Loading...
HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOMM - Meeting Minutes - 196 - 12-31-1975 - COMMISSIONERE 576 MINUTE BOOK BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS WASHINGTON COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA MICHAEL R FLYNN, FRANK JONES, JR., EDWARD M. PALUSO, COMMISSIONERS Minute No. 196 Office of the County Commissioners Washington, Pa., December 31, 1975 The Board of County Commissioners met in regular session with the following mem- bers being present: Commissioners Jones, Paluso and Flynn. Also present being: Chief Clerl and County Administrator Whalen; Acting Chief Clerk Crouse; Solicitor Gilmore; Land Acquisi- tion Agent Clay Graham; Mr. Gene P. Amanati; Mr. Robertson of The Observer -Reporter; Mr. Richard Brady; Earl Bugaile of WKEG; Phil Angelo of The Daily Notes; Mr. Peyton Schurr of Offender Aid and Restoration. Chairman noted for the record that he had sent notification to Commissioners Jones and Paluso on December 15, 1975, notifying them of a meeting scheduled for December 31, 1975, for the purpose of budget adoption. He also made note of a letter he directed to Commis sioners Jones and Paluso dated December 22, 1975, which was an amendment to his previous letter, which stated that: II..... it will be necessary to discuss and act upon other general business matters in addition to the budget adoption which were either tabled from the last regular meeting or are matters which must be acted upon prior to 1976. t1 Roll call vote taken: Mr. Jones - Present; Mr. Paluso - Present; Mr. Flynn - Present. Chairman asked if there were any corrections, additions or omissions to Minute #195, each member having received a copy. Moved by Mr. Jones, seconded by Mr. Paluso, that Minute #195 be approved, as Roll call vote taken: Mr. Jones - Yes; Mr. Paluso - Yes; Mr. Flynn - Yes. Motion carried unanimously. Old Business: Clarification by Mr. Amanati Mr. Amanati: I would like to further discuss the issue on bonds for magistrates. I was here at your last meeting and made my comments. Now I want to say this - that the controversy of writing bonds for newly elected magistrates has now taken higher dimensions. It is now moved into the area of the Courts. I have in my possession a letter which was mailed to all the magis trates and I would like to read the letter. I have a letter here from the Court of Common Pleac of Washington County dated December 16, 1975, addressed to all the District Justices of the Peace from David S. Posner, Esq. There are four items in this letter. I would like to pay particular attention to item #3 and I want to quote: "Please note that Amanati-Tucci will not be handling renewal of bonds this year, so please disregard their correspondence on this. "- signed by David S. Posner, Esq. , Court Administrator, a copy of which went to C. G. Sweet, P. J. After reading that letter it is my opinion that this is the lowest type of politics. It shocks the -A MINUTE BOOK BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS WASHINGTON COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA - MICHAEL R. FLYNN, FRANK JONES, JR., EDWARD M. PALUSO. COMMISSIONERS E 1 imagination to think that a Judge would do such a thing. At the Constitutional Convention held i Harrisburg in 1968 adopted a resolution to forever take judges out of politics. This is the reasc why a judge who's been elected to office runs on a retention ballot. You either vote yes or no. Is it any wonder why the politicians are held in disrespect by the electorate? Is it any wonder why the electorate does not care to vote? The electorate has lost faith in our political system because of the shananigans permitted by politicans. Judge Sweet is deeply involved in politics and I can't for the life of me understand why the judicial branch of government does not police it s own house. Washington County is blessed with four honorable- and distinguished judges, and to have one political judge cast a cloud upon our judicial system is a miscarriage of justice. We as citizens must abide by laws whether we like them or not. Then why can't a judge be in flagrant violation of the constitution and still continue to hold office. Is he above the law? Is he an untouchable or is there something wrong with our political system? It is my opinion that Judge Sweet ought to be investigated and removed from office. I think it's terrible to have a judge try to tell any public official, I care not whether it's magistrates or anyone else, who they're to write their bonds with. I think that is a right that every public official has - they can choose whoever they wish. Now, magistrates must have a bond filed prior to being sworn into office. Our agency has been a broker of record of this County for the past four years and our term does not expire until January 5th; and I don't think that the Judge has any right to instruct anybody who they're to write their bonds with. That's my story. Mr. F lynn: Any comments, gentlemen? Well, I believe, Mr. Amanati, minutes of our last meeting will reveal that I stated that one of"the prerequisites of taking office, whether you be a magistrate or what, you must have a bond before you take the oath. Where you purchase your bond is immaterial so long as you file the bond with the necessary officials and in most cases, with -flee County Controller. It's strictly the prerogative of the individual. Your office has written the bonds in prior years. Your office sent out communications. That is your preroga- tive and I concur with you 100016 when branches of our government interfere with the operations of'. -the Executive branch of government. If we want to sit back and not be heard, then shame on us. But I`think it's long time that somebody speaks out cause I, t oo, take the same position as you do and will continue so long as I'm sitting here in public office. Mr. Amanati: Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Mr. Flynn: You're to be.commended as,far as I am concerned for taking the position to let it be known. I have a copy of this letter and it will be made a matter of record. Correspondence: Acting Chief Clerk Crouse informed the Board of the receipt of the following checks: 1. Commonwealth of Pa. - Liquid Fuels payment to County - ck. #32-1139577 $260, 234. 