Public Meetings - Dormont, Pennsylvania

Note: The agenda and raw transcription indicate this meeting occurred on November 2, 2026, but the provided source states the meeting took place on November 3, 2026. This summary uses the provided date. The Borough of Dormont Council held a voting session on November 3, 2026, at 7:00 PM. The meeting included public comments, committee reports, and action on numerous agenda items including the approval of multiple resolutions, contracts, and personnel hires. Key highlights included the awarding of contracts for the Next Generation Playground project, the adoption of the 2027 budget advertisement, and public opposition to an unrelated development project (the "Penrose project"). Consent Calendar - Approved minutes from October 5, 19, and 26, 2026. - Approved September 2026 reports from the Fire Department, Building and Code Enforcement, and Animal Control. - Approved hiring Christian Schulz as Parking Enforcement Officer (start date October 13, 2026). - Approved hiring Steven Christy as a Crossing Guard (start date October 19, 2026). Public Comments & Testimony - KO Cross Country Team: Anthony Semana (captain) and other team members thanked the council for a donation used to purchase warm-ups. The team grew from 3 to approximately 15 members over four years. They presented a thank-you card. - Unidentified Speaker (Penrose Project): A speaker urged the council to vote no on the "Penrose project," asking for a pause until an independent study of infrastructure, safety, subsidies, and school impacts is conducted. The speaker claimed to represent "1,000 of your constituents." - Robert Dahl (Park Boulevard, resident for 37.5 years): Opposed converting prime business property on Liberty Avenue into subsidized housing, citing lack of on-site parking, tax exemptions for new residents, and failure to address parking for approximately 400 cars. Discussion Items - Committee Reports: - Finance (Councilperson Rieger): Focused on budget discussions; action items for advertising the 2027 budget and approving an MOU with IAFF Local 3584. Met with Just Harvest regarding the tax preparation site. - Public Safety (Councilperson Melvin): Noted no new updates due to military service; discussed parking enforcement with Manager Stinner. - Recreation & Community Affairs (Councilperson Munson): Excited to award playground construction contracts. Announced upcoming events: Christmas Tree Lighting (Dec 4), Home for the Holidays (Dec 5), Hanukkah Festival (Dec 6). - Property & Public Works: Working on transition to LED lighting with Nate Tornick. - Planning & Sustainability: No agenda items; will update car plan after budget. - Business District: Resolution for Small Business Saturday; continuing work on parking contract overhaul and potential rate adjustments. - Mayor Walsh: Thanked police/fire for trick-or-treat presence; announced 113 pounds of unused prescription drugs collected on National Drug Take Back Day (Oct 24); reminded of year-round drop box. - Council President Downs: Thanked participants in Halloween. Announced reactivation of Next Generation Playground fundraising committee (raised $24,000 so far); seeking public members; former council member Brian Whitford will co-chair. Requested volunteers via email. - Borough Manager Stinner: Thanked participants in Dormont Street Music Festival; worked on 2027 budget and hiring managers. Convened first pension board meeting. Thanked Nate Tornick for Act 129 rebate program that saved on lighting costs. Key Outcomes - Resolution 19, 2026 (Small Business Saturday): Approved unanimously – designating November 28, 2026 as Small Business Saturday. - Resolution 20, 2026 (Fire Truck Sale): Approved unanimously – ratifying sale of a 2008 Sutphen Shield Pumper Truck to Powhatan County, Virginia for $120,000. - 2027 Budget Advertisement: Authorized unanimously to advertise and display the budget. - Public Goods Funds for Christmas Lights: Approved $1,350 from Councilperson Downs and $1,350 from Councilperson Ventresca (total $2,700) for Christmas lights in Hillsdale Park. - MOU with IAFF Local 3584: Approved unanimously – adjusting working schedules of career firefighters. - Recreation Plan Award: Approved awarding the Borough of Dormont Recreation Plan to Pashek MTR pursuant to DCNR waiver. - Hire Seth Portenlanger: Approved hiring Seth Portenlanger as Community and Recreation Manager. - Playground Site Construction Contract: Approved awarding to low bidder Plavchak Construction in the amount of $1,382,970. - Playground Electrical Construction Contract: Approved awarding to low bidder Allegheny City Electric in the amount of $109,000. - Playground Safety Surface Purchase: Approved purchase through PA COSTARS Contract from Yocca Playgrounds & Outdoor Fitness, not to exceed $250,000. - Public Goods Funds for Just Harvest: Approved $675 from Councilperson Rieger and $675 from Councilperson Melvin (total $1,350) for Just Harvest Income Tax Preparation Service, with an amendment to correct the spelling of Councilperson Rieger's name to "RIEGER." - Executive Session: Council entered executive session for legal advice; no further votes or deliberation.

