🎒 PPS Board votes to close schools

PPS Board Votes To Close Schools

The Pittsburgh Public Schools Board approved a plan to close nine school buildings starting in the 2027-28 academic year. District leaders say the plan addresses declining enrollment, aging infrastructure, and financial challenges, but some families and advocates argue closures harm students and disproportionately affect Black communities. [Public Source]

Pittsburgh’s Finances May Be Worse Than Expected

New projections show the city could end this year tens of millions of dollars in the red, despite Mayor Corey O'Connor's budget reconfiguration. High gas prices and inflation are driving up costs, the city already spent more than expected on overtime (largely because of January's snowstorm), and it's collecting less tax revenue than anticipated. [🔒Post-Gazette]

• Can we fix our budget problems? City Controller Rachael Heisler shares her take. [City Cast Pittsburgh]

Multiple Bars, Restaurants Announce Closures

Cue the “womp womps”: Goodlander Cocktail Brewery in Larimer says June 6 is the last day to visit its taproom; Meadeville’s Voodoo Brewing (which has an outpost in New Kensington) notified past investors of intentions to sell; and McCormick & Schmick’s Seafood & Steaks closed its Downtown location after 18 years on Fifth Avenue. [Goodlander / Breweries in PA / TribLive]

• More challenges: The Abbey on Butler Street filed for bankruptcy, but the restaurants’ lawyer say it’ll remain open. [🔒 Business Times]

‘Forever Chemical’ Regulation Whiplash

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency just announced it would give PA more than $39 million to address PFAS contamination in drinking water, while also saying it would roll back PFAS regulations nationwide. Dubbed “forever chemicals” because they don’t break down, PFAS can accumulate in the body and are linked to developmental delays in children, some cancers, and other health issues. [Allegheny Front]

Backyards in the Burgh are like urban sanctuaries — if you’re lucky enough to have one. But just because it’s your property doesn’t mean you can do whatever you want. We dug into the city, county, and state rules for growing, building, and entertaining so you can enjoy outdoor living while keeping the peace with your neighbors.

Can I Keep Animals?

Yes. There are limits, and it depends how big your yard is. For chickens, ducks, bees, and goats, you need at least 2,000 square feet. That can get you up to five chickens or ducks, two beehives, and two miniature goats — IF you don’t also have chickens and ducks. Full size goats are allowed on lots over 10,000 square feet. For other farm animals, you need at least two acres and an agriculture designation. Bees must also be registered with the state.

Can I Burn Things?

In small quantities, yes. City residents follow state law, so you can set off consumer grade fireworks as long as you’re 150 feet from a building or vehicle and have permission to be there. Large displays require fees, permits, and inspections. The county governs rules for burning other things, like in a campfire, burn barrel, homemade pit, Solo Stove, etc. Small fires under 3’×3’×2’ must be at least 15 feet from structures, and permits may be required. If you want to burn bigger things for “destruction,” you need an open burn permit.

Can I Be Naked?

Yes, according to the city, you’re safe as long as you’re out of public view. Pennsylvania law bans indecent exposure in public places, or if you are intentionally exposing yourself where others can see you. Maybe suss out the neighborhood vibe first.