Last evening, the Columbia Borough Council held a special meeting in the Borough Office. Council president Mary Wickenheiser convened the meeting at 7:00 pm in the council chambers. The complete council was present along with the mayor and borough manager. Only four citizens were present.

The primary agenda topic of budget line item reconciliation was the primary topic on the agenda. The transfer of funds from selected budgeted line items to another required council approval. Borough manager Norman B. Meiskey III assured those attending that the transfers were necessary in order to assure that the borough would complete the year “in the black.” Council approved the changes to the budget. These other items were also introduced, approved and discussed:

1. The council approved the extension of the market manager’s contract. Carmen Swinehart’s contract was extended until June 30, 2012. Councilor Kelly Murphy, chair of the Market House committee, stated this was necessary so that when the borough “hands over” control of the Market House to the newly organized Columbia Market House Trust, the Trust would not have the issue of market manager to deal with. The borough is paying all Market House expenses for the first six months of 2012.
2. Council approved the hiring of an alternate part-time crossing guard, Jaye M. Bourne. This position was approved to provide staffing resources in the event of illness or to augment traffic control resources during special event.

The meeting was adjourned at 7:22 pm.

The Columbia Borough Council for the year ending 2011.

Left to right, seated: Jim Smith, Sandy Duncan, council president Mary Wickenheiser, Renae Sears, Mary Barninger. Standing, Kelly Murphy and Michael Beury.