WEIRTON CITY COUNCIL
COUNCIL MEETING - REGULAR
MONDAY, JUNE 09, 2008 7:00 P. M.
A regular meeting of the Common Council of the City of Weirton, Hancock and Brooke Counties, West Virginia was held on Monday, June 09, 2008 at 7:00 P.M. in Council Chambers of the Weirton City Building.
Mayor Harris called the meeting to order.
Councilmembers in Attendance: George Ash Councilmember Ward 4 Ronnie Jones Councilmember Ward 1 Fred Marsh Councilmember Ward 3 Harold Miller Councilmember Ward 2 David Dalrymple Councilmember Ward 6 Max Fijewski Councilmember Ward 7 George Kondik Councilmember Ward 5
City Officials in Attendance: John Brown Public Works Director Gary DuFour City Manager Vincent Gurrera City Attorney David Lashhorn Fire Chief Thomas J. Maher, Jr. City Clerk Bruce Marshall Police Chief A. D. Mastrantoni Utilities Director Greg Moodie Police Sergeant John Serafini Code Official Debbie Swanson Interim Finance Director Rik Rekowski Mary H. Weir Library Director
Others in Attendance: Becky Stout Weirton Transit Corporation Gio Rossi Media - Weirton Daily Times
Mayor Harris led everyone in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
A motion was made by Councilmember Ash and second by Councilmember Jones to approve the minutes of the: April 30, 2008 – Special Council MeetingMay 12, 2008 – Regular Council MeetingThe motion carried, 7/0.
MAYOR’S AWARDS AND PROCLAMATIONS
NONE
COMMUNICATIONS
Mayor Harris commented, “Just to let everyone know, Friday, July 4th, fireworks, and they can be viewed from Freedom Way and the Steubenville Marina. On July 5th, we have the Fourth of July Parade and the Renaissance Festival, and on July 6th, we have the Wheeling Symphony at the G. O. Any other communications at this time?”
Councilmember Kondik commented, “I just want to make a comment Mayor about the last Tuesday’s Downtown Business Associations meeting that we had Dan Onorato there and the turnout was tremendous. And, he, he’s definitely a motivator. He was talking about economic development, whether it be in Hancock County or Allegheny County. But, I’d like to thank him for being a part of it.”
Mayor Harris commented, “Thank you. Any other comments?”
Councilmember Marsh commented, “Yes. I’d like to make one point of reference Mr. Mayor. Yesterday, I had the opportunity to attend the block party that was sponsored by the Weirton Christian Center in Councilman Ash’s ward. I am very, very encouraged about what I saw down there and what was going on. Chief Marshall, thank you for sending Gerard up. I think Gerard made a lot of points with the kids yesterday, explained who he was, what his job was. And, when you see somebody on a bike or on foot and they’re a police officer, that’s your friend kind of thing. And, I’m just really encouraged and really proud, I’m sure as Councilman Ash is, to have that organization as an asset to the City.”
Mayor Harris commented, “Any other comments.”
Councilmember Fijewski commented, “Yes. I have one comment. I just want to, on a personal basis, thank the Public Works Department and John Brown for their efforts on the beautification project on Colliers Way. I’d like to do that. I also wanted to make note. I think it got lost in some of the accolades, but I want to thank Councilman Ron Jones and his people for putting the water fountain in up there. It’s really been a great, it’s actually been used quite a bit Ronnie, and I want to thank you personally for doing that. And, for everyone else, for your support, I appreciate it. Thank you.”
Mr. Brown commented, “Thank you Councilman. I’ll pass it on.”
Mayor Harris commented, “Any other comments?”
CITIZEN COMMENTS
John Stankiewicz 329 Culler Road, Weirton, WV: Re: Fire Protection Mr. Stankiewicz commented, “Good evening. I’ll make my comments quite brief. There is a situation that we have that this Council’s not responsible for. It was created by prior Councils and prior Mayors. And, what I would like to do is ask this Mayor and this Council to take steps to complete the transition that was started in the fire service from a volunteer service to fully paid service. Over the past few years we’ve spent perhaps millions of dollars of fire apparatus, but we haven’t done anything in regards to staffing those apparatus. Firefighters fight fires, not the fire trucks. And, what I would like to propose to Council is twofold. Number one is to look forward to doubling the size of the paid fire department. And, the second is to have a study group that would be responsible for coming back to Council with recommendations regarding staffing levels and distribution levels and things of that nature related to fire protection. And, with that I’ll say thank you very much.” OLD BUSINESS
Ordinance No. (New) To rescind Ordinance No. 1569 for the registration and inspection of rental housing units within Ward IV, City of Weirton, WV (Tabled during the April 30, 2008 special meeting of council. Remained on the table during the May 12, 2008 regular meeting of council.)
