Commissioners support grant request for bridge repairs

Christian Retreat Center seeks $135K to repair Tuscarora Creek crossing

MIFFLINTOWN -- The Juniata County Commissioners have expressed support for the Christian Retreat Center’s plans to seek $135,000 in state grant funding to repair a bridge over Tuscarora Creek.

Wendy Kerstetter, the center’s development and events director, told commissioners Tuesday the organization plans to apply for funding through the Local Share Account grant program.

Kerstetter said the center initially believed the bridge would need to be replaced entirely, but further consultation identified a potentially less expensive option.

"Originally we thought we would have to replace the bridge completely, which would be much more money but after the guidance of Lucas Parks he suggested some repairs to the bridge," Kerstetter said.

She said the organization is still preparing its grant application and does not yet have additional details about the proposed work.

Kerstetter emphasized the bridge’s importance to the community, noting that generations of families have visited the area to fish and that local fire departments have used the creek as a water source.

"We’re hopeful about the opportunity and will certainly have more to share as things move forward," she said.

Kerstetter also provided an update on the center’s playground replacement project, which is nearing completion.

The project was funded through the Neighborhood Assistance Program, with support from the commissioners, who previously provided a letter backing the funding request.

The new playground will replace equipment that had been in place for 27 years.

"We’re anticipating that it will be ready to enjoy this spring, once the weather warms up," Kerstetter said.

A ribbon-cutting ceremony will be announced at a later date.

In other business, commissioners approved a 10-year commercial lease agreement with Republic Land Company for future office space for Juniata County Children and Youth Services.

The lease will take effect upon completion and occupancy of the new Pennsylvania State Police barracks.

Commissioners also approved a contract between the Juniata County Public Defender’s Office and attorney Brittany Shetter to provide conflict counsel services.

The agreement runs from Jan. 1 through June 30, 2027, or until hourly services reach $15,000. The contract also allows termination with 30 days’ written notice.

Commissioners approved a purchase of services agreement between Juniata County Children and Youth Services and White Deer Run, doing business as Cove Prep, for child welfare services.

The board also authorized a $1,100 payment from Juniata County Hazardous Materials to Fleet Reps LLC for a truck lightbar.

September 2026 departmental reports were approved for the Sheriff’s Office, Magisterial District Judge Tracy Powell’s office and the Adult and Juvenile Probation Office.

Several personnel actions were also approved.

Commissioners approved the hiring of Jazelle Bryner as director of the Juniata County Domestic Relations Office, effective Oct. 19, 2026, following a recommendation from District Court Administrator Christina Zook. Bryner replaces Abby Ingle.

The board approved changing Hayden Spade’s employment status in the Security Department from casual part-time to full-time, effective Nov. 9. Spade replaces Dan Wise and will become eligible for retirement and health insurance benefits.

Commissioners also approved changing Brittany Weaver’s employment status in the commissioners’ office from casual part-time to regular part-time. The change makes Weaver eligible for retirement benefits. Neither employee will receive a wage adjustment as a result of the status changes.

The board also approved hiring Tasnim Chowdhury-Wray as a clerk in Magisterial District Judge Tracy Powell’s office. She replaces Courtney Graham, who resigned Sept. 18. Wages and benefits will follow the current bargaining unit contract.