BOROUGH OF SCHWENKSVILLE, PA

COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES OF MAY 13, 1999

 

( NOTE: MINUTES OF SPECIAL MEETING HELD ON 24 MAY FOLLOW BELOW)

 

MEETING BEGAN: 7:30 P.M. ENDED: 9:30 P.M.

 

The Borough Council Meeting of May 13, 1999 was called to order by President, Bernard McCollum.

 

Secretary, Nancy Eppley called the roll. Present were Bernard McCollum, Joan Giunta, E. M. (Sue) Kuhn, Chris Dull, and Mayor William Clossin. Absent was Jim Dull due to illness.

 

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: By the assembly.

 

DISPENSE WITH THE READING OF THE APRIL 11, 1999 MINUTES: MOTIONED BY SUE KUHN AND SECONDED BY JOAN GIUNTA IT WAS VOTED TO DISPENSE WITH THE READING OF THE APRIL 11, 1999 MEETING. ALL WERE IN FAVOR AND THE MOTION CARRIED.

 

APPROVAL OF THE APRIL 11, 1999 MINUTES: MOTIONED BY SUE KUHN AND SECONDED BY JOAN GIUNTA IT WAS VOTED TO APPROVE THE APRIL 11. 1999 MINUTES AS PRESENTED. ALL WERE IN FAVOR AND THE MOTION CARRIED.

 

ACCOUNTS PAYABLE /TREASURER'S REPORT: Gael Hahn

    1. Disbursement, Deposit Detail, Monthly Revenue and Expense Report, P & L Budget Comparison (1/99 through 5/13/99) submitted for council's review.
    1. Disbursements are a little higher than usual for the month, due to invoices from Carroll Engineering (some of which will be reimbursed from the Clossin and Clemens subdivisions). Payment was also made to the Auditing firm , B.F.I., and Sigel Insurance.
    2. Gael mentioned that B.F.I. sent an incorrect invoice, but an adjusted one was received. She noticed that B.F.I. has been charging the Borough for the Commercial pickups, but the Commercial properties on line have not been billed.

 

MOTIONED BY SUE KUHN AND SECONDED BY CHRIS KRAFT IT WAS VOTED TO APPROVE THE ACCOUNTS PAYABLE/TREASURER'S REPORT AS SUBMITTED. ALL WERE IN FAVOR AND THE MOTION CARRIED.

 

POLICE REPORT: Chief Frank Holden

 

Report for April 1999: 57 reported incidents. No State Police Report this month. Frank's complete report is on file at Borough Hall.

 

 

Sue questioned: If the State Police does not give a report for the month, do they eventually give one? Frank calls them and requests a report, follows through but he assumes that if he doesn't get one after some time that none is available.

 

FIRE COMPANY REPORT: Chief Nick Matregrano

 

l) Month of April: Calls: 5 Firefighters in Service: 42 Time in Service: 2 hrs. and 44 minutes.
    1. Memorial Day: Flea Market and Chili Cook-Off from 6 a.m. to 3 p.m. Proceeds go towards the restoration of their antiques.
    2. Recognition from the State Senate-Commonwealth of PA and Governor, Tom Ridge. Congratulating the Schwenksville Fire Company on its l25th Anniversary and for providing the high standards and for the preserving of the fire equipment.
    3. Financial report for the Month was presented to council.
    4. Sale of Bricks: Joan questioned if this was still on-going? Fire Company would like a response by June lst. Nick mentioned that the addition that was put on will house the antique trucks. Are they going to fit through the doors? Yes.

 

AMBULANCE REPORT: Reported by Nancy Eppley

 

Report submitted by the new General Manager. Number of calls in Schwenksville were 7 and year to date are 37, for the Colannade l and year to date 6. Also, submitted were varies graphs.

 

SOLICITOR'S REPORT: Robert Brant

 
    1. Clossin 9 lot Subdivision: Mast Engineering (Larry) appeared before council tonight and also at last council meeting. Plan was reviewed by Schwenksville Planning Commission and received recommendation to council that certain conditions need to be addressed. Also, received reviews from Montgomery County Planning Commission and Borough Engineer, Ken Yerger.

 

Tonight, the engineer would like to discuss the waivers. Mr. Brant has discussed with Tom Snyder and Ken Yerger. He then drafted a proposed resolution which would grant the preliminary approval of this subdivision. One of the waivers is a temporary vs permanent cul-de-sac, a permanent one is recommended by Ken Yerger and that the extension of Fourth Street be dedicated to the Borough in case of a future connection. Developer has suggested that until Schwenksville Borough wants to develop this that Lots 5 and 5 maintain such.

