JOHNSTOWN CITY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING MINUTES Wednesday, February 14, 2024 City Council met in a stated session for the general transaction of business. Mayor Frank Janakovic called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. Mr. Britt offered the invocation. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited. The following members of Council were present for roll call: Mr. Arnone, Mr. Britt, Mr. Capriotti, Ms. Huchel, Mayor Janakovic, Reverend King, Ethan Imhoff, City Manager; Alex Ashcom, Assistant City Manager; Dennis R. Very, Esquire, Solicitor; Robert Statler, Fire Chief; Richard Pritchard, Police Chief; Jared Campagna, Director, Public Works; Sara Williams, Executive Secretary Mrs. Mock (7). were also present. APPROVALOFI MINUTES Mr. Arnone made ai motion to approve the Regular Meeting Minutes of. January 10, 2024 and the Reorganizational Meeting Minutes of. January 2, 2024. 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) PROCLAMATIONS. AWARDS. HONORS, RESOLUTIONS OF RECOGNITION- Al Proclamation recognizing James "Jet" Mair was presented previously but was read "Jet" Mair was born in Schumacher, Ontario, Canada, on May 15, 1946, the youngest off four children, developed a love and aj passion for the great sport ofh hockey joining the Ontario Hockey League in 1963 he played for thel Hamilton Red Wings and St. Jerome Alouettes. And Mr. Bair joined the Johnstown Jets in 1966] playing three seasons 192 games and earning 57 goals and 101 assists. In 1969, Mr. Mair had opportunity to. join the National Hockey League byj joining the Philadelphia Flyers and played with distinction and excellence for two years. Mr. Mair continued his career until 1975 having played with the Richmond Robins, Quebec Aces, New York Islanders, the Seattle Totems, and Vancouver Canucks, Hei then retired and returned to Canada and became a police officer in into the record by Mr. Arnone as follows: Wednesday February 14, 2024, Stated Meeting, continued 2of11 Timmins Ontario. He worked there until retiring in 2003 with the rank of sergeant. Mr. Mair is nowi retired and is enjoying time with his family and Therefore, I, the Mayor oft the City of Johnstown, on behalfof City Council, proclaim al hearty thanks to Mr. Mair and we congratulate his outstanding athletic career. He stands as a role model for all young people that they may always work tirelessly, passionately and sportsman-like in all respects both on and off the ice. We are grateful for your service to our City, and we honor him a one oft the greatest of. Johnstown's many athletes. January 26, 20241H hereto put my stamp and by my hand cause the seal ofJ Johnstown be affixed to this. Mayor Frank Mr. Arnone noted Mr. Mair was. honored before ai recent Tomahawks hockey game. Aj proclamation honoring Charles Gundlach was read into the record by the Mayor as The City of. Johnstown recognizes the need to preserve local history and to celebrate those who take prominence ini noteworthy deeds. One person is Charles Gundlach, who is black, born in the City ofNew Orleans on August 28, 1861, moved to the City ofJohnstown and opened a watchmaking and jewelry business. Mr. Gundlach with his expertise in the fine art ofwatchmaking oversaw the installation oft the City of. Johnstown, City Hall Clock Tower from 1900 to 1902 and became its caretaker until his death on November 4th, 1943 at Mr. Gundlach worked tirelessly to maintain that historic and iconic structure within the City of. Johnstown performing meritorious service for the community and in doing sol has become ai noteworthy figure to be recorded and remembered Now, Therefore, I, Mayor Frank J.. Janakovic, on behalfo of City Council, honor Mr. Gundlach for his service to our City and thank his surviving family for his service. We commit to remembering this honorable deed for our City forever and hereby record him in the annals of. Johnstown history. I,Therefore, Mayor Frank. J. Janakovic, on this 14th day ofF February, 2024, hereby by my hand cause the seal of the City of. Johnstown be affixed on behalf ofthe City always loves a great hockey game. Janakovic. (Round of Applause) follows: 82: years ofa age. among the great persons of the city of Johnstown. and City Council. (Round of Applause) Wednesday February 14, 2024, Stated Meeting, continued the honor. 