Legal Notices
MT. LEBANON,
PENNSYLVANIA
LEGAL NOTICE
PUBLIC NOTICE is hereby given that Mt. Lebanon, PA will present a
Petition to Approve Tax Levy Pursuant to 16 P.S. § 4980.2 (the
anti-windfall law) to the Court of Common Pleas in open session. The
Petition is filed at GD11-26432, and requests approval of a real estate
tax levy over 105%. It will be presented before the Honorable W.
Terrence O'Brien in Room 705, City-County Building, 414 Grant Street,
Pittsburgh, Pa on December 29, 2011 at 1:30 PM.
MT. LEBANON, PA
Stephen Feller
Manager
Update 01/03/12 Mt. Lebanon, Thornburg get exemption to limit on increase in revenues
144 comments:
I hope residents show up to start actually expressing an opinion. Apathy is more dangerous than opposition.
Believe Terry O'Brien is a Lebo resident, and a pretty good tennis player as well.
If the Petition is not approved, there will be several significant reductions in a variety of service levels....detailed in the Managers 2012 Recommended Budget made public on Nov 1st., available on the website, and would include subsequent Ammendment increases approved by the Commission on Dec. 2oth...also on the website.
West Mifflin is cutting police. The Mayor wants to veto the motion.
100 Sears and Kmart stores to close due to weak holiday sales. Mount Lebanon seeks large tax hike.
Pa. Turnpike tolls to rise 53%. Mount Lebanon tax hike trumped.
Charitable gifts and energy improvements made by year end and IRA contributions made by mid-April will cut Federal taxes.
School district has $2.4 million shortfall. Along with municipality expects increased spending and higher taxes will attract businesses and families!
Occupy Lebo delays occupying McNeilly Park until amenities are built.
This year's extra taxes from Mount Lebanon include a $1.4 million non-deductible storm water fee and now $400,000 in excess tax through the courts.
If Lebo really needs all these taxes why did they give the school district a discount on the storm water tax?
John Ewing
All of Mt. Lebanon---residents and officials alike---better get it through their heads that our community is lovely but it is also older.
We cannot continue to heap more and more costs, fees, taxes etc. on residents without destroying what brought us here in the first place.
Wake up, Lebo, before it is too late!
Anon 11:41, we either have to raise taxes/fees or cut services to balance the budget. If you are against the former, what would you suggest be cut?
Anon 12:57 AM, that was Dan Miller's mantra. II wish it would have been the School District's and pro Taj Mahal group's mantra.
Elaine
Why not raise taxes and services and restore Mt. Lebo as a preferred community?
Anon 11:41, I don't think you know what brought us ALL here "in the first place." In fact, a fair number of people moved to Lebo and stayed in Lebo knowing full well that they would pay more in taxes, but in return would have safe neighborhoods and good services. No one ever moved to Lebo because it was cheap.
Perhaps the best way to maintain our neighborhoods and services is to raise taxes and institute fees. Absent that, we need to cut from the expensive public safety program or other programs/services that people have come to expect. Pounding our fists on the table and saying, "Don't tax me" doesn't solve our problems.
I can't speak for the person "pounding" his or her fists on the table, but what I see in our community is that we have Team Jo and Team Dan. Team Jo wants it all. Raise taxes and if you don't like it, then move. Team Dan says that we can't continue in the direction as we have been. We can't keep going to that money that was saved for a rainy day, because it has been raining for years now. Team Jo has an agenda. Team Dan is realistic and knows that something has to change. I support Team Dan.
Elaine
I'll ask the question again then, what does Team Dan suggest we cut?
Team Dan also wanted to float a $7 million bond for Rec facilities. I'm confused.
Just wait until the school district high school project debacle gets underway, and it will be an excessively costly mess, and the residents get stuck with that bill. Lebo sure exercises all legal options to slam the residents here whenever possible. Petitions to the court, Act 1, referendum avoidance, school district suing the municipality to get what they want, etc.. it's a helluva thing when our elected officials and their administration do what they can to circumvent the very safety measures put in place to protect citizens from excessive tax burden or zoning problems.
It won't do any good for residents to show up and do anything. The politics in this community are selfishly agenda-driven with no commitment to representation of the majority so don't waste your time. The school board is a perfect example of this mentality.
Best words of advice: Hang onto your wallets and Move Out ASAP! Save your energy for packing.
Team Jo is who is making my mortgage payments go through the roof.
I'm for Team Edward.
What to cut? It is all spelled out in the recommended budget. We reduce service levels across the board. As I had said at the last commission meeting, when they cut taxes, I saved a whopping $16.28. When they raise taxes, it won't have as much of an impact on my budget as what Team Jo has done to us.
Elaine
Yes, team Dan wanted the rec bond, so how is that different than team Jo?
Through the roof? Really?
Anon 8:33 you keep asking questions. How about answering some.
Do you see continuosly rising taxes as the answer to Mt. Lebanon's financial concerns?
Second question. What areas of our region have the highest taxes?
Third question. Is there a limit you'll pay to live here?
I still wish the pool was done. Its a disgrace.
$7 million was a lot less than the $12 million they were looking to do in 2007.
Anon 8:40, is your house on the market?
Before everyone rehashes their own pro and con list of projects in Mt. Lebanon- shouldn't we comment on the process being done in court? It would seem based on the statute that this step is mandated by law. Are other towns who raised taxes advertising this step as well? Is the county doing it? Didn't they just pass an even bigger tax increase?
Anon 8:33
Gee I wonder how these communities do it? From today's PG.
Findlay holds property taxes for 23rd straight year
North Fayette adopts budget without tax increase
Ross budget holds line on taxes
How do you maitain your household budget Anon 8:33. If you see a huge gap in your income vs. your expenses, do you run out and make big spending plans.
Thats what the school district has been doing for years. Promise salaries and pensions with money they didn't have. Design a school they can't pay for.
They have a $2.4 million budget gap.
Their answer is to raise taxes thru the roof or as they are now proposing, cutting services and programs that YOU keep claiming make MTL what it is today.
we've seen the same thing in the US post office, Greece, Spain. Spend like there is no tomorrow. Well, tomorrow is coming to a community near you.
And no its not Harrisburg's fault as the board likes to claim. They voted for the raises, pensions, programs and construction.
Sure people asked for it all. But now its time to pay the piper.
How are YOU suggesting we maintain the status quo????
The municipality should not take on more expense at this time in the way of bond issues and also stop giving breaks to the non-profits. Start cutting the non-essentials like fluffy first night celebrations, etc. It's not affordable to do these things anymore.
