BOROUGH OF AMBRIDGE Council Meeting: February 12, 2019 Ambridge Borough Building  MINUTES  Executive Session - Personnel, Real Estate and Legal Matters Council Chambers of the Ambridge Borough) Building, 6001 11" Street.  The February 12, 2019 meeting of Ambridge Borough Council was called to order at 6:30PM within  Roll Call: Present:  Mr. Cafarelli Mrs. Caldarelli Mr. Dunn Mr. Flannery Mr. McCoy Mrs. Miller Mr. Mikulich Mayor Drewnowski Suehr None.  Also. Present: Absent:  Borough Manager Kauer, Solicitor Start, Chief Gottschalk, Chief Romutis and Engineer  Invocation the invocation was conducted by Mr. Barbara Costa, Trinity School for Ministry.  Pledge of Allegiance Presentations  Solicitor Richard Start, Esq. read an open letter to Ambridge Citizens and Employees regarding the claims made by the Ambridge Police Wage and) Policy Unit. Letter attached to minutes to be part oft the record. 1. Ms. Jodi Gill, 909 11" Street, stated that in August she spoke before Council asking them to consider retaining outside legal counsel due to a conflict ofi interest she believes exists between Solicitor Start and Chief Mann. She stated that in August 20171 the Ambridge Police Officers completed racial diversity training. She questioned the costs of that training including legal costs. She also questioned what company performed this training; will there be additional training for the officers and ifthat training will bej put out for public bid. Mr. Mikulich asked] Ms. Gill toj please contact thel Borough Office to get this 2. Mrs. Lorianne Burgess, 5701 Merchant Street, stated that Council's attitude towards the Ambridge Police Officers is pathetic and that our officers deserve respect. She thanked the women officers for 3. Ms. Karen Molinaro, 512 Phillips Street, Baden Borough, informed Council that her daughter was arrested and a victim oft the opioid epidemic. She stated that when her daughter was arrested, Chief Mann was disrespectful toward her, telling her that her daughter will be going tol Muncy, a state prison. She stated that he told her "youl have another daughter, bring your other daughter down tos sit on my lap  Citizen's Participation On/Off Agenda Items (5 minutes per speaker)  information.  coming forward. She demanded Chief Mann be fired for his actions.  and we can talk about this daughter."    4. Mr. Richard Grabowski, 1800 Duss Avenue, expressed concerns about the Shelll Falcon Gas Pipeline proposed tol be constructed under the tributaries of the Ambridge Reservoir. Hes stated that the community has eight days to give its feedback to DEP. He encouraged the community toi include school children so that their voices are heard about the future and this project. Mr. Mikulich stated that the DEP has had a number of public meetings leading up to now. He stated that Councill has been working with the Water Authority (AWA)tol help prevent this construction project that has a direct impact on 40,000 people and their water source. Mr. Mikulich stated that AWA now has plans inj place to supply an emergency backup water source and toj prevent contamination of thei reservoir ifs something would happen to the new gas pipeline. He also added that the Council sent DEP a letter asking for the pipeline 5. Mr. Dan Campbell, 2701 Boyleston Street, questioned Council why thei new park on. Henning Street is being built there, it should bel built onl New Economy Drive. Mrs. Miller stated that she has worked for four years to get that lot on Henning Street donated to thel Borough. Mr. Campbell expressed safety concerns oft the new playground. He also complained about speeders on Boyleston Street. Mrs. Joelene Maslanik, 609 Merchant Street, stated that the Solicitor's Open Letter to the community is ani insult. She stated that the public demands ChiefMann be terminated and that Solicitor Starti is in 7. Mr. Steve. Athonis (spelling? /did not sign in), 537 Merchant Street, stated he used to live within Crestvue Village and stated that he has concerns about crime ini the village. He stated that Randy" told him that we are not allowed to call for the police. Mr. Mikulich stated that no "Randy" works for the Borough and that no Borough employee or official would prevent you from calling for the police. 8. Mrs. Tina' Tessaro, 801 12" Street, stated that shei is a member ofthe Crime Watch Group and expressed a desire that the recently expired contract with the Housing Authority be renewed to provide the extraj police patrols. She is concerned about crime spreading throughout the community ifthese extraj patrols are not reinstated. Mr. Mikulich stated that the Housing Authority properties are owned by the County, they have a Sheriff's Department that could patrol their properties. 