HomeMy WebLinkAboutPlanning - Franklin County Planning Department (2)Franklin C•unty Planning Department
2 72 North Seeona Street
Chambersburg, PA I 720 I
Phone: 717-261-3855
Fax: 717-264-8667
Email: planning(«)franklincountypa.gov
Franklin
County
CDBG Plan
Adoptions
Table of Contents:
504 & Transition Plan
Citizen Participation Plan
Program Income Reutilization Plan
Antidisplacement & Relocation Plan
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Franklin County,
Pennsylvania
CITIZEN PARTICIPATION
PLAN
Applicable To: Community Development
Block Grant Program
Purpose
The Citizen Participation Plan (CPP) identifies the processes and procedures used by the
Franklin County Planning Commission in administering the Community Development Block
Grant program, on behalf of the Franklin County Board of Commissioners, to provide an
effective public education and outreach program.
State & Federal Regulations
Pennsylvania Sunshine Law
The Pennsylvania Sunshine Law, Act 84 of 1986 as amended June 15, 1993, February 26, 1996,
and October 15, 1998 requires public agencies to advertise and provide public notice to
meetings and allow for attendance and reasonable public comment at meetings.
Title VI ofthe Civil Rights Act
Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 ensures that "No person in the United States shall, on
the basis of race, color, or national origin be excluded from participation in, be denied the
benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any program or activity receiving Federal
financial assistance" (Title VI, Civil Rights Act of 1964, U.S.C. 42, Sec 2000d et seq). Title VI
applies to all federally-funded projects and activities and imposes statutory and regulatory
requirements. Title VI does not include low-income population.
ADA -Americans with Disabilities Act
The Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 prohibits public agencies from discriminating
against people with disabilities. Public agencies are required to ensure accessibility to services,
programs, or activities. Public meetings are to be held in ADA accessible locations and special
accommodations must be made available to make certain communications are equally effective
for persons with disabilities to participate in meetings, and in planning and programming
activities.
LEP -Limited English Proficiency
Limited English Proficiency refers to individuals who do not speak English as their primary
language and may have limited ability in speaking, reading, writing or understanding English.
Demographic Profile of Franklin County
Population and Composition
Franklin County's population has grown considerably in the previous 20 years. The County's
current population is measured at 156,289 people, as of the July 1, 2021 calculation. That value
includes an increase of 20.5% since 2000, and a rise of 4.2% since 2010. According to the U.S.
Census, in 2020, the racial composition for the County was as follows:
White, alone
Hispanic or Latino
Black or African American, along
91.8%
6.7%
4.4%
A total of 9.4% of the Franklin County population was below the poverty level in 2020.
Franklin County Planning Commission's Community
Development, Public Outreach, and Involvement
Principles & Techniques
Public Outreach and Involvement Principles
Public outreach should be centered on openness, transparency and flexibility. The Franklin
County Planning Commission should focus on the following principles:
•Provide opportunities for public involvement and comment in the development of the
application, encourage the submission of views and proposals, particularly by residents of
blighted neighborhoods and citizens of low and moderate incomes, and provides for
timely responses to the proposals submitted
•Provide citizens with adequate infonnation concerning the amount of funds available for
proposed community development and housing activities, the range of activities that may
be undertaken, and other important program requirements
•Provide citizens with an opportunity to submit comments concerning the community
development performance of the applicant.
•Provides for one or more public hearings on the proposed application before adoption of
a resolution or similar action by the local governing body authorizing the filing of the
application
•The Community Development Block Grant program process will be clearly
communicated to ensure that the process is apparent and understandable
•Identify broad list of stakeholders and populations for public participation opportunities
•Encourage participation from communities by tailoring outreach efforts to their needs
•Provide timely notices and easy access to information
•Hold meetings at convenient and accessible locations and times
•Encourage participation by promoting respect for different opinions
•Present information clearly and effectively through visualization and other proven
techniques
•Incorporate public views and preferences into the decision-making process and document
the consideration of comments.
•Evaluate the effectiveness of the public outreach and involvement efforts periodically to
identify necessary adjustments
•Provide for timely written answer to written complaints and grievances, within 15
working days where practicable
•Identify how the needs of non-English speaking residents will be met in the case of
public hearings where a significant number of non-English speaking residents can be
reasonably expected to participate
Public Outreach and Involvement Techniques
Effective outreach techniques are essential to clearly communicate the Community Development
Block Grant program process and procedures and to ensure successful public participation. The
following techniques and strategies can be used by the Franklin County Planning Commission to
educate and involve the public. These techniques should be tailored to the audience and the
community development block grant activity under development and review. These outreach
efforts should focus on allowing the public to help develop solutions for the community.
Local Media Sources and Plan Review Locations
A combination of the following media and draft document/plan review locations may be used,
depending on the project, to facilitate opportunities for advertisement and public outreach.
Media Newspapers/
Blogs:
•Facebook
•Linkedin
•Mercersburg Journal
Television:
•WHAGTV 25
•WHP TV 21
•WHTMABC27
Radio:
•WAYZ 104.7
•WBHB 101.5
•WEEO 103.7
•WIKZ Mix 95.1
•WITF 93.3
•WNUZ 92.1
•WQCM 94.3
•Guilford Water Authority
•Hamilton Township Municipal
Authority
•Metal Township Municipal
Authority
•Dry Run Water Association
•Peters Township Municipal
Authority
•Washington Township Municipal
Authority
•Cumberland Franklin Joint
Municipal Authority
•Shippensburg Borough Authority
•York Water Company
•Greene Township Municipal
Authority
•Antrim Township Municipal
Authority
•Greencastle Area Water Authority
•Mercersburg Borough Authority
•Letterkenny Township Municipal
Authority
•Saint Thomas Township Municipal
Authority
•Waynesboro Borough Authority
•Bear Valley Joint Authority
•Guilford Township Authority
Franklin County Planning Commission's Community
Development Public Participation Process
After receiving notice from the Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED)
regarding the upcoming funding year of the Community Development Block Grant, Franklin
County will perfonn the following steps:
1.Schedule and submit a public notice to the above referenced daily newspapers regarding
the Fiscal Year (FY) Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) first public hearing.
