Public Meetings - Dormont, Pennsylvania

The Dormont Borough Council Supercommittee met on April 20, 2026, to discuss and act on agenda items including public comments, committee reports, and resolutions. Key topics included a vape shop zoning amendment, lifeguard services for Castle Shannon, sanitary sewer programs, street opening regulations, and hazard mitigation plan adoption. Public Comments & Testimony - Helen Klamovich (1218 Oklahoma Avenue) raised concerns about a neighbor parking in an alley, creating safety and nuisance issues; council promised follow-up. - Megan McLean (resident, business owner, pediatric nurse) expressed strong support for the vape shop zoning ordinance, citing harm to children and community character; she clarified it applies only to prospective shops. - Natalie (S.B. Avenue resident and Potomac business owner) shared negative experiences with a neighboring vape shop (police incidents, disruptions) and supported limiting such businesses. - Autumn Brownlee (not present) submitted a question about parking permit limits; council referred the matter to the solicitor for a May memo. - Later: Helen Klamovich asked whether the vape shop ordinance would ban sandwich board advertisements for existing shops; council clarified it affects sales, not ads, and applies only to future shops. - Chief Jeff Stack (1125 Dormont Avenue) expressed safety concerns about sending minor lifeguards to Castle Shannon (transportation, handling unruly patrons); council acknowledged and said further discussion needed. - Dana (29 through one Mattern – likely 2901 Mattern) requested increased police visibility in Potomac and expressed concern about losing senior lifeguards to Castle Shannon. Discussion Items Executive Committee - Mayor Walsh requested $500 from the Public Good Fund to sponsor the Keystone Oaks Marching Band for the South Hills Memorial Day Parade, a long-standing practice. Council approved. Business District Relations & Development Committee - Council discussed and motioned to authorize the Borough Solicitor to send the vape shop zoning ordinance amendment to Allegheny County for review and comment. Key changes: narrowed definition to "vape shops" (excluding tobacco/cigar shops), removed percentage formula, clarified prospective application. Council requested adding explicit language that it applies only to future shops and sending the revised version to the Planning Commission. The motion was approved. Recreation and Community Affairs Committee - Lifeguard Services for Castle Shannon Splash Pad: Council debated a proposal to provide a lifeguard to Castle Shannon’s splash pad (May 23–Labor Day). Concerns included insufficient staffing, training timeline, transportation for lifeguards, supervision, and liability. No vote taken; council directed Borough Manager John Stinner to gather more details and discuss at the next supercommittee meeting. Alternative training assistance was suggested. - Resolution No. 9, 2026: Council approved a resolution formally requesting $100,000 in GEDTF grant funding for the Dormont Next Generation Playground Pavilion from the Redevelopment Authority of Allegheny County, authorizing execution of agreements and local matching funds. The grant was already awarded; the resolution updates the authorized signatory to Council President Amy Downs. - Ordinance No. 1659: Council discussed advertising a $1,500,000 general obligation note for the playground. The note includes a two-year interest-only period while the project is completed, then amortization over five or ten years. Council requested that the full ordinance (not just the bank letter) be included in the next meeting packet; advertising was deferred until then. Finance & Legal Committee - Resolution No. 8, 2026 (Destruction of Specific Records): Council discussed approving destruction of various records, including PRT park-and-ride letters possibly relevant to transit-oriented development. Members requested that documents with historical value be scanned before destruction, and that any additional items for destruction be added to the list by the next meeting. Approval was deferred to the next supercommittee meeting. - Energy Contracts with KeyTex Energy: Council discussed authorizing the Borough Manager to lock in market rates for electricity ($0.11300–$0.12500 range or better) and natural gas ($4.28–$4.44 range or better). The broker recommended 18–24 month terms due to market volatility from the Iran war and capacity changes in 2028. Council requested quick broker feedback on whether a longer term (e.g., 36 months) would be beneficial. No vote taken; further information pending. Property, Supplies, and Public Works Committee - 2026 Sanitary Sewer Programs (Items A–D): Council approved motions to direct Gateway Engineers to prepare bids for four programs: operation and maintenance, open cut repair, lining, and manhole rehabilitation. Council requested that bidders provide clear plans for road closures, detours, and communication with the public. - Ordinance No. 1658 (Street Openings): Council discussed a comprehensive ordinance updating standards for street openings, excavations, pavement cuts, curb-to-curb restoration, and bond/insurance requirements. Several questions raised: sidewalk repair timeline (proposed 30 days; council considered 60), designee language, definition of public utility, requiring bonds for all excavations, restoration timeframes for utilities, and insurance levels (placeholder $1 million). Engineer specifications were received late and will be included in the next packet. Council continued discussion of the ordinance to the next meeting. Public Safety and Building & Code Enforcement Committee - Resolution No. 7, 2026: Council unanimously approved adopting the Allegheny County 2026 Hazard Mitigation Plan, a standard five-year update required by FEMA to qualify for state and federal disaster funding. Key Outcomes - Approved $500 Public Good Fund expenditure for Keystone Oaks Marching Band sponsorship. - Approved sending vape shop zoning ordinance amendment to Allegheny County for review; will add explicit prospective language and share with Planning Commission. - Approved Resolution No. 9 for $100,000 GEDTF playground pavilion grant. - Directed that ordinance language for $1.5 million GO note be provided for next meeting; advertising deferred. - Approved directing Gateway Engineers to prepare bids for four sanitary sewer programs. - Approved Resolution No. 7 adopting the 2026 Hazard Mitigation Plan. - Deferred decision on lifeguard services for Castle Shannon to next meeting pending manager’s report. - Deferred approval of records destruction resolution to next meeting pending scanning of historical documents. - Deferred approval of energy contracts pending broker feedback on longer-term options. - Continued discussion of Ordinance No. 1658 street openings; engineer specifications to be included in next packet.

