HomeMy WebLinkAbout2010-09-23 Commissioner Minutes
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 23, 2010
The Franklin County Commissioners met Thursday, September 23, 2010, with
the following members present: David S. Keller, Robert L. Thomas and Robert G.
Ziobrowski. Chairman Keller presided and after calling the meeting to order, and the
Pledge of Allegiance proceeded with the business of the day.
On a motion by Robert L. Thomas, seconded by Robert G. Ziobrowski;
unanimously approved to adopt the agenda.
On a motion by Robert L. Thomas, seconded by Robert G. Ziobrowski;
unanimously approved all bills presented and ordered paid.
On a motion by Robert L. Thomas, seconded by Robert G. Ziobrowski;
unanimously approved the minutes of September 14, 2010 and September 16, 2010
meetings.
The Board reviewed Central Telephone matters. On a motion by Robert L.
Thomas, seconded by Robert G. Ziobrowski; unanimously approved the 2010 Budget
Adjustment in the amount of $23,000.00 to upgrade CallPilot to current release and
provide CallPilot PASS.
The Board reviewed Commissioners’ Office matters. On a motion by Robert L.
Thomas, seconded by Robert G. Ziobrowski; unanimously approved the Retainer
Agreement between the County of Franklin and Scott and Scott, LLP to represent the
County Retirement Fund in providing portfolio tracking services, including securities
class action settlement collection and ongoing fraud monitoring at a cost based on
contingency. This agreement can be terminated with 60 days written notice.
The Board reviewed Community Services matters. On a motion by Robert L.
Thomas, seconded by Robert G. Ziobrowski; unanimously approved the 2010 Budget
Adjustment in the amount of $40,000.00 to include additional Emergency Shelter Grant
Program funds that have been approved by DCED. No County funds required.
The Board reviewed Drug & Alcohol Department matters. On a motion by Robert
L. Thomas, seconded by Robert G. Ziobrowski; unanimously approved the Agreement
between the County of Franklin and Waynesboro Communities that Care to fund
prevention activities targeting Waynesboro Youth for a contract amount of $1,500.00 for
the period of September 2, 2010 through June 30, 2011. Total amount is covered by the
Bureau of Drug & Alcohol Program Grant.
The Board reviewed Election matters. On a motion by Robert L. Thomas,
seconded by Robert G. Ziobrowski; unanimously approved the Agreement between the
County of Franklin and Beidel Printing House, Inc. for printing, binding and delivery of
the ballots to be used for the General Election to be held on Tuesday, November 2, 2010
at a cost of $16,328.50.
The Board reviewed Fiscal matters. On a motion by Robert L. Thomas,
seconded by Robert G. Ziobrowski; unanimously approved for the Chairman of the
Board to execute the Consulting Agreement between the County of Franklin and Peirce
Park Group, Inc. to provide investment management consulting services for the Other
Post Employment Benefits (OPEB) Fund at a cost of $10,000.00.
Continued on page 2
The Board reviewed Grants Management matters. On a motion by Robert L.
Thomas, seconded by Robert G. Ziobrowski; unanimously approved the Grant
Application to Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD) to continue
funding the Jail Diversion Program (year three) for a federal amount of $46,885.00 with a
County match of $140,652.00 for a total amount of $187,537.00 for the grant period of
January 1, 2011 through December 31, 2011. Once grant period ends, an assessment
will be completed then a decision made regarding continuing or eliminating the program.
The Board reviewed additional Grants Management matters. On a motion by
Robert L. Thomas, seconded by Robert G. Ziobrowski; unanimously approved the Grant
Application to Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD) for the
Franklin County Criminal Justice Advisory Board (CJAB) Grant to be used to expand use
of videoconferencing in the jail, improve use of technology at the courthouse, better
utilize assessment tools at the jail and improve timeframe of which individuals receive
assessments at the jail for a grant amount of $150,000.00 with a County match of
$50,000.00 for a total amount of $200,000 for the period of January 1, 2010 through
December 31, 2010.
The Board reviewed Mental Retardation Department matters. On a motion by
Robert L. Thomas, seconded by Robert G. Ziobrowski; unanimously approved the 2010
Budget Adjustment to provide for previously unrecorded cost settlement revenues and
related expenses.
