MARCH 17, 2010
WAYNESBORO, PA 17268
REGULAR MEETING
Council President Craig Newcomer called the regularly scheduled meeting of the Waynesboro Borough Council to order at 7:54 p.m. with the following in attendance:
Borough Council Members – Benjamin Greenawalt, Jason Stains, C. Harold Mumma, Craig Newcomer, Wayne Driscoll and Ronald Martin
Mayor Richard Starliper
Borough Staff – Lloyd R. Hamberger, II, Borough Manager
Denny Benshoff, Maintenance Superintendent
Dan Sheffler, Zoning-Code Enforcement Officer
Kevin Grubbs, Head of Engineering Services
Melissa Dively, Borough Solicitor (Salzmann Hughes, PC)
Dave Martin, Fire Chief
Mark King, Police Chief
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: Mayor Starliper led those present in the Pledge of Allegiance.
APPROVE MINUTES: Councilman Greenawalt made a motion to approve the minutes of the March 3rd workshop and regular meeting, as written. Councilman Martin seconded; the motion passed unanimously.
ACCEPT REPORTS: Councilman Greenawalt made a motion to accept the reports of the Code Enforcement Officer, Police Chief and Fire Chief, as presented. Councilman Martin acknowledged the additional assistance provided to residents by the Police Department during the snow storms the previous month. The motion then passed unanimously.
COMMITTEE REPORTS
PERSONNEL COMMITTEE: Councilman Mumma noted he received favorable performance evaluations for Chris Eyler, Kerry Smith, Jamie Shindledecker and Tom Simmers. No action was required. He will present other items during the “voting” section of the meeting.
PROPERTY AND PUBLIC SAFETY COMMITTEE: Councilman Driscoll noted that Fire Chief Martin requested permission to convert the pick-up truck purchased by the Borough several years ago into a Utility Truck for the Fire Department. The volunteers have offered to bear all costs for the work involved. A motion will be presented later in the meeting.
Councilman Driscoll reported that he and Mike Cermak viewed the former caretaker’s house at the golf course. Mr. Cermak’s professional opinion is that the house is not unstable. Accordingly, the Property Committee is recommending that the house be “cleaned up” by either the Maintenance or Golf Department; and a decision on its future will be made at a later date.
Councilman Driscoll added that he has received a lot of positive feedback during the last several weeks regarding the possibility of a dog park in Waynesboro. He is reviewing several areas in various parks for future discussion/consideration.
STREET COMMITTEE: Councilman Martin noted that the Street Committee’s next meeting will be held on March 31st at 9:00 a.m. in the second floor conference room of Borough Hall. Items requiring action will be presented during the “voting” section of the meeting.
INTERGOVERNMENTAL COMMITTEE: No report.
DOWNTOWN REVITALIZATION COMMITTEE: President Newcomer announced that the Committee’s next meeting will be held on March 24th at 11:00 a.m. (location to be determined).
FINANCE COMMITTEE: No report.
MAYOR’S REPORT: The Mayor’s Report was as follows --
“On March 11th, I attended the ribbon cutting ceremony at the Chambersburg Readiness Center for the Charlie Troop, 2-104th Cavalry Co., Pennsylvania Army National Guard (Major General Jessica Wright).
On March 13th, I had the privilege of uniting in marriage April Shipley and Thomas Bricker. We wish them the best.”
SOLICITOR’S REPORT: No report.
PUBLIC COMMENT - ITEMS ON AGENDA: None.
VOTING ON ITEMS FROM COMMITTEE REPORTS: Councilman Mumma made a motion to hire the following individuals as part-time summer help at the Golf Course –
Pro Shop Attendants
Dorothy “Jean” Kaiser
Jesse Mowen
Tina Rideout
Marvin Gaskill
Chad Otis
Jackie Kaiser (temporary fill-in)
Golf Course Maintenance Workers
Jarred Knott
Toby Andrew
Ronald Butts
Ralph Johnson
Nathan Kauffman
Kenneth Stonebraker (fill-in)
Isaac Swink (fill-in)
Councilman Stains seconded; the motion passed unanimously.
