BOROUGH OF GETTYSBURG TROXELL COUNCIL CHAMBERS 59 EAST HIGH STREET, GETTYSBURG, PA 17325 COUNCIL BUSINESS MEETING MINUTES TUISDAYDACENIBEA,IBA President Matthew Moon called the meeting to order at 7:00 PM with the following Councilors present: Vice-President Judith Butterfield, Mr. Christopher Berger, Ms. Patricia Lawson, Ms. Alisha Sanders, Mr. Chad-Alan Carr, Mr. Peter Bales and Mayor Rita Frealing. Staff present included: Borough Manager Charles Gable; Borough Secretary Sara Stull; Borough Solicitor Harold Eastman, Barley Snyder; Police Chief Robert Glenny; Planning Director John Whitmore; Coordinator of Historic and Environmental Preservation Debra English; Planning Assistant Karen Mesher; Parking Manager Rebecca Fissel; Public Works Director Robert Harbaugh; and Chad Clabaugh, Borough Engineer, C. S. Davidson, Inc. Others present included: Jill Sellers, President of Main Street Gettysburg; Former Councilman John Lawver, 524 McMillan Street; Gary Shaffer, HARB Chairman, 241 East Middle Street; Kurt Williams, Saltzman Hughes Attorneys; Scott English, owner of The Gettysburg Academy, 66-68 W. High Street; Shelley Knouse, owner of Fresh Boutique, 28 Chambersburg Street; Charles Stangor, Editor of Gettysburg Connection, 275 Ridge Avenue; Kristina Heister, Gettysburg National Military Park Service, 1195 Baltimore Pike; Susan Naugle, 650 Red Patch Avenue; Brian Hodges, 137 Ridge Avenue; Nancie Gudmestad, Owner of the Shriver House Museum, 309 Baltimore Street; Paul Royer representing David Sites; Peggy Rock, 69 East Broadway; Linda Taylor, 149 West Lincoln Avenue; Sharon Monahan, 114 West Broadway; Kim and Bob Krummerich, 125 West Broadway; Kris Webb, Film Commissioner of the Gettysburg Film Commission; Susan Cipperly, 314North Stratton Street; Rosemary Meaghan, 44 West High Street; Sarah Kipp, 126. Baltimore Street; Kim Patrono, 981 East Broadway; Marilyn Miller, 451 East Broadway; Robert Wagner, 37R North Fourth Street; Tyler Cole, 1191 Barlow Street; Gail Serfass, 429 Baltimore Street; Lois Starkey, P.O. Box 56, Orrtanna; Thomas Pauls, 26 Highland View Lane; Marcia Wilson, 386 Hill Road, Hanover; and Gary and Suzanne Casteel, 131 South Washington Street. Representing the press was Richard Franki with the Gettysburg Times; and filming by Community Media-ACCTV. President Matthew Moon opened the meeting and said that iti is nice to see ai full room of people in attendance tonight and: noted that there are approximately twenty-three other meetingsa year for anyone to attend. Councilman Bales asked Council to table the HARB motion on the agenda for COA- 240078 regarding the Gettysburg Station Project to allow more time to discuss at a work session meeting and to give the public more time to comment. Moved Mr. Bales seconded Mrs. Butterfield to table the HARB motion for COA- 240078 regarding the Gettysburg Station project to allow more time to discuss at a work session meeting and to give the public more time to comment. A roll call vote was taken: Council Business Meeting Minutes December 9, 2024 Page lof 19 YEA: Mr. Bales and Mrs. Butterfield. NAY: Mr. Berger, Mr. Carr, Ms. Lawson, Ms. Sanders, and Mr. Moon. The vote: failed 2 YEA/5NAY. Moved Mr. Carr seconded Mrs. Sanders to approve the December 9, 2024 agenda as Moved Mr. Carr seconded Mrs. Lawson to approve minutes of the Borough Council Meeting of November 12, 2024; and the Borough Council Work Session of November 25, presented. The motion carried 5YEA/1 NAY with Mr. Bales the dissenting vote. 2024 as presented. Motion carried unanimously. President Matthew Moon explained that the first public comment period is for items listed ont tonight'sagenda and the: second comment period would be for anything else that aj person would like to speak about. He said that a Resolution was adopted over eighteen years ago to establish rules and regulations for the conduct of Borough Council meetings. This gives the Borough Council latitude to set rules, and since it appears that there are ai number of! people that are present tonight to talk about the same item, the public comment period will be limited to four minutes instead of five to allow more people to speak. He will end the public comment period after thirty minutes to move on to the remainder oft the agenda. He said that the first public comment period isr restricted fori residents and tax payers ofthel Borough, noting that ai motion on the agenda is most resonant to the people who live and own properties in the Borough. Public Comment (Restricted to Items on the Agenda) Charles (Chuck) Stangor, Publisher of Gettysburg Connection, 275 Ridge Avenue thanked Borough Council for all of their hard work and commitment to the Borough. He noted that there were three budget work sessions held recently where there were no public comments made. The budget is very complicated and it is said that the public did not have access to the draft budget documents and asked if they could be shared SO that citizens can review it to better understand the budget. He said if there is a legal reason that the working documents cannot be shared that it would be important for the citizens to know. He also asked that Council consider having Community TV record the Planning Commission meetings. It would be beneficial to people and the press who are unable to attend those meetings, stating that the cost is estimated at approximately $4,000. Peggy Rock, 69 East Broadway expressed her concern about the Gettysburg Station Project height ofthel building noting that, even though the zoning was approved in 2018: for 721 feet plus 12 feet for mechanicals the Historical Architectural Review Board (HARB) would have the right to deny the Certificate of Appropriateness. She noted that one of HARB's purposes is to ensure that the size, scale, and design of the new construction within the Historic District is in harmony with the old. She asked that the motion on tonight's agenda to approve the HARB Certificate ofA Appropriateness fort the Gettysburg Station Project bei rejected andi returned tol HARB for further: review and discussion. Susan Cipperly, 314 North Stratton Street expressed her concerns about the Gettysburg Station Project and the impact it will have on the local neighborhood and the buildings on both Councill Business Meeting Minutes December 9,2 2024 Page 2of19 Carlisle and Stratton Streets, noting that the building looks like a cross between a 1960's1 housing project and a suburban office building. She noted that in 2023 the Zoning Hearing Board granted two special exceptions, to include 12 feet for a bike trail and to move the transit station and restrooms to a total of 72 feet of building height. She noted that the developer has stated that he would not bei including al restroom for the new transit station and said that HARB has not reviewed any plans showing the transit station with restrooms. She believes that HARB is reviewing plans for al building that is taller than allowed ift they are not following the special exceptions. She said that Gettysburg is one of the nation's historic places and now people want to modernize it with this building. Linda' Taylor, 149 WestLincoln Avenue expressed her concern regarding the Gettysburg Station Project and asked that the motion on tonight's agenda to approve the HARB Certificate of Appropriateness: be postponed not for the purpose of delaying the project but to allow time to prepare an omnibus cost benefit statement to Gettysburg for the project. This would show the estimated costs and expected benefits of this project. She noted that aj petition was circulated and itg gathered several thousand signatures locally and nationally to stop the project. Sharon Monahan, 114 West Broadway expressed her concerns about the Gettysburg Station Project and asked that the motion on tonight's agenda to approve the HARB Certificate of Appropriateness be rejected. Gettysburg is an authentic community with real neighborhoods and a true town square even with its many flaws and that people come to Gettysburg for its history. She said that we are told that the Borough needs more housing but there is