City of Butler

Category: Meeting Minutes

  • July 26, 2018

    MINUTES
    City Council Meeting
    City of Butler, Pennsylvania
    July 26, 2018
     

    Mayor Smith called the meeting to order at 7:00 PM. Mayor Smith and Council members Walter, Smith, and Bonus were present. The pledge of allegiance to the flag followed an invocation given by Pastor Ben Ogle, Community Life Church.

    The following action took place at the City’s Forum Meeting held on July 24, 2018:

    City Council, acting as the Board of Health, and under the provisions of the Third Class City Code, Section XXIII, (b) Abatement of Public Nuisances, Section 2321, found the following subject structure detrimental to public health and ordered its removal by demolition:

    629 Center Avenue

    Motion by Mayor Smith. Second by CM Bonus.  All voted aye.

    After a brief execute session, the Forum Meeting reconvened at 8:13 PM.

    Mayor made a motion to approve an amendment to the Retirement and General Release Agreement, dated April 26, 2018, with William Mayhugh, Jr., to correct a calculation error. Paragraph 3 (6) is amended from $8,700.00 to $11,875.91.

    Second by CM Bonus. All voted aye.

    NEIGHBORHOOD PRIDE AWARD:

    Emmalee Schattauer – 120 Morton Avenue

    Motion by Mayor Smith with a second from CM Walter to approve the minutes of the regular meeting of June 28, 2018. All voted aye.

    Motion by Mayor Smith with a second from CM Bonus to acknowledge receipt of the monthly minutes from RACB, including the CDBG/HOME Program activities. All voted aye.

    MONTHLY BOARDS AND AUTHORITIES LIAISON REPORTS

    Liaisons gave brief reports from boards and authorities that met in June.

    MONTHLY DEPARTMENT REPORTS

    (Note: Department Reports Distributed to Council at Tuesday’s Forum Meeting for Review)

    Department reports for the month of June were approved by individual, unanimous votes.

    COUNCIL REPORTS/ACTIONS

    Councilman Walter

    1. Motion to accept the resignation of Deb Oyler, from the Office of the City Treasurer effective August 9, 2018.  Second by Mayor Smith.  All voted aye.
    2. Motion to direct the City Clerk to initiate recruitment action to fill the position of the Clerk Bookkeeper in the Office of the City Treasurer.  Second by CM Bonus.  All voted        aye.
    3. Motion to approve the updated job description for the Clerk Bookkeeper in the office of the City Treasurer.  Second by Mayor Smith.  All voted aye.
    4. Motion for council to reconvene as soon as possible to approve the new hire for the Clerk Bookkeeper position in the office of the City Treasurer. Second by CM Bonus.  All           voted aye.
    5. Motion for the introduction and first reading of City Ordinance No. 1766, an ordinance of the City of Butler amending Part Two, Chapter 57 (Police Pension Plan) of the codified ordinances of the City of Butler to incorporate plan changes resulting from collective bargaining negotiations during fiscal year 2018. Second by Mayor Smith. All voted aye.
    6. Motion to approve a payment in the amount of $21,256.45 to Wells Fargo Bank for an interest payment for the General Obligation Refunding Bond Series of 2005.  LIN 01 472 700. Second by CM Bonus.  All voted aye.

    Councilman Smith

    1. Motion for the second reading and adoption of City Ordinance No. 1765, An ordinance of the City of Butler, Pennsylvania amending Chapter 192, Peace and Good Order, Article VIII, Disorderly House, §192-37 Definitions. Second by Mayor Smith.  All voted aye.

    Councilman Bonus

    1. Motion to approve a block party on W. Fulton St. from 221 W. Fulton St. to 229 W. Fulton St. on Sunday, August 5, 2018 (rain date August 12, 2018) from 3:00 PM to 9:00 PM. Second by Mayor Smith. All voted aye.
    2. Motion to officially name the public right of way between Knox Avenue (north side of Knox) and Goldwood Avenue (west of Hansen Ave.) Maley Lane per the request from the Butler County Emergency Management Agency. Second by Mayor Smith. All voted aye.
    3. Motion to accept the bid for the Butler City Building Exterior Renovations Project from EC Masonry, Inc. in the amount of $59,155.50. LIN 18 469 250. Second by Mayor Smith. All voted aye.
    4. Motion to accept the bid for the Cunningham St. Culvert Replacement Project from Bauer Excavating Incorporated in the amount of $74,950.50. LIN 18 430 436.  Second by CM Walter. All voted aye.

    Councilman Walter

    1. Motion for the second reading and adoption of City Ordinance No. 1764, an ordinance of the City of Butler, Butler County, Pennsylvania authorizing the City to enter into an intergovernmental cooperation agreement with Butler Township for the purpose of sharing a Fire Chief. Second by Mayor Smith. All voted aye.
    2. Motion to enter into an agreement with Butler Township for the purpose of sharing a Fire Chief. Second by CM Bonus. All voted aye.
    3. Motion to direct the city clerk to advertise for bids for the 1998 AM LaFrance Quint (ladder truck) after the department creates a list of items to be removed prior to the sale. Second by Mayor Smith. All voted aye.

