00 pm.
NEXT MEETING – March 19, 2019 7:00 pm.
Respectfully,
Lou Ann Hurrle
Eldred Borough Secretary
MINUTES FOR FEBRUARY 19, 2019
THE ELDRED BOROUGH COUNCIL HELD THEIR REGULAR MEETING FEBRUARY 19, 2019 @ 7:00 PM IN THE BOROUGH OFFICE.
COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT: PRESIDENT KIMBERLY WEIKERT, WAYNE KING- VIA PHONE, TODD WHEATON, JEREMY PRESCOTT AND MARK SOUTHARD.
OTHER OFFICIALS PRESENT: MAYOR SHANNON WEIKERT, SECRETARY LOU ANN HURRLE AND TREASURER SHELLEY BATT.
CITIZENS PRESENT: SANDRA CHASE, JACK BELL, MELISSA SMITH AND JOE WARNICK.
Kimberly called meeting to order, announced that the meeting would be recorded for note taking purposes and asked for additions to the agenda.
Melissa Smith of Keating Township approached the Council. Kimberly gave her the floor. She explained that she is running for County Treasurer. She asked for support and left her contact information.
MOTION JEREMY, MARK 2ND TO APPROVE THE AGENDA. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Jeremy asked to have his name removed from roll call for the January minutes.
MOTION TODD, MARK 2ND TO APPROVE CORRECTED MINUTES. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Shelley reported a reduction in the borough insurance premium.
MOTION JEREMY, MARK 2ND TO APPROVE THE TREASURER’S REPORT. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
MOTION TODD, JEREMY 2ND TO PAY BILLS AND RATIFY THE ACTIONS OF THE TREASURER. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Kimberly opened discussion on the new handbook. Policies on equal opportunity, harassment, workplace violence, new applicant procedures and rules were all outlined. She suggested that the borough pay for clearances if needed for the hiring of summer help under the age of 18. Full time, part time and seasonal employees were defined. Full time is considered over 40 hours per week. Benefits and wages may differ between the three. The right to require an exit interview, health exams and other practices were included in the new handbook outline. An open-door policy, requirement of written references, a probation period of 90 days were all also added to the handbook. A policy requiring a two week notice upon quitting, the returning of borough property and vacation time expiration upon notice of leaving were included in the book. Todd continued with rules on computer use, internet and email and dress code as well as the mandatory use of protective gear. He offered that all verbiage of a borough manager be changed to Borough Council. A public Relation policy as well as ethics, personal phone call policies were covered. Mark asked about a MSDS prep and training class that may reduce the cost of insurance and will look into that for the borough. He continued with the addition of a discipline, smoking, solicitation, and theft policy for inclusion in the borough handbook. The use of borough equipment and work hours and absence policy were added to the book.
The continuation of the handbook development was tabled for the next meeting.
It was asked of Lou Ann to find information of the life insurance policies available to our employees.
Shannon reported that there have been no new developments with the ambulance talks. He did receive a letter from the fire chief expressing his take on the situation.
MOTION TODD, MARK 2ND TO HAVE HAINES AND CO. COMPLETE THE 2018 AUDIT. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Shelley clarified that council wanted just the audit done not any of the changes suggested to be made yet. Council assured Shelley that it was just the audit that they motioned on.
Kimberly read a resolution that ratified the purchase of pumps for the sewer plant so as to avoid a potential emergency.
MOTION JEREMY, MARK 2ND TO ADOPT A RESOLUTION RATIFYING THE EMERGENCY PURCHASE OF PUMPS FOR THE SEWER PLANT. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Joe informed the council of the state of the sewer plant and lift station equipment. He reminded them that it has been years since major repairs have been needed and it is time to start updating and up keeping some of the pumps. He said it will likely be up to $10,000.00 to repair it all. Discussion was had on the repairs and it was tabled for the work session.
MOTION MARK, TODD 2ND, TO APPOINT ROB STEBBINS TO THE WATER AUTHORITY. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
MOTION MARK, JEREMY 2ND, TO APPOINT THOMAS HURRLE TO THE ZONING BOARD. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
MOTION MARK, TODD 2ND, TO APPOINT TERRY BELL AS THE ZONING OFFICER. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Discussion was had on the quotes for analytical lab services.
MOTION TODD, MARK 2ND TO SWITCH TO THE CHEAPEST ANALYTICAL LAB SERVICE THAT IS CAPABLE OF MEETING THE BOROUGH’S NEEDS. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Erlich weed services will not be needed this year Joe explained that they had come last year and we only need them every other year.
Lou Ann reported that John Todd had called with concerns that there are no handicap spaces near the post office and that he had witnessed an individual struggle to get to the post office that could have benefited from such a space. Council discussed the matter and Jeremy offered to talk to John Todd about some options the borough may have.
SLIP is available again this year Lou Ann explained. This is the program that helped to fund summer help wages last year. Council decided to attempt to hire all three interested parties if the funding is made available to the borough.
Lou Ann relayed an invitation to a Flood Mitigation Workshop to be held by DEP and FEMA in April.
MOTION TODD, MARK 2ND TO APPROVE LOU ANN TO ATTEND THE WORKSHOP APRIL 2-4. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Shelly asked for council to clarify her hours. She was hired for 11 to 5 pm Monday through Friday. She had asked for the flexibility to come in early and leave early when audits or billing may demand such attention.
Council agreed to allow for this with email approval for each request.
Kimberly read a letter from Joe. He had information that he hoped the council would take into consideration as they work on a new handbook.
Shannon reported that the police tracks system was put in the cars. This is the program that syncs state and local information.
Council agreed that the work session times should be changed to 6 pm.
Lou Ann will put an ad in the paper.
MOTION TODD TO ADJORN AT 9:45 PM. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
NEXT WORK SESSION – March 6, 2019 6:00 pm.
NEXT MEETING – March 19, 2019 7:00 pm.
Respectfully,
Lou Ann Hurrle
Eldred Borough Secretary
MINUTES FOR JANUARY 15, 2019
THE ELDRED BOROUGH COUNCIL HELD THEIR REGULAR MEETING JANUARY 15, 2019 @ 7:00 PM IN THE BOROUGH OFFICE.
COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT: PRESIDENT KIMBERLY WEIKERT, WAYNE KING- VIA PHONE, TODD WHEATON, AND MARK SOUTHARD.
OTHER OFFICIALS PRESENT: MAYOR SHANNON WEIKERT, SECRETARY LOU ANN HURRLE AND TREASURER SHELLEY BATT.
CITIZENS PRESENT: SANDRA CHASE, NORM MILNE, BECKY MILNE AND JOE WARNICK.
Kimberly called meeting to order, announced that the meeting would be recorded for note taking purposes and asked for additions to the agenda.
Becky and Norm Milne asked to be added to the agenda.
MOTION TODD, MARK 2ND TO APPROVE THE MINUTES. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
MOTION TODD, MARK 2ND TO APPROVE THE TREASURER’S REPORT AND RATIFY THE ACTIONS OF THE TREASURER. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
MOTION WAYNE, TODD 2ND, TO APPROVE THE AGENDA. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Norm and Becky Milne ask if the Borough would allow for them to put a sidewalk where emergency vehicles turn around at the borough property and the end of their property. The Borough had no objection.
MOTION WAYNE, MARK 2ND TO APPROVE THE EXTENSION OF THE SIDEWALK AT 5 CAMPBELL. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Shelley explained the contents of a letter from the CPA and changes that the CPA recommended based on her initial findings.
An agreement and proposal were also offered in the amount of $4,000.00 for 2018 audit and $3520.00 for 2017 audit.
After discussion, council agreed to pay for 2017 audit and continue looking for another auditor.
MOTION TODD, WAYNE 2ND, TO PAY 2017 AUDIT AT $3520.00. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Discussion was had on the appointed auditor and alternative auditors.
MOTION TODD, WAYNE 2ND TO PAY HAINES AND CO. FOR THE 2017 AUDIT. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Shelley requested council to consider making the recommended changes by Haines and Co. in the Borough accounting books and methods. Their quote was for $1500.00 to make the changes. Kimberly suggested holding off as all of the accounting costs should be looked at as a whole.
She continued and suggested that auditors and accounting services be looked into as soon as possible for PSAB and other companies.
Lou Ann informed Council that the Ole Blue is not accessible for Work Sessions. Kimberly suggested showing webinars for work sessions that do not have a full agenda.
MOTION WAYNE, MARK 2ND TO HOLD PUBLIC WORK SESSIONS ON THE FIRST WEDNESDAY OF EVERY MONTH AT THE BOROUGH OFFICE AT 7 PM STARTING FEB. 6TH 2019. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
There was no update on the ambulance meetings from the Mayor just yet. He would like to gather more accurate information from the 911 center.
Discussion was had on the cameras and keystroke services. Shannon will look into the keystroke programs.
Council agreed to purchase the $199.00 Camera system from Amazon.
Joe reported that the pump should have been on order as of last week. He will call tomorrow.
Joe offered that he will be at the Water Authority meeting tomorrow and will report back on their plans for Mechanic Street.
Discussion was had on a vacancy board.
Sandra Chase was appointed Chair of the Vacancy Board.
MOTION TODD, MARK 2ND TO APPOINT SANDRA CHASE AS VACANCY BOARD CHAIR. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Council thanked Sandra Chase.
MOTION TODD, WAYNE 2ND TO APPOINT TONY CLARKE AS SOLICITOR. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
MOTION TODD, WAYNE 2ND TO APPOINT LOU ANN HURRLE AS THE OPEN RECORDS OFFICER. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
MOTION WAYNE, TODD 2ND TO APPOINT STIFFLER AND MCGRAW AS ENGINEERS. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
MOTION TODD, MARK 2ND TO APPOINT SHELLEY BATT AS TREASURER AND LOU ANN HURRLE AS SECRETARY. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Discussion was had on which seat was up at the Water Authority. Lou Ann will contact the Water Authority tomorrow for that information.
Zoning board officer was also discussed and an interested party will be looked for. These were tabled.
MOTION MARK, TODD 2ND TO APPOINT MARK GRASSI AS BUILDING INSPECTOR. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Shelley explained that her notary services have fees that are standard. Clarification on who must pay and who is exempt was asked for. Council agreed that all Borough related services will not be charged, however all other services must be charged to all customers. Fees were set as follows: Copies are $.25 per page and faxes are $.25 per entire fax.
Shelley provided information on insurance policies for her as a notary.
MOTION WAYNE, MARK 2ND, TO PURCHASE POLICY AT COST OF $21.25 FOR A $15,000.00 POLICY. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Council asked that services be published in the newsletter and website as they are made available.
The Mayor reported that the police met with the DA’s office to discuss towing bills and such for large accidents. He continued that when these are to be paid, it takes away from police hours on the streets.
Lou Ann will make a list of Authority members and what terms they hold.
Executive session was called at 9:15 PM.
Kimberly called meeting back to order at 9:35 pm.
Todd showed a map that outlined the property lines near a site to be considered as a kayak launch and the owner names of the property. Lou Ann updated Todd on the last meeting with DCNR and the State Game Commission. It was left off that Borough Council will need to get with the Township to approach land owners abutting the State Game land in that area.
A handbook that is being used as an outline for a new employee handbook was assigned in sections to council members to look at for the work session on Feb. 6th.
MOTION TODD TO ADJORN AT 9:45 PM.
NEXT WORK SESSION – February 6, 2019 7:00 pm.
NEXT MEETING – February 19, 2019 7:00 pm.
Respectfully,
Lou Ann Hurrle
Eldred Borough Secretary
MINUTES FOR DECEMBER 18, 2018
THE ELDRED BOROUGH COUNCIL HELD THEIR REGULAR MEETING DECEMBER 18, 2018 @ 7:00 PM IN THE BOROUGH OFFICE.
COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT: PRESIDENT KIMBERLY WEIKERT, WAYNE KING- VIA PHONE, TODD WHEATON, MARK SOUTHARD AND JEREMY PRESCOTT.
OTHER OFFICIALS PRESENT: MAYOR SHANNON WEIKERT, SECRETARY LOU ANN HURRLE AND TREASURER SHELLEY BATT.
CITIZENS PRESENT: ED ARMSTRONG, BILL BAIR JR., SANDRA CHASE, MITCH GROSS, JACK BELL AND JOE WARNICK.
Raises were discussed, Kimberly noted that the preliminary budget was already passed and did not include raises. Discussion was had on a junior council person program. It was asked that Ms. Daniels is gotten ahold at the high school. The next MCWAPEC dinner was asked to be inquired on.
President Kimberly Weikert called the meeting to order, announced that the meeting would be recorded for note taking purposes and that the tape would be destroyed upon the approval of minutes and then asked for additions to the agenda.
MOTION BY JEREMY, 2ND TODD TO APPROVE THE AGENDA. MOTION CARRIED ALL IN FAVOR.
MOTION BY TODD, 2ND JEREMY TO APPROVE PREVIOUS MONTH’S REGULAR MEETING MINUTES. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
MOTION BY JEREMY, 2ND TODD TO APPROVE THE FINANCIAL CONDITION AND TREASURER’S REPORT AND TO RATIFY THE ACTIONS OF THE TREASURER ON BILLS ALREADY PAID. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
MOTION BY JEREMY, 2ND TODD TO PAY THE BILLS PRESENTED. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Mayor Shannon Weikert administered the Oath of Office to Mark Southard, who was sworn into office as a council person.
Billy asked if this opening was advertised. Kimberly replied that it had been online and on the newsletter.
Council asked what the truck was advertised to start bids at. Lou Ann had replied $1,500.00. Council agreed that they had asked for the bids to start at a much higher price.
Kimberly opened the sealed bids as follows: $6,600.00 Taylor & Armstrong, $9,106.00 Jeff Moyer, $9,185.00 Will. K Todd, $ 7,276.00 Mitch Gross, $3,557.00 Bill Weidow, $2,362.00 Fred Charleton and $5,576.00 Ron Rittberg.
Council discussed not accepting any of the bids and re-advertising at a higher price. Council then awarded William Todd the bid at $9,185.00.
MOTION BY WAYNE, 2ND MARK TO ACCEPT WILLIAM TODD’S BID FOR THE 2008 Ford F-250 XLT Four Wheel Drive Pickup TRUCK AT $9185.00. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Kimberly read the tax ordinance that set millage rate at 7.5. Bill asked how much was the millage raised. Council replied 1 mill.
MOTION BY JEREMY, 2ND MARK TO ADOPT TAX ORDINANCE SETTING MILLAGE AT 7.5 MILLS. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Kimberly read an ordinance that set the sewage rate at $40.00 per month.
MOTION BY JEREMY, 2ND MARK TO ADOPT THE SEWAGE ORDINANCE AMENDMENT TO CHARGE $40.00 PER MONTH FOR SEWAGE RENTAL, $1,500.00 FOR NEW CONNECTIONS AND EXEMPTION ALLOWANCES FOR EXISTING CUSTOMERS. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Kimberly discussed the budget and asked for a motion to pass.
MOTION BY TODD, 2ND JEREMY TO PASS THE 2019 BUDGET. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Bill Bair Jr. asked for a copy of the 2019 budget.
Updates to the employee handbook were asked about, this was tabled for later in the meeting.
Jeremy reported that he had stopped to look at the tracfone and it was not available at that time, but was told that it does not work. Zach said that he does not need to be reimbursed and would rather use his own cell phone. Kimberly asked why the borough even needed the extra cell phone. Billy reminded council that when he was on council it was put in place for the sewer plant alarm to contact whoever was on duty when the alarm was going off. Todd asked what happens when Zach is out of town and Joe won’t use it?
