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HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOMM - Meeting Minutes - 70 - 5-24-1973 - COMMISSIONER=.. BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS WASH NGTON COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA MICHAEL R. FLYNN, FRANK JONES, JR., EDWARD M. PALUSO, COMMISSIONERS are matters which the Commissioners would like to discuss with the Judges of the said Court. Judge Sweet invited the Commissioners, Administrative Assistant Whalen, and Solicitor Hor- mell to lunch in Conference Room 1, Wednesday, April 11 at 12:00 noon. The Commissioners replied to this memo under date of April 9, 1973, stating that regretfully they would not be able to attend said luncheon and hoped that the meeting could be scheduled at a later date. Mr. Flynn then read correspondence under date of May 9, 1973, from Charles G. Sweet, P. J. inviting the Commissioners to meet with the Judges for lunch on Wednesday, May 30, 1973. The invitation also includes Administrative Assistant Whalen and Solicitor Hor- mell and matters such as Library, Adult Probation, Court House, and Budget along with any other thing the Commissioners might want to discuss will be brought up. Chairman stated that the Commissioners should make every effort to attend the meeting and the Courts will be notified to this effect. Mr. Flynn stated that under the,Revenue Sharing plan, the Commissioners must by June 20, 1973, submit to the Federal Government the proper forms stating what the Commis- sioners intend to do concerning the expenditure of the Revenue Sharing monies from January 1 to June 30, 1973. This must also be published in the newspaper. Meeting adjourned. THE FOREGOING MINUTES READ AND APPROVED: ATTEST: Minute No. #70 , 1973 CHIEF CLERK Office of the County Commissioners Washington, Pa., May 24, 1973 The Board of County Commissioners met in regular session with the following mem- bers Oresent: Commissioners Jones, Paluso and Flynn. Also present being: Chief Clerk Murphy; Administrative Assistant Whalen; Assistant County Solicitor Gilmore; Reporter Budinger of The Observer -Reporter; Mrs. June Lilley of The Daily Notes; Mrs. Helen Miller of The League of Women Voters; and Mr. Earl Bugaile of WKEG Radio. Meeting called_ to order by Chairman and roll call taken: Mr. Jones - Present; Mr. Paluso - Present; Mr. Flynn - Present. (Chairman apologized for the lateness of the meeting getting underway but informed those present that the Commissioners had a conference with representatives from outside of the County to arrive at some type of agreement as to what will take place in the future in reference to the pending trial scheduled for June 4, 1973, in Erie, Pennsylvania.. ) n MINUTE BOOK 609 BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS WASH NGTON COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA MICHAEL R. FLYNN, FRANK JONES, JR., EDWARD M. PALUSO, COMMISSIONERS E 1 Chairman asked if there were any corrections, additions, or omissions to Minute No. #69, each member having received a copy. as read. Moved by Mr. Jones, seconded by Mr. Paluso, that Minute No. #69 be approved, Roll call vote taken: Nfr. Jones - Yes; Mr. Paluso - Yes; Mr. Flynn - Yes. Motion carried unanimously. Reports - None Old Business (a) Mr. Murphy Chief Clerk presented an invoice from Gene P. Amanati in the amount of $400. 00 for pre-trial conference and court testimony in reference to the Washington Mall which had been tabled as per minute No. #64 dated April 12, 1973. Moved by Mr. Jones, seconded by Mr. Flynn, that the above invoice as submitted by Gene P. Amanati in the amount of $400. 00 be approved for payment. Remarks: Mr. Paluso: I will abstain from voting on that bill because of a possibility of a conflict of interest with me being one of the plaintiffs in that case. Roll call vote taken: Mr. Jones - Yes; Mr. Paluso - Abstained; Mr. Flynn - Yes. Motion carried. (b) Mr. Paluso Mr. Paluso: I would like to bring up a few matters concerning the Board of Assessment Appeals and request something of the Democrat Commissioners and if you will bear with me I would like to read part of this because it is mostly a matter for the record and I would like it entered into the record as such. "In view of the recent controversy over the alleged or actual purchase of property at a Tax Claim Sale by the "Republican", member of the Tax Appeals Board, I would like to call your attention •to the minutes of the County Commissioners' Meeting of March 9, 1972, pages 2 thru 6. " That Minute No. # 11 dated March 9, 1972, was the day we discussed the appointment of the Appeals Board. At that time - I will read you excerpts of this so if anyone would like to look at it, it is right here. At that time under Old Business, I brought up the Tax Appeal Board and I will quote: "I would like to move that the Washington County Board of Assessment Appeals be composed of the three County Commissioners of Washington County; and that any motions providing for the appointment of a Board of Assessment Appeals composed of persons other than the three County Commissioners, which have been heretofore adopted, be repealed, and the reasons,for that, and I quote paragraph 301 of the County Codea (1) § 301 of The Fourth to Eighth Class County Assessment Law provides that the Board of Assessment �10 MINUTE BOOK BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS WASH NGTON COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA MICHAEL R. FLYNN, FRANK JONES, JR., EDWARD M. PALUSO, COMMISSIONERS Appeals... shall be composed of the three County Commissioners in each county (3) The cost of this Board - approximately $16, 000. 00 is isn unnecessary expense, which the taxpayers should not be asked to pay. (4) The County Commissioners themselves are responsible for assuring that tax assessments are fair, equal and uniform; the County Commissioners should not try to escape this responsibility by delegating it to appointees. " Then that was turned dowr_ without a second to the motion. Then I moved that "I, Edward M. Paluso, Minority Commis- sioner of Washington County, be appointed, without additional compensation, to serve on and as one of the three members of the Washington County Board of Assessment Appeals. " That motion was ruled out of order by theChairman. Then after a discussion on that point, I then asked for the lack of a second, I would make another motion that "the appointment of the three members of the Washington County Board of Assessment Appeals require the unanimous approval and appointment of the three County Commissioners; or, in the alternative, that I, as the duly elected Minority Commissioner, be permitted and empowered to name to the Board that member of the Board who shall not be of the same political party as the other two member and I again quote the County Code: (1) § 301 of the Fourth to Eighth Class County Assessment Law gives the power of appointment to "The County Commissioners" - not to a majority of the County Commissioners. (2) The basic Board membership is the County Commissioners them- selves. The appointees are merely the surrogate for the County Commissioners. The Board members should, therefore, identify. closely as possible with the three individual County Com- missioners. (3) If the majority Commissioners, by outvoting the minority Commissioner, can appoint that member of the Board who, by statute, is requited to represent the minority politi- cal party, the statutory requirement of minority representation on the board would be subverted. " That motion, of course, did not pass. And when it didn't, I then stated "when the three mem- bers of the Washington County Board of Assessment Appeals require the unanimous approval and appointment of the three County Commissioners, or, in the alternative, that I, as the duly elected Minority Commissioner, be permitted and empowered to name to the Board that mem- ber of the Board who shall not be of the same political party as the other two Board members, etc. " That was a repeat, you asked me to repeat that and I did. That was ruled out of order. And then I went through a series of rules that I thought should be incorporated into the proceed - ings which most of which were incorporated into the proceedings I might add. I have gone to the meetings and listened and I think that was improved. "I think that these statements and arguments back In March, 1972, bear out and prove that my reasons and fears were justified in light of the recent developments. I am not judging the recent developments, I am just saying-, the publicity caused by the recent developments is what I am referring to. With this in mind, A I respectfully request that the two Democratic Commissioners reconsider their denial of the Rephblican Commissioner to rightfully have a voice on the Appeals Board as provided for in L 1 1 MINUTE BOOK 611 BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS WASH NGTON COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA MICHAEL R. FLYNN, FRANK JONES, JR., EDWARD M. PALUSO, COMMISSIONERS the County Code #301, 4th-8th Class County Assessment Law. " And with that in mind; I would like to make, a motion to that effect for the record: Moved by Mr. Paluso, that the Washington County Board of Assessment Appeals be composed of the three County Commissioners of Washington County; and that any motions pro- viding for the appointment of a Board of Assessment Appeals composed of persons other than the three County Commissioners, which have been heretofore adopted, be repealed. Mr. Paluso: My reasons in support of this Motion mre as follows: (1) § 301 of The Fourth to Eighth Class County Assessment Law provides that the Board of Assessment Appeals"... shall be composed of the three County Commissioners in each county. " Now I would like to point out something else in connection with this. I have some approximate figures here. The salaries of the three members of this Board comes to approximately $14, 400. 