HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOMM - Meeting Minutes - 37 - 9-14-1972 - COMMISSIONER310 MINUTE BOOK
BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS WASH NGTON COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
MICHAEL R. FLYNN, FRANK .ZONES, JR., EDWARD M. PALUSO, COMMISSIONERS
Minute No. 37
Office of the County Commissioners
Washington, Pa., September 14, 1972
The Board of County Commissioners met in regular session with the follow-
ing members being present: Commissioners Jones and Paluso. Absent being: Commissioner
Flynn. Also present being: Chief Clerk Murphy; Administrative Assistant Whalen; Mrs.
Luella Hart, Department of Agriculture; Mr. Roland Bourke, Executive Director, Redevelop-
ment Authority of Washington County; Mr. Richard Galway, Redevelopment Authority; Reporte-
Roule of The Monongahela Publishing Company; and Reporter Robertson of The Observer -
Reporter,
Meeting called to order by Acting Chairman and roll call taken:
Mr. Jones - Present; Mr. Paluso - Present; Mr. Flynn - Absent.
Acting Chairman asked if there were any corrections, additions, or omissions
to Minute No. 36, each Commissioner having received a copy.
Moved by Mr. Paluso, seconded by Mr. Jones, that Minute No. 36 be
approved, as read.
Roll call vote taken:
Mr. Paluso - Yes; Mr, Jones - Yes.
Motion carried unanimously.
Report - Mr. Bourke
Mr. Bourke presented to the Commissioners a Resolution approving and
authorizing the Redevelopment Authority to submit an application to the Department of
Community Affairs to obtain a planning advance for the Borough of Bentleyville. The purpose
of obtaining the advance is to develop plans for an Urban Renewal Project or a Neighborhood
Development. Mr. Bourke presented a drawing of the proposed plans to the Commissioners
and explained the various costs involved in the project which will be in the area of $400, 000.00
to $500, 000. 00. Mr. Bourke stated that Resolutions have also been adopted by all other
necessary authorities.
Moved by Mr. Paluso, seconded by Mr. Jones accepting the recommendation
of the Redevelopment Authority in regards to the proposed Urban Renewal Project for the
Borough of Bentleyville, and approving their request to submit an application for a planning
advance to the Department of Community Affairs.
Roll call vote taken:
Mr. Paluso - Yes; Mr, Jones - Yes.
Motion carried unanimously.
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Mr. Bourke and Mr. Galway left the meeting.
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BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS WASH NGTON COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
MICHAEL R. FLYNN, FRANK JONES, aJR., EDWARD M. PALUSO, COMMISSIONERS
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Correspondence - Mr, Murphy
Chief Clerk presented a request from Clay Graham, Land Acquisition Agent
for approval and payment of the sum of $18, 600. 00 to be made payable to William C. Porter,
Esquire for disbursement of funds in relation to the Calvin T. Davidson property located in
Cross Creek Park.
Moved by Mr. Paluso, seconded by Mr. Jones approving the request of Mr.
Graham as per above.
Roll call vote taken:
Mr, Paluso - Yes; Mr. Jones - Yes.
Motion carried unanimously.
Chief Clerk read correspondence under date of September 11, 1972, from
the Southwestern Pennsylvania Chiefs' and Assistant Chiefs' Association requesting a budget
allotment in the amount of $750. 00 for the Annual Fire School sponsored by the organization
which was held on August 28-29-30-31 and September 1, 1972.
Chief Clerk presented correspondence under date of September 13, 1972
from George R. Kubovcik, Chief Adult Probation Officer requesting that Mr. Geoffrey Smith,
Probation Officer, be permitted to attend the Pennsylvania Volunteers Program at Camp
Blue Diamond, Pa. on October 9 and 10, 1972. An advance check in the amount of $100. 00
was also requested,
Chief Clerk presented correspondence under date of September 11, 1972
from Farrell Jackson, Coroner stating that he and his chief of staff will be attending the
Pennsylvania Coroner's Association Convention being held in Mercer County, Sharon,
Pennsylvania, from September 20, 1972 through September 24, 1972 with expenses to be in
the amount of $452. 80.
