Sep 14, 2018 2 min read

MONONGAHELA – Monongahela Council decided Wednesday not to back a grant application by the city’s Main Street Program for money to improve empty downtown storefronts.

A motion for council to write a letter of support for the project was made by Councilman Ken Kulak, but none of those present would second it and it died. Councilwoman Claudia Williams was absent. Mayor Bob Kepics and Councilmen Daryl Williams and William Polonoli would not comment after the meeting on the reason for the lack of support.

The LSA grant would have been slated for interior and structural work needed to attract local businesses. Daniel Tregembo, Main Street Program president, said the money would have been used along with contributions from business owners to improve their structures.

“It would be used to improve our town.” Ray Sarver, volunteer for the Main Street Program, said, “I don’t understand. It was a letter, not money that we asked for support. It would be used to support the town and make improvements. Why wouldn’t you want that in your town?”

Tregembo said all anyone has to do is take a ride along Route 837 and see towns that are not kept up.

Council approved the acceptance of a $55,651 LSA grant for safety upgrades in the Monongahela fire station. The Monongahela Volunteer Fire Department will contribute $10,000 toward the safety upgrades. Upgrades will include new garage doors and other building improvements.

The Halloween parade will be held Oct. 26. Trick or treat will be from 6 to 8 p.m. Oct. 29.