In a recent borough council meeting, discussions centered around the development of the Great Commission School, which is currently under construction. The school anticipates accommodating approximately 250 students, with a maximum capacity of around 300. Currently, there are about 140 students enrolled, and the staff count is expected to rise from 25 to around 30 as operations expand. The school plans to operate from 7:45 AM to 3:30 PM, with traffic expected to peak during drop-off and pick-up times, potentially reaching 300 vehicle movements daily.

Concerns were raised regarding traffic management, as the school currently has only one designated entrance and exit on Bedford Street. School administrators indicated that staff would be available to direct traffic as needed. Additionally, the school plans to include athletic facilities such as soccer and baseball fields, although the availability of these facilities to the public outside school hours remains uncertain due to liability considerations.

Public comments during the meeting highlighted ongoing flooding issues in the Lower Base Port area, with residents expressing support for the school project, citing its minimal negative impact compared to other potential developments. The school administration has committed to collaborating with local authorities to explore additional stormwater management solutions.

In other council business, the Phoenix Volunteer Fire Department presented a request for a grant application to fund a $300,000 project for roof replacement and solar panel installation at their station, aiming to reduce high utility costs. The council approved the application process, emphasizing the importance of financial stability for the fire department.

The meeting also addressed the borough's ongoing efforts to manage lead service lines in residential properties, as mandated by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection. Residents received letters regarding the status of their service lines, with the borough encouraging them to report any lead lines for assessment.

Finally, the council voted to rename a new street in the 6th ward to General Ed Soister Drive, honoring a local hero and veteran. This decision reflects the council's commitment to recognizing community contributions while also addressing practical matters such as traffic management and public safety. The meeting concluded with plans for further discussions on various ongoing projects and community initiatives.