Union City Borough Council Addresses Staffing, Zoning, and Infrastructure Concerns at April Meeting

Several personnel and municipal matters were taken up by Union City Borough Council during its April 28 meeting, including efforts to fill a vacancy within the Public Works Department.

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Following an executive session, council approved moving forward with the hiring of a full-time public works employee. Borough Manager Cindy Wells said candidates have been identified, though no formal appointment had been announced at the time of the meeting. The position is intended to address a current staffing need within the department.

Council also made changes to the Union City Public Library Board of Directors. Members accepted the resignation of Roger McCarthy and appointed Christine Slocum to complete the remainder of his term, which runs through the end of 2027.

In other business, council approved a resolution authorizing Wells to submit an application to the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources for improvements to First Avenue Park, commonly known as the Tot Lot. The resolution allows borough officials to move forward with required documentation for potential funding.

Council members also approved a request involving the Erie County Land Bank. John Barber, who owns property on Grant Street, was granted permission to purchase a nearby parcel on Lincoln Street. Officials noted Barber intends to maintain the lot, which is currently vacant but large enough for potential development despite its sloped terrain.

Zoning discussions were also part of the agenda, with council reviewing the possibility of updating local ordinances to address data centers. Wells said draft language has been provided by the Erie County Department of Planning, and solicitor Andrew Schmidt is expected to present additional information and answer questions at a future meeting.

Department reports highlighted ongoing code enforcement and infrastructure work. Code Enforcement Officer Mark Ziegler reported outreach to property owners regarding garbage service compliance and large item disposal. Officials reminded residents that Waste Management offers monthly large-item pickup with prior scheduling.

Streets Supervisor Bob Phillips reported continued maintenance work, including cleaning and rebuilding catch basins. Meanwhile, Mayor Herb Riede raised the possibility of revisiting a state tax credit program aimed at supporting volunteer emergency service personnel as a way to encourage recruitment and retention.

Riede also noted interest in exploring tools under Pennsylvania’s Neighborhood Improvement District Act to support potential downtown revitalization efforts.

During public comment, residents of North Street expressed concerns about recurring flooding issues. A discussion followed regarding stormwater capacity in the area, with Phillips noting that an existing 15-inch pipe may be insufficient during heavy rainfall. Council directed further evaluation of the system, including coordination with Mansfield Sanitation Services to assess conditions along North Street.