Coraopolis solicitor outlines proposed zoning and property-maintenance ordinances; residents raise grocery loss and animal complaints

Solicitor Daniel Conlon told council on March 11 that the borough has drafted three ordinances: an amendment to the zoning code (submitted to Allegheny County for review), a property maintenance ordinance that would require permits for portable storage containers, and an ordinance to clarify grading-permit requirements in the zoning ordinance. Council discussed whether existing rules give the borough sufficient enforcement authority for storage containers and whether new permitting is needed to avoid perennial grandfathering disputes.

Conlon also reported the resolution of a tax appeal for 1020 State Avenue when the owner withdrew their appeal to common pleas.

During public comment, Bill Frissell of Age Friendly Pittsburgh urged help recruiting partners for an intergenerational housing project and noted the borough recently lost the Cash Market grocery; he called for support to attract a small grocery option. Resident Joshua Geyer reported a neighbor at 1722 Ridge Avenue is keeping eight chickens and six ducks in a coop he says is too small, and alleged the animals escape frequently; he cited Ordinance 1525 on keeping animals. Borough Manager McCutcheon said the borough limits certain properties to three animals and agreed staff would send a compliance letter; Chief Stewart said police officers would address the complaint the following day.

Council also learned a zoning public hearing is scheduled for March 25 on a garage at Mill Street and 3rd Avenue. No ordinances were adopted at the meeting; the items remain under review or scheduled for future hearings.