Category: Meeting Minutes

MINUTES
City Council Meeting
City of Butler, Pennsylvania
July 27, 2017

Mayor Donaldson called the meeting to order at 7:00 PM. Mayor Donaldson and Council members Walter, Kline, Bonus and Roche were present. The pledge of allegiance to the flag followed an invocation given by Pastor Mary Kitchen, East/North Butler Presbyterian Church.

Mayor Donaldson presented a proclamation to Institute Hill Pharmacy.

NEIGHBORHOOD PRIDE AWARD:

David and Katherine Craig – 141 Lincoln Avenue

PRESENTATION:

Denny Offstein presented a recap of the Bicycle Rodeo which is attached to these minutes.

Motion by Mayor Donaldson with a second from CM Walter to approve the minutes of Regular meeting of June 22, 2017. All voted aye.

The following action took place at the City’s Forum Meeting held on July 25, 2017

1. 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, finds the following subject structure detrimental to public health and orders its removal by demolition: 609 (aka 607) Peach Street

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

MONTHLY & ANNUAL DEPARTMENT REPORTS

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

Motion by Mayor Donaldson with a second from CW Kline to acknowledge receipt of the monthly minutes from RACB, including the CDBG/HOME Program activities.

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

 

COUNCIL REPORTS/ACTIONS

1. Motion to approve City Resolution 2017-7-27; a resolution opposing elimination of the Community Development Block Grant Program (CDBG). Second by CW Kline. All voted aye.
2. Motion to accept the proposal for Option #1A for Business Continuity and Disaster Recovery (BCDR) Services ($399 per month) and $1,499 appliance fee as well as Sonic Wall Service ($89 per month) from PSI, Inc. for the City of Butler city building servers and work stations. Second by CW Kline. All voted aye.

Councilwoman Kline

3. Motion for the second reading and adoption of City Ordinance No. 1745; an ordinance of the City of Butler, Pennsylvania amending chapter 135 of the codified ordinances of the City of Butler entitled “Emergency Services Cost Recovery Fees” by repealing the current ordinance and by providing for recovery of the cost of emergency services, setting forth the rate schedule for said services and authorizing billing through a third party. Second by CM Bonus. All voted aye.
4. Motion for the introduction and first reading of City Ordinance No. 1746; an ordinance of the City of Butler, Pennsylvania amending Part 1; Chapter 6 of the codified ordinances of the City of Butler, Authorities – to add the City of Butler Human Relations Commission. Second by CM Walter. CM Roche made the motion to table. Second by CW Kline.  CM Walter, CW Kline, CM Bonus and CM Roche voted aye.  Mayor Donaldson voted no.  Motion tabled.
5. Motion to promote Firefighter Scott Longdon to the rank of Lieutenant within the Bureau of Fire due to the retirement of Lieutenant Donald C. McCoy, Jr. Second by CM Walter. CM Walter, CW Kline, and CM Roche voted aye.  CM Bonus and Mayor Donaldson voted no.  Motion approved.

Councilman Bonus

6. Motion to approve Family Medical Leave for Barb Foster, said leave to run concurrently with her paid leave. Second by CM Roche. All voted aye.
7. Motion to approve payment to A.P. Wise Excavating, LLC in the amount of $7,500.00 for the demolition of 332-334 East Brady Street contingent upon final inspection of the Code Enforcement Officer. LIN 18 427 221. Second by CW Kline. All voted aye.
8. Motion to approve payment to A.P. Wise Excavating, LLC in the amount of $5,800.00 for the demolition of 111 South Street contingent upon final inspection of the Code Enforcement Officer. LIN 01 499 401. Second by CM Roche. All voted aye.
9. Motion to award the contract to Strange Corporation for the Monroe & Kittanning Street Storm Sewer Improvements Phase 3 Project in the amount of $59,682.00 contingent upon review by the municipal engineer. LIN 18 427 305. Second by CW Kline. All voted aye.
10. Motion to approve payment to Pat McGrady in the amount of $2,640.00 for the West Brady Street Bridge cleanup due to the July 5, 2017 flooding. LIN 01 499 402. Second by CW Kline. All voted aye.
11. Motion to approve payment to A.P. Wise Excavating, LLC in the amount of $340.00 for the West Brady Street Bridge cleanup due to the July 5, 2017 flooding. LIN 01 499 402. Second by CW Kline.  All voted aye.

