Allegheny County Friends of the Parks 
Friends of South Park 
1 
 
Contents 
Friends of South Park - Meeting Minutes ................................................................................................... 2 
December 9, 2021 ..................................................................................................................................... 2 
Friends of South Park – Meeting Minutes .................................................................................................. 5 
March 9, 2022 ............................................................................................................................................ 5 
Friends of South Park – Meeting Minutes .................................................................................................. 8 
May 4, 2022 ............................................................................................................................................... 8 
Friends of South Park – Meeting Minutes ................................................................................................ 13 
July 20, 2022 ........................................................................................................................................... 13 
(AGENDA) Friends of South Park Meeting .............................................................................................. 17 
March 14, 2023 ........................................................................................................................................ 17 
Friends of South Park – Meeting Minutes ................................................................................................ 18 
March 12, 2023 ........................................................................................................................................ 18 
(AGENDA) Friends of South Park Meeting .............................................................................................. 22 
May 3, 2023 ............................................................................................................................................. 22 
Buffalo Inn ............................................................................................................................................... 22 
(AGENDA) Friends of South Park Meeting .............................................................................................. 23 
July 12, 2023 ........................................................................................................................................... 23 
(AGENDA) Friends of South Park Meeting .............................................................................................. 24 
March 20, 2024 ........................................................................................................................................ 24 
(AGENDA) Friends of South Park Meeting .............................................................................................. 25 
May 22, 2024 ........................................................................................................................................... 25 
 
   

Allegheny County Friends of the Parks

Friends of South Park

Friends of South Park - Meeting Minutes

December 9, 2021

Silent Brook Barn

Meeting called to order at 7 pm

Board Members in Attendance: Chair Carolyn Savikas, Vice-Chair Jason Fincke, Treasurer Sue Zemba, and

Secretary Bernadette Fincke. Board Members: Woody Woods, Ed Eichenlaub, Jim Converse, and Dave

Buchewicz.

Carolyn welcomed everyone to the first public meeting of the Friends since the group’s

reorganization.

She asked the Board and audience to observe a moment of silence in honor of Butch Adams, a long-

time Board member who passed away that morning.

Carolyn made a motion to approve the minutes of the November 8th meeting. Woody seconded and the

motion was approved.

Andy Baechle, Director of Allegheny County Parks Department, presented an update of current and

future South Park Projects, including:

Pool filters and UV lights totaling $600,000 were installed at the park’s swimming pool for water

sanitization purposes.

The Green Parking at the Fairgrounds is almost complete. The design of the parking lot will have a

lifespan twice as long as traditional parking lots and will absorb water to prevent flooding of adjacent

roads.

The Cascades Project is complete and a ribbon cutting ceremony took place on November 17, 2021.

The Nevin Shelter is being restored. The materials for the project were donated by Anne and Dave

Olyer. The restoration work is being completed by County Workers.

A new guardrail by the Nurses monument was installed for enhanced safety.

Monies have been budgeted to repair the landslide damage to the road behind the fairgrounds. Repairs

are also planned for Catfish Run.

Andy reminded everyone of the many recreational and educational programs the County has planned for

winter. He complimented the Pittsburgh Penguins for their contributions to the park, especially their support

of the hockey programs.

Andy reported that seven proposals are out for preliminary studies for the improvement of the water

quality, aquatic habitat, and overall aesthetics of the ponds at Maple Springs and the Game Preserve

Allegheny County Friends of the Parks

Friends of South Park

Pond. Andy noted that in the meantime, if the fountains at either pond become inoperable, the County

will consider replacing them.

Andy Addressed operational issues with the solar lights in the park. He reported that the issue is a

manufacturing problem. The manufacturer has agreed to supply drivers which will permit

reprogramming of the lights and additional solar panels at cost to the County to rectify the situation.

In regard to a possible storage area for the Friends group, Andy said he could not commit because

the county is hiring more people so he does not know what storage spaces will be needed by the

new hires.

It was suggested that the three solar lights that were installed by the Friends group prior to the County’s

solar lighting project be moved to the Bocce Courts. Andy said that he would contact the manufacturer

to determine if moving the lights is feasible.

In response to a question asked by Jason if the County had any plans to update some of the restroom

facilities in the park and installing lights at the tennis courts, Andy said it would be something the

County will look at.

As to why the County will not permit swimming in the Cascades, Andy explained that regulations that

would have had to be followed in order to make the Cascades “ a swimming pool” (fences, restroom

facilities, lifeguard) would have prohibited the “historical” restoration of the Paul Riis structure. He

noted that the Cascades bowls have been shallowed for safety purposes.

In regard to plans for the Vale of Cashmere, Andy reported that several foundations are interested in

funding a restoration. He noted that the Vale cannot be restored to its original form because of the

change in the water flow of the area.

Andy reported that all the houses in the park are owned by the County and are rented annually. He noted

having the structures occupied provides for additional security for the park.

Barb Brewton, Allegheny County Parks Foundation presented a brief introduction to the Allegheny Parks

Foundation and expressed her enthusiasm for the Foundation’s involvement in the Cascades project.

She reported that the Foundation uses the Allegheny County Parks Ecological Assessment and Action

Plan for South Park prepared by The Western Pennsylvania Conservancy in 2017 as a blueprint for

projects the Foundation may want to participate.

