Venango County public meetings in 2021

Venango County Economic Development Authority

The Venango County Economic Development Authority met on December 21, 2021, and took several administrative actions. They ratified the November agenda, approved the 2022 board meeting schedule, ratified the Design Lab contract, and accepted the RACP Northside Urban Renewal Initiative Phase 3 award. No substantive policy decisions were made; the meeting focused on routine approvals and project updates.

• Ratified November agenda
• Approved 2022 Board Meeting Schedule
• Ratified Design Lab Contract
• Accepted RACP Northside Urban Renewal Initiative Phase 3 Award

Election Board

The Venango County Election Board met and approved the certification of the official election results. The meeting was brief and procedural, with no public comment or other business. The minutes from the November 9, 2021 meeting were also approved.

• Approved minutes from November 9, 2021 meeting (unanimous)
• Approved Certification of Official Election Results (unanimous)

Commissioner Board

The Venango County Commissioners approved the final 2022 budget, certified the tax base, and adopted the tax rate resolution. They also approved the Opioid Settlement, the 2022 Tourism Destination Marketing Plan, and various contracts and personnel actions. The Retirement Board approved pension fund entries, withdrawals, and a death benefit payment.

• Approved final 2022 budget
• Certified tax base and adopted tax rate resolution
• Approved Opioid Settlement
• Approved 2022 Tourism Destination Marketing Plan from Oil Region Alliance
• Approved 2022-2026 Tax Collector Bonds Proposal
• Approved Shelby Lease for Chairs and Mobilcom maintenance agreement
• Ratified contract with CDI/L.R. Kimball
• Approved 2021 Grant Agreement as Fiscal Agent for NWPAERG

Commissioner Board

The Venango County Commissioners approved the final 2022 budget, certified the tax base, and passed a resolution setting the tax rate. They also approved numerous contracts, personnel actions, and other administrative items, all by unanimous votes.

• Approved final 2022 budget (3-0)
• Certified tax base and approved tax rate resolution (3-0)
• Approved $3,685,410.29 in warrants (3-0)
• Approved 2021-2022 human services contracts with United Way, Vicki McDonough, Svetz Consulting, and amendments (3-0)
• Approved nine Resource Family Agreements for Foster/Kinship Care (3-0)
• Approved personnel transactions including new hires, re-hire, promotions, and separations (3-0)
• Approved contracts with UPMC Health Plan, Benefit Coordinators, Delta Dental, Lincoln Financial (3-0)
• Approved Opioid Settlement and 2022 Tourism Destination Marketing Plan (3-0)

Salary Board

The Venango County Salary Board approved a series of personnel actions, including abolishing and creating positions in the Tax Claim, Courts, Law Library, and Human Services departments. All motions passed unanimously. The board also approved the minutes from the November 9, 2021 meeting.

• Approved abolishing Tax Clerk (Full-Time, SEIU Pay Grade 9) and creating Senior Tax Clerk (Full-Time, SEIU Pay Grade 12), effective 1/1/22
• Approved abolishing four Court Crier/Tipstaff positions (2 on-call, 2 part-time, 1 full-time) and creating two Court Recording Monitor/Transcriptionist positions (Full-Time, Pay Grade 4), effective 12/2/21
• Approved abolishing Law Librarian (Part-Time, Pay Grade 2), effective 12/2/21
• Approved abolishing six Fiscal Tech positions (Full-Time, SEIU Pay Grade 10) and creating six Accountant positions (Full-Time, SEIU Pay Grade 12), effective 11/15/21
• Approved minutes from November 9, 2021 meeting

Land Bank

The Venango County Land Bank Board met on December 9, 2021, and approved the minutes from the September 9, 2021 meeting. The treasurer reported a $70,878.57 balance in Fund 2770 for demolitions, and the board received thank-you letters and a $1,000 check from Sugarcreek Borough for assistance with a property. No formal decisions were made on new business; the board discussed upcoming demolition and rehab projects and scheduled a meeting to review a request for funding to demolish a blighted dwelling.

• Approved minutes from 09/09/2021 meeting (all in favor)
• Received treasurer's report showing $70,878.57 in Fund 2770 for demolitions
• Deposited $1,000 check from Sugarcreek Borough into general funds
• Scheduled a meeting to review John Kluck's request for demolition funding

Planning Commission Board

The Venango County Regional Planning Commission is meeting virtually to handle routine business, including approving prior minutes, discussing board terms and the 2022 meeting schedule, and receiving officer and committee reports. The main substantive item is a subdivision and land development review for Tuberville Storage in Rouseville Borough. Public comments are invited on agenda items and generally.

• Tuberville Storage subdivision review – Rouseville Borough
• Approval of October 19, 2021 regular meeting minutes
• Discussion of 2021 board terms
• Draft 2022 VCRPC meeting schedule

The Venango County Regional Planning Commission approved its 2022 meeting schedule, time, and place, keeping meetings at 6:30 p.m. and moving in-person meetings to Room 100 of the courthouse annex building. The board also discussed board member vacancies, with Bill Moon accepting another term and John McClelland stepping down after an election loss. Staff reported on land developments, including a potential solar project in Oakland Township, and the approval of 11 of 16 Liquid Fuels applications totaling $250,000.

• Approved 2022 meeting schedule, time, and place (all approved)
• Approved minutes of October 19, 2021 meeting (all approved)
• Decided staff would reach out to absent board members with expired terms
• Acknowledged two elected board positions available after McClelland's vacancy
• Kept meeting time at 6:30 p.m. after discussion
• Approved 11 of 16 Liquid Fuels applications, awarding $250,000
• Decided to re-bid 5th floor build-out at 100 Seneca in phases due to over-budget bids

Commissioner Board

The Venango County Commissioners approved the 2022 budget, which was placed on display, along with a series of contracts and personnel actions. All motions passed unanimously (2-0). The board also approved warrants totaling $4,267,588.64 and various human services contracts.

