City Board Approves Tax Payment Drive-Thru and Ordinance Changes

The City Board convened on February 12, 2025, to discuss several important matters, including a request from the County Trustee’s office to utilize city property for drive-thru tax payments. This initiative aims to accommodate taxpayers while the Trustee’s office building undergoes repairs due to ice storm damage. The board unanimously approved the request, allowing the drive-thru service to operate until April 30, at which time they will reassess the situation.

During the meeting, Matt Wood from the ATA presented the City and Utility Department Audit Report for the period ending June 30, 2025. The report indicated that all standards were met, highlighting that the city has reduced its long-term debt to just $413,000, successfully paid off within the previous year.

In another significant development, the board addressed an ordinance amendment regarding residence requirements for Department Heads and Full-Time Firefighters. Under the new regulations, all fire department employees must reside within a 15-mile radius of City Hall or within Chester County within one year of their employment. Part-time employees will be evaluated individually. This ordinance passed with board approval.

The board also deliberated on a revised resolution concerning fees associated with false fire calls. The new structure will increase fees for calls deemed false after the first instance, aiming to promote better maintenance of fire detection systems. This resolution received board approval as well.

A discussion about a sewer expansion request from Mid-South Youth Camp was also on the agenda. Approximately 700 feet of sewer line needs to be installed to meet the camp’s growing demands. The camp requested that the city consider depreciating the expenses over an extended period to facilitate fundraising efforts. The board suggested the potential annexation of the portion of the camp that remains outside city limits, a proposal that was met with interest from both parties.

Additionally, the board reviewed bids for mowing city cemeteries and decided to retain the current contractor, Jaden Couples, who has managed the mowing for the past two years.

As the meeting concluded, a budget meeting was scheduled for March 19, 2025, at 5:30 p.m., indicating ongoing fiscal planning for the city.

The City Board’s latest meeting reflects a proactive approach to community needs and operational improvements, as they navigate challenges while ensuring services remain accessible to residents.