 

Applicant is requesting waivers from the Borough's Ordinance, such as :

l) Permit cart way width of 26' 2)Maximum scope of roadway-ll%

 

 

3)Centerline radius of 75' 4)Centerline 2l' 5)Cul-de-sac 657'

6)Sidewalk to be located 6' right of way, sidewalk along proposed curb.

 

Mr. Brant suggested that everything should be in compliance with the Borough Engineer's letter, PennDot requirements, Montgomery County Conservation District, Borough Authority, Planning Commission (local and county), and Borough Council's reviews.

 

Also, put a deed restriction of Lots 4 and 5.

 

Mast Engineering would like to see a temporary cul-de-sac. In that way the houses would be closer to the road, also Montgomery County Planning Commission has recommended same.

 

Lot #6, there is a problem, trying to keep everything within the right of way.

 

Chris questioned: Water run off? Larry explained the storm water pipe and that they are working on trying to straighten out the grading. Impact on the next property? Larry said that after the building is done there will be no adverse affect. No water after the construction is done, than from before it began. Must build in the l00 flood. If there is any problem, Mr. Brant can confer with Ken Yerger on the restriction of water drainage.

 

Again, Mr. Brant mentioned that this is a preliminary plan and more permits and approvals are needed. Everything will be to specifications.

 

Jeff Clemens, realtor for this subdivision explained and stated that all specifications will be met and a escrow account established should there be any issues not resolved. This escrow money will be in effect for a year to approximately l8 months.

 

Fire Chief, Nick Matregrano was questioned concerning hydrants. Engineer, Ken Yerger will be told by council where they are to be located.

 

The question remains whether there will be a permanent or temporary cul-de-sac? Again, Montgomery County recommends temporary.

 

MOTIONED BY CHRIS KRAFT AND SECONDED BY SUE KUHN IT WAS VOTED TO ADOPT THE RESOLUTION APPROVING THE PRELIMINARY PLAN OF WILLIAM CLOSSIN SUBJECTED TO THE CONDITIONS READ BY ROBERT BRANT. ALL THE WAIVERS ON THE APRIL 19, 1999 CORRESPONDENCE WITH THE EXCEPTION OF THE WAIVER 407.2, BECAUSE IT WILL BE A TEMPORARY CUL-DE-SAC. ALL WERE IN FAVOR AND THE MOTION CARRIED.

Mr. Brant will correct that portion of the resolution.

 

STREETS/ROADS: Sue Kuhn and Tom Snyder

 

l) No Parking signs complete for 2nd Street

2)Street sweeping - May 20th

3)Street marking week of May 24th

4)Vacate Highland Avenue - Bob Brant would like to review further.

5)Repair Perkiomen Avenue by PennDot: Tom questioned PennDot with the section of 2nd and 3rd Streets. If PennDot overlays it will need to be done later on. They will be looking at the foundation.

6)Infrastructure Loans: Tom was given verbal approval. Total applications $240,000. Considerable amount of money is for the Borough Authority (pipeline, generator). This money will be used for 3rd St., Montgomery Ave., and Mt.View Ave.

Will need an Ordinance for the June meeting.

7)Third Street to High Point/S.M.S.: Right of Way??? Information given to Arlene at the Summit. Locating agreement High Point and Spring Mount Summit is the problem. Street is on the Summit's property.

8)Mt.View Avenue: Drainage a problem. Tom in touch with PennDot.

9)Traffic Light at Rts. 73 & 29: Perkiomen Township has asked that a sign be placed indicating at traffic signal. Sign would be located in the borough, light will be Perkiomen Township's responsibility Proposed sign to be located on the Greene property.

 

MOTIONED BY CHRIS KRAFT AND SECONDED BY SUE KUHN IT WAS VOTED TO ALLOW PERKIOMEN TOWNSHIP TO INSTALL SIGN. ALL WERE IN FAVOR AND THE MOTION CARRIED.

 

PROPERTY: Sue Kuhn

 

Office Furniture: Budget allowed: $2,000. Quotes received from Staples, Office Max, and a quote from the Dept. of Corrections. Staples and Office Max are the same type of equipment. Staples would be $l,499.50 and Office Max would be $1,545.l0 both had discounts.