The item was not removed from the table. NEW BUSINESS
Ordinance No. (New) Amending Article 2, Article 8 and Article 9; Table 1. Permitted Land Use Table of the Unified Development Ordinance as recommended by the Weirton Planning Commission.
Motion was made by Councilmember Marsh, second by Councilmember Ash. The motion carried by majority, 6/1, with Councilman Dalrymple voting no.
Ordinance No. (New) Amending Ordinance No. 1313 which establishes the salaries of municipal employees of the various departments within the City of Weirton General Fund.
Motion was made by Councilmember Kondik, second by Councilmember Fijewski.
Councilmember Kondik commented, “Just a, do you want to give a brief synopsis of what this is Gary?”
Mr. DuFour commented, “Yes. This change effects only part time employees and is made to be in compliance with the state minimum wage law. Effective July 1, the state minimum wage goes to $7.25 per hour. Our prior part time wage rate was $7.08, so we need to change to adjust it to make it similar to the state. The monetary impact estimated is about $4,680. And, again that’s an estimate in monetary impact. It’s not that large, because it is part time employees, (unintelligible), but again it’s a matter of compliance with the state requirement law.”
Councilmember Kondik commented, “Thank you Gary.”
The motion carried by majority, 7/0.
Ordinance No. (New) To rescind Ordinance No. 352 which established a no parking zone for a distance of ten (10) feet across from the driveway at 3125 Orchard Street.
Motion was made by Councilmember Ash, second by Councilmember Jones. The motion carried by majority, 7/0.
Resolution To enter into a contractual relationship with the Weirton Transit Corporation for the establishment and operation of a transit service.
Motion was made by Councilmember Kondik, second by Councilmember Ash. The motion carried by majority, 7/0.
Resolution To authorize the renewal of dental insurance benefits for eligible city employees.
Motion was made by Councilmember Ash, second by Councilmember Marsh.
Councilmember Fijewski commented, “Question. Is the only contract? Is this, Gary, is this a July 1 contract date?”
Mr. DuFour commented, “Yes.”
Councilmember Fijewski commented, “Are all of our benefits contracts July 1, or is it through the course of the fiscal year?”
Mr. DuFour commented, “They’re both. Our health insurance comes up at the turn of the calendar year.”
Councilmember Fijewski commented, “Ok. Like life insurance and things like that?”
Mr. DuFour commented, “Life will come when?”
Ms. Swanson commented, “That goes with this insurance too, the calendar year.”
Mr. DuFour commented, “So, it will happen at the turn of the calendar year.”
Ms. Swanson commented, “Yes. Right. Right.”
Councilmember Fijewski commented, “Thank you.”
Councilmember Kondik commented, “And, you want to comment that the rate is the same as last year. Right?”
Mr. DuFour commented, “The rate has not changed since last year. There is no financial impact to the City. And, this is a shared cost with the employees.”
Councilmember Kondik commented, “Thank you.”
Councilmember Fijewski commented, “Thank you.”
The motion carried by majority, 7/0.
Resolution To authorize the purchase of a dual chamber rear loader recycling vehicle for the Public Works Department utilizing PA Capital City (PACC) Automotive and Equipment contract.
Motion was made by Councilmember Ash, second by Councilmember Fijewski.
Councilmember Fijewski commented, “Question. I’m thinking that’s within the budget.”
Councilmember Marsh commented, “Yes, Councilman.”
Councilmember Fijewski commented, “Thank you.”
Councilmember Marsh commented, “In fact, it’s a carryover.”
Councilmember Fijewski commented, “Thank you.”
Councilmember Kondik commented, “Do you want to explain how you think you’re going to save money with that John?”
Mr. Brown commented, “Absolutely.”
Mayor Harris commented, “Go ahead John.”
Mr. Brown commented, “The City has not had a recycling truck in the last ten years. This piece of equipment can be utilized in two ways. It can be utilized for recycling. Or, in the case where one of our trucks goes down in sanitation, we can use it in sanitation. So, it’s going to be a fine piece of equipment.”
Councilmember Kondik commented, “And you’re buying the extended warranty on it also, right?”
Mr. Brown commented, “Absolutely.”
Councilmember Kondik commented, “You all heard that. Right?”
