Parkesburg Police Nab Regional Burglary Suspect

Parkesburg police Thursday evening arrested David Price, a man wanted for a string of daring home burglaries throughout the region.

Detective Davis of the Parkesburg Police Force has been working a series of cases involving burglaries and motor vehicle thefts in our area. As reported in the Daily Local News on Thursday, the suspect brazenly broke into a residence on 5th Ave. while the family was sleeping, stealing credit cards and other valuables. Other jurisdictions in this area have also reported burglaries and similar violent acts. A recent burglary found that multiple guns had been stolen and possibly on the streets of Parkesburg. The state police had approximately 20-plus outstanding burglaries/home invasions with this suspect.

Parkesburg Police Chief Brian Sheller working cooperatively with several surrounding municipalities, put an action plan in place resulting in the capture of this suspect Thursday evening in Parkesburg, after a brief struggle.

The suspect, David Price, is currently sitting in the Chester County Prison on multiple jurisdictional warrants.

Chief Sheller received a call from Lieutenant Naylor, of the State Police, this morning, congratulating Parkesburg's department on the capture.

_________

Here's what the Philadephia Inquirer wrote about the incident in Saturday's edition:

Police nab Chesco man who had evaded capture

An alert citizen, three police officers, and a Taser combined to end almost two weeks on the run for a Chester County man.

Lt. Brian Naylor of the Embreeville state police barracks said yesterday that David Elijah Price, 25, who "has a history of evading capture," was taken into custody Thursday night. Officers recovered a stolen police badge and ID, part of Price's alleged stash from a burglary spree.

Naylor said a motorist recognized Price, whose last known address was Cochranville, and called Parkesburg police. Naylor said three officers used a Taser when Price, who left a van he allegedly stole, started to run.

Price was taken to Chester County Prison on an outstanding warrant for an assault on a police officer in Coatesville, Naylor said. Burglary charges are pending in a number of communities. - Kathleen Brady Shea

__________________________

Here's how the Daily Local News reported the incident in Saturday's Paper (www.dailylocal.com).

Burglary suspect, girlfriend caught

COUPLE APPREHENDED IN PARKESBURG

By JENNIFER MILLER, Staff Writer

PARKESBURG — Police captured the man who allegedly broke into numerous Chester County homes, stole cars and swiped a South Coatesville police officer’s badge. Police arrested David Elijah Price, 25, of Cochranville, about 8 p.m. Thursday after he and his girlfriend were found with a stolen van on the 100 block of West First Avenue, police said. Police approached Price’s reported girlfriend, Brandi Collins, who was exiting the van reportedly stolen from Gap. When they approached her, they found Price hiding in the bushes in front of the Fulton Bank, police said. Price allegedly tried to fight with police, and then officers used a Taser on him, police said. Police then took Price to Brandywine Hospital for examination after a possible seizure and was later released. Police said they were unsure what caused the possible seizure, and that it could have been caused by something Price ingested. Price was arrested for an outstanding warrant for a reported assault on a Coatesville police officer. He is also a suspect in a Parkesburg home burglary that occurred earlier this month, police said. “My officers did an excellent job. Luckily no officers were hurt in the confrontation,” said Parkesburg Police Chief Brian Sheller. Police said the concern with Price’s alleged break-ins were that they occurred at night while residents were at home asleep. Police believe Price is responsible for burglaries and thefts in Caln, Coatesville, East Fallowfield, Parkesburg, South Coatesville, West Brandywine, and other municipalities in the Avondale and Embreeville state police jurisdictions. One of those break-ins happened at the home of a South Coatesville police officer. Police were able to recover the officer’s stolen badge after Price told them he threw it over a fence in South Coatesville. Price likely faces a slew of charges from multiple agencies, including both Avondale and Embreeville state police barracks. He is being held at Chester County Prison on past charges. Price reportedly has a history of fleeing from police when they attempt to arrest him on outstanding warrants. Price is wanted by the Coatesville Police Department for reportedly escaping from officers on at least two occasions and assaulting an officer. Collins, 19, of Exton, was charged with receiving stolen property and hindering the apprehension of Price. She was held at Chester County Prison in lieu of $20,000 bail. Even after Price’s arrest, police continued to urge local residents to keep their homes and cars locked to prevent future thefts and burglaries. To contact staff writer Jennifer Miller send an e-mail to jmiller@dailylocal.com.

PARKESBURG BOROUGH COUNCIL

Minutes of the Regular Meeting

November 5, 2007– 7:00 p.m.

The meeting was called to order at 7:00 p.m. by President Kenneth Knickerbocker.

The Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag by all present.

Council members present were: Kenneth Knickerbocker, Thomas Curtin, David Jones, Sheri Melton, Nancy Gauthier and Willard Marsh. Also present were: Mayor, John Hagan, Borough Manager, L. James Thomas, Secretary, Wendy A. Keegan and Borough Solicitor John S. Carnes. Council Member Virginia Miller was absent.

After moving Unfinished Business to before Committee Reports, a motion to approve the agenda was made by David Jones and seconded by Willard Marsh. All in favor.

A motion to approve the minutes of the October 15, 2007 Council Meeting was made by Nancy Gauthier and seconded by Sheri Melton. All in favor.

A motion to approve the bills submitted was made by Thomas Curtin and seconded by Nancy Gauthier. All in favor.