9. Ms.. Jolene Randolf, 1026 Melrose Avenue, stated that she is new to the community, moved] here to be close tol her daughter who lives on Beaver Road. She encouraged the Borough leadership tol listen more. She found the manner citizens were treated tonight distressing and feels that the Council does not listen  tol be constructed elsewhere.  "cahoots" with Chiefl Mann.  tot the citizens' concerns. She stated that diversity is about valuing all.  Approval of] Previous Meeting Minutes January 8, 2019, Council! Meeting Council Mr. Cafarelli Mrs. Caldarelli Mr. Dunn Mr. Flannery Motion carried. Borough Bills and Expenses vote was taken: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9.  Mrs. Caldarelli made the motion to accept the minutes, seconded by Mr. McCoy; a roll call vote was taken:  VOTE Yes Mr. McCoy Yes Mrs. Miller Yes Mr. Mikulich Yes Mayor Drewnowski  Council  Vote Yes Yes Yes  Mr. Mrs Mrs Mr. Mot  Motion tol Pay thel Bills the following bills was made by Mr. Flannery, seconded byl Mr. Dunn; a roll call  General Fund Recreation Fund Escrow Fund Police Pension Fund Firemen's Pension Fund Drug Investigation Fund  Unpaid: $97,747.62 Unpaid: $0.00 Unpaid: $0.00 Unpaid: $0.00 Unpaid: $2,853.98 Unpaid: $6,907.22  Paid: $51,026.95 Paid: $0.00  2016 Capital Project Bond Fund Unpaid: $30,538.31 Grants/ Special Project Fund Unpaid: $2,167.75 Service Employees Pension Fund Unpaid: $955.97  2    Council Mr. Cafarelli Mrs. Caldarelli Mr. Dunn Mr. Flannery Motion carried. Consent Agenda:  VOTE Yes Mr. McCoy Yes Mrs. Miller Yes Mr. Mikulich Yes Mayor Drewnowski  Council  Vote Yes Yes Yes  Those matters includedz under the consent agenda are. self-explanatory and are not expected to require further review or discussion. Items will be enacted by one motion. Ifdiscussion is desired by any member of Council, that item must be removedj from the consent agenda and considered: separately. Motion to approve Items 1 through 101 listed on the Consent Agenda was made by Mr. McCoy, Borough Financial Report acknowledge receipt ofthe Borough Treasurer's Report.  seconded by Mrs. Caldarelli, motion carried unanimously.  1.  Treasurer's Report February 12, 2019 Marilyn Sheleheda- Treasurer General Fund Analysis  $453,890.63  General Fund Bank Account Balance as of: -(February 12,2019) -3:00p pm  $137,413.64 AIIOutstanding Checks as of: $316,476.99 Available Balance as of:  (February 12,2019) -3:00 pm (February 12, 2019) -3:00 pm  Totals are ast follows: Deposits: Debits: 89 Checks & Debits 3 Payroll (s)  $581,207.72 $495,935.43  General Fund -which include the follow  Summary:  $257,684.62 $238,250.81  Other Fund Balances as of (February 12, 2019) 3:00 pm Ambridge Fire Apparatus Replacement Fund Escrow! Disbursement. Account Liquid Fuels Fund  $27,657.99 Ambridge Borough! Drug Investigation Fund $1,086,521.67 Ambridge Capital Project Fund2 2016-PLGIT Account  $7,755.18 $10,379.97 $3,180.77  $25,850.11 Grants/Special Funds $34,392.52 Recreation Fund $43,261.78 Sinking Fund  $1,238,999.99 Total Other Funds Balances (Restricted Use)  2. 3.  Authorize the Ambridge Volunteer Fire Department to conduct a Cash Bash fundraiser within the Authorize Representative Robert Matzie to use Walter Panek Park on Saturday, May 18th from 10  Fire Station on April 13, 2019: from 6PM to 10PM. AM to IPM for a free paper shredding event.  3    4. 5. 6. 7. 8. units 301 and 304. 9. 10.  Authorize conducting Household Hazardous &1 Electronic Waste Recycling events, inj partnership with] Environmental Coordination Services and Recycling on Saturday, April 13, 2019 and Saturday, July27, Authorize conducting aTire Collection and Recycling Event inj partnership with the Independence Authorize. Ambridge Alliance Church to use PJ Caul Park for outdoor church services within the park thei fourth Sunday of each month April through August, between thel hours of11AM and 12:45PM. Accept the resignation ofp part-time Patrolman Jeremiah Curtis effective February 12,2 2019. Authorize the disposition and public auction via www.Municibid.com ofs surplus police cruisers, Authorize applying for a Community Development Block Grant to reconstruct and add electrical Authorize the Committee to Clean and] Beautify Ambridge to use thel Fire Station for their annual  2019 at the Borough Building.  Conservancy on Saturday, October 5,2019 at the Borough Building.  services att the two Melrose Avenue municipal parking lots. Pierogi and Chili Cookoff on April7,2019. New Business Items for Discussion:  A. Motion to adopt Resolution No. 1-2019, a Resolution oft thel Borough of Ambridge, County of Beaver and Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, decommissioning the K-91 Dog named and known asl Hector, and vesting title tol Hector in Officer. John Chickos. Motion was made by Mr. Cafarelli, seconded by Mr. McCoy;aroll  call vote was taken: Council Mr. Cafarelli Mrs. Caldarelli Mr. Dunn Mr. Flannery Motion carried.  