00. With the 77o Retirement the County is required to make is another $1, 008. 00 for these three members. The Social Security tax the County must pay on these three salaries comes to approximately $835.00 which these three items alone total $16, 243. 00. Now I have here a record of the meetings and the dates that this Board met including individual meeting with someone else as well as hearings and it came to 23 meetings for 1972. Now if you divide and I rounded off the $16, 243. 00 to $16, 200. 00 divided by 23, the cost of each meeting only for the three Board members not including secretarial help or anything else which would have to be done anyhow comes to $704. 00 per meeting divided by the number of Board members which is three - these gentlemen are being paid $234. 67 apiece per meeting. Now, unfortunately, I do not have the exact figures on the number of appeals -but we do have on the record in a previous meeting Mr. Capano is sup- posedly informed us of the number of appeals average which he said was in' the vicinity of 500. Well, further investigation -of, the figure is less than that., So it is really only a half of day's work. So then we get that down to $235. 00 per man per half a day and that is one of the reasons for this motion I have just made. I think that with the number of appeals that we are responsible for and getting at this time that the three County Commissioners could well conduct this and save the taxpayers some money. Perhaps if there is a re -assessment of the County and there were thousands perhaps we wouldn't need that Board however that is not taking place at this time and I think it is a justifiable place to save some money. The motion is on the floor. Chairman declared the motion lost due to lack of a second. Moved by Mr. Paluso, that I, Edward M. Paluso, Minority Commissioner of Wash- ington County, be appointed, without additional compensation,, to serve on and'as one of the threE- members of the Washington County -Board of Assessment Appeals. Chairman declared the motion lost due to lack of a 'second. Moved by -Mr. Paluso, that appointment of the three members of the Washington County Board of Assessment Appeals require.the unanimous approval and appointment of the MINUTE BoOK BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS WASHINGTON COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA MICHAEL R. FLYNN, FRANK .ZONES, JR., EDWARD M. PALUSO, COMMISSIONERS three County Commissioners; or, in the alternative, that I, as the' duly elected Minority Com- missioner, be permitted and empowered to name to the Board that member of the Board who shall not be of the same political party as the'other two Board- members. Mr. Paluso: Along with that I might add, that if the two Democratic Commissioners, by out- voting the Minority Commissioner, can appoint that member of the Board who, by statute, is required to ,represent the minority political party, the statutory requirement of minority repre - senation on the Board would be subverted. And that is really -the bone of contention J think in this continuing controversy. We- are not complying with the spirit and the reason for both political parties regardless of who they may be represented is to protect the rights of the minority and the taxpayer and to give the taxpayer the feeling and knowledge that he is at least not being subjected to any kind of political pressure by this Board or even to feel that this Board has any political motivation which I am not sayint it is but whenever it is appointed in this manner that has to be an illusion created in my mind and I am sure if I was appealing a tax case that would occur to me as a private citizen and I am sure that it has curred to the private citizen at those hearings now because I have received innumerable letters and this is the subject of these letters is that they do not feel that this Board is properly made 'up and they think it is politically motivated. Commissioner Paluso then referred to Minute No. #4 dated January 20, 1972, in reference to the appointment of the Appeals Board and the remarks made following the motion. Chairman declared the motion lost due to a lack of a second. Moved by Mr., Paluso, that in order to avoid either the appearance or the existence in fact of any conflict of interest which would prejudice the rights of any taxpayer appealing his assessment to the Board of .Assessment Appeals, no member of the,Washington'County Board of Assessment shall be a member of the same1aw firm as the County Solicitor or the Assistaht: County Solicitor. Mr. Paluso: I think that is just a basic; good sense way to compose this Board. I just don't think that the ordinary citizen going before that Board that, and Pam an ordinary citizen, let's face it, I would feel comfortable under those circumstances and I am sure no one else would. I think it is the very least that we can do to restore the confidence that I think has been shaken and I put it mildly. I would like to point out that this has been on my mind for a year and a half.. However, when this controversy started, I did not comment on any of it except when I was required to because it was too close to political election. I do not think that this is -a matter that should be used in a political campaign so I refrained from bringing it up last week because if you recall I thought it was a little too close and I did not want it to be construed as any motivation concerning the election results. I feel very strongly about this. I would very much appreciate you gentlemen to reconsider your position. 1 1 MINUTE BOOK 613 BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS WASH NGTON COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA MICHAEL R. FLYNN, FRANK JONES, JR., EDWARD, M. PALUSO, COMMISSIONERS Mr. Flynn: In all sincerity and fairness I would have to rule you out of order because there is no provision in that Code that gives us. the right to determine just who should sit on this Board and who the Board members should be associated with whether business or law firms or what have you. Mr. Paluso: No - "in order to ,avoid either the appearance or the existence in fact of any con- flict" - that is the way it is worded for that reason. I understand what you, are saying is correct. Mr. Flynn: Well, again in all fairness I cannot accept that and, the Chair would have to rule you out of order. Mr. Paluso: Z want all of this a part of the record because the next thing that I have to say I do not particularly relish because J think again that this is not the way that government should be run. In light of what has happened and the fact that you gentlemen,will not reconsider the composition or even in fact the existence of this Board, I would like-b inform you now that I intend,to engage private counsel this afternoon and pursue whatever legal means are available to me to really adjudicate this whole problem. Perhaps that is the solution. If it is not, I will abide by whatever decision is granted. Mr. Flynn: Certainly that is your prerogative as a public• official. We, too, will abide by the decision after the case has been adjudicated. Now, on your .Motion #1 - the statute also pro- vides that two men constitute a quorum. Now in the absence of any one Commissioner for any given period of time, I am sure we ,do not stop the process of government. There is no provi- sion that says when you speak about the County Commissioners that says that the majority must agree. Two men and two men only-, Now Mr. Jones and Mr. Flynn operating as the majority Commissioners, have the power to appoint. . On your Motion #2 , it is just a matter, of record by your own omission that you happen to be a litigant in the pending assessment case. So this woulc l just disqualify you yourself. On your Motion #3, again I repeat two men constitute a quorum to operate and perform the functions of government as required by statute. Section 301 of the Code specifically states that the County Commissioners in each of the fourth -eighth counties may appoint a Board consisting of three members to serve the terms which shall expire concurrently with the terms of the County Commissioners making the appointments. Which means in, effect that those Board members were appointed for the tenure of our office which is a four-year term of office and those men can only be removed for a cuuse and if the cause is justified ithey•can take us into Court- Secondly, no where in the Act can you show•me or anybody that you speak aboutminority representation. It specifically. states this: "no more than two such appointed members shall be members of the same political party. " Now let's analyze that for a second. It simply means in effect that if the majority Commissioners had, so desired they could have appointed two Republ ans.