The school district is a lost cause. There is hardly a financially adept brain cell on that Board. Lebo is stuck with the mess created by this credit card carrying cabal.
For starters, I could do without Mt. Lebanon Magazine, a publication that costs $1 million a year, if I recall correctly. I think its time has past.
However, I agree that the school district is the biggest tax hog and I question its motives. Why should we all have to pay skyrocketing taxes to provide venues for a few kids to get athletic scholarships?
All I'm saying is: look around you at nearby communities/school districts and see the results of poor decisions and the march of time. It's not pretty.
Everyone thinks "Oh, it can't happen here." Well, it can, and it is. And the situation will get worse as real estate values continue to plummet. Who will want to live here for the "privilege" of paying exorbitant taxes, dealing with increasing traffic and living next door to renters?
Again, look around....
Anon 11:41
Anon 8:54 why do you ask, do you want to buy it?
Always happy to answer questions:
Do you see continuosly rising taxes as the answer to Mt. Lebanon's financial concerns?
No, that's why I am interested in hearing what people believe should be cut from the municipal budget.
Second question. What areas of our region have the highest taxes?
Not sure.
Third question. Is there a limit you'll pay to live here?
I don't have a specific personal tipping point, no. However, I would likely make other cuts in my personal budget before uprooting my family etc. I guess this is the issue that causes the most angst. I hope no one lives in Lebo (or anywhere for that matter) with the notion that the cost of doing so will never go up. I'd like a big house with 3 acres in Fox Chapel but I can't afford it. Is that someone else's fault? I appreciate that those on fixed incomes or who have had reductions in income have less to sacrifice and therefore arrive at their personal tipping points much faster. That's true of all municipalities, not just ours. However, as we use that as the threshold for setting budgets etc, how would we maintain anything, let alone improve?
The one Anon keeps asking the same kinds of questions so I assume it's the same person. In that case, I'll make it very simple so that person understands: When is it enough? What are the limits? Why are you afraid to scale back as a community? Do you think it's realistic to expect more and more without trying to achieve balance?
Yes, we're all in Lebo and recognize it's more expesnive to live here than other places. But why in the hell is that regarded as a green light for people like Jo and some commissioners to keep grabbing more money? Is that how they live their lives? "Oh, the checking account is empty and I really want a new iPad, so I'll just start asking my relatives for money.." Seriously?? But that isn't the whole problem.
I disagree that attending the petition process is useless. If people stick their heads in the sand, people like Jo and the township and whoever else will take advantage of the lack of participation. People, that's why we keep ending up with losers in elective office at all levels! Wake up!!
So, to Anon's questions, what should we cut? Five percent across the board. How about that? Then nobody can whine they were singled out. The reality, though, is even if you do that, the school district spending spree is still a much larger issue. Why school boards have the authority to tax is beyond me. Perhaps we all get nailed in the short-term but the long-term solution should be demanding of our "leaders" total tax reform.
I'm not sure what cosmic guide the school board is using when they somehow reason that taxing people to death in this community makes it a more attractive environment?
Anon 9:25, perhaps. I ask because you are advocating that we all move asap so I figured you would already be in the process.
Anon 9:24, I agree that the MTL magazine is $1,000,000 that is probably better spent on roads etc. It's mostly ads these days any way. I've also suggested that things like First Night should be largely supported by private/corporate dollars. No one wants to go here, but our single largest expense on the muni side is police and fire. Would a 10% reduction there make us less safe? We should also study development of the golf course.
Anon 9:09:
You are right , there have been numerous articles in local papers over the past weeks stating how other communities have been responsibly passing budgets and holding the line on tax increases. Mt. Lebanon sticks out like a sore thumb and is the laughing stock of Allegheny County.
$1 Million for Mt. Lebanon Magazine? Holy cow, that should be cut out. I don't even read it anymore. We could get information from the municipal website. In fact, aren't we paying to have that redone?
Comparing Lebo to Findlay Twp is a bit apples to oranges. Findlay has a population of just 5,000 and its primary residents are Dick's Sporting Goods, the International Airport and the Imperial Landfill.
But let's take a closer look . . . According to the County website, a property assessed at $100,000 in Findlay Twp will receive a $2,864 tax bill (local, school and county taxes). A $100,000 house in Lebo will receive a $3,608 tax bill for a difference of $744.
I'll let you decide for yourself if Mt. Lebanon and its schools are worth an extra $744/year.
No bond issue was approved by the municipality for 2012.
No “breaks” were given to non-profits (see the stormwater fee rationale).
The municipality does not take a hit if the schools use the stormwater education credit. Its a pass through/shifting of cost from one body to the other.
First Friday and other “fluffy” celebrations total about $60,000 annually as compared to the $2.2 million deficit budgeted in 2011. Ok, what else do you want cut?
The magazine does not cost $1 million annually. More like $650,000 which it has essentially covered over the last four years through advertising as well as paper and size reductions. There is no real net gain by cutting it.
FYI- rec department is the same way. It costs over $2 million a year but has basically paid for itself over the last couple of years through fees.
The only real way for “cost savings” is to cut sizably public safety and public works. If you want that, fine. Attend a meeting an advocate for it. I pray that you fail in your effort to do so. Everything else mentioned is either factually wrong or so small that it really doesn’t address an issue of a balanced budget.
And please lets not always compare ourselves to surrounding communities- at least without identifying them. Some of them I do not want to compare to, do not want to cut my services to, do not want to mirror their roads, do not want to have their schools, and while I wish them all well- I am quite happy with paying a bit more for the services in our town. Thats kinda the reason I moved here instead of there.
Other towns “responsibly” passing budgets without increases? Maybe a few. Perhaps you can tell us what towns you are impressed by? Most are doing it through deficit spending or other one time magic. At least one of our “surrounding communities” has drained their rainy day fund entirely and does zero road reconstruction.
The new website was redesigned for $25,000.
Can anyone tell me what- if any- services were increased for 2012? Don’t say stormwater: 1) you know it is separate from the 2012 tax increase and 2) you know it was passed in 2010.
Anon 9:38 I am advocating moving for anyone who is not in the position to deal with the looming financial hits coming our way, particularly from the school district over the next several years. There are no indications whatsoever that the mentality of the school board will change. Unless, perhaps, you can provide examples to the contrary.
Maybe you have the resources to continuously feed the tax monster here, but that doesn't mean everyone does. my advice to anyone who does not want to deal with escalating taxes, declining property value and less services is to move.
Anon 10:30, what "services" have been cut and what evidence do you have that property values have decreased?
Why is "Comparing Lebo to Findlay Twp is a bit apples to oranges. Findlay has a population of just 5,000 and its primary residents are Dick's Sporting Goods, the International Airport and the Imperial Landfill."