Reported that several foundations are interested in funding the Edgebrook Pavillion, a Paul Riis structure

and that a proposal has been prepared.

Max Bader, South Park Ranger gave a brief introduction of the Park Ranger

program in the County parks. He noted additional rangers have been hired for South Park - bringing

the total of rangers assigned to South Park to four.

Allegheny County Friends of the Parks

Friends of South Park

Explained that all volunteer activities in the park must be coordinated through the Ranger program. He

mentioned that volunteers are always needed. He noted that the first Park cleanup will be held on

March 27th, 2022.

Max summarized the duties of the rangers as being educational and interpretive. They are not police

and cannot issue tickets.

Carolyn presented the status of the possible acquisition of 50 acres in the Sleep Hollow area of the park

by the Allegheny Land Trust. If the acquisition is successful, the Allegheny Land Trust will donate the land

to the County.

An audience member reported problems with Quad riding in the Sleepy Hollow area of the park after

school and on weekends. Andy asked Max to investigate the matter so that the proper actions can be

taken to address the issues. Woody suggested that a sign stating that No Motorized Vehicles permitted

in the Park be installed so there is not question that Quad riding in that area is illegal.

Treasurer Sue Zemba presented the Treasurer’s Report: As of October 31, 2021, the General Checking

Account had a balance of 10,946.52, PayPal checking account balance: $2,872.86, and Park

Foundation Fund Balance: $3,650.00, for a total of $17,469.38. Sue noted that the following checks

must be issued: $2,800 check for the sign at the Game preserve and $130 check for the Holiday lights

for the Gazebo.

Sue reported that she talked to the bank about removing our monthly fees and they agreed. It was

agreed that the PayPal account will need to be reactivated for future transactions.

Barb mentioned that the sign for the Game Reserve will most likely be installed early next year. Jason

presented a $50 donation to Sue from (Jason to insert name)

Jason made a motion to accept the treasure’s report. The motion was second and passed.

Jason said that he would like to resume the Pond Patrol cleanup crew to maintain the area around

the ponds. In addition he mentioned starting a Litter League for sponsoring in conjunction with

the Rangers general park cleanups.

Future Fundraisers

Carolyn made a motion to hold The Flower Sale on May 7th, 2022. Woody seconded the motion and it

was approved.

Jim and Dave are going to look into what it would take to have the Golf Tournament this year. Ed

motioned to end the meeting. Carolyn seconded and the meeting was ended.

Next Friends of South Park General Meeting: March 9, 2022.

Allegheny County Friends of the Parks

Friends of South Park

Friends of South Park – Meeting Minutes

March 9, 2022

Buffalo Inn

Meeting called to order at 7 pm

Board members in Attendance: Chair Carolyn Savikas, Treasurer Sue Zemba, Board Members Leslie Brueggman,

Dave Buchewicz (by proxy),Ed Eichenlaub, Bernadette Fincke (by phone), Jason Fincke (by phone) and County

Councilman, Tom Duerr. (Prior to the meeting, Dave Buchewicz gave his proxy to Carolyn Savikas via email.)

Carolyn welcomed everyone and noted that Jason had sent our 2021 annual report to Ken Varhola, Chief of Staff,

Allegheny County Council to be distributed to County Council per the ordinance.

She asked the Board if everyone had received copies of the minutes and made a motion to accept them. Ed

seconded and minutes were approved.

Sue Zemba, Treasurer

Sue reported that we only had 2 distributions from the checking account $2800 for the bison sign and $131.40 for

lights purchased to decorate the tree in the Gazebo. Balance of all accounts as of 12/31/2021 was $14,622.98.

Complete report attached.

Andy Baechle, Director of Allegheny Co. Parks Department

Golf course will open April 1. Seventy-one trees have been planted to hide the maintenance building

• The County received 2 bids to repair the chimney at the Nevin Shelter. One for

$23,000 and one for $62,000. Repair will be rebid.

• The wall in the fairgrounds along Catfish Run from the Cottage to the Round Barn is being studied

and repairs scheduled for later in 2022

• The Penn State Master Gardner’s garden may be moving to the little theatre.

• Two proposals to study the ponds on Maple Springs Drive and the Game Preserve were received.

One for $85,339 and one for $37,605. KU Resources ($37,605) has been hired to do the study and is

targeting completion by October 2022.

• The access bridge to Edgebrook Field is going to be replaced

• The County is studying the restrooms in the Fairgrounds and at the Black & Gold playground for

upgrades.

• The oval walking path in the fairgrounds is being refurbished with #10 crushed limestone

• New drivers have been installed in all the solar lights on Corrigan Drive and they are now

functioning properly

Allegheny County Friends of the Parks

Friends of South Park

• Signage will be installed in the new parking lot in the fairgrounds to explain it’s ecological

benefits

Barb Brewton, Project Manager, Allegheny Co. Parks Foundation

• Installation of the Bison sign purchased by the Friends has been delayed. Signs are manufactured by

a third party and installed by the County and there has been a delay in production

• Andy mentioned that the county is surveying all the signs in all the parks with the goal of

making them all necessary and uniform in appearance.

• Pour in the Park, the foundation fundraiser will be held on May 14 and has been expanded to an

all-day event including many free programs. It will still contain the ticketed evening event and

volunteers are needed.

