Gas Rights, School Board Battles & Panthers' Playoff Dreams!

Issue #035 - October 27th 2023

❤️ In this Issue of Murrysville Local Scoop…

💰 Murrysville Considers Leasing Park's Gas Rights

🗳️ Seven Vie for Five FR School Board Seats

🏈 Panthers Battle Penn-Trafford for Playoff Spot

🪴Murrysville Library's "Houseplants 101": A Deep Dive into Indoor Plant Care

🌞 Murrysville Weather

⭐️ We Want To Spotlight Your Business!

Potential $1.5M Windfall: Murrysville Considers Leasing Park's Gas Rights

Murrysville Community Park, covering 305 acres and boasting amenities such as playgrounds, ball fields, and walking paths, has become the focal point of a potential financial venture for the city. The Marcellus and Utica shale beneath the park's grounds is being considered for leasing by the city, a move that could generate over $1.5 million.

Michael Nestico, Murrysville's Chief Administrator, indicated that the city is in the process of gathering bids from oil and gas companies to assess the viability of leasing the gas rights under the park.

Currently, a bid has been received from Olymus Energy, headquartered in Washington County. Their proposal encompasses an initial payment of $1.5 million, with subsequent royalties of 18% on any gas extracted and then sold from the park's subsurface.

The potential revenue is seen as a means to enhance park programs, make infrastructure improvements, and offset certain portions of the city's annual budget.

It's important to note that there won't be any drilling operations visible within the park. The extraction process would be conducted underground, originating from the nearby Olympus Energy Titan well pad. However, there have been environmental reservations voiced by some Murrysville residents, especially in light of a decision by Allegheny County last year to ban fracking in its parks.

Nestico recognizes these concerns, emphasizing the challenge in making a decision that balances potential revenue with environmental considerations.

Channel 11's Andrew Havraenk spoke with individuals at the park, and the majority seemed to support the city's potential leasing plan. The sentiment was that such a move could help maintain the park without increasing taxes and that it could be beneficial if executed in an environmentally responsible manner.

Furthermore, the city is also considering a similar leasing opportunity for Duff Park, which might yield more than $500,000 in addition to royalties.

A decision by the city of Murrysville on these leases is anticipated in the upcoming months.

Franklin Regional School District Election: Seven Vie for Five Board Seats

The Franklin Regional School District is gearing up for its Nov. 7 general election, where seven candidates are contesting for five full-term school board positions. George App stresses the need for transparency and highlights concerns about a recent court ruling on school funding. Amy Sheridan emphasizes the importance of non-political, student-centric policies. Josh Zebrak advocates for grassroots representation and financial literacy education. Deb Bucciero is focused on preserving traditional values in education. Incumbents Scott Weinman and Vince Azzolina aim to maintain open communication and the district's reputation, respectively. John Fallat calls for fiscal responsibility and transparency. In the two-year seat category, David Murphy, prioritizing student safety, challenges incumbent Herb Yingling, who seeks to uphold the district's educational standards.

Full Story @ TribLive

🏈 Friday Night Showdown: Panthers Battle Penn-Trafford for Playoff Spot

This Friday in Murrysville marks a pivotal moment for our local football scene. The Penn-Trafford Warriors and our very own Franklin Regional Panthers are gearing up for a match that's about more than just bragging rights.

Both teams are in the race for the second spot in the WPIAL Class 5A Big East Conference. The winner doesn't just get local acclaim but also secures a direct ticket to the playoffs. Remember last year's nail-biter? The Warriors managed to edge out the Panthers in an overtime thriller, leading our Panthers to share the conference title.

This year, the stakes are just as high, if not higher. Both teams have faced their fair share of challenges this season, from tough losses to player injuries. But the spirit remains unbroken, and the anticipation for Friday's game is palpable.

While both teams have a penchant for ground play, don't be surprised to see some strategic passes thrown into the mix. The Warriors have been relying on the dynamic duo of Tasso Whipple and Ben Grabowski, while our Panthers have juniors Kyle Dupill and Jake Gentile leading the charge on the ground.