    Mayor Smith

    1. Motion to approve the Butler Downtown Revolving Loan Fund Guidelines and Application as presented. Second by CM Bonus.  All voted aye.
    2. Motion to approve a Butler Downtown Revolving Loan to Scott A. Taggart and Kristine E. Taggart in the amount of $35,000 for the purpose of building out the first floor commercial space at 118-120 East Jefferson Street, Butler, PA 16001 per the recommendation of the Butler Downtown Revolving Loan Fund Committee. Second by CM Walter. All voted aye.
    3. Motion to authorize the City Clerk to initiate recruitment action to fill the position of Fire Chief in accordance with the provisions of Title 11; Cities; Part V. Third Class Cities; Chapter 121 Fire Bureau; Section 12101.1. Second by CM Bonus.  All voted aye.
    4. Motion to approve payment in the amount of $100 to the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania for the Multimodal Transportation Fund Grant application to be used for the Streetscape Project. LIN 01 499 807. Second by CM Walter.  All voted aye.
    5. Motion to approve City Resolution 2018 – 07 – 26; a resolution of the City of Butler to request a Multimodal Transportation Fund grant of $1,474,669 from the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development to be used for the Streetscape Project. Second by CM Bonus. All voted aye.
    6. Motion to authorize the City Clerk to execute and deliver a commitment letter required by DCED to process the City’s Grant Application for Multimodal Grant Application #8196549. Second by CM Walter. All voted aye.
    7. Motion to approve the conditional hiring of Ryan L. Doctor for patrol officer to fill a vacancy in the Police Department created by the retirement of SGT William Mayhugh. Second by CM Walter. All voted aye.
    8. Motion to ratify a collective bargaining agreement between the City and the Fraternal Order of Police for the period January 1, 2018 through December 31, 2020. Second by CM Bonus. All voted aye.

    Appointments:

    Jon Lex has been reappointed to the Shade Tree Commission for a term of 3 years       which will expire June 30, 2020.

    The City Treasurer presented a Monthly Intake Report for June, 2018.

    The City Controller presented bills for payment as follows: from the general fund – $434,359.28; from the parking fund – $47,178.15; from the capital projects fund – $7,916.00; and from the liquid fuels tax fund – $3,966.62; for a grand total of $493,420.05. Motion by Mayor Smith with second from CM Bonus to approve payment of bills as presented.  All voted aye.

    • ANNOUNCEMENTS:
    • WISR City Hall – Mayor Smith and Councilman Smith
    • First Responder Light Up Night – Saturday, July 28th

    Mayor Smith recessed the meeting at 7:32 PM for an Executive Session. Mayor Smith reconvened the meeting at 7:54 PM.

    Mayor Smith adjourned the meeting at 7:55 PM.

  • June 28, 2018

    MINUTES
    City Council Meeting
    City of Butler, Pennsylvania
    June 28, 2018

    Mayor Smith called the meeting to order at 7:00 PM. Mayor Smith and Council members Walter, Smith, Bonus and Roche were present. The pledge of allegiance to the flag followed an invocation given by Pastor Kimberly van Driel, First English Lutheran Church.

    The following action took place at the City’s Forum Meeting held on June 26, 2018:

    1. Beth Dittmer, Maher Duessel, attended the Forum meeting and briefed Council on the audit report for Fiscal Year 2017.
    2. City Council, acting as the Board of Health, and under the provisions of the Third Class City Code, Section XXIII, (b) Abatement of Public Nuisances, Section 2321, found the following subject structures detrimental to public health and ordered their removal by demolition:

    410 W. Wayne Street

    234 Cleveland Street

    Motion by Mayor Smith. Second by CM Walter.  All voted aye.

    1. CM Walter distributed the 2019 budget binders and reviewed the timeline.

    NEIGHBORHOOD PRIDE AWARD:

    Robert and Kathy Fornadley – 603 East Pearl Street

    PERSONS TO BE HEARD:

    Melanie Schuler requested that the meter monitors have the ability to read the license plate of parking permit holders to verify their permit if it’s not displayed to avoid parking tickets.

    Maggie Vesztergom requested that the 12:00 AM extinguish time for recreational fires be removed.

    Mark Krenitsky likes the idea of sharing a fire chief, is happy about the removal of blighted housing and does not like the idea of a historic neighborhood.

    Motion by Mayor Smith with a second from CM Bonus to approve the minutes of the regular meeting of May 24, 2018. All voted aye.

    Motion by Mayor Smith with a second from CM Walter to acknowledge receipt of the monthly minutes from RACB, including the CDBG/HOME Program activities. All voted aye.

    Motion by Mayor Smith with a second from CM Walter to approve the monthly Butler Downtown report. Mayor Smith made a motion to table the motion.  Second by CM Bonus.  All voted aye.

    MONTHLY BOARDS AND AUTHORITIES LIAISON REPORTS

    Liaisons gave brief reports from boards and authorities that met in May.

    MONTHLY DEPARTMENT REPORTS

    (Note: Department Reports Distributed to Council at Tuesday’s Forum Meeting for Review)

    Department reports for the month of May were approved by individual, unanimous votes.