No its not. Its like comparing Apples to Apples. Findly is a municipality as is MTL. Findley manages its affairs within a set budget and seem to manage quite well at doing it according to the paper. Findley has businesses and residents, MTL has business and residents. One manages on what they have, while the other thinks of new ways to spend money.
What is absurd about your argument is the assumption that everyone in the Pittsburgh area is just clamoring to move to MTL! Did you poll Findley residents? Did the 5,000 tell you... "I just wish I were rich enough to live in Leboland!"
Here's a question.
If MTL earned income and property values are RISING at such extraordinary rates why aren't municipality and school district revenues coming in at a sufficiaent rate to cover all the necessisities and wants?
The simple fact is... they are not!
The board and the commissioners kept adding amenities, frills etc. while ignoring the fact that someday all these things would need maintenance, pensions would have to be paid out.
As for MTL magazine. It would be nice to see a real accounting of the cost of operation.
I believe it receives preferential rent, employees benefit from municipality pension and health care plans which if it were a privately run entity they wouldn't enjoy.
Thus making the bottom line look substanilally better.
Factor in these government subsidized perks then make the case as to whether it's worth its operational cost or not!
Did everyone miss the Mt. Lebanon Christmas Carol graph posted earlier on Elaine's blog.
According to the school board's own projections by 2015-16 their payroll expenses will just about equal THE ENTIRE SCHOOL DISTRICT expenditures today in 2011.
For tose that can't see it. Mt. Lebanon taxpayers will be forking over exactly what we're shelling out to for the entire district budget today JUST TO COVER THE PAYROLL IN 2015-16.
By 2023 if everything follows their budget projections the community will need an ADDITIONAL TWENTY-FOUR MILLION DOLLARS to cover future payroll bills.
That means if we hold the line on taxes, there is no money for books, electricity, water, programs, sports, supplies, gas, uniforms, computers, whiteboards, etc. etc.
Now then just about every economist seems to believe the economy is not going to improve much over the next two to three years. Harrisburg is suggesting larger cuts in expenditures as is Washington. SO where will the district turn to fund additional vacation days for new money???
Findlay and Mt. Lebanon have numerous differences. Some good, some bad. I believe it to be a poor comparison but if you believe that a much smaller town, with not as good schools, without our level of services, and with a larger percentage of commercial impact on its budget is an apples to apples comparison- hey run with it.
Lebo EIT has continued to beat expectations. I would not say at "extraordinary" rates though.
We can all debate whether the format of a magazine is something that should continue in years to come but your concern of its accounting seems based on rumors, conjectures, and a type of scrutiny no other department does. For example, how much does the finance department or the IT department cost us in relation to heating or electricity. They are all in one building. I believe the outcome of such discovery will not be worth your time or contribute much to the financial understanding of the cost of government- but hey right to know requests are free I think.
Another comparison for Findlay and Mt. Lebanon- both use letters in their name!
It's all coming together now...
Team Jacob
We could choose to live in Dormont but we do not. We choose Mt. Lebanon for a reason. We demand the finest schools for our children and amenities like First Fridays and glossy magazines. If you do not want those amenities then go some place that does not offer them or ask you to pay for them.
I agree with anon 1129.
The real issue for all local governments concerns balanced budgets and conservative fiscal policy.
I am against all deficit spending on the local level. A tax increase alone does not necessarily erase deficits either.
Whoever let things get out of hand at the township needs to be questioned.
Thanks, Team Jo. You probably got the link to the private Holiday video.
Elaine
Anon 11.32 the finance and IT department are essential to the operations of the local government.
A magazine is not essential or are you making the absurd claim that MTL magazine should be viewed in the same light as every department... The police, fire and road crews.
Are you really that silly!
Team Jacob, didn't you mean Team Jakob!
Ah yes Anon 12:00!
The " love it or leave" defense! How neighborly!
What the "leaders" are saying by trying to circumvent the controls that are in place to prevent irresponsible tax raises is:
GTFO old people! You're of no use to us. Go to St Barnabas or some other old people's home, preferably not in Mt Lebo!
They would rather drive people out of their homes so their kids have a ball field to play on or so they can go to a First Friday or read about their kids in the glossy pages of a local magazine.
When people do start moving out and no one comes to take their place, I can wait to hear the complaints about houses being looted for scrap metal - well, of course, right after they complain that we need to raise taxes for more police to prevent it and to pay for more "amenities" and to pay for the high school that's only 1/2 way done because it's over-budget. "How could we have known?" will the argument as they sit at the school board meetings and chant "Won't someone think about the children?"
But hey, we don't have to put our leaves in bags. And did you see little Johnny? He's in this month's Mt Lebo mag, in full color! Isn't this great? I'll see you at the free concert next first Friday... I hope none of those "dirty" Dormont or Scott Twp people show up...
Anon 11:32 then it should be very easy to squelch the rumors and do an accounting of the magazines finances.
What in the world the IT and finance departments have to do with a discussion of MTL magazine escapes me. Oh, they're in the same building.
Yep, sure and the police and fire departments have space in municipal buildings too. I guess that makes them all essential services!
Hey Anon 11:32 why no discussions on the issue of the school district payroll expenditures presented by Anon 11:29.
"Living is easy with eyes closed..." eh!
Anon 12:00, I moved to MTL for the school district programs and extracurricular activities in the high school!
You want a "glass-enclosed" bridge and a Taj Mahal athletic facility move somewhere else and build it!!!
You blur your issue of "preferential" rent, utilities, etc that you use to doubt the full accounting of the cost of the magazine with a debate prioritizing the "essential" nature of one department over another.
I am sure you know that the functions of the public information office (with 2 FTEs and some part time staff with no benefits) are divided up into different service areas besides the magazine. So when you are working on your calculation for utility cost or whatever be sure to get the accurate percentage based on work assignment. And then when you are done with that exciting work, add that amount to the $650,000 estimate I gave earlier, then subtract the associated revenue, and then wow us all with how much that amount could've been used to close the $2.2 million deficit they budgeted for in 2011. And if you can, just for comparison sake, take the total cost of the utilities in the municipal building and divide it up between some other departments that share space so we can be sure there is no "preferential treatment." Say IT, finance, inspections, public works, etc. and throw in the business manager just so we can be sure that the total amount that is in the budget for the building is more accurately reflected in a way to generate some type of cost savings that the municipality either is to incompetent to figure out or for some nefarious reason does not want us to know about.
