By ColumbiaPa.online
The Columbia Borough Council met for a packed and wide‑ranging meeting on March 24, 2026, with a full house and two hours of resident comments, project updates, public safety discussions, and key votes on issues shaping the borough’s next year.
Below is your full community roundup.
Opening of Meeting
Council opened with roll call and a moment of silence before approving an updated agenda that added a new fire department box‑assignment authorization to the action items.
PUBLIC COMMENT RECAP
Residents brought forward a wide range of concerns, frustrations, and requests:
1. Dog Waste, Disturbances & Animal Issues
Multiple residents expressed frustration about dog waste, barking dogs at night, and ongoing feral cat nuisances.
– One resident warned that irresponsible ownership could lead to dangerous consequences for pets.
– Council firmly rejected any implication of harming animals, reiterating that violations should be handled through official channels.
– Cat‑related health concerns, property damage, and lack of effective enforcement were again discussed.
2. Transparency, Emails & Police Proposal Concerns
Residents revisited concerns over:
- The previously undisclosed police merger proposal with Wrightsville.
- A lack of clarity in communication from borough leadership.
- Allegations of incomplete transparency on email investigations.
Several speakers requested more openness, acknowledgment of mistakes, and proactive communication.
Council reiterated:
- Some matters are legally confidential.
- No charges were filed regarding the email investigation.
- Transparency will continue improving where possible.
3. Single Trash Hauler Debate
Residents remain sharply divided over whether Columbia should move to a single‑hauler trash system.
Key points raised:
- Some residents pay as low as $99/quarter; others reported paying over $160.
- Heavy truck traffic was cited as damaging roads.
- Rental properties remain difficult to track for trash compliance.
- Mayor Lutz and council members clarified NO proposal is drafted yet—discussion will begin in an April work session.
- Residents want clearer definitions of “choice,” performance expectations, and cost.
4. Trespassing Concerns on the Former Ministeel Property
A resident reported teens entering the posted property.
– Sign visibility was poor.
– Council agreed better posting may be needed.
5. Community Communication & Local News Recognition
ColumbiaPA.online and Columbia Spy delivered a joint message requesting:
- Formal borough recognition of local news outlets,
- A partnership to improve public communication,
- Faster, clearer distribution of borough information.
Points made:
- Borough livestreams currently reach 40–60 views, often with technical issues.
- Local news sites reach thousands daily across Facebook and community discussions.
- Residents often rely on written summaries and follow-up reporting.
- Recognition would improve transparency, reduce confusion, and strengthen communication.
The room responded positively, and council indicated willingness to collaborate.
6. Livestream & Audio Problems
Residents again criticized the borough’s livestream system failures.
Council response:
- The system may need to be replaced entirely.
- A vendor was recently onsite, but issues continued.
- Council acknowledged the embarrassment and vowed to fix the problem.
7. “Mayor Driving Police Cruiser” Rumor
A resident asked whether the mayor had been seen driving a police vehicle.
The mayor:
- “I have never driven a police cruiser.”
- Laughter followed as proof placed him elsewhere at the reported time.
- Council advised the resident to bring photos if concerns persist.
PRESENTATIONS
Columbia Crossing 2025 Annual Report
Susquehanna National Heritage Area highlighted:
- Nearly 24,000 visitors in 2025.
- 200,000 total visitors since opening 10 years ago.
- A major rise in trail‑only visitors.
- Strong school engagement, including 800 students last year.
- Expanding Riverfest and new programs planned for Columbia’s 300th anniversary and America’s 250th.
Notable recognition:
Manager Megan received the first‑ever Discover Lancaster Hospitality Award.
MAYOR & POLICE UPDATES
Recycling & Windstorm Cleanup
High winds sent trash blowing through town.
Residents were urged to:
- Secure containers,
- Avoid setting out loose recyclables on windy days.
Bike & Scooter Enforcement Coming
Police will increase enforcement of electric bike and scooter laws:
- Required lights
- Safe operation
- Helmet education
A Bike Safety Rodeo will be held May 2 at River Park.
Police Hiring Progress
- 9 of 12 applicants passed the written exam.
- Physical testing scheduled for April 18.
- Corporal promotion results received.
- New Millersville University police academy launching in 2027.
ACTION ITEMS & APPROVALS
✔ EMS Contract with Penn State Lifeline – APPROVED
Key details:
- 10‑year contract.
- $5 per‑capita fee begins after five years.
- Borough retains a 180‑day opt‑out.
- Lifeline currently serves Route 30 corridor municipalities with positive reviews.
- MESPA billing dispute is being resolved; no future invoices expected.
✔ Resolution 2026‑14 – Columbia Crossing Beam Repair Grant
Council approved applying for a $200,000 DCNR grant to repair deteriorating structural beams.
Total estimated cost: ~$400,000
Multiple grants may be combined to cover full cost.
✔ Advertisement of New Ordinances
Council approved advertising:
- 958 – River Park parking zones
- 959 – Fire inspector updates
- 960 – Real estate tax rebate for volunteer firefighters
- 961 – Mobile Food Trucks (with amended language limiting it to public spaces)
Food truck ordinance sparked lengthy debate.
Key change:
- Trucks on private property will NOT require a permit.
- Permits required only on borough streets, sidewalks, parks, and public spaces.
Council will refine fees later.
✔ Fire Department Box Assignments – APPROVED
Updates include:
- Columbia’s rescue removed from first alarm due to staffing patterns.
- West Hempfield’s engine added.
- Mountville (soon “Iron Ridge Station 7”) added to improve reliability.
- Duty‑officer notification order corrected.
✔ Endorsement Letter – Underground Railroad Museum
Council approved a letter supporting the project across from the borough office.
✔ COA Approved – 210 Poplar Street
Straightforward approval with no conditions.
EVENTS & SPECIAL USE REQUESTS
Riverfest Watch Party – APPROVED
June 28, 2026 – Columbia River Park
Hosted by SNHA + Columbia 300
Bike Safety Rodeo – APPROVED
May 2, 2026 – River Park
Partnership with Columbia Police & Parks and Rec
Witch Harvest Festival
Decision delayed until legal clarification on fees/donations for borough-run events.
KEY GOVERNMENT & ORDINANCE WORK COMING UP
- Rental ordinance “disruptive conduct” language must be updated to comply with new state rulings.
- New case law affects street‑cut permit fees for utilities.
- Council’s work session on April 7 will address trash‑hauler discussion, festival fee legality, and Cherry Street safety concerns.
NEXT MEETING
Workshop:
📅 Tuesday, April 7, 2026
🕖 7:00 PM
📍 Borough Council Chambers
