Clairton may consolidate future Memorial Day observances
The city held three separate events Monday.
By THOMAS LETURGEY
For the MVI
Clairton hosted three separate events throughout the city on Memorial Day, but there may be one joint ceremony in the future.
Mayor James A. Cerqua said that option is being considered after talking with members of the local VFW and American Legion.
Other council members, including Tony Kurta and Marla Bradford, said the Memorial Day events were good for the community.
The city’s celebration was honored earlier Tuesday by Allegheny County Council. A proclamation sponsored by Councilman John Palmiere was read into the court’s records.
Cerqua was also pleased with the city’s first free summer concert held Sunday, which he said was “standing room only” at the Clairton Park Stage. It featured Reasons, an Earth, Wind & Fire cover band.
Four other shows are planned, all on Sundays. Brother Time will perform June 7, followed by Stairs Over Clairton July 7, the Bill Henry Band Aug. 9 and Jeff Jimerson and Airborne Aug. 23. All start at 5 p.m.
At Sunday’s event, vendors sold out of food, and “everyone had a great time,” Cerqua said.
He is also promoting “Stars Over Clairton” on July 12 at Clairton Park. A parade starts at 11 a.m., followed by choirs and a series of performers. Fireworks at 9:30 p.m. will end the festivities.
Cerqua said the city hasn’t had a fireworks display before and this should be special. There are also a number of other activities planned for that day.
Bradford and Councilman Lamont Lewis reminded residents that school will be out for the summer June 5 and they hope everyone will “stay vigilant” around children on the streets. “They will be everywhere,” Lewis said.
Lewis thanked residents for participating in Tuesday’s meeting and encouraged them “to bring issues to council.”
Councilman Eric Hatchett alerted residents to make sure their garbage can lids fit, saying, “We could have a problem with rodents.”
Hatchett asked residents to contact city hall if rodents become an issue due to garbage in the streets.
Council unanimously approved several motions, including one establishing a procurement to entice the contracting of minority business enterprises and “women business enterprises subject to applicable procurement laws.”
A motion for $309,890.87 to DiMarco Construction Company Pay Application for work completed on the library build-out was approved, contingent upon final review by the project architect LGA Partners.
Council approved the final payment of $233,935 to Shiloh Industrial Contractors, Inc. for work done on the Clairton Community Pool renovations liner project.
Utilizing the county’s Vacant Property Recovery Program and in accordance with the comprehensive plan of the city, council approved the acquisition and subsequent disposition of a parcel of property at 113 St. Clair Ave.
In smaller allocations, council approved a $1,000 voucher to the Produce Marketplace for the Unity Group of Clairton. That allocation is earmarked for July 11 United Day food.
Council also authorized a $1,000 to Kerie and Roldy Audena as final settlement for damage to their shed. Earlier this year, a tree fell on their shed and the city accepted some responsibility. Cerqua said the damage was estimated to be more, but an agreement was made for the allotted amount.
Council also unanimously approved five general fund warrant payments totaling $215,425.24.
