OPENPUBLICA · PUBLIC MEETING RECORD
Record of Proceedings

Pittsburgh City Council Regular Meeting – June 16, 2026

City CouncilTuesday, June 16, 2026
BodyPittsburgh, Pennsylvania
SessionCity Council
DateTuesday, June 16, 2026
StatusNEW · FILED
Video Record
0:00 / 1:28:10
Transcript — Verbatim
3:16

Mm-hmm.

4:30

Stop it, but Good morning and welcome to the regular meeting of City Council on Tuesday, June sixteenth, two thousand twenty six.

26:41

What a clerk please take the role.

26:44

Mr.

26:44

Cock Hill.

26:57

Mr.

26:58

Wilson.

26:59

Mr.

26:59

Lavelle President.

27:00

Here.

27:01

Six members present.

27:02

Thank you.

27:02

For those who are able to please rise for the Pledge of Allegiance, remaining standing for a moment of silence.

27:08

A pleasure of the flag of the United States of America and to the Republic from Mr.

27:15

Standard or Majesty.

27:26

Thank you very much.

27:26

Our next order of business is to amend the agenda.

27:30

Tim.

27:31

Second.

27:31

All those in favor say aye.

27:33

Aye.

27:19

Any opposed.

27:34

The agenda has been amended.

27:36

Our next order of business is proclamations.

27:38

We have two to be read into the record.

27:41

Councilman Cockhill presents.

27:44

Now there be it further resolved that the Council of the City of Pittsburgh does hereby commend Henry DeLuca, and be it further resolved that the Council of the City of Pittsburgh does hereby declare Thursday, June 18th, 2026 to be Henry DeLuca Day in the City of Pittsburgh.

28:06

Councilman Mosley presents, now there be it resolved that the Council of the City of Pittsburgh does hereby declare the 14th day of June 2026 to be Reverend Hubert D.

28:17

Hutcherson Day in the city of Pittsburgh.

28:20

May we have a motion to approve.

28:22

Amen.

28:23

Second.

28:23

All those in favor say aye.

28:24

Aye.

28:25

Any opposed?

28:26

Proclamations have been approved.

28:27

Our next order of business is public comment.

28:29

I would like to remind everyone of the rules of council of state that comments are limited to matters of concern, official action or deliberation, which may be for city council, profanity will not be permitted.

28:37

After you recall, please restate your name, provide your neighborhood for the record.

28:41

You'll be given three minutes to speak.

28:42

Our first register of speaker is Dr.

28:44

Ronald Lynn Miller.

28:50

Dr.

28:51

Ronald Miller, PhD, USA, Pittsburgh, Carrick neighborhood, Sri Krishna Temple.

28:58

Anybody been there?

29:02

India.

29:03

Mathura.

29:05

Krishna Temple.

29:07

Neighborhood complex.

29:11

India Mathura is the birthplace of Krishna.

29:15

It is in the Pittsburgh City Ally Network.

29:19

We now have more than 100 in that network.

29:23

Mathura Krishna Temple neighborhood is in the Pittsburgh City Neighborhood Network and the World Neighborhood Network, all three of which I founded in 2025.

29:37

Concerns of council include diversity and ally sister cities, but there is not one from India.

29:57

Uh candidate for President of the United States in 2028 ACE and 2085 HC Hindu calendar.

30:05

CGSI.rlm.com.

30:10

Council Diversity is at play in the 9 June 2026 Proc 2026-0603 for Dr.

30:19

Brenda Gregg Destiny of Faith Church.

30:23

Dr.

30:24

Greg said that she was committed to, quote, do the work of the Lord, um, which requires tendencies toward the divine.

30:33

Now the word of God says a man from uh with tendencies um to the divine, pure of heart, harms no one, renounces the things of the world, and leads to liberation.

30:51

A man or woman, I add, uh born of demonic tendencies, shows hypocrisy, arrogance, um, ignorance, and leads to bondage.

31:02

I admire the work of Nicole Bihari, D.

31:06

Roberts in the in the film American Violet, uh, and she was in Miss June 19th.

31:14

Now these are the words of uh the Lord, uh, God incarnate uh Sri Krishna.

31:22

They are the words of the Lord in the Bhagavad Gita, which to more than one billion people worldwide, more than 10,000 citywide in this city of Pittsburgh, followers of Hinduism, it is the infallible word of God.

31:36

Now, if you, as counselor claimants, do not recognize this, Strasberger and Kale Smith have done so in the past, then your behavior is anti-diversity.

31:48

To billions outside the city and thousands here.

31:52

The Lord is Krishna.

31:54

Thank you very much.

31:56

Our next speaker is Valerie Law.

32:05

All right, good morning.

31:57

My name is Valerie Law.

31:58

I am a former president of the Northview Heights Citizens Council.

32:14

As of 2008, to date, HUD has awarded numerous amounts of monies and dollars to replace, fix, or add to the playgrounds here in Norview.

32:28

Funds have never been distributed to the Northview Heights.

32:33

Under HUD Section 310, it states numerous violations that HUD currently is under.

32:42

I have current photos of the conditions in which our 500 plus children have to play on in Northview.

32:54

I am not a professional photographer.

32:56

I've done the best I could to take these photos to illustrate the deadly dangerousness of our playgrounds here in Norview.

33:05

We know that the buck stops with Castor Binion, the CEO of housing that has been there for 15 years or more.

33:13

I've worked with him under my leadership only to be fed story after story, playground after playground.

33:21

None has arrived.

33:23

It's going to take courage, it's going to take commitment, it's going to take compassion to show our families and our children in Northview that someone cares.

33:35

It is enough already.

33:46

From the health department, Mr.

33:49

Mosley, John Fetterman, HUD, Jeffy Molinero, Facebook.

33:55

Who else do I have to go to?

33:57

How many more children have to be injured?

34:01

In the playgrounds in Norfe.

34:03

I ask people to come look for themselves to be able to feel the passion that I feel right now.

34:13

I'm done crying.

34:15

I got a good fight in front of me.

34:17

I'm not gonna stop until ground is broken in Norview for a new playground for our children.

34:23

Let the mayor of this city come up to Northview and brag about a new playground, not all over the city where our children are suffering.

34:33

Somebody has got to say we are all on the same team.

34:37

We have got to stop stealing from our children.

34:40

We have got to show that the power of the purse falls within the people.

34:46

It doesn't make you important that you have power and money, and the children are suffering.

34:51

Somebody should say enough is enough.

34:54

And so that's why I stand here before you all today.

34:57

I'm not going to stop.

35:00

I'm going to continue this fight because it's a good fight.

35:04

And more children deserve better.

35:07

And I hope somebody's listening.

35:10

Thank you.

35:21

Good morning, Council members.

35:23

My name is Bethany Cameron.

35:24

I'm here representing Informup.org, and I still live in Overbrook in District 4.

35:29

Um, informUp.org is a nonprofit providing weekly reporting on city council with each with each article.

35:35

We include a survey so we can communicate readers' preferences directly to council members.

