Luzerne County public meetings in 2021

Accountability, Conduct & Ethics Commission

The Luzerne County Accountability, Conduct and Ethics Commission is meeting to handle routine business: approving prior meeting minutes, paying a court reporting invoice, reviewing its 2021 annual report, and discussing any pending complaints. The agenda is mostly procedural with no major policy decisions listed.

• Approve minutes from December 7, 2021 meeting
• Approve $138.50 invoice for Jessica Lewis Court Reporting, LLC
• Review 2021 Annual Report
• Discuss pending complaints under Section 105.03(B) if necessary

The Luzerne County Accountability, Conduct and Ethics Commission unanimously approved the 2021 Annual Report and an invoice for court reporting. The board determined complaint 2021-1A during executive session, with the decision to be sent to Council Chairman Tim McGinley. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting was largely procedural.

• Approved 2021 Annual Report (unanimous)
• Approved $138.50 invoice for Jessica Lewis Court Reporting (unanimous)
• Determined complaint 2021-1A in executive session; decision to be transmitted to Council Chairman
• Approved minutes from December 7, 2021 meeting (unanimous)

County Cares Commission

The Luzerne County County Cares Commission is meeting to discuss and finalize a report on the Children & Youth Duffle Bag Fundraiser. The agenda includes only this one substantive item, along with routine procedural matters such as call to order, roll call, and public comment.

• Finalization and report for Children & Youth Duffle Bag Fundraiser

County Cares Commission

The Luzerne County County Cares Commission is meeting to finalize and report on the Children & Youth Duffle Bag Fundraiser. The agenda contains this single substantive item, with the rest being routine procedural matters such as call to order, roll call, and public comment.

• Finalization and report for Children & Youth Duffle Bag Fundraiser

Advisory Council - Area Agency on Aging

The Area Agency on Aging Advisory Board for Luzerne/Wyoming Counties is meeting to handle routine business: approving minutes, hearing reports from the executive director and committees, and nominating a slate of officers for 2022. No major policy decisions or public hearings are on the agenda.

• Approval of meeting minutes
• Executive director's report
• Administrative, social services, and active adult center reports
• 2022 advisory board slate of officers

Advisory Council - Area Agency on Aging

The Luzerne-Wyoming Counties Area Agency on Aging Advisory Board met to approve minutes, receive reports, and vote on the 2022 officer slate. Key discussions included ongoing staff vacancies, the county budget, and the Foster Grandparent Program contract. The board elected Joseph Yozviak as chair, Angel Mathis as vice chair, and Noah Davis as secretary for 2022.

• Elected 2022 officers: Chair Joseph Yozviak, Vice Chair Angel Mathis, Secretary Noah Davis
• County budget approved, including merit raises for non-union workers; union contract expires Dec. 31, 2021
• Foster Grandparent Program contract with AmeriCorps extended to June 30, 2022 with consultant Mary Lou Zerfoss
• 15 full-time vacancies listed, including Aging Care Managers and Senior Center Manager at Charles T. Adams
• Senate Bill 1260 (PACENET) signed, increasing income limits by $6,000 per household

Convention & Visitors Bureau

The Luzerne County Convention & Visitors Bureau board will hold its regular December meeting, covering routine business such as roll call, minutes, and reports. Key items include the executive director's report, hotel tax information, budget performance, an update on the Rockin' the River Concert Series, and an office relocation update.

• Review of hotel tax info
• Review of budget performance report
• Update on Rockin' the River Concert Series
• Update on office relocation
• Public comment period

Convention Center Authority

The Luzerne County Convention Center Authority Board approved several expenditures, including up to $35,000 to replace two HVAC units, $20,000 for media players and menu board software, $10,000 for a single audit of the SVOG grant, $10,000 for pedestrian bridge painting, and $6,300 for parking lot step repairs. The board also passed resolutions honoring outgoing Chairman Gary Zingaretti and member Michelle Reilly, and approved the 2022 meeting dates. The meeting included routine approvals of minutes and bills totaling $31,537.00.

• Approved up to $35,000 to replace 2 HVAC units (Johnson Controls quote)
• Approved up to $20,000 for 20 media players and menu board software
• Approved up to $10,000 for Snyder & Clemente single audit of SVOG Grant
• Approved up to $10,000 for Postupack Painting to remove epoxy from pedestrian bridges
• Approved up to $6,300 for Kemmerer Masonry to rebuild back parking lot steps

County Council

The provided agenda text is corrupted and unreadable, containing only garbled characters and fragments. It is not possible to determine what the Luzerne County Council is deciding or discussing at this meeting. The document appears to be procedural boilerplate or a technical error.

• Agenda text is corrupted and cannot be parsed

County Council

The provided agenda text is heavily corrupted and unreadable, consisting of garbled characters and fragments. No specific decisions, proposals, or discussion items can be reliably extracted. The agenda appears to be procedural boilerplate, but even that cannot be confirmed due to the text quality.

County Council

This agenda for the Luzerne County Council meeting on December 14, 2021, contains only procedural boilerplate and appears to be a placeholder or corrupted text. No specific decisions, discussions, or action items are identifiable from the provided text.

County Council

The Luzerne County Council is issuing a proclamation commending outgoing Council Member Sheila Saidman, Esq. for her four years of service, including work on the Election Inquiry and ABC Committees. The agenda contains only this ceremonial item and no other business.

• Proclamation honoring Sheila Saidman, Esq. for service from January 2, 2018 to January 2, 2022

County Council

The Luzerne County Council is meeting to consider the 2022 county budget and related tax matters. The agenda includes a vote on the proposed budget ordinance and a resolution setting the millage rate for the coming year.

• Vote on 2022 county budget ordinance
• Resolution to set 2022 real estate tax millage rate
• Discussion of county financial reports and audits

County Council

The Luzerne County Council will vote on issuing a $14 million tax and revenue anticipation note for 2022 and adopting the 2022 fiscal year budget. They will also consider terminating the services of Stevens & Lee, P.C., approving a budget transfer for special legal services, increasing the Clerk of County Council's salary, appointing a member to the County Manager Search Committee, and approving a residential lease related to the Hazzouri v. Luzerne County litigation. The agenda includes public comment periods and approval of prior meeting minutes.

• Resolution to issue a Tax and Revenue Anticipation Note, Series of 2022, up to $14,000,000
• Resolution terminating services of Stevens & Lee, P.C.
• Resolution approving budget transfer to allot funds to Special Legal Services
• Resolution increasing salary of the Clerk of County Council
• Resolution approving a residential lease related to Hazzouri v. Luzerne County settlement

The Luzerne County Council unanimously adopted the 2022 Fiscal Year Budget, totaling $157,812,877, with a reserve of $1,266,026. The council also approved a $14 million tax and revenue anticipation note, terminated the services of Stevens & Lee, P.C., and appointed Walter S. Mitchell, Jr. to the County Manager Search Committee. A residential lease related to the Hazzouri v. Luzerne County litigation was unanimously rejected.

• Adopted 2022 Fiscal Year Budget of $157,812,877 (11-0)
• Authorized $14M Tax and Revenue Anticipation Note (10-0, 1 abstention)
• Terminated services of Stevens & Lee, P.C. (10-0, 1 abstention)
• Appointed Walter S. Mitchell, Jr. to County Manager Search Committee (10-0, 1 abstention)
• Rejected residential lease in Hazzouri v. Luzerne County settlement (0-11)
• Approved budget transfer of $3,300 to Special Legal Services (9-1, 1 abstention)
• Increased salary of Clerk of County Council (11-0)
• Approved multiple FY2022 budget amendments, including moving weddings to Building & Grounds and increasing liability/auto insurance funds

County Council

The Luzerne County Council is holding a voting session on December 14, 2021, to consider applicants for the County Manager Search Committee. The agenda lists five applicants in alphabetical order: Angelo P. Grasso, Jr., John Magagna, Walter S. Mitchell, Jr., Patrick Musto, and Jeffrey Rockman, Esq. The council will likely vote on appointing some or all of these individuals to the committee.

• Consideration of County Manager Search Committee applicants: Angelo P. Grasso, Jr., John Magagna, Walter S. Mitchell, Jr., Patrick Musto, Jeffrey Rockman, Esq.

Housing Authority

The Luzerne County Housing Authority will hold its regular board meeting to approve minutes, hear the executive director's report, award a contract for Exeter Gardens apartment renovations, approve bills and payroll, and conduct board reorganization. The contract award is based on bids received, with H & P Construction submitting the lowest base bid.

• Award contract for Exeter Gardens Apartment Renovations
• Bids received: H & P Construction base bid $3,844,150, add-on $2,524,053
• Approval of bills and payroll for November 1-30, 2021
• Board reorganization effective January 11, 2022

The Luzerne County Housing Authority rejected all bids for the Exeter Garden apartment renovations due to insufficient funds, with bids coming in higher than anticipated. The board also approved the November bills and payroll, tabled board reorganization until next month, and noted the Dupont Project is delayed to end of January 2022.

• Rejected all bids for Exeter Garden PA57-03 renovations (all ayes)
• Approved November 2021 bills and payroll (all ayes)
• Tabled board reorganization until next month (all ayes)
• Approved minutes of November 9, 2021 meeting (all ayes)

Mental Health & Developmental Services Board

The Luzerne-Wyoming Counties Mental Health and Developmental Services Advisory Board will meet virtually to discuss the 2022 meeting schedule, approve the September 23, 2021 minutes, and receive updates from administrators on financial, developmental, supports coordination, and mental health services. Public comments will be heard.

• Discussion of 2022 Advisory Board Meeting Schedule
• Approval of September 23, 2021 meeting minutes
• Financial Services Update by Margaret Manley
• Developmental Services Update by Amy Tomkoski
• Mental Health Services Update by Tara Fox

The board reviewed financial reports showing a net income/fund balance of $630,593.39 as of October 31, 2021. Updates were provided on COVID-19 impacts, including mild cases among vaccinated individuals, and on developmental services, including waiver capacity for 2022 graduates (36 of 39 by January 2022). No formal votes or decisions were recorded; the meeting was informational.

• Reviewed FY 21-22 revenue and expenditure report through October 31, 2021, showing net income of $630,593.39
• Noted ODP-approved ARPA plan includes base funding increases, provider retention payments, and new rate setting
• Reported waiver capacity for 2021 graduates addressed; 36 of 39 2022 graduates to receive waivers by January 2022
• Launched Handle With Care Initiative on October 1, 2021
• Launched Juvenile Wellness Court in July 2021 with four juveniles enrolled
• Held Crisis Intervention Team training week of November 15-19, training 15 officers

Planning Commission

The Luzerne County Planning Commission is meeting to act on minutes from November 18 and to consider a final plan approval request. The main item is Nelson Martin's request for Final Plan Approval of Phase 2 of the Pinecrest Mennonite Church Land Development in Huntington Township. This phase involves constructing a two-story church with parking, grading, stormwater, and utility work on a five-acre site.

• Final Plan Approval for Phase 2 of Pinecrest Mennonite Church Land Development, Huntington Township
• Construction of a 55 ft. x 85 ft. two-story church
• Site at southwest corner of Zachery Road and Holmes Road
• Five-acre site in Agricultural (AG) Zoning District
• Preliminary Plan approval granted August 11, 2020

The Luzerne County Planning Commission unanimously approved conditional final plan approval for Phase 2 of the Pinecrest Mennonite Church Land Development in Fairmount Township. The project includes a two-story church, parking, and site improvements. Approval is subject to conditions including documentation on stormwater basin compensation and recording of an O&M agreement, with a one-year deadline.

• Approved minutes of November 18, 2021 (unanimous)
• Granted conditional final plan approval for Pinecrest Mennonite Church Land Development (unanimous)

Zoning Hearing Board

The Luzerne County Zoning Hearing Board will hold a public meeting on December 7, 2021, to hear two variance applications. The board will consider a use variance for a new house and accessory structures in a heavy industrial district, and a use variance plus a sign variance for a roofing contractor's storage yard and office in a neighborhood business district.

• Use variance for two-story house with garage, deck, pool, and shed on vacant parcel at 40 Pittston Ave., Yatesville (Heavy Industrial District)
• Use variance for roofing contractor storage yard and office at 914 Union St., Laflin (Neighborhood Business District)
• Sign variance: front yard setback reduced from required 20 ft to requested 10 ft at 914 Union St., Laflin

The Luzerne County Zoning Hearing Board approved a use variance for Richard and Gela Griffin to build a house with garage, deck, pool, and shed on a vacant parcel in Yatesville Borough's Heavy Industrial District. The board denied Tomas Tlatenchi's request for a use variance for a roofing contractor storage yard and office, plus a sign variance, at 914 Union St. in Laflin Borough. The board also approved minutes from its September 7 and October 5, 2021 meetings.

• Approved minutes of September 7, 2021
• Approved minutes of October 5, 2021
• Approved use variance for Richard & Gela Griffin to construct a two-story house with attached garage, deck, pool, and shed on a vacant parcel in Yatesville Borough's Heavy Industrial District
• Denied use variance for Tomas Tlatenchi to establish a roofing contractor storage yard and office, and sign variance for front yard setback at 914 Union St., Laflin Borough

County Council

This agenda for the Luzerne County Council meeting on December 7, 2021, appears to contain only procedural or boilerplate content. The text is largely garbled or corrupted, with no substantive agenda items, decisions, or discussions identifiable. Residents should not expect any concrete actions or proposals from this agenda.

County Council

The Luzerne County Council will hold a work session to discuss the issuance of a Tax and Revenue Anticipation Note (TRAN) for 2022, not to exceed $14 million, and to review November 2021 division reports. The council will also discuss procedures for replacing a member of the Manager Search Committee. Public comment will be heard.

• Resolution authorizing a $14,000,000 Tax and Revenue Anticipation Note for 2022
• November 2021 division reports: tax collection at $113,668,952 (97.43% of budget)
• Discussion on procedure for replacing a Manager Search Committee member
• Corrections: average daily population 601.7, 276 bookings in November
• Recorder of Deeds: $198,273.24 in county fees collected in November

County Council

The Luzerne County Council will vote on a resolution authorizing a one-year lease agreement for Domestic Relations at 113 West North Street, Wilkes-Barre, at $37,431.58 per month. They will also consider multiple FY2022 budget amendments, including reductions to courts, elections, and IT, and an increase for road and bridge funding. The agenda includes public comment periods and approval of prior meeting minutes.

• Lease agreement for 113 West North Street, Wilkes-Barre, $37,431.58/month for Domestic Relations
• FY2022 budget amendments: reduce courts by $67,000, elections by $308,242, IT by $92,000
• Road & Bridge funding increase of $1,000,000 from reserve account
• Merit raise reduction of $33,560 across departments
• Election wages reduced by $10,000 (operator salary from $40,000 to $30,000)

The Luzerne County Council approved several FY2022 budget amendments, including a $10,000 reduction to Domestic Relations insurance and a 2.6% salary increase for a clerk. Other amendments, such as IT budget cuts, failed. A $1 million increase for road and bridge funding was postponed to a later meeting.

• Approved lease agreement with Domestic Relations for 113 West North Street (10-0, 1 abstention)
• Approved $10,000 cut to Domestic Relations insurance (10-1)
• Approved travel, advertising, and conference budget cuts totaling $24,130 (10-1)
• Approved 2.6% salary increase for clerk (9-2)
• Postponed $300,000 cut to Elections contractual services (11-0)
• Postponed $1,000,000 increase for road and bridge funding (9-2)
• Failed IT wage reduction of $92,000 (3-8)
• Failed IT contractual services cut of $89,600 (3-8)

Accountability, Conduct & Ethics Commission

The Luzerne County Accountability, Conduct and Ethics Commission is meeting to handle routine business: approving minutes, paying legal invoices, and reviewing its 2021 annual report. The agenda also includes public comment and discussion of pending complaints, if any.

• Approval of invoices for Michael Sharkey, Esq.: March $686.00, April $1,022.00, August $924.00, October $938.00
• Review of 2021 Annual Report
• Discussion of pending complaints under Section 105.03(B)

The Luzerne County Accountability, Conduct and Ethics Commission unanimously found a violation in complaint 2021-1A and authorized Attorney Bobeck to prepare findings, facts, and conclusions of law. The commission also approved invoices for Michael Sharkey, Esq., accepted his resignation, and discussed the 2021 annual report.

• Found violation in complaint 2021-1A (unanimous)
• Authorized Attorney Bobeck to prepare findings, facts, and conclusions of law
• Approved invoices for Michael Sharkey, Esq. totaling $3,570 (unanimous)
• Accepted resignation of Michael Sharkey, Esq. as ACE Attorney
• Requested Office of Law to contact lawyers about the vacant position
• Approved minutes from October 19, 2021 meeting (unanimous)

County Council

Luzerne County Council will vote on a series of 2022 budget adjustments, including moving wedding revenue from Budget and Finance to Building and Grounds, increasing coroner forensic and toxicology funding, and adding money for dog license notices and insurance renewals. The agenda contains only these line-item budget transfers and increases, with no other policy items.

• Move weddings from Budget and Finance to Building and Grounds, adding $15,000 revenue (30 weddings @ $500)
• Recorder of Deeds Overtime increase from $6,000 to $9,000
• Coroner Forensic Exams increase from $200,000 to $280,000
• Coroner Toxicology increase from $90,000 to $100,000
• Dog license notices increase from $500 to $15,500

County Council

The Luzerne County Courts, via District Court Administrator Paul Hindmarsh, are responding to proposed 2022 budget cuts from Council Member Walter Griffith. They request restoration of funds for online legal research tools, probation services, and other court operations, while agreeing to a reduction in Domestic Relations insurance. Council will consider these responses at tonight's meeting.

• Courts 4184 Books: request $10,000 increase to $70,000 for online legal research tools
• Domestic Relations 4187 Insurance: agree to $7,000 cut to $20,000
• Probation 4237 Management/Consulting: request $50,000 increase to $150,000 for pretrial and highway safety programs

County Cares Commission

This agenda contains no meeting business; it is a donation form for Keystone Mission, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit. The form lists donation amounts and asks for contact and payment information. There are no decisions, discussions, or public hearings scheduled.

• Donation levels: $25, $50, $100, $500, $1,000
• Optional $3.00 fee offset to cover processing costs
• Contact: Keystone Mission, (570) 871-4795, Development@KeystoneMission.org

County Cares Commission

The Luzerne County County Cares Commission is meeting to discuss and potentially launch the Children and Youth Duffle Bag Program. The agenda includes only this single substantive item, along with routine procedural matters such as call to order, roll call, and public comment.

• Children and Youth Duffle Bag Program launch

Board of Elections & Registration

The Luzerne County Board of Elections and Registration is meeting to discuss operational issues from the November 2021 election, including mail-in ballots received after deadlines, campaign finance report status, and poll book discrepancies. The board will also consider proposed 2022 meeting dates, poll worker pay and training, and directives #7, 8, and 9. Public comment is limited to 4 minutes per person.

• Mail-in ballots received after May 2021 primary and Nov. 2, 2021 general election dates
• Campaign finance reports on website - status
• Poll book / voter discrepancies at polls
• Proposed calendar dates for 2022 meetings
• Poll worker pay / training pay

The Luzerne County Board of Elections and Registration unanimously approved the 2022 meeting schedule and the minutes from four prior meetings. The board tabled Directives 7, 8, and 9 (written procedures, job descriptions, website) until a new director is hired. It also discussed mail-in ballot timing, poll worker training pay, and provisional ballot issues, but took no formal votes on those items.

• Approved the agenda unanimously.
• Approved minutes for October 27, November 2-19, November 5, and November 24, 2021, unanimously.
• Approved the 2022 meeting dates list unanimously.
• Tabled Directives 7, 8, and 9 until a new director is hired.

County Council

Luzerne County Council holds a budget work session to review the FY2022 proposed budget for Division 30 (Administrative Services) and to discuss a resolution authorizing the County Manager to execute a one-year lease agreement with Luzerne County Domestic Relations for premises at 113 West North Street, Wilkes-Barre. The lease is for $37,431.58 per month ($449,179.00 per year) and would take effect after the current lease expires on December 31, 2021. Public comment is scheduled.

• Review of FY2022 proposed budget for Division 30 – Administrative Services
• Resolution to authorize County Manager to execute lease with Domestic Relations for 113 West North Street, Wilkes-Barre
• Lease term: one year, rent $37,431.58 per month ($449,179.00 per year)
• Public comment period with 3-minute limit per speaker

County Council

Luzerne County Council will hold a special meeting to consider several FY2022 budget amendments, including transfers related to transit funding and various departmental adjustments. They will also vote on resolutions declaring a vacancy on the County Manager Search Committee, committing a local match for the new Luzerne County Transportation Authority Maintenance Facility Project, and setting the topmost salary for the County Manager. Public comment will be heard.

• FY2022 budget amendments including $735,015 transfer from LCTA to County Reserve Fund and from CARES Act to LCTA
• Resolution declaring vacancy on Luzerne County Manager Search Committee
• Resolution committing local match for new Luzerne County Transportation Authority Maintenance Facility Project
• Motion to set topmost salary level for County Manager's compensation
• Proposed budget changes include reducing County Manager salary increase by $48,322 and cutting District Attorney capital cases by $90,000

At a special meeting on November 30, 2021, the Luzerne County Council voted on a series of 2022 budget amendments, approved a local match commitment for the Luzerne County Transportation Authority (LCTA) maintenance facility project, and set the top salary for the county manager position. Several proposed amendments were removed by their sponsor, and others were moved to the next voting session. The council also declared a vacancy on the County Manager Search Committee.

• Approved multiple 2022 budget amendments, including $735,000 in transfers for LCTA and Hazleton Transit (7-4 and 11-0 votes)
• Approved $189,032 transfer to County Reserve Fund for Hazleton Transit (part of 7-4 vote)
• Approved $15,000 revenue and $500 expense amendments for Blighted Property Committee (11-0)
• Approved $1,000 increase for Assessors copies and $10,000 for Game Lands/Public Utility reimbursements (11-0)
• Approved $400 increase for Coroner report, $1,000 for toxicology, and $800 for Sheriff fingerprinting (11-0)
• Approved resolution declaring vacancy on Luzerne County Manager Search Committee (11-0)
• Approved resolution committing local match for LCTA maintenance facility (11-0)
• Set county manager salary cap at $185,000 (7-4)

Authorities, Boards & Commissions Committee

The Luzerne County Authorities, Boards, and Commissions Committee is holding an interview session for candidates applying to various boards and commissions. The committee will also vote on a motion to suspend in-person interview requirements due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Public comment is invited.

• Interviews for Authorities, Boards, and Commissions candidates
• Motion to suspend in-person interview requirement due to COVID-19

Authorities, Boards & Commissions Committee

The Authorities, Boards & Commissions Committee is holding an interview session for applicants to various county boards and authorities. Most applicants are reappointments whose terms expire on December 31, 2021, while two are new applicants for the Convention Center. The committee will consider these candidates for recommendation.

• Reappointment of John Pekarovsky to the Redevelopment Authority
• Reappointment of Joanne Corey to the Aging board
• Reappointment of Leon Schuster to the Zoning Board
• Reappointment of Matthew Balliet to the Farmland board
• New applicants Patrick Patte and Guillermo Lara for the Convention Center

Board of Elections & Registration

The Luzerne County Board of Elections and Registration is holding a special meeting solely to certify the results of the November 2, 2021 general election. The agenda contains no other substantive items, only procedural steps including public comment periods and adjournment.

• Certification of the Nov. 2, 2021 General Election
• Public comment on agenda items (limited to 4 minutes per person)
• Public comment on non-agenda items within board jurisdiction

The Luzerne County Board of Elections and Registration held a special meeting and unanimously approved the agenda. The board voted unanimously to certify the 2021 General Election. No public comments were made. The meeting adjourned after setting the next meeting for December 1, 2021.

• Approved the meeting agenda unanimously
• Certified the 2021 General Election by a unanimous 5-0 vote
• Set next meeting for December 1, 2021 at 5 PM at the Courthouse (virtual)
• Adjourned the meeting unanimously at 12:07 PM

County Council

Luzerne County Council will hold public hearings and vote on several fiscal items, including a $2,105,823 state grant pass-through for municipalities affected by facility closures, a budget transfer of $700,000 for LCTA and $168,811 for Hazleton Transit from American Rescue Plan funds, and final approval of the Sherman Hills Pilot Agreement. The agenda also includes recognitions of retirements and routine approvals.

• Ordinance to amend 2021 budget for $2,105,823 State Facility Closure Transition Program grant (pass-through to White Haven Borough, Shickshinny Sewer Authority, Newport Township, Nanticoke, Foster Township, Plymouth Borough)
• Budget transfer of $700,000 from ARPA to LCTA local match and $168,811 to Hazleton Transit local match
• Resolution amending 2021-93 to adjust Hazleton Public Transit local match
• Final approval of Sherman Hills Pilot Agreement
• County Manager letter endorsing LCTA maintenance facility at Murray Site in Wilkes-Barre

Luzerne County Council adopted an amended ordinance for the 2021 budget (State Facility Transition Program) with a 10-1 vote to amend and 11-0 to adopt. Two agenda items were tabled: the LCTA letter endorsement and adding Joyce, Carmody & P.C. to the approved law firm panel. A budget transfer ordinance for transit matches failed 5-6. Two other agenda items were deleted before the vote.

• Adopted amended 2021 budget ordinance (11-0)
• Tabled LCTA letter endorsement (11-0)
• Tabled law firm Joyce, Carmody & P.C. addition (7-4)
• Failed budget transfer ordinance for transit matches (5-6)
• Deleted Hazleton Transit resolution at request
• Deleted Sherman Hills Pilot item
• Failed to add County Manager Search Committee vacancy resolution (5-6)
• Failed to delete agenda item 3 (3-8)

County Council

The Luzerne County Council meeting agenda highlights a proposed $6 billion investment by Nacero Inc. to build a gasoline manufacturing facility in Newport Township and Nanticoke City, which would create 4,000 jobs and reclaim mine-scarred lands. The agenda also includes updates on bridge and road projects, planning and zoning activities, and emergency management operations.