Councilman Mumma made a motion to appoint Andrea Bowersox to the Library Board (to replace Amy Weber). Her term would expire on 02/10/2013. Councilman Stains seconded; the motion passed unanimously.
Councilman Mumma made a motion to grant a step increase for Gary Zentmyer from salary level 11E to 12C. Councilman Greenawalt seconded; the motion passed unanimously.
Councilman Mumma made a motion to promote D. Brad Martin from Water Treatment Trainee to Water Treatment Technician, at a salary level 8A ($14.69/hour). Councilman Stains seconded; the motion passed unanimously. (*Councilman Martin noted he is not related to Brad Martin.)
Councilman Mumma explained that, due to State budget cuts, they are not currently conducting examinations for Sewer Plant certifications. As there is no Technician’s position at the Sewer Plant similar to the Water Plant, Leiter Pryor (and the WBA) are recommending creating a Sewer Treatment Technician’s position. Councilman Mumma made a motion to approve the recommendation. Councilman Stains seconded; the motion passed unanimously. On a related matter, Mr. Pryor and the WBA are also recommending that Jay Mongan be promoted from Sewer Treatment Trainee to Sewer Treatment Technician, at a salary level 8A ($14.69/hour). Councilman Stains seconded; the motion passed unanimously.
Councilman Mumma presented a request from three (3) employees who would like to transfer various leave time to Goldie Kauffman for her use, as she has used all of her own time. Councilman Mumma made a motion that, because a precedent had previously been established, the request will be granted; however, in the future, the practice of donating leave time from one employee to another will be discontinued. Councilman Greenawalt seconded; the motion passed unanimously.
Councilman Driscoll made a motion to permit the Fire Department to proceed with the conversion of a pick-up truck to a Utility Truck, at their expense. Councilman Stains seconded; the motion passed unanimously.
Councilman Martin noted that the resident who requested a handicapped parking space at 40 N. Broad Street (Betty Shetron) has passed away; and the handicapped parking space will be removed. Councilman Greenawalt seconded; the motion passed unanimously.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
FIRE PROTECTION AGREEMENT (QUINCY TOWNSHIP): Mr. Hamberger reported that he had received a proposal from Quincy Township regarding the Fire Protection Agreement (they proposed the same terms, conditions and rates for 2010 and 2011). He noted that the staff feels the basic agreement is fair and worked well this year, but a rate increase should be counter-proposed.
Mr. Hamberger explained that the base rate in the current agreement is $7,500, and Quincy Township is billed on a time/material basis each time the Waynesboro Fire Department responds to a call in their area. (They are charged $35.00/man-hour, plus an hourly rate for equipment based on FEMA’s Schedule of Equipment dated 05/01/08.) As the Borough’s manpower and insurance costs continue to rise, he suggested a 3% increase in 2010 and an additional 3% in 2011 for the base rates. President Newcomer noted that Council should review actual figures prior to making a final decision on the matter. Councilman Martin made a motion to extend the present contract for fire protection with Quincy Township for the period of March 31, 2010 to April 30, 2010, and the matter can be discussed further at Council’s next meeting. Councilman Stains seconded; the motion passed unanimously.
NEW BUSINESS
FAIR HOUSING RESOLUTION (RESOLUTION #2010-02): Mr. Hamberger presented proposed Resolution #2010-02, which is an annual requirement of the CDBG program. Councilman Martin made a motion to adopt Resolution #2010-02, as presented. Councilman Stains seconded; the motion passed unanimously.
RESOLUTION #2010-02
FAIR HOUSING RESOLUTION
LET IT BE KNOWN TO ALL PERSONS of the Borough of Waynesboro that discrimination in the sale, rental, leasing, financing of housing or land to be used for construction of housing, or in the provision of brokerage services because of race, color, religion, ancestry, sex, national origin, handicap or disability is prohibited by Title VIII of the Civil Rights Act of 1968 (Federal Fair Housing Law) and the Pennsylvania Human Relations Act. It is the policy of the Borough of Waynesboro to implement programs to ensure equal opportunity in housing for all persons regardless of race, color, religion, ancestry, sex, national origin, handicap or disability, or familial status (families with children). Therefore, the Borough of Waynesboro does hereby pass the following Resolution.
