JOHNSTOWN CITY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING MINUTES Wednesday, June 14, 2023  City Council met in a stated session for the general transaction ofb business. Mayor Janakovic called the meeting to order at 6:35 p.m. Mr. Britt offered the invocation. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited. Mrs. Mock requested ai moment of silence for Sergeant Michael Beblar who had recently passed away. She read into the record the following statement: Sergeant Michael Beblar, West Hills Police Department, passed away suddenly on June 13, 2023 at the age of40. He is a member of SERT and has participated many times helping current JPD. He leaves two young sons and a fiancé. His father, Michael, Sr., is ai retired JP officer and served the City well. A moment of silence and prayer for the family ofl Michael Beblar was  conducted.  Mayor Janakovic also requested a moment of silence for Al Reynolds, a former member ofCity Council who had recently passed away. The following members of Council were present for roll call: Mr. Arnone, Mr. Britt, Mr. Capriotti, Ms. Huchel, Mayor Janakovic,  Reverend King, Mrs. Mock (7).  Ethan Imhoff, City Manager; Alex Ashcom, Assistant City Manager; Robert Ritter, Finance Director; John Dubnansky, Economic Development Director; Elizabeth Benjamin, Esquire, City Solicitor; Robert Statler, Fire Chief; Richard Pritchard, Police Chief; Dave Williams, Codes Enforcement Manager; Jared Campagna, Public Works Director, were also in attendance.  APPROVAL OF MINUTES  Mr. Arnone made a motion to approve the Regular Meeting Minutes of May 10, 2023; Special Council Meeting Minutes ofMay 31,2023. The motion was Yeas: Ms. Huchel, Mrs. Mock, Reverend King, Mayor Janakovic, Mr. Britt,  seconded by Mr. Britt and passed by the following vote:  Mr. Arnone (6). Nays: None (0). Abstention: Mr. Capriotti (1).  ROCLAMATIONS. AWARDS. HONORS. RESOLUTIONS OF RECOGNITION    Wednesday, June 14, 2023 Stated Meeting, continued Juneteenth:  2of14  Mayor Janakovic read the following proclamation into the record in recognition of  Our nation separated itself from the ties of Great Britain on July 4th, 1776 with the Declaration of Independence stating that we hold these truths to be self evident that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their creator with certain inalienable rights that among these are. life, liberty and the pursuit of On January 1st, 1863, President Abraham Lincoln who better aligned this nation with principles held in the Declaration of Independence signed the Emancipation Proclamation stating that all people enslaved within any state shall be then henceforth and forever free. Nearly three years later on June 19, 1865, Major General Gordon Granger arriving in Galveston, Texas, under General Order Number Three, declared the end oft the Civil War and the final end of slavery in the United States announcing the people ofTexas are informed that in accordance with the proclamation from the executive oft the United States, all The City ofJohnstown on April 20th, 2022, established Juneteenth as an official city holiday to celebrate the African/American community and recognize both their struggles and achievements in the pursuit of freedom, justice and equality. Now, Therefore, I, Mayor Frank J. Janakovic, on behalfofJ Johnstown City Council and our citizen thank the NAACP and all other groups involved for their tremendous service in hosting Johnstown's 2023 Juneteenth celebration, which is going on all this week. Johnstown City Council is ever grateful for the African/American community and their contributions ini making our city excellent. We commit to creating ai more united, equal and just home for all. On this day, I signed the seal and cause the Seal of. Johnstown to be affixed. Mayor Janakovic noted he would be presenting the proclamation on Monday, June 19,2023. The parade was cancelled this past Monday, June 12, 2023. He Mayor. Janakovic read the following proclamation into the record in recognition of Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer and intersex, LGBTQI Pride Month is celebrated in. June every year since 1999. LGBTQI communities ini the City of Johnstown contribute to the advancement and success of our community at large. The City ofJ Johnstown exists to serve, protect and work for the betterment ofall ofi its citizens regardless of race, faith, sexual identity, sexual orientation or any  happiness.  