Jul 13, 2018 3 min read

MONONGAHELA – Summer nights in Monongahela have been filled with fireworks, backyard fires and complaints from neighbors.

Mayor Bob Kepics said at Wednesday’s city council meeting he has been receiving many complaints concerning fireworks and open fires.

Solicitor Todd Pappasergi said a new state law now allows residents to purchase and set off aerial fireworks. “Some people are happy about it and some are not,” he said.

“The one thing to remember is that no firework may be shot within 150 feet of an occupied structure. That includes anything other than a sparkler,” Pappasergi advised. Those in violation can be cited by police for a summary offense. Pappasergi added residents shooting off fireworks at late hours with excessive noise may also be cited for disorderly conduct.

Kepics added residents should be aware of the smoke traveling into a neighbor’s yard from a fire pit. Monongahela does not have an open fire ordinance, but because the community is part of a river valley, Pappersergi said there are state and federal regulations regarding fire.

Fire pits are allowed, but no burning of garbage is permitted. However, Pappasergi cautioned, “If you are constantly having open pit fires or putting smoke into your neighbor’s yard, you could be subject to a disorderly conduct charge or a civil suit from your neighbors. Keep your fires down, enjoy them and make sure the smoke is not creating a hazard or nuisance for your neighbors.”

Pappasergi also reported the sale of the former National Guard armory at 396 Second St. should be finalized this week.

“There was a hangup with the funding but we should close on the property within a few days,” he said. John Brice of Las Vegas was awarded the bid of $5,250 in April. Brice, a native of Monongahela, said the building will be used as a youth recreation center.

The city acquired the armory building from the state in 1975 with the stipulation it be used for municipal or recreational purposes.

Resident Lee Mizwa addressed council about basement flooding June 10. He said he and about eight neighbors living on Ohio Street suffered damages from a sewage backup during a heavy rain.

Kepics said the city engineer would look into whether stormwater runoff from gutters is being directed into the sewage lines. Councilman William Polonoli said the city is addressing areas that are prone to flooding and will be meeting with the state Department of Transportation and state Rep. Bud Cook’s office to discuss options, including clearing catch basins and dredging part of Pigeon Creek.