It was explained that the alarm company calls a list of contacts 4 or 5 assigned numbers in order until there is a response.
Todd replied that if it is not being used then the borough should not renew it. Discussion was had on who is on the notification list and asked that it be updated to this order: Zach, Joe, the office, the President, and the Vice President.
It was requested that the phone be brought out front to the office.
Kimberly said that the work Sessions need to happen on a different date than the meetings as they are not as productive as they could be if they were just one hour long and for the purpose of assigning tasks and reporting information to council members.
Todd asked why the School Board can hold closed meetings. Kimberly explained that they cannot except for a few very specific reasons. Billy asked what ever happened to executive sessions. Kimberly responded that executive sessions are not a common or normal part of meetings, if they are it is a red flag that there is unethical behavior regarding the Sunshine Act within that council or board.
The Act, she continued is in place to protect the public and keep them informed of what is being decided and discussed in that council.
She suggested on the first Wednesday of every month at the Ole Blue at 7 pm for the work Sessions.
Jack Bell asked about people who do not want to be in a bar and how would they be attending. Kimberly responded that it would be up to an individual to choose not to come, they would still be public meetings.
Mitch asked if there is smoking allowed in the Blue. He was informed that there is not.
MOTION BY JEREMY, 2ND TODD TO HOLD WORK SESSIONS ON THE FIRST WEDNESDAY OF EVERY MONTH STARTING FEBRUARY 6, 2019 AT 7:00 PM. WAYNE OPPOSED, MOTION CARRIED.
It was asked if Shelley and Lou Ann must attend and if the Borough must pay for the work sessions. Kimberly stated that the Treasurer does not the Secretary does and council is paid for the meetings.
Shannon reported on the ambulance situation and that he would like to meet with the Eldred Ambulance Department privately and Priority Care separately and then hold a joint meeting to try to work out a solution to the response time issues.
He suggested that this would help to create a civil atmosphere and allow for the solutions to be discussed.
Billy asked if Priority Care was called out at the same time as Eldred. The council informed him that Priority Care is called after The Borough does not respond in the ten minutes allotted. Discussion was had on the reported response time / count report given to Council from the 911 center. Ed Armstrong expressed that the only thing that should be considered in these talks is the wellbeing of the people needing the ambulance services, and nothing else.
Shannon agreed that something needs to be done, and the Borough is going to make sure a solution is had through the proposed meetings.
Ed Armstrong left the meeting at this time.
Kimberly reported that a pump is broken at the plant and a motion to approve the purchase of a part to fix it is in order. She explained that it will take time for the part to get here and for the tech to come out to install the part.
MOTION BY TODD, 2ND JEREMY TO PURCHASE THE PART AT $1245.00 AND APPROX. $500.00 INSTALLATION FEES. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Billy asked why it took so long to approve the purchase of this part? Kimberly informed Billy that twice before this meeting it was attempted to get enough council together for a quorum to hold a meeting to discuss the repair of the pump to no avail.
Billy then reported street light outages and that it is the responsibility of the council to make sure we are safe.
Billy left at that time.
Discussion was had on Billy getting back on council.
Plowing Church Alley was talked about as a resident had called in to ask why the Borough does not plow this street. Council and Joe expressed that this is not the property of the Borough and the Borough cannot afford to plow the privately-owned area as it causes too many liabilities as proven in the past at that very location.
Some want it plowed and others want repairs to property as a result of the plowing. Council stands by the decision to not plow Church Alley.
Video surveillance systems and keystroke programs were discussed as safety measures for the Borough buildings and office.
Kimberly reported that the suggested moving forward on those plans.
Sandra Chase asked about more frequent audits on the Borough than the annual one we receive now. After some talk, Kimberly states that maybe those precautions and others will help as well.
Joe asked if the cameras will be going in the shop as well as the office. Todd said that the Council is not talking about watching Joe in the shop, that the cameras would be facing the door.
MOTION BY JEREMY, 2ND MARK TO PURCHASE CAMERAS AND A KEYSTROKE PROGRAM. TODD AND WAYNE OPPOSE, MOTION CARRIED.
Membership into the PSAB Legal Services Program was discussed. This would provide legal consultation at low to no cost for the Council on Employee issues with membership.
MOTION MARK, TODD 2ND, TO APPROVE MEMBERSHIP IN THE PSAB LEGAL SERVICES PROGRAM AT $300.00 ANNUALLY. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
The lack of the proper number of speed limit signs in town was mentioned by Jeremy. Don had informed him that the signs are not properly displayed in all areas to allow for ticketing.
Joe and Wayne expressed that there are only 4 signs missing in town and that Joe has them in the shop.
Council discussed bonuses and donations.
MOTION BY TODD, MARK 2ND TO MAKE BONUSES AND DONATIONS AS ALLOTTED FOR IN THE APPROVED BUDGET. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Shelley informed Council that an executor of an account in the Borough has asked if they can have an exception to the late fees for their account until January as they will be in a transition period until that point.
Wayne pointed out that if an exception is made it will be an exception to the amended ordinance that the Council just adopted and that is not typically allowable. Council agreed that policy does not allow for any exceptions or discounts on sewer bills.
Todd asked how long the discussion on policy changes will take. Kimberly asked Jeremy to take the floor for the handbook information. Jeremy offered that the handbook sample that he had provided the council to review covers a lot of what the Borough is missing and does have some things that do not apply to this Borough.
Wayne suggested using a work session to cover the handbook. Kimberly agreed and asked Council to look through it and dispose of anything that they feel does not apply to this Borough. She asked Council to look at PTO and Vacations. She asked if it should be changed to just use it or loose it rather than paying out any of the time.
MOTION JEREMY, MARK 2ND, TO MAKE THE CHANGE TO ALL PTO AND VACATION TO USE IT OR LOOSE IT STARTING JANUARY 2019. TODD OPPOSED, MOTION CARRIED.
Shelley reported that the uniform stipend payout description in the handbook also needed to be changed to reflect more accurately what is being done.
MOTION TODD, MARK 2ND TO ALLOW FOR THE CLOTHING STIPEND OF $250.00 PER SEWER PLANT WORKER TO BE PAID IN FULL IN JANUARY IN LUMP SUM. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
CDBG Inscale should get back to us by February with new drawings and estimates for the application.
E&M will conference call for January’s meeting to respond on the microfilmed information we have sent to them.
Council had asked to add speed limit fines to the discussion for the work session.
Council asked to find out if the Ole Blue is ADA accessible.
Mayor Shannon Weikert reported that the police have passed their budget for 2019 and the Township had chosen to increase their contribution to the police by $1,500 per year as well.
Kimberly will contact a reporter to attend meetings for 2019.
Kimberly called an executive session to discuss ongoing legal matters at 9:25 pm.
Kimberly called the meeting to order at 10:20 pm
MOTION TODD, JEREMY 2ND, TO ACCEPT THE $2,000.00 SETTLEMENT OFFER IN JOE’S CASE. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
MOTION WAYNE TO ADJORN AT 10:25 PM.
NEXT WORK SESSION – January 15, 2019 6:30 pm.
NEXT MEETING – January 15, 2019 7:00 pm.
Respectfully,
Lou Ann Hurrle
Eldred Borough Secretary
MINUTES FOR SPECIAL MEETING NOVEMBER 28, 2018
THE ELDRED BOROUGH COUNCIL HELD THEIR REGULAR MEETING NOVEMBER 28, 2018 @ 6:00 PM IN THE BOROUGH OFFICE.
COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT: PRESIDENT KIMBERLY WEIKERT, ZACH LASHER, WAYNE KING- VIA PHONE, TODD WHEATON AND JEREMY PRESCOTT.
OTHER OFFICIALS PRESENT: MAYOR SHANNON WEIKERT, SECRETARY LOU ANN HURRLE AND TREASURER SHELLEY BATT.
CITIZENS PRESENT: TIM GOTSHALL, JOE WARNICK AND MARK SOUTHARD.
President Kimberly Weikert called the meeting to order, Zach Lasher left the meeting. Kimberly announced that the meeting would be recorded for note taking purposes and that the tape would be destroyed upon the approval of minutes and then asked for additions to the agenda.
Kimberly read a letter of resignation from Zach Lasher.
MOTION BY TODD, 2ND JEREMY, TO ACCEPT ZACH LASHER’S LETTER OF RESIGNATION. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Kimberly opened the floor to nominations. Wayne nominated Mark Southard. Kimberly closed the nominations. Tim Gotshall stated what the voting registration and residency requirements for council qualification were according to his interpretation.
MOTION BY JEREMY, 2ND TODD TO APPOINT MARK SOUTHARD TO COUNCIL. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Todd asked to have matters not urgent tabled for next meeting.
Tim Gotshall spoke about the ambulance service and reported information that he had heard regarding council entertaining the reassignment of a different ambulance company to Eldred Borough. Shannon explained that this is something that is being looked into and that Kevin Cummings and Brian Gustin have been talked to and a meeting involving all parties is anticipated to be had.
MOTION BY TODD, 2ND JEREMY TO APPROVE THE AGENDA. MOTION CARRIED ALL IN FAVOR.
MOTION BY JEREMY, 2ND TODD TO STRIKE THE WORKMAN’S COMP STATEMENT FROM THE PRELIMINARY MINUTES AND APPROVE OCTOBER REGULAR AND NOVEMBER 9TH MEETING MINUTES. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
MOTION BY TODD, 2ND JEREMY TO APPROVE THE FINANCIAL CONDITION AND TREASURER’S REPORT. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
MOTION BY WAYNE, 2ND JEREMY TO PAY THE BILLS PRESENTED. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
MOTION BY JEREMY, 2ND TODD TO RATIFY THE ACTIONS OF THE TREASURER ON BILLS ALREADY PAID. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Discussion was had on what healthcare changes should be made. HMO’s and PPO’s and whether to change the employee contribution to 25% rather than the 20% they pay now to help offset the rising cost of the insurance.
MOTION JEREMY, 2ND TODD TO ACCEPT THE NEW HMO PLAN AT 25/75%. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Kimberly expressed that if taxes do not rise in small increments then they will have to be raised in large sums every couple years. The best thing to do, she offered is to raise them 1 mill at a time.
Discussion was had on raising the millage.
MOTION JEREMY, 2ND WAYNE TO ADVERTISE THE INTENT TO ADOPT AN ORDINANCE AT DECEMBER 18, 2018 MEETING THAT RAISES THE MILLAGE FOR ELDRED BOROUGH TO 7.5 MILLS. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Kimberly reported that DEP requires the Borough to show that it is attempting to maintain financial independence and sustainability of a sewerage system. This means that the Borough must increase it’s sewer charges to become comparable to other municipalities. This too is something that is easier done in small increments at a time rather than all at once, Kimberly expressed.
MOTION TODD, 2ND JEREMY TO ADVERTISE THE INTENT TO ADOPT AN ORDINANCE AT DECEMBER 18, 2018 MEETING THAT WOULD RAISE THE SEWER CHARGES BY $1.00 PER MONTH. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Discussion was had on increasing the amount given to police for payroll by $1,500.00 per year. Kimberly pointed out a few other proposed changes in the preliminary budget, such as increased spending on the levee, auditor and solicitor fees.
She mentioned that one of the sewer pumps are down right now. Shelley should check to see if the repair will be able to be submitted to the Borough’s commercial insurance policy.
MOTION TODD, 2ND JEREMY TO ADVERTISE THE PROPOSED 2019 BUDGET FOR INSPECTION AND ADOPTION. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Kimberly mentioned the employee handbook and asked council to consider making all weeks in vacation use it or loose it. This matter was tabled for the next meeting.
Lou Ann reminded council to consider legal review services in 2019 for the ordinance book.
Todd had a question on Vacation and PTO. The Tracfone renewal was discussed. Lou Ann offered that Zach reported that the phone does not work.
It was discussed that the employees should have a phone on them at the plant and other times.
MOTION TODD, 2ND JEREMY TO SPEND $125 ON A PHONE FOR PLANT OPERATORS. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Tim Gotshall asked if $125.00 was just given to Zach, how do you get ahold of Joe if he does not answer his phone?
Mark asked how does an employee just get to refuse to use a cell phone, like in Joe’s case?
Jeremy will check to see if the tracfone works.
Lou Ann reported that the if the agenda were changed to allow for the Streets and Sewer to be discussed sooner in the meeting then Joe would still be available at the meetings as he is usually only at the first hour of each meeting.
Council agreed to do so.
MOTION WAYNE, TODD 2ND TO PURCHASE MEMBERSHIP INTO PA RURAL WATER ASSOC. FOR 2019 AT $423.00. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
MOTION TODD, 2ND JEREMY TO PURCHASE A SMALL FIREPROOF SAFE FOR THE QUICKBOOKS THUMBDRIVE. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Shelley voiced concerns on the collection process. She expressed that the process is not clear after an account is sent to the Magistrate’s office and a judgement has been made. A customer has asked for an additional payment plan to be allowed for after a judgement has been made.
Council expressed that one payment plan in the collections process is sufficient and that the process is to remain as follows: After an amount is 90 days past due, a payment plan as previously established, is to be offered or the amount past due will go to the Magistrate’s office for judgement. After judgement is ordered to pay the Borough the customer will have the allotted time to pay. If payment is not received on that due date, Sherriff’s sale will commence. A lien will be placed on the property if the amount is still not satisfied.
Kimberly expressed that work session meetings are not as productive as they could be if they were held on a separate date from the monthly meetings. She stated that having them separate will allow for information to be given and gotten on the topics to be discussed and voted on at monthly meetings. She also suggested that Council hold them at a different location and strictly limit them to a one hour public meeting. Kimberly proposed a Wednesday in the beginning of the month at the Ole Blue. Lou Ann will check with the owner to be sure this would be something that would be allowable at the Blue. Lou Ann will also check with PSAB to be sure that there is no reason that a Borough meeting cannot be held at that location.
This matter was tabled.
Council asked to have Joe look into alternative testing laboratories for the sewer samples as Analytical’s pricing will be raising so drastically.
Selling the old pick up truck was discussed. Joe reported that the Kelly Blue Book pricing of this truck is $7,500 - $10,000.
Mark asked if the truck was smoked in and reported that that will decrease the value by half.
Kimberly asked for bidding on the sale of the truck be advertised and that specs be gotten from Joe for that ad.
The need for a new truck bed liner was discussed. The cost for a new one was estimated at $280.00. Mark will price a new one and Jeremy will check if the old liner will fit the new truck.
MOTION WAYNE TO ADJORN AT 9:30 PM.
NEXT WORK SESSION – December 18, 2018 6:30 pm.
NEXT MEETING – December 18, 2018 7:00 pm.
Respectfully,
Lou Ann Hurrle
Eldred Borough Secretary
MINUTES FOR NOVEMBER 9, 2018
THE ELDRED BOROUGH COUNCIL HELD A SPECIAL MEETING NOVEMBER 9, 2018 @ 6:30 PM IN THE OTTO ELDRED ELEMENTARY CAFETERIA.
COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT: PRESIDENT KIMBERLY WEIKERT, TODD WHEATON AND JEREMY PRESCOTT.
OTHER OFFICIALS PRESENT: MAYOR SHANNON WEIKERT AND SECRETARY LOU ANN HURRLE.