• Nacero Inc. $6 billion investment, largest in county history, creating 4,000 jobs
• 2021 bridge projects: 12 rehab/repair/replacement projects across townships
• 2021 road projects: mill/overlay/base repairs on Butler, Dorrance, Hollenback townships
• Planning & zoning: 1.7 million SF new warehousing land development review
• Emergency management: ongoing flood, tornado, pandemic, and ice jam responses

County Council

Luzerne County Council is reviewing the Manager's Proposed Budget for 2022, which includes significant changes across departments. The budget shows increased spending for road repairs and 911 operations, but major reductions in capital project funds, including a 64% cut to Act 13 bridge funds and an 89% cut to energy savings projects. The council is deciding whether to approve these allocations.

• Road & Bridge repairs increased 100% to $200,000
• 911 State Reimbursement budget increased to $8,289,208
• Act 13 Bridge funds cut 64% to $400,000
• Energy Savings project funds cut 89% to $160,000
• Planning & Zoning consultant expenses up 16% to $175,000

County Council

The Luzerne County Council is reviewing a request from the County Manager search committee to advertise a base salary range not to exceed $185,000 for the position. The committee seeks alignment with Council on compensation before proceeding with candidate recruitment. The request is non-binding and does not involve contract discussions.

• Proposed base salary cap of $185,000 for County Manager
• Advertisement language includes benefits package (vacation, sick leave, health, retirement)
• Committee requests Council alignment on compensation

County Council

Luzerne County Council is holding a public hearing on a proposed ordinance to transfer funds from the American Rescue Plan Act allocation to cover local transit matches for LCTA and Hazleton Transit, with matching funds moved to the County Reserve Fund. The ordinance was introduced by Councilman Harry Haas and will be considered at an upcoming voting session.

• $700,000 from ARPA to LCTA local transit match
• $700,000 from LCTA to County Reserve Fund
• $168,811 from ARPA to Hazleton Transit
• $189,032 from Hazleton Transit to County Reserve Fund
• Resolution 2021-93 (July 13, 2021) cut HPT local match by $20,221

County Council

Luzerne County Council will hold a public hearing and vote on an ordinance amending the 2021 fiscal year budget to account for a $2,105,823.86 State Facility Closure Transition Program grant from PA DCED. The funds will be passed through to six local entities impacted by the closures of White Haven Center and SCI Retreat. No county funds will be retained.

• Budget amendment increases revenue and expenditure line items by $2,105,823 for the State Facility Closure Transition Program grant
• Grant funds passed through to White Haven Borough, Sanitary Sewer Authority of the Borough of Shickshinny, Newport Township, City of Nanticoke, Foster Township, and Plymouth Borough
• Public comment limited to 3 minutes per speaker on the proposed ordinance

County Council

Luzerne County Council will hold a work session to receive and discuss the October 2021 budget reports, review the advertised salary for the County Manager, and hear reports from various council committees. The meeting includes public comment and is largely procedural, with no final votes scheduled.

• Discussion on advertised salary for County Manager
• Receive and discuss Budget Reports for October 2021 (pages 1-67)
• Reports from Act 13 Grant Committee, Budget/Finance/Audit, and other committees
• Public comment period (3 minutes per speaker)

County Council

PennDOT is asking Luzerne County Council to commit approximately $750,000 in local matching funds for the new LCTA maintenance facility. The project has been fully funded by state and federal sources, but state law requires a 3.3% local match. Without this commitment, the project will be delayed and re-bid, increasing costs. The low bid expires on January 5, 2022.

• Request for $750,000 local match for LCTA maintenance facility
• Low bid expires January 5, 2022
• Bids awarded to prime contractors on October 26, 2021, pending local match
• Project merges fixed route and shared-ride services under one roof
• Former Murray Complex acquired and demolished for the project

County Council

The Luzerne County Council is discussing American Rescue Plan funds, including a request from Hazleton Public Transit Director Ralph Sharp to reconsider the county's decision on the local match for transit funding. Sharp has also reached out to Carbon and Schuylkill Counties. The agenda includes this email as an attachment for council consideration.

• Hazleton Public Transit requests reconsideration of Luzerne County's local match decision
• American Rescue Plan funds may be used for transportation
• Email from Ralph Sharp, Director of Hazleton Public Transit, dated November 22, 2021

County Council

The Luzerne County Council is reviewing a Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILOT) agreement for the Sherman Hills property. The agreement has been signed by all parties except the County, and the sender is requesting the County's signature, noting that time is of the essence. The council will decide whether to authorize the County to sign the agreement.

• PILOT agreement for Sherman Hills property
• Agreement signed by all parties except Luzerne County
• Request to obtain County officials' signatures
• Email from Francis J. Hoegen, Esquire, dated November 22, 2021

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission is reviewing a request from Nileshkumar Patel of SK’s Quick Stop, LLC. The project involves constructing a 344 sq. ft. addition to an existing convenience mart at 401 Wyoming Ave.

• Final Plan Approval for Valero Building Addition at 401 Wyoming Ave., West Pittston
• Construction of a 344 sq. ft. addition, a 510 sq. ft. equipment pad, and a 5 ft. sidewalk
• Request for four waivers from the SALDO

The Luzerne County Planning Commission approved the final plan for a 344 sq. ft. addition to the Valero convenience store at 401 Wyoming Ave., West Pittston, along with a 510 sq. ft. equipment pad and sidewalk. Four waivers from the county SALDO were granted. After initially conditioning approval on a PennDOT Highway Occupancy Permit, the commission re-voted by email to grant unconditional approval, since the HOP is a borough requirement, not a county one.

• Approved minutes of October 14, 2021 (unanimous)
• Granted waivers 1-4 from SALDO sections 7.12, 7.132, 7.142, 7.22 (unanimous)
• Granted conditional final plan approval for Valero Building Addition (unanimous)
• Re-voted by email to grant final plan approval without conditions (unanimous)

County Council

This agenda is an informational presentation by the Area Agency on Aging for Luzerne/Wyoming Counties, not a voting or decision-making session. The council is receiving an overview of the agency's programs, including active adult centers, in-home meals, personal care, caregiver support, and protective services.

• 17 Active Adult Centers (5 multi-service, 12 satellite) provide daily meals and programs
• In-Home Meal Service delivers 12 frozen meals every two weeks to eligible older adults
• Caregiver Support Program offers up to $600/month reimbursement and $5,000 lifetime for assistive devices
• SCSEP provides on-the-job training for low-income residents 55+ at government/nonprofit agencies
• Protective Services investigates elder abuse including financial exploitation and neglect

County Council

This is a presentation to Luzerne County Council by the Children and Youth Services department, covering child abuse investigations, services, and future goals. The agenda is informational, not a voting or decision-making session. It includes statistics on CPS and GPS investigations, families served, and permanency outcomes.

• CPS investigations total 812; GPS total 2,721 (through 11/10/2021)
• 6,788 referrals received; 3,654 families receiving ongoing service
• 886 children entered placement; 72 children adopted
• Future goals include stabilizing workforce and increasing prevention services

County Council

The Luzerne County Council is receiving a presentation on the 2022 budget for the county correctional facility, covering COVID-19 operational changes, facility improvements, staffing challenges, and needed repairs. The presentation also lists American Rescue Plan (ARP) funding requests for major repairs.

• Added two video systems for hearings, total three usable simultaneously
• Installed 14 cell cameras in 2021, total 30 in-cell cameras
• Staffing emergency: 116 shifts unfilled as of October 2021
• Requested ARP funds for elevator replacement, parapet wall roofing, fire safety system, shower repairs
• COVID-19 protocols: testing on arrival, disinfecting three times daily, 15-minute officer rounds

County Council

The Luzerne County Council is receiving a presentation from the Luzerne/Wyoming Counties Drug and Alcohol Program, the designated Single County Authority. The presentation covers the program's mission, services, funding, and goals for 2022. No formal action is scheduled; this is an informational update.

• Presentation on drug and alcohol services, including treatment levels and case management
• Report on services delivered: 505 detox days, 2,006 inpatient days, 148 halfway house days, 91 partial hospitalization days funded
• 2022 goals include expanding bilingual services and exploring adolescent residential rehab
• Discussion of barriers to treatment access, including bed availability and staffing

County Council

This agenda is an informational presentation by the Luzerne-Wyoming Counties Mental Health & Developmental Services (MHDS) department, covering its mission, services, and consumer numbers. No votes or decisions are listed; it is a briefing for the County Council.

• Mental Health supports over 19,000 consumers annually in Luzerne-Wyoming Counties
• Developmental Services supports over 2,000 consumers
• Early Intervention supports 500 children
• MHDS has 73 full-time team members
• MHDS administers three Medicaid waivers as Administrative Entity for the state Office of Developmental Programs

County Council

Luzerne County Council is reviewing historical millage rates and comparing them to inflation. The agenda shows a cumulative tax increase of 17.25% over 11 years, averaging about 1.5% per year, while inflation rose 14.14% over 9 years. This appears to be an informational discussion, not a vote on new rates.

• Millage increases: 2.00% (2012), 8.00% (2014), 4.00% (2017), 3.25% (2020)
• No millage increase in 2021 or 2022
• Cumulative tax increase of 17.25% from 2012 to present
• Inflation increase of 14.14% over 9 years
• Comparison of tax rate vs inflation rate from 2011 to 2022

County Council

The Luzerne County Council is reviewing an overview of the Veteran Affairs Office, including its services, performance statistics, and a 2022 budget request of $359,926.00, which is less than a 1% increase over the 2021 budget. The agenda is informational, with no specific decisions or votes listed.

• 2022 budget request of $359,926.00 for Veteran Affairs
• Office staff of four, including three accredited Veteran Service Officers
• Fiscal Year 2020-2021 new monetary benefits obtained: $3,508,531.00
• Total annual VA expenditure in Luzerne County: $108,299,000
• County burial benefits of $100.00 for wartime veterans and widows

County Council

The Luzerne County Council is reviewing the proposed 2022 budgets for the Human Services Division and the Corrections Division. The Human Services budget includes significant changes, such as increased funding for the Drug & Alcohol division due to new opioid response housing grants, and decreases in the Foster Grandparent Program. The Corrections budget shows modest increases in expenses, with some revenue decreases due to lower inmate populations.

• Drug & Alcohol proposed expenses increase from $4,606,601 to $7,427,666, with a $2,892,700 increase in opioid grant housing funds
• Children and Youth proposed budget increases to $45,630,603, with Title IV-E revenue up 30% to $11,074,799
• Aging department proposes $13,857,334 budget, with a 123% increase in program supplies due to COVID funding
• Corrections LCCF proposes $20,349,935 in expenses, with a new $25,000 line for mandatory corrections training
• Mental Health/Developmental Services proposes $23,326,617, with a 143% increase in indirect costs

County Council

Luzerne County Council is holding a public hearing to receive comments on a proposed ordinance adopting the 2022 Fiscal Year Budgets. The ordinance sets the county real estate tax millage rate and approves the budget as attached. No vote is scheduled at this hearing; the ordinance will be enacted at a later council meeting.

• Public hearing on ordinance adopting 2022 Fiscal Year Budgets
• Ordinance sets real estate tax millage rate (amount left blank in agenda)
• Budget must not exceed revenues plus unreserved fund balance
• Effective date of ordinance is January 1, 2022

County Council

The Luzerne County Council is holding a budget work session to review the proposed FY2022 budgets for the Human Services and Corrections divisions. A public hearing on the budget is scheduled before the work session, and public comment will be taken. The agenda is focused on these budget items, with no other substantive matters listed.

• Public hearing on FY2022 budget
• Review of Division 70 – Human Services proposed budget
• Review of Division 40 – Corrections proposed budget
• Public comment period (3 minutes per speaker)

Children & Youth Advisory Board

The Luzerne County Children & Youth Advisory Board discussed the agency's provisional license status, a Plan of Correction, increased consumer complaints, and workforce vacancies. They also reviewed RFP proposals for contracted services, heard about adoption and holiday event plans, and discussed officer elections for the next meeting.

• Plan of Correction in place due to provisional license status
• Increase in consumer complaints prompting reports to Regional Office
• RFP Bidders Conference held 10/20/21; recommendations made for FY2022 providers
• Adoption Celebration gift bags include photo album, bracelets, Dunkin/Baskin Robbins gift card
• Officer nominations for Chairman, Vice Chairman, Secretary announced

Convention Center Authority

The Luzerne County Convention Center Authority board approved three expenditures: up to $2,000 for shot blasting a test area on the bridges, up to $3,500 for quotes on a salt spreader, and up to $10,000 for an HVAC contractor to do preventive maintenance and identify heat pump units needing repair. The board also heard updates on a legal case about protest rules, a land development agreement, and upcoming events.

• Approved up to $2,000 for shot blast test area on bridges
• Approved up to $3,500 for salt spreader quotes
• Approved up to $10,000 for HVAC preventive maintenance
• Approved payment of bills totaling $25,424.80
• Discussed Pomicter case: won on protest location, lost on vulgarity and voice amplification

County Council

The Luzerne County Council will hold a voting session with a public hearing on the capital plan. They will consider renewing the Thomson Reuters Westlaw contract for the Public Defender's Office, introduce ordinances amending the 2021 fiscal year budget and the capital plan budget, and vote on other items including a budget transfer for transit matches.

• Renewal of Thomson Reuters Westlaw contract for Public Defender's Office, $39,000 first year, 3% annual increase
• Introduce ordinance amending 2021 Fiscal Year Budgets (State Facility Closure Transition Program)
• Adopt ordinance amending Capital Plan Budget
• Approve ABC application with proposed changes
• Introduce ordinance authorizing budget transfer from CARES Act to Local Transit Matches

Luzerne County Council adopted an amended ordinance changing the Flood Protection Authority's Articles of Incorporation after eliminating items 2 and 3 (7-4). Council also introduced ordinances amending the 2021 fiscal year budget for the State Facility Closure Transition Program (9-2), amending the Capital Plan Budget (9-1), and authorizing a budget transfer from CARES/ARPA funds to local transit matches (5-5, with one member not connected). A resolution renewing the Westlaw legal research software contract was approved (10-0, one abstention).

• Approved Thomson Reuters Westlaw contract renewal (10-0, 1 abstention)
• Introduced ordinance amending 2021 FY budget for State Facility Closure Transition Program (9-2)
• Introduced ordinance amending Capital Plan Budget (9-1)
• Approved ABC application with proposed changes (10-0)
• Adopted amended Flood Protection Authority Articles of Incorporation (7-4)
• Introduced budget transfer ordinance from CARES/ARPA to transit matches (5-5)

County Council

The Luzerne County Council is considering an ordinance that would amend Section 5 of Ordinance No. 6596 to expand the Luzerne County Flood Protection Authority's purposes and projects. The amendment would allow the authority to undertake any flood protection actions it deems necessary and financially feasible, beyond its current role of constructing, improving, operating, and maintaining the Wyoming Valley flood protection system and administering the mitigation program. The ordinance also clarifies the authority's rate-setting powers under the Municipality Authorities Act. A public hearing was held prior to this vote.

• Amendment to Ordinance No. 6596 to expand flood authority's purposes
• Expands authority to undertake any flood protection actions deemed necessary and financially feasible
• Clarifies authority's power to fix, alter, and collect rates and charges
• Public hearing held as required by the Municipality Authorities Act

County Council

The Luzerne County Council work session will receive and discuss October 2021 division reports, a menu of options for American Rescue Plan (ARP) funds, and budget items for the District Attorney and General Government divisions. The meeting is a discussion session, not a voting session, and includes public comment.

• Menu of Options for American Rescue Funds (handout)
• Division 12 District Attorney budget discussion
• Division 10 General Government budget discussion
• October 2021 division reports (pages 1-28)
• Public comment (3 minutes per speaker)

County Council

The Luzerne County District Attorney's Office is presenting its 2021 annual report to County Council, covering COVID-19 impacts, criminal case statistics, drug and auto theft task force results, budget comparisons, office reorganization, and new technology. The report includes data on case filings, trials, juvenile cases, drug seizures, overdose deaths, and auto thefts, as well as a proposed 2022 budget increase.

• 2021 YTD criminal cases: 3,772 (2019: 4,475; 2020: 3,177)
• Drug Task Force 2021 YTD: 253 arrests, 318 cases initiated
• Overdose deaths: 2021 YTD 167 (2020: 178; 2019: 122)
• 2022 proposed budget: $5,270,022 revenue, $1,397,458 expenses (2021 adopted: $4,760,913 revenue, $1,180,838 expenses)
• Auto theft task force recovered $250,000 in vehicles in first month

County Council

Luzerne County Council is reviewing the manager's proposed 2022 budget worksheets for several departments, including County Council, County Manager, Blighted Property, and the District Attorney's office. The documents show proposed expense increases for the County Manager's office and District Attorney, with notable changes in wages, training, and grant funding. This is a budget review and discussion item, not a final adoption.

• County Manager wages proposed to increase 19.07% to $288,072, budgeted at charter maximum
• County Manager dues to NACO proposed to increase 191.83% to $9,718
• District Attorney expenses proposed to increase from $4,760,913 to $5,270,022
• Capital cases budget proposed to increase from $58,360 to $150,000
• District Attorney state grant revenue reallocated from $88,541 to General Government

County Council

Luzerne County Council will hold a public hearing to consider an ordinance amending the 2022 Capital Plan by adding $174,937.57 in unencumbered funds to line item 194.50.4315.445.10 for future projects. The funds will be available after the Greater Wilkes-Barre Chamber of Business & Industry pays delinquent taxes to Elite Revenue Services, which then pays Luzerne County. The ordinance requires a majority plus one vote and would take effect 15 days after enactment.

• Public hearing on ordinance amending the Capital Plan budget
• Adds $174,937.57 to line item 194.50.4315.445.10 for future projects
• Funds contingent on delinquent tax payment by Greater Wilkes-Barre Chamber of Business & Industry via Elite Revenue Services
• Ordinance effective 15 days after enactment

Housing Authority

The Luzerne County Housing Authority board will hold its regular meeting to approve the minutes from October, hear the executive director's report on development and modernization, and approve bills and payroll for October 2021. The agenda is mostly routine administrative items, with no major policy decisions or public hearings listed.

• Approve minutes of October 12, 2021 meeting
• Executive director report on development and modernization
• Approval of bills and payroll for October 1-31, 2021

County Council

The Luzerne County Council is reviewing a list of proposed projects to be funded with American Rescue Plan (ARP) money, totaling over $40 million. The agenda item is a discussion and potential approval of these allocations, which include major expenditures for the county jail, IT infrastructure, stormwater improvements, and 911 dispatch costs. No final decisions are recorded in this agenda; it is a working document for the council's consideration.

• District Attorney's Office case management software: $172,650
• Courts: Central Court expansion and DUI center: $985,000
• Countywide stormwater infrastructure: $10,000,000
• Correctional Services: new cell block ($7,000,000) and addition over Sallyport ($2,500,000)
• 911 dispatch personnel and benefits: $5,168,000

County Council

The Luzerne County Council is reviewing a list of proposed American Rescue Plan (ARP) projects from the Information Technology Department, totaling about $2.8 million. The projects address cybersecurity, infrastructure upgrades, and pandemic-related needs. The agenda also warns that the county's main virtualization system will become unsupported after October 2022, risking a shutdown of county services.

• $970,000 for virtualization infrastructure upgrade to replace aging system supporting over 200 servers
• $465,000 for virtual meeting support, including extending Zoom license to December 2023
• $425,000 for cybersecurity measures including MFA, data encryption, and penetration testing
• $380,000 for networking equipment to meet county expansion requirements
• $215,000 for help desk support to reduce backlog

County Council

Luzerne County Council will vote on introducing an ordinance to transfer budget funds from the CARES Act line item to local transit matches for LCTA and Hazleton Transit, with matching funds going to the County Reserve Fund. The ordinance authorizes $700,000 for LCTA and $168,811 for Hazleton Transit, plus corresponding reserve fund transfers. This is a budget amendment under the Home Rule Charter, using American Rescue Plan Act funds for public transportation matching.

• $700,000 transfer from CARES Act to LCTA local transit match
• $700,000 transfer from LCTA match to County Reserve Fund
• $168,811 transfer from CARES Act to Hazleton Transit match
• $189,032 transfer from Hazleton Transit match to County Reserve Fund
• References Resolution 2021-93 (July 13, 2021) cutting HPT local match by $20,221

Board of Elections & Registration

The Luzerne County Board of Elections and Registration will meet to adjudicate ballots with deficiencies and provisional ballots from the recent election. The board will review categories such as missing dates, missing signatures, secrecy envelope issues, and provisional ballots, with recommendations from the solicitor and votes by board members. Public comment is allowed on agenda items and non-agenda items within the board's jurisdiction.

• Adjudication of declaration deficiencies (missing date, date out of range, missing signature)
• Adjudication of secrecy envelope deficiencies (naked ballots, partially naked ballots, identifying marks)
• Adjudication of provisional ballots
• Public comment on agenda items (limited to 4 minutes per person)
• Public comment on non-agenda items within board jurisdiction

The Luzerne County Board of Elections and Registrations met to adjudicate mail-in and provisional ballots from the November 2, 2021 election. The board rejected 32 ballots missing signatures, accepted 101 ballots with missing dates, and accepted 76 ballots with out-of-range dates. It also rejected 104 'naked' ballots without secrecy envelopes, tabled 93 ID-verification ballots, and made numerous other decisions on provisional ballots.

• Rejected 32 ballots missing signatures (unanimous)
• Counted 101 ballots with missing dates (unanimous)
• Counted 76 ballots with out-of-range dates (unanimous)
• Rejected 19 signed privacy envelopes, accepted 6 others (unanimous)
• Accepted 62 unsealed ballots with no ID marks (unanimous)
• Rejected 104 naked ballots without secrecy envelopes (unanimous)
• Tabled 93 ID-verification ballots pending cure period (unanimous)
• Counted 257 provisional ballots where mail-in not received (unanimous)

County Council

The Luzerne County Council is reviewing the manager's proposed 2022 budget for the Inter-Governmental Division, which totals $8,362,146 in expenses. The agenda includes detailed appropriations for various entities, with notable increases for conservation and transit. This is a budget review and discussion item, not a final adoption.

• LCCC appropriation: $6,193,415
• Luzerne Conservation District: $20,000 (25% increase from $20,000 to $25,000)
• LCTA and Hazleton transit: $1,894,000 total (2.4% increase)
• Luzerne Library Association: $945,000
• Penn State Cooperative Extension: $225,923

County Council

Luzerne County Council is reviewing the Manager's Proposed Budget for 2022 for several judicial services departments, including Recorder of Deeds, Coroner, Prothonotary, and Sheriff. The agenda details proposed revenues and expenses, with notable increases in training fees, toxicology, and sheriff's software maintenance. This is a budget review, not a final adoption.

• Recorder of Deeds: proposed revenue $2,145,000, expenses $518,285; municipal realty transfer tax down $20,000 to $215,000
• Coroner: proposed expenses $662,844; toxicology up $10,000 to $90,000, view/inquests up $15,000 to $81,000, removals up $8,000 to $33,000
• Sheriff: proposed revenue down to $949,750; sheriff real estate sale fee down $150,000 to $200,000 due to eviction/foreclosure moratorium
• Sheriff: proposed expenses $2,752,077; software maintenance up $18,282 to $71,000, small tools up $3,700 to $15,300 for metal detector
• Prothonotary: proposed expenses $1,141,101; training fees up $1,775 to $2,300

County Council

The Luzerne County Council is holding a budget meeting to review the proposed 2022 budgets for the Recorder of Deeds/Register of Wills/Clerk of Orphans' Court, Coroner's Office, Prothonotary/Clerk of Courts, and Sheriff's Office. The agenda includes presentations on departmental operations, workload statistics, and the impact of state mandates and increased service demands. No final budget decisions are listed on this agenda.

• Recorder of Deeds/Register of Wills/Clerk of Orphans' Court: state mandates for notary commissions, notary bonds, and Guardianship Tracking System (GTS); Real ID; marriage licenses with language barriers for 50-55% of applicants
• Coroner's Office: increased case load, COVID-19, overdose deaths, toxicology, cremation permits, new Quincy reporting system, Electronic Death Reporting System
• Prothonotary/Clerk of Courts: AOPC Public Access Policy, Rule 236 Order, Clean Slate Act, new credit card processing system
• Sheriff's Office: certification of deputies, recruitment and retention, civil documents, PFAs, warrants, firearms licenses, prisoner transports
• Five-year statistical comparisons provided for deeds/wills, coroner cases, prothonotary cases, and sheriff operations

County Council

Luzerne County Council is reviewing the manager's proposed 2022 budgets for several court divisions, including District Justice Courts, Courts, Domestic Relations, and Probation. The agenda consists of budget worksheets with revenue and expense projections, noting changes over 10% or $10,000. No final decisions are made in this document; it is a review item.

• District Justice Courts: proposed expenses $2,747,960, up from $2,731,109; rent increase to $512,000
• Courts: proposed expenses $5,120,723, up from $5,060,810; expense reimbursement down 16.38% to $700,000
• Domestic Relations: proposed expenses $4,665,320, down from $4,833,934; revenue up to $3,550,000
• Probation: proposed expenses $19,360,664, down from $19,540,091; new $340,000 in fines for ordinance violations
• Courts: master fee expenses up 172.7% to $45,000; meeting/conference fees up 316.6% to $6,250

County Council

This is a budget work session where Luzerne County Council will review the proposed FY2022 budgets for three divisions: Courts, Judicial Services, and Intergovernmental. The meeting includes public comment, but no final budget adoption is scheduled.