no data suggesting it and she wonders why there was no study undertaken. She said that there are hundreds of apartments and single family homes within a two-mile radius oft the square, sO what happens ifthe apartments proposed for this new development are not rented? She asked how HARB could disregard the concerns of the National Park Service, the Conservation Association, and the Gettysburg Foundation. She said that the building lot has been vacant for many years, so why not wait ai few more years to get a project right instead of! how wrong this proposed project is. Nancie Gudmestad, Owner of the Shriver House Museum, 309 Baltimore Street expressed her concerns about the Gettysburg Station Project and told Council that if they are not one. hundred percent convinced that thisi is the: right project for thel Borough then they should: reject the HARB motion on the agenda tonight. She believes that the size and design of the proposed building is not kept within the surrounding neighborhood. She noted that she and her husband have been operating their business for many years and have repeat customers that come back to Gettysburg because they like the well-preserved historic town. She said that a petition was signed by over three thousand people which included some. local, some in surrounding municipalities and many tourist that are against the Gettysburg Station Project. Borough Council should take into consideration the people that have signed this petition. Shelley Knouse, owner of Fresh Boutique, 28 Chambersburg Street thanked Manager Gable for the quick response to her questions regarding the 2025 Proposed Borough Budget. She suggested that, in the future, the draft budget documents be available online during the work session SO that citizens can print or download a copy to follow along with the Council's discussions. She said that her understanding is that the taxes are going to increase to offset the Council] Business Meeting Minutes December 9, 2024 Page3of19 increased labor cost and noted the generous benefit package for the employees; and said that if some of the insurance benefits were eliminated, it could be a cost savings of approximately $110,000. It has been requested before to record the Planning Commission and Historical Architectural Review Board meetings which would be important to allow the public the opportunity to stay informed. She pointed out a trip to Japan that is budgeted for approximately $10,500 which instead could be used to record meetings. She also noted an internship position budgeted at $12,000 which she feels is not normally paid for in other agencies. She asked ifthe training and continuing education could be reduced in some departments or is it necessary that these be completed each year. In reviewing the draft budget, she learned that the long-term debt that the Borough has will be paid offin 2029, and that there is approximately forty percent oft tax exempt properties. The Borough therefore should evaluate the exempt properties to see if there are any that can be sold in order toj put them back on the tax rolls. Suzanne Casteel, 131 South Washington Street expressed her concerns about the Gettysburg Station Project and asked that the motion on tonight's agenda to approve the HARB Certificate of Appropriateness be rejected. The Council should look at what the impact is going tol be on the community before voting on the project, and aski ift there was at traffic study completed. She said that if the transit station is going to be demolished then the builder should be required to replace it exactly the way it is to include the restrooms. Rosemary Meaghan, 44 West High Street expressed her concerns regarding the Gettysburg Station Project and asked what the benefit is to the Borough with this huge project. She noted that the taxpayers paid to have the transit station built in 2013 and now it is planned to be demolished with this proposed building plan, and said that this building will have 176 apartments for rent and noted that there is currently development for housing on York Road and asked why sO much housing is needed. She said that Council should view the VRBO Website to seel how many apartments are currently being rented temporarily. Gary Casteel, 131 South Washington Street said that he believes HARB is a joke and does not feel they know how to do al historical review of the properties and that the history oft the Borough needs to be protected. Susan Naugle, 650 Red Patch Avenue read a prepared statement in favor oft the proposed Sarah Kipp, 126 Baltimore Street said that she learned recently that in the 2025 Budget iti includes an additional police officer. She expressed her concern that there are no women currently on the police force and encouraged the Council to review the website https://30x30 initiative.org noting that there are places inl Pennsylvania that have signed this initiative. She said that the agencies that sign this pledge agree to take measures to increase the representation of development of the Gettysburg Station Project on North Stratton Street (see attached). women in law enforcement. Council Business Meeting Minutes December 9, 2024 Page 4of19 Current and Old Business Department of anning/Zoning/Code Enforcement Planning Director Whitmore gave thei following report: the motion ont the agenda tonight for the Gettysburg Station Project isa ac component ofthe process andi noted that the project has been in design prior to 2023. The Subdivision and Land Development Plan application has not been finalized and it is a component of the planning process. The plan will need to be submitted and reviewed by the Planning Commission and he noted that there will also be additional public comment opportunities. Councilman Bales asked if there were material changes to the project that needed to go Planning Director Whitmore responded that there was no material changes but one ofthe buildings is] planned tol bes smaller. There was some discussion regarding specific material choices, but staff at this time does not believe it would: require another review by the Zoning Hearing Board. He said that once the application and site plans are established regarding how the development is going to occur then staff would have a better opportunity to discuss ift there were any problems back to the Planning Commission. that would require another review. Councilman Bales askedifhavingi no: restrooms planned fori the RabbitTransit Station was Planning Director Whitmore responded that this will be part of the land development planning process ofestablishing how the structure is going tol be developed in accordance with the part of that change or was that prior to the approval. Zoning Hearing Board's decision. Manager Gable said that RabbitTransit did not want any bathrooms in the new building and said that the developer is responding to the specific request by RabbitTransit. He said that they wanted to eliminate the maintenance of the bathrooms sO this is not an issue with the developer but should be addressed with RabbitTransit. Councilman Bales said that he heard that the planned development would create a larger tax base for the Borough and asked ift there are any projections to what those numbers would be. Planning Director Whitmore responded that staff does not have that information at this time. The staff needs to have the developer's plans that show how the structure is going to be developed and the number ofhousing units. Manager Gable said that it is premature for the Adams County Tax Assessors office to Planning Director Whitmore said that the Historical Architectural Review Board is confined primarily to the architectural designs of the building. He said that once the builder has assess the valuation oft the property because there are: no buildings yet. Council Business Meeting Minutes December 9,2 2024 Page 5of1 19 this information they can complete the budgeting for the development oft the project and proceed with the engineering plans. Councilwoman Lawson asked what the timeline is for the submission oft the development Planning Director Whitmore