The Board reviewed Nursing Home matters. On a motion by Robert L. Thomas,
seconded by Robert G. Ziobrowski; unanimously approved for the Chairman of the
Board to execute the Agreement between the County of Franklin and Dex to provide a
listing in the telephone directory for Chambersburg and Waynesboro areas for the
nursing home and rehabilitation services sections at a cost of $312.00 for the period of
May 1, 2011 through April 30, 2012.
The Board reviewed Nursing Home matters. On a motion by Robert L. Thomas,
seconded by Robert G. Ziobrowski; unanimously approved for the Chairman of the
Board to execute the Agreement between the County of Franklin and Highmark Blue
Shield for the Nursing Home to be an in-network provider for Highmark insurance
participants at no cost to the County for the period of November 1, 2010 through
December 31, 2011 with an automatic annual renewal.
The Board reviewed Sheriff matters. On a motion by Robert L. Thomas,
seconded by Robert G. Ziobrowski; unanimously approved the Proposal from CDW-g for
purchase of toughbook computers for three Sheriff vehicles at a cost of $12,718.62.
This company is on the COSTARS-3 State Contract price listing.
The Board reviewed Visitors Bureau matters. On a motion by Robert L. Thomas,
seconded by Robert G. Ziobrowski; unanimously approved the Agreement between the
County of Franklin and Nexstar Broadcasting, Inc./WHAG TV-25 for the Visitors Bureau
to be the key sponsor for the Mercersburg Hometown Proud newscast on September
th
24 at a cost of $1,000.00 for the period of September 23, 2010 through September 31,
2010.
The Board reviewed additional Visitors Bureau matters. On a motion by Robert
L. Thomas, seconded by Robert G. Ziobrowski; unanimously approved for the Contract
between the County of Franklin and WITF Central PA Magazine to advertise in the
September and November issues of WITF Central PA Magazine at a cost of $1,865.00
for the period of September 23, 2010 through December 31, 2010.
Continued on page 3
In accordance with PA Act 14 notification, Valley Quarries, Inc. notified the
County of a Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection Bureau of Air Quality
for renewal of synthetic minor operating permit for Chambersburg Blacktop facility.
In accordance with PA Act 14 notification, Borough of Chambersburg notified the
County of a Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection Water Obstruction
and Encroachment Permit to install a 48” culvert for proposed stream crossing on
property located in the Borough of Chambersburg.
The Board met with the County Solicitor to review related matters.
On a motion by Robert L. Thomas, seconded by Robert G. Ziobrowski;
to enter an executive session at 9:15 a.m. this date for the
unanimously approved
purpose to review two (2) Assessment Appeal matters involving Quincy Home and
Tanya Nitterhouse properties and Real Estate matters. The Board reconvened into
regular session at 9:56 a.m.
On a motion by Robert L. Thomas, seconded by Robert G. Ziobrowski;
unanimously approved to authorize Solicitor to enter into a proposed agreement with
Tanya Nitterhouse for two assessment appeals parcel # 06-1E50-60 & 67 and 06-1E51-
34.
On a motion by Robert L. Thomas, seconded by Robert G. Ziobrowski;
unanimously approved to authorize County Solicitor to enter into an agreement to hire
Keystone Realty Services in the matter of the Quincy Home Assessment appeal. Quincy
Township and Waynesboro School District will share in the cost of this service.
The Board recessed at 10:07 a.m. and will reconvene at the Nursing Home.
Dr. Barry Parks, Nursing Home Administrator, Mary Kimmel, Finance
Manager and Alma Cullers, Director of Nursing met with the Board to review the
Falling Spring Nursing and Rehabilitation Center Governing Board Report which is
attached and made a part of these minutes.
The Board recessed at 11:10 a.m. and will reconvene at 1:00 p.m. for
Assessment Appeals
The Board of Assessment and Revision of Taxes met to hear tax assessment
appeals.
The Board
reviewed Assessment matters. On a motion by Robert L. Thomas,
premises of
seconded by Robert G. Ziobrowski; unanimously approved that the
Franklin County Tax Parcel #0E13G-106 of Steven J. and Julia M.
Durgo having the
assessment of $29,060.00 shall have the lawful assessment of $ 28,110.00 for the tax
year 2010 and all future tax years. This motion rescinds motion taken on September 16,
2010.
The Board recessed at 3:45 p.m. and will reconvene at 7:00 p.m. for the Vision
2020 meeting being held in Mercersburg.
John Hart, Chief Clerk/County Administrator opened the meeting and welcomed
everyone in attendance and turned over to Commissioner Keller.
