Borough staff reports: parking app plans, parks outreach, ambulance training and fire safety reminders

Borough staff and volunteer services used their time in the meeting to brief council on planned service changes and community programs.

Parking and recruitment: The borough manager reported that the parking committee plans to retain meters while adding app-payment capabilities; a formal proposal is expected next month or in March. The manager also said the civil-service process is open to recruit for a vacant police position and that the civil service panel would meet on Jan. 15 to evaluate applicants.

Parks and events: Staff described outreach to Holiday Hills residents about neighborhood park improvements and follow-up public meetings planned for Sweet Cherry Court Park and Matter of Orchard Drive Park. Melania (events staff) said the borough is planning the 2026 cruise-in, farmers market, downtown concerts, pumpkin fest and winter fest and is forming a fundraising committee to support community events. She also noted the borough planetarium at the high school and encouraged residents to use it.

Ambulance and training: Nicole from Holiday Spirit Ambulance reported December call totals in Hollidaysburg (113 calls), Frankstown Township (33) and Blair Township (19), and year totals for each service area; she said the ambulance service completed a second EMT course in December and will begin its first paramedic class later this month with 12 students enrolled.

Fire safety: Amy, the borough’s fire marshal, recapped school fire-prevention exercises, reminded residents that recreational burning is restricted and outlined distances (spark arrestor required; at least 15 feet from structures and 10 feet from property lines). She urged residents to clear hydrants, have fire extinguishers and keep smoke detectors working.

Why it matters: These items affect daily life for residents — how they park, access events, receive emergency medical services, and reduce fire risk in homes and public spaces. Several items have near-term follow-ups (parking-payment proposal, civil-service recruitment, paramedic class start).