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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2026-09-02 Commissioner MinutesWEDNESDAY, September 2, 2026 The Franklin County Commissioners met on Wednesday, September 2, 2026, with the following members present: Dean A. Horst, John T. Flannery 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. On a motion by John T. Flannery; Seconded by Robert G. Ziobrowski; the Board unanimously approved to adopt the agenda. Chairman Horst called Prison Board to order at 10:0 2 a.m. Prison Board was adjourned at 10:0 3 a.m. There was public comment from Valerie Jordan who thanked the Commissioners for discontinuing the Flock service agreement. She urged the Commissioners to allocate funds toward increasing county worker s Ms. Jordan e x pressed concern about county residents working in Cumberland County for higher pay and about valued employees leaving for private sector jobs with less pay. She then suggested that if the executive session was to discuss selling county property, that the proceeds from any sale be used to increase county employee pay. She believes that the county CFO, Teresa Beckner, had presented a positive financial outlook for the first half of the year. Ms. Jordan doubted that the second half of 2026 would deteriorate. She observed that, over years of attending Commissioners meetings, no county taxpayer or business owner had appeared to complain about their tax bill, though some had raised concerns about specific agenda items. She concluded by expressing gratitude for Franklin Count, the b omb-sniffing dog, and stated that she did not want to see Moose leave. Commissioner Flannery the absence of taxpayers at meetings to discuss their tax bills. He clarified that the county had a separate Board of Assessment and Revision of Taxes, which convened quarterly and handled numerous tax appeals. If residents wished to complain about their taxes, they typically brought their concerns to this board. Commissioner Flannery explained that people attended these sessions, and their appeals are either granted or denied. On a motion by John T. Flannery; Seconded by Robert G. Ziobrowski; the Board unanimously approved to adopt the consent agenda to include: Minutes from August 26, 2026. Vouchers in the amount of $94,565.96 Housing Trust Fund request in the amount of $7,500.00 to provide matching funds for the 2025/2026 and 2026/2027 grant years for the Permanent Supportive Housing grant administered by the Franklin County Community Connections department. Grant Agreement for the Federal Fiscal Year (FFY) 2025 State Homeland Security Grant Program in the amount of $1,443,653.00, with a performance period of September 1, 2025 through August 31, 2028. Funds are utilized for planning, equipment, maintenance, training and exercises needed for acts of terrorism and other catastrophic events. These funds are awarded to the South Central Task Force, of which Franklin County is a member along with Adams, Cumberland, Dauphin, Lancaster, Lebanon, Perry, Schuylkill and York Counties. This is not a direct or full allocation of funds to Franklin County. A grant application between the County of Franklin and Pennsylvania Commission on (CAC) requesting $50,000.00 to support the need for continued services to Franklin County childcare abuse victims along with supporting the growth of services and meeting the needs for N ational Children's Alliance (NCA) reaccreditation. The grant will go towards the CAC Executive Agreement between the County of Franklin and CDW Government to renew Kace Software licensing. Kace is used to patch our computers, servers, and software, making sure it stays up to date and compliant with regulations, such as HIPAA and Criminal Justice Inf ormation Services (CJIS) at a cost of $12,231.07. This will be paid by an allocation across all County operations. About 68% is estimated to be paid by the General Fund. A grant application between the County of Franklin and PA Department of Community and Economic Development for HOME Community Housing Development Organization (CHDO) Operating Grant funds to be utilized to help with operational costs relating to the construction of 5 single-family homes for Low-to-Moderate Income (LMI) families within 50-80% of the Area Median Income (AMI). A total of $363,835.00 will be requested for various operating costs. A grant application between the County of Franklin and PA Department of Community and Economic Development for HOME Investment Partnership Program grant. The grant will be utilized for the acquisition and construction of five single-family homes for Low-to-Moderate Income (LMI) families within 50-80% of the Area Median Income (AMI). A total of $1,532,059.00 will be requested, with 3.26% of the request ($50,000.00) for administrative costs. Agreement between the County of Franklin and Central Pennsylvania Food Bank to provide a mobile distribution program in Franklin County