May 6, 2021
Local elections are the most important elections, and that’s no exception when it comes to this year’s Altoona City Council race. I’m supporting Bruce Kelley, Dave Butterbaugh, Dave Ellis and Ron Beatty.
Kelley continues to be a leader on tough challenges we face on council and has a record of being pro-taxpayer.
Butterbaugh is an exceptional resource when it comes to codes/planning in the city and puts in the time to be effective.
Ellis brings a skill set that will enhance Altoona’s outlook. Beatty and his 40 years of business experience will bring private-sector values to council.
About the talk about gathering a group to decide how to spend this $41 million windfall for Altoona. City leaders should already know the proper use. If not,
bkibler@altoonamirror.com
City Council may consider an ordinance that would allow it to prohibit the use of jake brakes, although council is likely to put the prohibition into practice for now only along 31st Street below Mill Run, where a prior study would justify it.
Jake, or engine retarder brakes, slow diesel trucks on downhills by releasing cylinder compression earlier than normal so the compressions which continue to occur even with the throttle off don’t propel the truck forward, according to a video from Jacobs Vehicle Systems, a manufacturer.
The engine brakes are noisy, which has resulted in complaints from residents of the 31st Street neighborhood, due to trucks whose drivers are seeking to reduce speed they’ve built up on the way down Mill Run Road.
Apr 20, 2021
Altoona Mayor Matt Pacifico was right in calling the recently passed American Rescue Plan a “once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.” It is imperative that the city make the best use possible of the estimated $41 million that Altoona will be receiving, to be spent by 2024.
Half of the money will be received this year and half, next year.
Based on the City Council’s April 12 discussion, officials did not express many ideas regarding how the money might be used.
More important, though, is that discussion about formation of a committee to consider project possibilities is now on the table, thanks to a suggestion by the mayor.
City mulls expected $41M windfall | News, Sports, Jobs altoonamirror.com - get the latest breaking news, showbiz & celebrity photos, sport news & rumours, viral videos and top stories from altoonamirror.com Daily Mail and Mail on Sunday newspapers.