Written by Jake Keiter and featured in our September 13th Print Edition
The Jonestown Borough Council convened on Tuesday, September 5th, to discuss several key developments, including progress on the 49 W. Market St. park beautification project, park naming contest finalists, generous donations from Jonestown Bank and Trust, and the status of Jonestown Park.
Exciting Progress on Park Beautification Project
At the heart of the meeting, Council President Thomas Keefer shared exciting news regarding the park beautification project. A total of 54 names were submitted for the park naming contest, which has now been narrowed down to five finalists. The winning name will be unveiled at a special event in the park later this month, generating considerable anticipation among the community.
One of the project’s highlights was the successful planting of trees in late August. Originally budgeted at $11,000, the project came in under budget at $8,700. Keefer highlighted the remarkable community support, with $8,400 in donations collected so far, including a substantial contribution of $5,000 from Jonestown Bank and Trust. In addition to this, it was announced during the meeting that the bank would donate an impressive $45,000 for further beautification efforts at 49 W. Market St., though the specific project for these funds is yet to be determined.
The Council also unanimously agreed to enhance the park’s ambiance by adding tree accent lighting, estimated to cost around $5,000. This lighting will be equipped with color-changing capabilities, allowing for customization to suit various events and holidays throughout the year, further enhancing the park’s appeal.
Addressing Concerns at Jonestown Park
Turning their attention to Jonestown Park, the council addressed concerns about electric bicycles (e-bikes) in the park. While class 1 e-bikes are permitted according to insurance regulations, class 2 and class 3 e-bikes are not. The council aims to purchase signage to inform visitors of these regulations. However, it was emphasized that, based on current ordinances, enforcement remains a challenge.
Jonestown Park is slated for another round of tree plantings on October 7th, demonstrating the council’s ongoing commitment to green initiatives.
Leniency for Property Fines and Pension Plan Obligation
In other significant decisions, the council unanimously agreed to show leniency regarding fines against the owner of 128 E. Market St. The property has been non-compliant since 2019 and has accrued fines exceeding $100,000. However, the council opted to accept the base amount of $3,102.95, provided the property is maintained and no further Notices of Violation are issued.
Furthermore, the council set the 2024 Minimum Municipal Obligation for the non-uniform pension plan at $7,989, in line with the standard employer contribution rate of nine percent of payroll.
TASA Grant and Future Steps
On a final note, the TASA Grant from PennDOT received approval for the CE Scoping form, with the next step being a meeting with PennDOT. A list of required items for this meeting has been received from PennDOT and is currently under preparation.
The Jonestown Borough Council remains committed to enhancing the community’s quality of life through various initiatives and partnerships, demonstrating their dedication to the town’s continued growth and prosperity.