responded that we do not have a specific date but would anticipate it as quickly as they can provide the plans since our goal is to have it ready for the plans. Planning Commission to review in March. Councilman Bales asked if there are any housing numbers approved yet for the development. Planning Director Whitmore responded no. Coordinator of Historic & Environmental Preservation Coordinator of Historic & Environmental Preservation English explained that there are two motion for HARB recommendations with the Gettysburg Station Project being a separate motion. Moved Ms. Lawson seconded Mr. Bales to accept the recommendation ofthel Borough of Gettysburg Historic A motion to accept the recommendations of the Borough of Gettysburg Historic Architectural Review Board (HARB) following its review during a meeting held on November 20, 2024 and approved to grant the Certificates of Appropriateness for the following applications as presented: COA-240058, MAJOR PROJECT: 255 S. Washington Street - Richard Bregenzer for the window replacement project to include the replacement ofallwindows with simulated divided lights in a two-over- two grid pattern and cased out with wood or an acceptable wood alternative, noting that the asphalt shingled roof and front door remain; COA-240094, MAJOR PROJECT: 217 N. Stratton Street - Katherine Crandall for the construction of a second-floor rear addition with Hardie Plank siding or a similar material with a laundry room on the first floor and another bathroom on the second floor that will attach to the master bedroom, and there will not be any changes to the existing entranceways; COA-240095, MAJOR PROJECT: 64 W. Middle Street - Jodie Aime for the in-kind repair of the fire-damaged structure replacing the roofwith standing seam, replacing the historic third-floor windows with the less visible historic windows from the east side of the structure, replace the east side historic windows with ProVia or similar replacement windows, replace the damaged crown molding, and sprinkler the entire building; COA-240093, MAJOR PROJECT: 150 Carlisle Street City Mart, 150 Carlisle St LLC for the exterior renovations and second-floor rear addition removing an existing shed at the rear of the store, selective demolition of a basement stair enclosure, rear second floor addition to the back half of the building including the infill of the building's southwest corner footprint, painting the metal panels on the front façade, removing the scaling paint and repainting as needed. Motion carried unanimously. Council Business Meeting Minutes December 9,2 2024 Page 6of 19 Moved Mr. Carr seconded Ms. Lawson to accept the unanimous recommendation of the Borough of Gettysburg Historic Architectural Review Board (HARB) following its review during a meeting held on Wednesday, November 20th, 2024 and to approve to grant the Certificate of Appropriateness for the following application as presented: COA-240078 MAJOR PROJECT: 108 N. Stratton Street - Gettysburg Station, 501 Richardson Acquisition LLC for the approval of the Design Concept Plan for the construction design elements for the Gettysburg Station Project as submitted in the COA application dated Mr. Carr, Ms. Lawson, Ms. Sanders, and Mr. Moon. NAY: Mr. Bales. The vote passed 6 October 10, 2024. Aroll call vote was taken: YEA: Mr. Berger, Mrs. Butterfield, YEA/1 NAY. Councilwoman Butterfield said that she isi in favor oft the Gettysburg Station Project and said that she appreciates the HARB members and their dedication and willingness to listen to the concerns and issues that are brought before them. Councilman Bales said that hei is voting against the Gettysburg Station Project because he does not agree with the height or the size of this project as it fits into the historical integrity oft the Borough. He said that Council has not seen the housing plans or cost benefits and feels that Council needs more time to review. Councilwoman Lawson said that she would like to assure the public that Council does not take this project lightly and noted that it has been many years in the making; and that the property has been vacant for decades. The social service building and other buildings that were located on the property werei removed many years ago. She said that afterl hearing comments about the view oft the Historic downtown from the Culps Hill Tower being an obtrusive site, she went up the tower. She said that what struck her most when looking out over the landscape facing the town was the horizontal sprawl, and pointed out that the talk regarding the development was about the height and vertical sprawl. There are many buildings that did not exist in 1863 that are now part of the landscape that she saw. She went on to say that approximately eighteen months ago she contacted a reporter in Lancaster to ask questions about Mr. Harrison who also developed a property there, and that the reporter had good things to say about him and that he worked well with the city. Mr. Harrison has worked well with Borough Staff and HARB members to respond to questions and concerns and has compromised and made changes to the plans. She said that she is confident in Mr. Harrison and isi ini favor of voting for HARB'srecommemdlation ofthe Gettysburg Station Project. Councilman Carr said that he appreciates everyone attending the meeting tonight and pointed out that there are many meetings throughout the year and hope that they continue to come to future meetings. He thanked people who have contacted the Council about the item on the agenda tonight and other items that they had questions or concerns about. He also thanked the many volunteers that serve on the Authorities, Boards and Commissions (ABC) including the Historical Architectural Review Board and said that he does not believe that they are ajoke. Councilwoman Sanders said that first she would like to thank the members of the community that attend the meetings and that she appreciates the Borough Council and anyone that Council Business Meeting Minutes December 9, 2024 Page7of19 is willing to participate and be civically engaged. She thanked the community members who showed up for thel Planning Commission, Zoning Hearing Board, and HARB meetings, along with the Borough Manager, Planning Director and Councilors who were here throughout the various stages of the Gettysburg Station Project Development. It is absolutely crucial that we share and give input, and she trusts that the developer took seriously the comments, suggestions and concerns that were given. She said that she trust the professional opinions and decisions ofthe volunteers who serve on the ABC's, and as al lifelong resident oft the Borough she said that this] project is long overdue. She went on to say that there has been other blighted areas in town that people have brought back tol lifel by taking thei risks ofmaking an investment and improving them. The services and opportunities that the Gettysburg Station Project will bring together will not only add tax revenue but will also add value to the community. She supports the project and believes that it will provide opportunities for both people who live and work here while maintaining the historical integrity oft this beautiful town. Councilman Berger thanked everyone who came and spoke tonight and said that he has been talking with people over the past several years regarding the Gettysburg Station Project. He said that this project has been a part of Council's discussion for many years. He has been an American History teacher for thirty years and SO it is important to him to keep the history oft the Civil War and for those that paid the ultimate price for our freedom and liberties of this country, and to preserve the ground that President Abraham Lincoln walked on. He said that the beauty and the character of this town is its history but it is also a living breathing town as well. He supports the project and will vote in favor tonight and believes that it is al benefit to Gettysburg. Council President Moon read a prepared statement and said that he is in favor of the Solicitor Eastman gave an explanation