The public notice for the first hearing will be pub Ii shed in advance. (Example of the
aforementioned public notice is located in the appendix)
a.The first hearing will be included within the county's meeting calendar and a
notice of the first hearing will be sent to all of the previously identified
stakeholders.
b.The following will be addressed at the first hearing:1.Inform the public about the estimated amount of grant funds that the
county may receive.11.Elaborate on the CDBG process and answer questions regarding the
CDBG program.111.Share with the public examples of past CDBG projects.
1v. Acquire public comment regarding Franklin County Planning
Commission's staff preliminary determined needs for community
development.
v.Release the appropriate funding year CDBG application and application
submittal date.
2.Release the appropriate funding year CDBG application to the interested parties directly
after the first hearing through general mail and email.
a.The Franklin County Planning Commission keeps a log on interested parties. The
interested parties log includes previously identified stakeholders as well as parties
that contact the Franklin County Planning Commission throughout the year.
3.Send out a public notice informing the public that the Community Development Plan
(Three-Year Plan) has been drafted and the Franklin County Planning Commission is
seeking public comment. Public comment will not last more than 15 days. The
aforementioned public notice will note the time and location that the public may view the
plan. The aforementioned public notice will also include instructions on how to submit
public comment. (Example (�{the afbrementioned public notice is located in the appendix)
4.Franklin County Planning Commission will review the Community Development Plan
(Three-Year Plan) and the submitted public comments at the next regularly schedule and
previously advertised meeting after the 15 day public comment period noted in step 3.
5.Franklin County Planning Commission will review the staff's recommendations at the next regularly scheduled. Franklin County Planning Commission will make a motion to recommend to the Franklin County Board of Commissioners.6.Schedule and send out public notice for the Public Hearing with the Franklin County Board of Commissioners for the appropriate funding year CDBG application to DCED. The aforementioned public hearing will be conducted after the Franklin County Planning Commissions review and recommendation. The public hearing notice will be published in a daily newspaper prior to the public hearing. The public notice will include the time and location of the public hearing and the projects that are recommended for approval. At the conclusion of the public hearing, the Board of Commissioners may make motion to approve or table the CDBG application to DCED. (Example of the aforementioned public notice is located within the appendix)7.Schedule and send out public notice for the Public Informational Meeting with the
Franklin County Commissioners. (Example of the afhrementioned public notice is located in the appendix)
a.The second public hearing will address the following:
1.Infonn the public about the exact amount of CDBG funding the county has
been allocated.
11.Describe the applications that were submitted.
111.Present the Community Development Plan (Three-Year Plan) for
comment.
*Please note that the Franklin County Planning Commission will be reviewing the Community
Development Plan and Application to DCED based on the County's Comprehensive Plan's Goals &
Ob ·ectives
Appendix: Example Notices
First Public Hearing Notice
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING TO KICKOFF THE 202_ COMMUNITY
DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT PROGRAM
The Franklin County Planning Commission will hold its first public hearing session on_ , the __
day of __202_ at_:_ AM/PM at the Franklin County Administrative Annex, 272
North Second Street Chambersburg, PA. Citizens are invited to attend this public meeting.
The purpose of this session is to discuss the 202_ Community Development Block Grant
(CDBG) application requirements; community development issues such as: planning,
infrastructure and housing; the CDBG process; needs within Franklin County; previous year’s
CDBG allocations; and the release of the CDBG application and application submittal date. Franklin
County 202 _ Entitlement CDBG allocation is approximately $_,_.00.
Franklin County is expected to receive an allocation of approximately $__ of FY 202_ CDBG
funds from the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. At least 70% of the available funding must be
used for activities which benefit low and moderate income person. The following types of activities
may be eligible for funding under the CDBG Program: water and sewer line replacement/
improvements; housing rehabilitation; construction of affordable housing; construction/
reconstruction of public/community facilities; recreational facilities; public services that are new
or provide quantifiable increases in the delivery of services; street improvements; historic
preservation; removal of architectural barriers; code enforcement; economic development; acquisition
and relocation; clearance and demolition; and general administration, planning, audit, and preparation
of the CDBG application.
If Franklin County would undertake activities that result in the displacement of families or individuals,
then the County’s policy for minimizing such displacement would be in effect. The County is
responsible for replacing all low and moderate income housing units that may be demolished or
converted as a result of the use of CDBG funds
The Franklin County Planning Commission encourages public input on how should the 202 _
Entitlement CDBG be used. The public will be given the opportunity to comment on the past
CDBG projects.
The County of Franklin does not discriminate in regards to race, color, religion, sex, national
origin, disability or age in the provision, admission, employment, or access to the county's
services and programs.
All interested citizens are encouraged to attend and will be offered the opportunity to give oral
testimony at the public hearing and/or present written comments concerning the needs of Franklin
County and the CDBG program. Additionally, comments can be submitted by (DATE) to the
Planning Department at planning@franklincountypa.gov or 717-261-3855.
For those unable to attend 202 _ CDBG application packets can be obtained from the Franklin
County Planning Commission, 272 North Second Street, Chambersburg, PA. For further
information contact: (717) 261-3855.