CITIZENS PRESENT: JACK BELL, MARK BURNS, CHRIS CLAYCOMB AND CINDY GARDNER.
Chris Claycomb started the meeting by expressing that the police chief has gotten grants to up the equipment inventory and update the ticketing process. Shannon elaborated that the ticketing system connects our department to the state police system. Chris explained that more hours are needed. Child abuse cases and large accidents use a lot of hours. Chris asked for input from the Borough and Township as to how they felt about police services and what they feel is needed. Todd asked if the police are looking to add a full-time officer. Shannon replied that that is what they would like to see and again asked to hear what the township and borough felt about the department. He went on to say that he is aware of the borough’s budget and that a full-time officer may not be a feasible financial request. Mark reported that he feels as though the money is not there in the township to give as much as is needed for a full-time officer. Chris explained that the department has had good employees but not enough pay or hours to offer them, so the officers do not stay. Shannon confirmed this information, stating that often the officers are full-time elsewhere and using our department to pick up extra hours. Cindy asked if just offering them more money would help. Mark mentioned that just because this officer does not need insurance now does not mean that they will not need it in the future. Jeremy expressed that what he hears from the public is that they feel that the police are not out enough. Don reported that right now the department is only budgeted 200 hours per month total. He also expressed concern that it is a possibility that if something terrible happened at the school for instance, chances are the police are not on duty.
Jeremy asked to see what offering a more competitive wage would look like. Discussion was had on different pay structures. Shannon explained that an additional $1,200 from each municipality would cover one full time officer. He asked the municipalities to come up with a figure that they could afford. Discussion was had on past approaches in offering Eldred Township to join the department. Mark expressed again that $1,200 per month is more than the Township can afford. Chris asked the Township to think about what they could afford. Jeremy added that budget time is a good time to discuss this. Don expressed that he would like to see the department at 100 hours per month. Kimberly asked about fundraising and donations. She also expressed that the increase that the department is asking for is over a 50% increase.
Borough Council talked about appointing an auditor for the year 2017 and 2018.
MOTION JEREMY, TODD 2ND, TO APPOINT HAINES ACCOUNTING AS THE BOROUGH AUDIT FOR 2017 AND 2018. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
MOTION TODD, JEREMY 2ND, TO APPEAL THE JUDGEMENT IN THE JOSEPH WARNICK VS ELDRED BOROUGH CASE. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Jeremy asked about the handbook that he had printed and if everyone had a chance to look at it.
Wayne had talked about making cuts to days off and health insurance percentages. He also mentioned bonuses.
MOTION TODD TO ADJORN AT 8:30 PM.
NEXT WORK SESSION – November 20, 2018 6:30 pm.
NEXT MEETING – November 20, 2018 7:00 pm.
Respectfully,
Lou Ann Hurrle
Eldred Borough Secretary
MINUTES FOR OCTOBER 16, 2018
THE ELDRED BOROUGH COUNCIL HELD THEIR REGULAR MEETING OCTOBER 16, 2018 @ 7:00 PM IN THE BOROUGH OFFICE.
COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT: PRESIDENT KIMBERLY WEIKERT, WAYNE KING- VIA PHONE, TODD WHEATON AND JEREMY PRESCOTT.
OTHER OFFICIALS PRESENT: MAYOR SHANNON WEIKERT, SECRETARY LOU ANN HURRLE AND TREASURER SHELLEY BATT.
CITIZENS PRESENT: CHARLES GOULD, JACK BELL AND JOE WARNICK.
President Kimberly Weikert called the meeting to order, announced that the meeting would be recorded for note taking purposes and that the tape would be destroyed upon the approval of minutes and then asked for additions to the agenda.
MOTION TO ACCEPT A RESOLUTION TO ALLOW FOR THE RECORDING OF MINUTES AND DESTROYING THE TAPE UPON THE APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES BY TODD, JEREMY 2ND. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
MOTION TO APPROVE A RESOLUTION ALLOWING FOR THE PARTICIPATION OF MEETINGS VIA TELEPHONE BY JEREMY, TODD 2ND. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
MOTION BY JEREMY, 2ND TODD TO APPROVE THE AGENDA. MOTION CARRIED ALL IN FAVOR.
MOTION BY JEREMY, 2ND TODD TO APPROVE PREVIOUS MONTH’S REGULAR MEETING MINUTES. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
MOTION BY JEREMY, 2ND TODD TO APPROVE THE FINANCIAL CONDITION AND TREASURER’S REPORT. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
MOTION BY JEREMY, 2ND TODD TO PAY THE BILLS PRESENTED. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
MOTION BY TODD, 2ND JEREMY TO RATIFY THE ACTIONS OF THE TREASURER ON BILLS ALREADY PAID. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Council asked to set a budget meeting.
Discussion was had on the Ordinance Book and changes that should be made before its approval.
Council discussed including exemptions to the rental registration ordinance all agreed that government owned properties, owners & relatives that live in a property at no charge, land contracts, air b & b and short-term rental properties and non-residential properties should all be exempt.
MOTION TO INCLUDE THESE EXEMPTIONS IN THE RENTAL REGISTRATION ORDINANCE WHEN THE ORDINANCE BOOK IS APPROVED, TODD 1ST, JEREMY 2ND. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Kimberly explained the need for a Parks and Recreation board. She then appointed Wayne, Todd, Phil, Joe and Zach to that board.
Kimberly offered that it would be beneficial to the Borough to have a notary on staff and to offer these services to the public.
MOTION BY JEREMY TO PAY FOR NOTARY TRAINING AND CERTIFICATIONS TO INCLUDE VEHICLE CARD AGENT CERTIFICATION, 2ND TODD. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Kimberly updated council on the PSAB Fall conference. Shelly shared information on the budget training that she recently attended.
It was asked that information about the upcoming census be put in the newsletter when applicable.
Charles Gould informed the Council that Foxes pizza employees are speeding around the building and kicking up gravel at vehicles and buildings nearby. Jeremy will talk to the owner of Foxes.
Shannon reported that the police are hoping to include a full-time officer in the 2019 budget. This will ask an additional $12,000 of the borough and Otto township per year as a contribution.
The position will be for a 40 hour per week officer the particular candidate will not require health insurance as he has it already.
The Mayor also asked for a meeting to be held between the Borough and Otto township supervisors to discuss this matter.
A budget meeting was set by Council for October 22nd after 4 pm.
Lou Ann reported that DEP had been in touch with the borough about violations found in the last inspection of the sewer plant.
Council asked for information on ATV and snowmobile trail grants to be found.
MOTION WAYNE TO ADJORN AT 9:20 PM.
NEXT WORK SESSION – November 20, 2018 6:30 pm.
NEXT MEETING – November 20, 2018 7:00 pm.
Respectfully,
Lou Ann Hurrle
Eldred Borough Secretary
MINUTES FOR SEPTEMBER 18, 2018
THE ELDRED BOROUGH COUNCIL HELD THEIR REGULAR MEETING SEPTEMBER 18, 2018 @ 7:00 PM IN THE BOROUGH OFFICE.
COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT: PRESIDENT KIMBERLY WEIKERT, WAYNE KING, TODD WHEATON AND JEREMY PRESCOTT.
OTHER OFFICIALS PRESENT: MAYOR SHANNON WEIKERT AND TREASURER SHELLEY BATT.
CITIZENS PRESENT: SOLICITOR TONY CLARKE, PHIL LABELLA, JACK BELL AND JOE WARNICK.
President Kimberly Weikert called the meeting to order and asked for additions to the agenda.
MOTION BY WAYNE, 2ND JEREMY TO APPROVE THE AGENDA. MOTION CARRIED ALL IN FAVOR.
MOTION BY JEREMY, 2ND WAYNE TO APPROVE PREVIOUS MONTH’S REGULAR MEETING MINUTES. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
MOTION BY WAYNE, 2ND JEREMY TO APPROVE THE FINANCIAL CONDITION AND TREASURER’S REPORT. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
MOTION BY JEREMY, 2ND WAYNE TO PAY THE BILLS PRESENTED. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
MOTION BY WAYNE, 2ND JEREMY TO RATIFY THE ACTIONS OF THE TREASURER ON BILLS ALREADY PAID. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
MOTION TO NOMINATE TODD WHEATON TO COUNCIL, WAYNE. JEREMY VOTED IN FAVOR, WAYNE 2ND. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Mayor Shannon Weikert swore in Todd Wheaton and he took the oath of office. Council welcomed Todd to his appointed position.
A spending limit was discussed by Council for the Public Works department.
MOTION WAYNE, 2ND JEREMY TO APPROVE A SPENDING LIMIT OF $750 PER MONTH ON SMALL TOOLS, EQUIPMENT REPAIR AND INCIDENTALS WITH ANY ITEM OVER $200 INDIVIDUALLY TO BE APPROVED BY COUNCIL AT A REGULAR MONTHLY MEETING. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
MOTION WAYNE, JEREMY 2ND TO PAY BOROUGH EMPLOYEES WORKING FOR THE WATER AUTHORITY AT THE RATE OF TIME AND A HALF ON ANY HOURS WORKED AFTER THEIR DAILY 8 HOUR SHIFT TO BE REIMBURSED BY THE WATER AUTHORITY. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
MOTION WAYNE, JEREMY 2ND TO APPROVE THE 2019 MMO. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
MOTION JEREMY, TODD 2ND TO APPROVE ALL HOURS WORKED ON SEWER ITEMS BY PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT AFTER AN 8 HOUR SHIFT WILL BE PAID AT AN OVERTIME RATE. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Shelley explained that the Park account needs to be under the Borough’s EIN number and under the control of the Borough. After some explanation and the Solicitor’s suggestion, Council agreed and that the Park electric bill needs to be paid out of the Park Fund. Discussion was had on establishing and the established Park s and recreation board. This was tabled.
MOTION TODD, JEREMY 2ND TO CLOSE CURRENT PARK FUND AND OPEN UNDER THE BOROUGH OF ELDRED’S EIN AND PARK ELECTRIC TO BE PAID OUT OF THAT FUND. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Further discussion was had on pavilion rentals and it was decided that rental monies need to come through the Borough as well.
Phil agreed to care for the park until the borough appoints a board.
Tony Clarke exited the meeting at that point.
Council decided that trick or treat would be at 6 pm until 7:30 pm on Halloween night.
MOTION JEREMY, TODD 2ND TO PURCHASE A 2ND ASHTRAY FOR THE FRONT OF THE BUILDING. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
MOTION TODD, JEREMY 2ND TO APPROVE A TRAINING FOR SHELLEY IN STATE COLLEGE. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
MOTION TODD, JEREMY 2ND TO APPROVE A TRAINING FOR SHELLEY FOR PSAB ADMINISTRATORS TRAINING. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Discussion was had on sewer accounts in collections, land contracts and liens. Council decided if a land contract is in use, the actual owner (not purchaser) should be pursued for arrearages.
MOTION WAYNE, JEREMY 2ND TO APPROVE THE EXCEPTIONALLY LARGE TURN IN FEE FOR SEWER COLLECTIONS THIS MONTH. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Jeremy presented a new time sheet that he would like to see the Public Works department use to show a more detailed description of what the employees do in a day. Council discussed and decided to use the form on a trial basis to be revisited next month.
Shelley explained that the uniform reimbursement was done incorrectly for the 2018 year. There is a credit due to the Public Works guys. Joe and Zach have worked an agreement out with the Township to get uniforms through their supplier and that they will pay the Township for these. Shelley would like to send the credit owed to the Township. Council agreed.
Council discussed the budget and a meeting should be set in October for the budget.
Pot holes and poor conditions on Main Street were discussed. Penndot will not fix the road as it is their view that the Borough had performed maintenance and caused the conditions. Joe and Jack insist that it was not the Borough or Water Authority. Maintenance was not done in the area in question.
Police update was given by the Mayor. The new car is in use and the graphics should be done soon. The officers have been implementing a new program with the school to increase visibility in the schools and with the youth. There are talks of finding a way to hire one full time officer.
MOTION JEREMY TO ADJORN.
NEXT WORK SESSION – October 16, 2018 6:30 pm.
NEXT MEETING – October 16, 2018 7:00 pm.
Respectfully,
Lou Ann Hurrle
Eldred Borough Secretary
MINUTES FOR AUGUST 29, 2018
THE ELDRED BOROUGH COUNCIL HELD THEIR REGULAR MEETING AUGUST 29, 2018 @ 7:00 PM IN THE BOROUGH OFFICE.
COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT: PRESIDENT KIMBERLY WEIKERT, WAYNE KING, AND JEREMY PRESCOTT.
OTHER OFFICIALS PRESENT: MAYOR SHANNON WEIKERT AND TREASURER SHELLEY BATT.
CITIZENS PRESENT: JACK BELL, PATTI BELL, JOE WARNICK.
President Kimberly Weikert called the meeting to order and asked for additions to the agenda. A few items were added to the agenda.
MOTION BY WAYNE, 2ND JEREMY TO APPROVE THE AGENDA. MOTION CARRIED ALL IN FAVOR.
Kimberly confirmed training times for upcoming treasurer trainings.
MOTION BY JEREMY, 2ND WAYNE TO APPROVE PREVIOUS MONTH’S REGULAR MEETING MINUTES. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Discussion was had on the purpose of the park fund and Pavilion fund. Lou Ann will confirm the particulars of the Pavilion fund.
Shelley pointed out differences in the new financial reports and explained the layout of them.
MOTION BY WAYNE, 2ND JEREMY TO APPROVE THE FINANCIAL CONDITION AND TREASURER’S REPORT. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Wayne had concerns about the police fund. He was under the impression that council had decided to discontinue the issuance of two checks to the police and that the police had dissolved the car fund.
Shannon explained that this was discussed but not passed and the police do only use the car fund for car items now. There are no transfers anymore from the car fund to their general fund.
Discussion was had on unauthorized purchases by our Sewer Department and limits and permissions being put in place.
Kimberly submitted receipts for reimbursement for the Harrisburg trip to DEP.
MOTION BY WAYNE, 2ND JEREMY TO PAY THE BILLS PRESENTED. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
MOTION BY JEREMY, 2ND WAYNE TO RATIFY THE ACTIONS OF THE TREASURER ON BILLS ALREADY PAID. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Kimberly read a letter of resignation from Tim Gotschall.
MOTION BY WAYNE, 2ND JEREMY TO ACCEPT TIM’S LETTER OF RESIGNATION. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Shelley reported that there is a property that is past due and needs to go to the lien process. She had talked to the county and has discovered that the process will involve the solicitor. Council agreed that this needs to be done and has been a problem in the past.
Council talked about limits that should be in place for spending and that a procedure needs to be documented for future council and staff.
Jeremy asked about projects having individual approved spending amounts and that contingencies need to be included in that amount. Council agreed that this was a good idea.
Small tool and maintenance amounts were discussed and Kimberly reminded council that there is a budget for these items and that should be consulted when a limit is put in place.
This topic was then tabled.
Shelley relayed information that the Workforce grant had ended and the Borough had spent well under budget on the Summer Help this year due to that grant.
The Fire Escrow section of the Property Maintenance Ordinance was discussed.
