City of Butler

Category: Meeting Minutes

  • February 23, 2017

    MINUTES
    City Council Meeting
    City of Butler, Pennsylvania
    February 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 Reverend James Steiner, Hill United Presbyterian Church.

    PERSONS TO BE HEARD:

    Clint Kiddle discussed concerns for the poor condition of Etna Street.

    Motion by Mayor Donaldson with a second from CW Kline to approve the minutes of Regular meeting of January 26, 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 January were approved by individual, unanimous votes.

    COUNCIL REPORTS/ACTIONS

    Councilman Walter

    1. Motion for the second reading and adoption of City Ordinance No. 1740 amending Chapter 235 of the Codified Ordinances of the City of Butler, Taxation, granting an exemption to any person whose total income from all sources is less than $10,000.00 per annum from the payment of per capita tax. Second by CW Kline. All voted aye.
    2. Motion to authorize the City Clerk to sign the updated fee agreement letter of February 6, 2017, for legal representation by the firm of Campbell, Durrant & Beatty, Palombo & Miller, P.C. for the collective bargaining negotiations scheduled for 2017.

    Second by Mayor Donaldson. All voted aye.

    1. Motion to retain Leo Stepanian II, Esq. and the firm Stepanian & Menchyk, LLP to represent the City of Butler, Councilwoman Kathy D. Kline, Councilman Michael L. Walter and Councilman Corey D. Roche in lawsuit filed in the Court of Common Pleas of Butler County, Pennsylvania by Mayor Thomas Donaldson and docketed at A.D. No. 16-1101 which claim is based upon an action which was taken within the scope of the office or duties of councilperson. Under the proposed fee agreement, the City of Butler will pay Attorney Stepanian the hourly rate of $135.00 per hour. This motion is pursuant to 42 Pa. C.S.A. Sections 8547 and 8548 and is based upon the City Solicitor having a conflict of interest. Second by CW Kline. CM Walter, CW Kline, CM Bonus, CM Roche voted aye.  Mayor Donaldson abstained.
    2. Motion to accept the bid from NexTier Bank for a general obligation loan of $390,000.00 with an interest rate of 1.80% per annum. Second by CW Kline. All voted aye.

    Councilwoman Kline

    Recreational fire permits will be available March 1st.  Residents will complete an application for their first recreational fire.  For recreational fires thereafter, they will call the station and reference their permit number.  724-283-3100.

    Councilman Bonus

    1. Motion to approve City Resolution No. 2017-02-23 obligating $24,918.00 of City revenues to the Butler Transit Authority for fiscal year 2017/2018. Second by CW Kline. All voted aye.
    2. Motion to authorize the City Clerk to execute and deliver a commitment letter required by PennDot to process the City’s Grant Application for Multimodal Grant Application #2017-10-10-011. Second by CW Kline. All voted aye

    Councilman Roche

     

    1. Motion to appoint Derek Delaney to the City of Butler Parks, Recreation Grounds & Facilities Authority to fill the remainder of Don Paul’s term which expires on January 1, 2020. Second by Mayor Donaldson. All voted aye.
    2. Motion to enter into an agreement with the Butler Fastpitch Association to lease the T-Ball Field in Memorial Park commencing April 1, 2017 through October 31, 2017.

    Second by Mayor Donaldson. All voted aye.

    1. Motion for the introduction and first reading 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.
    2. Motion to approve City Resolution No. 2017-02-23A; the City of Butler agrees to comply with the requirements of the Butler County Parks Renovation Program for the purpose of obtaining grant funds for the renovation of Butler Memorial Park. Second by Mayor Donaldson. All voted aye.

    Mayor Donaldson

    1. Motion to approve Pennsylvania Heart & Lung Act benefits for Sergeant David Villotti beginning on February 1, 2017 for a work-related injury he sustained on January             26, 2017. Second by CM Roche.  All voted aye.
    2. Motion to approve payment to Nathan Contracting in the amount of $14,529.00 for the McKean Street Parking Garage Rehabilitation after review by the parking manager.

    LIN 05 448 240. Second by CM Roche.  All voted aye.

