Mon City reports coyote sightings
MONONGAHELA – Mayor Bob Kepics on Wednesday warned residents of Monongahela about numerous sightings of coyotes in the Mounds area of Monongahela and the Ridge Road area of Black Diamond.
“Keep your pets on a leash or tied and don’t leave them unattended for long,” Kepics said. “If you walk your dogs at night, be aware. Carry a stick to make noise if you come across a coyote to scare it away.”
Kepics issued the warning at Mononghela City Council’s meeting. He added the coyote problem isn’t just in Monongahela, but is a statewide problem.
“We have contacted the Pennsylvania Game Commission, but they have no solution to the problem. Be careful if you have small pets,” Kepics said.
The coyote population in the state has been increasing, and coyotes can be hunted year-round in an effort to reduce the number. The game commission’s Southwest region office did not return a call seeking additional information.
After months of addressing council on behalf of himself and his neighbors concerning the condition of a house at 1124 Lawton St., Chad DeSantis finally received some good news.
The house, which was gutted by a fire July 26, 2015, that claimed the life of James Huffstickler, has become an eyesore to the neighborhood.
“With no windows and food still in the house, it is a haven for pests.” said DeSantis. Councilman Alan Veliky said good news may be on the horizon.
“It may be sold and then possibly torn down and be rebuilt,” Vekily told him.
“In the meantime, we still have the issue of the windows that need to be boarded up. If I had the number of the person that owns the property, I would contact them and I would board them up myself,” said DeSantis.
Veliky directed code enforcement officer Les Pemberton to provide the number and contact information for the owner to address the immediate concerns of the neighbors.
Councilman Ken Kulak reminded property owners that snow and ice must be cleared from sidewalks under a city ordinance or they will be cited.
Three blighted properties, 600 E. Main St., 425 High St. and 512 Park Ave., were rebid and the quotes were accepted by the Washington County Redevelopment Authority. Demolition is slated to begin this spring.
In other news, Joan Langan resigned from the city of Monongahela Planning Commission. Councilman Ken Kulak said there are two vacancies on the board and anyone that interested in serving on the board may send a letter of interest to 449 W. Main St., Monongahela, Pa. 15063.