Luzerne County public meetings in 2022

County Council

The Luzerne County Council will hold a special meeting to consider a resolution authorizing the sale of county-owned property in West Pittston. The single agenda item is a motion to adopt the resolution, with details provided in a handout. Public comment will be taken on the item before any vote.

• Motion to adopt resolution for sale of county-owned property in West Pittston, PA

County Council

The Council will consider the adoption of the 2023 Fiscal Year Budget and a 2023 meeting schedule. Additional items include a lease renewal for office space in Wilkes-Barre and a donation of interest earned on federal funds.

• Lease renewal for McCarthy Realty, Inc. property at 93-97 North State Street, Wilkes-Barre
• Donation of $65,665.80 in interest earned on American Rescue Plan Act funds to the Salvation Army
• Adoption of the 2023 Fiscal Year Budget for Luzerne County
• Approval of the 2023 Council meeting schedule
• Budget amendments

Board of Elections & Registration

The Board of Elections approved the use of electronic poll books and a new drop box location at the Hazleton Exchange Building for the upcoming special election. The Board also approved the retention of legal counsel for cases regarding undated mail-in ballots.

• Approved polling place changes for Fairview 1 & 2 and Butler 2, 3, & 4 (unanimous)
• Approved use of electronic poll books contingent on ES&S service (unanimous)
• Approved retention of Attorney Joseph Cosgrove for undated ballot cases (unanimous)
• Approved 2023 meeting date list (unanimous)
• Tabled additional payments to JoE's pending legal opinion (unanimous)
• Approved Hazleton Exchange Building as a drop box location (3-2)
• Approved amended agenda (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from October 17 through December 5 meetings (4-0-1)

County Council

The Luzerne County District Attorney is asking council to reject several proposed budget cuts for 2023, including reductions to travel, capital cases, exam & witness fees, other contractual services, and appeals. The DA also requests restoring two full-time Assistant District Attorney positions that were cut in the manager's proposal, and keeping two detective positions unfunded pending external funding.

• DA requests rejecting $5,000 travel cut, keeping $20,000 budget
• DA requests rejecting $50,000 capital cases cut, keeping $150,000 budget
• DA requests reducing exam & witness cut from $30,000 to $10,000, setting budget at $140,000
• DA requests restoring two full-time ADA positions cut by manager, valued at $132,000
• DA agrees to remove $249,632 in wages for detective positions, pending external funding

County Council

The Luzerne County Council will consider two budget amendments proposed by Councilman Bienias for the 2023 budget. The amendments would reduce Special Legal Services by $50,000 and Engineering/Architecture by $30,000, for a total savings of $80,000. This is a decision item on the agenda.

• Amendment to reduce Special Legal Services (Solicitor) by $50,000 from $550,000 to $500,000
• Amendment to reduce Engineering/Architecture (Road & Bridge) by $30,000 from $100,000 to $70,000
• Total proposed savings of $80,000 from the 2023 budget

County Council

This agenda consists entirely of two citizen-submitted notices accusing Luzerne County Council of maladministration and trespassing for allegedly threatening an elected board member over her vote on the 2022 election certification. The notices cite constitutional provisions and legal maxims but contain no council resolutions, ordinances, contracts, or other official business items. The meeting has no actionable agenda items for council decision or discussion.

• Notice from Beth Mrochko alleging council threatened dismissal of board member Alyssa Fusaro for voting against 2022 election certification
• Notice from Holly Cooper making similar allegations regarding election maladministration
• Demand for council to provide constitutional authority for any actions against Fusaro
• Claim of $500,000 per infraction penalty for suppressing the notice

County Council

The Luzerne County Council will consider authorizing a contract with Trinity Services Group for inmate meals and kitchen operations at the county correctional facility. The agenda also includes motions to approve budget amendments and minutes from the prior meeting.

• Resolution to authorize a contract with Trinity Services Group for inmate meals and kitchen operations management at Luzerne County Correctional Facility
• Motions regarding budget amendments (handouts provided at meeting)
• Approval of minutes from the November 29, 2022 voting session

County Council

The agenda contains only a public comment from a resident opposing any tax increase and a proposed $5 registration fee, urging the council to cut spending instead. No official council business or action items are listed.

• Public comment from Cindy Brannan of Wright Township opposes any tax increase
• Comment also opposes reintroducing a $5 registration fee
• Resident calls for cutting managerial positions instead of raising taxes

County Council

This is a public comment submitted to Luzerne County Council regarding a potential vote to remove a Board of Elections member. The commenter argues that removal requires solid evidence, not hearsay, and cites past election failures by the Bureau of Elections. The Council is not taking action on this item; it is a non-agenda public comment.

• Public comment from Ronald Knapp of Nanticoke regarding removal of Board of Elections member Fusaro
• Comment references past election issues: military ballots found in dumpster (2020), incorrect ballot screen header (2021), paper shortage (2022)

County Council

The agenda contains only a public comment email from a resident, not an official council agenda. The comment criticizes the county administration and Redevelopment Authority over a $75 million loan backed by tax revenue, and calls for the council to hold the county manager accountable. No council decisions or discussion items are listed.

• Public comment regarding a $75 million loan backed by residents' tax revenue
• Criticism of the Redevelopment Authority's role and council's decision-making
• Demand for county manager accountability and transparency

County Council

Luzerne County Council will consider a series of proposed budget amendments reducing spending in the 2023 General Fund by a total of $672,241. The cuts span multiple departments including County Council, District Attorney, Courts, Corrections, and Information Technology. The largest single reduction is $351,501 from the Reserve Fund.

• Reduction of $60,000 in outside inmate housing for Corrections Administration
• Reduction of $31,500 in other contractual services for Budget and Finance Administration
• Reduction of $30,000 in repairs and maintenance for Information Technology
• Reduction of $30,000 in juror costs for Courts
• Reduction of $25,000 in other treatment and support for Probation Services

County Council

Council member Lombardo proposes three budget amendments for 2023, totaling $810,000 in savings. The largest is an $800,000 reduction to Road and Bridge Maintenance, to be offset by $1,000,000 in ARP funds. Other amendments include an $8,000 cut to Elections wages and a $2,000 cut to Assessors training.

• Road and Bridge Maintenance: $1,000,000 proposed, reduced to $200,000 (savings $800,000)
• Elections Wages: $154,500 proposed, reduced to $146,500 (savings $8,000)
• Assessors Conference Training: $10,000 proposed, reduced to $8,000 (savings $2,000)
• Total savings from amendments: $810,000

County Council

The council is considering two budget amendments for engineering services: $100,000 for Road and Bridge and $650,000 for Engineers, totaling $750,000. The net increase over the original line is $80,000. Discussion also includes potential revenue from selling Butler Township property, with a survey by May 2023 and subdivision by July 2023.

• Engineering budget amendment: $100,000 for Dept 4310 Road and Bridge
• Engineering budget amendment: $650,000 for Dept 4315 Engineers
• Total engineering budget line 550.18: $750,000, an $80,000 increase
• Potential sale of Butler Township farmland (529.667 acres, appraised at $867,000 in 2018)
• Possible lease to filter water draining from the Jeddo mine tunnel

County Council

The Council is reviewing proposed changes to the 2023 budget involving revenue and expense adjustments. The District Attorney has requested the addition of two positions and four new detective positions, though funding for the detectives remains unassigned.

• Revenue amendment: $275,000 increase in Prior Year Taxes
• Revenue amendment: $40,000 increase in Rent of Buildings
• Expense amendment: $275,000 reduction in Healthcare costs
• Expense amendment: $751,501 reduction in Reserve Fund
• District Attorney request for 4 detective positions pending Opioid and ARPA funding

County Council

The council is deciding on a budget amendment for Conflict Counsel. The budget was previously reduced from $1,101,932 to $832,318 by the former manager. Attorney DeLuca has requested restoration to $1,050,000, while Councilman Swetz has proposed adding $180,000.

