Infrastructure updates, new leadership, and preparations for a major November event highlighted the Gettysburg Borough Council meeting Monday night.
Council members received updates across multiple departments, including public works, engineering, and finance, while also approving several motions related to borough projects and operations.
Public Works Director Robert Harbaugh announced that the borough’s annual spring brush collection will take place May 18–22, with crews making two passes through town to collect brush only. Street sweeping has also begun for the season, with crews working through all borough streets before resuming regular routes.
Harbaugh also reported that a sewer pipe replacement project along Buford Avenue will begin the week of April 19. Due to traffic and safety concerns, the work will be conducted overnight.
Borough Engineer Chad Clabaugh outlined progress on several ongoing initiatives, including the Racehorse Alley bicycle-pedestrian interloop project, which is now in the design phase and may receive state grant funding. He also reported completion of the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) curb ramp project, noting the borough was satisfied with the results.
Council approved two engineering-related motions: the release of more than $135,000 in financial security for the Gettysburg Area Middle School project and a contract change reducing a street project cost by $10,800 due to the elimination of one curb ramp.
Work is expected to begin this week on Steinwehr Avenue crosswalk improvements, with construction occurring one lane at a time to limit disruptions.
The meeting also marked the first appearance of newly appointed Police Chief Dave Snyder, who was formally introduced to council and the public. “It is my great pleasure at this moment to introduce the public to our new chief of police, Dave Snyder. He’s joining us tonight for the first time. At the bottom of my heart, sir, welcome… we’re happy to have you,” said council presient Matt Moon.
Snyder highlighted a recent promotion within the department and praised officers for their investigative work. “You guys have been great. It’s a good group of people… and I’m excited to be part of it,” he said.
Officials reported a seasonal deficit of about $551,000 through March 31, noting that revenues are expected to improve as spring tax collections begin.
Council also approved a new residential waste and recycling contract with Waste Connections. Officials said the agreement standardizes service across all households, includes weekly trash and recycling pickup, and locks in rates for five years.
Planning continues for the “Lincoln at Gettysburg” event scheduled for mid-November, part of the nation’s 250th anniversary observances. Borough officials said coordination is underway with emergency management, transportation partners, and local organizations to handle logistics for what is expected to be a large, multi-day event.
In other business, council approved routine bills and payroll, accepted two police department assessment reports, and awarded a contract for equipment rental.
The council also approve a motion to appoint Council Vice-President Alisha Sanders as a voting delegate for the Pennsylvania State Association of Boroughs Annual Conference to be held May 31 to June 3, 2026 at the Hershey Lodge.
The council also appointed Katie Beach as a new member of the borough’s Human Relations Commission.
The meeting concluded with public comment, including concerns about proposed outdoor dining fee structures and accessibility requirements.
Council’s next meeting is expected to continue discussion of upcoming projects and policy changes.
Featured image caption: Mayor Alison Lintal and Police Chief Dave Snyder.