Chief Clerk presented correspondence under date of September 13, 1972 from
George Messerotes, Chief, Department of Weights and Measures requesting permission for he
and Carl Archer, Assistant Sealer to attend the 57th Conference of the Pennsylvania Associatio.z
of Weights and Measures to be held at Taminent, Pennsylvania beginning October 2, 1972
through October 7, 1972. Expenses incurred for this Conference will be in the amount of
$400. 00.
Moved by Mr. Paluso, seconded by Mr. Jones approving the above requests
as submitted by Mr. Kubovcik, Mr. Jackson and Mr. Messerotes.
Roll call vote taken:
Mr. Paluso - Yes; Mr. Jones - Yes.
Motion carried unanimously.
Chief Glerk read correspondence under date of September 13, 1972, from
Elmer Obitko, Director, Department of Veterans' Affairs requesting permission and authorization
312 MINUTE BOOK
BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS WASH NGTON COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
MICHAEL R. FLYNN, FRANK JONES, JR., EDWARD M. PALUSO, COMMISSIONERS
by the Washington County Commissioners to host a convention in Washington County in 1974.
Mr. Obitko stated that it is the Western District's turn to be host in 1974 and he will need the
Board's decision for the Western District meeting which will be held at Erie, Pa, on Sept-
ember 29, 1972. The convention is being held by the Pennsylvania State Association of
County Directors of Veterans' Affairs.
Moved by Mr. Paluso, seconded by Mr. Jones approving the request
submitted by Mr. Obitko to host a Directors' of Veterans Affairs convention in Washington
County in 1974.
Roll call vote taken:
Mr. Paluso - Yes; Mr. Jones - Yes.
Motion carried unanimously.
Chief Clerk read a memorandum under date of September 12, 1972 from
Joseph Muscaro, Director, Registration Office informing the Board of the following Field
Registrations:
Friday, 'Sept., 15, 1972
Monday, Sept., 18, 1972
Thurs. , Oct., 5, 1972
Roscoe - Fire Hall
Charleroi - Boro Bldg,
California College
1-5 & 6-9 p.m.
1-5 & 6-9 p.m.
9 a.m. to 3 p, rn.
Tues. , Oct., 10, 1972 California College 1-5 & 6-9 p.m.
(Student Union Bldg. )
Chief Clerk read correspondence under date of September 5, 1972, from
Commissioner Dorothy K. Shope, Westmoreland County in reference to the Regional
Emergency Medical Services Council, Mrs. Shope stated that at their executive session,
said Council was discussed and it was the unanimous opinion of the Westmoreland Board of
County Commissioners that it is not needed.
Chief Clerk read correspondence under date of September 1, 1972 from
Colonel N.G. Delbridge, Army Corps of Engineers in reference to the Chartiers Creek
Flood Protection Project - Canonsburg - Houston Reach, Unit 2. Colonel Delbridge informed
the Board of certain rights -of -way that the County must acquire for construction of needed
roadways, etc, , . in areas near and adjacent to the Jefferson Avenue Bridge. Said right-
of-way requirements including both temporary and permanent easements were shown on
preliminary drawings enclosed with letter. In conclusion Colonel Delbridge recommended
that the Commissioners proceed in an expeditious manner in acquiring the necessary ease-
ments on the upstream and downstream sides of the bridge in view of their plan to award
a construction contract for the new Jefferson Avenue bridge in the fall of 1972.
Chief Clerk read correspondence under date of September 5, 1972 from
Anthony A. Massafra, President, Board of Directors, Donora Public Library requesting
an increased budget allotment in the amount of $1, 000. 00. Correspondence stated that the
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BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS WASH NGTON COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
MICHAEL R. FLYNN, FRANK JONES, RJR., EDWARD M. PALUSO, COMMISSIONERS
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reason for the requested increase is due to the fact that since Donora has decreased in popula-
tion, their State Aid will be greatly reduced.