Mayor Harris commented, “Thank you John.”
The motion carried by majority, 7/0.
Resolution To place liens against real properties for the costs incurred in the demolition of unsafe properties pursuant to Ordinance No. 250. ($7,650.21, 3323 Elm Street, James Otis Jolley)
Motion was made by Councilmember Ash, second by Councilmember Dalrymple.
Councilmember Marsh commented, “While we’re on the issue of liens, have we come up with the number of what we have outstanding?”
Ms. Swanson commented, “No, I wasn’t aware that you needed a figure on that. I can get that.”
Councilmember Marsh commented, “Yes. Can we get that number of what’s owed to us on…”
Ms. Swanson commented, “On the liens?”
Councilmember Marsh commented, “Yes. Please.”
Ms. Swanson commented, “Yes.”
Mr. Gurrera commented, “If you have a number, do you have a name associated with it?”
Ms. Swanson commented, “I’ll check the records for sure, and then…”
Mr. Gurrera commented, “Ok, because what I’ll do then, I’m going to go, once you get that information, I’ll take that to the courthouse and find out whether we’re filing liens against the property or against the person, because we ought to be filing it against the person.”
Councilmember Marsh commented, “Agreed.”
Ms. Swanson commented, “I’d have to assume there’d be liens there.”
Councilmember Marsh commented, “Yes. Agreed.”
Mr. Gurrera commented, “Because if you own 10 pieces of property and we’re only going against one piece, (unintelligible).
The motion carried by majority, 7/0.
Resolution To authorize a contribution to the Weirton Area Community Foundation to support a live concert by the Wheeling Symphony. (2008-2009 Fiscal Year)
Motion was made by Councilmember Kondik, second by Councilmember Ash. The motion carried by majority, 7/0.
Resolution To authorize the City of Weirton’s participation in and financial support of the Regional Economic Development Partnership (RED).
Pulled from the agenda.
Resolution To authorize revisions to the 2007-2008 Fiscal Year General Fund Budget.
Motion was made by Councilmember Marsh, second by Councilmember Ash.
Councilmember Fijewski made a motion to amend the resolution to require that the $30,000 being placed into the Inspections / Code Enforcement be used solely for the asbestos removal at Cove School, second by Councilmember Marsh.
Councilmember Kondik commented, “Yes. I just want to make a comment, because this came out of Finance Committee, and I was under the impression when we were making these line item adjustments that you’re taking the 17,000 from where?”
Councilmember Fijewski commented, “The thirty. The Finance Committee recommended up to $30,000 be placed in the Inspections / Code Enforcement.”
Councilmember Kondik commented, “Ok.”
Councilmember Fijewski commented, “And, the only thing I’m asking for is that rather than just putting it into the general fund of the Inspections / Code Enforcement, that that be targeted to pay for the shortfall that we have in the asbestos removal at Cove School.”
Mr. DuFour commented, “That was the intent of the…”
Councilmember Fijewski commented, “That was the intent of this line.”
Councilmember Marsh commented, “That was, it was a gentleman’s type agreement. I think Councilman Fijewski…”
Councilmember Kondik commented, “Oh. Ok. Ok. All right. Ok. Ok. All right. I second that.
Councilmember Fijewski commented, “It’s just a…”
Councilmember Kondik commented, “To speed up the project, or just to get it started sooner.”
Councilmember Fijewski commented, “Well, we’re $29,000 short. I mean, first of all, if this Council agrees to go forward with the asbestos removal, then that $30,000 should be used for it. But, if for some reason it doesn’t go forward, then that’s a whole other issue. But, I’m assuming that it will.”
Councilmember Marsh commented, “And, Councilman, it was a gentleman’s agreement in the Finance Committee, and I have no problem with you saying, to make an amendment in that, and I would request that everybody else does that too.”
Councilmember Fijewski commented, “Appreciate it. Thank you.”
Mr. Maher commented, “Councilman Fijewski, would you repeat the amendment?”
Councilmember Fijewski commented, “Yes. I’m requesting that an amendment be made to the current resolution requiring that the $30,000 recommended by the Finance Committee to go to the Inspections / Code Enforcement line item, that that be required to be spent on the asbestos removal of the Cove School.”
The motion to accept the amendment carried by majority, 7/0.
The motion to accept the ordinance as amended carried by majority, 7/0.
Resolution To enter into contract with Verizon for the relocation of the Penco Road cable.
Motion was made by Councilmember Marsh, second by Councilmember Jones.
