Here is my summary of the Tuesday, January 14th, 2025 regular meeting of Allegheny County Council. My votes are in parentheses, as is the prime sponsor of each item. All 15 members were present.
The most noteworthy event of this meeting was not one that was on the agenda. Councilman DeMarco officially put in his resignation, as he accepted a position with Senator McCormick. This will be his last meeting and he abstained from all votes. Councilwoman Filiaggi is charged with nominating a member for appointment, who then must be confirmed by Council. That person will serve until the municipal election this November, and the winner of the November election will serve to remaining two years of the term.
Council also approved all of the County Executive’s appointments to the newly created Housing Advisory Committee, which will advise the Board of Health on all issues pertaining to housing.
13276-24 (Macey – Assessment Practices) This ordinances would move several employees from the oversight of the Office of Property Assessments to the Board of Property Assessment Appeals and Review (BPAAR). Sent back to committee for more refinement.
13277-24 (Macey – Assessment Practices) This ordinance would allow BPAAR to schedule their own appeal hearings rather than have them scheduled by the Office of Property Assessments. Sent back to committee for more refinement.
13377-25 (Palmosina – Yes) This motion re-establishes the Budget Transfer Committee which allows for the passage of all budgetary transfers at the end of the year in a single vote. Passed 14-0 with DeMarco abstaining.