HomeMy WebLinkAbout2026-05-07_Commissioners' Minutes No. 1229_APPROVED2783
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BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
WASHINGTON COUNTY, PENNSYLANIA
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Minute No. 1229 May 7, 2026
The Washington County Commissioners met in regular session in Public Meeting
Room G-16, at the Crossroads Center at 95 West Beau Street, Washington, PA, with the following
members in attendance: Commissioners Nick Sherman, Electra Janis and Larry Maggi. Also present
were: Solicitor Gary Sweat; Director of Administration Daryl Price; Chief Clerk Cindy Griffin; Public
Affairs Director Nicole Ford; Administrative Assistants Debbie Corson, Heather Wilhelm, Casey
Graelish and Randi Marodi; Reverend Michael Church from Our Redeemer Lutheran Church;
Veterans Affairs Coordinator Leigh Mawhinney; US Navy Veteran Petty Officer Stephen Stimpson;
Warden Jeff Fewell and several corrections officers and staff; Sheriff Anthony Andronas and the
family of fallen Washington County Sheriff's Deputy Chad Beattie, and several Deput Sheriff's; Vice
President of Washington County Subarea Advisory Council Connie Clutter, Executive Director of
SWPA Area Agency on Aging, In., Mary Harris, Again Services Director Mary Lynn Spilak, Deputy
Director Michelle Manni and several Senior Center Coordinators; Clerk of Courts Ray Phillips; Court
Administrator Dan Buzard; City of Washington Mayor JoJo Burgess, and an WJPA Journalist.
Mr. Sherman called the meeting to order at approximately 10:03 a.m. and announced the
meeting was being video and audio live -streamed via the Commissioners' YouTube channel.
Mr. Sherman introduced Reverend Michael Church from Our Redeemer Lutheran Church,
who led the meeting in prayer.
Mr. Maggi introduced US Navy Veteran Petty Officer Stephen Stimpson, who led the
Pledge of Allegiance.
Mr. Sherman entertained a motion to approve Minutes No. 1228, dated April 16, 2026.
Moved by Ms. Janis: seconded by Mr. Maggi, approving Minutes No. 1228, as written.
Roll call vote taken:
Mr. Maggi — Yes; Ms. Janis — Yes; Mr. Sherman — Yes.
Motion carried unanimously.
SPECIAL ORDER OF BUSINESS
Ms. Janis read a proclamation declaring May 3-9, 2026 as Corrections Employee Week in
Washington County. The proclamation highlighted Pennsylvania's historic role in shaping modern
correctional practices, beginning with the Walnut Street Jail in 1773 and the Eastern Penitentiary in
1829, and acknowledged the current challenges facing correctional staff, including the pandemic, the
opioid crisis, and staffing shortages. It emphasized essential contributions of a broad range of
personnel (administrators, officers, counselors, medical staff, educators, clerical and business staff,
technicians and facility support workers) who collectively ensure the safe, secure and humane
operation of the facility. The proclamation also underscored their unified mission to maintain safety
and dignity while supporting programs that promote positive behavioral change.
A motion to accept the proclamation was made by Ms. Janis; seconded by Mr. Maggi.
Roll call vote taken:
Mr. Maggi — Yes; Ms. Janis — Yes; Mr. Sherman — Yes.
Motion carried unanimously.
Warden Fewell accepted the proclamation on behalf of facility staff and expressed gratitude
for the Board's and the community's ongoing support. He emphasized the staffs commitment to
maintaining a safe, clean and respectful environment for individuals in custody and to protecting the
community at large.
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Mr. Maggi read a proclamation recognizing National Police Week and Peace Officers
Memorial Day. He noted his 31 years in law enforcement and expressed appreciation for the
opportunity to read the proclamation. The proclamation honored the service and sacrifice of law
enforcement officers killed in the line of duty, referencing National Police Week's establishment by
President John F. Kennedy in 1962. It acknowledged the more than 800,000 officers serving
nationwide and the more than 24,500 officers who have died in the line of duty since 1786, with their
names engraved on the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in Washington, DC. It further
recognized that new names, including those from 2025 and prior years, will. be added during the 38th
Candlelight Vigil on May 13, 2026. The Board proclaimed May 15, 2026 as Peace Officers Memorial
Day and May 11-16, 2026 as National Police Week in Washington County.