Complete copy on file at Borough Hall.
REQUEST TO HOLD YARD SALE (RECORD HERALD): Mr. Hamberger received correspondence from the Record Herald requesting permission to close Walnut Street to vehicular traffic from the alley (Gay Street) to Second Street for their upcoming yard sale to held on May 1st from 7:00 a.m. through 12:00 noon. Councilman Mumma made a motion to approve the request. Councilman Driscoll seconded. Concern was expressed, however, regarding the lack of access to various businesses and/or residences if Walnut Street is closed. It was suggested that they could utilize the parking lot to the rear of their establishment instead of closing Walnut Street. Mr. Hamberger was instructed to invite representatives from the Record Herald to attend the upcoming Street Committee meeting to discuss the matter further. The motion and second for approval were withdrawn.
REQUEST TO HOLD NEIGHBORHOOD BLOCK PARTY (ST. MARY’S EPISCOPAL CHURCH): Mr. Hamberger presented a request from the St. Mary’s Episcopal Church to close S. Broad Street, from E. Second Street to Pen Mar Street, on May 15th from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., for their annual neighborhood block party. It was noted that there have been no difficulties with this event in the past. Councilman Martin made a motion to approve the request. Councilman Stains seconded; the motion passed unanimously.
REQUEST TO HOLD EASTER EGG HUNT AT MEMORIAL PARK (WAYNESBORO VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPARTMENT): Mr. Hamberger presented a request from the Waynesboro Volunteer Fire Department to hold their annual Easter Egg Hunt at Memorial Park on March 27th (rain date of April 3rd) from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Mr. Hamberger noted that this event is held every year and there have been no problems. He added, however, that the park is not reserved – it can be used on a first-come, first-served basis. Councilman Martin made a motion to approve the request. Councilman Greenawalt seconded; the motion passed unanimously.
PUBLIC IN ATTENDANCE - NON-AGENDA ITEMS:
Frank Bittner, 842 Anthony Avenue - Mr. Bittner questioned what the personnel at the Water and Sewer Treatment Plants do. He noted that he would like to visit the plants, but the areas are now kept secure. President Newcomer stated that the facilities are not open to the public since 09/11, but he offered to take Mr. Bittner on a guided tour. He added that Mr. Bittner could also speak with Leiter Pryor, Director of Utilities, who could better explain their duties.
FOR INFORMATION ONLY
STREET PREACHING: Mr. Hamberger presented a request from an individual (Karl Snyder) who would like to play his guitar and preach the gospel in Center Square. Mr. Hamberger noted that the Borough generally has no problem with this type of activity (as part of the First Amendment), provided that they do not block the street or interfere with pedestrian traffic on the sidewalks. However, Mr. Snyder would like to use a sound system, and this is not usually permitted (except for special events). Several councilmen voiced their agreement. Councilman Martin made a motion to approve the request, provided that no amplification is utilized. Councilman Greenawalt seconded; the motion passed unanimously.
RIBBON CUTTING CEREMONY: Council members were invited to attend the Ribbon Cutting Ceremony at HomeRite Windows & Doors, 52 W. Main Street, on Thursday, March 18th at 2:00 p.m.
CORRESPONDENCE FROM WAYNESBORO COMMUNITY SERVICES: Mr. Hamberger received correspondence from Waynesboro Community Services noting their appreciation for the new “no parking - loading zone” area in front of their building at 13-15 S. Church Street.
FRANKLIN COUNTY VISION 2020: Mr. Hamberger reported he has been advised that the Franklin County Commissioners will hold their first meeting of the Franklin County Vision 2020 (Focusing on the Future) on April 1st at 7:00 p.m. at the ATH&L Social Room. He encouraged representatives of Council to attend.
PAY BILLS: Councilman Mumma made a motion to approve the Voucher List dated 03/05. Councilman Greenawalt seconded; the motion passed unanimously.
COUNCIL AND STAFF COMMENTS: Councilman Driscoll stated that the downtown is looking “really good”; and the brick sidewalks are enhancing the architecture of the buildings above.