- and one .Democrat.: By the same token we could have appointed two members of the Constitutional party which is a legal party in this County. Or as last year we 614 MINUTE BOOK BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS WASH NGTON COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA MICHAEL R. FLYNN, FRANK JONES, JR., EDWARD M. PALUSO, COMMISSIONERS could have appointed two members of the Communist party. It does no where spell out minority party. It just says in the Law that no more than two members shall be of the same political party - it doesn't say Democrat, Republican, Constitution or whatever. When you say that your party, the minority party, my thinking is that there is no provision that provides this. Mr. Paluso: That is your thinking. My thinking is as I expressed it. That is why I think in view of the roadblock so to speak in our thinking that there is only one place for it to be decided. Unfortunately, I do not prefer that method, but I think that is the only alternative. Mr. Flynn: The intent and purpose of this Board was for once and for all eliminate politics insofar as assessment'of property was concerned and that is the exact intent. Several years ago politics did' rear its ugly head and individual Commissioners heard individual cases and it ended up in chaos in this County and the end results were the reason why we are in this predica- ment we are in today.' Now I can say here without any reservation'since I have been here politic 3 have never interfered with the operation of that Board down there and the records will prove it. We are under Court Order right now and if my memory serves me right and taking it from the top of my head, part of the Court Order says that there are 52, 000 properties in this County that are underassessed or somwehere in that neighborhood. As you well know, we have spent several hundred thousand dollars'of the taxpayers money trying to'get a firm basis in this Tax Assessment Office downstairs with the' mapping, indexing, etc. ; in order that once we have this completed then we will have to go out and have an overall re -assessment of property in this County with an estimated expenditure of anywhere from three quarters of a million to a million dollars. I think that we are within our rights to make the appointment and again I repeat myself there is no provision when you speak about minority representation 'it does not say any specific party. I think that Board is well constituted and again it does not say that you must have three Commissioners - two Commissioners constitute a quorum and two Commissioners can conduct business in the ordinary operation of this County. Mr. Jones: In your statement about the breakdown'of the costs of the Board - there is more to the Board than just the'meetings. There is'preparation for these cases that these people go out in the field and look at some of- these' propertie's and I do not think that you have a true figure ' ` there - there is more to it than just the meetings. Mr. Paluso: Perhaps you are right, Mr. Jones, and perhaps the County Commissioners when they served on the Board themselves went out and looked at all the properties but we know that that is not true. The record only shows the -work done is done at the actual meeting. There is not record that I can find that proves that there is any other work done. The field assessors, yes, but they are paid to do that. Mr. Jones: Then you are ;saying "then that the only reason you get paid is for this one meeting on Thursday? " MINUTE BOOK 615 BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS WASH NGTON COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA MICHAEL R. FLYNN, FRANK JONES, JR., EDWARD M. PALUSO, COMMISSIONERS Mr. Paluso: I am saying that is what the record shows. Mr. Flynn: The fact remains that there are alot of advantages of being a majority and a lot of disadvantages. There is also a lot of advantages of being a minority and a lot of disadvantages. The operation of county government or any government again becomes the responsibility of the majority party and the minority can naturally take a position opposite the majority. The respon- sibility rests upon our shoulders as the majority party and the minority party could care less. I know there have been articles that have appeared in the local news media trying to abolish this Board and I can accept criticism. I have approximately maybe 5-10 minutes freewhen I get a chance to send one of the girls down to get me a bite to eat. Being a County Commissioners in just coming here at none o'clock in the morning and leaving ,at 4:30 in the afternoon involves a lot of work and I think that everyone will agree that the problems confronting the Commissioner= today, if there is any segment of our society or- political subdivisions that is growing day by day it is the office of the County Commissioner and it is getting to the position that it is hard to cope with and we can't and I am sure that contrary to your thinking that I am sure that I, for one, do not have the time to sit down and attend all of these Board hearings, etc. Insofar as I am per- sonally concerned politics is rearing its ugly head again in this County and this is exactly the state we are in right now in trying to inject politics into the Board re -assessment program. Mr. Paluso: I violently disagree. I repeat my remarks. If anything gives the impression of politics, this particul-a,r method that you are using to appoint this Board does. Correspondence - Mr. Murphy Chief Clerk informed the Board of the receipt'of a check from the Department of Public Welfare representing Public Assistance Payment for Child Welfare Services for the monthof December, 1912, in the amount of $3, 111, 56. (Bills) Moved by Mr. Jones, seconded by Mr. Paluso, that the following bills be approved for payment: (a) John B. Bruno - $2, 593. 00 - installing a new water heater at County Jail. (b) Washington -Greene County MH/MR Program - $17, 611. 37 for quarter January 1, 1973 through March 31, 1973. (c) Frank Gavlik & Sons, Inc. - Estimate No. #2 - $10, 296. 99 Washington Airport Slide Area. Remarks: Mr. Paluso: Mr. Gilmore, in your opinion, do you advise us that these bills are legitimate? I would like the opinion of the Solicitor. Mr. Gilmore: The only thing that I was directly consulted on was the emergency payment and i whether it could be done without prior authorization and we determined that it could. The seconc item is a standard contract item and the third item - my only knowledge is that it was properly 616 MINUTE BOOK BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS WASH NGTON COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA MICHAEL R. FLYNN, FRANK JONES, JR., EDWARD M. PALUSO, COMMISSIONERS contracted on and bid on. Other than that, I do not know. Mr. Paluso: All I am asking is -to preclude any more hold up of payment perhaps. I want to protect myself and the other, members of this Board. And that -is the only protection, as you well know, Mr. Gilmore, that we have is the Solicitor's opinion that it is a legally constituted bill. Mr. Gilmore: Yes, it is. Mr. Paluso: I would like that on the record that -you are assuring me that I will not be subject to surcharge if I vote to pay that bill or not just me - by I, I mean the Board of County -Commis- sioners. Mr. Gilmore: Well, I will say this. Based upon a couple of assumptions that I at this point would have to make - (1) the contract for the repair on its face appears to be proper. Now 1 ' did not render an opinion on it when it was entered. I am assuming it is a proper contract. Based upon that and secondly, based- upon that there were bids and this was the person who was contracted to do it and last, based upon the recommendation from the engineer that the work has been done, I do not know physically it'has been done I have never been out there but we rely on our subordinates to do that. Yes, it is a proper bill and it should be paid and you will not be subject to surcharge. Roll call vote taken: Mr. Jones - Yes; Mr. Paluso -'Yes; Mr. Flynn - Yes. Motion carried unanimously. Chief Clerk read correspondence under date of May 16, 1973, from C. Vance Dei:Cas, P. E. , McDonald Associates Engineering, which stated that the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Resources wishes 'a letter of approval from the Washington County Commissioners regarding the Weld Sanitary Landfill in Fallowfield Township, Washington County. Corres'pon- dence requested immediate action on said matter in order that a permit can be obtained from the Department of Environmental Resources. Correspondence further stated that the same in- formation has been sent to Mr. William Sember of the Planning Commission. Correspondence also enclosed a copy of the letter received from the Department of Environmefft'al Resources. Chief Clerk stated that in conjunction with Mr. DeiCas I letter that a letter has also been received under date of May 21, 1973, from Mr. William P. Sember, Acting Director of the Planning Commission, which recommended by the Washington County Planning Commission that the Boarc; of County Commissioners grant its approval in reference to the Weld Landfill, Fallowfield Township. Mr. Paluso: Remember I said when we were going over the agenda yesterday I do not believe Mr. Weld was the proprietor or the owner and last night's paper coincidentally, The Valley Independent, had a large ad. I do not recall the name Mr. Murphy: The name was .Welsh. 