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Tarentum council weighs streamlining sidewalk and curb replacement permits
Summary
Council discussed moving from a borough‑performed curb installation to a permit/engineer‑inspected model to reduce delays for property owners and address stormwater and ADA concerns; staff will research model ordinances and return with recommended changes.
Council members discussed whether Tarentum should change the long‑standing approach to sidewalks and curbs — where property owners are responsible for sidewalks and the borough historically installed curbs — and whether that role should shift to an engineer‑inspected permit process.
Manager Dwight Bodorf explained the historical approach: curbs were often placed by public works to ensure compliance with borough standards and to manage technical features such as curve height. He said modern contractors frequently pour sidewalks and curbs in a single operation and that requiring borough crews to build curbs can slow repair work for property owners.
"We kind of wanted to get counsel and the solicitor's opinion, on is it necessary, in this day and age for us to be involved in the process, or is that an unnecessary step for residents?" Bodorf asked the council.
Code Enforcement Officer Anthony Bruni said inspections by the borough engineer could serve as the checks and balances and that permit fees would cover inspection costs. Council members raised related issues including stormwater runoff management, ADA accessibility, and ensuring contractors use proper base and thickness.
Council did not change policy at the meeting but directed staff to survey other communities, consult the borough engineer and solicitor, and return with draft ordinance language and procedural recommendations.