    COUNCIL REPORTS/ACTIONS

    Councilman Walter

    1. Motion to ratify the Tentative Agreement by and between the City and AFSCME, Local No. 757, for the duration effective January 1, 2018 and terminating on December 31, 2020. Second by Mayor Smith. All voted aye.
    2. Motion to approve a payment in the amount of $1,009,784.17 to PNC Bank for the 2018 Tax Revenue Anticipation Note. $1,000,000.00 Principal (LIN 01 472 601) & $9,784.17 Interest (LIN 01 472 600) – maturity date is June 30, 2018. Second by CM Bonus. All voted aye.
    3. Motion for the second reading and adoption of City Ordinance No. 1763; an ordinance of the City of Butler amending Chapter 69; Purchasing; Article II; Rules and Regulations, of the codified ordinances of the City of Butler. Second by Mayor Smith. All voted aye.
    4. Motion to approve a four year payment schedule to refund the overpayment of franchise fees to Vogel Disposal, Inc. for years 2014 – 2017. Second by CM Roche. All voted aye.
    5. Motion to direct the City Clerk to seek proposals for the sale of surplus City property – Decorative Street Lighting Retrofit globes, ballasts, and lamp holders. Second by Mayor Smith. All voted aye.

    Councilman Smith

    1. Motion to accept the bid from JB Mechanical, Inc. in the amount of $24,000.00 to replace the air conditioning units on the 2nd and 3rd floor of the city building. Second by CM Bonus. All voted aye.
    2. Motion for the second reading and adoption of City Ordinance No. 1762, an ordinance of the City of Butler, Pennsylvania amending Chapter 224, Skates, Roller Blades and Skateboards, of the codified ordinances of the City of Butler. Second by Mayor Smith. All voted aye.
    3. Motion for the introduction and first reading of City Ordinance No. 1765, An ordinance of the City of Butler, Pennsylvania amending Chapter 192, Peace and Good Order, Article VIII, Disorderly House, §192-37 Definitions. Second by Mayor Smith. All voted aye.
    4. Motion to approve a Playground Agreement with the Butler YMCA for use of South Hills Playground (aka Christie Avenue Playground) for a recreational program to be held from 11:30 AM until 2:30 PM from June 11, 2018 through August 24, 2018. Second by CM Bonus. All voted aye.
    5. Motion to approve City Resolution No. 2018-06-28; a resolution declaring intent to create an Architectural and Historic District in the City of Butler. Second by CM Roche. All voted aye.
    6. Motion to approve creating an email from the City’s email account for use by the Shade Tree Commission to be maintained by the liaison of the commission. Second by Mayor Smith. All voted aye.

    Councilman Bonus

    1. Motion for the second reading and adoption of City Ordinance No. 1761, an ordinance of the City of Butler, Butler County, Pennsylvania authorizing the City to enter into an intergovernmental cooperation agreement with Butler Township for the purpose of sharing public works personnel and equipment. Second by Mayor Smith. All voted aye.
    2. Motion to enter into an agreement with Butler Township for the purpose of sharing public works personnel and equipment. Second by CM Walter. All voted aye.
    3. Motion to approve modifications to the intersection of Main Street and West New Castle Street to be done by the Butler Transit Authority as approved by PENN-DOT, HOP permit # 10023101. Second by Mayor Smith. All voted aye.
    4. Motion to waive all building permit fees for the improvements made by PM Rotary in Rotary Park. Second by CM Roche. All voted aye.
    5. Motion to reject bids received for the Cunningham St. Culvert Replacement Project.

    Second by CM Walter. All voted aye.

    1. Motion to pave a portion of S. Monroe Street utilizing the Act 13 funds in excess of the 2018 budget. Second by CM Walter. All voted aye.

    Councilman Roche

    1. Motion for the introduction and first reading of City Ordinance No. 1764, an ordinance of the City of Butler, Butler County, Pennsylvania authorizing the City to enter into an intergovernmental cooperation agreement with Butler Township for the purpose of sharing a Fire Chief. Second by Mayor Smith. All voted aye.
    2. Motion to approve the sale of the 1998 AM LaFrance Quint to Conneaut Lake Borough in the amount of $20,000.00. Second by Mayor Smith.  Motion to amend the motion.  Second by Mayor Smith.  All voted aye.

    Motion to approve the sale of the 1998 AM LaFrance Quint to Sadsbury Township, Conneaut Lake VFD in the amount of $20,000.00 contingent upon review of both municipality’s solicitors.  Second by CM Walter.  All voted aye.

    Mayor Smith

    1. Motion to accept the bid from Ibis Tek, Inc. in the amount of $25,128.00 for the upfitting of three Ford Explorer Interceptors for the police department. Second by CM Walter. All voted aye.
    2. Motion to approve a request from Lieutenant Chad E. Rensel to apply for the provisions of the Pennsylvania Heart & Lung Act beginning June 9, 2018 for a work-related injury that he sustained on June 9, 2018. Second by CM Bonus. All voted aye.
    3. Motion to reappoint Anne Thompson and John Mossman to the Planning and Zoning Commission for a four year term ending on June 30, 2022. Second by CM Bonus. All voted aye.
    4. Motion to appoint Joseph R. Paulisick, Sr. to the Shade Tree Commission for a three year term ending on June 30, 2021 to fill the vacancy created by the resignation of William May. Second by CM Smith.  All voted aye.
    5. Motion to reappoint Barb Long to the Shade Tree Commission for a three year term ending on June 30, 2020. Second by CM Smith. All voted aye.
    6. Motion to ratify the Tentative Agreement by and between the City and the Fraternal Order of Police, Lodge #32, for the duration effective as of January 1, 2018 and terminating on December 31, 2020. Second by CM Bonus. All voted aye.
    7. Motion to make written application to the Civil Service Board for a certified list of candidates to fill the vacancy in the Police Department. Second by CM Walter. All voted aye.

