Nov 11, 2017 2 min read

Charleroi Borough Council Thursday approved a tentative budget with no tax increase and a revenue surplus.

The 2018 tentative budget of $2,088,890 includes a surplus of $27,000. Council President Paul Pivovarnik said everyone worked diligently all year to stay under budget. Pivovarnik said one of the main savings was the suspension of the summer intern program. The tentative budget will be on display at the borough building for citizen review for 30 days. The budget will be adopted at the next regular meeting at 6 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 7.

Council also approved the Community Development Block Grant plan for demolition projects, parks and recreation and the upgrade and remodeling of the borough building’s third floor. Council voted to allot $55,000 for demolition, $20,000 for upgrades to the city parks and about $15,000 for the third-floor project.

Pivovarnik said he felt the money would be better spent on the parks than on paving. The $20,000 will be used to upgrade the Crest Avenue and Woodlawn parks. The upgrades will include mulching and repairs to fencing.

Council approved an increase from $200 to $265 beginning Jan. 1 for new accessible parking stalls and leased parking stalls.

Council authorized the borough solicitor to prepare a social media policy. Solicitor Alan Benyak said the policy will encompass all employees, including elected officials.

Charleroi Regional Police Chief Eric Porter said in light of the recent robbery at Gene and Boots Candies, residents need to be vigilant.

“It is that time of year. Thefts and robberies go up. If you see something, report it,” he said. He added surveillance cameras and tips helped to identify and apprehend the suspect in the recent robbery.