PUBLIC COMMENTS (Agenda Items Only)
· Christopher Crockett of First Avenue asked if the parking resolution is on the agenda.

SUBDIVISIONS/PLANNING COMMISSION

· Phillips Zoning Hearing - John Carnes will attend the hearing to state Borough Council’s position.

MANAGER’S REPORT—L. James Thomas

· Mr. Thomas reported that a pre-bid meeting for the stormwater project was held on October 30^th; Bids are due and will be opened on November 15^th.

· Brandywine Valley Association & Habitat Resource Network of SE Pennsylvania is sponsoring a seminar entitled Landscaping with Rainwater for Beauty & Function on November 17^th.

· The Borough was awarded a $200,000 grant from DEP for stormwater management for the HDC project and Minch Park.

· The retaining wall issue on Sixth Avenue has been resolved and construction of the wall has begun.

· Mr. Knickerbocker informed the public that there is a council member and a candidate for council who owe trash fees. A motion to have Mr. Carnes investigate whether council wages could be withheld to pay for outstanding trash fees was made by Sheri Melton and seconded by Nancy Gauthier. All in favor.

SOLICITOR’S REPORT—John S. Carnes, Jr., Esquire

A copy of the Solicitor’s Report is on file at the Borough Hall.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS:

· Engineering Firms – There was discussion between Council Members regarding the two firms, Czop/Specter and Arro Consulting, being considered for the Engineering, Zoning and Code Enforcement contract. After the discussion a motion to enter into discussions with Arro with the intention of reaching an agreement was made by David Jones and Willard Marsh. All in favor.

· $200,000 Grant with HDC – Mr. Thomas asked Council for direction regarding engineering services for the Borough/HDC project. A motion to entertain a professional services agreement with Arro was made by Nancy Gauthier and seconded by Willard Marsh. All in favor.

· Borough Priorities: Mr. Knickerbocker presented a list of priorities and assigned each one to a Council Member or the Manager. There are as follows:

A Priorities
Transition Borough Hall to the Fire Company–David Jones

Police Contract–David Jones

Police Service Pricing–Jim Thomas

Zoning Ordinance Update–Jim Thomas

Storm Water Project–Tom Curtin

2008 Budget–David Jones

Rental Ordinance–Ken Knickerbocker

Selection of and transition to a new engineering firm–Ken Knickerbocker

Trash to Tax Billing–David Jones

Housing Developments – Jim Thomas

Quarry Property – 320 Units

Crystal Springs – 120 Units

Knoll – 80 Units

HDC –80 Units

B Priorities

Police Chief’s Contract–David Jones

Soundproofing the Great Room–Tom Curtin

Park Rebuilding–Sheri Melton

Removing State Street Bridge abutment– Tom Curtin

Removing East Bridge Street–Tom Curtin

Renovating West Bridge Street Bridge–Tom Curtin

Street & Sidewalk Plan–Tom Curtin

Parking ordinance–Tom Curtin

Acme Plaza–Ken Knickerbocker

New Library Building–Ken Knickerbocker

Arms Parking Lot–Jim Thomas

Train Station Revitalization–Tom Curtin

School Board Tax Summit–Nancy Gauthier

Emergency Management Planning–Tom Curtin

Housing Developments – Jim Thomas

West Main Street – 100 Units

Lindale Village – 40 Units

NEW BUSINESS:

None

COMMITTEE REPORTS:

Parks & Recreation—Sheri Melton

Ms. Melton reported that she met with Joseph Reali who will continue to help with the development and priorities of Minch Park; Ms. Melton also met with Bernadette Cazillo to discuss the Summer Park Program for 2008.

Progress & Development—Thomas Curtin

No report.

Streets & Property—Thomas Curtin

No report.

Finance—David Jones

At the Finance Committee meeting scheduled for Thursday 11/8 the draft of the 2008 budget will be finalized. A public hearing will be held on December 3^rd for adoption at the December 17^th meeting.

Police & Fire—David Jones

Mr. Jones attended a meeting with the Fire Company Board. An agreement for turning over the old borough building to the fire company is very close. There has been no progress with the police contract negotiations.

Library–Ken Knickerbocker

The new building feasability study has been put on hold.

PUBLIC COMMENTS:

· Betty Wilde of Main Street asked if tax exempt organization such as churches would also be exempt from trash payments.

· William Tomlinson of 14 West Street asked Council if his street could be paved since there is a surplus in the budget.

COUNCIL COMMENTS:

· Mr. Jones explained that the surplus in the budget will be used to pay bills in January and February rather than the Borough taking out another Tax Anticipation Note in 2008.

ADJOURNMENT:

With there being no further business, a motion was made by Nancy Gauthier and seconded by Sheri Melton to adjourn the meeting 8:30 p.m. All in favor.

Respectfully submitted,

Wendy A. Keegan

Borough Secretary

Persch, Keen, Jones & Curtin Win Council Seats

Here are the unofficial results from Tuesdays election for Borough Council:

	North	South	Total
Persch	119	207	326
Keen	82	185	267
Curtin	90	172	262
Stevenson	69	179	248
Crockett	67	141	208
	North	South	Total
Jones	82	165	247
Marsh	77	154	231

Hats off to Chuck, Mel, Tom & David!