1 n MINUTE BOOK 617 BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS WASH NGTON COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA MICHAEL R. FLYNN, FRANK JONES, JR., EDWARD M. PALUSO, COMMISSIONERS Mr. Paluso: Just for the record, it is not ,owned by Mr. Weld. The ad stated the new owner and operator was Welsh which does not make a difference the landfill is still the same landfill but I think it should be corrected. Moved by Mr. Jones, seconded by Mr. Paluso, that the Washington County Board of Commissioners grant approval to the Weld (Welsh) Landfill, Fallowfield Township, Identifica- tion No. 100590. Remarks: Mr. Flynn: With the stipulation that has been brought to our attention that the name be changed from Weld to Welsh. Roll call vote taken: Mr. Jones - Yes; Mr. Paluso - Yes; Mr. Flynn - Yes. Motion carried unanimously. Moved by Mr. Jones, seconded by Mr. Paluso, that the Airport Road be repaired at the estimated sum of $900. 00. Remarks: Mr. Paluso: I would like to point out that this is not being done with Liquid Fuels money becausE it is not permissible. This is out of the general fund. Roll call vote taken: Mr. Jones - Yes; Mr. Paluso - Yes; Mr. Flynn - Yes. Motion carried unanimously. Chief Clerk read correspondence under date of May 21, 1973, from Senator A. J. Murphy directed to Francis M. Geisler, Chief of Municipal Statistics Division, which stated that Senator Murphy has been serving on the committee to revise the form for the county's annual financial report. Correspondence stated that Senator Murphy sent a draft copy of the report form to the Washington County Commissioners for their review and comment. Corres- 4 pondence also attached a copy of the Commissioners' reply. Correspondence stated in conclu- sion that Senator Murphy would appreciate it if Mr. Geisler would set some time aside to includ( the Commissioners' comments in their next discussion. Mr. Whalen: He did send in a draft copy - very rough draft. It had some what I thought were some basic defects in that through the Constitutional amendments that were incorporated the Orphans' Court Division was abolished and the Courts are under one head and I called that to the Senator's attention that I thought that was a duplication of effort to have a separate budget for Orphans' Court and a separate budget for the other Courts and also inasmuch as our Magisterial System requires full budgetary process the proposed budget was not adequate for that purpose and that also holds true with the Public Defender's office. Other than re -numbering alot of the accounts including in it federal revenue sharing as a reporting service there wasn't any other particular drastic changes in it although I think that possibly and I brought this to the Senator's 1 MINUTE BOOK BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS WASH NGTON COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA MICHAEL R. FLYNN, FRANK JONES, JR., EDWARD M. PALUSO, COMMISSIONERS attention that possibly they had the cart before the horse in revising the financial statement be- cause your various accounts are set up from up from your budgetary processes and unless you have the budgetary guide you would not have any facility for completing a revised financial report. I presume that they will certainly incorporate any changes made in the financial statement back into the budget report which, of course, are definitely inter -related. I have not heard anything from him other than they acknowledged the letter. Moved by Mr. Jones, seconded byMr. Paluso, that the sum of $40, 000. 00 be approvec. to finance the acquisition of the Goodwill Hill Hunting and Fishing Club property in Hanover Township in connection with the Harmon Creek Flood Control project; and also that the sum• of $5, 000. 00 be approved to meet the obligation for the final payment on replacement housing in the Lee and Louise Romanetti acquisition. Roll call vote taken: Mr. Jones - Yes; Mr. Paluso - Yes; Mr. Flynn - Yes. Motion carried unanimously. Chief Clerk read correspondence under date of May 17, 1973, from Thomas J. Bova, Director of Construction - Carl G. Baker/Architects, directed to General Elevator Company, Inc., which stated that Carl G. Baker/Architects have received the letter dated May 9, 1973, with regard to the Certification necessary to have State approval for the elevator installation at the Washington County Courthouse. Correspondence attached three copies of the Certifica- tion requested with the signature and seal of Mr. Carl G. Baker affixed thereon. Chief Clerk read correspondence under date of May 3, 1973, from Harold E. Steele, LTC, GS, USAR, Assistant G4 '- Department of'the Army directed to Mr. Frank Jones, Jr. , which stated that reference is made to a meeting held on January 10, 1973, at the Washington County Airport and at which time the requirement for land to expand and improve the aircraft facility was discussed. Correspondence sstated that a suggestion was made that 5. 948 acres of land may be donated to the United States Government or negotiated for a long term (50) year; - nominal fee lease. Correspondence further stated* that the owner of said tract is Washington Airport Association, Inc. , and that it is requested that said Association be contacted and the proposal presented to them as soon as possible. Correspondence further stated that federal monies for the required project at Washington County Airport will be held in abeyance until the government has ownership or a long term lease on the land. Mr. Jones: The Army had contacted me in reference to the Airport. They wanted to expand the facilities out there. Along with the accompanying letter, there is also a map and I suggest that we turn this over, - we're talking about our master plan at the Airport - to them and let them incorporate it into the plan. MINUTE BOOK 619 BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS WASH NGTON COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA MICHAEL R. FLYNN, FRANK JONES, JR., EDWARD M. PALUSO, COMMISSIONERS Chairman stated that in view of the fact that arrangements have been made for the Commissioners to meet at 1:00 p. m, with representatives outside of the County that the regular Board meeting be recessed until 2:00 p, m, or until the termination of the Commissioners' 1:00 meeting. Meeting recessed. Meeting reconvened at 4:30 p, m. with the following members being present: Com- missioners Jones, Paluso and Flynn. Also present being: Chief Clerk Murphy; Administrative Assistant Whalen; County Solicitor Hormell; Assistant County Solicitor Gilmore; County Con- troller Elish; Sheriff Debreczeni; Mrs. Pamela Higgins _ Assistant District Attorney for Phila- delphia; Mr. Charles Gillespie; Mr. Jack Merdian - WJPA; and Mrs. Helen Miller of The League - of Women Voters. Special Order of Business: Mr. Hormell: Mrs. Higgins is an Assistant District Attorney from Philadelphia and with the upcoming Pass Trial in Erie came to the Commissioners this morning with a specific problem with which we have been wrestling most of the day. Specifically, as I pointed out to the Com- missioners in the past, any expenses incurred by the District Attorney upon approval of those expenses by the District Attorney and the Court are to be paid from the general fund account. Now we have a situation here where these cases have been transferred to Erie County. There is some question as to whom has jurisdiction over what or what the particulars are but the Commis- sioners are anxious & interested in seeing that nothing is done on the part of Washington County which would any way jeopardize any of those trials nor would in any way put Erie County into any kind of situation where they should not be. Consequently, we have conferred with the District Attorney - we were not able to confer with the Judge; but we have a request which will be forma- lized and submitted to the Commissioners by the District Attorney wherein he requests that be- cause certain funds will be required prior to the beginning of the trial and will have to be expen- ded before they are approved, that an account be set up which would be subject to the examination and scrutiny of the District Attorney, the Court, the County Controller and the County Commis- sioners. Mr. Costa has indicated that he will sign this request and has further indicated that he will speak with Judge Sweet tomorrow and to ask that he sign it and anticipates that Judge Sweet will sign it and I have spoken with Judge Carney as well as Mrs. Higgins and Judge Carney has indicated that he thinks that this would be proper and that in the event that there are any problems about getting a Judge's signature, he will sign it. So, with that in mind; we are recommending that you will pass a resolution advancing the sum of $7, 500. 