35:40

54 readers completed our survey this week, and all nine districts were represented.

35:44

Number one, on expanding the adopt a lot program to allow uses beyond gardening, such as public art and community gathering spaces.

35:52

72% of respondents support the expansion, 57% strongly, 15% somewhat.

35:59

22% were unsure and 7% opposed.

36:02

A district 4 resident from Carrick wrote, I am extremely excited to see council discussing these topics.

36:08

We need more third spaces where people can exist without needing to spend money, and we need more green spaces and plants, both for human health and for environmental and wildlife benefits.

36:18

A District nine resident from Point Breeze said I support all these measures, but they need to be thought through.

36:23

Expanding use cases for the adopt a lot program is great, but criteria should be set for the uses that most benefit the public good and prioritized accordingly.

36:29

Number two, on which aspect of urban agriculture matters most.

37:06

Number three, on willingness to regularly volunteer to maintain a protected natural area.

37:12

70% will be willing, 27% strongly, 42% somewhat to volunteer, and 21% would not be willing.

37:21

A district six resident from the upper hill wrote, I currently steward a section of the upper hill, full of city-owned unimproved hillside lots.

37:29

It's a magnet for litter and illegal dumping.

37:31

I don't mind volunteering my time, but there needs to be a better plan.

37:35

To rely on volunteers for even more effort isn't right, especially when we see minimal enforcement.

37:47

Thank you.

37:49

Our next speaker is Icahana Hal Malkina.

38:15

I will come back to see if she comes off a mute later.

38:20

With that, we've exhausted our list of registered speakers.

38:22

If there's anyone in chambers wishing to speak, please come forward at this time.

38:26

Also provide your name and neighborhood for the record.

38:37

Here is a letter that I sent to the mayor this morning.

38:41

The subject is deteriorating illegal skate park.

38:47

Rats, vandalism, and more.

38:53

In my letter to you on Friday, June 12th, I said, quote, I invite you to visit the playground in Panther Hollow that is now an illegal skate park.

39:04

I will meet you there.

39:07

This issue is truly a no-brainer when one's dignity is fully awake and then put into action.

39:15

When you visit the playground, simply ask yourself if you would bring your wife and children here to watch the skate quarters.

39:24

End of quote.

39:33

I will show you one, where the rats nest inside the illegal skate park.

39:41

Two, the graffiti throughout the illegal skate park.

39:46

Three, the sites with crudely scrawled vulgar language.

39:52

Four, a broken fire hydrant taken from somewhere in the city.

39:58

Five, an abandoned tire.

40:00

Six, a pile of dirt and brick debris.

40:04

Seven, the illegal skate parks close proximity to our homes, where the noise permeates inside from morning until darkness.

40:16

Our community takes pride in its Italian heritage and clean environment.

40:24

The illegal skate park is antithetical to our values.

40:35

End of letter.

40:37

I also extend my invitation to council members Bob Charlin and Barbara Warwick, who are the political voices and faces for the deteriorating illegal skate park.

40:54

Tragically for everyone, the illegal skate park continues to bring ongoing shame and moral humiliation to this council, the mayor, his administration, and the city of Pittsburgh.

41:12

Tragically, for everyone, the illegal skate park continues to bring ongoing shame and moral humiliation to this council, the mayor, his administration, and the city of Pittsburgh.

41:34

Thank you.

41:35

Thank you.

41:37

Next speaker, please.

41:46

Chris in the blue shirt.

42:10

Good morning.

42:12

Many of you have probably heard about or seen on the news the collapse of 1406 Sheffield Street last Thursday.

42:19

I live directly across the street of 1407 Sheffield Street and have called Manchester my home for over 70 years.

42:26

I heard the building give way and watched it fall onto the neighboring property.

42:31

I'm here today because I'm concerned not only about that building, but about the growing number of vacant and vandalized properties throughout Manchester.

42:40

That sheet that I've provided shows issues challenging many of us are challenged in our neighborhoods.

42:47

Manchester's historic institutions, religious facilities, educational, residential properties.

42:54

These properties are important to the part of our neighborhood's history, identity, and many now are threatened or at risk.

43:00

You will hear repeatedly public agencies, including the City of Pittsburgh, the Urban Redevelopment Authority, the Housing Authority, the School District of Parking Authority, and many others own parcels of land in Manchester, approximately 254, valued at 25.6 million.

43:18

Fifteen nonprofits own land in Manchester.

43:22

110 parcels valued at 16.2 million.

43:25

The information comes from research conducted by Dr.

43:28

Dan Holland at Carnegie Mellon University in collaboration with my organization, Manchester Friends and Colleagues.

43:36

I'm here today speaking from our organization and those who affiliate with us.

43:42

When such a large share of neighborhood property is owned by public agencies and nonprofit organizations, it raises important questions about the stewardship, investment, and long-term planning.

43:53

Many properties have remained vacant for years, and some have become deteriorated to the point that they pose safety hazards and concerns for the residents.

44:01

On June 9th, I attended the City of Pittsburgh Neighborhood Planning Meeting, and at the end of the meeting, residents were asked by CJ Thorpe, Community Affairs Liaison, and Cory Buckner, Supervisor of Community Affairs, what question do you most want the city to help resolve?

44:17

The answer was simple.

44:20

How many vacant buildings and lots does the city own in Pittsburgh's 90 neighborhoods?

44:24

What is the economic development strategy for these properties in this neighborhood?

44:28

Councilman Lavell, Manchester residents want to be part of the solution.

44:32

We would welcome the opportunity to work with you and other stakeholders to develop a practical financial plan of restoring historic buildings and returning vacant properties to productive use and preserving the neighborhood that so many of us love.

44:46

Thank you.

44:48

Thank you.

44:49

Thank you.

44:50

Next speaker, please.

44:58

Good morning.

45:00

My name is Maddie Williams.

45:01

I'm from Manchester.

45:03

My name is Maddie Williams.

45:05

I am mayor of Sheffield Street.

45:09

At least Ed Gainey said that.

45:11

And my neighbors call me that.

45:14

I lived in Manchester most of my life.

45:17

I remember when folks sat on their porches, when children played outside, and when Manchester was a place where people seeking affordable housing and we're proud to call home.

45:31

That's not what I'm seeing now.

45:34

Last Thursday, I mean last Thursday, June 11th, a building on the street on my street collapsed.

45:29

1406 Sheffield Street.

45:44

I live one block away.

45:46

I heard it fall.

45:47

I felt in my chest.

45:50

Thank God nobody got hurt.

45:53

But the families next door at 1410 was displaced when the when the house fell.

46:02

Here is made me angry.

46:05

The building was condemned by the city in 2017.

46:11

Nine years, you all, nine years is set there rotting while the city did nothing.

46:19

When it finally collapsed, it took the families homes with it.

46:24

That would kill, couldn't have killed, could have killed someone.

46:29

When the city condemned a building, that was supposed to mean something.

46:34

A piece of paper in a file cabinet doesn't keep us safe.