MOTION WAYNE, JEREMY 2ND TO APPOINT “ANY COUNCIL PERSON” TO HANDLE THE FINANCIAL RESPONSIBILITY OF THE BOROUGH FOR THIS ORDINANCE, PUTTING THE CHECK RECEIVED INTO A MONEY MARKET ACCOUNT IF NO PENALTY FOR CLOSING OUT THE ACCOUNT, ALTERNATIVELY A “NOW” ACCOUNT SHALL BE USED AND “THE CODE ENFORCEMENT OFFICER” IS TO HANDLE THE REST OF THE BOROUGH’S RESPONSIBILITY IN CARRYING OUT THE MANDATES OF ORDINANCE 248. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Metal Detecting in the park was mentioned, and tabled because Lou Ann was not available to elaborate as to why it was on the agenda.
Shelley explained that the park fund needs to be under the control of the borough. It is not audited or overseen by anyone.
Table for when the solicitor and Phil are available.
Pension MMO 2019 was discussed and signed.
Water authority payment for the use of Borough employees was talked about. Shelley explained that the hours to be reimbursed by the Water Authority need to billed correctly. She had called the workers compensation company and they had expressed that sharing employees was fine from their end and common. Wayne explained that the way that this was handled last time is how it should be handled this time. The employees should be paid by the Borough during their regular work hours and overtime by the Water Authority after their normal work hours. Discussion was had on whether overtime should start after 8 hours or 40 hours.
Council decided to bill for hours over 40 at a rate equal to overtime rates for wages of borough employees for the water line breaks on those dates effected.
Discussion was had about what should be included on the back of the sewer bills next month.
Joe requested that council approve the bill for the grinder installation.
MOTION WAYNE, JEREMY 2ND TO PAY THE WHITTMAN PLUMBING BILL AS LONG AS IT IS $2500.00 OR LESS. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
MOTION JEREMY TO ADJORN AT 9:30 PM.
NEXT WORK SESSION – September 18, 2018 6:30 pm.
NEXT MEETING – September 18, 2018 7:00 pm.
Respectfully,
Lou Ann Hurrle
Eldred Borough Secretary
WORK SESSION JULY 17, 2018- 6:45-7:00
Discussion was had on the hydrants in town and on the agenda for the meeting. Billy Bair asked about
regulations on open fires in the borough.
MINUTES FOR JULY 17, 2018
THE ELDRED BOROUGH COUNCIL HELD THEIR REGULAR MEETING JULY 17, 2018 @ 7:00 PM IN THE BOROUGH OFFICE.
COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT: PRESIDENT KIMBERLY WEIKERT, WAYNE KING, AND JEREMY PRESCOTT.
OTHER OFFICIALS PRESENT: MAYOR SHANNON WEIKERT, TREASURER SHELLEY BATT AND SECRETARY LOU ANN HURRLE.
CITIZENS PRESENT: JACK BELL, PATTI BELL, KEVIN CUMMINS, JOE WARNICK, BILLY BAIR, AND DYLAN SCHWEIKERT.
President Kimberly Weikert called the meeting to order and asked for additions to the agenda. Kimberly introduced the new Treasurer, Shelley Batt.
MOTION BY JEREMY, 2ND WAYNE TO APPROVE THE AGENDA. MOTION CARRIED ALL IN FAVOR.
MOTION BY WAYNE, 2ND JEREMY TO APPROVE PREVIOUS MONTH’S REGULAR AND SPECIAL MEETING MINUTES. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
MOTION BY WAYNE, 2ND JEREMY TO APPROVE THE FINANCIAL CONDITION AND TREASURER’S REPORT. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Jeremy and Kimberly had concerns on the expenditures for the Park Street project. Discussion was had on unapproved purchases. Wayne expressed that Joe was just doing his job. Billy asked council about putting a spending limit in place. Some discussion was had on a limit, no changes were made.
MOTION BY JEREMY, 2ND WAYNE TO RATIFY THE ACTIONS OF THE TREASURER ON BILLS ALREADY PAID. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
MOTION BY WAYNE, 2ND JEREMY TO PAY THE BILLS PRESENTED. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
The consolidated ordinance book and changes to be made were discussed. Fees for permits were reviewed. The Streets Bonding Ordinance was examined and questions were had by Jack Bell about bonding different public service and volunteer vehicles. Council agreed to have these exceptions explored.
MOTION BY WAYNE, 2ND JEREMY TO HOLD THE TERMINATED EMPLOYEE’S PENSION UNTIL AFTER INVESTIGATIONS ARE COMPLETE. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Kimberly updated the public on a conference call with FEMA and DEP. Reaccrediting the levee will be much more cost effective than originally thought if the borough can obtain information from DEP and other resources on tests done in the past that may be used toward the application. This will allow for the secured funding to be used on fewer tests on the levee.
Lou Ann approached the Council on allowing 6 hours for the treasurer’s position rather than just the 4 she has been working a day. The position requires much more time than anticipated as the office has lacked attention in reporting, human resources and policy placement. Shelley has been working toward developing these departments and implementing procedures.
Lou Ann went on to offer that the office would benefit from the Secretary position becoming salary to allow for hours to become more flexible to work around meetings and trainings. A wage of $35,000 was asked for by Lou Ann to move the secretary salary closer to the statewide average for an office manager and noted that a Borough manager in Pennsylvania averages $65,000.
These two changes would save $16,000. per year compared to what the Borough spent on the Secretary and Treasurer last year.
After some discussion council decided to offer 6 hours to the Treasurer and $34,320 salary to the Secretary.
Jeremy would like the office open until 5:00 pm.
MOTION BY JEREMY, 2ND WAYNE TO PAY THE SECRETARY $34,320 ON SALARY PER YEAR AND MOVE THE TREASURER POSITION TO 6 HOURS PER DAY WITH THE HOURS OF 11 AM TO 5 PM, TO START JULY 23, 2018. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Hydrants in the Borough were discussed. Kevin and Jack explained that the public is concerned about the state of hydrants. They went on to offer that the Borough has more hydrants, closer together than what is required for a borough our size. The vast majority work and only a few are actually out of service. The fire on Main Street was handled in a very appropriate manner.
Kevin added that the ambulance department is in desperate need of volunteers. Kimberly asked if the Borough should put out a notice. Wayne asked if we should sign with Priority Care.
The Borough will put out a notice and Lou Ann will help launch a marketing campaign to bring awareness to the subject.
Discussion was had on feral cats.
Holiday pay for the 4th of July was talked about. Wayne expressed that the Borough should compensate an employee who must come in on a scheduled day off with overtime wages, even if they have not worked 40 hours.
He felt that if that employee has to come in and has no choice and the day was supposed to be scheduled off, they deserve the extra pay.
Jeremy and Shannon felt that this would work out to double time and a half in a case like the 4th because the employee would get holiday pay, then time and a half.
The subject was tabled.
Uniform companies were discussed as the vendor the Borough has been using has abruptly gone out of business. Jeremy suggested leaving the decision up to the plant workers as they will be paying the difference in cost.
MOTION BY JEREMY, 2ND WAYNE TO SEND KIMBERLY AND LOU ANN TO HARRISBURG TO RECORD THE NEEDED DEP INFORMATION FOR FEMA. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
MOTION BY WAYNE, 2ND JEREMY TO ALLOW SHELLEY TO TAKE PART IN THE PSAB MUNICIPAL BUDGETING WEBINAR FOR $45. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
MOTION JEREMY, 2ND WAYNE TO ALLOW SHELLEY TO ATTEND A TRAINING IN ERIE FOR QUICKBOOKS. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
MOTION WAYNE, JEREMY 2ND TO ALLOW SHELLEY TO ATTEND A BUDGETING TRAINING ON SEPTEMBER 27, 2018. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
MOTION JEREMY, WAYNE 2ND TO ALLOW THE PURCHASE OF A CHAIR, 3 PHONES AND FLAG. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
MOTION JEREMY, 2ND WAYYNE TO SIGN THE KOS COPIER AGREEMENT. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
The Budget was passed out and discussed.
Kimberly asked to have Eli Bratich called about the status of the compactor grant.
Council decided to encumber county liquid fuels for street lights.
Lou Ann updated council on the river trail grant deadlines past and upcoming.
Kimberly asked that Joe call the grinder installation company to see when they would be coming.
Shannon reported on the Police. The new car is being purchased and will be an all-inclusive package. The new office will be moved into later in the week.
No report for the Water Authority.
MOTION WAYNE, JEREMY 2ND TO ORDER THE TRUCK FROM ZOOK MOTORS FOR $30,571.72. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Jeremy asked for the price of a GPS unit to be installed in the trucks be gathered.
Monthly meeting time changes were taken off of the agenda.
MOTION WAYNE, KIMBERLY 2ND THAT THE PRESIDENT AND 3 COUNCIL CAN SIGN FOR CHECKS. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
The council discussed that this is only due to availability issues.
MOTION JEREMY TO ADJORN AT 10:00 PM.
NEXT WORK SESSION – August 21, 2018 6:30 pm.
NEXT MEETING – August 21, 2018 7:00 pm.
Respectfully,
Lou Ann Hurrle
Eldred Borough Secretary
MINUTES FOR JUNE 28, 2018
THE ELDRED BOROUGH COUNCIL HELD A SPECIAL MEETING JUNE 28, 2018 @ 8:00 AM IN THE BOROUGH OFFICE.
COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT: PRESIDENT KIMBERLY WEIKERT, ZACH LASHER, AND JEREMY PRESCOTT.
OTHER OFFICIALS PRESENT: SECRETARY LOU ANN HURRLE.
CITIZENS PRESENT: SHELLEY BATT
President Kimberly Weikert called the meeting to order.
Discussion was had on Treasurer applicants and the interviews.
Jeremy and Kimberly expressed that Shelley Batt seemed most qualified.
Discussion was had on the rate of pay.
Wayne expressed that replacements for future retirees should be looked into.
MOTION BY JEREMY, 2ND ZACH TO APPOINT SHELLEY BATT TO THE TREASURER’S POSITION AT THE RATE OF $13.00 AND 20 HOURS PER WEEK. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
McWapec dinner was discussed. Discussion on the hydrants in town was had.
Jeremy asked for a meeting with the Water Authority be put together. He asked for the contract between the Water Authority and Borough be forwarded to him.
Kimberly signed a completion order for the CBDG.
It was asked that Lou Ann find out what licensing was needed to use the sprayer given to the Borough by the conservation District.
MOTION ZACH TO ADJORN AT 9:30 AM. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
NEXT WORK SESSION – July 17, 2018 6:30 pm.
NEXT MEETING – July 17, 2018 7:00 pm.
Respectfully,
Lou Ann Hurrle
Eldred Borough Secretary
MINUTES FOR JUNE 19, 2018
THE ELDRED BOROUGH COUNCIL HELD THEIR REGULAR MEETING JUNE 19, 2018 @ 7:00 PM IN THE BOROUGH OFFICE.
COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT: PRESIDENT KIMBERLY WEIKERT, ZACH LASHER, WAYNE KING, TIM GOTSHALL AND JEREMY PRESCOTT.
OTHER OFFICIALS PRESENT: MAYOR SHANNON WEIKERT AND SECRETARY LOU ANN HURRLE.
CITIZENS PRESENT: JACK BELL, PATTI BELL, SANDY CHASE AND HEATHER SCHENA.
President Kimberly Weikert called the meeting to order and asked for additions to the agenda. Sewer Plant Rd. sign was added to the agenda.
Discussion was had on the McWAPEC dinner.
MOTION BY ZACH, 2ND JEREMY TO APPROVE THE AGENDA. MOTION CARRIED ALL IN FAVOR.
MOTION BY ZACH, 2ND TIM TO APPROVE PREVIOUS MONTH’S MINUTES. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
MOTION BY ZACH, 2ND JEREMY TO APPROVE THE FINANCIAL CONDITION AND TREASURER’S REPORT. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
MOTION BY ZACH, 2ND TIM TO RATIFY THE ACTIONS OF THE TREASURER ON BILLS ALREADY PAID. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
MOTION BY ZACH, 2ND TIM TO PAY THE BILLS PRESENTED. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Discussion was had on Spring Clean up 2018 and the comparison to previous years. A report on the numbers will be emailed to Council.
The hiring of a Treasurer was tabled for later in this meeting.
Changing how vacation is accrued and paid out upon dismissal or termination was talked about. It was asked that the solicitor meets with Council to determine these changes.
Zach updated Council on the Park Ave. sluice pipe project. Jeremy asked that the open ditches be cleaned out all of the way down to the next manhole.
Jeremy will discuss with Joe what exactly needs left to be done.
Discussion was had on what can be dumped at the brush pile and a notice was asked to be put on the back of July’s Bills. Joe will have a sign made at Cousins.
MOTION TIM, 2ND JEREMY TO HAVE COUSINS MAKE A BRUSH PILE SIGN FOR UP TO $500. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Lou Ann explained that the sign for Kendall Bridge Road came in too big and is not returnable. Council asked that an exchange be requested of the company.
County Liquid Fuel was tabled pending information on how much is encumbered now.
Council requested a budget be available next meeting.
Tim spoke about the river trail and asked that information be gathered on all of the owners and Eldred Township that would be involved in granting easements.
MOTION TIM, 2ND JEREMY TO CONTINUE ANF MEMBERSHIP FOR $120. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Jeremy expressed concern about the Clean Air Act. He expressed that the health of the summer help and the value of the Borough vehicles suffer due to infractions of this Act. He also informed Council that this Act passed over 10 years ago.
Jack asked how violations are reported and the Act is enforced.
Jeremy showed information on the Act and the compliance kit available. A phone number that anyone can call is how violations are reported.
Tim agreed and pointed out that it is already in the handbook.
Kimberly updated Council on the PSAB conference she had attended.
A Bill on the Main Street and Elm Street program is trying to be passed that would allow for the extension of funding for managers for these programs.
A Bill allowing for local police departments to use radar was shot down.
Discussions on the mosquito problem in our area were initiated by Kimberly to no avail.
PSAB has a legal help membership that Kimberly would like more information on.
Patti Bell asked if the Borough would take care of the financial end and information distribution of the Home Town Hero banner program.
MOTION JEREMY, 2ND TIM TO ALLOW THE BOROUGH TO HANDLE THE FINANCIAL END OF THE HOME TOWN HERO BANNER PROGRAM. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Kimberly reminded Council that the budget should be started soon. Lou Ann will get a budget to the Council the 2nd week of July.
Lou Ann explained some information on the trapping and releasing of feral cats. Kimberly will contact a shelter about finding a solution to the feral cat problem in Eldred.
Sewer plant will need a new thermometer, reported Zach. Joe is still working on the form 43 required by DEP. Zach reported that the grinder is still not installed. Kimberly will get an update from Joe.
Tim asked who handles the park over the tracks. He has had reports that softball teams have not been able to play on that field after rain. Lou Ann will call Phil to see who is in charge.
Tim asked that deadlines for any river trail grants be found out and reported to him.
Mayor Shannon reported that the police will be purchasing a new car. There was an accident with the charger, but the new car purchase was already approved before this accident. He asked that a reminder go out that the ATV allowance on our roads is a privilege that has rules that must be followed or that will be restricted again.
Zach reported that there is not much to relay from the Water meeting. They are looking into grants to service the water tower and the 2 leaks in the Borough are taken care of.
Joe had the price of the new truck, reported Zach, Council tabled this.
Kimberly thanked Tim for using vacation time to make the meeting and the change of meeting times was tabled.
Kimberly asked for FEMA to be called to find out about the inclusion of the study in Potter county. Lou Ann reported that calls were not returned as she has left several messages for them. Kimberly asked for the number.
Council set a date to interview Treasurer candidates.
Zach expressed that he thought the Borough was not hiring a Treasurer just yet. Kimberly and Jeremy reported that checks and balances need to be in place.