Councilman Roche

12. Motion to approve the retirement of Bobby McAnallen from the Parks Department after 35 years of service, Effective August 6, 2017. Second by Mayor Donaldson. All voted aye.
13. Motion to authorize the City Clerk to begin the hiring process to fill the vacancy created by the retirement of Bobby McAnallen. Second by Mayor Donaldson. All voted aye.
14. Motion to approve the planning of improvements for the large playground in Memorial Park to honor the memory of Bentley Miller proposed by AM Rotary/Bentley’s Army/AK Steel. Second by CW Kline. All voted aye.
15. Motion to approve a Park Agreement with the Sims Family for use of the Memorial Park for a 5K to benefit Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation to be held on Saturday, August 12, 2017. Second by CW Kline. All voted aye.

Mayor Donaldson

16. Motion to ratify a revision to the City’s Civil Service Rules and Regulations governing the promotions of police officers as adopted by the Civil Service Commission. Second                      by CM Walter.  All voted aye.
17. Motion to approve the conditional hiring of Valerie Sura for the Meter Violation            Monitor position. Second by CM Roche.  All voted aye.
18. Motion to approve Pennsylvania Heart & Lung Act benefits for Deputy Chief Dave Adam beginning on July 25, 2017 for a work-related injury he sustained on March 26,           2014. Second by CM Bonus.  All voted aye.
19. Motion to make written application to the Civil Service Board requesting civil service            testing to be scheduled for entry-level police officers. Second by CM Roche.  All voted               aye.
20. Motion to approve spending $2,000.00 (if funds are available in the 2017 budget) towards the purchase of 8 desktop computers in the police department. (Balance to be paid by the County D.A. Drug Enforcement Funds.)  Second by CM Bonus.  All voted          aye.

The City Treasurer presented the Monthly Intake Report for June, 2017.

The City Controller presented bills for payment as follows: from the general fund – $355,105.95; from the parking fund – $60,150.74; from the capital projects fund – $142.50; from the liquid fuels tax fund – $9,669.56; and from the 2015-Series Bond Proceeds – $75.00 for a grand total of $425,143.75. Motion by Mayor Donaldson with second from CM Walter to approve payment of bills as presented.  All voted aye.

• ANNOUNCEMENTS:
• CW Kline thanked everyone for all their help for the flood victims.

Mayor Donaldson adjourned the meeting at 7:47 PM.

Mission Statement of the Denny Offstein Bicycle Rodeo July 9th 2017 held at the Farmers Market in the Island Neighborhood is a Totally FREE Event Religion Father Harry Bielewicz of St Paul`s Church Blessed all the bicycles & kids Love Fun Food Giveaways Mentoring Antidrug information showing city Kids Adults do Care in a Safe Environment bringing the Entire Community together for one reason to SAVE the KIDS The Main Attraction is a Free Bicycle Giveaway through a fair registration {2 Rules} Butler City Kids only age 5 to15 eligible for bicycles The Joy for me is seeing the Smiles on all the kids faces when they pick out their new used or new bicycle of their choice & ride away Donors never refused to participate in the Bicycle Rodeo because it is for the Less Fortunate Kids in the City of Butler & has a Pristine Reputation of Zero Scandals or Fraud Donated bicycles are Accepted by the Generous People of Butler County Carl Slupe a retired Armco employee volunteered at his home garage many hours of hard work repaired safety checked all the used 175 bicycles + the new bicycles every child received a bicycle {{GOD`s}} Intervention selected this Date & the Farmers Market Location to hold this community event in advance of the Flood in the West End of Butler {{GOD}} works in Wonderful Ways & knew there was a need for something {Positive to Happen} to {Put Smiles on the Kid`s Faces} Financial Contributions Giveaways Food Beverages for kids to be distributed Free When the Bicycle Rodeo is over all donated beverages food giveaways everything left in the past were donated to Father Harry at St. Paul`s Church also to the church who has the next community meals All contributions donated that exceed expenses were returned to donors Denny Offstein has no funds food beverages giveaways or anything in his possession that was donated in good faith for the Bicycle Rodeo event of that day Denny Offstein pays for most of the expenses involved in any Community Events he has held over the many years Donors who contributed funds to purchase food beverages giveaways etc. receipts for expenses of the amount of the donation were given to the donors in the past The Denny Offstein Bicycle Rodeo July 9 2017 set up a free checking bank account # 7301398017 at the First Commonwealth Bank Butler Commons Butler, Pa. 16001 $30 was deposited to start the bank account Monetary Donations from donors totaled $1550 were Deposited I received & I returned a donors check after the event was over it was not needed for expenses The bicycle rodeo bank account will be deleted of funds & the checking account terminated after all expenses are dispersed to the following The Butler Eagle $240 for a display ad Minuteman Press $291.77 printing of posters & flyers Mr John $125 for a Porto John Melody Kamerer $240.19 & Jamie Goehring $436.01 purchases at Walmart for expenses incurred for food safety bicycle helmets Kmart $222.56 after a 40% discount the balance of donations contributed I spent for 14 new bicycle safety helmets given to Butler City Police Chief Ron Brown to replace some of the safety helmets the City Police provided The total amount of paid expenses $1555.53 incurred with the Bicycle Rodeo July 9th 2017 at the Butler City Farmers Market Denny Offstein Appreciated all the Cooperation Coordinating making Safe The Bicycle Rodeo at the Farmers Market with Butler City Police Chief Ron Brown Deputy Chief Dave Adams + getting some confiscated bicycles & blocking Race & Shore streets for safety LTD. Chad Rensel who acquired donated new bicycle safety helmets & the City Police fitted them for the kids Sgt Dave Vilotti K-9 Blade & Ltd Brian Grooms did a K-9 demonstration The Butler Fire Department were Friendly Interacted & spayed water on the kids Ellen Obrien Gaiser Center passed out antidrug literature Butler Lions Club Butler registered the kids for the bike giveaway served pizza & cookies all 3 made Check donations Butler Ambulance Service Butler Beauty School did face painting My Mission was to have a Safe Fun filled day showing the Less Fortunate City Kids of Butler Adults do Care hoping all the kids get a bicycle at this event which they all did Thank you to Jamie Lee Goehring a true concerned person who really cares she put her heart & soul making this community event a 1000% Success Carl Slupe volunteered who safety checked all the bicycles has health issues The big worry holding an event on that day is rain or bad weather Expenses for Newspaper Display Advertising Printing Posters, Flyers & Expenses of Food Supplies Giveaways Safety Helmets etc. needed for a major event You never know how many people will attend to plan for Volunteers Planning Praying Coordinating Cooperation is a Priority The Liability Responsibility & Expenses are All On Me This is My Last Community Public Bicycle Rodeo Event I will still give bicycles away Free at my business Denny Offstein Auto Sales 418 Hazel Ave. Butler Mayor Thomas P Donaldson Thank You for the use of the Farmers Market for holding the Bicycle Rodeo July 9th 2017 respectfully Denny Offstein Thursday July 27th 2017 at a regular Butler City Council Monthly Meeting