VOTE Yes Mr. McCoy Yes Mrs. Miller Yes Mr. Mikulich Yes Mayor Drewnowski  Council  Vote Yes Yes Yes  B. Motion to authorize the purchase ofa 20191 Ford Interceptor Police Unit, at state Costars contract pricing, with supplemental emergency up-fitting equipment and in-car camera at a total price of $39,838; payable via ai four year purchase/ /1 lease agreement with thef first two years of payments payable from thel Drug Forfeiture Fund pert the written authorization of District Attorney David Lozier, dated October 18, 2018. Motion was made by Mr. Flannery, seconded by Mr. Cafarelli; a1 roll call vote was taken:  Council Mr. Cafarelli Mrs. Caldarelli Mr. Dunn Mr. Flannery Motion carried.  VOTE Yes Mr. McCoy Yes Mrs. Miller Yes Mr. Mikulich Yes Mayor Drewnowski  Council  Vote Yes Yes Yes  Motion to authorize the purchase ofa 2013 Ford! Explorer Interceptor from thel Borough of Baden at a price of$8,500 tol be used by thel Firel Department for Code Enforcement and) Inspection duties. Motion was madel by Mrs. Miller, seconded by Mr. McCoy; Mr. Cafarelli questioned the vehicle's mileage. The Manager informed Council that the SUVI has approximately 50,000 miles oni it. Thel Fire Chiefexplained that the vehicle willl be used fori inspections and will reduce wear and tear on the pickup truck. A roll call  vote was taken:  4    Council Mr. Cafarelli Mrs. Caldarelli Mr. Dunn Mr. Flannery Motion carried.  VOTE Yes Mr.N McCoy Yes Mrs. Miller Yes Mr. Mikulich Yes Mayor Drewnowski  Council  Vote Yes Yes Yes  D. Motion to grant a Certificate of Appropriateness to construct ai fence at 68 15th Street per the recommendation oft thel Historical Architectural Review Board. Motion was made by Mr. Flannery,  seconded by Mr. McCoy;aroll call vote was taken:  Council Mr. Cafarelli Mrs. Caldarelli Mr. Dunn Mr. Flannery Motion carried.  VOTE Yes Mr. McCoy Yes Mrs. Miller Yes Mr. Mikulich Yes Mayor Drewnowski  Council  Vote Yes Yes Yes  E. Motion to grant a Certificate of Appropriateness to grant a Certificate of Occupancy for a daycare facility and minor exterior improvements at 1231 Merchant Street per the recommendation of thel Historical Architectural Review Board. Motion was made byl Mr. Flannery, seconded by Mr. Dunn; Mr. Flannery stated that he attended the HARB meeting where these two applications were discussed. He stated that both applicants attended and are supportive of the program; ar roll call vote was taken:  Council Mr. Cafarelli Mrs. Caldarelli Mr. Dunn Mr. Flannery Motion carried.  VOTE Yes Mr. McCoy Yes Mrs. Miller Yes Mr. Mikulich Yes Mayor Drewnowski  Council  Vote Yes Yes Yes  Motion to ratify the participation in the 2019/2020 Costars state-wide annual Rock Salt contract. Motion  was made by Mr. Flannery, seconded by Mr. McCoy; a roll call vote was taken:  Council Mr. Cafarelli Mrs. Caldarelli Mr. Dunn Mr. Flannery Motion carried.  VOTE Yes Mr. McCoy Yes Mrs. Miller Yes Mr. Mikulich Yes Mayor Drewnowski  Council  Vote Yes Yes Yes  G. Motion to authorize payment in the amount of $59,007.23 to Baiano Construction for Invoice No. 5 ofthe Merchant St. Streetscape Project. Motion was made by Mr. McCoy, seconded by Mrs. Caldarelli; the Borough Manager explained that the streetscape project is broken into two contacts, the General Construction andl Electrical contracts. Ofthe $1,500,000 grant that the County is managing for the project, the electrical work is paid solely by the grant and all of the general construction grant funds have been expended so all general construction invoices will be now paid by thel Borough as part ofi its match fort the  project. A roll call vote was taken: Council Mr. Cafarelli Mrs. Caldarelli Mr. Dunn Mr. Flannery Motion carried.  VOTE Yes Mr. McCoy Yes Mrs. Miller Yes Mr. Mikulich Yes Mayor Drewnowski  Council  Vote Yes Yes Yes  5    H. Motion to authorize the acceptance of Change Order No. 31 for the Merchant St. Streetscape Project in the amount of$7,200 for additional work ini thel Phase 3 area including additional storm sewer and demolition work. Motion was made by Mr. Flannery, seconded byl Mrs. Miller;ar roll call vote was taken:  Council Mr. Cafarelli Mrs. Caldarelli Mr. Dunn Mr. Flannery Motion carried.  