MINUTES FROM THE JULY 14, 2003 MEETING OF BOROUGH COUNCIL

The eleventh regular meeting of the Hamburg Borough Council for 2003 was held this evening at the Hamburg Municipal Center with President Rick Boyd presiding. The meeting was opened with Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag and a Prayer.

Members Present –Rick Boyd, Leon Balthaser, Charles Figard, Jeanette Heckman, Roy Heffner, Scott Kreider

Members Absent – Dale Schlenker

Also Present – Lynda G. Albright, Borough Manager, Kim Y. Berger, Recording Secretary, Solicitor Speicher, Mayor Del Rosario (7:38 pm.)

Visitors- Nancy Henne, Stanley Henne, Bethany Riegel, Lori Riegel, Norman Becker, Helen Becker, Betty Sleboda, Gloria Stitzel, Donna Brensinger, Bob Gust, Dottie Konemann, Ralph Konemann, Heather Breininger, Brad Breininger, Adam Dries, Dean Kauffman, Cheri Reichard, Donna Smith, Jennifer Staats, Garnetta Heckman, David Longacre, Tim Neufield, Holley McEllroy, Dolores Painter, Michael Painter, Alean Tray, Norma Berger, David Berger, Tracy Arce, Moises Arce, Rodger Gehring, Thomas Zelinsky, Jr.

A motion was made by Charles Figard and seconded by Jeanette Heckman to approve the amended agenda.

ROLL CALL: AYES – R. Boyd, R. Heffner, J. Heckman, C. Figard, L. Balthaser, S. Kreider

NAYES – None

COURTESY TO AUDIENCE

Tracy Lee Arce, owner of J & T Auto, stated that there is no reason that her business needs to be slandered because she is married to Moises. Work has been taken away from her business.

President Boyd questioned if this was an item that was on Council’s agenda.

Mrs. Arce stated that she was on the agenda and that she had envelopes for everyone on council.

President Boyd stated that she had the right to discuss items that were on Council’s agenda. If it is not on council’s agenda they have to take it to the borough office so that it can either be handled in house or directed to the appropriate committee.

Betty Sleboda stated that someone ought to explain the procedure because if someone doesn’t know how to go about getting something on the agenda.

President Boyd stated that the borough provides information to any resident. Questions on what is going on in the borough, what actions are taken by borough council, are taken to the borough office to be addressed. If there is a question that they cannot answer, they will direct the individual to the appropriate committee. The committee then hears the issues, does the research and makes the recommendation to the full council. The full council meets twice a month, when there is business to be conducted to act on the recommendation of the committees. The residents have the legal right to address council on issues that are already on the council’s agenda or if an issue is brought up and changed on the agenda by the full council. Speakers are limited to five minutes per individual, 15 minutes per topic. This is what the audience rights are. This allows the borough council to properly address the questions, which are brought before them. It provides the forum for doing it.

Mrs. Sleboda asked how a new issue can be put onto the borough’s agenda. President Boyd stated that it is brought before the committee. If the committee decides that it is appropriate to go to the full council, they will put it on the agenda. Residents should come to the committee meetings.

Councilman Balthaser stated that he would like to here what Mrs. Arce has to say.

Cherie Reichard stated that council amends the agenda so that the residents don’t know what is on it; she has been to other council meetings, the public is always permitted to speak. Council is holding back their right of speech. Ms. Reichard stated that she would like to see this policy in writing. President Boyd stated it is in the state law. President Boyd stated that we are bound by state law. Ms. Reichard questioned where the state law was regarding Officer Gehring.

President Boyd questioned if there was a majority who wanted to hear Mrs. Arce speak. President Boyd stated there needed to be a motion. Councilman Kreider stated that a motion was not necessary.

A motion was made by Scott Kreider and seconded by Leon Balthaser to anyone who wishes to speak be allowed to have their permitted time. 15 minutes per topic, 5 minutes per speaker as is borough policy.

ROLL CALL: AYES – R. Boyd, R. Heffner, J. Heckman, C. Figard, L. Balthaser, S. Kreider

NAYES – None

Mrs. Arce stated that on July 3, 2003, J & T Auto received a letter from the borough about the impound policy. Why is the amount $100,000? For what reason must it be that high? Mrs. Arce’s insurance agent has never heard of any insurance being that high. Manager Albright stated that it was increased in 1989. The ordinance was here if anyone would like to see it.

Mrs. Arce questioned why they were not notified when they were added to the list for impounds? Mrs. Arce quoted different issues such as policies on paying for release of vehicles and submitting bills on the 10^th of each month. J & T Auto has never followed this procedure due to the fact that they were unaware of it. Mrs. Arce stated that she has 4 vehicles that have been there for over a year.