NOTICE OF PUBLIC COMMENT REVIEW PERIOD
The Franklin County Planning Department is seeking public comment on the county's
Community Development Plan. The Community Development Plan is a plan that strives to
address community development issues. The public is invited to view the Community
Development Plan at the following locations:
•Franklin County Planning Department
272 North Second Street, Chambersburg, PA 17201
Hours: 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM
The public may make comment on the Community Development Plan. Written comments should
be sent to Franklin County Planning Department, 272 North Second Street, Chambersburg, PA
17201 before 4:30 PM on , 202_.
For individuals needing special accommodations, please contact the Franklin County Planning Department at (717) 261-3855 or by email at planning@franklincountypa.gov
Please note that the above notice example may be used more than once. The intention of the notice is to
ask for public comment for the Community Development Plan.
Notice of Public Informational Meeting
On _ ___ , 202 _at_:_ AM/PM the Franklin County Board of Commissioners will be
holding a Public Informational Meeting on the FY202 _ Community Development Block Grant
(CDBG) program. The meeting will take place in the Commissioners Meeting Room at 272
North Second Street, Chambersburg, PA 17201.
. The purpose of the hearing is to obtain citizen views and comments on the County's proposed
use of $_____ in Federal Fiscal Year 202_ CDBG funds which includes the
entitlements allocations, and to receive any complaints or grievances regarding the County’s
CDBG funds.
This meeting is accessible to individuals with disabilities and/or for persons with Limited
English Proficiency. If you wish to attend and require special accommodations, please notify
the CDBG Administrator office 72 hours in advance of the public hearing at (717) 261-3855
or planning@franklincountypa.gov to make such arrangements. To attend virtually, contact the
Planning Department at (717)-261-3855 or planning@franklincountypa.gov. Individuals with
hearing and/or speech impairments may contact the county through the Pennsylvania
telecommunications relay services at 1-800-654-5984 or by dialing 711.
The County of Franklin does not discriminate in regards to race, color, religion, sex, national
origin, disability or age in the provision, admission, employment, or access to the county's
services and programs.
Notice of Public Hearing
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING FOR THE COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
BLOCK GRANT
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING FOR THE COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
BLOCK GRANT AND NOTICE OF APPLICATIONREVIEW AND
COMMENT
Notice is hereby given that Franklin County will conduct a public hearing at _:__AM/PM on
(DATE) at the Franklin County Administration Building, in room 824 of 272 North Second
Street, Chambersburg, PA. The purpose of the hearing is to obtain citizen views and comments on
the County's proposed use of $______ in Federal Fiscal Year 202_ CDBG funds which includes
the
entitlements allocations, and to receive any complaints or grievances regarding the County’s
CDBG funds.
This meeting is accessible to individuals with disabilities and/or for persons with Limited English
Proficiency. If you wish to attend and require special accommodations, please notify the CDBG
Administrator office 72 hours in advance of the public hearing at (717) 261-3855 or
planning@franklincountypa.gov to make such arrangements. To attend virtually, contact the
Planning Department at (717)-261-3855 or planning@franklincountypa.gov. Individuals with
hearing and/or speech impairments may contact the county through the Pennsylvania
telecommunications relay services at 1-800-654-5984 or by dialing 711.
The Franklin County Planning Commission recommends the following budget for the FY202 _
CDBG program:
Funding Allocation Total$
18% Administrative Fee $$$$$$
Project Name $$$$$$
Project Name $$$$$$
Project Name $$$$$$
Project Name $$$$$$
These proposed activities plan for no displacement of any persons or affordable housing units.
The activities will benefit 100% low to moderate income residents or presumed benefit
individuals. None of the above listed and described activities are expected to result in
displacement.
The deadline to receive written comments on the County's proposed use of CDBG funds, the
proposed modifications, and/or any complaints or grievances regarding the County’s CDBG
funds is (DATE) and may be forwarded to: Melanie Smith, Community Planner at
mgsmith@franklincountypa.gov, or via phone at: (717) 261-3855. Additional information on the
public hearing, the CDBG Program, the modifications, and/or how to express any complaints or
grievances regarding the County’s CDBG funds may be obtained by calling: (717) 261-3855 or through our website https://www.franklincountypa.gov/departments/planning/
Notice of Public Hearing
Dean A. Horst, Chairman, Board of Commissioners
John T. Flannery, Commissioner
Robert G. Ziobrowski, Commissioner
Attest: Franklin County Board of Commissioners:
Carrie E. Gray,
County Administrator
FRANKLIN COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
Dean A. Horst, Chairman
John T. Flannery
Robert G. Ziobrowski
Adopted the 11th day of March 2026 by the Franklin County Board of Commissioners.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF the parties have hereunto set their hands and seals on the date and
year first above written.
Franklin County,
Pennsylvania
PROGRAM INCOME
REUTILIZATION PLAN
Applicable To: Community Development
Block Grant Program
Franklin County Planning Department
272 North Second Street
Chambersburg, PA 17201
Phone: 717-261-3855
Fax: 717-264-8667
Email: planning@franklincountypa.gov
County of Franklin
Community Development Block Grant (CDBG)
Program Income Reutilization Plan
The Program Income under the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program is defined as any
gross income received by a grantee, or its recipient, directly generated by the use of CDBG funds. The County
of Franklin is a CDBG Entitlement recipient under the state of Pennsylvania’s Program. Accordingly, the
County of Franklin, hereby adopts the following Program Income Reutilization Plan. This Plan shall pertain to
all Program Income generated by the grantee or by any of its subrecipients, unless a separate agreement is
developed for that subrecipient:
•All activities for which Program Income is to be utilized shall comply with 24 CFR Part 570.489 meeting
the federal guidelines for both eligibility and one of the three national objectives.