• Budget amendment for Conflict Counsel: proposed increase from $832,318 to $1,050,000
• Alternative proposal to add $180,000 to the current budget

County Council

Luzerne County Council will hold a work session to receive and discuss budget reports for November 2022, covering revenues and expenditures across county funds. They will also discuss resolutions regarding the sale of certain tax-repository properties and the renewal of a lease for offices used by the Agency on Aging and Children & Youth Services, as well as a resolution for workers' compensation administration.

• Receive and discuss Budget Reports for November 2022 (pages 1-86)
• Discussion of resolution approving sale of repository properties held by Elite Revenue Solutions, LLC (pages 87-90)
• Discussion of resolution authorizing renewal of a lease for an office building used by Agency on Aging and Children & Youth Services (pages 91-92)
• Discussion of resolution for Workers' Compensation Administration (pages 93-116)
• Discussion of Council Meeting Schedule for 2023 (page 117)

Mental Health & Developmental Services Board

The Board unanimously elected its officers for a two-year term and approved a quarterly meeting schedule for 2023. Members also accepted financial and service reports, including updates on the closure of the Supports Coordination Organization.

• Approved 2023 quarterly meeting schedule (unanimous)
• Approved September 22, 2022 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Elected Tom Henry as Chair (8-0)
• Elected Linda Armstrong as Vice-Chair (8-0)
• Elected Craig Mark as Secretary (8-0)
• Accepted Financial Services Report (unanimous)
• Accepted Supports Coordination Organization and Developmental Services Report (unanimous)
• Accepted Mental Health Services Report (unanimous)

Accountability, Conduct & Ethics Commission

The Luzerne County Accountability, Conduct and Ethics Commission will meet to vote on accepting responses to a request for proposals for an ACE Enforcement Attorney. The commission will also consider approving two legal invoices totaling $2,193.75.

• Vote to accept responses to RFP for ACE Enforcement Attorney
• Motion to approve invoice to Nawrocki Law for $1,608.75
• Motion to approve invoice to James L. Bobeck, Esq. for $585.00
• Approval of minutes from September 30, 2022 meeting

The Accountability, Conduct and Ethics Commission appointed a new enforcement attorney after reviewing RFP responses. The board also approved two legal invoices and accepted the current enforcement attorney's report.

• Approved Qiana Murphy Lehman, Esq. as ACE Enforcement Attorney (Unanimous)
• Approved $877.50 invoice to Nawrocki Law (Unanimous)
• Approved $585.00 invoice to James L. Bobeck (Unanimous)
• Accepted ACE Enforcement Attorney report stating all complaints were closed (Unanimous)
• Approved September 30, 2022 meeting minutes (Unanimous)

Zoning Hearing Board

The Luzerne County Zoning Hearing Board will hold a public meeting on December 6, 2022, to consider one application: a request from Kelly Douglas-Lowe for variances to place a 19' x 50' detached carport at 323 Brown St., Duryea. The requested front yard variance is from 25 ft. to 9.6 ft., and the left side yard variance is from 5 ft. to 4 ft. The property is in an R-2 Two-Family Residence District.

• Variance request: front yard setback reduced from 25 ft. to 9.6 ft.
• Variance request: left side yard setback reduced from 5 ft. to 4 ft.
• Proposed structure: 19' x 50' detached carport
• Location: 323 Brown St., Duryea Borough, R-2 Two-Family Residence District
• Public hearing: December 6, 2022 at 7:00 PM in the 2nd Floor Jury Meeting Room, Luzerne County Courthouse

The board approved a request for front and side yard variances to allow a detached carport at 323 Brown Street in Duryea Borough. The approval requires the removal of hedges and a tree along the side of the carport.

• Approved minutes of the November 1, 2022 meeting
• Approved front yard variance (25 ft. required, 9.6 ft. requested) for 323 Brown Street
• Approved left side yard variance (5 ft. required, 4 ft. requested) for 323 Brown Street
• Conditioned carport approval on the removal of hedges and a tree

County Council

The document provides a detailed breakdown of projected revenues and expenses for the District Attorney's office for the 2023 budget year. It outlines various funding sources including grants, fees, and reimbursements alongside personnel costs, benefits, and non-personnel operating expenses.

• District Attorney Department 4194 total revenue: $1,272,856
• District Attorney Highway & DUI Department 4199 total revenue: $353,291
• Total Division 12 revenue: $1,626,147
• Projected wages for District Attorney personnel: $4,914,412
• Federal 'STOP' Violence Against Women grant: $125,000

County Council

The Luzerne County Council is discussing a reimbursement journal showing $1,392,962.44 in state and federal funds collected by the county's transportation staff. The document lists quarterly payments from PennDOT dating back to 2016, with the most recent payments received in 2022. This is a procedural review of already-collected revenues.

• $1.4M total in state-federal reimbursements collected by Luzerne County Transpo Staff
• Payments span from 2016 to 2022, with some quarters still pending
• Largest single payment: $96,104.20 for 2016 Q4

County Council

The Luzerne County Council is considering a series of budget amendments for 2023, totaling over $1 million in savings across multiple departments. Items include adjustments to wages, recruiting, travel, capital cases, and various contractual services. The agenda consists entirely of line-item budget changes with no other business.

• $550,000 for special legal services (amended down $50,000)
• $500,000 for machinery and equipment (no change)
• $150,000 for capital cases (amended down $50,000)
• $150,000 for forensic exams (amended down $25,000)
• $100,000 for toxicology (amended down $20,000)

County Council

Council will consider a package of budget amendments proposed by Councilman Lombardo that would reduce 2023 spending by $735,000. The largest cut is $500,000 from Road & Bridge Repairs/Maintenance, with other reductions to managed print services, county council and manager wages, and various departmental accounts. The amendments also include a $154,500 reduction to Election Wages, though the proposed savings amount is not fully specified.

• Road & Bridge Repairs/Maintenance cut from $100,000,000 to $500,000 (saving $500,000)
• County Council Wages reduced by $22,000 (from $66,858 to $44,858)
• County Manager Wages cut by $21,500 (from $286,466 to $264,966)
• Elections Travel Expenses eliminated (saving $3,000)
• Courts Examination/Witnesses reduced by $100,000 (from $200,000 to $100,000)

County Council

The Council is reviewing a list of proposed budget amendments and savings across several county departments. The total proposed savings amount to $326,400.

• $50,000 savings in Probation management/consulting services
• $20,000 savings in Coroner forensic examinations
• $2,500 savings in Prothonotary office supplies
• $2,400 savings in Controller travel expenses
• $1,500 savings in Recorder of Deeds meeting/training fees

County Council

Luzerne County Council will consider amendments to the 2023 budget, including reductions in road and bridge supplies, engineering consulting, and general government expenses. Proposed savings total $68,416 across departments, with the largest cuts in engineering ($100,000) and road & bridge ($63,250). The council will also vote on a $36,466 reduction in the county manager's wages.

• Road & Bridge: $10,000 savings on parts, $25,000 on fuel, $30,000 on engineering
• Engineering: $100,000 savings on engineering line item
• General Government: $20,000 savings on managed print services
• County Manager: $36,466 reduction in wages from $288,072 to $250,000
• Total proposed budget savings of $68,416 across all departments

County Council

Luzerne County Council will hold a work session to discuss a resolution authorizing a contract with Trinity Services Group for inmate meals and kitchen operations management. The council will also receive manager reports for November 2022 and discuss opioid funding allocation. This is a discussion session, not a voting session.

• Discussion of resolution to authorize contract with Trinity Services Group for inmate meals and kitchen operations management (agenda pages 20-38)
• Discussion regarding opioid funding allocation (handout provided)
• Discussion regarding CEO and ARPA (American Rescue Plan Act) funding
• Receive and discuss County Manager reports for November 2022 (agenda pages 1-19)

County Council

The council received a public comment from Cindy Brannan accusing multiple council members and the county administration of refusing to respond to residents' emails. She quotes a passage about workplace culture and warns she will pursue other avenues to address the lack of communication.

• Cindy Brannan lists 13 council members and officials she says refuse to answer resident emails
• She states Acting County Manager Brian Swetz has never responded to emails in any of his roles
• Brannan warns she will seek 'all appropriate avenues' to address the lack of communication

County Council

The Luzerne County Council is set to vote on removing a member of the election board. A public comment submitted for the agenda criticizes the board's conduct and urges the council to appoint unbiased members.