Manager Albright stated that this has always been done through the police department. When the former Chief of Police was here, he always took care of this. It was not something that went through the borough office. It was handled independent of the borough office. Manager Albright stated that it was not something she was aware of. The Chief of Police was the one in charge of this procedure.

Mrs. Arce stated that she has vehicles that are in excess of $3,000 of bills that need to be submitted. Should she submit them? Manager Albright stated that if the ordinance states that she should submit them, then she should submit them.

Mrs. Arce stated that if the $100,000 bond stands that J & T Auto should be taken off the ordinance for impounds, but would like to remain on for towing.

Manager Albright stated that Council could revisit this ordinance. Safety Committee meets Tuesday, July 15 and the issue with the amount of the bond will be discussed. Manager Albright stated that she has been investigating other municipalities and none of them are as high as ours.

Moises Arce stated that there are issues that have needed answers for four months now. He attempted to go through the proper channels however; the Personnel Committee and Council meeting were canceled.

Mr. Arce stated that he has a copy of Chief Zelinsky’s contract and it states that the Chief must devote a minimum of 40 hours per workweek. He stated he has 19 breaches of contract, that should be just cause for removal of Chief of Police. He also stated he had timesheets that shows August 14, 2002 he worked 5 hours in one pay week and on the next pay week shows August 14, 2002 he worked 5 hours as well.

Mr. Arce would like to request that a Borough Council member make a motion to have this man removed from his position. It is a waste of taxpayers money. Mr. Arce stated that he has the evidence to terminate this individual. President Boyd stated that it must be turned over to the Personnel Committee for review; to validate the claim. Mr. Arce stated that he did attempt to take it to Personnel, however, the meeting was canceled. Councilwoman Heckman stated that there was only one item on the agenda and there have been other July’s when Personnel was canceled. Mr. Arce questioned why the old issues are not being addressed. Mr. Arce turned over the information to Councilwoman Heckman.

It was stated that a formal complaint should accompany the documentation. Solicitor Speicher stated that a few months ago a vote was taken regarding the Chief of Police. The complaints are not being ignored and if there are new issues they must be addressed, investigated and not done in haste. Solicitor Speicher stated that there is a contract and if the borough acts in haste, they could be subject to some sort of liability. Mr. Arce stated that we don’t want him removed as a cop, but as the Chief of Police, he is not serving the borough.

Mr. Arce will submit a complaint form to the Mayor regarding the allegations.

Mr. Arce stated that he has copies of the Nextel bill for 76-2. It was removed from the police cruiser and given to Rita Reed to call the police officers. Mr. Arce stated that for the most part the Nextel’s do not work downstairs and there is a base unit to contact them. Mrs. Reed has used the phone to contact her aunt, her house on borough time that the borough is paying. Chief Zelinsky and his wife also have Nextel phones on the borough’s plan, which he is paying for his wife’s phone. Was the mayor and his wife offered a Nextel? Mayor Del Rosario stated that he had his own Nextel at the time that we received the borough Nextel’s and so he didn’t need one.

President Boyd stated that all the employees were offered to go onto the plan. Mr. Arce stated he would like to have two Nextel’s and he would be happy to pay for the phones. President Boyd stated that there were other employees who were on the plan. Mr. Arce stated that Chief Zelinsky’s wife is not an employee of the borough and should not be on the plan.

Manager Albright stated that when we were first approached about the plan, we were required to purchase so many phones and so we did. The police officer who was going to be on the plan changed is mind and that is how Chief Zelinsky’s wife obtained it.

Councilwoman Heckman stated that salaried employees put in more than 40 hours per week. That is why they are not paid by the hour but are salaried. That is the case with Lynda and Tom.

Mr. Arce stated what about Kim Berger? Salaried employee? President Boyd stated that she is not exempt. Mr. Arce questioned why not? If it is good for the Borough Manager and the Chief of Police why not the rest of the salaried employees. President Boyd stated that Ms. Berger’s time is directed by the Borough Manager, that makes her a non-exempt salaried employee. Mr. Arce questioned Manager Albright if she directed Kim Berger to work 124 hours during the bi-weekly period ending January 8, 2003. Manager Albright stated that she did not direct Kim Berger to do that. Manager Albright stated that Kim was under her direction that is not saying that she ordered Kim to work that many hours. Kim works that many hours on her on and puts a lot of time in. She is not ordered to put the time in. Manager Albright stated that on occasion she is asked to put extra time in. Mr. Arce stated that the Kim and the other borough employees are overworked, probably underpaid. Mr. Arce stated that if they have to submit timesheets then so should the Chief of Police and the Borough Manager should as well. Someone in the audience questioned how we can get this changed.