Councilmember Marsh commented, “I would like the record to reflect that I protest the amount. Although, we’re caught between a monkey and a hard space. I think $35,000 is an outrageous to move that line and that pole, and I want it on the record as such.
Councilmember Fijewski commented, “I agreed to be rhetorical here. Again, this is budgeted money?”
Councilmember Marsh commented, “Yes. This is from the grant, the enhancement grant money.”
Councilmember Fijewski commented, “Thank you.”
Councilmember Marsh commented, “It’s just $35,000 less that we have for the street-scaping. That’s all.”
CROSSTALK
The motion carried by majority, 7/0.
Resolution To enter into contract with Allegheny Power for the relocation of the Penco Road power lines.
Motion was made by Councilmember Marsh, second by Councilmember Jones. The motion carried by majority, 7/0.
Resolution To enter into a contract for the asbestos abatement of the Cove School Building.
Motion was made by Councilmember Ash, second by Councilmember Marsh. The motion carried by majority, 7/0.
Resolution To authorize the City Manager to enter into contract for legal services for the City of Weirton’s involvement in NPDES Storm Water Permit Compliance.
Motion was made by Councilmember Miller, second by Councilmember Dalrymple.
Councilmember Kondik commented, “Gary, will you explain this in detail to the press on exactly why this is being done?”
Mr. DuFour commented, “What’s proposed is retaining the law firm of Steptoe and Johnson, whom the City has used prior, with a group of other communities to work on what’s called for short for MS4 which are storm water related issues. The City currently holds a permit to operate a storm water system for the City. Under the requirements of Federal legislation (unintelligible) plan in 2004 for at least basic elements of handling storm water best management practices, mapping, public information, items such as that. The next stage that we’re required to do is take the steps to implement a plan that not only includes those elements, best management practices are used in such a wide area, we need to work on erosion control at construction sites. We have to review plans for any sedimentation issues, monitor our own systems. I really don’t think this is an end in itself. But, this stage, this is what is being asked of us. Also, the ability to have persons to investigate complaints of illegal dumping in the storm water system and to take actions against them, etc. This will ultimately result as in most communities in the state with probably us creating an authority to handle storm water Right now, it looks as though it will be principally based in Public Works. There will be a cost for it with staffing. It will, I think we talked about it a few years ago, with not a lot of good feeling, it will ultimately be funding a new utility as it has in Morgantown, Fairmont, Clarksburg, Wheeling and all the other cities in the state. We need to say, and that’s probably why it’s lacking, it’s not anything that anyone is rushing to and wildly endorse. It is a necessity and is required by Federal law, and therefore we are required to comply. But, we want Steptoe and Johnson, the law firm, to do for us is formulate the specific ordinance as to, and again meet with us and talk about how to enact. Are these ordinances in good order so that we have acceptable systems in the state and one that meets federal requirements.”
Councilmember Kondik commented, “Thanks Gary.”
Councilmember Marsh commented, “Gary. Question. Do you have any idea what the cost to them is going to be?”
Mr. DuFour commented, “Out of Steptoe?”
Councilmember Marsh commented, “Yes.”
Mr. DuFour commented, “It is set at a fee based at a maximum of 30 hours at $200. That is $6,000. There are charges included in there for mileage if they’re coming to our meetings, any reproduction and other costs. So, I would think that we do not want to exceed probably eight or nine thousand dollars at a maximum.”
Councilmember Marsh commented, “I’m, gentlemen, I’m a little uncomfortable with the resolution in that there is no cap number on it. And, what I think I’m driving at here is to put a cap on it, and then when it reaches that cap to come back. And, I think I will put an amendment out to cap this at $8,000.”
Motion to amend the resolution to put a financial cap on the amount at $8,000 was made by Councilmember Marsh, second by Councilmember Fijewski.
Councilmember Kondik commented, “What, they said 30 hours at, $6,000. You want to give them another $2,000?”
Councilmember Fijewski commented, “Well, they have travel, Xerox…”
Councilmember Marsh commented, “Travel. Look at it George. I mean, this is extremely counterproductive. This is turning the fox to the henhouse. Ok.”
Councilmember Kondik commented, “Yes.”
Mr. Gurrera commented, “I, what I would probably do, if I were in this, is if you’re going to approve $8,000, have a review of their bill at $4,000, where half way through the billing system, we’ve met with them. And, at least they’ve said, ok this is what we’ve done for your $4,000. So, we can decide whether or not we want to go on.”
Councilmember Kondik commented, “I like the cap idea. I just want…”
Councilmember Marsh commented, “I’d like to add that to the amendment.”