• Approved 2022 budget (2-0)
• Approved $4,267,588.64 in warrants (2-0)
• Approved FedEx Ground Package System contract (2-0)
• Approved contract with Lyle and Mary Hajdu (2-0)
• Approved 2021-2022 contracts with Harborcreek Youth Services, Summit School Inc., and Community Specialist Corp. (2-0)
• Approved amendments to Pathways Adolescent Center and Nutrition, Inc. contracts (2-0)
• Approved eleven Resource Family Agreements for Foster/Kinship Care (2-0)
• Approved personnel transactions, including new hires, promotions, and separations (2-0)

Salary Board

The Venango County Salary Board held a public meeting on November 9, 2021, and approved the minutes from the October 12, 2021 meeting. No salary board items were considered, and there was no public comment or other business. The meeting was adjourned shortly after convening.

• Approved minutes from October 12, 2021 meeting (unanimous)

Election Board

The Venango County Election Board certified the unofficial election results. The board also approved sending letters to all write-in winners and scheduling a casting of lots for tied write-in races on November 29, 2021. No public comments were made, and the meeting was brief.

• Approved minutes from October 12, 2021 meeting (unanimous)
• Approved Certification of Unofficial Election Results (unanimous)
• Directed sending letters to all write-in winners
• Directed sending casting of lots letters to tied write-ins
• Scheduled casting of lots for November 29, 2021 at 1:00 PM

Commissioner Board

The Venango County Commissioners held a public meeting on November 9, 2021, approving several routine items including the 2022 budget for public display, contracts with FedEx Ground and Lyle and Mary Hajdu, and the 2022 holiday schedule. The board also approved various human services, human resources, and planning commission items, and ratified broker of record letters for Barr's Insurance. No substantive policy decisions or controversial votes were recorded.

• Approved 2022 budget for public display
• Approved contract with FedEx Ground Package System, Inc.
• Approved contract with Lyle and Mary Hajdu
• Approved 2022 holiday schedule
• Approved FY 2022 Liquid Fuels Awards
• Approved review fee reimbursement agreement with James Alan Tuberville
• Ratified broker of record letters for Barr's Insurance
• Approved contract with UPMC for Life

Planning Commission Board

The Venango County Regional Planning Commission is meeting virtually to handle routine business, including approving the September 21, 2021 meeting minutes and receiving officer and committee reports. The main substantive item is a subdivision and land development review for Peoples Storage in Cranberry Township, presented by Ashley Smith. Public comments on agenda items and general public comment are also scheduled.

• Approval of 9.21.21 regular meeting minutes
• Subdivision and land development review: Peoples Storage, Cranberry Twp
• Public comments on agenda items and general public comment periods

The Venango County Regional Planning Commission conditionally approved the People's Storage development in Cranberry Township, subject to a fully-executed operation and maintenance agreement and receipt of six plan sets. The board also heard updates on the Cypress Creek Solar project, including a public notice citing the commission's 'failure to act,' and Executive Director Jason Ruggiero announced his resignation effective after the end of the year.

• Conditionally approved People's Storage in Cranberry Township (motion by Pankratz, second by Klingler)
• Approved minutes of the October 19, 2021 board meeting (motion by Smith, second by Miller)

Commissioner Board

The Commissioner Board approved multiple contracts, including a Trane glycol feeder contract, a hangar lease with Jason Beers, and several bridge repair and planning contracts. It also accepted the 12/31/2020 audit report, ratified agreements with Kasseya and for Sugar Valley Lodge financial review, and reappointed two Conservation District directors. The Election, Retirement, and Salary Boards approved their minutes with no items for consideration.

• Approved minutes for Election, Retirement, Salary, and Commissioner Boards from Sept. 14, 2021
• Ratified Trane Contract for Glycol Feeder at the Prison
• Approved Contract Hanger Lease Agreement with Jason Beers for Hangar 12-03
• Accepted the 12/31/2020 Audit Report
• Ratified agreements with Kasseya and for review of Sugar Valley Lodge financial statements
• Ratified MOU with St. Benedict Education Center as fiscal agent for NWWDB
• Approved contracts for Porter Road Bridge and Creek Road Bridge repairs, plus Resolution 2021-18 for CDBG application
• Reappointed John Kolojejchick and Mike Ohler to the Conservation District for 4-year terms

Commissioner Board

The Venango County Commissioners approved a series of routine items, including $3,730,690.87 in warrants, several human services contracts and amendments, personnel transactions, and planning commission contracts. All votes were unanimous (aye all). No public comment was made on the agenda.

• Approved $3,730,690.87 in warrants (unanimous)
• Approved 2021-2022 contracts with Craig Psychological Associates, Wilson Thompson Cisek, and Oil City YMCA (unanimous)
• Approved amendments to contracts with Gaudenzia Erie and White Deer Run (unanimous)
• Approved two Resource Family Agreements for Foster/Kinship Care (unanimous)
• Approved personnel transactions including new hires, promotions, and separations (unanimous)
• Approved contracts for Porter Road Bridge, Creek Road Bridge repairs, and CDBG application (unanimous)
• Reappointed John Kolojejchick and Mike Ohler to Conservation District (unanimous)
• Proclaimed Kiwanis Club of Franklin Day, October 27, 2021 (unanimous)

Salary Board

The Venango County Salary Board unanimously approved a series of personnel actions, including creating and abolishing positions in Domestic Relations, Prison, 911 Center, Children & Youth, PIC Unit, and MH/DS. All changes were approved as presented, with no public comment or other business.