Mr. Arce stated that he as well as other police officers and the Mayor had the honor of attending Police Memorial Week in Washington DC and it was a great experience. Why was the hotel room paid for by the Borough of Hamburg for the Chief of Police and his wife? The Borough did not pay for the Mayor’s stay or any other police officer who went. This is a show of favoritism and it has to stop. Mr. Arce submitted copies of the purchase order and the receipt from his credit card. The Borough paid Chief Zelinsky $324.00.

Mr. Arce questioned how Officer Gehring’s grievance was filed on June 2 and by the end of that day, Sgt. Painter received a response from the Council, in writing, denying his grievance. The response was that it was a non-grievable issue. President Boyd stated that the position of the council is that it is a non-grievable issue. Mr. Arce questioned how it could be denied when there was no council meeting and no personnel meeting. Solicitor Speicher stated that the issue had been discussed in anticipation of the grievance being filed. Council had agreed to move forward when the grievance was filed.

Mr. Arce stated that one of the reasons that Officer Gehring was fired was because he missed a shift. Is Borough Council aware that last Saturday, Chief Zelinsky missed a shift? There was no one scheduled to work until 5 p.m. Officer Burkevage was granted the day off back in May. The Borough was also supposed to be covering Shoemakersville Borough during the same time period and we didn’t have anyone on duty. Mr. Arce felt that if Officer Gehring was penalized then the same should be done to Chief Zelinsky.

Mr. Arce stated that the Chief of Police only tells you what he wants you to know and we, the public; have to bring you the information.

Mr. Arce stated it was time for the Council to start doing its job. Mr. Arce stated that on the same day that President Boyd canceled the meeting, there was an informal meeting. President Boyd stated that he did not cancel the meeting; it was a majority of Borough Council who determined that there was not enough business to conduct to have the meeting. President Boyd stated that he asked the Borough Manager to query the rest of council to see if the meeting should be canceled and there was a majority. Mr. Arce stated that there were people on the agenda and there was old business to be discussed. President Boyd stated that we pay people to attend this meeting.

Mr. Arce questioned if it was now time to see his Clean NCIC reports that President Boyd has. President Boyd stated that no it was not. Mr. Arce questioned when that time will come? President Boyd stated when he determines it is time. Mr. Arce stated that the lawsuit is forthcoming and he apologized to the public.

Mr. Koneman stated that the Council is supposed to be letting the public know what is going on but the council keeps pushing it to committee.

Heather Breininger questioned why the monthly police report is not reported in the minutes. When was it suspended and why? Mrs. Breininger stated that she has been reading the back copies of the minutes and they used to be reported. President Boyd said they should be. Mayor Del Rosario stated that he didn’t know why it wasn’t online.

Mrs. Breininger questioned if the borough employees reimburse the borough for personal phone calls, copies etc. It was stated that they do reimburse for these expenses.

Mrs. Breininger questioned if Mrs. Zelinsky was consuming shared minutes? Kim Berger stated that the minutes were shared.

Mrs. Breininger stated that regarding Officer Gehring and the findings. There were 4 specific issues, however, it was made to look like there were a lot more and it really is ridiculous. It really looked bad when it was printed in the press stating 49 findings when there were really only 4.

In regards to canceling the last meeting, in researching the minutes, Mrs. Breininger stated that on December 9, 2002 there were two members of the public present and the meeting last 10 minutes, however, there was still a meeting. On November 27, 2003, the meeting was 17 minutes. The public has the right to be heard. President Boyd stated that the very short meetings should have been canceled. Mrs. Breininger disagreed and stated that the meetings should be held no matter what.

Mrs. Breininger questioned what the current attorney fees are for the police department. Manager Albright stated it was $29,625.00. Mrs. Breininger stated that last year, for the whole year, it was $25,000.

Brad Breininger was present to complain about 33 Church Street. His sister lives next door and there is a 12’ high, 6’ wide sumac tree growing in the front of 33 Church Street. Mr. Breininger is concerned for his nephews. In addition, there are squirrels living in the attic, there is a 3’ groundhog hole up against his sister’s fence. His sister was told that the sumac tree is a domestic plant and we cannot make her remove it. Manager Albright stated that Mr. John Leonforte, the zoning officer, is addressing some of the issues, however, she will meet with him again about it.

A motion was made by Jeanette Heckman and seconded by Roy Heffner to approve the minutes of the June 9, 2003 meeting.

ROLL CALL: AYES – R. Boyd, R. Heffner, J. Heckman, C. Figard, L. Balthaser, S. Kreider

NAYES – None

A motion was made by Charles Figard and seconded by Roy Heffner to approve the following reports: Borough Manager’s Report, Public Works Supt. Report, Water/Sewer Supt. Report, Office Manager’s Report, Recreation Director’s Report, Treasurer’s Report, Finance Committee Report, Safety Committee Report, Engineer’s Report, Road Committee Report and the Property Committee Report.

