Holiday Wishes

I hope everyone, who celebrates Christmas and Chanukah, has had a Merry Christmas and a Happy Hanukkah.  Kwanzaa ends on January 1 any citizens celebrating hopefully your Holiday was happy as well.

I have been working on my budget post since December 16, 2017.  I realize that since Delmont has avoided for the most part a major crises many citizens may think that I am making up a crises that is non-existent.  I hope that my post will explain the true problem that we have, and the budget won't be viewed as merely a subject around Election Time.  The budget is the lifeblood of our Community that has not received the attention that it demands if Delmont is to even grow much less thrive.

I ask that all citizens pray for us as there are many deficiencies in establishing the proper priorities to allow our community to live and grow.  The New Year offers many opportunities to address these issues if we exhibit the proper courage and strength to make the needed changes.

To all families I wish Peace, Health, and Happiness in 2018.  May God's Grace and Wisdom guide us and bless us.  Not only Delmont, but our Nation could use this Guidance.


     

Stormwater Ordinance Update

On Thursday I attended the third meeting of the Watershed Advisory Committee for Westmoreland County.  We were given the draft copy of the County Ordinance. 

In our fine community issues sometimes are mixed and can be confusing.  Stormwater and the associated MS4 regulations are intimately related to sewage issues but the regulations also differ.  I believe that Borough has been criticised for not Budgeting for Storm water issues for at least 10 years.  The reality is the Regulations addressing stormwater issues did not become final until December 9, 2016.  So, there was essentially nothing to budget for before this date.  There have been many people throwing around the phrase unfunded mandates.  What is an unfunded mandate?  In the "Good ol days" when the Federal Government issued regulations that were delegated to states to run there would be money given to fulfill a portion of costs associated with the program.  There are portions of the program  that require money to operate but do not include sources of funds.  This means it is up to the states, counties, and local governments to decide how to pay for the programs.  Consequently, this means that money can be taken from General funds, or special funding mechanisms.  Unfortunately, most political subdivisions will not have the luxury of simply paying the bills from the General Fund.  I can assure that Delmont does not have the available funds, and as I stated before our Budget is not currently sustainable.  Delmont is going to have to start thinking and even acting on raising funds for these programs.

One of the most interesting parts of the meeting is how normal lightly, to not regulated activities can have impacts on stormwater runoff.  Here is brief non-inclusive list

• Widening a driveway.
• Paving driveway or walkway.
• Building an outbuilding.
• Cutting down trees
• Building patio, pads to hold vehicles or boats
• New gardens

Anything that changes the way water enters the ground can have an impact.  Some jurisdictions that have implemented Stormwater charging programs use criteria such as the amount of pavement in an area of land, or standard fees for residents.  There is a fair chance that the fees associated with stormwater management issues would be slightly higher than the current per capita charge.

Fees are never a pleasant thing to think about.   The reality is someone is paying for stormwater runoff all the time.  Everyone who has a flooded basement, plants or vegetation washed away, structural damage caused by stormwater has directly paid as a result of stormwater.  From a community point of view property values will increase, or at least not decline when a stormwater program is in place.

Ordinance Idea

The fiscal mismanagement of the previous decade, (What I consider fiscal mismanagement is the failure to budget money for Economic Development, Community Development, Parks and Recreation), it is evident that Council needs an Ordinance to force certain levels of Fiscal responsibility.  The examples that I am thinking about are Capital funds for Boiler and Vehicles that previous Council's with some foresight have established.  The two years I have been on Council many members have complained about the statutory amounts we had to set aside.

I believe there should be an Ordinance that would that would require: 1) Money received from Marcellus, 2) Money received from Recycling, 3) A portion of or fees for property use, and yes 4) A small percentage of Sewage be placed in a Special account for Projects similar to areas covered under Act 58 including Stormwater efforts.  This fund could be used to help meet grant matches for these types of activities.  This shouldn't be too hard to do because some of this funds have been referred to as extra icing, or bonus money.  I will probably be expanding on some of these issues as time goes on.

It is a pleasure serving you.  I can be reached at david4delmont@gmail.com      

Thanksgiving Wishes and Thoughts

To everyone who is traveling to be with family this Thanksgiving, may your travels be safe and the time spent with relatives and loved ones happy and fulfilling.   Make every minute count and avoid unnecessary conflicts.  Life is a fragile thing and we never know how much time is left, or when our next encounter with family, friends, and acquaintances may be our last.

We should all take a moment and count the Blessings we have living in the greatest Country in the world.  Most of us our blessed with adequate food, clothes, and shelter.  We have family, friends, and loved ones to share our time with.  We can travel freely and speak our minds.  We can choose to worship God in any way we wish, or choose not to believe One exists.