Mr. Maher commented, “Read your whole amendment please.”
Councilmember Marsh commented, “The amendment to say that it is capped at $8,000, and at $4,000 we have review of the current billings.”
Councilman Fijewski made the second.
The motion to accept the amendment to resolution passed by majority, 7/0.
The motion to accept the resolution as amended passed by majority, 7/0.
The motion carried by majority, 7/0.
APPONTMENTS TO VARIOUS BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS
Human Relations Commission
William Galloway 06/09/2008 Term: 07/01/2007 – 06/30/2010 1010 Eastview Drive Weirton, WV 26062 Replacing the unexpired term of Tamara Jones Sponsored by Councilmember Kondik
Motion was made by Councilmember Kondik, second by Councilmember Ash. The motion carried by majority, 7/0.
Tim Reinard 06/09/2008 Term: 07/01/2008 – 06/30/2011 256 Bell Boulevard Weirton, WV 26062 Sponsored by Councilmember Jones
Motion was made by Councilmember Jones, second by Councilmember Dalrymple. The motion carried by majority, 7/0.
Roy Brown 06/09/2008 Term: 07/01/2008 – 06/30/2011 3318 Pennsylvania Avenue Weirton, WV 26062 Sponsored by Councilmember Jones
Motion was made by Councilmember Jones, second by Councilmember Marsh. The motion carried by majority, 7/0.
ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS
PUBLIC WORKS -
Mr. Brown commented, “I’d just like to add, Mayor and Council, that Jimmy White Construction will be working on Sharon Drive tomorrow. In the last two or three weeks, I have removed about ten or eleven slabs of concrete and backfilled and I topped it over, and it’s looking better. Our plan is to build a headwall and an outlet and to do a drain. It’s about 160 feet of drainage which will assist with the springs in that area. Jimmy White is going to do a storm drain point to point and take it over towards Culler Road and put a few catch basins in that area and one on the low spot at the bottom. So, all of this should really assist with the problems up there. So, we should, and we have patched it thoroughly in the last two weeks. So, if you ride up there, it’s much, much better. And, we swept it the day after we did, the area. And, so things are looking better up there. People seem to be more happy. So, I think you have good people up there.”
Mayor Harris commented, “Ok, now, are we going to be paving, what is it mid August, late August? Do you know yet?”
Mr. Brown commented, “They’re saying, and believe me…”
Councilmember Kondik commented, “What happened to June?”
Mr. Brown commented, “…I’ve called them. I call them on a regular basis. Just the other day, pressure, pressure, pressure, and to get them in here, to get them in here. And, a Councilman asked me tonight if there was any stipulation in the contract, but there is none. And, I think if you put one, the bid next year would probably be two million. It’s not done.”
Mayor Harris commented, “The project we’re discussing, Sharon Drive, Councilman, so that one was going to be last since they’re working up there.”
Mr. Brown commented, “So, things are looking better up there.”
Councilmember Dalrymple commented, “When are we starting the paving John?”
Mr. Brown commented, “We did, we had problems on Penco Road over the weekend. I got a call from the City Manager Friday, and we did expensive patching on there.”
Mayor Harris commented, “John, when are we going to start paving?”
Mr. DuFour commented, “Generally.”
Mayor Harris commented, “Just start, on all projects.”
Mr. Brown commented, “I’m really hoping for the middle of June.”
Mayor Harris commented, “Do we have an answer, if we don’t have an answer yet?”
Mr. Brown commented, “No. You get recordings. But, you know what, there’s a step higher, and if I have to take the step higher, I will do so.”
Mayor Harris commented, “Ok.”
Councilmember Dalrymple commented, “I thought one of the reasons why we submitted paving lists as early as we do is to get it right off the bat, get it done, and not have to wait until mid or late summer.”
Mr. Brown commented, “We were very fortunate last year Councilman and got them in May.”
Councilmember Dalrymple commented, “All right.”
Mr. Brown commented, “We were promised in May, so now it’s the middle of June.”
Mayor Harris commented, “Maybe if you could, if you don’t get an answer by the end of the week, maybe you can take that next step.”
Mr. Brown commented, “I will.”
Mayor Harris commented, “All right. Thank you.”