 

Chris questioned the construction of the tables. Staples and Office Max would be laminated, and the Dept. of Corrections would be wood. Chris would like the Borough to stay with wood, due to the fact that Borough Hall is a Historical building and the furniture from Staples and Office Max would probably have to be replaced in coming years. More durability with wood.

 

Sue mentioned that to go with all wood, it would be necessary to spend more money. This will be mentioned further under finances. Chris mentioned that he has no problem restoring the present table.

 

 

 

Sue mentioned that as property chairman she was requested to get quotes and she'll get quotes for wood construction and will bring back to council for their review.

 

Joan: Design: Corrections Facilities tables are modern . Traditional is Chris's preference.

 

Chris suggested looking over all the quotes and decide in terms of quality and money output.

 

Mayor Clossin: Wonders if the past motion should be rescinded No, Sue would not buy the furniture even though the purchase amount was decided upon . Leave motion as is and this subject will be discussed at the June meeting.

 

FINANCE: Joan Giunta

 

l) Report given to council on the Expenses vs Year to Date figures. Joan mentioned that the street light purchase came up last month but council never approved the budgeting for them. Council is going to make a modification to determine where the amount of $16,000. Is going to come from. Tom mentioned that there was money transferred from budget to budget surplus, budgeted twice for $12,000. Joan disagreed, the Borough does not have surplus and she doesn't know where the money will come from. The Borough according to Joan works on a Cash basis. We do have Reserve money per Tom Snyder. In Capital Reserve there is $125,000.

 

Joan's recommendation is to look under Government Buildings - Renovations.

Bernie suggested: Highway Fund. Joan questioned whether it is acceptable to take money from that account.

Joan: Capital Reserve cannot be used for any other reason than what it is specified for. Tom: Money that is used is not under restrictions.

Joan: That money is through the history of Schwenksville, and the money is what the borough is worth. It should be used to pay the bills on schedule. Joan believes in prudent spending, Borough should have six months reserve money on hand for any emergencies.

 

Mayor: This is not historical money. He questioned, treasurer, Gael Hahn asking , Did the Borough not have money the last two years, considerable amount of money unspent, was this the money which was transferred? Yes, per Gael.

 

Joan explained that the Borough works on a cash balance system, when the money is not used that money at the end of the year then goes into the new year and it loses its application.

 

Mayor: We all know why it wasn't used up because the borough did not buy the lights.

 

Joan suggested various opinions: Taking the money of the General Fund and making payment, Adjusting the budget and taking it out of renovations or leaving the balance there.

 

Gael mentioned that the Borough must govern its spending on the budget that was approved. We can move the monies, but Borough cannot increase the revenues or the expenditures. Cannot change the bottom line. Bernie mentioned that we have enough money to run this town. Good report came from the County. Bernie also mentioned that the Borough budgeted $35,000.00 for Spring Mountain. Chris mentioned that the Borough has been talking about the lights for some time and the money will probably be recovered in four years and it would be safe to take the money for the lights out of the $l66,000. Doesn't require re-budgeting. Gael mentioned that if the Borough is using money out of the General Funds they are unrestricted funds. If the General Reserve Fund is used, it must be used for the monies that it was intended/budgeted. There are provisions if it is a hardship. Not a hardship per Joan. Tom mentioned that there is money in the Open Space Account. Joan: Borough can use Open Space monies and reduce the amount allotted by $l6,000. Chris feels that it would be best to take the money needed for Street Lights out of the Open Space Account rather than the Renovation Account. Also, look into the provisions of the Reserve Account and perhaps structure the Borough budget differently in the future.

 

MOTIONED BY JOAN GIUNTA AND SECONDED BY CHRIS KRAFT IT WAS VOTED TO REDUCE THE BUDGETED AMOUNT ACCOUNT 413.071 (OPEN SPACE) BY $16,000.00 IN ORDER TO COVER THE LIGHTS FROM PECO. There was a question on the $l6,000.00. Is this the correct amount.

Motion revision: $l6,662.38. ALL WERE IN FAVOR OF THE CORRECTED MOTION AND THE MOTION CARRIED.

 
    1. Infrastructure Loan: Per Joan to Council: Any monies that the Borough accepts and uses must be budgeted. One of the main concerns when we applied for the loans was to benefit the Water Authority in their efforts to improve the water supply and therefore, it would be their responsibility although the Borough applied for the loans. Tom is not sure what loans are in at the present time. Tom plans to personally sit down with Baha and find out what the story is. Sue mentioned that what Joan is saying is that if the Water Authority gets the money, they will be the ones to repay the money. Joan: Even though the Borough is awarded the Infrastructure loans does not mean that the Borough needs to accept such. Must think carefully in budgeting.