78 J18 MINUTE BOOK BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS WASHINGTON COUNTY, 'PENNSYLVANIA MICHAEL R. FLYNN, FRANK JONES, JR., EDWARD M. PALUSO. COMMISSIONERS 2. Pittsburgh National Bank - Redemption of C. D. #1335 - ck. #724009 Principle $2, 500, 000. 00 Interest $ 11, 458. 33 1974 Bond Issue TOTAL $2, 511, 458. 33 3. Pittsburgh,.,, National Bank - Weekend Repurchase Agreement - ck. #724018 Principle $55 0, 000. 00 Interest $ 194.79 General Fund TOTAL $550, 194. 79 4. Treasurer of the U.S. - Manpower Program - ck. #82, 426, 297 �Rn nnn nn 5. Commonwealth of Pa. - GJC Grant - Group Home for Boys - federal drawdown - ck. #49-655117 - $25, 000. 00 6. Commonwealth of Pa. - GJC Grant - Group Home for Boys - Full amount of State buy -in - ck. #61-655745 - $2, 573. 00 7. Commonwealth of Pennsylvania - Court and related costs - ck. #8-113 $70, 278. 80 8. First National Bank & Trust Company - Redemption of C. D. #8600 cks. #080682 and #45422 - Liquid Fuels Escrow Account Principle $100, 000. 00 Interest $ 456.51 TOTAL $100, 456. 51 9. Commonwealth of Pa. - State Council of Civil Defense - Personnel and Administrative reimbursement - ck. #95,-656647 - $2, 109. 97 Acting Chief Clerk Crouse presented the following bills to the Board for their consider ation and approval: 1. Olga Woodward - $17. 00 - Recording fees for Treasurer's Bonds 2. Observer -Reporter - $22. 60 - Budget Notice 3. Daily Notes - $7. 00 - Budget Notice 4. M & M Equipment Sales Company - $19, 728. 00 - Stream Clearance Project 5. Pompei Paving Company - $7, 470. 00 - Partial Payment on Maintenance Building at Mingo Creek Park 6. Philadelphia, Baltimore & Washington Railroad Company - $26, 856. 00 7. William C. Porter - $1, 813. 20 - services performed - County Parks Moved by Mr. Jones, seconded by Mr. Paluso, that the foregoing bills be approved for payment. Roll call vote taken: Mr. Jones - Yes; Mr. Paluso - Yes; Mr. Flynn - Yes. Motion carried unanimously. Mr. Crouse read the following letter from Robert L. Zeman dated December 30, 1975, regarding Chartiers Creek Flood Protection Project - Penn Central Transportation System: Gentlemen, Last week, I was alerted that an Indenture granting flood control easements had been executed by the Trustees of the captioned Railroad 'J E 1 MINUTE BOOK J r!t1&ff1f1f BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS WASHINGTON COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA MICHAEL R. FLYNN. FRANK JONES. JR., EDWARD M. PALUSO, COMMISSIONERS C� E 1 and by the Trustee of the Philadelphia, Baltimore and Washington Railroad Company and that it would be sent to the Reat Estate Section of the Pittsburgh Office. I was told that when the document was received I would be notified and a prompt closing would be desired and payment should be made. While I was in the Court House Monday afternoon, December 29, 1975, I received a call from my Canonsburg office that a call had come in from Penn Central in Pittsburgh with the request that I return the call. I naturally assumed that the call from the Railroad meant that the Indenture was ready for delivery. Before returning the call, I felt that I should learn whether payment could be arranged promptly, so I went to the Commissioner's Office. Mr. Flynn was in and I reported the call to him. He said that there would be a meeting on Wednesday, December 31, 1975, at which time payment could be authorized but the issuance of a draft would have to be made by the Controller. I went to the Controller's Office and explained what I believed to be the urgency of the situation. I was told that a draft could be issued on Wednesday immediately upon authorization by the Commissioners. At this point, I felt that any obstacles or delays had been avoided and that I could arrange a prompt closing with the Railroad on Wednesday afternoon, so I called the Railroad. Much to my consternation and chagrin, I was told that, although the Indenture had been received, it could not be delivered. The reason given for non -delivery was that the Pittsburgh office had received word that the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania had on December 23, 1975, issued an Injunction or Restraining Order pro- hibiting the transfer of any Railroad property. When I asked that the copy of the Order be read to me, I was told that a copy of the Order had not, as yet, been received in Pittsburgh. During the call, I asked for a copy of the Indenture and was told that clearance therefor would have to be obtained. While I'm not sure, I understand that the Court Order had been obtained by the United States Railway Association. By reason of the foregoing, I have prepared a Supplemental Resolution for your consideration and enclose the same herewith. While it is, of course, self-explanatory, briefly its purpose is to authorize any action consonant with law to be taken in an effort to have the railroad transaction consummated and to have the consideration immediately available, in the event the transaction can be consummated. It may be that arrangements can be had promptly. If so, it would be desirable that a draft be immediately drawn to the order of "THE PHILADELPHIA, BALTIMOR•E AND WASHINGTON RAILROAD COMPANY for $26, 856. 