    1. Motion to approve the resignation of Patrol Officer Travis Buckshire, effective March 5, 2017. Second by CM Walter. All voted aye.
    2. Motion to adopt City Resolution No. 2017-02-23B; a resolution supporting non-discrimination in the city of Butler. Second by CM Bonus. CM Walter abstained.  CW Kline voted no.  CM Bonus, CM Roche and Mayor Donaldson voted aye.
    3. Motion to authorize the Mayor to execute and deliver a letter Agreement with HJA Strategies, LLC to engage HJA Strategies to assist the City of Butler in evaluating potential alternatives for the existing parking system. This motion is contingent upon HJA Strategies modifying Paragraph 8 of the letter agreement to call for the contract to be interpreted under the laws of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and to submit to the jurisdiction of the Pennsylvania Courts and the Federal Courts located in Pennsylvania. Second by CM Roche.  CM Walter, CW Kline, CM Bonus, CM Roche voted no.  Mayor Donaldson voted aye.  Motion not passed.
    4. Motion to authorize the hiring of a 24th police officer in the City of Butler Police Department. Second by CM Roche. All voted aye.
    5. Motion to approve an alcohol permit for the Italian Festival contingent upon the sponsor filing the proper paperwork and meeting all the requirements from the LCB and providing proof thereof to the City at least 5 days PRIOR to the event. Second by CW Kline. All voted aye.
    6. Mayor Donaldson moved to terminate the employment of police officer 1408 as a City of             Butler police officer for misconduct and violation of policy.  Second by CM Bonus.            CM Walter and CW Kline voted no.  CM Roche, CM Bonus and Mayor Donaldson      voted aye.

    The CBA specifically states in Article 24 (G) that “Unless agreed to by the Officer, the      City shall not make any public comment on the reason for disciplinary action   brought against the Officer,    except as required by law.”

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

    The City Controller presented bills for payment as follows: from the general fund – $199,873.91; from the parking fund – $48,383.76; from the capital projects fund – $0.00; from the liquid fuels tax fund – $6,899.42; and from the 2015-Series Bond Proceeds – $0.00 for a grand total of $255,157.09. Motion by Mayor Donaldson with second from CW Kline to approve payment of bills as presented.  All voted aye.

    • ANNOUNCEMENTS:
    • WISR City Hall – Councilman Walter; Mayor Donaldson

    Mayor Donaldson adjourned the meeting at 8:07 PM.

     

  • January 26, 2017

    MINUTES
    City Council Meeting
    City of Butler, Pennsylvania
    January 26, 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 Reverend Dan Ledford, Westminster Presbyterian Church.

    PERSONS TO BE HEARD:

    Lawrence Krause spoke concerning the need for enforcement of the speed limit on South McKean Street by Cliffside Apartments.

    Rocco Lamanna and Sal Richetti spoke with council about the festival to be held over Labor Day in 2017.

    Motion by Mayor Donaldson to approve an updated agreement with County Festivals, LLC for a festival to be held in 2017.  Second by CM Walter.  All voted aye.

    Motion by Mayor Donaldson with a second from CM Walter to approve the minutes of Regular meeting of December 22, 2016. 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 Walter to acknowledge receipt of the monthly minutes from RACB, including the CDBG/HOME Program activities

    Department reports for the month of December and 2016 year-end reports were approved by individual, unanimous votes.

    COUNCIL REPORTS/ACTIONS

     

    Councilman Walter

    1. Motion to approve a payment in the amount of $203,417.13 to Wells Fargo Bank for debt service for the City’s 2005 general obligation bonds. (Note: This payment includes principal of $175,000.00 and interest of $28,417.13.) Second by Mayor Donaldson.  All voted aye.
    2. Motion to direct the City Clerk to advertise for bids for a general obligation loan of $390,000.00 for storm sewer repairs, traffic signal upgrades, Sullivan Run Flood Control Project and demolition, payable in 2017 and 2018. Second by CM Bonus. All voted aye.
    3. Motion to direct the City Clerk to set-up the Paychex online service “Employee Access Online”. Second by CM Bonus. All voted aye.
    4. Motion to approve a proposal submitted by Caruso & Spencer, PC, Certified Public Accountants for monthly auditing services for Fiscal Year 2017 as outlined in their engagement letter of January 1, 2017 and to authorize the City Clerk to sign said letter on behalf of City Council. Second by CM Bonus. All voted aye.
    5. Motion to approve payment to the Butler Area Public Library in the amount of $31,763.54 that represents the proceeds from the City’s 2016 library tax.

    LIN 01 456 540. Second by CM Roche. All voted aye.

    1. Motion to transfer $7,253.09 from the General Fund into the Tax Increment Financing Fund for payment from the 2016 TIF Financing to the RACB for the Centre City Project. Second by Mayor Donaldson. All voted aye.

    Councilwoman Kline

    1. Motion to appoint Bill May to the Bicycle Advisory Commission to fill the remaining term of Rick Carr which expires January 1, 2019. Second by Mayor Donaldson. All voted aye.
    2. Motion to appoint Steve Walter to the Bicycle Advisory Commission to replace Andrew Manfred for a 4-year term which expires January 1, 2021. Second by Mayor Donaldson. All voted aye.