• Review of Division 13 - Courts proposed FY2022 budget
• Review of Division 60 - Judicial Services proposed FY2022 budget
• Review of Division 96 - Intergovernmental proposed FY2022 budget
• Public comment period (3 minutes per speaker)

County Cares Commission

The Luzerne County County Cares Commission is meeting to discuss and potentially launch a duffle bag program for children and youth. The agenda includes only this single substantive item, along with standard procedural items like call to order, roll call, and public comment.

• Children and Youth Duffle Bag Program Launch

Industrial Development Authority

The Luzerne County Industrial Development Authority approved a resolution to file a $500,000 state grant application for the Weinberg Northeast Regional Food Bank expansion in Jenkins Township, with a total project cost of $3,115,000. The board also approved the 2022 operating budget, reviewed quarterly finances, and authorized the sale of 68.6 acres of land in Hanover Township and Wright Township.

• Approved resolution for $500,000 RACP grant application for Weinberg Northeast Regional Food Bank expansion (15,000 sq ft, Jenkins Township, total cost $3,115,000)
• Approved 2022 operating budget with planned revenue of $109,750 and expenditures of $89,861
• Authorized sale of 68.6 acres in Hanover Crossings (Hanover Township) and Crestwood Industrial Park (Wright Township)
• Quarter-end assets totaled $2,000,151; expenditures exceeded revenue by $3,084
• Approved annual Conflict-of-Interest Policy

The Luzerne County Industrial Development Authority held its annual meeting and elected officers for 2022, including Robert P. Palermo as Chairman. The board also reappointed Hourigan, Kluger and Quinn as legal counsel and approved Citizens Bank and LPL Financial as continuing depositories. All actions were approved by unanimous motions.

• Elected Robert P. Palermo as Chairman for 2022
• Elected Frank E. Paczewski as Vice Chairman for 2022
• Elected Gary F. Lamont as Secretary/Treasurer for 2022
• Elected Robert P. Bresnahan Jr. as Assistant Secretary for 2022
• Elected Karen M. Martinelli as Assistant Treasurer for 2022
• Reappointed Hourigan, Kluger and Quinn as legal counsel for 2022
• Approved Citizens Bank and LPL Financial as continuing depositories for 2022

Board of Elections & Registration

The Luzerne County Board of Elections and Registration will meet to discuss election preparations, including poll worker contingencies, mail-in ballot deadlines, and a proposed ballot curing process.

The Luzerne County Board of Elections voted to pay poll workers $215 for training, including those who did not attend, after a discussion about fairness and Bureau commitments. The board also approved a draft SOP for curing ballots on Election Day and discussed ballot issues, poll worker shortages, and security concerns.

• Approved paying poll workers $215 for training, including those who did not attend (unanimous)
• Approved draft SOP for curing ballots on Election Day (unanimous)
• Approved agenda and minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

County Council

The Luzerne County Council is meeting to discuss and potentially act on various agenda items, including a public hearing and grant-funded projects. The agenda includes items related to the American Rescue Plan and other funding opportunities.

• Public hearing on a proposed ordinance
• Consideration of grant applications for county projects
• Discussion of American Rescue Plan fund allocation
• Approval of contracts for county services

County Council

Luzerne County Council will hold a work session to discuss the September 2021 budget reports, a proposed renewal contract with Thomson Reuters for Westlaw legal research software, a letter from LCTA, and a debt service presentation by PFM. The council will also hear reports from its committees and review an ABC application and proposed changes. Public comment is scheduled.

• Discussion of September 2021 budget reports (pages 1-183)
• Resolution authorizing County Manager to execute renewal contract with Thomson Reuters for Westlaw software (pages 184-189)
• Discussion of LCTA letter (pages 190-191)
• PFM debt service presentation (pages 192-201)
• Review of current ABC application and proposed changes (pages 202-207)

County Council

The Luzerne County Council is reviewing the proposed 2022 budget for the Division of Public Defender. The budget shows a slight increase in expenses from $2,594,965 to $2,633,271, with revenue remaining at $330,000. Notable changes include a 300% increase in meeting/conference/training fees and a 37% increase in subscriptions, while examination/witness costs decrease by 30%.

• 2022 proposed expenses: $2,633,271 (up from $2,594,965)
• Revenue unchanged at $330,000
• Meeting/Conference/Training Fees increase 300% ($5,000 to $20,000)
• Subscriptions increase 37% ($57,000 to $78,000)
• Examination/Witnesses decrease 30% ($100,000 to $70,000)

County Council

The Luzerne County Council is reviewing the proposed 2022 budget for the Controller's office, which includes a slight increase in expenses and a 100% increase in meeting/conference training fees. The agenda is a budget worksheet, not a full agenda, and contains only this department's figures.

• Controller expenses proposed at $278,486 for 2022, up from $273,551 in 2021
• Training fee revenue held at $375 for 2022
• Meeting/conference expenses doubled to $3,220, returning to 2020 levels after COVID-related cuts
• Merit increase of $3,665 included for 2022

County Council

The Luzerne County Council agenda for October 26, 2021, includes a public hearing and vote on an ordinance to add $3,622,908.58 in state funding for the Emergency Rental Assistance Program, a resolution to settle pending litigation, and a request for a Multimodal Transportation Fund grant. The meeting also includes a public comment period and recognitions of retiring county employees.

The Luzerne County Council adopted an ordinance amending the 2021 fiscal year budgets (ERA) with 10 yes votes and one abstention. It also approved a resolution authorizing the County Manager to execute a license agreement with UGI Utilities, Inc. (8-2, 1 abstention), and approved a settlement in the Gans Multimedia Partnership v. Luzerne County litigation (10-0, 1 abstention). Additionally, the council appointed Patrick Castellani to the Board of Elections and introduced an ordinance amending the Capital Plan Budget.

• Adopted ordinance amending 2021 fiscal year budgets (ERA) (10-0, 1 abstention)
• Adopted resolution requesting Multimodal Transportation Fund grant from PennDOT (10-0, 1 abstention)
• Adopted resolution authorizing UGI Utilities license agreement (8-2, 1 abstention)
• Appointed Patrick Castellani to Board of Elections (9-0, 2 abstentions)
• Adopted resolution approving budget transfer for Special Legal Services (10-1)
• Introduced ordinance amending Capital Plan Budget (10-1)
• Approved attendance at CCAP Fall Conference for a council member (10-0, 1 abstention)
• Adopted resolution approving Gans Multimedia litigation settlement (10-0, 1 abstention)

County Council

Luzerne County Council is holding a public hearing and will vote on an ordinance to amend the 2021 budget by adding $3,622,908.58 in revenue and expenses for the Emergency Rental Assistance Program. The funds, already received from the Commonwealth of PA Department of Human Services, will be used to help income-eligible households with rent, utilities, and other housing costs related to COVID-19. The ordinance requires a majority-plus-one vote after the hearing.

• Public hearing on ordinance amending 2021 budget for Emergency Rental Assistance Program
• Revenue increase of $3,622,908.58 from Commonwealth of PA Department of Human Services
• Funds to assist with rent, utilities, and housing stability for COVID-19 impacted households
• Sub-recipient agreement with Commission on Economic Opportunity to administer program
• Ordinance effective 15 days after enactment

Authorities, Boards & Commissions Committee

The Luzerne County Authorities, Boards, and Commissions Committee is meeting to conduct interviews for various boards and commissions. The agenda includes a motion to suspend the in-person interview requirement due to the COVID-19 pandemic, allowing interviews to proceed via teleconference. Public comment is also scheduled.

• Motion to suspend in-person interview requirement due to COVID-19
• Interviews for Authorities, Boards, and Commissions
• Public comment period

Authorities, Boards & Commissions Committee

The Authorities, Boards & Commissions Committee is holding interview sessions for applicants to various county boards and commissions. The agenda lists seven applicants for positions on the Elections, Planning, Convention Center, C&Y/County Cares, and Aging boards. This is a routine appointment process, with no substantive policy decisions on the agenda.

• Patrick Castellani (NEW) for Elections (R)
• Brian Caverly (REAPPT expires 12-31-21) for Planning
• John Pickering (REAPPT expires 12-31-21) for Convention Ctr
• Steven Friedman (NEW) for C&Y, County Cares
• Richard Nardone (REAPPT expires 12-31-21) for Elections (R)

Advisory Council - Area Agency on Aging

The Luzerne/Wyoming Counties Area Agency on Aging Advisory Board is meeting to approve prior minutes, receive reports from the executive director and various divisions, and hear the nominating committee's report on board member terms and officer seats. The agenda is largely procedural, with no specific policy decisions or public hearings listed.

• Approval of minutes
• Executive Director's report by Mary Roselle
• Division reports: Administrative Services, Social Services, Active Adult Centers
• Nominating Committee report on board member terms and officer seats

Advisory Council - Area Agency on Aging

The Luzerne-Wyoming Counties Area Agency on Aging Advisory Council met Oct. 21, 2021, and heard program updates. The Family Caregiver Support Program supervisor explained reimbursements up to $600/month for caregiving supplies and services, plus a separate program for grandparents raising grandchildren. Staff reported on the Foster Grandparent Program extension, a state fiscal audit, and increased protective services cases involving scams. The council approved minutes and nominated officers for 2022.

• Family Caregiver Support Program: up to $600/month reimbursement; $2,000 lifetime limit for home modifications
• Grandparents Raising Grandchildren: reimbursements for childcare, school supplies, clothing, and activities
• Foster Grandparent Program extended through March 31, 2022; recognition luncheon Nov. 1
• Farmers Market Voucher Program ended Sept. 30: 34,884 checks distributed to 8,721 participants
• County budget presentation to Luzerne County Council on Nov. 15

County Cares Commission

The Luzerne County County Cares Commission is meeting to discuss several homelessness-related items, including a proposed Homeless Bill of Rights resolution, Code Blue procedures, and a regional summit. The commission will also hear updates on a duffle bag sponsorship program for children and youth and finalize plans for a resource day. The meeting is open to public comment.

• Homeless Bill of Rights resolution (R-2021-____) providing rights and privileges for homeless persons
• Code Blue discussion
• Homeless Regional Summit initial discussion
• Children and Youth Duffle Bag Sponsorship Program
• Resource Day finalization

Accountability, Conduct & Ethics Commission

The Luzerne County Accountability, Conduct and Ethics Commission is meeting to handle routine business, including approving minutes, public comment, and discussing a specific complaint (2021-1A) and any pending complaints. The agenda is largely procedural, with no major policy decisions listed.

• Review of Complaint 2021-1A
• Discussion of pending complaints and possible Section 105.03(B) actions
• Approval of minutes from August 18, 2021 meeting
• Public comment period
• Setting next meeting date

The Luzerne County Accountability, Conduct and Ethics Commission met on October 19, 2021, and approved the minutes from the August 18, 2021 meeting. The commission granted a request to withdraw complaint 2021-3, the only pending complaint, due to lack of cooperation from the original complainant. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting included a hearing on complaint 2021-1A and an executive session.

• Approved minutes from August 18, 2021 meeting (unanimous)
• Withdrew complaint 2021-3 due to lack of cooperation from complainant (no objection)

County Council

The Luzerne County Council is reviewing the manager's proposed 2022 budget worksheets for several departments, including the Solicitor, Conflict Counsel, Budget and Finance, Assessors, Tax Collection, Tax Claim, and Treasurer. The worksheets detail proposed revenues and expenses, with notable increases in contractual services, software subscriptions, and training fees. This is a budget review and discussion item, not a final adoption.

• Solicitor expenses proposed at $1,164,348, up from $1,104,640
• Conflict Counsel expenses proposed at $1,102,512, up from $1,053,354
• Budget and Finance Administration expenses proposed at $1,134,216, up from $1,044,319
• Assessors expenses proposed at $869,325, up from $795,039
• Tax Collection revenue projected at $119,052,500, up from $117,252,000

County Council

The Luzerne County Council is holding a public hearing to receive comments on a proposed ordinance adopting the 2022 fiscal year budgets. The ordinance sets the real estate tax rate (mills) and approves the budget, with an effective date of January 1, 2022. No final vote is scheduled at this hearing; it is for public input only.

• Public hearing on ordinance adopting 2022 fiscal year budgets
• Ordinance sets real estate tax rate (mills) for general and special county purposes
• Budget must not exceed revenues plus unreserved fund balance
• Effective date of ordinance: January 1, 2022

County Council

The Luzerne County Council is holding a public hearing and budget work session for the proposed FY2022 budget. The agenda includes reviewing the proposed budgets for the Solicitor's office and the Budget & Finance division, followed by public comment.

• Public hearing on FY2022 budget at 5:30 PM
• Review of Division 16 – Solicitor proposed budget
• Review of Division 20 – Budget & Finance proposed budget
• Public comment period with 3-minute speaker limit

Board of Elections & Registration

The Luzerne County Board of Elections and Registration is holding a special meeting to discuss and decide on election administration items, including ballot drop box locations, poll worker training status, and a proposed adjudication process change.

The Luzerne County Board of Elections unanimously approved a new ballot adjudication process based on Butler County's model, which includes swearing in all workers. The board also approved the polling places list and the minutes from October 8, 2021. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting focused on election preparation updates and public comments.

• Approved new ballot adjudication process based on Butler County's model, including swearing in workers (unanimous)
• Approved polling places list (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from October 8, 2021 (unanimous)

Authorities, Boards & Commissions Committee

The Luzerne County Authorities, Boards, and Commissions Committee is meeting to interview applicants for various county boards and commissions and to discuss and review the current ABC application. The agenda includes a motion to suspend in-person interview requirements due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The meeting is largely procedural, focused on the appointment process rather than specific policy decisions.

• Interviews for Authorities, Boards, and Commissions applicants
• Discussion and review of the current ABC application
• Motion to suspend in-person interview requirement due to COVID-19
• Public comment period for items within committee jurisdiction

Authorities, Boards & Commissions Committee

This document is an application form for residents seeking appointment to various county authorities, boards, and commissions. It collects personal information, professional experience, and required disclosures regarding legal status and financial interests.

• Application for service on various bodies including the Housing Authority, Planning Commission, and Transportation Authority

Authorities, Boards & Commissions Committee

The Luzerne County Authorities, Boards & Commissions Committee is conducting interview sessions for applicants to various boards and commissions. The agenda lists both new applicants and reappointments, including for the Election Board, Tourism, LCCC, Children & Youth, Convention Center, Conservation District, LCTA, Arts Advisory Board, and others. This is a routine personnel and appointment process, with no policy decisions or financial actions on the agenda.

• Interview of Lynn Bartz and Alyssa Fusaro for Election Board (previously interviewed 3/8/21)
• New applicants: Barry Tenenbaum (Tourism), Marie Roke-Thomas (LCCC), Helene Elko (C&Y), Frank Orloski (Convention Center), Thomas Herbert (Conservation District), David Tosh (LCTA), Amanda Cromer (Tourism), Dino Galella (Convention Center), Howard Grossman (Arts Advisory Board)
• Reappointments: Neal DeAngelo (Convention Center, expires 12-31-21), Charles Sciandra (LCTA, expires 12-31-21), Dennis Gochoel (C&Y, expired 8-14-21), Valerie Kepner (LCTA, expires 12-31-21)

Planning Commission

The Luzerne County Planning Commission will consider final plan approval for the Cloud 10 Car Wash in Wyoming Borough, including a $918,005 financial security guarantee and five waiver requests. The commission will also act on the minutes from its August 12, 2021 meeting.

• Final plan approval for Cloud 10 Car Wash, 2004 Wyoming Avenue, Wyoming Borough
• 3,860 sq. ft. automated car wash with 18 self-service vacuum stations
• Financial security guarantee of $918,005.00 required
• Five waivers requested
• Existing commercial building to be demolished

The Luzerne County Planning Commission granted conditional final plan approval for the Cloud 10 Car Wash land development in Wyoming Borough, including all five requested waivers. The approval is subject to conditions such as DEP permits, an updated PennDOT permit, a stormwater agreement, and a $682,440 financial security guarantee. The developer has two years to meet the conditions or the plan will be automatically disapproved.

• Approved minutes of August 12, 2021 (unanimous)
• Granted Waiver #1 from SALDO 6.1111 (Kane/Fleisher; Naessig abstained)
• Granted Waiver #2 from SALDO 7.12 (Kane/Fleisher; Naessig and Hartman abstained)
• Granted Waiver #3 from SALDO 14.313 (Kane/Fleisher; Naessig abstained, Hartman voted no)
• Granted Waiver #4 from SALDO 411.2 (Kane/Fleisher; Naessig and Hartman abstained)
• Granted Waiver #5 from SALDO 7.22 (Kane/Fleisher; Naessig and Hartman abstained)
• Approved Conditional Final Plan Approval for Cloud 10 Car Wash (unanimous, with conditions)

Children & Youth Advisory Board

The Luzerne County Children & Youth Advisory Board reviewed the director's report on a state record review, discussed 42 staff vacancies and recruitment efforts, and planned staff appreciation events and a t-shirt fundraiser. The board also discussed committee work, an ad hoc committee on school relations, and upcoming officer elections.

• Northeast Regional Office completed annual on-site record review; formal report expected by end of week
• Agency has 42 vacancies; recruitment efforts include job fairs and PSU Hazleton 'bridge to employment' talks
• RFP advertised on county website; bidder's conference Oct 20, proposals due Oct 29 by 4pm
• Fundraiser raised $1,600 so far; t-shirt campaign planned for December
• Board to elect officers in December; slate presented in November

Convention Center Authority

The Luzerne County Convention Center Authority approved hiring Pat Endler and Thomas Leonard to oversee removal of bridge coating and inspect drains, with costs estimated between $2,700 and $3,300 for Endler and $2,500 for Leonard's inspection. The board also approved payment of bills totaling $265,682.30 and heard updates on upcoming events including WWE SmackDown, Trans-Siberian Orchestra, and Bill Burr. Committee reports covered capital improvements, budget preparation, land development negotiations, and suite leases.

• Approved hiring Pat Endler ($135/hour, est. $2,700-$3,300) to oversee bridge coating removal
• Approved hiring Thomas Leonard for bridge inspection and report at $2,500, plus $1,200 alternate for West Gate
• Approved payment of bills totaling $265,682.30
• Upcoming events: WWE SmackDown Oct 29, Trans-Siberian Orchestra Nov 21, Bill Burr Jun 16
• Suites: 3 new full-season leases, lost 1 partial suite

County Council

The Luzerne County Council is preparing to interview candidates for a vacancy on the Board of Elections. The Board of Elections chair, Denise Williams, submitted a public comment asking council members to consider the time commitment, including Wednesday evening meetings and post-election adjudication, and to prioritize non-partisanship and active participation when selecting new members.

• Vacancy on the Luzerne County Board of Elections
• Request for candidates to commit to 5 PM Wednesday meetings
• Adjudication process requires daytime availability for 1.5-2 weeks after elections
• Chair emphasizes non-partisanship and transparency for board members

County Council

Luzerne County Council is reviewing the manager's proposed 2022 budget, which reduces the reserve fund by 64.19% to support a no-tax-increase budget. The agenda is a budget worksheet with limited detail, showing only the financing department's figures.

• Reserve fund reduced from $698,132 to $250,000 (64.19% decrease)
• Proposed 2022 budget includes no tax increase
• Financing department expenses proposed at $250,000 for 2022

County Council

Luzerne County Council is reviewing the manager's proposed 2022 budget worksheet for the Division of Debt Service. The proposal requests $26,508,290 in expenses, a 1.17% increase over the 2021 adopted amount of $26,202,906. No revenue is listed for this division. The agenda contains only this budget worksheet with no other discussion items.

• Proposed 2022 debt service expenses: $26,508,290
• 2021 adopted debt service expenses: $26,202,906
• Expense increase of 1.17% from 2021 to 2022
• No revenues listed for debt service division

County Council

Luzerne County Council is reviewing the Manager's proposed 2022 budget worksheet for the Division of Retirement, submitted on October 12, 2021. The document shows adopted 2021 and proposed 2022 revenue and expense figures, with no changes listed for this department. The agenda is largely procedural, presenting budget data for council consideration.

• 2022 proposed expenses for Non-Departmental: $10,823,965
• 2021 adopted expenses for Non-Departmental: $10,823,965
• No revenue changes listed for 2022
• No position count changes for 2022

County Council

The Luzerne County Council work session will receive division reports for September 2021 and discuss several resolutions, including authorizing the use of American Rescue Plan Act funds for Public Financial Management items and various information technology projects. They will also discuss a multimodal transportation fund grant request and a license agreement with UGI Utilities. The agenda includes a budget update on retirement, debt service, and reserves.

• Discussion of resolution authorizing use of ARP funds for PFM-related items
• Discussion of resolution authorizing use of ARP funds for IT projects
• Discussion of resolution requesting Multimodal Transportation Fund grant from PennDOT
• Discussion of resolution authorizing license agreement with UGI Utilities, Inc.
• Budget update on retirement, debt service, and reserves

County Council

The Luzerne County Council is discussing a job description for a part-time Assistant to the Clerk of Council, a new legislative branch position paying $18-21 per hour for up to 20 hours per week. The agenda includes only this personnel item, with no other substantive business listed.

• Part-time Assistant to the Clerk of Council position, $18-21/hour, up to 20 hours/week
• Position reports to Clerk of Council, serves at pleasure of County Council
• Requires 2 years office experience or equivalent

County Council

Luzerne County Council will vote on introducing the 2022 fiscal year budget, a resolution to forgive delinquent tax interest and penalties owed by the Greater Wilkes-Barre Chamber of Business & Industry, and an ordinance amending the 2021 budget for the District Attorney's LEO program. They will also consider declaring a vacancy on the Board of Elections, a homestead exclusion funded by ARPA, and ratifying an appeal regarding the District Attorney seat on the November ballot.

• Introduction of ordinance adopting 2022 fiscal year budgets
• Resolution forgiving delinquent tax interest/penalties owed by Greater Wilkes-Barre Chamber of Business & Industry ($382,729.55)
• Ordinance amending 2021 budget for DA LEO
• Resolution declaring vacancy on Board of Elections and Registration
• Ordinance authorizing $48,500 homestead exclusion for 2020-2021 funded by ARPA

Luzerne County Council adopted several resolutions, including forgiving delinquent tax interest for the Greater Wilkes-Barre Chamber, declaring a Board of Elections vacancy, and ratifying an appeal over the District Attorney ballot placement. An ordinance amending the 2021 budget for DA LEO failed, and a homestead exclusion ordinance was postponed.

• Adopted resolution forgiving delinquent tax interest/penalties for Greater Wilkes-Barre Chamber (9-1, 1 abstention)
• Declared vacancy on Board of Elections and Registration (10-0, 1 abstention)
• Adopted resolution modifying Resolution 2021-101, establishing assistant position in Clerk of Council office (9-1, 1 abstention)
• Allowed Robert Bilbow to advertise County-owned property for sale (10-1)
• Ratified decision to appeal Judge Shenkin's denial of injunction over DA seat on ballot (8-2, 1 abstention)
• Failed ordinance amending 2021 budget for DA LEO (5-6)
• Postponed ordinance authorizing $48,500 homestead exclusion funded by ARPA (7-4)
• Introduced 2022 fiscal year budgets (no vote)

County Council

Luzerne County Council is holding a public hearing on a proposed ordinance to amend the 2021 fiscal year budget. The amendment creates a new fund to account for revenue and expenditures from the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton International Airport, which reimburses the District Attorney's Office for providing law enforcement officers at security checkpoints. The council will take public comment before voting on the ordinance.

• Public hearing on ordinance amending 2021 budget
• Creates Fund 52 6-12-4194 District Attorney Law Enforcement Office Fund
• Funds reimbursed by Wilkes-Barre/Scranton International Airport for LEO services
• Agreement authorized by Resolution 2021-121
• Airport pays monthly for LEO services and reimburses for uniforms

County Council

The Luzerne County Council is meeting to discuss and potentially act on the opioid settlement, county finances, and other administrative matters. The agenda includes resolutions and reports, but specific decisions are not detailed in the provided text.

• Opioid settlement fund allocation
• County financial reports
• Various resolutions and ordinances
• Public hearings

Housing Authority

The Luzerne County Housing Authority board will vote on awarding contracts for audit services and legal services, and approve submission of its annual plan to HUD. The agenda also includes approval of minutes, bills, and payroll, plus reports from the executive director.

• Award audit contract to Hymanson, Parnes & Giampaolo for $16,950 per year for 2021 and 2022
• Award legal services contract to Bruce K. Anders for 2022-2024
• Approve submission of Annual Plan YR 2022 to HUD
• Approve bills and payroll for September 1-30, 2021

Board of Elections & Registration

The Luzerne County Board of Elections and Registration is holding a special meeting to discuss and vote on ballot drop box locations and security, poll worker status and training, and other election preparations for the 2021 General Municipal Election. The board will also consider appointing a new clerk and vice-chair, and approving the list of candidates for the election.

• Vote on ballot drop box site approvals
• Status of DA investigation into May 2021 Primary Election
• Approval of candidates for 2021 General Municipal Election
• Pay for poll worker training
• Reschedule next meeting to Oct. 18, 2021

The Board approved drop box sites at Penn Place, Wright Township Fire Hall, Pittston Library, and Hazleton Municipal Building, and set a policy to remove them as late as possible. It also approved the ballot, named Eryn Harvey as Clerk to the Board, and decided to pay poll workers for training only if they attend.

• Approved drop box locations: Penn Place, Wright Township Fire Hall, Pittston Library, and Hazleton Municipal Building.
• Approved removing drop boxes at the latest time possible without affecting hosts or Bureau manpower.
• Approved the ballot for the November election.
• Named Eryn Harvey as Clerk to the Board.
• Named Rick Nardone as Vice Chair to the Board.
• Approved paying poll workers for training only if they actually attend.
• Approved minutes from September 8 and September 29, 2021.
• Rescheduled next meeting to October 18, 2021 at 5:00 PM at the courthouse.

