The Pittsburgh City Council Standing Committees meeting on October 1, 2025, featured a significant discussion regarding the ongoing issues surrounding the Oakland DIY Skatepark, located in Panther Hollow. The meeting began with public comments, where Carlino Giampolo addressed the council on behalf of the Panther Hollow community.
Giampolo read excerpts from a letter written by Anthony E. Colombo Jr., a board member of the Italian American Civil Rights League. The letter urged Council Member Bob Charlin to take immediate action against what Colombo described as the unlawful occupation and construction at the skatepark. He highlighted that over ten yards of concrete had been poured without the necessary permits, inspections, or notifications to residents, which he argued violated city laws and due process obligations.
Colombo's letter emphasized the seriousness of the situation, stating that a small group had effectively seized public property for private use without legal authority. He called on the council to enforce city zoning and permitting laws, warning that failure to act could expose the city to potential litigation and liability. The letter concluded with a call for the council to uphold the law and protect the rights of the Panther Hollow residents.
Following Giampolo's remarks, the meeting continued with additional public comments, but the focus on the skatepark issue underscored the community's concerns regarding unauthorized construction and the need for city intervention. The council's response to these allegations and the next steps regarding the skatepark remain to be seen as the situation develops.