AGENDA  WEDNESDAY.NOVENBERI.2025I4, A.M. PIKE COUNTY COMMISSIONERS MEETING  1. Call to Order. 2. Pledge of Allegiance.  PUBLIC COMMENTS/QUESTIONS CONCERNING TODAY'S. AGENDA  1. Approve November 1, 2023 Agenda. 2. Approve October 18, 2023 Meeting Minutes. 3. Approve October 25, 2023 Conference Minutes. 4. Approve payment from GENERAL: FUNDS (County Bills). County Repository between April and. July 2023.  $319,689.04  5. Motion toa approve exonerations as presented by Gina Rios, Tax Claim) Bureau Director, for 96 properties sold out oft the 1. Motion tol hire CARMEN. RIGAUD as full-time clerki in the Prothonotary's Office fora 37.5-hour work week, effective November 6, 2023, pending drugt test results, with benefits after 90 days. Thisi is a replacement position. 2. Motion to acknowledge receipt ofal letter from Warden Lowe: advising that hel has hired, with Prison Board approval, JUSTYN PHRANER as full-time Assistant Director of Food Service for the Correctional Facility, fora 40-hour work 3. Motion to acknowledge receipt ofal letter from Warden Lowe advising that he has hired, with Prison Board approval, the following individuals as full-time Correctional Officers for the Correctional Facility for a 40-hour work week, effective November 13, 2023, with benefits after 90 days: SABRYNA RYAN; RALPH 4. Motion to acknowledgei receipt ofal letter from Warden Lowe advising that hel has hired, with Prison Board approval, the following individuals as full-time Food Production Supervisors for the Correctional Facility fora 40-hour work week, effective November 13, 2023, with benefits after 90 days: MARINA CASE. AND  PERSONNEL  week, effective November 13, 2023, with benefits after 90 days.  STANCZUK; AND MICHAELSUTTON.  PATRICIA WHITE. SALARY BOARD 1. Motion toc convene Salary Board.  Motion tor recess the Commissioners' Meeting to holda Salary Board Meeting. 2. Motion to approve October 11 and October 25, 2023 Salary Board Minutes. fora3 37.5-hour work week, effective November 6, 2023, pending drug test results. for the Correctional Facility for a 40-hour work week, effective! November 13, 2023.  3. Motion tos sett thel hourly rate OfCARMEN RIGAUD at $12.75 per hour, as full-time clerk int the Prothonotary'sOfice 4. Motion tos set thel hourly rate of. JUSTYN PHRANER: at $26.00 per hour, asi full-time Assistant Director of Food Service 5. Motion tos set the hourly rate oft the following individual at $25.46 per hour, as full-time Correctional Officers for the Correctional Facility for a 40-hour work week, effective November 13, 2023: SABRYNA RYAN; RALPH 6. Motion tos set the hourly rate oft the following individuals at $20.00 per hour, as full-time Food) Production Supervisor for the Correctional Facility fora 40-hour work week, effective November 13, 2023: MARINA CASE. AND PATRICIA  STANCZUK; ANDI MICHAELS SUTTON.  WHITE.  7. Motion to adjourn the Salary Board. Motion to reconvene the Commissioners', Meeting.  OLDI BUSINESS the amount of $220,000.00. NEW BUSINESS  1. Motion to award bids for thel Re-Bid Bennett Ave Building 1 Interior Renovations Project (EC) tol North End Electric in 1. Motiont to approve the following Human Services Payment Vouchers on behalfoft the Office of Human Services: Emergency Rental Assistance Program 2.0i ini the amount of $300.00 and PHARE: int the amount of $3,511.22. 2. Motion to approve the 2018 CDBGI Program Payment Voucher payable tol Ray Evans in the amount of $1,409.60, on 3. Motiont toa approve the 2018 CDBG Program Payment Voucher payable tol Recorder of] Deeds int the amount of$58.75, on 4. Motion to: approve the 2021 CDBGI Program Payment Voucher payable to GateHouse Media in the amount of$527.92, on  behalfo oft the Office of] Human Services. behalfo oft the Office ofl Human Services. behalfo oft the Office of Human Services.    5. Motiont to approve the Pike County) Homel Program Payment Voucher payable to GateHouse Medial Pennsylvania 6. Motiont to approve thel Pike County) Homel Program Payment Voucher payable tol Frank DeEsch int the amount of $600.00, 7. Motion to authorize the ChiefClerk to execute the Pitney Bowes State and Local Fair Market Valuel Lease Agreement. 8. Motion to execute thel Purchase of Service. Agreement between Summit School, Inc., and the County of Pike, onl behalfof 9. Motion to execute the Purchase of Service Agreement between Community Specialist Corporation and the County of 10. Motion to authorize the fiscal year 2023 third quarter payments from the Pike County Emergency Medical Services grant funds tol Palmyra' Townshipi int the: amount of $65,000.00; Delaware Township in the amount of$53,750.00; Blooming Grove" Township int the amount of $2,578.16; Lehman Township int the amount of $93,368.20; and Porter Township int the  Holdings, Inc., int the amount of$151.56, on behalf of the Office of Human Services.  on! behalfoft the Office of Human Services.  Children and Youth Services.  Pike, ont behalf of Children and Youth Services.  amount of $8,000.00. MISCELLANEOUS:  11. Motion to adopt) Resolution" No. 23-42, Supporting Operation Green) Light for Veterans, November 2023.  PennState Extension Calendar of Events  Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) program update, Dawn Allison, Executive Director.  PRESS & PUBLIC COMMENTSOUESTIONSTIONSADOURAMENT  THE NEXT REGULARI MEETINGOF THE PIKE COUNTY COMMISSIONERSILLBEHELDON VEDNESDAYANOVPNBPE 15,2023 AT11:00. A.M.I IN THE PIKE COUNTY ADMINISTRATION BUILDING.    PIKE COUNTY COMMISSIONERS PIKE COUNTY ADMINISTRATIONI BUILDING 506E BROADSTREET MILFORD, PA 18337 570-296-7613 FAX:570-296-6055  MATTHEW M.C OSTERBERG RONALDR. SCHMALZLE R.ANTHONY WALDRON  KRISTAGROMAISKI CHIEFC CLERK THOMASF.FARLEV,5Q COUNTYSOLICITOR  COMMISSIONERS  RESOLUTION: NO. 23-42 NOVEMBER: 2023  SUPPORTING OPERATION GREENI LIGHT FOR VETERANS  WHEREAS, the residents of Pike County have great respect, admiration, and the utmost gratitude for all the men WHEREAS, the contributions and sacrifices oft those who served int the Armed Forces have been vital in WHEREAS, Pike County seeks tol honori individuals who have made countless sacrifices for freedom by placing WHEREAS, Veterans continue tos serve our community in the. American Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars, religious groups, civils service, and by functioning as County Veterans Service Officers in 29 states to help fellow former service members access more than $52 billion inf federall health, disability and compensation benefits each year; and WHEREAS, Approximately 200,000 service members transition1 to civilian communities annually; and WHEREAS, an estimated 20 percent increase ofs service members will transition to civilian life int the near future; WHEREAS, studies indicate that 44-72 percent of service members experience high levels ofs stress during transition WHERAS, activer military service members transitioning from military service are atal high risk for suicide during WHEREAS, thel National Association of Counties encourages all counties, parishes and boroughs to recognize WHEREAS, Pike County appreciates the sacrifices of our United States military personnel and believes specific THEREFORE, BEI ITI RESOLVED, with designation as a Green Light for Veterans County, Pike County hereby declares from October through Veterans Day, November 11th 2023 at time tos salute and honor the service and sacrifices of THEREFORE, BE ITFURTHER RESOLVED, that inc observance of Operation Greenl Light, Pike County encourages its citizens inp patriotic tradition tor recognize thei importance ofl honoring all those who madei immeasurable sacrifices top preserve freedom by displaying greenl lights ina a window of their place of business or residence from November  and women who have selflessly served our country and this community int the Armed Forces; and  maintaining the freedoms and way of life enjoyed by our citizens; and  themselves inl harm's s way for the good ofa all; and  and  from military to civilian life; and their first year after military service; and Operation Green) Light for Veterans; and recognition should be granted;  our men and women in uniform transitioning from active service;  6th through the 12th, 2023.  BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS OF PIKE COUNTY  Matthew M. Osterberg, Chairman Ronald R. Schmalzle, Vice Chairman R.Anthony Waldron, Commissioner  ATTEST:  Krista Gromalski, ChiefClerk    PennState! Extension  Penn State Extension Upcoming Events  November 1, 2023 Community Development:  FIRST THREEI INSTARS: APRIL THROUGHJ JULY  FOURTH JULY THROUGH INSTAR: AUGUST  OVERWINTERING: PREVIOUS FALL TOA APRIL/JUNE  EGGI LAYING: SEPTEMBER TON NOVEMBER  ADULT LATEJULY EMERGENCE:  Spottedl lanternfly lifec cycle. llustration OE Emily S. Damstra.  Spotted Lanternfly  Pike County is ini the quarantine area. Ify you! have spotted this insect, please call our hotline at 1-888-422-3359 or visit our website toi immediately tor report a sighting. Please contact yourl local Penn Newly hatched nymphs are small (-1/81 inch) and can be hard to find, often being mistaken for small ticks or spiders. With eachr molt tot ther nexti instar, ther nymphs roughly double in size. Thei first three Tol learni more about the Spotted Lanternfly (SLF) and what actiony you can take to stop the spread of this  State Extension office with questions on spotted lanternfly management.  instars are black with white spots.  invasive insect, visit our website, ntps/lextensonsueduispoteclantemtly, Remember, every adult stomped out can prevent 30-50€ eggs being laid!  4-H/Youth:  Adults - Wel NEED you!! Pike County 4-Hi isi in desperate need of adult volunteers to leady youth groups! Share whaty youa are passionate about with! kids who are interested in learning ar new: skill or hobby. As a Group! Leader, yous gett the opportunity to determine how much timey yous spend and what activity you do, while 4-H willl help with supplies and support. Consider volunteering your time to make a difference ina Contact Penn State Extension in Pike County for more information oni the 4-H program by calling (570) 832-2800 or send ane emailt tot the 4-H coordinator, Angela Smith, at axs1397@psu.edu. Please like us on Facebook at htps/mw.laselok.omePhaCoumyeaH.  