The Homer City borough council heard from the police chief about a recent “rash of vandalism” along the Hoodlebug Trail, as well as two events coming up next month in May. Additionally, the borough manager offered updates on area projects.
Chief Anthony Jellison informed the board that a small group of people have spray-painted the Homer City Cemetery sign, a building near Floodway Park, and a sign near Yellow Creek. Chief Jellison said that while surveillance footage is currently being reviewed, a reward is still being offered for information:
“We’re looking at a video right now of possible people involved, but we do have somebody who is going to offer a $100 reward for anybody that can give information leading to an arrest and a conviction. All they have to do is call the police department.”
If you have information, the police department can be reached at 479-9190.
Chief Jellison also requested $1400 from the borough for the purchase of two new AEDs, or Automated External Defibrillators. AEDs are used in case of a medical emergency requiring defibrillation, such as cardiac arrest. The council voted unanimously in favor of granting the funds, which when paired with an additional $1,000 dollar outside grant, covers the total cost of $2400. One device will be placed at the borough office, and one will be kept with the police department for use in the cruisers.
Additionally, the police department is planning two public events in May, the annual K-9 benefit dinner and an educational safety program for area children.
Chief Jellison described the kids’ program as a “community safety net.” He said further:
“The program entails basically a lecture program, some short videos of numerous topics, like school safety, walking to and from school, bullying, drugs, safety at home, safety away from home… just numerous safety factors that kids 8 through 13 will enjoy and also learn from.”
The Kids Safety Program is set tentatively for Saturday, May 26th from 9 AM to 1 PM at the fire hall. Anyone interested in signing up a child age 8 to 13 can call the Homer City police department. Walk-ins on the day of the event are also welcome.
The fourth annual K-9 spaghetti dinner will be held on Sunday, May 6th from 12 PM to 5 PM, also at the fire hall. The price is $8 for adults, $5 for kids under 12 and free for kids under 3. There will be a 50/50 raffle with various prizes and baskets. If you would like to contribute a basket or make a monetary donation, Chief Jellison can be reached, again, at 479-9190.
In other news, borough manager Rob Nymick informed the board that the catch basin on Church Street and Rose Avenue has been repaired. He said also that preparation of the Floodway Park ball field and of the pool will begin as soon as weather conditions improve. The same goes for the planting of flowers along Main Street, with some planters still available for adoption.