Then lets go to the commission meeting and grab the make and shake our fists about how they balanced the budget without considering whatever it is that you find. And then everything will be right in the Lebo world. Yay! whatever- how far this thread has fallen... this is what I get for having the day off.
Are you really suggesting there is so much public information in Mt. Lebanon to be distributed that we need 2 FTE and several part-timers?
On that subject, exactly when did the school district determine it needed a public info person. How was public info distributed by the district before that position developed and we had 8,000+ students?
Is the amount of info distribute by MtL magazine in this day an age justification for (your estimate) $650,000/year.
Elaine seems to do a pretty good job for nothing. After all the SB prez got the bid date here I believe! And it is almost immediate vs the delayed snail mailed magazine.
Why not move into the 21st century distribution of news like the school district keeps proclaiming they're doing!
RE- Are you really suggesting there is so much public information in Mt. Lebanon to be distributed that we need 2 FTE and several part-timers?
This is a different issue then saying that some numbers some where are being used to hide the true cost of the magazine. Also, you may want to refer to the budget information to show the actual breakdown of how the employees are divided via function. You are asking a question about the entire "public information" department, which is fine, just different then "the magazine to itself."
Regardless my overall point is that cutting the magazine is not the cost savings some elude to. I believe that changes to it will come given changes in technology and such, but (again) if you want real cuts now you have to cut fire, police and public works. I don't consider such cuts to be "savings" and hope they do not occur.
Team Bella
We have talked about cutting back for Team Dan, but nothing was mentioned for Team Jo. I see that 50% of you want to add the rifle range. Using the same methodology, what should be cut to include that? Let' s take it a step further. What should be cut on Team Jo to pay for the renovation?
Elaine
RE- Is the amount of info distribute by MtL magazine in this day an age justification for (your estimate) $650,000/year.
Keep in mind that all I am saying that $650,000 in taxpayer cost is almost covered by magazine revenue.
I personally find some value in it but I did say that I think the format of it will change in the future. I do like lebo alert, I am on the towns facebook and I look forward to seeing what the new website will bring.
I am not pretending to be an expert on its content. The town existed before the magazine and will afterwards. I also think that it originally was started as a joint publication by the town and school with costs shared.
Team Jo needs to cut employees, healthcare and pensions to pay the high school bill.
This may also be an issue for the environmental sustainability board to take up! But of course they won't!
Wonder how many trees are cut down for paper, how many chemicals are deposited into our waterways from the papermaking and inks? How much CO2 is pumped into the air from delivery trucks?
It could all be delivered in seconds via the Internet.
Anon 10:40 Services will have to be cut and property values will decrease given the path here. Sorry you don't understand basic economic principles. Go back to where you came from and stick your head back in the sand, you've obviously been happy there for the past several months.
Why not put the Commissioners' reports on the website and forget the magazine?
Cut for team Jo. Cissy Bowman.
In this economy private businesses are cutting staff and payrolls and asking remaining staff to do more.
This cut would have a minimal impact on programs for students!
Team Jo, someone is kissing up to the pres. and super.
Cut 'em!
Just a question - why do the street lights turn off when I walk the dog at night? Was that service cut to save money?
Turning off street lights probably came from the ESB to limit climate cooling/warming/change emissions.
Team Jo should cut those who can't spell.
Why not charge a subscription for the magazine? That would pretty much dictate its value to the community...kind of like sports...And if the magazine is such a boon to Lebo, why is it full of ads from other areas like Sewickley? I know people in Sewickley and frankly, they laugh at Lebo.
That's a great bridge to my next point which is this--the attitude of the SB, and some small-minded people who keep comenting, seems to be "if you can't afford to live here, then move". That's not how it works. Nine people don't get to price out the majority of the community.
See, the problem with social engineering (which is what the SB is attempting) is that it's always orchestrated by really really dumb people. And they usually have zero understanding of economics, socioeconomics, or just people. Case in point? MtL school board. Here's their logic: Hey, if we buy into this project, the community won't be able to stop us. So we can raise taxes out the wazoo and make it so much more expensive to live here. Then, all the riff-raff will leave. You know, the people who have dual incomes. When that happens, well, we'll be the next Fox Chapel and totally elite!
The problem with that train of thought is, it never works. People like Posti and Birks really believe they live in an affluent and upper crust township. But the reality is, there are places so much more fluffy and wealthy. And people choose to live in places like Sewickley and Fox Chapel BECAUSE THEY CAN! They're not interested in saving money or sending Johhny to a "blue ribbon" school. They send Cameron and Cassie to a private school because, let's face it, they'll get a better education. See, the actualy rich folks in this area dont live in the suburbs. I mean, you have the Raja-types, those who are wealthy but couldn't actually compete in the snooty places. So we get stuck with a handful of residents with the big fish/little pond syndrome. The rest of us have to get up and go to work every day just to ensure this township keeps providing basic services.
What's going to happen down the road is our community will be liek the Galleria--looks flashy and grand from the outside but once you go through the door, you discover there's no "there there". We'll have that small handful of wealthy folks living in the Manor, and the Section 8 housing we have in Lebo (what-you didn't know? Whoops...) will expand. The county has to put em somewhere, right? Ultimately, the few wealthy folks in Lebo will say "screw this" and either step up their game, which means moving to a more affulent area, or they'll retire and head to Florida. Either way, the SB plan produces a disaster.
Here's a question for the critical Anon: what are you getting for your money with the school expenditures? What's the return on your investment? What, educted kids? You can get those in Peter's or North Allegheny. Retention of your property value? Sure, for now but wait a few years. So again, what are we ALL getting out of this?
And if I hear one more person say "if you don't like it, then move", my head will pop. How about this--why don't YOU move and take your total lack of economic knowledge with you? Nobody in this town asked to be raked over the coals financially so pack up your stuff and hit the road.
Since we are talking about online publications and websites, here is an update on the student art at Pamela's article. It and Luke Steinhauer's post have been removed from the home page as headline articles and are now listed on the home page in the bottom right hand corner under "Student News." Unfortunately, Greg Frommeyer's name is still spelled incorrectly. It is nice to see that there is some productivity during the break.
It is unfortunate that the remaining eleven students never had their fifteen minutes of fame for their talents.
Elaine
Another thing about mtl Magazine, my street did not get the last two issues. We can't get the post office to deliver them. Maybe having it in digital form is the way to go. Make an app for it.
Elaine
Anon 3:42 Probably, it's just hard to clean up after the dog when you can't see it! Oh well, who needs street lighting really?
You can already get MTL magazine online... each and every page.
So save some trees, stop global warming and do away with the hard copy. As someone suggested start a subscription plan. Want a hard copy pay for it.