MOTION ZACH TO ADJORN AT 9:10 PM.
MOTION TO ADJORN RESCINDED BY ZACH. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Discussion was had about the forensic auditor’s findings and sending floppy disks of the old billing computer backups to him.
MOTION ZACH TO ADJORN AT 9:15 PM. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
NEXT WORK SESSION – July 17, 2018 6:30 pm.
NEXT MEETING – July 17, 2018 7:00 pm.
Respectfully,
Lou Ann Hurrle
Eldred Borough Secretary
MINUTES FOR MAY 15, 2018
THE ELDRED BOROUGH COUNCIL HELD THEIR REGULAR MEETING MAY 15, 2018 @ 7:00 PM IN THE BOROUGH OFFICE.
COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT: PRESIDENT KIMBERLY WEIKERT, ZACH LASHER, WAYNE KING AND JEREMY PRESCOTT.
OTHER OFFICIALS PRESENT: MAYOR SHANNON WEIKERT AND SECRETARY LOU ANN HURRLE.
CITIZENS PRESENT: JACK BELL AND JOE WARNICK
President Kimberly Weikert called the meeting to order and asked for additions to the agenda. Tim had asked about a new hire on the police department.
MOTION BY ZACH, 2ND JEREMY TO APPROVE THE AGENDA. MOTION CARRIED ALL IN FAVOR.
MOTION BY ZACH, 2ND WAYNE TO APPROVE PREVIOUS MONTH’S MINUTES. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
MOTION BY ZACH, 2ND JEREMY TO APPROVE THE TREASURER’S REPORT AND RATIFY THE ACTIONS OF THE TREASURER ON BILLS ALREADY PAID. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
MOTION BY WAYNE, 2ND ZACH TO PAY THE BILLS PRESENTED. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
An update on the hometown hero banners was given by Lou Ann, the electric company will not allow them to be attached to the telephone poles. Council asked Lou Ann to update Patti Bell by phone.
Ordinance Enforcement was asked to be added to the Committee Report section of the agenda. The possible need for consequences to be added to the property maintenance ordinance of repeat warning of violations was discussed. Lou Ann will keep track of these types of warnings.
Joe asked Lou Ann to find out if the Form 43 was previously Form 29R at the McKean County landfill.
Jeremy filled in the Council on the Sluice pipe on Park Ave. 3 houses needed new or repaired pipe. One has repaired two are ordering them. The work is expected to be done by the end of June.
Summer help was discussed. Lou Ann informed the Council that the Career Links funding through SLIP is not approved for the Borough.
Council looked at applicants.
MOTION ZACH, 2ND WAYNE TO REHIRE JACOB WHEATON TO START MAY 29TH. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
MOTION WAYNE, 2ND JEREMY TO PAY JACOB WHEATON $8.25 PER HOUR. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
MOTION WAYNE TO HAVE JOE AND JEREMY INTERVIEW APPLICANTS FOR THE SECOND POSITION AND HIRE BEFORE THE NEXT MEETING.
WAYNE STRIKES HIS MOTION.
Discussion was had on a second employee. Council decided that because the Borough had agreed to hire Chase Sebastian last year if choice of employees fell through that they would hire him this year.
MOTION WAYNE, 2ND ZACH TO HIRE CHASE SEBASTIAN AT MINIMUM WAGE. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Jeremy asked about Lou Ann attending some accounting and or QuickBook classes and about having a company come in to install internal security precautions. Kimberly explained that there are procedures recommended by the forensic auditor and solicitor that utilized programs already available to the Borough that should be put in place.
Lou Ann will look into some classes.
Zach announced that he and Joe need 30 hours of continuous education done by the end of the year at a cost of $600.
Tim’s email on new hire concerns was addressed. Council decided to put an ad out for a part time treasurer.
Resolution to erect a banner on Main Street by the Library was read and approved.
MOTION JEREMY, WAYNE 2ND, TO APPROVE A RESOLUTION TO ALLOW FOR THE ERECTING OF A BANNER ACROSS MAIN STREET FOR THE MONTH OF JUNE TO ADVERTISE A FUNDRAISER FOR THE LIBRARY. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
MOTION ZACH, 2ND JEREMY TO APPROVE A RESOLUTION TO ALLOW FOR A CHANGE ORDER ON THE PLATT STREET PROJECT WITH CDBG FUNDING. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
MOTION ZACH, JEREMY 2ND TO APPROVE KIMBERLY TO GO TO THE ANNUAL PSAB CONFERENCE. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
MOTION JEREMY, ZACH 2ND TO APPOINT KIMBERLY AS THE BOROUGH’S VOTING DELEGATE AT THE PSAB CONFERENCE. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
A letter of concern was read sent in by a resident on the topic of mowing the Borough ball fields. Zach explained that summer help has just been hired and that this should no longer be an issue.
Zach explained that he may no longer make it to council meetings any longer. Meeting time changes were discussed and tabled at this time.
Lou Ann announced that the Borough will be responsible for the McWapec dinner this June.
Shannon addressed concerns raised by Tim on the new police hire. Shannon explained that the employee was grilled on past experiences and concerns that the Police Commission had in common with Tim. Shannon also stated that although the Council does oversee the Police department, all matters within the department are the sole responsibility of the Commission. Jeremy and Wayne expressed concerns on the speeding vehicles on Main Street.
Jack reported that the Water Authority is currently working on collecting past dues and a leak on Edson.
Lou Ann explained that she will be on vacation June 7-15 and that she will ask Trish to do payroll for the week she is gone. Lou Ann will call the DCED to let them know that the Borough will not have the audit before June.
MOTION ZACH TO ADJORN AT 9:30 PM. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
NEXT WORK SESSION – June 19, 2018 6:30 pm.
NEXT MEETING – June 19, 2018 7:00 pm.
Respectfully,
Lou Ann Hurrle
Eldred Borough Secretary
MINUTES FOR APRIL 17, 2018
THE ELDRED BOROUGH COUNCIL HELD THEIR REGULAR MEETING APRIL 17, 2018 @ 7:00 PM IN THE BOROUGH OFFICE.
COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT: PRESIDENT KIMBERLY WEIKERT, ZACH LASHER AND JEREMY PRESCOTT.
OTHER OFFICIALS PRESENT: MAYOR SHANNON WEIKERT AND SECRETARY LOU ANN HURRLE.
CITIZENS PRESENT: SANDY CHASE, JACK BELL, GAY DEGOLIER, LISA HANNAHS, PATTI BELL AND DEBBIE PLUMMER.
President Kimberly Weikert called the meeting to order and asked for additions for the agenda. Patti Bell was added to the agenda to talk about hometown hero banners. Debbie Plummer was added to talk about ordinance enforcement officer.
MOTION BY ZACH, 2ND JEREMY TO APPROVE THE AGENDA. MOTION CARRIED ALL IN FAVOR.
MOTION BY ZACH, 2ND JEREMY TO APPROVE MARCH 5TH, 20TH AND 21ST MINUTES. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
MOTION BY ZACH, 2ND JEREMY TO CORRECT ERRORS IN MARCH 5TH MINUTES. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Patti Bell asked why there is no police presence lately. Mayor Weikert explained there are new hires in training and hours will be available soon.
MOTION BY ZACH, 2ND JEREMY TO APPROVE THE TREASURER’S REPORT, PAY THE BILLS AND RATIFY THE ACTIONS OF THE TREASURER ON BILLS ALREADY PAID. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
The floor was given to Gay Degolier of McKean County Redevelopment and Housing. An order for the modification of the scope of work to be done on the Platt Street Project was read and a resolution signed after public comment was asked for.
MOTION BY ZACH, 2ND JEREMY TO ACCEPT THE RESOLUTION TO MODIFY THE CDBG PHASE II PROJECT. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Patti Bell approached the Council to ask if they would have any objections to her heading a project to erect hometown hero banners on Main Street in Eldred. Council agreed that this would be a great idea and offered the assistance of the Borough Secretary.
Debbie Plummer asked if there is an Ordinance Enforcement Officer in Eldred. Council responded that Lou Ann is the Officer. Debbie had several complaints on properties on Main Street and asked if there is a penalty for repeat offenders. Lou Ann explained that without a ticket issued, repeat offenders are not penalized. Council agreed that this should be looked at.
Council discussed the handbook and use of 48-hour notice on PTO requests.
M\OTION JEREMY, 2ND ZACH TO CHANGE TO AS SOON AS POSSIBLE AND CONTACT COUNCIL PRESIDENT, VICE, OR SUPERVISOR. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
MOTION BY JEREMY, 2ND ZACH TO ADOPT THE ORDINANCE TO RENAME SEWR PLANT ROAD TO KENDALL BRIDGE RD. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
The topic of an auditor was tabled.
MOTION BY ZACH, 2ND JEREMY TO CHANGE THE CHECK SIGNING CARD TO ALLOW PRESIDENT, VICE PRESIDENT AND PRESIDENT PRO TEMPORE. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Council discussed and decided to fill out Form 43 for DEP in house rather than taking the $1500.00 quote from E&M.
Jeremy asked about getting a white board to document and track resident requests and other lists of jobs for the Borough. Council decided to allow for this practice.
Discussion was had on sluice pipes on Park Ave. Council requested a letter be sent to residents asking them to purchase the pipe for the Borough to install.
Lisa Hannahs approached Council on Summer Fun Fest to take place this year on June 16th on Main Street with bands to follow the evening at the park behind the tracks. This will also be the weekend for Garage Sale Days.
Lou Ann will call about a dumpster for the event to be taken care of by the Borough.
Burning the Dike will be on the May agenda.
Lou Ann offered that the Library will hold an event on the 23rd of June.
Council asked for a map of garage sales be made and an announcement put on the back of the bill.
Zach reported on a potential recycling program to be put in affect in the Borough through the County.
Zach also filled in the Council on billing issues with the Borough’s current ambulance provider. He will look into the contract and see what changes can be made.
Council asked that Priority Care be sent a letter about not complying with the contract.
Public had several comments on the high cost of Priority Care.
Lou Ann relayed a request from the Tax Collector to be able to connect her bank account to the Tax account so that she may view the balances.
Council would like more information before this is allowed.
MOTION BY ZACH, 2ND JEREMY TO APPOINT THE BOROUGH SECRETARY TO SHARE LOCAL TAX INFORMATION WITH BERKHIEMER. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
MOTION BY ZACH, 2ND JEREMY TO RENEW MEMBERSHIP WITH MANUFACTURER’S BUSINESS ASSOCIATION. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
President Kimberly Weikert announced that Council will need to consider relieving an employee of their duties based on an evaluation of their performance and investigation of falsifying documents. Council found that gross misconduct was present in the acts of falsification of Borough records and unauthorized removal of Borough property.
MOTION TO TERMINATE ROBIN MAZURKIEWICZ ON APRIL 17, 2018 TO INCLUDE TERMINATION OF BENEFITS AND PAY BY JEREMY, 2ND ZACH. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Sandy Chase inquired if this was the reason a forensic auditor was being looked into. Council answered yes.
Lisa Hannahs asked if the position would be re-filled. Council replied eventually.
Council will be looking into the budget next month.
Mayor updated on the police. Two new officers have been hired.
Jack updated Council on the Water Authority, Edson Street will need to be dug up as there is a water leak.
Lou Ann approached Council on behalf of Gulotta Group and their proposal. Council tabled this topic.
Council tabled discussion on a forensic auditor.
Council decided to cash out the CD and purchase a $50,000 CD put 26,000 in the general account to cover the grinder purchase and the rest in savings.
MOTION JEREMY, 2ND KIMBERLY TO PUT $26,000 IN THE GENERA FUND FROM THE CD AND $10,000 IN THE SAVINGS THE REST TOWARDS A NEW CD. ZACH OPPOSED, MOTION CARRIED.
Discussion was had on changing meeting times to every other month a Saturday. Discussion tabled and Lou Ann will email Tim to see if that would be ok for him.
MOTION ZACH TO ADJORN AT 9:45 PM. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
NEXT WORK SESSION – April 17, 2018 6:30 pm.
NEXT MEETING – April 17, 2018 7:00 pm.
Respectfully,
Lou Ann Hurrle
Eldred Borough Secretary
MINUTES FOR MARCH 21, 2018
THE ELDRED BOROUGH COUNCIL HELD A SPECIAL EMERGENCY MEETING TO DISCUSS LEGAL MATTERS MARCH 20, 2018 @ 7:00 PM AT 41 KING STREET AS THE BOROUGH OFFICE WAS IN USE.
COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT: PRESIDENT KIMBERLY WEIKERT, WAYNE KING AND JEREMY PRESCOTT.
OTHER OFFICIALS PRESENT: MAYOR SHANNON WEIKERT, SOLICITOR TONY CLARKE AND SECRETARY LOU ANN HURRLE.
CITIZENS PRESENT: NONE
President Kimberly Weikert called the meeting to order. Kimberly then called an executive session to discuss legal matters at 7:15pm.
8:15 pm- President Kimberly Weikert adjourned the executive session and called the special meeting back to order.
Discussion was had with preceding with action to matters discussed in the executive session.
MOTION JEREMY, 2ND WAYNE TO SUSPEND TREASURER ROBIN MAZURKIEWICZ WITH PAY AND BENEFITS EFFECTIVE IMMEDIATELY. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
MOTION WAYNE, 2ND JEREMY TO CONTACT THE STATE POLICE TO INVESTIGATE POTENTIAL MALFEASANCE IN THE BOOKKEEPING. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
MOTION JEREMY, 2ND WAYNE TO CONTACT A FORENSIC ACCOUNTANT TO INVESTIGATE POTENTIAL MALFEASANCE IN THE BOOKKEEPING. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
MOTION TO ADJOURN, JEREMY AT 8:24 PM.
MINUTES FOR MARCH 20, 2018
THE ELDRED BOROUGH COUNCIL HELD THEIR REGULAR MEETING MARCH 20, 2018 @ 7:00 PM IN THE BOROUGH OFFICE.
COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT: PRESIDENT KIMBERLY WEIKERT, ZACH LASHER, AND WAYNE KING.
OTHER OFFICIALS PRESENT: MAYOR SHANNON WEIKERT, TREASURER ROBIN MAZURKIEWCZ AND SECRETARY LOU ANN HURRLE.
CITIZENS PRESENT: DICK RIVERS, SANDY CHASE, CHRIS CHASE, JACK BELL AND JOE WARNICK
President Kimberly Weikert called the meeting to order and asked for additions for the agenda. Zach added pricing from Pipe Eye and the Sewer Plant Blower.
Dick Rivers asked to be added about the EMC program.
MOTION BY ZACH, 2ND WAYNE TO APPROVE THE AGENDA. MOTION CARRIED ALL IN FAVOR.
MOTION BY ZACH, 2ND WAYNE TO APPROVE THE JANUARY 2nd MINUTES. MOTION CARRIED AFI.
MOTION BY WAYNE, 2ND ZACH TO APPROVE THE TREASURER’S REPORT, PAY THE BILLS AND RATIFY THE ACTIONS OF THE TREASURER ON BILLS ALREADY PAID. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
The Tax Ordinance was read announcing that the tax rate would not change for 2018.
MOTION BY WAYNE, 2ND ZACH TO ADOPT TAX ORDINANCE OF 2018. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
An ordinance abolishing the elected position of tax auditor and rely on an annually appointed CPA as Borough auditor was read.