The Dormont Borough Council held a Supercommittee/Agenda Review meeting on March 30, 2026, at 6:00 PM to review agenda items and prepare for the upcoming voting meeting. The meeting was called to order, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance, and included discussions on several proposed ordinances, committee updates, and reports. No votes were taken, but the council set the stage for the April 6, 2026 voting agenda. Consent Calendar - Pension Board Creation: The Executive Committee introduced the creation of the Borough of Dormont Pension Board and the appointment of Councilperson Chris Kipp, Mayor Jason Walsh, Manager John P. Stinner Jr., Assistant Manager Melinda Szabo, Teamsters Local 249 DPW Representative Dan Amman, Dormont Police Association Representative James Briglia, Teamsters Local 249 Parks Representative Joe Garfold, Laborers 1058 Representative Kohl Neagoy, and IAFF 3584 Representative Anthony Shuey. Council discussed this as a committee appointment for the board's creation, to be formalized at a future meeting. No formal vote was taken at this supercommittee meeting. Public Comments & Testimony - [No public comments were made during this meeting. The chair noted that registered comments occur at the top and other public comments at the end of the agenda, but no members of the public spoke during the recorded discussion.] Discussion Items - Vape Shop Ordinance [Business District Relations & Development Committee]: ... - Special Events Ordinance ... - Proclamation 3, 2026 ... ... etc. Need to add sections for the items on the agenda? The agenda has many items but the transcript may not cover them all. Need to include agenda items discussed. The transcript is only a partial (first few minutes) of the supercommittee meeting, covering call to order, pledge, registered comments (none noted?), executive committee pension board, and beginning of business district relations & development committee vape shop discussion. It then cuts off. But the instructions say to use the agenda as source for the summary. Need to be careful: The transcript likely is truncated and not complete. The agenda lists many items; the transcript only covers the start of the meeting. We must note the transcript ends early? The user wants a summary of the meeting. We have only the raw transcript, and the agenda. The summary should be faithful. We need to include all agenda items? If the transcript doesn't discuss them, maybe in

The Dormont Borough Council held its August voting session on August 10, 2026, addressing routine approvals, a major transit-oriented development (TOD) agreement, and several public works and community projects. The meeting included a public swearing-in of a new fire apparatus operator, a contentious debate on an exclusive negotiation agreement with Pittsburgh Regional Transit and Penrose Inc., and unanimous passage of most action items. Council also added a special workshop meeting to discuss the special events ordinance. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes from May 4, May 18, and May 26, 2026; the Assistant Manager's Report for May 2026; the Fire Department Report for April 2026; the Engineer Report for May 2026; Building and Code Enforcement Report for April 2026; and the recommendation to approve summer employees and rates of pay as attached. (Unanimous voice vote) Public Comments & Testimony - James Olchowski (3212 Latonia Ave): Expressed full support for the transit-oriented development (TOD) project, stating that access to light rail has been important to his enjoyment of living in Dormont and that he hopes the project moves forward quickly. - Constance Hildris (3212 Latonia Ave): Spoke in support of the TOD project, noting that while she has heard concerns about the developer, she wants to be part of the conversation and believes the project could be valuable if done right. - Carrie King (1500 Park Boulevard): Opposed the TOD project, specifically objecting to Penrose Inc. as the developer. She advocated for a mix of income-based (15%) and full-market-rate housing to improve neighborhood value and help seniors and disabled residents. Discussion Items - Public Safety and Building Code (reported by Vice President on behalf of Councilman Munson): Discussed additional language for regulating games of skill, the hiring process for at least one police officer, and a surplus personal property action item. - Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) Exclusive Negotiation Agreement (Action Item 10D): Council debated the resolution to authorize an ENA with PRT and Penrose. Council President Downs supported the agreement, noting it is a beginning, not an end, and that it allows the borough to obtain more detailed information to address questions about parking, income parameters, funding gap, Penrose's history, and long-term lease structure. Councilwoman Fabus explained her no vote, stating concerns from the community included misinformation and hostile rhetoric — she clarified she voted no not because of those comments but because she researched Penrose and does not believe they have Dormont's best interests at heart. Mayor Walsh (non-voting) said he is not in favor of moving forward, citing Penrose as one concern, and noted residents clearly oppose even starting conversations. Councilwoman Ventresca called for an open mind, stating supporting negotiations does not mean automatic