MINUTES OF THE HANOVER BOROUGH GOVERNANCE & POLICY COMMITTEE MEETING March 3, 2025 Chairperson Dr. Rupp convened the meeting of the Hanover Borough Council Governance & Policy Committee meeting on Monday, March 3, 2025, at 7:10 pm in the Guthrie Memorial Library, Bare Center = Lower Level, 2 Library Place, Hanover, PA, as advertised. Attendance: In attendance were Committee Members Dr. Rupp, Mrs. Greenholt and Mr. Roland; staff members Borough Manager Lewis, Assistant Borough Manager Adler, and Payroll & Benefits Manager Mallette, Mayor Whitman, Police Chief Martin; council members Funk, Bupp, and Lookenbill. Approval of the Minutes: It was moved by Mrs. Greenholt, seconded by Mr. Roland, to approve the minutes of February 10, 2025, as written. Motion carried. Dr Rupp read aloud the following statement regarding the Open Container Law to address some misinformation that has been circulating on social media: First, there are two opportunities for public comments on tonight's agenda. The first allows comments on items listed on the agenda. The second is for other committee-related matters not listed on the agenda After closing the first public comment period, we will proceed with the business of our meeting, including discussions amongst staff and the committee members about items on the agenda. During that discussion, the Chairperson may allow attendees to provide relevant information, if necessary. No decision will be made tonight - or in the foreseeable future - regarding the absence of Open Container Law. This is the beginning of a comprehensive, a several-month-long process to gather input from the public and our public safety professionals to determine if our lack of an Open Container Law presents an issue for our community. Finally, only after gathering and evaluating that input will any potential actions be considered. Thank you for your understanding and participation in this fact-finding effort. Public Comment Robert Holt: Mr. Holt reviewed the Liquor Control Board records, which indicate that most liquor violations occur around Center Square establishments rather than convenience stores. He challenged the committee members, stating, "fy you are desperate for money, just say you are. desperate for money, and that you are going to put public safety second to somebody's business plan. 1 In response to Mrs. Greenholt's question from the previous meeting, he cited a 2018 statement from the Borough Police, who told a newspaper, "Overuse and abuse of alcohol and drugs contribute to most of the crimes we see. 1 Tom Hufnagle: Mr. Hufnagle, a Borough resident and holder of two liquor licenses in the borough, believes the larger cans are the bigger issue. He pointed out that there is a limit of 192 fluid ounces for retail sales, except for Distributors. He noted that events where alcohol is sold attract more people downtown. Brian O'Neill: Mr. O'Neill, a 22-year resident ofthe Borough, stated he does not believe there is a problem. He believes DUIs are not happening because of open containers and added he has not witnessed people walking through residential areas while drinking. Steven Buenzow: Mr. Buenzow is a part-owner of Something Wicked Brewing. Mr. Buenzow felt Chief Martin gave good statistics in the last meeting noting the crime rate average has gone down in the last five years. Mission/Vision Statements/Tagline Dr. Rupp explained the purpose of developing our Mission, Vision, Values & Tagline, noting that the mission is focused on meeting the needs of the community. Mrs. Greenholt would like to see the broader vision, in 5, 10 or 20 years, focusing on safety, cleanliness and a thriving community. Dr. Rupp noted that several borough council members had returned the workbooks distributed following the February meeting and that the council will be working on those together during their annual retreat. Public Comment Sandy Moul: Ms. Moul expressed concern over the need to review Borough records and felt she was being denied access. She explained that she has not photographed or taken any information and stated that avoiding an inspection is against the law. Borough Manager Lewis apologized to Ms. Moul if she felt denied access and explained that the Borough is in the process of relocating, and many documents have already been packed in preparation for the move. Robert Holt: Regarding the Open Container Law, Mr. Holt strongly expressed his concerns, stating that it only takes one drunk driver to ruin a family. He declared "he was not going to stand for it and will go for a hard fight". . He also remarked that if you live in Hanover, "you might need to lawyer up". Dr Rupp stated there has not been a decision made regarding the Open Container Ordinance. Dashiell Sears: Mr. Sears, who returned to Hanover less than a year ago, shared that he sees great things in Hanover. He enjoys walking downtown and frequently visits Fat Bat Brewery and House of Satire. Mr. Sears stated that alcohol is not the core issue and instead pointed to homelessness. Borough Manager Lewis thanked the attendees for their participation, emphasizing the importance of attending committee meetings where decisions are made that impact the community. Adjournment: It was moved by Mr. Roland seconded by Mrs. Greenholt to adjourn the meeting at 7:45pm. Motion carried. Respectfully submitted, - ldy Sandy Mallette Payroll & Benefits Manager