Kara Kauffman

The meeting agenda included the introduction of guests, review of income and expenses, and updates from Emergency Management regarding a new side-by-side unit, billing procedures for Sara facilities, an upcoming Local Coordinator Meeting, progress on the Annual Report to PEMA, and a scheduled National Weather Service presentation. Updates were also provided for 9-1-1 systems and ongoing training sessions. Specific plan reviews were discussed for AM Stabilizer, Borcher, and SMS Millcraft. Committee updates covered Webco resubmitted plans and outstanding questions regarding Polk Center plans. Old Business involved the Hazmat Retainer Fee, and New Business addressed acquiring a new Mule/skid unit and a response trailer for Clintonville.

The meeting included the election of officers for 2026, resulting in Jim Miller being elected as Chair, Tracy Jamieson as Vice-Chair, John McClelland as Vice-Chair II, and Frank Pankratz as Vice-Chair III. The Board discussed current Board vacancies and tabled the motion to solicit potential candidates from municipalities without representation. Updates were presented on gathering information for the Annual Report regarding projects supporting the Comprehensive Plan in 2025. Executive Director reports covered updates on a potential tiered escrow fee schedule for land developments, an upcoming SALDO amendment regarding Solar Decommissioning, and progress on the Home Rehabilitation program, noting the completion of the Workforce Development element investment. The Deputy Director announced the schedule for quarterly Household Hazardous Waste collections and confirmed the submission of the finalized Solid Waste and Recycling Plan to DEP. The Land Use Planner reported on the status of a SALDO Amendment concerning Solar Decommissioning, noting the first public hearing took place. A report from COG Representatives noted the scheduling of the VCATO Spring Dinner for April 11, 2026.

The meeting included the introduction of the new Warden, Jason Batykefer. Key discussions focused on monthly reports, including a general report from Human Resources noting an increase in correction employment, which was accepted by the Board. The Warden's Report noted the current inmate count and updates regarding corrections officers and maintenance progress, which was also approved. The regular session concluded with an adjournment, followed by a subsequent executive session to discuss personnel matters.

The meeting covered the treasurer's report, which detailed the current balance of the Register & Recorder's demo fund, including encumbrances for a property demolition. Old business involved approving additional funding for a second dumpster for a clean-up effort in Cornplanter Township. In new business, an update was provided on the housing rehabilitation program, noting properties under demolition, intake, inspection, and construction phases. A request was discussed regarding 1416 Liberty Street; the Land Bank agreed to request $25,000 for potential demolition or renovation, contingent upon the Franklin Redevelopment Authority or the City of Franklin taking ownership.

Key discussions during the meeting included the treasurer's report detailing the current balance in the Register & Recorder's demo fund and encumbrances. Updates were provided on property status, noting that the property at 1416 Liberty Street is in the process of transfer to the Franklin Redevelopment Authority, and 14 Wilson Ave has been razed. A discussion took place regarding Act 48 of 2024, which permits adding an additional fee of up to $250.00 to tax or sheriff sales for blight removal, subject to adoption by the Commissioners. A motion was passed to change the regular meeting time from 1:00 PM to 1:30 PM.