approval of any future proposal; she criticized the “echo chamber” on Facebook and stressed the need for affordable housing in Dormont. Councilman Rieger supported the motion as the most pragmatic decision, saying there is insufficient data to say yes or no now. Councilman Melvin also supported. Councilman Kipp said he would be voting no based on public comments and information about Penrose. Following the debate, council voted to allow public comments (limited to two minutes, Dormont residents only) before the final vote. Key Outcomes - Swearing-in of Lucas DeWitt as Desk Officer/Fire Apparatus Operator (start date June 2) — motion approved early in the meeting. - Motion to adopt Resolution 11-2026 (TOD Exclusive Negotiation Agreement with PRT and Penrose Inc.) — Passed 4-2 (Council President Downs, Councilwoman Ventresca, Councilman Rieger, Councilman Melvin in favor; Councilwoman Fabus, Councilman Kipp opposed; Councilman Munson absent). - Approved all other action items unanimously (voice votes): Proclamation 3-2026 for Dormont Public Library Day, Resolution 10-2026 for destruction of records, Resolution 12-2026 for personal property surplus, MOU with Castle Shannon for rec share and training, $1,000 mini grant from Audubon Society for a chimney swift tower in Dormont Park, $267.17 public good fund payment for flower art installation, $12,460 award to Allegheny Fence for Pop Murray dugout fencing, MOU with O'Neill Fine Arts Special Services, advertisement of RFP for investment advisor for employee pensions, pay applications for Dell Avenue/McFarland Road and West Liberty Avenue/Dormont Avenue signal projects, 2026 road program to A. Folino Construction ($595,711.59), and Ordinance 1659 authorizing $1,500,000 in nonelectoral indebtedness for capital improvements (including the playground). - Added a workshop meeting: Council approved adding a workshop meeting on June 15, 2026 at 6:00 p.m. to discuss the special events ordinance. (Note: Although the meeting date is August 10, 2026, the workshop date was set as June 15, 2026 as stated in the transcript.)

Note: The meeting agenda and transcript indicate the original date was May 4, 2026, but the required summary date is August 10, 2026. This summary uses the provided date. The Borough Council of Dormont, Pennsylvania, held a voting session on August 10, 2026, at 7:00 PM. Key actions included appointing a new council member, approving multiple ordinances and resolutions, authorizing grants and contracts, and receiving committee and departmental reports. All items on the agenda were approved unanimously. Consent Calendar - Approved the April 6, 2026, April 20, 2026, and April 27, 2026, minutes. - Approved the April 2026 expense report, cash collection report, assistant manager report, police report, and engineer report. - Approved the March 2026 building and code enforcement report and animal control report. - Approved the recommendation to hire summer employees and their rates of pay as attached. - Accepted the resignation of Joe Defazio as of April 30, 2026. Public Comments & Testimony - No registered public comments or public testimony were offered during the meeting. Discussion Items - Appointment to Fill Vacancy: Council President Downs opened the floor to appoint a successor for former Councilperson Jen Mazzocco. Sean Melvin was nominated and unanimously approved by a roll call vote of 6-0 (Councilmembers Fabus, Kitt, Munson, Rieger, Ventresca, and Downs voting aye). Melvin was then sworn in and joined the dais. - Committee Reports: - Finance and Legal: Reviewed three items, including the first quarter budget review (noting winter storm expenses and TAN note payoff) and two action items (records destruction and KeyTex Energy contract). Monthly budget reviews will now occur at each supercommittee meeting. - Public Safety/Contracts: Continued work on contractor vehicle parking and oversized vehicle regulations, and refining language on skill game ordinances. - Recreation and Community Affairs: Discussed pool rules for the 2026 season (pool opens May 23 at noon); a proposal for a gender-neutral family accessible route to the pool deck (follow-up needed on partition height and gap concerns); a donation from the Audubon Society for a chimney swift tower; playground fundraising, including a motion to advertise a $1.5 million general obligation note; and review of the special events ordinance by May 15. - Public Works: Noted May as National Bike Month with events on May 6 (Bike to School Day) and May 14 (Bike to Work Day). Discussed 2026 sewer programs, the curb-to-curb restoration ordinance, and updates on the road program and road diet. - Planning, Sustainability, and Inclusion: Focused on the active transportation plan update; comments due by May 8 to John. - Mayor's Comments: Encouraged council participation in the Memorial Day parade (May 25, 10 AM start, lineup at 9:30). Confirmed a flyover and three marching bands. - Council President's Report: Thanked community for recent events (Dormont Goes Green, pub tour, Dormont Bird Week). Discussed the printed newsletter (seeking public input) and plans for a junior council member from Keystone Oaks or C&Sal. Noted upcoming presentations: Pittsburgh Regional Transit on transit-oriented development (May 18) and Dormont Junction station design virtual meeting (May 28 at 7 PM). - Borough Manager's Report: Final conversion from PNC to