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LEWISTOWN -- Demonstrating a commitment to reshape the educational and cultural landscape of the region, the Mifflin County Commissioners took a solid step toward enhancing community resources.
At Thursday's meeting, Commissioners resolved to request a substantial grant of $1 million for the Mifflin County Library Improvements Project, Phase II. Their decision marks a significant commitment to the county's literacy, education, and community engagement.
Envisioned to expand and modernize the existing facilities, the library project is evidence of the county's dedication to fostering a nurturing environment for learning and growth.
Under Resolution No. 37 of 2023, the sought grant will enhance the library's infrastructure and aim to equip it with state-of-the-art resources. This initiative is expected to greatly benefit residents of all ages, providing a much-needed boost to educational resources in the area.
Commissioners Mark Sunderland, Robert Postal and Kevin Kodish, showing their commitment to the project, authorized the vice-chairman and chief clerk to execute any documents and agreements associated with this transformative grant.
Also, the Commissioners approved Resolution No. 36 of 2023 at the meeting. This resolution seeks a Statewide Local Share Assessment Grant of $761,745, specifically earmarked for the Juniata Valley YMCA. This funding, once secured, promises to catalyze a series of enhancements and expansions within the YMCA.
A Statewide Local Share Assessment (LSA) Grant is a financial assistance program typically available in certain states, such as Pennsylvania. These grants are funded by revenues generated from local share assessments, often derived from gambling or gaming operations within the state. The primary purpose of these grants is to distribute a portion of the revenue from these operations back into local communities for various public interest projects.
"The Juniata Valley YMCA is not eligible since they are not a municipality, but other municipalities can apply on their behalf and that's what we are acting on today," Postal said.
If successfully obtained, it poised the grant to amplify the YMCA's capacity to serve the local community, potentially introducing new programs, upgrading facilities, and making wellness more accessible to residents of all ages and backgrounds.
Such moves underscore the county's emphasis on investing in public resources that enrich community life.
In other news, Commissioners:
• Approved a request for exoneration of 2023 county portion per capita taxes: Armagh Township Tax Collector Crystal Heister-14, Wayne Township Tax Collector Mary Ellen Reed-11;
• Amended an action taken July 6, to exonerate Decatur Township Tax Collector Cindy McKnight from collecting 2023 per capita tax bills as presented (71)-corrected total 70;
• Approved a request for a refund of a portion of the 2022 and 2023 County real estate taxes: Parcel No. 12,33-0210A in Armagh Township-an error in the square footage of the cabin – $86.78;
• Approved a request for a refund of a portion of the 2023 County real estate taxes: Parcel No. 18,04-0113 in Menno Township-a dwelling and out-buildings have been demolished and removed from the property – $81.06;
• Approved Mifflin County VOCA Grant Award for the period Oct. 1, 2023, through Sept. 30, 2024 – $63,021;
• Approved Subrecipient Agreement with Habitat for Humanity for a $29,975 grant for a roof replacement;
• Approved the contract renewal with Geisinger Health Plan for employee group health coverage from Jan. 1, 2024, through Dec. 31, 2024.
• Reappointments/Appointments to the Mifflin County Conservation District: Cathy Haughwout, Belleville, PA-Farmer Director-four-year term; John Massie, Mattawana, PA-Public Director-four-year term; Robert Postal, Lewistown, PA-Commissioner Member-one-year term;
• Approved the hiring of Ashley Campbell for Children and Youth Caseworker, effective Nov. 6;
• Approved the promotion of Hunter Deavor from Corrections Officer to Corporal effective Oct. 22;
• Approved the hiring of Tanner Park and Gregory Beeler for part-time corrections officers, effective Nov. 13;
• Approved the hiring of Attorney Wayne Downey for Children and Youth Solicitor effective Dec. 4;
• Rescinded the resignation of Janet Headings, tipstaff.
• Approved the resignation of part-time corrections officer Daven Bernstein, effective Sept. 21;
* Approved the resignation of part-time corrections officer Caleb Rhodes, effective Oct. 23.