      2.  

    2. Recommendation that Gael put in the payroll account one week's payroll in advance so that there is a buffer in the payroll account.

 

MOTIONED BY JOAN GIUNTA AND SECONDED BY CHRIS KRAFT IT WAS VOTED TO PUT ONE WEEK'S PAYROLL IN RESERVE. ALL WERE IN FAVOR AND THE MOTION CARRIED.

 

4) B.F.I.: Why are the Commercials customers taking 5 individual containers vs

a yardage container? Tom: This is an option for them-they have that

privilege for handling purposes. Tom mentioned Liberty Ministries that there

is no for the yardage containers and they will remove the carts from the side

walks after the trash is picked up. Things should working out now that Waste

Management has picked up the toters. Joan would like to see the toters

Removed from the sidewalks as soon as possible so the sidewalks can be used.

 

PARK BOARD: Tom Snyder

 
    1. Bids are in for the fence then swings can start being put up on the Clearfield Avenue lot.
    1. Pipes (Fred Kehs should have an answer this week for the installation.

 

Other: Tom Snyder:

 

Meeting May 25, l999 - "OPEN SPACE" Award. Spring Mt. Project is tied up with Ski Slope. MCPC can't get this settled.

 

Shaffer/Perkiomen Valley School District: Zoning Hearing was approved. Shaffer wishes to rent space from PVSD for storing their vehicles.

 

Vacating Highland Avenue: Robert Brant received a letter just today and will report next month on his suggestions. Organski is asking the Borough to vacate Highland Avenue, there are expenses involved (legal and engineering). Suggested that the Borough ask Mr. Organski to reimburse the borough for any expenses. Mr. Brant said that it must be something to benefit the borough, not a private developer.

 

STREET LIGHTING: Chris Kraft No report

 

FIRE CO. LIAISON: Jim Dull Absent, No report

 

POLICE COMMITTEE:

Joan Giunta No report

Bernie would like Joan and Jim to sit down along with Mayor Clossin to start working on the upcoming contract for Chief Frank Holden.

 

CORRESPONDENCE: Nancy Eppley No report

 

 

 

OLD BUSINESS:

 

Joan: Status on the water from the Authority? Any restrictions coming up in the future? There are residents washing cars and grass being watered and yet the Borough is on a restrictive basis-noted that this is a voluntary system.

 

Tom: Interconnector is in operation, fine tuning going on to straighten out the pressure. Statewide restriction on saving water. As per the Authority there are no restrictions. This is a gray area, but those in the borough and those residents who use Authority water for washing cars is permitted.

 

Joan: The interconnector that is in place is not to supply the users with daily ater but to supplement when the Authority has a problem.

 

Tom: Being used right now because one well is down. When water is needed, Fred Kehs, Borough Authority manager makes a phone call and water is supplied. Water is coming in on a daily basis until well #7 gets straighten out.

 

Joan: Anything on new wells?

 

Chris: There have been no meetings.

 

Joan: Feels that issues should be addressed. Tom has been trying to arrange a meeting with key people, dates are a problem. Chris has had over 30 complaints concerning the Borough Authority, some of which have to be discussed with Fred Kehs. A meeting must be held per Chris and Joan because the residents have been very patient and things should finally be straighten out. Chris recommended that a meeting between the Authority and the Borough needs to be set, no residents/users as yet.

 

MAYOR' S REPORT:

 
    1. Letters that go to residents/users for conservation of water: These go out every year when there is a problem and in most cases the requests are met. Mayor feels that if a restriction is in place, it should be taken seriously and abided by.

 

Sue: If Borough Authority issued the restrictions, they should be the ones enforcing such.

 

Chris feels the issue here is : How should the borough enforce restrictions,

But there should be no restrictions. Recently Chris resigned from the Aut

Authority board due to clarification on some subjects. Chris cited the

Complaints such as the good water is being distributed to outside the

Borough and residents are getting water from the local wells.

 

Joan (additional) (finance)

 

Did review the report from the Auditors for the Borough, and the Borough

Did very well. Some recommendations for improvement and would like all

Council people to read the report. Joan would like to see an Executive

Meeting to discuss those recommendations.