The Dormont Borough Council Supercommittee met at 6:00 p.m. on October 26, 2026, with all council members present. The meeting advanced several personnel hires, a Small Business Saturday proclamation, the Next Generation Playground bid award, a firefighter work-schedule memorandum of understanding, and the advertisement of the 2027 budget to the November 2, 2026 voting meeting agenda. Council also heard public comment objecting to a proposed residential development in the Dormont Junction area. Executive Committee / Personnel - The council voted to add three personnel items to the November 2 voting meeting agenda: - Hire a not-yet-named Community and Recreation Manager; the candidate has accepted and given notice to their current employer, and would start the day after council approval. - Hire Christian Schulz as Parking Enforcement Officer with a start date of October 13, 2026. - Hire Steven Christy as Crossing Guard with a start date of October 19, 2026. The agenda lists these as two different roles, although the presiding officer's remarks referred to the latter item as another parking-enforcement hire. - The borough manager reported that the finance director candidate selected at the September voting meeting declined the position after a counteroffer; a new formal offer is out, with discussion expected in November and appointment possible in December. Business District Relations & Development - Council moved to add Resolution 19, 2026 to the November 2 agenda. The resolution proclaims Saturday, November 28, 2026, as Small Business Saturday and encourages residents to support local businesses during the holiday season. A council member noted the Small Business Saturday program has existed since 2010. Recreation and Community Affairs - The borough engineer reported that bids for the Next Generation Playground were opened on October 22, 2026. There were three bidders for general construction, and Allegheny City Electric's electrical bid came in within the estimated budget. Bids must be awarded within 60 days, and staff expect to present a recommendation by Friday at noon so council can act at the November 2 meeting. Council voted to add the playground bid award to that agenda. - Councilperson Ventresca offered to split the cost of Christmas tree lighting with Councilperson Downs using public good funds. The council amended its agenda and approved the split request for the November 2 agenda. Finance & Legal Committee - Council discussed the MOU with IAFF Local 3584 adjusting career firefighters' work schedules. The fire chief described the change to a 24-on/72-off schedule from the current eight-hour-day schedule, with daylight employees moving to four 10-hour days. He said the conversion was designed to be as cost-neutral as possible, with some minor time-off increments due to rounding to 12- and 10-hour days. He cited 2027 salary figures of $77,286 current base and $81,157 new annual salary, explaining the difference from the existing 42-hour work week not being reflected in the old number. - Several council members raised concerns: the MOU had not been fully discussed in open committee, the cost-neutrality math was not clearly documented for residents, the bunk-room and kitchen improvements were not previously reviewed, the police department had given up its break room, and spending was occurring while taxes had been raised for a second year. - Staff said the money for the space improvements is in the existing budget and that a fire feasibility study is being pursued with DCED, possibly without an identified partner. - Council voted to add the MOU to the November 2 voting agenda and asked for a memo explaining the cost-neutrality and salary figures. - The 2027 budget advertisement and display item was already on the November 2 agenda. Discussion noted carryover items, the road program increasing 30 percent, and a roughly quarter-million-dollar contribution toward replenishing the rainy-day fund. A council member asked for an updated final budget number from the new finance director; no number was available yet. - A council member requested $1,350 from public good funds for Just Harvest for a laptop, locked storage case, and office supplies for tax-site administration. Another council member offered to split the cost, and the item was added to the November 2 agenda. Property, Supplies & Public Works - The paving contractor, Felino's, plans to mill streets during the week of October 26 and place base and final wearing courses the following week, with the program expected to be finished within two weeks. - The borough met with Columbia Gas about sidewalks on Kelton and Edge Hill; the utility understood the issue and is expected to place the repair on a work order for early spring 2027 rather than this year. Voting Meeting Agenda & Amendments - Seven items were added to the November 2, 2026 voting meeting agenda during this meeting. - The draft agenda was corrected so that action item 10D shows the fire truck sale figure as $120,000, and action item 10E, the Potomac Avenue streetlights purchase, was removed. - Council later amended item 10D to replace the motion to approve the sale of the 2008 fire truck with a resolution ratifying the sale at $120,000, so the buyer can pick up the truck before the next meeting. That amended item was added to the November 2 agenda. Public Comments & Testimony - No registered comments were submitted at the start of the meeting. - Alan O'Connor, 32 Mississippi Avenue, urged council to take residents' concerns seriously and said an out-of-state developer has a terrible reputation; he argued taxpayers should not be forced to subsidize a corporate monopoly. - Jim Kineski, address given as 1462, opposed the proposed low-income housing project, saying he saw many downsides and no pluses for the community. He also asked about sidewalk work and thanked borough workers. - Gary Crummer, 1728 Hillsdale Avenue, speaking on behalf of Joy Smith, described a Right-to-Know request to PennDOT. The request asks whether PennDOT District 11 has performed or reviewed traffic-capacity calculations for how the Route 369 lane-restricted road diet would interact with a projected vehicle surge from a proposed 183-unit residential development at the Dormont Junction Transit site, and what permits, studies, or safety review logs PennDOT maintains for that site. He said PennDOT has until November 22, 2026, to respond. He also noted he did not have a surface-mining document to present. - After council suspended its rules to allow non-residents to speak, Caitlin Needham, 790 Shady Drive, said she opposed the proposed large residential tower. She cited limited street and business parking in Dormont and Mount Lebanon, potential harm to local businesses, pedestrian-safety risks, and accessibility problems; cars parking on sidewalks sometimes force her, as a wheelchair user, into the street or prevent her from going out. - An online participant, Mr. Bennett, was unable to unmute; council invited him to email comments. Key Outcomes - All motions to place items on the November 2, 2026 voting meeting agenda passed by voice vote; no roll-call tallies were recorded. - Next steps: the borough manager asked for playground award materials by noon on Friday, October 30; the MOU cost-neutrality memo was requested earlier in the week; the November 2 voting meeting will be held at 7:00 p.m.; and council announced it would immediately enter executive session for legal advice after adjournment.