    The City Treasurer presented a Monthly Intake Report for May, 2018.

    The City Controller presented bills for payment as follows: from the general fund – $1,341,554.49; from the parking fund – $34,656.97; from the capital projects fund – $1,902.50; and from the liquid fuels tax fund – $3,190.64; for a grand total of $1,381,304.60. Motion by Mayor Smith with second from CM Bonus to approve payment of bills as presented.  All voted aye.

    • ANNOUNCEMENTS:
    • WISR City Hall – Mayor Smith and Councilman Smith
    • City Building closed: Wednesday, July 4th
    • First Responder Light Up Night – Saturday, June 30th

    Mayor Smith recessed the meeting at 7:45 PM for an Executive Session. Mayor Smith reconvened the meeting at 8:00 PM.

    Mayor Smith adjourned the meeting at 8:00 PM.

     

     

  • May 24, 2018

    MINUTES
    City Council Meeting
    City of Butler, Pennsylvania
    May 24, 2018
     

    Mayor Smith called the meeting to order at 7:02 PM. Mayor Smith and Council members Walter, Smith, Bonus and Roche were present. The pledge of allegiance to the flag followed an invocation given by Deacon Mitch Natali, St. Paul’s Catholic Church.

    NEIGHBORHOOD PRIDE AWARD:

    Paul & Sherrie Frenchak – 810 Wood Street

    Mayor Smith presented James Coulter with a plaque and key to the City in honor of his years of service as the city solicitor.

    Motion by Mayor Smith with a second from CM Bonus to approve the minutes of the regular meeting of April 26, 2018. All voted aye.

    Motion by Mayor Smith with a second from CM Walter to acknowledge receipt of the monthly minutes from RACB, including the CDBG/HOME Program activities. All voted aye.

    Motion by Mayor Smith with a second from CM Walter to approve the monthly Butler Downtown report. All voted aye.

    MONTHLY BOARDS AND AUTHORITIES LIAISON REPORTS

    Liaisons gave brief reports from boards and authorities that met in April.

    MONTHLY DEPARTMENT REPORTS

    (Note: Department Reports Distributed to Council at Tuesday’s Forum Meeting for Review)

    Department reports for the month of April were approved by individual, unanimous votes.

    COUNCIL REPORTS/ACTIONS

    Councilman Walter

    1. Motion for the second reading and adoption of City Ordinance No. 1757, an ordinance of the City of Butler amending part two, Chapter 57 (police pension plan) of the codified ordinances of the City of Butler to incorporate plan changes resulting from a request from the Police Pension Board and the Fraternal Order of Police, Lodge No. 32.  Second by Mayor Smith. All voted aye.
    2. Motion for the second reading and adoption of City Ordinance No. 1759; An ordinance of the City of Butler amending part three, Chapter 57 (Firefighters Pension Plan) of the codified ordinances of the City of Butler to incorporate plan changes resulting from collective bargaining negotiations during fiscal year 2018; To increase plan member contributions from three percent of a participant’s regular monthly wages (base salary plus longevity pay plus shift-differential pay) to five percent. Second by CM Roche. All voted aye.
    3. Motion for the second reading and adoption of City Ordinance No. 1760; an ordinance increasing the indebtedness of the City of Butler, Butler County, Pennsylvania by the issue of a General Obligation Note in the amount of $200,000.00 for the purpose of purchasing vehicles and equipment for various departments within the City of Butler.  Second by CM Bonus. All voted aye.
    4. Motion to approve City Resolution No. 2018-05-24; the City of Butler’s Fair Housing Resolution. Second by Mayor Smith. All voted aye.
    5. Motion to designate Veronica Walker as the City’s Fair Housing Officer for 2018.  Second by CM Roche. All voted aye.
    6. Motion to approve City Resolution No. 2018-05-24B approving to revise the 2015 CDBG program as follows: Reduce the (Centre City) Curb/Sidewalk line item by $50,000, reduce the Fire Station/Equipment line item by $2,961.64, reduce the Clearance line item by $5,000 and reallocate a total of $57,961.64 to Street Reconstruction (paving); targeting the blighted streets in the south side of the City. Second by Mayor Smith.  All voted aye.
    7. Motion for the introduction and first reading of City Ordinance No. 1763; an ordinance of the City of Butler amending Chapter 69; Purchasing; Article II; Rules and Regulations, of the codified ordinances of the City of Butler. Second by CM Roche. All voted aye.

    Councilman Smith

    1. Motion to direct the city clerk to advertise for bids to replace the air conditioning units on the 2nd and 3rd floor of the city building. Second by Mayor Smith.  All voted aye.
    2. Motion to approve the agreement with Grace Youth & Family Foundation to provide a summer recreation program for the City. Second by CM Bonus.  All voted aye.
    3. Motion for the introduction and first reading of City Ordinance No. 1762, an ordinance of the City of Butler, Pennsylvania amending Chapter 224, Skates, Roller Blades and Skateboards, of the codified ordinances of the City of Butler. Second by Mayor Smith. All voted aye.
    4. Motion to approve a revised agreement with the Butler Area Softball League.  Second by CM Bonus. All voted aye.
    5. Motion to approve the agreement with Butler Presbyterian Churches to provide a recreational program for the City playgrounds. Second by Mayor Smith. All voted aye.