• Vote on removal of an election board member

County Council

The acting county manager recommends forming a committee to oversee distribution of opioid settlement funds. The committee would set priorities, review grant applications, and submit approved requests to County Council for final approval.

• Recommendation to create a review committee for opioid settlement fund distribution
• Proposed committee members: County Manager, Human Services Division Head, Drug and Alcohol Department Head and Deputy, a member of the Drug & Alcohol Executive Commission, a consumer from recovery community, a service provider, and an optional Council member
• Top three priorities identified: MAT in the prison, 24-hour warm hand off system, and prevention in school system
• All approved funding requests will be submitted to County Council for final approval

County Council

Luzerne County Council is considering a resolution to remove a member from the Board of Elections and Registration, citing authority under the Home Rule Charter and state constitution. The resolution declares the seat vacant and will be filled later. The specific member's name is left blank in the agenda.

• Resolution to remove a member of the Luzerne County Board of Elections and Registration
• Removal based on executive session discussions
• Seat declared vacant and to be filled per Home Rule Charter

County Council

Luzerne County Council will vote on selling delinquent real estate tax liens to the Redevelopment Authority of Luzerne County, a process called monetization. The council will also consider removing a member from the Board of Elections and Registration and approving budget amendments. The meeting includes public comment periods on agenda and non-agenda items.

• Motion to adopt resolution selling delinquent real estate tax liens (monetization) to Redevelopment Authority of Luzerne County
• Motion to adopt resolution removing a member from the Board of Elections and Registration
• Motions regarding budget amendments (pages 36-39 of agenda packet)

Board of Elections & Registration

The Board of Elections and Registrations met to determine additional compensation for poll workers who worked late hours. The board approved a supplemental hourly payment to be funded by an election integrity grant.

• Approved additional $30/hour pay for Judge of Elections (JoE) and election day poll workers (5-0)

Board of Elections & Registration

The Board of Elections and Registrations voted to certify the election results despite public testimony regarding paper shortages and machine failures. The motion passed with a 3-2 vote.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved motion to certify the election (3-2)
• Approved motion to adjourn (unanimous)

County Council

This is a budget work session where Luzerne County Council will review proposed amendments and line-item budgets for Division 30 (Administrative Services) and Division 50 (Operational Services). No votes are scheduled; the session is for discussion only.

• Budget amendments for unspecified divisions
• Review of Division 30 – Administrative Services budget (pages 1-12)
• Review of Division 50 – Operational Services budget (pages 13-35)

County Council

The council is reviewing the proposed 2023 general fund budget, including a $127.3 million real estate tax line cut to 5.5%, $2 million in overtime, $1 million for prison kitchen/groceries, and a $1.05 million reserve fund. Several line items show suggested amendments with savings, such as $75,000 in postage and $200,000 in overtime.

• Real estate tax line cut to 5.5%: $127,300,000
• Overtime: $2,000,000 (suggested savings $200,000)
• Kitchen/Groceries (Contract): $1,000,000 (suggested savings $150,000)
• Reserve Fund: $1,051,501
• Merit increase reduced from 2.5% to 2%: $283,228 (suggested savings $25,000)

County Council

The Luzerne County Public Defender's Office has submitted a proposed budget amendment and a request to add a full-time position that was omitted from the budget. The County Council will consider these items at the November 22, 2022 meeting.

• Proposed budget amendment for the Public Defender's Office
• Request to add a full-time Assistant Public Defender position omitted from the budget

County Council

Luzerne County Council is considering the proposed 2023 IT budget, which is 7% lower than the previous year due to service consolidation and contract renegotiation. The budget includes major contracts for Microsoft ($550,000/yr), Arctic Wolf ($130,000/yr), and Zoom ($31,000/yr), with a $30,000 savings from a renegotiated security contract. All future contracts will be one-year agreements co-terminating with the budget year. The department also bills back agencies approximately $350,000+ for services like Microsoft licensing and internet access.

• Proposed 2023 IT budget 7% lower than prior year
• Microsoft contract approx. $550,000 per year
• Arctic Wolf contract $130,000 per year
• Zoom contract $31,000 per year
• $30,000 savings from renegotiated security service contract

County Council

The Luzerne County Council is reviewing the 2023 proposed budgets for the Road & Bridge, 911, and Buildings & Grounds departments. The Road & Bridge budget includes major increases for road repair ($1M, up from $200,000) and new equipment ($500,000) to address an aging fleet. The 911 center, which processes over 1,000 calls daily, is presenting its $8.2 million budget. The Buildings & Grounds department reports it is understaffed, with custodians cleaning 27,600 sq ft each versus an industry standard of 11,000-18,000 sq ft.

• Road Repair budget proposed at $1,000,000 for 2023, up from $200,000 in 2022
• New equipment budget of $500,000 proposed to replace aged trucks and equipment
• Average age of snow plow trucks is 17 years; industry standard is 5-10 years
• 911 center processed nearly 430,000 calls in 2021, ranking among top 15 busiest in PA
• Buildings & Grounds has 12 of 14 custodial positions filled, cleaning 386,432 sq ft nightly

County Council

This is a public comment email from a resident, not a council action item. The resident asks council to change the list of projects funded by a $50 million+ loan, arguing the money should be used for all county roads rather than one bridge. No council vote or decision is recorded in this document.

• Resident requests council to vote to change the list of projects funded by a $50 million+ loan
• Loan described as 25-year obligation costing residents $3 million annually
• Resident argues funds should go to 120+ miles of county roads, not a single bridge

County Council

This is a public comment from residents, not an official council agenda. It addresses the county manager's resignation, calls for firing election staff, opposes a tax increase, and requests a forensic audit of elections.

• Resignation of County Manager Robertson
• Request to fire Acting Election Director Beth Gilbert McBride and Acting Deputy Director Emily Cook
• Opposition to any tax increase
• Request to use $96M in COVID funds for elderly property owners instead of CEO
• Call for a full forensic audit of elections by an outside party

County Council

Luzerne County Council will vote on issuing a $14 million Tax and Revenue Anticipation Note (TRAN) to provide cash for general expenses before tax revenues arrive in fiscal 2023. The proposed note from Fidelity Bank carries a 3.611% interest rate and matures by June 30, 2023. Council will also consider approving a timeline and advertisement for the County Manager search committee.

• Resolution authorizing up to $14 million Tax and Revenue Anticipation Note, Series of 2023, from Fidelity Bank at 3.611% interest
• Motion to approve County Manager Search Committee timeline
• Motion to approve County Manager Search Committee advertisement

Luzerne County Council approved a resolution to issue a Tax and Revenue Anticipation Note for 2023. The council also approved the timeline and advertisement for the County Manager search committee.

• Adopted resolution for Tax and Revenue Anticipation Note, Series of 2023, not to exceed $14,000,000 (10-0)
• Approved County Manager Search Committee Timeline (10-0)
• Approved County Manager Search Committee Ad (10-0)
• Approved November 17, 2022 Emergency Voting Session minutes (9-1)

Board of Elections & Registration

The Board of Elections and Registrations voted on a motion to certify the 2022 general election. The motion failed with a vote of 2 yes, 2 no, and 1 abstain. Residents and board members cited paper shortages and voter disenfranchisement during public comment and discussion.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Motion to certify 2022 general election failed (2 yes, 2 no, 1 abstain)
• Approved motion to adjourn (unanimous)

County Council

The Luzerne County Council will vote on a resolution to renew an agreement for the County Treasurer to collect Newport Township taxes in 2023, with compensation of $2.50 per bill. The council will also consider approving minutes from prior meetings. The agenda includes public comment periods and an executive session on litigation.

• Resolution to approve agreement with Newport Township for tax collection by Luzerne County Treasurer, compensation $2.50 per bill
• Motion to approve minutes of November 9, 2022 voting session
• Public comment periods for agenda and non-agenda items

Luzerne County Council adopted a resolution allowing the County Treasurer to collect taxes for Newport Township. The council also approved the minutes from the November 09, 2022 session.