As we gear up for Friday's showdown, it's clear that this is more than just a game. It's about community pride, school spirit, and the road to the playoffs. So, let's rally behind our Panthers and show them the full support of the Franklin Regional community!

🪴Murrysville Library's "Houseplants 101": A Deep Dive into Indoor Plant Care

As the days grow shorter and the temperatures drop, the Murrysville Community Library is offering residents a chance to bring a touch of green into their homes. On Monday, November 13, from 6:00 to 7:00 PM, the library will host "Houseplants 101," a program tailored for both novice plant enthusiasts and seasoned gardeners.

Presented by City Grows, a local gardening expert, the session promises to be a comprehensive guide to indoor plants. Attendees will be introduced to various plant families, learn about their care requirements, and discover which plants are safe around curious pets. The event will also feature a live demonstration on the art of repotting.

But it's not just about aesthetics and home decor. The program will delve into the science of plants, discussing NASA's intriguing studies on them. Attendees will have the opportunity to see real plants during the session, and for those inspired to start or expand their indoor garden, plants will be available for purchase.

This enlightening program is a collaborative effort, sponsored by the Murrysville Recreation Department, Murrysville Community Library, and the Murrysville Garden Club. While the event is free, registration is encouraged, though walk-ins will also be warmly welcomed.

For those looking to add a touch of nature to their indoor spaces or simply learn more about the fascinating world of plants, "Houseplants 101" promises to be an event not to be missed.

We Want To Spotlight Your Business!

Would you like us to spotlight your local business in front of thousands of Murrysville area residents in an upcoming issue of Murrysville Local Scoop?

We ❤️ Local Businesses!
We know our community is brimming with businesses that have fascinating stories and big hearts. If you're a local business owner making waves, crafting unique experiences, or simply putting a smile on our faces, we want to chat with you! "Murrysville Local Scoop" is eager to shine a light on the unsung heroes of our town. Let's collaborate and let the community know what makes your business special. Send us a message, and let's celebrate the spirit of Murrysville together!

👇Select an option below:

 Own a local Business? Apply to be featured.

From Our Sponsor

Franklin Regional Sports Schedule For This Week

Fri, Oct 27
4:00 pm - Girls 8th Grade Basketball vs McKeesport (Home)
5:00 pm - Girls 7th Grade Basketball vs McKeesport (Home)
7:00 pm - Varsity Football vs Penn Trafford (Senior Recognition) (Home)

Sat, Oct 28
10:00 am - Junior Varsity Football vs Penn Trafford (Penn Trafford High School)

Tue, Oct 31
3:30 pm - Girls 8th Grade Basketball vs Norwin (Blue) (Norwin Middle School)
4:30 pm - Girls 7th Grade Basketball vs Norwin (Blue) (Norwin Middle School)

Upcoming Murrysville Area Events

Mother of Sorrows Trunk or Treat
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 27, 2023 AT 6:30 PM
Mother of Sorrows Parish
More Info

Family Halloween Festival at Bella Terra Stables
October 28th from 11am-2 pm and 3 pm-6 pm
Bella Terra Stables
4913 Logan Ferry Rd, Murrysville
More Info

4th Annual Trick or Trot 5k and Kids Tot Trot
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 28, 2023 AT 8:30 AM
Murrysville Community Center
More Info

The Pittsburgh Doo-Wop Big Band's event
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 28, 2023 AT 6:30 PM
Franklin Regional High School Murrysville Pa
More Info

Drive-Thru "Pop-Up" Glass Recycling and Food Pantry Donations
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 2, 2023 AT 9 AM - 2 PM
4200 Sardis Rd, Murrysville
More Info

How did we do on this issue?

Login or Subscribe to participate in polls.

🙌 We could use your help

We’ve got big plans as we get up to speed! But we need your help!

One huge way that you can help us is to spread the word for us.

Know somebody who lives in the Murrysville Region and would benefit from being kept in the know?

Please share Murrysville Local Scoop with them! It’s simple! 👇👇👇