The Safe Mobility Commission (SMC) met on October 21, 2026, to discuss ongoing traffic safety studies, speed data analysis, infrastructure projects, and budget updates. Key topics included funding delays for the Peermont/Latonia study, reviews of speed data across several borough streets, and progress updates on the Kelton/Eastmont/KO High School intersection and the West Liberty Avenue Road Diet. Commissioners also clarified the distinction between the TOD project and separate PRT/LRT projects. Consent Calendar - The minutes from the August 2026 meeting were approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were offered. Discussion Items - Gateway Status and Cost Estimates: The commission is awaiting SS4A grant funds for the Peermont/Latonia and Dormont/Dwight studies. Since the grant process may take another year, members discussed using existing this-year budget to move forward with cost estimates. A weekly meeting with Gateway engineer Dan Dyser has been established. The SS4A grant documentation with DOT is moving slowly; the draft agreement is with the DOT administrator. - Speed Data Analysis: Data from multiple locations (1000 block of Alabama, 1000 block of Peermont, and Waynebell) were reviewed. Most streets showed low-risk speeds (under 5 mph over the limit) during peak hours. Waynebell at 7 a.m. had 73% of vehicles in the medium risk category (5–9 mph over). Members noted that the speed data collector may influence driver behavior and proposed testing with a hidden device to compare results. The data collection season has ended; further analysis is expected in spring. - Kelton/Eastmont/KO HS Intersection: The commission discussed the intersection near the high school, which has been through three engineers this year. New engineer Dan Dyser will be asked to review the project and provide updated cost estimates. Past quotes were around $130,000 for major changes and $13,000 for striping and signage improvements. The borough may be able to perform striping and signage in-house, pending legal review. Cost increases were highlighted: ADA parking space bids rose from an estimated $19,000–$25,000 to $58,000, and road salt costs have doubled. - West Liberty Ave Road Diet Update: The commission received an update that PennDOT reached out after three months and scheduled a Zoom call for November regarding the road diet. The Safe Mobility Plan was adopted in September. Members emphasized that the West Liberty Road Diet is unrelated to the TOD project. - PRT/LRT Project Clarification: The commission clarified that active PRT projects in the area, including tunnel restoration and the Dormont LRT station renovation, have been conflated with the larger TOD project. The LRT project involves renovating the existing station without changing its footprint and is proceeding in 2027. A lighting variance for the station was granted by the zoning board. A small curb cut issue is still under discussion, with the borough maintaining no further zoning variance is needed. - Council Meeting Attendance: The schedule for future council meeting attendance was reviewed and accepted: Nov 2 – LG, Dec 7 – CY, Jan 4 – WS, Feb 1 – EM, Mar 1 – LG, Apr 5 – CY. - Budget Items: The commission’s budget was renewed at the same level as the previous year, with SS4A grant funds remaining a significant line item. - Petitions: Two official petitions from the public are on file. Key Outcomes - Approved the August 2026 meeting minutes. - Budget renewed at the same level. - Council meeting attendance schedule approved for the upcoming months. - Directed staff to continue weekly Gateway meetings and pursue cost estimates for Peermont/Latonia and Dormont/Dwight using available funds. - Speed data will be re-evaluated in spring; consideration of a hidden speed data collector for comparison will be researched. - The Kelton/Eastmont/KO HS intersection will be reviewed by engineer Dan Dyser for cost estimates and feasibility of near-term striping/signage improvements. - The West Liberty Road Diet update will be addressed in the November Zoom call with PennDOT. - Clarified the separation of TOD, LRT, and PRT projects to avoid public confusion.