of the legal process to be taken and read part of thel Historic District Ordinances as follows: "Section 11-114.1 the Borough Council shall consider the same: factors that the HARB Board is authorized to consider, which are set forth in Section 11- 110 and 11-111 oft this Part, and shall give weight to the Board's recommendations; Section 11- 114.3 ift the Borough Council disapproves all or part of any application, it shall do SO in writing, and copies shall be given to the applicant and to the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission. The disapproval shall indicate what changes in the plans and specifications would meet the conditions for protecting the historical character oft the district". He went on to explain that if Council were to disapprove the motion then we would need to go through a very thorough analysis of the specific specifications set for in the HARB Ordinance in order to make written findings of fact and conclusions that would then be provided to the developer as to why Council rejected the HARB recommendation. He pointed out that in Section 11-113 HARB is toj provide av written report to Borough Council regarding the Certificate of Appropriateness: and said that this may be the HARB minutes which the Council received. The HARB minutes are what the Council Gettysburg Station Project (see attached). is presented with at each monthly meeting. Councill Business Meeting Minutes December! 9, 2024 Page 8of19 Parking Department Parking Manager Fissel gave the following report: there were 42 Local Privilege Parking (LPP) Permits issued in November; 18 people purchased reserved spaces in the Racehorse Alley Parking Garage for the month ofNovember, and noted that there are more people using the pay- by-phone application instead of coins. She reminded everyone about the holiday free parking that is in effect from Monday through Thursday and said that meters must be paid for on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. President Matthew Moon asked for an explanation about the issues that occurred with Parking Manager Fissel said that the parking garage daily rate for the Kiosks was changed to $18.00 for the day of the Christmas special event, on Saturday December 7th, that Borough Council approved. She was alerted Saturday. morning that thei rate did not take effect and that the kiosks were completely down. She contacted the vendor who said that aftert thei new kiosks doors were installed earlier this year that the programming for the rates had not been done causing the error to not accept the payment. She said that the Borough also accepted pay-by-phone payments but there was an issue with that one giving extra days to the customer for $18.00. She the kiosk in the parking garage. said that she continues to work with both vendors to get these issues resolved. Public Works Department Public Works Director Harbaugh gave the following report: fall brush pickup has been completed but noted that people can continue taking brush to the public works building; fall leaf pickup will continue throughout the remainder of the year, and he reminded everyone not to mix leaves and grass clippings with the brush and place the brush and leaves along the curb and not in the street; and the crew has been busy removing blocks from the Remembrance Day Parade, preparing for the Christmas Festival event road closures, and then they will prepare for the New Years Eve celebration which is the final event oft the year. Councilman Carr asked about the disposal of Christmas Trees for Borough residents. Public Works Director Harbaugh responded that after the Christmas holiday the Public Works crew will pick up Christmas trees for recycling and said that they should be placed in the alley or along the curb but not in the street. He noted that all ornaments! must bei removed and that they do not pick up artificial trees. Borough Engineer Borough Engineer Clabaugh gave the following report: the Gateway Connectivity Project is currently under design with PennDOT. The first phase ofthe design is the scoping phase which will take place over the next three-to-six months. He said that staffwill reapply foral Raise Grant with the application due at the end of. January. At the request of the Gettysburg Municipal Authority (GMA) who plan to replace the sewer and water lines on Baltimore Street before the Council Business Meeting Minutes December 9, 2024 Page9of19 Borough project begins, staff would like to therefore add this to the grant application. He pointed out that GMA would provide fort the twenty-percent match for the grant; and he: said that for the Gettysburg Inner Loop (GIL). Phase B2BI Project that CSX has postponed boring until the first two weeks ofJanuary while Gettysburg College is still onl break, and they also indicated that the boring will not need to be done continuously 24 hours per day. The CDBG Curb and Sidewalk Replacement Project was advertised and there was only one bid received, SO the Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) has required the Borough to re-bid. Moved Mr. Berger seconded Mr. Carr to approve Contract Change Order #3, in the amount of $3,560.56, to the contract with York Excavating Company for the North Washington Street Water and Storm Project, as recommended by the Borough Engineer. Motion carried unanimously. Moved Mr. Carrseconded Ms. Sanders to approve Contract Change Order #4, in the amount of $3,720.58, to the contract with York Excavating Company for the North Washington Street Water and Storm Project, as recommended by Borough Engineer. Motion carried unanimously. Moved Ms. Lawson seconded Mr. Berger to approve the Application for Payment #3 to York Excavating Company, in the amount of$127,563,84: for thel North Washington Street Water and Storm Project, as recommended by the Borough Engineer. Motion carried unanimously. Police Department Chief Glenny gave the following report: said that the accident on Carlisle Street that damaged a Brightspeed electric pole was a hit-and-run; and he reminded everyone not to leave valuables in their cars and to keep their car doors locked as there have been several cars broken into recently. Councilman Carr asked if there is an ongoing investigation regarding the accident. Chief Glenny responded no and said that they had looked around the area for outdoor ChiefGlenny thanked the Public Works crew for the clean-up and removal of the cement Moved Mr. Carr seconded Mr. Bales to accept the eligibility list of candidates for the open positions of entry-level patrol officer and police cadet, as certified to and submitted to the Borough Council by the Civil Service Commission of the Borough of Gettysburg. The Borough Council does not object to either of the two (2) candidates certified to by the Civil Service Commission on its eligibility list submitted to the Council. Motion carried cameras but there was nothing. block barriers from the Remembrance Day Parade. unanimously. Council Business Meeting Minutes December! 