00 for deposit into a special account subject to those limitations that I have pointed out and subject to the examination and control which I have pointed out. In addition to that, we are recommending that this County immediately for- ward to Erie County the full balance of the costs on the Prater trial as submitted to us by the � 1 BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS WASH NGTON COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA MICHAEL R. FLYNN, FRANK JONES, JR , EDWARD M. PALUSO, COMMISSIONERS County Controller subject to the condition that Washington County reserves the right to continue to examine into any of those expenditures to see that they have been properly authenticated. The purpose of sending this at this point is that this County does not feel that Erie County or the tax- payers of Erie County should have to bear the grunt of paying these costs from their money when it is our obligation. We are reserving the right to go into these matters in depth and detail and are planning to go to Erie County with the (,check if it has,been issued and with 'the representatives of our office to accomplish these purposes. I think that that summarizes it. Moved by Mr. Jones, seconded by Mr. Paluso, that it be resolved that the Washington County Board of Commissioners establish the sum of $7, 500. 00 into a special account or to make a deposit to that account at the Security Peoples Trust Company - Special Account #126-02-04, and such other supplementary deposits as may be necessary either by Washington County or Erie County depending upon what i-s ultimately established. Roll call vote taken: Mr. Jones - Yes; Mr. Paluso - Yes; Mr. Flynn - Yes. Motion carried unanimously. Moved by Mr. Jones, seconded by Mr. Paluso, that it be resolved that the Washing- ton County Board of Commissioners request the Washington County Controller to issue a check in the amount of $57, 994. 81 representing payment in full to Erie County for the balance owed for that money which Erie County has advanced subject to Washington County's determining:, that all the bills are properly authenticated and expenditures properly made and also directing representatives of the Commissioners' Office to deliver said check to Erie County. Remakks: Mr. Hormell: Accompanying the payment will be a ,letter from Mr. Whalen, Administrative Assistant, setting forth the rights and reservations that we are keeping in making this payment. Roll call vote taken: Mr. Jones - Yes; Mr. Paluso - Yes; Mr. Flynn - Yes. Motion carried unanimously. Mr. Flynn: After our conversation, we, deem it, advisable that one of the Commissioners, Mr. Hormell and Mr. Whalen proceed to Erie to meet with the proper officials the first thing tomorrow morning and to present them with this check on the unpaid balance for the Prater trial with the message that we are prepared to underwrite the cost of the forthcoming trial. Mrs. Higgins left the meeting. Mr. Gillespie left the meeting. (Regular order of business) Chief Clerk read a Report of a Meeting on the Master Airport Plan held in Harris- burg on Tuesday, October 31, 1972, as submitted by Oliver N. Hormell, Esq. , 1 MINUTE B❑❑K E E BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS WASH NGTON COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA MICHAEL R. FLYNN, FRANK JONES, JR., EDWARD M. PALUSO, COMMISSIONERS Mr. Flynn: Well the reason why I asked the gentleman to read this at length is because this is the results of a meeting which was held in Harrisburg in October of 1972. Under the FAA regu- lations, before we can do anything additional at that airport such as expanding the runway, etc. , we must comply with the regulations which means in effect that we must adopt a master plan. The fact remains that we have held this in abeyance since last October since that meeting for several reasons. Mr. DeiCas has made a proposal to this County at an estimated cost of $32, 500. 00 and we have held this in abeyance. We will not, make any progress until a master plan is adopted. It is my thinking that the time has long passed that we should take definite action one way or the other if we are to comply with regulations where we will be able to request monies to help develop this Airport. Mr. Jones: I might add that I was at that meeting in October, 1972. There are a -couple of things which I think are important in that report that he did say at that time say that he not an engineer in the airport planning but he asked the gentleman from the FAA if this was required and he said "no" that you could bring a consultant in. Also, that the money was available at is that time and of course in being in contact with them the money is still available. This/money for planning for the master plan at the airport. Before we can do any further, improvements at our airport, we have to have the master plan. I am very much for this master plan. Moved by Mr. Jones, seconded by Mr. Paluso, that the Washington County Board of Commissioners execute an agreement of contract with McDonald Associates Engineering and Ross Adams, Inc., for the adoption of the Master Plan at the County Airport based upon the proposal as submitted to the Commissioners. Roll call vote taken: Mr. Jones - Yes; Mr. Paluso - Yes; M r. Flynn - Yes. Motion carried unanimously. Chief Clerk read correspondence under date of May 11, 1973, and also April 19, 1973, from Alfred A. Gwaley, Chairman of the Washington County Fund Drive for Penn's South- west Association, which stated that the Penn's Southwest Association is conducting a fund drive in Washington County. Correspondence stated that in other counties where the campaign is being conducted, it is requested that a donation based on the county population at . 03� per person as a guideline be donated. Correspondence enclosed a contribution card for the Commissioners' consideration. Mr. Paluso: -I would highly recommend that we do participate to some extent, financially. I think it is a good thing. The purpose is to promote industrial conta,cts,to see if they can bring them into this area. They have already done some work -on the United Mine Workers headquarters that I know of .and also another. Moved by Mr. Jones, seconded by Mr. Paluso, that the sum of $3, ON. 00 be f22 MINUTE BOOK BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS WASH NGTON COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA MICHAEL R. FLYNN, FRANK JONES, JR., EDWARD M. PALUSO, COMMISSIONERS allocated from the Industrial Development Fund to the Penn's Southwest Association. Roll call vote taken: Mr. Jones - Yes; Mr. Paluso, -Yes; Mr. Flynn - Yes. Motion carried unanimously. Chief Clerk read correspondence under date of May 16, 1973, from William P. Sem- ber, Acting Director of the Planning Commission, directed to Mr. Russ Sommerville in refer- ence to the construction of building on County Fairgrounds, which stated that Mr. Sember has been in contact with the zoning officer of Chartiers Township. Correspondence stated that al- though there is a formal procedure to be followed in obtaining a building permit, that the zoning officer indicated that no problems should occur if certain information is submitted to the zoriinf- officer's office. Correspondence listed said information required. Correspondence stated in conclusion that the Pennsylvania Department of Resources would not become involved unless there is a possibility of stream damage which Mr. Sember stated that he does not believe applies in said instance. Chief Clerk read correspondence under date of April 3, 1973, from Sylvester Fi�izzie, Chairman - Board of Directors and Fire School Committee of the Washington County Firemen' Association, Inc. , which stated that at a meeting held on March 11, 1973, the Board of Direc- tors and the Fire School Committee of the Washington County Firemen's Association, Inc., were informed that one of the member fire companies is anticipating holding a local firemen's training school and that they intend to solicit the Board of County Commissioners for funds to help defray the expenses. Correspondence stated that both committees attending the meeting felt that the Commissioners are very generous in their appropriation of funds for both the Washington County Fire Association School and the Western Pennsylvania Firemen's Training Institute held at California and therefore at said meeting went on record as not condoning or sanctioning such action by any one individual fire company of Washington County. Mr. Flynn: I would suggest that you acknowledge same and let the gentleman know that deemed by statute is the only reason we cannot do it for individual fire companies because we deal with the Association as such. Chief Clerk read correspondence under date of May 14, 1973, from James L. Knox, Director of the Washington -Greene County Addictive Disease Program, which advised that the Federal Department of Health, Education and Welfare, under its Office of Education's "Help Communities Help Themselves" program, has recently approved a 100% funded Mini Grant in the amount of $3, 030. 