The Borough Council Supercommittee met on October 19, 2026 at 6:00 PM. Council members present: Downs, Favis, Kip, Melvin, Rieger, Ventresca; Councilman Munson was absent due to military training. Borough Manager John Stinner provided updates. No registered comments were submitted at the start. The meeting covered recreation, finance, property, and public comments. Recreation and Community Affairs Committee - Motion to Award Borough of Dormont Recreation Plan to Pashek MTR Pursuant to DCNR Waiver: Manager John explained the borough had an existing DCNR grant and needed to waive the RFP and award to Pashek MTR, then apply for an extension. Council agreed to add the extension as an agenda item for the next supercommittee meeting. The motion carried. - Motion to Approve Use of Public Goods Funds of $2,700 for Christmas Lights in Hillsdale Park for Home for the Holidays: Council President Downs allocated funds for lighting a large tree in Hillsdale Park for the December 4, 2026 event (6-8 PM, tree lighting at 6:30). The cost includes installation and removal. $700 was noted as carryover from the previous year. The motion passed. Finance & Legal Committee - Motion to Authorize Advertisement and Display of 2027 Borough of Dormont Budget: This routine step follows a capital review meeting and legally requires a 30-day public display. Approved. - Motion to Approve Sale of 2008 Sutphen Shield Pumper, VIN 159A1BLD781003051, to Powhatan County, VA for $120,000: The transaction was previously approved pending paperwork; council confirmed the sale. The MOU with firefighters was not prepared and will be on the next agenda. Approved. Property, Supplies, and Public Works Committee - Motion to Approve Purchase of Potomac Avenue Street Lights via Act 129 Rebate Program: Discussion centered on aesthetics and cost. Manager John presented the option as a tenth of the price of alternatives. Councilmembers Kip, Ventresca, and Downs strongly opposed, citing harm to Potomac Avenue's charm and character. Councilmember Melvin noted the cost savings but supported tabling. Others agreed to explore other options, including potential grants. The motion was tabled without a vote. Discussion Items - Councilmember Ventresca noted her public goods funds allocated for a library event rental of the rec center were no longer needed due to cancellation; the funds will be returned. - Council explained Councilman Munson's absence as due to ongoing military training; he is expected back later in October. Public Comments & Testimony - First Speaker (resident and property owner): Addressed severe lack of multi-municipal coordination regarding the proposed "four more junction vertical complex." Cited a Right to Know certification in which the borough manager stated the administration holds zero records, math formulas, or engineering studies on residential flow impact. Raised concerns about a 12:1 student ratio in Keystone Oaks School District and financial strain on property owners. Requested an immediate freeze on contract steps until a comprehensive school district capacity audit is conducted. - Second Speaker (long-time zoning participant): Commented on negotiations among Dormont, PRT (Port Authority), and the developer for the TOD district with no parking requirement. Urged council to protect Dormont's interests during negotiations and asked whether the final agreement would be available for public review before signing. Council responded affirmatively. Key Outcomes - Recreation plan award (Pashek MTR) approved, with extension to be added to next agenda. - Christmas lights funding approved for Hillsdale Park. - 2027 budget advertisement and fire truck sale approved. - Potomac Avenue street lights purchase tabled for further study. - Public comments noted; no immediate action taken. Council will continue negotiations on the development agreement and consider school capacity concerns.

The Dormont Borough Council held a work session on October 14, 2026, to review the proposed capital sewer and liquid fuels budgets for the upcoming year. The meeting covered the sewer fund, liquid fuels allocations, and a comprehensive capital fund proposal including road improvements, generator financing, park upgrades, and other municipal projects. Council members discussed funding sources, potential grant opportunities, and set a timeline for final adoption. Public Comments & Testimony - Helen Kalovich (1218 Oklahoma Avenue) inquired about the extent of Shelby Alley repaving, noting that approximately one-third of the alley had already been repaved. Mr. Dyseroth acknowledged the observation and indicated that measurements would be adjusted before contracting. Discussion Items Sewer Fund - The sewer fund budget remains relatively static, with revenue exceeding expenditures by approximately $4.2 million. The only significant increase is a $154,000 rise in payments to Allegheny County Sanitary Authority (ALCOSAN). - A cost study is proposed to investigate reducing sewer rates while simultaneously raising property taxes to achieve a net-zero impact on residents. The study would be funded from the sewer fund. Liquid Fuels - Highway aid is expected to remain at approximately $205,000. - The road maintenance budget is significantly impacted by rising salt prices. The 2026 salt budget was $100,000; the 2027 budget initially proposed $200,000, but by purchasing early, a discount of $8 per ton was secured, reducing the salt budget by $30,000 to $170,000. - After the salt reduction, the liquid fuels budget shows a deficit of approximately $30,000, which will be covered by a transfer from the general fund. Capital Fund - Generator: Originally $300,000 was allocated for a generator. Council agreed to redirect that funding to the