MOTION BY ZACH, 2ND WAYNE TO ADOPT ORDINANCE 453. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Monthly meeting times were discussed to be changed. Tim hoped that council could accommodate a rotating schedule as he works evenings. Council tabled this as Tim was not present.
MOTION BY WAYNE, 2ND ZACH TO APPROVE CHANGES MADE TO EXCLUDE THE TERMS SICK AND PERSONAL TIME IN THE HANDBOOK, REPLACING THEM WITH PTO. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
MOTION BY WAYNE, 2ND ZACH TO ACCEPT THE CHAPTER 94 REPORT DRAFT. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Zach explained that the blower that is in place waiting for the new blower at the sewer plant is now not working properly. Council agreed to call TEC to see if they could send a tech out with the new blower to look at this standby blower.
Dick Rivers asked for donations for the EMC training class. He offered that he had talked with Kevin Cummins and the firehall would gladly accept more millage from the Borough and in turn donate more to the EMC class.
Council informed Dick that the millage has been set for the year and a meeting with the solicitor is set for tomorrow so the legalities of donating to the EMC program will be discussed.
Wayne explained that Council should consider putting the CD into a savings account so that it may be more accessible.
Wayne also offered that he is still pricing new trucks.
These topics were tabled.
Robin asked that Council considered making Lou Ann the Open Records Officer as she cannot see very well and that she believes that Lou Ann has better knowledge as to where all of the files are.
MOTION WAYNE, 2ND ZACH TO ACCEPT ROBIN’S RESIGNATION OF THE OPEN RECORDS OFFICER AND APPOINT LOU ANN TO THE POSITION. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
May 21st is announced to be the date of 2018 Spring Clean Up with the same fees ($30) and guidelines as 2017 Spring Clean Up.
Lou Ann offered a proposal from The Gulotta Group outlining a plan to develop a vision for Eldred to become a Sustainable Community.
Wayne asked where would the $4000 come from to fund this project? Kimberly suggested capitol purchases would have the funding available and asked for a motion.
Council tabled the topic.
An increase notice was read from Casella Waste for the sewer sludge.
Council asked for the actual increase from last year to be emailed to them.
MOTION WAYNE, WITH THE INTENT TO ADOPT ORDINANCE TO CHANGE THE NAME OF SEWER PLANT ROAD TO KENDALL BRIDGE ROAD, ZACH VOTED NO, MAYOR SHANNON WEIKERT BROKE THE TIE VOTING YES. MOTION CARRIED.
Council was presented with a summer help application and decided to table this for closer to hire date.
Chris Chase approached council to ask for an exception to the sewer hook up ordinance as he is an existing customer.
MOTION ZACH, 2ND WAYNE TO ALLOW FOR THE EXCEPTION OF OLE BLUE TO THE SEWER HOOK UP FEE AS THE PROPERTY IS AN EXISTING CUSTOMER AND IS JUST MOVING THE LOCATION OF HOOK UP TO PROVIDE FOR MORE EFFICIENCY IN SEWER WASTE REMOVAL ON THE PROPERTY. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
MOTION ZACH, 2ND WAYNE TO AMEND ORDINANCE 167 TO ALLOW FOR EXEMPTIONS TO THE HOOK UP FEE BY EXISTING CUSTOMERS. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Discussion was had on which company would camera the sewer lines at the Ole Blue.
MOTION ZACH, 2ND WAYNE TO HAVE PIPE EYE CAMERA THE LINES AT THE OLE BLUE. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Kimberly reported that the compactor grant and loan are still available for the Mechanic Street and Compactor project.
MOTION WAYNE TO MOVE FORWARD WITH THE USDA GRANT APPLICATION FOR MECHANIC AND COMPACTOR PROJECT, ZACH VOTES NO, MAYOR SHANNON WEIKERT BREAKS THE TIE WITH A YES VOTE. MOTION CARRIED.
Lou Ann updated council on the River Launch meeting with Erin Moyers. The original site to be looked at is not Borough owned, but rather the Conservation District. The Conservation District is not opposed to the idea, however does request that neighboring private owners be contacted first to see if they would be willing to offer a right of way.
The Mayor updated on the Police, they are just waiting for the final approvals for a new officer to start. He will be available nights and weekends.
He also spoke about notices that keep arriving regarding the Seneca Nation and fracking pollution in the Allegheny River.
MOTION ZACH TO ADJORN AT 8:30 PM. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
NEXT WORK SESSION – April 17, 2018 6:30 pm.
NEXT MEETING – April 17, 2018 7:00 pm.
MINUTES FOR MARCH 5, 2018
THE ELDRED BOROUGH COUNCIL HELD A SPECIAL MEETING TO DISCUSS NEEDED SEWER PLANT EQUIPMENT MARCH 5, 2018 @ 7:00 PM IN THE BOROUGH OFFICE.
COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT: KIMBERLY WEIKERT, ZACH LASHER, TIM GOTSHALL, JEREMY PRESCOTT AND WAYNE KING.
OTHER OFFICIALS PRESENT: ROBIN MAZURKIEWICZ AND SECRETARY LOU ANN HURRLE.
CITIZENS PRESENT: NONE
President Kimberly Weikert moved over to the Mayor’s seat. Tim Gotshall called the meeting to order. Wayne filled council in on the need to replace a blower for the sewer plant. He presented a quote for a new blower at $4625. And $2455 to rebuild. Both with a $500 shipping fee.
Kimberly asked for a copy of the budget. Discussion was had on budget and the CD interest.
Council asked that the CD be put on the agenda for the next meeting.
Clarification and was given on how many blowers were working currently and how many are needed at the sewer plant. Jeremy asked if the company offered a core refund. A call was placed to TEC and it was confirmed that there would be minimal to no refund for the old blower.
Changing the meeting times was discussed.
MOTION BY ZACH, 2ND JEREMY TO PURCHASE ONE NEW BLOWER FROM TEC. MOTION CARRIED ALL IN FAVOR.
Council was reminded to review the compactor and Mechanic Street grant/ loan idea so that discussion may be had next meeting. Kimberly will call to be sure the offer is still valid.
Lou Ann will forward the compactor information to council.
MOTION BY ZACH, 2ND JEREMY TO ADJORN THE MEETING. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
NEXT WORK SESSION- March 20, 2018 6:30 pm.
NEXT MEETING- March 20, 2018 7:00 pm.
ADJORNMENT- 11:45 am.
MINUTES FOR FEBRUARY 20, 2018
THE ELDRED BOROUGH COUNCIL HELD THEIR REGULAR MEETING FEBRUARY 20, 2018 @ 7:00 PM IN THE BOROUGH OFFICE.
COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT: PRESIDENT KIMBERLY WEIKERT, ZACH LASHER, TIM GOTSHALL AND WAYNE KING.
OTHER OFFICIALS PRESENT: MAYOR SHANNON WEIKERT, TREASURER ROBIN MAZURKIEWCZ AND SECRETARY LOU ANN HURRLE.
CITIZENS PRESENT: JEREMY PRESCOTT, SANDY CHASE, JACK BELL, GEORGE BENJAMIN, JOE WARNICK AND PHIL LABELLA.
President Kimberly Weikert called the meeting to order and asked for additions for the agenda. Wayne and Kimberly added a few items to the agenda.
The treasurers report and the bills to be paid were discussed. Kimberly asked if the grinder pump for the sewer had been installed and billed for, Joe and Robin reported that it had not.
MOTION BY TIM, 2ND ZACH TO APPROVE THE AGENDA. MOTION CARRIED ALL IN FAVOR.
MOTION BY TIM, 2ND WAYNE TO APPROVE THE JANUARY 2nd MINUTES. MOTION CARRIED AFI.
MOTION BY ZACH, 2ND TIM TO APPROVE THE FEBRUARY 7 MINUTES. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
MOTION BY TIM, 2ND ZACH TO AMEND THE AGENDA AND APPROVE. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Treasurer’s report was presented and discussed.
MOTION BY TIM, 2ND WAYNE TO APPROVE THE TREASURER’S REPORT, PAY THE BILLS AND RATIFY THE ACTIONS OF THE TREASURER ON BILLS ALREADY PAID. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Kimberly gave the floor to George Benjamin. He stated that he had contacted the Water Authority to bring attention to what he believed to be faulty water meters. The water Authority did not respond to his complaints and he then contacted the Borough for action. The Council read Pennsylvania Code pertaining to Water Authorities and testing for faulty meters. Jack Bell expressed that the Water Authority would test Mr. Benjamin’s meters and that the Water Authority meeting will be held Wednesday February 21 in the Borough office at 7 pm. He added that it is a public meeting and that Mr. Benjamin was welcome to attend. Phil Labella reiterated that all Water Authority meetings are open to the public and they are always invited to attend.
Robin reported that the bill from the township for placing a dumpster at the park was actually supposed to be $70 not the already billed and paid $10.
MOTION BY TIM, 2ND WAYNE TO AMEND THE BILLS TO BE PAID. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Discussion was had on advertising the ordinance to abolish the Elected Auditor’s position and replacing or supplementing Sara Hagg as auditor.
Work sessions were discussed and Kimberly explained that since they are public meetings the secretary must be present, paid and the minutes must be done. Having them on separate days and times of the meetings causes the meeting budget to be doubled and is not financially efficient.
MOTION BY TIM, 2ND ZACH TO CHANGE WORKSESSIONS TO EVERY THIRD TUESDAY OF THE MONTH AT 6:30 PM. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Kimberly explains that Robin will run out of PTO time through the year. As of now she comes in one hour early and leaves one hour early on dialysis days to avoid the use of PTO time. Council discussed allowing her to continue this practice or to require her to exhaust just her PTO, not vacation, before making up her hours by moving her start time on dialysis days.
It was decided as it was in 2017 to allow Robin to come in an hour early on dialysis days and leave an hour early after all of her PTO time was exhausted. This is an exception to the Handbook allowed to accommodate Robin’s medical situation and based on what council had allowed in the past for Robin.
MOTION BY TIM, 2ND WAYNE TO APPROVE CHANGES IN ROBIN’S SCHEDULE TO ACCOMIDATE HER MEDICAL CONDITION BASED ON WHAT HAS BEEN OFFERED BY COUNCIL IN THE PAST. SHE MAY COME IN EARLY ONE HOUR AND LEAVE ONE HOUR EARLY ON DIALYSIS DAYS AFTER HER PTO IS EXHAUSTED. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Changes to the handbook were requested to be made. Pay day was requested to be changed to Thursday and all verbiage relating to sick time and personal time be changed to PTO.
MOTION BY WAYNE, 2ND ZACH TO CHANGE PAY DAY TO THURSDAY AND REFLECT CHANGES IN HANDBOOK. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
MOTION BY ZACH, 2ND TIM TO ACCEPT WITH REGRET KORY SHAY’S RESIGNATION LETTER. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
MOTION BY TIM, 2ND ZACH TO INTEND TO ADOPT AN ORDINANCE THAT APPROVES 2018 ELDRED BOROUGH TAXES. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Phil Labella approached the council on placing batting cages at Houben Park Ball field third base area. He assured council that there would be no cost to the borough as the equipment has been donated. Council agreed after discussion that this would be fine.
A thank you letter was read from the Mobile Library for a donation received from the Borough.
Kimberly offered an estimate from E & M on a new office restroom to be ADA accessible. The engineering would be $2000.
Bids for the CBDG Phase 2 were considered by council. Duffy - $42,157.50, Jack Bell - $48,475.00, Dean Construction - $87,375.00, Cummins Construction - $91,300.00.
MOTION BY WAYNE, 2ND ZACH TO ACCEPT DUFFY CONSTRUCTION’S BID AT $42,157.50 FOR THE CBDG PROJECT. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Kimberly outlined a UDSA grant/ loan opportunity that is available to the Borough right now. This would provide money for obtaining a compactor and a loan for a project like Mechanic Street. The interest rate would be exceptionally low and the funds may be matched or paid back with CBDG funds.
Zach voiced concern on keeping the garbage collection position staffed. Wayne explained that then plan would be to hire one full time employee to train at the plant when they were not collecting garbage.
Nominations for a new council person were taken.
WAYNE NOMINATED JEREMY PRESCOTT, KIMBERLY 2ND THAT NOMINATION.
Wayne pointed out that it is a two-year appointment.
Kimberly opened the floor to vote on the appointment of Jeremy Prescott.
The vote was unanimous to appoint Jeremy Prescott.
WAYNE 1ST, ZACH 2ND NOMINATED TIM AS VICE PRESIDENT.
The vote was unanimous to appoint Tim as Vice President.
Wayne asked about the CD and putting a truck out for bid to help pay for the purchase of a new truck. It was asked that this be put on the agenda for March.
Tim updated the council on boat launch efforts.
Police update was given by Mayor Shannon Weikert. Hiring officers is not proving to be easy as we offer low pay and few hours.
Council decided and Zach agreed that he would go to the Water Authority meetings to keep reports to the Borough up to date.
MOTION BY TIM, WAYNE 2ND TO HAVE ZACH ATTEND WATER AUTHORITY MEETINGS. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
MOTION BY ZACH, TO ADJOURN THE MEETING. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
NEXT WORK SESSION – March 20, 2018 6:30 pm.
NEXT MEETING – March 20, 2018 7:00 pm.
ADJOURNMENT- 9:30 pm.
MINUTES FOR FEBRUARY 7, 2018
THE ELDRED BOROUGH COUNCIL HELD THEIR WORK SESSION MEETING FEBRUARY 7 2018 @ 7:00 PM IN THE BOROUGH OFFICE.
COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT: KIMBERLY WEIKERT, ZACH LASHER, TIM GOTSHALL, WAYNE KING AND KORY SHAY.
OTHER OFFICIALS PRESENT: MAYOR SHANNON WEIKERT AND SECRETARY LOU ANN HURRLE.
CITIZENS PRESENT: DICK RIVERS
President Kimberly Weikert called the meeting to order. Kimberly gave the floor to Dick Rivers. Dick approached the council asking them to reconsider donating to the EMS program that is being put together to train high school students to become EMS support. Dick explained that the borough may offer as much or as little as council sees fit. After some discussion council asked to check again with the solicitor. Kimberly tabled the EMS donation for a later date.
Shannon explained that the police commission discussed retaining an attorney in the case that there may be need for legal support ever for the department. Borough solicitor Tony Clarke was approached on the matter and responded via email that if ever a conflict arose between the Borough and the Police Department, neither entity would be represented by his firm as it would be a conflict of interest. Council agreed that attorney Tony Clarke would be a good fit for the Police Department.
Zach Lasher asked about employees coming in an hour early to make up time. Council decided this pertained to Robin and that it should be tabled for the February 20th meeting as Robin would be present at that meeting.
Shannon Johnston donated $200 to the borough for the use of the park for her event. Lou Ann reported that Robin was concerned that boroughs may not be able to receive donations. Council asked that the solicitor be contacted.
Lou Ann presented a $10 bill for the dumpster to be placed at the park for Shannon’s event. Council decided to pay it from the donation.
MOTION BY TIM, 2ND WAYNE TO ACCEPT ERLICH PROPOSAL TO TREAT WEEDS EXCLUDING THE BALLFIELD. KORY OPPOSED. MOTION CARRIED.
MOTION BY KORY, 2ND ZACH TO HAVE E&M COMPLETE THIS YEAR’S CHAPTER 94 REPORT. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Discussion was had on the current auditor for the borough. It was brought to the council’s attention that she is not a registered elector within the borough and also is not a CPA. These two requirements must be met according to the Borough Code.
