HomeMy WebLinkAbout2026-05-27 Commissioner Minutes
WEDNESDAY, May 27, 2026
The Franklin County Commissioners met on Wednesday, May 27, 2026, with the
following members present: Dean A. Horst and Robert G. Ziobrowski. 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. Commissioner Horst stated that
Commissioner Flannery was unable to attend today due to another commitment. He welcomed
Judge Jeremiah Zook, Controller Harold Wissinger, and District Attorney Ian Brink.
On a motion by Robert G. Ziobrowski; Seconded by Dean A. Horst; the Board
unanimously approved to adopt the agenda.
Chairman Horst called Prison Board to order at 10:02a.m.
Prison Board was adjourned at 10:03 a.m.
On a motion by Robert G. Ziobrowski; Seconded by Dean A. Horst; the Board
unanimously approved to adopt the consent agenda to include:
Minutes from May 20, 2026.
Vouchers in the amount of $1,693,718.23.
for Area Agency on Aging and Chambersburg Senior Center new location. This would be paid
by Aging Block Grant.
Resolution Approving and Adopting the Amendment to the Articles of Incorporation of
the Letterkenny Industrial Development Authority changing the number of members of the
Board of Directors from 15 members to seven members.
modem, immersive training system capable of preparing deputies for high-threat encounters
within their actual environments. The proposed augmented-reality (AR) training system directly
addresses these gaps by enabling realistic, data-driven, scenario-based training built around
Franklin County's real operational needs. This application also authorizes Melodie Hoff serve as
the county representative to enter into contracts, grants, and cooperative agreements with the
federal government regarding this grant on behalf of Franklin County, in order to submit this
grant application. No County match is required.
Supplemental Appropriation of $248,450.00 to provide the budget for the State Food
Purchase Program (SFPP). This program is 100% state funded by the PA Department of
Agriculture with no General Fund impact.
Amendment to the agreement between the County of Franklin and Motivosity, Inc. to
-branded
merchandise and apparel directly through Motivosity. Motivosity will house and curate products,
and deliver orders directly to employees upon purchase, eliminating additional administrative
work, freeing up storage space, and providing faster order processing and turnaround times at a
cost of $1,000.00. This will be paid by the General Fund.
Agreement between the County of Franklin and Waynesboro School District to provide a
Juvenile Probation Officer, for five days a week, in the school year 2026-2027. The School
District will provide to the County of Franklin, $34,257.60, which covers half of the cost for this
service.
Approval needed to accept repository sale bid to start generating taxes to collect on the
property in Antrim Township.
Approval needed to accept repository sale bid to start generating taxes to collect on the
property in Waynesboro Borough.
Agreement between the County of Franklin and Government Software Services, Inc.
(GSS) for Notice of Return & Claim Letters mailed by USPS certified mail as required by
Pennsylvania Real Estate Tax sale Law Act 542 of 1947. The Bureau is required to give notice
by USPS certified mail, restricted delivery with return receipt requested, postage prepaid.
Procurement completed quotes and it was advertised on Public Purchase, and this was the only
responsive quote. The cost is estimated at $21,495.05 using the current USPS rate in place
and may change if USPS increase postage costs prior to our July 2026 mailing. This will be paid
by the General Fund.
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 Dean A. Horst; the Board
unanimously approved the appointment of Cathy Jo Barnhart to the Franklin County Area
Agency on Aging Advisory Board for a three (3) year term through December 31, 2028.
Human Resources Director Tiffany Bloyer presented the Employee of the Month for
May. The Franklin County Commissioners, on behalf of the STAR (Special Thanks And
Recognition) Committee proudly presents the Employee of the Month award to Mr. Zachary
West. Mr. West has been employed with Franklin County since January of 2021. He currently
serves as a Network & Telecommunications Administrator in the Information Technology
Services Department. The selection for the May 2026 Employee of the Month was determined
by the STAR Committee. There were 25 nominations, three of which were for Zachary. Ms.