Councilmember Miller commented, “John, I’d like to thank you and the Mayor and the City Manager for pulling everybody together to solve a problem that’s been probably ten or fifteen years on Sharon Drive. You know, we were looking at an expensive, about a million two to do the job complete, and we knew we couldn’t do it, and you guy came up with a solution to at least satisfy it for the short term which is notably the worst road in the City of Weirton. So, hopefully this ought to hold up for a few years. So, I thank you, and I thank the Mayor and the City Manager for your assistance. The neighbors are ready to hang the Mayor.”
Mayor Harris commented, “And you. That is something that we could probably look at. We have some major roads John, so if we have something we can look at Councilman Fijewski’s ward too, Valley Way, Wall Street. There’s something we need to take a look at and do the same thing up there as we’re doing on Sharon.”
Councilmember Marsh commented, “Gary, just while we’re on Public Works, could you bring us up to date on the Penco Road project? Have you heard anything?”
Mr. DuFour commented, “Yes. I did talk to a representative of Ohio West Virginia Excavating today. They’ve been awarded the contract by the state and notice to proceed. They’re going to be back in touch with me. They were actually interested in our package for the enhancement side, because they would like to bid (unintelligible). I talked to them a little bit about, you know, do we do the mop up. We have one more power line to move at Cove and Penco, and of course Elaine Street, that one Verizon line to get it off the metal pole that’s right there at the traffic signal. So, I updated them on that. Also, I don’t know if this should be for the record, but I’m going to say it anyway. I’m also encouraged that they’re going to hire traffic control. They’ll hire City of Weirton police officers. He is supposed to get back to me with more information. I don’t have the start date.”
Councilmember Marsh commented, “As soon as you get that, let’s get back together.”
Councilmember Fijewski commented, “I appreciate it. Do we have any idea of a start date?”
Mr. DuFour commented, “It’s probably within the next two weeks because their contract is going, it must be done by next September.”
Mayor Harris commented, “That’s what I was going to say. The middle of June, but it was going to be kind of funny. It was the same comment that John made for his paving, but…”
Councilmember Jones commented, “I got a question. Down at the bottom of Pennsylvania Avenue, the state got all them houses. One more is left, and weeds. They’re really complaining. I’m getting a lot of complaints about the weeds down at the bottom like I’m sure everybody is.”
Mr. DuFour commented, “Ok. Is this the state owned ones?”
Councilmember Marsh commented, “Yes.”
Councilmember Kondik commented, “They’re all owned by the state now. Aren’t they?”
Councilmember Miller commented, “No. One of them…”
Councilmember Jones commented, “Are they going to cut them or is somebody going to cut the grass?
Mr. DuFour commented, “We can call their property maintenance. That’s based in Moundsville.”
Councilmember Marsh commented, “I’m sure everybody’s been calling…”
Mayor Harris commented, “Also, maybe we need to take a look. I had a couple complaints today about Penco Road. Of course we sent that back to the state. And, they’re going to take the islands out, but there’s complaints on the islands, the grass being pretty high. So, I don’t know if we’re going to take care of that or if we want to send that to the state. The islands, the weeds in the islands. They can’t see as they make turns in and out of businesses.”
CROSSTALK
UTILITIES (Water / Sanitary) –
Mr. Mastrantoni commented, “Nothing further to report. Thanks.”
Councilmember Fijewski commented, “Butch, could you give me an update down at the PV and Lisa Court? Could you tell me where you are and what your plans are please?”
Mr. Mastrantoni commented, “We’ve installed approximately 400 feet of line and two manholes down near the, adjacent to the country club, crossing the Lynnwood bowl parking lot. We started out into Lisa Court. Our crews have met resistance last week and this week. We’ve run into a layer of blue stone that starts about a foot and a half under the pavement and goes down to roughly around twelve and a half feet. That’s about were our depth elevation is. We’ve got pneumatic hammers, hydraulic and pneumatic hammers in the trench line, but we’re slowing to a snails pace at this particular point in time. I’m hopeful that the rock plays out and we need to go down through Lisa Court there as planned as close to the original schedule as possible so that we don’t inhibit any other paving activities.”
Councilmember Fijewski commented, “Is the plan also to go across PV?”
Mr. Mastrantoni commented, “Yes. The first segment we’re looking at is we’re going to get Lisa Court completely done. Then we’re going to begin sections of Pleasant Valley Country Club in the utility roads and in the wooded bluff areas. And, as a final, we’re going to try to get across the fairway. There’s only one section of fairway we need to get across. Once we cross that, we’re going to try to do that next, like that in such a fashion that it won’t interfere with the play at PV. Our crews also have secured a bulldozer locally (unintelligible) up at the other end on Starvaggi property, cutting the shelf in so that entire line segment can come to fruition by next June as it was intended to do so.”