When I was a youngster more time was spent on Thanksgiving, there was little to no Black Friday activities, but Friday after Thanksgiving was meant to spend more time with family and friends.  It has taken a half-Century of life to figure out why there is the push to glaze over this really important day.  See things that bother me deeply include Christmas Decorations and music before Thanksgiving.  It seems like some Christmas stuff starts coming out in conjunction with Halloween.  Perhaps the reason that there is not an over commercialization of Thanksgiving is because decorations are not necessary.  All that is required is a gratitude of having the the essentials to sustain life: food, water, simple clothing, and shelter.  At a bit of a higher level a Community that shared the bounty of the earth and offered a sense of protection and purpose.  The problem from the modern consumption point of view is this " If you practice gratitude and Thanksgiving everyday, this leads to feelings of love and contentment.  When you are experiencing love and contentment your awareness and focus are honed in laser sharp on the things that really matter.  The things that really matter can not be manufactured, bought, and sold.  They are freely given one to another.  The result is Black Friday would lose all importance as a major shopping day.  We have all that we need and it is within and can't be bought out there."  ( The quote is my own words and thoughts.  It is the way that I would imagine some defining the "problem" of practicing gratitude daily.)

God Bless us all.

Scouting in Delmont Update: Let's Continue to Build Community

I had the pleasure of attending the Eagle Scout Court of Honor for Scott Armentrout of Troop 211 at Faith United Methodist Church.   Scott was the young man that planned and organized the rehabilitation at Shield's Farm that showcased the new "Welcome to Delmont" sign on one of the buildings and the painting of buildings.  This was deeply appreciated by all who attended the Apple Fest as it showed all visitors that Delmont takes pride in keeping our Resources looking good.

I was wondering why the Ceremony was speaking to me in a very special way.  It wasn't until after that I realized Scott and I share an interesting Eagle history.  It was 33 years, 4 days, and 8 Scouts that separate our Eagle awards.  He was Eagle Number 504 in 2017 and I was 512 in 1984.He completed his requirements on September 22, and I completed mine on September 26.  The principles and obligations of Eagle Scouts remain timeless.  Congratulations again Scott.

Cub Scouts

I am very grateful to Delmont Volunteer Fire Department for hosting Pack 211 last week at the Fire Hall, and a special Thank you to MaMa P's for providing pizza.  These are the types of things that build a stronger community.  Delmont Churches played a vital role and continue to struggle to play a role.  Please don't misunderstand my comment.  Delmont Churches continue to do great things for our Community, but they have been struggling with aging parishioners and declining membership like most organizations. 

I am sure that many do not appreciate or realize the uniqueness of our Cub Scout Pack.  The Lion Cub Program (Age 5 Kindergarten) is currently in pilot mode and Pack 211 has one with some Special needs youngsters.  Our Pack would not be growing without the excellence of Johnathan and MaryAnn, nor the continued dedication of the Scout Master George Caldwell.  The dedication, enthusiasm, and drive to make Cub Scouting a vital part of Delmont's future far exceeds any requests or requirements on my time to help with these efforts.

It hurts me that there is still some hard feelings in the Scouting Community.  Before Pack 212 folded a plea was made to a leader to take over the Pack.  The leader enrolled his children in another Pack.  It is understandable why this has caused some feelings of betrayal and Community abandonment.  We need to get over this and I implore the hurt people to let it go and pray for a healing Spirit to intervene. Forgive and Let go.  Delmont is too small to be further divided by these types of disagreements.

Delmont has the potential to make many good things happen.  We need a Plan, Purpose, and direction to bring it all together.  Doing what is right is vital but one small part, we need to Plan our future.  The future will come.  We can be the architects and design it, or we can be the participants (victims)  of the outcome.

November's Meeting: Ah the Budget

It was great seeing all the newly elected council members at the meeting and there was a fairly large turn out. 

Budget

I voted to advertise the Budget but I am not going to vote for the Budget.  It is not sustainable.  I am going to briefly describe what I mean by Sustainability.  As an aside I am currently working on three potential webinars for PSAB to introduce three aspects of this term.  The great thing for politicians is this buzzword is flexible and it can mean anything or nothing and being used without a firm context can make the user of the word appear like they are in the political know.  Here is how I mean the word when I use it:

Sustainability is using today's resources to satisfy all basic needs and reasonable wants without depriving future generations the same opportunities to meet their basic needs and reasonable wants while considering the three main pillars of Social, Environmental, and Economic factors and maintaining no net loss of those resources.

