Here is my summary of the Tuesday, March 5th, 2024 regular meeting of Allegheny County Council. My votes are in parentheses. 14 members were present with Walton absent.
This motion was to shorten the public comment period from 3 minutes to 1 minute for this meeting only. I understand the reasoning behind the motion, as almost 300 people signed up for comment, which would take 15 hours if everyone showed up and used 3 minutes. However, I have been on the other side of the desk and know how difficult it is to articulate one’s thoughts in 3 minutes, let alone 1 (especially on a topic this sensitive). The motion passed 11-3 with myself, Hallam, and Prizio as No votes.
12915-24
This ordinance amends county code to establish a mechanism for ensuring continuity of the county Chief Assessment Officer (CAO). The existing provision requires that the CAO be appointed by the County Manager with the unanimous consent of the Property Assessment Oversight Board (which no longer exists). The new provision would require the County Manager appoint the CAO with approval by the majority of council. The bill was sent to the Committee on Assessment Practices.
12951-24
This ordinance would extend the County real estate tax discount deadline from 3/31/24 to 4/3024 and the late deadline from 5/1/24 to 5/31/24. It was sent to the Committee on Budget and Finance.
12952-25
This ordinance would direct the Department of Economic Development and the Department of Public Works to create a complete streets plan. Sent to Committee on Economic Development & Job Creation.
12953-24
This ordinance seeks to provide specific guidelines for enforcement of littering offenses within Allegheny County. Sent to the Committee on Sustainability and Green Initiatives.
12955-24 (Yes)
This motion would urge the federal government to work cooperatively towards an immediate de-escalation and ceasefire in Israel and Palestine, the release of all hostages, and the delivery of humanitarian aid to Gaza. In total, ~210 people issued public comment (likely the most in the history of Allegheny County Council), with 2/3 supporting and 1/3 opposing the resolution. You can view my comments on the motion below. The motion failed 3-9-2. Myself, Hallam, and Prizio voted Yes. Members Bonaroti and Naccarati-Chapkis abstained.