Brentwood Bank nearing completion. Paperwork for $1.5 million general obligation note for the Next Generation Playground is underway. DCNR grant paperwork executed, RFP for designer/builder to be submitted. Local Share Account grant will fund playground surfacing, with 6-8 weeks for execution. $100,000 GEDTF grant for pavilion; due to a one-year completion requirement, phases one and two will be bid concurrently. Pop Murray Field renovations near completion (retaining wall, dugouts, temporary fencing; permanent fencing being quoted). Pool fully staffed for 2026, day camp has limited spots remaining. Regarding a prior request from Castle Shannon: Borough Manager confirmed that lifeguards cannot be dispatched to Castle Shannon's splash pad, but Dormont will provide 4-6 hours of training to Castle Shannon staff on de-escalation, chemical testing, and emergency procedures. Key Outcomes - Appointment: Sean Melvin was appointed to Borough Council to fill the vacancy left by Jen Mazzocco (unanimous roll call vote). - Action Items: All 12 action items were approved by voice vote: 1. Ordinance 1658 – Amending street openings and restoration requirements (curb-to-curb). 2. Resolution 7 – Adopting the Allegheny County 2026 Hazard Mitigation Plan. 3. Resolution 8 – Authorizing destruction of specific records. 4. Resolution 9 – Requesting $100,000 GEDTF grant for the Next Generation Playground Pavilion. 5. Advertise intent to adopt Ordinance 1659 – Issuance of $1.5 million general obligation note for the playground. 6. Authorize sending the vape shop zoning ordinance amendment to Allegheny County for review. 7. Authorize Borough Manager to contract with KeyTex Energy to lock in electricity rates at $0.11300-$0.12500 and natural gas at $4.28-$4.44 (2-year contract to avoid market volatility). 8. Approve the 2026 Sanitary Sewer Operation and Maintenance Program and direct Gateway Engineers to prepare the bid. 9. Approve the 2026 Sanitary Sewer Open Cut Repair Program and direct Gateway Engineers to prepare the bid. 10. Approve the 2026 Sanitary Sewer Lining Program and direct Gateway Engineers to prepare the bid. 11. Approve the 2026 Sanitary Sewer Manhole Rehabilitation Program and direct Gateway Engineers to prepare the bid. 12. Approve a Public Good Fund request of $500 from Keystone Oaks Marching Band for sponsorship of the South Hills Memorial Day Parade (submitted by Mayor Walsh). - Next Steps: The zoning amendment will be sent to Allegheny County for a 45-day review, followed by advertising and a public hearing before final council vote. The KeyTex Energy contract will be executed. Gateway Engineers will prepare bids for the four sanitary sewer programs.

The Dormont Borough Council held a voting session on August 10, 2026, beginning with a public hearing on a restaurant liquor license transfer, followed by committee reports, approvals of ordinances, resolutions, and several action items. All votes were unanimous unless noted. Consent Calendar - Approved September 2025 minutes, July and August 2025 expense reports, monthly repay summary (March–August 2025), police and fire department reports for August and September 2025, Animal Control report (August 2025), Building and Code Enforcement report (June 2025), appointment of Adam Jackson and Matthew Johnson as volunteer firefighters, and appointment of Eamon Geary and Nate Tovornik to the UCC Appeals Board (terms through January 1, 2030). Public Hearing – Liquor License Transfer - A public hearing was held prior to the regular meeting regarding the intermunicipal transfer of Restaurant Liquor License R‑19414 from the Municipality of Monroeville to Dormont for Breaking Enterprises LLC (operator of Roe House Theater). Applicant Ryan Lassum explained the theater would serve beer, wine, and liquor (six taps, a main concession area with canned beer, and a full bar downstairs) and confirmed the Lawrenceville location already holds a similar license. Council questioned compliance with R‑license requirements (food, seating) and noted the applicant’s positive track record. No public comments were offered. The hearing was closed, and the item was later voted on as an action item. Committee Reports - Working & Community Affairs (Councilwoman Ventresca): Reported on Bird Town walk rescheduled to October 15, 2025, at 6:00 PM at Annapolis Avenue entrance of Dormont Park; garden planting with Tree Pittsburgh/Giving Grove rescheduled to November 11, 2025, from 9:30 AM–12:30 PM; playground coordination committee to meet October 13 to review proposals for hillside engagement. - Finance & Legal (Councilman Rieger): Budget discussions ongoing; third budget meeting scheduled for October 14, 2025 (capital projects); transition to AccuFund software (action item); MOU for pantry space; performance review procedure for borough management discussed. - Public Safety (Councilman Ledford): Noted that four previously discussed items appear on the action agenda. - Public Works (Councilman Kipp): Safe Mobility Commission presentation on high‑visibility crosswalks; change order for CIPP project (net decrease); concession stand flooring; pavilion and shed roof replacement; 2025 road program updates; thanked Jared Neal for his service. - Councilwoman Fabus: Zero Waste Pittsburgh presentation on composting may appear on next supercommittee agenda; thanked participants in Porchmont event; action item for public goods funds to fund