MINUTES
City Council Meeting
City of Butler, Pennsylvania
June 22, 2017

 
Mayor Donaldson called the meeting to order at 7:01 PM. Mayor Donaldson and Council members Walter, Kline, Bonus and Roche were present. The pledge of allegiance to the flag followed an invocation given by Pastor Ben Ogle, Community Life Church.

PERSONS TO BE HEARD:

Patricia W. Kriley requested the metered parking space by her driveway at 224 N. Washington Street be removed to allow the proper footage for use of her driveway.

Carrie List spoke about the animal ordinance in the city. She feels it is adequate and doesn’t feel that residents should be limited to a certain number of animals.

Mark Krenitsky commended the police department on a quick response to a call concerning drug dealing but he questioned why three police vehicles, one fire truck and one ambulance were all needed for an overdose that occurred ten minutes later in the city, when one ambulance would have been sufficient.

Jamie Goerhing spoke about the upcoming Bicycle Rodeo to be held July 9^th.  She thanked everyone who has helped and asked for help in getting the word out as well as participation by everyone who is able to be there.

Motion by Mayor Donaldson with a second from CM Walter to approve the minutes of Regular meeting of May 25, 2017. All voted aye.

PUBLIC HEARING:

A Public Hearing concerning City Ordinance No. 1744;

an ordinance of the City of Butler amending Chapter 260, the zoning ordinance of the City of Butler, to rezone tax parcel 565-42-64, which is currently zoned in an R-2 zoning district, to re-zone said parcel to a C-2 commercial zoning district, took place at the City’s Forum Meeting held on June 20, 2017 from 7:00 PM until 7:35 PM.

MONTHLY & ANNUAL DEPARTMENT REPORTS

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

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

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

COUNCIL REPORTS/ACTIONS

Councilman Walter

1. Motion for the approval and adoption of City Resolution No. 2017-06-22, a resolution of the City of Butler authorizing the destruction of records maintained by the Office of the City Clerk pursuant to the Municipal Records Manual of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Second by CM Bonus.  All voted aye.
2. Motion to pay the final installment of the 2016 small borrowing loan to NexTier in the amount of $105,859.95. $105,000.00 – LIN 01 472 913 – Principal: $859.95 – LIN 01 472 914 – Interest. Second by CW Kline. All voted aye.
3. Motion to approve an Addendum to the existing Agreement between the City of Butler and the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Butler dated February 26, 2013 to extend the time for payment of funds due to the City to March 31, 2018. Second by CW Kline. All voted aye.
4. Motion to direct the parks department foreman to ask for quotes for painting and re-glazing windows at the city building for the 2018 budget. (Capital Projects Fund). Second by CM Roche. All voted aye.
5. Motion to approve a payment in the amount of $1,006,588.83 to PNC Bank for the 2017 Tax Revenue Anticipation Note. $1,000,000.00 Principal (LIN 01 472 601) & $6,588.33 Interest (LIN 01 472 600) – maturity date is June 30, 2017. Second by CW Kline.  All voted aye.

