Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Murrysville public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
10 issues in public safety
Crime victim right of access policy (Act 134 of 2022)
A new administrative policy would spell out how the municipality handles requests from crime victims to access records under state law.
Heritage Trail Police Patrols
Overtime on extra Heritage Trail patrols drove up this year's police costs after an incident on the trail; staff said future patrols will mostly be scheduled into regular shifts when staffing allows.
Fire Truck Purchase for Sardis
The 2027 emergency equipment fund includes a $1.39 million fire truck — the next in the replacement rotation for the Sardis fire company — funded by a dedicated 1.35 mil tax.
Road salt supply secured for winter
It's been a brutal January — Public Works has had 18 call-outs and used roughly 2,400 tons of salt, around $225,000 worth. The salt bin and reserve are full, deliveries are timely, and no shortages are expected, though some neighboring municipalities are struggling.
Speeding and traffic safety on residential streets
The road serving the site is roughly 16.5 feet of pavement in a 50-foot right-of-way, too narrow for two vehicles to pass comfortably, and it hosts a busy school bus stop. Residents fear added facility traffic endangers children who walk to the bus stop.
Medic One EMS funding sustainability
Murrysville Medic One is pushing its subscription drive and may ask Council to revisit the $5-per-resident fee that hasn't changed in five to six years, as costs rise.
Police radio encryption upgrade
Westmoreland County is rolling out CJIS-required radio encryption, so Murrysville police need 36 new radios — about $260,000. Council is chasing a state LSA grant to pay for it since the county isn't offering funding.
E-scooters and e-bikes on public streets
A resident reported near-misses with young teens on motorized scooters in her elderly-heavy neighborhood and asked what the town can do. Council said e-bike/scooter ordinances are a nationwide issue and agreed the topic needs discussion.
Bike patrol on the trail
Police have begun bike patrols on the trail, with over ten officers participating, plus trail markers geolocated for faster 911 response.
Act 22 police recording request policy
A new policy spells out how to request body-cam, dash-cam, and other police footage, with a formal review process and possible redaction.