slaves are free.  congratulated those responsible for their hard work.  Pride Month:    Wednesday, June 14, 2023 Stated Meeting, continued  3of14  other characteristics inherent in the identities oft the people. All individuals regardless of these characteristics have the right to be treated fairly and equally on the basis oft their intrinsic value as human beings. They have ai right to partake in a world of dignity, freedom, parliament and justice. The City of. Johnstown seeks to not only recognize the historical struggles oft the LGBTQI communities across this nation but also recognize their achievements Now, Therefore, I, Mayor Frank J. Janakovic, on behalf of City Council and our citizens, hereby declare the month of. June 2023 as LGBTQI Pride Month within the City ofJohnstown. We encourage all members oft the public to reflect on the struggles the LGBTQI community has, does and will face to achieve their liberty and equality. We celebrate their efforts to better themselves, their friends, their families and our community. In Witness Thereof, on1 the 14th day ofJ June, 2023, Ihereby set my hand and cause the Seal oft the City ofJohnstown to be affixed.  as persons, as citizens and as leaders of our community.  Mayor Janakovic noted the ceremony and parade willl be held in. July.  Phil Bayush, on behalfo oft the Laurel Highlands Newsletter, thanked the Mayor, City Manager and City Council for giving the proclamation and invited all toj join them on Saturday, July 15, 2023 in Central Park where food will be served until  9:00 p.m.  PUBLIC COMMENT-AGENDA ITEMS ONLY  None. REPORTS CITY MANAGER:  Ethan Imhoff, City Manager, reported that Ideal Market has stated it would be closing its downtown grocery store, which would have an impact on economic development efforts and residents who live downtown. He noted the City is working with JARI and JRA to find another operator for that space, which is Mr. Imhoff reported that he would be meeting with HUD regarding the distressed community technical assistance program, which was announced when Matthew Heckles, regional HUD administrator, visited Johnstown. The program works to partner communities with financial struggles to federal  owned by JRA.    Wednesday, June 14, 2023 Stated Meeting, continued  4of14  resources. Another program is the rental assistance program that JHA will be He noted the first public introduction to the RAISE grant was held. A one- hour premeeting was also held with the Main Street committee and SCAPE  participating in.  Designs.  Mrs. Mock requested an update with regard toj plans for the new Public Safety  Building. Mr. Imhoffnoted proposals for design oft the building will be going out this month. An RFP for the HVAC system for which Senator Langerholc obtained $750,000 towards that project. He: noted the success of several events held at the Conference Center. New carpeting has been installed and new As successful Jehovah's Witness event was held at the Conference Center this  cosmetic upgrades will be made to the building. past weekend, which was attended by thousands.  MAYOR:  Mayor Frank Janakovic reported May and June have been very busy months. He noted his attendance at the Showcase for Commerce where over $350 million was awarded in grants by vendors and corporations throughout the area. The Polka Fest was recently held at PNG Park, which brought people in from Mayor Janakovic noted his attendance at the Mill Rats home opener. Over 300 people attended the recent Main Street committee meeting, which The Mayor attended a ceremony at the Johnstown Flood Museum, which just Approximately 1,000 tickets were sold for the Taste and Tour event, which The Mayor noted meeting with Senator Casey when he recently visited He noted his attendance at the Chamber Board of Directors meeting and the  all over the United States.  was open to the public.  celebrated its 50th anniversary. was recently held. Johnstown.  annual Military Spouse Appreciation Ceremony.    Wednesday, June 14, 2023 Stated Meeting, continued  5of14  He and several Council members attended ai ribbon-cutting event at 404 Messenger Street, the old L&D Candy building that was renovated tol hold meetings and events in the Hornerstown section of the city. He commended Dave and Donna Porcher for creating a place for people to come. Itwast noted the. Juneteenth Parade would be held next week.  