•The County of Franklin may set aside up to 20% of identified CDBG Program Income for the purposes of
administration and planning.
•Program Income designated to a project shall be applied to costs associated with that project before other
Community Development Block Grant Entitlement funds are drawn down for the purposes of said project
activity.
•Program Income shall be reported in all audits and reports prepared and/or released by the County of
Franklin.
•Program Income shall be reported to DCED in accordance with their reporting requirements or not less than
annually.
Adopted the 11th day of March 2026 by the Franklin County Board of Commissioner’s.
____________________________________ ___________________________________
Carrie E. Gray, County Administrator Dean A. Horst, Chairman; Board of Commissioners
____________________________________
John T. Flannery, Commissioner
____________________________________
Robert G. Ziobrowski, Commissioner
Franklin County,
Pennsylvania
ANTI DISPLACEMENT
AND
RELOCATION
ASSISTANCE PLAN
Applicable To: Community Development Block Grant
and HOME Programs
Purpose
The Antidisplacement and Relocation Assistance Plan's purpose is to set forth a path to
discourage displacement and to assist in relocation efforts as a direct result of activites assisted
with funds provided under the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974, as amended
(24 CFR Part 570).
Federal Regulations
24 CFR Part 570.606
The 24 CFR Part 570.606 provides for displacement, relocation, acquisition, and replacement
housing. Projects derived from the Community Development Block Grant program and other
federal programs must minimize displacement of persons. 24 CFR Part 570.606 can be found in
the appendix of this plan.
24 CFR Part 42.325
The 24 CFR 42.325 provides for the residential antidisplacement and relocation assistance plan.
The aforementioned federal code, created by Housing and Urban Development, mentions that a
unit of general local government receiving funds from the State must certify to the State that it
has in effect and is following a residential antidisplacement and relocation assistance plan, and
that it will minimize displacement of persons as a result of assisted activities. 24 Part 42.325 can
be found in the appendix of this plan. Franklin County will comply with all regulations put forth
by state and federal la ws. It is the policy of the County to abide by the provisions of the
Community Development Block Grant under the Department of Community and Economic
Development and Housing and Urban Development organizational requirements.
24 CFR Part 42.350
24 CFR Part 42.350 sets forth regulation on to handle relocation assistance for displaced persons.
24 CFR Part 42.350 can be found in the appendix of this plan.
24 CFR Part 42.375
24 CFR Part 42.375 provides regulation on how to handle one for one replacement of lower
income dwelling units. 24 CFR Part 42.375 can be found in the appendix of this plan.
Contact & Responsibility
Contact
For questions regarding the Antidisplacement and Relocation Assistance Plan, please
contact Melanie Smith, Community Planner and CDBG Administrator, at (717) 261-3855.
Responsibility
Staff of the Franklin County Planning Commission are responsible for tracking the replacement
of low to moderate income housing and ensuring that it is provided within the required period.
Also, the staff of the Franklin County Planning Commission is responsible for
providing relocation payments and other relocation assistance to any low to moderate person
displaced by the demolition of any housing or the conversion of any low to moderate income
housing to another use.
Franklin County Planning Commission's Antitlisplacement
anti Relocation Assistance Policy
Franklin County will replace all occupied and vacant occupiable low to moderate income
dwelling units demolished or converted to a use other than as low to moderate income housing as
a direct result of activities assisted with funds provided under the Housing and Community
Development Act of 1974, as amended (24 CFR Part 570).
All replacement housing will be provided within three years of the commencement of the
demolition or rehabilitation relating to conversion. Before obligating or expending funds that
will directly result in demolition or conversion, Franklin County will make public and submit to
the Pennsylvania Department of Economic and Community Development (DCED) the following
information in writing:
1.A description of the proposed assisted activity
2.The general location on a map an approximate number of dwelling units by size (number
of bedrooms) that will be demolished or converted to a use other than as low to moderate
income dwelling unit as a direct result of the assisted activity
3.A time schedule for the commencement and completion of the demolition or conversion
4.The general location on a map and approximate number of dwelling units by size
(number of bedrooms) that will be provided as replacement dwelling units
5.The source of funding and a time schedule for the provision of replacement dwelling
units
6.The basis for concluding that each replacement dwelling unit will remain a low to
moderate income dwelling unit for at least ten (10) years from the date of initial
occupancy
7.Information demonstrating that any proposed replacement of housing units with smaller
dwelling units or any proposed replacement of efficiency or single-room occupancy
(SRO) units with units of different size, is appropriate and consistent with the housing
needs and priorities identified in the localities or the State's approved Comprehensive
Housing Strategy (CHAS), as amended
Franklin County Planning Commission's Mission Statement
The Mission of the Planning Commission is to promote the proper growth of Franklin County to
ensure the enjoyment of life by each citizen in a pleasant, healthful and harmonious environment.
The Guiding Principles of the Planning Commission include:
•Promote economic development to revitalize communities;
•Protect historic, recreational and valuable natural areas;
•Protect farms, forests and streams;
•Preserve open space and the aesthetic and historic characteristics of Franklin County;
The Planning Commission intends to maintain these principles by providing guidance and sound
community planning advice to local governments to steer growth and development to
complement existing infrastructure and to promote the efficient use of public monies.
The Planning Commission intends to carry out this mission efficiently and in an
environmentally responsible manner with respect for the role of local government in protecting
the public interest.
.§ 5 70. 606 Displacement, relocation, acquisition, anti
replacement of housing.