gift card prizes. - Councilwoman Downs: Business relations committee discussed Potomac Avenue work; praised communication model; promoted Dormont Street Music Festival (Saturday, 1–8 PM, Potomac Avenue closed). Comments from the Mayor - Mayor Walsh thanked participants in Keystone Oaks homecoming parade; reminded about Halloween (October 31) and coordination with police/KO for street closures; recognized October as Breast Cancer Awareness Month with officers wearing pink badges. Council President’s Report - Council President Mazzocco thanked public works for Potomac Avenue work; encouraged attendance at capital improvements discussion on October 14; highlighted the Door Free Pantry’s “huge slot machine” at the music festival. Borough Solicitor’s Report - Solicitor Conway summarized two ordinances (Property Maintenance Code 2024, Fire Code 2018) to be voted on; resolution for liquor license transfer; zoning ordinance amendments process (45‑day county review then public hearing); MOU with Keystone Oaks; UCC Board of Appeals appointments; AI use policy. Borough Manager’s Report - Manager Stinner reported on budget progress with Mt. Lebanon; re‑contracting with Fork One Two for concession stand; Dormont Pool named Pittsburgh City Paper’s Best Pool (fourth time since 2022); ISO review completed favorably; Parallax TV show reshoot upcoming; Dormont Village parking lot repaving with new kiosks. Action Items - Ordinance 1654 – Adopted the 2024 International Property Maintenance Code as the borough’s property maintenance code. (Motion carried) - Ordinance 1655 – Adopted the 2018 International Fire Code. (Motion carried) - Resolution 19‑2025 – Approved the transfer of Restaurant Liquor License R‑19414 from Monroeville to Dormont for Breaking Enterprises LLC. (Motion carried) - AccuFund Software – Approved monthly fee of $1,310 to replace Tyler Technologies ERP. (Motion carried) - Zoning Ordinance Amendment – Authorized solicitor to send comprehensive zoning amendment to Allegheny County for review. (Motion carried) - MOU with Keystone Oaks – Approved memorandum of understanding for use of recreation center as emergency evacuation site for Dormont Elementary. (Motion carried) - AI Use Policy – Approved artificial intelligence use policy for the borough, emphasizing ethical, transparent use and protecting jobs and community art. (Motion carried) - Ireland Contracting – Awarded contract for replacement of Dormont Park large pavilion and Pop Murray shed roofs. (Motion carried) - Concession Stand Flooring – Approved Nature Stone proposal for $5,175. (Motion carried) - CIPP Change Order – Accepted net decrease of $17,818.04 for amended contract price of $168,735.96. (Motion carried) - Ford F‑150 Purchase – Ratified purchase of 2014 Ford F‑150 from Seibel’s Auto Warehouse for $26,394. (Motion carried) - Dodge Durango Purchase – Approved purchase of 2025 Dodge Durango with auxiliary equipment for $67,174.05 under COSTARS contract. (Motion carried) - Public Goods Funds – PBIS Shirts – Authorized $2,000 from Councilman Ledford’s funds for shirts for all Dormont Elementary students for PBIS initiative. (Motion carried) - Public Goods Funds – Porchmont Prizes – Authorized $500 from Council President Mazzocco and Councilwoman Fabus’s funds for Porchmont gift card prizes. (Motion carried) Discussion Items - Council discussed the deadline for using public goods funds (must be spent by November 1, 2025; unused amounts roll over one year). - A question was raised about landscaping plans for the Dormont Village paving project; borough manager confirmed outreach to the property owner and noted concerns about non‑native plants. Key Outcomes - All 14 action items passed unanimously. - The liquor license transfer was approved after a public hearing; next steps include state Liquor Control Board approval. - The zoning amendment process begins with a 45‑day county review. - Capital budget meeting set for October 14, 2025. - Public works will follow improved communication protocols for future street closures.

The Dormont Borough Council held a voting session on July 6, 2026, at 7:00 PM in Council Chambers. All council members, the mayor, and the borough manager were present. The meeting covered consent agenda approvals, 14 action items, committee reports, and public comment. Key decisions included authorizing a lease-purchase for a new fire truck, accepting resignations and a retirement, approving contracts for sanitary sewer work, and advancing playground and active transportation projects. Council President Amie Downs addressed misinformation regarding the Dormont Junction TOD project. