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Juniata County Commissioners on Tuesday passed a resolution to designate the Juniata County Historical Society as the official Bicentennial Planning and Coordinating body for the county. Spencer McLaughlin represented the Historical Society.

MIFFLINTOWN — Planning is already underway for Juniata County’s bicentennial celebration in 2031, and county commissioners have designated the Juniata County Historical Society to lead the effort.

During the Juniata County Commissioners’ weekly meeting, Spencer McLaughlin, representing the historical society, presented a resolution outlining the organization’s role in coordinating and planning the county’s 200th anniversary celebration.

McLaughlin said growing public interest in local history and civic engagement surrounding the nation’s upcoming 250th anniversary provides an ideal opportunity to begin preparations for Juniata County’s bicentennial. The celebration will coincide with the historical society’s 100th anniversary.

According to the resolution, the bicentennial represents a significant milestone in the county’s history and offers an opportunity to celebrate local heritage, promote civic pride, strengthen community identity, encourage heritage tourism and support economic development.

The resolution notes that advance planning and coordinated leadership will be essential to ensuring an inclusive and successful commemoration.

Under the plan, the Juniata County Historical Society will serve as the lead organization for the bicentennial effort. The resolution states the society is uniquely qualified to oversee the initiative because of its mission to preserve and interpret the history of Juniata County and its communities, as well as its existing partnerships and organizational capacity.

The society will coordinate with municipalities, schools, nonprofit organizations, businesses and civic groups throughout the county. It will also establish committees, advisory groups and task forces as needed to encourage broad community participation.

Planned activities could include special events, exhibitions, educational programs, publications, public art projects, signage initiatives and heritage tourism efforts. The society will also seek grants, donations, sponsorships and other funding sources to support bicentennial activities.

Commissioner Alice Gray praised the resolution, saying it clearly outlined the goals and significance of the bicentennial effort. The resolution was approved by the commissioners.

In other business, commissioners approved several purchase-of-service agreements for Juniata County Children and Youth Services for the period of July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2027. Approved providers included Danette Dupree for Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy services; Raystown Developmental Services Inc., doing business as Clarvida; Mifflin-Juniata Human Services; TIU Community Education & Workforce Services; Works Youth Care Inc.; and Sarah Jefferson LCSW LLC.