SUMMER 2019

www.pacounties.org BROADBAND A DIGITAL DIVIDE

THE VOICE OF PENNSYLVANIA COUNTIES

Publisher Douglas E. Hill, Executive Director Editor Ken Kroski, Director of Media and Public Relations Design & Advertising Sales Graphtech

2019 EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE The County Commissioners Association of Pennsylvania President (CCAP) is the voice of county government; a statewide Kathi Cozzone, Chester County First Vice President nonprofit, nonpartisan association representing all 67 Jeffrey Snyder, Clinton County counties in Pennsylvania. CCAP members include county Second Vice President commissioners, council members, county executives, Kevin Boozel, Butler County Treasurer administrators, chief clerks and solicitors. CCAP Leslie Osche, Butler County strengthens the counties’ abilities to govern their own BOD Chair affairs and improve the well-being and quality of life for Dennis Stuckey, Lancaster County every Pennsylvania resident. It advocates for favorable 2019 EDITORIAL BOARD state and federal legislation, programs and policies Executive Director, PACAH • Kelly Andrisano, J.D. Executive Director, JDCAP • Wayne Bear on behalf of counties. CCAP is committed to service Executive Secretary • Lori Dabbondanza excellence through education, information, insurance, Executive Director, PACDAA • Michele Denk

Insurance Programs Services Coordinator • Tona Faust technology and other programs that support effective Insurance Programs Accountant • Ginger Galliher county government. Founded in 1886, CCAP is an affiliate Director of Member and Vendor Relations • Mandi Glantz Executive Director • Douglas E. Hill of the National Association of Counties. Executive Director, PACA MH/DS • Lucy Kitner Director of Media and Public Relations • Ken Kroski To acquire an article idea submittal form for CCAP’s Pennsylvania Deputy Director • Brinda Penyak Risk Management Training Director • Linda Rosito County News please email Ken Kroski at [email protected]. Managing Director Insurance Programs • John Sallade, CRM

Director of Meetings and Education • Karen Sweigard DISCLAIMER

FOR ADVERTISING Pennsylvania County News magazine is published four times a year by the Jen Smith (717) 238-5751 x124 County Commissioners Association of Pennsylvania (CCAP). Editorial Offices: [email protected] PO Box 60769, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania 17106-0769. The information provided in this publication is not intended to take the place of professional advice. Readers are encouraged to consult with competent legal, financial or other appropriate professionals. Statements of facts and opinions expressed CCAP OFFICE in this publication, by authors other than Association staff and officers, PO Box 60769 are the sole responsibility of the authors and do not necessarily represent Harrisburg, PA 17106-0769 an opinion or philosophy of the officers, members and staff of the County (717) 526-1010 Commissioners Association of Pennsylvania (CCAP).

No endorsement of advertised products or services is implied by CCAP unless those products or services are expressly endorsed, or are owned or managed by the Association programs, or its affiliates. Materials may not be reproduced or translated in part or in whole without express permission. summer

BROADBAND There is a digital divide in Pennsylvania. Connecting with the world around us means having access to high-speed, quality broadband for all residents.

ALSO IN THIS ISSUE: The CENSUS matters for all Pennsylvanians. It directly impacts funding for a decade.

SPECIAL FEATURE FOCUS ON Lawrence 44 County features

10 14 18

High Speed Broadband and Lack of Broadband Access Is 67 Counties, 1 State: Rural Pennsylvania: Challenge vs. Hurting Pennsylvania: Restore Pennsylvania Counts in 2020 Opportunity Pennsylvania Offers a Solution

24 Making it Count: How Counties Can Help Ensure a Fair and Accurate Census 27 New Courthouse Videos to Air 28 It’s a Ruff Job 33 County Leaders Graduate from CCAP Academy for Excellence 36 Youth Mental Health First Aid: Working to Prevent Youth Suicide in Chester County 48 Criminal Justice Best Practice Awards Presented by CCAP 53 Embracing Media Relations 61 Get the Word Out Locally 62 Simplifying the Sharing of Geospacial Data 65 The Keystone Markers of Pennsylvania 68 Healthy Moms Making a Difference 81 How Safe Is Your Information? in every county issue highlights

6 President’s Commentary 76 CHESTER: Chester County Proves That Saving Land Saves Money 8 Annual Sponsors 84 BERKS: Berks County a Stepping Up “Innovator” 50 Newsworthy

a five-time national award winning publication of the County Commissioners Association of Pennsylvania president’s commentary

