Funding for New Fire Station Made Official (and More) at Whitehall Council Meeting

Fire Station Officially Receives Funding

After several months of preparations and discussions, Manager James E. Leventry officially received funding to enable Whitehall to begin construction of .

Louis C. Frischkorn, 's vice president of business development for commercial lending/public finance, was present at Whitehall's council meeting on Wednesday night to present a check for $2.6 million. The meeting took a brief pause while Leventry and Whitehall Mayor James F. Nowalk signed commitment letters with the bank.

"Mr. Firman has had a chance to review all the documents," Leventry said, referring to the borough's solicitor Irving Firman, "and he had no objection."

The borough's accompanying ordinance, No. 1033, passed unanimously.

"We appreciate the opportunity to serve you," Frischkorn said to the council after all documents were signed.

Borough Park Lockout

Council member Harold Berkoben voiced a concern on Wednesday that locks had recently been changed at various Whitehall parks without prior permission from the council or Leventry.

"As far as I'm concerned," Berkoben said, "I'll make a motion to change them back. It takes a bit of audacity to do a thing like that."

Chief Donald R. Dolfi explained that "this all started because there were two break-ins at (some of the parks') shutter houses."

When the first burglary occurred, Dolfi said, "no one knew where any keys were." The second time, there was no sign of forced entry, causing concern that entry was gained with a key.

Council member Philip Lahr suggested that Leventry have the locks in question changed again, print a limited number of keys and have key-holders be more accountable for the keys.

Honoring a Golden Anniversary

As part of his effort to honor local citizen accomplishments "past, present and future," Nowalk presented Resolution 875 to the council, honoring Father of Whitehall's .

Haney, who entered the priesthood on May 20, 1961, is celebrating his golden anniversary as a priest. His accomplishments include 28 years of service at St. Gabriel's, where he has also served as school administrator.

Around the Borough

• Leventry reported that planned painting of the has not progressed due to frequent inclement weather. "We're still hopeful (the pool) will open on time," Leventry said.
• Leventry is trying to sell two used police cars and announced that bidding for the vehicles will open on May 31.
• Council member Linda J. Book announced that the borough's 8th Annual Memorial Day Ceremony will be held in the  on Monday, May 30, at 10 a.m. Book is encouraging all residents to attend to honor veterans and soldiers. Complimentary refreshments and a memorabilia display will be available.
• Melvin Pollard, a visiting citizen, invited the council to consider hosting a jazz festival in Whitehall. "I'd like (council members) to come with me and see the jazz festival they have in Monroeville," Pollard said. "Maybe we can do something like that here."