46:39

The city has a responsibility to enforce its codes to help our community fix up our historical buildings before they become death traps.

46:51

Manchester is where historic preservations started in Allegheny County.

46:58

These buildings are part of who we are.

47:01

If we don't protect them, we lose our his history and identity.

47:07

Back in April, we reached out to Council President Lavelle about the city's 25.6 million in vacant properties in Manchester.

47:19

We asked for a meeting.

47:24

So here I am.

47:27

And what I am asking.

47:30

Councilman Daniel LaVelle.

47:34

Please respond to our letter and telephone calls.

47:38

Revest in our historic neighborhoods.

47:41

Work with us to preserve what makes Manchester special.

47:46

Work with us to inspect every vacant and condemned property in Manchester now.

47:53

With communities, preservation groups, together, we can develop a plan, enforce the code.

48:00

We thank you.

48:03

God bless y'all.

48:05

Thank you.

48:06

Next speaker, please.

48:13

Good morning.

48:14

My name is Arthur Kasowski.

48:16

I live at 1334 Pennsylvania, which is right around the corner from the building that we're talking about that collapsed.

48:24

I've lived in Manchester for eight years.

48:38

As Maddie mentioned, uh a group of us asked uh Councilman Lavelle to meet with us and uh to help us develop a plan for what to do with the uh real estate in the neighborhood.

48:52

We have not heard back in in two months.

48:54

As you all know, Manchester's Pittsburgh's largest nationally recognized registered historic district, and um here are some facts that uh that the neighborhood has developed.

49:07

Manchester is composed of 1477 real estate parcels.

49:11

Only one-third of those are owned by people who live in the neighborhood.

49:16

There are 50 owners, including government agencies, corporations, nonprofits, and private investors who control 40% of the properties in Manchester.

49:27

They also control more than half of the vacant land and 45% of the property value.

49:33

The largest of those uh property owners is the city of Pittsburgh.

49:38

There are 95 tax delinquent properties among those uh that are that are owned by these 50 owners, and uh over 400,000 of liens are owed on those properties.

49:52

So the bottom line is much of Manchester is owned by people who do not live in the neighborhood, and many of those people, including the city of Pittsburgh, most prominently are not meeting their responsibilities.

49:59

As a neighborhood, we have a plan, but our plan does not include a financial strategy for restoring vacant land or uh abandoned buildings and bring property back to productive uses.

50:20

There's no dedicated funding for affordable housing, and uh there's no way to right now, there's no plan to put all of these properties to to productive use, particularly the properties that are owned by the city of Pittsburgh.

50:34

So, Councilman Novell, uh, our neighborhood, we've done our research.

50:39

We know what properties are there, we know what properties are owned by the city, and we know what opportunities exist in our neighborhood.

50:46

We are simply asking for a meeting.

50:49

Let's please sit down together to create a realistic financial plan to put these properties back to work for the people of Manchester and the City of Pittsburgh.

50:59

We deserve and expect a response, and we hope to hear from you soon.

51:03

Thank you.

51:06

Thank you.

51:07

Next speaker, please, good morning.

51:17

Rick Smith, North Othing District 8, talking about resolution 2026 586, which was introduced last week and will be discussed tomorrow.

51:29

Um, that it's 46,000 to continue access to the geocycloramas that have been paid for already.

51:39

And so questions about what are the alternatives, what if they go out of business, what if their systems are offline, what if the end of the contract is met, and then and then what?

51:49

Like what's what's the next step?

51:51

Um, I went to try to look up open uh in open book, and there was no cyclamedia found, so I I don't really have access to what the current contract is.

52:03

In addition to that, um, to be able to there's there's a lot of discussions that come before you relating to software and renewals, and to be able to add a rationale to the resolution, for example, in resolution 411 discussed at the 513 um standing committee meeting, um, councilmember Strasberger's question to acting director Price about um why, you know, the parameters around this, what's the rationale?

52:37

And she said OMB was in discussion with INP to develop a alternative budget simulating program in-house, and that's why they were only going for a one-year extension.

52:47

So, what's the rationale for this contract with Cyclamedia in resolution 586?

52:54

Also, risks associated with that.

52:57

Controller Heisler last night in the public school system policy meeting, was talking of single and sole source vendors, and she gave an example of this one system they're using and how difficult it would be to replace.

53:12

How many other systems would be difficult to replace that the city is using, and what kind of risk is the city taking on if those systems go out of business offline or the prices jack during extension?

53:26

So, in summary, I encourage discuss 586 tomorrow, uh, add rationales to the resolution, and illuminate the risks and mitigations.

53:34

Thank you.

53:38

Thank you.

53:39

Next speaker, please.

53:52

Good morning.

53:52

My name is Yvonne F.

53:54

Brown.

53:54

I live at uh 715 Marshall Street, that's KB World's towers in the Hill District.

54:02

Um I wanted to say something to the lady that spoke about Northview Heights.

54:08

That's where most of my family lives.

54:10

My sister was Beverly Hunter, who died a couple years ago.

54:14

I know you knew Beverly in Stanley Lowe.

54:17

I know you knew my sister.

54:18

She was um a little bit different from me.

54:22

Um, she was a little louder, whether you believe it or not.

54:26

But Norfew has been for years just not given the things that they should have been.

54:29

Even Beverly, my sister came down to speak about Norfe.

54:39

But what I wanted to speak about is I've been coming down and trying to explain about the elected official, Mr.

54:48

Watson to Witt Watson.

54:50

Years, years ago, this is about 2018.

54:55

I came down to City Council.

54:58

No, I'm sorry, it would be like 2014.

55:02

To 13, my husband moved his brother Lenny, moved him into Katie Worth tires.

55:09

And I drove my daughter's furniture and her truck to Atlanta.

55:13

When I came back, he was there in that building.

55:18

I have spoken to Kaylee Irvist.

55:21

K.

55:22

Lee were Irving, a lot of you don't know.

55:24

He was the uh at one time, uh district attorney.

55:29

He had two master's degrees, and he also fought for that building for the poor people.

55:37

Now the reason why I'm I'm coming down because I've had this politician who actually run in my face screaming at me.

55:47

I thought he was gonna attack me.

55:50

Um at County Council, almost made me afraid to go to County Council.

55:56

But I went to the one of the uh um Sergeant of Arms, but those are um those are state policemen.

56:07

Anyway, I told him if you see him running up on me again, take him down.

56:12

There's a big tall policeman.

56:15

He assured me that he would.

56:16

Because I'm gonna still keep going to County Council to try to get what we need.

56:22

Now, the problem I'm having is that that councilman, Mr.

56:27

LaVelle, you told me to go to County Council when I said we needed a bus to go down to the bottom of the hill from KB River Irving instead of two buses and have to come to get to the hospital.

56:40

You just have to excuse me today.

56:41

This weather and then I have asthma, and it's really bothered me.

56:45

But I'm determined that you must hear what the problems are.

56:51

My father taught me a long time ago.

56:53

If you don't know, we can't correct it.