Real Estate Committee

The Luzerne County Council Real Estate Committee will consider a motion to recommend that Council review an appraisal by Cheryl Roman for Frank V. DeAndrea Jr.'s purchase proposal of a landlocked parcel off Ridge Road in Hollenback Township. The appraisal values the 48.331-acre vacant land at $17,000, noting it has no legal access and is best suited for hunting or recreational use. The committee is deciding whether to approve this recommendation.

• Motion to approve recommendation to Council for review of appraisal by Cheryl Roman for DeAndrea purchase proposal
• Appraisal values landlocked 48.331-acre parcel off Ridge Road, Hollenback Township at $17,000
• Appraisal fee: $150.00
• Property has no legal access; appraiser notes value only to adjacent landowner
• Comparable sale: 25-acre landlocked parcel sold for $9,000

Zoning Hearing Board

The Luzerne County Zoning Hearing Board will hold a public meeting to consider two variance applications from the county zoning ordinance. The first is from Cynthia Zaleppa, seeking multiple variances to subdivide and reconfigure a lot at 29 Bubblo St., West Wyoming, into two lots, one with an existing dwelling and one with a garage. The second is from Phyllis Stamile, requesting a front yard variance to place a roof over an existing deck at 11 Burnett St., Nanticoke, in Newport Township.

• Cynthia Zaleppa: variances for lot size (4,900 sq ft vs. 7,200 required; 2,600 sq ft vs. 7,200 required), lot width (50 ft vs. 60 ft), front yard (13.5 ft vs. 30 ft), left side yard (4.9 ft vs. 12 ft), rear yard (10 ft vs. 35 ft) to create two lots at 29 Bubblo St., West Wyoming
• Phyllis Stamile: front yard variance (15 ft vs. 30 ft required) for roof over existing deck at 11 Burnett St., Nanticoke, Newport Twp.
• Public meeting: Tuesday, October 5, 2021, 7:00 P.M., 2nd Floor Jury Meeting Room, Luzerne County Courthouse, Wilkes-Barre, PA
• Case files available for inspection at Luzerne County Planning Commission, Room 208, Penn Place Building, Wilkes-Barre, PA
• Notice published in Citizens Voice on September 21 and September 28, 2021

The Luzerne County Zoning Hearing Board, with Bill Harris acting as hearing officer, approved two variance requests. The first allowed Cynthia Zaleppa to subdivide a lot at 29 Bubblo St., West Wyoming, into two parcels despite undersized dimensions. The second allowed Phyllis Stamile to build a roof over her deck at 11 Burnett St., Nanticoke, with a reduced front yard setback. No objectors were present for either case.

• Approved variances for Cynthia Zaleppa to subdivide lot at 29 Bubblo St. into two parcels (Lot 1: 4,900 sq ft, Lot 2: 2,600 sq ft, width 50 ft, front yard 13.5 ft, side yard 4.9 ft, rear yard 10 ft)
• Approved front yard variance of 15 ft for Phyllis Stamile to place roof over existing deck at 11 Burnett St., Nanticoke

Board of Elections & Registration

The Luzerne County Board of Elections and Registration will meet to vote on proposed ballot drop box sites and security measures, and to receive updates on the May 2021 primary election investigation, poll worker status and training, and election procedures. The board will also discuss curing of votes, pay for poll worker training, and rescheduling the next meeting.

• Vote on ballot drop box site approvals
• Update on District Attorney investigation into May 2021 primary election
• Status of military, absentee, and mail-in ballots
• Discussion of Directive #7 on election operations procedures
• Vote on pay for poll worker training

The Luzerne County Board of Elections voted unanimously to postpone the current meeting and, until further notice, hold all meetings in person, with virtual access available but not guaranteed to work. The decision followed public complaints about broken meeting links and polling place issues. The board also noted the resignation of Missy Thomas and held two executive sessions on litigation and personnel, with no deliberations.

• Postponed the September 29, 2021 meeting to a later date (unanimous)
• Adopted in-person meetings with non-guaranteed virtual access until further notice (unanimous)
• Approved the agenda (unanimous)
• Adjourned the meeting (unanimous)

County Council

The Luzerne County Council received a letter from Edward R. Esposito of Esposito's Shoes Inc. thanking the council for the COVID-19 small business grant program. He describes using the grant for a $25,000 renovation project, including masonry, air conditioning, signage, doors, lighting, a computer system, and a new office that will create a job. The letter is a public comment item on the agenda, not a decision item.

• Letter from Esposito's Shoes Inc. regarding COVID-19 grant program
• Grant used for $25,000 in business updates
• Updates include masonry, air conditioning, signage, doors, lighting, computer system, and new office
• New office expected to create one additional job
• All grant funds spent at local Luzerne County businesses

County Council

The Luzerne County Council is meeting to consider allocating American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds and approving amendments to the county code. The agenda includes items related to the county's fiscal recovery and administrative updates. Most items are listed as resolutions or ordinances for council action.

• Consideration of ARPA fund allocations
• County code amendments
• Approval of prior meeting minutes
• Reports from county departments
• Public comment period

County Council

The Luzerne County Council will hold public hearings on the Arts Advisory Board and a Butler Township road agreement, then vote on items including extending ADP payroll services for 2022, approving insurance brokerage contracts, establishing an Arts Advisory Board, and a resolution to prohibit COVID-19 vaccination requirements for county employees. The agenda also includes a budget amendment for the DA's office and approval of regional workforce plans.

• Contract amendment with ADP for payroll services for 2022
• Resolution to prohibit COVID-19 vaccination as a qualification standard for county employment
• Ordinance establishing the Luzerne County Arts Advisory Board
• Amended intergovernmental agreement with Butler Township for road repair and dedication
• 2021 fiscal year budget amendment for DA LEO

Council approved an ordinance establishing the Luzerne County Arts Advisory Board (8-3) and its bylaws (9-2), and approved a contract with USI Insurance Services for brokerage services (6-5). A resolution prohibiting COVID-19 vaccination requirements for county employees was tabled (7-4). An ordinance amending the 2021 budget for the DA LEO was introduced (5-6).

• Approved ADP payroll services contract amendment (7-3, 1 abstention)
• Approved security/bond limits for 2022 (10-0, 1 abstention)
• Approved USI Insurance Services brokerage contract (6-5)
• Adopted Butler Township road repair intergovernmental agreement amendment (11-0)
• Established Luzerne County Arts Advisory Board (8-3)
• Approved Arts Advisory Board bylaws (9-2)
• Tabled resolution prohibiting COVID-19 vaccination requirements (7-4)
• Introduced ordinance amending 2021 budget for DA LEO (5-6)

County Council

Luzerne County Council is holding a public hearing to consider an ordinance amending an intergovernmental agreement with Butler Township. The agreement would have the county repair certain roads and then dedicate them to the township, along with leasing a maintenance garage and transferring property. The council will take public comment before voting on the ordinance.

• Public hearing on ordinance amending intergovernmental agreement with Butler Township
• County to repair and dedicate roads: West Foothills Drive, Beisel's Road, East County Road, Police Grove Road, Hobby Mountain Road, Airport Road, Honey Hole Road
• County to lease maintenance garage at 177 West Foothills Drive, Drums, PA for $1 per year
• County to deed property at 150 West Foothills Drive, Drums, PA to township

County Council

The Luzerne County Council is holding a public hearing to consider an ordinance establishing the Luzerne County Arts Advisory Board. The board would advise on arts advancement, with 5-7 resident members appointed by Council for staggered terms. The meeting is dedicated to public comment on this proposed ordinance.

• Public hearing on ordinance to establish Luzerne County Arts Advisory Board
• Board would have 5-7 citizen members appointed by County Council
• Members serve 4-year terms with staggered initial appointments
• Board to meet quarterly, with at least one meeting after 6 PM annually
• Board to provide annual report to County Council

County Council

The Luzerne County Council work session will discuss August 2021 budget reports, a DCNR kayak launch grant update, and several resolutions and ordinances, including committing a local match for the transportation authority under the American Rescue Plan Act, forgiving delinquent tax interest owed by the Greater Wilkes-Barre Chamber, amending the 2021 fiscal year budgets, and authorizing a $48,500 homestead exclusion funded by ARP. The council will also discuss selling county-owned property and a counteroffer to DeAndrea, plus receive committee reports and public comment.

• Discussion of resolution to commit local match for Luzerne County Transportation Authority under ARP
• Discussion of resolution approving forgiveness of delinquent tax interest and penalties owed by Greater Wilkes-Barre Chamber of Business & Industry
• Discussion of ordinance amending 2021 fiscal year budgets (State Closure and ERA)
• Discussion of ordinance authorizing $48,500 homestead exclusion for 2020-2021 funded by ARP
• Discussion of motion to allow Robert Bilbow to advertise county-owned property for sale

Convention & Visitors Bureau

The Luzerne County Convention & Visitors Bureau board is meeting to review the executive director's report, including hotel tax receipts, budget performance, and a recap of the Rockin' the River Concert Series. The agenda also covers office relocation, marketing reports, and new business. The meeting includes standard procedural items like roll call, minutes, and public comment.

• Review of hotel tax receipts
• Review of budget performance report
• Recap of Rockin' the River Concert Series
• Office relocation discussion
• Brochure distribution surpassed 50,000

Mental Health & Developmental Services Board

The Luzerne-Wyoming Counties Mental Health and Developmental Services Advisory Board is meeting virtually to approve prior meeting minutes and receive updates from the administrator's office. The agenda includes financial, developmental services, supports coordination, and mental health services reports. No votes on policy or contracts are listed; the meeting is primarily informational.

• Approval of May 27, 2021 meeting minutes
• Financial Services Update by Margaret Manley
• Developmental Services Update by Tara Fox
• Supports Coordination Organization (SCO) Update by Tara Fox
• Mental Health Services Update by Tara Fox

The board reviewed the FY20-21 revenue and expenditure report showing a net loss of $1,757,862.76, offset by receivables to an adjusted net income of $23,805.94. No formal votes or decisions were recorded; the meeting consisted of updates on COVID protocols, training, and program launches such as the Green Bandana Project and Handle with Care.

• Reviewed FY20-21 financial report showing net loss of $1,757,862.76
• Noted adjusted net income of $23,805.94 after receivables
• Reported Wellness Court accepted first 2 cases on July 13
• Launched Green Bandana Project in Wilkes-Barre Area and Crestwood schools
• Implemented Handle with Care program in pilot districts, expanding to all by Oct 1
• Offered 302 training to crisis providers on Sept 21
• Held Juneteenth event with ~150 attendees
• Continued trauma trainings with 65, 59, 54, 54 participants

Real Estate Committee

The Luzerne County Real Estate Committee will discuss the review of repository sales before submission to Council, receive an update on the RFP for a surveyor, and review appraisals and purchase packets for specific properties, including the DeAndrea and Bilbow purchases. They will also review a letter and advertisement for the sale of county-owned properties and an update on the procedure packet.

• Review appraisal for DeAndrea purchase: Off Ridge Road, Hollenback Township, appraised at $17,000
• Review Bilbow purchase packet
• Review letter and advertisement for sale of county-owned properties
• Discussion on review of repository sales before submission to Council
• Update on RFP for surveyor

County Council

Luzerne County Council will discuss several resolutions, including committing $760,000 in American Rescue Plan funds as a local match for the Luzerne County Transportation Authority's new facility at the former Murray Complex in Wilkes-Barre. They will also discuss extending the ADP payroll contract through 2022, approving security/bond limits for 2022, and a contract with USI Insurance Services. The meeting includes a presentation on 'Recovery' and a discussion on the County Manager search and budget hearing schedule.

• Resolution committing $760,000 local match for LCTA facility project (ARPA funds)
• Discussion on ADP contract fourth amendment covering 2022 calendar year
• Discussion on Zigmund & Company security/bond limits for 2022
• Discussion on USI Insurance Services brokerage contract for FY 2022-2023
• Clarification on sale of property at 9799 S. Church St., Hazleton

County Council

Luzerne County Council is voting on a resolution to approve a $650,000 settlement of pending litigation in Hazzouri v. Luzerne County. The settlement includes $585,000 in county funds and the transfer of real property at 1200 Susquehanna Avenue, West Pittston, along with accompanying improvements and a rear lot. The Acting County Manager is authorized to execute all necessary documents to finalize the settlement.

• Settlement amount: $650,000 (including $585,000 County funds)
• Property transfer: 1200 Susquehanna Avenue, West Pittston, and rear lot
• Full release of all claims by Hazzouri against County and named employees
• Resolution effective six days after adoption

County Council

Luzerne County Council will vote on a resolution to approve a settlement of pending litigation in the case Hazzouri v. Luzerne County. The settlement amount is left blank in the agenda, and the resolution would release all claims against the county and its named employees. The County Manager recommended the settlement, and council approval is required by the Home Rule Charter.

• Settlement of Hazzouri v. Luzerne County litigation
• Resolution R-2021-XX approving settlement
• Full release of all claims against county and named employees
• Effective six days after adoption

County Council

Luzerne County Council is reviewing a proposal packet from Alan M. and Brenda Pugh to purchase 27 vacant, non-buildable parcels in Dallas Township (D8S5) for $500 each. The parcels are assessed at less than $25,000 and are too small for construction under current zoning. Council will decide whether to approve the proposal for advertisement, which does not transfer the property.

• 27 parcels in Dallas Township D8S5, each offered at $500
• Parcel 10-D8S5-011-008, assessed $16,300
• Parcel 10-D8S5-011-024, assessed $16,000
• Properties described as vacant non-buildable land due to zoning and size
• Sale requires Council approval and 10-day public advertisement

County Council

Luzerne County Council is scheduled to discuss a proposed Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILOT) agreement for the Sherman Hills Housing Complex, owned by Indelible Housing, a nonprofit. The agreement would maintain current tax payments with a modest annual adjustment, instead of full tax exemption, and includes an additional $20,000 annually for police and first responder coverage. The request is being presented by the owner's attorney, Frank Hoegen, and has already received approvals from the School District and City.

• PILOT agreement for Sherman Hills Housing Complex with Indelible Housing
• Capital investment in excess of $50,000,000 for renovation
• Additional $20,000 annual payment for police and first responder coverage
• County assessment of Sherman Hills is $15M; City assessment is $4M
• School District and City have approved the PILOT agreement

County Council

Luzerne County Council will hold a public hearing and vote on a budget amendment for a District Attorney position, ratify a disaster emergency declaration for Hurricane Ida, and consider several other items including road repair agreements, a tax payment deal, and the sale of county-owned properties.

• Public hearing and ordinance to amend 2021 budget for DA position
• Resolution ratifying disaster emergency declaration for Hurricane Ida (Sept 1-5, 2021)
• Ordinance amending intergovernmental agreement with Butler Township for road repair and dedication
• Resolution for payment in lieu of taxes with Indelible Housing, Inc.
• Resolution authorizing sale of county-owned properties to Alan and Brenda Pugh

Luzerne County Council approved a budget amendment for a DA position, ratified the Hurricane Ida disaster emergency declaration, and settled the Hazzouri v. Luzerne County litigation. It also introduced an ordinance amending the Butler Township road agreement, adopted a PILOT agreement with Indelible Housing, and postponed an ordinance amending the Flood Protection Authority's articles. A resolution to add a law firm to the insurance defense panel was removed from the agenda.

• Adopted ordinance amending 2021 budget for DA position (9-0)
• Ratified disaster emergency declaration for Hurricane Ida, Sept 1-5, 2021 (8-0, 1 abstention)
• Approved settlement in Hazzouri v. Luzerne County (8-0, 1 abstention)
• Adopted PILOT agreement with Indelible Housing, Inc. (7-1, 1 abstention)
• Postponed ordinance amending Flood Protection Authority articles (6-3)
• Introduced ordinance establishing Arts Advisory Board (9-0)
• Authorized sale of county-owned properties to Alan and Brenda Pugh (8-0, 1 abstention)
• Removed resolution adding Joyce, Carmody & Moran to insurance defense panel (5-4)

County Council

Luzerne County Council will discuss several items at its September 14, 2021 work session, including a resolution to commit $760,000 in American Rescue Plan Act funds as a local match for the Luzerne County Transportation Authority's new facility at the former Murray Complex in Wilkes-Barre. They will also discuss extending the ADP payroll contract through 2022, approving insurance brokerage services, and setting a budget hearing schedule. The agenda includes a presentation on 'Recovery' and public comment.

• Resolution to commit $760,000 in ARPA funds to LCTA for local match (project cost $55M)
• Discussion of ADP contract 4th amendment to cover 2022 calendar year
• Resolution to approve contract with USI Insurance Services for FY 2022-2023
• Discussion of Zigmund & Company recommendations on security/bond limits for 2022
• Clarification on sale of property at 9799 S. Church St., Hazleton

County Council

Luzerne County Council will consider introducing an ordinance amending the county's Personnel Policy Safety section. The proposed amendment would state that no employee shall be coerced to participate in, nor penalized for refusal of, medical preventative measures outside the standard testing period. The item is on the September 14 voting session agenda for introduction.

• Ordinance introduction: Personnel Policy Safety Amendment
• Proposed language: no employee coerced or penalized for refusing medical preventative measures outside standard testing period

County Council

Luzerne County Council is holding a public hearing and considering an ordinance to amend the 2021 Fiscal Year Budget to add a new Auto Theft Officer position in the District Attorney's Office. The position is fully funded by a $109,000 grant from the Pennsylvania Auto Theft Prevention Authority, with no general fund cost. The amendment adjusts the budget by $36,483 in both revenues and expenditures for the remainder of 2021.

• Public hearing on ordinance amending 2021 budget for DA Auto Theft position
• Grant funding: $109,000 from Pennsylvania Auto Theft Prevention Authority
• Budget amendment: $36,483 increase in DA General Fund revenues and expenditures
• New position: Auto Theft Officer, salary range $47,458-$50,000 per year
• Position duties: investigate cargo theft, organized auto theft, and vehicle insurance fraud

County Council

The Luzerne County Council will hold a voting session with a public hearing on a budget amendment for a District Attorney position, followed by votes on several resolutions and ordinances. Items include amending an intergovernmental road repair agreement with Butler Township, ratifying a disaster emergency declaration for Hurricane Ida, approving a litigation settlement, and authorizing the sale of county-owned properties. The agenda also includes introducing an ordinance to establish an Arts Advisory Board and approving a payment in lieu of taxes agreement with Indelible Housing, Inc.

• Public hearing on budget amendment for DA position
• Amend intergovernmental agreement with Butler Township for road repair and dedication
• Ratify disaster emergency declaration for Hurricane Ida (Sept 1-5, 2021)
• Approve settlement in Hazzouri v. Luzerne County
• Authorize sale of county-owned properties to Alan and Brenda Pugh

Housing Authority

The Luzerne County Housing Authority held its regular meeting and approved several resolutions, including awarding a storm and sanitary sewer improvement contract for Kingston Manor to American Asphalt Paving Co. for $93,132. The board also approved minutes, HUD certification forms for the 2022 Annual Plan, an updated employee handbook, and bills and payroll. The Dupont Project is progressing with about 50 applicants, and the authority is preparing for public input on the 2022 Annual Plan.

• Awarded sewer improvement contract for Kingston Manor 57-6 to American Asphalt Paving Co. for $93,132 (base bid $85,330 + add-on $7,802)
• Approved HUD-50077-CR and HUD-50077-ST-HCV-HP forms for 5-year PHA Plan and 2022 Annual Plan submission
• Approved updated Employee Handbook and Employee Acknowledgement Form (first update since 2011)
• Approved bills and payroll for August 1-31, 2021
• Discussed new federal vaccine mandate for federal employees and its potential impact on the Authority

The Housing Authority board approved the minutes from the October 12 meeting and the bills and payroll for October 1-31, 2021, via separate motions, all with unanimous 'AYES' votes. The executive director reported on ongoing projects, including the Dupont project nearing completion, parking lot renovations, and a bed bug issue at Lee Park Towers where two tenants may face eviction. New business included a presentation from Enterprise Fleet Management on a proposed vehicle leasing plan, which the board discussed but did not vote on, and a change to post board meeting agendas 24 hours in advance.

• Approved October 12 meeting minutes (Resolution 2021-11-01)
• Approved October 2021 bills and payroll (Resolution 2021-11-02)
• Discussed Enterprise Fleet Management leasing proposal (no vote)
• Agreed to post board agendas 24 hours prior to meetings

Planning Commission

The Luzerne County Planning Commission meeting scheduled for September 9, 2021 has been cancelled with the concurrence of Chairman N. Brian Caverly. No items were discussed or decided at this meeting.

• Meeting cancellation

Children & Youth Advisory Board

The Luzerne County Children & Youth Advisory Board reviewed the agency's provisional license, a staff shortage crisis, and budget submissions. The board discussed efforts to improve case flow and support threatened staff, and planned community outreach and a t-shirt contest.

• Agency received a Provisional License; plan to lift by March
• 40 caseworker vacancies, 3 social service aide, 1 fiscal, 6 clerical vacancies
• 5 resignations and 2 new hires reported
• Needs Based Budget narrative submitted in August; fiscal portion in September
• COVID grant used to purchase air purifiers with UV lights

Convention Center Authority

The Luzerne County Convention Center Authority board approved minutes and bill payments totaling $15,586.35. The general manager reported on upcoming events, including Trans-Siberian Orchestra performances and a WWE date change, and discussed concession fundraising and a Salute to Service suite program. Committee reports covered pedestrian bridge surface issues and a planned suites committee meeting. The chairman announced he will not seek reappointment.

• Approved payment of bills totaling $15,586.35
• Trans-Siberian Orchestra confirmed for two performances on November 21
• WWE SmackDown in October changed to Monday Night RAW on February 21
• Non-profit concession stand fundraising program advertised
• Salute to Service suite to return for 2021-2022 Penguins season

Board of Elections & Registration

The Luzerne County Board of Elections and Registration will receive a status update from the Solicitor on the District Attorney's investigation into the May 2021 primary election. The board will also handle routine items including public comment, approval of the August 25 minutes, and any additions to the agenda.

• Status update on District Attorney investigation into May 2021 primary election
• Approval of meeting minutes from August 25, 2021
• Public comment period limited to 4 minutes per person

The Board tabled a vote on ballot drop box locations until the next meeting. The county manager introduced The Election Group as consultants to assist the Bureau and Board, with the Board retaining decision-making authority. The Bureau reported on drop box providers, pollworker training, and other election preparations.

• Approved meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from August 25, 2021 (unanimous)
• Tabled vote on ballot drop box locations until next meeting
• Introduced The Election Group as consultants; Board retains decision authority

Zoning Hearing Board

The Luzerne County Zoning Hearing Board will hold a public meeting to hear seven requests for variances and special exceptions from the county zoning ordinance. The requests involve property owners in multiple municipalities seeking relief from lot width, yard setback, and use restrictions. The board will decide on each application after hearing public testimony.

• JMQ Properties LLC requests lot width variances to subdivide and reconfigure lots at 346, 350, & 352 Troxell Switch Road, Lake Township
• Jacqueline Gill requests front and side yard variances for a 12 ft. x 24 ft. carport at 623 Foote Ave., Duryea Borough
• David Halchak requests lot width variances to subdivide a parcel at 804 Broadway Road, Ross Township
• Michael Crockford requests a special exception and variances for a manufactured home at 40 Jeanette St., Conyngham Township
• Joanna Cunningham requests a special exception for therapeutic behavioral services for children with autism at 1880 Highway 315, Laflin Borough

The Luzerne County Zoning Hearing Board approved all six cases on the agenda, including variances for lot width, front yard setbacks, and side yard setbacks, as well as special exceptions for a manufactured home and therapeutic services. One case was withdrawn. All approvals were unanimous.

• Approved lot width variances for JMQ Properties LLC (70.22 ft and 81.37 ft) to subdivide lots (unanimous)
• Approved front yard and side yard variances for Jacqueline Gill to build a carport (unanimous)
• Approved lot width variances for David Halchak (140 ft and 10 ft) to subdivide parcel (unanimous)
• Approved front yard variance for Eileen Lewis (25 ft) for a storage pole barn (unanimous)
• Approved special exception and variances for Michael Crockford to place a manufactured home (unanimous)
• Approved special exception for Joanna Cunningham to provide autism services (unanimous)
• Withdrawn: Maigyn Roman's use variance for retail establishment

Board of Elections & Registration

The Luzerne County Board of Elections and Registration is meeting to receive a status update on the District Attorney's investigation of the May 2021 primary election and to consider appointing outside counsel in a lawsuit involving the County Council and the Board. The agenda also includes approval of minutes from the August 11 meeting and public comment. The attached materials detail a proposed drop box retrieval and chain-of-custody policy, along with quotes for ballot drop boxes and related equipment.

• Status update on DA investigation of May 2021 primary election
• Appointment of outside counsel in Luzerne County Council v. Luzerne County Board of Elections
• Proposed drop box retrieval and chain-of-custody policy (effective Aug. 23, 2021)
• Quotes for ballot drop boxes: ElectioniQ LLC $3,896.00; American Security Cabinets $6,424.00
• Approval of minutes from August 11, 2021 meeting

The Luzerne County Board of Elections voted unanimously to cooperate with The Election Group, a consultant hired by the county manager to assist the understaffed Bureau before, during, and after the election. The Board also approved ordering four Printelect mail-in ballot drop boxes and a chain of custody plan for ballot retrieval, and mandated poll worker training starting in 2022. The DA race ballot term was set at 2 years.

