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Weirton City Council Regular Session A meeting of the Common Council of the City of Weirton, Hancock and Brooke Counties was held on February 11, 2002 at 7:00 p.m. in Council's Chambers of the Municipal Building. Councilmembers in attendance: Charlie Mitchell, D.J. Minella, John Moore, George Ash, George Kondik, David Cline and Christopher Fletcher. City officials in attendance: Terry Weigel, Brae Bryant, Rod Rosnick, Dan Mastrantoni, Chief Kessler Cole, Capt. Mike Gordon, Rocky Bragg, Melissa Farley, Joe Cicchirillo, Valerie Means, Bob Riccelli, Ric Rekowski, and Beth Gaughn. Mayor Dean M. Harris led the Pledge of Allegiance. MINUTES - A motion was made by council, second by Councilmember Moore to approve the January 7, 2002 Regular Session and the January 23, 2002 Special Session. This passed 7-0, so ordered. MAYOR'S AWARDS AND PROCLAMATIONS - Mayor Harris and Councilmember Moore presented Matthew Heim with a recognition award for earning his Eagle Scout. Matthew had painted three rooms at the Salvation Army and refurbished the thrift store. Harris presented a proclamation to Mike Gordon, Capt. of the Police Dept. for "Click it or Ticket Challenge 2002" explaining it encourages seatbelt usage or receive a ticket. He read the proclamation for the months February 8th through Sept. 22nd as "Click it or Ticket"Challenge. He encouraged seatbelt usage. Capt. Gordon explained it's a state competition between all police depts. with the goal to raise seatbelt awareness. Only 49% of WV drivers wear their seat belts; the goal is 60%. It's a secondary violation with a maximum fine of $25.00. He said it has more to do with saving lives. COMMUNICATIONS - Councilmember Ash thanked the City Manager and Mayor for the projects on Ferguson & Orchard Street and expressed appreciation for the work being done with Cove School. He discussed the Cove Valley Lumber is costing $286,000 but will return $4.4 million. He hoped it would bring something to the downtown area; some Ward IV residents favor it, some don't. He hoped Councilmember Moore would reconsider his vote on the matter. Councilmember Fletcher informed there's an item on the agenda from the Planning Commission. He requested on behalf of John Koval, that the City Attorney attend the Wednesday meeting. Councilmember Moore stated he voted against the Cove Lumber demolition because he felt the police shouldn't move onto the first floor of the annex due to the cost and a garage could be built. He advised he would change his vote. Harris clarified the police will not move but use 4,000 square feet of the building; the state wants ground floor offices. He said a garage and the police using the first floor was suggested a few years ago but moving equipment was never discussed. He hoped Moore would agree with the project because it would bring 100 jobs and growth. Moore thought he saw designs to house the police on the first floor. Councilmember Cline explained its not an annexation to the city building. Harris informed a design hasn't been set yet. CITIZENS REMARKS - Chris Christ, 126 Greenlawn had a petition from his neighbors on Forest and Scenic Streets to pave the streets, saying it's an on-going problem, work was done in the past. He gave the City Clerk 63 signatures. He understood money is a factor, suggesting sections be paved. Councilmember Cline explained wanting owners to match the money to replace concrete streets, saying curb elevation is a problem; the street would need restructured; the city is looking for a solution. Christ suggested council advise the residents. Councilmember Fletcher thanked Christ for attending, saying those roads were on high priority for repairs but other streets were worse. He offered to discuss it with the residents since council will be preparing the budget. David Kuhn discussed his plans with the Greco family: father, Victor and brother Jim for the buildings on the corner of Main and Purdy Lane (building with the mural and former People's Bank.) Kuhn said they're designing a professional center with 13,000 square feet of office space. He hoped for council's support saying Cicchirillo and Harris have offered assistance. Harris explained people like the Greco's need to take risks just like the city is, saying the center would beautify the downtown area. He hoped council would support it. REPORTS FROM VARIOUS BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS - Councilmember Minella reported the Finance Committee met with him and Councilmembers Kondik and Moore. Agenda items recommended: 1, 2, 3, 5 (split with Councilmember Moore dissenting,) 6 & 8. A motion was made by Councilmember Fletcher, second by Councilmember Ash to authorize ordinance 1336 to provide easement on properties owned by City of Weirton (Oakland Ballfield and Park property.) This passed 7-0, so ordered.