3of11 Carol, who was present on behalf ofl her father, thanked the Mayor and Council for PUBLIC COMMENT-AGENDA ITEMS ONLY Mary Ann Manculich, 192 Iron Street, Johnstown, presented before Council regarding a grant received in the amount of $151,000 to restore the Honan Avenue. Playground. She thanked the City, the: neighborhood, John Dubnansky, EADS, Alex Ashcom, Mrs. Mock and Reverend King who helped to create the plan. She noted the money was appreciated but just wasn't enough and requested Community Foundation will offer grant funding later on in the year and a proposal will be sent at that time. A meeting with United Neighborhoods is also information as to where to obtain additional funding. scheduled. REPORTS CITY MANAGER: Ethan Imhoff, City Manager, reported the Mill Rats would like to make improvements to Sargent's Stadium and would be using private dollars to do that which would require additional time to work through contract language. Mr. Imhoffindicated the goal is tol have a contract ready for approval on the Mr., Imhoff reported that he and the Mayor presented to the Gunther Leadership Group recently for discussion of City-related issues and March agenda. healthcare. Mr. Imhoffa and the Community Development Department have been working on extending the contract of the Small Business development Center at Central Park on Gazebo Place. The contract will be up and renewed funding, and a new home for the facility may need to be found. Suitable locations are Regarding the Greater Johnstown Water Authority appointment tabled at the last meeting, it was noted that Mr. Follansbee had' been approved by Westmont and Southmont and will move on to fill that position. Mr. Imhoff announced that this was the last meeting and last day for Jack Ashcom, Assistant City Manager. Hei thanked Mr. Ashcom and wished him being reviewed. well in his new position with the County. Wednesday February 14, 2024, Stated Meeting, continued 4of11 Reverend King had questions for the City Manager regarding the Intuit project. Mr. Imhoff explained the building has new owners, and hel has been having discussion with them regarding the building. He explained the business is regarding those interested in developing businesses in. Johnstown. There was further discussion regarding Council's rolei in the matter. Mr. Capriotti had concerns that al lot of money was] put into the project, and now there's a chance "that we basically shined up aj penny for somebody to turn around and sell." Mr. Imhoffnoted the new owners will honor the agreement through June 2024 but are under no obligation after that. Mayor Janakovic indicated that Penn Highland's culinary project in partnership with the Greater Johnstown School District is underway at a site on Gazebo Place. MAYOR: Mayor Janakovic noted his attendance at the recent Reverse Raffle for the Roxbury Bandshell. He commended Mrs. Borkow for raising the money tol keep the He noted attendance at the Chamber's Economic Summit at the Pasquerilla Conference Center where an animated tour oft the future Central Park was The Mayor met with the President of Conemaugh Hospital regarding his commitment to relocate staff from the Westwood area to the Locust Street site, which did not happen. Thel hospital president did note that additional beds were being added, and other issues were being worked out. Mayor Janakovic reported on his attendance at the YMCA for Governor's Shapiro announcement on rental and tax rebates. He attended a ribbon cutting for ColourLuxe Salon on Walnut Street, which would be operated by two sisters. He commended the young pair and noted that "to have young people opening al business is areal positive for our City." bandshell operational with summer concerts. provided. CITY SOLICITOR: Dennis Very, Esquire, Solicitor, introduced himself to Council. Hej provided a brief summary ofhis educational background. Mr. Very noted being excited to work with the Council and staff to move the City forward. Wednesday February 14, 2024, Stated Meeting, continued 5of11 Mr. Very reported