• Approved creating Enforcement Officer II / Alternate Conference Officer and abolishing Enforcement Officer II in Domestic Relations (unanimous)
• Approved creating Administrative Assistant II and abolishing Administrative Assistant I and Chief Deputy Warden in Prison (unanimous)
• Approved creating 3 Telecommunicator I full-time positions and abolishing 3 part-time Telecommunicator I positions in 911 Center (unanimous)
• Approved creating temporary Service Coordination Intern in Children & Youth (unanimous)
• Approved creating Senior Service Coordination Supervisor and abolishing Service Coordination Supervisor in PIC Unit (unanimous)
• Approved creating temporary Service Coordination Intern and Service Information Officer/Quality Assurance, and abolishing System of Care & Service Information Officer in MH/DS (unanimous)

Election Board

The Venango County Election Board meeting on October 12, 2021, was convened and adjourned with no items for consideration or public comment. The only action was approval of the minutes from the August 10, 2021 meeting. The Chief Clerk provided informational updates on mail-in ballots, voter registration deadlines, and a public test.

• Approved minutes from August 10, 2021 meeting (all in favor)

Planning Commission Board

The Venango County Regional Planning Commission is meeting virtually to approve minutes, hear public comments, and review a subdivision waiver request for Michael Young in Frenchcreek. The agenda includes standard reports and public comment periods, with no other major decisions listed.

• Subdivision waiver request – Michael Young – Frenchcreek
• Approval of 7.20.21 regular meeting minutes
• Public comments on agenda items and general public comment

The Venango County Regional Planning Commission met on September 21, 2021, and approved the minutes of the previous meeting. The board declined a waiver request for a proposed subdivision that would create a non-conforming lot of less than an acre, suggesting instead to add the residual lot to the adjacent lot with shared owners. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting consisted of staff reports and updates.

• Approved minutes of the September 21, 2021 board meeting (all approved)
• Declined waiver request for subdivision creating non-conforming lot (no vote tally recorded)

Venango County Economic Development Authority

The Venango County Economic Development Authority approved the County Cooperation Agreement and the draft 2022 budget. The board also approved the minutes from the August 17, 2021 regular meeting. No other substantive decisions were recorded; the remaining agenda items were reports and discussions.

• Approved County Cooperation Agreement
• Approved draft 2022 budget
• Approved minutes of 8/17/2021 regular meeting

Commissioner Board

The Venango County Commissioners approved a consulting engagement with Maher Duessel for ARPA funding, a Community Development Block Grant application (Resolution 2021-18), and service agreements with Contempo Tech Cleaning Services and Hranec Sheet Metal. They also ratified a change order for the 737 Elk Street project, approved change orders for Westmorland Electric and Hudson Construction, and approved an addendum with ECS&R. The board approved the 2021 Administrative Rules, a dam inspection proposal for Two Mile Run County Park, and made appointments to the Social Determinants of Health Board. Proclamations were issued for Childhood Cancer Awareness, Suicide Prevention, National Recovery Month, and Eagle Scout recognition.

• Approved engagement letter for Maher Duessel for ARPA consulting
• Approved Resolution 2021-18 Community Development Block Grant application
• Approved service agreement with Contempo Tech Cleaning Services, Inc.
• Approved service agreement with Hranec Sheet Metal
• Ratified change order for 737 Elk Street Project
• Approved change order #04-012 with Westmorland Electric
• Approved change order #01-012 with Hudson Construction
• Approved 2021 Administrative Rules

Commissioner Board

The Venango County Commissioners approved 14 human services contracts for the 2021-2022 fiscal year, covering services from providers like Vallonia Industries, Touch-Stone Solutions, and The Bair Foundation. They also approved a change order for the 737 Elk Street project, ratified a position reclassification, and approved various personnel actions. Additionally, the board approved service agreements, a CDBG resolution, and several proclamations.

• Approved 14 human services contracts for 2021-22 (all aye)
• Approved change order for 737 Elk Street project (all aye)
• Approved warrants totaling $3,571,951.74 (all aye)
• Approved engagement letter for Maher Duessel for ARPA consulting (all aye)
• Approved personnel transactions including reclassification and rehires (all aye)
• Approved 2021 Administrative Rules (all aye)
• Approved change orders with Westmorland Electric and Hudson Construction (all aye)
• Approved Resolution 2021-18 for CDBG application (all aye)

Salary Board

The Venango County Salary Board approved a series of personnel actions, including creating and abolishing positions in several departments. These changes were approved unanimously by the commissioners. The meeting was brief, with no public comment offered.

• Approved minutes from the August 10, 2021 meeting
• Approved creating a Department Clerk III and abolishing a Department Clerk II in Court Supervision Services
• Approved creating a County Veterans Service Officer and abolishing a Department Clerk III in Veterans Affairs
• Approved creating two temporary Aging Care Manager II positions in Older Adult Services
• Approved creating a Program Specialist and abolishing a Service Coordinator II in CYS
• Approved reclassifying Service Coordinator IIIs to Crisis Investigation Specialist in the PIC Unit
• Approved creating a Housing Innovation Program Specialist in Housing

Election Board

The Venango County Election Board convened and adjourned with no items for consideration. The board approved the minutes from the August 10, 2021 meeting. Chief Clerk Sabrina Backer reported that ballots are in final proofing, poll worker training starts September 30, and the last day to register to vote is October 18, 2021.