 

NEW BUSINESS: Nothing

 

OLD BUSINESS:

 
    1. Mayor: Street Numbers: Update, a notice was sent out with the Tax bills by Jo Gill. Not everyone has supplied this.
    1. Christmas Lights: Bring everything up to date before the season starts.
    2. Handicap Ramp: Jim called Joan and would like to get prices from architects.
    3. Web page is getting 20-25 replies. Asked that secretary or anyone leave Bill know what events will be taking place in the Borough so they can be listed.

 

AUDIENCE:

 
    1. Nick Matregrano mentioned that Joe McMahon passed away. Joe served the

      2. Borough faithfully even when he was very sick. Would like to see a page set aside in the minute book for Joe. Board has never done that in the past. Suggested a resolution. Nick will work on that.

       

    2. Lisa O'Brien, Mt. View Avenue

      3. Wanted to bring to councils' attention a burning problem which occurred last summer. She referred to the Open Burning Ordinance #267. A neighbor is burning yard waste, plywood, trash, leaves, etc. and she cited why there should be No Open Burning.

       

      Borough has trash collection, Health issues,People had to leave her home

      When neighbor was burning, Fire Hazard, Can't open up her windows and

      Doors.

       

      Suggests that the Borough adopt a NO BURNING ORDINANCE.

       

      Fire Marshall, Ralph Rosenberger was no help to Mrs. O'Brien, said

      Everything was in order and permit was issued.

       

      Bernie will speak to Ralph concerning this problem.

       

      Joan: Can't change ordinance to suit one person.

       

    3. Roy Miller mentioned that Wood Stoves are also a problem.

 

MOTIONED BY SUE KUHN AND SECONDED BY JOAN GIUNTA IT WAS VOTED TO ADJOURN TONIGHT'S MEETING. ALL WERE IN FAVOR AND THE MOTION CARRIED.

 

Respectfully Submitted,

 

 

 

Nancy J. Eppley, Secretary

5/25/99

 

SPECIAL MEETING HELD ON 24 MAY 1999

 

BOROUGH OF SCHWENKSVILLE, PA

 

MINUTES OF SPECIAL MEETING MAY 24, 1999 AT 7:00 P.M.

 

IN ATTENDENCE: BERNARD McCOLLUM, JOAN GIUNTA, E. M. (SUE) KUHN, CHRIS KRAFT, JIM DULL AND MAYOR, WILLIAM CLOSSIN.

 

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: By the Assembly

 

PURPOSE OF THIS MEETING: Chris Kraft feels a discussion is needed with council concerning the problems that are occurring at the Borough Authority in relationship with water. Chris feels that this has now reached an emergency stage and that the Borough must be ready for fire emergencies and the problems that involved the users of the system.

 

Both, Tom Snyder, Borough Manager and Chris went to Carroll Engineering and spoke to a Mr. Height in regards to Mr. Height getting a quick review concerning the Borough Authority's engineer, Acer Engineering in their work for the Authority.

Borough Authority is still hauling water. Hauling because they (the Authority) cannot get enough water through the system from the interconnector through the system to Spring Mount.

 

This problem has been going on for a long time. Questions as to the transmission of water into Spring Mount-single hook up from a very old pipeline. Well #7 is a problem. Also, the increase of residents in the Spring Mountain district.

 

There was a meeting in August and the question posed: Can there be enough water in the system? Completing a loop-2 ways into the system to Spring Mount. Break in Main??

 

It was recommended by Chris that $2,000.00 be spent to do a complete study of the water company's system. Open up hydrants and put a pressure test between each hydrant to get water through. This idea was rejected. This was one of the reasons that Chris resigned from the Authority. Authority not exploring problems. Relying on Interconnector to solve the problem. Interconnector in place but still have to haul water because the Authority cannot force enough water through the mains. If study were done it would have solved some the problems.

Don't know what Authority is doing?? Poor Communication, a real problem with the Authority per say.

 

It is suggested that an expenditure from the Borough be used to pay for the engineering study from Carroll Engineering to do a review of Acer's Engineering work, to determine whether the engineering firm working for the Authority is competent. Chris feels that one to two days work will be what is needed. Entire study will eventually cost $25,000.

 

Tom spoke on trying to identify money that the Borough can loan to the Authority to help them put in a pipeline to complete a circular connection. Chris is hesitant to foster any monies, but wants a better understanding of the problems.

