Charleroi Council goes on record opposing end to CDBG grants
Charleroi Council on Thursday passed a resolution in opposition to the elimination of the Community Development Block Grant program, a move called for in the Trump administration’s proposed budget.
Councilman Larry Celaschi said the elimination of the program will hurt small communities like Charleroi. He said the borough relies on the funds to make major improvements in the town, including demolition work and street improvements.
Council approved a motion to add two zoom cameras and four stationary cameras to assist the police department. The cost will not exceed $6,800. There are currently about 70 surveillance cameras in the borough.
Council entered into an as-needed agreement with BIU, Building Inspector Underwriters of Avalon, for code enforcement. BIU will be used for residential and commercial inspections.
Hoping to include the community and make the council meetings more accessible, regular council meetings in June, July and August will be held outside in community parks. The regular June council meeting will be held at the market house, the regular July council meeting will be held at the Crest Avenue Park, and the regular August council meeting will be held at the Woodlawn Park.
Council also announced that K-9 officer Rex’s retirement party will be held from 1 to 3 p.m. Sunday, May 7, at the market house.
Brownsville resident William James invited council and the Charleroi community to participate in the first TeamHumanity Summer Games June 17 in Brownsville. Competitors from Belle Vernon, Brownsville, Charleroi, California, Connellsville, Uniontown and Washington will compete in a variety of family friendly events. James said the games will be designed to include all ages. Festivities will include dodgeball, diaper derby, Scrabble, bingo, kickball and s three-legged race.
James said, “When I was with the NFL, I know what happens when people get together to win. They work together and build camaraderie. That is what I hope happens here.”
As found of TeamHumanity, James has been working with local youth and revitalizing his hometown. James said he will be introducing the event to area businesses and organizations in the coming weeks.