Top stories from across the Lower Valley for the week of Jan. 25

Here are some of the top stories of the week of Jan. 25:

- Sharpsburg budget holds taxes steady

Sharpsburg residents will pay the same real estate taxes to the borough in 2021.

The property tax rate will remain 7.5 mills, meaning the owner of a home assessed at $100,000 will again pay $750 to the borough in property tax.

Highlights of the spending plan include $863,358 for police expenses and $122,880 for the volunteer fire department.

- Blawnox working to correct problems at water plant

Blawnox is working to resolve issues at the borough’s water plant after being cited by the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP).

Troubles stem from treatment techniques and have not impacted water quality, Manager Kathy Ulanowicz said.

According to the DEP, the borough failed to meet the standard disinfectant residual treatment, which is the amount of chlorine or related disinfectant in the water system lines.

Residents do not have to boil their water.

- Some private lanes in Fox Chapel up for name change

Fox Chapel residents who live along some private lanes in the borough will be getting new street names this spring.

Council’s move to rename Squaw Run and Squaw Run East will affect about 10 properties.

The move was recommended by Allegheny County Emergency Services to improve clarity for response times.

Residents who are impacted have received notice from the borough and can suggest new street names to council.

- Blawnox seeks volunteers to show best of the borough

Best of Blawnox was launched in January as a nonprofit to showcase good deeds across the borough and help those in need.

The group’s first initiative, Snow Angels, will help people that might not be able to do the heavy lifting.

Volunteers will be matched with people who request help removing snow from their walks or driveways.

To volunteer, email tbestofblawnox@gmail.com.

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