Councilmember Fijewski commented, “Thank you.”
Mr. Mastrantoni commented, “But, with regard to the contract, (unintelligible) public services.”
Councilmember Fijewski commented, “Thank you Butch. Mayor, also I want to make a comment. We had spoken to the official down at PV back in March about the parking lot, the material they had dumped next to the parking lot, the facility they had down there. It had been there for quite a while. I just wanted to say thank you. They did take care of it. It is cleaned up, looking really nice. It makes a big difference when you come down Culler Road right now, and I just publicly want to thank the officials at PV for taking care of that. That was really appreciated.”
Mayor Harris commented, “The state donated two pieces of equipment to get that leveled off, so thanks to the state”
Councilmember Fijewski commented, “It really looks nice now.”
PARK BOARD –
No representatives were present.
MARY H. WEIR PUBLIC LIBRARY –
Mr. Rekowski commented, “I don’t have anything more to offer other than to say a big thank you to Weirton City Council, our City Manager, our Mayor and all of the department heads, especially our public works for helping working toward this June 2nd celebration of the library. A thank you to the news media. It was a wonderful afternoon. We had, it seemed we had about 180 people at one moment in time on the floor of that library. You could imagine how many people would be walking up steps and coming into the library. I would like to say thank you. It was, it’s a success because of your support and we had the secretary of libraries there. He was really impressed. And, Dot Underwood from the governor’s office was impressed. And, the remarks, the public really appreciated everyone who was able to make it. And, I just want to say thank you. It’s the 50th year, and we have another 50 yet to go. Thank you very much.”
POLICE DEPARTMENT –
Chief Marshall commented, “Nothing to report Mr. Mayor.”
Councilmember Miller commented, “Chief, I’d like for you to comment what’s coming up between you and the Fire Department.”
Chief Marshall commented, “We’ve been in training.”
Councilmember Miller commented, “There’s been a challenge between the Police Department and the Fire Department in wing eating, and they’re doing it to raise funds for Make-a-Wish and St. Baldric’s Foundation. It’s on the 19th of this month. Right?”
Chief Marshall commented, “Yes, councilman.”
Unknown commented, “Where at?”
Councilmember Miller commented, “At the Victorian Hall.”
Councilmember Kondik commented, “When is it?”
Councilmember Miller commented, “The 19th of June. Councilman Kondik has been kind enough to donate some shirts for the participants, and we’d like for everyone to…”
Councilmember Kondik commented, “They’re all double extra larges.”
LAUGHTER
Councilmember Miller commented, “Huh?”
Councilmember Kondik commented, “They’re all double extra larges.”
LAUGHTER
CROSSTALK
Councilmember Miller commented, “I’d like for everybody to just be aware of it, and it’s rally picking up steam. And, if anyone wants to contribute to the Chinese auction that we’re going to have along with the wing eating and various ways to help them to raise money. They chiefs have been very cooperative. I heard Chief Marshall’s comments to the press that he’s been training for this event for years.”
LAUGHTER
FIRE DEPARTMENT –
Chief Lashhorn commented, “Just to keep on in our humor, I appreciate the event. My guys are all in training at the end of meeting, between now and the 19th. But, on a serious note, one was missing from my report and I apologize for that. I want to give a little thank you to the explorer sentries of the Weirton First Church of the Nazarene on Colliers Way who did some decorating with flowers and that at the Gilson Avenue Fire Station. On a serious note, thank you to Carla Stevens at 134 Victor Street who last week, the neighbor’s house caught fire. She actually saw it. She alerted the occupants and she ran and turned on the garden hose which helped up, or helped them control the fire, and made our job a lot easier. Those people were saved and spared a tremendous loss that could have happened, because they were asleep in the house at the time. On the last word, you all know we had a fatality last week. There were some gentleman working in the area that worked for Alex Paris Construction Company, and I’d like to just run their names through so that you’re aware that we do actually have people out there that are willing to jump up and do what’s needed in the time of need. Two of these gentlemen were volunteer firemen from Wellsville. Their names were Jason Smith and James McKinney, and those two gentlemen worked for Alex Paris. There was also a Paul McCoy from Nagley, Ohio, and a Sean Delaney who is a city resident who lives at 130 Wall Street. So, I would like to thank those gentlemen for everything they did that morning. They saw the fire. They rapidly called it in. They did everything that they physically could to try to help that woman get out of that house. Unfortunately, it didn’t work out they way we would have wanted, but I think those guys need to be recognized and appreciated. So, another note, if there’s any confusion out there, we’ve run into a little problem with our burning permits, nothing major. DEP, people are still actually calling the DEP. As we know, we got that part all straightened out. The only thing that’s running into a problem is DEP issues two things. They will issue an air quality advisory announcement. In other words, if you call the DEP and say, hey is it ok if I burn today. They’re going to say yes or no based on air quality. Some of the public is getting confused with that being permission to burn in the City of Weirton. I talked to Al Carducci. He came up last week. They’re also supposed to add to that. Yes, it’s ok to burn in the State of West Virginia, but you need to check you local laws. So, it’s just going to take some additional time to get this information out in case any councilmen got complaints of that from citizens. Some of them have been upset when they come to the station to get that. They’re saying DEP says it’s ok and we tell them no, the ordinance was changed. You still can’t have those burning permits in the past. So, in case that comes up, if any of you get a call, I’d just like for you to be aware of that. Thank you.”