child's life.  4-Hi is open toy youth ages 5-18, unless otherwise noted.  1  Please visith httpsllextension, psu. edut tos search forr moret topics thatr may! bec ofi interest, orv visit  httpslextension. psu.e edu/aboutme tos signu upt toh have up-to-datei information ofy your choosinge emailed directlyt to you.    PennState! Extension  Family:  Kinship Family Forum Onl Demand Webinars  Visit our website extension.psu.edu: and search' Kinship Family Forum.' You willf find very informative pre- recorded classes on Kinship care - at term usedf fori individuals that are not the biological parents oft the Penn State Extension collaborates with the Clearinghouse for Military Family Readiness at Penn Statet to  children they are raising for whatever reason.  offer Thrive resources.  There is nor registration feet for each pre-recorded webinar.  Food Safety:  ServSafe  ServSafe Food Safety Program isf fori individuals who are serving as managers or are in as supervisory role requiring certification. Upon successful completion, participants will receive the ServSafe Food Protection Manager Certificate. Training meets the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture requirements for the Food Employee Certification Act. There is a $165.00 feet tot take the course andy you must pre-register. Forr morei information or to determine the closest class location and dates, visit  https/extension.psu.edu/servsate. Cooking for Crowds  Inl Person - Thursday, November 2, 2023 (6:00 PM - 9:00 PMI ET)  Preparing foodi in large quantities is different than food preparation ini the home. Cooking for Crowds: A Volunteer's Guidet to Safe Food Handling webinar program helps non-profit organizations andt their volunteers understand" ther risks involved with preparing large volumes of food and thei important food safety practices that need tol be implemented to ensure a safe event. Access tot the live webinar, as well as thei ingredient/supply list willl be provided ini the registration email. Therei is a $5.00 registration fee  for the event, but your must pre-register. Forr morei information or tor register, visit  https/lextension.psudlu/cokng.orcrowds-webinar.  Gardening:  Master Gardeners and online andi in-person events.  Home Garden News! has the latest news and information on classes, workshops, publications, videos, Sign upt tor receive news, upcoming event details, gardening information, andt ther monthly e-newsletter at https//extension.psedu/teslawnsawnsanclandscaping.nhome-gardening. By entering your email, you consent tor receive communications from Penn State Extension - view the privacypolicy. The Orchids for Everyone webinar series, a collaboration with Master Gardeners and the American Orchid Society, will answer many ofy your orchid questions for bothi indoor and outdoor growing. Each of the six sessions covers a different topic and includes a Q&A session following the presentation. Via Zoom- Tuesday, November 7, 2023 (7:00 PM - 8:15 PME ET) Selecting ther right plant for the right place is thel key tos success with orchids and other houseplants. There are soI many to choose from at the grocery stores, boxs stores, online, and at orchid shows. Orchids for Everyone: Thel Most Popular Orchid Genera and How to Identify Them willi identify the most popular genera of orchids available and provides al basic overview of some growing and care concerns for each. Therei is a $10.00 registration fee for the event, andy your must pre-register. For morei information or to register, visit htps/extension.psedu/orchideioreveronetne-mostpopularorchidgenera-and-how: One of ther most feared tasks of newer growers is repotting! Have noi fear; Orchids for Everyone: How to Repot, Divide, and Mount Orchids will demonstrate how to repot various genera of orchids and when you can make a division. Many orchids do great mounted, and we will also show the best ways to mount an orchid. Therei is a $10.00 registration fee for the event, andy your must pre-register. For morei information  Orchids for Everyone  to-identify-them.  Via Zoom- Wednesday, November 15, 2023 (5:00 PM - 6:15 PMI ET)  2  Please visith https l/extension. psu.e edut tos search forr moret topics thatr may! bec of interest, or visit  httpsllextension, psu.e edu/aboutmet tos sign upt toh have up-to-datei information ofy your choosing emailed directlyt to you.    PennState Extension  ort tor register, visit! ntps/lextension.psueduorchdsforevenonehorsorepotdvideandmount In Orchids for Everyone: General Orchid Care, we will consider whaty your need tol know to enjoy orchids in your home. Beyond that, we will present youy withi the basic growingi information your needt to keep those orchids happy andh healthy soy you can enjoy their flowers year aftery year. Growing orchids is rewarding and al lot of fun! Therei is a $10.00 registration feei fort the event, andy your must pre-register. For more information or to register, visit tps/eAtensonpsueducuoehNdoeseDpRegenemkorehidcar. Invasive species are one of the largest and growing threats tol biodiversity, ecosystem health, and economies of Pennsylvania and surrounding states. During Managing Common Invasive Shrubs, participants willl learn howt toi identify andi manage shrub honeysuckle (Lonicera spp.), autumn olive (Elaeagnus umbellata), Japanese barberry (Berberis thunbergii), multiflora rose (Rosa multiflora), and privet (Ligustrum spp). There is no registration feet fort the event, buty your must pre-register. Forr more information ort tor register, visit ntps//extensionpsuedumansgngsommon-nvasiveshrubs.  orchids.  Via Zoom- Tuesday, November 21, 2023 (7:00 PM - 8:15 PMET)  Managing Common Invasive Shrubs  Via Zoom - Wednesday, November 15, 2023 (12:00 PM - 1:00 PMI ET).  Managing Tree of Heaven & Other Invasive Trees Via Zoom - Friday, November 17, 2023 (12:00 PM -1:00 PMI ET).  Invasive species are one of the largest and growing threats tol biodiversity, ecosystem health, and economies of Pennsylvania and surrounding states. Att this workshop, participants willl learn about how toi identify and manage Tree of Heaven (Ailanthus altissima) as well as other invasive trees. This workshop is worth one SAF and ISA credit. There is nor registration feef fort the event, buty you must pre- register. Forr more information ort to register, visit tpslestemsonpsusdumansgnoptreafiener.  ncginer-nvasiverres.  Second Saturday Gardening Series  Via Zoom Saturday, November 11,2023 (12:00 PM - 1:00F PME ET).  Second. Saturday Gardening Series: Winter. Sowing - Low- Cost Seed Starting Method will show the most cost-effective methods fori initiating plants for your 2024 garden. It is simple, dependable, enjoyable, and willp prevent youri indoor spacei from becoming overcrowded with plants. There is a $10.00 registration feef fori the event, andy your must pre-register. For more information ort to register, visit httpsIllextension. pauedlusecondsaturdaygaceaingseresawinNersoMIpibusOIEsestseedstamring.method. Via Zoom - Friday, November 17, 2023 (12:00 PM - 1:00PME ET). Second Saturday Gardening Series: Putting Your Garden to Bed willi focus on lawn! health, thei importance ofas soil test and how to readi it, how to store and save Dahlias, how toy protect your plants over the winter, providing winter! habitats for beneficial insects, and muchi more. There is a $10.00 registration feet for thee event, and your mustp pre-register by November 17,2023. For more information or to register, visit! ntps/lextensonpsuedluiscomdatundaygadaygardémingseftsputingnourgardensobed. Visit our website, extension.p psu.edu, and search Second Saturday Gardening Series. You will find informative pre-recorded classes on composting, enjoying holiday plants, nature in autumn, winter very  On-Demand Webinar  sowing, pollinators, house plant propagation, seed starting, pruning, etc. There is a $10.00 registration feei for each pre-recorded webinar.  ** Planting for Pollinators in Sun and Shade Know your Natives Series On-Demand Webinars  Available until 03/14/24  Visit our website, extension.psuedu, and search Know your Natives.' Expand garden enthusiasts' knowledge and appreciation oft these versatile and valuable plants. The Master Gardeners will cover native plants' many benefits to our home gardens and landscapes. Speakers will focus on pollinator- friendly native plants int this fall series. However, thep plants can be usedi in all native plantings ini the garden and landscape. Enjoy classes on Native Seeds, Under Appreciated Plants, Shrubs and more.  ** Under-Appreciated Plants ** Container Gardens  Available until 11/28/23 Available until 04/28/24  There is a $5.00 feet to access this pre-recorded webinar. Therei is a $10.001 fee to access this pre-recorded webinar. Please visith httpsllextension, psu.e edu tos search forr moret topics thatr may! bec ofi interest, or visit  3  psmmsngNcaaaNe tos sign upt toh have up-to-datei information ofy your choosinge emailed directly toy you.    PennStateE Extension  Green Industry Update Series On-Demand Webinars  Visit our website, extension.psuedu, ands search Green Industry Update.' You willf find very informative pre-recorded classes on invasive species, pestr management (including but notl limited to- spongy moths, mosquitos, ticks, etc.), noxious weeds, pesticide safety, pondr management, etc. Thet following pre-recorded webinars require a $10.00 registration feet to access them:  ** Invasive Weed Identification Trivia ** Understanding: &I Managing Noxious Weeds inF PA ** Greenhouse &1 Interior Plantscapel Pest Management ** Unusual Plant Pests in PA ** Core Pesticide Safety Topics **N Mosquito &7 Tick Management **L Leaf Feeding Beetles & Tree Disease Update ** Aquatic Plants and Pond Management  ** Powdery Mildew Review and Environmental Stressor on Landscape Plants Thet following pre-recorded webinars require a $15.00 registration fee to access them:  All thev webinars int the Green Industry Update Series are available until 12/23/2023. Certification credits mayl be available, depending ont the webinar!  