A motion to accept the proclamation was made by Mr. Maggi; seconded by Ms. Janis.
Roll call vote taken:
Mr. Maggi — Yes; Ms. Janis — Yes; Mr. Sherman — Yes.
Motion carried unanimously.
The proclamation was accepted by members of the Beattie family, honoring Washington
County Sheriff's Deputy Chad Beattie, who died in the line of duty on August 10, 2022. Mr. Maggi
shared remarks about Deputy Beattie's life, service and local roots, noting his graduation from
McGuffey High School and his criminology degree from IUP. He reflected on hiring Deputy Beattie
early in his career and expressed gratitude to the family and attending law enforcement officers for
their service and sacrifice.
Mr. Maggi read a proclamation recognizing May 2026 as Older Americans Month in
Washington County, noting the national theme Champion Your Health. The proclamation emphasized
the county's commitment to promoting healthy aging through prevention, wellness and personal
responsibility. The proclamation highlighted partnerships with the SWPA Area Agency on Aging,
Aging Services of Washington County, SPHS Aging Services, Center in the Woods and the
Washington Area Senior Center. It encouraged older adults to take an active role in their health by
accessing preventive care and making daily choices that support physical and mental wellbeing.
A motion to accept the proclamation was made by Mr. Maggi; seconded by Ms. Janis.
Roll call vote taken:
Mr. Maggi — Yes; Ms. Janis — Yes; Mr. Sherman — Yes.
Motion carried unanimously.
Representatives from local senior centers and aging services organizations, including Vice
President of Washington County Subarea Advisory Council Connie Clutter, Executive Director
SWPA Area Agency on Aging Mary Harris, and Washington County Aging Services Director Mary
Lynn Spilak, who accepted the proclamation. Staffers from area senior centers were introduced and
recognized. Remarks from agency leaders highlighted the importance of programs that support
healthy aging, including wellness classes, social activities and nutrition services.
The Board expressed appreciation for the work of the Aging Services staff and the positive
impact their programs are having on the county's older adults.
AGENDA COMMENTS
Before acknowledging the first speaker, Mr. Sherman announced that the scheduled vote on
the proposed mini golf course at Mingo Creek Park could be tabled. He explained there were
numerous calls and emails received expressing concerns about the project, particularly regarding the
park's structural and environmental integrity. He emphasized the Board's responsibility, as stewards
of taxpayer resources, is to not proceed with a project the public strongly opposes.
Charleroi resident Bob Taylor questioned why there was no public survey was conducted
before considering a project of this scale. He noted that past administrations typically sought public
input before moving forward with major changes.
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WASHINGTON COUNTY, PENNSYLANIA
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Canonsburg resident Marah Coleman Bockstoa thanked the Board for focusing on
family -friendly ideas but expressed opposition to placing a mini golf course in Mingo Creek Park. As
a longtime resident who regularly hikes, rides horses and uses the park with her family, she stated that
the development would negatively impact the natural environment and suggested finding a different
location elsewhere in the county.
Eighty Four resident Bernie Slezak also opposed the proposal, describing Mingo Creek Park
as one of the county's few pristine natural areas. A frequent hiker, he praised past improvements but
argued that a mini golf course would be an unnecessary expense with long-term maintenance
concerns. He noted that most local mini golf courses had closed and suggested funds would be better
spent on trail maintenance and improved signage.
Washington resident Nina Biehler spoke on behalf of the dog -training community, explaining
that the park's fields, informally known as "Beginner's Hill" are used regularly for canine tracking
activities, including an annual AKC event. She emphasized the ecological sensitivity of the area and
described how trainers take care to avoid disturbing wildlife. She expressed concern that a mini golf
course would damage the natural environment and eventually become an unused eyesore, detracting
from the park's value for families and nature enthusiasts.
COMMISSIONERS' RESPONSE
Mr. Maggi added that he remembered earlier periods when Mingo Creek Park experienced
problems with outlaw biker gatherings. He credited the Washington County Sheriff's Office for its
daily patrols, which have ensured the park remains safe and well -maintained today.
OLD BUSINESS
Before beginning Old Business, Mr. Sherman, on behalf of the Chief Clerk, requested a
motion to accept revisions to Letter F under Old Business.
