HomeMy WebLinkAbout2011-05-03 Commissioner Minutes
TUESDAY, MAY 3, 2011
The Franklin County Commissioners met Tuesday, May 3, 2011, 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 G. Ziobrowski; seconded by Robert L. Thomas;
unanimously approved to adopt the agenda and to amend the motion to include an
executive session at the end of the meeting as requested by John Hart for a personnel
matter.
Bill Landis from Mercersburg provided public comment and said that some
people are going to view his comments as a political maneuver but it is not. He spent
the last 8 months assessing and analyzing how the county is managed and has tried to
determine why efficiencies and management styles for government are different
compared to private industry standards. Mr. Landis stated he has spoken on open and
transparent government many times in past but the Board consistently refused to
embrace the concepts and as a county and the community and people suffer the
consequence of closed door practices. There have been laws passed requiring
deliberation, sunshine and right to know and there is a purpose to those laws. Board
needs to step back and review current facilities and open up to the community.
The minutes of April 26, 2011 and April 28, 2011 meetings were read. These will
be approved Thursday, May 5, 2011.
The Board reviewed Agreements and Contracts. Commissioner Keller had
questions about the contract with Allan Collautt Associates and asked that Rick Wynn,
Human Services Administrator provide further information at the next Board meeting.
One document needed approved today. The other documents will be approved
Thursday, May 5, 2011.
The Board reviewed FSNRC matters. On a motion by Robert G. Ziobrowski;
seconded by Robert L. Thomas; unanimously approved the Notice of Intent to Award,
Notice of Award and Notice to Proceed to give notice to Poole Anderson Construction,
LLC of the County’s contract award for the FSNRC Window Replacement Project for a
bid amount of $369,990.00. This was bid and awarded by the Board on Thursday, April,
28, 2011.
The Board reviewed Sheriff matters. On a motion by Robert G. Ziobrowski;
seconded by Robert L. Thomas; unanimously approved to award the bid for the Sale of
Seven Portable Radios to Kelly Knepper for a bid price of $50.00 each for a total of
$350.00. This proposal is the only bid received.
The Board reviewed appointing Lindsey Waters and Stanley Barrett to the
Franklin/Fulton County Drug and Alcohol Advisory Board for a term of May 1, 2011
through May 1, 2014. A question was raised at the last meeting concerning Mr. Barrett’s
residency requirements and was determined that he can work in Franklin County and
still be on Board even if he resides in Cumberland County. On a motion by Robert G.
Ziobrowski; seconded by Robert L. Thomas; unanimously approved to appoint Lindsey
Waters and Stanley Barrett to the Franklin/Fulton County Drug and Alcohol Advisory
Board for a term of May 1, 2011 through May 1, 2014.
Continued on page 2
Traci Kline, Area Agency on Aging Director met with the Board to provide an
overview of Older Adults Protective Services. Ms. Kline explained the different types of
abuse which are abandonment, abuse, neglect, and exploitation. Once Aging receives a
report of need, an investigation is completed to ensure the safety of the older adult and
reverse financial loss. AAA also provides education to community members, law
enforcement, nursing facilities and personal care homes. Ms. Kline asked the Board to
consider a proclamation for the purpose of proclaiming the month of May as Older
Americans month. On a motion by Robert G. Ziobrowski; seconded by Robert L.
Thomas; unanimously approved to sign Franklin County Proclamation #2011-07 and that
the attached proclamation be made a part of these minutes.
Bernice Crouse, Executive Director of the Franklin County Library System was
present to provide an overview of the library system and the services the library provides
to the community. Ms. Crouse asked the Board to sign a proclamation for the purpose
of proclaiming the week of May 15 to 21, 2011 as Library Week in Franklin County. On
a motion by Robert G. Ziobrowski; seconded by Robert L. Thomas; unanimously
approved to sign Franklin County Proclamation #2011-08 and that the attached
proclamation be made a part of these minutes.
John Hart, Chief Clerk/County Administrator provided an overview of the facilities
remodeling project. In November the Board of Commissioners charged staff to develop
a plan to address the following elements: improve Security in Courthouse Complex;
determine and provide for the immediate needs of the courts; and improve ADA
accessibility for buildings in courthouse complex. Staff and Noelker and Hull identified
the following security improvements: all Judges should be located within secure
perimeter; all Judges and courtroom operations should be located within courthouse
annex and old courthouse; provide a sally port for sheriff operations; a secure entrance
for the old courthouse; and provide a secure perimeter for Judges, staff, and movement
of inmates. Staff and Noelker and Hull also identified the following immediate needs of
the courts: provide a fifth courtroom; provide adequate office space for fifth Judge;
enlarge court administrators office space; and provide additional space for arbitrations,
central court, arbitrations and jury deliberations. Staff and Noelker and Hull reviewed
and identified the following ADA improvements; provide ADA accessibility for old
courthouse by opening the front entrance of this building and improve ADA accessibility
for courthouse annex. Staff and Noelker and Hull reviewed the Harman’s Building,
Chambersburg Trust Building and Junior Fire Company Building to accommodate the
identified court needs, security and ADA improvements. Staff and Noelker and Hull
provided the following conclusion: utilize courthouse annex and old courthouse for judge
quarters and courtrooms; Junior Fire Company remodeled to provide for Hearing
Masters operations; provide ADA accessibility and security to the old court house by
opening the front entrance with a ramp; provide a sally port for sheriff operations at rear
of courthouse annex; and provide flexible courtroom, hearing room and jury deliberation
space in the jury assembly room.