Councilman Martin asked if authorization is needed for execution of the grant application for the School Resource Officer. Chief King noted it is not required for the application.
Councilman Martin also mentioned an article he read recently in the Public Opinion regarding County CDBG funding. It was clarified that Waynesboro is not eligible for that funding because they have their own CDBG program.
Denny Benshoff stated that Jamie Shindledecker and Kerry Smith should be removed from probationary status, as they have successfully completed six (6) months of employment. Councilman Mumma noted he will address the matter at the next Council meeting, as their six month anniversary dates are actually 04/15.
Kevin Grubbs announced that work has begun on the brick sidewalk on Main Street between Cleveland Avenue and Grant Street. (They are removing the existing sidewalk on the south side.) A May 15th completion date has been established.
Mr. Hamberger reported that he met recently with Kevin Stanton, a member of Senator Casey’s staff, to discuss the Borough’s application for funding for the stormwater management project. Mr. Stanton noted that “money is tight”, but they will do all they can to assist. Mr. Hamberger also has a meeting scheduled with a representative of Congressman Shuster’s office on March 19th at 10:00 a.m. He suggested that several councilmen might also attend.
Mr. Hamberger noted that he received an email from Pat Fleagle (Downtown Manager) advising that dogs have been using the trees downtown as “depositories”. He reminded dog owners that they are responsible for cleaning up after their pets; and they can be fined if they do not comply.
Kevin Grubbs noted that he provided Council with a draft copy of an ordinance amending traffic regulations, specifically with regard to the 200' sight distance required for the proposed crosswalk lights. The ordinance will be advertised for consideration at Council’s April 7th meeting. In addition, Mr. Grubbs noted that PENNDOT is preparing an agreement for the Borough’s review for reimbursement of costs for the lights. He will forward a copy to Council upon his receipt.
Denny Benshoff reported that two (2) storm sewers collapsed on S. Potomac Street recently, and PENNDOT is assisting with installing new boxes and pouring concrete. President Newcomer added his surprise that the Borough “faired well” during the recent storms, especially in the south end of town.
Kevin Grubbs noted that the Engineering Department is working with vendors to obtain specifications for the crosswalk lights in order to begin the bidding process.
Stephen Monn reported that Council had previously approved a request by the Historical Society to place a jobs trailer in front of the Oller House during their roof restoration work from approximately April 1st thru the week of May 24th. They have made alternate arrangements to store the trailer in the rear of the building.
Fire Chief Dave Martin thanked Council for approving the volunteers’ request regarding the Utility Truck. Councilman Martin asked if the Fire Department will be soliciting donations from businesses for bingo and advertisements for their upcoming carnival. Chief Martin stated they will; and in addition, they will request that Council members offer to work the bingo or concession areas at least one (1) evening during that week.
Police Chief Mark King noted that the Police Department participated in the Health Fair at the Senior High School on March 13th. PA State Police joined in their efforts, as well as Franklin County Crime Solvers. Handouts were provided for children and parents; and gun locks were distributed. Chief King also reported that there was a 12% reduction in crashes from 2008 to 2009, which he attributes to the Aggressive Driving Enforcement Program.
Councilman Greenawalt recommended that downtown merchants sweep debris from their sidewalks into the streets to be collected by the street sweeper.
Councilman Mumma thanked the public for their attendance at the meeting.
Mayor Starliper noted that the Street Sweeping Schedule has been published in The Record Herald. He suggested that residents also sweep their sidewalks prior to the street sweeping on their streets.
President Newcomer stated it is very important that people clean-up after their dogs, especially in the downtown area. He noted that (perhaps) signs regarding the fines could be posted as part of the downtown revitalization efforts. He also noted that he and Mr. Hamberger will begin working on a bid package for soda services at the Borough’s facilities.
Having no further business to discuss, Councilman Driscoll made a motion to adjourn the meeting at 8:45 p.m. Councilman Mumma seconded; the motion passed unanimously.
Respectfully Submitted,
Melinda S. Knott
Administrative Assistant