2017 General Meeting #2, June 7th – Meeting Minutes

  • Brian Schimmel (Chair) and Sam Morris (Vice Chair) opened the meeting.
  • Jennie Kohnfelder from the Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) provided an overview of currently available programs for potential home buyers in Pittsburgh including a lead abatement program.
  • Alyssa Lyon from the Pittsburgh Community Reinvestment Group (PCRG) presented on the Community Acquisition & Rehabilitation Loan (CARL) program, which simplifies the financing process for the purchase and rehabilitation of a property by reducing the cost, time and complexity of obtaining multiple loans.
  • Molly Onufer from the city’s Office of Community Affairs announced that the capital budget deliberative forums will be held on June 8th and June 14th.
  • Vince Pallus, new chief of staff for Rep. Adam Ravenstahl introduced himself and offered help to citizens dealing with state issues.
  • Sam announced that the proceeds from the House Tour will be used for the window flower box program.  It is planned that the window flower boxes will be part of the Christmas in July Troy Hill Citizens event. Boxes will be provided on a first come, first served basis, with reservations for house tour attendees.
  • Brian announced that the Christmas in July event is still looking for vendors (food and crafts) for July 22nd.  A page will be created shortly on the website under the Events directory with full details.
  • Brian announced the Love Your Block Grant flower planting date is June 24th.  Volunteers should meet at 9am at the new Welcome Sign located at the bottom of Troy Hill Road, across from the Penn Brewery.
  • Brian solicited for information / content / announcements for the upcoming newsletter.  The newsletter for June/July will be circulated soon.
  • Brian announced that an e-mail and website announcement will be coming out regarding the date for the new Rialto St. mural unveiling / happy hour / community gathering event.
  • Sam mentioned Patrick Duffey’s four community trashcans, asking for suggested locations and potential volunteers where the city does not provide and service a trashcan.
    • As a reminder, Troy Hill has many neighbor-donated trashcans which are serviced by community volunteers. These trashcans help reduce sidewalk and street trash. Please do not overfill or dump at these locations!
  • Cathy Baysek announced the Most Holy Name Summer Festival, June 9th-11th.
  • Don Donaghey asked about the crumbling sidewalk across from the Provident charter school.  In response, the THC Board instructed that 311 would be the most effective means to resolve the issues.
  • As a reminder, it was mentioned that the next General Meeting will be held on September 13th.
    • Please plan on attending to meet your neighbors, discuss neighborhood issues, and learn about the various Troy Hill and Pittsburgh programs and services available to assist both you and the community you live in.  If you want to get involved before then, please call or email using the Contact page.
  • Brian Schimmel adjourned the meeting.