• The Colcom Foundation may be interested in restoring the Edgebrook Shelter and Bridge. Their

decision should be announced in June.

Max Bader, Park Ranger

• Ed Eichenlaub and Max are scheduling work parties to remove invasives from the park,

particularly grapevines strangling trees

• Posters for the Ranger events are available and Max asked that we post on our website as well

as in our kiosk

• Our “Litter League” will be participating in the Ranger sponsored clean up on March 27 meeting at

the SP Ice Rink.

• New Rangers have been hired so now the County has 60 fulltime rangers in the 9 County parks

Carolyn announced that the Allegheny Land Trust had commissioned two assessments of the 59 acres

available for sale in the Sleepy Hollow area and both came back at approximately $1.1 Million.

Unfortunately the property owners did not accept this offer so for now, the property continues to be

for sale. Had the Allegheny Land Trust secured the property, they would have donated it to Allegheny

County to be annexed

to South Park.

Jason reported the first Friends “Litter League” clean-up is scheduled for Saturday, April 23 from 9 a.m.

to noon at the Spreading Oak Barn. The “Litter League” currently has 15 members but he’s hoping to get

to 30. He made a motion to allocate $100 to buy donuts, coffee, water and snacks for the participants.

Carolyn seconded and the motion passed unanimously. Jason registered our cleanup with Keep

Pennsylvania Beautiful who will provide litter bags, gloves and vests at no cost. Future clean ups are

scheduled for June 18, August 20 and October 22.

Sue Zemba, Chair of the Memorial Garden, reported that she had spoken with Sharon Adams who is

willing to help with the fundraiser. Sue said she has the form and Sharon will supply the flags we have

been using. Sue made a motion to continue to charge $5 per flag stating that the goal is to get more

flags as opposed to more funds. Ed

Allegheny County Friends of the Parks

Friends of South Park

commented that he felt $10 was a more reasonable charge as the flags are installed on Memorial Day,

of July, Labor Day and Memorial Day. He made a motion to charge

$10 per flag and Sue was the only vote opposed. Motion carried.

Sue was able to secure a new lighted artificial tree for use in the Gazebo. She found the tree in Macy’s

valued at $ 680 which was 75% off. She had a coupon which brought the price from $125 To $93.75 plus

$6.56 tax for a total of $100.31.

Sue contacted South Hills Villiage several times to see if they would donate a tree but could not get

anyone to commit to donating a tree. Carolyn thanked her for her efforts and made a motion that we

reimburse Sue for $100.31. Leslie seconded and the vote was unanimous

Jason was attending by phone so Carolyn passed out proposed brochures describing who we are and

what we do including several beautiful photographs. He wrote the copy so the brochure could be used

well into the future and Bernie formatted it. Jason recommended that we purchase 500 brochures than

can be distributed at all our events, the park office and local libraries. He secured two quotes, the lowest

being from union printer Rogers & DeTurck Commercial Printing Inc.in the amount of $145. He recently

discovered that there is a mail box for the Friends in the Park Administration Building and he asked Andy

permission to advertise that mailbox on the brochure. Andy was not aware of this box but promised to

get back to us. Ed made a motion to pay $160 for the 500 brochures and the cost incurred to have the

examples printed. Sue seconded and motion passed unanimously.

Bernadette said the website was operational and she would be able to include the order sheet for the

Memorial Garden and our May 7 plant sale.

Carolyn said the Spring Garden Event and Plant sale was progressing. Order sheets would be available

soon. She mentioned that Tree Pittsburgh was going to distribute over 250 trees at the event. Trees

have been pre-ordered on the Tree Pittsburgh website and the Tree Adoption was covered by KDKA

and enabled them to give away all 250 trees in less than 4 hours. Everyone who ordered a tree will be

picking up at the Home Economics Building parking lot while our sale is in progress.

There were a few questions from the public. A gentleman asked why there were signs for no wading

at the Cascades. Andy replied that if swimming was encouraged they would need a fence, lifeguard,

restrooms, etc and the County was focused on a historical restoration as opposed to a swimming

pool. There was a question if the fairground buildings were being used. Andy replied that 3 are rented

but others are in such bad shape, they cannot be used. There are currently no plans to restore any of

them.

Allegheny County Friends of the Parks

Friends of South Park

Friends of South Park – Meeting Minutes

May 4, 2022

Council attendance: Carolyn Savikas (by phone), Jason Fincke, Sue Zemba, Bernadette Fincke,

David Buchewicz, Jim Converse, Ed Eichenlaub, and Tom Woods

Also attending: Allegheny County Councilman Tom Duerr, Allegheny County Parks Director Andrew

Baechle and Barbara Brewton from the Allegheny County Parks Foundation

The meeting was held at the Buffalo Inn and was called to order by Vice Chair Jason Fincke. Mr.

Fincke explained that Chair Carolyn Savikas would participate by phone as she was recently exposed

to the COVID virus and while she was not infected, she did not want to risk spreading the virus in the

event she was a carrier.

Mr. Fincke then mentioned to all attendees that the Parks Department had recently lost a valuable and

highly respected colleague with the sudden passing of Richard Daniels. He then asked Mr. Baechle for a

few remarks about Mr. Daniels, who noted that Mr. Daniels was supervisor of both South and North

Parks and a long-time employee of the Parks Department. He was devoted to the parks and to his

family. Mr. Fincke then asked for a moment of silence in Mr. Daniels’ honor.