57:03

Yes, sir.

57:04

Next speaker.

57:12

My name's Anthony Williams.

57:14

Um I didn't come here to speak, and when I'm here, I normally don't come to City Council only when compelled.

57:22

I heard the lady's speech when I was looking for Mr.

57:26

Mosley.

57:27

Councilman Mosley.

57:29

Good to see you again.

57:30

I hope your father's well.

57:34

Uh council men and women.

57:38

I hope your families are well.

57:41

Uh.

57:46

I do this every time.

57:48

And I apologize.

57:50

But your job is hard.

57:53

I say this every time.

57:55

I would not want your job.

57:57

I could not do your job.

58:00

I don't know how long you people have been serving, but I remember you, sir.

58:07

I knew your father before I met you at the ceremony in Homewood.

58:14

Uh complaints, uh, problems to solve.

58:20

That's a job.

58:22

Complaining is a job, but you have to learn how to complain.

58:27

You have to learn how to communicate.

58:30

I'm learning.

58:31

I'm not a politician.

58:33

I've been asked to be representative of what?

58:37

I'm I can hardly represent myself.

58:41

Only in the name of God.

58:42

But I'll say this in closing.

58:44

The new administration is beautiful.

58:48

The old administration was wonderful.

58:51

Let's see what communication and work can do.

58:56

Uh my blessings to you all, the executive branch of the mayor's office, senators, all politicians be well and do good.

58:59

God bless you all.

59:16

Thank you.

59:17

Next speaker, please.

59:22

Good morning, special agent sunshine, the missing child, Cerese Taylor.

59:29

Thank you, Lord, for exposing and destroying every oppressor in the world in Jesus' name.

59:38

We still being oppressed, y'all.

59:41

2026.

59:42

Martin Luther King is turned over in his grave.

59:45

Everybody that marched with him as well.

59:48

See all of y'all.

59:49

Do you think they can't come out to grave and choke some of y'all?

59:54

You don't think.

59:56

When steps that flying cross the room in your homes, don't wonder why or who's doing it.

1:00:03

In Jesus' name.

1:00:05

Because they're not playing with y'all.

1:00:07

Just cause you can't see people who ain't here no more.

1:00:12

Don't mean they ain't here no more.

1:00:16

I've been here before.

1:00:18

Praise God who choosing me to be here at this time to bring the truth.

1:00:25

And the truth is the title of my message.

1:00:28

God gives us gifts to invest with his kingdom.

1:00:33

One of mine is I'm in 1981 CC dance, CCAC dance instructor.

1:00:39

And I'm looking for dancers for my project, a night in Sunshine.

1:00:45

A night of sunshine.

1:00:46

Excuse me.

1:00:47

A day of sunshine.

1:00:48

A day of jazz with sunshine.

1:00:51

I need background dancers, singers.

1:00:55

I'm doing fashion shows.

1:00:57

Whatever you got, bring it.

1:00:59

Especially these children.

1:01:01

The younger they are.

1:01:02

Eight-year-olds when they put on a dress, it's something about it.

1:01:06

When an eight-year-old, ten-year-old put on a suit, it's something about it.

1:01:11

Come to Northside on Sundays to Harvest Street Mission.

1:01:16

That's where I'm supporting vocally.

1:01:18

I'm a female vocalist as well.

1:01:21

And I'm a public speaker.

1:01:22

Imagine that.

1:01:23

Up here preaching, praise God.

1:01:27

Woo!

1:01:28

Thank you, Lord, for using me as a vessel.

1:01:31

Warning to rich oppressors.

1:01:33

James 5, chapter 5, verse 1 through 6 and 20.

1:01:38

Now listen, you rich people.

1:01:42

Weep and well because of the misery that is coming upon you.

1:01:45

Your wealth has rotted, and moths have eaten your clothes.

1:01:49

Your gold and silver are corroded.

1:01:51

Their corrosion will testify against you and eat your flesh like fire.

1:01:56

You have held well in the last days.

1:02:01

Look, the wages you failed to pay.

1:02:05

The workmen who moved your fields are crying out against you.

1:02:10

The cries of the harvesters have reached the ears of the Lord Almighty.

1:02:13

You have lived on earth in luxury and self-indulgent.

1:02:17

You have fattened yourselves in the day of slaughter.

1:02:20

You have condemned and murdered innocent men who were not opposing you.

1:02:24

Thank you.

1:02:28

Thank you very much.

1:02:31

Thank you very much.

1:02:37

Next speaker, please.

1:02:40

Next speaker, please.

1:02:46

Good morning.

1:02:47

My name is Iris Goshe Rudolph.

1:02:51

The reason that I'm here is because I need some help and guidance.

1:02:55

And I understand the plight of having a vacant house.

1:02:59

I live in Manchester, and a long time ago, far away, I had one.

1:03:03

But the squeaky wheel is what gets oiled because I finally got the vacant house torn down, which had uh kids uh step setting fire to it, they had um raccoons, bats, etc.

1:03:17

So that's so you just have to keep pursuing it.

1:03:20

But the reason that I'm here today is because that vacant lot now has been um bought by an organization, and there's a contractor, the contractor, and I have multiple pictures of what the contractor has done to my house, my property, uh tore down my fence, and I need help.

1:03:46

I've tried to contact um Michelle Walker trying to find a coder because I'm concerned that this gentleman is now going to try to take over property that belongs to me and use it for the neighbor because he's already infringed 1200 times.

1:04:05

I have pictures from last June all the way up till this June, and so I just need help.

1:04:11

And who am I supposed to contact?

1:04:13

I um tried to get a hold of a gentleman uh Joseph Leopold.

1:04:20

I have a letter that's going to Mr.

1:04:24

Brian Wirtz, who is a um inspector, but Mr.

1:04:29

Warts seemed to side with the contractor when we met a few weeks ago and told me I should have called the police and just had the man put off.

1:04:38

Well, I can show you how much damage he's done.

1:04:41

I can't stand out and police it every time he comes.

1:04:44

He even put a port a potty on the back of my property.

1:04:49

So I'm just saying I need help.

1:04:52

I need somebody that's gonna tell me who's gonna help me on my side because I can't find them.

1:04:59

And trying to go through that list of city of Pittsburgh, it's been very hard, and I've worked at it.

1:05:06

I just need help.

1:05:08

Ma'am, ma'am.

1:05:09

Excuse me.

1:05:10

So who am I gonna see?

1:05:12

If you would leave your name and number on the document that you have and give it to the clerk here, we can then follow up.

1:05:18

Okay, thank you.

1:05:20

Thank you.

1:05:22

Next speaker, please.

1:05:26

Next speaker, please.

1:05:28

Seeing no further speakers, we'll move to the presentation of papers beginning with Councilman Charlotte and Sherry Human Resources.

1:05:34

Good morning, Mr.

1:05:35

President.

1:05:35

Good morning.