00. Correspondence stated that said grant which is sponsored by and will be expended under the jurisdiction of the Washington -Greene County Addictive Disease Program, will be used by the Greater Canonsburg Area Council for Drug Abuse to train local citizens from the community to develop, administer, and maintain prevention and treatment P 1 MINUTE BOOK 623 BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS WASH NGTON COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA MICHAEL R. FLYNN, FRANK JONES, JR., EDWARD M. PALUSO, COMMISSIONERS I services for the drug abuser. Correspondence further stated that said money is in addition to and separate from other funds under which the Washington -Greene County Addictive Disease Program ordinarily functions and that said training sessions will be conducted at Adelphi National Drug Institute, Taylor -Jones Center, New York Institute of Technology in New York. Correspondence further stated that the funds cover the cost of travel, room and board, training, and any other legitimate expenses incurred by the trainees, during course of the program. Chief Clerk read correspondence under date of May 18, .1973, from Charles J. Lie - berth - Area Director of the Department of Housing and Urban Development, directed to Mr. Roland Bourke, Executive Director of -the Redevelopment Authority, which thanked Mr. Bourke for his check in the amount of $42, 889. 44 representing balance of funds remaining to the credit of Project PA-R-217 and also for the check in the amount of $387. 17 representing the balance of funds remaining to the credit- of Project PA-R-132 (GN). -Correspondence stated that, said action permits the Department of, Housing and Urban Development to close their files on.the final audit and allows to complete the termination of the project. - Chief Clerk read correspondence under date of May 22, 1973, from John Yuhas, P. E. - County Engineer, which stated that Mr. Yuhas met with the Centerville Borough Council pertaining to Barney's Run (Packrall's Bay) on May 21, 1973. Correspondence stated that Mr. Yuhas informed the council members that he was representing the Commissioners on said pro- 0 ject and stated that the County was not in the stream clearance business. Correspondence stated that since the request was made to get the channel cleaned by the Borough of Centerville that Mr. Yuhas explained the situation to the council as to how this could be accomplished. Correspondence stated that since Packrall's Bay is located in East Bethlehem Township that Mr. Yuhas has set up a meeting on June 6, 1973, at 7:00 p. m,, with the Township Commissioner s and has requested a representative from Centerville Borough to -be present for said meeting. Correspondence stated in conclusion that Mr. Yuhas explained to the council that since there are two municipalities involved each should come up with an• equal share, of the cost and that if they agree to come up with an equal share that Mr. Yuhas will recommend to the Commissioners for the additional share; work to be done under the supervision of the County of Washington. In conclusion, Mr. Yuhas suggested that a new cost estimate be obtained as the, estimate which is on file is dated last September;- 1972, in -the amount of $.3, 000. 00. Chief Clerk read correspondence under date of May 15, 1973, from Ralph M. Antone, General Manager - Guttman Oil Company, which stated that pending receipt of details of the program of allocation of petroleum products announced by Deputy Secretary of Treasury, Wil- liam E. Simon, on May 10, 1973, and in order to distribute available, su.pplies�on as fair and equitable basis as possible, that effective immediately deliveries of gasoline and diesel, fuels in any one calendar month shall not exceed the amount delivered in the corresponding month of 624 MINUTE BOOK BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS WASH NGTON COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA MICHAEL R. FLYNN, FRANK JONES, JR., EDWARD M. PALUSO, COMMISSIONERS the year 1972 and subject to further revision 'at any time. Mr. Merdian left the meeting. I Mr. Whalen: (a) Chartiers Creek Flood Control Project Mr. Whalen: In connection with said Project, the real problem that -is basically holding up that is evidenced by the picture on the wall up there and that is the channel of that stream at the Jefferson Avenue Bridge. And through a misunderstanding - I guess the engineer and the attorney were waiting for a report fromilthe Corps of Engineers and,the Corps of Engineers say they were waiting for a report from the County and as a result progress down there has been stalmated. However, we have the thing off dead center now and we have the attorney for the project, the engineer, and the Corps of Engineers back in high gear on the thing so within another week we should have some substantial report as far as that, particular'project is con- cerned. That was discussed at length at a meeting quite some time ago and I think that the understanding was that the Corps of Engineers were going to do some recalculating down there but they claim that they were waiting for some information from the County so hopefully now the thing is back in gear again. (b) Courthouse Heating and Elevator Contracts Mr. Whalen: As far as the Courthouse Heating and Air Conditioning is concerned, it is at an impasse and about the only word I can use to describe it is atrocious. Right now they tell us that we probably are not going to have air, conditioning for another six weeks. We have a letter here dated May 10, 1973, in which Carl G. Baker and Associates say that all work will be completed by May 15, 1973. May 15th has passed and we are still six weeks away from some air conditioning in the building and as far as the practical aspects are concerned, the heating part has not been cleared up yet. In connection with the other contract, Mr. Bevec, the Build- ing Superintendent, advised us yesterday that the elevator contract is three weeks behind schedule. For the record, the original completion date on the heating contract was September 15; 1972, and the new date here is May 15, 1973, and the date for completion of the elevator is August 1, 1973. I believe that the time has come when I would have to recommend to the Board that they take some decisive action through the legal department to determine -the contract provisions and also to investigate to find out why the elevator operation is three weeks behind schedule: But I think that it will take a legal determination on the other contract too. Mr. Flynn: Mr. Gilmore, you did check briefly the contract insofar as this heating system and air conditioning is concered? 1 1, Mr. Gilmore: That is right, Mr. Chairman, I made a preliminary examination of the contract and am not in any way able to report as to what course we should take but I would like to reminc the Board that it specifically is spelled out in the contract that time is of the very essence of MINUTE BOOK 625 BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS WASH NGTON COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA MICHAEL R. FLYNN, FRANK JONES, JR., EDWARD M. PALUSO, COMMISSIONERS of this contract and that any dates set therein are to be scrupulously observed so that we ar-e-•on very good footing when we say that we can proceed and can get results. We will probably be prepared to report to the Board at the next regular meeting. Mr. Flynn: Well, I would say that by the next meeting ;you and Mr: Hormell will have a chance to peruse the" contract and make recommendations. (c) PennDot Traffic Count Mr. Whalen: The next item concerns the correspondence we had at an earlier -meeting concern- ing a contract with the Commonwealth on our traffic count. Now that has been revised and they have sent in a sample contract; however, this is not the final - this is merely one that was marked up. But the pertinent information is that the contract price will be $10, 000 instead of the original $7, 500. and Washington County can only hire two persons instead of the previously anticipated four because PennDot does not have the necessary amount of counting machines available so Mr. Sember suggests that the County go on record -with PennDot in this regard that they be under contract from June'l. until October 31st-to complete the traffic counts and since it was assumed that four persons would be hired instead of two for approximately twleve weeks I would suggest that the Commissioners authorize myself and Mr. Hormell to forward a letter to PennDot as an addendum to the contract. This letter would state that in light of the lack of counting machines by PennDot that result in hiring two persons instead of four and because the starting date cannot possibly begin until after June 1 that Washington County not be made to strictly adhere to the October 31 deadline. Moved by Mr. Jones, seconded by Mr. Paluso, that the Washington County Board of Commissioners authorize Mr. William Sember in conjunction with Messrs. Whalen and Hormell to direct a letter