Redevelopment having 'remarkable impact,' Pottsville mayor says in State of the City speech
POTTSVILLE — Redevelopment efforts underway in the city continue to make “a remarkable impact on our community,” Mayor Dave Clews said during his State of the City address Tuesday at the Majestic Theater.
“Today, we gather to reflect on the progress, challenges and triumphs that have shaped our city over the past year,” he said in front of about 50 attendees, including city council members, City Administrator Thomas A. Palamar, Police Chief John R. Morrow and Fire Chief James E. Misstishin Sr.
Clews talked about the highlights of various departments, renovation underway in the city and the selfless contributions of firefighters, with the city hosting the 70th Schuylkill County Volunteer Firefighters Convention this week.
He spoke of the two businesses in the county that received the 2024 Community Partnership Awards, CACL Federal Credit Union and Hexcel.
Clews said the future is filled with “promise and possibility,” and he spoke about Alvernia University’s Pottsville Collegetowne, which opened in January 2023 at the site of the former Giant at 500 Progress Ave.
“The city continues to work with Alvernia and other developers to bring additional resources and investment to Pottsville,” Clews said.
He mentioned the efforts to convert the Schuylkill Trust Co. building at 101 N. Centre St. to 60 market-rate apartments. A $3 million grant was awarded for the apartments through the state Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program, which is administered by the state Office of Budget for the acquisition and construction of regional, economic, cultural, civic, recreational and historical improvement projects.
The building is owned by Pottsville Centre LLC and currently houses Beyond Hello, a medical marijuana dispensary that opened in 2021 on the first floor.
Cost for the project could be as high as $9 million, Palamar said previously.
Spirit of Courage Awards
Clews paid special note to police patrolman Michael Hrebik and Misstishin, both of whom were awarded the Spirit of Courage Award. Hrebik responded to a May 9, 2023, house fire in the city and rescued an 11-year-old girl.
“Hrebik’s quick actions and outside-the-box thinking to use a table and chair as a makeshift ladder undoubtedly saved the girl’s life,” Clews said.
Misstishin was recognized for his fire prevention efforts. The girl told him she remembered the fire prevention education she had in school.
Three firefighters were also recognized for having the highest response rate out of 896 calls: Kurt Shellhammer and John Hoffman, Yorkville Hose; and Ricky Misstishin, American Hose.
Optimism, progress
Clews said he is filled with a “profound sense of optimism and determination.”
“Despite the trials we face, I see a city brimming with resilience, innovation and compassion. Together we have weathered storms, both literal and metaphorical, and emerged stronger each time. Our community is bound by not only shared experiences but by a shared commitment to building a brighter future for all who call this city home.
“Let us not forget the power we hold when we unite in pursuit of common goals,” he continued. “Let us continue to bridge divides, amplify positive voices and uplift one another in times of need. Together, we can overcome any obstacle and forge a path toward progress and prosperity.”