00. Since I don't have any of the Court documents, I'm not in a position to advise at this time as to any specific procedure. Assuming, however, that the proceedings leading to the Order and the Order, itself, involved a general, and over-all, treatment of the Railroads' situation, it may be that the United States Railway Association and/or the Court could find our trans- action a proper exception. Such exception could be further considered by reason of the type of transfer involved in the instant matter. Despite my present lack of definitive information, I suggest your favorable consideration of the enclosed Resolution so that prompt action may be taken, if required. Yours truly, ZEMAN AND ZEMAN /s/ Robert L. Zeman Moved by Mr. Jones, seconded by Mr. Paluso, adopting the enabling Resolution as per above and upon the recommendation of Mr. Zeman. Roll call vote taken: Mr. Jones - Yes; Mr. Paluso - Yes; Mr. Flynn - Yes. Motion carried unanimously. MINUTE BOOK BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS WASHINGTON COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA MICHAEL R. FLYNN. FRANK JONES, JR., EDWARD M. PALUSO, COMMISSIONERS Mr. Crouse noted for the record notification sent out under date-' of December 22, 1975, from Chairman Flynn to Commissioners Jones and Paluso which was an amendment to his letter of December 15, 1975. Mr. Crouse also noted communication dated December 26, 1975, from Mr. Flynn directed to Commissioners Jones and Paluso notifying them of the agenda meeting to be held on December 30, 1975, at 10:30 a. m. in the Public Meeting Room. Mr. Crouse read a letter dated December 23, 1975, from James Tomsic directed to Mr. Flynn which stated that Mr. Tomsic's six -year lease with Washington County on the buildir located at 22 E. Pike Street, Canonsburg, being rented as a Magistrate's Office, expires on March 20, 1976. Mr. Tomsic stated that the reason for writing this letter is that due to infla- tion and the rapid rise in costs of the utilities, maintenance, insurance, taxes and other upkeep of the building, it would be greatly appreciated if the Board would consider an increase in the monthly rental in the new lease. Mr. Flynn: In view of the fact that this lease does not expire until March, I don't think it would be the prerogative of this Board to consider that. I would suggest that you reply to the gentle- man that we did read it at the meeting and it will be considered at a later date when the new lease is being executed. Speaking of leases, although it's not on the record, I would like the record to show that that lease in Canton Township expired as of today for Magistrate Ferralli's office. I'm sure the record will show that when we had our budget hearing meetings, the C informed us that they would handle this. We were concerned about the lease because there's a new owner. Now, if that place is padlocked tomorrow morning, I don't want the County Commii- sioners held responsible. Although we execute the lease arrangements with them, we had little or no choice when it came to trying to locate a new place or to relocate. Mr. Crouse read a letter from the Borough of Bentleyville dated December 15, 1975, which stated that at their last meeting a committee from the Senior Citizens was present and presented their problem to the Council - that being, they have no means of transportation get- ting from one community to another. The Senior Citizens homebase is located in Bentleyville, so the people from Bentleyville have no problem getting to the meetings, etc. The problem is for the other members outside -of Bentleyville such as: Ellsworth, Scenery Hill, North Bethle- h,-em Township, Gibson, Cokeburg, etc. They have no transportation getting to and from these meetings. Letter further stated that the Council would appreciate it if the Board could let them know if there is any type of funding available, or if there is some sort of transportation these people could have access to, also what would the procedure be to apply for such grants or funding. Mr. Flynn stated that the only program he knew was ever in effect in that respect was the one which was just abandoned by the Department of Agriculture; other than that, the Board has no control over it. MINUTE BOOK J1 BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS WASHINGTON COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA MICHAEL R. FLYNN. FRANK JONES, JR., EDWARD M. PALUSO, COMMISSIONERS Mr. Crouse informed the Board of notification that the -per diem billing rate for Farview State Hospital has been revised from $58. 00 per day to $75. 00 per day effective January 1, 197E Mr. Crouse presented to the Board for their consideration a Mechanical Service Agree- ment for two Kard-Veyers in the Registration Office for the sum of $400. 00 for the period of 1/1/76 to 1/l/77. Last year's payment was $298. 