12/18/2023 Meeting Minutes

RIVERSIDE BOROUGH COUNCIL
 
The Riverside Borough Council met in the Municipal Building, 415 Dewart Street, Riverside on Monday, December 18, 2023 at 7:00pm.  Meeting was called to order by President Barb Kriner.
 
Council members present: 
Vice President Brian Whitenight, Peter Fleming, John Domanski, Delavan Whitenight Jr and April Shuman.
Also present was Mayor John LaMotte and Secretary Lisa Fritz.
 
Absent:
Beth Rake
 
Citizen (s) present:
Clark Shuman, Murray Johnson, Stephen Wagner and Ken Gardner.
 
Pledge of Allegiance
 
Citizens to be Heard:  
Resident, Ken Gardner said whomever worked on the Budget believes a good effort was put into it; however, he did not see a line item for replacement of vehicles. Barb Kriner stated for the Police Department, they put $5,000.00 and if a vehicle is needed, the rest of the funding would be taken out of the Police CD. No funding was budgeted for vehicles in the Street Department, as some of the vehicles are not that old. Brian stated some vehicles were indeed old. Barb stated they normally do budget $8,000.00 each for both the Police and Street Departments every year. Barb said for the Street Department a portion can be taken out of the Sewer account for vehicles if needed. Barb said when working on the Budget, she was trying to figure out the income and expenses to balance the budget.
 
Old business:
Approval of the minutes of December 4, 2023.
John Domanski made a motion to approve the minutes, Brian Whitenight seconded the Motion.  Approved by all.
 
John Domanski questioned if there was an update on the situation with Pam Whitenights’ construction permit. Secretary, Lisa told Council Pam and her husband were in to meet with Brian Anderson on Monday, December 18 and will be meeting with BIU inspector, Matthew Witmer on Tuesday, December 19th to get confirmation on approval to build. John also questioned the status of the blocked sewer lines. Brian Whitenight said not all of them have been taken care of. John mentioned the flooding situation by the Airport; Airport officials are working with Lynda Schlegel-Culver to apply for Grants to remedy the flooding on Sunbury Road. Brian Whitenight said retention ponds are meant to fill up to a certain point, then drain out. Peter Fleming asked if there was water across Sunbury Road today, 12/18. Brian said there was and it did recede around 4:00pm. John said Merck’s sediment pond is over-grown with weeds and debris, it needs cleaned out. Brian stated we need to keep up with the Airport drainage situation, as it has been about 30 years of discussions. Brian also stated the pond at Neizers’ always comes across the road by Kipps Run Road. Barb suggested Council make a list of water issues so solutions can be worked on. John Domanski questioned if our Zoning/Planning Officer does follow-up on construction. Barb stated the BIU inspector does do a final inspection once construction is complete.
 
Borough Life:
April Shuman said the ‘Parade of Lights’ held on Saturday, December 9th was a huge success. She stated many people are already planning for next years’ parade. April said the Assembly of GOD Church had refreshments. Brian Whitenight felt there many more people watching the parade this year versus prior years. The event at the Park after the parade was also very successful. Barb said the back-drop was very nice this year for photos with Santa.
  
Barb stated she would like to build on Mr. Gardners’ comment from the previous meeting on 12/4, regarding people getting along. Barb said in her opinion, everyone at the table has a voice and people should work together to do accomplish what is best for the community. Barb stated all the information has been accurate and helps Council work for the community.
 
Barb said this meeting was April’s last meeting. She said April has gone above and beyond expectations of a Council Member. Barb ‘Thanked’ April for her dedicated work on Council. April said Mr. Wagner seems very able and involved, she is happy he will be a Member on Council. Peter Fleming said April did an outstanding job on Council. April said she will miss the Seat, but will remain active in the community. John Domanski said it is also Brian Whitenights’ last meeting and ‘Thanked’ both April and Brian for their service.
 
New Business:
No new business.
 
Motion to Approve:
John Domanski made a Motion to approve the 2024 Budget. Delavan seconded the Motion. All in Favor.
The purchase of an office laptop was discussed. Prices will be researched.
 
Action Items:
No actions items were discussed.
 
At 7:38pm, Delavan made a Motion to adjourn the meeting, with Peter Seconding. All in Favor.
 
Respectfully Submitted:
Lisa Fritz
Secretary