CITY SOLICITOR:  Elizabeth Benjamin, Esquire, had no report during this portion oft the meeting but would direct any matters that arise while going through the agenda.  CITY ENGINEER: None.  COUNCILI UPDATESNEIGHBORHBORHOODLIAISONS:  Michael Capriotti, Deputy Mayor, noted his attendance at many oft the same events  attended by the Mayor.  He expressed thanks and appreciation to City Fire, Police and first responders from himself and Councilmembers on recent efforts to save the child who had  fallen into the river.  Mayor Janakovic on behalfofhimself. and the offered condolences to the family. Mr. Britt thanked Mr. Campagna, his crew: and Laura and all who participated in As Council's representative on the GJWA, 18 lead service lines were renewed in May forai total of113. Work to install endpoint devices and meters in the Central Business District is one-third completed and will continue throughout the summer. Service line inventory is 50 percent complete and on track tol be completed this year before the November 24, 2023 deadline. He noted that Snyder is approximately 98 percent completed with construction of the whole project, 95 percent completed with the construction oft the project within the City. As oft the end ofl May the City was 63.9 percent pressure tested. Mr. Arnone provided an update on statistical information related to the population of public housing communities located within the City of. Johnstown, He reported that as May 31, 2023, the population of the public housing communities was 2,405, Section Eight voucher holders totaled 1,127 families  repainting the street last Friday.    Wednesday,June 14, 2023 Stated Meeting, continued  6of14  for a total of3,532 families. Currently 40 percent of the people living in Mr. Arnone reported there are still no definitive plans for the Prospect Community noting different needs for different properties. A real estate estimate would be discussed with HUD to determine if funding is available or more drastic redevelopment is needed. JHA administration is meeting weekly with HUD Pittsburgh Field Office to discuss possible next steps. A meeting will be held with Quality Affordable Housing taskforce partners regarding choice neighborhood grant applications focusing on Oakhurst and  poverty in the City of. Johnstown are being assisted.  Coopersdale.  As representative oft the American Legion of. Johnstown, Mr. Arnone reported that membership agreed to raise funds for the purchase an LED solar-operated flag for display at Roxbury field. A ceremony was held on Memorial Day, which will become an annual event. Mr. Arnone also reported that ai new: red, white and blue roof was installed on the. American Legion building in Mr. Arnone stated the only work that needs tol be completed on the Inclined Plane isj just in the wheelhouse. He would like the observation platform to be  downtown Johnstown.  open to the public.  Mr. Capriotti inquired ofN Mr. Arnone what residents would need to do to avoid a fee being placed on their water bills while waiting for a contractor to come in and do the work. Mr. Arnone noted an updated contract would have to be obtained indicating the work would be done by the end ofthis year. He would ask for further explanation at the Thursday June 15, 2023 meeting. Mrs. Mock reported the West End Improvement Group's flower boxes were placed  along Route 56 from Giant Eagle to Harold Avenue. The community garden has been planted.  The group is working toward designs and planning for the grant for the City She noted that flowers and rosebushes have been planted at Roxbury Park. Reverend King noted her attendance at many oft the events that the Mayor had already spoken of. She reminded all ofthe. Juneteenth celebration going on this week in Central Park. An all-day concert will bel held on Saturday, June 17,2023 at  Neighborhood Project.    Wednesday, June 14, 2023 Stated Meeting, continued  7of14  PNG Park and a parade would be held on Monday,June 19,2023 in Reverend King reported a block party was recently held in the Solomon community and similar events are suggested for other neighborhoods in the She invited all to visit Studio 404, the new event center in Hornerstown. Reverend King thanked City police and firemen for their recent rescue efforts of the ten-year-old boy and asked that all remember the family of the young  downtown Johnstown.  