    Councilman Bonus

    1. Motion for the second reading and adoption of City Ordinance No. 1739, 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 experimental regulations previously adopted by city council on a 90-day trial basis. Second by CW Kline. All voted aye.

    Councilman Roche

    1. Motion to appoint Phillip Lefevre to the City of Butler Parks, Recreation Grounds & Facilities Authority to fill the remainder of George N. Ban’s term which expires on January 1, 2021. Second by CW Kline. All voted aye.
    2. Motion to appoint John Mossman to the City of Butler Parks, Recreation Grounds & Facilities Authority to replace John Spinetti for a 5-year term which expires on January 1, 2022. Second by Mayor Donaldson. All voted aye.
    3. Motion to enter into an agreement with the Butler Area Softball League to lease the Pony League Field and concession stand in Father Marinaro Park commencing on February 13, 2017 through October 31, 2017. Second by Mayor Donaldson. All voted aye.
    4. Motion to approve City Resolution No. 2017-01-26; the City of Butler agrees to comply with the requirements of the Butler County Parks Renovation Program for the purpose of obtaining grant funds for the renovation of Butler Memorial Park. Second by CM Bonus. All voted aye.
    5. Motion to accept the resignation of Donald Paul from the City of Butler Parks, Recreation Grounds & Facilities Authority effective January 25, 2017. Second by CM Bonus. All voted aye.

    Mayor Donaldson

    1. Motion to approve payment to Gateway Engineers in the amount of $1,756.50 for the engineering of the Centre City Parking Garage.  LIN 43 463 010.   Second by CW       Kline.  All voted aye.
    2. Motion to approve payment to PSx, Inc. in the amount of $123,300.00 for the kiosks and gates in the Centre City Parking Garage. LIN 43 463 020. Second by CM Roche.        All voted aye.
    3. Motion to approve Change Order No. 3 with PSX, for the Centre City Parking Garage kiosks and gates, in the amount of $2,180.00 increase from $197,318.00         to         $199,498.00. Second by CM Bonus.  All voted aye.
    4. Motion for the second reading and adoption of City Ordinance No. 1738; an ordinance of    the City of Butler, Butler County, Pennsylvania, amending Chapter 189            Parking to add additional residential parking areas in Section 189-3.A.  Second by CM       Roche.  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 December 27, 2016 to Patrol Officer Kory Fleming. Second by CM Bonus. All voted aye.

    Appointment:

    David McKivigan has been reappointed to the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Butler for a 5 year term which expires June, 2021.

    Mayor Donaldson presented an annual report for the City of Butler (attached to these       minutes).

    The City Treasurer presented a Monthly Intake Report for December, 2016.

    The City Controller presented bills for payment as follows: from the general fund – $430,754.73; from the parking fund – $12,459.23; from the capital projects fund – $1,365.00; from the liquid fuels tax fund – $70,550.99; and from the 2015-Series Bond Proceeds – $126,056.50 for a grand total of $641,186.45. Motion by with second from to approve payment of bills as presented.  All voted aye.

    • ANNOUNCEMENTS:
    • WISR City Hall – Mayor Donaldson
    • Vogel Disposal Announcement:

    “Mattress/box spring: For our worker’s protection, please wrap items in plastic and tape securely closed with duct or packing tape to prevent any possible exposure to infectious pests such as bedbugs, fleas, etc.”

    • The City is requesting donations for the 4th of July fireworks display

    Mayor Donaldson adjourned the meeting at 8:01 PM.

     

    Report On The State Of The City Of Butler

    2017

    As we start out in 2017 we can look back at the progress we have made. Our new parking garage is ready to dedicate. The new Marriott Spring Hill Suites will be open by spring. We have not one but two brew works now open in the downtown. The front of the Penn Theater is much improved. Over a year ago I had the theater inspected and it was filled with violations that the Redevelopment Authority could not afford to repair. The inspection was meant to remind people that the Penn was still in need of help. I had hoped for the inspection to bring donors forward to help in the revitalization of the Penn. That plan has worked as there have been several anonymous donors step forward to pay for repairs. There is much to do but we have a good start.

    Penndot replaced the West Cunningham St. bridge and has paved Main St. and the volunteers from the Church of the Nazarene painted the yellow on the curbs. Utility companies replaced infrastructure and followed up with repaving of our streets. Butler looks good and is alive and well. The city likewise paved many streets both with outside contractors and city street department employees. The Redevelopment Authority also paved several streets. We have had a good program in place for street paving. This needs to be continued or as in the past when it was discontinued rapid deterioration took place. Even one year not paving will lead to increased costs when starting back.