Health:  Mental Wellness Series  Via Zoom - Monday, November 6, 2023 (12:00 PM - 1:00F PMI ET)  Duet to challenging times, stress, anxiety, depression, and related disorders are on1 the rise. During thel Mental Wellness Series: Emotional Overloady you willl learn how to identify signs of stress and be taught strategies to reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression, including the practice of self-directed cognitive behavioral therapy. You willl learn to change your pessimistic thinking into positive and productive thoughts. There isi no registration feet for thee event, but your must pre-register. For more information ort tor register, visit https/extension.psedu/mentalwelnessseresemotionaloverload. Mental Wellness: Grief and Loss Every Day presents grief as a response to change. When we recognize and understand grief, we can betterr respond to changes int healthy ways. This webinar willl helpy you do that and will show you! how to support others in challenging times. Therei is no registration fee for the  Via Zoom Monday, November 13, 2023 (12:00 PM - 1:00PMET) event, buty your must pre-register. For morei information or tor register, visit tps/extensionpsuedumentalwelnessenesgnetanceland-oss-every-day, Via Zoom - Monday, November 20, 2023 (12:00F PM-1:00PMET)  Gain an understanding: of thei impacts surrounding mental health and substance use and addiction during part four of thes six-part Mental Wellness complimentary webinar series. During the Mental Wellness Series: Understanding. Addiction, we willp provide a comprehensive definition of addiction, explore the intricate relationship between addiction and the brain, delve into1 the impact of addiction on mental health, ands sharet thep personal stories oft those affected by addiction. Therei is no registration feei for the  event, buty your must pre-register. Forr morei information ort tor register, visit itps/extension.psuedumenalelnesssenesunderstanding-addiction. Via Zoom - Monday, November 6, 2023 (12:00 PM - 1:00 PMI ET)  Understanding Alzheimer's and Dementia  or Tuesday, November 7, 2023 (11:00 AM - 12:00PME ET)  Int the United States alone, more than 61 million individuals live with Alzheimer's disease and 11 million people serve ast their unpaid caregivers. Penn State Extension is partnering with the Alzheimer's Associatione top provide: Understanding. Alzheimer's and Dementia, an educational webinar that provides ag general overview of Alzheimer's disease and dementia. There isi nor registration fee for the event, but your must pre-register by November 3, 2023 or November 6, 2023. For more information or1 tor register,  visit htpsllextension.psuedumentalwelnesereshelpingothersindistess. Please visith https: l/extension. psu. edut tos searchf forr moret topics thatr may bec ofi interest, or visit  4  https/extension. psu.e edu/aboutme tos sign upt toh have up-to-datei information ofy your choosinge emailed directlyt to you.    PennStatel Extension  Mental Health First Aid  Via Zoom - Tuesday, November 7, 2023 (12:45 AM - 4:00 PME ET)  and Wednesday, November 8, 2023 (8:45 AM - 12:00 PME ET)  Thei impact of mental health challenges int the United States isi increasing. As certified instructors, Penn State Extension educators teach the National Council for Mental Wellbeing's Mental Health First Aid course. Individuals willl learn thep purpose of Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) and common signs and symptoms of mental health and substance use challenges in adults. Participants willl bei taught the importance of earlyi intervention on mentall health challenges and what the appropriate steps are of the MHFA Action Plan. Ina addition, individuals will learn what itr means tob be al Mental Health First Aider, as well as methods of self-caret tot take care of themselves. There is a $35.00 registration fee for1 the event, and your mustp pre-register by October 25, 2023. For more information or to register, visit Via Zoom - Tuesday, November 14, 2023 (12:45 AM - 4:00PMET)  https/extension.psudu/adut-mental-health-firstaid.  and Wednesday, November 15, 2023 (8:45 AM - 12:00 PMI ET)  Mental Health First Aidi for Adults Working with Youthi is designed toi teach adults who regularly interact withy young people how to provide initial support to youth experiencing mentall health or addiction challenges and assist them int finding the! help and care they need. As certified instructors, Penn State Extension educators teachi the National Council for Mental Wellbeing's Youth Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) course. This course consists oft two hours of self-paced online learning and a six-hour live instructor-led virtual class. The course includes activities and opportunities to practice support strategies. A certificate will be available online after completion of the course. Therei is a $35.00 registration feef for the event, andy your must pre-register by September 22, 2023. For more information or tor register, visit ntps/extension.psuedumema-healtinfistaidaduts.wos-working-withyouth.  Strategies for Building Child Vaccine Confidence Via Zoom - Tuesday, November 7, 2023 (1:00 PM -2:00P PMI ET)  Wednesday, November 8, 2023 (1:00 PM - 2:00 PM), (1:00 PM -2 2:00), or orl Thursday, November 9, 2023 (12:00 PM - 1:00 PM) or (6:00 PM -7:00 PM)  (6:30 PM -7:30 PM)  Join ust for af frees session where you can gain confidence as an early childhood professional, learning howt to communicate effectively with families to address their concerns and promote thei importance of childhood vaccinations. Therei is no registration fee for the event, buty you must pre-register. For more information ort to register, visit! ntps/leatensionpsuedstategeslocbundingshlèsarcine  confidence.  Suicide Prevention Training  Via Zoom - Monday, November 20, 2023 (1:00 PM -3 3:00 PMI ET)  Developed byt the QPRI Institute, this 2-hourt training is designed for all people concerned about helping others with mental health ands substance use challenges, regardless of their background. QPRi is an emergency mental health intervention for persons considering suicide. Participants will learn skills to identify and interrupt a crisis and direct someone to proper care. There is no registration fee fort the event, but your must pre-register by November 19, 2023. For morei information or to register, visit  ntps/emensonpsueducoaeepesictesucoepreventon.taling,  Land:  Advice from the Woods  Via Zoom - Wednesday, November 8, 2023 (12:00 PM - 1:00 PMI ET)  Advice from thel Woods: Ask Our Experts willi involve a panel of Forestry and Wildlife Extension Educators and Faculty tackling participantsubmited or commonly asked questions and scenarios as a team. This is an opportunity tol hear multiple informed perspectives to helpy you gain al better handle addressing or solving ani issue. Therei isi no registration fee fori the event, but) you must pre-register. For more information ort tor register, visit ntpslextensionpsu.duaokceltominenondsaskourexpers: Via Zoom - Wednesday, November 15, 2023 (12:00 PM - 1:15PMET) The Land Use Webinar Series, partnered with the Pennsylvania Chapter of the American Planning Association (PA-APA), is a series of monthly sessions that present in-depth information on land use Pleasey visit ttpsl/extension., psu.e edut tos searchi forr moret topics thatr may! bec ofi interest, or visit htpsllextension.psue edu/aboutme tos sign upt toh have up-to-datei information of your choosinge emailed directlyt toy you.  Land Use Webinar Series  5    PennStatel Extension  topics affecting the communities of Pennsylvania. This series benefits those involved in decision-making processes regarding using orp preserving natural resources. For more information or to register, visit  tps/etensonpsuedu/ancusewebina.  Leadership:  Hiring and Retention - Facilitating Meetings/Managing Time Via Zoom Tuesday, November 14, 2023 (10:00 AM -11:30 AMI ET)  Facilitating Meetings and Managing Your Time will relay informationi toi the attendees about improved facilitation skills, whichy will help meetings andp projects stay on track. This webinar willa also cover personal time management: strategies to! helpl leaders manage multiple priorities. Therei is no registration feef for thee event, buty your must pre-register. For more information ort to register,visit ntps//extension.psueduninngandretention-faclitatingmeetingsandmanagingyour-time  Water:  Sources of Information for Well/Spring Owners Via Zoom - Wednesday, November 1, 2023 (1:00 PM -2:00 PME ET)  How much doy youl know about your private water supply? There is a great deal of information available forp private water system owners, but! knowing where tol look can be overwhelming. Sources of Information for Wella and Spring Owners will introduce a variety of resources availablei for finding out information that can helpy yout tol better manage your private water supply. There is no registration fee for  thee event, buty your mustp pre-register. For more information ort to register,visit itps/extension.psucdusourcesatintormationforwelandspringowners: Via Zoom - Wednesday, November 8, 2023 (1:00 PM - 2:00 PMI ET)  Nitrogen in Groundwater  Nitrogen in Groundwater Where Does it Come from and Whata are the Health Risks will discuss why nitrogen isf frequently foundi inp private wells across the Commonwealth, thep potential health hazards it poses, andt thes steps private wells owners can take tor minimize their risks. Therei is nor registration fee fort the event, but your mustp pre-register. Forr more information ort to register, visit ntps/extensionpsueduntiogemangoundantehereicomes.toomanchealthaisk: Via Zoom - Wednesday, November 15, 2023 (12:00 PM- -1:00PMET)  Water Cooler Talk  The Choose Native project is a collaboration between the Great Lakes Commission (GLC), Pennsylvania Sea Grant, and Penn State Extension. The primary focus of ther project is preventing invasive species introductions through the organisms int trade (OIT) pathway, mainly targeting the landscaping and water gardening industry. Results from statewide industry surveys will be presented during this session, and the next steps inc creating a Choose Native publication for landscapers, water gardeners, and homeowners willl be discussed. There is nor registration fee fori the event, but your must pre-register. For more information or tor register, visit! ntps/extensionpsuedunatercoctaikcioosenatveinitatve Penn State offers drinking water, as well asl lake/pond water, testing kits through the Penn State University Lab. Call the Extension office at 570-832-2800 to arrange top pick-up test kits andi information. Test results take one tot three weeks or more depending on thet test. Fori more information on Water Quality, visit tp/etemsongsuedunaturkesoureshate, or call us at (570) 832-2800. Visit our website, extension.psu.edu, and search 'Water Webinar Series. 