I have no idea what other council members have in mind when they use the term.  

After all essentials were budgeted we were approximately $10,000 over expected income.  As an aside remember even doubling the per capita tax to the maximum allowable by law would only yield approximately $9,000.  We made the $10,000 disappear by reducing amounts for gas for vehicles, electricity, building maintenance, tool expenditures, and vehicle maintenance.  Any unexpected expenses in these areas or exceedances in the cushion amount for public safety and we are in for some real issues.  This is the icing on the cake on my views of why the budget is unsustainable but the key factors prior to this realization where:

• No budgeting for Planning.
• No budgeting for Council Education and Training.
• No Budgeting for Community Development
• No Budgeting for Economic Development
• There is no budget for Grant acquisitions- By this I mean money set aside to meet any necessary matches for funding opportunities.

Sewage

Yes, I made the proposal to raise the sewage rate $4.00 and I was removed from the Sewage committee for bad behavior.  Did, I want to raise it?  Heck, No!!  I don't want to pay more!!!  By ignoring or not taking initiative will not make problems go away.  Ignoring them will compound the issue, weaken the infrastructure and make Delmont less desireable.  For anyone that wants to write to me and complain feel free.  Nothing that could be said to me would be worse than when I told my wife what I did.  I have to live with her and still do.

I would also like to comment on a point made by Ms. Rebitch about the issue on the Rock Springs Trust Property.  She made a comment about the inconsistency of inspections of the area being made at the property after a substantial rain event by Borough employees that was made by a former Sewer Committee Chairman a number of years ago.  In all honesty, I was never aware of that requirement when I served in the position either.  In my view this pointed out a much larger issue that transcends Borough operations.  That is a need for a Policy, Procedure, or Operations manual of some sort to remind everyone of things that have been said or down by previous Council members that are still current although Council has changed.  If I had $1 for every time I heard Phrases like: "Did we do that?"  "Where we suppose to do that?", "We did what?", "Wasn't that how it was always done?", "Who was responsible for that before?", and put that $1 in the General Fund I doubt we would have had to shave off that $10,000.  More writing and documentation may not always be fun and can add a bit of administrative burden and maybe slight cost, but it would be the right thing to do in all areas of Borough Administration and not just with sewage practices.  

Zoning Ordinance Adoption 

I know it is not necessary for me to explain my reasons for proposing or voting the way I do on certain issues, well any issue.  I have been involved with this project from the very beginning ( I view it a vital piece of the planning process.  Many would argue that the Plan should come before the Zoning Ordinance.  Any progress is welcome and beneficial to Delmont as a whole).  I have spent many hours reading and thinking about the consequences of this Ordinance from all perspectives.  I was a bit taken back when Becky Matsesevac implied I was giving special consideration to Kelley's Auto over Thompson Machinery's request.  1) The request of Thompson was the same as another stipulation that Kelley's and Manordale Tire would have liked to see as well.  I thought the slight modifications that were made to address the C-1 and C-2 Designations were more than reasonable for the initial Ordinance.  2) The request made by Kelly's service has been going on for decades and is part of present day use.  3)  The C-1 and C-2 controversy are  based on future as yet undetermined impact on sale of property and consideration of other uses.  When I studied the various uses in the categories and available land for use it seemed highly unlikely, in my judgement, that the designation difference would not substantially reduce the property owner's ability to make money on the sale of the property. 4) The Thompson request directly affects three properties that are being used as primary residence.  5)  Nothing is in stone and land uses can be challenged at any time.  It is always easier to have stricter standards to start a process, then to have less strict initial requirements and try to stop an activity after it started.  6)  There is no standard that everyone would find 100% acceptable, a lot of time, money, and energy went into this project it was time to move forward.

I took the time to explain my reasoning because it is important to me that you the people I have the pleasure of representing spend a lot of time researching and studying important issues.  I like to have a solid base of information to base my decisions and votes upon.  I will make mistakes because I am human but I will always strive to serve your interests the best I can.

Resolution Roulette 

To me this was the most comical part of the whole meeting.  Serving on the Policy and Resolutions Committee for Westmoreland County's representation at PSAB I have been aware of the push to allow local governments (aka: Delmont Council and others) more say so over the ability of utility companies to place small antennas and cellular signal boosting devices on utility poles.  

