HomeMy WebLinkAbout2026-05-13 Commissioner Minutes
WEDNESDAY, May 13, 2026
The Franklin County Commissioners met on Wednesday, May 13, 2026, with the
following members present: Dean A. Horst and Robert G. Ziobrowski. John T. Flannery joined
remotely. Commissioner Horst presided and after calling the meeting to order, a Moment of
Silence, and the Pledge of Allegiance, proceeded with the business of the day.
On a motion by Robert G. Ziobrowski; Seconded by John T. Flannery; the Board
unanimously approved to adopt the agenda.
There was public comment from Harry Rotz who stated that although the topic was not
He explained that he had recently reviewed the county ordinance and referenced research he
had studied for years regarding the cost of infrastructure upkeep. He noted that earlier findings
showed that for every dollar of income generated from rural land, it cost $1.01 in infrastructure
expenses. He added that similar research on urban land, including residential, commercial,
industrial buildings, warehouses, and data centers, showed that every dollar of tax revenue in
2003 produced those same results, but he believed the researcher had been discouraged from
continuing the work. Mr. Rotz expressed concern that economic development efforts might not
be producing net gains and could instead be putting the county in the hole. He reflected on his
own experience since 1994, noting that his property taxes had increased annually due to
necessary infrastructure needs. He also warned the commissioners about issues involving data
centers in other states. He cited an example from Georgia where a data center allegedly tapped
into a main water line, later installed an unmetered second line, and was found to be drawing
millions of gallons of unaccounted for water. He urged the commissioners to be cautious. Mr.
Rotz concluded by referencing Genesis 2:15, emphasizing the responsibility to tend to and care
for the land.
Valerie Jordan stated that Mr. Rotz was a difficult speaker to follow and that she had
gained useful information from his comments. She expressed her understanding that the
commissioners would vote yes on the Subdivision and Land Development Ordinance (SALDO)
next week, noting that she and her husband had reviewed it and believed it to be the best
available option. Ms. Jordan referenced county budget figures from 2024 and 2026, explaining
that the 2024 operational budget totaled $151.2 million, while the 2026 operational budget was
$132.4 million. She stated that despite the reduction in operational spending, her taxes had not
decreased, though certain services had. She noted that judicial services increased by nearly
$900,000.00 between 2024 and 2026 and argued that this supported not privatizing the county
jail, as county judges and the District Attorney remained very busy. Ms. Jordan also pointed out
that the cultural and recreation account, which had been appropriated $2.2 million in 2024, was
removed from the 2026 operational budget. She questioned why such services would be
eliminated, emphasizing that cultural and recreational opportunities benefit everyone regardless
of political
documents. Ms. Jordan informed the commissioners that Brechland Farms LP, located on
Spring Road in Guilford Township, was developing a large solar farm. She stated that the
project was clearly underway, with the entrance already staked out and noted that farmers were
pursuing such projects for profit as they transitioned into corporate structures. She concluded by
stating she simply wanted the commissioners to be aware of this development.
On a motion by Robert G. Ziobrowski; Seconded by John T. Flannery; the Board
unanimously approved to adopt the consent agenda to include:
Minutes from May 6, 2026.
Vouchers in the amount of $425,071.76.
Agreement between the County of Franklin and Commonwealth of Pennsylvania for the
Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program. The agreement allows for the distribution of
vouchers for fresh fruits and vegetables to Franklin County seniors (60 years and older) for the
period June 1, 2026 through September 30, 2026. Vouchers are reimbursed at the end of the
program period with State funding.
One Plan Maintenance/Service agreement between the County of Franklin and Medical
Priority Consultants dba Priority Dispatch Corp. for system licensing, service, support,
recertifications and new hire certifications at a cost of $31,949.97 per year. The prior contract
did not include recertifications and new hire certifications. This contract should yield
approximately $7,300.00 in annual savings. Costs are eligible for reimbursement from Act 12
911 funding.
Amendment to the extension request between the County of Franklin and PA
Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) for The Rescue Hose Company
No. 1 of Greencastle, PA to pass through a Local Share Account grant of $582,473.00 toward
two ambulances. Grant start date was March 16, 2023. The Rescue Hose Company of
Greencastle is experiencing a delay in the manufacture and delivery of their second ambulance.
DCED awarded Rescue Hose an extension through June 30, 2027.
Agreement between the County of Franklin and St. Paul United Methodist Church for the
rental of the church as a polling location for the Primary Election on May 19, 2026 at a cost of
$100.00. This will be paid by the Election Integrity Grant.
Approval of the voucher for election poll worker pay in an amount not to exceed
$70,000.00.
