Ross Commissioners Take Environmental Action continued
officials on property acquisitions that would benefit
the community.
“This will be an open, ongoing process, with this advisory
group constantly listening for residents’ feedback and
suggestions,” noted Commissioner Dan DeMarco. “We’re
open to considering anything: electric vehicle charging
stations, restaurant composting programs, educational
programs that discuss energy efficient home solutions. This
is an area where every bit counts, and we want everyone to
have a say in shaping these policies.”
The Board of Commissioners [unanimously] approved
the legislation [by a vote of x-y] at its June 17th business
meeting. At the same meeting the Board also adopted
a pair of ordinances intended to promote a responsible
approach to tree management issues. Taken together,
these policies update the existing Timber Harvesting and
Management Plan as well as introduce controls for mass
tree or vegetation clearing. Parcels slated for imminent
development may be cleared no more than 30 days prior
to the project’s initiation. Without any such planning,
however, large-scale tree and vegetation removal will not
be permitted if the purpose is solely to clear land without
any additional rationale.
“The entire region has seen an increase in precipitation,
which contributes to soil erosion and can lead to
mudslides,” said Commissioner Pat Mullin. “Trees and
foliage, their roots play an important role in minimizing
these effects. We don’t want hillsides washing away,
so we as a Township have to make sure we’re making
conscientious decisions.”
COMMISSIONERS: GROWING ROSS, WITHOUT GROWING
THE BUDGET
We here in Ross Township know that ours is a great
place to live, to work, to raise families, and to build
lasting friendships. Ross is more than a municipality, it is
a community. As the Board of Commissioners – as proud
neighbors in this community – we view our charge as
continuing to grow that spirit. Whether it be improving
services, ensuring safety, shepherding growth, or helping
to resolve disputes, we take our shared obligations to
this community seriously.
Our first and foremost priority is the efficient and
effective stewardship of your tax dollars. Your investment
in Ross Township should be met with tangible returns.
As a Board, we take that responsibility seriously, and
we take pride in our record of balanced budgets. Ross
residents have not seen their taxes increase in over a
decade. In that time, however, there has been no shortage
of new investments intended to improve services and
infrastructure.
“It’s a balancing act,” said Board President Steve Korbel.
“We have a budget available to us, and our job is to make
the most of those dollars. We owe it to our neighbors to
make sure they all see the benefits. I think the results are
evident.”
In 2019 alone, Ross is dedicating an unprecedented
$2.6 million toward repaving roads under its jurisdiction.
Significant investments in local parks will improve
the resources available to and accessibility for all
residents. The Township is also adding an additional
law enforcement officer and a Public Works employee,
as well as a Communications Director that will better
facilitate interaction between residents and municipal
service providers. Additional community events are being
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ROSS TOWNSHIP
added to the Parks Department calendar, while fees are
being eliminated from existing ones thanks to private
partnerships.
“This is a growing area, and we have to stay responsive
to its needs,” said Board Vice President Dan DeMarco.
“Allegheny County is growing, and Ross is an important
part of it. Providing safe transportation hubs, quality
parks, competitive commercial areas, all that, it gives us a
chance to make sure that, as we grow, we’re doing it in a
way that’s healthy.”
A significant component of managing such growth is
responsible investment. This is accomplished through an
array of tools, most notable of which is diligent oversight.
Board members are consistently reviewing budget line
items and contracts to identify potential efficiencies, and
evaluating innovative technological solutions that might
yield long-term savings. Similarly, oversight is conducted
to ensure the highest of personal standards are maintained
when approaching such decisions. Recent initiatives
include eliminating taxpayer-funded health insurance
for commissioners, as well as bolstering ethical obligations
by prohibiting officials from using their current or recent
positions for personal enrichment.
“A lot of people don’t realize that this is a difficult job,”
said Commissioner Pat Mullin. “But we’re proud to do it.
Playing a part in making Ross Township better is such a
thrill. Every day, you get to play a small part in making this
place a little better. Those days add up. You look back after a
while and see those results, and you wonder, ‘what can we
do next?’”