A motion was made by Councilmember Ash, second by Councilmember Kondik to authorize ordinance 1337 to authorize the City Manager to enter into agreement with Steuben Realty Company for the purchase of real property located at 240 Cove Road (Former Cove Valley Lumber Company.) This passed 7-0, so ordered. A motion was made by Councilmember Cline, second by Councilmember Mitchell to authorize ordinance 1338 to amend ordinance 1313 which established the salaries of the various departments within the City of Weirton general fund (Development Director; minimum $39,339.18 & maximum $44,941.35.) This passed 7-0, so ordered. A motion was made by Councilmember Moore, second by Councilmember Minella, to adopt a resolution to enter into contract with Lauttamus Communications in the amount of $4,180 for the lease/purchase of one lightbar and mobile radio for the police department. Councilmember Mitchell asked about the full package cruiser from the last meeting. Councilmember Minella said it had nothing to do with the amenities. Joe Cicchirillo explained requesting two county vehicles since the county is getting new equipment; the resolution is necessary but one vehicle will be received from the county. Councilmember Cline explained the city's equipment is aged. This passed 7-0, so ordered. A motion was made by Councilmember Fletcher, second by Councilmember Kondik to adopt a resolution to enter into contract with Kustom Signals, Inc., Lenexa, KS in the amount of $4094.00 for the lease/purchase of one in-car video camera system for the police department. Capt. Gordon responded to Councilmember Moore this would make 9 but some of the k-9's didn't have any. This passed 7-0, so ordered. A motion was made by Councilmember Minella, second by Councilmember Moore to adopt a resolution to enter into contract with Finley Fire Equipment Company, McConnelsville, OH in the amount of $9,500 for purchase of thermal imaging camera for Weirton Fire Dept. This passed 7-0, so ordered. A motion was made by Councilmember Kondik, second by Councilmember Minella to adopt a resolution to authorize the City Manager to apply for funding for the fire dept. through federal fire acts grant and provide the cash match not to exceed 10% of the total. This passed 7-0, so ordered. Councilmember Cline commented on a news article in which Hancock County recognized the H.C. Firefighters Association as the county's representatives. He said he's requested staff to find out why so the city can maintain its sovereignty and any grants applied for won't be mixed with the county. This passed 7-0, so ordered. A motion was made by Councilmember Fletcher, second by Councilmember Mitchell to adopt a resolution to enter into agreement with BFI Waste Systems of North America, Inc. (Imperial Landfill) for waste management services. Joe Cicchirillo advised the changes would be made before he signs. There's still access to the Brooke County Landfill. Brae Bryant pointed out the changes: the tonnage would read "no minimum to 1,000 tons per month"; Article II would reflect a four year contract after it's signed; and under Article V, the payment would be changed to 20 days after receiving the invoice. He said the sales representative verbally agreed except under Article XII which states any controversy of the agreement would be interpreted in an Ohio court. It's been requested to change it to "West Virginia." He said BFI is discussing it with their attorney; the rates remain the same. Cicchirillo said the city wants a 30 day termination notice though it's not needed. Bryant said they should always shop for the best rates. Councilmember Ash expressed concern the changes weren't in the resolution, saying there's been problems in the past. He said there's only one reading but he wouldn't have a problem passing it. Kondik urged council's support. Minella said its not a profit making service. Cicchirillo said Mr. Mascaro, owner of the Brooke Landfill, requested a rate increase of up to $52 per ton; it was increased $20 per ton in July not including taxes; the rate as of October was $21.85, and 8.75 in state tax and county assessment equaled $30.60 per ton; the city previously paid $16.50 a ton. Utilizing Imperial's site maintains the $16.50 a ton. Harris noted the city, Follansbee and Wellsburg had jointly filed suit over the Brooke Landfill increase. The city hadn't used the Brooke Landfill since November or December. Councilmember Fletcher stated hearing positive news stories and receiving good feedback from co-workers in western Pennsylvania concerning the Imperial landfill. He read an opinion from the Weirton Daily Times and expressed frustration. Bryant responded the rates could increase. The city received the lowest rate then learned about the increase. Bryant said the $92,000 savings doesn't include recycling. He read Article XI, saying; the city used to pay for recycling but won't now; it's a volatile market. Fletcher felt decisive dialogue prevents growth, saying the newspaper should've researched it further. It was discussed the state mandates recycling. Harris explained cities with over 10,000 residents are required; it's not funded. Cicchirillo said the state tax contains a $3.00 per ton fee towards recycling. He objected to it, saying it costs the city to recycle and pay the state. He felt it needed reviewed and cities should be exempt from the $3.00. Councilmember Moore suggested bringing it to the legislators' attention. A roll call vote was taken with a yes is in favor, a no is opposed: Councilmember Cline Yes Councilmember Fletcher Yes Councilmember Mitchell Yes Councilmember Minella Yes Councilmember Moore Yes Councilmember Ash Yes Councilmember Kondik Yes This passed 7-0, so ordered.