Commissioner Keller welcomed everyone to the third presentation and explained
Continued on page 4
that the Managers will be talking about programs and services.
Commissioner Thomas spoke and said he hopes that tonight’s guests will go home
realizing the County has excellent management team running the County. County has
one of the lowest tax rates in Pennsylvania and that happens because of efficiency of
delivery of services. That is attributable to the programs that will be presented this
evening, and the management team that implements these programs.
Commissioner Ziobrowski talked about the working relationship of the
Commissioners which is critical. In many counties it’s dysfunctional. Right now people
are angry in the U.S. for economic reasons. Congress approval rating is very low mostly
because its members can’t get along. Commissioner Ziobrowski is appalled that Senate
has not passed the healthcare bill for first responders of 911. Every year in Harrisburg
State Legislature fails to pass a state budget. In Franklin County, the only partisan thing
that happens is when we organize at beginning of year. Never partisan but do disagree
a lot. Commissioners have a lot of responsibilities and are out in the community a lot.
Anytime someone wants to come and see the Board they are welcome.
John Hart introduced the Division Leaders.
Teresa Beckner, Fiscal Director, presented on the General Services Department
and the Purchasing Department. There are over 500 sources of revenue – interest
income, federal and state government, charges – licenses and fees from offices, other
miscellaneous sources, and property taxes. County’s mission is to maximize all other
sources then look at tax payers as payer of last resort. Fiscal department takes care of
finance and accounting matters. There are fifty banks and trust accounts. Compliance
rules have very strict requirements and very strict reporting. County is required to have
an audit on financial statements yearly. Auditor also completes a single audit. Budget
process keeps Fiscal very busy, with preparation and ongoing monitoring. Works with
Courts, Elected Officials and all county operations; goal is to be thoughtful and
considerate of every dollar. County operations fiscal year is from January – December
but Human Services follows State budget which is July-June. Often must adjust mid
year once state passes a budget.
John Aguirre, Human Resources Director, explained that Human Resources are
made up of two departments – Personnel and Risk Management. Most functions are
internal and don’t have a lot to do with external part but a lot that do internal will affect
staff and provide better service to consumers. Mr. Aguirre went over County staff, said
that County has a strong, dedicated complement of employees. County has three 24
hour operations that have to be there 24 hours to provide care to senior citizens,
respond to 911 calls, and manage inmates at jail. There are fifty-eight offices, all doing
more with less with 26 locations dispersed throughout County, 928 employees.
Average length of service is 8.85 years, turnover rate is 4.3%. Explained recruitment
approach – internal and external, website, colleges, specialized publications, State Civil
Service Lists. Mr. Aguirre explained the NACO RX Drug Discount Program and the
changes in healthcare for 2010 - 2014 due to healthcare reform act. Most doctors and
insurance companies still don’t know what’s in plan. Explained the Risk Management
department. Its vision is to promote education and information sharing, goals are to
reduce county’s ecological footprint, conserve county environmental resources, establish
education program which benefits county operations and community. Building a
community website, which is in construction phrase. Working on Emergency
Preparedness Pandemic Education to promote family and community preparedness.
Trying to get everything on the website for employees and public.
Continued on page 5
Phil Tarquino, Planning Director, provided a presentation on: Guiding Principles
to promote economic development, to revitalize communities, protect historic sites,
promote recreational and valuable natural areas, and protect farms, forests and streams,
preserve open space. He noted the current goals of the Comprehensive Plan which was
adopted in July of 1999. Also discussed Comprehensive planning, transportation, and
Economic Development. Future planning includes updating the comprehensive plan
and implementing a long range transportation plan. Comprehensive planning addresses
land use, housing, community facilities, utilities and transportation. Mr. Tarquino
explained the new Rural Planning Organization which is a new transportation
improvement program. Current focus is on developing long range transportation plan
and preserving current system of transportation in Franklin County.