• Approved agreement with Newport Township for County Treasurer to collect taxes (11-0)
• Approved November 09, 2022 Voting Session minutes (10-1)

County Council

The Luzerne County Council will hold a work/budget session to discuss October 2022 budget reports, a proposed $14 million tax and revenue anticipation note for 2023, and updates on the Booth project and county manager search. The agenda also includes a discussion on CEO ARPA funding and a review of the District Attorney's division budget.

• Discussion of a resolution authorizing a $14,000,000 Tax and Revenue Anticipation Note for 2023
• Receive and discuss Budget Reports for October 2022 (pages 1-57)
• Discussion regarding County Manager Search Committee Ad and Timeline
• CEO ARPA Funding Discussion
• Division 12 – District Attorney budget review

County Council

This document provides instructions and eligibility criteria for the Wilkes-Barre City Stimulus Fund, which offers payments to households that filed 2020 city income or per capita taxes and have lived in the city since March 13, 2020. It outlines application steps, deadlines (March 15, 2022 for tax filers, April 15, 2022 for verification forms), and answers common questions about eligibility, household changes, and paper applications. The agenda is informational and procedural, not a council decision or discussion item.

• Application deadline for per capita tax filers is March 15, 2022
• Tax Payer Verification form opens February 15, 2022 and closes April 15, 2022
• Only one payment per household address/unit will be issued
• Paper applications available at City Hall for households with invitation postcard or those over 65
• Contact CEO at 570-403-6880 for questions

County Council

The Luzerne County District Attorney's office presented its 2022 annual report to the county council, detailing caseloads, personnel turnover, and grant funding needs. The report highlights a high turnover rate among assistant district attorneys and a starting salary of $51,083, which is the lowest among comparable Pennsylvania counties. The office is seeking funding from opioid settlement and ARPA grants for additional detectives, equipment, and retention bonuses.

• ADA starting salary of $51,083 is the lowest among 11 comparable Pennsylvania counties listed in the report.
• Only 4 of 17 full-time ADAs have more than 3 years of experience; the office has one vacant full-time and one vacant part-time ADA position.
• The office is requesting $2,500,000 from the Byrne Memorial Justice Grant to create a county-wide Emergency Services Unit.
• Opioid settlement funds are sought for two detectives, an intelligence analyst, two deputy coroners, and a public relations/health services officer.
• ARPA funding is requested for two additional child abuse detectives and modern evidence technology for the detective division.

County Council

Council received a briefing on the status of the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) grant program. Staff reported that none of the 9 evaluated applications in Pool 1 reached the 60-point minimum score, and options to adjust the scoring threshold were presented. The county has $60 million allocated for NOFO applications.

• 9 of 11 council members completed evaluations for Pool 1 applications
• Average score for Pool 1 was 43.33 out of 75 possible points
• Projects scored 61% on county priorities, 49% on community outcome, and 42% on racial equity and inclusion
• Options proposed: lower minimum to 75% of average (32 points) or award to highest scorers up to $60 million
• Total ARPA funding: $112,890,152; $18,579,375 already approved by council

County Council

The Council is deciding on a hiring timeline for a new County Manager, including advertising, application deadlines, public interviews, and selection of a search committee.

• Qualifications and advertisement to be approved by Council on November 29
• Advertisement to run in four newspapers from December 1-15
• Application deadline is December 19
• Public interviews scheduled for January 3
• Search committee members to be selected and voted on by Council on January 10

County Council

Luzerne County Council is reviewing the proposed 2023 budget for the District Attorney's Highway & DUI division, which shows a 13.6% increase in federal grant revenue to $353,281 and a 25.88% increase in payments to governmental units to $182,400. The agenda is a budget worksheet with no decisions or votes recorded.

• Federal grant revenue for DA Highway & DUI rises from $311,000 to $353,291
• Payments to governmental units increase from $144,904 to $182,400
• Health insurance ($22,102) and retirement ($8,258) added as new expenses
• Mileage reimbursement jumps 211% from $1,350 to $4,200
• Non-represented wages decrease 11.71% from $61,083 to $54,326

County Council

Luzerne County Council is reviewing the manager's proposed 2023 budget for the District Attorney's office, which requests $6,337,991 in expenses — a 20% increase over the 2022 adopted budget of $5,266,327. The budget includes revenue of $1,272,856, down from $1,397,458 in 2022. Council will consider the item at this meeting.

• Proposed 2023 expenses: $6,337,991 vs. 2022 adopted $5,266,327
• Wages for represented employees increase 22.46% to $3,270,311
• Wages for non-represented employees increase 182.26% to $1,190,441
• Special legal services line jumps 180.95% to $50,000
• Gun violence grant revenue rises 36.9% to $181,077; STOP grant revenue drops 50.4% to $125,000

County Council

Luzerne County Council is recruiting at least three qualified residents to serve on a Search Committee that will screen and interview candidates for the next County Manager. Applicants need a bachelor's degree or equivalent experience and must be available for meetings. The deadline to apply is July 14, 2021.

• Committee will recommend finalists to County Council for a public vote.
• Applicants must submit a resume and cover letter by 4:30 p.m. on July 14, 2021.
• Previously interviewed applicants need not re-apply.
• All application materials become public record.

County Council

Luzerne County Council is seeking qualified individuals to serve on a Search Committee to recruit and screen candidates for the position of County Manager. The committee will consist of 3 to 5 members selected by Council at a public meeting. Applicants must have a bachelor's degree or equivalent experience and be available for meetings and deadlines.

• Council is forming a Search Committee for the County Manager position
• Committee members must have a bachelor's degree or equivalent experience
• Applications due by 4:30 pm on June 18, 2021
• Submit resume and cover letter to the Clerk of County Council

County Council

Luzerne County Council will vote on two resolutions: accepting the resignation of County Manager Randy Robertson effective December 14, 2022, and appointing an acting manager; and forming a County Manager Search Committee to find a permanent replacement.

• Resolution to accept resignation of County Manager Randy Robertson and appoint an acting manager
• Resolution to form a County Manager Search Committee
• Public comment period on agenda items (3 minutes per speaker)

Council accepted the resignation of County Manager Randy Robertson and appointed Brian Swetz as Acting County Manager. The council also resolved to form a search committee to find a permanent replacement.

• Formed a Luzerne County Manager Search Committee consisting of 3 members (11-0)
• Accepted resignation of County Manager Randy Robertson effective November 18, 2022 (11-0)
• Appointed Brian Swetz as Acting County Manager at $157,000.00 effective November 18, 2022 (11-0)

County Council

The Luzerne County Council is holding an emergency voting session to consider funding and staffing for the Bureau of Elections. The agenda includes a public comment from a resident urging adequate resources for the election process.

• Emergency voting session scheduled for November 17, 2022
• Public comment from Brian Dugas of Wyoming, PA, regarding election bureau funding and staffing
• Concerns raised about poll worker training, ballot transposing, and accessible drop boxes

County Council

This agenda item is a presentation of the Manager’s Proposed Budget Worksheet for the Public Defender department for fiscal year 2023. The document shows proposed revenues and expenses, including specific line-item increases for office supplies, examinations/witnesses, and subscriptions. The council is receiving this budget worksheet for review.

• Proposed 2023 expenses for Examinations/Witnesses increase 42.86% from $70,000 to $100,000
• Proposed 2023 expenses for Subscriptions increase 26.01% from $78,000 to $98,293
• Proposed 2023 expenses for Office Supplies increase 16.28% from $8,600 to $10,000
• Non-Rep positions remain at 5, Rep positions remain at 35 for 2023

County Council

This is a public hearing for the proposed ordinance adopting the 2023 Fiscal Year Budget for Luzerne County. The ordinance states the budget does not exceed revenues plus unreserved fund balance, and does not reduce required expenditures. The tax levy amount is left blank in the agenda. Council will vote on the ordinance at a later meeting.