Commissioner Keller opened the floor for public comments or questions.
Bill Landis would like to know why no costs were associated to refurbish Trust
Company Building. Curious to know why bought this building and Harman’s building?
Commissioner Keller responded the County purchased Trust building because of
proximity to courthouse and may have to expand in the near or long term so it was
logical to purchase this property. Additionally with this purchase the county no longer
pays rent in the amount of $100,000 a year and is realizing net rental revenue of
$100,000 a year. As far as Harman’s building Commissioner Keller advised the County
will be in business in downtown for well into the future and having ownership of
Continued on page 3
Harman’s Building can address future needs. Commissioner Thomas said this purchase
of land was due to the future operations of the county in the downtown area was purely
the reason for this purchase. Mr. Landis said plans are to remove Harman building and
is Trust Company Building worthy of renovating and if so what is estimated costs?
Commissioner Keller responded that no figures have been developed on this building
and there are no plans to renovate it in the future. Board recognizes this building has
issues and the county will have to address those with routine maintenance. Stuart
Christenson advised that Noelker and Hull assessed the maintenance needs of the
building and didn’t calculate renovations of the structure. John Hart advised the Board
that by utilizing in-house technicians certain HVAC and electrical issues have been
addressed and improved. These items consist of boiler system improvements and the
review of air conditioning units to improve efficiencies. The county is aware of issues
concerning the roof rubber membrane. The previous owners made corrections to the
membrane however additional work may need required. The 2012 year budget may
include money to address window sills and staff will determine what items can self-
perform and what items will need to be contracted out.
Dan Pellicano agrees with constructing a Sally Port but wants to make sure
public understands that the purchase price of these buildings should be added to the 1.5
Million dollar project cost for a total of 4 to 5 Million dollars when all said and done. He
inquired why bother do an analysis on roof and floor loads on the Harman’s building if
the County did not intend to renovate them. Mr. Pellicano inquired why spend money on
architects if going to demolish these buildings? Commissioner Thomas responded that
the big picture was the land and the County did not want to rule out possibility of utilizing
these buildings for operation hence the study. Mr. Pellicano asked why not locate court
offices in the Trust Company Building and moving other operations to other buildings?
Commissioner Keller responded that if include the cost of 1.7 to 2.1 million dollars to
acquire these buildings the total project would cost barely 3 million dollars. The Trust
Company Building purchase price is not included due to this building not being part of
the renovations. Commissioner Keller stated one reason not to consider moving divorce
masters operations into the Trust Company Building is the challenge in providing
security due to the mixed use setting. Security will be easier to provide at the Fire
Company Building. Stuart Christenson said that this building is not the best layout other
than for office space due to the column type structure and its mixed use would present
security issues with court and public functions in the same building. John Hart advised
numbers were not run on this building. The team did review security difficulties and staff
involved with having four or five entrances in this building. Security would be staff
intensive and by maintaining court operations in the courthouse and courthouse annex
much of the security and staff are already in place. This is the best solution.
Anne Shepard, Private Attorney, appreciates the changes and expansions
intended for the judicial center for the two following reasons: ease of use by the public
and safety for staff, attorneys and clients. Currently the third floor is filled with
witnesses, victims, perpetrators, police and public. At times a defendant is talking to his
public defender in the hallway. Tuesdays are central court day which consist of hearings
for criminal cases and as a result there are stressful situations for clients, attorneys and
police officers. Ms. Shepard said that she appreciates what the Commissioners are
doing with the expansion of the judicial center and hopes they take into consideration the
court system recommendations.
Continued on page 4
Rebecca Dempsy, Attorney and Managing Attorney with Women in Need, stated
that WIN hearings take place at the courthouse where batterers and victims share the
same space. Currently at the courthouse victims are often in close association and
within sight of the batterers. On numerous occasions Sheriff Deputies have stood by her
and victims to protect them against the batterers. The proposed renovations would
enhance safety of the victims. Relocating juvenile and divorce clients away from the
courthouse would be safer and would prevent victims from pulling their cases. At
present time judges have to walk through public area to go to a courtroom which is not
safe and diminishes the power of the court. Ms. Dempsy urges the Commissioners to
move forward with the renovations for the safety and protection of the clients. Ms.