• Approved minutes from the August 10, 2021 meeting.
• Adjourned the Election Board meeting with no items for consideration.
• Noted ballots are in final proofing before certification by the Department of State.
• Noted poll worker training begins September 30, 2021.
• Noted last day to register to vote is October 18, 2021.
• Noted last day to request a mail-in or absentee ballot is October 26, 2021.

Land Bank

The Venango County Land Bank is holding its regular meeting. The board will approve minutes, hear the treasurer's report, and take public comment, including a citizen's request to use demolition funds for blighted houses. No decisions are listed on the agenda.

• Public comment on using demolition funds for blighted houses
• Treasurer's report
• Approval of previous meeting minutes

The Venango County Land Bank Board met on September 9, 2021, and approved the minutes from the previous meeting. The treasurer reported a $64,080.31 balance in the demolition fund, and the board discussed a citizen's proposal to reimburse 50% of demolition costs for blighted properties, but no action was taken. The board also reviewed the home rehabilitation program, noting $781,365 spent on 20 homes. No substantive decisions were made beyond accepting the minutes.

• Approved minutes from 08/12/2021 meeting (all in favor)
• Discussed citizen proposal for 50% demolition cost reimbursement (no action)
• Noted demolition fund balance of $64,080.31
• Reviewed rehab program: $781,365 spent on 20 homes

Land Bank

There is no agenda provided for this meeting. The record indicates that there are no items scheduled for discussion or decision.

The Land Bank Board accepted the June minutes and received financial updates. Contracts were signed for rehab of 612 College Street and 509 Hill Street using PHARE grant funds. Demolition funding was allocated for 1759 S Main St and 106-108 Bissell Ave, pending property transfer. No formal votes were recorded on these actions.

• Accepted June 10, 2021 minutes (all in favor)
• Signed rehab contracts for 612 College Street and 509 Hill Street
• Allocated $3,850 for Cooperstown demo of 1759 S Main St
• Allocated $10,100 for demo of 106-108 Bissell Ave (pending transfer to Oil City)

Commissioner Board

The Venango County Commissioner Board approved several contracts and agreements, including a Securus contract extension, a hangar lease with EAA Chapter 988, a Penn State training agreement, a St. Benedict Education Center contract, a change order for Dotter Road Bridge, a review fee reimbursement with Log Cabin Restaurant, a shared use agreement with PennDot and CATA, a lease with Sugar Valley Lodge, and a contract with Combustion Service and Equipment Co. The board also approved the Human Services, Human Resources, and Finance agendas, and issued a proclamation for Polk Center Employee Recognition Day. No votes were recorded in the minutes.

• Approved extension to contract with Securus
• Approved EAA Chapter 988 Hangar Lease
• Approved Human Services Agenda (Attachment C)
• Approved warrants (Attachment D)
• Ratified Penn State Agreement for Training
• Approved contract with St. Benedict Education Center for EARN Services
• Ratified change order with Thomas Construction for Dotter Road Bridge
• Approved Review Fee Reimbursement Agreement with Log Cabin Restaurant

Commissioner Board

The Venango County Commissioners approved a slate of 18 new human services contracts for the 2021-22 fiscal year, covering early intervention, child welfare, and other services. They also approved amendments to two contracts, personnel actions including new hires and pay increases, and various administrative items. All votes were unanimous.

• Approved 18 human services contracts for 2021-22 (unanimous)
• Approved amendments to Firetree, Ltd. and SHARE MOU contracts (unanimous)
• Approved personnel actions including $1/hr pay increase for certain classifications (unanimous)
• Approved warrants totaling $4,370,208.42 (unanimous)
• Approved contract with Securus for prison services (unanimous)
• Approved EAA Chapter 988 Hangar Lease (unanimous)
• Approved ratification of change order for Dotter Road Bridge (unanimous)
• Approved proclamation for Polk Center Employee Recognition Day (unanimous)

Salary Board

The Venango County Salary Board approved a series of personnel actions, including creating and abolishing deputy positions across several departments, effective July 2021. The changes affect the Treasurer, Register & Recorder, Prothonotary, Sheriff, and other offices, with some temporary positions also created. All items were approved unanimously.

• Approved creating 1st Deputy Treasurer (Grade 6) and abolishing 1st Deputy Treasurer (Grade 5), effective 07/25/21
• Approved creating 2nd Deputy Treasurer (Grade 4) and abolishing 2nd Deputy Treasurer (Grade 3), effective 07/25/21
• Approved creating 1st Deputy Register & Recorder (Grade 6) and abolishing 1st Deputy Register & Recorder (Grade 5), effective 07/25/21
• Approved creating 2nd Deputy Register & Recorder (Grade 4) and abolishing 2nd Deputy Register & Recorder (Grade 3), effective 07/25/21
• Approved creating 1st Deputy Prothonotary (Grade 6) and abolishing 1st Deputy Prothonotary (Grade 5), effective 07/25/21
• Approved creating 2nd Deputy Prothonotary (Grade 4) and abolishing 2nd Deputy Prothonotary (Grade 3), effective 07/25/21
• Approved creating 2 Deputy Sheriff Corporal positions (Grade 6) and 1 Deputy Sheriff Sergeant (Grade 7), abolishing 3 Deputy Sheriff positions (Grade 6), effective 07/11/21
• Approved creating temporary Fiscal Operations Officer (Grade 8, until 09/17/21), Aging Care Manager II (Grade 6, until 09/03/21), and Service Coordination Intern (Grade 1, until 08/13/21)

Planning Commission Board

The Venango County Regional Planning Commission is holding its regular July meeting to approve prior minutes, welcome a new board member, and review a subdivision/land development application for a log cabin rebuild in Cranberry Township. The meeting is open for public comment on agenda items and general topics.