• Public hearing on proposed 2023 Fiscal Year Budget ordinance
• Ordinance includes approval of real estate tax levy (mills amount not specified in agenda)
• Budget must not exceed revenues plus unreserved fund balance
• Budget must not reduce expenditures required by law or for debt service
• Ordinance effective January 1, 2023

County Council

The Luzerne County Council is deciding whether to adopt the 2023 fiscal year budget. Public comments submitted for the meeting criticize the proposed budget, citing inflation, the county's $113 million in American Rescue Plan funds, and recent election issues. The commenters urge council to revert to the 2022 budget with no tax increase and to use rescue funds for election integrity rather than new spending.

• Proposed ordinance adopting the 2023 fiscal year budget
• Public comment references $113 million from the American Rescue Plan
• Commenters call for no tax increase and reversion to 2022 budget
• Election integrity concerns raised, including a $1.2 million Election Integrity grant

County Council

The Luzerne County Council is holding a public hearing on the FY2023 work budget. A submitted public comment demands the council fire County Manager Robertson, criticizing his salary increase to $181k and performance. The comment also urges the council to avoid offering a severance package and to hire from the private sector.

• Public comment demands firing of County Manager Robertson
• Criticism of salary increase to $181k from prior $?
• Request to avoid golden parachute and moving expenses
• Suggestion to hire from private sector instead of government

County Council

The Luzerne County Council is discussing the funding sources for mental health and developmental services, including coordination, early intervention, intellectual disabilities, system of care, and mental health programs. The agenda item shows the percentage splits among state, federal, and county contributions for each program area.

• Coordination services funded 100% by Medical Assistance
• Early Intervention: 83% state, 9% federal, 8% county
• Intellectual Disabilities: 79% state, 16% federal, 5% county
• System of Care: 100% federal
• Mental Health: 91% state, 4% federal, 5% county

County Council

This is a public comment submitted by email for the Luzerne County Council budget work session. Assistant Public Defender Steph Fernandes describes low pay, high turnover, and burnout in the Public Defender's Office and asks council to consider the office when crafting the budget.

• Fernandes says her salary is less than $800 more than a starting salary after 7+ years of experience
• She reports 'gaping vacancies' and frequent departures from both the PD's and DA's offices
• She states she regularly works through lunch, on days off, and on weekends due to understaffing
• The letter is submitted for agenda item 4 (Public Defender's Office) at the budget work session

County Council

This document is a summary of VA expenditures for fiscal year 2021, broken down by state and county. It lists dollar amounts in thousands for each county in Pennsylvania. The data is purely informational and does not include any decisions or proposals for a meeting.

• Philadelphia County: $767,077,000 in total VA expenditures
• Allegheny County: $683,920,000 in total VA expenditures
• Montgomery County: $245,315,000 in total VA expenditures
• Luzerne County: $240,247,000 in total VA expenditures
• York County: $220,611,000 in total VA expenditures

County Council

Luzerne County Council is reviewing the proposed 2023 budgets for the Divisions of Human Services, including Aging, Children & Youth, Drug & Alcohol, the Human Services Block Grant, and Mental Health/Developmental Services. The budgets show significant changes, including the end of the Foster Grandparent Program, the end of Luzerne County as a Supports Coordination (SCO) provider, and increased spending on child placement services and health insurance.

• Aging Department proposes $14.2M in expenses, with a $180,705 increase in health insurance benefits and a $58,300 savings from vacating the State St. office.
• Children & Youth proposes $46.9M in expenses, with a $1.4M increase in agency insurance and a $548,271 increase in institutional and facility services for placed children.
• Drug & Alcohol proposes $7.1M in expenses, with new federal grants for prevention and compulsive gambling, and a $373,570 decrease in provider services.
• Mental Health/Developmental Services proposes $20.8M in expenses, a $2.6M decrease due to Luzerne County no longer being a Supports Coordination provider.
• Foster Grandparent Program ended 6/30/2022, eliminating $175,000 in stipends and $15,000 in volunteer recognition.

County Council

Luzerne County Council will hold a public hearing and work session on the FY2023 budget, followed by discussion of a resolution to form a County Manager Search Committee after Manager Randy Robertson announced his intent to resign. The agenda also includes review of proposed budgets for Human Services, District Attorney, and Public Defender divisions.

• Discussion of resolution to form a County Manager Search Committee following manager's resignation
• Public hearing on FY2023 budget
• Review of Division 70 – Human Services proposed budget
• Review of Division 12 – District Attorney proposed budget
• Review of Division 80 – Public Defender proposed budget

Board of Elections & Registration

The Board of Elections and Registrations held a special meeting to address paper shortages at polling places. The Board voted unanimously to refer the matter of the printer paper shortage to the District Attorney for investigation.

• Approved motion to allow all public commenters to speak (5-0)
• Approved referral of printer paper shortage to the District Attorney (5-0)

County Council

Luzerne County Council reviews the manager's proposed 2023 budget worksheets for the Division of Operational Services, covering multiple funds including bridge programs, 911 operations, and solid waste management. The agenda consists entirely of budget worksheets with proposed revenues and expenses for the coming year, with no separate action items listed.

• 911 State Reimbursement (PEMA) budget proposed at $8,178,424 in revenue and expenses, down 2% from 2022
• 911 Digital Upgrade fund requests $0 for 2023 after $6.9 million in 2022, indicating project completion
• Solid Waste Management/Recycling proposes $7,245,508 in expenses, up from $561,500 in 2022, largely from $6,634,008 carry forward
• Act 44 Bridge fund proposes $250,222 in revenue and expenses, up from $155,175 in 2022
• 911 overtime budget proposed at $800,000, up 33% from $600,000 in 2022 due to staffing vacancies

County Council

A public comment from a resident urges Luzerne County Council to prioritize road repairs over the Nanticoke Bridge project, citing safety risks and misuse of road department staff. The comment notes over 120 miles of unsafe county roads and alleges that road workers are diverted to non-road tasks. No council action or decision is recorded in this agenda item.

County Council

This is a work/budget work session where the Luzerne County Council will receive and discuss division reports for October 2022, review the 2023 budget, and discuss a resolution to apply for the 2022 Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities Grant Program. They will also discuss delinquent taxes and a proposed agreement with Newport Township for tax collection.

• Discussion of resolution authorizing application for 2022 Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities Grant Program
• Delinquent tax discussion
• Discussion of resolution approving agreement with Newport Township for Luzerne County Treasurer to collect Newport Township taxes
• Review of Division 50 – Operational Services budget
• Election discussion

County Council

The Betz family submitted a public comment to the Luzerne County Council about the poor condition of East County Road in Hollenback Township. They state the road was last paved over 30 years ago and is unsafe for school buses, fire trucks, and ambulances. The council is not deciding or discussing any specific action on this agenda; the item is a public complaint only.

• Public comment from Betz family regarding East County Road, Hollenback Township
• Road last paved over 30 years ago
• Safety concerns for school buses, fire trucks, and ambulances

Children & Youth Advisory Board

The Board approved the October meeting minutes. Members discussed a crisis regarding families in hotels due to a lack of affordable housing and proposed forming a committee to address homelessness and fundraising.

• Approved October meeting minutes (unanimous)

Board of Elections & Registration

The Board of Elections held a series of meetings to review and decide the validity of provisional and mail-in ballots. The board rejected ballots lacking signatures, dates, or secrecy envelopes, while accepting others based on specific curing or situational criteria.

• Rejected 221 naked ballots (unanimous)
• Rejected 144 mail-in ballots with no date (unanimous)
• Rejected 135 provisional ballots from unregistered voters (unanimous)
• Approved 117 court-ordered ballots received after 8 PM (unanimous)
• Accepted provisional ballots lacking secrecy envelopes due to extenuating circumstances (unanimous)
• Approved use of computers to transpose ballots with bipartisan oversight (unanimous)
• Rejected 31 mail-in ballots without signatures (unanimous)
• Tabled review of ballots from a drop box incident

Convention Center Authority

The Board approved the payment of bills totaling $75,807.89 and the minutes from the October 12, 2022 meeting. The board also rescheduled the December regular meeting to December 19, 2022. Members discussed an upcoming proposal to replace 75 heat pumps throughout the facility.