KATHI COZZONE President, County Commissioners Association of Pennsylvania Chester County Commissioner

ecause I am a procrastinator, partners and significant others to deal When it comes to our colleagues, I’m writing this column the with the inevitable negativity that regardless of party, respect is the key day it is due—the day after comes with the required campaigning to success—whether it is in our home the Primary Election of 2019. to be elected. We’ve missed family counties, or our work together through BI wasn’t successful this time around events and sometimes our kids don’t CCAP. In these days of endless sound which has me doing a lot of pondering get the time they should from us. In bites and social media death spirals, and reflecting on my nearly 12 years my first year, my son was six and about that can be difficult. I encourage you all in office. There are a couple of things a week before Christmas he told me to continue to do that work—and it can I keep coming back to. I would never that Santa was never going to find our be hard sometimes—to find common have had any success were it not for house because we had no tree, no gifts ground and respect for one another. the people who supported me, and and no decorations. It took probably County employees—and I include those who didn’t; the people I work 24 hours straight, but my husband and CCAP staff in this category—are the with and the people that work for the I solved that problem. I learned from bedrock of county government. They county; my colleagues at home and that experience that I had to figure work every single day to serve the around the commonwealth; and most out a better work-life balance. Being citizens of our communities and they importantly my family. an elected official provided me an do that because they care. None of opportunity to do things with and for us would be successful without their While we do our best every day to my son that I wouldn’t have been able dedication and compassion. We work for the people we serve, very to do if I had a 9 to 5 job, and for that should take every opportunity to thank often it is our families that sacrifice I’m grateful. the most. It’s harder on our spouses, them—the unseen heroes; the boots on the ground, the folks who make us look good.

Let’s always remember it is a privilege Let’s always remember to serve. Let’s always remember to thank those who make our service possible. Let’s always remember the the people we serve are people we serve are counting on us to be the best we can be. It’s been my counting on us to be the honor to serve with all of you and I thank you for inspiring me to do my best we can be. best.

6 PENNSYLVANIA COUNTY NEWS | SUMMER 2019 Counties have trusted us for more than 70 years to provide retirement plan services that meet their unique objectives while complying with changing laws.

Also count on us for: ƒƒ Retirement plan cost studies. ƒƒ Retirement calculation software. ƒƒ Government compliance. ƒƒ Cost containment through benefits program design. ƒƒ Analysis and design of organizations and jobs. ƒƒ Talent, compensation and performance management.

Contact [email protected] or [email protected] to learn more.

kornferry.com/haygroup

The CCAP UC Trust provides unemployment compensation coverage and services to Pennsylvania counties and county related entities since 1980.

WHY JOIN THE CCAP UC TRUST? The CCAP UC Trust offers a full service package administered by Corporate Cost Control including: claims management, hearing representation, benefit charge auditing, tax rate verification and more! Members enjoy an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for all member counties and their employees, administered by Mazzitti & Sullivan. CCAP UC Trust members are able to attend CCAP Insurance Program Workshops at a free or discounted registration!

For more information on the UC Trust, please contact Desiree Nguyen at [email protected] or (717) 736-4779. Ask Us First...We Cover It All!

www.pacounties.org 7 The Pennsylvania County News For more information, 2019 and to learn about our gets seen by 2020 editorial calendar, along with opportunities Annual 1500+ readers to advertise in our Annual Conference Program, visit every quarter. www.pacounties.org. Sponsors

Advertisers Index CCAP is pleased to offer a variety of opportunities to vendors who wish to do business with Pennsylvania Affinity Health Services, Inc...... 86 counties including participation in the associate AT&T...... 52 membership program, TechNet membership program, Babst Calland...... 64 Conference attendance and sponsorship, advertising Baker Tilly ...... 47 in Pennsylvania County News magazine, and more. BeneChoice Enrollment Solutions DBA Colonial Life. . . . .80 There is also an opportunity to participate in a bundled Campbell Durrant Beatty Palombo & Miller, P.C...... 26 package which includes a variety of year-round Carroll Engineering Corporation ...... 58 benefits for firms looking to increase their exposure CCAP Glimpse ...... 26 among Pennsylvania county officials. CCAP is pleased CCAP Insurance Programs...... 72 to welcome the following vendors who have signed CCAP PIMCC ...... 49 on as 2019 participants in the bundled sponsorship CCAP Salary Survey...... 23 packages. We thank them for their support of CCAP CCAP UC Trust...... 7 and Pennsylvania’s counties. C.S. McKee, L.P...... Inside Front Cover DEVNET, Inc...... Inside Back Cover For more information about our vendor Dominion Voting Systems...... 83 opportunities, please contact Mandi Glantz, Evaluator Services and Technology, Inc...... 59 director of member and vendor relations, at Gibson-Thomas Engineering Co., Inc...... 26 (717) 736-4739 or [email protected]. Herbert, Rowland & Grubic, Inc...... 80 Korn Ferry | Hay Group ...... 7 Maher Duessel CPAs ...... 35 SAPPHIRE LEVEL MCM Consulting Group, Inc...... 20 Municibid...... Outside Back Cover NACo Live Healthy—Dental and Health Discount Programs. . 42 Nationwide Retirement Solutions ...... 60 PCHIPC...... 75 Paperless Solutions, Inc...... 74 Pension Technology Group (PTG) ...... 34 C.S. McKee, L.P. PLGIT...... 38 420 Fort Duquesne Boulevard, One Gateway Center, Suite 800 PrimeCare Medical, Inc...... 38 Pittsburgh, PA, 15222-1435 Promontory Interfinancial Network (CDARS)...... 32 (412) 566-1234 • www.csmckee.com Quest Healthcare Resources, Inc...... 67 Contact: Mark Gensheimer The EADS Group...... 58 Founded in 1931, C.S. McKee, L.P. is an employee-owned institutional TRANE...... 23 investment advisor. Managing money is our only business. We Tyler Technologies, Inc...... 13 manage equity, fixed income and balanced portfolios for public entities, corporations, endowments, foundations, hospitals, schools, Unisys...... 54 unions and religious organizations. Assets under management Zelenkofske Axelrod LLC ...... 17 are approximately $10 billion, large enough to attract investment professionals of the highest caliber, yet small enough to be responsive to individual client objectives. Our client portfolios represent over 35 To reserve your space, contact Jen Smith. states plus the District of Columbia and Canada and range in size from (717) 238-5751 x 124 • [email protected] several million dollars to more than $1 billion. Our ongoing objective is to serve a limited and select group of clients.