Anpther case for dropping Bowman's position,. She's paid in the neighborhood of $50,000+/year.
Eliminating that position which can easily be picked up by department heads and secretaires and in 9 (9 years x $50,000 = $450,000)years... you've paid for the rifle range!
Which benefits 25 students per year! Hey its for the kids... right!
Why not just raise taxes so we can pay for the rifle range, magazine, street paving and anything else we need to put Mt. Lebanon back on top of the list of desirable communities? Our property values reflect the quality of our schools and services. Cut them and we will lose value.
You are saying that to get a rise out of me, right? May I remind you that we have a rifle range. Our taxes have increased to tear it down. Now you want to increase our taxes to put it back in? Sure makes sense to me.
Elaine
There's some deep thinking going on in Aon 4:25's head!
Mt. Lebanon would certainly be a more desirable community if we had pristine sandy beaches, an airport and a private yacht club. Oh maybe a Disney Park too.
Lets build 'em, its only taxes!
Anon 3:47 you got it right. For those who want a bridge "pack up your stuff" and move to Brooklyn! There are hundreds of people ready to sell a sucker one!
Anon 4:25 are you telling us that we're not at the top of the list now?
All these years I've been paying for inaccessible fields and undeveloped land and we're not at the top!!!???
Oh the humanity!
"Here's a question for the critical Anon: what are you getting for your money with the school expenditures? "
Your kid is on the high school Honor Roll with a C grade. Too bad you have to pay for your own bumper sticker to tell the world your kid got a C. Maybe Bowman and Morgans can go into the bumper sticker business instead of the information business.
Why not outsource Bowman to India, pay for the rifle range and improve the spelling on the website.
It's threads like these that make realize (and appreciate) that the folks who comment here represent about 1% of the Lebo population..
Now wasn't that a nicer way to say It than the last one you submitted?
Elaine
Whatever. Truth hurts I guess
Whether it is one percent or ten percent, the number is only going to increase after our reassessments arrive in the mail, the high school construction or destruction begins, and our taxes go up.
I am guessing you aren't going to the courthouse today.
Elaine
Everyone on this thread is focused on 2 things, raising taxes or cutting services. There is another option that we should explore. That is additional development. We have the land at the Bowerhill and Washington road sitting vacant. We have the Kossman property on Castle Shannon Blvd vacant. We have the air rights above the subway behind Washington road. We have a golf course that while it is nice to have is not the most useful use for that land. If we can get these things developed we would have additional tax revenue. Potentially millions of dollars of additional revenue. So this may not cover the entire deficit, and it would create some additional expenses it is another option we need to revue. Also the land use committee made suggestions as to what to do with property owned by the Municipality. Let’s get some of it sold and back on the tax rolls.
Anon 9:16--you're missing the point. Why should we have to worry about selling or developing land to increase revenue that shouldn't be needed in the first place? And somehow the actual one percent (the school supporters and soccer geeks) think that we can just keep spending and spending despite an ever-aging population? Normally I would say thank goodness those types of dimwits aren't in charge but unfortunately, they are.
Anon 9:28 interesting perspective. I guess you'd rather associate with and back people like Ms. Klein. Whom by the way is one of "those" people that have gotten out of the hubble before it burst.
Keep drinking that Kool-Aid!
Explore selling the Washington-Bower Hill and the MTL-Castle Shannon Blvd properties!
First of all, according to Mr. Franklin, the BOSN group and the school board, people are just clamoring over each other to buy into our little patch of heaven.
Furthermore, according to the special gentry once the commission and board raise taxes our home values should rise to grandiose heights.
So why do we need to work to develop these properties? One wold think developers and contractors would be hard on the scent of profiteering.
I can see the realtor ads now.
"If you like Mt. Lebanon Taxes now, you're absolutely gonna love them later!"
I might suggest if we use Mr. Franklin's logic, if we buy up more vacant land and create more soccer/ballfields we'll be able to raise taxes to astronomical new heights.
Then people with the proper credentials and bloodlines will flock to Mt. Lebononshire, where every home is a castle!
Yes, additional development is possible, but it will be limited because the community is mostly built up.
It's also a reason why the high school project is so potentially catastrophic---it will increase taxes and decrease housing values at the same time. Some longtime homeowners may be forced to rent their homes, which will result in more instability and less volunteerism.
If we aren't careful, we'll be looking at urban renewal projects before long.
It's time to take our heads out of the sand. We ARE an older community, our streets are narrow, our houses are close together and we are much more similar to places like Dormont, Carnegie and Brookline than we are to Upper St. Clair, Peters or even Scott.
We need to face these facts and act accordingly.
Actually Elaine, I'm just leaving the Courthouse now. I was the only resident in attendance. I suppose the folks with the loud opinions and all of the answers that they anonymously voice here don't think their objections are worthy of expressing at a public hearing. Judge O'Brien singled me out as the only person in attendance and asked if I had anything to say. I introduced myself as a Mt. Lebanon resident and stated that I had nothing to add. I think he was expecting more people to show up in opposition.
Sincerely,
A dimwitted soccer geek
I guess I missed my post when I suggested that people are clamoring to get into Mt. Lebanon. Can someone please show it to me?
Dave Franklin
Thank you for taking the time to go to the courthouse! Anything you would like to share about the hearing? What happened?
Elaine
Oh, I see why you signed it a dimwitted soccer geek. I was at IKEA when I was approving the comments.
Sorry about that and thanks again for taking an interest.
Elaine
Phil Weis suggested that we need to repair roads, buy a new pumper truck and a new public works truck, thus justifying an exception to the anti windfall law. Mr. Weis is kind of a "low talker" so unfortunately I struggled to hear most of his 4 minute presentation. Judge O'Brien asked Mr Weis to explain the Court's standard of review of such a petition. Without much else (aside from asking me if I had anything to say), Judge O'Brien signed the Order granting the petition. Pretty uneventful actually. Thornburg Borough presented a similar petition claiming the need to repair streets and sewers. It was also granted.
"We have the land at the Bowerhill and Washington road sitting vacant."
Of course “we” don’t own that property and the town created an ill-advised TIF district for it that from what I hear has cost the taxpayers a couple of million of dollars already that will likely never be recovered. So what are you suggesting “we” do with it now? Say “please build something on it?” Didn’t we already re-zone it for them?
"We have the Kossman property on Castle Shannon Blvd vacant."
Of course “we” don’t own this property either (and don’t have a buy back provision on a small part of it). This property has been owned by the same owner for decades. They have sought and received numerous zoning changes. “We” even swapped them land to be make it more suitable for them to develop on. They do not have a good relationship with the local residents there. So again, what should “we” do hear? Or perhaps, what have “we” not done?