to the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation as an addendum to the afore- mentioned contract, as per above. Roll call vote taken: Mr. Jones - Yes; Mr. Paluso - Yes; Mr. Flynn - Yes. Motion carried unanimously. (d) County Jail Standards - letter from Attorney General Mr. Whalen: In the spirit of some brevity we have a letter from the Attorney General which reflects the new standards applicable to county jails and prisons. There has been a seminar in this regard and our Warden has attended so he will be following through on the requirements set forth. (e) Washington County Manpower Program Mr. Whalen: The Washington County Manpower Plan for fiscal 1974 has been submitted to the U. S. Department of Labor and this covers an in -school program to prepare and teach accept- able work habits to potential workers and it is an institutional automotive mechanical course in I MINUTE BOOK BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS WASH NGTON COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA MICHAEL R. FLYNN, FRANK JONES, JR., EDWARD M. PALUSO, COMMISSIONERS structural steel lay -out course created because of the demand for these jobs exist in Washington County. These programs will be directed at the Vietnam, Veteran and special problem groups So this has been submitted; however, we have no acceptance on it as yet. (f) PEP Manpower Conference Moved by Mr. Jones, seconded by Mr. Paluso, that the Washington County Board of Commissioners authorize Mr. John Fantini, Director of the Public Employment Program for Washington County, to attend the National County Manpower Conference to be held in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, on June 3-5, 1973. Roll call vote taken: Mr. Jones - Yes; Mr. Paluso - Yes; Mr. Flynn - Yes. Motion carried 'unanimously. (g) Nutrition Program Mr. Whalen: At a previous meeting, we discussed in detail the proposed nutrition program that has been advanced. Mr. Gilmore attended this conference and I think that everyone is familiar with it. The only thing that was left on it was to determine which course we wanted to follow. Number 1 was to support the program as a part of county government; the- second course was to contract the service to a private agency that can provide this kind of service; or the Commissioners can let the State come in and handle the program themselves aside - from county government. After reviewing this program and also all the information pertaining to the meals -on -wheels program by Community Action it would be our recommendation that you adopt the third alternative and let the State operate the program. Moved by Mr. Jones, seconded by Mr. Paluso, that the Washington County Board of Commissioners adopt the third alternative whereby the State will handle theNutrition Program aside from county government. Roll call vote taken: Mr. Jones - Yes; Mr. Paluso Yes; Mr. Flynn - Yes. Motion carried unanimously. (h) Court Rules Mr. Whalen: The last item I have is one which came to me from the Purchasing Office. They received a bill from Lydic Printing Company for printing 200 copies of court rules in the amount of $1,,144. 00. The reason it came upstairs because the Purchasing Office had not been contacted for a purchase order. So I sent an inquiry to Judge Sweet asking why our Purchasing Office was bypassed. He answered me back and said "note attached acknowledge- ment of Commissioner role herein-Terputac actually masterminded this for the Bar Association and J. V. Murphy surely knew of this- and admitted there was no purchase number. " A discussion was then held on the above -mentioned bill. Chief Clerk Murphy stated that he had no knowledge of said bill. Chairman suggested that said bill be tabled for the time being. MINUTE BOOK 627 BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS WASH NGTON COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA MICHAEL R. FLYNN, FRANK JONES, JR., EDWARD M. PALUSO, COMMISSIONERS New Business - Mr. Flynn Chairman informed those present that the Courthouse will be closed from Friday, May 25, 1973, at 4:30 p.m. until Tuesday, May 29, 1973, at 9:00 a. m. in observance of Memorial Day. Moved by Mr. Paluso, seconded by Mr. Jones, that as required by statute that five (5) persons are authorized to attend the Pennsylvania State Association of County Commiss - ioners to be held June 24-28 and that if there is a possibility that one of the Commissioners wil: not be able to attend that F.D. Whalen, Administrative Assistant and/or David Gilmore, Assistant County Solicitor be authorized to represent Washington County. Roll call vote taken: Mr. Jones - Yes; Mr. Paluso - Yes; Mr. Flynn - Yes. Motion carried unanimously. Solicitor: (Tax Claim Bureau Resolutions) Assistant County Solicitor Gilmore presented various Resolutions submitted by the Washington County Tax Claim Bureau to the Board for their approval. Moved by Mr. Jones, seconded by Mr. Paluso, that RESOLUTION NO. 348 for property situate in Carroll Township, Washington County, Pennsylvania, sold on April 24, 1940, Treasurer's Sale, being described as V. Lot # 18, Gilmore Terrace, situate in Carroll Township, Washington County, Pennsylvania and rormerly assessed in the name of Paul Regattp a/k/a Regetti, be approved; and that the sum of $50.00 be accepted from STEVE DANILCHACK & GERTRUDE DANILCHACK; Washington County Tax Claim Bureau receiving the consent of taxing districts involved: Ringgold School District (Carroll) - March 27, 1973 and Carroll Township Supervisors - February 8, 1973. Moved by Mr. Jones, seconded by Mr. Paluso, that RESOLUTION NO. 349 for property situate in Carroll Township, Washington County, Pennsylvania, sold on April 3, 1946, Treasurer's Sale, being described as 2 Lots 20-21, Gilmore Terrace, situate in Carroll Town• - ship, Washington County, Pennsylvania, and formerly assessed in the name of Geno Fabeau, be approved; and that the sum of $100. 00 be accepted from STEVE DANILCHAK & GERTRUDE DANILCHAK; Washington County Tax Claim Bureau receiving the consent of taxing districts involved: Ringgold School District (Carroll) - February 15, 1973, and Carroll Township Supervisors - February 8, 1973. Moved by Mr. Jones, seconded by Mr. Paluso, that RESOLUTION NO. 350 for property situate in Cecil Township, Washington County, Pennsylvania, sold in 1915-1916-1917, Treasurer's Sale, being described as Lots 66 thru 71, Oak View Plan, situate in Cecil Town- ship, Washington County, Pennsylvania, and formerly assessed in the name of Maria M. Hess, be approved; and that the sum of $150. 00 be accepted from ELIDIO MONACO; Washington Coun y 628 MINUTE BOOK BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS WASH NGTON COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA MICHAEL R. FLYNN, FRANK JONES, JR., EDWARD M. PALUSO, COMMISSIONERS Tax Claim Bureau receiving the consent of taxing districts involved: Canon -McMillan School District (Cecil) - April 17, 1973, and Cecil Township Supervisors - April 30, 1973. Moved by Mr. Jones, seconded by Mr. Paluso, that RESOLUTION NO. 351 for property situate in East Bethlehem Township, Washington County, Pennsylvania, sold on April 25, 1940, Treasurer's Sale, being described as Lot 82-83, Vesta Heights, situate in East Bethlehem Township, Washington County, Pennsylvania, and formerly assessed in the name of John Doss Estate, be approved; and that the sum of $100.00 be accepted from ALBERT & NORMA FERRARI; Washington County Tax Claim Bureau receiving the consent of taxing districts involved: Beth -Center School District - March 8, 1973 and East Bethlehem Township Commissioners - December 5, 1972. Moved by Mr. Jones, seconded by Mr. Paluso, that RESOLUTION NO. 352 for property situate in South Strabane Township, Washington County, Pennsylvania, sold on January 24, 1940, April 26, 1940 Treasurer's Sale, being described as Lot 100, Pleasantview Plan, situate in South Strabane Township, Washington County, Pennsylvania, and formerly assessed in the name of Huldah Jane Chester, be approved; and that the sum of $50. 00 be accepted from CHARLES R. & BETTY R. SMALLEY; Washington County Tax Claim Bureau receiving the consent of taxing districts involved: Trinity Area School District (South Strabane) March 29, 1973, and South Strabane Township Supervisors - March 19, 1973. Moved by Mr. Jones, seconded by Mr. Paluso, that RESOLUTION NO. 353 for property situate in Smith Township, Washington County, Pennsylvania, sold in 1925-1926- 1927, Treasurer's Sale, being described as Lot 41, Riddle Plan, situate in Smith Township, Washington County, Pennsylvania, and formerly assessed in the name of Jake Baker, be approved; and that the sum of $50. 00 be accepted from ROY E. LOUNDER & LINDA J. LOUNDER; Washington County Tax Claim Bureau receiving the consent of taxing districts involved: Burgettstown Area School District (Smith) - February 21, 1972, and Smith Township Supervisors - February 13, 1973. Moved by Mr. Jones, seconded by Mr. Paluso, that RESOLUTION NO. 354 for property situate in Cecil Township, Washington County, Pennsylvania, sold in 1915-1916 1917, Treasurer's Sale, being described as 4 Lots, Oak View Plan, 331-345-358-3812, situate in Cecil Township, Washington County, Pennsylvania, and formerly assessed in the name of Damon Wahl, be approved; and that the sum of $100. 