Council: Questions Remain Regarding Civil Service Regulations

At Monday’s agenda setting meeting on November 9, the Ellwood City borough council discussed adopting amended civil service regulations at its regular meeting next Monday, Nov. 16.

Borough solicitor Ed Leymarie mentioned that a specific requirement in the regulations could cause legal issues. The regulations, as they stand to be adopted, require prospective police officers to live within 25 miles of the borough.

Leymarie said that council does not have authority to unilaterally make that a requirement and must first negotiate with the police union. He said there is substantial case law supporting a negotiation.

Council responded by asking Leymarie to further look into the legal matters.

In addition, council member David DeCaria discussed a suggested provision that will include an associates or four-year degree as a preferred requirement for a police officer. This was initially recommended by council member Connie MacDonald in October.

Council President Brad Ovial said council will talk about this matter and frankly said, “I don’t know how I feel about that as a requirement.”

New Parade Organizers

Caroline and Scott Golmic, the new organizers for the Christmas Parade now that Betty Baney and John DeLoia have stepped down, presented their plans to the board. This year’s parade will be coordinated with the municipal women’s house tour and Light Up Night.

Council member David DeCaria praised the Golmics for their involvement in the community and also included Bob and Jackie Rivers in his acknowledgement. Bob Rivers owns the National Grind Coffee Shop and he and his wife, along with the Golmics, have become active community members since moving to Ellwood. Out of the four, only Caroline is an Ellwood native.

Council member Ralph Chiappetta suggested that a plaque commemorating the DeLoias for over 50 years of service be placed in the Municipal Building.

The Parks’ Master Plans

Following the regular meeting on Nov. 16, there will be a presentation for the master revitalization plans for Ewing and Stiefel park.. DeCaria said the ideas are crazy and includes many wishlist items.

“All we needs is millions of dollars,” DeCaria said.

Reminder Not to Blow Leaves onto Street

Borough Manager Bob Villella reminded residents not to blow leaves onto the streets and especially not into the storm sewers.

Thanks to Emergency Responders

Ovial thanked all the emergency responders who fought the Inmetco fire, as well as local businesses that donated food, water, Gatorade and other aid in non-electrolyte forms.