SMETHPORT — Following a 33-minute executive session that was called to discuss legal contracts and personnel, Smethport Borough Council agreed unanimously Tuesday to offer a counter proposal to the Smethport Area School District’s proposal to renew the contract for the two borough-owned athletic fields the school teams use.
The school’s baseball teams use George Murray Memorial Field and the girls’ softball team plays on the Glenn Mencer Memorial Field, both in Hamlin Lake Park.
Under the terms of the current agreement, the school would be responsible for any damage to the fields caused by school personnel, coaches and players. The school district would compensate the borough for the reasonable costs of repairs.
In their counter proposal, borough councilmen have added the words “fans and attendees” to those who have caused damage.
In another matter, council has enlisted the help of State Rep. Martin Causer in attempts to have the Liquor Control Board to reverse its decision to close the Wine and Spirit Shop on West Main Street. Formerly commonly known at the state store,” this one closed its doors September 1.
During council’s consideration of this matter that has local economic implications, as well as adding another vacant building in the business district, it was noted that the state is closing these stores due to costs of operation.
Considerable time was spent discussing the problem of a portion of the sidewalk on Willow Street that is lower than the catch basin, which caused debris to fill the walkway after the recent unusually heavy rains.
The borough has received a quote of $3,990 to replace this 85-foot section of sidewalk and is to contact the property owner about sharing the expense.
Council agreed to a request from Jeff Wolfe to remove an old spruce tree from the location of Pavilion #3 in Hamlin Lake Park. Wolfe will replace it with a blue spruce tree in time for the benefit that is being planned in memory of his daughter, Hannah, on September 25.
In the councilmen’s reports part of the agenda, Jeff Tanner stated that the shade tree commission plans eight plantings this fall.
Council briefly discussed the status of the town’s chamber of commerce. Mayor Wayne Foltz will contact the chamber’s former officers to receive any new information.