A motion was made by Councilmember Moore, second by Councilmember Minella to adopt a resolution to contribute $750.00 to the Millsop Marlins Swim Team to defray part of costs to conduct tri-state swim meet on March 16. Councilmember Cline motioned to amend the resolution to read "Board of Parks and Recreation" instead of "Marlin Swim Team." Councilmember Kondik second this. The amendment passed 7-0. The resolution as amended passed 7-0, so ordered. A motion was made by Councilmember Fletcher, second by Councilmember Minella to adopt a resolution to accept the Planning Commission's recommendation of a preliminary subdivision plat located on Warsaw Street for Magnone and Greco Partnership. Councilmember Moore asked about the cul-de-sac, explaining it's a problem for the snow plow and residents complain. Fletcher agreed saying it's the same problem in his ward but this will have an adequate radius for fire apparatus and other; the city depts. don't see a problem. This passed 7-0, so ordered. A motion was made by Councilmember Cline, second by Councilmember Moore to adopt a resolution to authorize installation of heating/cooling system for dispatch area of City Building with Robinson & Son Construction in the amount of $3,750. Councilmember Kondik felt it was nice to have a local vendor. Councilmember Fletcher responded they weren't being excluded. Kondik understood but encouraged local vendors to bid on projects. This passed 7-0, so ordered. A motion was made by Councilmember Cline, second by Councilmember Minella to adopt a resolution authorizing a minor budget revision to the city's CDBG program for planning services to determine the feasibility of establishing a redevelopment authority and developing a redevelopment plan. Councilmember Fletcher would abstain since his employer may respond. Councilmember Ash asked if its paying a consultant. Harris introduced Mr. Bob Riccelli, the Economic Director. Harris said areas would be determined for redevelopment; council makes final determinations. Beth Gaughn said they determine if it's feasible to establish an urban renewal authority and a redevelopment plan for slum and blight. Councilmember Ash thought this was Gaughn's job. Cicchirillo explained it allows issuing of bonds, selling properties to developers, acquiring properties through raising funds; Wheeling uses it to attract state funds. Harris explained an authority has greater latitude to obtain state funds; the government want to see a plan before investing money in a project; it has to have council's approval. Gaughn explained it specifies priority areas of slum, blight and economic areas. Ash thought the comprehensive plan covered this, saying he had a problem with someone telling them what to do. Gaughn discussed the redevelopment plan is a state requirement with mapping and census data. Ash commented paid plans must be consolidated and given to the government. Councilmember Moore agreed with Ash. Moore said money has been spent but nothing accomplished and he can't keep asking for tax payers' money. Harris said a strategic plan was done; accomplishments included the senior center, saying Moore utilizes the center. He discussed council's meeting at the Holiday Inn was to set economic development goals and this plan is needed; it may not be favored but the government wants professionals developing the districts; money must be given to receive it. He disagreed with Moore's comments, saying he took exception to them. Councilmember Kondik asked if it costs $25,000. Gaughn said it could but RFQ's haven't been received. It uses CDBG money and would begin immediately. Councilmember Mitchell was confused with the comprehensive plan. Harris explained it was city-wide but this plan would deal with areas of slum and blight; the comprehensive plan can be used as a guide for: downtown in the vicinity of the city building and the south end of Weirton. He discussed Wheeling has a plan and receives money due to the urban renewal authority. Harris said the steel industry can't continue carrying the community; money is eligible through left over CDBG money. Gaughn advised it's in a planning account. Councilmember Cline felt the city should move forward, saying state and federal requirements are to draw from other programs. The city would become more eligible for funds as the steel industry downsizes. Cicchirillo gave his opinion to Ash, saying it's a positive step, it's needed to receive federal funding and there will be some matching funds. Application can be made for federal funds for two or three different projects and plans for redevelopment; funds are easily obtained with matching funds. Harris noted the funds spent on the comprehensive land use plan could be considered a match on some grants. This passed 6-0-1 with Councilmember Fletcher abstaining, so ordered. A motion was made by Councilmember Moore, second by Councilmember Fletcher for an ordinance to rescind ordinance 1333: Beginning 474 feet from the intersection of Potomac Avenue, establish 47 feet of no parking on the north side of Morningside Court and then beginning again at a point of 36 feet, establish no parking for a distance of 64 feet on the north side of Morningside Court. Moore said everything goes wrong with this street and thought the signs were placed incorrectly. Farley informed the signs were in the correct location in accordance with the ordinance passed in January, however it was presented incorrectly; it should've been for 47 feet of no parking. This passed 6-1 with Councilmember Cline dissenting. A motion was made by Councilmember Moore, second by Councilmember Ash for an ordinance: beginning 474 feet from the intersection of Potomac Avenue, establish 47 feet of no parking on the north side of Morningside Court. This passed 6-1 with Councilmember Cline dissenting. LIBRARY BOARD A motion was made by Councilmember Kondik, second by Councilmember Minella to appoint Karen Orler, 3901 Claremont Place to the Library Board for a term of 2/1/02 - 1/31/07. This passed 7-0, so ordered. A motion was made by Councilmember Minella, second by Councilmember Mitchell to approve the administrative reports, treasurer's report and to pay the general fund bills. Councilmember Moore asked if the disbursements of $10,000 were because of a lawsuit. Valerie Means explained it's for the first time home buyers program; the fund is reimbursed from the home owner and bank. Beth Gaughn explained the general fund account is used for auditing purposes; first time home buyers receive up to $10,000 towards down payment and closing costs; $5,000 from the Home Consortium, $5,000 from CDBG; the general fund fronts it. This passed 7-0, so ordered. Councilmember Cline discussed some reports are shy of revenue, advising staff to be aware of the fiscal year and make adjustments accordingly. Harris said the budget sessions are scheduled February 21st and February 22nd. With no further business before this, the February 11, 2002 Regular Session of the Common Council of the City of Weirton, the meeting was adjourned at 8:23 p.m.
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