Chief Clerk read correspondence under date of August 30, 1972, from Arthur
Morris, President, Washington County Council on the Arts in reference to *a smyphony
orchestra organized by citizens from both the California State College and the California
community approximately 10 years ago. Correspondence stated that the orchestra is now in
the midst of a financial disaster as funds are no longer available. Mr. Morris requested
that the Commissioners assist the orchestra by'supporting its request for funds from the
Pennsylvania. Council on the Arts and also in any other way possible.
Chief Clerk read correspondence under date of September 7, 1972 from
Henry E. Rea, Jr., Esquire, Brandt, McManus, Brandt and Malone in reference to a client
of his, the Italian Maid Bakery, Inc, of West Brownsville, Pa. Mr. Rea stated that due to the
need to modernize and expand its facilities, Italian Maid Bakery is considering two possible
courses of action. These are either to remove its operation from Washington County and 'obtain
a loan from the Industrial Development Authority of Allegheny County and construct a, new
plant or construct a new plant in Washington County thereby retaining the present fifty jobs.
Correspondence stated that in order to remain in Washington County, Italian Maid Bakery would
need to obtain financing through some type of industrial development project. Mr. Rea re-
quested that the Commissioners advise him of whether there are any funds available for this
new facility. It was decided that Mr. McAmbley of the Industrial Development Authority of
Washington County would be contacted in connection with the matter to determine if funds were
available and a report would be made by him at the next regular board meeting.
Chief Clerk read a memorandum under date of September 12, 1972, from
John Fantini stating that along with him, Mr. Simonen, Administrative Assistant of COG;
Mr. Jurocko, Administrative Assistant of Donora; and Mr. Petricca, Administrative Assistani
of Burgettstown; and also Mr. Charles Crouse, Mr. Whalen's Assistant will be taking the
Intergovernment Study Courses being offered by the Regional Personnel Services Center of
Southwestern Pennsylvania.
Chief Clerk read correspondence under date of September 11, 1972, from
Mr. W.N. Hutchinson, Director, Washington Flyers Club enclosing several photographs
of a Jeep and mower which are presently abandoned at the Washington Couni.� Airport. In
behalf of the Flyers Club, Mr. Hutchinson requested that consideration be given to leasing
this equipment for a very nominal sum to the Washington Flyers Club. Mr, Hutchison stated
that if favorable consideration is given to their request, the equipment will be used solely
on airport property for the purpose of maintenance and beautification of the airport.
Moved by Mr. Paluso, seconded by Mr. Jones that Solicitor Capano prepare
an agreement with the Washington Flyers Club to lease the above mentioned equipment for
314 MINUTE BOOK
BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS WASH NGTON COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
MICHAEL R. FLYNN, FRANK JONES, JR., EDWARD M. PALUSO, COMMISSIONERS
the sum of $1. 00 per year and absolving the County of any insurance or liability connected
with said machinery which is to be used solely for maintaining the airport grounds.
Roll call vote taken:
Mr. Paluso - Yes; Mr. Jones - Yes.
Motion carried unanimously.
Chief Clerk read correspondence under date of September 5, 1972 from John
H. Showalter, Administrator, Washington County Home for Aged Women advising the
Commissioners that on August 29, 1972 Mr. Blacka from the Washington Fire Department
presented a speech on Fire Safety to the Home. Mr. Showalter further stated that on
August 30, 1972 Mr. Blacka and Mr. Voorhes of the Washington Fire Department tested
the maneuverability of; their ladder truck in and around the Home and courteously assisted
in replacing the pulley and rope on the flagpole.
Chief Clerk read correspondence under date of September 11, 1972, from
R.H. Patterson, Secretary -Manager, Washington County Motor Club thanking the
Commissioners for his appointment to the Washington -Greene County Tourist Promotion
Agency,
Chief Clerk read correspondence under date of September 10, 1972 from Mr.
