Here is my summary of the Wednesday, May 21st, 2025 regular meeting of Allegheny County Council. My votes are in parentheses, as is the prime sponsor of each item. 14 members present (Betkowski absent).
During this meeting I had the opportunity to recognize Mt. Lebanon High School Senior Quinton Garland on being an Amazon Future Engineer Scholarship recipient. On top of being an excellent student, Quinton is also a fantastic leader and athlete, and I’m sure he has an excellent future ahead of him.
Starting off the meeting was the nomination of Jordan Botta to serve as the interim Councilmember for District 13, replacing David Bonaroti. Mr. Botta’s appointment passed 11-2, with Councilmembers Hallam and Prizio opposing. While I supported Jon Hanrahan in our Democratic Caucus selection process, I believe Mr. Botta is fully qualified and will be an asset on Council.
13497-25 (Macey – Yes) This ordinance would fully separate administration of the assessment appeal process from staff within the Office of Property Assessments by placing them under the Board of Property Assessment Appeals and Review. This is similar to prior legislation introduced on the topic, but was altered slightly after input from the administration. Passed 12-1, with Walton opposing.
13472-25 (County Executive – Yes) This ordinance would authorized continued use of South Park as a respite and wellness center for healthcare workers and first responders. Sent to the Committee on Parks. Passed 13-0.
13473-25 (County Executive – Yes) This ordinance would authorize Hundred Acres Manor, Inc. to continue to use South Park to conduct the annual Hundred Acres Manor Haunted House. Passed 13-0.
13502-25 (Chief Executive – Yes) This ordinance would authorize the use of the parking facilities at Hartwood by the USGA for the US Open. Passed 13-0.
13503-25 (Chief Executive – Yes) This ordinance would allow Rare Leo Productions, LLC to use Allegheny County property to film for the motion picture, “How to Rob a Bank.” Passed 13-0.
13531-25 (Chief Executive – Yes) This ordinance would authorize the Pittsburgh Downtown Partnership to utilize the Andy Warhol Bridge for Pickelsburgh. Passed 13-0.
13532-25 (Chief Executive – Yes) This ordinance would allow Hershey to use County property to film a movie of the same name. Passed 13-0.
13547-25 (Chief Executive – Economic Development and Job Creation) This resolution would create a LERTA for an apartment complex in the Homewood-Brushton neighborhood. Sent to the Committee on Economic Development and Job Creation.
13548-25 (Chief Executive – Economic Development and Job Creation) This resolution would create a LERTA for an apartment complex in Lower Lawrenceville. Sent to the Committee on Economic Development and Job Creation.