Before proceeding with the agenda, Mrs. Brewton announced to those attending the meeting that a

drawing for two admission tickets to the Foundation’s upcoming Pour at the Park event would be

raffled off at the end of the meeting. Mr. Fincke then asked for a motion to approve the minutes of

March 9, 2022. A motion was made, seconded and unanimously approved.

Allegheny County Friends of the Parks

Friends of South Park

Mr. Fincke asked for a report from Mr. Baechle, who noted that the following actions were

recently undertaken by the South Parks Maintenance staff:

1. Repaired sink hole at concert site (another one opened up, working with engineers to

rectify).

2. New window installed at the cottage.

3. Mulched exercise stations, Park Office and Police Station.

4. Asphalt patched the wave pool road.

5. Reclaimed road to Black Ash shelter.

6. Reclaimed various areas in the park

7. Picked litter in various locations in the park.

8. Reseeded the Cascades.

9. Repaired shoulder washout on McConkey Dr. 10.Cut

Meadows and habitat fields.

11.Power washed basketball courts for painters. 12.Power

washed shaded playgrounds surfaces. 13.Power washed

shelters for the season.

14.Opened and cleaned winterized bathrooms. 15.Cleaned

out dump site on Sesqui Dr.

16. Unclogged overflow pipe at pond on Maple Springs.

17. Started to replace damaged and missing grove and shelter signs along with directional signs.

18. Dragged ballfields

19. Deep cleaned buildings that were winterized to open for the season. 20.Removed

graffiti from Tamarac restrooms.

21.Cleaned leaves along fence lines and buildings. 22.Mulched

911 center in Hookstown.

23.Cleaned maintenance yard to prep for new building (District #5).

The following questions were then asked to and answered by Mr. Baechle:

• Regarding rehabilitation efforts of the Nevin Shelter, Mr. Baechle reported that the roof cannot

be completed until the fireplace is repaired. The county has received four bids for the fireplace

and is reviewing them.

Allegheny County Friends of the Parks

Friends of South Park

• Mr. Baechle reported that the old children’s playground across from the South Park Theatre

will be refurbished. The money for the rehabilitation of the Children’s Playground (including

new equipment) has been budgeted and design plans are being developed.

• There were safety concerns expressed about the traffic crossing from the playground to the

South Park Theater. A suggestion was made to possibly install an electronic warning signal at

the intersection. Mr. Baechle said he would research the idea and report back.

• Mr. Baechle and Councilman Duerr presented an update on the building of a new maintenance

facility along McConkey Road. Mr. Baechle and Councilman Duerr explained that the project

has been under consideration and in planning for the past four years and that construction has

been bid and a contract awarded. The facility will be located next to the current maintenance

facilities but away from Corrigan Drive and above the previously occupied Penn State Master

Gardeners’ Garden. He said that the large building to be built will include landscaping to make

it as unobtrusive as possible. Some of the existing maintenance facilities may be torn down or

replaced if their need is no longer warranted.

• Mr. Baechle reported that more tennis courts are being installed and the current ones will be

refurbished.

Mrs. Brewton then gave an update on the Foundations’ upcoming Park ‘til Dark and Pour at the

Park events to be held on Saturday, May 14 from 7:30

a.m. to 8:30 p.m. The family-friendly events will include a yoga session, bird and park historical

walks and much more. All activities are free for the Park ‘til Dark event. Tickets for the Pour in

the Park event are on sale for

$55, $10 for children 6- 16 years, $25 for designated drivers, and children under 5 are free. Pour

at the Park will include beer, food, live music and a kids zone. The Friends will have an

informational table at Pour at the Park.

Mr. Fincke noted that Park Ranger Max Bader was ill and unable to attend tonight’s meeting.

Mr. Fincke mentioned, however, that the Park Rangers

Allegheny County Friends of the Parks

Friends of South Park

are involved in the Friends’ newly formed Litter League, which held its first cleanup on

Saturday, April 23, 2022. Twenty four residents participated and cleaned a large hillside on East

Park Drive between the nine-hole golf course and Spreading Oak Barn. Several truckloads of

litter were removed and the event was considered highly successful. The next cleanup will take

place on June 18 when the Litter League will clean the area from the skating rink to the

entrance of the park at Rt. 88 and Corrigan Drive.

Refreshments were provided.

Mrs. Zemba gave the Treasurer’s Report, noting that we have $14,622.98 in our combined

funds that include our general account, pay pal account and the Parks Foundation account.

Mrs. Zemba noted that flags for the Memorial Garden will be placed around May 24, when

the signs of those persons being remembered will be ready. She also noted that 91 flags

have been reserved so far. Mr.

Baechle said he will remind maintenance to have the grass cut right before May 24. Mrs. Zemba

reported on the following recent expenditures: $100 for a holiday tree for the Gazebo, $200 for

the Friends’ brochure, and $100 for refreshments for the Litter League.

Mrs. Savikas asked Mr. Baechle if the Friends could plant more daffodils (donated) on

Daffodil Hill. Mr. Baechle approved the request.

