CLEARFIELD – Clearfield Borough Council approved at last night’s meeting the purchase and installation of the mast arm pole for the traffic light on Market and Second streets for $14,933.35 from Tel-Power Inc. of Hollidaysburg.
Councilman James Kling asked if there would be any insurance reimbursement for the repairs of the light pole that was damaged by a semi-truck on April 9.
Solicitor F. Cortez “Chip” Bell said that, typically, the driver holds responsibility for such an accident. However, he said, the truck responsible for the damage was not beyond the height restrictions, and in fact traveled the same route regularly.
Bell asked why the pole’s electrical wire was lower than previously, and wondered if the trees removed for the streetscape project might have been holding the wires up. Leslie Stott, borough operations manager, said it was possible.
Stott said the mast arm could be delivered as early as tomorrow. She added the pedestrian crossing light heads would not be upgraded at this time, as they are included in the streetscape project.
Stott said the cost of the pole can be paid out of Liquid Fuels funds, which had been used before for emergencies.
Kling suggested all the costs of the accident, including emergency services, and paid manpower at the accident, as well as repair costs, need to be compiled for insurance reimbursement. Stott said she was on the phone with the insurance company at the scene of the accident and assured that she will follow up with the insurance company.
Council approved to place a 15-minute loading and unloading parking space on the south side of East Market Street for a three-month trial basis. The decision was a result of a request by Christy Albertson of Sweet Art Bakery for a loading and unloading space in front of her business. It was noted that the designated space would be for use by all businesses in the vicinity.
Council approved to rent a Crafco Super Shot Melter and two pallets of crack sealer material from Air-Vac Equipment Company of Derry. Total cost is $4,840. Street Department Leadman Todd Kling reported that the equipment rental is for one week, which is the same as last year, and the material is better, lasting 7 to 10 years and prolonging pavement life.
Kling said the borough has a similar water-based machine, but the product is not as long-lasting. The street department uses this for smaller or short-term repairs.
Stott noted that the budget only includes one week of rental and the material that can be used in that week. It was recommended that plans for next year’s budget include two weeks rental and materials for more paving repairs.
Police Chief Vince McGinnis introduced part-time officer Alex Burkett, who was approved for hire at last month’s meeting, as well as Kevin Orndorff, whom McGinnis was proposing for hire as a part-time police officer. Council approved the hire.
Council approved traffic restrictions or road closings for several community events, including: YMCA Triathlon (May 16), YMCA Fair Fun Run (Aug. 8), Family Fun Day (June 7), Bloom and Berry Bash Summer Festival (June 27) and Clearfield County Fair Parade (Aug. 3).
The borough will participate in the Kiwanis “Touch a Truck” event on May 30. Borough vehicles in the event will be the police truck, a fire truck and the street sweeper.