Councilwoman Kline

6. Motion for the introduction and first reading of City Ordinance No. 1745; an ordinance of the City of Butler, Pennsylvania amending chapter 135 of the codified ordinances of the City of Butler entitled “Emergency Services Cost Recovery Fees” by repealing the current ordinance and by providing for recovery of the cost of emergency services, setting forth the rate schedule for said services and authorizing billing through a third party. Second by CM Roche. All voted aye.

Councilman Bonus

7. Motion for the second reading and adoption of City Ordinance No. 1744; an ordinance of the City of Butler amending Chapter 260, the Zoning Ordinance of the City of Butler to rezone tax parcel 565-42-64, which is currently zoned in an R-2 zoning district, to re-zone said parcel to a C-2 commercial zoning district. Second by Mayor Donaldson. CM Walter, CW Kline, CM Roche and Mayor Donaldson voted aye. CM Bonus voted no.  Motion passed.
8. Motion to direct the municipal engineer to request bids for storm sewer improvements at Jefferson, Kittanning and Monroe Streets. (Capital Projects Fund) Second by Mayor Donaldson. All voted aye.

Mayor Donaldson

9. Motion to enter into a five (5) year agreement with SimplexGrinnell at a cost of $1,000 annually for maintenance of the fire alarm system, the extinguishers/portable     system, the sprinkler system (wet sprinkler and backflow) and the emergency light      system in the Tier Parking Garage. Second by CM Bonus.  All voted aye.
10. Motion to approve payment to PSx, Inc. in the amount of $19,950.00 for the kiosks and gates in the Centre City Parking Garage.  LIN 43 463 020. Second CM Roche.  All voted aye.
11. Motion to authorize the Chief of Police to solicit quotes and purchase a vehicle to be used as a canine vehicle at a cost not to exceed $9,000 to be paid from the canine fund.       Second by CM Walter.  All voted aye.
12. Motion to declare certain firearms held by the Police Department to be surplus            property having a value of less than $1,000 and to authorize the Purchasing Officer, or                      her agent, to sell the firearms for the best price obtainable or to trade said firearms to            another police department in exchange for other personal property. Second by CM                 Bonus.  All voted aye.

The City Treasurer presented the Monthly Intake Report for May, 2017.

In the absence of the City Controller, the City Clerk presented bills for payment as follows: from the general fund – $1,544,254.26; from the parking fund – $6,130.81; from the capital projects fund – $14,075.00; from the liquid fuels tax fund – $8,664.97; and from the 2015-Series Bond Proceeds – $19,950.00 for a grand total of $1,593,075.04. Motion by Mayor Donaldson with second from CM Bonus to approve payment of bills as presented.  All voted aye.

• ANNOUNCEMENTS:
• WISR City Hall – Mayor Donaldson and Councilman Walter
• City Building closed on July 4^th in honor of Independence Day
• Friday, June 30^th is the last day to pay taxes at face amount.
• Councilwoman Kline has announced Safety Light Up Nights, which will be every Saturday that follows the city council meeting through September.
• Bicycle Rodeo – Farmers’ Market, July 9^th from 1 PM – 5 PM
• Mayor Donaldson announced that he has withdrawn his lawsuit concerning the fire department promotions.

Mayor Donaldson adjourned the meeting at 7:39 PM.

MINUTES
City Council Meeting
City of Butler, Pennsylvania
May 25, 2017

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

NEIGHBORHOOD PRIDE AWARD:

Lorraine DiDomenico – 371 North Main Street

PERSONS TO BE HEARD:

Lois M. Geibel voiced concerns over the farm animals in the city of Butler and requests that council creates an ordinance to limit the number permitted by each resident.

Chad Rensel, President of the Fraternal Order of Police Lodge #32, asked council for support in hiring the 23^rd officer in the police department.

PRESENTATION:

Mayor Donaldson presented Kenny Bonus a “key to the city” along with a proclamation in honor of his receiving the Junior Distinguished Service Award.

Motion by Mayor Donaldson with a second from CW Kline to approve the minutes of Regular meeting of April 27, 2017. All voted aye.

MONTHLY & ANNUAL DEPARTMENT REPORTS

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

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

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

COUNCIL REPORTS/ACTIONS

Councilman Walter

1. 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 CW Kline.  All voted aye.
2. Motion to approve payment to USBank in the amount of $5,572.50 for interest due on General Obligation Bonds, Taxable Series A-2015. LIN 01 472 800. Second by CM Bonus. All voted aye.