"We have the air rights above the subway behind Washington road."
Supposedly we received a grant to do some engineering on this property but I hear it is years and millions of dollars away from even starting up. I also hear that it would need another TIF to do so.
"We have a golf course that while it is nice to have is not the most useful use for that land."
Perhaps.
"We" have heard most of this before. Not long ago a commissioner promised a tech corridor and a "plan" that would keep our services while reducing our taxes 20%. A real discussion could be had on the best use of the golf course but there is nothing stopping the other 2 projects from being developed with private funds right now. How much more is the public supposed to go in to push them to do so? I am very pleased though that the current commission got the shovels in the ground on the hotel project.
OK Dave, you got me. I can't find you using the actual phrase "clamoring to get into MTL."
But, back in February 2011 I'm 99% certain you did write this...
"NEWSFLASH - Mt. Lebanon has always been "unaffordable" by comparison. Our taxes and property values have long outpaced many other neighborhoods in our area. I'm sure many people would love to live in Mt. Lebanon if they could afford it."
Yeah, I guess that's a rather nebulous statement.
I could easily proclaim... many people would love to live in the Hamptons, Martha's Vineyard, or Beverly Hills, Monte Carlo... if they could afford it!
So fill me in again... what was your point?
First, I'm flattered that you remembered my comment from nearly a year ago. I'm blushing to hear that my opinions mean so much to you.
Now, let's put my comment in its proper context (especially for those who aren't inclined to sift through 11 months of posts to find it). Elaine had just finished proclaiming "it has become unaffordable to live in Mt. Lebanon, thanks to the School District. Not everyone lives in Virginia Manor."
In response, I said, "Anyone outside of the bubble would probably have a good chuckle over your last comment. Here's a NEWSFLASH - Mt. Lebanon has always been "unaffordable" by comparison. Our taxes and property values have long outpaced many other neighborhoods in our area. I'm sure many people would love to live in Mt. Lebanon if they could afford it."
Now, I doubt that anyone would interpret my comment as suggesting that people are clamoring to get into Lebo, especially since the gist of my comment is rather clear - our community has been, currently is and will likely remain unaffordable for many people. I offered that opinion to counter Elaine's suggestion that the current school board has made Mt. Lebanon unaffordable. Anyone who moved here in the last half century did so knowing that our cost of living is higher than many other Pittsburgh suburbs. Anyone who has stayed here has done so because of the quality of the schools, the quality of the services, the unique neighborhoods, or some other aspect of Lebo that makes it a nice place to live - not to mention the equity that we have built up in our homes. However, I've not met anyone who has stayed her because it's cheaper than another nearby community.
Has the high school project created an extra burden on the taxpayers? Sure it has. However, I'm pretty sure that most people believe that the high school required significant work. If we were doing it for $75 million our taxes would still be going up. I'm on record as saying $113 was way too much and I am happy that we have come down from that number. Where we end up is anyone's guess at this point and like many I have my fingers crossed that it doesn't run wild.
So, 11 months later, I stand by my comment. Lebo has long been expensive. All things being equal, I still think that others would choose to live here if it was more affordable, but I don't think most of us would feel the same about our community if it suddenly became more affordable.
Dave Franklin
Soooo, dimwitted soccer geek, (found out your identity and your secret is safe with me) what does this mean regarding our muni taxes? More than reported or do they stay the same?
Elaine
I have no secrets Elaine. I have no problem identifying myself as the only resident (aside from Judge O'Brien, of course) who attended today's hearing. As for higher taxes, I don't know how it all shakes out.
Dave Franklin
...and nobody from Lebo bothered to show up.
Mr. Franklin, I pay attention to all your comments. In fact I agree with many of them and several times your comments have influenced a change in my position. I thought that was what this blog was for... sharing ideas, debating the pros and cons.
I agree with everything in your last comment except for one. I think you are over-estimating MTL as the pinnacle of western PA living. Its not the only game in town that it once was. There are just too many options, some with less tax implications than there were 30-40 years ago.
Doesn't mean I don't find it a desirabl;e place to live... with its Washington & Beverly Road Main Streets. Its neighborhood schools, parks and recreation facilities. They are tough to find in Cranvberry,Peters, USC. But they do have their attractions too.
Thats is just the point. Because of the stress on the budget, the board is investigating eliminating a 50 year old sports program, talking about closing a neighborhood school. Might we be looking at deeper cuts, maybe in academics.
Yes, many of us have argued against a $113 million project.
Below is what I believe it will take to prepare our students for careers in a rapidly changing world. Its not cheap! So shaving $20 million off the high school renovation, eliminating a $800,000 bridge gives us money better spent on this type of program.
It would keep MTL #1 in education in the area. This expensive high school project just makes us a "me too' district. According to Mr. Rothschild its really not even an overwhelming improvement over the current facility.
A friend recently emailed me these two articles below. This is what I call 21st century education...
Nanotechnology course exposes high-school students to high-tech science
A new Minnesota program is the first in the country to have high-schools students enrolled in a yearlong course in nanotechnology. Nanotechnology, which reportedly is taught at just eight colleges in the U.S., involves creating matter at the molecular level and has implications for cancer research, plus the design of lighter planes and stronger buildings. Educators say the program, which is taught at a local college, teaches students college-level skills besides exposing them to the cutting-edge field. Star Tribune (Minneapolis-St. Paul, Minn.) (12/20)
3D printer brings students' computer designs to life
Students at a middle school in San Antonio are producing plastic models using a new 3D printer. Students first use Google SketchUp 3D modeling software to create designs, then a program called ReplicatorG to convert their design into code, which is used by the Thing-O-Matic 3D printer to create the plastic forms. Educators say the process combines technology and art and helps students develop higher-order thinking. San Antonio Express-News (12/22)
Its not cheap stuff and we will need teachers trained for it, but as I said before its more useful than an $800,000 bridge. Those are my thoughts for what they're worth.
Giffen Good
Elaine, please indulge me one more question - Where were all the folks who are so angry about the cost of living in Lebo? I honestly think Judge O'Brien was expecting folks to come and speak against the township's request. Just curious.
Dave Franklin
Mr. Franklin:
As a reporter who has covered many area school districts and communities over a 40-year-period, I can tell you that people are not as enamored of Mt. Lebanon as they once were. Blame it on the discord over the high school project if you want, but the fact remains that some people are laughing at us while others are appalled, especially considering the current financial climate. Yes, some houses have sold, but I know of quite a few that have been on the market for a year or more.