00. Moved by Mr. Jones, seconded by Mr. Paluso, approving the above Mechanical Service Agreement. Roll call vote taken: Mr. Jones - Yes; Mr. Paluso - Yes; Mr. Flynn - Yes. Motion carried unanimously. Mr. Crouse read a letter dated December 23, 1975, from the Washington County Volun- teers -in -Probation, Inc., which stated that at present, V.I. P. staff are in the process of com- piling an Annual Report for presentation both to members of V. I. P. and, in addition, to variouc foundations and corporations in an effort to generate additional monies for the V. I. P. program. Said letter requested a letter of endorsement by the Board similar to the one written last year to the Governor's Justice Commission in support of the program. Mr. Flynn stated that if there are no objections, we will comply. Mr. Crouse read a letter dated December 22, 1975, from Benny Martin, State Conserva- tionist, Soil Conservabn Service, which concerned the design and engineering services costs for Harmon Creek Watershed, site PA-481. The Engineering Design Section reviewed the estimate costs, and their review indicated an estimated construction cost of $1, 182, 000. 00. As this project is to be designed by an Architect -Engineer (A&E) contract, the county's share of this design fee would be: 10% x 34. 54% x $1, 182, 000 = $40, 825, 00 Said letter stated that these figures are the same as was provided to Mr. Flynn by letter on November 4, 1975, which was attached. Mr. Crouse presented to the Board for their consideration Change Order No. HVAC-1, from Limbach Company, which increases the contract sum in the amount of $735. 00. for the Washington County Extended Care facility. Moved by Mr. Jones, seconded by Mr. Paluso, approving the change order as per above. Roll call vote taken: Mr. Jones - Yes; Mr. Paluso - Yes; Mr. Flynn - Yes. Motion carried unanimously. Mr. Crouse informed the Board of a letter received from the County of Delaware dated December 17, 1975, - RE: Commonwealth vs. W. A. Tony Boyle. Said letter stated that the balance of Special Account A ($10, 000. 00) is $939. 46 and the balance remaining in Special 002 MINUTE BOOK BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS WASHINGTON COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA MICHAEL R. FLYNN. FRANK JONES, JR., EDWARD M. PALUSO, COMMISSIONERS ccount B ($90, 000. 00) is $349. 19. New encumbrances incurred by Delaware County since the al amount to $10, 866. 56. Letter further stated that in that it is unknown at this time whethe not the case will be remanded, the question posed to the Board is whether Delaware County hould leave the Special Accounts established for this case open or whether they should close accounts which would thereby reduce the amount due Delaware County to $9, 586. 91. Discussion followed. Moved by Mr. Jones, seconded by Mr. Paluso, authorizing the payment of $9, 586. 91 due Delaware County as per above. Roll call vote taken: Mr. Jones - Yes; Mr. Paluso - Yes; Mr. Flynn - Yes. Motion carried unanimously. Mr. Crouse read a copy of a letter dated December 19, 1975, from Edward Raletich directed to Mr. Charles Chattaway of the Bicentennial Commission which acknowledged receipt of Washington County's two checks (for $2540. 77 and $511. 50) which represent Washington County's 1975 "share obligation" for Bicentennial Planning, Inc. of Southwestern Pennsylvania. Mr. Crouse informed the Board of a letter dated December 19, 1975, from the State Manpower Services Council which listed the dates for the Council sessions. They are as f Thursday, February 19, 1976 Thursday, June 3, 1976 Thursday, August 19, 1976 Thursday, November 18, 1976 Mr. Crouse informed the Board of a Notice of Filing dated December 19, 1975, from Pennsylvania Labor Relations Board advising the Commissioners that they are a party to the se of PLRB vs. Central Washington Co. MH/MR Clinic (Washington County Commissioners) ch was filed on December 18, 1975, for a charge of unfair practices. Said Notice stated, in t: "The Central Washington Co. MH/MR. Clinic is part of a unit represented by the PSSU (Pera-R.-3607-W, R-3608-W). Sub -contracting is a mandatory subject of collective bargaining. , neither the Chairman nor the other Commissioners have contacted the Union concern - the proposed sub -contracting to this date, to discuss and negotiate the impact of the propose on the PSSU unit. " Mr. Crouse informed the Board of a request from Dean C. Gross of the Citizens rary dated December 22, 1975, to set up on a table in a prominent place in the Main Floor bby of the Court House a library display on or about January 2nd and for one month. Moved by Mr. Jones, seconded by Mr. Paluso, approving the request as per above. Roll call vote taken: Mr. Jones - Yes; Mr. Paluso - Yes; Mr. Flynn - Yes. Motion carried unanimously. MINUTE BOOK It" BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS WASHINGTON COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA MICHAEL R FLYNN. FRANK JONES. JR., EDWARD M. PALUSO, COMMISSIONERS u 1 Mr. Crouse informed the Board of a copy of a letter dated December 19, 1975, directed to Wallover & Mitchell, Inc., from Limbach Company concerning the possibility of inadequate working conditions through the winter months in reference to the Extended Care Facility. Said letter stated, in part: "Paragraph 5(b) of the Temporary Facilities Section of the specificat states that: 'as soon as the building and/or portions thereof are generally enclosed by walls and roof, the responsibility of supplying temporary heat shall rest with the General Contractor. Mr. Crouse stated that as a follow-up, he has been advised by the architect that this matter is being resolved. with all due haste. Mr. Crouse read letter dated December 12, 1975, from Wallover & Mitchell, Inc., to McAnallen Brothers, Inc. regarding the Extended Care Facility which stated as follows: In reference to your letter dated December 1, 1975, in which you transmitted a copy of Sherry & O'Leary, Inc., (Plumbing Contract No. 3) letter dated November 17, 1975. This letter from the Plumbing Contractor advised that the manufacturers of the Hot