 

Councilman Bonus

3. Motion to reappoint Michael Preston to the Zoning Hearing Board for a three year term ending June 30, 2020. Second by CW Kline. All voted aye.
4. Motion to reappoint Robert Dandoy to the Zoning Hearing Board for a three year term ending June 30, 2020. Second by CW Kline. All voted aye.
5. Motion to reappoint Joe Caparosa to the Planning and Zoning Commission for a four year term ending on June 30, 2021. Second by Mayor Donaldson. All voted aye.
6. Motion to waive the building permit fees required for the needed upgrades in the Tier parking offices for use by the RACB. Second by Mayor Donaldson. All voted aye.
7. Motion to approve payment to A P Wise Excavating in the amount of $6,050.00 for the demolition of 208 Ridge Avenue contingent upon final inspection and approval by the Code Enforcement Officer. LIN 18 427 221. Second by CW Kline. All voted aye.
8. Motion to approve payment to A P Wise Excavating in the amount of $8,025.00 for the demolition of 134 Third Avenue contingent upon final inspection and approval by the Code Enforcement Officer. LIN 18 427 221. Second by CW Kline. All voted aye.
9. Motion to approve payment to A P Wise Excavating in the amount of $67,095.00 for the demolition of 339 Center Avenue contingent upon final inspection and approval by the Code Enforcement Officer. LIN 01 499 401. Second by CW Kline. All voted aye.
10. Motion for the introduction and first reading of City Ordinance No. 1744; an ordinance of the City of Butler amending Chapter 260, the Zoning Ordinance of the City of Butler to rezone tax parcel 565-42-64, which is currently zoned in an R-2 zoning district, to re-zone said parcel to a C-2 commercial zoning district. Second by Mayor Donaldson. All voted aye.

Councilman Walter

11. Motion to waive the shelter rental fee for the Butler Area Public Library to use the Miller Shelter at Memorial Park for a summer reading program. Second by CW Kline. All voted aye.
12. Motion to approve the agreement with Grace Youth & Family Foundation to provide a summer recreation program for the City. Second by Mayor Donaldson. All voted aye.

Mayor Donaldson

13. Motion to accept the resignation of Bill May from the City Shade Tree Commission.   Second by CM Walter.  All voted aye.
14. Motion to approve City Resolution 2017-05-25;a resolution that adopts the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania’s Section 3 plan of the Housing and Urban Development Act of 1968 and designates the Executive Director of the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Butler as the Section 3 Compliance Officer. Second by CM Walter.  All voted aye.
15. Motion to approve payment to Gateway Engineers in the amount of $270.00 for the            engineering of the Centre City Parking Garage.  LIN 43 463 010.  Second by CM Bonus.  All voted aye.
16. Motion to approve payment to Thomas Construction, Inc. in the amount of $121,717.38 for the construction of the Centre City Parking Garage. LIN 43 463 020. Second by CW Kline.  All voted aye.
17. Motion to extend the cooperation agreement for the Farmers’ Market with Butler Downtown until December 31, 2017. Second by CW Kline.  All voted aye.
18. Motion to remove Arthur G. Cordwell as the Certifying Officer and replace this position with the Executive Director/Acting Executive Director of the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Butler for the Environmental Review process associated with the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG), HOME grant, and/or any other grant obtained by the Redevelopment Authority on behalf of the City. Second by CM Bonus. All voted aye.
19. Motion to make written application to the Civil Service Board for a certified list of     candidates to fill the vacancy created by the termination of Sergeant William Mayhugh            to return staffing to 23 officers. Second by CM Bonus.  CW Kline voted no.  CM Walter,        Bonus and Mayor Donaldson voted aye.

Boards and Authorities Appointments:

Donna Luffy Smith has been appointed to the City Shade Tree Commission to replace Diane Christie for a three year term ending on June 30, 2020.

In the absence of the City Treasurer, CM Bonus presented the Monthly Intake Report for April, 2017.

The City Controller presented bills for payment as follows: from the general fund – $261,497.78; from the parking fund – $141,970.95; from the capital projects fund – $0.00; from the liquid fuels tax fund – $8,152.73; and from the 2015-Series Bond Proceeds – $121,987.38 for a grand total of $533,608.84. Motion by Mayor Donaldson with second from CM Bonus to approve payment of bills as presented.  All voted aye.

• ANNOUNCEMENTS:
• WISR City Hall – Mayor Donaldson
• City Building closed: Monday, May 29th in observance of Memorial Day and Wednesday, June 14th in observance of Flag Day.
• The Lions Club, along with the City Police will distribute free bike helmets, Saturday May 27^th from 10:00 AM until noon at Father Marinaro Park.
• Downtown Butler BeerFest will be held on June 24^th from 3:00 PM until 7:00 PM on the roof of the Centre City Parking Garage.