Before I go on explaining more about this particular issue, I want to make a comment about the irony of deciding not to support this resolution by highlighting a citizen's comment, who was once on Borough Council, about the Municipal Planing Code.  I am paraphrasing the sentiment of the remark the best my memory allows me.  If I miss the sentiment in the meaning of the question, I hope this citizen will contact me and tell me I screwed up.  It goes something like this, "Why do we have to allow areas for those kinds of businesses or structures when we don't want them in Delmont?"  One reason is because people, even local officials, do not always know what is going on in higher levels of government, nor how it could effect them.  Furthermore, they may have information, but for whatever reason do no act on it.  The result is legislation is passed, and we like the citizen paraphrased above are asking How? or Why did that happen?

I did not make any reports to counsel because: 1)I didn't think there was any interest.  This is not to imply that Counsel necessarily lacks interest in what is happening at the State level, but the reality is that it is difficult to keep abreast of developments within the Borough. 2) I really didn't think Counsel would be interested in what I had to say. 3) In all honesty I viewed passage of the Resolution as symbolic only and not having a chance to succeed based on the strength of utility lobby.  On a personal note, I feel that utilities become monopolies, they don't really have to worry about customer service, they provided services deemed necessary so they can do almost anything they want with little recourse.  Some utility companies do try to provide good service and have good relations with customers, but if there are any issues with their delivery systems and property rights.  They don't care about the property rights so that the least costly option for them is exploited.  Communications seem to me to be the worst offenders of not caring on multiple levels.  Consequently, I believe strongly that local authorities ought to have say in where and how the placement of these antennas is accomplished within it jurisdiction.

Now the part I find amusing.   I was ecstatic that Becky had the Solicitor draft a Resolution, my best guest is this action cost between $150-$175 unless it is included somewhere else to support this activity, and when I moved to pass it she didn't even support, by seconding, the resolution she drafted.  When I called her on this at the meeting the Solicitor responded something like, " That is ok, she wanted to see what it looked like in a Resolution."  I would say get the facts and decide how you feel about an issue before having the Solicitor draft it.  I will have  to say that Dave Weber made some interesting points that I was ignorant of, but like most people didn't necessarily process he said something like, " Coming from the Telecommunications Industry......"  This statement has two very important points to keep in mind 1) He is a subject matter expert and has more knowledge on the subject then I do, and 2)  His subconscious bias could be arguing for the industry he served for so many years.  Right or wrong by bias is for autonomy in local governance as much as practicable.  Another possible issue and I studied this when I worked for a cellular carrier is the radiation associated with cellular phone use.  I believe the research that indicates that cancer could develop from use of this technology, but weighing all the evidence and probabilities of it happening to me, I choose to still use my phone.  Would I like these antani devices close to schools and playgrounds? No!, but that is my opinion based on my interpretation of the data I have read.

Recreational Survey

It was ironic that our Solicitor asked Stan if an informal recreational survey would be comprehensive enough to obtain funding.  Why am I even mentioning this in my blog?  Simple this information could be part of the Master plan of how we want Delmont to grow and develop.

Conclusion

One ting that concerned me was when I had some constituents ask me why it appeared that members of Counsel are afraid to talk and lead discussions on issues.  I told them that I wasn't sure but that I would have no problem presenting the concerns that citizens ask me to present, or discussing any issues that I think will make Delmont a better place.

As always if you have any feedback feel free to contact me at david4delmont@gmail.com.

     

Veterans' Day

I am a little late in posting my deep heart thanks to all the Women and Men who have fought for the ideals of America represented by the picture of the first flag above.  It is amazing how much the weapons of war have changed and the flag has changed in 241 years since our Country was founded.  To me, Veterans Day is like Thanksgiving Day for the men and women who enlisted to serve our Country.  Words seem to fail to express my personal gratitude 

Every Memorial day we honor all those who lost their lives defending our Country, and since my youth I heard this was the greatest sacrifice one could make for our Country.  However, modern medical technologies have allowed many to survive who would have been lost.  This has been a true blessing for many, but there has also been a huge increase in mental injuries, termed PTSD in 1980, have been plaguing many veterans.  In early conflicts terms like, "shell-shock" and "battle fatigue" were used.   Having never served, nor losing a family member in battle I am totally unqualified to suggest "what the greatest sacrifice is?"  I am only suggesting that some surviving veterans living daily with psychological effects of their service may feel they made the ultimate sacrifice.  We should accept this possible paradigm shift and as a Nation support and offer physical and psychological support to all of our Veterans.  

To all members of all Branches    Thank You!!!!!

Thoughts on the Election November 2017

I am fairly happy with the outcome and congratulate all winners in the election.  From an analysis the scenario that won was #2 on the the list of possibilities with the combination of winners coming off at #3 for the benefit of the community.  I have high hopes that this combination will be adequate to restore respectability, integrity, and leadership to our Council.  I am looking forward to working with all members to build a better future for Delmont.