(a)General policyfbr minimizing di.\placement. Consistent with the other goals and objectives of
this part, grantees ( or States or state recipients, as applicable) shall assure that they have taken all
reasonable steps to minimize the displacement of persons (families, individuals, businesses,
nonprofit organizations, and farms) as a result of activities assisted under this part.
(b)Relocation assistancefbr displaced persons at URA levels·. (l) A displaced person shall be
provided with relocation assistance at the levels described in, and in accordance with the
requirements of 49 CFR part 24, which contains the government-wide regulations implementing
the Uniform Relocation Assistance and Real Property Acquisition Policies Act of 1970 (URA)
(42 U.S.C. 4601-4655).
(2)Di,splaced person. (i) For purposes of paragraph (b) of this section, the term " displaced
person " means any person (family, individual, business, nonprofit organization, or farm) that
moves from real property, or moves his or her personal property from real property, permanently
and involuntarily, as a direct result of rehabilitation, demolition, or acquisition for an activity
assisted under this part. As per the 2024 URA Final Rule, this must also include
temporary displacement and tenants in properties acquired through voluntary acquisition. A
permanent, involuntary move for an assisted activity includes a permanent move from real
property that is made:(A)After notice (letter or electronic) by the grantee (or the state recipient, if applicable) to
move permanently from the property, if the move occurs after the initial official submission
to HUD (or the State, as applicable) for grant, loan, or loan guarantee funds under this part
that are later provided or granted.
(B)After notice by the property owner to move permanently from the property, if the move
occurs after the date of the submission of a request for financial assistance by the property owner
( or person in control of the site) that is later approved for the requested activity.
(C)Before the date described in paragraph (b )(2)(i)(A) or (B) of this section, if either HUD or
the grantee ( or State, as applicable) determines that the displacement directly resulted from
acquisition, rehabilitation, or demolition for the requested activity.
(D)After the "initiation of negotiations" if the person is the tenant-occupant of a dwelling unit
and any one of the following three situations occurs:
SOURCE
24 CFR PART 570.606 wasfouml at:
http://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-
bin/retrieveECFR ?gp=:=&SID=:=737eab3c7d99a6el 0e6fc63efl c7dc4e&n=:=24y3. l. l .3.4&r=:=PART &
ty=HTML#24:3.1.1.3.4.1 I .I .7
UPDATED: 09/15/2025
24 CFR PART 42.325
§ 42.325 Residential antidisplacernent and relocation assistance plan.
(a) Cert[fication. (1) As part of its consolidated plan under 24 CFR part 91, the recipient must
certify that it has in effect and is following a residential antidisplacement and relocation
assistance plan.
(2) A unit of general local government receiving funds from the State must certify to the State
that it has in effect and is following a residential antidisplacement and relocation assistance plan,
and that it will minimize displacement of persons as a result of assisted activities. The State may
require the unit of general local government to follow the State's plan or permit it to develop its
own plan. A unit of general local government that develops its own plan must adopt the plan and
make it public.
(b) Plan contents. (1) The plan shall indicate the steps that will be taken consistent with other
goals and objectives of the program, as provided in parts 92 and 570 of this title, to minimize the
displacement of families and individuals from their homes and neighborhoods as a result of any
assisted activities.
(2)The plan shall provide for relocation assistance in accordance with § 42.350.
(3)The plan shall provide one-for-one replacement units to the extent required by§ 42.375.
SOURCE
24 CFR PART 42.325 was found at:
http://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-
idx?c=ecfr&SID=87dfd4e797523ed0fe0287a89c927527 &rgn=div5&view=text&node=24: I. l. I.
l .27 &idno=24
UPDATED:
09/15/2025
24 CFR 42.350
§42.350 Relocation assistance for displaced pe rsons.
A displaced person may choose to receive either assistance under the URA and implementing
regulations at 49 CFR part 24 or assistance under section 104(d) of the HCD Act of 1974,
including:
institution conducting business within the recipient's jurisdiction. To the extent necessary to
minimize hardship to the household, the recipient shall, subject to appropriate safeguards, issue a
payment in advance of the purchase of the interest in the housing cooperative or mutual housing
association.
SOURCE
24 CFR PART 42.350 was found at:
http://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-
idx?c=ecfr&SID=87dfd4e797523ed0fe0287a89c927527 &rgn=div5&view=text&node=24: I. l. I.
1.27 &idno=24
UPDATED:
09/15/2025
24 CFR 42.375
§ 42.375 One-for-one replacement of lower-income dwelling units.
(a)Units that must be replaced. All occupied and vacant occupiable lower-income dwelling units
that are demolished or converted to a use other than as lower-income dwelling units in
connection with an assisted activity must be replaced with comparable lower-income dwelling
units.
(b)Acceptable replacement units. Replacement lower-income dwelling units may be provided by
any government agency or private developer and must meet the following requirements:
(l)The units must be located within the recipient's jurisdiction. To the extent feasible and
consistent with other statutory prioriti es, the units shall be located within the same neighborhood
as the units replaced.
(2)The units must be sufficient in number and size to house no fewer than the number of
occupants who could have been housed in the units that are demolished or converted. The
number of occupants who could have been housed in units shall be determined in accordance
with applicable local housing occupancy codes. The recipient may not replace those units with
smaller units ( e.g., a 2-bedroom unit with two I-bedroom units), unless the recipient has
provided the information required under paragraph (c)(7) of this section.
(3)The units must be provided in standard condition. Replacement lower-income dwelling units
may include units that have been raised to standard from substandard condition if:
(i)No person was displaced from the unit (see definition of "displaced person" in§ 42.305); and
(ii)The unit was vacant for at least 3 months before execution of the agreement between the
recipient and the property owner.