    Councilman Bonus

    1. Motion for the second reading and adoption of City Ordinance No. 1756, an ordinance of the City of Butler, Pennsylvania amending the City’s traffic control schedule contained in Chapter 245 of the codified ordinances of the City of Butler; Article V, Handicapped Parking; §245-44, Requirements for Application. Second by CM Walter. All voted aye.
    2. Motion for the introduction and first reading of City Ordinance No. 1761, an ordinance of the City of Butler, Butler County, Pennsylvania authorizing the City to enter into an intergovernmental cooperation agreement with Butler Township for the purpose of sharing public works personnel and equipment. Second by Mayor Smith. All voted aye.
    3. Motion to approve a bid from Gargiulo Landscape in the amount of $15,180.00 for brick restoration on a portion of Oak Street. Second by Mayor Smith. All voted aye.
    4. Motion to approve the bid in the amount of $12,770.00 from Young & Sons Excavation for the demolition of 220 Fifth Avenue. Second by CM Roche. All voted aye.
    5. Motion to accept the quote from Day Ford, Inc. for the purchase of a 2018 Ford Escape (U9G) SE 4 AWD (4) in the amount of $22,119.75 for use by the zoning and code management officers. (Costars contract #26-104). LIN 01 427 270. Second by Mayor Smith. All voted aye.

    Councilman Roche

    1. Motion to approve a request from Firefighter James A. Reeder to apply the provisions of the Pennsylvania Heart & Lung Act beginning May 23, 2018 for a work-related injury that he sustained on October 14, 2017. Second by CM Walter. All voted aye.
    2. Motion to ratify the Tentative Agreement by and between the City and the International Association of Firefighters, Local 114, for the duration effective as of January 1, 2018 and terminating on December 31, 2019, to be effective as of April 27, 2018. Second by Mayor Smith. All voted aye.
    3. Motion to approve a Termination of Agreement for Application Hosting and Technology Support Services dated February 10, 2017 with ESO Solutions, Inc. Second by CM Bonus. All voted aye.

    Mayor Smith

    1. Motion for the second reading and adoption of City Ordinance No. 1758 (aka Floodplain Ordinance), an ordinance requiring all persons, partnerships, businesses, and corporations to obtain a permit for any construction or development; providing for the issuance of such permits; setting forth certain minimum requirements for new construction and development within areas of the City of Butler which are subject to flooding; and establishing penalties for any persons who fail, or refuse to comply with, the requirements or provisions of this ordinance. Second by CM Bonus. All voted aye.
    2. Motion to approve City Resolution No. 2018-05-24A, a resolution of the City of Butler, Butler County, Pennsylvania, adopting policy protecting individuals engaged in nonviolent civil rights demonstrations. Second by CM Walter.  All voted aye.
    3. Motion to accept the bid from Day Ford, Inc. in the amount of $83,781.00 for the purchase of (3) three 2018 Ford Explorer Interceptors to be used in the police department. (Costars Contract #13-026) LIN 01 410 270. Second by CM Roche.  All voted aye.
    4. Motion to direct the city clerk to advertise for bids for the upfitting of three 2018 Ford Explorer Interceptors to be used in the police department. Second by CM Walter. All voted aye.
    5. Motion to purchase one (1) Mini-4000 4TB all Flash, 4 core i5 Processor from Ascent Data, LLC in the amount of $4,678.83 for the police department. LIN 01 410 216. Second by CM Walter.  All voted aye.

    The City Treasurer presented a Monthly Intake Report for April, 2018.

    The City Controller presented bills for payment as follows: from the general fund – $369,204.53; from the parking fund – $191,250.59; from the capital projects fund – $4,046.53; and from the liquid fuels tax fund – $4,415.56; for a grand total of $568,917.21. Motion by Mayor Smith with second from CM Walter to approve payment of bills as presented.  All voted aye.

    • ANNOUNCEMENTS:

    WISR City Hall –   Mayor Smith and Councilman Smith

    City Building closed: Monday, May 28th in observance of Memorial Day and Thursday, June 14th in observance of Flag Day.

    First Responder Light Up Night – Saturday, May 26th

    Neighborhood Drug Watch meeting – May 30th, 7:00 PM; Holly Pointe Building

    Mayor Smith recessed the meeting at 7:37 PM for an Executive Session. Mayor Smith reconvened the meeting at 8:03 PM.

    Mayor Smith adjourned the meeting at 8:03 PM.

  • April 26, 2018

    MINUTES
    City Council Meeting
    City of Butler, Pennsylvania
    April 26, 2018

    Mayor Smith called the meeting to order at 7:00 PM. Mayor Smith and Council members Walter, Smith, Bonus and Roche were present. The pledge of allegiance to the flag followed an invocation given by Pastor Steve Ogle, Community Life Church.