• Approved payment of bills totaling $75,807.89
• Approved minutes of the October 12, 2022 Regular Meeting
• Moved Regular Meeting from December 14, 2022 to December 19, 2022

County Council

The council is discussing whether to reintroduce 'monetization' as a budget practice, which a public comment letter strongly urges them to reject, calling it a short-sighted 'payday loan' approach that was eliminated under Home Rule.

• Discussion of monetization as a budgetary practice
• Public comment letter from former council member Linda McClosky Houck opposing monetization

County Council

This is a public comment submitted for the Luzerne County Council meeting, not an official agenda. The comment expresses voter frustration with election process failures, including paper shortages and voters being turned away, and demands accountability from election officials Denise Williams, Beth Gilbert McBride, and Randy Robertson.

• Public comment from Robyn & Walter Kochan of Dallas Twp. criticizing election administration
• Allegations of voters turned away for wrong polling place in Kingston Twp.
• Demand for accountability of election officials Denise Williams, Beth Gilbert McBride, and Randy Robertson

County Council

The council is considering a vote on using $75 million in LSA funds to replace the West Nanticoke/Nanticoke Bridge, funded by a 25-year loan with $3 million annual repayments. A public comment letter urges the council to prioritize all county roads instead of a single bridge, citing concerns about fiscal prudence, reliance on casino profits, and lack of a solid business commitment.

• Possible vote on $75 million loan for West Nanticoke Bridge replacement
• Loan repayment of $3 million annually over 25 years from LSA funds tied to casino profits
• Public comment from Carol Rosser opposing the bridge-only spending and urging road repairs
• Concerns about lack of alternative repayment plan if casino funds decline

County Council

The Luzerne County Council will vote on a resolution authorizing a one-year, $248,019 lease with Luzerne County Domestic Relations for office space in the Bernard C. Brominski building. The council will also consider approving Act 13 grant funding for 2022-2023 and minutes from prior meetings.

• Resolution to authorize a $248,019 lease agreement with Luzerne County Domestic Relations for space at 113 West North Street, Wilkes-Barre
• Motion to approve Act 13 Grant Funding Amount for 2022-2023
• Approval of minutes from October 25 and November 1, 2022 voting sessions

Luzerne County Council approved grant funding and authorized a lease agreement and a grant application. The session included an executive session regarding personnel matters and extensive public comment regarding election issues.

• Approved $100,000.00 for 2022-2023 Act 13 Grants (11-0)
• Adopted resolution authorizing County Manager to execute lease with Luzerne County Domestic Relations (11-0)
• Adopted resolution authorizing application for 2022 Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities Grant Program (11-0)
• Approved October 25, 2022 Voting Session minutes (10-1)
• Approved November 01, 2022 Voting Session minutes (10-1)

County Council

The County Council is adopting procedures for assessing and evaluating federal American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) grant applications. The protocol includes training, scoring methods, and strict confidentiality requirements to ensure a merit-based distribution of funds through Booth Management Consulting.

• Establishment of ARPA fund evaluation protocols
• Agreement with Booth Management Consulting for assessment services
• Potential ARPA funding not to exceed $55 million
• Five application pools scheduled between November 4 and December 13

County Council

The Luzerne County Council is meeting for a budget work session to review three divisions: General Government, Courts, and Corrections. The agenda includes handouts for each division. Public comment is allowed on matters within the Council's jurisdiction, with a three-minute limit per speaker.

• Division 10 - General Government budget review
• Division 13 - Courts budget review
• Division 40 - Corrections budget review
• Public comment period with 3-minute limit per speaker

County Council

This agenda item presents the proposed 2023 budget worksheet for the Blighted Property division under General Government. The worksheet shows no changes from the 2022 adopted budget, with revenues and expenses both remaining at $15,000. No accounts had changes over 10% or $10,000.

• 2023 proposed revenue for Blighted Property: $15,000 (same as 2022)
• 2023 proposed expenses for Blighted Property: $15,000 (same as 2022)
• No position changes: 0 non-represented and 0 represented employees for 2023

County Council

The Luzerne County Council is reviewing the proposed 2023 budget for the County Council division, which shows $0 in revenue and $289,412 in expenses, a slight increase from the 2022 adopted expenses of $282,128. The budget includes one non-represented position. No items with changes over 10% or $10,000 are noted.

• Proposed 2023 expenses for County Council: $289,412, up from $282,128 in 2022
• No revenue projected for 2023
• One non-represented position maintained for 2023

County Council

The County Council is reviewing the proposed 2023 budget for the County Manager's office. The worksheet shows adopted 2022 expenses of $334,264 and proposed 2023 expenses of $336,623, with no revenue listed for either year. The office has 3 non-represented positions and no represented positions.

• Proposed 2023 expenses of $336,623, a slight increase from $334,264 adopted in 2022
• No revenue is budgeted for the County Manager's office in either year
• 3 non-represented positions are maintained for 2023, unchanged from 2022

County Council

The Luzerne County Council was presented with the Manager's Proposed Budget Worksheets for four divisions of the 2023 Division of Courts budget. The documents show proposed revenues and expenses for departments 4183, 4184, 4187, and 4237, with notable changes including a 100% increase in exam expenses (account 560.17) for department 4184 and a 50% decrease in transfer revenue (account 450.55) for department 4237.

• Department 4184: proposed expenses increase from $5,119,139 to $5,842,681; exam expenses (560.17) rise from $100,000 to $200,000 (100% increase)
• Department 4184: equipment expenses (599.46) increase from $10,000 to $100,000 (900% increase)
• Department 4187: proposed revenue drops from $3,550,000 to $2,800,000 (21% decrease) due to lower transfer revenue (account 460.31)
• Department 4237: proposed revenue decreases from $8,072,000 to $6,643,250; transfer revenue (450.55) cut from $1,000,000 to $500,000 (50% decrease)
• Department 4237: position count changes from 22 non-rep and 81 rep in 2022 to 24 non-rep and 79 rep in 2023

County Council

This is a budget presentation for the 2023 General Government division. The council is reviewing proposed revenues and expenses, including notable increases in health insurance, retirement, and postage costs.

• Health insurance: $20,722,000 (2022) to $21,350,000 (2023), 3.03% increase
• Retirement: $10,823,965 (2022) to $11,575,000 (2023), 6.93% increase
• Postage: $475,000 (2022) to $550,000 (2023), 15.8% increase

County Council

Council will vote on a resolution to transfer $42,000 from the Public Defender's Office to the Court of Common Pleas to fund misdemeanor defense, and will consider adopting procedures for ARPA grant application review and awards.

• Resolution to transfer $42,000 from Public Defender's Office to Court of Common Pleas for misdemeanor defense representation
• Motion to approve procedures for Council members' ARPA grant application review and award process

Luzerne County Council approved procedures for the ARPA grant application review and award process, including specific scoring requirements and a funding cap. The Council also adopted a resolution to amend the 2022 Fiscal Year Budgets for the Public Defender and Courts.

• Amended 2022 Fiscal Year Budgets for Public Defender/Courts (10-0)
• Approved ARPA grant application review and award procedures (10-0)
• Amended ARPA fund distribution scoring to a 75-point total with a 60-point minimum for award consideration (10-0)
• Amended ARPA funding for the Notice of Funding Opportunity to not exceed $60 million (10-0)

County Council

This is a training session for evaluators of Luzerne County's American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) grant applications. The session covers the evaluation process, confidentiality, conflict of interest, and scoring guidelines. No decisions are made; it is a procedural meeting.

• Training for ARPA grant application evaluators
• Review of confidentiality and conflict of interest agreements
• Walkthrough of evaluation process and scoring guidelines

County Council

The Luzerne County Council is reviewing the Department of Corrections' proposed 2023 budget, which shows $331,264 in revenue and $5,088,250 in expenses. Notable changes include a 16% decrease in longevity wages due to fewer long-term officers, a 43% drop in sick leave buy-back costs, and a 100% increase in meeting/conference/training expenses returning to pre-COVID levels. The budget was submitted on November 1, 2022.

