Borough Meeting Minutes - April 11
Borough Council Meeting Summary (April 11, 2024)
The Hollidaysburg Borough Council held its regular meeting on Thursday, April 11, 2024, at 7:00 PM in the Council Chambers. President Sean M. Burke called the meeting to order.
Attendance
- Present: Council members Sean M. Burke, Jeffrey Ketner, Brady Leahey, Walter Kalista, III, David Jacobs, William Kitt, and Clay Gingrich.
- Also Present: Interim Borough Manager Patricia J. Duron, Borough Attorney Jeffrey Murceak, Director of Community Development Andrew Holodnik, Chief Chris Storm, Fire Marshal Amy Hazlett, and Mayor Dodson.
- Absent: Melanie Ramsey (Director of Community Relations and Events).
Key Reports & Updates
- Manager’s Report: Ms. Duron discussed the upcoming Arbor Day Ceremony and a recycling grant opportunity for Public Works to purchase a truck-mounted leaf collection system (90% reimbursement).
- Community Development Report: Mr. Holodnik reported increased building permits and work done without permits. He advised the Borough will host a public permit workshop in April and discussed adopting the International Property Maintenance Code.
- Fire Marshal Report: Ms. Hazlett noted brush collection updates, prohibited burning of brush, and research into fire prevention education grants.
- Police Report: Chief Storm presented the March department report.
- Mayor’s Report: Mayor Dodson discussed permit parking issues in his neighborhood.
Public Comment Highlights
Residents raised several concerns:
- Elda Boose thanked the Borough for stormwater mitigation progress.
- Shawn Leydig commented on street sweepers, spending, and manager interviews.
- Richard Latker presented a petition regarding the Phoenix Volunteer Fire Department (PVFD).
- Stan Neal defended PVFD against criticism.
- Jim Fitch requested a traffic study near Hollidaysburg Senior High School.
- Eric Schmitt (PVFD) requested $60,000 in grant support for a new fire engine.
- Steve Albright suggested adding an identification logo to Borough vehicles and thanked Public Works for pipe cleaning during heavy rain.
- Devin Kurty (PVFD) stated he paid dues and was there to defend his character.
Open Agenda Items
Council members raised topics including:
- Stormwater mitigation in Gaysport and detention pond (Mr. Gingrich)
- Health and Safety Ordinance copy and link to International Property Maintenance Code (Mr. Burke)
- Permit parking on Wayne Street and ordinance updates (Mayor Dodson)
- Business district cleanup in May and Post Office parking meters (Mr. Leahey)
- Stormwater management in Mr. Kitt’s ward
Resolutions & Motions Passed
Resolution No. 2024-13: Consent Agenda
Approved unanimously:
- Bill List No. 4 totaling $242,634. 19 for accounts payable and owing to the Borough.
- Certificate of Appropriateness for 400 Blair Street — updating HVAC system with two mini-split units (retroactive approval granted; property is within Historic District).
Fireworks Permit Application
Motion to approve application and issue permit passed (6 in favor, 1 against), with conditions: update insurance certificate and check subrogation box.
Amendment to Ordinance No. 850 (Engine Brake Retarder)
Motion to advertise amendment passed unanimously (7 in favor).
Resolution No. 2024-10: Subdivision Plan Approval
Approved for 27 & 107 Bedford Street. Council members Burke and Gingrich recused themselves due to conflicts of interest. Motion passed with 5 in favor, 2 abstentions.
Reappointment of Fire Marshal
Amy Hazlett reappointed as Fire Marshal until January 1, 2026. Motion passed unanimously.
Executive Session
President Burke announced an executive session to discuss personnel matters. Council did not return from this session.
Minutes recorded by Patricia J. Duron, Borough Secretary.