• Approval of May 15, 2021 regular meeting minutes
• Welcome of Fred Krizinsky to the board
• Subdivision and land development review: Log Cabin Rebuild in Cranberry Twp. by Geotech Engineering
• Public comments on agenda items and general public comment period

The Venango County Regional Planning Commission conditionally approved the Land Development Plan for rebuilding the Log Cabin Family Restaurant in Seneca, with conditions including stormwater approval, financial security, and plan sets. The board also welcomed new member Fred Krizinsky and heard updates on various projects, including the opening of the Multi-Modal Transit Hub and the completion of the Rouseville sidewalk project.

• Approved the minutes of the July 13, 2021, board meeting.
• Conditionally approved the Land Development Plan for the Log Cabin Family Restaurant rebuild in Seneca.
• Welcomed new board member Fred Krizinsky.
• Noted the opening of the Venango County Multi-Modal Transit Hub.
• Reported the completion of the $80,550 Rouseville sidewalk project using CDBG funds.
• Noted the opening of Dotter Road bridge, ahead of schedule.
• Reported the low bid of $48,000 for chimney stack removal at 100 Seneca.
• Adjourned the meeting at 7:30 p.m.

Commissioner Board

The Venango County Commissioners approved a large batch of human services contracts for 2021-2022, covering mental health, drug and alcohol, early intervention, and older adult services, along with amendments to existing contracts. They also approved personnel transactions including new hires, promotions, and separations, and authorized L.R. Kimball to act on the county's behalf regarding a bid withdrawal at the airport. All votes were unanimous.

• Approved 35 human services contracts and 9 amendments for 2021-2022 (all ayes)
• Approved personnel transactions including new hires, promotions, and separations (all ayes)
• Authorized L.R. Kimball to act on county's behalf regarding Nero Enterprises bid withdrawal (all ayes)
• Approved 911 Advisory Board appointments (all ayes)
• Approved warrants totaling $6,469,136.83 (all ayes)
• Approved sale of 252 Elm Street to Christopher Snyder (all ayes)
• Approved change orders for Multimodal Project and Oil Creek Water Trail MOU (all ayes)
• Approved resolutions for auditor days/hours and Land Bank board member (all ayes)

Salary Board

The Venango County Salary Board approved the creation of a full-time Field Assessor position (Pay Grade 7) and the abolition of a full-time Data Collector position (Pay Grade 5), both effective June 14, 2021. The board also approved the creation of a temporary part-time Training Officer position (Pay Grade 6) for the MH/DS department, effective February 8, 2021, through April 30, 2021. All items were approved unanimously.

• Approved creation of Field Assessor (full-time, non-exempt hourly, Pay Grade 7) effective 06/14/21
• Approved abolition of Data Collector (full-time, non-exempt hourly, Pay Grade 5) effective 06/14/21
• Approved creation of Training Officer (temporary part-time, non-exempt hourly, Pay Grade 6) effective 02/08/21 through 04/30/21

Planning Commission Board

The Venango County Regional Planning Commission is meeting to approve minutes, welcome a new board member, and review a subdivision waiver request from Frank Feroz. The agenda includes routine reports and public comment periods.

• Frank Feroz – Subdivision Waiver Request
• Approval of 4.20.21 Regular Meeting Minutes
• Welcome Fred Krizinsky to the Board

The Venango County Regional Planning Commission tabled a waiver request from Fawn and Frank Feroz to subdivide their property at 279 Ahrensville Road, because the two proposed lots would each be non-conforming (less than the required one-acre minimum). The board also approved the minutes from the March 16, 2021 meeting. No other formal decisions were made; the meeting included only staff reports and updates.

• Tabled the subdivision waiver request for 279 Ahrensville Road (motion by Nick Melnick, seconded by Sue Smith).
• Approved the minutes of the March 16, 2021 board meeting (motion by Greg Miller, seconded by Tracy Jamieson).

Land Bank

The Land Bank Board approved a $10,860 bid from Klapec to demolish a house at 106-108 Bissell Ave in Oil City, contingent on the City of Oil City taking ownership of the property. The board also approved filling a vacant board position with Amanda Power, and accepted the minutes from the previous meeting. Updates were provided on rehab projects and the judicial sale, with no other formal actions taken.

• Approved the minutes from the 05/13/2021 meeting.
• Approved a motion to accept the bid from Klapec for $10,860 to demolish the house at 106-108 Bissell Ave, contingent on the City of Oil City taking ownership.
• Approved filling Sheila Boughner's board position with Amanda Power.

Commissioner Board

The Venango County Commissioners approved a large batch of human services contracts for 2021-2022, covering services like detoxification, senior care, meals, transportation, and mental health support. They also approved over $4.76 million in warrants, several personnel actions, and various resolutions including one declaring Venango County a Second Amendment County. All votes were unanimous.

• Approved 30 human services contracts for 2021-2022 (unanimous)
• Approved $4,762,729.37 in warrants (unanimous)
• Approved personnel transactions including new hires, rehires, and separations (unanimous)
• Approved resolution to conduct an upset tax sale (unanimous)
• Approved resolution declaring Venango County a Second Amendment County (unanimous)
• Approved resolution appointing 504 Officer (unanimous)
• Approved contract with Tri-County Industries (unanimous)
• Approved proposal for new chiller at the jail (unanimous)

Salary Board

The Venango County Salary Board approved all agenda items, creating several new positions across county departments including two Correctional Officer Interns, a Fiscal Tech, a Service Coordinator II, and a Training Officer, plus a correction to the May 11 meeting adding three Service Coordination Interns. All votes were unanimous.