Moved by Ms. Janis; seconded by Mr. Maggi.
Roll call vote taken:
Mr. Maggi — Yes; Ms. Janis — Yes; Mr. Sherman — Yes.
Motion carried unanimously.
Solicitor Sweat, on behalf of the Planning Commission, recommended the Board approve an
amended Division Order with Range Resources for the Burkett G Unit 4H, with the decimal interest
rate of 0.00969434.
Moved by Ms. Janis; seconded by Mr. Maggi.
Roll call vote taken:
Mr. Maggi — Yes; Ibis. Janis — Yes; Mr. Sherman — Yes.
Motion carried unanimously.
Solicitor Sweat, on behalf of the Planning Commission, recommended the Board approve an
amended Division Order with Range Resources for the Burkett F Unit 2H, with the decimal interest
rate of 0.00160101.
Moved by Ms. Janis; seconded by Mr. Maggi.
Roll call vote taken:
Mr. Maggi — Yes; Ms. Janis — Yes; Mr. Sherman — Yes.
Motion carried unanimously.
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BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
WASHINGTON COUNTY, PENNSYLANIA
Solicitor Sweat, on behalf of the Planning Commission, recommended the Board approve an
amended Division Order with Range Resources for the Burkett H Unit 11H, with the decimal
interest rate of 0.01818563.
Moved by Ms. Janis; seconded by Mr. Maggi.
Roll call vote taken:
Mr. Maggi — Yes; Ms. Janis — Yes; Mr. Sherman — Yes.
Motion carried unanimously.
Solicitor Sweat, on behalf of the Planning Commission, recommended the Board approve an
amended Division Order with Range Resources for the Burkett E Unit 1H, with the decimal interest
rate of 0.00060858.
Moved by Ms. Janis; seconded by Mr. Maggi.
Roll call vote taken:
Mr. Maggi — Yes; Ms. Janis — Yes; Mr. Sherman — Yes.
Motion carried unanimously.
Mr. Sherman entertained a motion to table Item E under Old Business.
Moved by Mr. Maggi; seconded by Ms. Janis.
Roll call vote taken:
Mr. Maggi — Yes; Ms. Janis — Yes; Mr. Sherman — Yes.
Motion carried unanimously.
Solicitor Sweat, on behalf of Purchasing and the Planning Commission, recommended the
Board award the RFP for Solid Waste Management Plan Update to MSW Consulting at an estimated
cost of $64,000 for 410 hours. All additional services will be at MSW's submitted hourly rates, as
approved. This contract will be paid 80% through a DEP grant and 20% through recycling funds and
will be effective date of execution through completion of the project as defined in the scope of
services. RFP responses were reviewed and recommended for award by the Planning Commission.
Moved by Ms. Janis; seconded by Mr. Maggi.
Roll call vote taken:
Mr. Maggi — Yes; Ms. Janis — Yes; Mr. Sherman — Yes.
Motion carried unanimously.
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MINUTE BOOK
BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS WASHINGTON COUNTY, PENNSYLANIA
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NEW BUSINESS
Chief Clerk presented to the Board for their consideration and approval, the reappointments
of Scott Putnam and Sharon Russell to the Transportation Authority Board.
Moved by Ms. Janis; seconded by Mr. Maggi.
Roll call vote taken:
Mr. Maggi — Yes; Ms. Janis — Yes; Mr. Sherman — Yes.
Motion carried unanimously.
Chief Clerk presented to the Board for their consideration and approval, the adoption of a
revised resolution certifying the local match for state operations financial assistance for the
Washington County Transportation Authority, for fiscal year 2025-2026, in the amount of $228,721.
Moved by Ms. Janis; seconded by Mr. Maggi.
Roll call vote taken:
Mr. Maggi — Yes; Ms. Janis — Yes; Mr. Sherman — Yes.
Motion carried unanimously.
Chief Clerk presented to the Board for their consideration and approval, the creation of the
Washington County Sportsmen's & Outdoor Recreation Advisory Council (WCSORAC).
Moved by Ms. Janis; seconded by Mr. Maggi.
Roll call vote taken:
Mr. Maggi — Yes; Ms. Janis — Yes; Mr. Sherman — Yes.
Motion carried unanimously.
