At the May 13 City Council meeting, local leaders took action on several important projects, purchases, and improvements. Here’s a breakdown of what was approved, how public funds are being used, and the positive outcomes for our community.
Community Improvements & Investments
Callahan Park Upgrades – $608,592
Council awarded a contract to Bob Cummins Construction for Phase 2 of the Callahan Park Recreation Improvements project.
Funding sources: CDBG, DCNR & DCED grants, ARPA funds, and a private donation.
Impact: This investment will significantly enhance park facilities and public space for residents and families.
New Police Station Plans
Council approved:
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Applying for federal grant funding through Rep. Glenn Thompson’s office to support the new police station.
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Advertising for architectural and engineering services to remodel the former Northwest Savings Bank into the new Bradford Police Station.
Impact: This marks a major step forward in modernizing public safety infrastructure.
Financial Authorizations & Payments
Police Department
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$1,256 to YCG/Cowden Group – Speedometer calibration.
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$5,520.30 to PA State Police – Computer alert support system.
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Rescinded an earlier vote to dispose of a 2012 Dodge Charger. Council will now advertise the vehicle for sale.
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Approved funds for street paint – $2,786 to SealMaster Hillsville.
Fire & EMS
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$17,967 to Pure Tech, LLC for a new generator at Central Fire Station.
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$15,000 covered by a State Fire Commissioner grant.
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$2,967 donated by Pure Tech.
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$1,386 to Stryker Medical for 3 new stretchers and stair chairs.
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Approved EMS agreement with University of Pittsburgh–Bradford for event coverage.
OECD Projects & Property Upkeep
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$2,920 to B&L Wholesale – Roof coatings for 9 & 62 Main St.
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$2,338.81 to Northwest – Heating repairs, lighting, and supplies.
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$1,312.74 to Northwest from another fund for office and internet upgrades.
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$1,059.20 to Armor Construction – Fire system inspection at Habgood Center.
Grants & Property Support
Downtown Historic District Microgrant
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$4,216.50 awarded to Main Street Office Solutions (50% of project cost) for hallway carpet improvements at 125 Main Street.
Impact: Helps maintain and revitalize our downtown business environment.
Public Safety Hiring
Fire & Ambulance Department
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Micah Jordan appointed as civil service Firefighter/Paramedic.
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Donovan Greene and Gabriel Greene appointed as part-time Firefighter/EMTs.
Impact: Strengthens emergency response staffing for Bradford.
Certificates of Appropriateness (Historic Compliance)
Council approved two improvements recommended by the Historical Architectural Board:
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23 Kennedy St. – Handrail installation at Old City Hall.
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9 Main St. – Window replacements at an OECD building.
Impact: Keeps building upgrades consistent with historic district standards.
New Business Leases
Council approved lease agreements supporting small businesses and economic growth:
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Shellybean’s Sweets – 62 Main St.
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Microtech Knives – Multi-Tenant Center.
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Sandburg Oil, Label Pack Automation, Mark Hollenbeck, Northern Tier Head Start, and Idyllwild Holdings – across city-owned properties including the Habgood Business Center and Holley Ave site.
Impact: Encourages local entrepreneurship and strengthens job opportunities in city-managed spaces.
Fire Recovery Support
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Council authorized an agreement to release fire escrow funds for repairs at 153 South Avenue (previously damaged by fire).
Impact: Supports property rehabilitation and neighborhood stability.
Quick Summary of Major Financial Approvals:
| Purpose | Amount | Recipient |
|---|---|---|
| Callahan Park Phase 2 | $608,592 | Bob Cummins Construction |
| Police Grant App & Engineering RFP | N/A | Internal |
| Generator for Fire Station | $17,967 | Pure Tech (grant/donation funded) |
| Street Paint | $2,786 | SealMaster Hillsville |
| Speedometer Calibration | $1,256 | YCG/Cowden Group |
| EMS Equipment | $1,386 | Stryker Medical |
| Roof Coatings | $2,920 | B&L Wholesale |
| Microgrant for Downtown Carpet | $4,216.50 | Main Street Office Solutions |
Positive Takeaways
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Major improvements to public parks, safety buildings, and downtown businesses.
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New hires in Fire & EMS to strengthen emergency services.
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Smart use of grants and donations to minimize burden on local funds.
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New leases signed to support Bradford’s small business ecosystem.
If you have questions about any of these actions or want to get involved, don’t hesitate to reach out to your city officials—or attend a future meeting!