David and Pam put up a good fight and worked very hard and many talents that they could have added will be missed.  I was asked if I was 100% satisfied with the results?  I don't believe anyone is 100% but the mix shows that Democracy is working in Delmont.  I was also asked about anyone trying to influence the outcome.  I have no first hand knowledge of any attempts.

I really wish that we could get this type of citizen participation in the planning of Delmont's future.  There was a fair amount of participation in the Zoning ordinance update but nothing like the election results.
I sincerely hope that the turnout was not inspired FEAR (False Expectations Appearing Real) or because there was only one issue of interest, that is not really an issue.  I have personal experience with the regret of voting based on one issue.  Of course the issue was part of my core beliefs of Freedoms we enjoy as American Citizens.  However, the sense of security and safety is a core necessity for basic human needs and being.  When anyone politicians or people perceived to be in power start playing with FEAR on the human psyche it is very troublesome.  When people become afraid enough they exchange their Liberty to gain a feeling of security, which is usually false anyway.  As Benjamin Franklin Said,"Those who would give up essential Liberty, to purchase a little temporary Safety, deserve neither Liberty nor Safety."   This can be the effect when FEAR is introduced to our thoughts.  Some examples to think about on how fear has been used:  1)  After 9/11 President Bush told the Country to go out and shop.  He didn't want Fear to paralyze the economy.  2) The Patriot Act- Portions of this have been up for reauthorization, but has it made America Safe?  3) The drug crises, yes it is real and needs to be addressed, and has collateral effects that can harm first responders. Fear is such a strong emotion, I would argue that no problems could be solved from a stance of fear.  Awareness and a healthy respect for possible consequences is much more beneficial.  4)  Nuclear weapons, the Arms Race, and current situation in North Korea have the ability to produce heightened amounts of fear for good reason.  What extents will the World go to in order to feel safe?  Consider this very important quote:

“The means of defence agst. foreign danger, have been always the instruments of tyranny at home.” 

― James Madison 

I would propose that we put this context into a state or local context by thinking of it this way: " The means of defense and protection against other National events can be the instruments of tyranny at home.  The home in this context is the locality we wish to live.

Concluding Remarks

Terroristic acts are becoming more prevalent in this great Country of ours.  After attempts to stop and limit these events continue to take place from obscure small Texas towns to major metropolitan cities. Using fear as a tool to influence any type of out come from increasing productivity in a factory to electing someone to the Presidency of the United States is, in my opinion, morally reprehensible because it has the potential of making people sacrifice their Liberty for an illusion.  It is a much more dangerous tactic than smear campaigns should it ever be employed in the electoral process. 

“When one with honeyed words but evil mind
Persuades the mob, great woes befall the state.” 
― Euripides, Orestes

And Justice for????????????? : Final Pre-Election 2017 Post

Justice is a very complex and there have been volumes written as to what it actually means and how to apply it in society.  One of the best known works is Rawls' A Theory of Justice.  In common usage most people think about justice as fairness, or equally opportunities and protections under the law.  Ironically, Rawls wrote another book Justice as Fairness.  In this last post before the election  I wish to remind or inform you have some incidents to think about when voting on November 7.  And please remember the meet and Greet at Delmont Public Library.

Before we get into the more of the nitty gritty let me try to explain the political climate in Delmont. This is a rough guesstimate way that I believe will be fairly accurate.  I took the biggest number of votes cast in each party and am assuming that to be the total number of voters for the party.  These numbers are on the 2017 Primary Results.

Democrats	136
Republicans	140
Total	276

I will use the population numbers from 2016 for the comparison.  I am using the Per Capita tax paying population to put this into perspective.  In 2016 943 residents paid per capita taxes which is roughly 35% of the population at that time.  In Delmont politics roughly 276 people voted which is only 29.3 % of the tax paying base or 10.5% of the total population. I believe using the per capita tax figure gives us a better idea of who is voting and the results are fairly close to the pareto principal of 20/80.  Hopefully, the size of these numbers will encourage you to go the polls.

The quote that follows is part of a letter that was submitted to Delmont Council by a Citizen.  I am not going to list the author's name because I did not seek permission to quote this eloquently written passage.  Since this letter was written to Council it is a matter of public record.  My disclosure of this does not violate any laws to my knowledge.  Most of this would be available under the Sunshine Act.  Please really think about what this says it was from a citizen on the outside critiquing the functioning of Delmont Council.  I for one wish more citizens would hold us accountable for our actions.