9,2024 Page 10of19 Moved Mr. Bales seconded Mr. Carr to make a conditional appointment of Anthony Harris, as the first-ranked candidate on the eligibility list, as certified to and submitted to the Borough Council by the Civil Service Commission of the Borough of Gettysburg, for: an open position of entry-level patrol officer with the Gettysburg Borough Police Department. Said conditional appointment of an entry-level patrol officer shall become effective on January 1, 2025. Motion carried unanimously. Moved Mr. Berger seconded Ms. Sanders to make a conditional appointment of Austin H. Kane, as the second-ranked candidate on the eligibility list, as certified to and submitted to the Borough Council by the Civil Service Commission of the Borough of Gettysburg, for an open position as a police cadet with the Gettysburg Borough Police Department. Said conditional appointment of a police cadet shall become effective on January 6, 2025. Motion carried unanimously. Moved Mr. Carrseconded Mr. Bales to authorize and provide notification to the Civil Service Commission ofthe Borough ofGettysburg to request the certification of an eligibility list, by the Civil Service Commission, for the position of entry-level patrol officer of the Gettysburg Borough Police Department. Motion carried unanimously. Councilwoman Lawson responded to a citizen that made a comment during the public comment period asking Council to consider hiring and looking for diversification on the police force. She said that both the Police Chiefand the Civil Service Commission try hard to get people to apply without any success. She said that she hopes that soon the Borough will have a female officer and perhaps an officer that is Spanish Speaking. Office of the Miamger/fraursertay Secretary Stull said that Borough staff enjoyed a Christmas luncheon in council Chambers on. December 4th with everyone bringing a dish to share. Unfortunately, there was no one: from the Police Department in attendance. Manager Gable gave the following report: staffi is working with our consultant to: reapply for the Raise Grant regarding the Gettysburg Gateway Connectivity Project; the Borough will be hosting some public conversation meetings sO that thej public can have input ont the concept designs for certain segments ofthe Gettysburg Gateway Connectivity Project and staffis currently utilizing the Federal Lands Access Program (FLAP) Grant for the design and engineering of that project; the. Adams County America250 Commission will be hosting aj public meeting on January 8, 2025 for the community to get engaged and discuss the festivities being planned for the 2026 event; in response to questions tonight by Shelley Knouse regarding items in the budget he explained that the Borough staff is well compensated, but said that this cannot be indiscriminately cut as there arei two labor unions sO the benefits would need to bel bargained; he said that the employee benefits are discussed at every contract negotiation session, but the unions always vote no on the contract; currently year-to-date through November 30th the Borough has a $988,000 surplus which ai motion tonight will transfer money from the General Fund to the Capital Reserve Fund, which is largely due to the. American Rescue Plan. Act (ARPA); the General Fund has $2.76: million in liquid cash, Council Business Meeting Minutes December 9, 2024 Page 11of19 noting that at the end oft this year the Borough will need approximately $1 million dollars to use for expenses until the tax revenues are received in April; and there is approximately $1.4 million dollars ini the Reserve Fund. President Matthew Moon pointed out that the Health Reimbursement Accounts Councilman Carr said that tonight Council voted to hire two police officers bringing the total to fourteen officers and said that the Public Works Department continues tol be understaffed. He asked if some of the funds that are to be transferred to the Capital Reserve can be used to (HRA's)were a negotiated point in the last contract period. establish another Public Works employee. Manager Gable responded that the draft budget includes a full time hybrid employee who would work 75 percent for the Public Works Department and 25 percent for parking. Thej parking portion oft the job is primarily for the maintenance oft the Racehorse Alley Parking Garage. Moved Ms. Lawson seconded Mr. Berger to approve all bills and payrolls for the Moved Mr. Carr seconded Ms. Sanders to approve the distribution of the Eichelberger-Stahle Funds to Borough residents as required and recommended. Motion month as presented. Motion carried unanimously. carried unanimously. Manager Gable explained that the families for the Eichelberger-Stahle Fund started this in the 1950s to provide financial assistance to Gettysburg Borough residents. The Adams County Community Foundation manages the funds where the Fund gets a better return on the investment. The. Adams County Office for Aging provides al list ofindividuals to the Borough that will receive astipend in December each year. Moved Ms. Lawson seconded Ms. Sanders to authorize the transfer of $1,750,000 from Fund 01 (General Fund Reserves) to Fund 30 (Capital Project Reserves) for the future use of Capital Projects consistent with the 2022-2026 Capital Improvement Plan. Motion carried unanimously. Moved Mr. Berger seconded Mr. Carr to adopt a resolution for the purposes of setting, updating and confirming the Borough's: fees and charges for thei issuance of licenses, permits and the provision of municipal services in fiscal year 2025. Motion carried unanimously. Moved Ms. Lawson seconded Mr. Carr to adopt the Borough of Gettysburg budget for fiscal year 2025 containing an estimate of annual revenues and receipts for the General Fund in the amount of $6,941,774 and an estimate of annual expenditures in the amount of $6,941,774. Motion carried unanimously. Council Business Meeting Minutes Decembers 9,2024 Page 12of19 Moved Mr. Bales seconded Mr. Carr to adopt the Borough ofGettysburg budget for fiscal year 2025 containing an estimate of annual revenues and receipts for the Fire Protection Services Fund in the amount ofs $248,86land an estimate of annual expenditures in the amount ofs $248,861. Motion carried unanimously. Moved Ms. Sanders seconded Ms. Lawson to adopt thel Borough ofGettysburg' budget for fiscal year 2025 containing an estimate of annual revenues and receipts for the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Fund in the amount of $129,391 and an estimate ofannual expenditures in the amount of$129,141. Motion carried unanimously. Moved Mr. Carr seconded Ms. Lawson to adopt the Borough of Gettysburg budget for fiscal year 2025 containing an estimate of annual revenues and receipts for the Capital Projects Fund in the amount of $317,109 and an estimate of annual expenditures in the amount of$1,857,142. Motion carried unanimously. Moved Mr. Bales seconded Mr. Berger to adopt the Borough of Gettysburg budget for fiscal year 2025 containing an estimate of annual revenues and receipts for the Debt Service Fund in the amount of $650,551 and an estimate of annual expenditures in the amount of $641,059. Motion carried unanimously. Moved Ms. Lawson seconded Mr. Carr to adopt the Borough of Gettysburg budget for fiscal year 2025 containing an estimate of annual revenues and receipts for the Capital Reserve Fund in the amount of $173,378 and an estimate of annual expenditures in the amount of $0.00. Motion carried unanimously. Moved Mr. Carr seconded Ms. Lawson to adopt the Borough of Gettysburg budget for fiscal year 2025 containing an estimate of annual revenues and receipts for the Liquid Fuels Fund in the amount of$178,793 and an estimate ofa annual expenditures in the amount of$72,847. Motion carried unanimously. Moved Mr. Carr seconded Mr. Bales to adopt the Borough of Gettysburg budget for fiscal year 2025 containing an estimate of annual revenues and receipts for the Revolving Loan Fund in the amount of $26,767 and an estimate of annual expenditures in the amount of$0.00. Motion carried unanimously. Moved Mr. Berger seconded Mr. Carr to adopt the Borough of Gettysburg budget for fiscal year 2025 containing an estimate of annual revenues and receipts for the ARPA Fund in the amount of $16,068 and an estimate of annual expenditures in the amount of $350,000. Motion carried unanimously. Moved Ms. Sanders seconded Ms. Lawson to enact an ordinance fixing the tax rates and levying the taxes of the Borough of Gettysburg for fiscal year 2025 at 4.5566 mills on each dollar of real estate assessed valuation for general Borough purposes, 30 mills on each dollar of occupational assessed valuation for general Borough purposes, and at .5000 mills Council Business Meeting Minutes December 9,2024 Page 13of19 on each dollar ofreal estate assessed valuation for firej protection services appropriations tax purposes. Motion carried unanimously. Councilwoman Lawson noted that the next several motions are regarding reappointments to the Authorities, Boards, and Commissions (ABC), and said that she is very grateful to the Moved Mr. Carr seconded Ms. Sanders to appoint John Rice as a member of the Gettysburg Borough Planning Commission for a four (4) year term, commencing in January volunteers that serve on these Boards. 