Council Approves Changes to Tax Ordinances, Moves Ahead with Second Ward Revitalization

In an effort to make it easier for the city’s new financial officer to do his job properly, Bradford City Council has approved on first reading changes to several tax ordinances.

During its meeting Tuesday night council OK’d changes to the Local Taxpayer Bill of Rights, Mercantile License Tax, Business Privilege Tax, Local Services Tax and Public Utility Tax Ordinance.

City Solicitor Mark Hollenbeck explained the changes give Michael Shanks “the ability to monitor the ordinances, enforce them as part of his duties with the city.”

Mayor Tom Riel stressed that council is not raising taxes or creating new taxes.

In other matters, council authorized the filing of a Keystone Communities Façade and Public Improvement Grant for the Second Ward Neighborhood Partnership Program.

The $400,000 grant would go toward the NPP façade program, streetscape improvements and new construction.

The city is also seeking a Home Program grant from the state’s Department of Community and Economic Development to rehabilitate owner-occupied housing in the Second Ward.

Before the regular council meeting OECD Executive Director Sara Andrews and Elm Street Manager Lisa Keck updated council on the NPP project.

Also Tuesday council granted permission to advertise for bids related to the proposed renovations of the city’s Central Fire Station at 25 Chestnut Street. The renovations have been proposed to preserve the building and to make it energy efficient.

Council accepted a quote of $19,525 from and approved payment to Chestnut Ridge Radio Communications for police radios and necessary equipment for the City of Bradford Police Department.

Riel said during budget talks they had talked about getting new police radios over the course of several years “but Chief (Chris) Lucco did a good job and went out and solicited the funds privately so we’re getting the radios all in one shot, all in one year. Well done.”

Councilman Brad Mangel congratulated and thanked the Parks Department for a successful opening of the Callahan Park Ice Rink and “great turnout” for open skate.

Parks Director Chip Comilla said 261 people skated on Friday evening.

“That’s a good number for people who don’t think it’s worth it,” Riel said.

Council also observed a moment of silence for former city councilman and water authority member Lee Morehouse, who passed away November 2.

Listen to the meeting

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