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes from May 4, May 18, May 26, June 1, June 22, and June 29, 2026. - Approved expense reports for May and June 2026. - Approved cash collection reports for May and June 2026. - Approved May 2026 Police Department Report, June 2026 Fire Department Report, May 2026 Building and Code Enforcement Report, and June 2026 Engineer Report. - Approved recommendation to appoint Abby Branick as Day Camp Director, and Regan Chardle and Savannah Smith as assistant directors, with associated rates of pay. All items passed by voice vote with no opposition. Public Comments & Testimony - One resident spoke, thanking council and volunteers for the Fourth of July events. The resident then expressed concerns about the developer selected for the Dormont Junction Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) project, citing NBC and CBS news reports detailing poor treatment of disabled and low-income individuals by that developer. The resident urged council to consider these issues. - Prior to public comment, Council President Downs stated that false narratives on social media had hindered productive dialogue on the TOD project. She emphasized that all information is publicly available on the borough website and in meeting packages, and that community feedback had been incorporated into questions for the developer and Pittsburgh Regional Transit. She called for discussions rooted in facts and mutual respect. Discussion Items - Councilmember Fabus reported that the Dormont Free Pantry will reopen on July 7 from 6:00 to 7:00 PM. - Councilmember Munson reported ongoing review of parking permits, fee schedules, and cost savings from the new fire truck. - Councilmember Rieger discussed the new fire truck lease and a proposed Memorandum of Understanding with Just Harvest for a free tax preparation site. - Councilmember Melvin announced a business mixer scheduled for July 29 at Back Alley. - Mayor Walsh provided police department updates: an interim director at Merchant, officer staffing (currently 10 of 13 officers, dropping to 9 for two weeks for military duty), and payroll challenges resolved with help from Assistant Manager Melinda Szabo. He thanked staff for the Fourth of July fireworks. - Borough Manager Stinner reported: summer camp and pool operations are going well; a certified playground inspector is now on staff; the new fire engine lease saved money thanks to Chief Stakage; rodent issues in the basement have been resolved; and the Pop Murray dugouts were completed and are in use. - Councilmember Ventresca thanked Public Works for installing a fence at the community garden and requested a pizza lunch date for the crew. Key Outcomes - All 14 action items (10a through 10n) were approved by voice vote with no opposition: - 10a: Approved Resolution No. 13 authorizing a lease-purchase agreement with Leasing 2, Inc. for $673,756.10 at 4.88% interest to finance a Sutphen pumper truck (replacing two older pumpers). - 10b: Accepted the resignation of Assistant Manager Melinda Szabo, effective August 24, 2026. - 10c: Approved advertising the open positions of Community Manager and Finance Director. - 10d: Accepted the resignation of Day Camp Director Kie McCrae, effective June 21, 2026. - 10e: Accepted the retirement of Deputy Chief James Kolesky under the DROP program effective July 5, 2029, with thanks for 26 years of service. - 10f: Approved advertising the RFP for Phase 1 Next Generation Playground construction (as prepared by Gateway Engineers), with an amendment requiring Gateway to incorporate any council amendments before advertising. - 10g: Approved purchase of the Phase 2 Next Generation Playground Pavilion from Jeffrey Recreation Inc. (COSTARS 014-E25-364) for $168,553, purchased early to align with a grant. - 10h: Approved Pay Application Request No. 3 for the Pop Murray Field Retaining Wall to Cronin Enterprises, Inc. for $66,525 (final payment). - 10i: Authorized the Borough Manager to negotiate a Memorandum of Understanding with Just Harvest to use the municipal building as a Volunteer Income Tax Assistance site for the 2027 tax season. - 10j: Approved the Safe Mobility Commission’s recommendation for an Active Transportation Plan cost projection estimate; Dwight and Dormont Avenues were excluded because they are already funded under a separate Safe Streets for All grant. - 10k: Accepted Robinson Pipe Cleaning Company’s proposal for the 2026 Sanitary Sewer Manhole Rehabilitation contract for $49,800. - 10l: Accepted Robinson Pipe Cleaning Company’s proposal for the 2026 Sanitary Sewer Lining contract for $50,010. - 10m: Accepted Jet Jack, Inc.’s proposal for the 2026 Sanitary Sewer Excavation Repair contract for $121,000. - 10n: Accepted Roto-Rooter Services Company’s proposal for the 2026 Sanitary Sewer Televising and Cleaning contract for $77,265. - The meeting adjourned, followed by an executive session for personnel discussion.

The Dormont Borough Council held its voting session on August 4, 2026, at 7:00 PM per the agenda (the agenda header lists August 3, 2026; the provided timestamp is August 4, 2026). Council approved the consent agenda and all ten action items by voice vote, heard public comment on the proposed West Liberty Avenue housing development, and adjourned to executive session to seek legal advice. Consent Calendar - Motion to approve consent agenda passed by voice vote; included approval of minutes from July 6, July 20, and July 27, 2026; June 2026 Police Department Report; June 2026 Building and Code Enforcement Report; July 2026 Engineer Report; May 2026 Animal Control Report; June 2026 Animal Control Report; and appointment of Councilperson Shawn Melvin to the MRTSA Board through December 2026, completing the vacancy left by Mr. Ledford's resignation. Committee Reports and Manager Updates - Business District Relations and Development: Councilperson Melvin reported the July 29 business mixer at Arsenal Cider, held with the Southwest Chamber of Commerce, drew about 25-30 local business representatives. He is assembling options for Dormont Village parking ahead of the next supercommittee meeting. - Planning, Sustainability, and Inclusion: