Residents ask for benches, report juvenile vandalism; council okays backpack-drive donation and street closures

During the public‑comment portion of the June 18 meeting, several residents raised neighborhood concerns and event requests, while council approved community donations and street closures earlier in the meeting.

Cheryl Maurice asked the borough to install benches on the main street “for people who are walking and need to take a little break.” Michael Thomas brought attorney documents about residential rental license fees from another borough for council review. A group of residents from the 400 block of Ohio Avenue — Kathy Emerick, Edward Emerick, Dodi Kellerman and Denise Johnson — raised concerns about juveniles vandalizing properties and causing extensive destruction in their block. John Carlo Lies said he and a partner plan to purchase 716 Delaware Avenue and sought information on permitting needed for renovations and potential partnerships.

Separately, council approved donating $150 to the Mon Valley Back Pack Drive and approved closing Eighth Street for mini car cruises on three summer dates (June 30, July 28 and August 25 from noon to 4 p.m.). The Mon Valley Back Pack Drive is scheduled for August 3 at the Honor Roll; donation items requested include small hand sanitizer bottles, tissue packets and 24‑count crayon packs.

Why it matters: residents’ reports of vandalism reflect neighborhood public‑safety and quality‑of‑life concerns; council’s event approvals and donation show continued support for local community activities.

What’s next: Residents who raised safety concerns asked for follow-up; council did not record specific directives in the minutes. Event logistics and permit coordination will be handled by borough staff.