Agreement between the County of Franklin and Berkshire Systems Group, INC.(BSGI)
to complete the replacement of the remaining fire alarm loops in the system, marking the final
ent fire protection
technology standards. In total, eight loops have been replaced, with this agreement covering the
15 to 20 years before reaching end of life at a cost of $54,530.00. This will be funded with
The Board reviewed regular agenda items. County Administrator Carrie Gray provided a
high-level overview of each of the actions.
On a motion by Robert G. Ziobrowski; Seconded by John T. Flannery; the Board
unanimously approved the appointment of Jason Nunnelee to the Franklin County Area Agency
on Aging Advisory Board for a three (3) year term through December 31, 2028.
Ms. Gray stated that she and Human Resource Director Tiffany Bloyer were present to
discuss requested changes to the Franklin County Pay Policy. She explained that the
Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency(PCCD), through the Indigent Defense
Grant, required the county to include specific language in its policy to allow stipends for the
Public Defender attorneys and staff. She noted that the county had received this grant for
approximately two years and the new requirement necessitated an update to the policy. Ms.
Gray reported that Ms. Bloyer had reviewed the grant requirements, consulted with Grants
Director Melodie Hoff and proposed the necessary policy revisions to ensure continued
compliance with PCCD grant standards. Ms. Bloyer stated that she, Ms. Gray, and Ms. Hoff met
approximately one-week prior to review the requirements associated with the Indigent Defense
Grant. She explained that they ensured t
languageto meet those requirements. She noted that the revisions addressed budget
considerations, Salary Board approval, and Commissioner approval and that the county would
continue to follow its standard process for these matters. Ms. Bloyer added that the granting
agency required proof that the county had a formal process in place and the group determined
that updating the pay policy was the most appropriate way to document this. Commissioner
On a motion by Robert
G. Ziobrowski; Seconded by John T. Flannery; the Board approved changes to the Franklin
County Pay Policy.
The Board reviewed Proclamation #2026-16 for the purpose of proclaiming the week of
May 17 through May 23, 2026, to be EMS Week. Ms. Gray introduced EMS Deputy Chief Doug
Bittner, Manager Emergency Medical Services with WellSpan Health. Mr. Bittner thanked the
Commissioners and the citizens of Franklin County for their time as they proclaimed the
upcoming week as EMS week. He stated the EMS community sincerely appreciated the
nd
recognition. He noted that this year marked the 52 anniversary of EMS week, originally
declared by President Gerald Ford in 1974 and now observed annually during the third week of
May. Mr. Bittner reported that several community outreach events were scheduled throughout
the county, including cookouts hosted by Air Methods at Chambersburg Hospital on May 19and
at Waynesboro Hospital on May 22. He also highlighted participation from numerous local fire
and EMS agencies providing ambulance services, advanced life support, and quick response
units. He recognized Franklin County recipients of the upcoming Star of Life Awards: Cheyenne
Foltz, Chad Grimes, Jerry Houpt, Alison Luger, Brian Luger, Bret Newbound, Darci Newcomer,
Jacqueline Umberger, and Jeffery Umberger. Mr. Bittner also presented commendations issued
by the Emergency Health Services Federation including Clinical Save Awards and Pre-Hospital
Delivery recognitions. He read an extensive list of EMS personnel from Shippensburg Area
EMS, Chambersburg Fire Department, WellSpan EMS, Blue Ridge Fire and Rescue, Mont Alto,
Fayetteville, St. Thomas Fire and Rescue, and others who were honored for lifesaving
resuscitations or assisting with childbirth in the field. The full list is made a part of these minutes.
He concluded by thanking the Commissioners again for their continued support of EMS and
emergency services throughout Franklin County. Commissioner Horst thanked Mr. Bittner and
expressed appreciation to all EMS personnel and support staff who responded to calls and
worked behind the scenes. He noted that, based on the extensive list of recognitions presented,
many individuals in Franklin County were alive today because of the dedication of EMS
providers. He stated that the county was extremely blessed to have such committed
professionals. Commissioner Horst also acknowledged the individuals who had served 25 or
more years, emphasizing that their long-term commitment and the significant time and effort
they contributed were truly noteworthy. He expressed gratitude to everyone involved in EMS,
all they continue to do. He conclu
it was sincerely offered. Commissioner Ziobrowski offered light-hearted comment, noting that he
found it amusing that some EMS personnel were unafraid to deliver a baby but were hesitant to
speak at the microphone. He added that, while he personally did not mind speaking publicly, he
would not want to be responsible for delivering a baby. His remarks were made in appreciation
of the challenging and varied situations EMS providers handled with professionalism and
courage. Commissioner Flannery thanked Mr. Bittner for his presentation and expressed his
the Franklin County community and were held in very high regard. Commissioner Flannery
added that issuing the proclamation for EMS Week was the least the Board could do to
recognize their dedication and service. Commissioner Horst then read the proclamation which is
made a part of these minutes. On a motion by Robert G. Ziobrowski; Seconded by John T.
