Contractor lodges complaints against Perryopolis councilman
PERRYOPOLIS – The borough council heard from a building contractor Wednesday about problems concerning the company’s subdivision in the borough. Mark Simpson, co-owner of B&M Builders, accused Councilman Tom Kmetz of telling interested parties that the Kalman Estates subdivision is illegal and that sewer lines there will not function properly, despite subdivision approval from the council in April 2002.
Simpson also alleged that the rumors have reached the point of costing his business money and delaying construction. “The biggest reason we are here is the bad-mouthing,” Simpson said.
His partner Brian Evans agreed. “We are just doing the best job we can. We bring revenue into the borough,” he said.
According to Evans, the Kalman Estates, located along Constitution Street, will include 16 homes when completed, with five plots already under contractual agreement. He said that those five should be finished by the end of the year.
While Kmetz declined comment on the matter, borough solicitor Sam Davis said that the issue is not with council.
“Your subdivision is legal and authorized. Any action against individual council members is a private matter,” he said.
“No individual member can speak for the council.”
Kmetz declined to comment on the matter.
The council also conducted the following business:
– Voted to send a letter to the parks and recreation committee to hold a meeting with the council about rumors concerning park property.
– Heard from Treasurer Ronald Lombard, who told the council that despite the tight budget for the year, the borough is under budget in all areas, as of July.
– Announced that due to recent complaints about dogs in the neighborhood, Noah’s Ark will be contacted to provide more substantial service to the area. The agency patrols the borough two hours a month.