• Approved motion to cooperate with consultant The Election Group (4-0)
• Approved ordering four Printelect mail-in ballot drop boxes (4-0)
• Approved chain of custody plan for mail-in ballot retrieval (3-0, 1 abstention)
• Approved DA race ballot term of 2 years for November 2021 (3-0, 1 abstention)
• Approved mandatory poll worker training starting 2022 (4-0)
• Appointed Attorney Joseph Cosgrove to represent Board in DA race litigation (4-0)
• Approved minutes from August 11, 2021 (unanimous)

Convention Center Authority

The Luzerne County Convention Center Authority board approved a new point-of-sale system from Fiserv, Inc. at a cost not to exceed $260,000, and authorized $67,500 in new spending for equipment like computers, parking booths, and a popcorn maker. The board also approved $54,446.30 in bills and heard the general manager's report on recent events and upcoming shows.

• Approved Fiserv point-of-sale system, cost not to exceed $260,000
• Authorized $67,500 in new equipment purchases: UPS battery ($4,000), computers ($10,500), parking booths ($20,000), popcorn maker ($19,000), parking payment system ($20,000)
• Approved payment of bills totaling $54,446.30
• Announced upcoming events: Sebastian Maniscalco (Dec 5), WWE SmackDown (Oct 29), Penguins hockey season starting Oct 8
• Brandon Kopec named new Director of Operations

County Council

The provided agenda text for the Luzerne County Council meeting of 2021-08-24 is corrupted and unreadable, consisting of garbled characters and fragments. No specific agenda items, decisions, or discussions can be identified from this text.

County Council

The Council will review a presentation regarding the Sherman Hills Pilot project and its proposed tax agreement. Other discussion items include budget reports, an ADP contract, and ordinances related to road repairs and flood protection.

• Sherman Hills Pilot presentation
• Ordinance regarding road repair and dedication agreement with Butler Township
• Resolution to add Joyce, Carmody, & Moran P.C. to the insurance defense law firm panel
• July 2021 Budget Reports
• Discussion of an ADP contract

County Council

The Luzerne County Council is reviewing a job description for a part-time Assistant to the Clerk of Council, a new legislative branch position paying $18-21 per hour for up to 20 hours per week. The agenda item is a discussion or decision on this staffing matter.

• Part-time Assistant to the Clerk of Council position, $18-21/hour, up to 20 hours/week
• Position reports to Clerk of Council, serves at pleasure of County Council
• Requires 2 years office experience or equivalent

County Council

This agenda is largely procedural, consisting of a forwarded public comment email about blight and cleanup along the Cross Valley Expressway. The comment criticizes the Blight Committee as non-functioning and urges council action. No formal decisions or discussion items are listed.

• Public comment on Cross Valley Expressway cleanup and blight committee performance

County Council

This Luzerne County Council meeting agenda consists solely of a public comment email from a resident expressing support for the Homestead Act. No other business items, votes, or discussion topics are listed, making this a procedurally minimal agenda.

• Public comment in support of the Homestead Act from resident Shirley Heckman

County Council

The Luzerne County Council meeting agenda includes a public comment from Andrea Jones, a CAP member, requesting the council announce the reason for hiring electionsgroup.com and its cost to taxpayers. The comment also raises concerns about election irregularities, Dominion voting machines, and calls for their removal and replacement with paper ballots, as well as a complete audit of the primary election.

• Public comment requesting reason and cost for hiring electionsgroup.com
• Allegations of election irregularities in May 18th primary
• Request to remove Dominion voting machines and replace with paper ballots
• Demand for complete audit of primary election including hand counts
• Call to investigate Election Bureau changes after Ms. Crispell left

County Council

The Luzerne County Council is deciding whether to approve a $70,000 contract to hire The Election Group, an election consulting firm. A public comment submitted for the meeting strongly opposes the hiring, alleging the group is partisan and citing past involvement in other states' elections. The council will discuss or vote on this contract during the meeting.

• Proposed $70,000 contract with The Election Group
• Public comment opposing the hiring of Jennifer Morrell and The Election Group

County Council

Luzerne County Council will hold a voting session on August 24, 2021, to consider several agenda items, including a lease agreement for land at the Luzerne County Annex, a budget amendment for a District Attorney position, creation of an Auto Theft Officer position, and approval of a bankruptcy restructuring plan for Mallinckrodt PLC. The meeting will also include public comment periods and recognitions.

• Lease for portion of land at Luzerne County Annex for Flower Tent
• Amend 2021 Fiscal Year Budget for Luzerne County (DA Position)
• Create Auto Theft Officer Position in District Attorney's Office
• Approve Chapter 11 Bankruptcy Restructuring Plan of Mallinckrodt PLC
• Proclamation for Henry Citizens Club; retirements of Karen Kanjorski and Thomas J Ratchford

Luzerne County Council adopted resolutions to create an Auto Theft Officer position in the District Attorney's Office and to approve the Chapter 11 bankruptcy restructuring plan of Mallinckrodt PLC, with an amendment to follow PEC recommendations. The council also introduced an ordinance amending the 2021 fiscal year budget for the DA position, and approved a lease for the Flower Tent at the County Annex. A motion to reconsider the auto theft resolution failed.

• Adopted resolution creating Auto Theft Officer position in DA's Office (10-0, 1 abstention)
• Motion to reconsider auto theft resolution failed (4-6, 1 abstention)
• Introduced ordinance amending 2021 fiscal year budget for DA position (11-0)
• Adopted resolution approving Mallinckrodt bankruptcy restructuring plan with PEC recommendation amendment (10-0, 1 abstention)
• Adopted resolution for lease at County Annex for Flower Tent (10-0, 1 abstention)
• Adopted minutes of August 10, 2021 Voting Session (10-1)

County Council

The Luzerne County Council is reviewing a voluntary Countywide Action Plan to improve local water quality and reduce nutrients and sediment entering the Chesapeake Bay. The plan sets county goals of reducing nitrogen by 231,000 lbs and phosphorus by 47,000 lbs, and outlines priority initiatives in agriculture, stormwater, wastewater, and watershed health. The agenda includes detailed action items, programmatic recommendations, and a progress template for implementation through 2025.

• Countywide nutrient reduction goals: 231,000 lbs nitrogen, 47,000 lbs phosphorus
• Four priority initiative sectors: Agriculture, Urban/Developed Stormwater, Wastewater, Watershed Health
• Programmatic recommendations include increasing prevailing wage thresholds for conservation projects
• Proposed changes to Chesapeake Bay Program Technician program standards
• Action items include nutrient management planning, riparian buffers, and MS4 community partnerships

Job Description Review Committee

The Job Description Review Committee is meeting to discuss and revise a resolution regarding a staff position. The committee is reviewing the specific duties and requirements for an Administrative Assistant in the Office of Clerk of County Council.

• Proposed job description for Administrative Assistant to the Clerk of Council
• Annual salary of $30,000.00 for the Administrative Assistant position

County Cares Commission

The Luzerne County Cares Commission is meeting to discuss takeaways from a Resource Day, plans for Recovery Awareness Month in September, harm reduction strategies, and the next project. The agenda is mostly discussion items with no formal votes or contracts listed.

• Resource Day takeaways discussion
• Recovery Awareness Month – September planning
• Harm Reduction Discussion
• Next Project Discussion

Act 13 Committee

The Luzerne County Act 13 Grant Committee is meeting to review Act 13 funds for 2020 and 2021 with Finance, and to discuss use of funds with Finance and Operations. The agenda is largely procedural, with the main substantive items being the funds review and discussion.

• Review of Act 13 funds for 2020 and 2021 with Finance
• Finance and Operations discussion around use of funds
• Public comment period

Act 13 Committee

The Luzerne County Act 13 Committee is reviewing a guide to Pennsylvania's Act 13 impact fee revenues, which fund local conservation, parks, and recreation projects. The agenda is informational, covering how counties and municipalities can access these funds. No decisions or votes are listed.

• Impact fee revenues: $204.8 million invoiced, $204.2 million collected as of Oct 12, 2012
• County Conservation and Recreation Projects: 15% of statewide funds, $25,000 minimum per county
• Marcellus Legacy Fund: 40% of remaining revenue for environmental and recreation projects
• H2O PA Program grants: $500,000 to $20 million for water, sewer, stormwater projects
• DCNR Community Recreation and Conservation grants require 50% match

Accountability, Conduct & Ethics Commission

The Luzerne County Accountability, Conduct and Ethics Commission is holding a routine public meeting. The agenda is mostly procedural: approving minutes, taking public comment, and discussing the next meeting date. The only substantive item is a review of any pending complaints, with possible actions under Section 105.03(B) if necessary.

• Approval of minutes from July 9, 2021 meeting
• Review of pending complaints (if any)
• Possible Section 105.03(B) actions
• Public comment period

The Luzerne County Accountability, Conduct and Ethics Commission approved minutes from July 9 with a title correction, granted a continuance for complaint 2021-3 to October 19, scheduled a hearing for complaint 2021-1A on October 19 at 3 PM, and adopted a procedural rule precluding respondents from appearing or defending if they fail to answer after a 15-day default notice. All votes were unanimous.

• Approved July 9 minutes with correction removing 'Acting' from DA title (unanimous)
• Granted continuance for complaint 2021-3 to October 19 (unanimous)
• Scheduled hearing for complaint 2021-1A on October 19 at 3 PM (unanimous)
• Adopted rule precluding defense if no answer after 15-day default notice (unanimous)

Advisory Council - Area Agency on Aging

The Luzerne & Wyoming Counties Area Agency on Aging Advisory Board met to hear reports on operations, including a mask mandate for county buildings, a decrease in state block grant funding due to a formula change, and updates on programs like the Foster Grandparent Program and Farmers Market Voucher Program. The board approved the June meeting minutes and discussed staffing vacancies and program transitions.

• Mask mandate issued by Acting County Manager Romilda Crocamo for all county agencies and buildings
• State funding formula change will decrease AAA block grant allocations, offset short-term by CARES and American Recovery Act funds
• Foster Grandparent Program contract extended through Americorp; Mary Lou Zerfoss to serve as consultant until April 2022
• 33,800 Farmers Market vouchers distributed to 8,450 participants
• 7 vacant full-time positions, including Aging Care Manager and Supervisor roles

Advisory Council - Area Agency on Aging

The Advisory Board will meet via Microsoft Teams to conduct regular business. The agenda includes reports from the Executive Director and various divisions including Administrative, Social Services, and Active Adult Centers.

• Executive Director's Report
• Administrative Services Report
• Social Services Report
• Active Adult Centers Report

County Council

Luzerne County Council is holding a special meeting to consider a single resolution authorizing the District Attorney to execute a contract with the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton International Airport. The agreement would have the DA's office provide task force officers to perform security checkpoint functions required by the TSA. The resolution is the only substantive item on the agenda.

• Resolution authorizing DA to execute contract with Wilkes-Barre/Scranton International Airport for law enforcement officers at security checkpoints
• Agreement involves DA's task force officers performing TSA-mandated security functions
• Contract terms are attached as Exhibit A to the resolution

Luzerne County Council held a special meeting and adopted a resolution authorizing the District Attorney to execute a contract with the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton International Airport for law enforcement officers at airport security checkpoints. The motion passed 8-2 with one abstention. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting included public comment and adjournment.

• Adopted resolution authorizing DA to execute airport security checkpoint law enforcement contract (8-2, 1 abstention)

County Council

Luzerne County Council is reviewing an agreement between the District Attorney's Office and Wilkes-Barre/Scranton International Airport to supply law enforcement officers for TSA-mandated security checkpoint duties. The agreement runs from August 1, 2021 to July 31, 2022, with a possible one-year renewal, and sets hourly rates of $23.00, or $34.50 for federal holidays, mandated overtime, and hours over 40 per week.

• Agreement with Wilkes-Barre/Scranton International Airport for DAO-supplied LEOs at security checkpoints
• Rate of $23.00/hour, $34.50/hour for federal holidays, mandated overtime, and hours over 40/week
• Term: August 1, 2021 – July 31, 2022, with optional one-year renewal
• Airport to reimburse for uniforms and TSA training costs
• Airport indemnifies Luzerne County and DAO against claims

Planning Commission

The Luzerne County Planning Commission is reviewing a request for Final Plan Approval of a major subdivision and land development by NP Bliss 1, LLC. The project would create two parcels in Newport and Hanover Townships and construct two warehouse/industrial buildings, with one building on an 87.63-acre parcel in Newport Township. The applicant is requesting waivers for both the subdivision and land development, and a financial security guarantee will be required.

• Final Plan Approval for NP Bliss 1, LLC subdivision and land development in Newport and Hanover Townships
• Construction of two warehouses/industrial buildings, including a 1,229,136 sq. ft. building on Lot #1
• 87.63-acre parcel in Newport Township located on Dziak Drive in a Mining (MI) District
• Waivers requested for both subdivision (4) and land development (8)
• Financial Security Guarantee required

The Luzerne County Planning Commission granted final approval for the NP Bliss 1, LLC major subdivision in Newport and Hanover Townships, and conditional final approval for the associated land development (two warehouse/industrial buildings) with conditions. Waivers for both subdivision and land development were approved, with one member voting no on each waiver motion and on the subdivision approval. The land development approval passed 3-2, with conditions including a financial security guarantee of $7,038,632.73 and a deadline of February 12, 2023, to submit required items.

• Approved minutes of June 10, 2021 (unanimous)
• Granted 4 subdivision waivers (unanimous)
• Granted final plan approval for major subdivision (5-1, Novak no)
• Granted 8 land development waivers (5-1, Novak no)
• Granted conditional final plan approval for land development (3-2, Novak and Hartman no)

Board of Elections & Registration

The Luzerne County Board of Elections and Registration will meet to discuss and potentially vote on the length of the District Attorney's term for the November ballot, based on a recommendation from the County Office of Law. The board will also consider the use, procedures, and locations for ballot drop boxes, along with other election administration items. The agenda includes routine approvals and updates on the DA investigation of the May 2021 primary.

• November ballot: DA term length determination (2 or 4 years)
• Ballot drop boxes: discussion/vote on use, procedures, and locations
• ElectionIQ contract
• Voting machine equipment repair
• Mandatory poll worker training consideration

The Luzerne County Board of Elections and Registrations met on August 11, 2021, and unanimously ratified votes taken at the June 16 and July 14, 2021 meetings. The board also approved the agenda and minutes, and discussed ongoing litigation regarding the District Attorney race, which is under review. No final decisions were made on the litigation or other substantive matters.

• Approved meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Approved July 14, 2021 minutes (unanimous)
• Ratified votes from June 16 and July 14, 2021 meetings (unanimous)

County Council

Luzerne County Council is reviewing a resolution to move funds within the 2021 fiscal year budget. The transfer is intended to cover costs associated with advertising for the County Manager Search Committee following the resignation of C. David Pedri.

• Budget transfer of $1,000.00 from the Reserve Fund to the Advertising Expense line item

County Council

County Council is considering a resolution to transfer funds within the 2021 fiscal year budget. The transfer would move money from the Reserve Fund to cover registration and related costs for council members attending the County Commissioners Association of Pennsylvania annual conference.

• Transfer of $2,000.00 from Reserve Fund (line item 100.99.4940.585.10) to Meeting/Conference/Training (line item 100.10.4111.560.64)

Housing Authority

The Luzerne County Housing Authority held its regular meeting, approving minutes, awarding a sewer improvement contract, and approving several resolutions. The board also discussed the Dupont Project, modernization efforts, and the upcoming 2022 Annual Plan. New business included a federal vaccine mandate review.

• Awarded $93,132 contract to American Asphalt Paving Co for Kingston Manor storm and sanitary sewer improvements
• Approved updated Employee Handbook and Acknowledgement Form
• Approved bills and payroll for August 2021
• Approved HUD forms for 5-year PHA Plan and 2022 Annual Plan
• Discussed Dupont Project with about 50 applicants and preference for Dupont residents, county residents, and veterans

County Council

County Council is receiving the 2021 Mid-Year Report from the Division of Budget and Finance. The report shows General Fund expenditures at 81% of budget and revenues at 46% as of June 30, 2021. Management projects the FY2021 budget will stay within Council-approved parameters. The report also notes areas of concern, including overtime, underbudgeted revenue, and lagging grant revenue.

• General Fund expenditures at 81% of budgeted amounts as of June 30, 2021
• General Fund revenues at 46% of budgeted amounts as of June 30, 2021
• County overtime at 69% of budget (2020: 42%)
• Budget and Finance investments and Pcard revenue projected $100k under budget
• Tax collections at 90% of budget vs 84% in 2020 mid-year

County Council

Luzerne County Council will hold a public hearing and consider adopting the 2022 Long-Range Operational, Fiscal and Capital Plan, which includes the 2022 General Fund budget projections through 2025 and a ranked list of capital projects. The plan also details the 194 Bond Fund balance and proposed 2022 capital projects. Public comment is limited to three minutes per speaker.

• Adoption of the 2022 Long-Range Operational, Fiscal and Capital Plan
• Proposed 2022 capital projects: Brominski Building column repair ($75,000) and elevator modernization ($400,000), funded by 194 Bond Fund
• 194 Bond Fund balance as of 5/12/2021: $1,657,845; after proposed 2022 projects, available balance $170,864
• Non-194 Bond capital projects for 2021 include road and bridge projects totaling $8,100,000 (e.g., Crestwood Drive, Church Road, Hillside Road)
• Public hearing on the ordinance; no other business listed

County Council

Luzerne County Council will hold a public hearing and vote on an ordinance to amend the 2021 budget to add $2,993,485.44 in federal funds for the second round of the Emergency Rental Assistance Program. The funds, from the U.S. Department of the Treasury, will be used to help income-eligible households with rent, utilities, and other housing costs related to COVID-19. The ordinance also authorizes a sub-recipient agreement with the Commission on Economic Opportunity to administer the program.

• Public hearing on ordinance amending 2021 budget for Emergency Rental Assistance Program 2
• Adds $2,993,485.44 in revenue and expenditures to line items 140.20.4176.470.81 and 140.20.4176.599.81
• Funds from U.S. Department of the Treasury for COVID-19 rental assistance
• Sub-recipient agreement with Commission on Economic Opportunity for program administration

County Council

Luzerne County Council is holding a public hearing to consider an ordinance that would amend Ordinance No. 6596, expanding the Luzerne County Flood Protection Authority's purposes and projects. The amendment would allow the authority to undertake any flood protection actions it deems necessary and financially feasible to protect county residents. Public comment is limited to three minutes per speaker.

• Public hearing on ordinance amending Ordinance No. 6596, Section 5
• Expansion of flood authority's purposes to include any/all flood protection actions
• Amendment requires Council approval per Municipality Authorities Act
• Effective 15 days after enactment

County Council

Luzerne County Council will hold public hearings and vote on several budget amendments, including a $600,000 increase for the 911 fund to cover Motorola P25 radio project costs, and adoption of the 2022 Long-Range Operational, Fiscal and Capital Plan. They will also consider selling county-owned parcels held by the Tax Claim Bureau, amending the Flood Protection Authority's articles, and introducing several other budget amendments. The meeting includes an executive session on litigation and personnel, and public comment periods.

• Public hearing and vote on amending 2021 budget for 911 fund ($600,000 increase)
• Public hearing and vote on amending 2021 budget for ERA (Emergency Rental Assistance)
• Public hearing and vote on adopting 2022 Long-Range Operational, Fiscal and Capital Plan
• Resolution to approve sale of certain parcels held in repository by Elite Revenue Solutions LLC (Tax Claim Bureau)
• Ordinance to amend Flood Protection Authority's Articles of Incorporation

The Luzerne County Council adopted the 2022 Long-Range Operational, Fiscal and Capital Plan (11-0) and approved the sale of repository properties (7-2, with 2 abstentions). It also established a 7-member County Manager Search Committee and appointed seven members, including Richard A. Morelli, Chris Hackett, Patrick Patte, Raymond P. Wendolowski, Alec J. Ryncavage, Sherri A. Homanko, and Brian D. O'Donnell. Several budget amendments were adopted as resolutions, and the Flood Protection Authority ordinance was postponed.

• Adopted 2022 Long-Range Operational, Fiscal and Capital Plan (11-0)
• Approved sale of repository properties (7-2, 2 abstentions)
• Established 7-member County Manager Search Committee (8-3)
• Appointed Richard A. Morelli to Manager Search Committee (8-2, 1 abstention)
• Appointed Chris Hackett to Manager Search Committee (10-0, 1 abstention)
• Appointed Patrick Patte to Manager Search Committee (7-3, 1 abstention)
• Adopted resolution amending Capital Plan Budget (LCCF) (10-0, 1 abstention)
• Postponed Flood Protection Authority ordinance (10-1)

County Council

This agenda item reports advertising expenses for the Luzerne County Manager Search Committee, listing amounts billed by four local newspapers for June and July. The grand total is $2,336.70, with one estimate included for the Press Enterprise. This is a routine informational item, not a decision or public hearing.

• Advertising costs for manager search: Citizens Voice $14.00, Standard Speaker $1,242.60, Press Enterprise $383.80 (estimated), Times Leader $342.50
• Grand total of $2,336.70 for June and July ads

County Council

Luzerne County Council will consider a resolution to transfer $50,000 in unencumbered capital funds to pay for repairs at the main building of the Luzerne County Correctional Facility. The transfer is authorized under the Home Rule Charter and would not change other budget line items.

• Transfer of $50,000 to line item 194.50.4315.550.15 for repairs at Luzerne County Correctional Facility
• Resolution authorizes budget transfer within 2021 Capital Plan
• Effective immediately upon adoption

County Council

Luzerne County Council is considering a resolution to transfer $20,000 from the Reserve Fund to the Special Legal Fund to pay the law firm Stevens & Lee P.C. for legal representation. The funds cover expenses related to a court challenge over the Election Board's decision to hold a special election for District Attorney in November 2021.

• Transfer $20,000 from Reserve Fund (line item 100.99.4940.585.10) to Special Legal (line item 100.10.4111.550.19)
• Retention of law firm Stevens & Lee P.C. for legal services
• Legal issue stems from Election Board's April 21, 2021 decision on a special DA election

County Council

Luzerne County Council is considering a resolution to fund the County Manager Search Committee. The action follows the resignation of C. David Pedri on July 6, 2021. The proposed move transfers funds from the Reserve Fund to Recruitment Expense line items.

• $5,000 transfer from Reserve Fund (line item 100.99.4940.585.10) to Recruitment Expense (line item 100.10.4111.550.84)

County Council

The Luzerne County Council will hold a work session to discuss several agenda items, including a mid-year financial report, division reports for July 2021, a lease for part of the County Annex for the Flower Tent, a contract for law enforcement officers at the airport, a budget amendment for a DA position, an ADP contract, and a job description for an administrative assistant. These are discussions only, with decisions to be made at a later voting session.

• Lease for a portion of land at the Luzerne County Annex for the Flower Tent
• Contract with Wilkes-Barre/Scranton International Airport for law enforcement officers at security checkpoints
• Ordinance amending 2021 Fiscal Year Budgets for Luzerne County (DA Position)
• ADP Contract discussion
• Job description for Administrative Assistant in Office of Clerk of County Council

County Council

Luzerne County Council is holding a public hearing and will consider an ordinance to amend the 2021 fiscal year budget, increasing the 911 fund's revenue and expenses by $600,000. The funds, from PEMA, will cover unanticipated costs for the Motorola P25 digital radio project's tower site construction. The ordinance requires a majority-plus-one vote after the hearing.

• Public hearing on ordinance amending 2021 budget for 911 fund
• Increase revenue line 260.50.4286.450.80 (carry forward) by $600,000
• Increase expense line 260.50.4286.550.15 (other contractual) by $600,000
• Funding from PEMA 911 program for Motorola P25 radio project
• Ordinance effective 15 days after enactment

County Council

The County Council is holding an interview session to evaluate candidates for the position of County Manager. Five applicants are scheduled for timed interviews.

• Interview of George F. Hayden
• Interview of Patrick Musto
• Interview of Ernest Searfoss
• Interview of John Magagna
• Interview of Walter S. Mitchell Jr.

County Council

The County Council is holding an interview session for the County Manager Search Committee. The meeting is conducted via video/teleconference.

• County Manager Search Committee applicant interviews

County Council

The provided text consists of a single public comment email. There is no formal agenda listing decisions or discussions for the July 27, 2021, meeting.

• Public comment from David G. Wright supporting the restoration of the Homestead Exemption using American Recovery funds

County Council

The County Council will hold a work session to review June 2021 budget reports and discuss the sale of certain tax claim bureau properties. The body will also consider a stormwater project request from West Hazleton Borough and the creation of an Arts Advisory Board.

• American Rescue Plan request from West Hazleton Borough for Rotary Drive and Kiwanis Boulevard Stormwater Project No. 31235.02
• Proposed ordinance and bylaws creating the Luzerne County Arts Advisory Board
• Resolution regarding the sale of property held in repository by Elite Revenue Solutions, LLC
• Review of June 2021 Budget Reports
• Discussion regarding the County Manager Search Committee

County Council

Luzerne County Council is considering an ordinance to amend the 2021 Fiscal Year Budget. The proposal seeks to increase both revenue and expenditure budgets by $400,000 to account for COVID-19 salary reimbursements.

• Proposed ordinance to increase revenue line item 260.50.4286.460.31 by $400,000
• Proposed ordinance to increase expenditure line item 260.50.4286.550.15 by $400,000
• Funding intended to offset costs for the 911 digital radio project

County Council

Luzerne County Council is considering an ordinance to amend the 2021 Fiscal Year Budget. The proposal seeks to increase revenue and expenditures by $400,000 using COVID-19 salary reimbursement funds.

• Proposed $400,000 increase to General Fund Probation Services (Line Item 100.13.4237.460.31)
• Proposed $400,000 increase to Other Contractual Services (Line Item 100.13.4237.550.15)
• Funding intended for the County Diversionary Court Program and Family Court Division

County Council

The Council is holding a public hearing regarding a proposed ordinance to provide a homestead exclusion. This measure would authorize the Assessor’s Office to approve exclusions of $48,500 in assessed property value for the years 2020 and 2021 using federal funds.