Check back in the next day or two for a more comprehensive review of the election.

Post Ledger Endorses Jones, Curtin and Stevenson

We at Parkesburg Today couldn't have said it better!

Here's the editorial from the November 1st edition of the Parkesburg Post Ledger. Its wonderful seeing David and Tom getting the credit they deserve!

PARKESBURG POST LEDGER

Opinions

November 1, 2007

David Jones Deserves Your Vote

For many years, living in Parkesburg was a financial struggle. And the elderly on fixed incomes suffered most. Year after year, taxes rose and inflation soared. While school taxes from Octorara School District are still an ongoing concern, it appears borough residents will be getting a brief respite from their local taxes. That's certainly good news to Parkesburg taxpayers, who already are paying one of the highest tax millage rates in the county.

The Borough will end 2007 with a surplus of about $356,000, according to Council Vice President David Jones, who also chairs the borough's finance committee. The surplus is a significant change from the beginning of the fiscal year, which the borough began with a $212,000 deficit.

"We feel borough residents need a break from (tax increases) at least for a year," Jones said. "They've been hit pretty hard for a number of years."

Well said.

In Parkesburg, there are roughly 3,400 people, about 8 percent of whom live below the poverty level. The median house value is $180,000, far below the county average. And Parkesburg has more than its share of senior citizens who live on a fixed income. Tax hikes hit them hardest.

Jones deserves much of the credit for reducing the budget deficit. He, along with council members Tom Curtin and Milt Stevenson, have managed to work the numbers in the taxpayers' favor. Fiscal responsibility has eluded past councils.

Although Jones is not actively seeking reelection, we feel voters should show their appreciation by coming out in droves to vote for him, and for Curtin and Stevenson who are also on his ticket. He's done a great job for the borough, and it shows.

It's great to see someone who truly cares about his town.

Be sure to vote on Tuesday.

Prominent Republican Endorses Democratic Council Ticket

In a letter written to the local paper Michael Martorana, a Republican and former Vice-President of Borough Council, urges Parkesburg voters to support Tom Curtin and David Jones for Borough Council.

In the letter, which the newspaper refused to print saying it was too political and not submitted at least two weeks before the election, Martorana speaks to the progress Parkesburg has made under the David's and Tom's leadership and suggests their teamwork and hard work are far better than the inexperience and single-issue focus of the Republican slate.

Here's the letter in its entirety:

To the Editor, {Name of Local Newspaper}:
For immediate publishing.October 30, 2007

Next week the residents of the Borough have an important decision to make: Retain David Jones and Tom Curtain on Council or bring in newcomers.

Because of serious health reasons, my wife and I had to sadly relinquish our positions in the town we love. My position was as Council Vice President, Cassidy was President of the Parkesburg Area Business Association.

A big reason for past success in Council was the teamwork and experience brought to Council by David Jones and Tom Curtain. David’s experience as CEO of major hospitals and Tom’s experience with local, state and federal government as well as his career in managing new technology for Blue Cross and Welch’s are invaluable assets to the Borough and unmatched by others.

Our police department, borough offices and district court all have more efficient operations in a new building thanks in part to their unselfish devotion to the betterment of the Borough in general. They promote no self interest, no hidden agenda. Everything they do on Council is sincerely meant to help us all.

Case in point; David Jones as treasurer not only balanced the budget but brought in a surplus or Tom spearheading LERTA, an important tool to help establish more business in town. These gentlemen are current Council members who are always present and always working for the town.

You will see them at every single Council meeting. As residents, we get a great deal back because of their hard work and caring effort.

I promote these Democrats even though I am a Republican because I think they are the best choice in this election.

Let’s look at a serious and divisive issue. Parkesburg’s number of rental units. Some are nice units, safe apartments, operated by caring landlords. Others seem to cater to less discriminating tenants. Some historical, landmark shops may soon to be divided up into small apartments destined to have but one parking spot for the entire building, creating more problems in town. There are a lot of homes turned into apartments here.

While there are those who may resist the new rental inspection ordinance because of what may be legitimate concerns, there are other critics who may inadvertently leave some problems up to the taxpayers of the Borough to solve, stemming from the creation of more rental apartments. We already see heaps garbage on sidewalks and back yards. We notice an increasing need for police presence, dedicating overtime hours to provide law enforcement in problem areas. Apartments must be created with built-in safety factors implemented so tragedy is prevented. You simply can not change that. It’s also sad to see beautiful shops being turned into more low income apartments in the center of town instead of retail shops for us all to enjoy.

Candidates running for office should be impartial and not have self-interest in mind. They must be self-less and serve all equally. David was born here, but it’s got nothing to do with being born here as anyone with common sense should know. Ask the people of California how they like their Governor. Most love him. Here too, our Council must be highly professional and be able to envision Parkesburg as a thriving, warm community filled with contributing, long-term residents who care for the home they live in and about the welfare of the entire borough.

With David Jones and Tom Curtain, we will move in the right direction without the risk of promoting self interests or ineffective management.

Respectfully,
Michael A. Martorana

Tom Curtin Announces an $860,000 Chester County Grant

Just last week Tom Curtin, Chair of Parkesburg's Progress & Development Committee, learned that the Chester County Department of Community Development had awarded Parkesburg two grants in support of the Westminster Place Project on First Avenue across the street from the Fire Company.