road program and instead apply the corresponding engineering costs to the $1.5 million loan through a retroactive pay resolution. - Parking Meters: $36,000 is budgeted to replace analog meters with kiosks on Belrose and SB avenues along the Potomac Avenue corridor. Council opted to keep this item in the budget despite discussion of deferring it. - Borough Building Air Conditioning: Two rooftop AC units were previously planned at $29,000 each, but costs have doubled. Council decided to capitalize $30,000 from the loan for potential repairs or replacement, rather than leaving the line item at $0. - Video Cameras: $20,000 is allocated to wire the new next-generation playground with cameras connected to the police station. Council agreed this is a worthwhile investment. - Road Program: Mr. Dyseroth presented a $650,000 road program for Ward 4, including mill-and-resurface for 3200 block Beacon Hill, 3000 block Eastmont, Pyrremont, Latonia to Eastmont, builtmore from Beacon to borough line, builtmore from Eastmont to Piedmont, and three alleys (13th, Milan, Shelby). The program also includes $30,000 for sidewalks and a curb replacement program. An additional $50,000 in paving costs can be covered by the sanitary sewer budget through manhole rehabilitation work, bringing the net road program cost to $650,000. Council discussed using stormwater authority funds for curbs. - Handicap Ramp Program: Funding is included to replace deteriorated detectable warning surfaces at crosswalks. - Mobility Projects: $208,000 from a Safe Streets for All grant is allocated for an intersection audit and temporary demonstration projects. - Snyder Improvements: - Manhole relocation: KO United requested $15,000 for turf improvement at Beg Snyder Field. The borough proposes instead using sewer fund money to relocate two manholes out of the playing field at an estimated cost, which would be done before any field improvements to avoid future damage. - DABA field: Dormont Amateur Baseball Association (DABA) can no longer use the school district field. A T-ball field at Beg Snyder needs significant work. The borough could make it playable for $10,000–$15,000, but DABA requests a Pittsburgh Pirates grant (25/25 match) for a DuraEdge field costing $25,000–$50,000. Council requests more information on grant requirements before committing and will ask DABA to contribute to the match. - Pool Feasibility Study: $10,000 is budgeted for a study of the filtration room and pipe replacement. Actuator valves for the filtration system will provide approximately five more years of life while planning for long-term solutions. - Recreation Projects: $1.5 million is allocated for the next-generation playground project. $110,000 for resurfacing of the warm-up park tennis/basketball courts and fencing. Key Outcomes - Council agreed to move $300,000 in generator funds to the road program and apply engineering costs to the loan. - $30,000 was added to the capital budget from the loan for potential building AC needs. - The road program was approved in concept at $650,000, with the understanding that actual bidding may adjust the scope. - Council will obtain grant requirements for the Pittsburgh Pirates grant for the Snyder field and discuss DABA's contribution before finalizing. - The draft budget will be finalized and voted on at the November meeting, then advertised for public comment, with final adoption in December. - The deficit in the liquid fuels budget will be covered from the general fund, and the sewer fund cost study will proceed.

The Borough of Dormont held its first budget meeting on October 7, 2026, at 2:45 PM (called to order at 6:01 PM per transcript) to review the proposed 2027 revenues and expenditures. Borough Manager John, Council members, and department heads discussed revenue projections, expenditure increases, parking fee potential, road program funding, and reserve policies. No votes were taken; the meeting served as a working session to refine the budget before the next capital budget discussion. Consent Calendar - No consent calendar items were present. The meeting was a discussion-only budget workshop. Public Comments & Testimony - No formal public comment period was held. The public was not able to join remotely due to a missing Zoom link, which the borough manager acknowledged and promised to correct for the next meeting. Discussion Items - Revenue Review: Borough Manager John reviewed the 2027 revenue estimates, noting most lines are flat compared to 2026. Key changes include a $10,000 reduction in cable TV franchise fees (from $100,000 to $90,000) due to declining revenue, and a projected $15,000 increase in interest earnings. - Parking Fees: Council members Melvin, Munson, and Riger discussed increasing parking rates from the current $0.75 per hour. Sean (likely a staff member) noted that surrounding communities charge higher rates and that transaction fees from vendors like Meter Feeder and ParkMobile eat into revenue. A proposal was mentioned to charge $2.00 for the first hour then $1.00 thereafter to cover processing fees. Councilman Munson agreed to prepare revenue projections in the coming days. Dynamic pricing (like Mount Lebanon's) was raised as a future possibility, but staff noted the kiosk capabilities are not yet known. - Amusement Machines: Council discussed enforcement of amusement device fees. The budget line was reduced by $3,000 (from $18,000 to $15,000) due to anticipated removal of pinball machines and state preemption on gambling machines. It was noted that the state police and Attorney General's office have issued guidance regarding illegal machines, and a rumored removal is expected soon. - Expenditures: Highlights included: no salary changes for mayor/council; hospitalization