• Proposed 2023 budget: $331,264 revenue, $5,088,250 expenses
• Staffing: 4 non-represented and 3 represented positions
• Longevity wages down 16% ($4,500 to $3,800) due to fewer long-term officers
• Sick leave buy-back down 43% ($8,110 to $4,647)
• Meeting/conference/training expenses doubled ($750 to $1,500) returning to pre-COVID levels

County Council

The Luzerne County Council is reviewing the proposed 2023 budget for the Department of Corrections, which shows a significant decrease in revenue from $200,200 to $100,200 due to the state ending inmate reimbursement for work release. Expenses are proposed to increase from $4,532,812 to $4,804,011, driven by contractual wage hikes, higher overtime, and rising costs for kitchen supplies and utilities.

• State housing inmate reimbursement drops from $100,000 to $0 (100% decrease) due to COVID-related work release suspension
• Overtime wages proposed to increase 62% from $145,000 to $235,000 based on historical data
• Kitchen and groceries budget up 15% from $260,000 to $300,000 citing rising prices
• Water and sewer costs increase 19% and 38% respectively
• Training budget rises 125% from $800 to $1,800 to return to pre-COVID levels

Zoning Hearing Board

The Luzerne County Zoning Hearing Board will hold a public meeting on November 1, 2022, to consider a single application: a use variance for a two-sided digital billboard on Highway 315 in Laflin Borough. The meeting is open to the public and will take place at the county courthouse.

• Prime Media seeks a Use Variance for a two-sided billboard (one side digital) on east Highway 315, north of Laflin Road, in a Neighborhood Business District.
• Public hearing scheduled for Tuesday, November 1, 2022 at 7:00 PM in the 2nd Floor Jury Meeting Room of the Luzerne County Courthouse.
• Application files are available for review at the Luzerne County Planning Commission office.

The Board approved a Use Variance for Prime Media to install a billboard. The approved sign will be a freestanding two-sided billboard with one digital side.

• Approved minutes of October 4, 2022
• Approved Use Variance for freestanding two-sided (one side digital) billboard on east side of Highway 315, north of Laflin Road (unanimous)

Industrial Development Authority

The Board approved the July 28, 2022 meeting minutes and the financial report for the quarter ending September 30, 2022. The Board ratified officer actions regarding an easement relocation and an estoppel. A resolution was adopted to authorize the sale of unnamed property parcels.

• Approved July 28, 2022 meeting minutes
• Accepted financial report for quarter ending September 30, 2022
• Ratified Easement Relocation Agreement for Highland Blvd, Wilkes Barre Township
• Ratified Estoppel for property in Hanover Industrial Estates, Hanover Township
• Adopted resolution authorizing officers to execute documents for the sale of unnamed parcel(s) of property

County Council

Luzerne County Council approved a resolution to request a Multimodal Transportation Fund Grant from the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation. The Council also authorized the sale of a county-owned property parcel in Hunlock Township to Leonard Dalmas.

• Adopted resolution requesting a Multimodal Transportation Fund Grant from PennDOT (11-0)
• Approved sale of County-owned property in Hunlock Township to Leonard Dalmas (11-0)
• Adopted October 11, 2022 Voting Session minutes (10-1)

Act 13 Committee

This is a regular meeting of the Luzerne County Act 13 Grant Committee. The agenda includes discussion of Act 13 funding for 2022-2023, review of past Act 13 projects, and discussion of future Act 13 projects including requirements and applications. No votes or decisions are listed; the items are listed as discussions only.

• Discussion regarding Act 13 Funding for 2022-2023
• Discussion regarding past ACT 13 projects
• Discussion regarding future ACT 13 projects (i.e. funding, requirements, application)

Zoning Hearing Board

The Zoning Hearing Board will hear appeals regarding property variances. The meeting includes a continuation of Case #4 and a request for yard setbacks to place an accessory structure.

• Case #4 continuation from September 6, 2022
• Variance request by Christina Bittner for 210 Golf Course Road, Hunlock Creek, PA
• Request for 20 ft. front yard variance (50 ft. required)
• Request for 13 ft. left side yard variance (25 ft. required)
• Proposed one story accessory use structure (24 ft. x 24 ft. residential garage)

Accountability, Conduct & Ethics Commission

The Accountability, Conduct and Ethics Commission will review and vote on responses to a Request for Proposals (RFP) for an ACE Enforcement Attorney. The body will also discuss and vote on an additional RFP for ACE Attorneys to be advertised in the Luzerne Legal Register.

• Vote to accept RFP responses for ACE Enforcement Attorney
• Vote to approve additional RFP for ACE Attorneys
• Report from ACE Enforcement Attorney Daniel Nawrocki, Esq.
• Approval of August 5, 2022 meeting minutes

Act 13 Committee

The Act 13 Grant Committee will meet to review financial data with the Budget and Finance department. The meeting includes a period for public comment.

• Act 13 Financial Review with Budget and Finance

Act 13 Committee

The committee is reviewing the financial status of the Luzerne County 206 Fund. The meeting focuses on updating the fund balance and tracking outstanding grants and expenses.

• Estimated fund balance as of 09/29/2022: $148,952.60
• Outstanding 2017-2018 grants: $17,695.48
• Outstanding 2018-2019 grants: $15,000.00
• Outstanding 2020 Wood Boring Insects grant: $14,000.00
• Historical Black Fly Suppression payments to Commonwealth of PA ranging from $58,500 to $70,000

Zoning Hearing Board

The Board will hear several applications for variances and special exceptions across various districts. These include requests for lot subdivision, carport enclosures, and a daycare center operation.

• Dale Elston: Side yard and lot width variances to subdivide 152 Long Road in Ross Township
• Gerald Wesolowski: Right side yard variance to enclose a carport at 515 Wyoming Ave., Dupont
• Kelly Douglas-Lowe: Front, left, and right side yard variances for a detached carport and floor addition at 323 Brown St., Duryea
• Blue Water Horizons, LLC: Use variance to operate a daycare center for up to 42 children at 7 Sunset Lake Road, Hunlock Township

Strategic Initiatives Committee

The Strategic Initiatives Committee is reviewing funding requests for the LSA Infrastructure Program. These requests cover bridge construction and road repairs across several townships.

• $51 million for a new West Nanticoke Bridge in Nanticoke and Plymouth Township
• $1,000,000 for Main Road in Hunlock and Ross Townships
• $650,000 for Lower and Upper Demunds Road in Dallas and Franklin Townships
• $500,000 for Ransom Road in Dallas and Franklin Townships
• Road repair requests of $250,000 to $500,000 for Wright, Butler, and Hanover Townships

Strategic Initiatives Committee

The Strategic Initiatives Committee is discussing an ordinance to authorize up to $55 million in lease rental debt. This funding would be used by the Redevelopment Authority of the County of Luzerne to finance the reconstruction of the Nanticoke/West Nanticoke Bridge and other approved public infrastructure projects.

• Proposed ordinance for lease rental debt not to exceed $55,000,000
• Reconstruction of the Nanticoke/West Nanticoke Bridge
• Discussion regarding an additional Controller's report before the budget process

Accountability, Conduct & Ethics Commission

The Accountability, Conduct and Ethics Commission is meeting to discuss legal staffing and budgeting. The body will vote on a budget request for an enforcement attorney and the use of a contracted outside solicitor.

• Budget request for Enforcement Attorney in the amount of $75,000
• Resignation of ACE Attorney Sidney May
• Approval of RFP for ACE Enforcement Attorneys
• Request to Luzerne County Council to review the ACE Commission Code
• Vote on using a contracted outside attorney as a Solicitor

Zoning Hearing Board

The Board will hear appeals regarding land use in Hunlock Township and Fairmount Township. Requests include a manufactured home placement, a bed and breakfast operation, and an expansion of a drug treatment facility.

• Special Exception for a 14 ft. x 70 ft. manufactured home at 257 Cragle Hill Road, Hunlock Township
• Special Exception for a Bed & Breakfast and Use Variance for a campsite (12 people) at 299 Swamp Road, Hunlock Township
• Sign Variance for a business sign at 299 Swamp Road, Hunlock Township
• Use Variance to expand Huntington Creek Recovery Center from 58 beds to 76 beds at 820 Bethel Hill Road, Fairmount Township

Strategic Initiatives Committee

The Strategic Initiatives Committee will discuss potential uses and funding matches for American Rescue Plan (ARP) funds. The meeting also includes discussions regarding the timeline for Charter Amendment ballot questions and options for the County Prison and SCI Retreat.