00 be accepted from ELIDIO MONACO; Washington County Tax Claim Bureau receiving the consent .of taxing Districts in- volved: Canon -McMillan School District (Cecil) - April 26, 1973, and Cecil Township Super- visors - April 30, 1973. Moved by Mr. Jones, seconded by Mr. Paluso, that RESOLUTION NO. 355 fo 0 1 property situate in Cecil Township, Washington County, Pennsylvania, sold in 1915-1916- 1917, Treasurer's Sale, being described as Lots 256-279 inc. Adjacent Jno F. Mawhenney MINUTE BOOK 629 BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS WASH NGTON COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA MICHAEL R. FLYNN, FRANK JONES, JR., EDWARD M. PALUSO, COMMISSIONERS Maple Avenue, in Oak View Plan, situate in Cecil Township, Washington County, Pennsylvania, and formerly assessed in the name of Edward Coen, be approved; and that the sum of $600. 00 be accepted from ELIDIO MONACO; Washington County Tax Claim Bureau receiving the consent of taxing districts involved: Canon -McMillan School District (Cecil) - May 16, 1973, and Cecil Township Supervisors - April 30; 1973. Moved by Mr. Jones, seconded by Mr. Paluso, that RESOLUTION NO. 356 for property situate in Monongahela 2nd Ward, Washington County, Pennsylvania, sold on Septem- ber 13, 1965, Tax Claim Bureau Sale, being described as (1961-1962) 6 Lots Parkway Plan, DB 604-84, and in (1963-1964) 5 Lots Parkway Plan, DB 604-84 (43-17-2) situate in Mononga- hela 2nd Ward, Washington County, Pennsylvania, and formerly assessed in the name of J. B. Finley Estate c/o John S. C. Herron Trustee, be approved; and that the sum of $250. 00 be accepted from PENO BUCCHIANERI & VIRGINIA BUCCHIANERI; Washington County Tax Claim Bureau receiving the consent of taxing districts involved: Ringgold School District (Monongahela. 2nd) - April 26, 1973, and Monongahela City Council - May 11, 1973. Moved by Mr. Jones, seconded by Mr. Paluso, that RESOLUTION NO. 357 for property situate in Centerville 5th Ward, Washington County, Pennsylvania, sold on September 13, 1971," Tax Claim Bureau Sale, being described as 2 sty fr hse. Lot 361 DB 1001-227 (15-58-130), situate in Centerville 5th Ward, Washington County, Pennsylvania and formerly assessed in the name of Helen Machusko & Dorothy Valentine, be approved; and that the sum of $305. 55 be accepted from HELEN MACHUSKO & DOROTHY VALENTINE Washington County Tax Claim Bureau receiving the consent of taxing districts involved: Beth Center School District (Centerville 5th) - April 3, 1973, and Centerville Borough Council - December 8, 1972. Moved by Mr. Jones, seconded by Mr. Paluso, that RESOLUTION NO. 358 for property situate in Centerville 3rd Ward, Washington County, Pennsylvania, sold on September 11, 1972, Tax Claim Bureau Sale, being described as Lot 43, DB 1277 - 54 (15-33-32), situatE in Centerville 3rd Ward, Washington County, Pennsylvania, and formerly assessed in the nam«� of Michael & Esther Knezovich, be approved; and that the sum of $94. 97 be accepted from MICHAEL & ESTHER KNEZOVICH; Washington County Tax Claim Bureau receiving the con- sent of taxing districts involved: Beth -Center School District (Centerville 3rd) - April 3, 1973, and Centerville Borough Council - February 26, 1973. Moved by Mr. Jones, seconded by Mr. Paluso, that RESOLUTION NO. 359 for property situate in Mt. Pleasant Township, Washington County, Pennsylvania, sold on September 13, 1971, Tax Claim Bureau Sale, being described as 1 sty blk hse, 0.2553 Ac. Surf. DB 942-105 (46-20-21) situate in Mt. Pleasant Township, Washington County, Pennsylvania and formerly assessed in the name of Boyd William c/o Laura B. Loucke (PO) Gustav Libert et ux, be approved; and that the sum 'of $261. 90 be accepted from GUSTAV LIBERT ET UX; Washington County Tax Claim Bureau receiving the consent of taxing districts involved: Fort 60 MINUTE B O O K BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS WASH NGTON COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA MICHAEL R. FLYNN, FRANK JONES, JR., EDWARD M. PALUSO, COMMISSIONERS I I Cherry School District (Mt. Pleasant) - April 5, 1973, and Mt. Pleasant Township Supervisors - June 16, 1972. Moved by Mr. Jones, seconded by Mr. Paluso, that RESOLUTION NO. 360 for property situate in North Franklin Township, Washington County, Pennsylvania, sold on September •11, 1972, Tax Claim Bureau Sale, being described as Lot 130, DB 1302-515 (51-1-257), situate in North Franklin Township, Washington County, Pennsylvania, and for- merly assessed in the name of William M. Anderson, be approved; and that the sum of $114. 9� be accepted from WILLIAM M. ANDERSON; Washington County Tax Claim Bureau receiving the consent of taxing districts involved: Trinity Area School District (North Franklin) March 29, 1973, and North,Franklin Township Supervisors - February 15, 1973. Moved by Mr. Jones, seconded by Mr. Paluso, that RESOLUTION NO. 361 fox 4 property situate in West Brownsville Annex, Washington County, Pennsylvania, sold on September 11, 1972, Tax Claim Bureau Sale, being described as 2 sty fr hse-gar, Lots 607 & 609, DB 1003-176, (672-15-59-60) DB 1314-454, situate in West Brownsville Annex, Wash- ington County, Pennsylvania, and formerly assessed in the name of Margaret Henderson, be approved; and that the sum of $540. 07 be accepted from MARGARET HENDERSON ESTATE: Washington County Tax Claim Bureau receiving the consent of taxing districts involved: California School District (West Brownsville Annex) - February 8, 1973, and West BrownsvillE Borough Council - February 13, 1973. Remarks: Mr. Gilmore: Mr. Hormell and I are devising a little sort of certification to be signed by anyone who is a successful bidder at a Tax Claim Sale of any kind stating that they are not acting for themselves or acting on anyone's behalf which might violate any statute of Penn- sylvania with regard to a purchase at a Tax Claim Sale. Roll call vote taken: Mr. Jones - Yes; Mr. Paluso - Yes; Mr. Flynn - Yea. Motion carried unanimously. Moved by Mr. Jones, seconded by Mr. Paluso, that the Washington County Board of Commissioners approve and execute the Title IV -A Day Care Contracts for Contract # 1319 for the period July 1, 1973 to November 1, 1973, between the County of Washington and the Department of Public Welfare; said action based upon the recommendation of the Assistant County Solicitor. Roll call vote taken: Mr. Jones - Yes; Mr. Paluso - Yes; Mr. Flynn - Yes. Motion carried unanimously. Moved by Mr. Jones, seconded by Mr. Paluso, that it be resolved that the County of Washington, pursuant to the provisions of the Act of January 26, 1972, Act No. 4, MINUTE B o 0 K BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS WASH NGTON COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA MICHAEL R. FLYNN, FRANK JONES, JR., EDWARD M. PALUSO, COMMISSIONERS 31 E acquire by condemnation for purposes of flood control, recreation and fishing, a tract of land situate in Hanover and Smith Township, Washington County, Pennsylvania, containing 173.26 acres now owned by.Goodwill Hill Fishing Club, being the same described in Deed of record in said county in Deed Book 631 at page 627; said action based upon the recommendation of the Assistant County Solicitor. Roll call vote taken: Mr. Jones - Yes; Mr. Paluso - Yes; Mr. Flynn - Yes. Motion carried unanimously. (Tax Refunds) Assistant County Solicitor Gilmore presented various Tax Refunds to the Board for their consideration and approval. Moved by Mr. Jones, seconded by Mr. Paluso, that the Tax Assessment Office be authorized to prepare the following Tax Refunds due to either duplication or overpayment of real estate tax: 1. Anthou, Sam & Marie 112 Norris Drive, Canonsburg, Pa. 15317 District: North Strabane Township ---Deed Book Reference: --- District Number: 520--- Section Number: 13---Parcel Number: 432 Amount: $70.54 2. Tyler, Ernest & Esther R.D. # 1, Daisytown, Pa. 15427 District: West Pike Run ---Deed Book Reference: --- District Number: 70--- Section Number: 12 --- Parcel Number: 257 Amount: $3.33 3. Beeson, Margaret Rae & Mary E. 154 South Wade Avenue, Washington, Pa. 15301 District: East Washington ---Deed Book Reference: --- District Number: 290 --- Section Number: 2---Parcel Number: 10 Amount: $54.89 4. Friedlander, Katie 201 McKean Avenue, Donora, Pa. 15033 District: Donora ---Deed Book Reference: --- District Number: 240--- Section Number: 015--- Parcel Number: 0028 Amount: $7.44 5. Katz, Martin Lewis & Karren G. c/o Reliable S. & L. Ass'n. 437 R. R. Street Bridgeville, Pa. District: Peters Township ---Deed Book Reference: --- District Number: 540 --- Section Number: 11--- Parcel Number: 256-48 Amount: $49.25 6. Veydt, Frank Box 55, Cecil, Pa. 15321 District: Cecil ---Deed Book Reference: 586-477 District Number: 140--Section Number: 007--Parcel Number: 225 Amount: $20.01 7. Jeffrey, Herbert 136 South Euclid, Pittsburgh, Pa. 15202 District: Robinson ---Deed Book Reference: --- District Number: 550--- Section Number: 005-0---Parcel Number: 0008-5 Amount: $11. 11 8. Nixon, Edward W. & Helga c/o Mt. Lebanon S. & L. Ass'n.