 

Chris wants council to get a review of what Acer is doing, this cannot be dragged on and on. There have been many, many complaints, there is "foot dragging", lack to do things from time to time. Now under pressure, now act quickly.

 

Joan: Who is under Pressure? Chris: Due to the fact that water has to be dragged from one system to the other. Not responding to users complaints. Previously, the Authority said that the Interconnector would not be used, just an emergency concept.

 

Joan: Emergencies? Chris: Yes, that is what he was told by the Authority.

Mayor Clossin: Is the Authority doing things on their own or on the engineering advice? Chris: The Authority has only done 2 things in ll/2 years, they are Dedication of the Markley Building and bought a new lawn mover. Every time Chris gave plans/suggestions the Authority wanted to wait until after the Interconnector was in place. He left the Authority. Chris feels that the engineer told the Authority that everything was okay for water to flow through the system.

 

Jim: Line to Zieglerville is too small. Chris raised this question repeatly. Acer said that is was big enough, Authority took Acer's advice. Chris said that it will reflect on council if something isn't done soon.

Joan: Is Lower Frederick governing body aware of situation? Chris: Doesn't have that answer.

Joan: Lower Frederick approves their developments. One of their members wanted to get on the Borough Authority board. One appointment could make a difference one way or the other.

Tom: Development in Lower Frederick had to be approved based on the Authority's agreeing to give water.

Joan: Authority has approved water to residents.

Chris: l80 new customers. Interconnector not through, not drilling new wells.

Joan: Feels that the Authority is unable to fulfill and users are going without water. Authority is to blame, Chris agrees.

 

Chris: Council approves of appointing and reappointing members to the Authority.

 

Joan: Big concern. Must have adequate water. Council hasn't heard from the Authority on this matter. Chris: No meetings.

Tom mentioned that Sam Schweigert, Authority member has some problems with what is going on.

 

Joan: Problem: The Authority has agreed to supply everyone with water. There are drought restrictions. Residents are restricted using water for certain purposes. Joan never saw a restriction on Lower Frederick residents. Mayor: Yes, they have. Joan: If so, Who polices the restriction?

 

Tom: Problems developed 8-10 years ago. Authority was changed (leased-operating) never fully complete. Regulations never brought up to date. Rules are in existence, no policing anywhere. Joan mentioned PECO, Borough Authority no different. Tom: That was one of the items not addressed.

 

Jim: Water restrictions: "No teeth in Ordinance" The Authority depends on neighbors telling on neighbors. Jim suggested "Meter readings".

 

Who could police: Frank Holden doesn't have authority in Perkiomen or Lower Frederick Townships. Bob Brant was supposed to look into this matter but to date hasn't come back to council with an answer.

Tom disagreed, Bob Brant did have an answer, No charter, Not legally an operating authority, no power.

 

Joan: Need a solicitor here to offer legal advice.

 

Chris: Complaints pouring in.

 

Joan: Before she considers any expenditure, she needs to know where things are going. Again, Chris mentioned that the study on the Authority's engineer would only take l-2 days study by Carroll. Not a full study. Sue wanted to know what this will accomplish. Tom said that more help is needed, feels council should understand what is going on. Joan: No problem, Mayor: Cost?? Tom: $2,500.00 for 2 men l day or 2. Some members felt that this was a large amount, not so per Chris. If answer is that Acer is right let the Authority borrow monies that can be available. Sue: When is their meeting? Jim: 2 Wednesdays from now. Sue: Why hasn't someone from Council gone to their meetings? Jim is one of the members and he has attended their meetings. Two members of the Authority are not satisfied with report and one in "on the fence" so to speak.

 

Again, Chris said that this is a big issue, have to do something. He looked at plans and Borough Authority is the reverse that it should be, Connection-standpipe lowest on their list. Buy pumps and pressure water through. Issue here is How and When does Borough Council act on the problems? Tom: Chris doing research why isn't Borough Authority?

 

Joan: Trucking of water for about 3 weeks. Tom mentioned that it was trucked before. Joan: Every customer is going to contribute to the expense of trucking the water.

 

Mayor: What if engineer (Acer) not competent? No answer.

