LEWISTOWN–Mifflin County residents can expect improvements in local infrastructure and a bolstering of economic development programs thanks to actions taken by the Mifflin County Commissioners at their Thursday meeting.

The Commissioners tackled a full agenda that included an activity review from an important regional partner, approval of grant funding for various community projects, and other updates for residents.

A significant highlight of the meeting was a presentation by Kim Wheeler, Executive Director of the SEDA-Council of Governments (SEDA-COG).

SEDA-COG serves as a vital resource for the region, providing support to counties, businesses, and communities across central Pennsylvania. Wheeler delivered a comprehensive report detailing the vast array of programs and services SEDA-COG offered to Mifflin County in 2023 and what’s on the horizon for 2024.

“We are essentially an extension of county governments, dedicated to bringing expertise and resources that enhance the quality of life and economic vitality within our communities,” Wheeler said.

One key area where SEDA-COG makes a major impact is in helping businesses navigate the complexities of securing government contracts. In 2023, the organization’s business services programs assisted 17 companies and brought $520,163 in government contracts to the region. Wheeler highlighted several specific examples of these successes within Mifflin County.

Beyond contract assistance, SEDA-COG also aided county businesses through its revolving loan funds. In 2023, the organization was able to lend $715,250 to support job creation and retention in Mifflin County.

The report also emphasized SEDA-COG’s expanding role in addressing community needs. In early 2023, Mifflin County was awarded a competitive $350,000 HOME grant to assist income-qualified homeowners with necessary property repairs. SEDA-COG provided invaluable assistance in securing this funding for the county.

In a new initiative, SEDA-COG partnered with the county to establish a workforce training program in the construction trades. Eighteen students completed the program in 2023, building a pipeline for skilled workers in the region.

Wheeler expressed enthusiasm about the ongoing partnership with Mifflin County, “We are grateful for the opportunity to work alongside the county in bringing these vital resources to the community. Together, we are making a significant difference.”

The Commissioners also made important decisions regarding the allocation of funding from the Marcellus Shale Legacy Grant program.

Planning Director Jim Lettiere presented recommendations for round two of grant disbursements. Following a thorough review process, the Commissioners approved funding for five local projects:

Mifflin County Youth Park: $3,816 for installation of energy-efficient LED lighting.

Burnham Borough Youth Sports Association: $11,478 for field improvements, including upgrades to electric and water utilities.

Armagh Township: $13,483 for enhancements to the township’s walking trail.

Wayne Township – $5,194 for Canal Gatekeepers Fencing Project.

Rothrock Playground Authority-$11,478 for dugout improvements.

“The initial allocation through this Act 13 funding several months ago was $70,000. We completed round one of the applications. The cycle funded three applications at $24,551, leaving a balance of $45,449,” Lettiere said. “The Commissioners decided to open the second round of the remaining funds for eligible applications. We received eight applications, of which five were being recommended for funding. Two of those were ineligible, and one application was withdrawn.

“There were total cumulative requests in the amount of $74,124, leaving a shortfall of $28,675. The planning staff made funding recommendations to the Mifflin County Planning Commission, which were reviewed at their March 28 meeting. And they recommended approval of those recommendations.”

The meeting concluded with an update on the upcoming primary election in April, including reminders regarding registration deadlines and the process for mail-in ballots.

With the primary election approaching on April 23, Commissioner Rob Postal reminded voters about the deadline for registration and the potential confusion surrounding mail-in ballot applications from third-party mailings.

“April 8 is the last day to register for the primary election on April 23, so there could be some confusion. Those that need to get applications in for mail-in ballots, there have been some groups that have been mailing those applications,” he said.

Commissioner Postal further explains third-party organizations sending out mail-in ballot applications, which may lead to duplications and rejections.

“The confusion is because if you fill those out, which is perfectly okay, and it comes to our office because it is directed to our office, you may get a notice that says it was rejected because you can only have one. And if you’ve already done this and now you’re filling this out from a third party, once you fill these out, you may get a rejection,” Postal said.

If you run into problems with your mail-in ballot being rejected, contact the Mifflin County Commissioners.

In other news, the Commissioners:

Approved a modification request for the Intermediate Punishment Grant, allocating an additional $17,790 for essential equipment and services.

Renewed an agreement with Maximus US Services to prepare the county’s indirect cost allocation plan for the years 2023, 2024, and 2025 at $7,000 a year.

Updated the Mifflin County Employee Handbook with revisions reflecting contemporary workplace norms and technological advancements.

Approved the State and Local Cybersecurity Grant Consent Agreement, further strengthening the county’s digital defenses.

Approved request for exoneration of delinquent real estate taxes and relieve Kathy Whitsel, Assistant Director of Tax Services, from collecting these taxes: Parcel No. 04,04-0260,001 – mobile home was removed, Parcel No. 17,33-0514,001-mobile home was removed.

Approved the following personnel moves: the hiring of Owen Shuey as a part-time Corrections Officer effective March 24, 2024, hiring of Tara Griffith for the part-time MAT LPN effective March 25, 2024.