Dempsy thanked the Commissioner for considering these facility improvements.
Ken Jones asked Mr. Ziobrowski if the $425,000 is reasonable for a parking lot.
Commissioner Ziobrowski responded the Harman’s building was not purchased for a
parking lot as Commissioner Thomas explained it was purchased for long term.
Commissioner Ziobrowski stated the proposed project includes demolishing the
Harman’s and Rahauser buildings and 20 years from now there may be a county
building at these locations. The County is growing and there will be a need for more
space.
Bill Landis commented he has heard some good needs identified from attorneys
present and asked if the 2 Million dollar renovation project address any of the needs that
were presented? Commissioner Keller responded that one of the primary concerns is
security and separating the victims and criminals. Mr. Landis asked if the Board is
satisfied with anticipated results of the renovations? Tim Wilmot, Master of Divorce
asked to speak and thanked the commissioners for permitting him and Mahesh Rao to
give input on how to best utilize space in the Fire Company Building. Court
Administration has made comment in the past that considering the addition of an
additional divorce master. The plan of sharing the same courtroom by all masters will not
work and this issue needs to be addressed. This proposal will greatly relieve pressure in
the courthouse. Mr. Wilmot stated there is a huge need for more courtroom space and
this is an appropriate improvement.
Dane Anthony, Sherriff, told everyone in attendance that he is willing to walk
them through the court house to show them the current conditions and how the
renovations will improve security and operations.
Bill Landis stated his concern is that going from 50 – 70 Million dollar solution to
needs and now spending 2 Million dollars to address these needs. He asked if we are
truly addressing the needs and is it a short term band aide? Mr. Landis also stated he
has reservations about the Trust Building and understands it’s good to own land but
where does it fit into the long range plans?
Allen Piper, Citizens for Responsible Government, spoke and heard how bad
everything is and doom and gloom today but how do the Commissioners plan to involve
the public in this process? Do they plan to develop a citizen panel that he brought up
months ago and offered to sit on? He stated there is a need for certain updating in the
courthouse system and as long as done right and the public is totally 100% involved they
will support it. Commissioner Keller responded the public has been involved by posting
information on the county’s website, information has been presented in meetings and the
board has offered the public additional opportunity to communicate. The project has
been covered by the newspaper and on the county’s website. Additionally the Board will
consider the recommends and public comments heard this morning under advisement
and meet again on Thursday and see if ready to move forward.
Continued on page 5
Dee Chapman said the public perception is the County is still going to build a
courthouse and the word needs to get it out that the County is not building a courthouse.
Commissioner Thomas stated the Board is not building a courthouse and he doesn’t
know how to change this perception. The Board has worked well with the judges in past
and have cooperated in achieving efficiencies. President Judge Herman responded that
the Board and the Court has worked well and adding master services is a result of this
cooperation. Judge Herman stated the ability to make changes to gain greater
efficiencies is limited by the current facility and have squeezed as much as possible from
the current courthouse by utilizing spaces and case management technics to keep cases
moving. Only so much can do in terms of management. Commissioner Keller said one
thing the Board can do is to act on the recommendations in a timely fashion. Nothing
will dispel rumors of building a courthouse more quickly than if the Board moves quickly
on renovations that will help. Mr. Keller advised he is not of the opinion to establish a
citizen’s advisory panel, however, the Board will consider this suggestion. Chairman
Keller requested the Board to consider the information presented today and to be
prepared to take action of this matter this Thursday.
John Pace asked if there will be further public comment on Thursday and
Commissioner Keller said there will be prior to a decision being made.
Bill Landis asked why the Board even talked about a 50 Million dollar project if
the County can take care of immediate future with a 2 Million dollar project and will this
project truly take care of the needs? Commissioner Keller responded the original plan of
building a courthouse was a 20 year solution and this is not a band aid but it is not a 20
year solution either. Due to current economic times larger project was cancelled,
however, the security needs need to be addressed. The studies done, anticipate another
judge by 2017. How long these renovations will last will depend on how well the
Commissioners and the Judges work together to gain additional efficiencies and make
the most of the facilities. If we continue with certain initiatives then these improvements
can last a lot longer. Commissioner Thomas stated the Board has worked with the
Courts for years and there are now discussions about adding a domestic relations
master. With moving all three masters out of the courthouse this foot traffic will not be
going into courthouse so this would enhance security. No one knows what future holds
however the studies indicate another judge and the board at that time will deal with this
situation. Commissioner Ziobrowski directed a response to Mr. Landis’ question. The
County did not talk about a 50 million dollar court house project. The renovation project
will require staff for three security entrances instead of one. Staff will have to interact on
all three floors which require more security. The county will have to spend more on
personnel and operating costs. When the Board considered a new building, it was to
reduce operating costs. The Commissioners made a prudent decision based on
economic reasons to cancel the judicial center project and decided to hold tight and
squeeze more out of the orange. We are not going to build a new courthouse but can’t
say that down the road. The county doesn’t know what future will bring and what the
court needs will be. The Board is trying to address immediate needs. Mr. Landis said
the 50-70 Million dollars came from the Public Opinion which was the tool used to
communicate with the public when could have used the website. Use website, publish it
and prove it to him.