No one should have to goad you into doing the right thing. This same statement applies to all members of Borough council. We are ever hopeful that eventually the right combination of Delmont Borough residents will be elected to Borough council such that the Borough’s elected officials, individually and collectively, will simply commit to doing the right thing—not the convenient thing, not the easy thing, not the self-serving thing, but the right thing—to the best of their ability in all circumstances, for the benefit of the community.

We are not yet at that point in history. 

Now I will cover a few topics that concern me very much going into the New Year with the yet to be elected Council.  In many of my posts I have harped on Lack of Leadership.  Most of my concerns in this area were narrowly focused on leadership from the Visioning perspective and the attempt to move Delmont ahead in a positive way.  However, as I was reminded by a letter that one of the reasons that I became involved in local politics is I thought that Council at the time was disrespectful to residents at times and treated them like idiots.  This appalled me.  To a certain extent I may have been entangled in similar situation and not paying enough attention to the most important aspect of Leadership Relationship Building, not only within the Council itself but with the relationship we as a Council have with the Community of Delmont.  

Regardless of who wins the Election the Council is going to have to deal in some way with the second most senior council member.  They are not up for reelection on Tuesday and their conduct at a recent meeting is in my opinion, and some others I have talked to, an embarrassment to what many would consider acceptable behavior by an elected official. I don't believe the Council as it currently stands has the leadership or the guts to do what ought to be done.

Justice as fairness or Equality

The first really minor part that effects me personally and that I explained in great detail in my blog post Catch-22 how I was effectively removed from Council allegedly for causing some unnecessary discussion on sewage issues.  I stated it as removed from Council, because I was removed from the only legitimate Committee to which I was assigned.   Well the incident that inspired me to write the immediately preceding paragraph dwarfs what I did by many magnitude. Since I might be biased, I would gladly submit to asking the potentially offended parties which actions they considered most repulse and worthy of punishment.  

Letters Forwarded to Police Department

I want to start off by saying that I am not 100% sure that this incident was not an e-mail mistake of some sort. I had a major e-mail debacle of my own this year and no first hand strange and embarrassing things can happen.  If this was not an email mistake than I think we have a huge problem in a small town.  It needs to be pointed out that there have not been that many letters by members of the public sent to the Borough Secretary to be forwarded the two years that I have been serving on Council.  Consequently, there was not enough of a sampling to lead conclusively to one practice or another.  I will now describe the situation. 

The above mentioned letter was sent to the Borough Office with a list of people to forward it to (Council, Mayor, Engineers, and Solicitor).  I was shocked to notice that it was also sent to the Police Department.  This letter was not threatening or violent in any way.   Here are my thoughts:

1. It should be given to the police if there is an overt threat.
2. It is the responsibility of a recipient if they feel threatened to involve the police if they wish.  It is possible if parties know each other well that there could be threatening nuances that wouldn't be recognized as threats by third parties.
3. Who authorized the forwarding of the letter?
4. If a certain level of privacy is going to be violated there better be written procedures governing the process and the public needs to be made aware that copies of letters are being forwarded to law enforcement.
5. This type of surveillance needs to be applied equally across the board. 
6. Annoyance by an eloquently written letter by a citizen exercising this First Amendment Rights does not constitute a threat.   
7. Citizens do not communicate enough with government in local municipalities, then should not feel threatened that there may be some recourse for taking an active part in government.

I appologize but I do have a tendency to get emotional when I feel that basic Rights that so many brave men and women died for are being infringed upon.  In my opinion the phrase "Make America Great Again" is Bogus.  America never stopped being great, and if we don't pay attention to potential infringements of  liberty and personal freedom at the local level, we are at risk of loosing more as it moves up through the levels of Government.  

If this happening was a mistake no harm no foul.  It will then show that I am watching out for the citizens of Delmont and am continuing to push for transparency of Borough actions.  If it was intentional then we need to find out who? what?, and Why? they felt it was necessary to copy law enforcement.

Barriers to Information

There is not a consistent procedure for obtaining information for Council people in Delmont.  Many people are familiar with the Sunshine Act.  It is the State's version of FOIA (Freedom of Information Act).  Council members who go through training get a very good understanding of the types of information that should be readily available and that which could be problematic and need solicitor input.  One thing about Right to Know requests is municipalities have to act within 30 days.   Well, if you are a Council person you may need the information a lot quicker.

I was told that I had to fill out a RTKF Right to know form to get copies of the audit reports from the last 10 years for the budget preparation.  I was dumbfounded by this ridiculous request.  I am a Councilmember and I am asking for budget information.  I made a phone call to the Right to Know Office in Harrisburg.  I was told very few Boroughs require such a thing of their Counsel People.  The ones that do have written ordinances, resolutions, or procedures.  They are usually applied if you are from the wrong political party.  Incidentally, the  Information Officer for the Borough told me no Counsel member ever filled out paperwork for information.  Where is the justice in the application of these ideas?