Bloyer read the nomination forms which are attached to these minutes. Mr. West expressed his
appreciation for being nominated. He stated that the recognition meant a great deal to him.
Although much of the written acknowledgment focused on him, he emphasized that the work
done at DES involved a full team effort. He thanked everyone in the department for their work
and noted that their support made his own contributions possible. Commissioner Horst
commended Zach for his work and professionalism. He noted that whenever he had an IT issue,
Zach responded quickly and efficiently, often resolving the problem before anyone realized he
was there. He praised Zach for consistently going above and beyond in his duties and
expressed appreciation for his dedication and service to the county. Commissioner Ziobrowski
stated that, like Commissioner Horst, whenever he needed assistance from Zach, he
consistently helped him without making him feel inadequate. He remarked that problem-
solving skills reminded him of the television character MacGyver, noting that the way Zach
restored the phones was an impressive feat. He thanked Mr. West for his service and
expressed appreciation for his work.
Ms. Gray introduced Human Resources Director Tiffany Bloyer to keep everyone well
acquainted with the Leadership Development Program. Her presentation was made a part of
these minutes. Commissioner Horst had no questions but wished to offer several comments. He
noted that she was clearly passionateabout leadership, which he believed was beneficial for
both the county and its staff. He emphasized that the leadership training program was a
valuable resource, providing knowledge that many people sought but did not always know
where to obtain. He expressed appreciation for the initiative behind the program and thanked
those who developed it. He also acknowledged Commissioner Ziobrowski for recognizing the
commending the effort and expressing his thanks. Commissioner Ziobrowski emphasized the
importance of organizational culture, noting that public service was not suited for everyone,
even though job satisfaction tended to be high due to the intrinsic rewards of helping others. He
observed that many individuals could earn more in the private sector, making retention in public
service especially meaningful. He expressed that he was impressed that 41 of the 57
employees who had completed the leadership course remained with the county, stating that this
positive impact on strengthening
culture. He remarked on the camaraderie he witnessed during leadership presentations, noting
that employees typically stayed within their own departments but that the program encouraged
cross-department interaction. He stated that this connection among staff was valuable and
added that the
benefits were not merely emotional; he believed the program likely saved the county substantial
money over time by reducing turnover and improving service. He concluded by thanking Ms.
Bloyer and commending the quality of the presentation.
The Board reviewed Proclamation #2026-18 for the purpose of proclaiming May as
National Treatment Court Month. Ms. Gray introduced Judge Jeremiah Zook who addressed the
Board on behalf of the courts and conveyed the regards of President Judge Meyers, who was
unable to attend. Judge Zook noted that he served as the presiding judge of Franklin Co
Good Wolf Treatment Court and acknowledged the presence of the treatment court team. Judge
Zook read a prepared statement from Treatment Court Coordinator Rachel Geesaman, who
expressed appreciation for the recognition of National Treatment Court Month and described the
transformative impact of treatment courts on participants and their families. Judge Zook stated
that presiding over the treatment court had been the most rewarding part of his judicial duties
and emphasized the long-term benefits of t
the treatment courts helped break generational cycles of criminogenic behavior and served as a
meaningful
positive change. He then introduced Mr. Joey Bailey, Recovery Oriented Systems of Care
Specialist for Drug and Alcohol, who provided additional insight based on his experience as
both a former participant and current team member. Mr. Bailey thanked the Commissioners for
recognizing National Treatment Court Month. He stated that treatment court held a special place
in his lifHe explained that without the
program, he and many past participants would not be where they are today. Mr. Bailey
described treatment court as a second chance program, often a third, fourth or fifth chance, for
individuals facing circumstances that might otherwise lead to a state prison sentence. He
emphasized that participants were made aware from the outset that the program was lengthy
and intensive, but that its structure helped individuals take accountability and address the