Water Heating Boiler, damaged by the precast roof plank failure, can be repaired in the field and warranted as if new. Also, that it would be necessary for the Architect to direct a letter to the Plumbing Contractor accepting this procedure. Our office has extensively reviewed this matter and must advise you that this arrangement is "Not Acceptable. " By copy of this letter' Sherry & O'Leary, Inc., are directed to have the damaged boiler removed and replaced by a New Boiler as expeditiously as possible. Mr. Crouse informed the Board of a letter dated December 12, 1975, from Wallover & Mitchell, Inc., directed to Limbach Company regarding the Extended Care Facility. Said letter concerned a question raised relative to the air handling unit damaged when the precast concrete roof plank failed. Said letter advised Limbach Company that it is the desire of the Office of Wallover & Mitchell, Inc., that the damaged unit be removed and replaced with a new air handling unit and should be accomplished as quickly as possible to eliminate any more delays than have already been realized. Mr. Crouse read a letter dated December 15, 1975, from Wallover & Mitchell, Inc., directed to Mr. Howard F. Glidden of McAnallen Brothers, Inc., regarding the Extended Care Facility, which stated as follows: Dear Mr. Glidden: As per our telephone conversations of December 11 and12, 1975, concerning the letter dated December 5, 1975, you received from Spancrete Northeast, Inc. , outlining their procedure for load testing their 10" plank required for the Mechanical Room roof, the following confirms our position in this matter: I. Performing the load test off -site (at Spancrete's plant) is unacceptable to this office, as it will not satisfy the structural integrity of the plank after shipment, which representatives of Spancrete Northeast cited as a possible. cause of failure of the original 10" plank. 2. Performing the same load test on -site but not in -place is acceptable to this office for the reasons outlined in Span- crete's letter of December 5, 1975 (paragraphs 2, 3 and 4). �84 MINUTE B❑❑K BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS WASHINGTON COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA MICHAEL R FLYNN, FRANK JONES, JR., EDWARD M. PALUSO, COMMISSIONERS, As of this date, we have no information that your subcontractor has responded to your Mailogram dated December 11, 1975 to Spancrete Northeast. We trust that Spancrete will respond favorably in order to proceed with this phase of the project as soon as possible. Sincerely, / s / Leonard L. Mitchell Mr. Crouse read a copy of a letter dated December 11, 1975, directed to Congress- man Thomas Morgan from Perry C. Smith, M. D. , which stated that for some time it has been the practice at the Washington Hospital to keep psychiatric patients confined to the hospital during the period of delay created by the slowness of the judicial committing process and, following court action, the period of waiting for transfer to a state mental institution. For reasons entirely beyond our local control, the total "waiting" averages 5 - 7 days. Dr. Perry went on to state that he feels a complete sense of futility as to what to do with these patients because the Medicare and Medicaid rates are getting completely out of hand. Dr. Perry stated: "We are becoming accustomed to being caught in the middle of this kind of squeeze play; in economically difficult situations as well as in the fantastic contortions we pass through daily attempting to remain in compliance with conflicting regulatory agency regulations. As always, the various government agencies involved -- HEW, DPW, County government, PSR.O- all pass the buck to one of the other agencies generally with some snide remark and a shrug of the shoulders. " Srn �f� Mr. Flynn stated that acknowledgement of the receipt of a copy of Dr. Parry's letter should be sent to Dr. Perry and also asking him for specifics as far as the County is concerned. Mr. Crouse informed the Board of a request for two Manpower positions from the Borough of Houston. It was recommended that this matter be brought to the attention of Mr. Piganell. Mr. Crouse informed the Board of a request from Bell Telephone Company for the execution of a Equipment Layout Plan for the New Extended Care Facility. Moved by Mr. Jones, seconded by Mr. Paluso, authorizing the execution of the Equi ment Layout Plan as per above. Roll call vote taken: Mr. Jones - Yes; Mr. Paluso - Yes; Mr. Flynn - Yes. Motion carried unanimously. Mr. Crouse informed the Board of a memorandum dated December 24, 1975, from Chairman Michael R. Flynn directed to all the officials -elect informing them that a request w made by the Courts that the swearing -in ceremonies be held at 10:30 as opposed to 10:00 a. m. on January 5, 19 76. L n L� _ a- MINUTE BOOK Z NQ 5 BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS WASHINGTON COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA MICHAEL R. FLYNN. FRANK JONES, JR., EDWARD M. PALUSO, COMMISSIONERS C Mr. Crouse informed the Board of a two-part request from the Offender Aid and Restora- tion Program of Washington County. This program was approved by the Prison Board a few weeks ago and they have now prepared an application to the Governor's Justice Commission for funding for this program and are asking the Board of Commissioners to be the sponsor. Mr. Crouse advised the Board that there are no local funds involved. The second portion of the request is an agreement similar to the one executed with the Group Home for Boys in Burg ettstown setting up the necessary procedures by which money