Mrs. Savikas reported on the Friends’ Spring Garden Event which will take place this Saturday,

May 7 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. A total of $2,116 in purchases has been received to date. An

additional $300 worth of annuals has been purchased for those persons who have not pre-

ordered. With the sale of perennials to be provided at no cost by Mrs. Savikas, it is estimated

that the fundraiser may generate in the vicinity of $2,000.

Mrs. Savikas mentioned that she and Mrs. Brewton gave a presentation about the park and

the Friends on April 13 at the Bethel Park Library.

Attendance totaled 20 persons, which was one of the largest crowds for

Allegheny County Friends of the Parks

Friends of South Park

such a meeting at the library. A similar presentation will be given on June 22 to the Bethel

Park/South Park/Castle Shannon Chamber of Commerce.

Mr. Fincke noted that the Friends’ new brochure was now available for distribution and that

the opening panel was rewritten to make it more welcoming.

Mrs. Fincke mentioned that the next Friend’s newsletter will include articles about the Park ‘til

Dark and the Pour in the Park events and a recap of the April 23

Litter League cleanup.

Councilman Duerr said that he would work with the Friends to try to obtain flags for the

Memorial Garden.

Councilman Duerr thanked Mr. Baechle for supporting a fundraiser held at the South Park

Theater. Mr. Fincke then thanked Mr. Duerr for once again attending the Friends’ meeting.

Mr. Fincke asked if there were any public comments or new business. There being none, he

said that the next meeting would be held on July 20 beginning at 7 p.m. at the Home

Economic building.

There being no further business, a motion was made, seconded and unanimously

approved to adjourn the meeting.

Allegheny County Friends of the Parks

Friends of South Park

Friends of South Park – Meeting Minutes

July 20, 2022

Council attendance: Carolyn Savikas, Jason Fincke, Bernadette Fincke, David Buchewicz, Jim Converse,

Tom Woods, Heather Murphy, and Leslie Brueggman.

Also attending: Allegheny County Councilman Tom Duerr; Allegheny County Parks Director Andrew

Baechle; Barbara Brewton, Allegheny County Parks Foundation; Max Bader, Park Ranger.

The meeting was held at the Home Economics Building and was called to order by Chair Carolyn Savikas.

The meeting began with the approval of the minutes from the May 4, 2022 Friends of South Park Board

meeting.

Ms. Savikas gave the following treasurer’s report as Treasurer Sue Zemba was not at the meeting:

$11,948.36 in the checking account, $2,897.96 in the paypal account, and $2,447.50 in the group’s

Allegheny County Parks Foundation account. Total organizational funds: $17,293.82.

She also reported that the net profits for the Spring Flower Sale was $2,089.96 and $989.20 for the

Memorial Flag Garden.

Allegheny County Parks Report

Parks Director Andy Baechle reported on recent maintenance improvements performed by the

maintenance staff of South Park. In addition to routine maintenance, the following were

performed:

• Dog parks were switched: the McCorkle dog park is now opened.

• Purple Heart Monument was installed.

• The Neville Shelter chimney has been repaired, permitting the soon to be completion of its

renovation.

• The bridge at Edgebrook is being replaced.

• The basketball courts are being converted to a Bankshot design allowing for usage by more

people.

Allegheny County Friends of the Parks

Friends of South Park

• Plans have been made for installation of pickleball courts.

• The children’s playground across from the theatre will get a total renovation at a cost of

approximately $1.8 million. It is being designed by the County parks’ landscape architects.

• The new park maintenance building will be completed next year.

• A preliminary study report of the Maple Springs pond is expected in mid - August. The study,

being completed by KU Resources, will provide detail on the pond’s current conditions-what

lives in the pond and the health of the ecosystem and water quality – and recommendations on

how to make the pond healthier and more sustainable and resilient in addition to details about

the draining and dredging the pond.

• Mr. Baechle reported that three baby buffaloes were born at the Game Preserve this year.

• Mr. Baechle reported that all new shelters will be made of metal and not wood.

• The county has hired two new landscape architects and their offices will be in the old nature

building across from the Home Economics building.

• The Corrigan Drive kiosk was refurbished.

Allegheny County Parks Foundation Report

Barb Brewton, Allegheny County Parks Foundation, gave the following summary of the Foundation’s

recent and proposed projects:

• She reported that several individual donors have sponsored signage that will soon be placed

in the park.

• The Foundation has applied for the following grants:

o A grant to create a Paul Riis Trail.

o A grant for the restoration of Edgebrook shelter.

Ms. Brewton invited everyone to visit the newly completed sculpture garden at Hartwood Acres.

Park Ranger Report

Max Bader, South Park Ranger, reminded everyone about the Allegheny County Park Trails app that

can be downloaded on phones. The app has park and trail maps as well as the telephone number to

report park maintenance issues. Mr.

Allegheny County Friends of the Parks

Friends of South Park

Bader recommended placing the telephone number in phone contacts so when a problem is seen, a

photo can be taken with your phone and sent it to 412-350- 2513. He said that they will be able to

determine the exact location of the problem based on the photo.

Mr. Bader spoke briefly about the Pond Patrol Cleanup which is scheduled for Saturday, July 23 at

the Maple Springs Pond.

Board Motions

Jason Fincke reported on the past two Litter League cleanups, noting that there were approximately 24

people at each one. He requested a motion for the Board to approve $100 for the purchase of

refreshments for the next two scheduled cleanups: August 12 and October 22.

