The City of Bradford Board of Health heard an update on a West Washington Street property requiring demolition during its meeting Tuesday.
City Administrator Chris Lucco reported that the bid packet is almost finalized for 144-146 West Washington Street, the former McCourt Label building. That project will be ready to put out to bid by the end of the week, pending approval from City Council. That approval was given through a resolution at the meeting immediately following.
Lucco also reported that the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation has been notified of the proposed detour that will be required and approved of the plan. The detour will require the closure of the lanes of North Bennett Street and Interstate Parkway closest to the building, meaning those traveling south on Interstate Parkway will have to use North Bennett Street and those traveling north will have to use Interstate Parkway instead of North Bennett.
The board also approved an exception for a residence in the city to have quail.
Glenn Newswanger of 48 Thompson Avenue has had Coturnix quail on his property since the Spring of 2020, roughly.
Newswanger explained the quail are a project that he and his two sons have undertaken for the purpose of raising and selling, primarily for a food source.
Newswanger explained that the birds are sold via ads online and also to another local business owner, who takes the birds to an auction in Springville for sale. Each bird can bring in anywhere from $1.50 to $5.
When asked by Board of Health members, Andrew and Clay Newswanger shared the things they have learned. Andrew Newswanger stated, “If you aren’t responsible, it doesn’t pay.”
For Clay Newswanger, he learned that caring for these birds is a job that has to be done every day.
Board of Health Director Mike Cleveland reported that the current temporary structure housing the birds is not within 50 feet of any structure and quail are rising in popularity in other cities, where chickens are not permitted. This meets the ordinance requirements for within city limits.
He also reported that there have been no complaints received regarding the quail. The situation was brought up to the board as it was noticed by happenstance.
“That speaks for itself,” City of Bradford Mayor James McDonald said.
There are plans to potentially repurpose a nearby structure as a residence, which would be within 50 feet of the enclosure currently housing the quail, and there is no other viable location on the property to allow it to be distanced from neighboring residences.
However, quail are much quieter than chickens and produce much less waste, which Glenn Newswanger explained he composts.
The board voted to approve an exception for this residence to allow them to keep the quail on the property.
Also under old business, Cleveland reported he met with the Bartholomews regarding the letter and expectations for work necessary at 4 Cornen Street. He discussed necessary building permits and reported there has been progress made at the residence since his previous visit.