• Discussion of ARP funds and possible funding matches
• Discussion of Charter Amendment Ballot Question timeline
• Discussion of County Prison and SCI Retreat options

Strategic Initiatives Committee

The Strategic Initiatives Committee is reviewing a U.S. Department of the Treasury document regarding the final rule for fiscal recovery funds. The document outlines how $350 billion in American Rescue Plan funding can be used to respond to the COVID-19 public health emergency and its economic impacts.

• Standard allowance for revenue loss of up to $10 million
• Funding for capital expenditures including affordable housing, childcare, and schools
• Broadband infrastructure investments
• Water and sewer infrastructure projects including lead remediation and stormwater management
• Premium pay for eligible workers performing essential work

Zoning Hearing Board

The Zoning Hearing Board will hold a public meeting to hear appeals regarding zoning variances and special exceptions. These requests involve residential additions, home businesses, and changes in property use across several boroughs and townships.

• Front yard variance for a residential addition at 1421 Dawson St., Avoca
• Special exception for a home beauty salon at 110 Skytop Drive, Dupont
• Use variance to convert a mixed-use building to five residential units at 180 Main St., Avoca
• Use variance to convert an auto repair shop/car wash to a contractor yard at 1351 Shoemaker Ave., West Wyoming
• Use and sign variances to convert a residential garage to an auto shop at 22 Gravel Road, Hunlock Creek

Accountability, Conduct & Ethics Commission

The Commission will meet to approve minutes and a legal services invoice. Members will discuss proposed procedural rules, email auto-responses, and the process for paying the Solicitor.

• Invoice for $1,066.00 payable to James L. Bobeck, Esq. for legal services
• Motion to grant the appointed secretary access to the ACE Commission webpage
• Discussion on proposed procedural rules
• Discussion on line item for paying invoices to Solicitor

Zoning Hearing Board

The Board will hear appeals regarding residential additions, business operations, and a communication tower. These items include requests for use variances and setbacks across various townships and boroughs.

• Front yard variance for a 24 ft. by 24 ft. residential addition in Union Township
• Side and rear yard variances for a 35 ft. x 60 ft. storage structure at 349 Monument Ave. in Wyoming Borough
• Special exception to operate a beauty salon as a home occupation at 407 Packer St. in Avoca Borough
• Use variance to operate a beauty salon at 246 Lampman St. in Avoca Borough
• Use variance for a cerakote and gun-smithing business at 254 Academy St. in New Columbus Borough

Accountability, Conduct & Ethics Commission

The Accountability, Conduct & Ethics Commission will review responses to Requests for Proposals (RFPs) for an ACE Enforcement Attorney. The commission will then vote to accept or reject the submitted responses.

• Review and vote on RFP responses for ACE Enforcement Attorney

Zoning Hearing Board

The Board will hear several applications for yard variances related to residential additions. One application also seeks a special exception to operate a burial site/cemetery in West Wyoming Borough.

• Right side yard variance for 2-story addition at 54 Jeanette St., Mocanaqua
• Side yard variances for single story front addition at 20 Oliver Road, Sweet Valley
• Rear yard variance for single story rear addition at 512 Stephenson St., Duryea
• Rear yard variance for 2-story rear addition at 835 Shoemaker Ave., West Wyoming
• Special exception for a burial site/cemetery near Hamilton Ave. and Watson Ave., West Wyoming

Accountability, Conduct & Ethics Commission

The Luzerne County Accountability, Conduct and Ethics Commission is meeting to review a Request for Proposals (RFP) for a Code Enforcement Attorney. The body will also consider approving minutes from the April 8, 2022 meeting.

• RFP for ACE Code Enforcement Attorney

Accountability, Conduct & Ethics Commission

The Accountability, Conduct & Ethics Commission is meeting to discuss its procedural rules and potential changes to the group email address on the County website. The commission will also discuss recommendations for the Code Review Committee.

• Discussion on ACE Commission email address on the County website
• Discussion of ACE Commission procedural rules
• Discussion on recommendations for the Code Review Committee
• Review of pending complaints under Section 105.03 (B)

Strategic Initiatives Committee

The committee will discuss several administrative and community topics. Discussion items include the use of the Reserve Fund for payroll and benefits, county recycling events, Community Development Block Grant utilization, and renovations at Forty Fort Airport.

• Discussion regarding Reserve Fund utilizing unencumbered monthly department payroll and benefits
• Discussion regarding County Recycling and Cleanup Events
• Discussion regarding Community Development Block Grant utilization
• Discussion regarding Forty Fort Airport renovations

Zoning Hearing Board

The Luzerne County Zoning Hearing Board will meet on April 5, 2022, to consider several variance applications. These include requests regarding building height, commercial use, and residential conversion projects in Pringle Borough and Newport Township.

• Height variance for a new indoor training facility in Pringle Borough
• Use and sign variances for a former commercial tavern at 35 Orchard St., Glen Lyon
• Use variance to convert a former school into 29 luxury lofts and apartments in Newport Township
• Special exception for construction of 100 storage units and office space in Newport Township

Zoning Hearing Board

The Luzerne County Zoning Hearing Board will meet on March 8, 2022, to consider three variance applications. These include a request for an entertainment facility in Wyoming Borough and two requests regarding a residential accessory structure in New Columbus Borough.

• Special Exception for an entertainment facility at 1066 Wyoming Ave., Wyoming Borough
• Use Variance for a dyno meter testing & tuning facility at 254 Academy St., Stillwater
• Sign Variance for 254 Academy St., Stillwater
• Use Variance for a cerakote business at 254 Academy St., Stillwater

Strategic Initiatives Committee

The Strategic Initiatives Committee will meet to discuss resolution R-2017-91. The meeting includes a period for public comment regarding committee jurisdiction.

• Discussion of resolution R-2017-91

Accountability, Conduct & Ethics Commission

The commission will discuss policies regarding the Enforcement Attorney and the process for sending the ACE Code to the County Council for review. Members will also discuss the adoption of procedures and rules of conduct under Section 104.08.

• Invoice for James L. Bobeck, Esq. in the amount of $1,729.00
• Discussion on ACE Commission policy and procedure regarding the Enforcement Attorney
• Discussion on sending the ACE Code to County Council for review and revision
• Discussion on Section 104.08 Rules and Procedures regarding conduct and activities

Convention Center Authority

The Authority is reviewing various payments for legal services, grant consulting, and Wi-Fi testing. The meeting includes reports from the Building & Grounds, Finance, and Land Development committees.

• Payment of bills totaling $31,770.35
• Rosenn Jenkins & Greenwald, Inc legal services for December 2021
• Ashburn Advisors, LLC consulting for RACP Grant
• Turn-Key Technologies, Inc. Wi-Fi project event testing
• Tri-Mark Marlinn LLC popcorn machine purchases

Convention Center Authority

The Board of Directors met to approve previous meeting minutes and settle outstanding bills. The board also conducted elections for its leadership positions for the 2022 term.

• Approval of December 15, 2021, meeting minutes
• Payment of bills totaling $45,256.98
• Election of Donna Cupinski as Chairwoman
• Election of John Ruckno as Vice Chairman
• Election of Tom Woods as Treasurer

Zoning Hearing Board

The Luzerne County Zoning Hearing Board will meet to consider two variance applications. The requests involve modifications to yard requirements for a home addition and the subdivision of a lot for a new commercial building and retail use.

• Front yard variance for a 344 sq. ft. addition at 194 Division St., Hughestown
• Lot width and yard variances to subdivide a lot at 201 E, 8th St., Berwick
• Request to construct a 25 ft. x 33 ft. commercial building at 635 State Route 118
• Use variance for a retail establishment at 635 State Route 118
• Sign variance for a 4 ft. x 6 ft. sign at 635 State Route 118