    • PRESENTATIONS:

     

    Entrepreneurship Academy: Seniors from Butler, Slippery Rock and Knoch High Schools enrolled in the Academy presented their project called “Butler Yak Outfitters”. For more information visit: www.entrepreneurshipacademy.net

    Motion by Mayor Smith with a second from CM Walter to approve the minutes of the regular meeting of March 22, 2018. All voted aye.

    Motion by Mayor Smith with a second from CM Walter to acknowledge receipt of the monthly minutes from RACB, including the CDBG/HOME Program activities. All voted aye.

    Motion by Mayor Smith with a second from CM Walter to approve the monthly Butler Downtown report. All voted aye.

    MONTHLY BOARDS AND AUTHORITIES LIAISON REPORTS

    Liaisons gave brief reports from boards and authorities that met in March.

    MONTHLY DEPARTMENT REPORTS

    (Note: Department Reports Distributed to Council at Tuesday’s Forum Meeting for Review)

    Department reports for the month of March were approved by individual, unanimous votes.

    COUNCIL REPORTS/ACTIONS

    Councilman Walter

    1. Motion for the introduction and first reading of City Ordinance No. 1757, an ordinance of the City of Butler amending part two, Chapter 57 (police pension plan) of the codified ordinances of the City of Butler to incorporate plan changes resulting from a request from the Police Pension Board and the Fraternal Order of Police, Lodge No. 32.  Second by CM Roche. All voted aye.
    2. Motion to accept a proposal and award a contract to Bruce-Merrilees Electric Company, New Castle, Pennsylvania, for traffic signal repairs for 2018 and 2019.   Second by Mayor Smith. All voted aye.
    3. Motion for the introduction and first reading of City Ordinance No. 1759; An ordinance of the City of Butler amending part three, Chapter 57 (Firefighters Pension Plan) of the codified ordinances of the City of Butler to incorporate plan changes resulting from collective bargaining negotiations during fiscal year 2018; to increase plan member contributions from three percent of a participant’s regular monthly wages (base salary plus longevity pay plus shift-differential pay) to five percent. Second by Mayor Smith. All voted aye.
    4. Motion to approve payment to USBank in the amount of $102,643.77 for interest due on General Obligation Bonds Series B-2015. LIN 01 472 800. Second by CM Roche. All voted aye.
    5. Motion to approve payment to USBank in the amount of $3,964.36 for interest due on General Obligation Bonds, Taxable Series A-2015. LIN 01 472 800. Second by CM Roche.  All voted aye.
    6. Motion for the introduction and first reading of City Ordinance No. 1760; an ordinance increasing the indebtedness of the City of Butler, Butler County, Pennsylvania by the issue of a General Obligation Note in the amount of $200,000.00 for the purpose of purchasing vehicles and equipment for various departments within the City of Butler.  Second by Mayor Smith. All voted aye.

    Councilman Smith

    1. Motion to approve an agreement with the Butler Midget Football League for the 2018 season. Second by CM Bonus. All voted aye.
    2. Motion to enter into an agreement with the Butler Area Softball League to lease the Pony League Field at Father Marinaro Park commencing May 1, 2018 through October 31, 2018.   Second by Mayor Smith. All voted aye.

    Councilman Bonus

    1. Motion for the second reading and adoption of City Ordinance No. 1755, an ordinance of the City of Butler, Pennsylvania amending the City’s traffic control schedules contained in Chapter 245 of the codified ordinances of the City of Butler by making permanent the experimental regulations previously adopted by city council on a 90-day trial basis. Second by Mayor Smith. All voted aye.
    2. Motion for the introduction and first reading of City Ordinance No. 1756, an ordinance of the City of Butler, Pennsylvania amending the City’s traffic control schedule contained in Chapter 245 of the codified ordinances of the City of Butler; Article V, Handicapped Parking; §245-44, Requirements for Application. Second by CM Roche. All voted aye.
    3. Motion to approve the bid from A. Liberoni, Inc. for Contract #1; 2018 Curb Ramp/Sidewalk Replacement Project in the amount of $89,635.55. Second by Mayor Smith. All voted aye.
    4. Motion to approve the bid from A. Liberoni, Inc. for Contract #2; 2018 Paving Project in the amount of $96,238.00. Second by CM Walter. All voted aye.
    5. Based on recommendation from his chain of command and satisfactory completion of his probationary period, motion to grant permanent employment status as of April 4, 2018 to Thomas Stoughton. Second by CM Walter. All voted aye.

    Councilman Roche

    1. Motion to ratify a collective bargaining agreement (CBA) between the City and the International Association of Firefighters, Local 114, for the period January 1, 2018 through December 31, 2019. Second by Mayor Smith. All voted aye.
    2. Motion to enter into a Memo of Understanding with the International Association of Firefighters, Local 114 for the purpose of discussing the Civil Service Rules and Regulations. Second by Mayor Smith. All voted aye.