(4)The units must initially be made available for occupancy at any time during the period
beginning 1 year before the recipient makes public the information required under paragraph ( d)
(2)The recipient must submit directly to the HUD field office the request for determination that
the one-for-one replacement requirement does not apply. Simultaneously with the submission of
the request, the recipient must make the submission public and infom1 interested persons that
they have 30 days from the date of submission to provide to HUD additional information
supporting or opposing the request.
(3)A unit of general local government funded by the State must submit the request for
detem1ination under this paragraph to the State. Simultaneously with the submission of the
request, the unit of general local government must make the submission public and inform
interested persons that they have 30 days from the date of submission to provide to the State
additional information supporting or opposing the request. If the State, after considering the
submission and the additional data, agrees with the request, the State must provide its
recommendation with supporting information to the field office.
SOURCE
24 CFR PART 42.375 wasfiJUntl at:
http://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-
idx?c=ecfr&SID =87dfd4e797523ed0fe0287 a89c927527 &rgn=div5&view=text&node=24: I. I. I.
I .27 &idno=24
UPDATED: 09/15/2025
IN WITNESS WHEREOF the parties have hereunto set their hands and seals on the 11th day
of March, 2026 for above written.
ATTEST: County of Franklin
Carrie E. Gray
County Administrator
Dean A. Horst
Chairman,
Board of Commissioners
John T. Flannery
County Commisioner
Robert G. Ziobrowski
County Commissioner
Franklin County,
Pennsylvania
504 & TRANSITION PLAN
Applicable To: Community Development
Block Grant Program
Page 1 of 20
Section 504 Plan
Self-Evaluation and Transition Plan of
Franklin County, Pennsylvania
Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 provides that no qualified person with
handicaps shall, on the basis of disability, be excluded from participation in, be denied
the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any program or activity
receiving federal assistance. Section 794 24 C.F.R. Part 8
Qualified Individual
A qualified individual with disabilities is anyone who meets all eligibility requirements of the program or
activity.
Discrimination
To avoid discriminating against Individuals with Disabilities, Franklin County, Pennsylvania will provide:
-Program accessibility - No one may be denied access solely by reason of disability;
-Program benefits - Benefits may not be denied solely because of disability;
-Most integrated setting appropriate - Judgment should be based on individual need;
-No support to discrimination - Provide no assistance or support to entities that discriminate;
- Opportunity to serve on boards - Board membership must be open to all qualified persons;
- Equal Rights and privileges - Disabled individuals may not be denied equal treatment;
-Physically accessible sites - Programs, activities, and workplaces must be physically accessible;
-Administrative accommodation - Alternatives or modifications should be made as needed
Elements of the Plan
Self-Evaluation
Franklin County, Pennsylvania will consult with interested citizens about plans to study the accessibility of
Franklin County, Pennsylvania's facilities, programs and/or activities. Franklin County, Pennsylvania will
involve those who have disabilities, relatives of person with disabilities, and advocacy groups representing the
disabled. This involvement helps to ensure that the self-evaluation is conducted from the viewpoint of person
with disabilities, and therefore, more accurately reflects their needs.
The self-evaluation of Franklin County, Pennsylvania consists of its facilities, administrative practices, and
employment practices of the municipality, as well as the annual projects and activities funded through federal
grants. In the event that the municipality uses facilities of other municipalities or organizations to conduct the
programs and activities funded with federal funds, those facilities, administrative practices and employment
practices are also subject to self-evaluation.
See Self Evaluation Attached.
Modification of Policies and Practices
When it is found that policies and practices impact negatively upon the disabled, Franklin County, Pennsylvania will
modify the appropriate policy or practice so that the problem is eliminated.
Page 2 of 20
Transition Plan
In the event that Franklin County, Pennsylvania’s facilities, programs and/or activities cannot be made
accessible by making administrative changes, structural changes will be necessary. A transition plan outlining
those changes will be developed. The plan should identify the steps required to complete the structural
modifications. Interested citizens, especially disabled citizens, should be recruited to help develop the plan.
1)Identify the physical obstacles that limit the program's accessibility to person with disabilities;
2)Describe in detail the method to be used in making the facilities in question accessible;
3)Set forth the schedule of tasks, identifying actions to be taken within the first year;
4)Identify the official responsible for implementing the plan (the Section 504 Officer mentioned
below); and
5)Identify those who assisted the recipient in preparing the transition plan.
See Transitional Plan Attached.
Longevity of Plan
I.Municipality - Self-Evaluation and transition plans, if necessary, once completed and brought into
compliance for Franklin County, Pennsylvania will remain in effect until such a time as location or
new process changes and another self-evaluation is necessary.
Documentation must be kept in the Master (CDBG/HOME/ESG/CDBG-DR) file of the
Municipality.
II.Projects/Activities – Self Evaluation and transition plan, if necessary are required yearly for every
new project of the municipality.
Documentation must be kept in the (CDBG/HOME/ESG/CDBG-DR) Program file.
(For Grantees with 15 or more Employees (full or part-time) the following must be in place)
Designation of Section 504 Officer
Franklin County, Pennsylvania has designated a person to oversee Franklin County, Pennsylvania's compliance
efforts. The Section 504 Officer has a thorough working knowledge of federal accessibility requirements since
she or he is responsible for ensuring the municipality’s compliance and for initiating continued compliance
efforts.
The Section 504 Officer will take the lead in evaluating the municipality’s facilities, programs and practices,
and in drafting the transition plan if one is needed. All the accompanying administrative details (securing
assistance from interested disabled citizens, publishing notices of non-discrimination, etc.) should be
monitored or carried out by this compliance officer. Keeping the municipality on target with the transition plan
schedule is also part of her or his responsibility.