Councilwoman Fabus noted the Human Relations Commission is organizing Porchmont for September 26 and the Recreation Board and Bird Town Committee will host Family Bird Night in Dormont Park on August 5 (registration capped). - Finance and Legal: The finance chair reviewed action items on the TAN payoff, SWIF premium, and Captain Tang's resignation. The assistant manager completed a second-quarter budget review; budget meetings will start in September. Management presented the possible Tri-COG Land Bank participation to address library properties at minimal risk and expense to the borough. - Mayor Walsh: Reminded residents of National Night Out at the fire station from 6-8 p.m. the following day, and gave updates on merchant meetings, the executive director search, and a new ambulance delivery/fleet changes. - Borough Manager: The borough passed its annual safety inspection; building/code inspection of assets was completed with minor issues being handled; Dormont Pool passed Allegheny County's annual spot examination; RFPs for an investment advisor and finance director are being advertised; summer day camp is in its final week; and all federal COVID relief paperwork has been concluded. He publicly thanked Assistant Manager Melinda Sabo. Public Comments & Testimony Public comment was limited to three minutes per speaker; no online speakers were recognized. - Gary Kremert (1728 Hillsdale Ave.) opposed the proposed Section 8 housing on West Liberty Avenue. He argued that introducing a large number of lower-income residents—he cited over 180 units—would create crime concerns, and he pointed to higher crime rates and lower median incomes in neighborhoods he compared with Dormont. - Karen McClellan, identifying herself as representing 'the MS 800 families of our neighborhood alliance,' opposed Penrose LSC as developer, citing its record with Hayes Manor and McKees Rocks (recently voted down by McKees Rocks) and alleging it specializes in resident relocation and displacement. She said the alliance filed a Right-to-Know request with the borough manager and asked when the project will be on a voting agenda, noting PRT and Penrose reportedly plan construction in spring 2027. - A resident named Gina thanked council for the TOD website but criticized it as one-sided, saying it omits zoning overrides, parking and infrastructure concerns; she asked for more transparency and open public forums and urged council to represent residents, not Penrose or PRT. - Leah (1729 Hillsdale Ave.) questioned whether the site can absorb new units and cars given existing parking problems on West Liberty, asked whether business owners were surveyed, and requested annual tax-revenue projections. - Daniel Webb (1229 Kelton Ave.) said he is generally in favor of affordable housing and the review process, citing his past work with Habitat for Humanity Greater Pittsburgh and noting Dormont rents rose from about $860 in 2017 to over $1,200; he asked for detailed analysis of tax outlay, revenue, traffic, and infrastructure so residents can make an informed judgment. - Bob Dow (14 Overbrook Blvd.) voiced concerns about parking, infrastructure, traffic control, fire/police protection, taxes, and the burden of a 40-year tax easement on limited-income residents; he asked for a feasibility study before the developer's deadline and suggested upscale housing in that area and affordable housing in areas already designated for rehabilitation. - An unnamed speaker raised concerns about added sewage, water, and drainage loads and asked who would pay for utility upgrades if 180 units are built. Key Outcomes - Adopted Resolution 14, 2026, adopting the Emergency Operations Plan (10A). - Authorized advertising an amendment to Ordinance 1659 to remove the prohibition on prepaying the $1,500,000 General Obligation Note, Series A of 2026, so the ordinance matches the note and Brentwood Bank closing certificate (10B). - Authorized advertising a public hearing and subsequent special voting meeting for an ordinance to regulate vape shops and update conditional-use and special-exception standards in Chapter 210 of the Development Code; a voting meeting was targeted for August 24 (10C). - Approved payment of the $750,000 2026 Tax Anticipation Note to Brentwood Bank with interest and fees, totaling $765,445.61 (10D). - Accepted the resignation of Captain Don Tang effective July 7, 2026, with thanks for his service (10E). - Approved payment of a previously approved $95 Public Good Fund request for the Flower Art Installation at Hillsdale Park (10F). - Approved a Public Good Fund request for up to $300 for the Friends of Dormont Pool brunch fundraiser on August 9; funds cover pool rental, party area, and admission for up to 20 people (10G). - Authorized advertising the Request for Proposal for Recreation Plan Services pending Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) approval (10H). - Approved renewal of the State Workers' Insurance Fund premium for the Dormont Volunteer Fire Department at $17,749 (10I). - Approved the updated Memorandum of Understanding between Keystone Oaks School District and the Dormont Police Department, including Appendix A (10J). - No council member raised a separate discussion item; the meeting proceeded to public comment. - Council moved into executive session to seek legal advice (not as previously said, negotiation) and then adjourned without further action.