VOTE Yes Mr. McCoy Yes Mrs. Miller Yes Mr. Mikulich Yes Mayor Drewnowski  Council  Vote Yes Yes Yes  Motion to authorize Kress) Brothers Builders to secure and improve thes south wall within thel Merchant Street Streetscape Park area at a cost not to exceed $20,500. Motion was made by Mr. Flannery, seconded by Mr. McCoy. Manager Kauer explained that the wall oft the former building to thes south oft the park loti is owned by the Borough andi is not part oft the Anderson Candy Building. He stated that areas on ita are falling and contain loosel bricks. To continue building the park, the wall needs stabilized and made safe so that streetscape construction can continue and so that the future park is safe. He stated that bids have been received, thisi is thel lowest bid received and this contractor performed the same work to the Vocelli Pizza Building in the 4001 block of] Merchant Street. He stated that ifCouncil desires toj paint andj parge the wall  that would be as separate contract. A roll call vote was taken:  Council Mr. Cafarelli Mrs. Caldarelli Mr. Dunn Mr. Flannery Motion carried.  VOTE Yes Mr.M McCoy Yes Mrs. Miller Yes Mr. Mikulich Yes Mayor Drewnowski  Council  Vote Yes Yes Yes  J. Motion to authorize the replacement of the Borough Building roof-top HVAC system and award contract to Tudi Mechanical at state Costars pricing of $39,950, with the Ambridge Water Authority and Ambridge Municipal Authority each contributing $7,860 to the project. Motion was made by Mr. McCoy, seconded by Mrs. Caldarelli; Manager. Kauer explained that thel HVAC: system is over 25 years old, original to the Building andi routinely needs repair. It was discussed upgrading the system as part oft the 20191 budget paid  with the 2018 surplus. A roll call vote was taken:  Council Mr. Cafarelli Mrs. Caldarelli Mr. Dunn Mr. Flannery Motion carried.  VOTE Yes Mr. McCoy Yes Mrs. Miller Yes Mr. Mikulich Yes Mayor Drewnowski  Council  Vote Yes Yes Yes  K. Motion to authorize the disbursement for Payment Application No.: 3 and] Final to Sports and Recreation Associates, LLC, in the amount of$19,638.501 for the Ambridge Park System Improvements Project. Motion was made by Mrs. Miller, seconded by Mr. Flannery; a roll call vote was taken:  Council Mr. Cafarelli Mrs. Caldarelli Mr. Dunn Mr. Flannery Motion carried.  VOTE Yes Mr. McCoy Yes Mrs. Miller Yes Mr. Mikulich Yes Mayor Drewnowski  Council  Vote Yes Yes Yes  L. Motion to authorize the execution ofal lease and maintenance agreement with Toshiba Business Solutions in the amount of $257.03 per month for 63 months for the purchase ofai new copy machine. Motion was made by Mr. McCoy, seconded by Mrs. Caldarelli; thel Manager explained the current machine is over  6    seven years old and nol longer covered by a maintenance agreement. This purchase was discussed during the budget process and multiple quotes were received with Toshiba being ther most affordable. Ofthis monthly payment iti is split, approximately halfbeing the equipment lease, the remaining being  maintenance and supplies. A roll call vote was taken:  Council Mr. Cafarelli Mrs. Caldarelli Mr. Dunn Mr. Flannery Motion carried.  VOTE Yes Mr. McCoy Yes Mrs. Miller Yes Mr. Mikulich Yes Mayor Drewnowski  Council  Vote Yes Yes Yes  M. Motion to authorize and establish the 2019 Street Sweeping Schedule to operate starting April 1,2019 and concluding October 4, 2019, running every other week. (Discussion: consider additional, parking restrictions October 21" through. December 6", for Legf Pickup requested by the Public Works Department.) Motion was made by Mrs. Caldarelli, seconded by Mr. Cafarelli; ai roll call vote was taken:  Council Mr. Cafarelli Mrs. Caldarelli Mr. Dunn Mr. Flannery Motion carried.  VOTE Yes Mr. McCoy Yes Mrs. Miller Yes Mr. Mikulich Yes Mayor Drewnowski  Council  Vote Yes Yes Yes  N. Motion to authorize the Solicitor to prepare an Ordinance that would amend the Borough's zoning regulations to provide regulations that would govern the construction and placement of small cell facilities within the Borough. Motion was made by! Mr. Flannery, seconded by Mr. McCoy; Manager Kauer explained that with the expansion of 5G cellular phone service, phone providers are constructing these repeater type devices within the right of ways on utility poles, they are different from the traditional cell phone tower. Hes stated that three are under construction in town as we: speak, two in front oft the high school and one at 215! Street and) Beaver Road. The goal is toi regulate thej placement of thes small cell devises through zoning which is permitted by the state legislature. Mr. Flannery stated that the Beaver County Council ofGovernments is also discussing ways municipalities can address this issue and that he  willl keep Council informed as well; a roll call vote was taken:  Council Mr. Cafarelli Mrs. Caldarelli Mr. Dunn Mr. Flannery Motion carried. Committee Reports  VOTE Yes Mr. McCoy Yes Mrs. Miller Yes Mr. Mikulich Yes Mayor Drewnowski  Council  Vote Yes Yes Yes  1. Code Enforcement Committee: Mrs. Caldarelli reported that all code activities andj programs are ongoing. She also reported that this past month 42 ordinance violation notices were sent out. 2. Public Safety: Mr. Flannery reported that the committee will be meeting later this month with District Attorney David Lozier to discuss new police programs and initiatives he' d liket toi include  Ambridge in. He'll have a report for the next meeting. 