Kory and the rest of the council agreed that Sara Hagg should be paid for her services regardless.
MOTION BY KORY, TIM 2ND TO APPROACH HAGGS TO OFFICIATE THE AUDIT COMPLETED BY SARA HAGG. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
MOTION BY TIM, KORY 2ND WITH THE INTENT TO ADOPT AN ORDINANCE AT FEBRUARY 20TH MEETING TO ABSOLVE THE ELECTED AUDITORS POSITION AND CREATE AN APPOINTED AUDITOR POSITION. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
The absence of a vacancy board was pointed out by Kimberly and this process was discussed.
MOTION BY TIM, KORY 2ND TO CORRECT DECEMBER 2017 MINUTES TO STATE THAT THE NEXT MEETING BE HELD IN JANUARY 2018 RATHER THAN 2017. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Plowing the fire hall parking lot was discussed. Zach explained that the borough does this only for events and will salt occasionally.
Zach asked if Todd Motors could be contacted and asked not to park busses on Edson Street as this hinders plowing.
Council decided to send a letter to Todds.
Council discussed changing work sessions back to the same day. This was tabled for the next meeting.
MOTION BY KORY, TO ADJORN THE MEETING. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
NEXT WORK SESSION- March 7, 2018 7:00 pm.
NEXT MEETING- February 20, 2018 7:00 pm.
ADJORNMENT- 8:30 pm.
MINUTES FOR JANUARY 2, 2018
THE ELDRED BOROUGH COUNCIL HELD THEIR BIANNUAL REORGANIZATIONAL AND MONTHLY MEETING JANUARY 2, 2018 @ 7:00 PM IN THE BOROUGH OFFICE.
COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT: KIMBERLY WEIKERT, ZACH LASHER, TIM GOTSHALL, WAYNE KING AND KORY SHAY.
OTHER OFFICIALS PRESENT: TREASURER ROBIN MAZURKIEWICZ AND MAYOR SHANNON WEIKERT.
CITIZENS PRESENT: ATTY TONY CLARKE, JOE WARNICK, JACK BELL, MYRNA HAGG, ALLEN COOPER AND MARY SULLIVAN.
Mayor Shannon Weikert swore Wayne, Tim and Zach into the Borough Council.
Nominations for president were then taken.
Wayne nominated Kimberly for president. All in favor.
Kimberly nominated Kory for Vice President. All in favor.
Kimberly nominated Wayne for pro tempore. Wayne nominated Tim, Tim declined.
All were in favor for Wayne to hold pro tempore.
Kimberly nominated Tony Clarke for solicitor. All in favor.
Council appointed Bradford Era as the advertising newspaper for the Borough. All were in favor.
Kory nominated Steve Troupe for Water Authority. All in Favor.
Meeting schedule for the 2018 year was agreed to be kept at the 3rd Tuesday of each month at 7 pm. Kimberly suggested changing the work sessions to the first Wednesday of each month at 7 pm.
MOTION 1ST BY KIM, KORY 2ND TO APPROVE THE MEETING SCHEDULE FOR THE 3RD TUESDAY AT 7PM EVERY MONTH AND WORK SESSIONS ON THE 1ST WEDNESDAY OF EVERY MONTH AT 7 PM. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Tim nominated Robin for the Open Records Officer. All in favor.
President Kimberly Weikert opened the floor to the public.
Myrna Hagg asked about a safety program for the children at school. Mayor Shannon Weikert explained the program.
MOTION 1ST BY KORY, TIM 2ND TO APPROVE THE AGENDA. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
MOTION 1ST BY KORY, TIM 2ND TO APPROVE THE MINUTES FROM THE PREVIOUS MEETING. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
MOTION 1ST BY TIM, KORY 2ND TO APPROVE THE TREASURER’S REPORT, PAY THE BILL LIST AND RATIFY THE ACTION OF THE TREASURER ON BILLS ALREADY PAID. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Kory had concerns on changing the handbook amidst the legal action in play involving the rule book. Tony Clarke assured the council that changes would be fine as long as they do not affect the section involved in the proceedings.
MOTION 1ST BY KORY, WAYNE 2ND TO ADD THE CLOTHING ALLOWANCE CHANGES TO THE HANDBOOK. ZACH ABSTAINED DUE TO CONFLICT OF INTEREST. MOTION CARRIED.
A. BUDGET & FINANCE- Kimberly asked to have budget meetings start in October. She requested that quarterly reports YTD and 2 previous years be available at that time.
B. LONG RANGE PLANNING- STREETS & EQUIPMENT- Compactor-
C. PARKS & RECREATIONS- Kimberly will get some links together for Tim pertaining to grants.
D. SEWAGE- CAP UPDATE- Robin asked the solicitor about adding restoration verbiage to the easements needed for the Phase II of CBDG project. Tony informed robin that the best way to handle the restoration wording would be in the contractors’ paperwork as it is not normally in an easement.
E. TABLED- E&M engineering bill.
MAYOR- Nothing to report.
MOTION BY KORY, TO ADJOURN THE MEETING. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
NEXT WORK SESSION – February 7, 2018 7:00 pm.
NEXT MEETING – February 20, 2018 7:00 pm.
ADJOURNMENT- 8:00 pm.
MINUTES FOR DECEMBER 19, 2017
THE ELDRED BOROUGH COUNCIL HELD THEIR REGULAR MONTHLY MEETING December 19, 2017 @ 7:00 PM IN THE BOROUGH OFFICE.
COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT: PRESIDENT BILLY BAIR, JR., VICE PRESIDENT KIMBERLY WEIKERT, TIM GOTSHALL, WAYNE KING AND KORY SHAY.
OTHER OFFICIALS PRESENT: TREASURER ROBIN MAZURKIEWICZ, MAYOR SHANNON WEIKERT, SECRETARY LOU ANN HURRLE.
CITIZENS PRESENT: SANDY CHASE, JOE WARNICK, ZACH LASHER, COLLEEN MCVINNEY, JACK BELL AND JIMMY HEFFNER.
President Billy Bair called the meeting to order and asked for any additions to the agenda. Jack Bell asked about bonding King Street and wanted to know if he had to do that every year even if he does not have scheduled work on King St.
Robin explained that is not what the Borough has made companies do unless they have had a job on that street.
Colleen McVinney had some questions on the easement sent for signing to her from the Borough. She wanted to especially know if the Borough would repair anything they ruined through the installation of sewer lines. The Council assured Colleen that the Borough would take care of any restoration work needed through the project on Edson Street.
Jimmy Heffner asked for a copy of the letter that the Borough sent to the Catholic Church.
MOTION 1ST BY KORY, TIM 2ND TO APPROVE THE AGENDA. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
MOTION 1ST BY KIMBERLY, KORY 2ND TO APPROVE THE MINUTES FROM THE PREVIOUS MEETING. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
MOTION 1ST BY KORY, KIMBERLY 2ND TO APPROVE THE TREASURER’S REPORT, PAY THE BILL LIST AND RATIFY THE ACTION OF THE TREASURER ON BILLS ALREADY PAID. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
MOTION 1ST BY KORY, TIM 2ND TO APPROVE THE 2018 PROPOSED BUDGET. CARRIED AIF.
DCED GRANT AGREEMENT- Billy briefly explained that the agreement to be signed is to allow for the disbursement of funds related to the Flood Mitigation Grant awarded to the Borough by DCED, and signed the document.
BLIGHT UPDATE- Lou Ann updated Council on the meeting had with Chris Gullota and showed an outline of his thoughts for helping to provide funding sources for the rehabilitation of several properties on Main Street.
NOTARY PAYMENT FOR EASEMENTS- Lou Ann explained that several residents asked to sign the easements had wondered if the Borough will cover the cost of notarizing the easements.
MOTION 1ST BY WAYNE, TIM 2ND TO PAY FOR THE EASEMENTS TO BE NOTARIZED FOR $5.00 EACH NOTARY STAMP. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
PTO RULE CLARIFICATION- Lou Ann relayed information from Manufacturers Association human resources department. There is no rule on having to pay or even provide employees with PTO. The most important rule to follow is your own contract with employees such as your handbook. Whatever approach is taken with PTO, it should reflect such written rules you have and be consistent across the board. If you want to pay out on PTO, Lou Ann suggested, you need to change the handbook.
Billy is concerned that employees that have been here for a long time often get the short end of the stick and hopes that the future council will consider this when looking at handbook changes.
He added that employees with issues about anything including additions and changes to handbooks should come to council and ask for those to happen.
ELECTION OF TREASURER-
MOTION 1ST BY TIM, WAYNE 2ND TO ELECT ROBIN MAZURKIEWICZ AS TREASURER FOR THE 2018-2019 YEAR. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
MOTION 1ST BY KORY, KIMBERLY 2ND, TO APPROVE $100.00 BONUSES FOR EACH EMPLOYEE. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Joe asked to be excluded. Council explained that he can donate it if he wished.
A. BUDGET & FINANCE- discussed earlier
B. LONG RANGE PLANNING- STREETS & EQUIPMENT- Compactor-
C. PARKS & RECREATIONS- nothing new
D. SEWAGE- CAP UPDATE- nothing new
E. RIVER TRAIL- nothing new
F. POLICE- Mayor Shannon Weikert reported that the police had passed their budget. He also explained that an ad for new hires needed to be cut short due to cost. Council asked that the information be shared on Facebook and the website.
G. WATER AUTHORITY- Kory relayed that the Water Authority is still dealing with customer issues mentioned a few meetings ago. - Robin offered that an account for sewage had been paid after years of being passed due and in and out of ownership transfers.
MAYOR- Mayor reported that he received a letter from Spectrum and that cable will be going up in cost 2-3 dollars per month.
MOTION BY KORY, TO ADJOURN THE MEETING. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
NEXT WORK SESSION – February 20, 2018 6:00 pm.
NEXT MEETING – January 2, 2018 7:00 pm.
ADJOURNMENT- 8:00 pm.
MINUTES FOR NOVEMBER 21, 2017
THE ELDRED BOROUGH COUNCIL HELD THEIR REGULAR MONTHLY MEETING NOVEMBER 21, 2017 @ 7:00 PM IN THE BOROUGH OFFICE.
COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT: PRESIDENT BILLY BAIR, JR., VICE PRESIDENT KIMBERLY WEIKERT AND KORY SHAY.
OTHER OFFICIALS PRESENT: MAYOR SHANNON WEIKERT, SECRETARY LOU ANN HURRLE.
CITIZENS PRESENT: SANDY CHASE, JOE WARNICK, ZACH LASHER AND JIMMY HEFFNER.
President Billy Bair called the meeting to order and asked for any additions to the agenda. Resident Jimmy Heffner asked to but put on the agenda.
MOTION 1ST BY KIMBERLY, KORY 2ND TO APPROVE THE AGENDA. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Jimmy Heffner addressed the Council about ringing of church bells at the Catholic church on Central Street in Eldred. The bells, Mr. Heffner explained, ring too early and chime for an excessive 8-minute interval every hour. Jimmy Heffner continues to express that he works in the evening and must sleep during the day making the noon starting time too early in the day and the length of the chime disruptive and a nuisance. Council explains that they have been approached in the past several times about the same issue and the police have addressed the manner finding that the Church is not in violation of any ordinance. Council agreed that the Church should take the community into consideration and offered to send a letter to express the Council’s concern.
MOTION 1ST BY KORY, KIMBERLY 2ND TO APPROVE THE MINUTES FROM THE PREVIOUS MEETING. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
MOTION 1ST BY KORY, KIMBERLY 2ND TO APPROVE THE TREASURER’S REPORT, PAY THE BILL LIST AND RATIFY THE ACTION OF THE TREASURER ON BILLS ALREADY PAID. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
MOTION 1ST BY KORY, KIMBERLY 2ND TO APPROVE THE RENEWAL OF HEALTH INSURANCE FOR THE BOROUGH EMPLOYEES. CARRIED AIF.
New flow meter for the sewer plant is required this year. Council agrees that Joe should get quotes on the needed parts.
Resident George Benjamin had submitted a complaint about the Water Authority to the Borough Council in an attempt to draw attention to issues that he claims to have with his water meter. Kory offered to relay the complaint to the Authority and update council on their response.
MOTION 1ST KIMBERLY, KORY 2ND TO ADVERTISE THE INTENT TO ADOPT PROPOSED 2018 BUDGET FOR PUBLIC INSPECTION IN THE BRADFORD ERA. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
A. BUDGET & FINANCE- discussed earlier
B. LONG RANGE PLANNING- STREETS & EQUIPMENT- Compactor- Kimberly reminded council that she had put in for a grant to fund a garbage compactor program. Billy announced that the Borough had been awarded a flood mitigation grant thanks to Kimberly’s efforts and would like the minutes to reflect that E&M Engineering hindered this process and cost the Borough money in the process.
C. PARKS & RECREATIONS- nothing new
D. SEWAGE- CAP UPDATE- nothing new
E. RIVER TRAIL- nothing new
F. POLICE- Mayor Shannon Weikert reported that there were no increases in the Police budget which was completed at the last Police meeting. He also relayed that there would be an ad in the paper looking for a new officer as there are hours that are not able to be covered with current employees.
G. WATER AUTHORITY- nothing new
MAYOR- nothing new
MOTION BY KORY, TO ADJOURN THE MEETING. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
NEXT WORK SESSION – December 19, 2017 6:00 pm.
NEXT MEETING – December 19, 2017 7:00 pm.
ADJOURNMENT- 8:00 pm.
MINUTES FOR NOVEMBER 19, 2017
THE ELDRED BOROUGH COUNCIL HELD A SPECIAL MEETING NOVEMBER 19, 2017 @ 6:00 PM IN THE BOROUGH OFFICE.
COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT: PRESIDENT BILLY BAIR JR., VICE PRESIDENT KIMBERLY WEIKERT, TIM GOTSHALL, WAYNE KING AND KORY SHAY.
OTHER OFFICIALS PRESENT: MAYOR SHANNON WEIKERT, AND SECRETARY LOU ANN HURRLE.
CITIZENS PRESENT: NONE
President Billy Bair Jr. called the meeting to order and asked for any additions to the agenda.
Council discussed the 2018 budget figures.
Council had a discussion on enforcing the use it or lose it one week vacation rule, as the past few years this rule was not enforced, allowing an employee to be paid an extra week per year. There was also talk on increasing the sewer rates as the Borough is still $13 dollars a month below the area average and the DEP has required the Borough to continue increases to show self-sufficiency. Wages for employees were discussed. Council agreed to a percentage increase evenly across the board.
MOTION BY KORY, TO ADJOURN THE MEETING. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
NEXT WORK SESSION – November 21, 2017 6:00 pm.
NEXT MEETING – November 21, 2017 7:00 pm.
ADJOURNMENT- 8:30 pm.
Respectfully,
Lou Ann Hurrle
Eldred Borough Secretary
MINUTES FOR NOVEMBER 9, 2017
THE ELDRED BOROUGH COUNCIL HELD A SPECIAL MEETING NOVEMBER 9, 2017 @ 6:00 PM IN THE BOROUGH OFFICE.
COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT: PRESIDENT BILLY BAIR JR., WAYNE KING AND KORY SHAY.
OTHER OFFICIALS PRESENT: MAYOR SHANNON WEIKERT, AND SECRETARY LOU ANN HURRLE.
CITIZENS PRESENT: JEREMY PRESCOTT AND JOE WARNICK.