The Dormont Borough Supercommittee convened on July 27, 2026, at 6:00 PM to discuss several committee reports, including a quarter-two budget review, a presentation on the TriCOG Land Bank, zoning discussions on short-term rentals and vape shops, a Girl Scout troop project, an engineer's report, and preparations for the August 3 voting meeting. No registered comments were made, and one public comment was addressed after the meeting. Public Comments & Testimony - Karen (2705 Philadelphia Avenue) asked about whether short-term rental (Airbnb) permits require an application. The council offered to speak with her after the meeting. Discussion Items - Finance & Legal Committee (6:03 PM - 6:26 PM): - Quarter 2 Budget Review: Presented by Melinda. Key points: budget-to-actual variances were mostly at midpoint; engineering expenses were high due to projects like the next-generation playground, but a reverse resolution could capture some costs from the general obligation note; special police services were over budget due to construction traffic details; pool donations reached $13,000 for the clock repair, with an additional $7,500 from other donations; unanticipated revenues from Act 13 (UGWF) and county DUI fines; real estate taxes collected at 94% (over $4.6 million); anticipated large expenses include MMO payments (police: $500,000; non-police: $112,000) and road program contracts. Budget season timeline: preliminary budget starting next week, with uncertainty in fuel/utility costs. - TriCOG Land Bank Presentation: John Stinner presented on blight remediation. The land bank partners with taxing bodies to take control of blighted properties, remediate, and sell them. Since creation, 198 properties have been acquired and 11 sold. Direct costs of blight include repeated code enforcement, police/fire, public works, demolition, and loss of tax revenue (average 17%). A heat map showed concentration along Pittsburgh border. Council expressed support; next steps include crunching numbers for annual fee and drafting a resolution to join. The school district is interested due to safety concerns on routes to school. - Public Safety and Building & Code Enforcement Committee (6:24 PM - 6:37 PM): - Zoning Discussion on Overnight Lodging/Short-Term Rentals: Chief Stack reported issues with parties and noise from short-term rentals. Current code permits short-term rentals (<30 days) without conditions in transit-oriented/commercial districts, but in residential districts they are allowed only as accessory use (owner must reside). An LLC is sidestepping by renting for 31+ days, avoiding conditions. Margaret recommended considering conditional use permits for short-term rentals, which would require council approval. Council asked for a memo with recommendations and best practices from other communities. - Vape Shop Ordinance: Discussed a motion to advertise a public hearing and special voting meeting for an ordinance amending Chapter 210 to regulate vape shops. The motion will be presented at the August 3 voting meeting, with advertisements on August 9 and 16, leading to a public hearing and vote on August 24. - Recreation and Community Affairs Committee (6:37 PM - 6:42 PM): - Girl Scout Troop 71007 Bronze Award Project: Proposal to clean up the dog park, fix fence gaps, install a stick and ball library, make a temporary sign, and add leash hooks. They will raise funds themselves. Council approved proceeding, noting the dog park is temporary. - Recreation Plan RFP: Motion to approve advertisement for RFP for recreation plan services. Edits were received and the amended RFP will be in packets on Friday. - Business District Relations & Development Committee (6:42 PM - 6:43 PM): - Chamber of Commerce Business Mixer July 29: Invitations hand-delivered to nearly every business in Dormont. Council members invited to attend. - Property, Supplies & Public Works Committee (6:43 PM - adjournment): - Engineer's Report (Mark): Updates on pool (meeting with Integrated Aquatics; short-term fix for actuator valves; long-term feasibility study needed because pumps are obsolete and filtration cycle needs to be upgraded from 8-hour to 4-6 hour cycle; staff praised). Sanitary O&M pre-con meeting being set up. DCNR review of next-generation playground bid plans is pending; council requested contact info to push for timely response. GIS permitting software rollout is ongoing; new tablets (approx. $250 each) may be needed for field use but not budgeted. Sidewalk restoration issues on Edge Hill and Park Plan area: Columbia Gas claims salt damage, but council members presented evidence of no salt use; asked for progress by next meeting. - Voting Meeting Agenda Review (August 3): Items added include motion to advertise for recreation plan RFP and vape shop ordinance. Also discussed need to advertise amendment to general obligation note ordinance; if required, that item will be replaced with a motion to advertise. Key Outcomes - Land Bank: Consensus to pursue membership; John Stinner will reach out to Ann Lewis and prepare a resolution for the next supercommittee meeting. - Short-Term Rentals: Margaret to provide a memo with formal recommendations and best practices; no immediate vote. - Vape Shop Ordinance: Motion to advertise will be presented on August 3; public hearing and vote scheduled for August 24. - Girl Scout Dog Park Project: Approved to proceed. - Recreation Plan RFP: Motion to advertise to be placed on August 3 agenda. - Pool: Short-term valve replacement to be done after Labor Day; feasibility study to follow; council will monitor DCNR review. - Sidewalk Restoration: Engineer to provide update by next supercommittee meeting with progress from Columbia Gas and contractor. - Budget: Preliminary budget work to begin shortly; department head meetings for capital requests in coming weeks.

The Dormont Zoning Hearing Board convened on June 25, 2026, at 6:00 PM to consider a variance application for a surface parking pad at 1666 McFarland Road. The applicant, No Net NGO NHAT, did not appear, and after a brief recess, the board adjourned without rendering a decision. The board noted that the applicant may reapply. Discussion Items - Board Chair Liz Baldoni opened the meeting and introduced the application for a variance under Section 210-210C of the zoning code to install a 10-foot by 14-foot parking pad in the front yard of a property in the Residential Street Loaded zoning district. - Borough representative Jeff stated that the applicant had been notified and had dropped off a survey indicating the proposed location, but no further communication was received. - The board and solicitor agreed that without the applicant present to establish a record regarding the required hardship factors, they could not make a decision. - The board waited until 6:15 PM but the applicant did not arrive. Key Outcomes - The board did not approve or deny the variance application due to the applicant's absence. - The board determined that the applicant retains the right to reapply for the necessary permits and variances. - The borough's prior decision (presumably a denial or condition) remains in effect as the board did not overturn it. - The meeting was adjourned at approximately 6:15 PM. Note: The transcript indicates the meeting occurred on June 24, 2026, but the summary uses the date provided in the instructions.