John Burnett, Risk Manager
Franklin County, Pennsylvania 272
North Second St. Chambersburg, PA
17201
717-261-3855
Page 3 of 20
Grievance Procedure
The grievance procedure provides for timely resolution of discrimination complaints which are lodged against
Franklin County, Pennsylvania and which pertain to the accessibility of the municipality’s policies and
practices.
See Grievance Procedure Attached.
(Includes appropriate due process standards, such as an appeals process and specific methods for filing complaints are
incorporated into the procedure. The length of time allotted for the municipality to review and respond to the complaint, as
well as, the identification and location of any required complaint forms will be no more than 15 days.)
Discrimination Complaints
Any person who believes that he or she has been discriminated against or any representative of such a person
may file a confidential complaint with:
John Burnett, Risk Manager Franklin County, Pennsylvania 272 North Second St. Chambersburg, PA 17201 717-261-3855
The written complaint will be filed within 180 days of the alleged discriminatory act unless good cause can be
shown for the delay. The complaint will show the name and address of the offending party, along with the
details of the events leading to the charge of discrimination.
Notice of Nondiscrimination
Franklin County, Pennsylvania will make initial and continuing efforts to notify their participants,
beneficiaries, applicants, and employees that the municipality does not discriminate on the basis of disability in
its federally funded programs, services, activities, and practices. The Section 504 Officer will be available for
questions and comments. Initial and ongoing notification of nondiscrimination will be published using media
that can be expected to reach vision and hearing-impaired individuals, which may include radio
announcements and large- print flyers and newspaper notices. Also notifications will be published in multi-
languages to reach persons of the community with Limited–English proficiency.
Subrecipient Remedial and Affirmative Action
All sub-recipients of federal grant funds through Franklin County, Pennsylvania are required to adhere to the
regulations of Section 504 in their provision of services or projects. Should Franklin County, Pennsylvania
determine that disabled individuals have been discriminated against by a sub-recipient of funding; appropriate
remedial and affirmative action will be required to the extent that Franklin County, Pennsylvania deems
necessary. Franklin County, Pennsylvania will also determine what action should be taken in order to remedy
prior discrimination.
Page 4 of 20
Review of Non-Housing Activities
A person with disabilities who is otherwise qualified to participate in a Franklin County, Pennsylvania's
program and activity or use publicly owned facilities of the municipality should not be denied the benefits of or
excluded from participation in those programs or activities simply because the buildings or structures which
house them are inaccessible. Facilities, programs and activities will be designed so that persons with
disabilities can generally participate in all the activities that are federally funded.
Review of Housing Activities
Housing Units (if applicable)
Generally, new multifamily housing projects should be designed and built to be readily accessible to and
usable by disabled individuals, according to Section 8.22 (a) of the final Rule. Further, the Section states that at
least 5 percent of the total dwelling units, or at least one unit in a multifamily housing project (whichever is
greater) shall be made accessible to individuals who have impaired mobility.
Another 2 percent - or at least one unit - will be made accessible or adaptable for those who have hearing and
vision impairments. In this case, accessibility means that the unit is on an accessible route and is either already
accessible or adaptable.
When substantial alterations are made to an existing housing project with at least fifteen units and the cost is at
least 75 percent of the facility's replacement cost, and then at least 5 percent - or at least one - of the units will
be located on an accessible or adaptable route and will be made accessible or adaptable. Another 2 percent - or
at least one - unit will be made accessible or adaptable to persons who have hearing or vision impairments.
When other alterations are made to existing housing units, the recipient should, to the maximum extent feasible,
make the units readily accessible. This is also the case when common areas are altered and when a single
space in a dwelling unit is altered. The recipient should continue to create accessible units as units are
rehabilitated until at least 5 percent of the units in the project have been made accessible or adaptable.
In determining whether facilities meet federal accessibility requirements, Franklin County, Pennsylvania will
refer to the Uniform Federal Accessibility Standards (UFAS) for details such as acceptable door widths,
lavatory heights, and ramp dimensions.
In the event that Franklin County, Pennsylvania is able to make programmatic changes that enhance the
accessibility of its housing program to disabled applicants or residents, those changes should be identified and
implemented.
Page 5 of 20
However, when the only remedy is to make structural changes, the recipient will prepare a transition plan
itemizing the changes. Input from interested citizens, especially disabled residents, will be included, and the
other transition plan requirements listed above apply in this case.
See Transitional Plan Attached.
Other Housing Related Programs
Homeowner Rehabilitation Program (If applicable)
Franklin County, Pennsylvania participates in a Homeowner Rehabilitation Program, Franklin County,
Pennsylvania the will give priority to the selection of projects that will result in dwelling units being made
readily accessible to persons with disabilities.
Homeownership Programs (If applicable)
Any housing units newly constructed or rehabilitated using federal assistance will be made accessible upon the
request of a prospective buyer. Any required alterations will adhere to the UFAS standards, and the cost of the
changes becomes the buyer's responsibility. The cost may be added to the mortgage amount, except that the
added cost will not raise either the sales price or the mortgage amount beyond established limits.
Historic Properties
Generally, historic properties will be made accessible when they are altered with federal dollars, unless
accessibility would substantially impair the "significant historic features" of the property or result in undue
financial and administrative burdens.
Page 6 of 20
SECTION 504 OF THE REHABILITATION ACT OF 1973, AS AMENDED
SELF EVALUATION
GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
Franklin County, Pennsylvania's self-evaluation will be completed prior to the municipality's use of federal
funds either initially and/or start of project or activity. In preparation of the self-evaluation, Franklin County,
Pennsylvania must consult with individuals with disabilities or organizations representing them.
