Here is my summary of the Tuesday, September 10th 2024 regular meeting of Allegheny County Council. My votes are in parentheses, as is the prime sponsor. All 15 members were present.
13132-24 (Chief Executive – Yes) This motion was to approve John Fournier as the new County Manager. During our interview process, I peppered Mr. Fournier with a number of difficult questions, and I felt that he did an excellent job of answering all of them. I believe that his experience directing Pittsburgh’s Act 47 Recovery Plan, championing Ann Arbor’s carbon neutrality plan, and his focus on encouraging development and lowering the cost of housing will suit him well to lead Allegheny County in what is perhaps its most important role. Mr. Fournier’s appointment passed 15-0.
In addition to Mr. Fournier’s appointment, we also had appointments to the Independent Police Review Board, Community Services Advisory Council, and the Drug and Alcohol Planning Council, all of which were approved.
13153-24 (Chief Executive – Yes) This ordinance would approve sale of the County’s interest in a parcel on Hollywood Drive in Hampton Township. Passed 15-0.
13124-24 (Hallam – Committee on Government Reform) This ordinance would require the County to create a transparent, publicly accessible database of seats available on authorities, boards, and commissions which the Chief Executive or Council has the authority to nominate or make appointments. I am co-sponsoring this ordinance.
13217-24 (Chief Executive – Yes) This motion approved the settlement of litigation resulting from the agreement by former County Executive Fitzgerald with Adelphoi to utilize the former Shuman Center property without County Council’s approval. Given that Judge Emery already provided the opinion that this contract should have come in front of Council, the ability of Council to end the contract after 5 years as a result of this settlement, and my belief that proceeding with the litigation will not improve conditions for the children at the former Shuman facility or the public at large, I voted in favor of the settlement. The motion passed 13-1-1 with Councilwoman Hallam voting against and Councilman Walton abstaining.