Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Dormont public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
10 issues in taxes budget with medium priority
Municipal building aging HVAC
The roof AC units are 22 years old and replacement costs doubled to about $29,000 per unit. Council leaned toward setting aside $30,000 from the loan rather than hoping they hold.
Free tax assistance site proposal
Just Harvest could run a free Volunteer Income Tax Assistance site — including bilingual service — in the borough building's community room from January to April 2027, the first of its kind in the South Hills. Council is sorting out conflicts with groups that already use the space.
New finance director hired
Cynthia Stevens starts as finance director October 12, filling a key post just as the borough begins putting together next year's budget.
Bond financing groundwork for capital projects
Council cleaned up the Brentwood Bank loan language and hired bond counsel and an investment banker — the pieces being put in place to borrow for upcoming big-ticket capital projects.
2027 Pension Funding Obligations Set
Council approved the minimum municipal obligations for both police and non-police pensions for 2027 — part of the borough's required retirement funding.
SS4A grant funds frozen pending contract
Federal Safe Streets for All money has been awarded but is frozen until the borough signs the contract — a key reason the Dormont/Dwight calming work can't start.
$750,000 Tax Anticipation Note Repayment
Council paid off the $750,000 note taken earlier this year to cover pension obligations, costing $765,445.61 with interest and fees.
Personnel transitions in borough administration and fire department
Assistant Manager Melinda Szabo is leaving August 24, Day Camp Director Kie McCrae has resigned, and Deputy Chief James Kolesky is retiring through the DROP program after 26 years. Council is handling succession in executive session.
Pension Investment Advisor Search
The updated RFP for a pension investment advisor is ready for a June 1 vote. If approved, it runs 60 days, then interviews and a recommendation, with an appointment by September.
Borough Parking Lot Maintenance
A local business owner and Trash Free Dormont volunteer called out the borough for letting its own paid parking lots fill with trash, with overflowing cans and debris. He wants weekly cleanups and answers on why paying parkers should tolerate it.