• Approved creation of 2 Correctional Officer Intern positions (temporary part-time, Pay Grade 1, effective 05/11/21)
• Approved creation of Fiscal Tech position (full-time, SEIU Pay Grade 10, effective 05/19/21)
• Approved creation of Service Coordinator II position (full-time, Pay Grade 6, effective 06/01/21)
• Approved creation of Training Officer position (temporary part-time, Pay Grade 6, effective 05/03/21, extended through 08/31/21)
• Approved correction to 5/11/21 minutes adding 3 Service Coordination Intern positions (temporary full-time, Pay Grade 1, effective 05/10/21 through 07/30/21, one extended to 08/13/21)
• Approved minutes from May 11, 2021 meeting

Land Bank

This meeting has no published agenda. The only available record is the minutes, so there are no specific items to report as being decided or discussed.

The Land Bank board approved the previous meeting's minutes and heard updates on finances and projects. Treasurer Diona Brick reported $54,672.72 in demolition funds, with two demos already paid. Josh Sterling announced plans to apply for a $250,000 PHARE grant and noted that rehab projects will be advertised for open bids on May 27 due to higher-than-expected initial bids. The board also scheduled a judicial sale for June 3 and appointed Bonnie Summers as the bidder.

• Approved minutes from 04/08/2021 meeting (all in favor)
• Adjourned meeting at 1:30 PM (all in favor)

Commissioner Board

The Venango County Commissioners approved a total of $4,741,317.86 in warrants, including human and non-human service payments. They also ratified contracts with CDI/L.R. Kimball, Strongland Roofing Systems (Phase 1 and 2), and various change orders for construction projects. Personnel actions included new hires, reinstatements, and separations, all approved unanimously.

• Approved $4,741,317.86 in warrants (unanimous)
• Ratified contract with CDI/L.R. Kimball (unanimous)
• Approved contracts with Strongland Roofing Systems Phase 1 and 2 (unanimous)
• Approved change orders with Hudson Construction, Renick Brothers, Wm. T. Spaeder, and Westmorland Electric (unanimous)
• Approved resolution to create a 911 Advisory Council (unanimous)
• Approved appointment of Beth Fisher to Older Adult Services Advisory Council (unanimous)
• Approved personnel transactions including new hires and separations (unanimous)
• Approved resolution on tolls for Interstate 80 bridges (unanimous)

Salary Board

The Venango County Salary Board unanimously approved a series of personnel actions, including creating 12 positions across several departments, abolishing two positions, and transferring one position. The actions were approved as a single agenda item with no public comment or other business.

• Approved creation of 4 temporary Bridge Crew positions (Maintenance, seasonal, through 8/31/21)
• Approved creation of temporary Administrative Assistant I position (Prison, training, through 6/02/21)
• Approved creation of 1 temporary Service Coordination Intern (CYS, extension through 4/30/21)
• Approved creation of 3 temporary Service Coordination Interns (CYS, seasonal, through 7/30/21)
• Approved creation of Department Clerk III (CYS, full-time, SEIU Pay Grade 8, transferred from MH)
• Abolished Department Clerk III (MH/DS, full-time, SEIU Pay Grade 8, transferred to CYS)
• Approved creation of 2 temporary Service Coordination Interns (MH/DS, seasonal, through 7/30/21)
• Approved abolishing Chore/Maintenance Worker III and creating Housing Inspector/Maintenance Tech (Housing, full-time, SEIU Pay Grade 12)

Planning Commission Board

The Planning Commission will review subdivision and land development matters. The agenda specifically includes a presentation regarding the Cypress Creek Solar project in Cherrytree Township.

• Cypress Creek Solar – Cherrytree Township

The Venango County Regional Planning Commission granted conditional approval to Cypress Creek Renewables for a proposed solar farm on 324 acres in Cherrytree Township, subject to seven administrative conditions. The project involves a 40-year land lease, with construction anticipated to begin in March 2022. The board also approved the minutes of the March 16 meeting and received updates on various staff projects, including CDBG-funded improvements and home rehabilitation programs.

• Granted conditional approval for Cypress Creek Renewables solar farm in Cherrytree Township (all in favor)
• Approved minutes of March 16, 2021 board meeting (all approved)

Venango County Economic Development Authority

The Venango County Economic Development Authority approved a contract credit for Gurtner and Sons, accepted an asbestos abatement contract with Allegheny Global Environmental, and received a ceiling assessment report recommending moisture extraction. The board also approved the financial report and minutes. No major policy decisions were made; most items were routine approvals and updates.

• Approved March 16, 2021 meeting minutes (motion by Summers, second by Moon)
• Approved Gurtner and Sons contract credit for labor not received (all in favor)
• Accepted Allegheny Global Environmental contract for asbestos abatement (all in favor)
• Accepted financial report including invoices (all in favor)

Commissioner Board

The Venango County Commissioners approved a series of routine administrative items, including warrants totaling $4,565,789.24, multiple contracts for services, and personnel transactions. All votes were unanimous (3-0) with no public comment or substantive policy debate. The meeting was largely procedural, covering approvals for contracts, grants, and personnel changes.