• Proposed $48,500 homestead exclusion of assessed property for 2020 and 2021
• Funding sourced from The American Rescue Plan Act of 2021
• Authorization for the Treasurer's Office to disburse funds to eligible owners by October 15

County Council

The Council is meeting to decide on budget amendments for 911 and Probation services, as well as a property tax exclusion. The body will also consider a tower site license agreement and changes to the Flood Protection Authority's incorporation.

• Homestead Exclusion of $50,000 of assessed property for FY2020 and 2021 using American Rescue Plan Act funds
• Budget amendments for Luzerne County 911 and Probation
• Site License Agreement with Hirschfeld Communication, LLC for a tower site in Evans Falls
• Request from Hazleton City regarding county tax considerations for Land Bank properties
• Ordinance amending the Luzerne County Flood Protection Authority’s Articles of Incorporation

Luzerne County Council adopted a resolution establishing a Property Assessed Clean Energy (CPACE) program in the county, after a motion to table it failed (3-8). The council also adopted two budget ordinances for 911 and Probation, introduced ordinances for 911 and ERA budgets, and approved a site license agreement with Hirschfeld Communication, LLC. A homestead exclusion ordinance was postponed (7-4), and the Hazleton City Land Bank resolution was removed from the agenda.

• Adopted CPACE clean energy program resolution (7-3, 1 abstention)
• Adopted 2021 budget amendment ordinance for 911 (11-0)
• Adopted 2021 budget amendment ordinance for Probation (11-0)
• Introduced 2021 budget amendment ordinance for 911 (11-0)
• Introduced 2021 budget amendment ordinance for ERA (10-0, 1 abstention)
• Adopted site license agreement with Hirschfeld Communication, LLC (10-0, 1 abstention)
• Introduced ordinance amending Flood Protection Authority Articles of Incorporation (9-2)
• Postponed homestead exclusion ordinance (7-4)

County Council

The Council is considering a resolution to create the Luzerne County C-PACE Program. This program would designate the entire county as a district for clean energy initiatives and authorize the Sustainable Energy Fund to act as the program administrator.

• Establishment of the Luzerne County C-PACE Program
• Designation of the entire county as the program district
• Authorization for the Sustainable Energy Fund to administer the program
• Authorization for the County Manager to execute a Cooperation Agreement with the Sustainable Energy Fund

County Council

The County Council is meeting to recognize Michael Enochs for attaining the rank of Eagle Scout. The agenda consists of a proclamation honoring his community service and mural project at St. Paul’s church.

• Proclamation honoring Michael Enochs of Boy Scout Troop 25

County Council

The provided text consists of a public comment email addressed to the Luzerne County Council. The sender requests the use of American Recovery funds to restore the Homestead Exemption for taxpayers.

• Request to restore Homestead Exemption using American Recovery money

County Council

The provided text consists of a single public comment email sent to the County Council. There are no official council actions, votes, or agenda items listed in the document.

• Public request to restore the Homestead Exemption using American Recovery funds

County Council

A public comment was submitted to the County Council requesting the restoration of the Homestead Exemption. The correspondence suggests using a portion of American Recovery funds for taxpayer distributions.

• Request for Homestead Exemption restoration
• Proposal to use $46 million of American Recovery money for taxpayer distributions

County Council

The provided text contains a public comment request regarding email auto-replies and does not list official council actions. The agenda is primarily procedural boilerplate.

• Public comment request for auto-reply setup on County email addresses

County Council

The provided text consists of a public comment submission for a voting session. The author raises questions regarding the removal of flowers from the courthouse lawn, policies for employees lying in state, and communication with the firm investigating Children and Youth services.

• Inquiry regarding the removal of flowers from the courthouse lawn
• Request for the policy on county employees being laid in state at the courthouse
• Question regarding family access to the firm hired to investigate Children and Youth

County Council

The provided text consists of a single public comment email sent to the Luzerne County Council. There are no official council actions, votes, or agenda items listed in the source document.

• Public comment in favor of restoring the Homestead Exemption

County Council

The provided text consists of a single public comment email from a resident. There is no official meeting agenda or list of council actions provided.

• Public comment requesting use of American Recovery money for Homestead Exemption

County Council

The provided text consists of a single public comment email addressed to the Luzerne County Council. The sender requests the restoration of the homestead exemption using American recovery funds.

• Public comment from Deborah Jordan requesting restoration of the homestead exemption

County Council

The provided text contains a public comment request regarding the homestead act. There is no formal agenda listing official decisions or discussion items for this meeting.

• Public comment request to reinstate the homestead act

County Council

The provided text consists of a public comment email sent to the Luzerne County Council. It is not a formal meeting agenda.

• Request to use $46 million in American Recovery Money to reinstate the Homestead Exemption

County Council

The provided text consists of a single public comment email addressed to the County Council. No official agenda items, motions, or decisions are listed in the document.

• Public comment from Jim Knittle proposing the use of American Recovery money for property tax breaks

County Council

The provided text consists of a single public comment submitted via email. A resident is requesting the restoration of the Homestead Exemption using American Recovery funds.

• Public comment regarding the use of American Recovery money for Homestead Exemption

County Council

The provided text consists of a single external email from a resident expressing support for the restoration of the Homestead Exemption. There is no official agenda or list of council actions provided.

• Public comment from Tim Martonik supporting the restoration of the Homestead Exemption

County Council

The provided text contains only a public comment email regarding the Homestead Exemption. There are no official council actions, decisions, or agenda items listed in the source document.

• Public comment received from Michael McAuvic regarding the restoration of the Homestead Exemption

County Council

The provided text consists of a single external email sent to the County Council. It contains a resident's proposal to use American Recovery funds to restore the Homestead Exemption.

• Proposal to use $46 million of $112 million in American Recovery money for taxpayer payments of approximately $300

County Council

The provided text consists of a single external email from a resident requesting the Council support a motion to restore the Homestead Exemption using American Recovery Money. There is no official agenda listing of decisions or actions for the July 27, 2021 meeting.

• Request to restore Homestead Exemption using American Recovery Money

County Council

The provided text consists of a single external email sent to the County Council. It contains a request from a resident to use American Recovery money to restore the Homestead Exemption.

• Public comment from Richard Polmounter regarding Homestead Exemption

County Council

The provided text consists of a single external email sent to the County Council. The sender requests the restoration of the Homestead exemption using American Recovery funds.

• Request to restore Homestead exemption using American Recovery money

County Council

The provided text consists of a public comment email regarding the allocation of $56.4 million in American Rescue funds. The sender suggests prioritizing public infrastructure over payments to homeowners.

• Public comment regarding the allocation of $56.4 million in American Rescue funds

County Council

The provided text consists of a single public comment email addressed to the Luzerne County Council. The sender requests the authorization of $48,500.41 from the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 for homestead exclusions.

• Proposal to authorize $48,500.41 for homestead exclusion via the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021

County Council

The County Council is scheduled to vote on whether funds can be used for a Homestead Exemption for the years 2020 and 2021. The provided text consists of a public comment encouraging a yes vote on this matter.

• Vote on Homestead Exemption funds for 2020 & 2021

County Council

The provided text contains only a public comment email regarding taxes and the Homestead tax break. There are no official council actions, decisions, or agenda items listed.

County Council

The provided text is a public comment email addressed to the Luzerne County Council. It contains requests for mandatory drug testing for county employees and investigations into the county's judicial and foster care systems.

• Request for mandatory and random drug testing for all Luzerne County employees
• Request for state takeover of the local Children and Youth Agency
• Request for open records in family courts
• Request for income bracket restrictions for foster and kinship parents

Special Election Decision Committee

The Special Election Decision Committee is meeting to discuss a payment to the law firm of Stevens and Lee. The meeting includes a period for public comment on voting session items.

• Discussion regarding payment to the law firm of Stevens and Lee

County Council

The County Council is holding a special meeting to determine the size and membership of the County Manager Search Committee. The body will vote on the number of members and handle nominations and appointments for the committee.

• Approval of the number of members for the County Manager Search Committee
• Nominations and appointments to the County Manager Search Committee

Industrial Development Authority

The Luzerne County Industrial Development Authority board approved the 2020 audit with an unqualified opinion, accepted quarterly financials, amended its investment policy, and authorized the sale of unnamed parcels. The meeting was largely routine, with no major new projects or public hearings.

• Approved 2020 audit with unqualified opinion and $4,595 payment for audit services
• Accepted quarter-end financials with assets totaling $2,008,405
• Amended Investment Policy, approved by Jacobi Capital Management LLC and Prociak & Associates LLC
• Authorized sale of unnamed parcels, with Greater Wilkes-Barre Development Corporation as equitable owner
• Update on Historic Altamont Redevelopment Project: demolition ongoing, construction permits issued, $250,000 historic tax credit received

County Council

The Council is holding an interview session regarding applicants for the County Manager position. The meeting also includes motions to suspend bylaws related to physical presence and public meeting conduct requirements.

• County Manager Search Committee Applicant Interviews
• Motion to suspend bylaws regarding physical presence requirements
• Motion to suspend bylaws regarding public meeting conduct rules

Authorities, Boards & Commissions Committee

The Luzerne County Authorities, Boards, and Commissions Committee is meeting to discuss pre-screening of ABC applicants by the Office of Law, review and potentially adopt bylaws for the Luzerne County Arts Advisory Board, and conduct interviews for board appointments. The committee will also vote to suspend in-person interview requirements due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

• Discussion of Office of Law pre-screening of ABC applicants
• Discussion of bylaws for the Luzerne County Arts Advisory Board
• Motions regarding the Luzerne County Arts Advisory Board
• Interviews for authorities, boards, and commissions
• Motion to suspend in-person interview requirement due to COVID-19

Authorities, Boards & Commissions Committee

The Authorities, Boards & Commissions Committee is reviewing the proposed bylaws for the Luzerne County Arts Advisory Board. The bylaws outline the board's purpose, structure, meeting rules, and officer roles. This is a procedural review of a draft document, with no final decisions or votes recorded in the agenda.

• Bylaws for Luzerne County Arts Advisory Board
• Board to have 11 members appointed by Luzerne County Council
• Meetings to be held at least bimonthly, open to public with 5-minute comment limit
• Officers: Chair, Vice Chair, Secretary, Treasurer
• Amendments require two-thirds vote

Children & Youth Advisory Board

The Luzerne County Children & Youth Advisory Board met to approve minutes, hear the director's report, and discuss committee updates. Key topics included the agency's staffing shortage, funding challenges, and the need for an ad hoc committee to address vacancies and community advocacy. The board also discussed staff support and retention issues.

• John Alunni named Acting Director for the agency
• Needs Based Budget process began, due August 15th; public meeting July 26th
• Fundraising brought in $728 so far
• 2020 financial audit sent to board; county budget to be presented in October or November
• Discussion of staff shortage, salary issues, and support for caseworkers

Convention Center Authority

The Luzerne County Convention Center Authority board approved renewing property/liability insurance with Assured Partners for $181,113 and Directors and Officers insurance with Joyce Insurance for $15,024. They also authorized the Finance Committee to prepare and advertise a Request for Proposals (RFP) for a new point-of-sale (POS) system, which could cost over $150,000. The general manager reported on upcoming events, including Disney on Ice and concerts, and discussed staffing vacancies.

• Approved insurance renewal with Assured Partners at $181,113.00
• Approved Directors and Officers insurance renewal with Joyce Insurance at $15,024.00
• Authorized Finance Committee to prepare RFP for POS system (new system may cost over $150,000)
• Approved payment of bills totaling $12,526.25
• Discussed postponing team store and lounge/bar projects until next year

Board of Elections & Registration

The Luzerne County Board of Elections and Registration will meet to discuss and decide on several election-related items, including determining the length of the District Attorney's term for the November ballot, reviewing the status of an investigation into the May primary election, and considering the use of ballot drop boxes for the upcoming November election. The board will also review updates on directives issued to the Bureau of Elections and discuss the future of its Facebook page.

• November Ballot - DA Length of Term Determination (2 or 4 Years)
• Status/Update of DA Investigation of May Primary Election including Complaints Forwarded and Submitted
• Ballot Drop Boxes for November Election (DW)
• Board of Elections & Registration FaceBook Page (AS)
• Updated Website Overview of Board of Elections & Registration

The Luzerne County Board of Elections and Registration met on July 14, 2021, and approved the agenda and prior minutes. The board voted to post a website overview addition, and discussed but did not decide on the length of the DA's term, deferring action until September 13, 2021. The Bureau of Elections reported that financial reports were posted on June 12, 2021, and that the complaint procedure had been formalized. The board also discussed drop box results and plans for more secure boxes.

• Approved the agenda and minutes from June 16, 2021
• Voted to post the website Board overview addition
• Deferred decision on DA's term length until September 13, 2021
• Noted financial reports were posted June 12, 2021
• Formalized the complaint procedure
• Discussed drop box results and plans for more secure boxes

County Council

Luzerne County Council is meeting to vote on budget amendments, transportation grants, and a property assessed clean energy program. The body is also discussing a potential ballot question for a government study commission and CARES Act funding for property tax exclusions.

• Proposed $50,000 homestead exclusion for FY2020 and 2021 using American Rescue Plan Act funds
• Proposed ballot question for the November 2, 2021 election regarding a Government Study Commission
• Right of Way Agreement with Transcontinental Gas Pipe Line Company, LLC
• Budget amendments for 911 and Probation services
• Settlement of litigation in Richard Musko v. Wilkes-Barre/Wyoming Valley Airport, Valley Aviation and Luzerne County

The Luzerne County Council introduced an ordinance to authorize a $48,500 homestead exclusion for FY2020 and 2021, funded by CARES Act money, with a 10-1 vote. The council also tabled the Luzerne/Schuylkill WDB annual budget (10-1) and failed to place a Government Study Commission question on the November ballot (2-9). Additionally, they approved a resolution to hold an auction for county-owned parcels sought by Pugh and Dotter (10-0, 1 abstention).

• Introduced homestead exclusion ordinance at $48,500 (10-1)
• Tabled Luzerne/Schuylkill WDB annual budget (10-1)
• Failed to place Government Study Commission question on ballot (2-9)
• Approved auction for Pugh's and Dotter's county-owned parcels (10-0, 1 abstention)
• Adopted resolution for right-of-way agreement with Transcontinental Gas Pipe Line (10-0, 1 abstention)
• Adopted resolution for multimodal transportation fund grant (10-1)
• Adopted resolution committing local match for LCTA (10-0, 1 abstention)
• Adopted resolution committing local match for Hazleton Public Transit, amended to $168,811 (9-1, 1 abstention)

County Council

The provided text consists of public comments submitted by a resident. The author requests that the council implement mandatory drug testing for all county employees and expresses concerns regarding the county's prison, mental health, and foster care systems.

• Request for mandatory drug testing for all county employees, specifically those working with children, the elderly, veterans, and the mentally challenged

County Council

Luzerne County Council is holding a work session to discuss amendments to the flood protection authority's purposes and fiscal year budget updates. The body is also reviewing real estate recommendations and a tower site license agreement.

• Proposed amendment to Ordinance No. 6596 to include the Duryea Levee Rehabilitation Project
• Discussion of 2021 Fiscal Year Budget amendments for 911 and ERA
• Proposed site license agreement with Hirschfeld Communication, LLC for a tower in Evans Falls
• Request from Hazleton City regarding county tax considerations for land bank properties
• Real Estate Committee recommendations for county-owned parcels and properties assessed under $10,000

County Council

County Council is reviewing the status of $112,890,152.00 in Coronavirus State & Local Fiscal Recovery Funds. The county has received $56,445,076.00 to date. A final spending plan will be presented for council approval once the U.S. Treasury issues a Final Rule.

• Total allocation of $112,890,152.00
• Amount received to date: $56,445,076.00
• Proposed categories: Rainwater Projects (WVSA & DAMA), Small Businesses and Tourism, County Lost Revenue Projects, County Storm Water Projects, and Levee Improvements
• Deadline for funds to be incurred and obligated: December 31, 2024
• Deadline for funds to be expended and work completed: December 31, 2026

Housing Authority

The Luzerne County Housing Authority held its regular meeting, approving minutes and bills/payroll for June 2021. The executive director reported on development and modernization activities, including progress on the Dupont Housing for the Elderly and maintenance work. The board also discussed a delinquent mortgage on a deceased homeowner's property.

• Dupont Housing for the Elderly building is 60% complete with 32 applicants on waitlist
• Handicap ramps installed at two Exeter units and one Meadowcrest unit
• Bills and payroll for June 1-30, 2021 approved (Resolution 2021-07-02)
• Delinquent mortgage on 84 Chester Street, Kingston; attorney to contact estate
• Main office hours now Monday-Friday 9:30 AM-12:30 PM or by appointment

The Luzerne County Housing Authority approved several routine items, including negotiating an audit contract with Hymanson, Parnes & Giampaolo for 2021-2022, re-appointing Bruce K. Anders as Solicitor for 2022-2024, and submitting the 2022 Annual Plan to HUD. The board also approved bills and payroll for September 2021. No substantive policy decisions were made; the meeting was largely administrative.

• Approved minutes of September 14, 2021 meeting (all ayes)
• Authorized negotiating audit contract with Hymanson, Parnes & Giampaolo for 2021-2022 (all ayes)
• Re-appointed Bruce K. Anders as Solicitor for 2022-2024 (all ayes)
• Approved submission of 2022 Annual Plan to HUD (all ayes)
• Approved bills and payroll for September 2021 (all ayes)

County Council

The County Council is reviewing the 2020 financial audit conducted by Baker Tilly US, LLP. The report provides an unmodified opinion on the financial statements and details the County's fund balance, debt, and internal control deficiencies.

• General Fund 2020 actual expenditures were $106,345,555
• General Fund 2020 actual revenues were $139,503,927
• Net Pension Liability of $80,098,889
• Net OPEB Liability of $9,519,988
• Identification of material weaknesses in internal controls regarding segregation of duties and account reconciliations

County Council

The Luzerne County Council is considering a resolution to create a new full-time position. This role would assist the Clerk of County Council in performing office duties and responsibilities.

• Establishment of an Administrative Assistant position for the Clerk of County Council
• Annual salary of $30,000.00 for the new full-time exempt service position

County Council

The provided text consists of a public comment submission to the Luzerne County Council. The author requests that the council implement mandatory drug testing for all county employees.

• Proposal for mandatory drug testing for all county employees

County Council

The provided text is a public comment submission from a resident to the County Council. It contains requests for mandatory drug testing for county employees and investigations into the judicial and foster care systems.

• Request for mandatory and random drug testing for all Luzerne County employees
• Request for state takeover of the local Children and Youth Agency
• Request for open records in family courts
• Request for income bracket restrictions for foster and kinship parents

County Council

The County Council is considering a resolution to endorse the Pennsylvania Commission for the United States semiquincentennial. The resolution proposes establishing a voluntary, unpaid county commission to coordinate commemorative activities.

• Resolution No. 2021- regarding AMERICA250PA endorsement
• Establishment of an AMERICA250PA County Commission

County Council

The Luzerne County Flood Protection Authority (LCFPA) is requesting approval to amend its Articles of Incorporation. This change would allow the LCFPA to assist Duryea Borough with the Duryea Levee Rehabilitation Project to meet FEMA accreditation standards.

• Proposed amendment to Section 5 of Ordinance No. 6596
• Request to award a contract for professional engineering and surveying services for the Duryea Levee Rehabilitation Project
• Proposed Intergovernmental Cooperation Agreement between Duryea Borough and LCFPA for future operation and maintenance

County Council

The County Council is reviewing proposed flood control infrastructure projects funded by Coronavirus Pandemic Recovery Funding. The proposal includes equipment purchases, facility rehabilitations, and levee projects.

• Worthington Pumps Impeller Upgrades: $1,000,000
• LCFPA Command Center Bldg. Purchase and Rehab: $800,000
• Delaney Street Operations Building Rehabilitation: $750,000
• Kirby Park Market Street Preparedness Facility: $650,000
• Stormwater Pump Stations MCC Relays Upgrades: $500,000

Accountability, Conduct & Ethics Commission

The Luzerne County Accountability, Conduct and Ethics Commission is holding its regular public meeting. The agenda is largely procedural: it includes a call to order, roll call, approval of minutes from the May 14, 2021 meeting, public comment, and discussion of the next meeting date. The only substantive item is a review of any pending complaints, with possible actions under Section 105.03(B) if necessary.

• Approval of minutes from May 14, 2021 meeting
• Review of pending complaints (if any)
• Possible Section 105.03(B) actions on complaints
• Public comment period
• Discussion on next meeting date

The Luzerne County Accountability, Conduct and Ethics Commission approved a motion making a 15-day notice to file an answer to a complaint a precedent until the Code Review Committee implements a rule or procedure to the contrary. This action follows discussion of two complaints: one with an answer filed (2021-3) and one overdue by a week (2021-1A). The board also approved minutes from May 14, 2021, with three ayes and two abstentions, and adjourned after setting the next meeting for August 18th.

• Approved minutes from May 14, 2021 meeting (3 ayes, 2 abstentions)
• Approved motion to make 15-day notice to file an answer a precedent for the ACE Commission until Code Review Committee implements a rule or procedure to the contrary (unanimous)
• Set next meeting date for August 18th at 3PM in the Council Meeting Room
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The Luzerne County Planning Commission meeting scheduled for July 8, 2021, has been cancelled. The cancellation was made with the concurrence of Chairman N. Brian Caverly. No business items are on the agenda.

• Meeting cancelled

Zoning Hearing Board

The Luzerne County Zoning Hearing Board will hold a public meeting to hear three variance applications from the county zoning ordinance. The board will consider requests for front yard and lot width variances, as well as a use and sign variance for a construction business. The meeting is scheduled for July 6, 2021 at 7:00 PM in the County Courthouse.

• Front yard variance for Christopher Zielinski at 1007 Russell St., Avoca: required 30 ft., requested 14 ft. for a two-story addition
• Lot width variances for JMQ Properties LLC at 346 Troxell Switch Road, Dallas: required 100 ft., requested 70.22 ft. and 81.37 ft. to subdivide two lots
• Use variance for John Burgette at 7 Regulators Lane, Avoca: to build an 18,600 sq. ft. building for a construction business in Dupont Borough
• Sign variance for John Burgette: 5 ft. x 10 ft. sign for the construction business

The Luzerne County Zoning Hearing Board denied John Burgette's request for a use variance to operate a construction business on a 15-acre site off Smith Street in Dupont Borough, citing narrow roads and neighborhood opposition. The board approved a front yard variance for Christopher Zielinski in Avoca to add a two-story addition, and continued a lot width variance request by JMQ Properties LLC to September 7, 2021.

• Approved minutes of June 1, 2021.
• Approved front yard variance for Christopher Zielinski, 1007 Russell St., Avoca, reducing required 30 ft. to 14 ft. for a 16 ft. x 36 ft. two-story addition.
• Continued Case #2 (JMQ Properties LLC) to September 7, 2021, subject to applicant signing a waiver.
• Denied use variance for John Burgette to construct an 18,600 sq. ft. building and 5 ft. x 10 ft. sign for a construction business in Dupont Borough.

County Council

The Council is meeting to determine the number of members for the County Manager Search Committee. They will also handle nominations and appointments to that committee.

• Approval of the number of members for the Manager Search Committee
• Nominations and appointments to the County Manager Search Committee

The Luzerne County Council tabled a motion to set the County Manager Search Committee size after amendments to 3 or 5 members failed. They then approved several amendments to the committee's recruitment advertisement, including setting a July 14, 2021 deadline, adding a note that prior interviewees need not reapply, including Charter Section 4.02, and removing any specific member number. The ad will be published in four newspapers and on county platforms.

• Tabled motion to set Manager Search Committee size (11-0)
• Failed to amend committee size to 3 (4-7)
• Failed to amend committee size to 5 (5-6)
• Failed to postpone vote on committee size (4-7)
• Approved ad deadline of July 14, 2021, 4:30 PM (11-0)
• Approved adding 'previously interviewed need not reapply' to ad (11-0)
• Approved including Charter Section 4.02 in ad (11-0)
• Approved removing member number from ad (10-1)

County Council

The County Council is holding an interview session for the County Manager Search Committee. The meeting is conducted via video/teleconference.

• County Manager Search Committee applicant interviews

County Cares Commission

The Luzerne County County Cares Commission is meeting to discuss and finalize plans for Resource Day. The agenda includes routine procedural items such as call to order, roll call, and public comment, with the main substantive item being the finalization of Resource Day.

• Resource Day finalization

Real Estate Committee

The Luzerne County Real Estate Committee will discuss procedures for selling county-owned properties, including competing bids, properties under $10,000, and a proposed $100 entry fee for property sales. They will also review advertisement wording and updates on specific parcels in Butler and Dallas Townships. The meeting is a discussion, not a final vote.

• Discussion of county-owned property sale procedure for competing bids
• Discussion of county-owned properties with deed valued under $10,000
• Discussion of advertisement wording for property sales, including 10-day objection notice
• Update on RFP for surveyor for Butler Township properties
• Discussion of $100 entry fee for Elite Revenue Repository property sales

County Council

The County Council is holding a work session to review May 2021 budget reports and discuss several resolutions. The body will consider budget amendments for 911 and Probation services, as well as transportation funding and a right-of-way agreement.

• Right of Way Agreement between Luzerne County and Transcontinental Gas Pipe Line Company, LLC
• Multimodal Transportation Fund Grant request from the Pennsylvania Commonwealth Financing Authority
• 2021 Fiscal Year Budget amendments for Luzerne County (911) and (Probation)
• Local match commitments for state operating assistance for Luzerne County Transportation Authority and Hazleton Public Transit
• Adoption of the Hidden Hero’s Community Plan

County Council

The County Council is holding a public hearing to receive comments on a proposed ordinance. This ordinance would amend the 2021 Fiscal Year Budget for Luzerne County (D&A).

