Oct 10, 2017 By Mark Soroka for The 2 min read

WEST NEWTON — A group of students from the Yough School District will soon be imaging new uses for two of West Newton’s historic buildings.

During the council’s monthly meeting, Councilman Dave Tamasy Sr. announced that the Pittsburgh History & Landmarks Foundation selected West Newton’s former G.C. Murphy buildings as the site for this year’s design challenge.

Tamasy said that the students are considering several options for their design, including making the buildings inhabitable or turning them into green spaces.

Each year, the Pittsburgh History & Landmarks Foundation hosts an Architectural Design Challenge for students in Westmoreland County. Judging will take place in May 2018.

Council members also discussed the merits of acquiring these buildings and turning them over to the Westmoreland County Land Bank or the Progress Fund for possible rehabilitation.

In addition, the council hired four part-time officers to join the West Newton Police Department: Ronald Vanscyoc, Joseph Poesatto, Patrick Carroll and Eric Girasia. Council also learned that Raymond Dugan III is resigning as a part-time police officer.

In other business,

n Mayor Mary Popovich announced that the Halloween Parade will be held on Saturday, October 28, starting at 1 p.m. Upon completion of the parade, treats will be passed out at Vine Street Park until 5 p.m. The West Newton gym will serve as an alternate site in the event of rain.

n Secretary Pamela Humenik told council members that a new hand railing will be added to the front of the municipal building.

n Council commended Police Chief Gary Indof for successfully apprehending a suspect who was allegedly involved in a home invasion in West Newton.