insurance increases of 19% for Highmark and 7% for UPMC; police vehicle lease addition of $17,500; police budget includes $63,000 salary increase due to new contract and a bulletproof vest purchase of $15,900; fire department property surplus sale of $125,000 with $100,000 allocated to the first lease payment for the new fire truck; legal services increased from $140,000 to $175,000 to cover bond issuance, TOD negotiations, right-to-know requests, and firefighter CBA; fuel lines increased by $5,000 per department; solid waste fees to be aligned with Waste Management rate increases; public works added $9,000 for electrical equipment; $25,000 earmarked for snow removal; summer labor moved to parks; rec director salary set at $65,000 (interviews ongoing); pool manager wage at $20/hour; parks budget includes kitchen renovation; insurance rates: liability/casualty up 10% for fire and police, but large policy held at $143,000; workers' comp reduced by $30,000. - Road Program and Reserves: The borough manager proposed a $650,000 road program for 2027, funded partly by a projected $200,000 cash transfer and a surplus of $207,000, leaving a gap. Councilman Chris expressed concern about the lack of a rainy day fund, noting the borough's 12.47 mills vs. the 15% reserve policy (which would require $1.8 million on a $12.5 million budget). Current unreserved fund balance is minimal. Council discussed the possibility of a 0.53 mill tax increase to raise $240,000 (since 1 mill = $482,000 at 95% collection). The manager noted that the general obligation note could serve as an emergency buffer, and that the note has approximately $250,000–$300,000 remaining. Road program costs: 27 miles of roads, 10% per year would be 2.7 miles, averaging $1 million per mile, requiring $2.7 million annually—far above current funding. Liquid fuels funds may be diverted to rock salt due to rising salt costs. - Miscellaneous: Facade grant program may be revisited with county partnership; HRC (Human Relations Commission) projects to be zeroed out unless rec director adopts them; newsletter budget kept at $30,000 pending redesign; data processing savings for police software; engineering budget of $60,000; potential sale of extra fire truck surplus. Key Outcomes - Council directed staff to prepare parking fee increase scenarios (first hour $2, then $1) for review. - The borough manager will circulate a revised budget with feedback from council, including potential adjustments to road program funding and reserve contributions. - The next capital budget discussion is scheduled for the following Tuesday, with department heads available to answer questions (e.g., public works on snow removal and skid steer). - Council expects to vote on the draft budget in November and formally approve it in December. - The Zoom link issue for remote participation was acknowledged and will be fixed for future meetings. - No formal votes were taken during this meeting.

The Dormont Borough Council held a voting session on October 6, 2026, at 7:00 PM. The meeting included committee reports, unanimous approval of a consent agenda and six action items, and public comment concerning a proposed 180‑unit apartment development. Council President Downs delivered a proclamation honoring former council member Dr. Richard D. Grubb and strongly responded to public speakers, clarifying that no formal development proposal was before council. (Note: The published agenda listed the meeting date as October 5, 2026; the date used here follows the instruction specifying October 6, 2026.) Consent Calendar The council unanimously approved the consent agenda, which included: - Minutes from August 3, August 24 (two sets), August 31, September 8, September 21, and September 28, 2026. - September 2026 Police Department Report and July 2026 Building/Code Enforcement Report. - Hiring of two crossing guards (Marcus Springmann effective September 21, 2026; Steve Christy effective October 5, 2026). - Acceptance of resignations of Rosa Ellenberger and Joanna Bouldin from the Human Relations Commission, effective October 3, 2026. - August and September 2026 Engineer’s Reports. Committee Reports Council members provided updates from their committees: - Finance & Legal (Rieger): Budget preparation meetings (first meeting October 6 at 6 PM for regular revenues/expenditures; second October 13 for capital review); resolutions for Tri‑COG Land Bank, Pension Advisory Committee, and MOU with Just Harvest; and purchase of energy-efficient fixtures under Act 129. - Public Safety (Kipp): Continued work on Parking Dormont program and coordination with committee chairs. - Recreation & Community Affairs (Munson): Motion for DCNR waiver for comprehensive recreation plan; Dormont Street Music Festival on October 10 from 1‑8 PM. - Property, Supplies & Public Works (Melvin): Purchase of energy-efficient lighting for borough buildings. - Planning, Sustainability & Inclusion (Ventresca): Resignations from Human Relations Commission; future discussion on commission’s direction. - Business District Relations & Development (Fabus): Renewal of contracts for Dormont Village parking lot and parking vendor, with additional revenue data reviewed. Mayor’s Comments Mayor Walsh thanked organizers of Porchmont event, noted the wearing of Kings Awareness badges by police, celebrated Dr. Grubb’s proclamation, announced new executive director of MRTSA, and reminded that Halloween trick‑or‑treat is October 31 from 6‑8 PM. Borough Manager’s Report Manager Stinner reported that the borough budget for 2027 is in “relatively good position” despite cost spikes; budget meetings would follow; Dormont Street Music Festival is Saturday; a blood drive saved 27 lives; pension assets