Chief Clerk, on behalf of the Redevelopment Authority of the County of Washington,
presented to the Board for their consideration and approval, the adoption of a resolution to approve
an amendment and revisions to the CDBG (Community Development Block Grant) program, which
are parts of the county's consolidated and annual action plans.
Moved by Ms. Janis; seconded by Mr. Maggi.
Roll call vote taken:
Mr. Maggi — Yes; Ms. Janis — Yes; Mr. Sherman — Yes.
Motion carried unanimously.
Chief Clerk presented to the Board for their consideration and approval, the adoption of a
resolution approving TEFRA financing, relating to Section 147(f of the Internal Revenue Code of
1986, as amended, in an aggregate principal amount not to exceed $7,500,000, by the Moon Industrial
Development Authority for the undertaking of a project by Verland and its affiliates for group homes
throughout Southwestern Pennsylvania. The modifications by the Authority do not pledge the full
faith and credit or the taxing power of the county. The documents have been reviewed by the bond
counsel and the County Solicitor. This approval also designates the Chairman of the Board as the
applicable elected representative for the county.
Moved by Ms. Janis; seconded by Mr. Maggi.
Roll call vote taken:
Mr. Maggi — Yes; Ms. Janis — Yes; Mr. Sherman — Yes.
Motion carried unanimously.
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BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
WASHINGTON COUNTY, PENNSYLANIA
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Chief Clerk, on behalf of the Planning Commission, presented to the Board for their
consideration and approval, both a temporary and permanent construction easement with
Daniel T. Jungo, Clark T. Jungo, and Henry T. Jungo for $20,000 for the replacement of
Chartiers Creek Bridge No. 64. Costs will be 100% federally funded.
Moved by Ms. Janis; seconded by Mr. Maggi.
Roll call vote taken:
Mr. Maggi — Yes; Ms. Janis — Yes; Mr. Sherman — Yes.
Motion carried unanimously.
Chief Clerk, on behalf of the Planning Commission and Parks & Recreation, presented to the
Board for their ratification and approval, to accept a Tourism Promotion Agency grant in the amount
of $14,000 to help offset project costs for the Cross Creek Shore Stabilization project. This is a joint
project with the PA Fish and Boat Commission.
Moved by Ms. Janis; seconded by Mr. Maggi.
Roll call vote taken:
Mr. Maggi — Yes; Ms. Janis — Yes; Mr. Sherman — Yes.
Motion carried unanimously.
Chief Clerk, on behalf of Finance, presented to the Board for their consideration and
approval, a renewal agreement with Highway Safety Network, Inc., for the District 12-0 Community
Traffic Safety Network program. The agreement will be for October 1, 2026 through September 30,
2027, and is contingent upon funding from the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation. No
county funds are required.
Moved by Ms. Janis; seconded by Mr. Maggi.
Roll call vote taken:
Mr. Maggi — Yes; Ms. Janis — Yes; Mr. Sherman — Yes.
Motion carried unanimously.
Chief Clerk, on behalf of Finance and Court Administration, presented to the Board for their
consideration and approval, a renewal agreement with WDAC (Washington Drug and Alcohol
Commission), for STEP (Saturday Teen Education Program). Costs will be $30,395 and will be for
the period of May 1, 2026 through April 30, 2027. This will be fully funded from Act 198 Substance
Abuse, Education and Demand Reduction monies.
Moved by Ms. Janis; seconded by Mr. Maggi.
Roll call vote taken:
Mr. Maggi — Yes; Ms. Janis — Yes; Mr. Sherman — Yes.
Motion carried unanimously.
Chief Clerk, on behalf of Human Resources, presented to the Board for their consideration
and approval, a grant application with PCoRP (PA Counties Risk Pool) for the 2025-2026 loss
prevention grant program. The grant application is $22,797.84 and will be used to purchase six new
AEDs with replacement pads, cabinets and battery service, which will be located throughout
county parks.
Moved by Ms. Janis; seconded by Mr. Maggi.
Roll call vote taken:
Mr. Maggi — Yes; Ms. Janis — Yes; Mr. Sherman — Yes.
Motion carried unanimously.