Joan: Council applied for Infrastruture Loan. Tom has approval for $ll5,000, Borough can used this money on whatever projects it deems fit. Applied for $180,000. Shortened to $115,000. Due to the amount borrowed before. Joan cautioned members, that our main purpose is to remember that we still have another loan outstanding and council is only one half into that loan. Part was to benefit the Authority. We shouldn't have residents paying back two loans. Chris: Water Authority most important. But, he won't go along with giving money to the Authority until he knows what they are doing. Joan agreed l00%. Sue: When is the deadline for the Loan? Tom: Next meeting, papers just came out. Sue feels that there isn't enough time. Joan wants an official at the next meeting, won't approve unless has feedback. Bernie mentioned that we have a time limit on the loan, and it is interest free. Bernie mentioned that Council raised taxes 5 mills and the Borough didn't have to, had plenty of money this past year. Joan mentioned that the Borough budget is from January to December, cash basis. Both Joan and Sue said that taxes were never raised. Bernie said, Yes Tom said that the millage is now down to l mill. Again, Sue said that the Borough did not raise taxes, the county, etc.etc. Joan explained how the budget is run. Can't just pay out,unless Borough has earmarked for project. Bernie attended seminars and disagreed. Joan mentioned that council has 6 months emergency monies in accounts. Tom said that in tax revenues there is $205,000., trash revenues are $43,000.00 trash is a "wash".

 

Joan: How was Carroll Engineering firm arrived at for this study? Chris: It is the Borough's firm. Tom explained the system, and reviewed the history of the mains. Mayor: Is the Borough doing the water authority's business? Chris: We must do something, modify the workings of the Authority by pushing or going away.

 

Again, the Loan was mentioned. Tom suggested playing "Hard Ball". Chris hasn't had any communication on this project with Sam Schweigert for 6 months, but Tom understands that Sam changed his ideas. There was a meeting at Ray Bunt's office. Chris is applauded at the results this problem is causing.

Joan: Urgency? Big Decision? Need Legal Counsel, need documents drawn up.

 

Jim: Ran into trouble with Sam Schweigert at the Authority's meeting. Water rights sold 20 years ago. Joan feels that Authority members should be aware if Council decides on a new study. Fred Kehs, manager of the Authority does what the engineer suggests. Only thing from Fred is won't do anything until interconnector is in, Fred was upset when things didn't get done.

 

Jim offered to make a motion to change engineers. Chris is okay with this, but doesn't answer the questions. What are we going to do about the Authority? Do we authorize this study. Sue would like Authority members at the councils' meeting. Tom: If study is done and there are problems the Borough of Schwenksville has something to back up, straighten out or no money.

 

Joan: There is no written statement from the Authority to act in their behalf. Only verbal. Sue: Heresay. Chris: Bigger issue is What the Borough Council can do about the Authority. Mayor: Not solved soon, prefers another way. Chris: Watch on the appointments and re-appointments. Sue: Gray areas, require lawyer's advice. Chris agreed.

Joan questioned tonight's meeting. She was never called about it. Was she available? Received a letter on Friday. Sue questioned the advertising of this meeting. This meeting is not an Executive meeting. Bernie referred to the Borough code, this was an Emergency Meeting. Mayor: Have lawyer advise us.

 

Chris: Expenditure of this money ($2,500.00) Will be well spent, very, very serious problems. If the Authority is at fault then our attorney will have to get involved. Joan: Does the council want to approve the expenditure to retain the Borough Engineer to review the Authority's engineer's work? Joan: What will be included in this report? Chris: Not sure. Tom: There are the priories-problems and study of the system. Joan: None of the board members of the Authority have come to ask Borough Council to act in their behalf or help. Chris: Some members have interest.

 

MOTIONED BY CHRIS KRAFT AND SECONDED BY JIM DULL IT WAS VOTED THAT BOROUGH COUNCIL SPEND UP TO $2,500.00 TO HAVE CARROLL ENGINEERING INVESTIGATE ACER ENGINEERING (MAPS & WORKS) IN A RAPID FASHION.

VOTE TAKEN: YES: Jim Dull, Chris Kraft

NO: Joan Giunta, Sue Kuhn

DECIDING:Bernard McCollum MOTION CARRIED.

 

Joan mentioned that she voted "NO", Borough Authority did not come to Council.

 

Meeting to adjourn: Can't speak on anything else tonight as ad did not say "ANY OTHER BUSINESS COMING BEFORE COUNCIL."

 

MOTIONED BY JOAN GIUNTA AND SECONDED BY SUE KUHN IT WAS VOTED TO ADJOURN TONIGHT'S SPECIAL MEETING. ALL WERE IN FAVOR AND THE MOTION CARRIED.

 

Respectfully Submitted,

 

 

Nancy Eppley