Conclusion

Delmont is not only at a "Crossroads" for business, economic development, and identity but also at a crossroads for leadership.  I thought it important to share these incongruities in how things are being done so you can decide if this is the business as usual you wish to keep, or if you want to grow and change Delmont.  Here is the thing, Delmont is going to change and Grow.  We need to decide if we want a Council that is going to watch what happens and reacting to those events, or do we want a Counsel that is going to create and as far as practicable manage the future?  May God Bless Delmont in the challenges ahead. 

Impressions from Second Budget Meeting..........WOW !!!!!!!!!

There were only four Council members, Secretary and the Mayor in attendance from the Governing Body of the Borough perspective.  It is deeply troubling to me to write this analysis because there is enough divisions in our small Community, but since, in my active experience in local politics, that the Elected body fully reflects the will of the population is at Election time to let some of these statements go unnoticed and comment free would amount to me being dereliction of my sworn oath to the People of Delmont.  Some may view this position as melodramatic or grossly exaggerated, and to them I would reply, "Judgements of my personal feelings are only valid to the one making the Judgement."

I deeply respect the Mayor for all of the hard work she has done in this Community especially the activities to build up the community through Delmont Daze and the Delmont Farmer's Market.  In fact I was going to submit her name for 2016 Mayor of the Year Award through Pennsylvania State Association of Boroughs.  There was a discrepancy in the years of Service for the award and she ended up not being eligible.  The impressions she left me with after some of her comments seemed so contrary to what I have come to know and respect.

Anti-Business or Better Use of Monies?

I did try to speak my mind more last night, but the same attitude from session 1 prevaled.  The topic of  Road Paving came to the table.  Cupp Way is used by 1) Delmont Sports Shop, 2) Premiere Pizza, 3) Thompson Machinery, and 4) Teri's Place Salon.  In addition, residents on the "alley" commented about the poor condition.  Cupps Way was rate 7 out of 10 being worse by the Engineers some time ago.  It would cost in the neighborhood of $11,000 to pave.  The Mayor, who is free to state her opinion but has no statutory authority over the budgeting process said, "We don't pave alleys !"  The argument that I used is how beneficial this would be to the businesses listed and that We should take care of our businesses.  It is my opinion that Delmont does not have many businesses and that we should take care of them.  They do provide jobs, tax money, and some are strong financial supporters of our fine Police Department.  The Engineers' reply was it has never been a concern of the Street Committee, there may be issues with some of the property owners, and Garbage trucks rip it up. In her defense of wanting to do something the Mayor said something like, " Couldn't we just put stones down, and even it out?"  The Engineers reminded her that the alley was paved before and had a base already built.  In efforts of full disclosure, I do use that piece of roadway quite a bit, but not near as much as the business and they were my primary concern.

Anti-Fire Department ?

In most smaller communities Emergency Services, especially Fire and Police, work very closely together and even share Station space.  Most people have an equally high regard for the dedication and willingness that Police Officers and Firefighters have to serve their Community, and Delmont is blessed with both. There seems to be tensions in the relationship between Police and Fire, and relationships with Council.  I think it should be a priority to identify the sources of conflict and smooth them over.  Someday at some incident their lives may become mutually dependant on eachother.  

The question of making an annual donation to the Fire Company came up again.  Per usual most other Council members thought that paying their worker's compensation, keep in mind this is what is required by law, was enough.  The Mayor said, "Well. that is all they deserve." They brought that we didn't give them any money because they didn't complete an audit.  I know that an audit is required for the pass through money that we receive, but I don't believe that an audit is necessary to receive a donation from Council, but I would have to double check with solicitor.

Good and Bad

To part from the quotes that really got me thinking about the agenda or view the mayor may have, there are other things that deserve consideration.  A good thing that was mentioned is the idea to budget money for Scouting projects, both the Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts.  The projects that have occurred since I have been on Council have been amazing, and the one that stands out the most in my mind as I write is the Veteran Monument at East View Union Cemetery by Rebecca Shissler.  This was an amazingly complex project that gave credit to our Veterans.  The remembrance of this project foremost in my mind should not be meant to belittle the Bat Boxes, Building and Sign Painting, Picnic table or Flag Pole Projects.  It is an excellent idea.  However, it was suggested that the money to support these projects and funding come from the Shield's Farm Account.  If the projects are specifically for Shield's Farm I would be ok with money coming from this account.    The reality is if Delmont had a Master Plan a wish list of projects with potential Grant funding could already be established.  I have no doubt that we could find Grants to support a much larger amount of projects then could be supported by the Shield's Farm Account.  Furthermore, funding of any projects not related to Shield's Farm may be contrary to the original intent  of the funds. 