behaviors that contributed to their legal involvement. He shared that since entering treatment
court nearly nine years earlier, he had not used any substances and had become a productive
member of society, now able to assist others in their recovery. He noted that he remained in
contact with many graduates who continued to thrive, crediting both their commitment and the
support of the treatment court team. Mr. Bailey acknowledged the importance of community
safety but stated that the program also prioritized the individual, supported by judges, probation,
unity partners. He encouraged those
present to observe treatment court proceedings, not only graduations but also initial
appearances, to witness the dramatic transformation participants undergo. He highlighted the
eanor, confidence, and family relationships by the time they
graduate. He concluded by noting that the program had produced more than 40 graduates over
the past nine years and encouraged anyone interested to speak with graduates about the
impact treatment court had on their lives. Commissioner Horst thanked Mr. Bailey for his
comments and stated that he was a
willingness to take accountability for his actions and to commit to the treatment court program,
noting the significant progress he had made. Commissioner Horst expressed appreciation to
Judge Zook for his dedication to the program and recalled the first treatment court graduation he
attended, which left a lasting impression. He described witnessing a graduate reunited with her
children, who were emotional and grateful to have their mother return to them healthy and
sober. He emphasized that such moments demonstrated the profound impact of the program on
families and the community. Commissioner Horst concluded by thanking the treatment court
team for their work efforts. Commissioner
-programs,
their benefits extended far beyond emotional impacts. He noted that the programs produced
extraordinary outcomes for families but also carried significant fiscal value by keeping
individuals out of jail initially and reducing the likelihood of future incarceration. He emphasized
that these benefits extended to the next generation as well. Commissioner Ziobrowski then
asked Mr. Bailey to share with the audience the work he was currently doing in his present role.
Mr. Bailey stated that he advocated for individuals in recovery and served as the Recovery
Oriented Systems of Care Specialist for Franklin / Fulton Drug and Alcohol. He works with
organizations to identify service gaps and bring needed resources into communities. He noted
that his past one on one recovery support informed his current system level work. He also
served on the treatment team, offering insight from his lived experience and expressing respect
for the colleagues he worked with. Commissioner Ziobrowski concluded by stating that Mr.
empathetic way he worked with individuals in recovery. Commissioner Horst then read the
proclamation which is made a part of these minutes. On a motion by Robert G. Ziobrowski;
Seconded by Dean A. Horst; the Board unanimously approved the proclamation.
Next, Ms. Gray introduced Fiscal Director Janelle Friese and Chief Financial Officer
Commissioner Horst thanked Ms.
Beckner and Ms. Friese for presenting the information this morning. He stated that he did not
see anything concerning unless they did and noted he had no further questions. Commissioner
Ziobrowski, channeled Commissioner Flanney and asked how the county was doing. Ms.
Beckner stated that we are doing very well.
The meeting was adjourned at 10:57 a.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
FRANKLIN COUNTY
COMMISSIONERS
Dean A. Horst, Chairman
STAR COMMITTEE
John T. Flannery
Robert G. Ziobrowski
Special Thanks And Recognition Committee
Tiffany Bloyer, HR Director
272 North Second Street ~ Chambersburg, PA 17201
Telephone (717) 261-3150 Fax (717) 261-3156
May 27, 2026
The Franklin County Commissioners, on behalf of the STAR Committee (Special Thanks And Recognition)
proudly presents the Employee of the Month award to Zachary West ȁ
Mr. Westhas been employed with Franklin County since January of 2021. He currently serves as a Network &
Telecommunications Administrator in the Information Services Department. The selection for the May 2026
Employee of the Month was determined by the STAR Committee. There were twenty-fivenominations, three
of which were for Zachary.
The STAR nomination form asks what recent events or occurrence made you select Zachary and the answers
stated:
ȏ: ¢§ ¨² «¶ ¸² ±¤²¯®²¨µ¤ £ ¶¨««¨ng to help with whatever we need here at DES. Recently we lost
connection to our Cisco Admin phones server and were completely unable to receive or make calls from our
Cisco phones. This was an emergency situation because we take numerous types of calls on these phones.
