Dormont Borough Council Super Committee and Agenda Review Meeting - June 30, 2025

The Borough Council of Dormont held a Super Committee and Agenda Review Meeting on June 30, 2025, at 6:00 PM. The meeting covered committee updates, an interview for the Civil Service Commission, zoning code changes, and the introduction of a community event called "Porchmont."

Board and Commission Appointments

• Aaron Stetzer Alternate Appointment: Aaron Stetzer appeared before council to discuss her application as an alternate for the Civil Service Commission. She detailed her 28 years of experience in accounting and bookkeeping. Council discussed a potential conflict of interest with her volunteer role in the fire department, which the Solicitor will verify. Her appointment was recommended for the next voting agenda.

Business District Relations and Development Committee

• Potomac Avenue Maintenance: Amy reported that Public Works is planning maintenance on Potomac Avenue, currently targeted for late August or early September. The plan involves closing the street in sections to minimize business disruption. Council requested more defined timelines for the next meeting.
• Hollywood Theater Crane Days: Chief reported that the Hollywood Theater will require street closures on Potomac Avenue for crane days tentatively scheduled for July 14th and 15th to install HVAC equipment. Notifications will be sent to nearby businesses and residents.

Planning, Sustainability, and Inclusion Committee

• Porchmont Pilot Program: Joanna Bolden from the Dormont Human Relations Commission (HRC) presented a proposed community event called "Porchmont." This is a month-long public education campaign culminating in a community "porch crawl" on September 13th, aimed at building community connections. Over 60 people signed up for information at a Pride event. The HRC requested minimal funding from its own budget and minor staff support. Council expressed enthusiasm. A hold-harmless agreement for participants will be drafted with the Solicitor.
• Demolition Ordinance: Kate introduced a draft demolition ordinance to meet Sustainable PA certification requirements and incentivize deconstruction. Council agreed to send it to the Planning Commission for review and drafting before returning for adoption.
• Public Goods Fund - Pool Pass Purchase: Kate proposed using Public Goods funds to purchase day pool passes as an incentive for a Christmas in July toy drive. Council was generally in favor, and staff will work on the specific wording for approval.

Public Safety, Building & Code Enforcement Committee

• Zoning Code Changes - Outdoor Seating: Chief reported that after on-site measurements, all existing outdoor seating configurations on Potomac Avenue are ADA compliant. Council discussed an annual permit application process. A proposed $25 annual fee was debated. The consensus was to postpone setting a fee until the borough's comprehensive fee review is completed in December.
• Zoning Code Changes - Window Signs: Chief recommended increasing the allowable window sign coverage from 10% to 25%, which council supported. Chief will draft language allowing illumination subject to rules preventing conflict with emergency services.
• Building Permit Fee Structure: Chief outlined that the borough is absorbing costs from third-party plan reviews (MDIA). An interim solution was discussed, with a full fee resolution planned for December. Council emphasized the need for transparency in communicating these fees to the public.
• National Night Out: Brandon announced the event scheduled for next month. A rain date will be scheduled for the following week.

Discussion Items & Voting Agenda Review

• Pop Murray Field Retaining Wall Project: Of the ten bids received, the three lowest were deemed non-responsive. Staff recommended rejecting all bids and re-advertising the project with a modified scope. The timeline shifts with a new anticipated completion in the fall.
• Support for Senate Bill 194: Council discussed a request from PSAB to support Senate Bill 194, which would allow public notices on municipal websites. Council decided against issuing a letter of support, noting the bill has little chance of passing.
• Fire-Proof Commercial Safe Purchase: Council approved the purchase of a commercial safe for $5,900 from the general supplies budget.
• Foundations Gallery Art Purchase: A potential art purchase of under $500 from the Foundations Gallery was discussed. Council requested a list of available pieces and prices before making a final decision.
• Communications Plan: Amy requested a coordinated communications plan for project updates. John stated protocols are being developed where all public communications regarding projects will go through his office before distribution.

Public Comments & Testimony

• Property Damage Claim: A property owner on Kelton Avenue reported a sewage line collapse in December causing $27,000 in costs to the homeowner. He stated he has faced delays receiving a claim response from the borough's contractor. Borough Manager John Stinner took his contact information and promised to follow up.
• HRC Update and Resident Comment: Joanna Bolden requested that legal counsel be available for a portion of the HRC's strategic planning session. Separately, she thanked council for a statement clarifying the police department's position regarding non-cooperation with ICE, stating it made her feel proud and increased her sense of safety in the community.

Key Outcomes

• Aaron Stetzer was recommended for appointment as an alternate to the Civil Service Commission.
• The Porchmont pilot program was approved in concept, with legal review of waivers pending.
• The demolition ordinance was formally referred to the Planning Commission.
• Zoning Code amendments for window signs (25% coverage) and outdoor seating permits were progressed for drafting.
• Bids for the Pop Murray Field retaining wall project were rejected; the project will be re-advertised.
• The public meeting adjourned with council entering executive session to discuss collective bargaining.