2025 and expiring in January 2029. Motion carried unanimously. Moved Ms. Lawson seconded Mr. Bales to appoint Charles Strauss as a member of the Gettysburg Borough Planning Commission for a four (4) year term, commencing in January 2025 and expiring in January 2029. Motion carried unanimously. Moved Mr. Carrs seconded Ms. Lawson to adopt aj resolution appointing Darren Glass asamember of the Zoning Hearing Board of the Borough of Gettysburg for a five (5)year term, commencing in January 2025 and expiring in January 2030. Motion carried unanimously. Moved Mr. Berger seconded Ms. Lawson to adopt a resolution appointing Max Felty asamember of the Gettysburg Municipal Authority for a five (5)year term, commencing in January 2025 and expiring in January 2030. Motion carried unanimously. Moved Ms. Lawson seconded Mr. Carr to appoint Charles Strauss as a member of the Gettysburg Borough Storm Water Authority for a five (5) year term which term will expire in January 2030. Motion carried unanimously. Moved Mr. Carr seconded Ms. Sanders to set the first monthly general business meeting of the Borough Council on Monday, January 13,2025 at' 7:00 p.m. and to authorize the provision of public notice for the business meeting. Motion carried unanimously. Moved Ms. Lawson seconded Mr. Carr to set monthly general business meetings of the Borough Council for fiscal year 2025 commencing at 7:00 p.m. on the following dates, and to authorize the provision of public notice for the business meetings: Motion carried unanimously. Monday, ,January 13, 2025 Monday, February 10, 2025 Monday, March 10, 2025 Monday, April 14, 2025 Monday, May 12, 2025 Monday, June 9,2 2025 Monday, July 14, 2025 Monday, August 11, 2025 Monday, September 8, 2025 Council Business Meeting Minutes December 9,2 2024 Page 14of19 Tuesday, October 14, 2025 Monday, November 10, 2025 and Monday, December 8, 2025. Moved Mr. Bales seconded Ms. Lawson to set monthly work session meetings of the Borough Council for fiscal year 2025 commencing at 7:00 p.m. on the following dates, and to authorize the provision of public notice for the work session meetings: Motion carried unanimously. Monday, January 27, 2025 Monday, February 24, 2025 Monday, March 24, 2025 Monday, April 28, 2025 Tuesday, May 27,2025 Monday, June 23, 2025 Monday, July 28, 2025 Monday, August 25, 2025 Monday, September: 22, 2025 Monday, October 27, 2025, and Monday, November 24, 2025. Moved Ms. Lawson seconded Mr. Carr to set the fiscal year 2026 budget work session meetings of the Borough Council commencing at 7:00 p.m. on the following dates, and to authorize the provision ofpublic notice: for the budget work session meetings: Motion carried unanimously. Monday, October 20, 2025 Monday, October 27, 2025 Monday, November 3, 2025 and Tuesday, November 4, 2025 (ifneeded). Moved Mr. Carr seconded Ms. Lawson to set the Borough Council's legislative agenda for 2025 to include the following: Motion carried unanimously. Borough-wide Rezoning Sidewalk Ordinance Code. Enforcement Ticketing Ordinance Subdivision and Land Use Ordinance (SALDO) Council Business Meeting Minutes December 9,2024 Page 15of19 Reports Main Street Gettysburg Jill Sellers, President of Main Street Gettysburg (MSG) read the following report: Gettysburg Station Project: Main Street Gettysburg operates on a ten-year strategic plan. We support infrastructure and public projects that will strengthen the historic district and our community SO both businesses and residents can thrive here both now and in the future. We work closely with the Borough of Gettysburg to create a solid foundation, which requires innovation and change. Ultimately, our goali is tol leave Gettysburg al better place than we: found it; Elm Street Program: On November 21, 2024, representatives from Derck & Edson and the local Elm Street Committee held a public meeting to discuss the survey results and plan the next steps. The public was invited to provide input on the vision and projects for the neighborhood; Giving Spree: Big Reveal is scheduled for December 13, 2024. Thank you for your support; Christmas Festival: Our thanks to sponsors, partners, volunteers, and the Borough of Gettysburg! Stage Sponsors: Steinwehr Avenue Business Improvement District, Adams Electric Cooperative, American Battlefield Trust, and Gettysburg Foundation! Silver Sponsors: Destination Gettysburg, Dobbin House Tavern, Enterprise Fleet Management, Gettysburg Tour Center, JA Myers Homes, M&T Bank, The Christmas Haus, and WelISpan Health! Bronze Sponsors: ACNB Bank, Battlefield Harley Davidson, Gettysburg Goods, Lark Gifts, Nerd Herd, New York Life, Oh Man!, and UPMC! Festival Tavern Sponsors: Adams County Winery, Appalachian Brewing Co, Chicken Hill Distillery, Fourscore Beer Co, High Street Brews, Mason Dixon Distillery, Michaux Brew Co, Presidents Coffee, Pilger Ruh Brewing, and Ploughman's Taproom! Merchant Sponsors: Bantam Coffee Roasters, Barley Snyder, Gettysburg Eddie's, Heartfelt History of Gettysburg, Reid's Winery, Renewal by Andersen. Ice Avenue Sponsors: 19 ice sculptures sponsored by businesses on North Baltimore Street. Partners: Adams County Arts Council, Adams County Farmers Market, Adams County Library System, Gettysburg Area Recreation Authority, Gettysburg Area Retail Merchants Association, Gettysburg Community Theatre, Seminary Ridge Museum, Shearer's Hauling Services, Silvaback Photography, Toys 4 Tots of Hanover-Adams, United Way of Adams County, and World War II Experience Museum. A full list ofs sponsors can be found on the festival website. Please shop locally this season and always. Thanks to our volunteers that managed trash, tavern fundraiser, setup, and tear down. Special thanks to the Borough staff, especially the Borough Manager, Parking Department, Police Department and Auxiliary Officers, and Public Works! The weekend went beautifully with minimal disruptions and no police involvement, except for my warning for running a red light. Gettysburg Area Recreation Authority Councilman Carr said that he had nothing to report. Gettysburg Municipal Authority Councilman Berger gave the following report: the sewer Interceptor Phase II Replacement Project has been awarded with the work to begin in January; the Gettysburg Inner Loop Project section of the water main under the railroad tracks on Washington Street will be Council Business Meeting Minutes December 9,2 2024 Page 16of19 completed after the CSX Railroad completes thel boring work; and the budget will be finalized and approved at the upcoming meeting in December. Steinwehr Avenue Heart of Gettysburg Battlefield (SAHGB) Councilwoman Butterfield gave the following report: the Christmas Festival was a wonderful event and she complimented Jill Sellers, Main Street Gettysburg, for all the work that she does with the BID. Adams County Boroughs Association (ACBA) Mayor Frealing gave the following report: the next meeting of ACBA is scheduled for Monday, January 20th. Adams County Council of Governments (ACCOG) Councilwoman Butterfield gave the following report: : the next meeting of ACCOG is scheduled for December 19th where they will focus on tabulating and implementing the results oft the cybersecurity survey. Health Adams Bicycle Pedestrian, Inc. (HABPI) Councilwoman Lawson said that she had nothing to report. Adams County Transportation Planning Organization (ACTPO) Councilwoman Butterfield gave the following report: the next meeting of ACTPO is scheduled for January 22nd where they will focus on the Transportation Improvement Plans. Trail Feasibility Study Councilman Berger said that there is nothing to report. Recycling Councilwoman Butterfield reminded Borough residents that if they are not using one of the blue recycling bins provided by Waste Management then they must clearly mark "recycling" on their garbage can SO that the garbage company picks it up. Elected Official's Comments Mayor Rita Frealing said that Governor Josh Shapiro appointed her to serve on the Workforce Development Board which will help