Aquatic Center Moves Forward In Peters Township

The construction of a new aquatic center in Peters Township’s Rolling Hills Park took center stage again at Monday night’s council meeting. Council awarded a contract for $65,500 to Kimmel-Bogrette for the design of the center. The vote to approve was narrow once again with the majority approving the contract 4-2-1. Council members Monica Merrell and Frank Arcuri voted against the project. Councilman Gary Stiegel abstained. Council then approved the creation of an advisory committee to oversee the project. Chairman David Ball appointed Council members Bob Lewis, Frank Kosir and Frank Arcuri to serve on the committee. Arcuri declined citing lack of time. Ball then appointed James Berquist to the post. Arcuri did make an impassioned speech wondering if spending upwards of $10 million is an appropriate use of funds saying that it is possible to build out the rest of the park for that money and not have to worry if an aquatic center that is used 3 to 4 months a year will cover its operating costs. Council also set September 14 as a date to hold a public hearing for a proposed amendment to the zoning ordinance relating to wireless communication facilities. Cell phone towers and upcoming installation of towers to handle 5G communications will be addressed.