called Military Share. This program helps to alleviate food insecurity by providing nutritious food to eligible military families through a mobile distribution. The average is $13.00 per box. The Board reviewed regular agenda items. County Administrator Carrie Gray provided a high-level overview of each of the actions. Ms. Gray presented a draft of the updated Right to Know policy for Franklin County, pending board approval. She noted that the policy had not been revised since it was first brought before the B oard in 2009, following the enactment of the Right to Know Law in February After Ms. Byers retired, Ms. Becky Brackbill was established as the new Right to Know Officer, policy also reflected changes in the C ourts Right to Know officer and the establishment of several independent Right to Know offices, including those for the C ourts, District Attorney, C oroner, and S heriff. She emphasized that these developments made it necessary to update relevant laws and regulations, outlined the offices involved, and identified Ms. Brackbill as the Right to Know Officer for county matters. On a motion by John T. Flannery; Seconded by Robert G. Ziobrowski; the Board unanimously approved. Human Resources Director Tiffany Bloyer presented the Employee of the Month for August. The Franklin County Commissioners, on behalf of the STAR (Special Thanks And Recognition) Committee proudly presents the Employee of the Month award to Brannon Salzetti. Mr. Salzetti has been employed with Franklin County since July of 2025. He currentl y serves as an Adult Probation Officer I in the Adult Probation Department. The selection for the August 2026 Employee of the Month was determined by the STAR Committee. There were 19 nominations, three of which were for Brannon. Mr. Salzetti thanked all his coworkers for nominating him. Commissioner Horst commended Mr. Salzetti for a job well done. He stated that with such dedication the county was in good hands both now and in the future. Commissioner Horst encouraged Mr. Salzetti to maintain this positive attitude and commitment to getting the job done, emphasizing its importance. He thanked Mr. Salzetti and expressed hope that Mr. Salzetti would remain with the county for a long time. Commissioner Flannery congratulated Mr. Salzetti for a job well done expressing admiration for the challenging nature of tasks such as handling probate matters. He noted that Mr. Salzetti had made a significant impression within a year and describ ed the work as impressive. He extended congratulations and stated the recognition was well deserved. Commissioner Ziobrowski stated The Commissioners presented a check to The Christmas Projects Terry Graham for the employee dress down fundraiser that was held in August. Keri Kenney, HR Coordinator, said the organization had been founded in 2013 after assisting a homeless family, which inspired friends to join in brightening the holidays for other struggling families. Since its founding, The Christmas Projects had served over 1,800 families in Franklin and Cumberland counties and expanded in 2023 into community-based chapters with local coordinators and was renamed to reflect its growth and broader aspirations. The volunteer-driven ministry continued to partner with sponsors, businesses, churches, and individuals to spread hope and joy during the holiday season. Ms. Kenney noted that support began early in the fall, before the holidays, because preparations for the upcoming season started as early as September. The County raised $6 2 5.00 from a total of 1 24 employees from 22 different departments. Ms. Graham expressed appreciation for the support received. She stated that last year was her first year as administrator of The Christmas Projects, which had since become a charitable nonprofit organization. Ms. Graham thanked the Commissioners for the donation and explained that applications for families needing assistance would open on October 1st and close at the sponsors were accepted year- allowing people to sign up for assistance or volunteer opportunities in the com ing weeks. Commissioner Horst thanked Ms. Graham for her contributions and for leading The Christmas Project s. He expressed appreciation for her stepping up and running the organization, noting it as a great example of community members helping one another. He acknowledged the presence of many good organizations in the area and stated gladness that among them. Commissioner Flannery thanked Ms. Kenney and all county employees as was customary each month. He highlighted the remarkable story behind the founding of The Christmas Project s describing it as incredible. He concluded by offering blessings and expressing gratitude for the work done throughout the community. Commissioner Ziobrowski stated that Christmas is a difficult time for many people for various reasons. He expressed appreciation for those who stepped up to help others and thanked Ms. Graham for her