Andy Close
WARREN, Pa. – An agreement with PennDot to relocate a pair of manhole covers at the site of the proposed roundabout passed by a 4-3 vote during Monday’s Warren City Council meeting.
The item was presented for council’s consideration in February but was postponed until the City received a response to its letter attempting to halt the project. PennDot recently indicated that they are moving forward, bringing the issue back before the council.
Department of Public Works Director Mike Holtz said that the agreement would allow the city to provide labor and PennDot provide the materials to move the manhole covers.
Without the agreement, Executive Secretary Teena Leary noted that the cost of labor, not just the materials, would fall on the city as well.
“This is about coordinated work for adjusting manholes during the project,” said Director of Public Works Mike Holtz.
Councilman John Wortman made it clear that he would not support any official action associated with the roundabout.
“While we may disagree on some issues, I have no doubt in my mind we all want what is best for the city,” Wortman said. “This project will impact Warren negatively in countless ways. Additionally, in a town with an already struggling economy, why would we approve this, which would grind to a halt access to our largest and most successful businesses? Why would we even take the risk? There have also been safety concerns raised by experts. Many concerns have been raised that it will be unsafe for vehicles, pedestrians, and commerce. This roundabout, at this point, is being pushed upon Warren citizens by unelected bureaucrats. My view has never been in question, how I feel about this.”
Added Councilman Jared Villella: “While I agree with Councilman Wortman’s assessment,I fear that there is a precedent that can be set if we were to continue to oppose action taken by previous councils not once, but three times.”
Mayor Dave Wortman echoed similar thoughts.
“There is no question as to where I stand on this,” Mayor Wortman said. “The residents have spoken pretty strongly in terms of their disapproval. PennDot’s position is that they are going to continue on with the roundabout. This council has not taken any final action or decisions on the next steps relative to the roundabout.
The agreement passed 4-3, with Villella, Wendy McCain, Phil Gilbert and Maurice Cashman voting in favor and John Wortman, Dave Wortman, and Joe Michaels voting against.
