January 2024
Borough Committee Meeting
The East Pete Borough Council held its Committee meeting on Thursday, January 25, 2024, at the Community Center. The meeting was attended by council members, borough staff, and several residents. Here are some of the highlights from the meeting:
Pennsylvania Furniture Mission
Amanda Reilly-Sokali, executive director of Pennsylvania Furniture Mission, made a presentation about their non-profit organization. She explained that they were established in July 2023 to assist people who need furniture for their homes but cannot afford it due to financial limitations. They also aim to hire local people, especially those who have rougher backgrounds, to help them get another chance in life. She requested the council and the residents to support their mission by donating furniture, money, or time in skilled labor, such as legal services. No funding or agreements of donations were made by Council to this organization.
Here are the planned events and details for this year:
For those who hate visuals:
Vagabonds Car Show on May 4, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. The event will feature classic cars, food trucks, vendors, and live music by Flaming Dick and the Hot Rods.
Community Yard Sale on June 1, from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. There will also be a chicken BBQ from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
July 4th Fireworks on June 28. The event will start with a movie in the park at 8:30 p.m., followed by a fireworks display. Food trucks will be available at the event.
East Pete Summer Fest on July 13, from 5:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. The event will feature the Uptown Band as the main musical act. Mad Chef and Levengoods will be in the beer garden.
Blues Fest on August 31, from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. The event will showcase local and regional blues artists, as well as food and drinks. Mad Chef and Levengoods will be in the beer garden.
East Pete Days from September 11 to September 14. The event will be a four-day celebration of the borough with a new carnival vendor, Russ Amusements. Wristbands for unlimited rides will be available for Wednesday and Thursday nights: $20 in advance or $25 at the carnival.
Pumpkin Fest on October 12. The event will be a family-friendly festival of fall fun, with pumpkin carving, games, crafts, and treats.
Santa in the Park on December 13 and 14. The event will be a holiday experience with Santa Claus!
East Pete Events for 2024
The first issue was the safety concern at the intersection of Carpenter Street and Ridge Avenue. Based on survey results, it was recommended to eliminate parking along Carpenter Street 120 feet north of the intersection and 100 feet south of the intersection. The council approved the recommendation and said that the homeowners in the area will be notified in advance.
Addressing Safety Issues
The second issue was the removal and replacement of three aging trees near the pool. The trees pose a safety hazard and need to be taken down and replaced with fast growing shade trees. The trees will cost approximately $1600 each, including planting, coming from Roots Nursery. The price may be lower due to proximity in delivery. The council said that these are fairly well-established trees at approximately 5 inches in diameter that will grow to approximately 20-25 feet. The council agreed that other options, such as sun blocking shade umbrellas, were too expensive.
Finally, borough Manager St. Clair advised that the Fire Department has not submitted their annual audit to the borough, despite being requested twice. St. Clair said that she will request it again and expect it to be submitted as soon as possible. There was no comment by the council on the matter.
Intersection of Carpenter St. & Ridge Ave. The hill creates a line of sight issue for drivers. This view is facing north on Carpenter towards Ridge Ave.
Tom Arnold, a retired firefighter from Lancaster City, expressed his interest in the position of Emergency Management Coordinator for the borough. He said he works in North York Borough in codes and zoning and has experience in emergency response. He admitted that he is not certified for the position, but he has EMT and CPR certifications and is willing to get trained. Arnold said he is passionate about serving the community and ensuring its safety.