Motion was approved.

Bernadette Fincke made a motion for the Board to approve $50 for refreshments for the Pond Patrol

cleanup on July 23. Motion was approved.

Ms. Savikas made a motion for the Board to approve $30 for the purchase of a brochure holder for the

Corrigan Drive Kiosk. Motion was approved with one no vote from Leslie Brueggman who was

concerned that the brochures would end up as trash in the park.

Ms. Savikas made a motion for the Board to approve $100 for the purchase of Bocce Court and

Checker set replacements. Motion was approved.

New Business and Questions:

Mr. Baechle discussed the County’s policy of renting/sponsoring park facilities. He reported that The

Haunted House generates about $60,000 per year in rent for the County.

He reported that the area currently being rented to the plant nursery on Corrigan Drive will soon be up

for bid. He expressed hope that the current tenant would like to extend his current lease for the next

three years, noting the many community -friendly activities that the plant nursery sponsors.

Mr. Baechle explained that the Highmark paid $100,000 to have 10 signs in the park for a period of 14-

16 months. He said the County determined that allowing

Allegheny County Friends of the Parks

Friends of South Park

Highmark signs in the park was a good fit as Highmark message is health. He noted that the County is

open for advertising partners if the product aligns with health/recreation.

In response to a question concerning the health of the plants in the new Green Parking lot, Mr. Baechle

reported that the contractor is going to replace 75% of the plants in the parking area at no cost to the

County.

The need for a flashing light to warn drivers of the pedestrian crossing from the theatre to the

Children’s playground was brought up by Mr. Woods. Mr. Baechle said that he is looking into that as

well as getting the crosswalk lines repainted.

The Board asked Mr. Baechle to research the possible installation of a shelter-like canopy (similar to the

one at the Children’s playground) for the Bocce Courts.

It was also requested that Mr. Baechle research a possible solution to the overturning of garbage

cans by the animals in the park. Ms. Savikas volunteered to work with Mr. Bader to determine some

options. Suggestions included purchasing new animal-proof trash cans.

Mr. Baechle noted that park maintenance is aware of the flooding problems in the Cascades parking lot

and is working on a solution.

In response to a suggestion that the additional Memorial Garden signs be placed near the Joyce Kilmer

Circle for better visibility, Mr. Woods reported that he is working with Sue Zemba on this issue.

The meeting was adjourned by Ms. Savikas

Allegheny County Friends of the Parks

Friends of South Park

(AGENDA) Friends of South Park Meeting

March 14, 2023

Buffalo Inn

I. Welcome Carolyn Savikas

II. Remarks: Joey-Linn Ulrich, Executive Director, Allegheny Parks Foundation

III. Submission of Annual Report Bernadette Fincke

IV. Report of the Allegheny County Parks Department Andy Baechle

1. Pond Update

V. Report of the Allegheny County Parks Foundation Barbara Brewton

VI. Report of the Allegheny County Park Rangers Max Bader

VII. Treasurer’s Report Sue Zemba

VIII. Purchase/Distribution of Hats/Visors Bernadette and Jason Fincke

IX. Activity Reports

a. Litter League Jason Fincke

b. Garden/Flower Sale Carolyn Savikas

c. Memorial Flag Garden Sue Zemba

d. Outreach Carolyn Savikas

e. Communications Bernadette Fincke

X. Update on Park Adjoining Parcel of Land Carolyn Savikas

XI. Public Comments

XII. New Business Board Members

XIII. Future Meetings and Adjournment Carolyn Savikas

Allegheny County Friends of the Parks

Friends of South Park

Friends of South Park – Meeting Minutes

March 12, 2023

Buffalo Inn

Board members in Attendance: Chair Carolyn Savikas, Vice Chair Jason Fincke, Treasurer Sue Zemba, Secretary

Bernadette Fincke, Dave Buchewicz, and Jim Converse.

Carolyn Savikas, Chair

Carolyn welcomed everyone including Joey-Linn Ulrich, who was recently appointed as the new Executive

Director of the Allegheny Parks Foundation. Ms. Ulrich informed the Friends of her previous work experience

and said she looked forward to learning more about the Friends and working with the organization. She later

discussed new written procedures regarding the use of funds and approval of projects by any Friends’ group in

Allegheny County.

Carolyn reported that Bernadette Fincke submitted the Friends’ Annual Report for 2022 to County Council,

as required by County ordinance. Ken Varhola, chief of staff for County Council, acknowledged receipt of the

report. Allegheny County Council Member Tom Duerr noted that the Friends of South Park was the only

Friends group to submit an annual report.

Andy Baechle, Director, Allegheny County Parks Department

Mr. Baechle updated the Friends on several projects planned or underway in South Park including:

Improvements to the Game Preserve and Maple Springs ponds. While relatively modest improvements

are planned for the Game Preserve pond, Mr. Baechle said that he would like to see the Maple Springs

pond doubled in size, based on recent studies on the pond. He said that it will be up to the next County

Administration to carry such a project forward.

Demolition of most of the old children’s playground at the corner of Corrigan and Brownsville Road has

occurred and new wooden equipment will be installed by the end of the year. Several structures,

including the restrooms, shelter and small cabin will be preserved. Total cost of the project is

approximately $1 million.