can be disbursed from the County upon receipt from the State and Federal governments to this program and outlining the conditiox of this disbursement. Mr. Crouse stated that there is also an addendum relieving the County of Washington of the responsibility or obligation to match federal dollars required for this sub - grant application. Moved by Mr. Jones, seconded by Mr. Paluso, that the foregoing requests be approved. Roll call vote taken: Mr. Jones - Yes; Mr. Paluso - Yes; Mr. Flynn - Yes. Motion carried unanimously. (Deputy Controller Daniels and Coroner Jackson entered the meeting. ) Mr. Crouse informed the Board of a letter dated December 16, 1975, from the Depart- ment of the Army, Corps of Engineers, regarding the Chartiers Creek Flood Protection Pro- ject. Said letter stated that on December 9, 1975, the Government received an apparent low bid for the construction of Unit 2A, Canonsburg -Houston Reach, which included an amount of $6, 000. 00 for the sewer adjustment work to be performed by the Government at the cost of Washington County. The Governm6nt's estimated additional costs for supervision and inspec- tion for the adjustment work are$468. 00. Said letter further stated that since the Department is anxious to award the construction work as soon as possible, it would be appreciated if the County would forward the amount of $6, 468. 00 to them by check made payable to the Treasurer of the United States in accordance with the terms of the contract which provide for such pay- ment prior to award. Mr. Crouse advised the Board that the Corps has received payment and construction work sho begin immediately. Mr. Crouse stated for the record that the Board has received the Annual Report of the Washington County Agricultural Fair, Inc. Mr. Crouse also stated for the record that the County's share of the Retirement Fund p ment, $315, 000. 00, was paid on December 29, 1975. Mr. Crouse informed the Board of a letter he wrote to Leonard Bachman, M. D. , Secre- tary of Health, dated December 29, 1975, regarding an appeal we had made at the Washington County Home for Women for additional bed complement due to patients under foster care, whi - - - - _ - - - - - -- - --- - - - - 586 MINUTE BOOK BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS WASHINGTON COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA MICHAEL R. FLYNN, FRANK ,TONES. JR , EDWARD M. PALUSO, COMMISSIONERS I are technically under the care of Washington County. Mr. Crouse stated that the appeal was denied. He also stated that it was evident from Mr. Bachman's letter to Mr. Showalter that they misunderstood the nature of our request. Mr. Crouse then quoted from the letter he wro to Dr. Bachman: "The request for additional patients above and beyond our existing patient census is not based upon any anticipation of admitting new patients. It is merely an effort to recognize that we presently have approximately fourteen patients in non -institutional care settings..... " Mr. Crouse stated that on December 5, 1975 and December 20, 1975, respectively, we received a new set of deficiencies for each of the County Homes. In response, Mr. Crouse directed a letter to Mr. J. F. Dwyer, Director, Bureau of Occupational and Industrial Safety, dated December 29, 1975, asking for a clarification as to the Field Inspector advising Mr. Fetcko that the construction of a New Extended Care Facility in Washington County, now approximately 60% - 70% complete and should be completed by the latter part of 1976, has no bearing on our plan of correction for the existing facilities. Mr. Crouse informed the Board of correspondence dated December 22, 1975, from Alexander F. Barbieri, Court Administrator of Pennsylvania, which enclosed a check, payable to the County Treasurer, to reimburse Washington County for costs incurred in the most recently completed fiscal year for the administration and operation of the courts in Washington County under Act 7-A (1975). Mr. Barbieri stated in said letter that since the amount appro- priated, namely, $10, 000, 000. 00, was insufficient to reimburse the counties for all the costs incurred by them, it was apportioned among the counties in accordance with the standards set up by the Act. The amount of the check for Washington County was $70, 278. 80. Mr. Crouse then went on to read a letter he wrote to Judge Barbieri dated December 24, 1975, acknowledg- ing receipt of this check and also requesting a breakdown of the State-wide appropriation amongst the various counties and advisement of the specific standards in appropriating these monies. Discussion was held. Mr. Flynn: I personally had that check in my hand. That check was deposited with the Trea- surer's Cffice according to our records upstairs, which we log every check that comes in here That was deposited with the County Treasurer's Office on"Oe 26th day of this month. Up to this point at 10:00 a. m. this morning, that check has not been deposited. Now, Mr. Crouse, does the Chief Clerk's Office receive daily from the Treasurer's Office a notification as''to the amount of money deposited? Mr. Crouse: That is correct, sir. Mr. Flynn: This is the 31st day of December. Did -{you receive notification about that check being deposited? G" MINUTE BOOK 58 BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS WASHINGTON COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA MICHAEL R FLYNN. FRANK .TONES, JR., EDWARD M. PALUSO, COMMISSIONERS 1 n 1 Mr. Crouse: To the best of my knowledge, it has not been deposited. Mr. Flynn: Am I right in assuming this then that you have no notification, yet every day you know exactly