Collective Bargaining Agreements between the City and the FOP, Lodge #32, IAFF Local #114 and AFSCME Local No. 757 expire December 31, 2017. Council had reached out to all three unions to suggest a one year extension.  Unions were not all in agreement, so CM Walter announced that the city will begin the collective bargaining process.

Mayor Donaldson adjourned the meeting at 7:37 PM.

 

MINUTES
City Council Meeting
City of Butler, Pennsylvania
April 27, 2017

Mayor Donaldson called the meeting to order at 7:00 PM. Mayor Donaldson and Council members Walter, Kline, 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.

PERSONS TO BE HEARD:

Kelly Ruby spoke about her involvement with the skate park and how it’s helping many of the city’s youth. They are applying for a Tony Hawk grant to rehab the park into a cement skate park.

Eric Mahler has been involved with the skate park since its inception and updated council on plans for the park.

Shirley A. T. Jackson voiced concerns about the police department returning a desk sergeant. She said people are hesitant to call 9-1-1 because of privacy issues being sent out via the scanner and feels that issues could have been prevented if people could have called directly to the city police.

Motion by Mayor Donaldson with a second from CM Bonus to approve the minutes of Regular meeting of March 23, 2017. All voted aye.

MONTHLY & ANNUAL DEPARTMENT REPORTS

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

Motion by Mayor Donaldson with a second from CM Roche to acknowledge receipt of the monthly minutes from RACB, including the CDBG/HOME Program activities

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

COUNCIL REPORTS/ACTIONS

Councilman Walter

1. Motion for the adoption of City Ordinance No. 1743; 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 $390,000.00 for the purpose of storm sewer repairs, traffic signal upgrades, Sullivan Run Flood Control Project and demolition. This ordinance is given to amend Ordinance Number 1742 adopted March 23, 2017.Second by CW Kline. All voted aye.
2. Motion to approve City Resolution No. 2017-04-27; a resolution authorizing payment for expenditures not requiring purchase orders. Second by CW Kline. All voted aye.
3. Motion to authorize Councilman Roche to approve and sign purchase orders in the absence of the Director of Accounts and Finance. Second by CW Kline. All voted aye.
4. Motion to approve Family Medical Leave for Heather Blair, said leave to run concurrently with her paid leave. Second by CW Kline. All voted aye.
5. Motion to direct the City Clerk to initiate recruitment action for a temporary part-time employee to fill the position of Finance Clerk while on medical leave, for 4 hours a day in the Office of the City Clerk. The total employment costs per hour for this temporary part-time position are not to exceed the Finance Clerk’s current hourly rate. Second by CW Kline. All voted aye.

Councilwoman Kline

Councilwoman Kline presented Lieutenant Dougherty and Firefighter Scott “stork” pins for delivering a baby in March while on duty.

Councilwoman Kline and Dwayne Moore presented Lieutenant Marshall, Firefighter Selfridge and Firefighter Feicht with letters of accommodation for saving Dwayne’s life when he suffered cardiac arrest at the fire station in early April.

6. Motion to approve the retirement of Lieutenant Donald J. McCoy, Jr. from the Butler Bureau of Fire following 17 years of service, effective May 27, 2017. Second by Mayor Donaldson. All voted aye.
7. Motion to begin the process to hire four part-time firefighters in the Butler Bureau of Fire. Second by Mayor Donaldson. All voted aye.

Councilman Bonus

8. Motion to authorize the city clerk to advertise for seasonal help for the streets department. Second by Mayor Donaldson. All voted aye.
9. Motion to submit the request of Jerome P. Oliver of America First Enterprises, LLP to amend the zoning ordinance to rezone tax parcel 565-42-64 from an R-2 Zoning District to a C-2 Zoning District to the Planning Commission for recommendation in accordance with Section 260-137 of the Zoning Ordinance. Second by Mayor Donaldson. All voted aye.
10. Motion to extend the Due Diligence Period granted to Jerome P. Oliver / America First Enterprises LLP for the purchase of Tax Parcel 565-42-64 to September 1, 2017, provided closing occurs on or before October 1, 2017. Second by Mayor Donaldson. All voted aye.
11. Motion to accept the bid from Bauer Excavating in the amount of $5,800.00 for the Sullivan Run bank improvements. LIN 18 427 305. Second by Mayor Donaldson. All vote aye.
12. Motion to approve the Section 504/ADA Plan Update for 2016. Second by Mayor Donaldson. All voted aye.