Zach responded immediately once we notified him of the issue. He began to work on the issue and attempted
to find a solution to get us back up asap. Once Zach figured out that he would not be able to recover our Cisco
phones he came up with a temporary solution of installing Teams phones so we could get back up and take
calls. Zach worked through a lot of complications to make this work for us. Zach continued to investigate the
Cisco issue and after reaching out to a vendor was able to find a solution to recover our Cisco phones.
Through this whole process Zach worked to find solutions and adapt to every obstacle that came up. Zach
deserves the employee of the month for displaying several of the Counties Service Values and for restoring a
critical service to the community and the 911 Center. These phones also handle 911 emergency calls and are
used to reroute 911 calls in the event our 911 lines go down. They are vital to our operation and mission to
²¤±µ¤ ³§¤ ¢®¬¬´¨³¸ȁȐ
ȏ7§ ³ ¨¨³¨ ««¸ ¯¯¤ ±¤£ ³® ¡¤ ´¥¨· ¡«¤ ¨²²´¤ °´¨¢ª«¸ turned into a testament to his skill, persistence, and
unwavering commitment to our team. He worked diligently and methodically, spending countless hours
troubleshooting, analyzing, and rebuilding a system many believed was beyond recovery. Rather than
¢¢¤¯³¨¦ «¨¬¨³ ³¨®²Ǿ §¤ ¯´²§¤£ ¥®±¶ ±£ȡ³¤²³¨¦ ²®«´³¨®²Ǿ ¢®«« ¡®± ³¨¦ ¶§¤±¤ ¤¤£¤£Ǿ £ ±¤¥´²¨¦ ³® «¤³
the situation define the outcome. His technical expertise was evident, but it was his determination and calm
demeanor under pressure that truly set him apart. In the thick of it, when stress was high and uncertainty
loomed, he became a steady and reassuring presence. He communicated clearly, kept the team informed, and
maintained a solutions-focused mindset that helped others stay grounded. His ability to remain composed
while tackling such a complex issue made a lasting impression on everyone involved. Thanks to his relentless
effort, the phone system was not only restored but stabilized, allowing our operations to continue without
prolonged disruption. His work directly impacted on our ability to serve and support others when it mattered
¬®²³ȁȐ
-¤ ¶§¨«¤Ǿ ®³§¤± ¢®´³¤±¯ ±³ ¨««´²³± ³¤£ ¶§ ³ § ¯¯¤¤£ ¶§¤ ³§¤ ±¤¦´« ± ¯§®¤² ¶¤±¤ £®¶ȁ ȏ(¤ ¢ ¬¤
out here to provide training on the Teams phones system with each shift. This required him to come in earlier
than his normal working hours to ensure our night shift staff were educated as well. Zach has always been a
Telecommunication Device for the Deaf (717) 264-8474
Telephone: (717) 261-3150 Fax: (717) 261-3156
Website: www.franklincountypa.gov
FRANKLIN COUNTY
COMMISSIONERS
Dean A. Horst, Chairman
STAR COMMITTEE
John T. Flannery
Robert G. Ziobrowski
Special Thanks And Recognition Committee
Tiffany Bloyer, HR Director
272 North Second Street ~ Chambersburg, PA 17201
Telephone (717) 261-3150 Fax (717) 261-3156
huge help at DES and is always very kind, patient, and friendly when he is here. You know that things will get
fixed when he shows up! Zach embodies the values of teamwork, accountability, and service excellence. His
contributions not only strengthen the IT department but also enhance the overall effectiveness of the
#®´³¸ȁȐ
We are so grateful to Mr. West as he exudes a high standard of knowledge, leadership and excellence to the
employees and residents of Franklin County.
Sincerely,
The STAR Committee
TLB/ENN
cc: Personnel File; Admin Officer
Telecommunication Device for the Deaf (717) 264-8474
Telephone: (717) 261-3150 Fax: (717) 261-3156
Website: www.franklincountypa.gov