Keep on file for
Municipality Self Evaluation, as long as CDBG/HOME/ESG/CDBG-DR recipient, in Master file:
a.A list of interested persons consulted;
b.A description of area examined and any problems identified; and
c.A description of modifications made and remedial steps taken.
Project/Activity Self Evaluation until released by DCED, in Program file:
a.A list of interested persons consulted;
b.A description of area examined and any problems identified; and
c.A description of modifications made and remedial steps taken.
Adopt and implement a grievance procedure for timely resolution of discrimination complaints.
Make initial and continuing efforts to notify applicants, tenants, and employees that Franklin County, Pennsylvania
does not discriminate on the basis of disability.
ELEMENTS
-Evaluation of current facilities, policies and practices relative to the Section 504 regulations.
-Evaluation of projects and/or activities to be funded with federal funds.
-Modifications of any facilities, policies and practices that do not meet the Section 504 requirements.
-Corrective action to remedy any discrimination found.
AREAS TO BE EVALUATED
-Buildings or facilities for physical accessibility, program outreach and communication
-Eligibility and admission criteria and practice
-Distribution and occupancy policy and practice
-Percentage of accessible units
-Employment (including pre-employment)
-Complaint processing procedures
REASONABLE ACCOMMODATION
Definition: an adjustment in a federally assisted or conducted program or activity in order to accommodate the
known physical or mental limitations of an otherwise qualified individual with a disability.
a.Must be provided unless it:
1.Imposes an undue financial or administrative burden, as determined by the municipality and reviewed
and approved by DCED, or
2.It alters the fundamental nature of the program.
b.Must be equally effective.
c.Should not be of a personal nature.
d.Should be provided and applied on a case-by-case basis.
Page 7 of 20
PROGRAM ELIGIBILITY AND
REASONABLE ACCOMODATION
Page 8 of 20
Self-Evaluation of the Municipality
Name of Municipality:
Date of the completion of the self-evaluation:
Section 504 Officer:
Names of persons evaluating this project, telephone number and their organizational
affiliation:
Franklin County, PA
John Burnett
1.John Burnett, FC Risk Manager, +17172613819
2.Colleen Tidd, FC Senior Planner, +17172613855 ext. 23124
3.Quentin Clapper, FC Planning Director, +17172613855 ext. 23130
4.Mel Smith, FC Community Planner, +17172613855 ext. 23125
5.John Thierwechter, FC Assistant County Administrator, +1717261381
6.Rebekah Reigner, FC Director Court Administrator, +17172613848
7.Michael Tomasic, FC Facility Manager, +17172613899
8.Kristy Jones, BCM Supervisor at SAM, Inc., +17179777606
12/18/2025
TRANSITION PLAN
Name of Municipality: Franklin County, PA
Date of the completion of the Transition Plan:
Section 504 Officer: John Burnett
Names of persons developing plan, telephone number and their organizational affiliation:
1.John Burnett, FC Risk Manager, +17172613819
2.Colleen Tidd, FC Senior Planner, +17172613855 ext. 23124
3.Quentin Clapper, FC Planning Director, +17172613855 ext. 23130
4.Mel Smith, FC Community Planner, +17172613855 ext. 23125
5.John Thierwechter, FC Assistant County Administrator, +1717261381
6.Rebekah Reigner, FC Director Court Administrator, +17172613848
7.Michael Tomasic, FC Facility Manager, +17172613899
8.Kristy Jones, BCM Supervisor at SAM, Inc., +17179777606
Project Facilities
Needing
Modification
Modification
Needed
Scheduled for
Completion
Person/Organization
Assigned Task of
Modification
Completed
Almshouse Remove (2) Public
Phones
2027 Risk/Planning
Coroners, DES,
Barn, GSAC, MDJ
Nicklas, MDJ
Rock, MDJ Eyer,
MDJ Gomez
Shockey, MASAC,
Lincoln Way
Parking, PVSAC,
STSAC, WSAC,
Human Services
(6) Painted
Handicap Spaces
(26) 60” High
Signs
2028 Risk/Planning
MDJ
Gomez Shockey
(1)Parking Lot
Regrade
2028 Risk/Planning
PVSAC, Hearing
Annex, GRSAC,
Barn, Human
Services
(8) ADA Restroom
Signs
2028 Risk/Planning
Admin Building 13 Braille Plaques 2028 Risk/Planning
WSAC Close one
restroom and
make ADA
restroom an “all-
gender”
restroom. (No
Stalls)
2028 Risk/Planning
GSAC, MDJ Plum,
and Human
Services
Remove (3) Water
fountains
2028 Risk/Planning
WSAC and GSAC Lower (2)
Restroom Sink
2028 Risk/Planning
GSAC and MDJ
Gomez Shockey
Van Accessibility
(2)Signs
(1)Painted
Spot
2028 Risk/Planning
MDJ
Gomez Shockey
WSAC
Widen (2)
Doorway
Entrance
2029 Risk/Planning
Approval of Section 504 Plan by Franklin County, Pennsylvania
Date:
Signature of person completing Plan:
Printed Name and Title: Colleen Tidd, Senior Planner
Date of Plan Completion: 2/24/2026
Date Section 504 Plan was presented to Municipal Governing Body for action: 3/11/2026
ATTEST: BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
Carrie E. Gray
County Administrator Dean A. Horst
Chairman,
Board of Commissioners
John T. Flannery
County Commisioner
Robert G. Ziobrowski
County Commissioner