    Mayor Smith

    1. Motion for the introduction and first reading of City Ordinance No. 1758 (aka Floodplain Ordinance), an ordinance requiring all persons, partnerships, businesses, and corporations to obtain a permit for any construction or development; providing for the issuance of such permits; setting forth certain minimum requirements for new construction and development within areas of the City of Butler which are subject to flooding; and establishing penalties for any persons who fail, or refuse to comply with, the requirements or provisions of this ordinance. Second by CM Bonus. All voted aye.
    2. Motion to enter into an agreement with Ascent Data for IT support in the police department effective April 15, 2018 through April 14, 2019. Second by CM Walter. All voted aye.
    3. Motion to approve a Retirement and General Release agreement with the Fraternal Order of Police, Lodge #32 and William Mayhugh, III. Second by CM Walter. All voted aye.
    4. Motion for the City of Butler to participate in the Student Municipal Representative Program for the 2018-2019 school year. Second by CM Roche. All voted aye.
    5. Motion to approve the appointment of John A. Smith to the Revolving Loan Fund Committee as proposed by the Economic Restructuring Committee of Butler Downtown. Second by CM Walter. CM Walter, CM Smith, CM Bonus and CM Roche voted aye.  Mayor Smith abstained.
    6. Motion to approve the appointment of Matt McCune to the Revolving Loan Fund Committee as proposed by the Economic Restructuring Committee of Butler Downtown. Second by CM Walter.  All voted aye.

    In the absence of the City Treasurer, Councilman Bonus presented a Monthly Intake Report for March, 2018.

    The City Controller presented bills for payment as follows: from the general fund – $291,101.28; from the parking fund – $33,950.41; from the capital projects fund – $23,869.63; and from the liquid fuels tax fund – $24,913.15; for a grand total of $373,834.47. Motion by Mayor Smith with second from CM Walter to approve payment of bills as presented.  All voted aye.

    • ANNOUNCEMENTS:

    WISR City Hall – Mayor Smith and Jimmy Chiprean

    First Responder Light Up Night – Saturday, April 28th.

    Neighborhood Pride Awards – Please submit nominations.

    Community Life Church will clean-up Father Marinaro Park on May 5th.

    Public Meeting for the Architectural District – May 23rd; 7:00 PM; Council Chambers

    Mayor Smith recessed the meeting at 8:01 PM for an Executive Session. Mayor Smith reconvened the meeting at 8:20 PM.

    Mayor Smith adjourned the meeting at 8:21 PM.

  • March 22, 2018

    MINUTES
    City Council Meeting
    City of Butler, Pennsylvania
    March 22, 2018

    Mayor Smith called the meeting to order at 7:02 PM. Mayor Smith and Council members Walter, Smith, Bonus and Roche were present. The pledge of allegiance to the flag followed an invocation given Pastor Fred Kison, The Intersection Community Church.

    Reading words written by Bob Dandoy, “Do not mourn. Rather, commit yourself to making a better world as she did, one that is kinder and greener,” Mayor Smith called for a moment of silence to acknowledge the passing of Julie Dandoy.

    PERSONS TO BE HEARD:

    John Pro – presented an update about the City’s Bantam Jeep. It’s alive and back on the City’s streets.  A schedule for the Jeep for 2018 is attached to these minutes.

    Motion by Mayor Smith with a second from CM Walter to approve the minutes of the regular meeting of February 22, 2018. All voted aye.

    MONTHLY & ANNUAL DEPARTMENT REPORTS

    (Note: Department Reports Distributed to Council at Tuesday’s Forum Meeting for Review)

    Motion by Mayor Smith with a second from CM Walter to acknowledge receipt of the monthly minutes from RACB, including the CDBG/HOME Program activities. All voted aye.

    Department reports for the month of February were approved by individual, unanimous votes.

    Motion by Mayor Smith with a second from CM Walter to approve the monthly Butler Downtown report. All voted aye.

    COUNCIL REPORTS/ACTIONS

    Councilman Smith

    1. Motion to approve the HVAC Maintenance Agreement with Schneider’s One Hour Heating and Air Conditioning for April 1, 2018 through December 31, 2018. Maintenance Contract Price per year is $1,100.00. Second by CM Bonus.  All voted aye.
    2. Motion to approve an agreement with the Butler Boy’s Scholastic Lacrosse Association for the 2018 season. Second by CM Roche. All voted aye.
    3. Motion to approve City Resolution No. 2018-03-22, a resolution of the City of Butler authorizing the filing of a grant application with the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources for the Playground Rehabilitation Project and further authorizing the mayor to sign, on behalf of City Council, all documents pertaining to said grant/project. Second by Mayor Smith. All voted aye.

    Councilman Bonus

    1. Motion to install a “No Parking from Here to Corner” sign on the south side of East Fulton Street 65 feet eastward from North Cedar Street, on a 90-day trial basis. Second by CM Walter. All voted aye.
    2. Motion for the introduction and first reading of City Ordinance No. 1755, an ordinance of the City of Butler, Pennsylvania amending the City’s traffic control schedules contained in Chapter 245 of the codified ordinances of the City of Butler by making permanent the experimental regulations previously adopted by city council on a 90-day trial basis. Second by CM Walter. All voted aye.
    3. Motion to approve payment to Young & Sons Excavation in the amount of $6,450.00 for the demolition of 415 W. Diamond St. contingent upon final inspection of the Code Enforcement Officer. LIN 18-427-221. Second by Mayor Smith.  All voted aye.
    4. Motion to allow Reclamation Brewing Company to utilize the top two levels of the Centre City Parking Garage for the Downtown Butler Beerfest on June 30th.  Second by CM Walter. CM Walter, CM Smith, CM Bonus and CM Roche voted aye.  Mayor Smith abstained.
    5. Motion to allow “Foodie Fridays” to use the North Main Street parking lot on September 28th. Second by CM Roche. CM Walter, CM Smith, CM Bonus and CM Roche voted aye.  Mayor Smith abstained.
    6. Motion to approve the YMCA the use of the Diamond Street Parking Lot for the Butler Road Race Event on Saturday, June 23, 2018 from 11:00 AM to 1:30 PM for a Butler Road Race Celebration. Second by CM Walter. All voted aye.
    7. Motion to authorize the city clerk to advertise for bids for sale of the 1997 Ford F-700 Streets Department truck. Second by CM Walter. All voted aye.
    8. Motion to purchase a 2002 GMC C8500 Dump Truck with one plow, one tailgate spreader and trailer in the amount of $8,000.00 to be purchased from Butler Township. Second by Mayor Smith. All voted aye.