Councilman Roche

13. Motion to authorize the city clerk to advertise for seasonal help for the parks department. Second by Mayor Donaldson. All voted aye.
14. Motion to approve an agreement with First Baptist Church to lease Father Marinaro Park for youth soccer practice. Second by CM Bonus. All voted aye.

Mayor Donaldson

15. Motion to accept the proposal from Guardian Protection Services for elevator monitoring in the Tier Garage in the amount of $15/month. Second by CW Kline. All voted aye.
16. Motion to accept the resignation of parking violation monitor Connie Cassidy, effective May 5, 2017. Second by CM Bonus. All voted aye.
17. Motion to direct the city clerk to advertise for the hiring of one parking violation monitor. Second by CW Kline.  All voted aye.
18. Motion to approve Pennsylvania Heart & Lung Act benefits for Lieutenant Chad Rensel beginning on April 17, 2017 for a work-related injury he sustained on April 15, 2017. Second by CM Roche.  All voted aye.
19. Motion to approve Pennsylvania Heart & Lung Act benefits for Sergeant David Villotti beginning on April 17, 2017 for a work-related injury he sustained on April 15, 2017.  Second by CM Bonus.  All voted aye.
20. Motion to accept the resignation of Diane Christie from the City Shade Tree Commission. Second by CM Roche. All voted aye.
21. Motion to approve payment to PSx, Inc. in the amount of $56,248.00 for the construction of the Centre City Parking Garage. LIN 43 463 020. Second by CM Bonus.  All voted aye.
22. Motion to enter into a lease agreement with the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Butler for use of the office space in the Tier Parking Garage to be used by the Authority without the duty to pay rent; all leasehold improvements to be constructed by the Authority at no cost to the City. Second by CM Bonus. All voted aye.
23. Motion to exonerate the City Treasurer from the collection of 2017 City taxes on Tax Parcels 562-9-185 and 562-9-186 and to refund $310.97 to Lorraine Worsley for overpayment of tax in 2016 that resulted from a catastrophic fire loss. Second by CW Kline. All voted aye.

The City Treasurer presented a Monthly Intake Report for March, 2017.

The City Controller presented bills for payment as follows: from the general fund – $202,659.63; from the parking fund – $33,963.94; from the capital projects fund – $135.00; from the liquid fuels tax fund – $11,017.83; and from the 2015-Series Bond Proceeds – $59,920.00 for a grand total of $307,696.40. Motion by Mayor Donaldson with second from CW Kline to approve payment of bills as presented.  All voted aye.

• ANNOUNCEMENTS:

• WISR City Hall – Jimmy Chiprean, Parking Manager

Mayor Donaldson adjourned the meeting at 7:51PM.

MINUTES
City Council Meeting
City of Butler, Pennsylvania
March 23, 2017

Mayor Donaldson called the meeting to order at 7:00 PM. Mayor Donaldson and Council members Walter, Kline, Bonus and Roche were present. The pledge of allegiance to the flag followed an invocation given by Pastor Fred Kison, Christ’s Outreach Church.

Motion by Mayor Donaldson with a second from CM Walter to approve the minutes of Regular meeting of February 23, 2017. All voted aye.

The following action took place at the City’s Forum Meeting held on March 21, 2017:

1. 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 order its removal by demolition:  322 Liberty Street.  Motion by Mayor Donaldson. Second by CM Walter.   All voted aye.

MONTHLY & ANNUAL DEPARTMENT REPORTS

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

Motion by Mayor Donaldson with a second from CM Roche to acknowledge receipt of the monthly minutes from RACB, including the CDBG/HOME Program activities

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

COUNCIL REPORTS/ACTIONS

 

Councilman Walter

1. Motion for the adoption of City Ordinance No. 1742; 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 $390,000.00 for the purpose of storm sewer repairs, traffic signal upgrades, Sullivan Run Flood Control Project and demolition. Second by Mayor Donaldson. All voted aye.
2. Motion to approve the design of a new decal to be placed on public works vehicles, a copy of which is attached to the minutes of this meeting. Second CW Kline. All voted aye.
3. Motion to approve Resolution 2017-03-23A; appointing voting delegates to the tax collection committee. Second by CW Kline. All voted aye.
4. Motion to approve the conditional hiring of Kelly Thompson as a temporary employee, working approximately 7 hours per week, from March, 2017 through May, 2017 in the Office of the City Treasurer to be paid $12.00 per hour. Second by CW Kline. All voted aye.

