Swarthmore Borough Parks and Public Works Committee
Minutes for July 31, 2008


1. The Committee convened at 9:00 am in Borough Hall. Present were Committee members Mary Lou Parker (chair), Susan Smythe, Philip Jefferson, Borough Manager Jane Billings, Borough Engineer Joe Mastronardo, Public Works Director, Cuzzy Rowles

2. Minutes of April 24th, 2008 were approved.

3. Thatcher Toddler Park - Jane briefed the committee on plans to improve drainage in the park. The work, financed by a $30,000 grant, which we have received, is scheduled to start this fall and is under the direction of Jim Taylor. The sidewalk running by the park, is owned by the borough and parts of it may be upgraded as part of the renovation.

4. Sanitary Sewer Study - Joe Mastronardo briefed us on the results of his study. Our 50 year old terra cotta pipes generate 550 gallons a day of infiltration. This infiltration, which is costly to the borough, is caused by deteriorated pipe joints, cracked pipes, leaking manholes and sump pumps connected to the sanitary sewer system.

Cost of replacing all the problem pipes could run as high as $1 million. An alternative is lining the pipes, which is less expensive and just as enduring. Joe recommends that the borough contract to have the problem areas televised (Cost $3500), with a representative of his company present, to determine which problem areas need replacement or lining, before proceeding with repairs. .

5. Replacement of Leaf Machine - Jane has applied for a DEP grant to finance the $16,000 machine. Since the grant may not be forthcoming until late next year and we are in need of this 2nd machine for this year’s fall leaf pick-up, Cuzzy has arranged to have the cost delayed until 2009, while taking fall delivery. The committee voted to approve this purchase, pending recommendation from the Finance Committee.

6. Jane Billings has received notice from Delaware County that Swarthmore (as well as all residences in the county) will be billed $42 per residence to compensate for fuel costs at the trash to steam plant, which is generating less fuel because of recycling efforts.

6. The meeting concluded at 10:05 am