Penn Hills, Pennsylvania Development News
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Penn Hills July 2026 Voting Meeting
Published: Jul 21, 2026
Penn Hills Updates on Community Projects, Public Safety, and New Construction
Several community development initiatives and projects were discussed. The Manager's report highlighted ongoing in-house paving programs, storm sewer work, and the beginning of municipal paving by contractors. Pen Hills EMS responded to 1,090 calls in June, with a year-to-date total of 5,920. Summerfest is scheduled for July 31st and August 1st, with fireworks on Saturday; a 'movie in the park' was postponed due to poor air quality. A new code enforcement officer, Josh Arvey, has been hired. New construction projects include the Penn School Drive apartment complex ($11.5 million), a Duquesne Light project on Hershey Road ($3 million), and a new First National Bank at the Penn Hills Shopping Center. The volunteer fire departments have been active with approximately seven fires in the last two weeks. The Olympic swim club's conditional use application was postponed due to incomplete documents. A banquet facility application for 124 Jefferson Road may also be postponed. A multi-phase townhouse project (approx. 70 units in phase one) is planned for Halton and Indiana Road.
Ronald Sap Appointed to Zoning Hearing Board
The appointment of Ronald Sap to the Zoning Hearing Board was approved. Mayor Calib praised Mr. Sap's character, professionalism, and dedication, citing his extensive service to the municipality from 2005 to 2022, including roles on the Democratic Committee and Planning Commission. Mr. Sap's background includes retiring as vice president from Operating Engineers Local 66 and his continued passion for construction trades training, where he has successfully helped numerous students gain employment. The mayor presented a proclamation recognizing Mr. Sap's outstanding contributions and the positive impact of his training program on residents' ability to achieve the American dream.
Penn Hills Council Debates Charter Amendments, K9 Kennel Payment, and Board Vacancies
Councilman Carstus presented ordinances intended to place questions on the ballot regarding amendments to the Penn Hills Home Rule Charter. Ordinance 2716-2026, concerning public notice requirements for publications, was tabled after discussion about its timing and process. Ordinance 2713-2026, related to the payment for a K9 kennel for the Police Department, generated significant debate regarding the use of ordinances for payments, the perceived lack of communication, and the proper payment process, ultimately passing with some opposition and a dissenting vote. Ordinance 2714-2026, aiming to clarify the process for appointing an acting manager during vacancies, was debated extensively regarding its language, the process of placing it on the ballot, and its potential impact on disenfranchising voters. It ultimately failed to pass. Ordinance 2715-2026, which sought to ensure timely filling of vacancies on boards and commissions, was also debated, with concerns raised about its execution and legal review. It also failed to pass.
Penn Hills Grapples with Trash Collection Delays Due to Vendor Staffing Shortages
The council discussed a significant staffing issue with Republic Services, the primary trash pickup vendor for Penn Hills. Mayor Calib noted that staffing shortages across the country are impacting trash collection, with Republic Services experiencing difficulties in handling the volume for Penn Hills' approximately 30 neighborhoods. A dedicated phone number was provided for residents to track specific pickup delays. The mayor also highlighted that Republic Services is actively hiring for well-paying positions with benefits, encouraging residents to consider these job opportunities. The manager provided an update, stating that some routes would be completed the following morning, followed by Tuesday's routes. She mentioned that Republic Services has been extending staff hours and utilizing weekend shifts to catch up, serving over 17,000 households. The issue is attributed to a national staffing problem affecting multiple waste management companies.
Contentious Vote Approves K9 Kennel Payment Amidst Council Debate on Process
Council discussed the procurement of a K9 kennel for the Penn Hills Police K9 Division through Ordinance 2713-2026, amounting to $6,250. The process led to a contentious debate, with Councilman Carstus voting no due to concerns about the use of ordinances for routine payments and perceived communication issues. Police Chief Bonise defended the process, stating a requisition was filed in November 2025 and highlighting documented instances of delayed responses. The Mayor and other council members expressed discomfort with the ordinance-based payment process, suggesting it bypasses standard administrative procedures and raises red flags, while also acknowledging the need to pay the vendor. The ordinance ultimately passed.
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