1:05:51

Councilperson Robert Sharland presents Bill 611 resolution authorizing the mayor, the director of the Department of Human Resources and Civil Service, and the director of the Department of Public Safety to enter into an agreement or agreements with partner for work for operation and administration of the Learn and Earn Summer Summer Youth Employment Program at a total cost not to exceed one million dollars over one year.

1:06:24

Thank you, Mr.

1:06:25

President.

1:06:33

Councilman Anthony Coghill presents Bill 612 resolution authorizing pursuant to chapter 210 of the city code, the mayor and the director of the Department of Public Safety to accept a donation from King Street Productions Inc.

1:06:49

of office furniture valued at 10,190.95 cents for the public safety administration office, and Councilwoman Gross, Chair of Innovation Performance Asset Management and Technology.

1:07:03

None of the papers, Mr.

1:07:04

President, and Councilman Mosley, Chair of Intergovernmental Educational Affairs.

1:07:09

Thank you, Mr.

1:07:10

President.

1:07:10

Thank you, Madam Clerk.

1:07:17

Councilman Kahari Mosley presents Bill 606 resolution requesting the approval of an intermunicipal transfer of a liquor license from McCrossins Landing Pub LLC to the applicant Silver Ashes Hospitality Group LLC, located at 728 Copeland Street, Pittsburgh 15232, pursuant pursuant to amended Pennsylvania Liquor Code 44 461.

1:07:47

Bill 608.

1:07:49

Resolution amending resolution number 857 of 2023.

1:07:54

Effective December 27th, 2023, entitled Resolution Adopting and Approving the 2024 Capital Budget, the proposed 2024 Community Development Program, and the 2024 through 2029 capital improvement program by transferring $31,508.90 from neighborhood initiatives fund to slope failure remediation.

1:08:20

And Bill 613.

1:08:22

Resolution adopting plan revision to the City of Pittsburgh's official sewage facilities plan for Simmons Residential Development at 5429 Dunmoyle Street at no cost to the city.

1:08:41

Thank you, Council President.

1:08:42

Thank you.

1:08:50

Councilman Kim Salonetro presents Bill 609, ordinance amending the Pittsburgh Code, Title IX, Zoning Code, Article 1, Introduction and Establishment, Section 90203 Zoning Map to Rezone Parcels 1 P 28, 29, 36, 40, 40, 40 1, 40 102, 40 103, 40 104, 54, 42, 43, 44, and 4B 130-01 from the GPRA Grandview Public Realm Sub District A to RMU residential mixed use and to amend the height map for those parcels in the Mount Washington neighborhood.

1:09:42

Bill 615 resolution authorizing the mayor, the director of the Office of Management and Budget, and the Director of the Department of Public Works to enter into an agreement or agreements with the Pennsylvania Department of Aging for the purpose of receiving grant funds in the amount not to exceed $40,000 to install flooring at the Homewood Healthy Active Living Center.

1:10:07

Bill 616 resolution providing for a reimbursement agreement or agreements with the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation for costs associated with the preliminary design phase for the Corless Tunnel Project and providing for the payment of cost thereof not to exceed $1 million, reimbursable at 80%, and the municipal share of commonwealth incurred costs at a cost to the City of Pittsburgh not to exceed $10,000.

1:10:35

Bill 617, resolution providing for an agreement or agreements with STV Incorporated for costs associated with the preliminary engineering phase of the East Sycamore Street Bridge Project, providing for the payment of the cost thereof not to exceed 384,501.50, reimbursable at 100%.

1:11:01

Bill 618.

1:11:03

Resolution providing for an agreement or agreements with STV Incorporated for costs associated with the preliminary and engineering phase of the McCartle Bridge over East Sycamore Project, providing for the payment of the costs thereof not to exceed 378,345.04 cents, reimbursable at 100%.

1:11:26

Bill 619, resolution authorizing acceptance by the City of Pittsburgh of the dedication of a portion of lot and block 10N 357 and Bill 636.

1:11:41

Resolution authorizing the mayor and Director of Finance to enter into a cooperation agreement with the Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh regarding the library's use of $400,000 in Keystone Recreation, Keystone Recreation Park and Conservation Grant Monies for the Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh for the replacement of the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning and roofing systems at the Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh's Squill Hill Branch.

1:12:10

Thank you.

1:12:11

I want to return to Councilwoman Salonetra.

1:12:14

Yes, I need to make a motion to waive rule A to place Bill 2026 60609 on Wednesday's standing committee agenda.

1:12:22

Second.

1:12:23

All those in favor say aye.

1:12:24

Aye.

1:12:25

Any opposed?

1:12:25

Bill 609 will be on tomorrow's standing committee agenda.

1:12:28

Thank you.

1:12:28

Thank you.

1:12:28

That moves us to Councilman Warwick, Chair of Recreation Youth and Senior Services.

1:12:28

Thank you, Mr.

1:12:29

President.

1:12:44

Oh, I forgot.

1:12:45

All right.

1:12:47

Councilwoman Barbara Warwick presents Bill 643.

1:12:51

Resolution authorizing the mayor, the director of the Office of Management and Budget, and the Director of the Department of Parks and Recreation to issue requests for proposal for social services programming at the Bergwin Recreation Center and to enter into an agreement or agreements with qualified providers at a cost not to exceed $250,000.

1:13:16

And Councilman Wilson, Chair of Land Use Economic Development.

1:13:19

Thank you, Mr.

1:13:20

President.

1:13:31

Councilman Bobby Wilson presents Bill 614 resolution further amending resolution number 834 of 2025.

1:13:40

Effective December 21st, 2025, as amended entitled.

1:13:45

Resolution adopting and approving the 2026 Capital Budget, the proposed 2026 community development program, and the 2026 through 2031 capital improvement program by increasing facility improvements, sport facilities by 250,000, and increasing remediation of condemned buildings of by 163,351.

1:14:12

These changes are made in response to program allocations by the U.S.

1:14:17

Department of Housing and Urban Development income at no cost to the city.

1:14:22

Bill 634, report of the Committee on Finance and Law for June 10th, 2026 with an affirmative recommendation.

1:14:30

Bill 560, resolution amending resolution number 924 of 2024, effective December tw December 18, 2024, entitled Resolution Adopting and Approving the 2025 Capital Budget, the Proposed 2025 Community Development Program, and the 2025 through 2030 Capital Improvement Program by Increasing Complete Streets by 1 million dollars to account for additional federal highway administration funding being received by the City of Pittsburgh.

1:15:04

Bill 561.

1:15:06

Resolution further amending resolution number 857 of 2023, effective December 27, 2023 as amended and titled.

1:15:16

Resolution adopting and approving the 2024 capital budget, the proposed 2024 community development program, and the 2024 through 2029 capital improvement program by increasing street resurfacing by 1 million 65,795 and 78 cents to align with the most recent American Rescue Plan Act Allocation in Bill 596 resolution amending resolution number 924 of 2024, effective December 18, 2024, entitled Resolution Adopting and Approving the 2025 Capital Budget, the Proposed 2025 Community Development Program, and the 2025 through 2030 Capital Improvement Program by transferring $550,000 from facility improvements sports facilities to play area improvements.

