COUDERSPORT – At its latest public meeting, the Coudersport Borough Council tackled pressing budget decisions and contract negotiations, set the stage for future community improvements, and remembered a respected colleague while adapting to new challenges.

Council President and Borough Manager Martin Fry opened the meeting with a new procedural approach, requesting, “We’re going to change the format just slightly. I’m going to ask everyone to remain standing after we do the Pledge of Allegiance momentarily, and I’ll explain why.” The council took a moment to recognize the recent passing of a long-serving member, Dan Glassmire, vowing to honor his legacy during discussions.

The finance subcommittee handed down critical decisions about the 2026 fire department contract. Todd Brown and Dennis Goodenough outlined their review of proposals from the Coudersport Volunteer Fire Department. The department had initially requested a two-mill tax, but “subsequent to that, at that point, that represented a 23% year-over-year increase on the borough taxpayers,” Goodenough explained. After negotiations, the department revised their ask to 1.75 mills.

Community leaders from neighboring townships, including Allegheny and Sweden, met to collectively assess the proposal. Goodenough read, “We are not comfortable granting this increase over what is currently contributed in taxpayer monies…it would not be responsible to pass this increase to taxpayers at this time.” 

The council read aloud a carefully crafted letter, emphasizing the need for transparency and fiscal responsibility, and informed the fire department, “All participating municipalities intend to continue funding the Department at the current millage rate of 1.625 mills for the borough and townships for 2026 before considering a potential increase for 2027.”

The letter called for a “detailed, itemized listing of all expenditures for fiscal years, 2024 and 2025,” a needs assessment, and professionally audited financial statements, signaling an intent to prioritize due diligence and collaboration. Goodenough commended the department’s “strong fundraising results in 2025,” but urged greater “clarity on debt reduction strategies” and highlighted “ongoing concerns regarding self deployment to emergency incidents.”

In addition to the fire contract, the council handled routine business. Minutes from October 15, 2025, were approved, as was the voucher list. The council moved to advertise the 2026 budget for public viewing, and in a gesture of holiday goodwill, authorized $75 gift cards for borough employees and approved a 10% discount on Christmas pool passes.

Stormwater management also featured prominently, with the council voting to join the Act 167 Stormwater Management Plan and appoint a representative to the committee. The council decided to move unspent liquid fuel money into the paving account to accrue interest, and members received reminders about upcoming community events, including “Christmas in a Small Town” on December 29.

Personnel matters were discussed in depth, with ongoing promotions, union negotiations, and staffing gaps under review. The police department’s contract was finalized for the coming three years. The council acknowledged the absence of their solicitor, Mr. Glassmire, whose passing will “make it a longer process than originally anticipated, until everybody’s back on the same page again,” Fry acknowledged.

Public engagement was encouraged throughout, with the council inviting questions from residents. 

Council meetings remain a cornerstone of civic life in Coudersport, blending financial stewardship with community spirit as residents and leaders prepare for the year ahead.