3. Public Works: Mr. Cafarelli reported the following:  Christmas Tree Recycling was completed through February Ist.  Crew has been busy with winter maintenance activities of thei roads and public sidewalks. DPW has been cutting out the old Meter Posts from the commercial districts. They are Crew built additional traffic horses - now have a supply of 32 barricades. Streetscape Project crewi ist refurbing parking meters for the public lots and also painting the backs of signs that will be hung int the downtown  about 60% complete.  7    Equipment Maintenance:  0 0 o o alleys.  Red F-550 Dump Truck 4x4 repair, transmission cable and brakes replaced.  Thes snow plow lift cylinder was also repaired. F-350 Stake Bed' Truck was inspected Bucket Truck - boom electrical repairs were completed. F-650 (5-ton). Dump Truck is out right now for brake repairs. Sign maintenance is on-going, replacing missing signs andi repairing damaged locations. Ongoing maintenance has been dedicated to filling pot-holes and repairs to multiple Foreman responded, marked and reported: multiple PA-One Call requests.  4. Parks: Mr. Mikulich told Mrs. Miller thats she and her family are in everyone'st thoughts as you cope Mrs. Miller stated that the Recreation Committee willl bei meeting this week tos start planning the design oft thei new playground at Henning Street. She apologized to the citizen audience ifs she came offh harsh; shes stated that shei is very passionate about this project tol bring ap playground to the Historic District. She stated that she has been recently verbally accosted atl local shops and the grocery store while out with her daughter. She stated that her father, who was also ai member of council, when she was a child, Mr. McCoy stated that members of Council are paid $88 per month; it doesn't even cover the costs ofa cell phone. Hes stated that the citizens should be proud oft the actions of Council, as members of Mrs. Caldarelli stated that iti is wonderful to see the large amount of citizens here tonight when things are bad, but questioned where was everyone recently when Council was paving streets, moving forward with the streetscape andj pulling off 14 years without a tax increase. Mr. Mikulich stated that Council is here to serve and protect the citizens and employees. He stated that our police officers and all borough employees work hard and deserve our respect. Mr. Mikulich added that Council and thel Mayor cannot speak about litigation; iti is out ofc our hands. He stated that he is very frustrated and affirmed Councili is not protecting anyone who may have broken the law. He added that once thei investigations are over, we willl be able to discuss ther reports, but now we cannot speak 5. Engineer's Report: Engineer Suehr reported that thej park project is complete; redoing the line striping and grass seeding will be completed in the spring. Regarding Merchant Street repaving, he stated that after the streetscape project is complete, the plans ands specification to facilitate thej paving isr ready to bej put out tol bid. He added that the contract for paving has a 45 day turnaround so that Thel Engineer stated that thel Borough's! Pollution Reduction Plan to reduce sedimentation to French Point Creek is moving forward, he met with the Public Works crew, supplied mapping where the new He commented that he has reviewed the proposed Palichat Subdivision Plan for a property on North Walnut Street. Thej plan will be reviewed byt the Borough's Planning Commission on February 21*. Lastly, he added that he has been working with the Manager to develop a project scope and estimate to Mr. Mikulich reported that the new: street lights on Merchant Street that have been installed as part of Motion to accept the Official Reports; motion was made by Mr. McCoy, seconded by Mr.  with your ill father-in-law.  was never treated this way, ands stated thati iti isn'tright or fair.  Council love this town and its people.  on these matters.  work is done by August.  catch basin nets are to go and explained what is expected with the crew.  seek grant funding to reconstruct the two Melrose Avenue parking lots.  the first halfoft the Streetscape Project are: now lit. Flannery; a roll call vote was taken:  Official Reports 1.  