• Approved warrants totaling $4,565,789.24 (3-0)
• Approved Central Booking Project User Agency Agreement (3-0)
• Approved contracts with Dennis J Charlton, Skycaptain LLC, and USDA APHIS Wildlife Services (3-0)
• Approved contract with Vertiv Corp. and Resolution No. 2021-03 Hazard Mitigation Plan (3-0)
• Approved multiple Human Services contracts and addendums, including Stepping Stones and Children's Home of Pittsburgh (3-0)
• Approved Early Head Start COLA grant application ($11,749) and carry-over request ($31,768) (3-0)
• Approved personnel transactions including new hires, separations, and status changes (3-0)
• Approved contracts with Allegheny Paper Shredders, Snyder Electric, and multiple change orders (3-0)

Salary Board

The Venango County Salary Board approved all agenda items, including abolishing a Legal Secretary II position in the District Attorney's office and creating an Administrative Assistant II role, creating three temporary Summer Food Crew positions for CYS, and creating a Case Manager position for Community Support Services. The meeting was brief and procedural, with no public comment.

• Abolished Legal Secretary II in District Attorney's office (unanimous)
• Created Administrative Assistant II in District Attorney's office (unanimous)
• Created 3 temporary Summer Food Crew positions for CYS (unanimous)
• Created Case Manager position for Community Support Services (unanimous)

Land Bank

This meeting has no published agenda. The only available record is the meeting minutes, which are referenced for review.

• No agenda items listed

The Venango County Land Bank Board voted to accept Rouseville Borough's request to purchase three properties (6 Buchanan Street, 118 Cherry Run Road, and 104 Main Street) for demolition and resale as vacant lots. The board also heard updates on demolitions, rehab bids, and a property donation offer, but took no other formal actions.

• Approved request to purchase 6 Buchanan St, 118 Cherry Run Rd, 104 Main St from Rouseville (all in favor)
• Accepted minutes from 03/11/2021 (all in favor)
• Declined interest in owning 18 Wilson Ave, Oil City; suggested contacting nearby church for community garden

Planning Commission Board

The Venango County Regional Planning Commission is meeting to approve minutes, review the annual report, and receive updates on the Mast Cemetery Subdivision in Pinegrove Township. The agenda includes public comment periods and standard officer reports.

• Approval of February 16, 2021 regular meeting minutes
• Annual report review
• Mast Cemetery Subdivision update – Pinegrove Township

The Venango County Regional Planning Commission accepted its combined 2019-2020 Annual Report, which covers two years due to pandemic disruptions. The board also discussed a lot reconfiguration request for a cemetery, but no formal action was taken on it. Staff reports covered ongoing projects including the recycling center, broadband activation, and home rehabilitation programs.

• Accepted 2019-2020 Annual Report (motion by Sue Smith, seconded by Anita Fuchs, all approved)
• Approved February board meeting minutes (motion by Bill Moon, seconded by Keith Klingler, all approved)

Land Bank

This meeting has no published agenda. The only item listed is 'No Agenda,' directing readers to the minutes for any details. No decisions or discussions are specified.

The Land Bank Board approved purchasing properties in Cooperstown and Oil City for demolition, funded by the Register and Recorder's fund. They also discussed rehab projects and a Liberty Street property, deciding to send an application to the owner. No public comments were made, and the minutes from the previous meeting were accepted.

• Approved the minutes from the 02/11/2021 meeting.
• Approved purchasing 1759 S. Main Street in Cooperstown and 138 Charleton Street in Oil City for demolition.
• Decided to send an application and letter to the owner of 1416 Liberty Street regarding income qualifications and restrictions.
• Noted that Rouseville and other municipalities must submit written requests for property purchases before moving forward.

Commissioner Board

The Venango County Commissioners approved a series of contracts, addendums, and appointments, including human services contracts with Firetree, Ltd. and Crawford County Drug & Alcohol Executive Commission, and addendums with several providers. They also approved $3,895,940.50 in warrants, a cost allocation plan, and various personnel actions. The agenda was amended to add the appointment of Regina Deloe to the Advisory Board for Human Services and remove the Updated Procurement Policy item.

• Approved agenda with amendments: added appointment of Regina Deloe, removed Updated Procurement Policy.
• Approved minutes from February 9, 2021 meeting.
• Approved contract with Daugherty Governmental Services, LLC.
• Approved contract with SBM Electronics, Inc.
• Approved human services contracts and addendums, including Firetree, Ltd., Crawford County Drug & Alcohol, and multiple MHDS/ID providers.
• Approved 11 Resource Family Agreements for Foster/Kinship Care.
• Approved appointments of Donald Shelatree and George Merritt to Older Adult Services Advisory Council.
• Approved warrants totaling $3,895,940.50 and the Cost Allocation Plan.

Salary Board

The Venango County Salary Board approved the abolition of the Service Coordinator Supervisor position and the creation of a Senior Service Coordination Supervisor position, both effective 02/10/21. The new position is at Pay Grade 10, one grade higher than the abolished position. The board also approved the minutes from the February 9, 2021 meeting. No public comment was offered.

• Approved the minutes from the February 9, 2021 meeting.
• Approved abolishing the Service Coordinator Supervisor position (Full-Time, Non-Exempt, Pay Grade 9), effective 02/10/21.
• Approved creating the Senior Service Coordination Supervisor position (Full-Time, Non-Exempt, Pay Grade 10), effective 02/10/21.

Election Board

The Venango County Election Board meeting was convened and adjourned with no new business or public comment. Commissioner Breene noted that petitions for 2021 were due that day at 4:30 p.m. and wished filers luck. The meeting lasted one minute, from 4:37 to 4:38 p.m.

• Adjourned the Election Board meeting at 4:38 p.m. by unanimous vote.

