Union City approves sinkhole pipe repair contract, catch-basin easement, boat-launch easement and small property purchase

The Union City Borough Council on Aug. 13 approved several infrastructure and property actions, including a contract award to repair a sinkhole at Municipal Lot #1 and multiple easements to support drainage and recreation projects.

Streets Supervisor Bob Phillips told council the sinkhole affected a 24" clay tile and consultants recommended replacing about 10 feet of pipe, reconnecting pipes in the sinkhole to the 24" line, and installing a larger catch basin. Two contractors submitted estimates: Mansfield at $22,295 and McLallen Construction at $23,450. Council voted to award the work to Mansfield; the contract requires the borough to provide a truck during the project.

Council also approved a retroactive easement with property owner Anthony Hickey at 104 East High Street. Under the agreement, PennDOT will install a catch basin that will empty to a ditch the property owner will dig; the owner will install the connecting pipe between the PennDOT basin and the borough catch basin and assume responsibility for the ditch; the borough accepted responsibility for the two catch basins and approximately 60 feet of connecting pipe.

The council approved a retroactive purchase of a small parcel adjoining Municipal Lot #3 (from 8 South Street) for $500 to support a gazebo project; the solicitor will complete the purchase paperwork after the survey is finished.

Separately, the solicitor is drawing an easement with the American Legion for a kayak/canoe launch at the ball field along French Creek. Council approved granting the easement for a launch to be installed and maintained with funds from the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission and the Pennsylvania Environmental Council.

All motions on these items carried unanimously.