Flannery; the Board unanimously approved the proclamation.
Ms. Gray introduced Veteran Affairs Director Josh Curry to keep everyone well
acquainted with the different programs with their emerging trends, topics of interest and any
concerns they may have. His presentation was made a part of these minutes. Commissioner
Horst commented on the increased reporting associated with the grave project, stating that he
found it very compelling. He noted that the project was significant and would require
considerable time, but emphasized the value of researching each individual, their headstone,
and its location. Commissioner Horst expressed strong support for the effort and commended
the work being done. He added that everyone he had spoken with highly recommended the
service and consistently described it as top-notch. He concluded by expressing appreciation for
the continued dedication to the project. Commissioner Flannery thanked Mr. Curry for his
presentation and expressed his appreciation for the work being done. He stated that Mr. Curry
was doing a great job and encouraged him to keep up the good work.
The Board reviewed Proclamation #2026-17 for the purpose of proclaiming May 25,
2026, to be Memorial Day. Commissioner Horst then read the proclamation which is made a
part of these minutes. On a motion by Robert G. Ziobrowski; Seconded by John T. Flannery; the
Board unanimously approvedthe proclamation.
The meeting was recessed at 10:53 a.m. on a motion by Robert G. Ziobrowski;
Seconded by John T. Flannery.
The meeting was reconvened for Retirement Board at 1:02 p.m. on a motion by Robert
G. Ziobrowski; seconded by Dean A. Horst.
Retirement Board was adjourned at 1:33 p.m. on a motion by Robert G. Ziobrowski;
seconded by Lisa Helm.
OPEB (Other Post-Employment Benefits) was convened at 1:34 p.m.
There were no actions taken.
OPEB was adjourned at 1:36 p.m.
The meeting was adjourned at 1:37p.m. on a motion by Robert G. Ziobrowski;
Seconded by Dean A. Horst.
Carrie E. Gray
County Administrator/Chief Clerk
FRANKLIN COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
____________________________________
Dean A. Horst, Chairman
____________________________________
John T. Flannery
___________________________________
Robert G. Ziobrowski
*May be assisted by Copilot
Burial and Memorial
VETERANS AFFAIRS
Vietnam War: 58,220 (47,434)Persian Gulf War: 383 (148 hostile action)Iran Hostage Rescue Mission: 8 Lebanon Peacekeeping: 265 (256)Urgent Fury, Grenada: 19 (18)Just Cause, Panama: 23
(23)Restore Hope/Somalia: 43 (29)Uphold Democracy/Haiti: 4OEF/OIF/OND/OIR/Epic Fury: 10,262 (5,485)
US CASUALTIES BY CONFLICT
Revolution: 4,435 battle deathsWar of 1812: 2,260 (2,260 battle deaths)Mexican War: 13,283 (1,733)Civil War: 364,511 (140,414)Spanish American War: 2,446 (385)WWI: 116,516 (53,402)WW2:
405,399 (291,557)Korean War: 36,574 (33,739)
MEMORIAL
Funeral ExpensesFlag HoldersMemorial Day Flags
VETERANS AFFAIRS ÏBURIAL/
Subchapter B: Interment of Deceased Service Persons and Surviving SpousesSubchapter C: Memorial Observances
Chapter 155 Military and Veterans Affairs
PA Consolidated Statues Title 16
MEMORIAL
Burial Records ÏReporting Requirements
15523. Compilation of War Records
VETERANS AFFAIRS ÏBURIAL/
Subchapter C ÏMemorial Observances
Chapter 155 Military and Veterans Affairs
PA Consolidated Statues Title 16
MEMORIAL
VETERANS AFFAIRS ÏBURIAL /
1-800-827-1000717-263-4326Call DFAS to stop payment and initiate SBP if applicable: 1-800-321-1080
Call Federal VA: Contact County Office: If Veteran was a retiree:
Reporting Veteran Passing
Burial and Memorial
VETERANS AFFAIRS
BURIAL
Collaboration with Community PartnersIncrease ReportingOrganization of Currently Held RecordsSearchable Resource
VETERANS AFFAIRS ÏMEMORIAL /
Improved Collection/ Reporting: Veteran Burial Data
Initiative/Objective