efforts. Ms. Gray introduced Human Services Director Ta w nya Hurley and Senior Center Director Victoria Ballantine to present the Franklin County Senior Centers program to keep everyone well acquainted with the different programs with their emerging trends, topics of interest and any concerns they may have. Her presentation, was made a part of these minutes. Several members from the Greencastle, Chambersburg, Tuscarora, and Mont Alto Senior Centers were in attendance and consistently expressed that involvement in Senior Center programs improved their health, energy, and overall well-being. Exercise classes, meal delivery, and various activities helped them stay active an d engaged after retirement. Many learned new skills, such as crafts and painting, and found renewed purpose. The Senior Centers fostered strong friendships and a sense of family. Attendees described the centers as welcoming environments, especially for tho se who felt lonely or lacked social interaction elsewhere. Several participants noted that they made new friends, shared hobbies, and received support during difficult times, such as caregiving or health challenges. The centers provided opportunities to help others, including packing and delivering meals for the homebound. Participants repeatedly thanked the Commissioners and staff, especially Beth Jones, Greencastle Senior Center Coordinator, and Ms. Ballantine for their support and dedication. They commended the positive atmosphere, creative programming, and the willingness of staff and members to help each other. The centers were described as second homes, and participants expressed pride and thankfulness for their existence. Senior Centers offered a variety of activities, including card games, exercise equipment, ceramics, puzzles, bingo, and computer access. Meal delivery volunteers, both center members and community neighbors, played a vital role in supporti ng seniors. Participants appreciated the accessibility of programs and the opportunity to contribute, regardless of whether they used the center or not. Several participants shared stories of overcoming personal challenges, such as shyness, health issues, and the loss of loved ones. They encouraged others, including younger seniors, to attend and become sparks for positive change. The centers helped participants regain confidence, find new purpose, and support each other through life transitions. Rh etta Martin, Greencastle Senior Center Marie Cooper, Chambersburg Senior Center Mary M owen, Greencastle Senior Center Ronald Myers, Greencastle Senior Center Diane Myers, Greencastle Senior Center Debra Hart, Tuscarora Senior Center Valerie Jordan, Mont Alto Senior Center Ann Cunningham, Greencastle Senior Center Henry Carbaugh, Greencastle Senior Center Commissioner Horst thanked Ms. Ballantine for a well-done and thorough presentation. He expressed pleasure in having attendees present and appreciated hearing their thoughts about the senior centers. He also acknowledged those watching online. He noted that it was uplifting to hear the positive results of the efforts made to provide these services. Commissioner Horst commended the staff, including Ms. Ballantine and Ms. Hurley for their excellent work. Commissioner Flannery expressed happiness at how well the Greencastle Senior Center had represented itself, noting it was his home Senior Center. He mentioned recent visits to Greencastle and stated he had visited five of the eight centers and observed that senior centers were sometimes viewed as a line item on a balance sheet, but meetings like this brought life to their true essence and purpose. He thanked attendees for sharing their experiences and indicated plans to spend more time at Greencastle Senior Center in the future, humorously noting it would be soon, but not too soon. Commissioner Ziobrowski noted being teased for being in the "fourth quarter" of life, having turned 75 in February. He expressed pride in being a senior and stated that the attendees made him proud. He commended the excellent work being done, emphasizing that while management was good, it was the seniors themselves who truly made the program successful. The Board reviewed Proclamation #2026-20 for the purpose of proclaiming September Senior Center Month. Commissioner Horst then read the proclamation and it was made a part of these minutes. On a motion by John T. Flannery; Seconded by Robert G. Ziobrowski; the Board unanimously approved the proclamation. Next, Ms. Ballantine recognized PA Health and Wellness as a valued partner of Franklin programming beyond financial support, including bingo, household items, socialization, and connecti on. She announced a $6,000.00 donation to each center (total $48,000.00), which, .00 in 2026. She stated that the investment would support Fall Fest, Christmas parties, and additional s, friendships, and sense of community. She thanked the PA Health and Wellness team for their generosity and