    Looking ahead to this year we need to seriously address our union contracts when negotiating. We need to remember we are the stewards of the public!! We are not the buddies of the union employees!! We are not their enemies but we are management and all members need to remember that. We need to seek contracts more in line with the private sector. We need to schedule along the recommendations of the many studies that have been ignored for years. Our wages and benefit packages far exceed those of most city residents. In many areas we are paying for a Cadillac when we can barely afford a Chevy! We need to follow our own rules and regulations along with that the advice of our Solicitor. We need to work as a team for we are not here for our own interests ( I assure all that I am NOT), but for the good of the city and its residents. That is how I have worked for the past three years and we have accomplished much!!

    We need to review our personnel policies and see that all employees follow them. We have many policies that seem to be ignored. At some point this must be corrected or we will continue to be the “Dog That is wagged by the tail”.

    We need to institute sensible and timely equipment replacement in all departments. Also we need to explore what additional equipment we could purchase to make more “in house” work possible. Our employees are quite talented and could perform many services at a lesser expense than outside contractors.

    Our financial issues have not changed in the last 20 years, we continue to be overrun by non-profits. Our revenues continue to be flat while expenses continue to rise. We have an opportunity monetize our parking assets. If the dollar amount is right we cannot afford to miss out on the opportunity to stabilize our downward financial slide. When I closed the Parking Authority it was with this intent in mind. Monetization can and will help our financial picture both in the short and long term. Tied with

    monetization must also be a serious willingness of council to solve the contract issues at the heart of our financial problems.

    We need to address our taxes, property and business privilege they need to be lowered to make Butler more business and family friendly. This can only be accomplished if we address our contracts and find new sources of revenue.

    We need to move ahead and name a new Fire Chief, anyone with management experience would or should know a strong leader is necessary for the Fire Department. A team without a coach cannot win likewise a Fire Department without a Chief can only fall short of its potential. I challenge those at the table who have become obstructionists and fail to communicate to get over the changes made last year and start to work with me instead of against. Those who won’t work as a team are not hurting me in any way but they are harming our city. The time to work together has always been now. Personal interests should never be ahead of the good of our residents.

    I have been working with businessmen and outside developers to bring additional opportunities to Butler as appropriate timely announcements will be made by those involved I ask council to support and help with success should the ventures come to fruition.

    I have worked with our veterans groups to honor our veterans with the troop banner program. It has been a success and continues to grow. We have also worked to remember and recognize members of our military who made the ultimate sacrifice to protect our country.

    Last year was our first Carved in Ice festival, this year could be our first Italian Festival. We continue to change and to grow and make positive impacts on our city.

    In closing I find the City of Butler to be a viable place to live and do business with many of her best days still ahead. We should have fond memories of the past and high hopes for our future.

    Tom Donaldson

    Mayor, City of Butler

     

  • December 22, 2016

    MINUTES
    City Council Meeting
    City of Butler, Pennsylvania
    December 22, 2016

    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 Steve Ogle, Community Life Church.

     

    PERSONS TO BE HEARD:

    Mark Krenitsky voiced concerns about the police and fire departments, parking and pending lawsuit.

    Motion by Mayor Donaldson with second from CM Roche to approve the minutes of Regular meeting of November 17, 2016.   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.  All voted aye.

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

    COUNCIL REPORTS/ACTIONS

    Councilman Walter

    1. Motion to pay the first installment of the 2016 small borrowing loan to NexTier in the amount of $106,209.60. $105,000.00 – LIN 01 472 913 – Principal: $1,209.60 – LIN 01 472 914 – Interest. Second by CW Kline.  All voted aye.
    1. Motion for the second reading and adoption of City Ordinance No. 1735, an ordinance of the City of Butler fixing the tax rate for Fiscal Year 2017. Second by Mayor Donaldson.  All voted aye.
    1. Motion for the second reading and adoption of City Ordinance No. 1736, an ordinance of the City of Butler adopting the annual budget and appropriating specific sums estimated to be required for the specific purposes of the City government as set forth therein during Fiscal Year 2017. Second by Mayor Donaldson. All voted aye.
    1. Motion for the second reading and adoption of City Ordinance No. 1737, an ordinance of the City of Butler fixing the wages and salaries of employees of the City in conformance with the budget for Fiscal Year 2017. Second by CM Bonus. All voted aye.
    1. Motion for the first reading and introduction of City Ordinance No. 1740 amending Chapter 235 of the Codified Ordinances of the City of Butler, Taxation, granting an exemption to any person whose total income from all sources is less than $10,000.00 per annum from the payment of per capita tax. Second by CM Bonus.  All voted aye.
    1. Motion to accept a proposal submitted by PNC for a 2017 Tax Revenue Anticipation Note in the amount of $1,000,000.00 at an annual interest rate of 1.34% percent per annum and to adopt the Note Resolution as prepared by PNC Bank. Second by Mayor Donaldson. All voted aye.
    1. Motion to approve City Resolution 2016-12-22, a resolution of the City of Butler authorizing the issuance of a Tax Revenue Anticipation Note Series 2017 in the amount of $1,000,000.00. Second by CM Bonus. All voted aye.