(Councilman Balthaser questioned how long it will take to recoup the money that is being spent on the District Justice Office. We will be spending approximately $172,000 and it was originally estimated at $150,000. President Boyd stated that there have been things taken out of the bid. There are still negotiations being done. President Boyd stated that for instance she wanted 9’ window at different levels through 2 foot of stone. Gloria Stitzel who was in the audience questioned who "she" was. President Boyd stated that it was either her or someone from the county. Gloria Stitzel stated that she didn’t want to move to our building. President Boyd stated that he was aware of that. President Boyd stated that the square footage will determine what the rental will be. This has not been resolved. Manager Albright stated that we should know by Wednesday, July 23, 2003. We will be awarding the bids at that time. Councilman Balthaser questioned if it was put out to bid. Manager Albright stated that it was and that Doug Kramer from Synergetics opened the bids and has reviewed them. Councilman Balthaser was concerned that they weren’t opened by Council. Manager Albright stated that this has been done before. Council will have to take action to approve and award the bids.

Cherie Reichard questioned why we are moving the District Justice into the municipal building in the first place and have all the safety factors been taken into consideration. We have a library next door, senior center, and post office. Who made the decision to have her move here, because it is not in the minutes of any the meetings?

President Boyd stated that a presentation was made to the county and the county made the decision as to where she was to be located. It has been the desire of this council to have the district justice in this building since we decided to renovate the building. It has been discussed for the last two years. There were no objections from any council member about it. Ms. Reichard questioned if all the safety factors have been taken into consideration. President Boyd stated that the safety issues were discussed with the county and they were in agreement with it.

Mr. Arce questioned if the safety issues of the district justice herself were taken into consideration. If for some reason a criminal would escape. President Boyd stated that the security will not be discussed at an open session of council.

Gloria Stitzel stated that she was not approached about her feelings about moving here. President Boyd stated that he knows that and she should take her concerns to the County Commissioners.

Brent Adams questioned if it was a sealed bid and does it get awarded to the lowest bidder. President Boyd stated that it does as long as everything is in order and the architect stated it is valid. The architect will inform the Property Committee who then brings it to the full Council.)

ROLL CALL: AYES – R. Boyd, R. Heffner, J. Heckman, C. Figard, L. Balthaser, S. Kreider

NAYES – None

Much of the month was again spent handling police personnel and political issues, meeting with residents and handling questions related to these issues, as well as working with council and attorneys.  

Spent quite a bit of time meeting with John Leonforte, Code Enforcement Officer, during the month to review and discuss various building and zoning issues he is working on.  

Handled correspondence and complaints as needed.

Met with resident to determine legality of the street he lives on as being an official borough street. Am investigating with solicitor since it has been used by public, but never officially opened and is not shown on topographic map of Hamburg.

Attended a meeting in Harrisburg with representatives of DEP, Greg Unger, and Jennifer Werner and of Systems Design Engineering and Keith Brobst, Water/Sewer Supt. Regarding the sewer moratorium placed against the Hamburg Municipal Authority. This was done as a result of the hydraulic overload at the pumping station during heavy rainfalls. Greg Unger is in the process of preparing a CAP (Corrective Action Plan) setting forth actions, which will reduce the overload in order to eventually have this moratorium lifted.

In addition, Kim Berger, Office Manager and I met with Jess Clark of Systems Design Engineering to set up districting of the Borough of Hamburg Sewer Customers for eventual monitoring of sewer sections and low points in the sewer system where overflows may exist. It is anticipated that all customers in the Borough will also be required to have interior and exterior inspections for illegal sewer hook-ups over the next couple of years.

Met with Vince James of V & M to do a title transfer of the Hyundai. This vehicle will be used by police, as well as other departments for use during borough business. 

June Hilbert, Rec. Director and I interviewed an applicant for lifeguard position at the pool.

Worked on other personnel issues with non-uniformed employees.

In addition to council meeting, attended Personnel, Property, Safety, Road, Finance, Recreation and Authority and other special meetings.

If anyone has any questions regarding my report, please feel free to ask.

Following my report are the activities of my staff for the month of June, 2003.

Lynda G. Albright
Borough Manager

Assisted in working on the filter at the reservoir.

Changed the valve at the fire hydrant on S. 3^rd Street.

Repaired street signs and poles around the borough.

Cold patching continues for now, we will be starting hot patching in the near future.

Mowing grass continues to be an ongoing process.

A lot of time was spent repainting the crosswalks around the borough and stop lines

Hamburg, Pa July 14, 2003 7:30 p.m.

Mowed the flood control dams

Spraying of the weeds along curbs has started.

Repaired a lot of things at the arts and crafts building.

Due to vandalism and someone breaking the one table, these concrete tables were removed for safety purposes.

