There may be very valid reasons for the City of Greensburg to have sold the parklet on Pennsylvania Avenue to City Cribs (“Greensburg officials questioned over sale of parklet,” Oct. 2, TribLIVE). However, I take issue with Suzanne Ward’s assertion that the letter-writers who had concerns about the sale were not paying attention (“Answering questions on Greensburg parklet,” Oct. 25, TribLIVE).
The agenda for the May 1, 2020, City Council meeting says “f. Sale of Property.” No description of what is being sold.
The minutes of the May 11, 2020, City Council meeting simply note that Mayor Robert Bell asked for council’s approval to accept the offer from City Cribs to buy property with the tax map number of 10-04-03-1-071 for $1,200. No discussion. Unanimously approved.
And I would quibble about the benefit of returning it to the tax rolls. Greensburg’s total millage, according to the Westmoreland County website, is 137.26. Even if assessed against the full purchase price, the property would generate less than $15 a year in taxes.
A thriving city needs the participation of its residents. Transparency is important in that regard.
Sandra Finley
Greensburg