• Public comment on proposed ordinance amending the 2021 Fiscal Year Budget for Luzerne County (D&A)

County Council

The provided text does not contain a meeting agenda, motions, or discussion items. It consists of a list of names, parcel numbers, and a GIS mapping disclaimer.

County Council

The County Council is reviewing a resolution to authorize the County Manager to execute a lease agreement with Hirschfeld Communications, LLC. The agreement allows Luzerne County 9-1-1 to install radio and microwave equipment in Evans Falls, Monroe Township, as part of the P25 digital radio project.

• Tower site lease agreement with Hirschfeld Communications, LLC in Evans Falls
• Initial $40,000 capital contribution for tower modifications
• Lease payments of $2,000 per month starting on the 41st month with 3% escalation
• Initial 10-year total agreement cost of $235,133.08
• 100% of lease payments covered by 911 funding

County Council

Luzerne County Council is conducting a public hearing and voting session to consider a zoning change for three parcels of land. The proposal seeks to rezone the property to allow for expanded parking and business growth.

• Proposed rezoning of 6.51 acres at 18-24 Sweet Valley Road from HB, AG, and R-1 zones to HB and AG zones
• Request filed by property owner Gary May

County Council

The County Council will hold public hearings regarding budget amendments and rezoning. The body is scheduled to vote on a software contract with Microsoft, a lease for the Domestic Relations Office, and a property tax exemption program for deteriorated business properties.

• Ordinance to amend the 2021 Fiscal Year Budget (D&A)
• Rezoning of 6.51 acres in Union Township from HB, AG, and R-1 to HB and AG zones
• Software acquisition and licensing contract with Microsoft Corporation
• Lease renewal with Dom Forte Enterprises, Inc. for Domestic Relations Office at 701 North Church Street, Hazleton
• Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILOT) Agreement with Hazleton Creek Commerce Center Holdings, LLC

Luzerne County Council voted 6-5 to adopt a resolution designating Romilda P. Crocamo, Esq. as Acting County Manager, with an amendment setting her pay at 55% of the District Attorney's salary. The council also approved a LERTA tax exemption for deteriorated properties in Hazleton, amended to match the city's abatement schedule, and removed two agenda items (Clean Energy Resolution and Musko settlement) for further information. All other agenda items were approved unanimously.

• Adopted FY2021 budget amendment (11-0)
• Approved Microsoft software licensing contract (11-0)
• Renewed Domestic Relations Office lease at 701 North Church St., Hazleton (11-0)
• Approved PILOT agreement with Hazleton Creek Commerce Center (11-0)
• Rezoned 6.51 acres in Union Township to HB/AG (11-0)
• Adopted LERTA tax exemption for deteriorated properties, amended to match Hazleton's schedule (7-4)
• Designated Romilda Crocamo as Acting County Manager at 55% of DA salary (6-5)
• Hired Stevens & Lee for DA election decision (7-4)

County Council

The meeting agenda includes budget estimates for legal tasks related to the Luzerne County District Attorney election matter. The documents outline costs for initial pleadings, briefs, and oral arguments.

• Estimated budget for Task A (Initial Pleadings) ranging from $7,475 to $9,370
• Estimated budget for Task B (Briefs and replies) ranging from $6,475 to $8,370
• Estimated budget for Task C (Oral Argument) ranging from $2,475 to $3,765
• Total estimated budget figures of $16,425 and $21,505

County Council

The Law Office of Tucker R. Hull submitted a proposed budget to Councilwoman Kendra Radle regarding litigation costs for an election law matter. The estimate covers potential legal actions through the Court of Common Pleas, the Commonwealth Court, and the Pennsylvania Supreme Court.

• Estimated $7,500 to $12,500 for litigation before the Luzerne County Court of Common Pleas
• Estimated $8,500 to $12,250 for a single appeal before the Commonwealth Court
• Estimated $3,250 to $5,250 to file a Petition for Allowance of Appeal to the Pennsylvania Supreme Court
• Estimated $8,000 to $11,000 to litigate a case before the Pennsylvania Supreme Court
• Legal billing rates of $250/hour for J. Chadwick Schnee and Tucker R. Hull, and $150/hour for paralegal Tara Rivera

Act 13 Committee

The Luzerne County Act 13 Grant Committee is meeting to conduct a financial review with the Finance department. The agenda includes routine procedural items such as call to order, roll call, and public comment.

• Act 13 financial review with Finance

Budget, Finance & Audit Committee

The Luzerne County Council Budget, Finance and Audit Committee will meet to review the status of the 2020 audit, discuss outstanding issues, and update the timeline for presenting the audit to Council. The meeting is open to public comment.

• Review of 2020 audit status
• Update on outstanding issues
• Timeline for audit presentation to Council

Budget, Finance & Audit Committee

The Budget, Finance & Audit Committee is reviewing the completed 2020 audit of Luzerne County's financial statements. The audit found no significant difficulties, disagreements, or unusual transactions, and the final report is expected to be issued around June 25, 2021, with a presentation to the County Council on July 13, 2021.

• Audit of 2020 financial statements substantially completed; final report expected June 25, 2021
• No significant outstanding items or disagreements with management
• Key audit areas included CARES Act funding, pension and OPEB liabilities, and derivative instruments
• Presentation to County Council scheduled for July 13, 2021
• No going concern issues identified

Special Election Decision Committee

The Special Election Decision Committee is conducting public interviews with legal representatives. The body will discuss which candidates for outside counsel should be sent to the Council for a final decision.

• Public interview with J. Chadwick Schnee, Esq. (Law Office of Tucker Hull)
• Public interview with Peter J. Adonizio, Jr. and Hon. Thomas I. Vanaskie (Stevens & Lee)

Advisory Council - Area Agency on Aging

The Luzerne/Wyoming Counties Area Agency on Aging Advisory Board is meeting to approve minutes, hear an executive director's report, and receive updates from administrative, social services, and active adult center divisions. The meeting also includes a welcome from the Mature Worker Program project director. No votes or decisions are listed on the agenda.

• Approval of meeting minutes
• Executive Director's report by Mary Roselle
• Administrative Services Report by Tim Farrell
• Social Services Report by Mary Schell
• Active Adult Center Report by Sandy Acornley

Advisory Council - Area Agency on Aging

The Luzerne & Wyoming Counties Area Agency on Aging Advisory Board met virtually and heard reports on programs and operations. Key items included a presentation on the Mature Workers Program, updates on funding changes (including reduced interstate funding offset by CARES and American Recovery Act funds), and reports on vaccinations, staffing, and center reopenings. The board approved the April minutes and discussed future meeting format.

• Mature Workers Program: federally funded, for residents 55+ meeting low-income guidelines, offers on-the-job training at 70 sites, pays minimum wage
• Interstate Funding Formula changes will reduce funding for Luzerne/Wyoming Counties, offset short-term by CARES Act and FFCRA funds
• Approximately $700,000 in CARES funding deferred to 2021-2022 fiscal year
• AAA to continue Foster Grandparent Program through March 31, 2022, with director Mary Lou Zerfoss contracted 15 hours/week
• Active Adult Centers reopened at full capacity June 1; 15,640 Farmers Market vouchers distributed

Convention & Visitors Bureau

The Luzerne County Convention & Visitors Bureau board is meeting to discuss routine operational matters, including the executive director's report on COVID-19, budget performance, hotel tax receipts, and the Rockin' the River concert series. The agenda is largely procedural, with no specific votes or proposals listed.

• Review of budget performance report
• Review of hotel tax receipts
• Discussion of Rockin' the River concert series
• COVID-19 update

The Luzerne County Convention & Visitors Bureau board approved submitting a lease agreement to county council to relocate the visitors' bureau office. The board also approved the previous meeting's minutes and adjourned. The executive director reported revenue below budget by about $190,000 due to the pandemic, but noted savings on expenses and discussed the return of Rockin' the River for summer 2021.

• Approved submission of lease agreement to county council for office relocation (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of previous meeting (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 11:43 AM (unanimous)

Convention & Visitors Bureau

The Luzerne County Convention & Visitors Bureau board is meeting to review routine reports, including hotel tax receipts, budget performance, the Rockin' the River concert series, and an office relocation. The agenda is largely procedural, with no specific decisions or proposals detailed.

• Review of Hotel Tax Receipts
• Review of Budget Performance Report
• Rockin' the River Concert Series update
• Office Relocation update

Board of Elections & Registration

The Luzerne County Board of Elections and Registration will meet to certify the remaining May 2021 primary election results, review drop box use, and discuss several administrative items including a potential ethics inquiry response, a Facebook page, and a return to in-person meetings. The agenda also includes public comment periods and approval of prior meeting minutes.

• Certification of rest of May 2021 Primary Election
• Primary Election Drop Box Use Review: Dropbox ballot totals
• State Ethics Committee response to inquiry regarding possible conflict of interest with Fair Districts PA volunteer work
• Directives to Bureau of Elections
• Addition of July Board of Election meeting and return to in-person meetings

The Board of Elections certified the May 18, 2021 primary election by a 4-1 vote, with Missy Thomas abstaining. The board also adopted a set of directives to improve election processes, shut down its Facebook page, and scheduled a July 14 meeting. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Certified May 18, 2021 primary election (4-1, 1 abstention)
• Adopted directives to improve election processes (unanimous)
• Shut down Board's Facebook page (unanimous)
• Scheduled next meeting for July 14, 2021 at 5 PM

Planning Commission

The Luzerne County Planning Commission will consider final plan approval for a 1,039 sq. ft. addition to an existing commercial building at 941 Main St., Duryea Borough, including a new kitchen, expanded bar and seating, two driveways, curbing, and parking. The applicant is requesting three waivers from the Subdivision and Land Development Ordinance, including a waiver for the required $59,147 financial security guarantee. The commission will also act on minutes from the May 13, 2021 meeting.

• Final plan approval for 1,039 sq. ft. addition at 941 Main St., Duryea Borough
• Financial security guarantee of $59,147 required
• Three SALDO waivers requested, including financial security guarantee waiver
• Project includes new kitchen, expanded bar and seating, two driveways, curbing, parking
• Action on May 13, 2021 meeting minutes

The Luzerne County Planning Commission granted conditional final plan approval for the Zambetti Family Real Estate LLC Land Development in Duryea Borough, which includes a 1,039 sq. ft. addition to an existing commercial building at 941 Main St. All four requested waivers were granted, including waivers for plan scale and financial security guarantees. The approval is conditioned on obtaining a PennDOT Highway Occupancy Permit within one year, by June 10, 2022, or the plan will be automatically disapproved.

• Approved minutes of May 13, 2021 (unanimous)
• Granted waiver SALDO 7.12 for plan scale of 1 inch = 20 ft. (unanimous)
• Granted waiver SALDO 7.22 for plan scale and paper size 24x36 inches (unanimous)
• Granted waiver SALDO 7.241 for financial security guarantee (unanimous)
• Granted waiver SALDO 7.243 for maintenance financial security (unanimous)
• Approved conditional final plan approval for Zambetti Family Real Estate LLC Land Development (unanimous)

Children & Youth Advisory Board

The Luzerne County Children & Youth Advisory Board met to approve minutes, hear the Director's Report, and discuss committee activities. The agency is preparing its Needs Based Budget due in August, has 30 vacancies, and is planning a t-shirt fundraiser with sponsor support. The board also discussed recruitment, community advocacy, and ways to support staff.

• Approved May meeting minutes
• Director's Report: budget season started, Needs Based Budget due in August
• 30 vacancies with two more resignations; interviews underway
• Fundraising: t-shirt project with eight sponsors at $250 each
• Independent Living Unit graduation celebration on June 17 at Apple Tree Terrace

Convention Center Authority

The Luzerne County Convention Center Authority approved paying $20,154.57 in bills and authorized up to $40,000 to rebuild compressor #2 on the ice floor chiller. They also voted to postpone the bar/lounge project but proceed with moving the team store. The general manager reported the lifting of capacity restrictions and upcoming events.

• Approved payment of bills totaling $20,154.57
• Authorized up to $40,000 to rebuild compressor #2 on the floor chiller
• Postponed bar/lounge project, will proceed with moving team store
• First full-capacity concert scheduled for July 23 with Alabama
• Discussed easement agreement with Sonny Singh

County Council

The Council will discuss several items including a software licensing agreement with Microsoft Corporation and the establishment of a property assessed clean energy program. Other discussion topics include a lease renewal for the Domestic Relations Office and a payment in lieu of taxes agreement.

• Establishment of the Luzerne County C-PACE Program
• $1,349,492 Microsoft Corporation software acquisition and licensing contract
• Lease renewal with Dom Forte Enterprises, Inc. for 701 North Church Street
• Payment in lieu of taxes agreement with Hazleton Creek Commerce Center Holdings, LLC
• Resignation of County Manager C. David Pedri

County Council

This agenda item is a draft of the Luzerne County Administrative Code, which outlines the organization and responsibilities of county divisions and departments. The council is reviewing the draft, which details functions for administrative services, purchasing, IT, elections, and other areas. No final decisions are recorded in this excerpt; it is a procedural review of the proposed code.

• Defines eight county divisions and their heads appointed by the County Manager
• Details responsibilities of the Division of Administrative Services, including HR, purchasing, IT, elections, and community development
• Specifies purchasing procedures and exclusions, such as insurance and professional services
• Outlines IT department duties including cybersecurity, network administration, and data management
• Describes Bureau of Elections duties for voter registration and election conduct

County Council

The Luzerne County Council is considering an ordinance to amend the 2021 fiscal year budget to account for $56,445,076 in federal Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds. The amendment increases both revenue and expense line items by that amount, with funds to be used only with Council approval. A public hearing is required before adoption.

• Increase revenue line item 125.20.4176.400.11 by $56,445,076
• Increase expense line item 125.20.4176.599.82 by $56,445,076
• Funds appropriated solely by and with approval of County Council
• Ordinance effective 15 days after enactment

County Council

The Luzerne County Council work session will discuss several resolutions, including establishing a Commercial Property Assessed Clean Energy (C-PACE) program, approving a $1.35 million Microsoft software licensing contract, renewing a lease for the Domestic Relations Office in Hazleton, and approving a PILOT agreement with Hazleton Creek Commerce Center Holdings. The council will also discuss accepting the resignation of County Manager C. David Pedri. These are discussion items ahead of a formal vote.

• Resolution to establish Luzerne County C-PACE Program with Sustainable Energy Fund as administrator
• Microsoft software licensing contract for $1,349,492 over 3 years (2021-2024)
• Lease renewal with Dom Forte Enterprises for Domestic Relations Office at 701 North Church Street, Hazleton
• PILOT agreement with Hazleton Creek Commerce Center Holdings, LLC
• Resolution accepting resignation of County Manager C. David Pedri

County Council

The Luzerne County Council will hold public hearings and vote on amending the 2021 budget to account for $56,445,076 in federal COVID recovery funds, plus several 9-1-1 tower lease agreements. They will also consider an administrative code amendment, a zoning change in Union Township, and a tax exemption program for deteriorated properties. The agenda includes routine items like minutes approval and a county manager search timeline.

• Adopt ordinance amending 2021 budget for $56,445,076 COVID Fiscal Recovery Funds
• Adopt resolution for lease agreement with Luzerne County Convention Center Authority at Mohegan Sun Arena
• Adopt resolutions for 9-1-1 tower site leases in Bear Creek, Dallas, Foster, and Nescopeck
• Introduce ordinance to re-zone 6.51 acres in Union Township from HB, AG, R-1 to HB and AG
• Adopt resolution establishing tax exemptions for deteriorated industrial/commercial property (LERTA)

Luzerne County Council voted 11-0 to accept County Manager C. David Pedri's resignation as per his contract, adding it as agenda item 13. Council also adopted the amended 2021 COVID budget ordinance, introduced a zoning change in Union Township, and approved a County Manager search timeline and advertisement. A resolution for tax exemptions (Falvello LERTA) was tabled 6-5.

• Accepted County Manager resignation (11-0)
• Adopted amended 2021 COVID budget ordinance (11-0)
• Introduced zoning reclassification for 6.51 acres in Union Township (11-0)
• Approved County Manager search timeline (8-3)
• Approved County Manager search ad with 'or equivalent experience' amendment (7-4)
• Tabled Falvello LERTA tax exemption resolution (6-5)
• Adopted lease agreements for Mohegan Sun Arena and multiple 9-1-1 tower sites (11-0)
• Adopted Administrative Code amendments (11-0)

Housing Authority

The Luzerne County Housing Authority board approved a leadership transition, promoted Barry Yohey to Executive Director, and discussed selling land in Dupont and Plains. They also reviewed construction progress, including a $160,000 change order for the Dupont elderly housing project, and noted the upcoming end of the eviction moratorium.

• Approved Resolution 2021-06-02: Barry Yohey promoted to Executive Director, Michael Molitoris becomes Deputy Director, effective July 1, 2021
• Discussed Dupont Borough's interest in purchasing adjoining land near the new Dupont development
• Reported $160,000 change order for Dupont Housing for the Elderly due to lumber price increases
• Approved bills and payroll for May 1-31, 2021 (Resolution 2021-06-03)
• Noted eviction moratorium ends June 30, 2021; staff referring non-paying tenants to CEO for assistance

County Council

Luzerne County Council is holding a public hearing on a proposed ordinance that would amend the Luzerne County Administrative Code, specifically Article VI on office and divisional responsibilities. The ordinance would make changes to various sections of the code, as detailed in an attached exhibit. The meeting is conducted via video/teleconference due to the state's emergency declaration, with motions to suspend bylaws requiring physical presence and standard meeting format.

• Public hearing on ordinance amending Luzerne County Administrative Code (Article VI)
• Motions to suspend bylaws on physical presence and meeting format due to state emergency declaration
• Ordinance would take effect 15 days after enactment

County Council

Luzerne County Council is holding a public hearing and considering an ordinance to amend the 2021 fiscal year budget to account for $56,445,076 received from the U.S. Treasury under the Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds. The amendment increases both revenue and expenditure line items by that amount. The meeting also includes motions to suspend bylaws regarding physical presence and meeting format due to the state's emergency declaration.

• Public hearing on ordinance amending 2021 budget for COVID funds
• Budget amendment increases revenue line item 125.20.4176.400.11 by $56,445,076
• Budget amendment increases expenditure line item 125.20.4176.599.82 by $56,445,076
• Motions to suspend bylaws on physical presence and meeting format

County Council

Luzerne County Council will vote on a resolution approving a settlement in the lawsuit Richard Musko v. Wilkes-Barre/Wyoming Valley Airport, Valley Aviation, and Luzerne County. The suit stems from an alleged oral contract from the 1970s allowing Musko to keep a hangar at the airport indefinitely. The settlement amount is left blank in the agenda. Council may reject the settlement and continue litigation.

• Resolution to approve settlement in Richard Musko v. Wilkes-Barre/Wyoming Valley Airport, Valley Aviation, and Luzerne County (Common Pleas No. 2020-08998)
• Settlement amount not specified in agenda
• Funding from Office of Law Budget - Special Legal Services
• Council can reject settlement and proceed to trial

County Council

This agenda contains the text of a Microsoft Enterprise Agreement for government entities, which the Luzerne County Council is reviewing. The agreement outlines terms for software licensing, including usage rights, termination conditions, and liability limits. No specific county actions or decisions are listed; the document is the contract itself.

• Microsoft Enterprise Agreement for government (EA20201AgrGov)
• Licenses include Software Assurance and Subscription Licenses
• Termination allowed without cause with 60 days' notice
• Non-appropriation of funds allows termination without penalty
• Liability limited to amounts paid for products

County Council

The Luzerne County Council is reviewing a Microsoft Enterprise Enrollment agreement for county software licensing. The agenda includes the contract terms and a signature form for approval. This is a routine administrative item, not a policy decision.

• Microsoft Enterprise Enrollment agreement (X20-10635) for county software licensing
• Agreement number 8013759, effective for 36 months
• Requires minimum 250 qualified users/devices
• Annual true-up orders required for license compliance

County Council

This agenda covers administrative and organizational matters for Luzerne County's Budget and Finance Division, including duties like preparing proposed budgets and managing financial information. It also outlines the structure of the Division of Correctional Services. The agenda appears to be a draft of administrative code sections rather than a list of specific decisions or public hearings.

• Obtain bids for the Annual Tax Anticipation Note (TAN)
• Prepare Administrative Proposed Budgets for County Council by October 15
• Manage financial information on county website with IT Department
• Maintain Documentation of Accounting Processes Manual
• Outline Division of Correctional Services operations and division head appointment

County Council

Luzerne County Council is considering an ordinance to amend the 2021 fiscal year budget to account for $56,445,076 in federal Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds from the American Rescue Plan Act. The amendment would create new revenue and expenditure line items for these funds, which are to be used only with Council and County Manager approval. A public hearing is required before adoption.

• Amendment to 2021 budget adding $56,445,076 in U.S. Treasury American Rescue Plan Act funds
• New revenue line item 125.20.4176.400.11 increased by $56,445,076
• New expenditure line item 125.20.4176.599.82 increased by $56,445,076
• Funds restricted to use with Council and County Manager approval

County Council

The County Council is issuing a proclamation to recognize child welfare professionals. The action honors staff at Luzerne County Children & Youth Services for their work protecting children.

• Proclamation of Child Welfare Professionals Appreciation Week for June 7-11, 2021

Board of Elections & Registration

The Luzerne County Board of Elections and Registration is holding a special meeting to certify the results of the May 18, 2021 primary election. The agenda includes public comment periods for both agenda and non-agenda items.

• Certification of May 18, 2021 Primary Election

County Cares Commission

The Luzerne County Council's County Cares Commission is meeting to discuss several agenda items, including a Resource Day, resolutions on Code Blue and the Homeless Bill of Rights, a resolution for the Hidden Hero Community, and setting standardized meeting schedules. These are discussion items only, with no final decisions scheduled. Public comment is invited.

• Discussion on resolution for Code Blue
• Discussion on resolution for the Homeless Bill of Rights
• Discussion on resolution for the Hidden Hero Community
• Discussion on setting standardized meeting schedules
• Resource Day discussion

County Cares Commission

Luzerne County Council is considering a resolution to adopt the Hidden Hero's Community Plan, which would designate the county as a Hidden Hero County in support of military and veteran caregivers. The resolution outlines steps to identify caregivers, raise awareness, hold annual observances, and designate a point of contact.

• Resolution adopting the Hidden Hero's Community Plan
• Designates Luzerne County as a Hidden Hero County
• Plans annual observance or resource fair for caregivers
• Partnership with Elizabeth Dole Foundation's Hidden Heroes campaign
• Designates a point of contact for caregiver support

Board of Elections & Registration

The Luzerne County Board of Elections and Registration is holding a special meeting to certify the results of the May 18, 2021 primary election. The agenda includes public comment periods for both agenda and non-agenda items, followed by adjournment.

• Certification of May 18, 2021 Primary Election
• Public comment on agenda items (limited to 4 minutes per person)
• Public comment on non-agenda items within board jurisdiction

The board voted unanimously to certify the special election for State Senate District 22, following an amended agenda. Public comments raised concerns about vote counting and transparency, but no other substantive decisions were made. The board scheduled a special meeting for June 7 to continue election certification discussions.

• Amended agenda to certify only the special election for State Senate District 22 (unanimous)
• Certified special election for State Senate District 22 (4-0)
• Adjourned and scheduled special meeting for June 7, 2021 at 4:30 PM (unanimous)

Zoning Hearing Board

The Luzerne County Zoning Hearing Board will hold a public meeting on June 1, 2021 at 7:00 P.M. to hear four applications: two yard variances, a special exception for a short-term vacation rental, and a special exception for a car wash/auto detailing facility. The meeting will be held in the 2nd Floor Jury Meeting Room of the County Courthouse, Wilkes-Barre, PA, with COVID-19 restrictions in place.

• Ryan Spencer: Right Side Yard Variance, 679 Lehman Outlet Road, Dallas, PA — required 25 ft., requested 10 ft. for a 24 ft. x 30 ft. pole building in Lake Township (AG District)
• Patricia Besz: Rear Yard Variance, 20 Sharpe St., Wyoming, PA — required 30 ft., requested 5 ft. to enclose a carport into a sunroom in Wyoming Borough (R-2 District)
• Elaine Deluca: Special Exception for short-term vacation rental at 97 Sandy Beach Rd., Lily Lake, Conyngham Township (R-1 District)
• 1852 Wyoming, LLC: Special Exception for a 95 ft. x 37.3 ft. car wash/auto detailing facility at 2004 Wyoming Ave., Wyoming Borough (CB District)

The Luzerne County Zoning Hearing Board approved three variance/special exception requests and denied one. Approved: a right side yard variance for a pole building, a rear yard variance for a sunroom enclosure, and a special exception for a car wash. Denied: a special exception for a short-term vacation rental.

• Approved right side yard variance (10 ft. vs. 25 ft. required) for pole building at 679 Lehman Outlet Road, Dallas (unanimous)
• Approved rear yard variance (5 ft. vs. 30 ft. required) to enclose carport as sunroom at 20 Sharpe St., Wyoming (unanimous)
• Approved special exception for 95 ft. x 37.3 ft. car wash at 2004 Wyoming Ave., Wyoming Borough (unanimous)
• Denied special exception for short-term vacation rental at 97 Sandy Beach Rd., Lily Lake (unanimous)

County Cares Commission

The Luzerne County Cares Commission is meeting to discuss several community initiatives, including planning for a Resource Day, a Homeless Bill of Rights, Code Blue procedures, and a Hidden Hero Community discussion. The agenda includes public comment opportunities. No formal decisions are listed; items are for discussion and next-step planning.

• Resource Day Invitations and Next Steps
• Homeless Bill of Rights Discussion
• Code Blue Discussion
• Hidden Hero Community Discussion

County Cares Commission

The Luzerne County Cares Commission and LCCC are organizing a community resource day on June 27, 2021, at Kirby Park Pavilion #2, from 10 AM to 2 PM. The event will offer on-the-spot support for people struggling with homelessness and substance use disorder, including a food and clothing drive. Agencies are invited to sign up, and donations can be dropped off at Keystone Mission before June 20th.