BiCentennial Fund

As I mentioned in my "Secret Agenda" Blog, I wholeheartedly support community activities that will build Community Spirit.  I just think we shouldn't just wait for the Bicentennial.

Sewage Issues

Sewage rates are going to be increasing again as well as Engineering costs.  The first rate increase will probably be around $4.00 and it will go up in increments there.  The Engineers have said, we shouldn't be surprised if there fees in the next 3-10 years will exceed $100,000.00.  Please note the did not give a year range like I did but based it on potentialities of Consent Agreement in the works.

Some may try to blame the expenses on the sewage issues that have been plaguing our community.  The only factor that these issues have done, in my opinion, is accelerate the time frame when the monies are going to need to be spent.  It is important to remember that the expenses were there and any actions by persons or organizations might have only added to the root expenses slightly, and might actually lead to some savings in the future. Any present Borough official, or future Borough official who tries to point to certain individuals or organizations and saying, "It is their fault, we are spending so much money and sewage rates are increasing." are playing the political blame game and don't deserve to be in office.  When we choose to serve our communities the good, the bad, and the ugly become ours.

One thing I believe should be done is Delmont get a total understanding on how FTSM determines the base rate that they charge us for sewage may include considerations for infrastructure that we own and shouldn't be getting assessed for what we have to pay to maintain.  I am not saying that this in fact is what is happening but we should know because Murrysville customers seem to have a lower rate.   What I think would be a fair way is to calculate the actual cost per gallon to treat including the extra cost for BOD, grease, and other special considerations types of treatments, and a fair calculation of infrastructure considerations.  Take that figure and multiply it by that amount of waste water we put into the system.

Interesting Exchange

A member of the public brought out the inappropriateness of comments by a member of Council.  I wish more members of the public would tell us when they think our behavior, speech, or actions are out of line.  We were voted in to represent the people of Delmont and we need to be held accountable if we are not meeting voter expectations.

Election Thoughts

I pointed out some remarks from the Mayor that have me pondering her position on the issues covered above.  If there are citizens who may be bothered by these or other issues with the Mayor's actions in other areas you need to pay special attention to the "Who to Vote For" propaganda being distributed.  I believe it goes something like this under the American Flag.  1) Mayor- Alyce Urban, Council:  Andrew Shissler, David Weber, Stan Cheyne, and Pam Simpson.  I love all of these people as human beings, appreciate and understand their opinions and views.  Some of them, those that I believe are open to the multifaceted changes that Delmont faces will have my support on Election Day.  Some not on this list, Pamela Loughner and William Marx who also have some great qualities that would add to Delmont's possibilities also have qualities that may cause some concern.  The condition that is produced by these opposing poles is called being human.  I can understand fully why Pam L is not on the Mayor's list she is one of them there Democrats.  Why is David Weber, a Democrat preferred over William Marx a Republican?  Personally, I don't care what party a person belongs to I look at the qualities they bring to the table.  From what I know of them both William and Pam seem to care less about going with the flow than fighting for what they believe is best for the people of Delmont.  Perhaps that is why the current Council, for the most part, is afraid of these two candidates and talked negatively about them openly before the meeting started. 

I wrote in great detail how it is my view the actions of Council totally disregarded the will of the people by appoint Stan who was next to the last place by voters.  The other thing that Becky did when she made the motion to appoint Stan was create a political debt of Stan to her.  If Stan should get elected and retain the seat to which he was appointed it could be said that the only reason you got elected is we gave you a chance to prove yourself before the election.  I sincerely hope that Stan will be able to vote his mind if it is better for Delmont, but contrary to the views of those who appointed him.

One of the worse things about this Election is there is only one choice for Mayor.  If there is any reason you may be against the Mayor's policy, or you just want a change there is no choice.  Ironically, in some elections even when there is more than one candidate, we may feel that there is no choice.  In my opinion, there is nothing worse than living in a Democratic Society and not being able to exercise your Right to vote because there is no choice.  I am saying this tongue and check, and not officially running, but if anyone out there actually wants a choice go ahead and write me in for mayor.  If nothing else it would show that there is some opposition and frustration.  If there would be such opposition and frustration that I would by a "snowball's chance" win on a write-in, I would accept the will of the people.

There is a meet the candidates on November 6th at Delmont Library