Accessibility upgrades eyed for Larry Mills Park in Plum

Larry Mills Park has amenities including athletic fields, a playground and a sand volleyball court that appeal to residents of all ages.

Plum officials are looking to make the park, located off Oblock Road, more accessible for those who have disabilities.

Council voted Monday night to authorize the borough staff to apply for $30,000 in community development block grant money that would be used to make improvements at the park that also is the site of the annual Plum Community Festival.

Manager Michael Thomas said the improvements would include paving areas such as the main circular parking lot that is now gravel, installing parking spots designated for those who have disabilities and constructing surfaces to help those with disabilities get onto the playing fields.

Assistant Manager David Soboslay said the project is expected to cost about $80,000. Soboslay said the borough might not receive the entire $30,000 in grant money. Borough funds would be used to make up the difference.

Soboslay said the project is tentatively scheduled for next year and would take about two weeks to complete.

In other business, council voted to advertise the 2016 preliminary budget that doesn't contain a tax increase.

Thomas said the proposed general fund budget sets revenue at $11,788,115 and expenditures at $11,759,411 resulting in a $28,704 proposed surplus.

Thomas said with the exception of a few departments, spending in most does not increase under the preliminary budget.

“Most departments are flat or there is a decrease in department spending,” Thomas said. “There are a few increases.”

The preliminary spending plan recommends holding the property tax rate at 3.78 mills. A property owner with a $150,000 home would continue to pay $567 a year in borough taxes. The owner of a $300,000 home would continue to pay $1,134 in borough taxes.

The budget is on display at the borough building, 4575 New Texas Road.

Council is expected to vote on a final budget during the 7 p.m. meeting on Dec. 14.

Karen Zapf is a staff writer for Trib Total Media. She can be reached at 412-871-2367 or kzapf@tribweb.com.