While I personally think Mt. Lebanon's diverse architecture is lovely, home buyers today seem more interested in amenities and convenience rather than quality construction. They want comfortable roominess, large yards, multi-car garages and easy access to major roads.
They are no longer dazzled by Mt. Lebanon as a school district because there are others with as good or better reputations: Upper St. Clair, South Fayette and Peters to name a few, as well as several more in the North Hills area. All have newer homes and quieter, less congested streets.
With the population in Western Pennsylvania declining, I believe there will be more school consolidations, as well as the merging of police and fire departments.
I know the picture isn't pretty, but it's reality.
Carole Brown
I don't know what to tell you, Dave. I go to all the municipal meetings. I run a community website and blog. I wanted a little me time today. Maybe I am the only one who is struggling.
Elaine
Dave and Elaine:
I just saw your posts about no one showing up for today's court hearing.
My guess is people have given up trying. However, that doesn't mean they are happy about what is going on. I know of a number who plan to move.
Also, keep in mind this is a holiday week and many have visitors in town. Still others are away.
Carole Brown
Ms. Browne, I don't disagree with much of what you are saying. I've said most of it myself to current and former Commissioners and SB members alike. We looked in USC before buying our current house. That said, I'm not sure the residents of USC or S. Fayette are "laughing" at us as they deal with their own 7 figure budget deficits, the same pension problem, user fees, pay to play and school construction bills. The folks who write letters to the Almanac complaining about the rising cost of living in USC, Peters, and Bethel sound much like the folks here.
I think all of the local communities are or will be dealing with same issues. Where I diverge I guess is when people suggest that our community is destined for eternal misery and despair. Or who suggest that our elected officials and paid adminsitrators act exclusively as the puppets for sports groups etc. It's nonsense really.
We're far from perfect. However, unless and until someone can show me "perfect" while still preserving what my family (and I think a whole lot of families) appreciate about Lebo, I'm content to hang out for awhile.
Dave Franklin
The question wasn't really for you specifically Elaine. I personally don't know how you do it.
I really had no intention of going to today's hearing, but I was intrigued to see how many angry anons would stand up and be counted. I guess I got my answer.
Dave Franklin
Working Dave trying to pay bills. Probably wouldn't have gone even if I wasn't as in what venue has a mass of bodies shown to influence decisions when it comes to local govt spending? 4,000 petition signatures didn't keep the HS project from being bid out at $113.4 million.
A majority of citizens in the Act34 hearing didn't influence the board. In fact one member, announced their vote for the project in advance of the hearing.
A hearing in which the board was supposed to hear the will of the community.
Dave, no thoughts on spending for nano science or 3D printers, rather than spending at least $6 or 7 million tearing down and disposing of a perfectly good structure?
I do enjoy hearing your perspective.
Not sure I'd want to spend school district $$ on a subject that is only taught at a handful of universities. But, like the progam in Minn, I have no problem with exploring the opportunity of offering such a program in conjunction with Pitt/UPMC.
No opinion on 3D printers.
Dave Franklin
Oh yeah, that work thing gets in the way sometimes. And what's worse, it isn't always close to the courthouse.
Elaine
Nanotechnology appears to be the next big break through in medicine, computing, fabrics, you name it. If you read the 3D story it about more than a printer.
I'm sure though that there many new things going on that $$$$s spent on a structure interferes with exploring!
Dave Franklin,
Made a better decision today to visit with family. Trying to get through the thick heads of our "community leaders" is a waste of time. After all folks here have done to put the brakes on the poorly conceived high project to no avail, why would you expect people to continue to beat their heads against the wall?
Are you serious that you think anyone would bother to go today? My guess is that this community could not feel more alienated from the governmental process at this point and there really is no reason to remain engaged given the track this place is on.
Have fun writing those tax checks, Dave. Hope your kids have all the educational and extracurricular opportunities you hope for.
David Franklin -Seriously, what is the definition of insanity? You are kidding when you chide all those who have spent time and otherwise to change the course here aren't you?
Anon 10:33, I guess you have brought us full circle. The very first comment said it all. Apathy probably really is more dangerous than opposition.
It took us 102 comments to get back to where we started.
Dave Franklin
This thread is an example of insanity.
Elaine please end it. Despite the best efforts of a couple this thing jumped the shark about 80 posts ago. Never wanted to return to work more quickly than I do now for having invested time in attempting to following it!
Next rampage please.
Nice Dave, of course no smarmy comment about a board member predetermining pblic will before they even express it in the venue designed to let them voice that opinion!
You mean to snip this thread Real Lebo style? Uh...no. I have added two "rampages" since Tuesday's "Legal Notice.". Maybe you missed them.
Elaine
Elaine -Thanks for giving people the chance to say what is on their minds without being "snipped".
Anon 12:17 AM If you were bored and had nothing to do before going back to work you should've gone to the court. You could've told the judge that everything was perfect in Lebo.
Wow Anon 1029 what an awesome idea! You are truly a gifted person and I should run all my scheduling plans through you! Thank you soooooo much for your suggestion!
I never said everything was perfect here. I think perfection left this planet with the Garden of Eden. Perhaps you (or anyone of the 33k that live here) could have gone and said the opposite. The judge lives here, pretty sure he knows the good and the bad.
There were numerous chances for the public to productively be part of the process but if you listen to the podcasts you would know all anyone seemed to want to chat about was whether or not to shoot the deer.
I would try to lead you back to what was seemingly Elaine's original point with this thread but lets be honest- there's no real value in trying. Your comment just proves my point- thread has jumped the shark.
Apathy certainly is more dangerous than opposition. Add to the mix "frustration" and "ignorance," and one may come close to the reason why the majority of our adult residents seem absent from the issues that are reflected on this Blog. (Unless someone mistakes my intent, the word "ignorance" is used here in its original meaning; which is, "Lack of knowledge or information." This is not a slam at anyone; we're all ignorant at times and about many things.)
As mortgage companies adjust monthly payments for the realities of our new 2012 real estate taxes, plus the required "cushion" necessary in ones escrow account (if you have one), perhaps some members of our sleeping masses will take more notice of local politics and issues. We shall see. Those of us who actually own our homes outright already have a much clearer concept of "tax payments."
As an aside, I cannot resist the opportunity to comment on the desirability of people living in places such as "..the Hamptons, Martha's Vineyard, or Beverly Hills, Monte Carlo... if they could afford it!" It just so happens I DID live in the Hamptons - I am a former resident of East Hampton, Long Island, New York. As to the desirability of the place, I will say that there is nothing like watching a sunrise over the Atlantic Ocean with your girlfriend on a summer's morning. And although a direct comparison between the two towns in not practical for a lot of reasons, I will tell you that a major difference between Mt. Lebanon and East Hampton is that in Mt. Lebanon you have a number of upper-middle class people who think they are rich; and in East Hampton your have a lot of rich people who know they are rich!