8    Council Mr. Cafarelli Mrs. Caldarelli Mr. Dunn Mr. Flannery Motion carried. Other Unfinished Business  VOTE Yes Mr. McCoy Yes Mrs. Miller Yes Mr. Mikulich Yes Mayor Drewnowski  Council  Vote Yes Yes Yes  Mayor Drewnowski talking to the audience stated that] hes spoke with Council to reinstate the Housing Authority patrols. Hes stated that he is afraid of crime there in the coming summer: months. Mr. Mikulich stated to the Mayor that his comments are out ofl line, they were: matters discussed inl Executive Session. Thel Mayor stated that Chief Romutis has a map, mapping crime in Ambridge. Hes stated that the officers are doing an excellent job, working as a group. The Mayor stated that he recently wrote an article for the Borough'sn newsletter highlighting that crime in Ambridge is down 30% compared to this time last year. He commended the officers and community for this achievement. Thel Mayor stated that Crime Watch meetings are now held on the second Monday of eachi month at 7PM. He also stated that this past month there were three drug raids within the Borough. Lastly, he stated that thel Police Department is moving Motion to adjourn was made by Mr. Flannery, seconded by Mr. McCoy; motion carried unanimously-  forward and that hel believes in due-process. meeting was adjourned at 7:55PM.  Adjournment -  Respectfully submitted:  Borough Manager/Secretary  A    BOROUGH OF AMBRIDGE  6001 Eleventh Street Ambridge, PA 15003 Phone: (724)266-4070 FAX: (724)266-9191 wwwambndgeboro.oig  February 12, 2019  AN'OPEN LETTER TO THE RESIDENTS & EMPLOYEES  OF THE BOROUGH OF AMBRIDGE  All concerned residents and employees,  lam writing this letter in my capacity as the Solicitor of the Borough of Ambridge and with the. knowledge and consent of at least a majority of Borough Council. If any Council Person disagrees with The past year has been what can only be described as tumultuous times within the Borough andi in particular, conflicts between Borough officials and some members oft the Ambridge Police Department. The purpose of the within letter is inténded to respond tot the publicized "Vote ofN No Confidence" that was recently reported in the print and news media. This letter is also intended toi re- butt the claims that the Borough has lacked transparency that was delivered in at flyer to many homes in Ambridge last week. Iti is not myi intention to create more conflict, rather, iti is myi intention to publicly recite correct and accurate facts regarding these matters so that Ambridgel Borough Citizens can assess the actions of Borough Council based on: actual facts, noti inuendo and false information. The Borough Council has reviewed the February 4th correspondence from the Ambridge Police Bargaining Unit and statement relative to the Police Bargaining Unit membership's concerns. They too share int those frustrations and concerns; however the statements that werei made to the media by the Bargaining Unit without ever addressing them first with Borough Council, contained statements that were notf factual, inaccurate and false, potentially misguiding the Ambridge citizens. 1. Claim: "The first issue that is concerning the entire Bargaining Unit is the lack of response to the séxual harassment complaints made against. James Mann. In March of 2018 complaints were made against James Mann. The Borough asked for the complaints to be submitted. in writing. The complaints were. again submitted this time in writing. No action was taken against Mann. At least one victim was forced to work the same time as Mann... There have not been any statements to the members of the department. assuring the members that sexual harassment would not be tolerated or any assurance to the victims that the Borough was attempting to rectify the situation." Response: First let me be clear that at no time was any employee forced to work with Chief April 4, 2018- A member of the Police Bargaining Unit was issued Notice of April 5, 2018-7 The Borough Manager verbally received the first complaint of sexual Phone: (724) 266-4070 FAX: (724) 266-9191 wwwambidgeboro.org  the content of this letter, he or she may state their disagreement.  James Mann as thet following time line will show.  Disciplinary Action harassment.  1    April 6, 2018- Measures werei immediately taken to remove Mann from the workplace, April 10, 2018, the Borough Council unanimously passed three Motions, to-wit: 1. Amotion that this council impose the disciplinary action ofa 30 day unpaid suspension upon the Ambridge Borough Police Officer discussed in Executive Session - This 30 day suspension was imposed as al résult ofi irregularities in the Patrol Log oft the Police Officerwho was assigned tot the County Housing Authority. 