Planning Commission Board

The Venango County Regional Planning Commission is meeting to conduct routine business, including approving the December 15, 2020 minutes and electing board officers. The board will also discuss a proposal from the Northwest Commission and consider a waiver request for the Mast Subdivision in Pinegrove Township. Public comments are scheduled for both agenda items and general matters.

• Election of board officers
• Northwest Commission proposal discussion
• Waiver request for Mast Subdivision, Pinegrove Township
• Approval of 12.15.20 regular meeting minutes

The Venango County Regional Planning Commission voted to retain all current officers for 2021. A subdivision waiver request from Greg Snyder was tabled pending additional information about right-of-way width and electric company rules regarding cemeteries. The board also discussed a letter about potential funding for feasibility and safety studies, recommending it be sent to Pam Exley for COG distribution.

• Retained all 2021 Planning Board officers (motion by Sue Smith, seconded by Bill Moon, carried)
• Tabled Greg Snyder's subdivision waiver request until additional information is provided (motion by Nancy Marano, seconded by Annie Fuchs, carried)

Venango County Economic Development Authority

The Venango County Economic Development Authority approved a contract amendment for the Engage! program, increasing funding from $3,000 to $8,000, split with FIDCA. They also approved the January financial report and re-elected Bill Moon as Vice Chairman and Bonnie Summers as Treasurer. The board heard updates on the Cornplanter Square building, including an insurance settlement of $204,980.90 for water damage.

• Approved Engage! contract amendment from $3,000 to $8,000 (all in favor)
• Approved January financial report including invoices (all in favor)
• Re-elected Bill Moon as Vice Chairman and Bonnie Summers as Treasurer (all in favor)
• Approved minutes from 01/19/2021 regular meeting

Land Bank

This meeting has no agenda available; the agenda text states only that there is no agenda and directs readers to view minutes. No decisions or discussions are listed for this meeting.

The Venango County Land Bank Board approved a motion to pay Gahr Excavating $8,400 from the Register and Recorder's fund for the demolition of 1147 E. Second Street in Cranberry. The board also received updates on demolition bids for several properties, including 711 Chestnut and 504 Hill Street in Emlenton, and 420 4th Street in Franklin. Three rehab inspections were completed, and commissioners approved moving forward with those rehabs. No public comment was made.

• Approved $8,400 payment to Gahr Excavating for demolition of 1147 E. Second Street (all in favor; Bonnie and Barrie abstained)
• Accepted previous meeting minutes (all in favor)
• Approved moving forward with rehabs for three completed inspections (commissioners approved)

Commissioner Board

The Venango County Board of Commissioners approved a series of routine contracts, grants, and personnel actions, including a coroner contract, a prison contract, human services agreements, and multiple warrants totaling over $4.2 million. All motions passed unanimously with no public comment or substantive debate.

• Approved contract with Erie County Coroner's Office for forensic pathologist services (unanimous)
• Approved contract with State Department of Corrections (unanimous)
• Approved human services contracts, amendments, and addendums (unanimous)
• Approved warrants totaling $4,275,886.21 (unanimous)
• Approved Spectrum Internet agreement (unanimous)
• Approved DCNR grant agreement for Two Mile Run County Park (unanimous)
• Approved Allegheny Boulevard Multi-Use Trail Ordinance #1-2021 (unanimous)
• Approved multiple personnel transactions including new hires, promotions, and separations (unanimous)

Salary Board

The Venango County Salary Board approved the creation of four temporary, full-time Service Coordination Intern positions across two departments (CYS and MH/DS), effective January 25, 2021, with a seasonal end date of April 30, 2021. The motion was made by Commissioner Abramovic, seconded by Commissioner Dulaney, and passed unanimously. No public comment was offered, and no other business was conducted.

• Approved creation of 2 Service Coordination Intern positions in CYS (temporary full-time, non-exempt, Pay Grade 1, effective 01/25/21, ending no later than 04/30/21)
• Approved creation of 2 Service Coordination Intern positions in MH/DS (temporary full-time, non-exempt, Pay Grade 1, effective 01/25/21, ending no later than 04/30/21)
• Approved minutes from January 12, 2021 meeting (unanimous)

Venango County Economic Development Authority

The Venango County Economic Development Authority approved a one-year extension for Hudson Group to hold property in Cranberry, approved a contract with Imperial Construction Services for preconstruction and construction consulting on the 5th floor fitout through October 2021, and approved insurance renewal pending review of better rates. The board also tabled the election of officers until more members are present and accepted the December financial report.

• Approved Hudson Group one-year property extension (all in favor)
• Approved ICS contract for 5th floor fitout consulting through October 2021 (all in favor)
• Approved insurance renewal pending review of better rates (all in favor)
• Accepted December financial report including invoices (all in favor)
• Tabled election of officers (all in favor)

Land Bank

This meeting has no published agenda. The only available information is that minutes may be reviewed, indicating the meeting was likely procedural or had no substantive items for public notice.

Salary Board

The Venango County Salary Board unanimously approved all agenda items, including a pay grade increase for a Recordkeeping Coordinator, creation of a First Assistant District Attorney position while abolishing an Assistant DA position, and creation of two Telecommunicator II positions while abolishing two Telecommunicator I positions. No public comment was offered, and the meeting was brief and procedural.

• Approved reclassification of Recordkeeping Coordinator from Pay Grade 4 to Pay Grade 5 (unanimous)
• Approved creation of First Assistant District Attorney position (unanimous)
• Approved abolishment of Assistant District Attorney position (unanimous)
• Approved creation of two Telecommunicator II positions (unanimous)
• Approved abolishment of two Telecommunicator I positions (unanimous)