Richard Gideon
PS - I hope my wife doesn't read this!
Question, if the governing bodies really wanted the public to participate in the petition, why was it held on a weekday during most people's working hours and at a venue that is something less than convenient?
Why not SERVE the constituents and hold it in the municipal courtroom or commissioners chambers in the evening?
Who is serving whom?
Maybe there is a reason why the public is cynical and just doesn't participate.
From MTLSD...
MT LEBANON SCHOOL DISTRICT
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
TO ALL RESIDENTS OF THE MT LEBANON SCHOOL DISTRICT AND ALL OTHER INTERESTED PERSONS AND PARTIES TAKE NOTICE that the Board of School Directors of the Mt Lebanon School District has scheduled a public hearing in the AUDITORIUM (my edit: changed from Fine Arts Theatre) located at the High School, 7 Horsman Drive, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15228, on February 22, 2010 at 7:00 o’clock P.M. The purpose of this hearing is to review the proposed renovation and addition to the High School and to receive public comments.
The public hearing is to be held pursuant to the requirements of the Pennsylvania Public School Code of 1949, approved March 10, 1949, as amended, including amendments made pursuant to Act No. 34 of the Session of 1973 of the General Assembly.
You'll notice that in the notice there is no requirement that the board listens too or adopts the public will! Need proof, go back and find Ms. Birk's pre-hearing announcement that she was voting in favor of the $113.4 project!
Visit Mr. Fraach's audit & finance meeting where he ask Jan Klein if there will be a future problem with the Act 1 limit and she response that there are always exceptions and exclusions the district can use to circumvent the limit.
So while yes you can slap residents around for not showing up at the hearing. There may be good reason for it.
Personally, I'm still waiting for the Referendum on the high school project, since the original bids exceeded the $113.4 million limit.
And here's a question for anyone that might know. Could taxpayers used the THREAT of calling for a referendum if the $108 million project exceeds the $113.4 million limit to retain some control over change orders etc.
Such as... "school board, you get carried away on this project now and we'll stop it in its tracks!"
Richard, I wasn't trying to make a comparison between the Hamptons and Mt. Lebanon, only the absurd, egocentric exclamation... "I'm sure a lot of people would love to live in Mt. Lebanon."
Like, yeah right everyone in the area is infatuated with moving into our little world. Population figures would seem to dispute that claim, but hey it seems to make the author feel better.
For the record, I understand that no person on this thread was making a direct comparison between Mt. Lebanon and the Hamptons - in fact, I said that "..a direct comparison between the two towns in not practical for a lot of reasons.." to head off any subsequent attempts to compare the two towns. There may be some similarities, in that people complained there just as they do here, but that's about as far as I would take it. And as I recall, the folks in East Hampton could be called a lot of things, but "apathetic" was not one of them!
Richard Gideon
Anon 1:13 PM
I can tell you aren't familiar with the legal system. Judge O'Brien set the hearing day and time- it had nothing to do with our local "governing bodies."
And while I suppose it is possible that the Judge could have held court in Lebo (after all he could have just walked to the municipal building) - that call was also his to make.
Course I would note that the entire hearing is/was meaningless if the county numbers aren't received...
Regardless it appears Mt. Lebanon has experienced a population loss of 8.99% 2000 bringing 2011's population down to 30,023.
It would seem that for all the spending and tax increases people aren't "loving" moving here as some would have us believe.
Whereas Cranberry, N. & S. Fayette, Peters have seen population growth.
I'm guessing its the dilapidated high school that keeping them away... right?
I understand the judge sets the venue.
Just questioning if the purpose or hope is to get public participation why not make it at a convenient time and place?
The numbers on population came from:
http://www.bestplaces.net/city/pa/mount_lebanon
Although by judging voter apathy, turnout for HS hearings, cynicism, etc., the attendance probably wouldn't have changed much ... granted.
Scratch Cranberry, Wexford had the population growth noted earlier.
In a quick review it appears USC, BW , Bethel Park all experienced population losses despite new high school construction.
So can we make an educated assumption school buildings don't play a significant role in attracting new or keeping old residents!
Population decrease is due to the lower number of children that most families have these days. There are few empty houses in Lebo.
Oh okay, so when you said "governing bodies" and mentioned "serve" you were referring to the court not the SB or commission. Question best raised to the judge then I suppose.
Could the commissioners have asked or suggested to the judge to hold the petition locally?
Really there has been a sudden drop in the number of children families are having 2000 vs 2010? If we were comparing 1960 to today, yeah I could see that.
Anyway, if that supposition is true why do we need more ballfields?
Anon 7:58 PM few empty houses in Mt. Lebanon? Can you back that up? I can think of a few empty house in the Foster School area. Maybe it is just my imagination, but I seem to think there are more empty houses on the market than ever.
Good question about the ball fields.
Elaine
My final comment on this thread would be to note that the Court of Common Pleas doesn't move to suit the parties. It isn't the PTA. They don't schedule hearings at night. This is the real world. Much like the rest of life, you either show up or shut up.
Could they have asked the judge to do something that no judge has done? Suppose so. Are you sure they didn't?
Of course its 10 miles from my house to downtown, guess it depends on what local means to you.
Anon 11:52PM, I chuckled when you wrote, "My final comment on this thread..." How will we know since you are anonymous?
But your point is well taken. Heck, we can't get the school board to schedule Policy Committee meetings at night!
Elaine
We forget that Thornburg presented their petition to Judge O'Brien, according to Dave Franklin. This wasn't set up exclusively for Mt. Lebanon.
I didn't expect a crowd to go to the hearing. No one signed up to speak at the final budget hearing in the Municipal Building, the night the budget was passed. I wasn't going to comment until I had heard my soon-to-be former commissioner say that he voted to cut taxes to keep people in their homes. This is probably my last opportunity to say this, but if his house was assessed correctly, that would have had a greater impact on our budget, than my $16.28 savings in "his" tax cut, at least that is what I heard all day long at Foster School during the Primary. I still have two years while she is a public official to complain about Josephine Posti's assessment all these years.
Apathy, defeat, call it what you want. The School Board has taught us well.
Elaine
Anon 11:52
I guess "government by the people and for the people" is just a bunch of meaningless pablum!
Population loss is one of the signs of a declining community.
There are plenty of empty houses in Lebo. I can think of three in my immediate neighborhood.
Post a Comment