Work was bid and awarded to repair the retaining walls along Catfish Run behind the park

fairgrounds.

Repairs have been made to the Montour Trail Connector following heavy rains which damaged parts

of the trail.

Plans are underway to repave the parking lots at the Black and Gold Childrens Playground

and across from the Community House.

Work on the new maintenance facility along McConkey Road will continue this year with the work to be

completed in 2024.

Improvements are planned for access to the Vale of Cashmere off of East Park Drive.

Allegheny County Friends of the Parks

Friends of South Park

Mr. Baechle then answered questions from everyone in attendance regarding a variety of topics including

signage at the Joyce Kilmer Circle and Nevin Shelter, park policy on the removal of dead trees, use of park.

buildings adjacent to the Fairgounds, observance of spotted lantern flies in the park, replacement of trees and

shrubs at the Green Parking Lot, and other issues.

Barbara Brewton, Project Manager, Allegheny County. Parks Foundation

Ms. Brewton reported that the repair work to the Nevin Shelter is complete and that work will start this year

on major repairs to the Edgebrook Shelter, which is being funded in part by Crown Castle. She also noted that

the popular Pour in the Park event will take place on May

20. There will be all day activities free of charge during the day to be followed by the fundraising

portion of the day involving the sale of beer and food.

Ms. Brewton also noted that the signage at the Game Preserve regarding the history of the park buffalos

has not yet been installed.

Max Bader, Park Ranger

Mr. Bader said that South Park now has three full time rangers on staff. He, along with Mr. Baechle, noted that

the County will be hiring 16 additional seasonal rangers for use throughout the County’s nine parks. Pay will start

at $15 an hour. Mr. Bader said that flyers and information is available online regarding upcoming ranger

programs. He also noted that the rangers are currently being housed in the former administration building

across from the Home Economics Building due to a water line break. Once repairs are completed, the rangers

will return to their office adjacent to the Oliver Miller Homestead.

Sue Zemba, Treasurer

Sue reported that the balance in the Friends bank accounts totaled $17,147.53 on October 17, 2022. Since then,

several expenses were incurred regarding the purchase of refreshments for the Litter League ($77.47), candy for

the County’s Trunk or Treat event ($22.44) and for the hosting of a County workers’ Thank You Lunch ($566.35)

The balance of funds as of February 28, 2023 is $16,160.59.

Purchase/Distribution of Hats/Visors

After extensive research, Bernadette Fincke was able to purchase 30 cloth hats as approved by the Friends at its

last meeting. The hats are brown with a buffalo on the front of the cap surrounded by the Friends of the Park

and Allegheny County names. Jason Fincke made a motion to present hats to three individuals who have gone

above and beyond the call of duty in assisting the Friends. Hats were subsequently presented to Andy Baechle,

Barbara Brewton and Councilman Duerr, each of whom has regularly attended virtually all Friends’ meetings

and have been of great help to the Friends. Dave Buchewicz added that a hat should also be presented to

outgoing County Executive Rich Fitzgerald for his support and leadership as well. Jason then made a motion to

provide the four hats and that the remaining hats be provided to those volunteers who assist the Friends in its

activities at a donation of $10. Anyone else who would like a hat can receive one for a donation of $20. The

motion was seconded by Dave Buchewicz and unanimously approved.

Allegheny County Friends of the Parks

Friends of South Park

Activity Reports

Litter League

Jason announced that three Litter League cleanups will take place this year beginning on Earth Day, April 22.

Volunteers will meet in conjunction with the Park Rangers at Sunset Hills Shelter. The Rangers will be cleaning

the hillside behind the “China Wall”, while the Litter League volunteers will concentrate on the hillside and

entrance to the park at Corrigan Drive and Rt. 88. Other Litter League cleanups will take place on July 15, when

the League along with the Pond Patrol will clean portions of Catfish Run and its banks from Maple Springs Drive

toward the fairgrounds, and on October 28, when the cleanup will concentrate on the hillside from the former

VIP building to the Joyce Kilmer Circle. All cleanups will take place from 9 to 11 a.m. Jason made a motion to

approve the purchase of donuts and coffee for the volunteers at all three events. The motion was seconded by

Dave and unanimously approved.

Garden/Flower Sale

Carolyn noted that this year’s sale will take place on Saturday, May 13, one day before Mothers Day. Flowers

will once again be purchased from Gumpto Nurseries, which supplies flowers to the City of Pittsburgh and

Phipps Conservatory. Order forms are available online and will be sent out to all newsletter recipients.

Baskets must be preordered by April 28. In addition to baskets, perennials will be available on site based on

donations received.

Memorial Flag Garden

Sue Zemba, Chair of the Memorial Garden, reported that flags will again be available this year for placement

around the Joyce Kilmer Circle for approximately one week before and after the following holidays: Memorial

Day, 4

of July, Labor Day and Veterans Day. Donations of $10 per flag in memory of a loved one can be

ordered online through May 6. The names of those being remembered will be placed on signs adjacent to the

garden.

Outreach

Carolyn noted that she and Barbara Brewton will continue to meet with community groups to inform the

community about the Friends of South Park and the Allegheny County Parks Foundation. The first presentation

this year will take place on March 20 to the South Park Township Women’s Club. A suggestion was made that

local community cable providers be contacted about airing a presentation.