According to Curtin, the grants are for $752,795 for a mixed use building with $111,205 to support the Senior Housing component.

In announcing the award Curtin stated “In addition to the obvious benefit of having a new, environmentally friendly building, this project will create new energy on First Avenue giving a boost businesses, churches and community activities in the downtown area. The grants will allow us to improve the streetscape, replacing sidewalks and street access in the area, finally replacing a former industrial site with a building we’ll all be proud of.”

Westminster Place at Parkesburg, to be located at 320 West First Avenue slows the Borough to continue progress in revitalizing First Avenue. The 51 one bedroom units, and 21 two BR units will provide affordable living for persons 55+ in age who meet the income restrictions. The building will supply 3,100 sq. ft. of new neighborhood commercial space and is within walking distance to shops, services and public transportation.

This represents a total project investment in Parkesburg of 17 million dollars. The County’s $864,000 are provided from two county sources, the Home Trust Program which is supported by HUD and the HTP program which is funded from fees from developers. In addition, there is a $4,600,000 commitment from Presbyterian Homes, Inc., who will own and operate building at completion. Curtin says the project will be completed by 2010.

Minutes of the October 15, 2007 Borough Council Meeting

PARKESBURG BOROUGH COUNCIL

The meeting was called to order at 7:00 p.m. by President Kenneth Knickerbocker.
The Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag by all present.

Council members present were: Kenneth Knickerbocker, Sheri Melton, David Jones,
Willard Marsh, Virginia Miller and Thomas Curtin. Also present were Mayor John Hagan,
Borough Manager, L. James Thomas, Secretary, Wendy A. Keegan, Solicitor John Carnes,
Police Chief, Brian Sheller and Zoning Officer Thomas Lowry.

APPROVAL OF AGENDA: After two minor changes to the agenda, adding a finance
committee report and parking under New Business, a motion to approve the agenda was
made by David Jones and seconded by Thomas Curtin. All in favor.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES: A motion to approve the minutes of the October 1, 2007,
Regular Meeting was moved by Sheri Melton and seconded by Virginia Miller. All in favor.

TREASURER’S REPORT—Wendy A. Keegan
A complete copy of the September 2007 Treasurer’s Report is on file in the Borough Hall.
A motion to accept the September 2007 Treasurer’s Report was moved by David Jones
and seconded by Thomas Curtin. All in favor.

APPROVAL OF BILLS: A Motion to approve the bills submitted was moved by David
Jones and seconded by Willard Marsh. All in favor.

APPOINTMENT OF COUNCIL MEMBER
• A motion to appoint Nancy Gauthier to fill the vacancy on Borough Council
created by the resignation of Joseph Reilly on September 17, 2007 was
made by Sheri Melton and seconded by Virginia Miller. All in favor.
• Mayor John Hagan swore in Nancy Gauthier as council person to fill the
position created by the resignation of Joseph Reilly.

PUBLIC COMMENTS (Agenda Items Only):
None

PLANNING COMMISSION/SUBDIVISIONS:
• A motion to adopt Resolution No. 2007-37 – A Resolution for Plan Revision
for New Land Development was made by Willard Marsh and seconded by
Nancy Gauthier. All in favor.

FINANCE COMMITTEE REPORT—David P. Jones
A copy of the Finance Committee Report is on file in the Borough Hall.
• Christopher Crockett of W. First Avenue asked about the income and
expenses for the police contracts
• Chuck Persch of Rosemont Avenue asked if the contracted municipalities
were paying their share of the police benefits

BOROUGH PRIORITIES—Kenneth Knickerbocker
Mr. Knickerbocker handed out a list of priorities for Borough Council to address in the
coming months. They are as follows:
A Priorities
Police Contract
Police Service Pricing
Zoning Ordinance Update
Storm Water Project
2008 Budget
Rental Ordinance
Selection of and transition to a new engineering firm
Trash to Tax Billing
General Election and Transition to new council
Housing Developments – Quarry Property – 320 Units
Housing Developments – Crystal Springs – 120 Units

B Priorities
Transition Borough Hall to the Fire Company
Police Chief’s Contract
Soundproofing the Great Room
Park Rebuilding
Removing State Street Bridge abutment
Removing East Bridge Street
Renovating West Bridge Street
Street & Sidewalk Plan
Parking ordinance
Acme Plaza
New Library Building
Arms Parking Lot
Train Station Revitalization
School Board Tax Summit
Emergency Management Planning
Housing Developments – West Main Street – 100 Units
Housing Developments – Lindell Village – 40 Units
Housing Developments – Knoll – 80 Units
Housing Developments – HDC – 80 Units

DEPARTMENT REPORTS:
MANAGER’S REPORT—James Thomas
The revisions to the Zoning and Subdivision and Land Development Ordinances are
ongoing;
Bids are out for the storm water grant project;
Phase 2B of Parkesburg Knoll has begun;
The final plan for Crystal Springs has been submitted. The plans include the breach of the
dam and the elimination of the pond;
Leaf collection has begun and yard waste pick-up has been suspended until next spring.

FIRE CHIEF’S REPORT—Richard Klingler, II
A complete copy of the Fire Chief’s Report is on file in the Borough Hall.