    Councilwoman Kline

    1. Motion to reappoint Rick Uhl to the Bicycle Advisory Commission for a 4-year term which expires January 1, 2020. Second by CM Walter. All voted aye.
    1. Motion to reappoint Connie Downs to the Bicycle Advisory Commission for a 4-year term which expires January 1, 2021. Second by CM Roche. All voted aye.

    CW Kline made a motion to table #10 and #11.  Second by Mayor Donaldson.  All voted aye.

    1. Motion to appoint Bill May to the Bicycle Advisory Commission to fill the remaining term of Rick Carr which expires January 1, 2019.
    1. Motion to appoint Steve Walters to the Bicycle Advisory Commission to replace Andrew Manfred for a 4-year term which expires January 1, 2021.

    Councilman Bonus

    1. Motion for the introduction and first reading of City Ordinance No. 1739, 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 experimental regulations previously adopted by city council on a 90-day trial basis. Second by Mayor Donaldson. All voted aye.
    1. Motion to reject all bids received for the City’s petroleum products for the Fiscal Year 2017, based upon advice from Penn Dot confirming that fuel that is purchased on an “as needed” basis is not subject to the bidding requirements. Second by CW Kline. All voted aye.

    Councilman Roche

    1. Motion to enter into an agreement with the Butler Boys Scholastic Lacrosse Association to lease the Memorial Park Field to use as a lacrosse field for four months commencing March 16, 2017 through June 23, 2017. Second by CW Kline. All voted aye.
    1. Motion to reappoint Frank Cicco to the City of Butler Parks, Recreation Grounds & Facilities Authority for a 5-year term which expires January 1, 2022. Second by Mayor Donaldson. All voted aye.
    1. Motion to appoint Robert Graham to the City of Butler Parks, Recreation Grounds & Facilities Authority to replace William Criley for a 5-year term which expires January 1, 2022. Second by Mayor Donaldson. CM Walter and CW Kline voted no. CM Roche, CM Bonus and Mayor Donaldson voted aye.  Motion passed.

    Mayor Donaldson

    1. Motion to approve payment to Gateway Engineers in the amount of $5,659.75 for    the engineering of the Centre City Parking Garage.  LIN 43 463 010.   Second by CW Kline.  All voted aye.
    1. Motion to approve payment to Thomas Construction, Inc. in the amount of   $124,821.90 for the construction of the Centre City Parking Garage.  LIN 43 463 020. Second by CW Kline.  All voted aye.
    1. Motion to approve payment to Merit Electrical Group, Inc. in the amount of $37,536.13 for the construction of the Centre City Parking Garage.  LIN 43 463 020. Second by CW Kline.  All voted aye.
    1. Motion to approve payment to Reno Bros., Inc. in the amount of $90.60 for the construction of the Centre City Parking Garage.  LIN 43 463 020. Second by CM Bonus.  All voted aye.
    1. Motion to approve payment to Secure Technical Solutions, Inc. in the amount of     $12,390.00 for the construction of the Centre City Parking Garage.  LIN 43 463 020. Second by CW Kline.  All voted aye.
    1. Motion to approve payment to Community Development Corporation of Butler County in the amount of $36,137.46 for the engineering of the Centre City Parking    Garage.  LIN 43 463   020. Second by CM Walter.  All voted aye.
    1. Motion to approve Change Order No. 1 with PSX, for the Centre City Parking          Garage kiosks and gates, in the amount of $7,000.00 increase from $177,036.00 to     $184,036.00. Second by CM Walter.  All voted aye.
    1. Motion to approve Change Order No. 2 with PSX, for the Centre City Parking          Garage kiosks and gates, in the amount of $13,282.00 increase from $184,036.00 to   $197,318.00. Second by CW Kline.  All voted aye.
    1. Motion for the introduction and first reading of City Ordinance No. 1738; an ordinance of the City of Butler, Butler County, Pennsylvania, amending Chapter 189            Parking to add additional residential parking areas in Section 189-3.A.   Second by CW Kline.  All voted aye.
    1. Motion to approve the Addendum to Lease between the City of Butler and Covenant             United Presbyterian Church for use of the church parking lot on a month to month          basis. Second by CM Walter.  All voted aye.
    1. Motion to reappoint Dr. Henry Sinopoli to the Civil Service Board for a 4-year term  which expires December, 2020. Second by CM Bonus.  All voted aye.
    1. Motion to enter into an Exclusive Right to Lease Agency Contract with Hanna             Langholz Wilson Ellis to advertise for the lease of 4,000 square feet of office space in           the Morgan Center area of the Washington Street Tier Garage Second by CM Bonus.  All voted aye.
    1. Motion to approve the resignation of Patrol Officer Jason Gueck, effective January             16, 2017. Second by CM Walter.  All voted aye.