'The Water Webinar Series is hosted byt the Penn State Extension' Water Resources team. Learn about a variety of private water topics such as common! health and aesthetic impacts on drinking water supplies, preventing bacteria contamination, well construction, ands septic systems. Each event willi include ani interactive Q&A session with the presenters! There is no registration fee fori this event, buty your must pre-register.  in-pennsylvania.  Water Testing (Drinking & Lake/Pond)  Water Webinar Series  6  Please visit! httpslextension, psu.edut tos searchi forr moret topicst thatr may bec ofi interest, or visit  https/extension psu.e edu/aboutme tos sign upt toh have up-to-c datei information of your choosinge emailed directly toy you.    Wednesday, October 18, 2023, 2023  Thes second regular meeting ofOctober 18, 2023, oft the Pike County Commissioners was called to order by Commissioner Osterberg at 11:00a a.m. att thel Pike County Administration Building, followed by the "Pledge of Allegiance" to the flag. PRESENT: Commissioners Osterberg, Schmalzle. and' Waldron; ChiefClerk Gromalski; and Solicitor Farley.  Public Comments/ Questions concerning today's agenda - NONE A RETIREMENT BOARD MEETING was held.  Motion to recess the Commissioners' Meeting tol holda a Retirement. Board Meeting.  Motion to adjourn the RETIREMENT BOARD MEETING and reconvene the Commissioners', Meeting. MOTION: by Commissioner Waldron: and seconded by Commissioner Schmalzle, to approve the October 18, 2023, VOTE: Commissioners Osterberg, Schmalzle and Waldron voted 'aye'. Motion carried. MOTION: by Commissioner Waldron and seconded by Commissioner Schmalzle, to approve the October VOTE: Commissioners Osterberg, Schmalzle and Waldron voted 'aye'. Motion carried. MOTION: by Commissioner Waldron and seconded by Commissioner Schmalzle, to approve the October VOTE: Commissioners Osterberg, Schmalzle and' Waldron voted 'aye'. Motion carried. MOTION: by Commissioner Waldron and seconded by Commissioner Schmalzle, to approve payment from VOTE: Commissioners Osterberg, Schmalzle and Waldron voted 'aye'. Motion carried. MOTION: by Commissioner Waldron ands seconded by Commissioner Schmalzle, to approve VOTE: Commissioners Osterberg, Schmalzle and' Waldron voted 'aye'. Motion carried.  Agenda. Minutes.  4, 2023, Meeting 11,2023, the  Conference Minutes. GENERAL  FUNDS (County Bills) in the amount of $549,483.48.  from the BRIDGE  REPAIR. ACCOUNT int the amount of $4,740.91.  payment  PERSONNEL  MOTION: by Commissioner Waldron and seconded by Commissioner Schmalzle, tol hire CHRISTINA CUBIE as time Legal Secretary in Children and Youth Services for less than 1,000 hours per year, retroactive to October 16, part- 2023. MOTION: by Commissioner Waldron ands seconded by Commissioner Schmalzle, tol hire BRUNO RODRIGUES full-time Driver int the Transportation fora 40-hour work week, retroactive to October 16, 2023, with benefits after asa 90  VOTE:Commisioner: Osterberg, Schmalzle and' Waldron voted 'aye'. Motion carried.  days.  VOTE: Commissioners Osterberg, Schmalzle and' Waldron voted 'aye'. Motion carried. Motion tor recess the Commissioners' Meeting to holda. Salary Board Meeting.  ASALARYI BOARD MEETING was held.  Motion to adjourn the SALARY, BOARD MEETING and reconvene the Commissioners' Meeting.  OLDBUSINESS George Street Parking Project.  MOTION: by Commissioner Waldron and seconded by Commissioner Schmalzle, tor reject the awarding oft the bid for the  VOTE: Commissioners Osterberg, Schmalzle and Waldron voted 'aye'. Motion carried. MOTION: by Commissioner Waldron and seconded by Commissioner Schmalzle, to VOTE: Commissioners Osterberg, Schmalzle and' Waldron voted 'aye". Motion carried. Solicitor Farley announced there aret two (2) bids. The first from CRL Electric int the amount of $275,335 and the next bid from Northend Electric: int the amount of$ $220,000. Iwould ask this bet tabled until the next meeting. MOTION: by Commissioner Waldron and seconded by Commissioner Schmalzle, tot tablet the Ave Building Interior Renovations Project Electrical Contract until thel November 1,2 2023 Commissioners' awarding VOTE: Commissioners Osterberg, Schmalzle and Waldron voted 'aye'. Motion carried.  bids for Bennett  1 Interior Renovations Project Electrical Contract.  open  Ave Building  of bid Bennett for meeting. Facility.  NEW BUSINESS  MOTION: by Commissioner Waldron and seconded by Commissioner Schmalzle, to advertise bids for Fresh Bread and Baked Goods for the period of. January 1,2024, until December 31,2024, on behalfo of the Correctional VOTE: Commissioners Osterberg, Schmalzle and Waldron voted 'aye'. Motion carried. MOTION: by Commissioner Waldron and seconded by Commissioner Schmalzle, to execute the Family First Transition VOTE: Commissioners Osterberg, Schmalzle and' Waldron voted 'aye'. Motion carried.  Act Invoice/Claim, on! behalfofChildren: and Youth Services.    MOTION: by Commissioner Waldron ands seconded by Commissioner Schmalzle, to execute the CAPP Grant-In-Aid 2023-2024 Grant Application for the period of. July 1,2023 - June 30, 2024, on behalfo oft the Adult Probation MOTION: by Commissioner Waldron and seconded by Commissioner Schmalzle, to execute the Section 504 Plan, on MOTION: by Commissioner Waldron and seconded by Commissioner Schmalzle, to approve the Pike County Home Program Payment Voucher in the amount of $1,200.00 payable tol Frank DeEsch, on behalfoft the Office of Human MOTION: by Commissioner Waldron and seconded by Commissioner Schmalzle, to approve the 2018 CDBG Program Payment Voucher int the amount of$1,200.00 payable to Ray Evans, on behalfoft the Office ofHuman Services. MOTION: by Commissioner Waldron and seconded by Commissioner Schmalzle, to approve the: following Human Services payment Vouchers on behalf oft the Office of Human Services: State Food) Purchase Program int the amount of $1,695.70; Emergency Rental Assistance Program 2.0 in the amount of$69,654.76; and Human Services Development VOTE: Commissioners Osterberg, Schmalzle and Waldron voted" 'aye'. Motion carried. MOTION: by Commissioner Waldron and seconded by Commissioner Schmalzle, to appoint DOROTHY Y.LEES to the Pike County Area Agency on Aging Advisory Council for a 3-year term, expiring December 31,2026. VOTE: Commissioners Osterberg, Schmalzle and Waldron voted' 'aye'. Motion carried.  Department.  VOTE: Commissioners Osterberg, Schmalzle and Waldron voted 'aye". Motion carried. VOTE: Commissioners Osterberg, Schmalzle and' Waldron voted 'aye". Motion carried.  behalf oft the Office of Human Services.  Services.  VOTE: Commissioners Osterberg, Schmalzle and Waldron voted 'aye'. Motion carried. VOTE: Commissioners Osterberg, Schmalzle and Waldron voted 'aye'. Motion carried.  Fund int the amount of $8,039.64.  MISCELLANEOUS:  PennState Extension Calendar of Events  Lights On Afterschool- Cera Alber, Director of Programs and Outreach Green" Trees Early Learning Center, Inc. Cera Alber thanked the Commissioners for taking the time tol have Green" Trees Early Learning Center, Inc. here this morning. Iam! here with Mary Rebe, Center Director and Angela Smith, from 4-H Extension, which alsos supports Lights On Afterschool. Cera Alber continued that she also serves ont the Commission for Professional Excellence and Early Childhood Education. Iam al Pennsylvania Afterschool Ambassador, that'sa new program that was just started through PSAYDN, whichi is the Pennsylvania Afterschool Youth and Development at Work. Ihave an afterschool child, she is7% % years old and she has saids some things about the afterschool programs and! how it's impacted her lifes specifically (slides shown). The Pennsylvania State-Wide Afterschool Youth) Development Network known as PSAYDN was founded in 2004 with the mission to provide sustainable, high quality, out ofs school times programs. The afterschool time program is a program that is wraparound care for children. Itcould be as young as kindergarten students all the way up through high schoolers and they provide a variety of different resources for families in our area and across the State. The main mission at PSAYDN is toj provide high quality programming, acknowledgment tot these programs and provide further programming because there's a lot of children in our State and around the Country that don't Lights on Afterschool is a rallying movement that started ini the year 2000. Itist tos shine al light on the support oft these programs. We are trying tol literally and figuratively light up our children that are in these afterschool programs. This iss some artwork that our children did at Green" Trees recently (slide shown). We're also coordinating witht the 4-H Extension that is going tol be doing a display ont the Extension lawn that I'mi really excited about. There are other afterschool programs in our area such as GAIT Therapeutic Riding Center, Sunshine Station and the public school district; there are programs in our area, it's just raising the awareness and trying tos see about funding for children that aren'tavailable tot the inner program currently. Why should we shine a light on an: after-school program? These are statistics taken in 2019, recently and when asking parents and family members what they feel the important benefits are that their children have received, these are the answers thatt they got. Allin 70%-80% ranging from STEMI learning to giving parents that are working families in our areaj just a general peace ofr mind of having this safe place for their children to be while they't 're at work, keeping kids safe and out oft trouble, and giving them plenty ofactivities and resources tol keep them ont the right path, helping kids build life skills. A lot oft these programs we look at the future of our children, where are they going, college tuition programs, children in other out-of-school programs and how they can continue tol build on their own life skills. Also, helping children build their physical activity. Iwas very excited to propose the idea of lighting up local landmarks. This is one oft the hallmark ideas ofLights On Afterschool to show that big shining light ands shining that focus on out ofs school type programs. Other landmarks that have been liti upi int the pasti include the Hershey Ferris Wheel at] Hershey Park and the Empire Cera Alber said we can continue providing support tot these programs by shining al light on our local community landmarks. Wel have all of our children that have been doing these lightbulb art projects and continue doinga glowing theme next week for our weekly afterschool programs. They' 're going tol be making things like that  have access tol high quality programs.  