1:16:17

Thank you.

1:16:17

You have heard the reading and title of the bill.

1:16:20

Seeing none, the bill is now ready for final action.

1:16:22

All in favor to pass the bill while I renew the call.

1:16:24

Those opposed will vote no with a clerk please take the roll.

1:16:27

Mr.

1:16:27

Charlotte, aye.

1:16:28

Mr.

1:16:29

Cockhill, aye.

1:16:31

Miss Gross.

1:16:32

Aye.

1:16:33

Mr.

1:16:33

Mosley.

1:16:34

Aye.

1:16:35

Mrs.

1:16:35

Salonetra.

1:16:36

Aye.

1:16:37

Mrs.

1:16:38

Straussberger.

1:16:39

Aye.

1:16:40

Mrs.

1:16:40

Warwick?

1:16:41

Aye.

1:16:42

Mr.

1:16:42

Wilson.

1:16:43

Aye.

1:16:44

Mr.

1:16:44

Lavelle President.

1:16:46

Aye.

1:16:46

Ayes 9.

1:16:47

No zero.

1:16:48

The bill haven't received the legal card number of votes.

1:16:50

Is passed finally.

1:16:51

That moves us to Councilman Anthony Cocktail, presenting the committee of Public Safety and Wellness.

1:16:55

Thank you, Mr.

1:16:56

President.

1:16:59

Councilman Anthony Codhill presents Bill 638, report of the Committee on Public Safety and Wellness for June 10th, 2026, with an affirmative recommendation.

1:17:14

Bill 554, resolution authorizing the issuance of a warrant in favor of Pulse Point Foundation in an amount not to exceed six thousand dollars for the city's share of the license license fee for the annual renewal of the pulse point emergency services application.

1:17:34

You've heard the reading and tile of the bills.

1:17:36

Any discussion on the bill?

1:17:37

Seeing none, the bill is not ready for final action.

1:17:39

All in favor to pass the bill, vote.

1:17:41

I don't know if called those opposed will vote no.

1:17:43

Will the clerk please take the rule?

1:17:44

Mr.

1:17:44

Shoreline.

1:17:46

Mr.

1:17:46

Cockhill?

1:17:47

Aye.

1:17:48

Miss Gross?

1:17:49

Aye.

1:17:50

Mr.

1:17:50

Mosley.

1:17:51

Aye.

1:17:52

Mrs.

1:17:52

Salonetra.

1:17:53

Aye.

1:17:54

Mrs.

1:17:55

Straussberger.

1:17:56

Aye.

1:17:57

Mrs.

1:17:57

Warwick?

1:17:58

Aye.

1:17:59

Mr.

1:17:59

Wilson.

1:18:00

Aye.

1:18:01

Mr.

1:18:01

Lavelle President.

1:18:02

Aye.

1:18:03

Ayes 9, no zero.

1:18:05

Bill having received the legal card number of votes is passed finally.

1:18:08

That moves us to Councilwoman Kim Salonetro presenting the committee of public works and infrastructure.

1:18:13

Mr.

1:18:13

President.

1:18:14

Thank you.

1:18:20

Councilwoman Kim Salonetro presents Bill 639 report of the Committee on Public Works and Infrastructure for June 10th, 2026, with an affirmative recommendation.

1:18:33

Bill 556.

1:18:35

Resolution amending resolution 542 of 2023, authorizing the mayor and the director of the Department of Public Works to enter into a sub-award agreement with River Life for the purpose of spending grant funds in an amount not to exceed 499,900 to support the renovation of Allegheny Landing Park by correcting the park name on the section one.

1:19:01

Bill 558.

1:19:03

Resolution providing for an agreement or agreements with traffic planning and design inc for costs associated with the final design phase of the Frankstown Avenue Signals Project, providing for the payment of the cost thereof not to exceed 404,254.34 cents, reimbursable at 80%.

1:19:25

Bill 559.

1:19:28

Resolution providing for a reimbursement agreement or agreements with the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation for costs associated with the construction phase of the East Ohio Street Safety and Streetscape Project and providing for the payment of costs thereof not to exceed $2,500,000, reimbursable at 100%.

1:19:52

Resolution approving the recommendation made by the Director of the Department of Mobility and Infrastructure that the concrete portion of Allegheny Avenue, situated north of and beginning at the intersection of North Franklin Avenue and ending at 1631 Allegheny Avenue at the termination of this northerly block should be paved with asphalt in accordance with section four one four seventeen oh six of the Pittsburgh Code of Ordinances.

1:20:18

You have heard the reading and tile of the bill.

1:20:20

Is there any discussion on the bill?

1:20:22

Seeing none, the bill is not ready for final action.

1:20:24

All in favor of the passage of the bill will vote aye for name is called.

1:20:26

Those opposed will vote no.

1:20:27

Would a clerk please take the roll?

1:20:28

Mr.

1:20:29

Sharon?

1:20:30

Aye.

1:20:30

Mr.

1:20:31

Cockhill?

1:20:32

Aye.

1:20:32

Ms.

1:20:32

Gross?

1:20:33

Aye.

1:20:34

Mr.

1:20:34

Mosley.

1:20:35

Aye.

1:20:36

Mrs.

1:20:36

Salonetra?

1:20:37

Aye.

1:20:38

Mrs.

1:20:39

Straussberger.

1:20:40

Aye.

1:20:41

Mrs.

1:20:41

Warwick.

1:20:42

Aye.

1:20:43

Mr.

1:20:43

Wilson?

1:20:44

Aye.

1:20:45

Mr.

1:20:45

Lavell present.

1:20:47

Aye.

1:20:47

Ayes nine.

1:20:48

No is zero.

1:20:49

Bill having received the legal car number of votes.

1:20:51

Is passed finally.

1:20:52

That moves us to Councilman Bobby Wilson, presenting the committee of uh land use and economic development.

1:20:56

Thank you, Mr.

1:20:57

President.

1:20:58

Thank you.

1:21:09

Councilman Bobby Wilson presents Bill 640, report of the Committee on Land Use and Economic Development for June 10th, 2026, with an affirmative recommendation.

1:21:20

Bill 563, resolution authorizing pursuant to chapter 210 of the city code, the mayor and the director of the Department of City Planning to accept a donation from Preservation Pittsburgh in the amount of $10,000 for the conservation of the Soldiers and Sailors Foundation in Arsenal Park.

1:21:41

Bill 568.

1:21:43

Resolution authorizing the mayor and the director of permits, licenses, and inspections to enter on behalf of the city of Pittsburgh into an agreement or agreements with BATA and Environmental Associates Inc.

1:21:55

for professional services, providing for materials, providing materials for an analysis of lead bait lead dust samples pertaining to PLI's execution of the City of Pittsburgh's lead safe ordinance for total cost not to exceed $35,949.14 cents over three years.

1:22:18

You have heard the reading and title of the bill.

1:22:21

Seeing none, the bill is not ready for final action.