As a matter of record, due to the rainy spring season, we are behind with the work schedule. We are trying to catch up on the things that should have been, according to our schedule, last month.

Richard L. Pickel

Public Works Superintendent

Water

Water for the month came from both the well and surface sources. Number 1 filter is down with a broken air header. We are replacing the PVC headers with stainless steel and painting the places that are corroded from the old screens.

We made a temporary repair to the intersection of 4th and Pine Streets. Due to numerous leaks over the years the intersection needs to be reconstructed. After consulting with a representative of Reading Site Contractors it has been determined that this work will have to be bid.

We have received the Filter Plant Performance Evaluation and will be reviewing that with Tony and the Engineer in the near future.

Wastewater

We have received quotes and the OK from the insurance carrier to proceed with the repairs of the equipment damaged in the recent burglary. We have been trying to lower the load on the aerator and the aerobic digester in anticipation of losing all blowers during the repairs. I expect we will have to haul sludge during that period.

I attended a meeting with PaDEP on our pump station loading and capacities and as a result we are working on reducing our infiltration and inflow through house-to-house connection inspections.

We had a by-pass event the evening of June 21, which lasted in excess of 24 hours. This illustrates the need to get the I & I problem under control.

Respectfully Submitted

Keith L. Brobst

Water/Wastewater Superintendent

Received numerous calls regarding trash and recycling complaints as well as streetlights. Contacted the appropriate companies.

Contacted several pool companies and explained the dilemma we are having with our pool. Various information was obtained and a meeting was set up with Wayne Wade from Wade Associates to meet with the Property Committee.

Various weed notices, junk car letters, ordinance violations were sent.

Updated the meeting brochure to be put in the Council Room.

Updated the web page and municipal access channel.

Assisted a resident with obtaining a place to store a junk vehicle.

Updated recreation employee’s information.

Have been in contacted with the financial institution who was holding the title for a vehicle that has been paid off. Awaiting the title.

Corresponded with Cougle’s Recycling in reference to obtaining two benches for the pool via a donation. Cougle’s has agreed to donate two benches to the borough for use at the Pool.

Contacted the landscaping company to cut several properties due to complaints from neighbors. This issue with residents leaving their properties and not taking care of them is becoming a real health and safety issue.

An abundance of "late" season tickets were issued.

Various letters typed for the Borough Manager.

Assisted the police officers in obtaining information for cases that were going to court.

Meeting was held with Jessica from Systems Design Engineering regarding districting of the Borough.

The office staff worked on two mailing projects. The first very large mailing was to all customers of the Hamburg Municipal Authority’s water system. Assisted with folding, taping and labeling of the 3,000 letters that went out. Assisted with another mailing project to all sewer customers of Ridge Lawn and Windsor Township including Edenburg. Almost 300 of these letters were mailed.

Revamped the fax cover sheets to reflect privacy information.

Created a sewer inspection calendar to assist in organization for appointments.

Took pictures of children with Cookie Monster at the park. There were a lot of children and they seemed to have a good time on the walk.

Letters were mailed to various property owners regarding their need to trim or remove items from in front of water meters so that the readers can gain access to obtain a reading.

Quarterly reports were completed and grease trap letters were mailed.

Attended council meetings and staff meetings as required.

Respectfully submitted,

Kim Y. Berger

Office Manager

We started the month with the children still in school and inclement weather. The Labor Day weekend was rain. This continued until the last week in June when we had a few nice days. My time was spent in planning activities for the pool and the park.

We enjoyed our wee little walk with Cookie Monster. We had 110 children participate. We also started our baton twirling lessons at the playground. We have 41 children registered.

Except for the rainy weather the first 23 days we are now enjoying a large amount of people attending the pool. We have activity days every Tuesday and Thursday and we are busy planning with some parents our Special Day – Mexico, South of the Border for July 30th.

Our public swimming lessons the last week of June had 42 children attending. We will have our private lessons the 3rd week of July and another public session the first week of August

June D Hilbert

Recreation Director

Chuck Figard and Dale Schlenker.

Considerable time was spent discussing the capital improvements necessary to improve the Borough. It was unanimously agreed to pursue further information on the attractive interest rates.

The School Crossing Guard salaries were discussed in depth. Linda researched the neighboring communities to ascertain the wages of those guards. It was determined unanimously to increase the full day pay to $20.00, half day to $10.00 and special days to $20.00.

  Chairman of Finance

Dale R. Schlenker

The committee met at 7:00 P.M. Tuesday, 17, June, with the following present: Dale Schlenker, Scott Kreider, Rick Boyd, Chief Zelinsky, Lynda Albright and Chuck Figard.