POLICE CHIEF’S REPORT—Chief Brian Sheller
A complete copy of the Police Chief’s Report is on file in the Borough Hall. The Citizens
Police Academy will begin in January. Applications will be taken in November.

PUBLIC WORKS REPORT—Thomas Curtin
No Report.

ZONING OFFICER’S REPORT—Thomas Lowry
A complete copy of the Zoning Officer’s Report is on file in the Borough Hall.

EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT REPORT—David Jones
No report.
MAYOR’S REPORT—John P. Hagan, II
A complete copy of the Mayor’s Report is on file in the Borough Hall.
PABA—Betty Wilde
Mrs. Wilde reported that Grand Sport Auto is donating a Christmas Tree.
SOLICITOR’S REPORT—John S. Carnes, Jr., Esquire
A complete copy of the Solicitor’s Report in on file in the Borough Hall.
ENGINEER’S REPORT—Jeffrey Hunt.
A complete copy of the Engineer’s Report is on file in the Borough Hall.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS:
• Engineering Update—Council has interviewed 4 engineering firms to handle
the engineering, zoning and code enforcement duties. They have narrowed
the choice down to 2 firms. David Jones suggested to hold off on a decision
until the new member of council can review the information and be included
in the decision making. All agreed.
• Parking Update—Thomas Curtin is working on a Resolution amending the
Parking Ordinance to include restricting the time limit on N. Church Street,
Main Street and West First Avenue. It will be discussed at the next meeting
NEW BUSINESS
• Mr. Knickerbocker requested the priorities be placed on the agenda for next
meeting for committee assignments;
• Virginia Miller asked if Council would consider a Junior Council Member
PUBLIC COMMENTS:
• Ed Murray of N. Church Street commented that the 72 hour parking
ordinance would not be fair to the citizens residing along N. Church Street;
• Phyllis Miller of N. Church Street commented on the poor snow plowing
along N. Church Street; Ms. Miller also stated that the storm drains have
never been cleaned along N. Church Street;
• Chuck Persch of Rosemont Avenue asked if the trash fees would be part of
the tax millage.
COUNCIL COMMENTS:
• David Jones commended Thomas Curtin on his efforts regarding the
revitalization, the parking ordinance and the trash ordinance.
ADJOURNMENT:
With there being no further business, a motion was made by Sheri Melton and seconded
by Nancy Gauthier to adjourn the meeting 9:30 p.m. All in favor.

Respectfully submitted,
Wendy A. Keegan
Borough Secretary

Favorable Coverage in The Daily Local News

Did you see the article in today's Daily Local News?! Thanks to David Jones, Jim Thomas and Wendy Keegan for watching our Borough's bottom line so closely.

Here's the article:

Parkesburg Hopes To End Year With A $350,000 Surplus

By Karen Neuhauser Ruppert

Special to the Local News

PARKESBURG — The Borough will end 2007 with a surplus of about $356,000, according to Council Vice President David Jones, who also chairs the borough’s finance committee.

The surplus is a significant change from the beginning of the fiscal year, which the borough began with a $212,000 deficit. Jones shared the news with council recently at its regular monthly meeting.

Jones commended borough secretary Wendy Keegan and Borough Manager Jim Thomas for keeping spending 14 percent under budget. He also passed out copies of the first draft of the borough’s 2008 budget, which is about $2,000 from being balanced, if Phase II of the park revitalization is not included.

For residents, the news means there will be no tax increase projected for next year.

“We feel borough residents need a break from (tax increases) at least for a year,” Jones said. “They’ve been hit pretty hard for a number of years.”

Jones said council’s focus has been on trying make the borough become more fiscally responsible. He believes the borough should be able to offer more support to the library and fire department in the future, and that it might not be necessary to raise taxes to do so.

One item in the budget still in flux is the police budget. According to Jones, the borough is still negotiating with Honey Brook Township, and it is uncertain whether Honey Brook will renew its contract for police services. Also, the police contract is still being negotiated.

Included in the draft budget is a 4 percent salary increase for the police officers, as well as a 12 percent increase for benefits for the officers. The borough projects that the costs of benefits for its 17 borough employees, which includes administrators, police employees and streets department employees, will be about $521,000 next year.

Another budget item needing to be resolved is the park revitalization.

Phase II, which was to start this year, was postponed due to lack of funding. Although the majority of the $550,000 cost of that portion of the project was to be covered by county funds, there were two parts that could not be resolved in the 2007 budget.

First, the grant stipulated that the borough had to pay $50,000 toward the project. Second, the grants are reimbursements, so the borough would have had to pay the entire amount of the project then wait for reimbursement from the county.

Tom Curtin For Borough Council

Since his appointment at the beginning of 2006, Tom Curtin's leadership of the Progress and Development Committee have resulted in the creation of a LERTA economic incentive program to bring new business construction to Parkesburg.

Now he’s leading a new effort to create a new First and Main Project to revitalize the business district and improve Parkesburg’s appearance on Rt. 10.

His efforts will bring a better balance between the rights of property owners and the public interest.

He created the plan for this past summer’s successful Summer Camp in Minch Park.

His work on Streets Committee has developed the first plan to repair streets and sidewalks systematically in years.

There is much more to do - Curtin’s experience in economic development, urban planning and information technology will help us get there!