Councilmember Marsh commented, “Chief, one comment. I want to commend you on the report that you’re putting out. It’s one of the best ones that I’ve seen in a long time, and I think you and I talked about this and I look forward to seeing what else you can do with this. But, good job in getting the report. He give us information…”
Chief Lashhorn commented, “Any time you need any information, feel free to call.”
Councilmember Marsh commented, “Thank you.”
Chief Lashhorn commented, “Thank you.”
Mayor Harris commented, “Thank you.”
FINANCE DIRECTOR
TREASURER’S REPORT
Debbie Swanson provided the treasurer’s report for May 01, 2008:
Beginning Cash Balance: 980,465.89 Interest on checking: 461.14 Deposits: 1,305,682.59 Investment Draw Down 0 Disbursements: (1,201,750.69) Ending Cash Balance: 1,084,858.93 Beginning Investment Balance: 869,416.49 Withdrawals 0 Ending Investment Balance 869,416.49 Petty Cash Fund: 800.00 Total Cash and Investments Available: 1,955,075.42
Ms. Swanson stated that the interest on the investments put into the report was in error and they had not received an interest figure yet. She stated that it would be corrected for next month. She stated that there was one bill for Weirton Lumber which was involved with the beautification project, for the vinyl fencing for $1,930.13 which needed to be approved by Council.
Motion to approve the financial reports, pay the unpaid bills and approve all department administrative reports was made by Councilmember Fijewski, second by Councilmember Miller.
Councilmember Fijewski commented, “I just have a question if I could before the vote. In terms of carryover from fiscal year to fiscal year, how does that, do we build so much into that for our 08-09 budget?”
Ms. Swanson commented, “Yes.”
Councilmember Fijewski commented, “Do you recall what that was?”
Councilmember Kondik commented, “But, you never know what it is until when?”
Ms. Swanson commented, “We don’t, we’re not going to know what that is until close to the end of the year.”
Councilmember Fijewski commented, “What I’m saying is how much have we built in for 08-09?”
Mr. DuFour commented, “I think the projection is $1,500,000. We talked about that…”
Councilmember Fijewski commented, “I understand the projected. I understand we don’t know the final figure. Does it look like we’re going to be close to…”
Mr. DuFour commented, “Oh. I’m sorry.”
Ms. Swanson commented, “He’s looking at if we’re going to be close to that goal.”
Councilmember Fijewski commented, “Yes. That’s my, yes, because it’s a significant portion of our overall budget is carryover.”
Ms. Swanson commented, “It’s too soon to tell.”
Councilmember Fijewski commented, “If that’s not the, if we’re not going to be relatively close to that, then we’ll start the fiscal year in a real negative situation. So, I’m just getting a sense of, I know you don’t have an exact number, but is it look decent?”
Ms. Swanson commented, “I think it should be decent.”
Mr. DuFour commented, “Our revenue is correct. Our expenditures aren’t too far off. I think we should be close.”
Ms. Swanson commented, “I think we’ll be very close.”
Mr. DuFour commented, “I’d love to be over.”
Councilmember Fijewski commented, “Yes. But, as long as we’re not $200,000 under, I guess is what we’d all then have to start worrying how…”
The motion carried by majority, 7/0.
Motion to adjourn the meeting after the closing prayer was made by Councilmember Marsh, second by Councilmember Kondik.
The motion to adjourn passed by majority, 7/0.
ADJOURNMENT
With no further business before this June 09, 2008 regular session of the Weirton City Council the meeting was adjourned after the closing prayer.
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