1:22:23

All in favor to passes of the bill will vote I renewed call.

1:22:26

Those opposed will vote no.

1:22:27

Will the clerk please take the roll?

1:22:28

Mr.

1:22:29

Charlotte?

1:22:29

Aye.

1:22:30

Mr.

1:22:30

Cockhill?

1:22:31

Aye.

1:22:32

Miss Gross?

1:22:33

Aye.

1:22:34

Mr.

1:22:35

Mosley?

1:22:35

Aye.

1:22:36

Mrs.

1:22:37

Salonetra?

1:22:38

Aye.

1:22:38

Mrs.

1:22:39

Straussberger?

1:22:40

Aye.

1:22:41

Mrs.

1:22:41

Warwick?

1:22:42

Aye.

1:22:43

Mr.

1:22:43

Wilson?

1:22:44

Aye.

1:22:45

Mr.

1:22:45

Lavelle, President.

1:22:46

Aye.

1:22:47

Ayes nine, no is zero.

1:22:50

You the bill haven't received the legal partner of votes.

1:22:52

It's passed finally.

1:22:53

That moves us to Councilman Deborah Gross, presenting the committee of innovation performance asset management and technology.

1:22:58

Thank you, Mr.

1:22:59

President.

1:22:59

Thank you.

1:23:05

Councilman Deborah L.

1:23:07

Gross presents Bill 641, the report of the Committee on Innovation Performance Asset Management and Technology for June 10th, 2026, with an affirmative recommendation.

1:23:18

Bill 555, resolution amending resolution number 346 of 2025, which authorized an amended agreement with Workiva Inc.

1:23:28

to provide a subscription-based publishing software solution by extending the term for an additional one year and increasing the approved amount by $61,493.

1:23:42

For a new total cost not to exceed $339,461.

1:23:51

You've heard the reading and title of the bills.

1:23:54

Seeing none, the bill is not ready for final action.

1:23:56

All in favor of the passage of the bill before I remember is called.

1:23:58

Those opposed will vote no with a clerk, please take the roll.

1:24:01

Mr.

1:24:01

Charlotte?

1:24:02

Aye.

1:24:03

Mr.

1:24:03

Cockheal?

1:24:04

Aye.

1:24:04

Miss Gross.

1:24:05

Aye.

1:24:06

Mr.

1:24:07

Mosley.

1:24:07

Aye.

1:24:08

Mrs.

1:24:08

Salonetra.

1:24:10

Aye.

1:24:11

Mrs.

1:24:11

Straussberger.

1:24:12

Aye.

1:24:13

Mrs.

1:24:14

Warwick.

1:24:15

Aye.

1:24:16

Mr.

1:24:16

Wilson.

1:24:17

Aye.

1:24:18

Mr.

1:24:19

Lavelle President.

1:24:20

Aye.

1:24:21

Ayes 9.

1:24:22

No zero.

1:24:22

The bill having received the legal legally required number votes.

1:24:25

Is passed finally and finally, Councilman Cari Mosley presented the committee on intergovernmental and educational affairs.

1:24:31

Thank you, Mr.

1:24:32

President.

1:24:33

Thank you.

1:24:38

Councilman Kahari Mosley presents Bill 642 report of the Committee on Intergovernmental and Educational Affairs for June 10th, 2026, with an affirmative recommendation.

1:24:50

Bill 557, resolution authorizing the mayor and the director of the Department of Public Works for the City of Pittsburgh to enter into an agreement or agreements with the borough of Wilkinsburg for the collection of a portion of the borough's municipal waste by the city at a borough cost not to exceed 3,401,631 dollars and ninety-nine cents over a period of three years.

1:25:17

You have heard the reading and title of the bills.

1:25:20

Seeing none, the bill's not ready for final action.

1:25:23

All in favor of the passage of the bill will vote aye or anonymous call.

1:25:25

Those opposed will vote no with a clerk please take the roll.

1:25:27

Mr.

1:25:28

Charlotte?

1:25:28

Aye.

1:25:29

Mr.

1:25:30

Cockhill?

1:25:30

Aye.

1:25:31

Miss Gross?

1:25:32

Aye.

1:25:33

Mr.

1:25:33

Mosley.

1:25:34

Aye.

1:25:35

Mrs.

1:25:35

Salonetra.

1:25:36

Aye.

1:25:37

Mrs.

1:25:38

Straussberger.

1:25:39

Aye.

1:25:40

Mrs.

1:25:40

Warwick?

1:25:41

Aye.

1:25:42

Mr.

1:25:42

Wilson?

1:25:43

Aye.

1:25:44

Mr.

1:25:44

Lavell President.

1:25:45

Aye.

1:25:46

Ayes nine.

1:25:47

No, zero.

1:25:48

The bill haven't received the legal legally requirements votes.

1:25:51

Is passed.

1:25:52

Finally, that takes us to motions and resolutions.

1:25:54

Is there anything from members?

1:25:56

If not, I do want to make one comment, which is relative to those who came to testify today from the Manchester neighborhood.

1:25:59

And I think this is also just to clarify for the public because often when residents see condemnation notices on a building, they assume the city owns it.

1:26:14

That doesn't mean we actually own it, that means we've condemned it.

1:26:16

So in fact, that uh fourteen oh six Sheffield, which did unfortunately collapse, was actually condemned by the city in two thousand and twenty-one.

1:26:26

However, that building was actually still probably owned.

1:26:28

It actually sold on the open market in two thousand twenty-two, two thousand twenty-three, and then again in two thousand twenty-four for sixty thousand dollars.

1:26:36

And in two thousand twenty-four, an actual demo pit demo permit was submitted.

1:26:41

However, because that building is in Manchester's historical district, a much heavier review process is required for any structural changes, including demolition.

1:26:51

And at the Historic Review Commission in 2024, the community was actually opposing demolition because once it would be demoed, they were unsure of what would then actually be put back in its place.

1:27:26

But their larger concern over abandoning buildings is a very vacant, understandable concern and valid concern.

1:27:36

I did tell her I would come back to her.

1:27:40

All right.

1:28:02

Okay.

1:28:02

If not, then we need a motion to approve the minutes and adjourn the meeting.

1:28:06

And second.

1:28:07

All those in favor say aye.

1:28:08

Aye.

1:28:09

We are adjourned.

Discussion Breakdown — Share of Meeting
Procedural█████████████████████████████████████████████52%
Community Engagement███████████████████22%
Parks and Recreation████████9%
Historic Preservation████████9%
Arts And Culture███3%
Engineering And Infrastructure██2%
Technology and Innovation██2%
Public Safety1%
Summary of Proceedings

Pittsburgh City Council Regular Meeting – June 16, 2026

The Pittsburgh City Council held its regular meeting on Tuesday, June 16, 2026, at 10:00 AM. The meeting included proclamations, public comments, the introduction and final passage of multiple bills, and reports from standing committees. Nine council members were present. Key themes included public safety concerns over a building collapse in Manchester, inadequate playgrounds in Northview Heights, and the city's stewardship of vacant properties.