    The City Treasurer presented a Monthly Intake Report for November, 2016.  Last day to pay taxes is January 3, 2017 at 4:30 PM.

    The City Controller presented bills for payment as follows: from the general fund – $308,550.52; from the parking fund – $60,401.58; from the capital projects fund – $470.41; from the liquid fuels tax fund – $22,788.04; and from the 2015-Series Bond Proceeds – $214,879.34 for a grand total of $607,089.89. 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 will be closed on December 26th and January 2nd.

    Mayor Donaldson adjourned the meeting at 7:31 PM.

     

     

  • November 17, 2016

    MINUTES
    City Council Meeting
    City of Butler, Pennsylvania
    November 17, 2016

    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 Jeff Harris, Crossroad Community, Inc.

    PRESENTATIONS:

    Neighborhood Pride Award:   Dennis and Dianna Herrit, 609 N. McKean Street

    Motion by Mayor Donaldson with second from CM Walter to approve the minutes of Regular meeting of October 27, 2016. All voted aye.

    The following took place at the City’s Forum Meeting held on November 16, 2016:

    A Public Hearing was held at 6:35 PM. The ARC of Butler County requested conditional use of property at 200 Broad Street for philanthropic institution (sheltered workshop) and offices.

    Motion by CM Walter to approve conditional use as presented by the ARC of Butler County with the following conditions and recommendations (as recommended by the Planning and Zoning Commission).

    Conditions:

    1. All activities in the accessory building be kept inside the building.
    2. Normal work activities occur between the hours of 7 AM to 5 PM Monday through Friday, excluding drop off and pick up and occasional social functions.
    3. The ARC provides an engineering report to the City for the entrance to the parking lot being constructed over the box culvert.
    4. Installation of R-4 aggregate at the bottom of the stone wall on the property near the stream to prevent scour and the possibility of the wall falling into the stream.
    5. Providing storm water management for the proposed parking lot.

    Recommendation: 1. City Council consider installing “residential parking only” signs within the neighborhood with the exception of streets immediately adjacent to the building.

    Second by CM Roche.

    CM Walter and CW Kline voted aye. CM Bonus, CM Roche and Mayor Donaldson voted no.  Motion not approved.

    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. All voted aye.

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

    COUNCIL REPORTS/ACTION

    Councilman Walter

    1. Motion to approve a proposal submitted by Caruso & Spencer, PC, Certified Public Accountants for monthly auditing services for Fiscal Year 2016 as outlined in their engagement letter of January 1, 2016 and to authorize the City Clerk to sign said letter on behalf of City Council. Second by Mayor Donaldson. All voted aye.
    2. Motion for the introduction and first reading of City Ordinance No. 1735, an ordinance of the City of Butler fixing the tax rate for Fiscal Year 2017. Second by CM Roche.  All voted aye.
    3. Motion for the introduction and first reading of City Ordinance No. 1736, an ordinance of the City of Butler adopting the annual budget and appropriating specific sums estimated to be required for the specific purposes of the City government as set forth therein during Fiscal Year 2017. Second by CW Kline. All voted aye.
    4. Motion for the introduction and first reading of City Ordinance No. 1737, an ordinance of the City of Butler fixing the wages and salaries of employees of the City in conformance with the budget for Fiscal Year 2017. Second by CM Roche. All voted aye.
    5. Motion to direct the City Clerk to seek proposals from financial institutions for a 2017 Tax Revenue Anticipation Note in the amount of $1,000,000.00. Mayor Donaldson. All voted aye.