Councilman Bonus

5. Motion to approve City Resolution 2017–03–23 revising the City’s administrative fee schedule as of April 1, 2017. Second by Mayor Donaldson. All voted aye.
6. Motion to award the demolition of 208 Ridge Avenue to A P Wise Excavating in the amount of $6,050.00 based upon the general specifications of the contract and the release by the City Solicitor. Second by CW Kline. All voted aye.
7. Motion to award the demolition of 134 Third Avenue to A P Wise Excavating in the amount of $8,025.00 based upon the general specifications of the contract and the release by the City Solicitor. Second by CW Kline. All voted aye.
8. Motion to refund Gateway Engineers $600.00 due to the cancellation of a conditional use hearing. Second by Mayor Donaldson. All voted aye.

Councilman Roche

9. Motion for the second reading and adoption of City Ordinance No. 1741; an ordinance of the city of Butler, Pennsylvania amending Chapter 101; Alcohol beverages; of the codified ordinances of the City of Butler. Second by Mayor Donaldson. All voted aye.
10. Motion to approve a permit for the Beer Fest Event scheduled for June 24, 2017 in the Centre City Parking Garage provided the Sponsor provides the City with proof of insurance and a satisfactory plan for disposal of garbage and waste generated from the event and for bathroom facilities for those attending the event. This approval is contingent upon the Sponsor meeting with the Chief of Police and Parking Manager and satisfying all conditions required by Chief Brown and James Chiprean. This approval is further contingent upon the Sponsor obtaining the written consent and approval of the new hotel to confirm that the event will not result in a breach of the parking lease between the City and the owners of the hotel. Second by Mayor Donaldson. All voted aye.
11. Motion to approve changes and improvements to the Memorial Park football / lacrosse field to be conducted by Butler Area Midget Football and the Lacrosse Association under the supervision and approval of John Evans and the City Engineer, said changes to include the removal of the dugouts in the now inactive Midget and Bantam League baseball fields. Second by CW Kline. All voted aye.

Mayor Donaldson

12. Motion to consent to the sale of 718 W Penn Street for $601.00 to be sold from the Butler County Repository by the Butler County Tax Claim Bureau to Professional Housing & Land LLC (tax parcel 565-22-131-0000). Second by CM Roche. All voted aye.
13. Motion to consent to the sale of 441 Shore Street for $600.00 to be sold from the Butler County Repository by the Butler County Tax Claim Bureau to Thomas and Sandra Bowser (tax parcel 563-8-97A-0000). Second by CW Kline. All voted aye.
14. Motion to consent to the sale of 210 South Street for $700.00 to be sold from the Butler County Repository by the Butler County Tax Claim Bureau to Robin Cober (tax parcel 561-37-145-0000). Second by CM Bonus. All voted aye.
15. Motion to approve payment to Coleman SIGNS in the amount of $3,000.00 for signs for the Centre City Parking Garage. LIN 43 463 020. Second by CM Walter.  All voted aye.
16. Motion to make written application to the Civil Service Board for a certified list of candidates to fill the vacancy created by the retirement of Captain Ronald Fierst. Second by CW Kline. All voted aye.
17. Motion to make written application to the Civil Service Board for a certified list of candidates to fill the vacancy created by the resignation of Patrol Officer Jason Gueck. Second by CM Roche. All voted aye.
18. Motion to make written application to the Civil Service Board for a certified list of candidates to fill the vacancy created by the resignation of Patrol Officer Travis Buckshire. Second by CM Walter.  All voted aye.
19. Motion to make written application to the Civil Service Board for a certified list of candidates to fill the vacancy created by the termination of Sergeant William Mayhugh pending completion of the grievance process. Second by CM Roche. All voted aye.
20. Motion to make written application to the Civil Service Board for a certified list of candidates to fill the 24^th position in the City of Butler Police Department as approved by council in February, 2017 contingent upon finding the funding within the current 2017 budget. Second by CM Bonus. All voted aye.
21. Motion to enter into an agreement with PSx to monitor the kiosks at a cost of $50/month on a “month to month” basis until the hotel is open. Second by CM Roche.  All voted aye.
22. Motion to approve payment to Merit Electrical Group, Inc. in the amount of $10,290.37 for the construction of the Centre City Parking Garage. LIN 43 463 020. Second by CM Walter.  All voted aye.

The City Treasurer presented a Monthly Intake Report for February, 2017.

The City Controller presented bills for payment as follows: from the general fund – $249,354.69; from the parking fund – $31,587.29; from the capital projects fund – $2,844.74; from the liquid fuels tax fund – $43,700.39; and from the 2015-Series Bond Proceeds – $14,655.37 for a grand total of $342,142.48. Motion by Mayor Donaldson with second from CM Walter to approve payment of bills as presented.  All voted aye.

• ANNOUNCEMENTS:
• WISR City Hall – Mayor Donaldson
• City Building will be closed Friday, April 14^th in observance of Good Friday.

Mayor Donaldson adjourned the meeting at 7:38 PM.