City.  child.  Ms. Huchel also noted her attendance at many of the recent events but noted one highlight in conjunction with the JAHA anniversary was the restored silent film oft the Johnstown Flood recently shown at the State Theater. She also attended the Main Street SCAPE: meetings, Polka Fest, the Pride kickoffat Lucy's, the Walk ofHope at the Greater Johnstown High School and repainted End Racism Now on Main Street along with other volunteers. She also was in attendance at some Juneteenth events and heard a solo saxophone player in With regard to. JRA, Ms. Huchel indicated that staff continues to work to administer grants and loan programs and is reviewing responses to requests for proposals for the operation oft the Dornick Point Plant.  Central Park.  Mayor Janakovic further mentioned that he attended a Press Conference at the Trojan Stadium recognizing 125 years of football in Johnstown. The Mayor told the story ofa an opportunity hel had to attend the 1958 championship game at Pitt  Stadium in, which Jerry Davitch participated.  PETITIONS: None.  ORDINANCES FOR FINAL READ AND ADOPTION  BILL NO. 40F 2023, AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF JOHNSTOWNTO AMEND CERTAIN PROVISIONS OF THE PENSION PLANS ESTABLISHED FOR THE BENEFIT OF CITY UNIFORMED AND: NON- UNIFORMED OFFICERS AND EMPLOYEES TO PROVIDE FOR THE ESTABLISHMENT AND MAINTENANCE OF PENSION AND    Wednesday, June 14, 2023 Stated Meeting, continued  8of14  RETIREMENT BENEFITS IN ACCORDANCE WITH APPLICABLE Mr. Arnone made a motion to approve. The motion was seconded by Mr. Britt and  LAW.  passed by the following vote:  Yeas: Mr. Britt, Mr. Capriotti, Mayor Janakovic, Reverend King, Mrs.  Mock, Nays: None (0).  Ms. Huchel, Mr. Arnone (7).  BILL: NO.5OF: 2023, AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF JOHNSTOWN, CAMBRIA COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA, VACATING WAGONER PLACE FROM HAY. AVENUE TO SUPPES AVENUE AS A PUBLIC  THOROUGHFARE.  Mr. Arnone made ai motion to approve. The motion was seconded by Mrs. Mock and  passed by the following vote:  Yeas: Mr. Britt, Mr. Capriotti, Mayor Janakovic, Reverend King, Mrs.  Mock, Nays: None (0). ORDINANCES FOR FIRST READ  Ms. Huchel, Mr. Arnone (7).  BILL: NO.70F: 2023, AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF. JOHNSTOWN, CAMBRIA COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA, AUTHORIZING AND APPROVING THE TRANSFER OF ANY/ALL CERTAIN REAL ESTATE INTEREST (S) EXISTING WITHIN A TRACT OF PROPERIYLOCATED INTHE 17TH WARD OF THE CITY OF JOHNSTOWN LYING ALONG AND BETWEEN THE STONYCREEK RIVER WALL. AND INCLINED PLANE TO THE CAMBRIA COUNTY TRANSIT AUTHORITY AND FURTHER AUTHORIZING AND DIRECTING THE PROPER OFFICERS OF THE CITY TOI DO ALL THINGS NECESSARY TO CARRY OUT THIS SALE AND TAKE. ANY/ALL ACTIONS INCIDENTAL TO SAME. Mr. Arnone made a motion to approve. The motion was seconded by Reverend King. Mr. Arnone explained ownership of the property is unknown. CamTran is requesting  full access and ownership of the property.  The motion passed by the following vote:    Wednesday, June 14, 2023 Stated Meeting, continued  9of14  Yeas: Mayor.Janakovic, Reverend King, Mrs. Mock, Ms. Huchel,  Mr. Arnone, Mr. Britt, Mr. Capriotti (7).  Nays: None (0).  RESOLUTIONS  Resolution No.  AF RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF JOHNSTOWIN, CAMBRIA COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA, APPROVING A MINOR SUBDIVISION LOT MERGE CONSOLIDATING SEVENI PARCELS ON HORNER STREET IN THE CITY OF JOHNSTOWN (TABLED). Mr. Imhoff explained the reason for the resolution to remain tabled is there has not been any reply from MSP Properties, which has recently sold the Dollar General to a California-based property called Exchange Right.  Resolution No. 105610  Al RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF JOHNSTOWN, CAMBRIA COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA, APPROVING THE TRANSFER OF RESTAURANT LIQUOR LICENSE R-19598 INTO THE CITY OF JOHNSTOWN FROMTHE TOWNSHIP OF RICHLAND.  Ms. Huchel made ai motion to recommend against approval oft the license transfer. Attorney Benjamin explained the motion is to disapprove the resolution and deny the petition, that ai nay vote means not in favor oft the request and a yea vote means ini favor oft the request. A nay vote would mean a written adjudication  The motion was seconded by Mrs. Mock.  would be issued to the petitioner.  