David Donohue, Emergency Services Director, provided a presentation on
Emergency Services and the Radio Project. The Radio Project was required due to the
age of the existing system, the scarcity of replacement parts, and the Federal
requirements to have interoperable communications between Franklin County and other
agencies. The system utilizes some of the existing components of the legacy system,
such as portable radios, which can be converted to the new system for a fraction of the
cost of purchasing a new radio. The new system will bring Franklin County into the 21st
century and will allow expansion as new technologies become available. The
department continues to expand its work in preventing, preparing for, and responding to
emergencies. The department has reinvigorated its Community Emergency Response
Team, tripling the size of the team this year. Mr. Donohue also reported that Franklin
County has six radio towers and provided a program update on equipment, radios, and
operational date. Will be able to take text messaging in future. Will also incorporate
satellite imagery. Emergency Management Projects include: identify causes of
emergencies, improve preparedness and resiliency, decrease need for emergency
services, and develop exercise plans for response. Noted that there are 40 car accident
deaths a year in Franklin County. Department has been educating the public on falls
and have expanded CERT program – now includes120 members, conducted training
and exercises, evaluating, updating and testing plans. Increased public outreach
opportunities, working with schools to improve prevention education, reaching out to
community groups, exercises, training, etc. Mr. Donohue gave website and encouraged
everyone in attendance access it.
John Wetzel, Warden of the Jail, encourages everyone to stop by and visit the
jail. Provided a presentation on improvements in the criminal justice system since 2005.
There was growing crime and growing costs in the jail in 2005. Public safety is driving
force behind all decision making. The Warden summarized programs for inmates.
Focus is on education/employment. Program offerings include GED, Adult Basic
Education, ESL, Job skills, job readiness, in-house work, work release, and CPR. He
noted that government should use jail as the last resort. Highlighted the Weekender
Program. Inmates participate in the Weekender Program so that they can work during
week to support family; go to jail on weekends and do community service at local non-
profit organizations. People have issues and need skills to be a better family member
and parent; jail is providing training in these skills. Additional programs at the jail target
CRIMINOGENIC risk/need factors – education/employment, family restoration,
leisure/recreation, community service, companions, being successful under supervision
and moral reconation therapy (MRT), alcohol/drug problems, pro-criminal
attitude/orientation, anti-social pattern and special issues. Wetzel also reported that sex
offenders are on the rise and there has been a significant increase in prisoners with
mental health issues. Noted that 72% of local property tax dollars goes to courts,
crimes, corrections. Wetzel also provided a 2010 Update on the 2005 Initiative and
reported on the 2020 Vision for Franklin County Criminal Justice System which includes:
Continued on page 6
Assessment at all levels of the corrections continuum to ensure effective use of the full
continuum; continue to utilize and expand the use of research based interventions
designed to reduce criminal behavior throughout the corrections system; continued
efforts toward increasing the efficiency of the Court’s processing of criminal cases;
explore the expansion of the weekender program to include non-DUI offenses; continue
to pursue a court facility that will be operationally efficient and built to support the
mission and vision of the court; and expand community-based programs to keep
offenders employed in the community.
Carrie Jenkins, Grants Manager, provided a presentation on grant-funded
services provided in the Mercersburg area. Drug & Alcohol prevention specialists do
presentations in the Tuscarora School District and organize Red Ribbon week in
October. Communities that Care has a billboard at Cove Gap to educate parents about
co-hosting parties. T-shirts and 2011 prevention calendars being provided by
Mercersburg Area Council on Wellness (MACWELL). Jenkins invited anyone who wants
to get involved with these and other substance use prevention efforts to join the
Community Coalition that meets at the Manito Brownsville center. Jenkins also
highlighted the connectivity/trails project, which is working to make the Mercersburg area
a safer place to walk and bike. To get involved with this effort, Jenkins encouraged
guests to join MACWELL. Jenkins added that Mercersburg Police Department received
a COPS grant to purchase radios for Mercersburg Police department; this grant provided
11 radios in 2009; grant funding was also received from PA Commission on Crime and
Delinquency for PCs, printer, and server which placed mobile computers in police
cruisers and provided software and servers so police can interface with new 911 system.
John Hart spoke briefly on the judicial center project. County is in planning
process and working on an agreement with the architect/engineer. Have entered into a
partial contract for site selection data. Will present information to Board in next couple
weeks. Scope of the project has not been defined; achieving efficiencies will be one of
the main goals of the project.
Commissioner Keller asked for a round of applause for managers’ presentations
and opened the floor up for public comments, questions and answers.
For public comments, please refer to the video on the County’s website at
www.co.franklin.pa.us.
The meeting was adjourned at 10:30 p.m. with a motion by Robert L. Thomas;
seconded by Robert G. Ziobrowski.
FRANKLIN COUNTY COMMISSIONERS