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By Jill Brown

At the May 23, 2016, 7 p.m., Monessen Council meeting, the main topic was the negative publicity the city had been receiving. Because of this attention, a couple of Council members blamed Mayor Lou Mavrakis for focusing on the bad aspects of Monessen beginning with the letter for assistance he’d sent.

However, the audience seemed to agree with Councilman Ron Chiaravelle who said, “You’re never going to fix a problem unless you admit you have one.”

Councilwoman Lucille D’Alfonso complained, “It’s frustrating that the mayor is so focused on the past. Consensus cannot occur when we cannot discuss goals without anger and name-calling.” She said this wondering aloud why the mayor hasn’t shown the library, amphitheater or anything positive in the city.

Mayor Mavrakis came back, “I go public because we have a problem. I dwell on the past, because we do not have a future. Two weeks ago, I get a call from the USDA (United States Dept. of Agriculture). They offered to help.”

Councilwoman Patty Bukowski stated, “The city of Monessen is not a bad place to live.” She went on to read from a letter a list of dedicated volunteers and great places in Monessen, including Monessen Senior Center, Brett Lepresti, John Pasterick, the Monessen Library, etc. She finished, “Council is often criticized for not working together. The Mayor ran with the slogan 'save our city', but it seems like he is trying to destroy it.”

Mayor’s wife, Glenda Mavrakis, said, “We do take pride in Monessen. He had to bring up all the dirty laundry to say yes—we have a problem (in the city). I volunteer at the Civic Center.”
(The mayor donates his paycheck to the Civic Center.)

Resident Tony Orzechowski later commented, “There comes a time when constituents lose faith in their elected officials. It’s the cold-hearted reality that is not pleasant or nice.” He said this in support of the mayor and directed toward Council.

In other business:
• In a report on past events held at City Park Amphitheater (Heavy Metal Monessen), profanity was used during the concert, and disturbed the peace of the neighbors. A complaint was made at the meeting by a resident.
• A presentation given by CDBG Director Debbie Chromulak explained steps necessary to apply for a $750,000 competitive grant. They will base a decision in part on pictures and information showing the city in a state of deterioration. If you have anything to contribute, let her know.
• City Controller Wayne Vlasic informed people if markers are missing on grave sites at any of the 5 cemeteries in Monessen, you may contact him, and the problem will be rectified (724-312-1802).

The Mayor concluded, “I take the heat. I address the problems in this city--and anyone who calls me, I am there.”

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