City Council approves $547K for Berg Place demolition amid safety concerns

The Pittsburgh City Council convened on December 10, 2024, to discuss and vote on several amendments to the 2025 budget, focusing on capital projects and operational adjustments. The meeting highlighted key funding allocations and the necessity for safety measures regarding deteriorating properties.

One of the primary discussions centered on the demolition of Berg Place, with a proposed increase of $547,000 in PAYGO funding. Councilman McCaugill emphasized the urgency of the demolition due to safety concerns, noting that the building poses a hazard to the community. He expressed gratitude for the administration's acknowledgment of the situation and reassured council members that the funds would be recouped, regardless of the developer's future involvement.

The council also voted on several amendments affecting operational budgets. Notably, an amendment proposed by Council President Lavelle aimed to adjust the postage allocation for city council districts while decreasing the part-time allowance by the same amount, maintaining a budget-neutral stance. This was followed by another amendment to increase the ethics hearing board's part-time allowance, which also received approval.

Further amendments included the addition of two code enforcement inspectors and a senior planner, funded by a reduction in the police mounted patrol unit's budget. This decision reflects a shift in priorities towards enhancing code enforcement in the city.

Overall, the council's decisions during this meeting underscore a commitment to addressing public safety concerns while also managing budgetary constraints effectively. The next steps will involve implementing these budget amendments and monitoring the progress of the approved projects.