Redevelopment authority holds off transferring Aaron’s Building funds
CONNELLSVILLE — The Connellsville Redevelopment Authority Tuesday agreed to hold off on possibly using money allocated for the demolition of the Aaron’s Building for another project until the property transfer by the city to a Connellsville businessman is official.
The authority tabled having $73,000 in 2012 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funding re-designated toward sidewalk replacement projects on Gibson Avenue and Pittsburgh Street.
“I suggest we not move ahead with this project until we know for sure what will happen,” said Michael Edwards, authority executive director.
According to Edwards, $50,000 in CDBG money is allocated for Gibson Avenue and $20,000 for Pittsburgh Street.
Connellsville City Council entered into an agreement earlier this month to transfer the Aaron’s Building property, and any adjacent properties acquired by the city, to Terrance “Tuffy” Shallenberger on the condition that he renovate, restore or demolish the building within 18 months of receiving the property.
Under the agreement, Shallenberger will pay $1 to the city at closing and must begin work on renovating, restoring or demolishing the building within 120 days of the date he obtains the property title.
The 100-year-old structure has remained a concern for city officials and authority members for years as it continues to deteriorate.
From 2009-12, the authority saved $165,000 in CDBG money to demolish the building.
Edwards said the funding can be transferred, but the city makes the final decision on what projects it goes to.
Shallenberger would not disclose his exact plans for the building, but did say he has been eying the property for about a year.
In another matter, the authority elected and retained the same officers as required annually for the fiscal year.
Tom Duncan will remain chairman, Bob Flockovich, vice-chairman and Joe Mancuso, secretary/treasurer.
Additionally, the authority discussed a stage floor project at the Connellsville Community Center at a cost of $2,500 being completed by students at the Connellsville Area Career and Technical Center.
The authority also discussed installing a wood guiderail at East Park to be completed by city workers.
Materials for both projects will be purchased by the authority with CDBG funding.
Authority member Bob Shandorf voiced concerns about health and safety issues for project volunteers.
Turning to other business, the authority announced it will hold a public hearing at 6 p.m. June 11 in city council chambers.
The hearing will provide individuals and groups representing the city the opportunity to suggest how the city should use its 2013 CDBG allocation.
The city has until August to submit the application to the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development.