on his participation ini many meetings with the City Manager to review recent issues, noted he had drafted a corporate designee document for certain litigation, read the funding agreement with Pennsylvania Highlands Community College, analyzed the mechanical amusement device tax issue with the City Manager regarding enforcement and next steps, generally reviewed the City Charter, and did research regarding oaths of office and who may administer those. Mr. Very also researched information regarding 12- demolition notice oflien letters which were sent out. Mayor Janakovic commented, in the northern part ofthe County, owners of machines can also be taxed or levied a cost of operation. Mr. Arnone commented that in his dealings with the. American Legion, vending companies give money to accounts to pay the tax sO they would not be burdened. He noted some businesses have not paid for last year and stated the person hired for that position only sent out letters tol bars and restaurants and not other places such as smoke shops. Mr. Arnone commented there is currently al billi in the Governor's budget that this matter "may come out ofo our hands altogether." He suggested that businesses with machines bei identified, so ifthe matter is taken over by the: state, the City would receive a portion oft the funds. Mr. Imhoff clarified there was a list of approximately 80 businesses to which letters were sent. Those businesses which complied sent in an inventory sheet along with a check. He stated the Sargent's employee visited the businesses to verify what was reported was accurate and delivered them stickers. He noted 281 businesses have not paid and that staffi is visiting them to inventory how many machines they have and how much tax is owed. There was: further discussion regarding the mechanical amusement device tax and how the matter was. handled. CITY ENGINEER: Members were referred to the attached report. COUNCIL UPDATES/NEIGHBORHOOD LIAISONS: Ms. Huchel encouraged all to attend the Gallery on Gazebo exhibits, which explores African-American art and culture by artist Ashley Jones who will be speaking there in two weeks. Artist Ron Donoughe, popular for Pittsburgh streetscape She reported Band of] Brothers will have aj performance at the former St. Columba Church at the end of February, beginning ofN March. artwork will present this Friday. Wednesday February 14, 2024, Stated Meeting, continued 6of11 Reverend King noted her attendance at the recent Vision roundtable for discussion of neighborhood projects. She reported many people want to purchase homes in the City, but they first must qualify, which is aj problem. She stated, as a result, a Commission on Poverty which will hold its first meeting on Monday, February 26, 2024 at 2:30 at Christ Centered Community Church. All were invited to attend. She thanked Mr. Imhoff for his assistance. Mrs. Mock reported the West End Improvement Group is obtaining grant information and getting clearances on some properties. Funding has been received from the Community Foundation. Application will be made to Lee Initiatives for the community gardens, which falls under their criteria. She and Mr. Imhoff: met with several Intuit staff regarding ideas for the park. Mayor Janakovic indicated that he and Mr. Imhoffhave had discussions regarding the use ofthe waterworks and determined there needs to be further review oft the matter. He suggested that all view the animation that was presented at the Summit, which Mr. Imhoffwill email to all members and will also place it on Mayor Janakovic complimented Reverend King and Vision for hosting a group event at the church a few weeks ago, which provided an opportunity for the website. residents to voice complaints and positives. Chief] Richard Pritchard entered the meeting along with three new: recruits and provided business cards as requested. Council members welcomed Officer Adam Miller, Officer Johnson, and Officer Rickabaugh, who provided a brief summary oftheir personal backgrounds. Mr. Capriotti had no report. Mr. Britt had no report. Mr. Arnone, the City's Johnstown Housing Authority representative, updated statistical information related to the population of the public