Washington City Council Optimistic For 2020

The Mayor of Washington and City Council all have an optimistic outlook for 2020. Council met for the first time on Thursday, and all members look forward to the challenges that the New Year will bring. One challenge that Mayor Scott Putnam would like to take on is bringing more home ownership to the city. Putnam explains that the city has a majority landlord base and is looking into ways to change that. He is looking into programs that will educate renters to become first time home buyers and the lending programs available. He feels that home ownership is one way that blight in the city can be battled. Director of Finance, Joe Manning states that the city is on good financial footing and is grateful to the Mayor and council for the cooperation of the group to keep the city on proper financial footing. Director of Streets and Public Improvements, Ken Westcott is looking at a busy paving season and points to the two year long PennDot Project beginning in April in Tylerdale and in the city, some larger projects like Springfield Ave. Director of Parks and Public Improvements, Matt Staniszewski is busy reserving pavilions at Washington Park but is working on funding for new pickle ball courts at the park and is looking into Councilman Joe Pintola’s suggestion of bocce ball courts. The next Regular Council Meeting will take place on February 6 at 7:00 P.M. in Council Chambers.