Communications

Bernadette Fincke said that a newsletter detailing the Friends’ Spring activities has been electronically sent.

The Friends’ website has also been updated to include information and order forms on the Garden/Flower sale

and Memorial Flag Garden, as well as other activities.

Update on Park Adjoining Parcel of Land

A discussion took place regarding current efforts under consideration to rezone 60 acres of property

adjacent to South Park from R2 to R4 residential development. The potential

Allegheny County Friends of the Parks

Friends of South Park

rezoning would allow for the building of 294 townhouses across from the Game Preserve along Sesqui Drive and

adjacent to the Model Airplane Field. After some discussion regarding a variety of concerns regarding such

development, Jason Fincke made a motion that the Friends “recommend that the South Park Township Planning

Commission reject the request to rezone the Sleepy Hollow property from R2 to R4 due to the negative effects

this development would have as a result of its close proximity to the park. In addition to adversely affecting the

natural beauty of the park and surrounding forest, such development and resulting population increase could

also create potential problems for park operations including excessive littering and possible vandalism given the

fact that South Park is open until midnight.” It is hoped that the Allegheny Land Trust would one day be able to

purchase the land and turn it over to the Allegheny County Parks Department for expansion of South Park. Dave

Buchewicz seconded the motion to reject the rezoning and it was unanimously approved.

Public Comments, New Business and Adjournment

There were no further public comments or new business proposed. Carolyn then announced that future public

meetings of the Friends this year would be held on May 3, July 12 and October 4. The meeting was

adjourned.at approximately 8:50 p.m.

Allegheny County Friends of the Parks

Friends of South Park

(AGENDA) Friends of South Park Meeting

May 3, 2023

Buffalo Inn

Welcome Carolyn Savikas

II.

Leslie Brueggman Resignation Carolyn Savikas

III.

Request for Buffalo Location Signs Carolyn Savikas

IV.

Report of the Allegheny County Parks Department Park Rep

Report of the Allegheny County Parks Foundation Barbara Brewton

VI.

Report of the Allegheny County Park Rangers Max Bader

VII.

Treasurer’s Report Sue Zemba

VIII.

Activity Reports

Litter League Jason Fincke

Garden/Flower Sale Carolyn Savikas

Memorial Flag Garden Sue Zemba

Outreach Carolyn Savikas

Communications Bernadette Fincke

IX.

Update on Park Adjoining Parcel of Land Carolyn Savikas

Public Comments

XI.

New Business Board Members

XII.

Future Meetings (7/12 & 10/4) Adjournment Carolyn Savikas

Allegheny County Friends of the Parks

Friends of South Park

(AGENDA) Friends of South Park Meeting

July 12, 2023

Buffalo Inn

I. Welcome and Introduction of New Board Member Jason Fincke

II. Adoption of May 2023 Minutes Jason Fincke

III. Report of the Allegheny County Parks Department Andy Baechle

1. Pond Preservation Status

2. New Playground Update

3. Other Activities

IV. Report of the Allegheny County Parks Foundation Barbara Brewton

1. Status of Game Preserve Sign Installation

V. Report of the Allegheny County Park Rangers Max Bader

VI. Treasurer’s Report Sue Zemba

VII. Purchase of Additional Hats Bernadette Fincke

VIII. Activity Reports

a. Litter League Jason Fincke

b. Pond Patrol Bernadette Fincke

c. Outreach

1. Public Presentations Carolyn Savikas

2. Informational Kiosk Carolyn Savikas

3. Purchase of New Brochures Jason Fincke

d. Communications Bernadette Fincke

IX. Public Comments

X. New Business Board Members

XI. Next Meeting (October 4) and Adjournment Jason Fincke

Allegheny County Friends of the Parks

Friends of South Park

(AGENDA) Friends of South Park Meeting

March 20, 2024

Buffalo Inn

I. Welcome and Approval of Minutes Carolyn Savikas

II. Treasurer’s Report Sue Zemba

III. Report of the Allegheny County Parks Department Andy Baechle

IV. Report of the Allegheny County Parks Foundation

1. Pour in the Park participation

V. Report of the Allegheny County Park Rangers Max Bader

VI. Spring Plant Sale Carolyn Savikas

VII. Activity Reports

e. Litter League Jason Fincke

f. Memorial Garden Sue Zemba

g. Communications Bernadette Fincke

1. Website, hat sale, newsletter

VIII. Public Comments

IX. New Business

X. Next Meeting and Adjournment

Allegheny County Friends of the Parks

Friends of South Park

(AGENDA) Friends of South Park Meeting

May 22, 2024

Buffalo Inn

I. Welcome and Approval of Minutes, Carolyn Savikas

II. Update - Andy Baechle, Allegheny County Parks Department

III. Update - Barbara Brewton, Allegheny County Parks Foundation

IV. Update - Max Bader, Park Rangers

V. Treasurers Report - Sue Zemba

VI. Activity Reports

a. Stone Pillar Globe Update – Carolyn Savikas

b. Plant Sale Recap – Carolyn Savikas

c. Litter League - Jason Fincke

d. Memorial Garden - Sue Zemba

e. Communications - Bernadette Fincke

VII. Public Comments

VIII. New Business

IX. Next Meeting and Adjournment