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BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
WASHINGTON COUNTY, PENNSYLANIA
Chief Clerk, on behalf of Human Resources, presented to the Board for their consideration
and approval, an agreement letter between the County and SEIU Local 668 — Residual. This will
enable both parties to establish a pay scale for 911 TCOs in the next round of collective bargaining
negotiations. The current collective bargaining agreement provides for a $2/hour increase in 2026; no
pay increase in 2027; and a 3% increase in 2028.
Moved by Ms. Janis; seconded by Mr. Maggi
Roll call vote taken:
Mr. Maggi — Yes; Ms. Janis — Yes; Mr. Sherman — Yes.
Motion carried unanimously.
Chief Clerk, on behalf of Children & Youth Services, presented to the Board for their
consideration and approval, a provider agreement with LMCC (LeMoyne Community Center) for
preventative education, resource connection and supportive programming services for parents of
children enrolled in I.MCC programs. The contract authorization amount is $150,000, to be paid with
monies from Act 148 or Federal IV-E (depending on eligibility of children served), and CYS'
contracted services county budget. This agreement will be effective April 1, 2026 through June 30,
2027, and no additional county funds are required.
Moved by Ms. Janis; seconded by Mr. Maggi.
Roll call vote taken:
Mr. Maggi — Yes; Ms. Janis — Yes; Mr. Sherman — Yes.
Motion carried unanimously.
Chief Clerk, on behalf of Children & Youth Services, presented to the Board for their
consideration and approval, a provider agreement with Genesis Home of New Beginnings for
structured residential supervision of children ages 5-12 requiring out -of -home placement due to
trauma exposure, behavioral dysregulation, developmental vulnerability, family instability or safety
concerns. The contract authorization amount is $375,000, to be paid with monies from Act 148 or
Federal IV-E (depending on eligibility of children served), and CYS' contracted services county
budget. This agreement will be effective April 1, 2026 through June 30, 2027, and no additional
county funds are required.
Moved by Ms. Janis; seconded by Mr. Maggi
Roll call vote taken:
Mr. Maggi — Yes; Ibis. Janis — Yes; Mr. Sherman — Yes.
Motion carried unanimously.
Chief Clerk, on behalf of Human Services, presented to the Board for their consideration and
approval, an addendum agreement with Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank for the
administration of the State Food Purchase Program (SFPP) for the period of July 1, 2025 through
June 30, 2026. The contract authorization amount will be increased from $300,000 to $330,009.56, to
be paid with monies from Human Services' block grant earnings. All terms and conditions of the
original agreement remain in full effect, and no additional county funds are required.
Moved by Ms. Janis; seconded by Mr. Maggi.
Roll call vote taken:
Mr. Maggi — Yes; Ibis. Janis — Yes; Mr. Sherman — Yes.
Motion carried unanimously.
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WASHINGTON COUNTY, PENNSYLANIA
Chief Clerk, on behalf of Human Services, presented to the Board for their consideration and
approval, an addendum to the MOU with Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank regarding
SNAP benefits outreach and application assistance. This addendum is to update language in the
"Matching Funds Requirement" section of the MOU and is effective January 1, 2026. All other terms
and conditions of the original MOU remain in full effect, and no additional county funds
are required.
Moved by Ms. Janis; seconded by Mr. Maggi.
Roll call vote taken:
Mr. Maggi — Yes; Ms. Janis — Yes; Mr. Sherman — Yes.
Motion carried unanimously.
Chief Clerk, on behalf of Human Services, presented to the Board for their consideration and
approval, a purchase of service agreement with Alliance for Nonprofit Resources, Inc., for the
licensing and maintenance of the e-System software for the period of July 1, 2026 through
June 30, 2027. The contract authorization amount will not exceed $23,900 and will be paid with
monies from CBCM (Community Based Care Management) and Human Services' contracted budget.
No additional county funds are required.
Moved by Ms. Janis; seconded by Mr. Maggi.
Roll call vote taken:
Mr. Maggi — Yes; Ms. Janis — Yes; Mr. Sherman — Yes.
Motion carried unanimously.
Chief Clerk, on behalf of Purchasing and Human Resources, presented to the Board for their
consideration and approval, the authorization to advertise for an RFP for healthcare services.
Moved by Ms. Janis; seconded by Mr. Maggi.
Roll call vote taken:
Mr. Maggi — Yes; Ms. Janis — Yes; Mr. Sherman — Yes.
Motion carried unanimously.