On a motion by Robert G. Ziobrowski; seconded by Robert L. Thomas;
unanimously approved to enter an executive session at 11:58 a.m. this date for the
purpose to review Personnel matters. The Board reconvened into regular session at
12:33 p.m. No action will be required after executive session.
Continued on page 6
The meeting was adjourned at 12:34 p.m. with a motion by Robert G. Ziobrowski;
seconded by Robert L. Thomas.
FRANKLIN COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
Proclamation #2011 - 07
Older Americans Month 2011
Whereas, Franklin County is a community that includes 24,500 citizens aged 65 and
older; and
Whereas, the older adults in Franklin County are the roots from which our community
grows, who bestow gifts of wisdom and insight upon younger generations, and strengthen
the bonds between neighbors to create a better place to live; and
Whereas, our society can be enhanced by older adults aging peacefully in their
communities; and
Whereas, the older adults in Franklin County should be commended for their role in
creating and bolstering the fiber of our community and nation; and
Whereas, our community can provide that recognition and respect by enriching the
quality of life for older Americans by:
Increasing their opportunities to remain in their communities as active and
engaged citizens
Providing services, technologies, and support systems that allow seniors to foster
and maintain connections within the community
Emphasizing the value of elders by publically recognizing their contributions to
the diversity, strength, and unity of our community
Now Therefore, we, the Commissioners of Franklin County, Pennsylvania do hereby
proclaim May 2011 to be Older Americans Month. We urge every citizen to take time
this month to honor our older adults and the professionals, family members, and
volunteers who care for them. Our recognition of older Americans and their involvement
in our lives can help us achieve stronger and more meaningful connections with each
other and enrich our community's quality of life.
In Witness Whereof, We have hereunto set our hand and have caused the seal of Franklin
County to be fixed this 3rd day of May, 2011
FRANKLIN COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
Davieller, Chairman
4w �, 1,
Robert L. Thomas
Robert G. Ziobr ski
OAM 2011
Older Americans:
D
WHEREAS: Franklin County public libraries have more patrons than ever before, offering 21° century
services that go far beyond lending books; local libraries teach literacy, embrace technology,
promote good health and financial growth, are civic and social centers ; and
WHEREAS: The libraries of Franklin County are essential, now and always, making available basic literacy
opportunities for people of all ages and backgrounds by providing free access to: reading
materials, qualified staff, engrossing Storytimes, the Bookmobile, the Book Buggy for
preschoolers, and Kindly Canines reading enrichment program; and
WHEREAS: Public libraries embrace modern technology and online literacy through audio downloadable
books, computer stations and laptops, free access to the internet, online databases,
computer classes, and skilled reference staff; and
WHEREAS: Public libraries in Franklin County play an important role in health and wellness of families'
lives by providing Family Place centers and workshops; Preschoolers in Motion @ Your Library
and partnering with local healthcare providers and agencies to promote longer, healthier
living; and
WHEREAS: County libraries aid citizens with financial information by offering classes on money
management, retirement planning, and holding annual events that contribute to economic
growth in the community in which they live; and
WHEREAS: County libraries are places that provide opportunities to grow and enrich residents' lives in
many civic and social ways, through numerous community partnerships, as well as workshops
that address personal interest topics, English as a second language and citizenship classes, all
enabling people to interact with one another and contribute to society at all levels; and
WHEREAS: County tax dollars are indispensible for providing library services, especially with consecutive
state budget cuts. Library usage has simply outgrown available funding. Increasing numbers
of patrons and use of services prove libraries are as essential now as they always have been.
Every dollar raised will continue to be stretched as far as possible to continue to provide'the
library services that community members need.
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED: We, the Commissioners of the County of Franklin, do hereby proclaim the
week of May 15 to May 21, 2011, as FRANKLIN COUNTY PUBLIC LIBRARY WEEK, in recognition
of the loyal public library staff members, to commend them for their dedication to provide
21st century library services.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, We have hereunto set our hands and caused the seal of Franklin County to be affixed
this 3'' day of May, 2011.
FRANKLIN COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
David S. Keller, Chairman
I
Robert L. Thomas
Robert G. Z KI