Proclamations

  • Council recognized Henry DeLuca, declaring June 18, 2026, as Henry DeLuca Day.
  • Council recognized Reverend Hubert D. Hutcherson, declaring June 14, 2026, as Reverend Hubert D. Hutcherson Day. Both proclamations were approved unanimously.

Public Comments & Testimony

  • Dr. Ronald Lynn Miller (Carrick) urged council to recognize Hinduism's diversity, stating that more than 10,000 Hindus live in Pittsburgh and that the city's lack of an Indian sister city and recognition of Krishna is anti-diversity.
  • Valerie Law (former president of Northview Heights Citizens Council) reported that HUD funds for playground repairs have never reached Northview Heights. She described hazardous conditions for over 500 children and demanded action, saying she will not stop until a new playground is built.
  • Bethany Cameron (InformUp.org, Overbrook) presented survey results: 72% of 54 respondents support expanding the Adopt-a-Lot program beyond gardening to include public art and community spaces. 70% would be willing to regularly volunteer to maintain protected natural areas.
  • Icahana Hal Malkina (did not speak; skipped).
  • An unregistered speaker (from Panther Hollow) submitted a letter to the mayor complaining about an illegal skate park in a playground, citing rats, graffiti, vulgar language, and noise. She called the situation a moral humiliation for the city.
  • Chris (Manchester, 70-year resident) reported the collapse of 1406 Sheffield Street on June 11, 2026. He presented data from CMU research showing the city owns approximately 254 parcels in Manchester valued at $25.6 million, and 15 nonprofits own 110 parcels valued at $16.2 million. He asked for a meeting with Council President Lavelle to develop a financial plan for restoring vacant properties.
  • Maddie Williams (Manchester) said the building at 1406 Sheffield Street had been condemned by the city in 2017 (nine years ago) and condemned again later. She criticized the city for inaction and urged council to inspect every vacant and condemned property in Manchester now.
  • Arthur Kasowski (Manchester) stated that only one-third of Manchester's 1,477 real estate parcels are owner-occupied; 50 owners (including government agencies) control 40% of properties and more than half of vacant land. There are 95 tax-delinquent properties among those owners, with over $400,000 in liens. He asked for a meeting with Council President Lavelle to create a realistic financial plan.
  • Rick Smith (North Oakland, District 8) questioned Resolution 2026-586, which provides $46,000 for continued access to GeoCycloramas. He asked about alternatives, risks if the vendor goes out of business, and why the contract rationale is not included in the resolution. He encouraged discussion at the next standing committee meeting.
  • Yvonne F. Brown (Hill District) spoke about Northview Heights—where her family lives—and about an elected official (Mr. Watson) who she says ran at her screaming at a County Council meeting. She also asked about bus service from the Hill District to the hospital.
  • Anthony Williams (unspecified neighborhood) offered general encouragement to council, saying their job is hard and that communication and work are key.
  • Special Agent Sunshine (missing child Cerese Taylor) delivered a religious message and announced her search for dancers and singers for a project called "A Day of Sunshine." She read from James 5 as a warning to rich oppressors.
  • Iris Goshe Rudolph (Manchester) asked for help with a contractor who she says has damaged her property (torn down fence, placed a port-a-potty on her land) while working on a vacant lot next door. She has been unable to get code enforcement assistance. Council President Lavelle advised her to leave her contact information with the clerk for follow-up.

Discussion Items

  • Council President Lavelle addressed concerns raised by Manchester residents about the collapse of 1406 Sheffield Street. He clarified that the city condemned the building in 2021, but it was privately owned and sold multiple times (most recently in 2024 for $60,000). A demolition permit was submitted in 2024 but the Historic Review Commission process delayed action because the community opposed demolition without a clear replacement plan. He acknowledged the broader concern about vacant properties and said he would follow up.

Key Outcomes

  • Bills Passed Unanimously (9-0): The council passed final readings for multiple bills, including:
    • Bill 611: $1 million for the Learn and Earn Summer Youth Employment Program.
    • Bill 612: Acceptance of office furniture donation valued at $10,190.95.
    • Bills 606, 608, 613: Various resolutions regarding liquor license transfer, capital budget amendments, and sewage facilities plan.
    • Bill 609 (rezoning in Mount Washington) was placed on the next standing committee agenda via a rule waiver.
    • Bill 643: $250,000 for social services programming at Bergwin Recreation Center.
    • Bill 614: Capital budget amendments increasing facility improvements by $250,000 and remediation of condemned buildings by $163,351.
    • Committee reports from Public Safety and Wellness (Bill 638), Public Works and Infrastructure (Bill 639), Land Use and Economic Development (Bill 640), Innovation Performance (Bill 641), and Intergovernmental Affairs (Bill 642) were all adopted, along with their associated bills (e.g., Pulse Point renewal, River Life grant amendment, traffic signal design, East Ohio Street streetscape, asphalt paving on Allegheny Avenue, donation to Soldiers and Sailors conservation, lead dust testing contract, Workiva software renewal, and Wilkinsburg waste collection agreement).
  • The meeting adjourned after approval of minutes.

Meeting Transcript

Mm-hmm. Stop it, but Good morning and welcome to the regular meeting of City Council on Tuesday, June sixteenth, two thousand twenty six. What a clerk please take the role. Mr. Cock Hill. Mr. Wilson. Mr. Lavelle President. Here. Six members present. Thank you. For those who are able to please rise for the Pledge of Allegiance, remaining standing for a moment of silence. A pleasure of the flag of the United States of America and to the Republic from Mr. Standard or Majesty. Thank you very much. Our next order of business is to amend the agenda. Tim. Second. All those in favor say aye. Aye. Any opposed. The agenda has been amended. Our next order of business is proclamations. We have two to be read into the record. Councilman Cockhill presents. Now there be it further resolved that the Council of the City of Pittsburgh does hereby commend Henry DeLuca, and be it further resolved that the Council of the City of Pittsburgh does hereby declare Thursday, June 18th, 2026 to be Henry DeLuca Day in the City of Pittsburgh. Councilman Mosley presents, now there be it resolved that the Council of the City of Pittsburgh does hereby declare the 14th day of June 2026 to be Reverend Hubert D. Hutcherson Day in the city of Pittsburgh. May we have a motion to approve. Amen. Second. All those in favor say aye. Aye. Any opposed? Proclamations have been approved. Our next order of business is public comment. I would like to remind everyone of the rules of council of state that comments are limited to matters of concern, official action or deliberation, which may be for city council, profanity will not be permitted. After you recall, please restate your name, provide your neighborhood for the record. You'll be given three minutes to speak. Our first register of speaker is Dr. Ronald Lynn Miller. Dr. Ronald Miller, PhD, USA, Pittsburgh, Carrick neighborhood, Sri Krishna Temple. Anybody been there? India. Mathura. Krishna Temple. Neighborhood complex. India Mathura is the birthplace of Krishna.

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