what's been deposited in that bank. Is that right? Mr. Crouse: That's correct. More discussion followed. Mr. Crouse further stated that when an employee of the Treasurer's Office brought over to him the letter along with the check, he was advised that there was a call from Judge Sweet's office that the check not be processed, if possible, through the Chief Clerk's Office. Mr. Whale then stated that he made inquiry first thing this morning and that it was his understanding that the Treasurer's Office was withholding the deposit of these funds upon orders by President Judge Charles G. Sweet. Chairman then declared a recess in order that inquiries could be made as to the deposit of this check. Chairman delegated Mr. Whalen in conjunction with Mr. Crouse to find out from the Treasurer's Office the delay in depositing this check. Meeting recessed. Mr. Whalen and Mr. Crouse returned. Mr. Whalen reported that he inspected the check and that it is being deposited into the General Fund Account today but that he could not deter- mine any reason for it being held from the time it was received up to today. Mr. Crouse informed the Board of correspondence dated December 29, 1975, from the Comprehensive Health Planning Assocation of Western Pennsylvania, Inc. , which stated that the Association, in a cooperative effort with the Western Pennsylvania Regional Medical Pro- gram and the Mon Valley Experimental Health Services Delivery System, is in the process of developing a Health Systems Agency under the National Health Planning and Resources Develop- ment Act of 1974. Said grant application must be submitted to the Department of Health, Edu- cation and Welfare by January 19, 1976. Said Association is requesting that the Board of Com- missioners put on display the proposed plan for this health system agency. Mr. Crouse noted for the record that it is available for public inspection in the County Commissioners Office and that a hearing will be held on Saturday,. January 10, 1976, at 2:30 p. m. Mr. Crouse presented to the Board an OJT Contract with the Automotive Services Council of Pennsylvania for training for Richard B. Nath as a mechanic. Moved by Mr. Jones, seconded by Mr. Paluso, approving the above OJT contract. Roll call vote taken: Mr. Jones - Yes; Mr. Paluso - Yes; Mr. Flynn - Yes. Motion carried unanimously. Mr. Crouse read correspondence dated December 29, 1975, from Joan W. Owens, Execu- tive Director of the Washington -Greene Community Action Corporation, inviting the Board of J80 MINUTE BOOK BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS WASHINGTON COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA MICHAEL R. FLYNN. FRANK JONES, JR., EDWARD M. PALUSO, COMMISSIONERS Commissioners to the Annual Meeting of the Pennsylvania -Delaware Association for Communi Action Corporations to be held in Altoona, Pennsylvania, on January 7th and 8th. Mr. Crouse informed the Board of correspondence received from the Department of Housing and Urban Development dated December 19, 1975, regarding FY 1976 Target Funding Renewal Level -- $1, 364, 000 Corrected. This communication was sent for the County's use in preparing the Second Year CDBG Application for Entitlement or Hold -Harmless funds. Mr. Flynn suggested that a copy of this letter be forwarded to Mr. Roland Bourke. Mr. Crouse informed the Board of correspondence received signed by twenty Court employees of Washington County stating that said employees desire to terminate their member- ship as members of Local 585, Service Employees International Union, effective December 15, 1975, and that neither the County or Union is authorized to withhold union dues from their pays henceforth. Mr. Crouse informed the Board of a request from John A. Piganell, Director, Office of Manpower Planning, that said office continue using the checks they have until new checks arrive, which have been ordered. Moved by Mr. Paluso, seconded by Mr. Jones, authorizing the use of the checks as per above. Roll call vote taken: Mr. Jones - Yes; Mr. Paluso - Yes; Mr. Flynn - Yes. Motion carried unanimously. New Business: Mr. Crouse announced that the Court House would be closed from 4:30 p. m. on Wed- nesday, December 31, 1975, until 9:00 a. m. on Friday, January 2, 1976, in observance of the New Year's holiday. Mr. Flynn recommended to the Board that the Chief Clerk and County Solicitor be authorized to attend the County Commissioners Seminar sponsored by the Pennsylvania State Association of County Commissioners to be held January 18 - 20, 1976. Moved by Mr. Paluso, seconded by Mr. Jones, authorizing the Chief Clerk and County Solicitor to attend said Seminar as per above. Roll call vote taken: Mr. Jones - Yes; Mr. Paluso - Yes; Mr. Flynn - Yes. Motion carried unanimously. Solicitor: Mr. Gilmore presented to the Board a Harmon aeek Agreement with the Watershed Commission. MINUTE BOOK 589 BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS WASHINGTON COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA MICHAEL R FLYNN, FRANK JONES, JR., EDWARD M. PALUSO, COMMISSIONERS C Moved by Mr. Paluso, seconded by Mr. Jones, authorizing the Chairman of the Board to execute said Agreement. Roll call vote taken: Mr. Jones - Yes; Mr. Paluso - Yes; Mr. Flynn - Yes. Motion carried unanimously. Mr. Gilmore presented to the Board an Agreement between the Mid -Monongahela Valley Council of Governments and the Washington County Board of Commissioners concerning Rodent Control. Moved by Mr. Jones, seconded by Mr. Paluso, approving the Agreement as per above. Roll call vote taken: Mr. Jones - Yes; Mr. Paluso - Yes; Mr. Flynn - Yes. Motion