The committee was advised that Dr. Miller would like Officer Schwoyer to remain on school duty during the summer months, in order to attend training classes. The committee needs more information concerning courses to be taken, resulting costs and reasons why Officer Schwoyer would be needed for the entire summer. Chief Zelinsky and Rick Boyd will meet with Dr. Miller prior to the latter’s retirement date.

Request was approved to have yellow stripes painted at the northeast corner of Catherine and Grandview Streets to permit access for trash/recycling trucks.

An obsolete K-9 cage, no longer used, and an Excessive Speed Preventer will be disposed of. The ESP device has been repaired several times but will not hold to zero, thus giving false readings.

Request to have police cruisers washed at the rate of $3.50 per wash at Keller’s Korner was approved.

Request from M & T Bank to restrict parking on the bank lot during Heritage Day was approved. Lot will be closed from midnight Friday 26, Sept through Saturday 27, Sept.

The Hyundai sedan now belongs to the Borough and will be made serviceable.

Changing traffic flow on Schuylkill Ave. was discussed. Committee recommends no change in the present flow.

Speed enforcement lines have been painted in the Borough. Police will begin checking speed on June 18.

DEP is working with Cougle’s to improve the appearance of the area around the site.

Meeting concluded at 9:20 P.M.

Charles R Figard

Systems Design Engineering, Inc. continues to talk with MACA on future needs. The Authority has received a letter from MACA pursuant to organic load. MACA is considering an additional capacity purchase of 200 pounds of BOD to take their long-term capacity from 700 to 900 pounds. Systems Design Engineering, Inc. is using this request in the capacity review and we have stated the MACA that this capacity should be negotiated for purchase by year-end.

EDENBURG P.S. COLLECTION SYSTEM REPAIRS

Systems Design Engineering, Inc. will assist the Authority in setting up an inspection program for evaluating inflow sources in the collection system. Repairs to the manholes and pipes are substantially complete.

SPECIFICATIONS (no change)

The solicitor and Systems Design Engineering, Inc. are meeting to bring the draft specifications to completion.

PROJECTS

Systems Design Engineering, Inc. has tabulated the bid results for sludge disposal received at the May meeting. The contracts are being put together for signature.

NPDES Permit Renewal-In progress

 

WATER PRODUCTION

The impoundment dam remains full with recent rains greatly improving inflow. Most production this reporting period has been from the surface water filtration plant, with some production from the Well field to supplement needs due to the recent breakdown of Filter 1. Repairs of the air header under the clarifier are being completed.

Systems Design Engineering, Inc. continues to work with Plant Personnel on new and proposed regulations that may effect the system in the future.

WATER PROJECTS

Systems Design Engineering, Inc. is working with plant personnel on the addition of a combined turbidimeter and SCADA system to record turbidity and direction of flow, i.e., waste or to system.

Controls at Well 5 continue to require some attention. Systems Design Engineering, Inc. is working with Kohl Brothers on improving the level control of the high service pump.

A sketch for the improvements to Manhole 1 (finished water line behind the plant) has been submitted to DEP for approval and has been verbally approved. Construction of the improved manhole should be completed shortly.

HAMBURG CENTER

The Authority has been supplying water to the Center since the middle of August. There are no adverse engineering problems to report. Keith reports they fixed a water leak that has significantly reduced the Center’s use.

All contact this month has been between the Center and Solicitor.

VULNERABILITY ASSESSMENT

Systems Design Engineering, Inc. is working on the Vulnerability Assessment for the water system and will report recommendations for review.

In Attendance: Scott Kreider, Lynda Albright, Rick Pickel

Other streets will be looked at and prioritized. Input on which streets should be done is welcome. There is a Borough Street map that is color coded as to which are needed next.

The Finance Committee has Capital Improvements (wish/want) list itemized. The figure for street repairs needed in the Borough is $1.5 million approximately.

6. Borough Bridges

The state does periodic inspections of the bridges. There are some that if nothing is done soon to save them, more drastic and expensive measures will have to be taken. We will be reviewing these reports for further action.

Funding for these repairs comes from Liquid Fuels account.

7. Hillside Drive South has been re-done between S 7th St. and Bickel Drive. It looks great. Long overdue.

8. Discussed possibly keeping garbage trucks and other heavy truck traffic out of alleys hoping to reduce wear and tear and make them last longer.

Respectfully submitted

Scott A Kreider
Chairman

Chairman – R.R. Heffner

Attendance: R. Boyd, D. Schlenker, J. Heckman, C. Figard, S. Kreider, L. Albright, Borough Manager

Visitors: W. Wade; Wade Associates, Molly Starr: Hamburg, D. Kramer; Synergetics

1) Mr. Wade made a presentation for his company Wade Associates of Harrisburg. They provide engineering services and specialize in commercial pools. They would be able to provide a complete overall study of the pool and the facilities for renovation. This includes review of the physical features, problems at the pool, cost estimates for renovations and permit required for renovations. The evaluation will cost $5000-6000. He was instructed to proceed after receipt of an agreement for the service.