    Councilman Bonus

    1. Motion for the second reading and adoption of City Ordinance No. 1734, an ordinance amending the ordinance establishing, modifying and reenacting an earned income tax. Second by CM Roche. All voted aye.
    2. Motion to rescind the resignation of Charlie Savannah from the Butler Transit Authority. Second by Mayor Donaldson. All voted aye.
    3. Motions to approve a bid submitted by and award the Fiscal Year 2017 contract for supply of the City’s asphalt materials to:

    Wiest Asphalt Products & Paving, Inc. as follows:

    9.5MM Superpave Wearing Course FOB; $65.00 per ton and 19MM Superpave   FOB; $59.00 per ton.

    Russell Standard Corporation, as follows:

    E-3 Emulsion Placed; $1.79/gallon;$17,900.00

    Second by CW Kline. All voted aye.

    1. Motion to approve a bid submitted by and award the Fiscal Year 2017 contract for supply of the City’s limestone materials to Allegheny Mineral Corporation, as follows: Unit Price Delivered at Job Site: #2A – 17.90 per ton; #4 – $19.10 per ton; #8 – $22.10 per ton; #57 – 18.35 per ton. Second by Mayor Donaldson.  All voted aye.
    2. Motion to reject the bids submitted for the Fiscal Year 2017 contract for supply of the City’s petroleum products. Second by CM Roche. All voted aye.

    Mayor Donaldson

    1. Motion to approve payment to Gateway Engineers in the amount of $4,329.50 for the engineering of the Centre City Parking Garage. LIN 43 463 010.   Second by CM Roche.  All voted aye.
    2. Motion to approve payment to Thomas Construction, Inc. in the amount of $260,293.69 for the construction of the Centre City Parking Garage. LIN 43 463 020. Second by CW Kline.  All voted aye.
    3. Motion to approve payment to Merrit Electrical Group, Inc. in the amount of $37,440.00 for the construction of the Centre City Parking Garage. LIN 43 463 020. Second by CM Roche.  All voted aye.
    4. Motion to approve payment to Reno Bros., Inc. in the amount of $21,543.48 for the construction of the Centre City Parking Garage. LIN 43 463 020. Second by CM Roche.  All voted aye.
    5. Motion to approve Pennsylvania Heart & Lung Act benefits for Sergeant Benjamin Spangler beginning on October 24, 2016 for a work-related injury he sustained on October 21, 2016. Second by CW Kline. All voted aye.
    6. Motion to approve City Council’s 2017 meeting schedule, a copy of which will be published in a local newspaper to comply with the Sunshine Act and attached to the minutes of this meeting. Second by CW Kline. All voted aye.
    7. Motion to enter into an agreement with the County of Butler to provide parking spaces to jurors at the rate of four dollars ($4.00) per car per day. Second by CW Kline.  All voted aye.

    The City Treasurer presented a Monthly Intake Report for October, 2016.

    The City Controller presented bills for payment as follows: from the general fund – $126,478.48; from the parking fund – $483.64; from the capital projects fund – $11,874.50; from the liquid fuels tax fund – $23,974.61; and from the 2015-Series Bond Proceeds – $331,006.67 for a grand total of $493,817.90. 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 Bonus
    • City Building will be closed on Thursday and Friday, November 24th and 25th, in observance of the Thanksgiving Holiday.
    • Small Business Saturday – November 26th
    • Spirit of Christmas Parade; Christmas Trees and Memories – 5:30 PM on November 26th
    • Free parking at meters; November 23rd – 27th and December 16th – December 25th (except Centre City Garage and permit only garages)

    Mayor Donaldson adjourned the meeting at 7:24 PM.

     

     

     

     

     

  • October 27, 2016

    MINUTES
    City Council Meeting
    City of Butler, Pennsylvania
    October 27, 2016

    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 Deacon Mitch Natali, St. Paul’s Catholic Church.

    PRESENTATIONS:

    Neighborhood Pride Award:   Joseph & Kimberly Babinsack, 121 W Pearl Street

    PERSONS TO BE HEARD:

    Jane Hall, third generation city resident, emphasized to city council that any discrimination is covered under the Constitution and the Bill of Rights, and is a federal issue not a city issue. Council is charged with the protection and safety of the city residents who elect them.  Only city residents should be permitted to discuss issues of the city with council.

    Motion by Mayor Donaldson with second from CM Roche to approve the minutes of Regular meeting of September 22, 2016 and Special meeting of October 3, 2016. 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. All voted aye.