transitioning to PNC; ARPA funds closed out. Action Items All action items were approved unanimously by voice vote: - 10a: A proclamation honoring the life and service of former council member Dr. Richard D. Grubb (September 14, 2026). Council President Downs and others shared personal tributes. - 10b: DCNR C2P2 RFP waiver application for Dormont Borough Comprehensive Recreation and Park Plan. Manager Stinner explained the borough seeks an extension to complete the plan. - 10c: Resolution 18‑2026 authorizing the borough to join the Tri‑COG Land Bank for addressing blighted properties. - 10d: Resolution 17‑2026 establishing a Borough Pension Advisory Committee and appointing members. - 10e: Memorandum of Understanding with Just Harvest to provide space at the municipal building for a Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) site beginning early 2027. - 10f: Payment of $10,559.82 for energy-efficient fixtures and equipment under Pennsylvania Act 129 (Energy Efficiency and Rebate Program). Discussion Items Councilperson Fabus announced that the Dormont Community Garden has been designated a “bird friendly habitat” by the PA Audubon Council. Public Comments & Testimony Three borough residents and one non‑resident spoke during the public comment period. All expressed opposition to the proposed 180‑unit apartment building (“Dormont Junction”) at West Liberty Avenue: - A resident of Hillsdale Avenue cited parking problems and said a majority of residents oppose the project. - A resident of Johnson Avenue supported responsible development but raised concerns about sewer capacity, parking plans, and lack of traffic studies. - A resident of Mississippi Avenue questioned the project’s benefit to Dormont and potential impact on the school district. - Rick Camillo of 67 Clifford Drive (Green Tree), representing the “Protect Dormont Alliance” (973 members), presented three documents: (1) a PENNDOT record showing no completed traffic impact study for the project; (2) a signed certification from Borough Manager Stinner admitting 6.3 miles of storm sewers are unmapped and unevaluated; and (3) a state Office of Open Records determination that the borough had withheld eight financial disclosure logs. He also alleged conflicts of interest involving advisory board members and called on council to reject high‑density development. Council President Downs responded at length, stating: - There is no formal proposal before council to vote on, discuss, or table; the process is still in the information‑gathering phase. - The absence of submitted studies is expected because the development review process has not yet begun. - She characterized many of the claims as “disingenuous, insulting, and ignorant” and cautioned about potential slander or libel. - She also decried personal attacks on council members and volunteers. Key Outcomes - All items on the consent agenda and all six action items were approved unanimously by voice vote. - No action was taken regarding the proposed apartment development; Council President reaffirmed that no proposal is currently under consideration. - The council moved into executive session after adjournment. - Two upcoming public budget meetings were announced: one for regular revenues/expenditures and one for capital review. - The meeting adjourned.

The Dormont Borough Council held a Supercommittee and Agenda Review meeting on the evening of September 28, 2026. The meeting covered a wide range of topics including parking contract renewals, recreation plans, public works projects, and staffing. Multiple action items were advanced to the October voting meeting. Consent Calendar - Accepted the resignations of Rosa Ellenberger and Joanna Bouldin from the Human Relations Commission, effective October 3, 2026. These resignations will bring the commission below quorum, prompting a future discussion on its viability. - Approved the hiring of Marcus Springmann and Steve Christy as Borough of Dormont crossing guards. Discussion Items - Business District Relations & Development Committee: Councilperson Ventresca recommended authorizing the solicitor to renegotiate the Dormont Village parking revenue sharing contract and the Meter Feeder contract, while also exploring a potential contract with ParkMobile. Councilperson Melvin expressed concerns about the value of the Dormont Village contract, specifically the borough's lack of authority to activate the lot for public events, and stated she was "not an absolute yes" without more detailed revenue and enforcement data. Council agreed to proceed with negotiations and to re-engage ParkMobile for updated proposals. - Finance & Legal Committee: Councilperson Melvin presented a finalized Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Just Harvest to operate a Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) tax site at the municipal building from January through April. The site would operate three days a week. Council discussed secure storage requirements for their materials, and a motion passed to advance the item to the voting agenda. - Finance & Legal Committee: A motion was made to approve Resolution No. 17, 2026, which establishes a Borough Pension Advisory Committee to oversee employee pension and retirement plans. Membership composition was finalized based on collective bargaining agreements, including a representative from Parks and DPW. The item was advanced to the voting agenda. - Property, Supplies & Public Works Committee: Councilperson Kipp presented an opportunity to purchase new street lights for Potomac Avenue via the Act 129 rebate program. The current lights are failing and no longer manufactured. The total cost to replace all lights on the avenue was stated as under $10,000. A sample light is