State Building.    glow int the dark slime, very messy buta a lot off fun! We're going to1 make light up lanterns, aspect of glowing and light into the curriculum for the children; other ideas, issuing a formal incorporating Proclamation this support ofLights On Afterschool and talking withy your community members, seeing what our needs. Iknow that there are SOI many children that don't have access to these afterschool time community that's what really what the focus is about, not just acknowledging the current every one child there are four children that are on wait lists right now. That'sj programs, just in our State of that There are currently only twol Early Learning Centers in our area that provide afterschool Reporter Chris Jones asked where Green Trees Early Learning Center is located. Cera Alber from the American Legion at the old) Muir House (102 County Rd 2001). Commissioner Osterberg thanked Cera Alber and said we certainly do support all oft the we can do. Iknow that Angie (Smith) is on your team andt that'sal ball of energy from the programs County and that'sa good thing 4Hisag good partnership witht them. Whatever we can do, ift there's Proclamations we needt render, just tell us what we need to do and we're certainly here tol helps your makes sure you AEMTTraining! Expansion- Tim Knapp, OEMI Director and Kyle Rohner, Operations Manager Office of Emergency Management Tim Knappi introduced himself and announced before het talks hel has a little return ofi investment in our students at the academy from the Rural EMS Initiative about training, Fund. he said $5,350.00 put back into our account and training more people. Commissioner Osterberg asked who Ihave from? Tim Knapp answered thel Rural Initiative Fund, whichi is part oft the EMS (Emergency Medical that is ofNortheast PA. Basically, they' Il match us a certain amount ofs students which we should be more back fors some of the equipment wej purchased as well. Wetry tol hit them up for everything getting we can get. Tim Knapp said he wants to give an update on what wel have going on at the academy this professional certification classes and we've added two new classes of certification. Our Spring year. and We've Falll run EMT four (Emergency Medical Technician) class equal twenty-four students, whichi is a great number. twelvet tof fifteen students per class. Our entry level program between the two classes we'vel hadi We average about students, and those numbers are really good too. We've done one hundred and fifteen hundred and fifty-two students attending. The CTE class from Wallenpaupack, the trainings school with seventeen Protective Service. Academy, this yeart they have thirteen int their firefighter year and high fourteen int class, the Int the beginning when wes startedt this EMS venture, we: saidi in order to get the best EMS have we need tos start with the BLS (Basic Life Support) Program. Ican assure Kyle process I that we can thet time, the BLS problem is fixed andi it's fixed good. I'm proud to say I'd put you, it up against andI review CADall State. Itist that good. Wea also said at that time in ordert to geti into the ALS (Advanced Life any program int the tot fix the BLS. I'm here tot telly you that that'sy working as well. Lackawaxen now has a Support), time we need as anl EMT. Delaware, who always hada a paramedic, uses the EMTI Program now and sometimes part ALS unit on on. Iwas ina ai meeting last weekend, andI Iheard that' Tafton, Palmyra Township votedi in some. kind of ALS as well. Now you' 're seeing the ALS. Wel have Lackawaxen, Leman, Delaware favor of going and now with Palmyra, you't re starting tos see these ALS Units come on board. With that, we hadt the same had with the BLS Program. In order tol haves some BLSI Program, youl have tol have people that problem can that we field, sO wer really had to up our training to gett them to where they need tol be. With the ALS or EMT, we't 're doing the same thing there as well. We: are probably a couple of weeks accredited, it's been al long haul, tol be able to certify and teach people at thel EMTI level away at the. being equipment has been purchased, we' re just going through the logistics and I'm not the greatest with Academy. a lot All the terminology, SO whent they get preceptors and stuff liket that, it'sl kind of hard to go are this close. Hopefully, late thisy year, early next year, you'll see your first AEMT through that process, but we Medical Technician) class att the Academy. That's big, because ifwe'r re need top produce AEMT's to dot that. Fort those of you who don't] know what going AEMT support is, these level AEMT's, we paramedic, you have EMT, AEMT andt then paramedic. Some oft this stufft they do as an itisal AEMTi is right can below injections, they can administer certain types ofi medicine, they are regulated on what they can do iti they form do ALS. You're seeing a lot of people switch or go to the AEMT. I've workedal lot with folks downi in isa Lancaster/Lebanon: region tot try to come up withs some ideas fori it. They liked it andi it was more them because somebody didn'thavet to got to college fort twos years to become aj paramedic. Tim Knapp said we: are still struggling with thel National Registry, it'st tough. There's no doubt about it. ever took in! his life. He wasn't sure ifh he passed it, he did. That's aj problem Registry, and that's aj the toughest test he You used to1 needa a solid sixty college credits to become a State Trooper, now they waived that. You Police. don't need those sixty college credits; we need to do the same thing withl EMS. We need they to make this National optional - not mandatory. They say, "well nationally you can go here andj practice and go there and Registry My soni isaf firefighter inl Maryland. The first thing he hast to do now, take a forty-eight-hour as an EMT andl he'sal National Registry EMT! National isn't National - the State Police are able class to in waive Maryland college credits fora aj jobt that starts at $80K ay year, we should be able to do: something witht this National sixty Registry ata aj jobt that starts at $30K-$35K: a year. That's basically all have.  and  but the programs fact and for Pennsylvania. programs, ours being said we're across and whatever these to expand  one oft them. Thank yous SOI much.  programs.  some Services)  fifty-two their EMS year.  has an EMT work int the from coming on board ofEMS  to (Advanced Emergency  of  useful for They were ablet to  take ai two-hundred-hour class to do ita andg get through it.  son, two college degrees, two weeks agot told me after he took the National level. Wer need everybody's! help withi it. I'ms sure all ofyoul have seen what  it was  My  did witht problem the State at the State  practice".    Tim Knapp asked] Kyle Rohner tot tell us about next Wednesday, October 25th. Kyle Rohner said from 5PMto 7PM we' rej partnering with the Northeast Monroe and Pike County Servpro (through the Chamber of Commerce). They"ll be doing al First Responder/Business Mixer att the Pike County Training Center. When asked by Tim Knapp! how many departments will they represent, Kyle Rohner answered we' re hoping all fifteen fire departments will bet there. Tim Knapp added Ithink wel have representation from every emergency Commissioner Osterberg: asked" Tim] Knapp on the AEMT, these scholarships, the money that youj just handed to us, that funding willl be usedt tot train thosei individuals also? Tim) Knapp answered yes. Commissioner Osterberg saidj just SO we't re clear how this gets paid for, this is that Initiative Fund through the Greater Pike Community Foundation which was formed three ori four years ago. Itl has continually funded and paid for all the scholarships for anybody int this County who wants tol become an) EMT or now ifthey want to become an AEMT, it's allj paido out oft this fund with some hopeful anticipation that they're going to volunteer or serve in some capacity ini the County. want to1 make sure everybody understands, we train people, but that is sometimes a little difficult because they' re younger people and they can't volunteer because maybe they're going off to college. The important thingi ist that we trained somebody to be an EMT. We trained somebody to be lifesaving for anybody because these types ofe emergencies can occur at any place ins somebody's life. Ijust want tob be make sure that we' re clear that, while this program is expanding, that $5K goes into that fund again. We are always asking for residents and the citizens, who are very generous, to donate to that fund, because this is whati it's used for. Tim Knapp added ifyous want tot take itas step further, some people have a fire department right next door tot them. All of the CPR, First Aid, AED Training, we use int the fire service world, comes out of Commissioner Osterbergs said it's taken al lot ofp pressure offthe local fire companies, all fifteen oft them, who before this were funding that. Not only that, sending the individuals to, ini many cases, down tol Lehigh Valley. Now, Tim and all the people that