2. Amotion that this Council place. James Mann on paid administrative leave pending further investigation. and possible future action by this Council- The administrative leave imposed on James Mann was in response to the above-descrbed. sexual harassment complaints andi indication from investigating authorties that criminal 3. Amotion that this council appoint CSI Corporate Security and Investigations, Inc., tod conduct an independent investigation of the Ambridge Borough Police Department- The açtion taken. to appoint CSI to conduct an independent investigation of the Ambridge Borough Police Department was directed towards both the above described underlying claims against James Mann and discovering if other Patrol Logs regarding Housing Authority Details contained iregularities.  Chief Mann didi not work from Aprile 6tht to April 10th  charges would be filed against James Mann imminently.  The Minutes of that April 10, 2018 meeting recite thatl publicly directed that Borough Council and the Mayor not make any comments on the personnel matters that must remain confidential. Following the April 10, 2018 action by Borough Council, numerous requests were made to the Office oft the District Attorney to promptly file whatever criminal charges it was contemplating against James Mann so that his suspension could be converted from paid to unpaid andt the Criminal Charges were eventually filed against James Mann on August 23, 2018 and Borough Council immediately convened a Special Meeting on August 30, 2018 at which time, his suspension was changed to without pay or benefits pending final disposition of these Criminal Charges. Those Charges are: still awaiting final disposition. The Police Department needed direction and with the entire Police Department under investigation the decision to go outside of the Department was made. Based on the excellent service. record of Chief Romutis and his prior service as Chief of Police, Borough Council appointed Mark Romutis as Interim Chief of Both oft the employees who filed sexual harassment complaints with the Borough, also filed EEOC complaints. These Complaints were immediately forwarded to outside legal counsel per thel Boroughs insurance policy requirements. The outside légal counsel has advised me that those claims have notr moved forward in the office of the EEOC or through private counsel for the Claimants. Duei to the fact that these complaints are in litigation, Borough Council Members cannot comment on or answer any questions regarding these allegations. 2. Claim: "CSI completed the investigation in, July of 2018. Thel Investigators took statements from employees of multiple agencies as well as Borough employees. The bargaining unit has been told that CSI authored a report and submitted it to the Borough. It has been reported to the Unit, off-the-record, that the report Is some elghty pages in Response: The independent investigation that is being conducted by CSI was not completed inJuly 2018, and has been placed on hold at the request of the Beaver County District Attorney's Office. Interviews of eleven individuals (only eight (8) of the 22 member Police Department have been interviewed to date) were conducted in May and June, 2018. The that was received by the Borough's legal Counsel was aj partial report whichi isa summary of those eleven interviews and is far less than 80 pages. This remains an incomplete report. There have been no recommendations. given ori implied by CSI. Ipersonally spoke with Phone: (724) 266-4070 FAX: (724) 266-9191 nwambidgeboro.org  CSI investigation could continue.  Police.  length and recommends Mann's termination."  document  only  2    the CSI Investigator on February 7, ,2019, about these alleged' "off the record" statements 1. He did not indicate that this partial report was ai final report; 2. That he never stated, as has been reported, that the report was 80 pages long; 3. Thati this partial report made no recommendation that Mann be terminated. Once CSI investigators are allowed to continue their investigation as was authorized on April 10, 2018, the remaining investigation of the Police Départment willl be completed. and then a report will be delivered to the Council fori its next steps in a plan of action. This matter is of personnel and an on-going investigation, in accordance with alle existing laws, confidentiality and nondisclosure willl be strictly followed. The cost of thei investigation to date is $9,343.45. 