So, why is the sidewalk closed and....

Last week when I didn’t have to dress up like Nanook of the North to come in town, I decided to scoot around a little.


I wasn’t looking for anything in particular, just wanting to see the sites, I guess.

Well, as I have written before, there are still a lot of code issues in our town.

Many have commented on previous posts concerning code issues in our town and it will never end until changes are made.

Columbia needs to have consistent code enforcement and not selective code enforcement. In other words, instead of sending a letter to a resident concerning a low hanging tree branch or a sidewalk out of kilter, why not go after the problem areas.

So, on my little trek through town, I noticed a nuisance bar, which changed it hours because of a probable citation from the LCB. One has to wonder with all of the alleged problems this establishment has had, why it hasn’t been closed a long time ago. Code issues within the building are the least of the problems.

How about the former Sprint building on North Third Street? The windows remain open, a side entrance on Third Street looks like its been pried open. There are also some vents on Third Street that are beyond repair.

And that’s probably the least of the buildings’ problems.

On Fourth Street, check out the former Keystone Fire Company. As of last week, the sidewalk was closed because the windows on the third floor were damaged and falling onto the sidewalk.

All three places should have been closed down a long time ago, but continue to be an eyesore for our town, as our code enforcement people continue to pick on the little people and ignore the big problems.

It’s time for the borough to step uo in this area, along with many others.

Sunday's if this is what we want

With the recent storms of the last week in our town, one place pointed out was the site of the former Etzweiler Funeral Home in the first block of North Third Streeet. The building, which was torn down more than two years ago is a huge eysore in our town and nothing is being done to make the owner of the property to fill in the hole. In the recent rains, the hole has filled up with water. Also, the gate on the fence is unlocked and is a safety issue. This is one of several properties owned by David Doolittle that are in need of repair or have been left neglected.

Columbia seeks part-time help

POSITION: CODE ENFORCEMENT OFFICER CLASSIFICATION: SALARIED/ PART TIME MAXIMUM 19 HRS./WK.

SUPERVISOR: PLANNING, ZONING, AND CODES MANAGER SALARY: $18.48/ HOUR

BASIC DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
1. Perform inspections of properties within the Borough Limits and buildings/structures in all stages of construction, alteration, and repair to insure compliance with standard construction practices, Borough policies and procedures, Borough ordinances, and other local, state, and federal laws and regulations.
2. Investigate safety and health complaints and take necessary and appropriate enforcement action to establish and maintain safe and healthy conditions in the Borough.
3. Review permit and license applications and participate in projects involving outside contractors and their employees ensuring compliance to Borough ordinances, contracts, and safety requirements.
4. Explain code or ordinance requirements to builders, architects, contractors, permit applicants, and the public.
5. Prepare detailed reports, notices of violations, citations, prosecutions, depositions, and testimony for court cases and complete necessary follow-up actions.
6. Compile, file, and retrieve computerized reports and other documents on a Borough computer.
7. Operate and maintain Borough vehicles in a safe, efficient, and orderly manner.
8. Interact well with the public, public officials, fellow employees, and contractor personnel.
9. Perform other duties as assigned.

MINIMUM ACCEPTABLE EDUCATION, TRAINING, AND EXPERIENCE:
1. A.S. in a technical curriculum w/2-years direct experience, or high/technical school graduate/GED with 5-years building construction experience and with home inspector certifications from one of the following: Commonwealth of Pa., National Association of Home Inspectors, or American Society of Home Inspectors.
2. Current and valid Pennsylvania Drivers License.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:
1. Knowledge of building construction and related health and safety requirements.
2. Knowledge and skill in the proper and safe use/operation of a motor vehicle and inspection tools.
3. Ability to communicate effectively both in writing and verbally; listen effectively; and to read and understand laws, ordinances, codes, written instructions, technical manuals, contracts and detailed engineering drawings.
4. Knowledge and proficiency in using a computer with Windows XP operating system and allied Windows software.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
1. Excellent hand and eye coordination, color distinction, and depth perception.
2. Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and; agility and stamina to climb in and out of vehicles; standing or sitting to perform lengthy inspections, investigations and reports; climb up and down steps; climb over and around debris in burned out or dilapidated buildings; erect and remove signs and barricades; etc.
3. Ability to work in extreme weather conditions.
4. Ability to successfully pass pre-employment and post employment drug and alcohol testing and post employment physical examination.
5. Maintain physical condition to comply with state requirements to be licensed and safely operate Borough and leased motor vehicles.