Tom's Goals

Make the First and Main project happen. The program he recently outlined to PABA and Borough Council will include street and side walk renewal, facade improvements and rehabilitation, removing irretrievably decayed buildings. The program will focus grant dollars on making the centers of our town cleaner, safer, attractive places where residents can shop, dine and enjoy themselves.

Budget and follow through on an annual infrastructure improvement project, paving a few streets every year so that we don’t waste money on un-ending patching and emergency projects.

Improve rail service and the train station creating a pleasant place to wait and a nice coffee house experience.

Use the LERTA program he wrote in Parkesburg to complete the missing pieces in our revitalization plans.

Tom Curtin is an asset on Borough Council. I hope you'll join me in voting for Tom Curtin on November 6th.

Borough Council Priorities

October 15, 2007

At Monday's Borough Council meeting, I handed out a list of all the projects Borogh Council is currently focused on. The list, which was put together at the urging of Vice-President David Jones, is meant to help council stay focused on its highest priorities.

Here's the list:

A Priorities

• Transition Borough Hall to the Fire Company
  
• Police Contract
• Police Service Pricing
• Zoning Ordinance Update
• Storm Water Project
• 2008 Budget
• Rental Ordinance
• Selection of and transition to a new engineering firm
• Trash to Tax Billing
• General Election and Transition to new council
  
• Housing Developments – Quarry Property – 320 Units
• Housing Developments – Crystal Springs – 120 Units

B Priorities

• Police Chief’s Contract
• Soundproofing the Great Room
• Park Rebuilding
• Removing State Street Bridge abutment
• Removing East Bridge Street
• Renovating West Bridge Street
• Street & Sidewalk Plan
• Parking ordinance
• Acme Plaza
• New Library Building
• Arms Parking Lot
• Train Station Revitalization
• School Board Tax Summit
• Emergency Management Planning
• Housing Developments – West Main Street – 100 Units
• Housing Developments – Lyndell Village – 40 Units
• Housing Developments – Knoll – 80 Units
• Housing Developments – HDC – 80 Units

Check back frequently as the list will be change frequently. For instance just yesterday one item, the transition of the old borough hall to the Fire Company, was moved to the "A" priority column due to a response received from the Fire Company to the proposed Agreement of Sale discussed back in August.

Our next step will be to finalize the list at our next council meeting on November 5th and to assign each project on the list to specific individuals or committees.

If you have a question about an item on the list or want to add an item that seems to be missing, its a great time to pick up the phone and call your favorite council person!

Get involved! Keep Parkesburg moving forward!

Tom Curtin Leads Parkesburg's Economic Tax Relief

August 18^th, 2006, began the process of creating a new Parkesburg Ordinance to encourage economic development within the Borough. Tom Curtin met with Chester County Economic Development Agency, the Octorara School District and Governor Rendell’ special task force representatives to talk about what could be done to draw new economic development.

In talking about the tools available, one of the key requirement for any community to draw new development was to put in place tax incentives and one of the key methods in Pennsylvania was a Local Economic Revitalization Tax Abatement, or LERTA. Those present at the meeting encouraged each of the municipalities to consider LERTA as a 1) means to draw jobs to western Chester County and 2) reduce the school tax burden on home owners by building a new tax base.

The LERTA provides relief for increased property taxes a developer might pay over the current value of the property. For example, if a developer constructs a new building on a vacant lot, the increased taxes after completion can be abated 100% for five years, but the base level of taxes continues. At the end of the five years, taxes return at the then current level and continue on from that point. LERTA encourages projects which have the greatest long term value to Parkesburg, since the bigger the increase in valuation the bigger the abatement.

With the support of council and Parkesburg Planning Commission, a map of the included area and an ordinance authorizing LERTA was passed and approved by the Borough in less than three months after it began. Following Council's approval, Chester County three Commissioners and the Octorara School District also approved the LERTA ordinance.

Parkesburg was the first, and so far the only, community in Chester County to pass a LERTA ordinance. Council, led by Tom Curtin, is now working with development officials to plan the next step including marketing the plan to developers and encouraging them to take advantage of the incentives.

LERTA is a great first step. But just a first step. Since passing the LERTA ordimance earlier this year, Tom Curtin has been speaking this summer with residents on Main Street, Church street and First Avenue about a new economic revitalization project called “First and Main”. He’s compiling photographs, ownership data and identifying funding sources and speaking with the Parkesburg Business Association.

Where LERTA encourages new commercial construction, "First and Main" will focus on the hidden and not so hidden historical beauty of our community through residential and business façade improvement and business redevelopment program improving Parkesburg's “curb appeal”. The "First and Main" Project is about the four R;s researching and dealing with business inhibitors, removing blight, rehab and renewal of homes, businesses and infrastructure (streets, sidewalks and utilities) -and reinvigorating neighborhoods with community days, block parties and festivals.

Tom promises more to come this Fall on the "First and Main" program!

Minutes of the August 6th Regular Meeting of Parkesburg Borough Council

PARKESBURG BOROUGH COUNCIL
Minutes of the Regular Meeting

August 6, 2007– 7:00 p.m.

The meeting was called to order at 7:00 p.m. by President Kenneth Knickerbocker.

The Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag by all present.