Ms. Huchel made ai motion to vote on the resolution and approve as read. The: motion was seconded by Mrs. Mock and passed by the following vote:  Yeas: None (0).  Nays: Mrs. Mock, Ms. Huchel, Mr. Arnone, Mr. Britt, Mr. Capriotti,  Mayor Janakovic, Reverend King (7).  Resolution No. 105611    Wednesday, June 14, 2023 Stated Meeting, continued  10of14  AI RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF JOHNSTOWIN, CAMBRIA COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA, AUTHORIZING AND DIRECTING THE CITY MANAGER AND/OR HIS DESIGNEE(S) TO TAKE ANY/ALL ACTIONS NECESSARY TO. AWARD A CONTRACT TOURBAN DESIGN VENTURES, LLC, FOR PROFESSIONAL SERVICES RELATING TO THE CITY'S HUD PROGRAMS.  Mr. Arnone made ai motion to approve. The motion was seconded by Mrs. Mock and  passed by the following vote:  Yeas: Ms. Huchel, Mr. Arnone, Mr. Britt, Mr. Capriotti, Mayor Janakovic,  Reverend King, Mrs. Mock (7).  Nays: None (0).  Resolution No. 105612  Al RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF JOHNSTOWN, CAMBRIA COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA, AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO SIGN ALL: DOCUMENTS NECESSARY TOLEASETO OWN A 2024 10-TON FREIGHTLINER 114SD PLUS TRUCK CHASSIS FROM BERMAN TRUCK GROUP AND A 10'6" ALUMINUM DUMP BED WITH SNOW EQUIPMENT FROM A&H EQUIPMENT.  Mr. Arnone made ai motion to approve. The motion was seconded by Mr. Britt and  passed by the following vote:  Yeas: Mr. Arnone, Mr. Britt, Mr. Capriotti, Mayor Janakovic, Reverend King, Mrs. Mock, Ms. Huchel (7).  Nays: None (0). NEW BUSINESS None. OLDI BUSINESS  Mr.. Imhoff: requested that Council make ai motion to approve the following GOODWILL OF THE SOUTHERN ALLEGHENIES REQUESTI FOR  Conditional Use Application:  CONDITIONAL PHILANTHROPIC USE OF PROPEKIYLOCATED AT 540 CENTRAL AVENUE, PARCEL NO. 87-007-128 AS PRESENTED AT THE MAY 10, 2023 PUBLIC. HEARING FOR PURPOSES OF    Wednesday, June 14,2023 Stated Meeting, continued  11of14  CONSTRUCTING AND OPERATING THE MOXHAM FOOD PANTRY SUBJECT TOTHE CONDITIONS SET FORTH WITHIN THE CITY ZONING CODE AT SECTION 1260.164 AND FURTHER AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO TAKE ANY/ALL ACTION NECESSARYTO ISSUE A WRITTEN DETERMINATION CONFIRMING THE GRANT OF  SAID REQUEST ON BEHALF OF CITY COUNCIL.  Mr. Arnone made a motion to approve. The motion was seconded by Reverend King  and passed by the following vote:  Yeas: Ms. Huchel, Mrs. Mock, Reverend King, Mayor Janakovic,  Mr. Capriotti, Mr. Britt, Mr. Arnone (7).  Nays: None (0). DEPARTMENT REPORTS Public Works  1.  Jared Campagna, Public Works Director, noted being busy helping the. American Legion with the installation oft the flag pole at Roxbury Park and painting downtown. He reported a recent meeting with Gregory Construction, which will start river dredging from the Inclined Plane to Cambria City and was scheduled to start May 31 and end around the middle of August of2023. He reported paving bids were received today for approval at Council's July  meeting.  Mr. Arnone noted several dead standing trees in Roxbury Park and asked that Mr. Mr. Capriotti requested contact information be made available at City Hall for residents unhappy with the condition that the gas company has left their properties in after performing work. Mr. Campagna suggested placing People's contact information on the City's website. There was further  Campagna address the issue.  discussion regarding that matter. Police Department  2.  Chief Richard Pritchard reported that he had the honor of speaking at the recent  wreath laying ceremony at the War Memorial. to see police presence in the community.  