Altoona

Pennsylvania

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Meeting Minutes - March 10, 2025

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Meeting Overview

The Altoona City Council met on Monday, March 10, 2025, at 6:00 P. M. in the Council Chambers (1320 Washington Avenue). The meeting was televised on Public Access Channel 14.

Attendance:

  • Present: Council members Beatty, Butterbaugh, Clinich, Ellis, Ickes, and Kelley.
  • Absent: Mayor Pacifico.

Personnel Updates

The Council addressed significant changes regarding the City Manager's office:

  • Interim Service: The Council accepted the completion of Nate Kissell’s term as Interim City Manager.
  • Return to Previous Role: Nate Kissell is returning to the Public Works Department as Director, effective Monday, March 3, 2025. His pay and benefits are being adjusted to match his previous role as Public Works Director.
  • New Appointment: Vice-Mayor Ellis welcomed new City Manager Chris McGuire. McGuire expressed gratitude for the trust placed in him and pledged to lead with dedication, transparency, and a commitment to excellence.

Resolutions Passed

The following resolutions were read into the record and passed by a consent vote of 6 to 0:

  • Approval of Minutes:
    • The minutes from the regular meeting held on February 10, 2025.
    • The minutes from the Sole Purpose Special Meeting held on February 24, 2025.
  • Election Polling Places: Approval of agreements with the County of Blair for polling locations at the Training Facility & Council Chambers and Fire Stations No. 1, 2, and 3 for the 2025 primary and general elections.
  • Highway Use Agreement: Authorization for a new bus lane installation and maintenance in front of 2200 Broad Avenue, Altoona. This agreement is with the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Department of Transportation.

Public Comment

Residents addressed the Council on various local issues:

  • Orchard Park: Multiple speakers, including Charles LeMark and Paricia Reed, spoke regarding the retention of Orchard Park. Timothy Smith referenced a letter from a law firm asking the Council to reconsider their vote to sell the park.
  • Infrastructure & Safety:
    • Walt McCulloch discussed property tax increases and asked about HB 2536 (the loop law) and housing tax exemptions.
    • Rosemary Ellis reported an obstruction caused by hedges at the intersection of S. Kettle Street and Logan Avenue.
    • Damian Spallone expressed regret over the sale of land on Beech Avenue and suggested building in other neighborhoods.
  • Licensing: Larry Carter spoke about the licensing of electricians and plumbers, suggesting a review of all information.

Adjournment

The meeting was adjourned by Vice-Mayor Ellis at 7:00 P. M.

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