being procured for council review. Comments were made about the lights' Bluetooth controls and energy savings. - Engineer's Report: An update was provided on several projects. The Next Generation Playground bids are due October 22nd, with construction anticipated for 2027. Regarding the 2026 road program, the engineer recommended using approximately $150,000 in unused Crosby Street funds to mill and pave Almond Street, Lyndon Avenue, Dwight Avenue, and Annapolis Avenue, omitting Sixth Alley to stay within budget. Councilperson Ventresca noted the need for careful coordination with Annapolis Avenue School traffic during paving. - Recreation and Community Affairs Committee: Council President Downs presented a motion to approve a waiver application letter for the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) C2P2 RFP for the borough's Comprehensive Recreation and Park Plan. Key Outcomes - Unanimous Votes to Add to Voting Agenda: The following items were moved to the October voting meeting agenda: - MOU with Just Harvest for the VITA tax site. - Resolution No. 17 for the Pension Advisory Committee. - DCNR C2P2 RFP Waiver Application Letter. - Directives: - Solicitor authorized to renegotiate Dormont Village and Meter Feeder contracts and explore a contract with ParkMobile. - Staff directed to re-engage ParkMobile for updated terms. - Proclamation for Dr. Grub added to the voting agenda. - Announcements: - Budget workshop meetings rescheduled from September to October 6th and 13th. - The Dormont Colors Car Show raised $1,519 total ($519 in cash donations plus a $1,000 check from former Council Member John Moore for the food pantry). - The second annual Porchmont event was noted as a success.

The Dormont Borough Council Supercommittee convened on September 21, 2026, at 6:00 PM. The meeting covered a condolence resolution for a former council member, updates on the Dormont Street and Music Festival, a proposed DCNR waiver for a recreation plan consultant, joining the Tri-COG Land Bank, establishing a Pension Advisory Committee, and purchasing energy-efficient lighting. Assistant Solicitor Margaret was recognized for her service in her final meeting. Executive Committee - Council discussed a condolence resolution honoring the life and service of former Council Member Dr. Richard D. Grubb. Council President Downs stated the resolution will be put to a vote at the October meeting. Recreation and Community Affairs Committee - Dormont Street and Music Festival (Update): Borough Manager John Stinner provided an update, stating the event is on track. Key updates included finalized stage production and sponsors (Zero Fossil, Liberty, Old Mountain Music), a completed safety meeting with first responders, and the launch of volunteer recruitment. Council President Downs announced that volunteer schedules and social media promotions would be finalized shortly. - Recreation Plan Consultant Waiver (Motion): John Stinner explained that the borough needs to extend a DCNR grant for a recreation plan. He proposed filing a waiver with DCNR to bypass the RFP process and directly award the contract to Pashek MTR. He stated this was the best plan to get the project completed without losing the grant funds. Assistant Solicitor Margaret confirmed that the borough’s code does not require competitive bidding for these professional services, making the DCNR waiver sufficient if granted. The waiver request will be included in the October meeting packet for a vote. Finance & Legal Committee - Tri-COG Land Bank (Resolution 18-2026): Council discussed joining the Tri-COG Land Bank to address blighted properties. Council President Downs expressed strong support for the initiative, describing it as an obvious tool for the community. John Stinner reported that the school district is supportive of the proposal. The resolution authorizing participation will be considered at a future meeting. - Pension Advisory Committee (Resolution 17-2026): Council discussed revisions to the draft resolution for the Pension Advisory Committee. Council President Amie Downs requested specific edits, including changing the title "Assistant Chairperson" to "Vice Chairperson", adding a defined process for calling committee meetings, and requiring council adoption of the committee's written reports before publication. Assistant Solicitor Margaret agreed to incorporate these changes. - Just Harvest MOU (VITA Tax Site): John Stinner reported that Just Harvest accepted revised terms in the Memorandum of Understanding regarding a hold harmless clause and a change to the termination timeline from 10 to 20 days. Assistant Solicitor Margaret noted the final MOU was not included in the meeting packet but will be prepared for the next council meeting. - Energy Efficient Fixtures Purchase (Motion): A motion was discussed to approve the payment of $10,559.82 for new LED lighting fixtures for Hot Murray Field and the tennis courts, purchased through the Commonwealth's Act 129 Energy Efficiency Rebate Program. John Stinner confirmed this purchase is separate from the building lighting approved last month and will result in significant energy savings. Key Outcomes - No formal votes were taken during the Supercommittee meeting; all motions will be presented to the full Borough Council for approval at future meetings. - The condolence resolution for Dr. Richard D. Grubb and the DCNR waiver for the recreation plan are scheduled for a vote in October. - Revisions to the Tri-COG Land Bank resolution and Pension Advisory Committee resolution will be circulated to council members. - The final MOU with Just Harvest will be distributed for the next council meeting. - A special budget meeting was announced for September 22, 2026 at 6:00 PM.