The Chiefcommented that police cars are: now lit in cruise mode for residents    Wednesday, June 14, 2023 Stated Meeting, continued  12of14  He reported three new recruits will start in the academy on the 19th and will finish up sometime in December. One new officer, Dominick Lam, was Chief Pritchard reported the 2006 prisoner transport vehicle is being refurbished by the Johnstown High School body shop. He noted several updates to the vehiçle, including the installation of cameras in the prisoner Ini response to an inquiry by Mrs. Mock, the Chief discussed the status of the license plate reader system being aj part ofthe. JPD and referred to the PlateSmart technology being used in Allegheny County. He noted a meeting would bel held with Watkins in the future regarding the program. Mr. Capriotti requested more enforcement of the ordinance regarding people parking on their front lawns and driving on curbs and sidewalks on street sweeper night. Mr. Arnone commented that the company has made a strong suggestion that more boots be placed on vehicles, which is the most effective way tol have fines paid. The Chiefhad further discussion regarding the protocol for enforcement including the implementation ofa magistrate code. There was further discussion regarding enforcement of the ordinance asi it pertains to abandoned cars and also changing the ordinance to allow police on  recently hired.  compartments.  private property ifthere is danger to the public.  3.  Fire Department  ChiefRobert Statler reported the training sitei is moving forward and the foundation work would begin after Thunder in the Valley by the firemen and Public Works, after which a contractor would install the building. Chieftalked about the accidental drowning in the river near Horner Street and the multiple other calls during that same incident. He noted the help and assistance ofc outside fire companies through the mutual aid agreement,  including the East Taylor dive team.  4.  Finance  Robert Ritter provided an update with regard to the Enterprise software. He stated a "few glitches" have been corrected. He noted that once all systems have been  set up a training for all the departments would be held.    Wednesday, June 14, 2023 Stated Meeting, continued  13of14  Mr. Ritter, Mr. Williams and Mr. Stiffler had ai recent meeting with the Enterprise Software company to review the codes process after which another training session would be held. There was further discussion.  5.  Community Development  John Dubnansky, Economic Development Director, reported the RAISE projects are moving forward. All meeting materials utilized for the May 31 open house and comments received are available at the Gallery on Gazebo site. The next public meeting will be held July 19, 2023 at Central Park forai first look at He noted that Council had previously approved allocation from the HUD Home ARPA funds in the amount of $750,000 for the development ofai non- congregate concrete shelter, which has been released in application form with proposals due by the end oft the month. Staffwill do an internal review of He discussed a grant approval for Made in Johnstown, al local nonprofit, which will be occupying the old Rite Aid on a long-term lease. Mr. Dubnansky explained there would be a variety of vendors there creating, making and selling products. He stated ai tenant is also being sought for the  some conceptual ideas.  those proposals and make recommendation to Council.  old Press Bistro site.  Mrs. Mock inquired about adding additional demos to the $250,000 from HUD. Mr. Dubnansky explained waiting for the RFP tol be released in July or August to see pricing. Mrs. Mock suggested review of the numbers again.  6.  Code Enforcement  Dave Williams, Codes Enforcement Manager, reported that in the month of May there were 270 service requests issued for code violations and 40 building He noted averaging approximately five to ten properties per crew per day for Mr. Williams noted two properties vacated for remediation next week and two  permits.  grass cutting, property maintenance. properties currently with the magistrate. PUBLIC COMMENT- NONAGENDA ITEMS    Wednesday, June 14, 2023 Stated Meeting, continued  14of14  Tereah Anderson, Connor' Towers resident, spoke with regard to wanting tol help the community as far as education and entertainment. She described herself as "selfled" and a digital designer who likes to create things. Ms. Anderson would like tol help kids as well as elderly and' "likes people to be happy". Reverend King commented that the Connor Towers would be the best place to start to focus on the elderly. Mr. Arnone. suggested Ms. Anderson talk to the building director regarding the matter. Mayor. Janakovic suggested Ms. Anderson research the Made in. Johnstown nonprofit for further opportunity.  RECESS/ADJOURNMENT  There being no further business, the meeting concluded at 7:46 p.m. The next Regular Council Meeting is scheduled for July 12, 2023 at 6:00 p.m.