Monday night’s Bellwood Borough Council meeting was scheduled to begin with public comment regarding LERTA, Local Economic Revitalization Tax Assistance. Five residents were scheduled to speak, but none were present.
The council members then unanimously approved Ordinance No. 459 regarding LERTA.
The designation means any business or industry wishing to move into a LERTA area would be provided total tax-free status for the first year, 80 percent in the second year, 60 percent in the third year, 40 percent in the fourth year and 20 percent in the final year. After the fifth year, all taxes would be collected.
Councilman Fred Sweigert informed the panel that Patrolman Timothy Shaffer terminated his employment, effective October 4, 2003. Three men are currently hired and training to become police officers, so all shifts are fully staffed. After the first of the New Year, the possibility of hiring an additional officer will be considered, if so needed.
Wayne Snare reported for the Highway and Equipment committee that the borough’s 1992 yellow truck is rusting around the windshield. This condition was aggravated this past winter by salt blowing upon it. Council approved the lowest quote of the three bids obtained to repair this damage.
Engineer James Bollibon, Buildings and Grounds committee, discussed a feasibility study conducted for the erection of a garage building. The building could possibly house two to four police cars, the borough’s heavy equipment, and an evidence room for the police department.
He stated that there are many options and alternatives for the use of this building, so he suggested that a committee be formed to examine this.
The council approved the formation of such a committee, and Mr. Bollibon will begin searching for available grant money for this project.
Engineer Bollibon continued on behalf of the Lighting and Ordinance committee, advising that a new Universal Construction Code will be completed within the next few weeks. The final version will be published in the Pennsylvania Bulletin, and municipalities across the state will have a 180-day time frame to comment and decide whether or not to opt in to the program.
Council approved the following dates for October activities:
•Leaves and limbs will be picked up on Fridays beginning Friday, October 24, 2003;
•The Bellwood Halloween parade is set for Tuesday, October 28th at 6:30 p.m.;
•Trick or Treat night in Bellwood Borough will be held Thursday, October
30th from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Sue Johnson will talk with Charter Cable about free cable and computer access for the Library because it is operated as part of the Borough. Doug Wolf and Chuck McLaughlin of Wolf Furniture talked with James Bollibon about their intentions of adding onto their business, which would address some stormwater issues and infrastructure improvements in that area.