President Billy Bair Jr. called the meeting to order and asked for any additions to the agenda.
Council discussed the 2018 budget figures.
Council had discussion on the CDBG bidders. Billy had reservations on Cummins Construction even though they were the lowest bidder.
MOTION BY KORY 1ST, WAYNE 2ND TO ACCEPT CUMMINS CONSTRUCTION’S BID ON JUST KING STREET PORTION AND OMITTING THE PLATT STREET PORTION OF THE CDBG I&I PROJECT. BILLY OPPOSED, MOTION CARRIED.
MOTION BY KORY, TO ADJOURN THE MEETING. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
NEXT WORK SESSION – November 19, 2017 6:00 pm.
NEXT MEETING – November 21, 2017 7:00 pm.
ADJOURNMENT- 7:30 pm.
Respectfully,
Lou Ann Hurrle
Eldred Borough Secretary
MINUTES FOR OCTOBER 17, 2017
THE ELDRED BOROUGH COUNCIL HELD THEIR REGULAR MONTHLY MEETING OCTOBER 17, 2017 @ 7:00 PM IN THE BOROUGH OFFICE.
COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT: PRESIDENT BILLY BAIR JR., VICE PRESIDENT KIMBERLY WEIKERT, WAYNE KING AND KORY SHAY.
OTHER OFFICIALS PRESENT: MAYOR SHANNON WEIKERT, TREASURER ROBIN MAZURKIEWICZ, AND SECRETARY LOU ANN HURRLE.
CITIZENS PRESENT: SANDY CHASE, JACK BELL AND JOE WARNICK.
President Billy Bair Jr. called the meeting to order and asked for any additions to the agenda.
MOTION 1ST BY WAYNE, 2ND KORY TO APPROVE THE AGENDA. MOTION CARRIED AIF
MOTION 1ST BY WAYNE, 2ND KORY TO APPROVE THE MINUTES FROM THE PREVIOUS MEETING. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
MOTION 1ST BY WAYNE, 2ND KORY TO APPROVE THE TREASURER’S REPORT, PAY THE BILL LIST AND RATIFY THE ACTION OF THE TREASURER ON BILLS ALREADY PAID. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Some discussion was had on who would pay for broken or moved waterlines through the upcoming CDBG project. Kory explained that if waterlines have to be moved the Borough should pay, if the lines are dug next to but not hit and they leak the Water Authority would be responsible to pay. If, Kory explained the waterlines are hit dead on by mistake or otherwise by the contractor, that contractor would be responsible.
All agree that there is too much funding at stake to not move forward with this project and that the Borough should just take the chance that waterlines may need to be moved.
A. BUDGET & FINANCE- Council agreed that two work sessions are in order so that the budget can be ready by the November meeting. All agree on November 9th at 6pm and a Saturday or Sunday to follow before the next meeting in order for all Council to be able to take part.
B. LONG RANGE PLANNING- STREETS & EQUIPMENT- Compactor- Billy offered that he has heard from residents who are happy with the garbage collection as is and they have concerns over a compactor. Kory agreed and had heard the same types of responses.
C. PARKS & RECREATIONS- nothing new
D. SEWAGE- CAP UPDATE- nothing new
E. RIVER TRAIL- nothing new
F. POLICE- Mayor Shannon Weikert updated the Council on a noise complaint that is ongoing involving neighbors and the Catholic Church bells in the Borough. Currently, the Borough Ordinance addressing noise nuisances shows that the bells are not in violation of this ordinance. Shannon then asked if Council would mind if he wrote to the head of State Police in order to request a response addressing the consistent speeding of State Police cars through the Borough of Eldred. Council approved his request.
G. WATER AUTHORITY- Kory reported that the Water Authority will be replacing several fire hydrants in the Borough this year.
MAYOR- nothing new
MOTION BY KORY, TO ADJOURN THE MEETING. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
NEXT WORK SESSION – November 9, 2017 6:00 pm.
NEXT MEETING – November 21, 2017 7:00 pm.
ADJOURNMENT- 7:40 pm.
Respectfully,
Lou Ann Hurrle
Eldred Borough Secretary
MINUTES FOR SEPTEMBER 19, 2017
THE ELDRED BOROUGH COUNCIL HELD THEIR REGULAR MONTHLY MEETING SEPTEMBER 19, 2017 @ 7:00 PM IN THE BOROUGH OFFICE.
COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT: VICE PRESIDENT KIMBERLY WEIKERT, WAYNE KING AND KORY SHAY.
OTHER OFFICIALS PRESENT: MAYOR SHANNON WEIKERT, TREASURER ROBIN MAZURKIEWICZ, AND SECRETARY LOU ANN HURRLE.
CITIZENS PRESENT: BRITNEY GREELEY, JOHN GREELEY, PENNY DANIELS-HAHN, SEANNA HAHN, CATHY GILBERT, SHANNON JOHNSTON, SANDY CHASE, JAMES KING, TOM VANSCOTER, CHRIS SCHWAB, CHIEF DON NEIS, PATRICK WALKER AND JOE WARNICK.
Vice President Kimberly Weikert called the meeting to order and asked for any additions to the agenda.
MOTION 1ST BY KORY, 2ND WAYNE TO APPROVE THE AGENDA. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
MOTION 1ST BY KORY, 2ND WAYNE TO APPROVE THE MINUTES FROM THE PREVIOUS MEETING. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
MOTION 1ST BY KORY, 2ND WAYNE TO APPROVE THE TREASURER’S REPORT, PAY THE BILL LIST AND RATIFY THE ACTION OF THE TREASURER ON BILLS ALREADY PAID. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
SHANNON JOHNSTON USE OF BALLFEILD- Shannon Johnston was offered the floor. She explained that she just wanted to know if the Council had any objections to her using the ballfield for a wedding in January. Council explained that the electric can be limited and the water would be off. These were things that Shannon had planned for and expected.
Wayne offered the use of the dumpster for the event. Shannon asked about the cost of rental for the park, she was informed that there is no cost but donations are accepted.
MOTION 1ST KORY, 2ND WAYNE TO APPROVE MMO FOR THE PENSION. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Council agreed to sign the Austin Security Renewal.
Kimberly read the CDBG resolution for allocation.
MOTION 1ST KORY, 2ND WAYNE TO ADOPT THE CDBG ALLOCATION RESOLUTION. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
MOTION 1ST KORY, 2ND WAYNE FOR REALLOCATION OF FUNDS FOR ADMINISTRATION FOR CDBG. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
MOTION 1ST KORY, 2ND WAYNE TO APPROVE THE PROPOSAL FROM INSCALE ENGINEERING. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Grinder Submittal- Purchase order for the new grinder was presented to Council.
MOTION 1ST WAYNE, 2ND KORY TO ACCEPT THE SUBMITTAL FOR THE GRINDER. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Dave Wolf Street Cleaned- Lou Ann explained that Dave Wolf asked if the streets could be cleaned before the snow comes to avoid gravel and rocks being plowed onto the sidewalks to avoid snow blowers throwing the debris at houses.
Council discussed this and decided Wayne will forward this information to Joe and Zach so weather permitting they may do it.
Robin Hours- Robin explained that she will be out of sick/ vacation time before the year is up. She presented the idea of coming in early to make up the missed hours on her dialysis days. Council agreed that this would be acceptable.
Street Lettering- Wayne asked Council if the School could be billed for the lettering of the street as he believes that it was the School that wanted the letters in the first place. Lou Ann presented an email from the school asking for bus stop signs to be put in place near the Tasty Snax. The office will submit the lettering bill to the school and contact Pen Dot for the school to have the signs to be considered.
Locking Up Files- Robin explained that files may have been riffled through in the garage and that she suggests locking them up. Council agreed that this should be done.
MOTION 1ST KORY, 2ND WAYNE TO BUILD PLYWOOD DOORS TO LOCK UP FILES.
MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Ordinance 163- Don explained that Facebook chatter had led to investigations on curfew violations and mischievous activity in town. As a result, a list of 17 kids had been put together by the police in violation of this ordinance. The police suggest an overhaul of this ordinance to allow a warning system and rates of fines to be reconsidered. In the meantime, Council must decide how the current ordinance should be enforced.
After residents, Tom Vanscoter, The Greeleys and Hahns had the floor to explain their involvement and thought, the Council discussed options on enforcement and changes to the ordinance. All agreed that a warning scale and fine adjustment should be put in place. Until then the ordinance should be enforced as is.
The 17 should be given a warning and the ordinance should be changed with the adoption of the new ordinance book.
A. BUDGET & FINANCE- in progress of discussion.
B. LONG RANGE PLANNING- STREETS & EQUIPMENT- Compactor- nothing new
C. PARKS & RECREATIONS- nothing new
D. SEWAGE- CAP UPDATE- nothing new
E. RIVER TRAIL- nothing new
F. POLICE- nothing new
G. WATER AUTHORITY- nothing new
MAYOR- nothing new
MOTION BY KORY, TO ADJOURN THE MEETING. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
NEXT WORK SESSION – October 17, 2017 6:00 pm.
NEXT MEETING – October 17, 2017 7:00 pm.
ADJOURNMENT- 8:30 pm.
Respectfully,
Lou Ann Hurrle
Eldred Borough Secretary
MINUTES FOR SPECIAL MEETING AUGUST 29, 2017
THE ELDRED BOROUGH COUNCIL HELD A SPECIAL MONTHLY MEETING AUGUST 29, 2017 @ 6:00 PM IN THE BOROUGH OFFICE.
COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT: VICE PRESIDENT KIMBERLY WEIKERT, TIM GOTSHALL, WAYNE KING AND KORY SHAY.
OTHER OFFICIALS PRESENT: MAYOR SHANNON WEIKERT AND SECRETARY LOU ANN HURRLE.
CITIZENS PRESENT: PATRICK WALKER AND JOE WARNICK.
MOTION 1ST BY KORY, 2ND TIM TO APPROVE THE AGENDA. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
The Council was updated on liquid fuels; 2 years must be used as 3 years are already encumbered and only 2 can be encumbered at a time. Council chose to use the funds to pay for milling to be done by Jack Bell Excavating.
Lou Ann updated Council on the information gathered on phone services and prices. Council decided to discuss further at a later meeting.
Grinder quotes and descriptions were offered by Joe. Council agreed with Joe that the Biss grinder is not sufficient for the Borough’s needs as it has no auto-reverse.
After some discussion, Council decided to purchase the Task Master Grinder.
MOTION BY TIM, WAYNE 2ND TO PURCHASE THE TASK MASTER GRINDER FOR APPROXIMATELY $35,000.00 WITH INSTALLATION. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Kimberly gives Mr. Walker the floor. He explains that the church bells ring and play music every hour on the hour throughout the day every day. He works second shift and needs to be sleeping at these hours. This, he explains is a nuisance to him. Mr. Walker reports that he has approached the church on this matter to no avail. Council lets him know that a report should be filed with the police.
MOTION BY KORY TO ADJOURN THE MEETING. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
NEXT WORK SESSION – September 19, 2017 6:00 pm.
NEXT MEETING – September 19, 2017 7:00 pm.
ADJOURNMENT- 6:45 pm.
Respectfully,
Lou Ann Hurrle
Eldred Borough Secretary
MINUTES FOR AUGUST 15, 2017
THE ELDRED BOROUGH COUNCIL HELD THEIR REGULAR MONTHLY MEETING AUGUST 15, 2017 @ 7:00 PM IN THE BOROUGH OFFICE.
COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT: VICE PRESIDENT KIMBERLY WEIKERT, TIM GOTSHALL, WAYNE KING AND KORY SHAY.
OTHER OFFICIALS PRESENT: MAYOR SHANNON WEIKERT, TREASURER ROBIN MAZURKIEWICZ, AND SECRETARY LOU ANN HURRLE.
CITIZENS PRESENT: JACOB WHEATON, PHIL LABELLA AND JOE WARNICK.
MOTION 1ST BY KORY, 2ND TIM TO APPROVE THE AGENDA. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
MOTION 1ST BY TIM, 2ND KORY TO APPROVE THE MINUTES FROM THE PREVIOUS MEETING. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
Discussion was had on what the CD is earmarked for and the Savings. Robin will look into that and relay the information to Council.
MOTION 1ST BY KORY, 2ND WAYNE TO APPROVE THE TREASURER’S REPORT, PAY THE BILL LIST AND RATIFY THE ACTION OF THE TREASURER ON BILLS ALREADY PAID. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
BLIGHTED BUILDINGS- Lou Ann updated Council on the buildings that Redevelopment and Housing are looking to help.
GRINDER- Kimberly explained that the grinder at the Shields lift station has failed and an estimate for a new one is $30,000 to $35,000.
Discussion was had on possible grant funding for the new grinder. A special meeting will be called to approve the purchase of the grinder to allow for grants to be pursued, but time is of the essence.
Kory asked for the estimate to be put in writing and broken down for approval.
Council decided that savings would be the account to pay for the grinder.
SHANNON JOHNSTON USE OF BALLFEILD- Lou Ann reported that Shannon Johnston has asked to use Sullivan Field for a reception in January. Permission has been given by Phil Labella, but she would like to know if the Council has any concerns. Council decided to table this and let her know the electric will be off at that time.
PARK FENCE- Phil Labella reported that a wind storm knocked the fence down at the elementary school park. He offered that the baseball fund is not in any way connected to the Borough and the baseball fund will pay for the repairs. Phil mentioned the use of Sullivan field park and that there is no payment for that park. Council suggested asking for a donation when callers ask about the use of that park.
PHONE LINES- Robin announced that the phone lines are experiencing trouble. A tech has offered a rate of $55 per hour at 2-4.5 hours of work and a onetime fee to fix them. Council asked for pricing from Spectrum and to have the Verizon tech put the work estimate in writing.
A. BUDGET & FINANCE- Council asked for a 6-month comparison to be ready for next work session.
B. LONG RANGE PLANNING- STREETS & EQUIPMENT- Compactor- Wayne reported that Casella had suggested down by the sewer plant for the placement of a compactor. The electric is already there.
Joe reported that the blacktopping will start the 28th of August and the storm water solutions near the Eagle will be done by Jack in the next 2 weeks.
C. PARKS & RECREATIONS- Discussed earlier.
D. SEWAGE- CAP UPDATE- Nothing to report.
E. RIVER TRAIL- Tim explained that the meeting with Jeremy Morey and other area conservation districts went well. He reported that there are other grants that the Borough could apply for in October.
F. POLICE- Shannon relayed that the new office is coming along. The car from Foster Township is still not ready. Don asked for details on the speeding police cars on main street as without this it is hard to know if it was a legitimate emergency that may have required such a response from those officers. Shannon offered that there are 2 new officers that started on the first day of Old Home Days. The police presence was strong at Old Home Days as it was last year. There were no problems reported and it was reportedly the biggest attendance as of yet.
G. WATER AUTHORITY- Kory reported that the Authority had no issues at hand other than nonpayment from customers. Wayne asked what Kimberly needed for a water tank grant.
MAYOR- Tim brought up that the Mayors report on the back of the bills was missing the mayor’s name.
MOTION BY KORY, TIM 2ND TO ADJOURN THE MEETING. MOTION CARRIED AIF.
NEXT WORK SESSION – September 19, 2017 6:00 pm.
NEXT MEETING – September 19, 2017 7:00 pm.
ADJOURNMENT- 8:30 pm.
Respectfully,
Lou Ann Hurrle
Eldred Borough Secretary