Poorly kept Shenandoah properties could face citations

In the future, Shenandoah properties with trash on porches, high grass or other ordinance violations may receive a citation similar to a parking or speeding ticket.

Borough Manager Joseph L. Palubinsky spoke at Monday's borough council meeting on the possibility of implementing a "clean sweep" program. He learned of a similar program in Allentown called SWEEP (Solid Waste Education and Enforcement Program) during a recent blight summit held by state Sen. David G. Argall, R-29.

"There were a number of good things that we heard and were recommended," Palubinsky said.

He said the program would authorize any borough employee to issue tickets for various ordinance violations such as littering, high grass, nuisances, trash on porches and similar ordinance violations.

"I think the general sentiment among the members of council and the mayor is that ... we want to proceed with this," he said.

Councilman Robert Kulpowicz said the ticket would be like a parking ticket and list various offenses.

"There will be fines and penalties. We don't know what the costs will be at this time," he said. "People have been getting away with things for too long and it's time to put a stop to it."

Tickets would be paid at borough hall. Those that aren't paid or are challenged would go before Magisterial District Judge Anthony Kilker.

Mayor Michael Whitecavage suggested that borough officials meet with Kilker about the plan.

Palubinsky said the borough first needs to check all its ordinances "and see what we can adapt" to the new program. "If some ordinances need to be amended, we'll have to do that, or pass new ordinances."

Palubinsky said warnings can be issued in some cases.

"I really think we can use this to the borough's advantage," he said.

No action was taken by council on the matter. The ordinances will be reviewed by Palubinsky and council for future establishing of the program.

Other business

Council approved a resolution that allows an inter-municipal alcoholic beverage license transfer from Pine Grove to Shenandoah. Isabel Nunez, 2 S. Jardin St., applied for the transfer through the Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board. A public hearing on the request was held Oct. 17.

usalis@republicanherald.com

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Poorly kept Shenandoah properties could face citations