TENTATIVE MINUTES OF. JANUARY 20, 2025 WORK SESSION SHIPPINGPORT BOROUGH COUNCILCHAMBERS OPENING BY PRESIDENT PLEDGE OFA ALLEGIANCE MEMBER. ATTENDANCE: ABSENT- William Green, Cindy Mortimer. PRESENT- John DePaolis, James Wilkinson, Josh Ordich, President Williams, Joe Hawthorne, Mayor DISCUSS PROPOSAL: FOR CONTRACTING CENTER TOWNSHIP POLICE Erickson. DEPARTMENT Representatives: Center Township Police Rebecca Matsco, Potter Township Supervisor- = Chairperson President Williams provided a brief update on the proposed contract for police services between Center Township and Shippingport Borough, which was introduced at the previous council meeting. The contract would provide 24/7 coverage for Shippingport, currently limited to 5-day, 8-hour coverage with varying response times due to staffing shortages and schedule conflicts. Shippingport Chief of Police Dave McGee explained that the arrangement would enhance coverage and benefit the community overall. Representatives from Center Township Police outlined the specifics of the contract, noting that Center Township would handle police services under Shippingport's supervision without the need for aj police committee. The borough would only cover the annual cost of services, while Center Township would manage the police portion of the budget. Center Township Police also clarified that 4-6 officers would be assigned near Shippingport with a 5-minute response time. Officers would rotate regularly, and current Shippingport officers would be reassigned within Center Township's coverage areas/ zones. The contract would also provide access to additional services such as tactical response teams, K-9 units, traffic units, river patrol, and other resources and training opportunities. Rebecca Matsco from Potter' Township shared her) positive experience with Center Township Police, citing improved coverage, community engagement, and resources since contracting their services in 1998. She praised the affordability and reasonable negotiations, also noting that Center Township Police support local youth interested in law The council raised concerns about the impact on current Shippingport officers, as they would be demoted if the contract was enacted. When asked about his view on this issue and how it would affect him, ChiefMcGee still expressed support for the contract, emphasizing benefits such as increased professionalism, higher pay, and enhanced town coverage. DISCUSS PREPARTION OF A SUBDIVISION ANDI LAND DEVELOPMENT ORDINANCE. AND. AUTHORIZE THE SOLICITOR TOT TAKET THE. LEGALSTEPS NECESSARYTO CONSIDER ADOPTION FOR SUCH AN ORDINANCE.- Thes solicitor was not present and council unanimously decided to postpone this discussion to the next PUBLIC COMMENT- Michelle Erickson expressed concern that the current lack of24/7 police coverage could be problematic in the event of emergencies or accidents. James Wilkinson explained that the scenarios Mrs. Erickson mentioned would be handled by the Fire Department, not the Police Department. He also noted that these scenarios only seem to fuel public fear, as they are not issues typically managed by the Police. Bill Nelson confirmed that the Fire Department would receive calls related to such incidents and be responsible for providing assistance rather than the police. He also raised concerns with the council, asking if the proposed. contract costs were. higher than current expenses, and ifs sO, how the borough planned to cover the additional costs. Furthermore, he inquired whether the town would have a vote on the extra coverage, or if that decision enforcement careers. council meeting. would solely be made by council. President Williams noted that additional calculations and considerations were necessary, as the purpose of this discussion was to gauge public interest and address any concerns. The council unanimously agreed that they didn'twant to proceed without hearing from the public first and believed the public should have the chance to vote on the issue. Council intends to review the proposed contract with the Solicitor first to address potential financial, legal, or other concerns related to the contract and the option for public voting. EXECUTIVE SESSION - Motion by James Wilkinson and seconded by Joe Hawthorne that council enter executive session.... motion passed unanimously. RECONVENE - Motion by. James Wilkinson and seconded by Josh Ordich that the executive session end and council reconvene to regular meeting..motion passed unanimously. ADJOURN. - Motion by Josh Ordich and seconded by John DePaolis that the meeting adjourn, and it was adjourned at 8:23 p.m. :. motion passed unanimously. Respectfully: submitted, MB Kayla Carpenter Borough Secretary