2) Ms. Starr approached the Borough about challenging the FEMA Flood Zone Map. She recently purchased a house on South 3^rd Street and then was informed that costly flood insurance would be required. She was told it was required because the property is within the flood zone of Hamburg. Since there has not been any flooding or water in the property basement in over 40 years, she is requesting the Borough assistance to challenge the flood map. Systems Design will be contacted to evaluate the next step required to do this.

3) Mr. Kramer presented the bids for the renovation of the second floor, north side for the DJ’s office. The total bid was for $172,123. He indicated that there were options to discuss with the county that may change this figure. We need to resolve this quickly to accommodate the dates as anticipated by the DJ office.

4) There have been problems with the municipal center mailbox, which is currently located on the wall at the top of the steps. Anticipated greater use with the DJ office in the facility, we will place a larger mailbox on a post at the bottom of the steps, possibly between the steps and the elevator. This will cost $278.

5) When the Borough purchased a new truck, the plow purchase was delayed. The price of the snowplow has dropped and will be purchased for $3900.

6) James Emery has procured a trolley on wheels. He will refurbish this trolley and needs information on his next step to provide this service. He has been directed to D. Argall and S. Christman for additional information. The Borough will determine an area that could be used as a drop off/pickup place as this plan progresses.

7) The computer server has been causing significant difficulties. Replacement of the hardware and necessary software will be about $14,000-20,000. Need to get firm prices and possible alternatives.

8) Updates on previous items:

a) A single thermostat was replaced in the storage area of the office. This is an area that has experienced HVAC problems. The thermostat will be evaluated to determine if this resolves any of the HVAC problems. If the results are positive, will recommend replacement of other thermostats as needed.

b) It has been determined that a portion of the property at DAK is owned by the Borough. This was canal property at the parking area.

c) The small portion of land at the Dolly Haupt property has not been purchased at sale for our submitted price.

d) There is a temporary repair at 4^th & Pine St. The water authority is pursuing bids for a permanent fix.

e) Intersection snow removal – Need a list of intersections that are manned by crossing guards to assure snow removal, not just plowing from these intersections. Will have these walkways opened to cross these streets safely.

f) Will install fencing along a portion of the park at 2^nd St. Fence to be the same as along Park Rd.

g) The Handicapped sign at the municipal lot has been moved. We were informed that the Main Street group would repave the lot. The wheel stops will be repositioned for most effective use of the area. The parking sign at the lot has been replaced.

h) Most of the downtown crosswalks have been repainted.

i) Possible changing the date of community day for next year. Discuss with Community day Group. This is being considered at the request of the business groups. Need quick response due to scheduling of music fro next year.

j) There have been many more activities at the park/pool, such as Cookie Monster, Y102 etc.

k) The Adult Bookstore ordnance was forwarded to the Planning commission for review as required. Should be able to adopt on July 23^rd.

l) Need to have the solicitor office structure the Property Maintenance Code amendment in the proper legal format. This needs to be resolved and closed ASAP.

9) S. Kreider reported that the standing water at the parking lot across from the Hahn building has been taken care of. There was also discussion about the parks closing hours. This should be reviewed by the recreation board with recommendations from them.

OLD BUSINESS

NONE

On the recommendation of the Borough Manager, a motion was made by Jeanette Heckman and seconded by Scott Kreider to hire Zachary Strahn as a lifeguard and Gail Grill as a Food Stand Supervisor for the 2003 summer season.

ROLL CALL: AYES – R. Boyd, R. Heffner, J. Heckman, C. Figard, L. Balthaser, S. Kreider

NAYES – None

On the recommendation of the Property Committee, a motion was made by Roy Heffner and seconded by Charles Figard to approve a feasibility study be performed on the Hamburg Swimming Pool by Wade Associates of Harrisburg at a cost not to exceed $4,500. A report will be submitted to the Borough no later than September 13, 2003.

ROLL CALL: AYES – R. Boyd, R. Heffner, J. Heckman, C. Figard, L. Balthaser, S. Kreider

NAYES – None

On the recommendation of the Borough Manager, a motion was made by Charles Figard and seconded by Jeanette Heckman to approve the Hamburg Jaycees holding a car show at the Hamburg Park on August 31, 2003 from 10 am till 5 pm. If there is inclement weather, the show will be cancelled. This is provided that there are no scheduled activities for this date.

ROLL CALL: AYES – R. Boyd, R. Heffner, J. Heckman, C. Figard, L. Balthaser, S. Kreider

NAYES – None

A motion was made by Roy Heffner and seconded by Jeanette Heckman to approve payment of invoices totaling $142,310.86.