housing communities located within the City of. Johnstown, He reported that as of December 31, 2023, public housing population is 2,232; Section 8 voucher holders, 1,180, which amounts to at total of3,412. Currently 45 percent of Mr. Arnone indicated the Prospect relocations has affected the population statistics. He noted the Housing Authority is proceeding with repairs in the those living in poverty in the City are being assisted. Wednesday February 14, 2024, Stated Meeting, continued 7of11 Prospect Homes and sealed bids for electric and plumbing will open on January 16, 2024. He reported that the work has started on ten units at ai time. He reported that Section Eight Program is now assisting over 1001 more families than this time last year. 862 families are currently participating in this program, and residents are able to: rent a quality home from aj private landlord with Section Eight rental assistance. Section Eight leased out 862 of 960 or 90 percent. The City has 504, County 310, and 48 outside the County. Mr. Arnone reported that eight individuals within the system have been hired to work part time, and people are being educated on debt and banking issues. As the City's representative on the GJWA, Mr. Arnone reported that as oft the end of January 2024, the City was 70 percent pressure tested, and the surcharge has been increased for noncompliance. He reported that one-third oft the number of properties left have been abandoned and were capped. He noted currently there are 31 properties that have not completed the 2023 backflow testing, and All reservoirs are full, and water quality is in "great shape.". Plans for the Renovation plans for the North Fork Dam are progressing with two years to those will be fined. Kernville pumping station are: moving forward. complete the project. Mayor. Janakovic noted the War Memorial gave away 75 to 100 lounge area tickets to needy families and children and provided pizza and popcorn. PETITIONS: None ORDINANCES FOR FINAL READ AND ADOPTION None ORDINANCES FOR FIRST READ BILL NO.1C OF 2024, AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OFJ JOHNSTOWIN, CAMBRIA COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA, AMENDING ORDINANCE NO. 5354 PASSED MAY31, 2023 UPDATING THE FEE SCHEDULE OF THE CITY OF. JOHNSTOWN. Wednesday February 14, 2024, Stated Meeting, continued 8of11 Mrs. Mock made a motion to approve. The motion was seconded by Mr. Britt. Mrs. Mock suggested ai resident should be fined if the fire department has to return a second time for an open fire complaint. Mr. Imhoffindicated that would be added to the second read. The motion passed by the following vote: Yeas: Mr. Arnone, Mr. Britt, Mr. Capriotti, Mayor. Janakovic, Reverend King, Mrs. Mock, Ms. Huchel (7). Nays: None (0). BILL: NO.2C OF 2024, AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF. JOHNSTOWN, CAMBRIA COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA, AMENDING PART 6, SECTION 614 OF THE CITY OF JOHNSTOWN CODE OF ORDINANCES BY ADDING NEW SECTIONS 56. AND 57 PROHIBITING THE DECLAWING AND TETHERING OF CATS; AND' TO PROHIBIT UNATTENDED DOGS AND CATS BEING. LEFT OUTSIDE DURING INCLEMENT WEATHER AND' TO: DESIGNATE THE ENFORCEMENT TO THE CITY OF. JOHNSTOWN POLICE. Mrs. Mock made ai motion to table. The motion was: seconded by Mr. Capriotti and passed by the following vote: Yeas: Mr. Britt, Mr. Capriotti, Mayor Janakovic, Reverend King, Mrs. Mock, Mr. Arnone (7). Nays: Ms. Huchel (1). Mrs. Mock suggested a workshop be held for further discussion. RESOLUTIONS Resolution No. 105650 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF JOHNSTOWN, CAMBRIA COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA, AUTHORIZING AND DIRECTINGTHE CITY MANAGER TOFACILITATE THE TRANSFER OF PROPERTY TO: PENNDOT FOR THE GOUCHER STREET IMPROVEMENT PROJECT. Mr. Arnone made ai motion to approve. The motion was seconded by Mrs. Mock. Mr. Imhoff explained this is regarding transfer of 28,740 feet of City-owned property on D Street in Lower Yoder Township to PennDOT for $2,200. Wednesday February 14, 2024, Stated Meeting, continued 9of11 The motion passed by the following vote: Yeas: Mr. Capriotti, Mayor Janakovic, Reverend