Chief Clerk, on behalf of Purchasing, presented to the Board for their consideration and
approval, the authorization to advertise for bids for discounted new and used furniture.
Moved by Ms. Janis; seconded by Mr. Maggi.
Roll call vote taken:
Mr. Maggi — Yes; Ms. Janis — Yes; Mr. Sherman — Yes.
Motion carried unanimously.
Chief Clerk, on behalf of Purchasing, presented to the Board for their consideration and
approval, the authorization to advertise for bids for county uniforms, as the current agreement with
Trapuzzano's is in its final extension.
Moved by Ms. Janis; seconded by Mr. Maggi.
Roll call vote taken:
Mr. Maggi — Yes; Ms. Janis — Yes; Mr. Sherman — Yes.
Motion carried unanimously.
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BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS WASHINGTON COUNTY, PENNSYLANIA
Chief Clerk, on behalf of Purchasing and Information Technology, presented to the Board
for their consideration and approval, the Mist renewal agreement for switches/wireless connectivity
for the entire Crossroads Building. This purchase from SHORTESTPATHFIRST represents a 5-year
total cost of $101,707.41 and will be paid with capital funds.
Moved by Ms. Janis; seconded by Mr. Maggi.
Roll call vote taken:
Mr. Maggi — Yes; Ms. Janis — Yes; Mr. Sherman — Yes.
Motion carried unanimously.
Chief Clerk, on behalf of Purchasing and Public Safety, presented to the Board for their
consideration and approval, an agreement with Motorola Solutions in the amount of $46,908 to
support call handling equipment as the county migrates to Next Generation 911 call delivery. This
agreement will be effective April 1, 2026 through September 30, 2026, and will be paid from
Public Safety's operating budget.
Moved by Ms. Janis; seconded by Mr. Maggi.
Roll call vote taken:
Mr. Maggi — Yes; Ms. Janis — Yes; Mr. Sherman — Yes.
Motion carried unanimously.
Chief Clerk, on behalf of Purchasing and Public Safety, presented to the Board for their
consideration and approval, a purchase order request authorization with SBA Communications
for $24,291 for structural modifications to the Simpson Store/East Finley radio tower site. This
authorization will be effective throughout the modified scope of work and will be paid with budgeted
monies for tower site modifications and upgrades.
Moved by Ms. Janis; seconded by Mr. Maggi.
Roll call vote taken:
Mr. Maggi — Yes; Ms. Janis — Yes; Mr. Sherman — Yes.
Motion carried unanimously.
Chief Clerk, on behalf of Purchasing and Public Safety, presented to the Board for their
consideration and approval, a purchase order request authorization with SBA Communications
for $24,291 for structural modifications to the Simpson Store/East Finley radio tower site. This
authorization will be effective throughout the modified scope of work and will be paid with budgeted
monies for tower site modifications and upgrades.
Moved by Ms. Janis; seconded by Mr. Maggi.
Roll call vote taken:
Before casting his vote, Mr. Maggi expressed concern over perceived increases in radio
project costs, saying the Board needs to scrutinize these expenses more. Mr. Sherman explained that
this agenda item was for the current radio system, not the new one.
Mr. Maggi — Yes; Ms. Janis — Yes; Mr. Sherman — Yes.
Motion carried unanimously.
Chief Clerk, on behalf of Purchasing and Public Safety, presented to the Board for their
consideration and approval, approve the Cisco Smartnet maintenance renewal agreement from
SynergIT at a cost of $25,793.33, for the protection of the county's key operating components. This
renewal will be effective June 1, 2026 through May 31, 2027, and will be paid from Public Safety's
operating budget.
Moved by Ms. Janis; seconded by Mr. Maggi.
Roll call vote taken:
Mr. Maggi — Yes; Ms. Janis — Yes; Mr. Sherman — Yes.
Motion carried unanimously.
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Chief Clerk, on behalf of Purchasing and Public Safety, presented to the Board for their
consideration and approval, a renewal agreement with SynergIT for $5,813.10 to support hardware
monitoring and switches via ParkView. This agreement will be effective May 1, 2026 through April
30, 2027, and will be paid from Public Safety's operating budget.
Moved by Ms. Janis; seconded by Mr. Maggi.
Roll call vote taken:
Mr. Maggi — Yes; Ms. Janis — Yes; Mr. Sherman — Yes.