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

    COUNCIL REPORTS/ACTIONS

    Councilman Walter

    1. Motion to approve distribution of 2016 State Aid for pension plans as follows: to the Firefighters Pension Plan – $198,891.69, to the Police Pension Plan – $198,594.25 and to the Officers’ & Employees’ Pension Plan – $35,604.03, with the total amount of 2016 State Aid distributed to pension plans being $433,089.97. Second by CW Kline. All voted aye.
    2. Motion to authorize Attorney Thomas J. May to process a Petition for Judicial Sale of property at 300 North Washington Street through the Butler County Tax Claim Bureau, with all costs and attorney’s fees arising from the sale to be borne by Kenneth and Dottie Thomas. Second by CW Kline. All voted aye.
    3. Motion to extend the Due Diligence period provided to Jerry Oliver, the high bidder for Tax Parcel 565-42-64, to a period of 8 months (ending June 1, 2017), providing closing occurs on or before July 1, 2017. Second by CW Kline. All voted aye.

    Councilwoman Kline

    1. Motion to accept the bid from Dalmatian Fire Equipment, Inc. in the amount of $3,430.50 for the sale of surplus SCBA equipment in the fire department. Second by CM Roche. All voted aye.

    Councilman Bonus

    1. Motion to accept the resignation of Charlie Savannah from the Butler Transit Authority. Second by Mayor Donaldson. All voted aye.
    2. Motion to accept the bid from Stoneboro Borough in the amount of $5,100.00 for the surplus sale of the1995 Elgin Street Sweeper in the Streets Department. Second by CW Kline.  All voted aye.
    3. Motion for the introduction and first reading of City Ordinance No. 1734, an ordinance amending the ordinance establishing, modifying and reenacting an earned income tax. Second by CW Kline. All voted aye.

    Councilman Roche

    1. Motion to accept the resignation of George N. Ban, Jr. from the City of Butler Parks, Recreation Grounds and Facilities Authority. Second by Mayor Donaldson. All voted aye.
    2. Motion to accept the resignation of John Spinetti from the City of Butler Parks, Recreation Grounds and Facilities Authority. Second by Mayor Donaldson. All voted aye.

    Mayor Donaldson

    1. Motion to approve payment to Gateway Engineers in the amount of $3,421.87 for the engineering of the Centre City Parking Garage. LIN 43 463 010.   Second by  CM Roche.  All voted aye.
    2. Motion to approve payment to Thomas Construction, Inc. in the amount of $218,263.94 for the construction of the Centre City Parking Garage. LIN 43 463 020.  Second by CM Bonus. All voted aye.
    3. Motion to approve payment to Merit Electrical Group, Inc. in the amount of $13,059.00 for the construction of the Centre City Parking Garage. LIN 43 463 020.  Second by CM Roche. All voted aye.
    4. Motion to approve payment to Reno Bros., Inc. in the amount of $15,946.88 for the construction of the Centre City Parking Garage. LIN 43 463 020.  Second by CM Roche.  All voted aye.
    5. Motion to approve change orders for the City’s contracts with the companies constructing the Centre City Parking Garage to extend the date for substantial completion to:

    As to Thomas Construction, Inc., substantial completion must be attained by                      November 4, 2016.

    As to Merit Electrical Group, Inc. and Reno Bros., Inc., substantial completion              must be attained by November 11, 2016.  Second by CM Roche. All voted aye.

    1. Motion to approve Pennsylvania Heart & Lung Act benefits for Lieutenant Brian T. Grooms beginning on October 6, 2016 for a work-related injury he sustained on October 3, 2016. Second by CW Kline.  All voted aye.
    2. Motion to adopt City Resolution No. 2016-10-27; a resolution supporting non-discrimination in the city of Butler. Second by CM Bonus. CM Walter abstained.  CW Kline and CM Roche voted no.  CM Bonus and Mayor Donaldson voted aye.  Motion not approved.
    3. Motion to accept the bid from Secure Technical Solutions, Inc. in the amount of $12,390.00 for the security system in the Centre City Parking Garage. Second by CM Walter. All voted aye.
    4. Motion to enter into an agreement with Green Seven Technologies for IT support in the police department effective November 1, 2016. CW Kline. All voted aye.

    The City Treasurer presented a Monthly Intake Report for September, 2016.

    In the absence of the City Controller, the City Clerk presented bills for payment as follows: from the general fund – $661,516.08; from the parking fund – $25,036.97; from the capital projects fund – $26,527.58; from the liquid fuels tax fund – $25,628.47; and from the 2015-Series Bond Proceeds – $250,691.69 for a grand total of $989,400.79. 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
    • Veterans’ Day Parade – November 11, 2016; 10:40 AM
    • Trick or Treat to be held Saturday, October 29th from 6 PM – 7:30 PM.

    Mayor Donaldson adjourned the meeting at 7:26 PM.