3. Claim: "The third issue in the Jetter was the lack of communication between Council and the Police. Officer. John Chickos, a Bargaining Unit Representative, was told by Councilmember Bob Dunn and Tina Miller that they werè advised by the Borough Response: The lack of communication is being misconstrued and misinterpreted by the Borough Police Officers. The claim that the members of Couricil were advised by me to not communicate with the Officers is correct. in nature regarding all matters of the personnel, criminal and civil litigation matters. Just as our officers cannot divulge information and discuss their ongoing investigations, that holds true to the members of Borough Council and appointed staff. The claim that "The Bargaining Unit has been unable to communicate with members of Council about thè state of affairs in the Police Department, including basic operational matters... "isi incorrect. In the early part of the fourth quarter last year, through the newly hired interim Chief of Police, a survey seeking inputf from all officers and officials was solicited to seek the input from all those invested in what their concerns were, how crime was perceived, what equipment and policy needs are, where they would like the focus on the Poliçel Department be, etc. From that survey, only 50% of the officers participated in this process that was intended to work collectively with the Borough governance on improving police operations. 100% of the elected officials résponded and participated in this survey. In addition, in December, the Council Public Safety Committee delivered al letter, that highlights many ongoing affairs and updates noteworthy to the Police Department's employees. Furthermore on January 10h, four days before the Unit's statement was released and published in media outlets, the Ambridge Council Public Safety Committee, Mayor, Chief Romutis and Borough Manager had a meeting with Representative John Chickos and discussed various police operational matters including retirement oft the K9, çommunity oriented policing efforts, and reestablishment oft the Housing Claim: "The Fourth issue in the letter was the elimination of the Beaver County Housing Patrol. It was discussed. by the Mayor during a Crime Watch meeting that Council voted ine executive. session to eliminate Housing patrol. When asked about the Housing elimination it was stated they were saving on the pension costs. The cost is less than Response: Borough Council did nott take any vote on this matter either in Executive or Open Session of Council. In fact, in order to mitigate the risk of contractual violations with the Housing Authority, the Borougli Council did not take action one way or the other to renew the Contract, simply allowing it to expire, The safety of those living int the County Housing properties is entrusted just as those of the other thousands of citizens who live elsewhere within the community to the officers assigned to patrol duty each day. The Ambridge Police Department at a minimum is staffed with three officers on duty per shift, and during some shifts having five officers on duty including the Chief and special assignments.. As the Unit is aware there are multiple criminal and civil charges pending. There will be no communication: relative to those matters between any Borough representatives, elected or appointed, until those matters are resolved. The Borough Council has employed an interim Chief of Police. The Chiefi is entrusted in bringing stability to the operations of thel Police Department. The Borough Phone: (724) 266-4070 FAX: (724) 266-9191 ww.ambridgeboro.org  attributed to him and he assured me that:  Solicitor. not to communicate with Officers."  Authority Patrol Details.  $2,500 for the yeart for 1,000 patrol hours."  3    encourages the Bargaining Unit Membership to reach out to Chief Romutis, share your concerns viai the survey, so that an appropriate course ofa action can be accomplished in at fair, unbiased and conventional mannert thati is in the best interest in protecting the health, safety Many rumors have been passed around the community that unfairly damage the character and reputation of the Bourgh Council and Manager. These public servants have performed! their duties without being given the opportunity to explain their actions andi intentions due to laws that forbid public comment without jeopardizing thel borough. Itis sincerely hoped that this letter to the community will Every Ambridge Citizen, Police Officer, employee, and official is a valued part the community. There are procedures, processes, and rights of all that need to be protected. and embraced. Due- process takes time and we too are frustrated. All claims, matters and complaints are being investigated, addressed and responded to. We thank you for your cooperation and ask for your  and welfare oft the Ambridge citizens.  set the record straight.  patience. Respectilyyours,  Qihlip Richard F. Start, Soliçitor CC: Borough Council  David Drewnowski, Mayor Mark Romutis, Interim Chief of Police Joseph Kauer, Borough Manager All Ambridge Police Officers  Phone: (724) 266-4070 FAX: (724) 266-9191 wwwambndgeboro.org  4