    Councilman Roche

    1. Motion to approve a request from Captain Kevin E. McAfee to apply the provisions of the Pennsylvania Heart & Lung Act to a work-related injury that he sustained on March 1, 2018. Second by CM Bonus. All voted aye.
    2. Motion to approve the retirement of Captain Theodore J. Codispot, from the Butler Bureau of Fire, following 30 years of service, effective April 15, 2018. Second by Mayor Smith. All voted aye.
    3. Motion to amend the Use Agreement for the Fire Station by removing fee and insurance requirements. Second by Mayor Smith. All voted aye.
    4. Motion to approve the Use Agreement Request by Neighborhood Drug Watch to hold meetings at the Public Safety Building on May 30th, July 25th, September 26th and November 28th at 7:00 pm. Second by CM Walter. All voted aye.

    Mayor Smith

    1. Motion to approve an agreement with the Fraternal Order of Police, Lodge #32 and Sergeant William Mayhugh pursuant to the January 30, 2018 arbitration award of Arbitrator William Miller, Jr. Second by CM Walter. All voted aye.
    2. Motion to enter into an agreement with Butler Downtown for use of office space on the third floor of the City Building pending review by the city solicitor. Second by CM Walter. All voted aye.
    3. Motion to appoint William P. Painter to the Parks, Recreation, Grounds and Facility Authority for a five (5) year term which expires January 1, 2023. Second by CM Roche. All voted aye.
    4. Motion to approve City Resolution No. 2018-03-22A; A resolution of the City of Butler authorizing the filing of an application for a Butler County Infrastructure Bank loan request of $470,000.00 to be used for the Sullivan Run Flood Control Project. Second by CM Bonus. All voted aye.
    5. Motion to approve City Resolution No. 2018-03-22B; a resolution of the City of Butler declaring official intent to reimburse general funds or short-term borrowed funds used to construct improvements (Sullivan Run Flood Control Project) with funds received from the Butler County Infrastructure Bank. Second by CM Walter. All voted aye.

     

    1. Motion to approve City Resolution No. 2018-03-22C; A resolution of the City of Butler authorizing the filing of an application for a Butler County Infrastructure Bank loan request of $1,000,000.00 to be used for the Main Street Lighting Project. Second by CM Bonus. All voted aye.
    2. Motion to approve City Resolution No. 2018-03-22D; a resolution of the City of Butler declaring official intent to reimburse general funds or short-term borrowed funds used to construct improvements (Main Street Lighting Project) with funds received from the Butler County Infrastructure Bank. Second by CM Roche.  All voted aye.

    Mayor Smith announced that he has been working with BC3 for the City of Butler Revitalization Convener effort, and encourages other city council members to do the same.

    In the absence of the City Treasurer, Councilman Bonus presented a Monthly Intake Report for February, 2018.

    The City Controller presented bills for payment as follows: from the general fund – $284,880.72; from the parking fund – $34,611.64; from the capital projects fund – $1,282.50; and from the liquid fuels tax fund – $42,521.06; for a grand total of $363,295.92. Motion by Mayor Smith with second from CM Walter to approve payment of bills as presented.  All voted aye.

    • ANNOUNCEMENTS:

    WISR City Hall – CM Bonus

    City Building closed on March 30th in observance of Good Friday.

    Butler Downtown “Bunny Trail” – Saturday, March 24th

    First Responder Light Up Night – Saturday, March 24th.

    Neighborhood Drug Watch meeting – March 28th, 7:00 PM; Fire Dept.

    Mayor Smith recessed the meeting at 7:33 PM for an Executive Session. Mayor Smith reconvened the meeting at 8:02 PM.

    Mayor Smith adjourned the meeting at 8:02 PM.

     

    Butler Old Stone House Region AACA
    2018 Events Schedule for Butler-Built Cars

    • May 28 Memorial Day Parade – Butler
    • June 8-10 JeepFest – Cooper’s Lake
    • June 23 Cruise-a-Palooza – Farm Show Grounds
    • July 4 Zelienople Parade and Rod Fathers Car Show – Memorial Park
    • July 7 Penn Twp. Fly/Cruise-In – Butler Airport
    • July 18 Cars to Nixon U.M. Church for Model T tourists
    • August 5 Portersville Steam Show
    • September 22 Butler Fall Fest
    • Date TBA McConnell’s Mill Heritage Festival
    • November 11 Veteran’s Day Parade