Motion carried unanimously.
Chief Clerk, on behalf of Purchasing and Public Safety, presented to the Board for their
consideration and approval, a renewal agreement with CyberAdvisors for $23,040 for VMWare
hardware and software support services. This agreement will be effective June 20, 2026 through June
19, 2027, and will be paid for by Public Safety's operating budget.
Moved by Ms. Janis; seconded by Mr. Maggi.
Roll call vote taken:
Mr. Maggi — Yes; Ms. Janis — Yes; Mr. Sherman — Yes.
Motion carried unanimously.
Chief Clerk, on behalf of Purchasing, Adult Probation and Court Administration, presented
to the Board for their consideration and approval, an agreement with GovAI Software Solutions in
the amount of $30,600 for software renewal, licensing and support. This agreement will be effective
January 1, 2026 through December 31, 2026, and will be paid with Act 35 fees.
Moved by Ms. Janis; seconded by Mr. Maggi.
Roll call vote taken:
Mr. Maggi — Yes; Ms. Janis — Yes; Mr. Sherman — Yes.
Motion carried unanimously.
Chief Clerk, on behalf of the Sheriff, presented to the Board for their consideration and
approval, the leasing of a 2026 Dodge Durango for $47,950, plus upfit, and a 2026 Ford police
interceptor utility vehicle for $53,289.90, plus upfit. Both purchases will be made through the fleet
management contract with BBL Fleet and will be paid for with tax sale revenue funds.
Moved by Ms. Janis; seconded by Mr. Maggi.
Roll call vote taken:
Mr. Maggi — Yes; Ms. Janis — Yes; Mr. Sherman — Yes.
Motion carried unanimously.
Chief Clerk, on behalf of the Sheriff and Court Administration, presented to the Board for
their consideration and approval, the purchase, delivery, framing, installation and submittals for
ballistic glass for enhanced safety at the Courthouse. The estimated cost will be $41,448, with an
option to add increased protection for an additional $8,984. All costs will be paid from Act 13 funds.
Moved by Ms. Janis; seconded by Mr. Maggi.
Roll call vote taken:
Mr. Maggi — Yes; Ms. Janis — Yes; Mr. Sherman — Yes.
Motion carried unanimously.
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Chief Clerk, on behalf of Buildings & Grounds, presented to the Board for their
consideration and approval, the cleaning, metal work, sealant coating and refill of the AAON HVAC
unit at the Crossroads Center. The estimated cost will be $46,000 and will be paid with capital funds.
Moved by Ms. Janis; seconded by Mr. Maggi.
Roll call vote taken:
Mr. Maggi — Yes; Ms. Janis — Yes; Mr. Sherman — Yes.
Motion carried unanimously.
Chief Clerk, on behalf of Buildings & Grounds, presented to the Board for their
consideration and approval, the updated bidding thresholds according to the Department of
Labor & Industry's updated guidelines.
• Purchases requiring no formal bidding, quotations - Under $13,200
• The county will continue to seek 2-3 quotes under this threshold to ensure
competitive rates and best pricing
• Purchases requiring three written/telephonic quotes - $13,200-$24,500
• Purchasing requiring formal bidding/public notice/state contract - $24,500+
Moved by Ms. Janis; seconded by Mr. Maggi.
Roll call vote taken:
Mr. Maggi — Yes; Ms. Janis — Yes; Mr. Sherman — Yes.
Motion carried unanimously.
PUBLIC COMMENTS
Heart Community Food Pantry representative Kathy Kennedy spoke regarding the proposed
reallocation of food bank funding from the Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank to the
Washington County Food Bank. She explained that her pantry recently relocated from Eighty Four
to a new market -style distribution site in Cokeburg.
She expressed concern that switching food bank partnerships would result in the loss of
many resources currently available through the Greater Pittsburgh Food Bank. Ms. Kennedy stated
that a significant percentage of the pantry's clients are food -insecure seniors and veterans and
emphasized the need for continued support in underserved communities within the Bethlehem -
Center School District area. She noted that local elected officials, clergy, and community members
encouraged her to continue operations after the previous pantry closure. Ms. Kennedy requested that
funding remain with the Greater Pittsburgh Food Bank and stated that otherwise her pantry may
need to operate independently and raise its own funds.