to develop the workforce in Adams County and across Pennsylvania to benefit both employers and workers, and she will be interviewed for the Chairman of the Education Committee. Council Business Meeting Minutes December 9, 2024 Page 17of19 Councilwoman Sanders thanked her colleagues on Council and said that it has been a Councilman Carr said that there were many people ini the audience tonight to speak about the budget and the Gettysburg Station Project, and noted that he only had about four people that contacted him regarding these matters. He said that the Gettysburg Station Project had been discussed many times and that there were many public meetings that citizens had the opportunity to speak and there were also several budget meetings. He said that he appreciates the public comments about the draft budget being made available to the public and that the Council doesnot take this lightly and had worked on the budget for months and the Borough Staff had worked diligently on providing the draft budget. He said that he is pleased that the vote unanimously passed tonight. Onanother topic het thanked the people that have stepped up to create al New Years Evec celebration. Hej pointed out that the volunteer organizations, Gettysburg Alive and Gettysburg Pride, had organized the event for the past two years, and announced in early January 2024 that they would not be planning a celebration this year and encouraged anyone who was interested to pleasure working with everyone. contact the Borough office. Councilwoman Butterfield said that the Sons of the Union Veterans of the Civil War presented heralong with Mayor Frealing and Public Works Director Robl Harbaugh banners saying that they are supporters oft the Remembrance Day Parade at their annual meeting in November. In addition to the banner the Public Works Director Rob Harbaugh also received a plaque for his department's continued help with the parade. President Matthew Moon addressed the concerns that were raised regarding the budget process over the past two months stating that the Borough has not been transparent in the process and: noted that Council is one oft the more transparent organizations when it comes to our] processes. Hei noted that it had been said that Council should share the working documents ofthe draft budget and provide printed copies to everyone that wanted to attend thei meetings noting that the document is approximately 200 pages. He said that this is something we cannot do and that there could also be some legal ramifications due to the confidential information that is included in the document. He: said that the working document is legally not a draft document until the Borough Council votes on it as a draft budget document and that once the draft budget is approved, it is released for a fourteen day public review and pointed out that the law only requires a ten day review, SO the Borough is in excess of what is required by law. He appreciated the compassion and creativity of the professional staff including the Public Works Department, Police Department, Planning Department, and Parking Department, noting that the staff worked sO hard for other people in exchange for good benefits and al lot of abuse from citizens. Mayor Rita Frealing announced that the annual Tuba Carol Fest is on Friday, December 13th from 6:00 PM to 8:001 PM on Lincoln Square in front oft the Hotel Gettysburg. Public Comment Marcia Wilson, 386 Hill Road, Hanover said that she works in the Borough and expressed her concerns regarding the ongoing construction in the downtown area that looks Council Business Meeting Minutes December 9, 2024 Page 18of19 monstrous and feels that it could be managed better, and said that the Borough needs to protect Historic Gettysburg. Susan Naugle, 650 Red Patch Avenue said that she appreciates the thoughtful way that Council has approached the Gettysburg Station issues in the face of the organized opposition within the community. She said that everyone wants the best for the community but everyone has different views and opinions. She said that another matter is the increased truck traffic in the Borough and suggested that Council mobilize the community to find a solution to the increasing truck traffic (with many rigs as long as 70 feet in length) which negatively impacts our visitors, our economy, our streets and our historic buildings. President Matthew Moon adjourned the meeting at 10:10 PM. Motion carried unanimously. Respectfully submitted, CSmakestll Sara L. Stull Borough Secretary Council Business Meeting Minutes December 9, 2024 Page 19of19 Susan Naugle - Read at Council Meeting on 12-9-24 Greetings! Iam here to speak in favor of the unanimous recommendation of HARB to issue a Certificate of Appropriateness: for the exterior design of the proposed development at 108 N Stratton St. Idos SO even though in 2018, as president ofthis Council, I voted against the zoning that is currently inj place for this district. But ai majority ofCouncil felt otherwise and that remains the zoning that is in place today. The result of that decision is that we finally attracted a developer willing and able to take on the challenges presented by the site after decades of efforts and programs to The Developer - Mr. Harrison - has followed the requirements of the current zoning and has The proposed exterior design includes elements that, Ibelieve, reflect the historic character ofour encourage aj project that would bring significant benefits to the community. responded to the concerns and suggestions of HARB and community members downtown. Use of Brick and Siding Stone at the base Bay windows and porches Not a flat exterior Step-back in height - tallest/largest portion in in the center - limiting the impact on the Retail/office on the first floor. The design oft those entrances include historic elements. Changes made to the building on Stratton will blend in with the residential streetscape. Underground parking eliminates looking at aj parking lot on valuable downtown space. streetscapes on Carlisle and Stratton Open space - bike trail - landscaping open area to the south Architecture is always transforming itself. Modern and historic elements can be blended. HARB's role is to protect and maintain our historic district - it is not to require a re-creation of the 19th Separate from the HARB recommendation, I want to share some general thoughts on the impact In2 2018, Iwould have voted yes had the maximum extended height been 60: feet. SoI was pleased when the architect at the HARB meeting announced that they had made interior changes which century. this development may have. reduced the height to 63 feet - less than the Gettysburg Hotel. I was also pleasantly surprised when I reviewed the view scape study presented by the National Park Service. This building will notl be the tallest structure: in Gettysburg and because ofthe choice Adding to retail/office space will potentially benefit businesses by creating a critical mass to attract More people living downtown who can meet almost all their needs without getting in a car will When completed the complex will generate a significant increase ini revenue for the Borough. Itwill also provide much needed rental space. PA rental vacancy rate is 6.1% while the rate for Adams County is 4%. That means we have significantly fewer rentals available than the state average. Adams County is ranked 18th in the state for the average Fair Market Rental Rate. That means 49 other counties have lower average rental costs. That high cost is a reflection oft the low rental availability. And this isi in a county where. Agriculture and Tourism are primary economic We are all present here tonight because we want the best for our community. We simply have different views and opinions. I believe that this Borough will face enormous challenges and pressure int the future from thei increasing residential and commercial development that is occurring in neighboring municipalities over which we have no control. We have turned a corner, and it requires that we make the best use of the limited space and resources