continued investment. Ms. Gina Color thanked everyone for the warm welcome, camaraderie, and friendliness experienced at the senior centers. She noted that, although there were days when motivation to go to work was lacking, the energy and positivity at the centers made the experience enjoyable. She expressed sincere appreciation to all involved. Mr. Rob Cooper thanked the commissioners for their leadership and partnership. He expressed excitement and pride in the investment made into Franklin County S enior C enters, describing them as safe and healthy spaces for seniors. He emphasized the goal of helping seniors remain engaged and success.Commissioner Horst thanked Mr. Cooper and Ms. Color for their generous donation and all they contributed to Franklin County during the year. He described the donation as amazing, expressed great appreciation, and noted the value of the partnership with PA Health and Wellnes s. O n a motion by John T. Flannery; Seconded by Robert G. Ziobrowski;the Board unanimously approved to enter an executive sessi on at 11:10 a.m. for the purpose of reviewing real estate matters. There will be no action required after the executive session. On a motion by John T. Flannery; Seconded by Robert G. Ziobrowski; the Board unanimously approved to reconvene into regular session at 11:27 a.m. The meeting was adjourned at 11:28 a.m. o n a motion by John T. Flannery; Seconded by Robert G. Ziobrowski. 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 Special Thanks And Recognition Committee Robert G. Ziobrowski 272 North Second Street ~ Chambersburg, PA 17201 Tiffany Bloyer, HR Director Telephone (717) 261-3150 Fax (717) 261-3156 September 2, 2026 The Franklin County Commissioners, on behalf of the STAR Committee (Special Thanks And Recognition) proudly presents the Employee of the Month award to Brannon Salzetti. Mr. Salzetti has been employed with Franklin County si nce July of 2025. He currently serves as an Adult Probation Officer I in the Adult Probation. The selection for the August 2026 Employee of the Month was determined by the STAR Committee. There were ninete en nominations, three of which were for Brannon. The STAR nomination form asks what recent events or occurrences made you select Brannon and the answer stated: ?"Dedication" is the first word that comes to mind when thinking of Brannon Salzetti. Most of the time he has worked in probation he has covered two caseloads, with little recognition for the additional work and stress he has taken on. For the foreseeable future, Brannon wi ll continue covering two caseloads, as he assists a newer officer who is transitioning into his old role. One incident demonstrates Brannon's dedication to doing his job well. Later in the day on a Friday, Brannon began receiving concerning reports th at one of the individuals on his caseload had been potentially in violations of the terms of his probation, had been ge tting into altercations, and had been making threats. Rather than let it be "a Monday issue" and go home for the weekend, Brannon coordinated with two troopers from the Pennsylvania State Police and headed to the defendant's residence in a remote location in northern Franklin County, without radio cover age. The defendant was located and Troopers held the defendant until Brannon was able to enter the baseme nt and take control of the situatio n. Ultimately, Brannon arrested the defendant, and state police confiscated a large marijuana plant that was discovered behind the house. Due to the defendant's extremely inebriated state, Brannon tran sported this individual to the nearest hospital and got him medically cleared, before finally booking him into jail, hours after our typical "quitting time". Brannon's dedication may have prevented seri ous harm to the defendant or his family.? Another colleague states ?Brannon also volunteered to he lp with National Night Out in Washington Township. He was willing to give his time to represent the department and interact with members of the community. I think that shows the type of person and officer he is an d his willingness to be invo lved outside of his normal day-to-day duties.? Furthermore, ?While in the field Brannon has encountered many difficult situations and handled them appropriately, whether that be by asking for assistance from the police or having more PO's available, he is always prepared for whatever may happen. Brannon puts everything into his work and does it for the right reasons.? We are so grateful to Mr. Salzetti?s as he exudes a high standard of knowledge, leadership and excellence to the employees and residents of Franklin County. Sincerely, The STAR Committee 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 Special Thanks And Recognition Committee Robert G. Ziobrowski 272 North Second Street ~ Chambersburg, PA 17201 Tiffany Bloyer, HR Director Telephone (717) 261-3150 Fax (717) 261-3156 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