ROLL CALL: AYES – R. Boyd, R. Heffner, J. Heckman, C. Figard, L. Balthaser, S. Kreider

NAYES – None

AT & T 225.25

Althouse 14.75

Antiques & Alternatives 75.00

Ark Rentals 69.80

B&B Communications 125.00

BOC Gases 23.07

Barko Cleaning Service, Inc. 753.00

County of Berks 1,630.17

Berks Products Corp. 150.76

Berks-Mont Newspapers, Inc. 26.40

Blue Mountain computer Service 80.00

CCP Industries 100.12

E-Mac Dairy Brush Co. 83.00

EarthLink Inc. 23.95

Evans Food Distributors 273.60

Exeter Supply Co., Inc. 183.00

Hamburg Auto Parts 1.53

Troy R. Hatt 1,276.00

Henn’s Garage 1,666.18

Hershey Creamery Co. 766.98

Mike Kershner 495.00

Kristen Ketch 25.00

Kermit K. Kistler Inc. 54.86

Randy Kline 738.75

Kuzan’s True Value 3.23

Leisawitz, Heller, Abramowitch 5,369.79

Lesher’s Appliances Inc. 30.00

Lou ees 1,338.00

Paul Melniczek 120.00

Met-Ed 5,296.05

Miller’s 5&10 44.58

Mountain View Supply 20.74

Municipal Employers Ins. Trust 188.50

Nextel Communications 620.05

State Worker’s Insurance Fund 6,468.00

Penn Pride, Inc. 683.39

Quill Corporation 94.50

Reading Eagle Co. 153.00

Reed Smith LLP 629.92

Software Systems Inc. 50.00

Telco Inc. 580.00

ThyssenKrupp Elevator 155.70

Triangle Communications 170.50

Unifirst 197.50

Gene M. Venzke 456.40

Verizon 420.99

Western Auto 294.57

Win Outlet 799.30

Windsor Distributing 955.79

Windsor Press 129.40

WARRANT TOTAL 34,131.07

BILLS PAID DURING THE MONTH 108,179.79

TOTAL FOR APPROVAL 142,310.86

PREPAID INVOICE LIST – JUNE

Sam’s Club 1,064.69

Borough of Hamburg, Gross Payroll 79,121.41

Borough of Hamburg, Employer Share SS 4,256.91

Berks County Treasurer 726.00

Petty Cash 70.92

Phillips Ford Sales 19,730.70

Samuel Alonge 500.00

Career Track Inc. 149.00

Kuzan’s True Value 96.71

June Hilbert 80.72

Our Town Federation 10.00

V & M Service 79.00

Joshua Gruver 9.80

M&T Bank 430.16

Nextel Communications 587.25

Hamburg Municipal Authority 825.00

OMB Police Supply 103.92

Kim Y Berger 337.60

Total 108,179.79

Solicitor Speicher stated that he had two ordinance drafts for review by council: 1) an attempt to simplify the commercial units relative to the property maintenance code. 2) to amend the zoning ordinance to establish regulations regarding outdoor advertising.

Cherie Reichard questioned if she could get a copy of the drafts. They are available at the borough office.

JULY 15, 2003 – 7 p.m. – Safety Committee

              JULY 16, 2003 – 6:30 p.m. – Water Sewer Committee

JULY 16, 2003 – 7 p.m. – Authority Meeting

JULY 21, 2003 - 7 p.m. – Planning Commission

JULY 23, 2003 – 7:30 p.m. – Council Meeting

July 22, 2003 – 7 p.m. Community Day meeting at the park

Cherie Reichard questioned the status of the Dolly Haupt property that the borough was going to purchase.

Solicitor Speicher stated that we did not purchase the property. Originally we had made a deal with the estate. Suddenly we stopped being contacted by the estate and the property went up for tax sale. It went through two tax sales. The county purchased the property and then the county scheduled an auction for the property. There were environmental concerns with the property and that it might not be a good idea to purchase it even for $1. There was a sealed bid from another individual for $900.

Donna Smith, why doesn’t the audience get copies of all the reports that council gets? President Boyd stated that they are available in the borough office one to two days prior to the council meeting.

Moises Arce questioned that since the last personnel meeting was canceled if there could be an emergency personnel meeting held so that we don’t procrastinate these matters.

August 5, 2003 will be the next meeting and that gives the committee time to review the information that was presented.

Lori Riegel questioned what has happened with the complaints that have been given to the Mayor regarding the Chief of Police. Mayor Del Rosario has reviewed them and given information to the personnel committee on them. Others are still being reviewed because the people were on vacation.

There being no further business, the meeting adjourned at 8:45 p.m. on motion of Roy Heffner and seconded by Charles Figard.

ATTEST:

Kim Y. Berger

Recording Secretary/Office Manager