available to us. We need to ofcolors and location, it is not the most visible either. more people to enjoy what Gettysburg has to offer. also benefit restaurants, bars, entertainment and retail businesses. drivers. work together to preserve what we all love about Gettysburg. Aecember9, a0ay Guneilfodoser matt mo-Aual.Ganel. metirgon Not all municipalities our size ini the commonweatth utilize planning and zoning for the purposes ofe establishing rules for development, but not all boroughs our size need to. Asa recently unearthed quote from one oft the founding members of our planning commission said in 1955, Gettysburg isi in many ways "a little city operating as a small town." Fort that reason, and because of our fluctuating historical tourism industry which enjoys times of wild growth and times of painful contraction, it has been crucial that we do utilize these tools- planning and zoning- to protect residential housing stock, the character and history of our community, and in defense oft the very concept that this is not just a place people come to do business, but it is al living, vibrant, modern borough with kids, and homes, and We have needs that are not being met in this community. We need housing. Thati is truei in the borough, andi it is true ini the county. While there is a fair supply of new housing being built up around us in rural locations and former farmland and battlefield, here in the borough, our county's urban center, for lack of a better term, we do not have that new housing. Our neighbors and co-workers who livei ini the surrounding townships do so1 to enjoy lower property taxes, yetr many of them still come here daily to work and shop and worship and visit the library or whatever. The 41001 tax paying residents along with the business that thrive here foot the bill for all of the attributes that we all love about Gettysburg, but if we continue to push housing into the surrounding townships, we will continue also to see what we have over the last 15 years; a shrinking tax base, commercial encroachment in residential neighborhoods, and a declining population. Statewide, and here in Adams County, we are expecting a 12% population decline over the next 15-20 We need population density, and we need to grow our tax base. More than 2 acres of developable land ini the downtown core is a gift and an asset. 8 years ago, a previous council made the decision to work with the county and the school district, along with the economic development alliance to make the Station parcel enticing to developers. The legislative groundwork- the very rules any potential developer would have to follow- these were: set by act of Council. The parcel was purchased with those legally established rules in place and in mind. Because we exist in a confined, built environment we cannot build out. We can only build up. The original proposals to allow building upi to 110 feet did not survive, but a compromise of 721 feet was met. 721 feet is the compromise. The northwest corner of the Hotel Gettysburg is 721 feet. Not only did the addition of 2 stories to the hotel not destroy our town, it began a renaissance in downtown Gettysburg. Some of you in this room who predate me will recall the downtown of 1990. Empty store fronts.. Al burnt shell ofa hotel on the square for a decade. It wasn't even a hotel anymore when it burned in 1983, because the hundreds of years old industry had faltered. The beautiful, dynamic downtown we see today was not an accident. Ittook mindful intent and money and love on the part of hundreds and thousands of people. Some of you ini this room participated in creating a new downtown where business booms and grows and is the destination. The rebuilt, reimagined hotel at 72 feet did not destroy our culture and history; it reinvigorated it. Itwas transformative. There are few today who would describe that change as a mistake, though schools, and all of the other treasures ai town needs to keep to survive. years. This is not sustainable. at thet time, there may have been pushback much like what wel here today ati the Station Council sets rules. Planning sets the direction, and the zoning hearing board- a quasi- judicial body- interprets the rules and makes legal decisions as toi the appropriateness of the application. The question before the zoning hearing board is not' "do youl like my idea?" iti is' "is it consistent with the law, and if not, are there considerations that can be taken into account and addressed through legally allowed variances or special exceptions. Special exceptions are neither special, nor exceptional, they are commonplace and a recognized aspect oft the zoning process. When planning hears an application too, to question is noti if they like it either, rather, "is it consistent with the law." Our legal system is based on clear and defensible rules around property rights, and one thing we cannot doi is change the Gettysburg being Gettysburg however, wel have an added layer of review that work must clear, and that is review by the Historic Architectural Review Board, HARB. They have set rules as to how historic structures are to bet treated, and have some fairly exceptional powers when it come toi the violation those rules. What we cannot do though, by the very rules and formative documents that created our HARB is create artificially historic looking structures. New construction in the historic district can and should be reviewed and informed by HARB and the design guide. HARB also cannot overrule council and the ordinance. Ini this case, a previous council wrote the law allowing for the size and massing site. rules on someone who has begun their intended use in good faith. at this site. That is now part of the rules that HARB must consider. To review: began. Council set the rules 8 years ago. The parcel was purchased and use based on those rules Planning has reviewed the proposals. Zoning has heard the application, granted special exceptions, and allowed the project to move forward. Anyone and everyone had 30 days to appeal their decision, and no one did. HARB has reviewed the proposals and has voted unanimously to move forward. They! have made requests and made advice as to the exterior materials the developer should use. This application is not being rushed through. The original debate over the height was ay year and al half long. This application has been working its way through our established processes for a year and al half. It has survived every stepi ini the process required. Nothing isb being rushed. All appropriate legal windows for review, comment, and appeal have been met. There is no delay that would be appropriate or productive. And now today we are being asked to vote in support of our authorizing boards and advisory bodies to move this work forward in at fair, timely, and legal manner. Mr. Harrison is developer of good reputation who has utilized many different strategies toi fund this project and achieve the majority oft the goals that the Borough asked him to. Mr. Harrison has been responsive, responsible, patient, compassionate, kind, and has had a remarkably thick skin. He did not have to stick with this project. He could have walked away and sold off the lot when the pandemic destroyed all of our lives for two years, but he didn't. Hel has chosen to stay with us, to work with Gettysburg, and to continue to try and meet the goals we set. Iwant to be clear, IV will not only be voting to approve this COA because it is legally and ethically appropriate to doi it. Iwill also be enthusiasticalyvoting in favor of it, because in my heart it is right, and iti is what we need. We here in government spend al lot of our time responding to today's problems, but we also have a responsibility to address the future needs oft the borough as) well. We are compelled tol layt the groundwork for projects we may not live to see complete. lam humbled to vote today to continue to move forward the work begun by my predecessors, that will address the future needs of this community, including WE: set. Not Mr. Harrison; us. my own children, and to offer solutions to problems.