Union City Borough Council approves emergency stormwater repairs, advances broadband designation

Union City Borough Council approved immediate repairs on aging stormwater infrastructure and unanimously agreed to pursue a Broadband Ready Communities designation at its July 9 meeting.

Streets Supervisor Bob Phillips told the council a sinkhole about "3 feet wide by 8 feet deep" had opened behind 98 East High Street after a storm. A camera inspection showed the first 50 feet of the line were cement and in good condition but roughly 90–100 feet consisted of galvanized pipe with the bottom gone; the camera fell into the failed section. Contractor Mansfield quoted $14,500 to replace the galvanized portion with plastic pipe, and Councilor Steadman moved, with Councilor Kerns seconding, to approve the work; the motion carried unanimously.

Council also authorized Mansfield to cut concrete and open a hole in Municipal Lot #1 to investigate and clean out problems, approving up to $6,000 for that work after seeking a price and availability from McLallen Construction. Councilor Steadman made the motion and Councilor Osborn seconded; Council approved it unanimously.

The stormwater repairs follow a public complaint earlier in the meeting from resident Anthony Hickey, who said heavy rains "cause water to run down East High Street, around onto Bridge Street, into his property," and told council members he had contacted PennDOT, the Borough and Representative Jake Banta’s office without success. Solicitor Tim Wachter and Streets Supervisor Phillips said the runoff issue has persisted and the Borough agreed to look into providing a catch basin and pipe if Hickey digs a ditch on his property.

On telecommunications, Borough Manager Cindy Wells outlined a recommendation for the Borough to apply for the Broadband Ready Communities Program and authorize the Erie Area Council of Governments (EACOG) to serve as the municipal Broadband Champion. Councilor Kerns moved and Councilor Joyce seconded a motion to proceed with the required public meeting and resolution; the motion carried unanimously. The resolution and public meeting are intended to invite internet service providers and document permitting practices to help attract additional broadband options for residents.

Council also discussed zoning and parking ordinance changes during the meeting, including previously approved amendments on Skill Games of Chance and proposed language to allow above‑ground pools on adjoining vacant lots and removable sheds up to 144 square feet on gravel/skid foundations; Solicitor Tim Wachter was asked to draft suggested ordinance language for Council review.

The council was also briefed on other projects: a TA Set‑Aside sidewalk project beginning July 15, a feasibility study approval for a school crossing with WRA, LLP selected as engineer, and a review of RT 97 project engineering and inspection costs (the grant budget provided $10,000 but Council was warned additional monitoring costs could arise).