City of Washington Mayor JoJo Burgess addressed concerns regarding rumors of a potential
future sale of Jollick Manor to Washington & Jefferson College. He requested continued honesty,
transparency and open communication between county and city officials should discussions regarding
the property arise in the fixture. Mayor Burgess emphasized the limited availability of senior housing
in the county and stated that many residents become concerned when they perceive threats to their
housing stability. He asked that county and city officials work collaboratively to ensure residents feel
secure about their housing situations.
Washington resident Georgianna Farkas spoke about rising economic costs and their impact
on taxpayers. She requested consideration of a two -month extension for tax payments due to
increasing expenses faced by residents, including rising fuel and living costs. Ms. Farkas stated that
additional flexibility could help prevent delinquent tax collections and associated costs for both
taxpayers and local government. She encouraged the Board to explore potential solutions for future
tax years.
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BOOK
BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
WASHINGTON COUNTY, PENNSYLANIA
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Tony Vallom, a former chair/co-chair of the county Food Insecurity Advisory Board and
Committee, discussed concerns over the possible transition from the Greater Pittsburgh Community
Food Bank to the Washington County Food Bank. He stated that food insecurity remains a
significant issue affecting approximately 21,000 county residents and expressed concerns about
meetings occurring without pantry representatives' involvement.
Mr. Vallom stated that many questions regarding implementation, food distribution methods,
staffing, grants and available resources remained unanswered with the Washington County Food
Bank. He emphasized that pantries currently receive grants, specialty food support and additional
resources through the Greater Pittsburgh partnership and questioned whether Washington County
has the staffing and infrastructure necessary to manage all county pantries. He also raised concerns
about a potential conflict of interest involving Commissioner Electra Janis, questioning her affiliation
with the Greater Washington County Food Bank being a conflict of interest. Mr. Vallom said he
opposes the proposed funding change.
Maggie Havelke, co -director of the Mingo Creek -area food pantry for the past 10 years, spoke
in opposition to transferring food bank funding away from the Greater Pittsburgh Community Food
Bank. She questioned the reasoning behind changing a system she believes is functioning effectively
and referenced past pantry closures during the pandemic prior to the county's partnership with
Greater Pittsburgh.
Ms. Havelke raised concerns about ethics and potential conflicts of interest involving
Commissioner Electra Janis' leadership role with the Greater Washington County Food Bank. She
also questioned the Washington County Food Bank's capacity to support all county pantries, citing
concerns about staffing, transportation resources and the reported number of pantries included in
planning materials. Ms. Havoc credited the Greater Pittsburgh Food Bank with providing significant
support during periods of increased need and government benefit disruptions.
Allison Spadaro, speaking on behalf of Community Circle Food Pantry, urged the Board to
continue supporting the partnership with the Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank. She stated
that Community Circle served more than 900 families in April 2026 and more than 5,500 families
since the beginning of the year, including seniors, veterans and struggling families.
Ms. Spadaro referenced past disruptions to food distribution prior to the county's partnership
with Greater Pittsburgh and described those events as a community crisis. She stated that the Greater
Pittsburgh Food Bank provides resources, transportation capacity and operational support necessary
to meet current demand. Ms. Spadaro requested the Board prioritize maintaining stable food
distribution services and asked that local pantries be allowed to choose which food bank partnership
best serves their communities.
COMMISSIONERS' RESPONSE
None.
SOLICITOR'S REPORT
None.
2795
MINUTE BOOK
BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS WASHINGTON COUNTY, PENNSYLANIA
IMR LIMITED E1316649LD
ANNOUNCEMENTS
An executive session was held at the end of the Agenda meeting on Tuesday, May 5, 2026 to
discuss personnel. The Salary Board will convene after this meeting, and the next regularly scheduled
Board of Commissioners meeting will be held at 10 AM on Thursday, May 21, 2026, in this room,
followed by the Salary and Retirement board meetings.
There being no further business, Mr. Sherman declared the meeting adjourned at
approximately 11:20 a.m.
THE FOREGOING MINUTES WE, RE SUBMITTED FOR APPROVAL:
ATTEST:
CHIEF
2026
MINUTE BOOK
BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
IMR LIMITED E151664 I__
WASHINGTON COUNTY, PENNSYLANIA