Council members present were: Kenneth Knickerbocker, Thomas Curtin, Virginia Miller, Sheri Melton, and Willard Marsh. Also present were: Borough Manager, L. James Thomas, Secretary, Wendy A. Keegan and Borough Solicitor John S. Carnes. Council Members David Jones and Joseph Reilly and Mayor John Hagan were absent.

A motion to approve the agenda with the addition of Resolution No. 2007-32 was made by Thomas Curtin and seconded by Sheri Melton. All in favor.

A motion to approve the minutes July 16, 2007 Council Meeting was made by Sheri Melson and seconded by Willard Marsh. All in favor.

A Motion to approve the bills submitted was moved by Sheri Melton and seconded by Virginia Miller. All in favor.

PUBLIC COMMENTS (Agenda Items Only)

· Christopher Smith was present on behalf of the Parkesburg Fire Company. Mr. Smith requested from Council a date on which the old Borough Complex property will be transferred to the Fire Company. A meeting was scheduled with the Borough Council and Fire Company Directors on Monday, August 20^th at 6:00 p.m. in the Fire House.

SUBDIVISIONS/PLANNING COMMISSION

· Heritage Building Group—Crystal Springs - A motion to adopt Resolution No. 2007-30 – A Resolution for Plan Revision for New Land Development was made by Thomas Curtin and seconded by Willard Marsh. All in favor.

· Parkesburg Knoll Phase II-B – Mark Hargraves was present on behalf of Chetty Builders. They will be purchasing Phase II-B lots from Tropea Builders. A motion to adopt Resolution No. 2007-31 – A Resolution of the Council of the Borough of Parkesburg, Chester County, Pennsylvania, Approving Development of Phase II-B of Parkesburg Knoll by Chetty Builders, Inc. was made by Sheri Melton and seconded by Virginia Miller. All in favor. A motion to sign the Developer’s Agreement, Security Agreement and Cash Escrow Agreement was made by Willard Marsh and seconded by Thomas Curtin. All in favor.

· Phillips Subdivision — A motion to adopt Resolution No. 2007-32 – A Resolution of the Council of the Borough of Parkesburg, Chester County, Pennsylvania, Approving Settlement of Local Agency Appeal, Approval of Subdivision Plans (As Part of Such Settlement) and Authorizing the Borough Manager and Other Borough Personnel as Well as Members of Borough Council to Execute the Plans and Appropriate Settlement Documents upon Approval of Same by the Borough Solicitor was made by Thomas Curtin and seconded by Virginia Miller. All in favor.

MANAGER’S REPORT—L. James Thomas

· Another meeting with representatives in the Octorara School District will be held in September or October;

· Lines have been painted on Second Avenue and in the business district on First Avenue;

· Weed removal has been done on West First Avenue and will continue on Main Street;

· Maintenance has been preformed on the tot lot in Minch Park;

· The Summer Park Program is going very well.

SOLICITOR’S REPORT—John S. Carnes, Jr., Esquire

A complete copy of the Solicitor’s Report is on file in the Borough Hall

COMMITTEE REPORTS:

Parks & Recreation—Joseph Reilly

No report.

Progress & Development—Thomas Curtin

Will be discussing how to bring business to Parkesburg. Looking at redevelopment of North Church Street.

Streets & Property—Thomas Curtin

Met with the Borough Engineer to discuss the progress of the stormwater grant. Will be discussing the 2008 paving plan. Still working on the solid waste ordinance.

Finance—David Jones

No report.

Police & Fire—Vacant

No report.

Library–Vacant

No report.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS:

· Rental Inspections – A motion to suspend enforcement of the current rental ordinance and direct the Borough Solicitor to prepare a new rental ordinance to address problem landlords and to leave the draft available for review by Borough Council and landlords before the next scheduled meeting was made by Thomas Curtin and seconded by Willard Marsh. All in favor.

NEW BUSINESS

No new business

PUBLIC COMMENTS:

· Betty Wilde was present on behalf of PABA. PABA will come up with guidelines for what the Borough should be looking for in rental units. PABA would like to coordinate a clean-up day with the Borough. Mrs. Wilde requested the Borough look into a business being conducted on Grape Alley.

· Lester Ely of West Street made several comments: He questioned the property at 538 W. First Avenue; the fence on South Culvert Street; Brandt Street paving; compact car parking and bicycles on the sidewalks are not being enforced; the Streets Department does not put the trash cans back where they found them; and questioned when the sewer debt will be over.

· Christopher Smith on behalf of the Fire Company thanked Council for the use of Minch Park for the Fair.

· Phillip Laus of Walnut Street commented on the problem of skateboards on the sidewalks.

· John Ford of Main Street thanked Mr. Thomas for solving his problem.

COUNCIL COMMENTS:

· Virginia Miller requested that people shop at the Parkesburg Potpourri

· Ken Knickerbocker commented on his Parkesburg Today blog page at parkesburgtoday.blogspot.com

ADJOURNMENT:

With there being no further business, a motion was made by Thomas Curtin and seconded by Willard Marsh to adjourn the meeting 8:25 p.m. All in favor.

Respectfully submitted,

Wendy A. Keegan

Borough Secretary

Parkesburg Purchases the General Services Building

Written By David Jones, VP of Borough Council

Several years ago the Council of the Borough of Parkesburg realized they would soon be in need of a new home for the Police and the administrative operations of the Borough. A decision was made that these operations should remain on West First Avenue and a piece of vacant land was purchased for the purposes of building a new building. Subsequent to these actions by Borough Council, a private development group, Keystone Alliance, Inc., purchased what is known in town as the old “Johnstone” building. Their intent was to rehabilitate the building and create a state of the art business complex.