Edward L. BonAnno informing the Commissioners of the fine job that Mrs. Helen Butka of
the Veterans Office is doing. Mr. BonAnno stated that Mrs. Butka was very helpful to him
and treated him with sincerety and willingness.
Mr. Whalen:
Mr. Whalen read correspondence under date of September 8, 1972, from Miss
Louise Abel, Executive Director, Child Welfare Services requesting permission to attend
the Pennsylvania Council of Child Welfare Administrators' on Wednesday and Thursday,
October 11 and 12, 1972 in Hershey, Pa. Expenses will amount to $18. 00 a night plus meals
and traveling.
Mr. Whalen read further correspondence under date of September 12, 1972
from Miss Abel stating that on Wednesday, September 27, 1972 Beaver County Child Welfare
is sponsoring a one day seminar on Foster Parents. Miss Abel stated that she feels this
program will be valuable to both their caseworkers and foster parents and requested per-
mission for five of the staff and seven foster parents to attend. Total expenses for the
seminar would amount to $84. 00.
Moved by Mr. Paluso, seconded by Mr. Jones approving the above requests
as submitted by Miss Abel.
Roll call vote taken:
Mr. Paluso - Yes; Mr. Jones - Yes.
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Motion carried unanimously. '
MINUTE :■■
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BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS WASH NGTON COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
MICHAEL R. FLYNN, FRANK JONES,'JR., EDWARD M. PALUSO, COMMISSIONERS
Mr, Whalen read correspondence under date of August 21, 1972, from
Raymond Foote, Revenue Agent, Department of Revenue, Bureau of Institutional Collections
in reference to the billing rate for Farview State Hospital. Mr. Foote stated that they have
been advised by the Department of Public Welfare that the per diem billing rate ha,s been
revised from $23. 10 to $36. 17 effective August 1, 1972. Correspondence stated that this
means that liability for maintenance periods beginning August 1, 1972 will be computed at
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the rate of $36. 17 per day unless the Commissioners -contact the revenue agent and produce
evidence satisfactory to him indicating their inability to meet the increased change. Mr.
Whalen then read part of the reply to Mr. Foote from the Commissioners under date of
September 8, 1972 which stated that the Commissioners do strenously object to any such
increase in rates during their fiscal year as Washington County operates on a January 1
through December 31 year and our budgets are predicated on this basis. Reply also stated
that any rate increases affecting County Government should only be effective on January 1
after due notice is given and suitable notice should be received by the Commissioners on
or before November 1, 1972.
Mr. Whalen presented to the Board a Contract between Washington County
and the Southwestern Pennsylvania Regional Planning Commission for reimbursement to
the County for work undertaken in the Cooperative Planning Process. The staff of the
Washington County Planning Commission provides technical advice and information and
attends scheduled working sessions with the Southwestern Pennsylvania Regional Planning
Commission to complete the Southwestern Pennsylvania Regional Plan. The Contract is
scheduled to begin on July 21, 1972 and terminate on January 31, 1973 and is in the amount
of $4, 500. 00.
Moved by Mr. Paluso, seconded by Mr. Jones that said contract between
Washington County and the Southwestern Pennsylvania Regional Planning Commission in
connection with the completion of the Southwestern Pennsylvania Regional Plan be approved.
Roll call vote taken:
Mr, Paluso - Yes; Mr. Jones - Yes.
Motion carried unanimously.
Mr. Whalen presented to the- Board for their approval, a contract between
Hall .& McChesney, Inc, and Washington County for the updating of the records system in
the Recorder of Deeds Office, the main reason for said updating being to conserve space for
present and future needs. Said contract will run until January of 1975.
It was decided that the matter would be tabled until the matter could be discussed further with
Mr. Flynn.
Mr. Whalen read correspondence under date of September 5, 1972, from
George P. Shultz, Secretary of the Treasury stating that the Department of Treasury is