work up therel have become accredited, it's moved it here local, so now it's lesst time out of their lives to come and gett trained. Ther men and women up there are working very hard at protecting the residents oft this County. Tim saidt they have one that willl be finishing upi in November, another Reporter Chris. Jones asked that check is coming from what source? Tim Knapp replied it's coming from the Pennsylvania Rurall Initiative EMSI Fund. Pennsylvania has as source, it's calledt the Rural Initiative EMS Fund. Ican'tr remember the Act number. That comes from the State has a grant where they go out and try to encourage EMS ini rural organizations. The City of Philadelphia can't gett that grant money. Reporter Chris. Jones asked ift that's going into this? Commissioner Osterberg answered the Greater Pike Community Foundation, wes set upa a fundt there. Ifyour remember, a number of years ago, there were a couple ofindividuals in our community who came here and generously startedi it. From that point forward, wel have continually figured out ways tof fund that. Itc does not get funded except I believe the American Recovery money, twos years ago wet took $50K and put iti into its sot that itl had al better head-start because wet triedt to get that number tob be around $100K mark. Its starts tol become self-sustaining. They managed toi fund for us, as far asi investing it, the requests go into them when" Timj puts ina a request aftera a training and al bill comes intol him for the instructors, wes submit al bill down there, they reimburse the County, which pays the individuals up there for allt the training. Tim) Knapp saidi ifyou took all the average EMT classes, it costs us about $7K to run the Reporter Preston Ehrlers saidy you said that we' re moving passed BLSt to ALS, which is great, can you give us a comparison or contrast tot the current state of our BLSt throughout the County in the various Municipalities from five, ten, years ago, when iti needed attention to where iti is now? Tim Knapp answered we always said we need toi fix the BLS problem. Wel hadj problems just like the rest oft the State has. The State of Pennsylvania has an EMS problem. Witht the plan we moved forward, after all the studies were done and everything else. Wel knew wel hadt tol boost our BLS. The days of waiting for twenty minutes for somebody to respond is over. These are all career staffed units, they" re on the road. Itv was getting to the point during the EMS crisis where my phone would ring constantly 'we' re tired of going here, we't 're tired of going there'. Now, everybody understands it'sa County-wide initiative soi ifthey have to go someplace else, so be it, that's where they have to go. Kyle Rohner added he thinks the mutual aid was a lot less. Commissioner Osterberg said everybody has skini int the game now. Everybody'si involved, everybody'ss services are up and running. That was aj problem before, when there was less mutual aid. It wasn't tanybody'sf fault; it was justt that there was not enough volunteers at that time to service the County. Now, with this with ap paid staff wel have personnel out there ready to go ata a moment's notice, whethert they' re on call or not, but they're there. As we' ve said, with any ofthis stuff, we may only need att this time in] Pike County, a number of ambulances, but your never know when there's going tol be ai major accident on Route 84 or anyplace wherey you're going to need a whole group to come. There is ample mutual aidr now and no one feels liket they' 're doing more than the next person. Tim] Knapp saidi it's been at team effort. Iwills say I see the ambulance squads are all getting along better, and they see each other more often. Everyone has the same share int the game, soi it makes a big difference. Commissioner Waldron addedt they' re not hurting for money nearly asi much as they were before because the County coming tot the table ands saying we will match the contributions ofe each Municipality. Regardless of whether they have ambulance service, because ifthey can take money from the general fund or better yet, through the ambulance tax, then the County will matcht that money. It's a commitment of up to $2M, a little over $2M. Pve been around to a lot of Municipalities lately and they' ret talking about exactly why they can now afford tor make it work with paid staffand more  organization in Pike County. That's where we't re at there.  that fund as well. It's benefitting every Emergency Responder inl Pike County.  EMT class with twelve and Ithink there are six people from Milford in that class.  EMT class. Commissioner Osterberg added soi it's all covered.    ambulances. A couple of Municipalities up at the other end oft the County don'th have staff, they' 're giving that money to the ones that do. That's why everyone is getting along better. It was a tough struggle to make ity work with volunteers ora al minimal amount ofr money. Tim Knapp alsos said one of our biggest strongholds, and they were tough, they thought this wasn'ti needed, this, that and the other thing, and now every time Is see them ata meeting, they thank you. They didn't understand ita and the complexity ofit. We are sol happy right now we Commissioner Schmalzle said five years ago when you (Reporter Preston Ehrler) asked ifI could picture in time andI say this over and over again, it wasn'tbroken, it was broke. We needed money, it was broke for both financial reasons and for talent and volunteerism going in. Ithink that's a good way to assess itf five years ago. Itwasn'tbroken because wel hada a lot of good volunteers, but not enough oft them and they could not afford to Reporter Preston Ehrler asked, initially, was there a Municipality int the County that turned down the money and, ifs so, have they come around and taken the money? Commissioner Osterberg answered think they all have come around. I'm not saying they would turni it down. Iremember one said they were. just not prepared to figure out how they were going tos solve the problem for themselves. As we've said from the very beginning, all we are isj just af funding mechanism for this. We're notl here tot take over or operate EMS services, that is solely on, the responsibility oft the Municipal leaders. Why some oft them took iti in the beginning and some didn't? think it wasn't anything except for they weren't ready yet to figure out where they were going to put the funds. Ifal Municipality doesn' thave: anl EMS service located withini it's boundaries, now whatt they need to do is they need to come tot terms of who iti is who is going to service their Municipality. Again, that's not up to us to dictate who comes into what, it's going to be a neighboring one, you wouldn'thave someone driving thirty miles, buti it's up tot them to figuret that out. Ithink they havea a list ofv who their responders are int their Township. Ibelieve everybody now is taking some portion oft the money, whether they' 're takingt their full allotment we don'ts scrutinize itt that much. That's up tot them they know the money is on the table, they just need tos show they' 're takingt their two mils andj putting it where they need toj puti its SO we can put our two mils in that same spot. Commissioner Waldron added that many oft them! had like al halfr mil and a number oft those Municipalities havei increased it tot two mils especially the ones didn'thave a full-time staff. Iwas just where they agreed they were goingt to vote to do that. Reporter Chris. Jones saidt there is going to be al Referendum on the ballot. Commissioner Waldron agreed ands said some Municipalities, yeah. Tim Knapp added there'sl lots of legislation out there to raise the millage to 1.5 and it's waiting in legislation. Ithink you'll see that pass. Commissioner Waldron saidi it's more than halfar mili requires it, however there was some reluctance, but they are realizing there'sal benefit there. Commissioner Osterberg said he thinks the next step that needs to occur, but thisi is muchl heavier lifting than anyone here in this room can do, and that is talking tot the State, insurance and Medicare about raising the reimbursement rates that they givet the ambulance services. Iknow that's constantly been talked abouti inl Harrisburg, we hear that from our State and Federal legislators, but youd can imagine how big a lift thati is. That's why we couldn'tj just sit here and wait for that. When you hear from the ambulance services what they actually get from insurance, ifthey get anything ins some cases, they need to think about raising that. Wheni it comes tol Medicare, that's sai national issue, not a Pike County or even a State issue, those are questions for thej people in Harrisburg. We have raised them, andI know all the people in Tim Knapp'sf field have raisedt that all the time, it's constantly been raised, but we can'tcontrol that, we can only do  don't get those phone calls anymore.  continue to stay in operation, it was broke.  what we can do and we're doing it.  PRESS & PUBLIC COMMENTSOUESTIONSTONSADIOURXMENT  Reporter Chris. Jones asked under New Business CAPP Grant-In-Aid, the acronym, what'st that? ChiefClerk Gromalski Reporter Chris. Jones asked about Section 504, the next one, what'st that? Disabilities? ChiefClerk Gromalski Meeting attendee asked ifF Pike County has a Coordinated Disaster Plani in case something big happens? Commissioner Osterberg answered we do. The meeting attendee asked can you give it to citizens sO we can know and tell our neighbors? Commissioner Osterberg answeredi it's on the website, Tim can you speak tot that? Director Tim Knapp explained that they have an Emergency Action Plani in Pike County. It gets updated every twoy years. We have giveni it out tol Municipalities that want it. Iti is available, ify youl have an email, Ican gives youa a copy ofit. That plan ist not on the website because sometimes you don't want ally your cards out, I'mi not saying someone is going to create a disaster. Thei meeting attendee said somebody toldi me I would be ablet tol look ati it and know what to do. That's what I'm ifIcould tell my neighbors ifs something happens? Director Tim Knapp replied, you could probably look at the Hazardous Mitigation Plan. That would give! yout that option thati is ont the website (www.pikepa.org). You can goon there and look att that. Solicitor Farley asked Director Timl Knapp if each Township/Borough alsol has their own plan? Director" Timl Knapp asked the meeting attendee whichl Municipality they livei in? The meeting attendee answered Westfall. Director Tim Knapp said Westfall has aj plan, signed off on that years ago so you can check with Westfall, and they can give you a copy of their plan. As fara as a master plan, we don't give that out to the public. Meeting attendee. John Hellman said! he is the Vice President of Advocacy for the Triversity Pride Center. On October gthal Pride flag was burned andI LGBTQ folks were calleds satanic and sexual deviants oft the far-right cult Church of Rod andI Iron's Freedom Festival here in Pike County. This morning our Executive Director fileday police report because yesterday he was almost run over whilel holding transgender Pride flags while the driver was audibly laughing  answered iti is the County Adult Probation Program. answered that's handicapped: accessibility.  -i  asking    right outside Triversity'soffice. Over the last several weekst therel have been over twenty which feature messages oflove and support, most oft them painted by our LGBTQ kids and sightings teens, destroyed our painted all over rocks, County. Back in May, on) Mothers' Day, whent the banner stating 'Proud Boys We're Everywhere' was from the DV High School the Pennsylvania State Police told us at' Triversity that the banner ons social media and other signs thatt they could not share with us indicated that anti-LGBTQ hanging sentiment along in the with area rhetoric were escalating tot thej point where there might bes some imminent issue including violence. Its seems that we are ont the pathway toward that prediction given that escalation this month. Iwas wondering ifthe Commissioners ont this? Inp particular, ifthere is any movement or action ont the task force on hate inl Pike Commissioner Waldron responded that he was contacted by the Program Director, and Iknow statement: about what happened at the Freedom Festival. That was recorded, as recall, Hellman answered that'sr right, there was a journalist that recorded video and he had an eyewitness right? Meeting attendee John the flag was puti int the fire. Commissioner Waldron continued thatt that kind of hate does not tos say it doesn'texist, there's obviously evidence to the contrary. Certainly, it even came belong in County, but thei issue about acknowledging Pride Month back in. June. Aftert that situation was not up when resolved we were discussing should do at task force, but we should also bring the State Police because wel had met with completely an undercover we said we who indicateds some oft the things that he was aware of, but! he was not authorized to do any took itt to the next level, wet tried in August to schedule ap presentation with the State Police which kind of presentation. indicated We would do, but there was a change ofi management involving the Community Affairs Office in they indicated to you that Lt. Ron Brown indicated that they would be willing to do that, it's probably Harrisburg. not can do. When] Iasked if we could doi ite even during this month, he said I'mi not sure if we can do that. something they politicize it, but we'rel looking tot try to do ita at our mid-month meeting inl November. Itriedt to tos seei ift that was a definite, Ididi not get that answer. We certainly want to do itl because when get met word you and ac couple of other people, we said let's get the word out to the public thatt thisi isn'tj just one we informally, with claiming there's something going on. The State Police recognized this was a problem and therefore advocacy needs we're addressed. People are allowed tol have free speech, but they' 're not allowed to cause potential violence to to be that's going tol happen, we'res going to do whatever we can tos stopi it. We can't legislate it, but we can people. If aware. I'mg going to1 makes sure we do this, ifI win this year, with the Pennsylvania Statel Police and then make people that leaders. Ithink we acknowledged that some people don'te even! know thisi is going on. That's hard some to ignore other community what and certainly the one who was doing the mostt talking isl known for spewing hatred, that's) the somebody was up there place for that. Iwish we could stopi it, we can'tb but we can make people aware. Wel have just to because way itis. There's no familiar where Triversity is concerned, that even walking down the street isl kind ofat thing. Thank Godi yes, I'm certainly Meeting attendee. John Hellman said something almost happened yesterday, he almost got run over. Commissioner hate. Tony (Commissioner Waldron) has said exactly what we were talking with the State Police place about. this County for tos see anyone getl hurt. We havea a difficult time with freedom of speech, we may not like the words that No one wants reason to be calling people andi identifying people in any format of whether they are get anti-LGBTQ, community or for any or whateveri iti ist that you' re going to say abouts somebody - remember this: words matter. Wheny anti-religious, racist here his wholel life, I don'tknow oft those people. Iknow goodhearted people int years, this community, but when Schmalzle)is identify people because they're ins some group or whatever, then that is really going to be harmful. Ithink we need start to the police wheni itl happens, you can't call them twelve hours later because that's yesterday, not fairt tot just the saying, you need to call They have aj jobt to do that'sa all I'm going to say on that. Ifsomebody feelst threatened, call 9-1-1, police call department the department andt tell them what's s going on. Don'twait, because that's not right, that's not fair. Then it's police question, why'dy you wait? I'my with' Tony, we' 're waiting tol hear what the State Police have to tol hear what groups like Unity int the Community havet to say about this. We're waiting tol say hear about it. the We'll wait Reporter Chris. Jones asked where do you draw the line between political expression and hate? Burning the political expression. During the Vietnam War they did it every day, burn the United States Osterberg said agree with you, as long as you don' 'tmake comments and say that you're going flag. toj Reporter Chris Jones asked, members of Congress in Washington are constantly confronted on the street. comments on any oft that? Commissioner Waldron answered it's unfortunate they that trap the world's along beside them, any heard aj politician sayt this yesterday 'we signed on for that, but our families didn't', or other gotten int sO the divisive,I we're allowed to dot that int this Country. Ifyoul hate people just because of whom agree they have a politics, with guess orl how they worship or what color theirs skini is, that's horrible. We've gott to try to atl leasti make relationship aware because are people in our community that don'tk know there'sanything going on like this. Ift they knew people abouti it, they might there do  of  the  hung across that we had a comment discussedin Triversity had given account the saying that policeman they I Ithink Ididn'twant back to yesterday  June? as  County that  ands say who wants tol bei involved witht this task force. Obviously, Triversity is a good kind organizations that are anti-hate that can bei involved ini it. We'd like tol have them involved and happened up there. I'm sure there were some well-meaning and non-violent people there, but  to have rollt out religious  membership  ofthingt  ont that, but we want to have a diverse group. We do believe there are some really good  happened, but that doesn'tr mean it couldn't;i it definitely did.  nothing's int  Osterberg said he hopes the Police Department was notified. I've statedt this before, there's no that's way beyond what we can control. We certainly do not want tos see anybody hurt in this  people use,  comments publicly you: attack somebody's credibility. I'vel livedl here for fifty remember that. I'm glad you calledt the police. Yous should'vec calledt them  Ron (Commissioner you make those  I'mj  we to either. going to what State Commissioner flag isa physically hurt Icans show community I  -  Police have tos say.  just  somebody.  youal bunch of pictures where hatei is spewed at them: placards, statements, didn'ts sign ont tos say it's okay tol hate us. Ifyoul hate somebody because you don't  and trail with people their    something, buti ifyou don't know about it, you can'ti fault them for not doing something. Ifyous say Idon't think it's funny tor make fun ofs somebody because wheny you start that slippery slope ofs sayingi it's okay toj just say oh) I'm going tos say something nasty about somebody who is gay ors somebody who is black. Thats starts a slippery slope where it's okay to do even more to ostracize them. Kids] learnt that. They bully, wel hear about that, heard about ita at' Triversity meetings that I've been at, but also we'vel heard abouti itf from the schools. They acknowledgedi that. Ihave represented the Wallenpaupack Schooll District for over twenty years, my daughter teaches there, and shes says yeah we have to try to guard against that. Quite frankly, for whatever reason, the LGBTQ community has been picked on even more than some other communities recently, the last couple of years. One could look to what's happened in Washington to say that might be ai factor, but whatever it isi it seems liket that's been an issue. However, we have a minority population in this County oft black people, and Iknow that. Matt told a story about a family he met this Summer, andt their children have al hard time dealing with other peoplei in school. Youl know what, an eight-year-old doesn'tinnately have that, they' re learning itf from somebody else. The school ist trying to deal with ita and we can't tell the school what to do, but wel know they are and we appreciate it, theirj jobi is tough. There are other things we can do about it. The adult community doesn'thavet