The first tenant to sign up for the new building complex was the District Court. This office was formerly located on West Main Street in the Borough. As the plans and the rehabilitation moved forward on the new building it became obvious to Borough Council that the new property would be ideal for the Police and Borough administrative office. Borough Council at the time realized this would be less expensive and time consuming than constructing a building on the land purchased. After a lengthy negotiation period with Keystone Alliance, Inc. a rental agreement was developed for the Police and Borough administration. This rental agreement included an option for the Borough to purchase the building at any time in the future.

The District Court moved into the new facility in late fall of 2006. The Police moved in shortly after this in November of 2006. Finally, the Borough administrative offices moved in in December 2006. In the beginning of 2007 the finance committee and property committee began to explore the financial feasibility of purchasing the new GSC building. It was determined by these two committees that a purchase of the building would not only be feasible, but also would lower costs significantly and allow the borough to accrue equity in the property over time.

The Borough Council unanimously approved moving forward with the purchase of the building in early 2007 and also to explore transfer of the old Borough Hall to the Parkesburg Fire Company after the completion of the purchase of the new building.

The negotiations were a very lengthy process and many outstanding issues had to be resolved to clear the way for purchase of the building. The vacant lot the Borough owned across the street from the new building was sold to assist in financing the purchase. Rent from the District Court is also expected to reduce costs by nearly 2 million dollars over the 20 year term of the purchase agreement.

The purchase of the new property was completed in July 2007 and is now the property of the Borough of Parkesburg.

Additional Pictures:

Landlords Speak Out, Ask Council to Rescind Rental Ordinance

Last Monday (7/30/07) evening four members of Borough Council and 18 landlords representing over 150 Parkesburg rental units met in Borough Hall to discuss the Borough’s recently enacted Rental Ordinance. The Ordinance, which was unanimously approved by council in October 2006, went into effect on January 1, 2007 and go into effect it did! Within a few months landlords were complaining loudly of frequent inspections, inconsistent feedback and added costs in an already slow market.

The meeting provided both council and members of the community a chance to air their concerns and frustrations and gave each a better understanding of the issues and challenges of each group.

Coming into the meeting the land lords listed the following concerns with the newly implemented rental ordinance:

1. No Grandfathering of recently inspected units. Units registered under the previous ordinance are given no consideration.

2. Preempting agencies are not listed; there is no way to know if units are exempt.

3. Tenant changes trigger re-inspection without any other cause. This could lead to several inspections a year per unit.

4. Conflicting info being given regarding complying, especially with GFI outlets and older two wire electrical systems and handrails.

5. Concerned that providing tenant names is a violation of tenant rights and opens owners to lawsuits.

6. Inspection is at the convenience of the Code Officer, only Thursdays, with no respect for owner’s work schedules.

7. Requiring owners to force tenants to allow inspection of their private residence without complaint or modification made to the unit.

8. Excessive power is granted to the Code Officer.

9. Double standard, rentals are to be inspected but not private residences.

10. The fees/inspections for common areas and rooming houses may be excessive, especially if required for each tenant change.

11. Do the fees reflect actual costs? If so, why does it cost Parkesburg more than West Chester to inspect?

Over the course of the two hour discussion each of these issues was discussed. The landlords expressed the frustration with the cost in time, effort and money of the inspections and how the costs were cutting into their already thin profit margins. Given the soft housing markets landlords have been unable to pass these costs on to renters in higher monthly rents. Attendees also expressed their opinion and thoughts on the other challenges facing Parkesburg including revitalizing the Main Street and First Avenue business districts, cleaning up the town and how to work together beyond this meeting.

At the end of the meeting Councilman David Jones took a poll of those in attendance asking if they wanted to see the ordinance changed or simply rescinded. As would be expected the landlords voted near unanimously to rescind the ordinance. Council agreed to consider their request.

A week later at the regularly scheduled Council Meeting President of Council Ken Knickerbocker announced all inspections and court cases resulting from enforcement of the ordinance had had been suspended to give the borough’s solicitor, a chance to revise the ordinance. Council hopes the revised ordinance will significantly reduce and possibly eliminate the impact the ordinance has on good landlords who keep their units neat, safe and orderly.

The first draft of the revised ordinance is expected to be available near the end of August. The revised ordinance will be brought to council as early as September for a vote after both council members and representative of the landlords have a chance to review and modify the ordinance to ensure it meets the stated objective.

Check back again in week or two for an update.

Notes:

1) Those in attendance at the meeting included Sharon Reinhart, Micky Reinhart, Rich Gorgo, John Skrabak, Jeff Hery, Lynn Rohr, Bob Keen, Dirk Hagan, Chuck Persch, Bob Connelly, Guy Jaquet, Bev Ely, Les Ely, Bob Cooke, Mel Keen, Chris Crockett. Representing the Borough government was Jim Thomas, Borough Manager, Ken Knickerbocker, David Jones, Tom Curtin and Willard Marsh from Council.

2) Thanks go to Mel Keen for providing some of the material in this posting and more importantly acting as an effective spokes person for the landlord group.