carried unanimously. Mr. Gilmore presented to the Board five (5) Services Provider Agreements for their consideration and approval. These Agreements were with Serenity Farms, Inc., Citizens Addiction, Rehabilitation & Education, Inc. (C. A. R. E. ), Gateway Rehabilitation Center, Washington County Council on Alcoholism & Drug Abuse, Inc., and the Mon Valley United Health Services, Inc., D & A Project. Moved by Mr. Jones, seconded by Mr. Paluso, approving the above agreements. Roll call vote taken: Mr. Jones - Yes; Mr. Paluso - Yes; Mr. Flynn - Yes. Motion carried unanimously. Mr. Gilmore brought up a matter tabled from last week's meeting regarding maintenance of electrical lighting at the Washington County Airport. Mr. Gilmore stated that there were proposals received - one from Gerald D. Mackenzie and one from Jetcraft, Inc. Mr. Paluso then informed the Board of a letter from Jetcraft, Inc., withdrawing their proposal. Moved by Mr. Jones, seconded by Mr. Flynn, approving the contract with Gerald D. Mackenzie as per above at the rate of $325. 00 per month. Discussion was held. Mr. Jones - Yes; Mr. Paluso - No; Mr. Flynn - Yes. Motion carried. Solicitor Gilmore presented the folbwing two (2) tax refunds to the Board for their con- sideration and approval. Moved by Mr. Paluso, seconded by Mr. Jones, that the Tax Assessment Office be author- ized to prepare the following tax refunds due to either duplication or overpayment of real estate or personal property tax: a90 MINUTE BOOK BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS WASHINGTON COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA MICHAEL R FLYNN, FRANK JONES, JR., EDWARD M. PALUSO, COMMISSIONERS 1. First Federal Savings & Loan Association 1975 county tax 7 7 S. Main St. Washington, PA 15301 District: South Franklin --- District Number: 590 --- Section Number: 3---Parcel Number: 3 and 10 Amount: $75.10 2. Leon Luyckx 1974 county tax 226 East Hazelcroft Avenue New Castle, PA 16105 District: Peters Township ---Deed Book Reference: 1454-0244 District Number: 540 --- Section Number: 10--- Parcel Number: 353-153 Amount: $16.24 Roll call vote taken: Mr. Jones - Yes; Mr. Paluso - Yes; Mr. Flynn - Yes. Motion carried unanimously. [option of 1976 Budget) Mr. Whalen read the following Resolution. He noted for the record that the budget prepared and posted on December 11, 1975, and was advertised in, the news media as re - red by law. The required ten-day advertising on the adoption date was also complied with. - RESOLUTION - WHEREAS, the 1976 Washington County Budget in part is based on tax revenues to be rived from the assessed valuation of real estate; THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Washington County Commissioners do y establish and adopt the ratio of 30% of Market Value as the basis for levying of taxes r 19761, and that the assessed valuation be set at $265, 350, 577 as certified to the Board of unty Commissioners by Mr. Richard W. Gubanish, Chief Assessor, under date of November , 1975. Moved by Mr. Jones, seconded by Mr. Flynn, that the Budget for the County of Wash - ;ton for the fiscal year 1976 be finally adopted by the County Commissioners; said Budget ving been available for Public Inspection in the Office of the Chief Clerk to the County Commis ners from December 11, 1975, to this date, in accordance with the Provisions of the Act of ssembly of July 18, 1935, as amended. The Resolution as to the Tax Levy and the appropria- ons of the County of Washington and the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania fixing the tax rate for �e year 1976 and appropriating specific sums estimated to be required for the specific purposes .'the operations of County Government, hereinafter set forth, during the fiscal year. Be it solved and enacted by the Board of Commissioners of the County of Washington, Pennsylvania, .at a tax be and the same is hereby levied on all property within the said County subject to xation for County purposes for the fiscal year 1976 as follows: Tax rate for general County zrposes, the sum of .0174 mills on each dollar of assessed valuation. This rate of taxation n valuation of properties of the County of Washington is required for purposes of meeting the essary general expenses for the year 1976. The sum of .0016 mills on each dollar of assessEd �91 MINUTE BOOK BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS WASHINGTON COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA MICHAEL R. FLYNN, FRANK JONES, JR., EDWARD M. PALUSO, COMMISSIONERS valuation for the general purpose of meeting our bonded indebtedness. Roll call vote taken: Mr. Jones - Yes; Mr. Paluso - No; Mr. Flynn - Yes. Motion carried. (Personal Property) Moved by Mr. Jones, seconded by Mr. Paluso, that in accordance with the provisions of the Act of Assembly, dated June 17, 1913, P. L. 507, as amended, that a four (4) mill tax be levied upon all taxable items authorized in said Act for General County purposes for the fiscal year 1976. Roll call vote taken: Mr. Jones - Yes; Mr. Paluso - Yes; Mr. Flynn - Yes. Motion carried unanimously. Mr. Flynn noted for the record that during his twelve years as County Commissioner, the millage has only increased 6 3/4 mills and now remains at 19 mills. He noted that the budget has never ended up in the red. Mr. Flynn then complimented Mr. Jones and Mr. Whalen for the work they performed and also wished them the best of luck in their future endeavors. Moved by Mr. Jones, seconded by Mr. Paluso, that the meeting adjourn. Meeting adjourned. THE FOREGOING MINUTES READ AND APPROVED: December 31 1975 ATTEST: CHIEF CLERK td