King, Mrs. Mock, Ms. Huchel, Mr. Arnone, Mr. Britt (7) Nays: None (0) Resolution No. 105651 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF JOHNSTOWN, CAMBRIA COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA, AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TOI EXECUTE ALLI DOCUMENTS REQUIRED ANDTAKE ALL. ACTIONS NECESSARY TO SIGN. AN AGREEMENT WITH BERKEBILE EXCAVATING CO. INC. FOR THE HONAN AVENUE PARK IMPROVEMENT PROJET 2023-09. Mr. Arnone made a motion to approve. The motion was seconded by Mr. Britt. Mr. Imhoff explained this includes ai new basketball court, pavilion, walking trail, and stormwater drainage for the park. Other additions would be added with fundraising. The motion passed by the following vote: Yeas: Mayor Janakovic, Reverend King, Mrs. Mock, Ms. Huchel, Mr. Arnone, Mr. Britt, Mr. Capriotti (7) Nays: None (0) NEW BUSINESS Civil Service Commission Appointment Mr. Imhoffnoted the recent death of Clyde Williams, former member ofthe City Service Commission, leaving an unexpired term. Susan Bopp was recommended for that appointment, which runs through December 31, 2025. There are currently no applicants for an alternate position. Mrs. Mock made ai motion to approve Susan Bopp. The motion was seconded by Ms. Huchel and passed by the following vote: Yeas: Reverend King, Mrs. Mock, Ms. Huchel, Mr. Arnone, Mr. Britt, Mr. Capriotti, Mayor. Janakovic (7) Nays: None (0) Wednesday February 14, 2024, Stated Meeting, continued OLDBUSINESS None 10of11 DEPARTMENT REPORTS Public Works 1. Mr. Campagna reported demolition has started at the Village Street Playground and will continue to move forward as weather permits. He reported that staff] has been present at the Roxbury Park tennis courts repairing the cracked wall. Mr. Imhoff explained that a grant in the amount of $88,000 was applied for last year, and half ofthat amount was received. Mr. Penna will determine how to spend the grant money. Mr. Arnone noted the need to cut down weeds along Franklin Street in the area of Murphy's Bar. Mr. Campagna explained Public Works would work in conjunction with JRA on1 that project. Mayor Janakovic suggested City lawnmowing projects bej placed on next month's agenda. Police Department 2. Richard Pritchard, Police Chief, was glad to have Mr. Mair recognized with a proclamation and stated he had visited and toured the police station and Chiefnoted one individual passed the sergeant test and is now eligible for He stated a drug arrest on January 26, 2024 seized nearly two pounds of methamphetamine, $49,000 in cash, $3,500 in counterfeit currency, and seven ChiefPritchard reported the department will bel losing one officer, which patches were exchanged. promotion. Arecruiting drive will start soon. guns. would put the department down by seven or eight. Mrs. Mock indicated that Mr. Imhoff sent information for the LPRs to Sue Mann who was confident that money would be provided by the 1889: Foundation, which Wednesday February 14, 2024, Stated Meeting, continued 11of11 will be added to the $20-some thousand already allocated. Any other equipment thati is needed will be phase two, after which representatives will be brought in to see. how good it is working and maybe add toi it. Chief Pritchard indicated a quote was: received from Watkins, which added other stations which was not requested. There would be further discussion with Mr. Imhoff regarding the matter. Mr. Capriotti requested an update regarding the school resource officer matter. Chief noted there have been discussions, and currently, "we're in al holding pattern." None oft the current officers are interested in the position. Officer Cypher continues in the position. Fire Department 3. Robert Statler, Fire Chief, reported the fire engine ordered for the Hornerstown Station will be delivered end of April, beginning ofl May. 4. Finance No Report. 5. Community Development No Report. Code Enforcement No Report. 6. PUBLIC COMMENT: NON-AGENDA ITEMS None. RECESS/ADJOURNMENT There being no further business, the meeting concluded at 7:19 p.m. The next Regular Council Meeting is scheduled for March 13, 2024 at 6:00 p.m. EXECUTIVE SESSION WAS HELD FOLLOWING ADJOURNMENT OF THE MEETING.