that advantage ofs saying kids you can'tb behave this way. We can'tmake people behave nicely, but we can try to atl least point out wheni it's not! being done the right way andi maybe some people will say, know Ididn'tthink that was funny Tony. I'my walking away from you because your made some adverse comment abouts somebody who's gay or something like that. You have to try to stopi ita a little bit because that might lead to more Meeting attendee Mary Rebet the Center Director inl Milford and Ialso represent the Pennsylvania Advisory Council for Directors and Center Directors in the area. Iwant tos say that every conversation thaty you guys havel hadt today has absolutely been about building relationships and the foundational steps that everyone has to take when they grow. We'ret talking about thisi idea ofl how we' ve been diversified and how people can have very wildly different opinions about things. All oft thoset things are innately nurtured and created through infancy ont through birth andi ifyouy want to talk about how to create those changes, the way to create those changes ist tos start at that fundamental level ands start really investingi int those early childhood programs that are recognizing that, yes, wet treat everyone fairly and with self- respect regardless of whatt that is. Iagree with you. When you geti into public schools and further education that's not the time tor really buildt those. Thet time tob build those is earlier on and even when you talk aboutt things like learning in classes anda all of thoset things really begin in early childhood. Iknow this is probably not the place tor mention sure that Pike County represents those issues. Fundamentally, children have the right to choose those things and tundamentally thatt thisi is where we' re building it. In order top prevent thosei issues that come oni in the future. Ialways talk about this acronym, you) know, are you a teacher? I don'tl like saying that because it's very all encompassing, butl I always tell people that I'm anl NDS. Whati is an) NDS? An NDSi is a Neuro Development Specialist. Ihelp children likea a brains surgeon, except the brain surgeon has al braint that's broke. I'm anl NDS, help! buildt those brains so that they'rer never broken. Ihelp tol build them further. Ijust want to mention that. Iknow that you guys are against, probably not the right place to mention that, but when you guys talk about relationships within your community, relationships within the community forl LGBT and for EMS, all oft those things are built in early childhood. THEI NEXT REGULAR MEETING OFT THE PIKE COIND/COMMIIONERI WILLBEHELDON WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 1,2023 AT11:00 A.M.INTHE PIKE COINIYADMINETRATION  what civility.  you  childhood,  early  but encourage you guyst tol look into that. As far as a Proclamation could say we are interested in making  BUILDING.    Commissioners' Conference Minutes Wednesday, October 25, 2023  PRESENT: Commissioners Schmalzle and Waldron; ChiefClerk Gromalski; and' Treasurer Gilpin.  MOTION: by Commissioner Waldron and seconded by Commissioner Schmalzle, to call the conference to order at 11:00  A.M.  VOTE: All members voted 'aye'". Motion carried. Public Comments/Questions concerning today's agenda- NONE. VOTE: All members voted 'aye'. Motion carried. GENERAL FUND (County Bills).  MOTION: by Commissioner Waldron and seconded by Commissioner Schmalzle, to approve the Agenda. MOTION: by Commissioner Waldron and seconded by Commissioner Schmalzle, to approve payment from the MOTION: by Commissioner Waldron and seconded by Commissioner Schmalzle, to approve payment from the  following: $307,629.92 following: $70.08  VOTE: LIQUID! PERSONNEL  All members voted" 'aye". Motion carried.  FUELSI FUND.  VOTE: Alli members voted 'aye'. Motion carried. VOTE: All members voted 'aye". Motion carried. ASALARY, BOARDI MEETING WAS HELD Motion to reconvene the Commissioner's Conference. VOTE: All members voted 'aye'. Motion carried.  MOTION: by Commissioner Waldron and seconded by Commissioner Schmalzle, to promote STACY MCCORMICKtO  Aging Case Aide 2 in the Area Agency on Aging, retroactive to October 23, 2023. Motion to recess the Commissioners' Conference to holda Salary Board. Meeting.  NEW BUSINESS Housing Resolution. Resolution Block Grant Program. Services amount  MOTION: by Commissioner Waldron and seconded by Commissioner Schmalzle, to adopt Resolution No. 23-40, Fair MOTION: by Commissioner Waldron ands seconded by Commissioner Schmalzle, to adopt Resolution No. of Pike County, Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, authorizing the submission ofa an application tot the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development for funding through the Community Development  23-41,A  VOTE: All members voted 'aye'. Motion carried. VOTE: All members voted 'aye'. Motion carried. VOTE: All members voted" faye'. Motion carried. VOTE: All members voted 'aye'. Motion carried. VOTE: All members voted 'aye'. Motion carried.  MOTION: by Commissioner Waldron and seconded by Commissioner Schmalzle, to approve the Payment Vouchers, on behalfof the Office of Human Services: Emergency Rental Assistance  following Human Program  2.0 int the  of$30,430.67; State Food Purchase Program int the amount of $3,442.10; and PHARE int the amount of$12,937.00. MOTION: by Commissioner Waldron and seconded by Commissioner Schmalzle, to approve the 2018 CDBG Program Payment Voucher int the amount of $6,125.00 payable tol Pro Solutions Home Renovations, on behalf of the Office of MOTION: by Commissioner Waldron and seconded by Commissioner Schmalzle, to approve the 2018 CDBG  Human Services. Payment Services.  Voucher int the amount of $17,228.00 payable tol Pro Solutions Home Renovations.  Program  MOTION: by Commissioner Waldron and seconded by Commissioner Schmalzle, toa authorize the Chairman to execute the General Application Certifications Community Development Block Grant Program, on behalfoft the Office of MOTION: by Commissioner Waldron and seconded by Commissioner Schmalzle, to execute the Four-Factor Limited English Proficiency Persons and Activities tol be Included in thel Language Access Plan Community Analysis for Block Grant Program (CDBG)(Includes CDBE Competitive, CDBG-DR, CDBG-CV, and NSP), on behalfo oft Development the Office of MOTION: by Commissioner Waldron and seconded by Commissioner Schmalzle, to authorize the Chairman to execute MOTION: by Commissioner Waldron and seconded by Commissioner Schmalzle, to authorize the Chairman to execute  Human  Human Services.  VOTE: All members voted" 'aye". Motion carried. VOTE: All members voted 'aye'. Motion carried. the Disclosure Report, on behalf oft the Office of Human Services. VOTE: All members voted" 'aye'. Motion carried.  the Language Access Plan Certification, on! behalf of the Office of Human Services.    MOTION: by Commissioner Waldron and seconded by Commissioner Schmalzle, to execute the Plan and) Budget Amendment Certification Statement County Children and Youth Social Service Programs, on behalf of Children and' Youth MOTION: by Commissioner Waldron and seconded by Commissioner Schmalzle, to execute the Contract for Professional Services between Valliere Counseling and Associates and the County ofPike, on behalf of Children and Youth Services. MOTION: by Commissioner Waldron and seconded by Commissioner Schmalzle, to execute the Agreement for Subcontracted Services between Destiny Empowerment and the County ofl Pike, on behalf oft the Area Agency on MOTION: by Commissioner Waldron and seconded by Commissioner Schmalzle, to authorize the Chairman to execute  Services.  VOTE: All members voted 'aye'. Motion carried. VOTE: All members voted 'aye'. Motion carried.  VOTE: All members  Aging  voted 'aye'. Motion carried.  thel Local Program Website Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), on behalfofCASA. PRESS&E FUMACCOMMENIROLESIOUESTONSADMOURSNINT NONE  VOTE: All members voted 'aye'. Motion carried. Commissioners' Conference was adjourned.  THE NEXTI PUBLIC MEETING OF THE PIKE COUNTY COMMISSIONERS WILLBEHELDON WEDFSDAY.NOVPAIER 1,2023,A AT11:00/ AMI INT THE PIKE COUNTY ADMINISTRATION BUILDING.    SALARY BOARD October 18,2023  PRESENT: Commissioners Osterberg, Schmalzle and Waldron; ChiefClerk Gromalski; and Treasurer Gilpin. MOTION: by Commissioner Waldron and seconded by Commissioner Schmalzle, to convene Salary Board. MOTION: by Commissioner Waldron and seconded by Commissioner Schmalzle, to approve the October 4, MOTION: by Commissioner Waldron and seconded by Commissioner Schmalzle, to set the hourly rate of CHRISTINA CUBIE at $22.00 per hour, as part-time Legal Secretary in Children and Youth Services for less MOTION: by Commissioner Waldron ands seconded by Commissioner Schmalzle, to set the hourly rate of BRUNO! RODRIGUES at $15.00 per hour as full-time Driveri ini the Transportation Department for a 40-hour MOTION: by Commissioner Waldron and seconded by Commissioner Schmalzle, to adjourn the Salary Board.  VOTE: All members voted' 'aye'. Motion carried. VOTE: All members voted' 'ayel. Motion carried. than 1,0001 hours per year, retroactive to October 16, 2023. VOTE: All members voted' laye!. Motion carried. work week, retroactive to October 16, 2023. VOTE: All members voted' 'aye'. Motion carried. VOTE: All members voted' 'aye'. Motion carried. Salary Board Meeting Adjourned.  2023 Salary Board Minutes.    SALARY BOARD October 25, 2023  PRESENT: Commissioners Schmalzle and Waldron; Chief Clerk Gromalski; and' Treasurer Gilpin. MOTION: by Commissioner Waldron and seconded by Commissioner Schmalzle, to convene Salary Board. MOTION: by Commissioner Waldron and seconded by Commissioner Schmalzle, to increase the hourly rate ofSTACY MCCORMICK by $0.50 per hour due tol her promotion to Aging Case Aide 2 in the Area Agency MOTION: by Commissioner Waldron ands seconded by Commissioner Schmalzle, to adjourn the Salary Board.  VOTE: All members voted' 'aye'. Motion carried. on Aging, retroactive to October 23, 2023. VOTE: All members voted' 'aye'. Motion carried. VOTE: All members voted' 'aye'!. Motion carried. Salary Board Meeting Adjourned.