• Community resource day on June 27, 2021, 10 AM–2 PM at Kirby Park Pavilion #2
• On-the-spot support for homelessness and substance use disorder
• Food and clothing drive for attendees
• Donation drop-off at Keystone Mission, 290 Parkview Cir, Wilkes-Barre, PA, before June 20, 2021
• Agency sign-up form due to Matthew.Vough@Luzernecounty.org

Mental Health & Developmental Services Board

The Luzerne-Wyoming Counties Mental Health and Developmental Services Advisory Board is meeting virtually to approve the minutes from the March 25, 2021 meeting and receive updates from the administrator's office on financial, developmental, supports coordination, and mental health services. The agenda is largely procedural, with no specific decisions or proposals listed.

• Approval of March 25, 2021 meeting minutes
• Financial Services Update by Margaret Manley
• Developmental Services Update by Amy Tomkoski
• Supports Coordination Organization (SCO) Update by Gail Stredny
• Mental Health Services Update by Tara Vallet

The Luzerne-Wyoming Counties Mental Health and Developmental Services Advisory Board unanimously approved the March 25, 2021 meeting minutes and accepted the financial, developmental services, supports coordination, and mental health services reports as presented. The board discussed a SAMHSA proposal for over $1 million in American Rescue Plan funding, noting concerns about sustainability and potential for pilot programs. No substantive policy decisions were made; the meeting was primarily informational and procedural.

• Approved March 25, 2021 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Accepted financial report through April 30, 2021 (unanimous)
• Accepted developmental services report (unanimous)
• Accepted supports coordination report (unanimous)
• Accepted mental health services report (unanimous)

County Council

The Luzerne County Council meeting includes public comment from a Black Creek Township resident urging the council to adopt a resolution or ordinance declaring Luzerne County a 2nd Amendment Sanctuary. The resident says the township is preparing its own draft resolution and wants council feedback before its June meeting. No council action is listed in the agenda text, which consists solely of this forwarded email.

• Public comment urging adoption of a 2nd Amendment Sanctuary resolution or ordinance
• Reference to Black Creek Twp. draft resolution on 2A Sanctuary
• Request for council statement on protecting constitutional rights

County Council

This agenda item is a public comment email from Stan E. Edwards, a Republican Committee Member, expressing strong support for Luzerne County becoming a 2nd Amendment Sanctuary county. The email was forwarded to the Luzerne County Council by Councilman Walter Griffith Jr. The council is receiving this comment as part of public input, but the agenda does not indicate any formal action or vote on the matter at this meeting.

• Public comment email supporting 2nd Amendment Sanctuary status for Luzerne County
• Email from Stan E. Edwards, Republican Committee Member, Salem/District 1
• Forwarded by Councilman Walter Griffith Jr.

County Council

This agenda item consists of public comment submitted to Luzerne County Council from a new resident, Bradley Lester of Sugar Notch, in support of the county becoming a Second Amendment Sanctuary. The comment is forwarded by Councilman Walter Griffith Jr. and is scheduled for the May 25, 2021 meeting. No formal action or resolution is listed; the item is limited to the public comment itself.

• Public comment from Bradley Lester (Sugar Notch) supporting Second Amendment Sanctuary designation
• Comment forwarded by Councilman Walter L. Griffith Jr.

County Council

The Luzerne County Council meeting agenda includes a request from Dr. Frank Polidora to read a letter and a resolution from Butler Township into the record. The letter urges the Council to declare Luzerne County a Second Amendment Sanctuary County and to petition the state legislature for enabling legislation. The agenda item is a request for discussion and potential action, not a final decision.

• Request to declare Luzerne County a Second Amendment Sanctuary County
• Butler Township Board of Supervisors Resolution from April 13, 2021
• Proposal to petition the State Legislature for enabling legislation
• Request for line-by-line public debate on the resolution

County Council

Luzerne County Council is considering a motion to adopt a resolution declaring the county a Second Amendment Sanctuary County. The agenda includes this resolution as a voting item, along with other county business.

• Motion to adopt resolution declaring Luzerne County a Second Amendment Sanctuary County

County Council

The Luzerne County Council is scheduled to vote on a resolution to declare the county a Second Amendment Sanctuary County. The agenda includes public comments opposing the resolution, arguing it is unnecessary, could conflict with law enforcement duties, and may be politically motivated. The council will decide whether to approve or reject the resolution.

• Vote on resolution declaring Luzerne County a Second Amendment Sanctuary County
• Public comment opposing the resolution from David Walsh and Julie Lloyd-Walsh

County Council

The Luzerne County Council will hold a work session to discuss and receive reports on the March 2021 budget, a 911 presentation, and several resolutions authorizing lease and license agreements for 911 tower sites, including with the Luzerne County Convention Center Authority for space at Mohegan Sun Arena, the Estate of Silvio Gagliardi in Bear Creek Township, American Towers in Dallas Township, Aqua Pennsylvania and Eagle Rock Resort, the Borough of Freeland Municipal Authority, and American Tower Asset Sub in Nescopeck. They will also discuss a proposed tax exemption for deteriorated industrial/commercial property, a budget amendment, a zoning map change in Union Township, and a procedure for purchasing county-owned properties. The meeting is a discussion session; no final votes are listed.

• Lease agreement with Luzerne County Convention Center Authority for space at Mohegan Sun Arena
• Lease amendment with Estate of Silvio Gagliardi for 9-1-1 tower site in Bear Creek Township
• License agreement amendment with American Towers, LLC for 9-1-1 tower site in Dallas Township
• Tower lease with Aqua Pennsylvania, Inc. and easement with Eagle Rock Resort Co. for 9-1-1 tower
• Ordinance to re-zone 6.51 acres in Union Township from HB, AG, and R-1 to HB and AG

County Council

The Council will hold a public hearing regarding a proposed ordinance to amend the 2021 Fiscal Year Budget for Luzerne County. The meeting includes motions to suspend bylaws to allow for remote participation via video and teleconference.

• Public comment on proposed ordinance amending the 2021 Fiscal Year Budget

County Council

Luzerne County Council will hold public hearings and vote on several budget amendments, introduce the 2022 Long-Range Operational, Fiscal and Capital Plan, and consider a tax exemption for new construction in deteriorated areas (Northpoint). They will also vote on a Second Amendment Sanctuary resolution and a property sale to Alan and Brenda Pugh.

• Public hearings on amending 2021 budget for ERA, General Fund, and D&A ($1,423,850)
• Introduce ordinance adopting 2022 Long-Range Operational, Fiscal and Capital Plan
• Resolution providing tax exemption for new construction under LERTA (Northpoint)
• Resolution declaring Luzerne County a Second Amendment Sanctuary
• Motion to allow Alan and Brenda Pugh to advertise intent to purchase 27 county-owned parcels

Luzerne County Council adopted a resolution declaring the county a Second Amendment Sanctuary by a 7-3 vote. Council also approved a resolution requesting the District Attorney's Office investigate the May 18, 2021 Primary Election, and adopted several budget amendments and a tax exemption for new construction in deteriorated areas. A motion to add a resolution to terminate the County Manager failed 3-7.

• Adopted Second Amendment Sanctuary County Declaration (7-3)
• Adopted resolution requesting DA investigation of May 18, 2021 Primary Election (10-0)
• Adopted ordinance amending 2021 Fiscal Year Budget (ERA) (9-0, 1 abstention)
• Adopted ordinance amending 2021 Fiscal Year Budget (General Fund) (10-0)
• Adopted ordinance amending 2021 Fiscal Year Budget (D&A $1,423,850.00) (10-0)
• Adopted resolution providing tax exemption for new construction in deteriorated areas (Northpoint) (10-0)
• Introduced ordinance amending Administrative Code (Article VI) (10-0)
• Motion to add resolution to terminate County Manager failed (3-7)

County Council

Luzerne County Council is considering a resolution requesting the District Attorney's Office investigate the May 18, 2021 primary election, specifically the Dominion voting machine coding error, ballot mislabeling, and the Bureau of Elections' testing and oversight. The resolution cites voter complaints and a Republican Party lawsuit, and asks for findings by August 24, 2021.

• Request for DA investigation into Dominion Voting Machine programming and setup
• Review of Luzerne County Bureau of Elections accuracy and logic testing
• Examination of Board of Elections oversight and security of election equipment
• Reference to Republican Party injunction request to impound election machines
• Findings due at County Council work session on August 24, 2021

County Council

This is a draft of the Luzerne County Administrative Code, presented for review. It outlines the organization and responsibilities of eight county divisions, including detailed functions for departments like Human Resources, Purchasing, IT, and Elections. The document is a proposal, not a final decision, and contains no specific actions or votes.

• Defines eight county divisions and their heads
• Details Human Resources responsibilities including hiring, compensation, and training
• Specifies Purchasing and Acquisition procedures and exclusions
• Outlines IT duties including cybersecurity and data management
• Describes Bureau of Elections and Voter Registration functions

County Council

The provided text is not a typical meeting agenda but rather the full text of the Dallas Township Zoning Ordinance and a map of Luzerne County-owned properties near Dallas High School. It contains no specific items for the Luzerne County Council to decide or discuss, such as resolutions, ordinances, contracts, or public hearings. The document is purely procedural and informational, with no actionable agenda items.

• No actionable agenda items are present in the provided text.
• The text includes the complete Dallas Township Zoning Ordinance, enacted June 17, 2008, with amendments from 2011 and 2018.
• A map shows Luzerne County-owned properties in the Fairground Subdivision near Dallas High School, with some parcels marked as 'Marketable' and others as 'Needs Title Search'.
• The ordinance covers zoning districts, special exceptions, sign regulations, off-street parking, floodplain management, and enforcement procedures.
• The document is dated April 12, 2021, and includes a link to a Google Maps view of the area.

County Council

Luzerne County Council is holding a public hearing to consider a proposed ordinance amending the 2021 Fiscal Year Budget. The meeting is conducted via teleconference due to the state's emergency declaration, with motions to suspend bylaws regarding physical presence and meeting format. Public comment is invited on the budget amendment.

• Proposed ordinance amending the 2021 Fiscal Year Budget for Luzerne County
• Public comment period on the budget amendment
• Motions to suspend bylaws for remote meeting participation

County Council

Luzerne County Council holds a public hearing to receive comment on a proposed ordinance amending the 2021 Fiscal Year Budget for the General Fund. The meeting is conducted by video/teleconference, with motions to suspend bylaws requiring physical presence and standard public meeting format due to the state's emergency declaration. No other substantive business is listed.

• Public comment on proposed ordinance amending 2021 Fiscal Year Budget (General Fund)
• Motion to suspend bylaws on physical presence requirement
• Motion to suspend bylaws on public meeting format due to state emergency declaration

County Council

Luzerne County Council is considering the sale of 25 real estate parcels in Dallas Township to Alan & Brenda Pugh for $500 each. The agenda is a legal notice of the proposed sale, with objections to be filed with the Court of Common Pleas within ten days.

• Sale of 25 parcels in Dallas Township to Alan & Brenda Pugh
• Purchase price: $500.00 per parcel
• Parcel numbers listed (e.g., D8S5-001-011, 10-D8S5-010-001)
• Objections due within 10 days to Luzerne County Court of Common Pleas

County Council

This agenda item is a draft of the Luzerne County Administrative Code, specifically Article VI, which outlines the responsibilities and organization of the Division of Administrative Services. The County Council is reviewing this draft, which covers departments such as Human Resources, Purchasing, IT, Elections, and Community Development. No final decisions are recorded in this excerpt.

• Draft Administrative Code Article VI defining Division of Administrative Services
• Lists departments: Human Resources, Purchasing, IT, Elections, Licenses, Tourism, Community Development, GIS
• Details IT responsibilities including cybersecurity and data management
• Outlines purchasing procedures and exclusions (e.g., insurance, utilities, professional services)
• Specifies Bureau of Elections duties for voter registration and election conduct

Special Election Decision Committee

The Special Election Decision Committee is meeting to review an advertisement for outside legal counsel. The counsel will address whether a new succession law requires an election for District Attorney during the November 2021 General Election.

• Review of advertisement for outside counsel with at least five years of election law experience
• Deadline for letters of interest: June 1, 2021

Board of Elections & Registration

The Luzerne County Board of Elections and Registration is holding a special meeting to receive input from the Election Bureau, Dominion Voting Systems, and county management on factors that led to the mislabeling of the 2021 Republican primary ballot. The board will also take public comment on agenda and non-agenda items.

• Review of contributing factors to the 2021 Republican primary ballot mislabeling
• Input from Luzerne County Election Bureau, Dominion Voting Systems, and county management
• Public comment on agenda items (limited to 4 minutes per person)
• Public comment on non-agenda items within board jurisdiction

The Luzerne County Board of Elections and Registration held a special meeting to receive input from the Election Bureau, Dominion Voting Systems, and County Management on factors contributing to the mislabeling of the 2021 Republican Primary Ballot. No formal decisions were made; the meeting was informational and procedural.

• Adopted the special meeting agenda
• Heard public comment on agenda items
• Received input on ballot mislabeling from Election Bureau, Dominion Voting Systems, and County Management
• Heard public comment on non-agenda items
• Adjourned the meeting

Accountability, Conduct & Ethics Commission

The Luzerne County Accountability, Conduct and Ethics Commission is holding a public meeting to handle routine business: approving minutes from the April 9 meeting, hearing public comment, and discussing any pending complaints. No substantive decisions or proposals are listed on the agenda.

• Approval of minutes from April 9, 2021 meeting
• Public comment period
• Discussion of pending complaints under Section 105.03(B)
• Setting next meeting date

The Luzerne County Accountability, Conduct and Ethics Commission met and unanimously appointed Diane Dreier as Vice Chair, approved the April 9, 2021 minutes, and received updates on complaints. Complaint 2021-2 was dismissed, while complaints 2021-1A and 2021-3 remain open, with 2021-3 under investigation. No public comment was made, and the next meeting is scheduled for July 9, 2021.

• Appointed Diane Dreier as Vice Chair (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from April 9, 2021 meeting (unanimous)
• Dismissed Complaint 2021-2
• Noted Complaint 2021-1A remains open
• Noted Complaint 2021-3 is under investigation

County Cares Commission

The Luzerne County Cares Commission is meeting to discuss follow-up on a food and clothing drive and to set a date for the next drive. The agenda is short and focused on these action items, with public comment allowed.

• Food and Clothing Drive follow up
• Action Items and set date for drive

Planning Commission

The Luzerne County Planning Commission is reviewing two items: a final plan for a new Dollar General retail store in Newport Township and a rezoning request for three parcels in Union Township. The Dollar General project seeks final approval for a 10,640 sq. ft. store with parking and stormwater facilities. The rezoning request aims to remove a residential designation and extend commercial and agricultural zoning for business expansion.

• Final plan approval for Dollar General store, 10,640 sq. ft., at 375 West Kirmar Ave., Newport Township
• Financial security guarantee required for Dollar General project
• Rezoning of three parcels totaling 6.51 acres at 18 & 24 Sweet Valley Rd., Union Township
• Rezoning to eliminate R-1 designation and extend AG and HB districts for parking and future expansion

The Luzerne County Planning Commission granted conditional final plan approval for a new Dollar General retail store at 375 West Kirmar Ave., Newport Township, along with a waiver for dewatering times. The commission also recommended approval of a rezoning request for three parcels on Sweet Valley Rd., Union Township, to County Council. The meeting was otherwise procedural, including approval of prior minutes.

• Approved waiver of SALDO 6.11543 for increased dewatering times (unanimous)
• Granted conditional final plan approval for Dollar General Nanticoke (3004) DPP, LLC land development (unanimous)
• Recommended approval of rezoning of three parcels at 18 & 24 Sweet Valley Rd., Union Township (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of February 11, 2021 (unanimous)

Budget, Finance & Audit Committee

The Luzerne County Council Budget, Finance and Audit Committee is meeting to review the audit timeline, review work submitted, and update on outstanding work. The agenda contains no specific financial figures or project details, only procedural items.

• Review of audit timeline
• Review of work submitted
• Update of work outstanding

Children & Youth Advisory Board

The Luzerne County Children & Youth Advisory Board reviewed the agency's operations, including a foster care recruitment webinar, high caseworker caseloads, and 520 children in out-of-home care. The board also discussed committee plans for fundraising, strategic planning, and an opioid awareness campaign. No votes were taken on policy items.

• Mini grant for foster care webinar 'Dispelling the Myths about Fostering Teens' on May 19
• 35 staff vacancies; caseworkers average 20-24 cases vs. best practice 10-15
• 520 children in out-of-home care
• Positive IV-E audit; small RMTS deficiency to be addressed
• Staff appreciation lunch for ~170 employees; board to donate gift basket

Convention Center Authority

The Luzerne County Convention Center Authority board approved minutes and payment of bills totaling $60,360.44. The general manager reported on plans to resume full-capacity events, the departure of the Director of Operations, and ongoing committee work on capital improvements and land development.

• Approved payment of bills totaling $60,360.44
• First full-capacity event scheduled for July 23 with Alabama performing
• Director of Operations Mike Wilczynski resigned; position to be posted
• RACP Grant matching funds resolution discussed
• Land development agreement with Singh's project attorney awaiting response

Board of Elections & Registration

The Luzerne County Board of Elections and Registration will discuss and vote on several election procedures, including a policy for curing mail-in ballots, a plan for handling write-in votes, and a change to the public comment format. The board will also consider moving a drop box from Pittston City Hall to Pittston Memorial Library and approve a proclamation for May 18, 2021.

• Change of Pittston City Hall Drop Box to Pittston Memorial Library
• Discussion/Vote on policy/plan for Write-In Votes
• Discussion/Vote on Curing of Mail-In Ballots
• Discussion/Vote on changing Public Comment to agenda items only and adding a comment period at end
• Approval of May 18, 2021 Proclamation

The Luzerne County Board of Elections voted to offer voters a chance to cure mail-in ballots on Election Day, to the extent possible as determined by a majority of the Board present. The motion passed 3-1, with Kathy Roth dissenting. The Board also approved moving a drop box location from Pittston City Hall to Pittston Library and discussed other election preparations.

• Approved motion to offer mail-in ballot curing on Election Day (3-1)
• Approved moving drop box from Pittston City Hall to Pittston Library
• Approved proclamation (unanimous)
• Approved agenda with additions (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of April 28, 2021 (unanimous)
• Approved public comment policy for board meetings (unanimous)

County Council

The Luzerne County Council work session will discuss several items, including monthly division reports, the first quarter financial report, and a proposed LERTA tax exemption for new construction at 1400 PA 309 in Hazle Township for Blue Cup Ventures LLC. They will also discuss a LERTA for the Northpoint development in Newport and Hanover Townships, revisions to the Administrative Code, a procedure for 27 parcels in the Back Mountain area, a resolution to remove a Luzerne County Community College Board member, placing American Rescue Plan funds in a reserve account, and a proposed Second Amendment Sanctuary resolution. These are discussion items only; no final votes are scheduled.

• LERTA tax exemption for Blue Cup Ventures LLC at 1400 PA 309, Hazle Township (35% exemption for 10 years)
• Northpoint LERTA covering 121.842 acres in Newport and Hanover Townships
• Resolution to remove a member of the Luzerne County Community College Board of Trustees
• Resolution to place American Rescue and Recovery Act funding in Division 99 County Reserve Account
• Proposed resolution declaring Luzerne County a Second Amendment Sanctuary

County Council

The Luzerne County Council is considering a resolution to declare Luzerne County a Second Amendment County, expressing opposition to laws that restrict gun rights and encouraging the sheriff's office and local police to honor the Second Amendment. The resolution also petitions the state to become a Second Amendment Sanctuary Commonwealth. The council will discuss this at its May 11, 2021 meeting, with adoption scheduled for May 26, 2021.

• Resolution declaring Luzerne County a Second Amendment County
• Petition to Pennsylvania General Assembly and governor to declare a Second Amendment Sanctuary Commonwealth
• Directive to sheriff's office to honor Second Amendment in enforcement
• Encouragement for county municipalities with police departments to do likewise

County Council

The Dallas Township Council is reviewing a proposed comprehensive zoning ordinance that would replace the current one. The document covers all zoning districts, use regulations, sign rules, parking, floodplain management, and enforcement. The council will decide whether to adopt this ordinance, which would set new rules for land use and development in the township.

• Repeals current Dallas Township Zoning Ordinance and Zoning Map
• Establishes zoning districts including Conservation, Agricultural, Residential, Business, Institutional, and Industrial
• Adds regulations for oil and gas operations, hydraulic fracturing wastewater treatment, and water withdrawal facilities
• Sets rules for signs, off-street parking, and floodplain management
• Provides for a Zoning Hearing Board and amendment procedures

County Council

The Luzerne County Council is reviewing the 2021 first-quarter budget and finance report, which covers revenue collections and COVID-19 related funding. The report notes that $70.9 million in current-year property taxes has been received as of May 1, 2021, and that the county is monitoring the arrival of $112.8 million in federal Coronavirus Fiscal Recovery Funds. The council is also being informed about rental assistance grants and hospitality grant disbursements.

• Current-year real estate tax revenue: $23,340,751.17 as of March 31, 2021
• Total current-year tax receipts: $70,941,002.42 as of May 1, 2021
• Monitoring arrival of $112.8M in Coronavirus Fiscal Recovery Funds
• Two rental assistance grants active; hospitality grant disbursements ongoing
• Office of Community Development applied for another rental assistance grant from U.S. Treasury

County Council

The Luzerne County Council is considering a resolution to provide property tax exemptions for new construction and improvements in deteriorated areas of Newport and Hanover Townships under the LERTA program. The exemption would apply to county taxes, with a 100% abatement for the first seven years, decreasing to 70% by year ten, and expiring by December 31, 2035. Applications must be submitted within three years of the resolution's effective date.

• Tax exemption for new construction in deteriorated areas in Newport and Hanover Townships
• 100% property tax abatement for years 1-7, then 90%, 80%, 70% in years 8-10
• Exemption applies to county taxes, not school or municipal taxes
• Applications due within 45 days of building permit or construction start
• Exemption expires December 31, 2035

County Council

Luzerne County Council will vote on several items including a parking contract with Penn Ave Realty for Penn Place employees, a lease addendum with Luzerne County Community College for the Broad Street Business Exchange, and multiple budget amendments. The council will also consider a resolution requiring electronic meeting use and an ethics code amendment.

• Contract with Penn Ave Realty for Penn Place employee parking, $29.75 per spot/month, estimated $128,520 total through 2023
• Lease addendum with Luzerne County Community College for Broad Street Business Exchange, extending term to June 30, 2026
• Ordinance amending 2021 Fiscal Year Budget for Luzerne County (ERA)
• Ordinance amending 2021 Fiscal Year Budget for Luzerne County (General Fund)
• Ordinance amending 2021 Fiscal Year Budget for Luzerne County (D&A)

The Luzerne County Council approved a resolution to form an ad hoc committee to select outside counsel to seek a court decision on the Election Board's April 21, 2021 vote to hold a special election for District Attorney in November 2021. The council also adopted resolutions for a parking contract with Penn Ave Realty and a lease addendum with Luzerne County Community College, and introduced several budget ordinances. An ordinance to amend the Accountability, Conduct, and Ethics Code failed.

• Approved resolution to hire outside counsel for court opinion on DA special election (6-5)
• Approved Penn Ave Realty parking contract contingent on current insurance certificate (11-0)
• Approved lease addendum with Luzerne County Community College (11-0)
• Introduced ERA budget amendment ordinance (10-0, 1 abstention)
• Introduced General Fund budget amendment ordinance (11-0)
• Introduced D&A budget amendment ordinance (11-0)
• Adopted resolution requiring electronic/telecommunications for council meetings, amended to exclude authorities/boards/commissions (11-0 after 9-2 amendment)
• Failed to introduce ordinance amending Accountability, Conduct, and Ethics Code (3-8)

County Council

Luzerne County Council is considering a resolution to form an ad hoc committee to hire outside counsel and ask a court to decide whether the Election Board's April 21, 2021 decision to hold a special election for District Attorney in November 2021 is lawful. The dispute stems from a vacancy created by DA Stefanie Salavantis's resignation, with conflicting state law and county charter provisions on when the vacancy should be filled. The council will vote on this resolution at the meeting.

• Resolution authorizing ad hoc committee to select outside counsel to challenge Election Board's special election decision
• Dispute over whether DA vacancy should be filled in November 2021 or 2023
• References to PA SB 85 and Luzerne County Home Rule Charter Section 11:05(h)

Housing Authority

The Luzerne County Housing Authority held its regular meeting, approving minutes, bills, and a staff promotion. The board discussed ongoing development, a costly elevator repair at Kingston Gardens, and potential land sales.

• Approved promotion of Kelsey Yohey from Accountant to Comptroller effective July 1, 2021 (Resolution No. 2021-05-02)
• Reported Kingston Gardens elevator repair could cost over $70,000; applying for HUD emergency funding
• Discussed selling two odd-shaped parcels in Plains near Church Ridge Development
• Approved bills and payroll for April 1-30, 2021 (Resolution No. 2021-05-03)
• Dupont Borough interested in purchasing adjoining land for a playground

County Council

The Luzerne County Council is reviewing a map of county-owned properties in the Fairground Subdivision near Dallas High School, with parcels marked as either marketable with a deed book and page or marketable but needing a title search. The agenda consists solely of this property listing and map, with no other business items listed.

• County-owned properties in Fairground Subdivision near Dallas High School
• Parcels marked 'MARKETABLE: DEED BOOK AND PAGE'
• Parcels marked 'MARKETABLE: NEEDS TITLE SEARCH'
• Map prepared by Luzerne County GIS/Mapping Department using 2016 aerials