JOHNSTOWN — The city Department of Public Works has a new way of patching streets that City Engineer Christopher Vose said may be more effective.
Vose reported to the Common Council Monday night at City Hall that DPW is taking virgin asphalt to “hot patch” holes in city streets during this time of the year. The hope is this will be a better fix than the cold patching that is done during the wintertime or spring, he said.
“We’re excited about that,” Vose said.
The city engineer also reported on a sewer project on Linden Avenue. He said all the laterals were in, except one.
In other city reports Monday before the council:
∫ Fire Chief Bruce Heberer noted that among training, firefighters did low angle rescue training. In May, the fire department had 174 calls, including a response to three structure fires and 20 hazardous condition calls. The Building Department received $4,240 in fees in May for handling 94 permits worth $938,097 in construction projects in the city, he said.
Heberer also commented on a project that was recently approved by the city Planning Board for a 60-unit family-style apartment complex to be located between North East Avenue and Route 30A. DHC Properties in Chestertown is doing the multi-family housing project.
“I think the housing project is going to be a huge benefit to the city,” the fire chief said.
∫ Police Chief David Gilbo reported his department had 830 service calls in May. The department was involved in 106 criminal cases, made 51 arrests, issued 61 citations and investigated 27 motor vehicle accidents. Training by police has included training regarding evidence rooms.
Gilbo said one of his officers is leaving the city force by the end of June, and he is looking at a possible lateral move.
∫ Diedrie Roemer, director of the Johnstown Senior Center, noted the 50 Plus Club headed by Gary Locatelli sponsored a successful garage sale that netted over $1,000. Proceeds went to benefit the family of Drew Hale of Johnstown.
The center also held a Jubilee Tea, in which members 75 and older were honored. Ten of the members were over 90 years old, Roemer said.
Roemer also reported line dancing will be starting up on Tuesdays from 6 to 7 p.m. She said the center will host Bob Cudmore of WGY radio talking about local history on June 27. She said the 50 Plus Club’s ice cream social is set for July 12. A housing and transportation event will be July 17. She said she is trying to keep the community informed about center activities.
“We get a lot of questions about what’s out there,” Roemer said.
Michael Anich covers Johnstown and Fulton County news. He can be reached at [email protected]