8 PENNSYLVANIA COUNTY NEWS | SUMMER 2019 SAPPHIRE LEVEL SAPPHIRE LEVEL DIAMOND LEVEL PA Counties Health Insurance Purchasing Cooperative—PCHIPC PO Box 5406 Lancaster, PA 17606 (717) 723-4600 Dominion Voting Systems www.benecon.com 1201 18th Street, Suite 210 Contact: Fred Bean Denver, CO 80202 The Pennsylvania Counties Health (866) 654-8683 Insurance Purchasing Cooperative National Association of Counties www.dominionvoting.com (PCHIPC) was launched in October 2005 with three counties. Today there are 22 (NACo) and their sponsoring Contact: John Hastings programs: NACo Live Healthy- counties that represent 9,094 county Headquartered in Denver, Colorado, employees. Prescription, Dental and Health Dominion Voting Systems is one of Discount Program for Residents and the largest and most trusted providers Membership is open to any Pennsylvania NACo 457 Deferred Compensation of elections technology solutions. county as well as any county agency administered by Nationwide Founded in 2003, Dominion has over 250 created under the Intergovernmental Retirement Solutions employees consisting of a mix of election Cooperation Act. It is governed by a Board veterans who understand technology of Directors made up of a representative 660 North Capitol Street NW, Suite 400 and engineering experts who understand from each of the member counties. Each Washington DC 20001-1450 elections. Dominion is committed to member has a vote in governing PCHIPC. (202) 942-4221 • www.naco.org producing the highest quality election The program has been successful due Contact: Kimberly Hall solutions and delivering the best support services to over 1,200 customers across to total transparency of claim data and The National Association of Counties North America. Various initiatives, such as surplus returns that have generated cost (NACo) unites America’s 3,069 county gov- continuous innovation driven by customer savings to member counties. ernments. Founded in 1935, NACo brings partnerships, on-going certification county officials together to advocate efforts, and commitment to customer with a collective voice on national policy, satisfaction, are helping Dominion reach exchange ideas and build new leadership its goal of being the clear partner of skills, pursue transformational county choice for election officials. solutions, enrich the public’s understand- ing of county government and exercise exemplary leadership in public service. NACo’s Programs and Services offer DIAMOND LEVEL counties unique opportunities to help AT&T your residents, your employees and your county meet the needs of the future. CCAP 2550 Interstate Dr. has a long standing relationship with Harrisburg, PA 17110 NACo and their sponsoring programs. As (717) 269-5872 a CCAP member you have the opportunity www.att.com to participate in the following endorsed programs: NACo Live Healthy-Dental and Contact: David Kerr Health Discount Program (www.naco.org/ AT&T is a global telecommunications company with strong roots in Pennsylvania’s health) and NACo 457 Deferred Compen- communities. AT&T helps millions around the globe connect with leading sation administered by Nationwide Retire- entertainment, mobile, high speed Internet and voice services. With the acquisition of ment Solutions (www.nationwide.com). DirecTV, AT&T is the world’s largest provider of pay TV with customers in the U.S. and eleven Latin American countries. AT&T’s wireless network offers the nation’s strongest LTE signal and the most reliable 4G LTE network. AT&T offers the best global wireless coverage and helps businesses and governments in Pennsylvania and throughout the world serve their customers with fiber, mobility and secure cloud solutions.

www.pacounties.org 9 High Speed Broadband and Rural Pennsylvania: Challenge vs. Opportunity

Barry L. Denk Director The Center for Rural Pennsylvania

10 PENNSYLVANIA COUNTY NEWS | SUMMER 2019 Have you ever tried ow, think of the challenge And what about agriculture and that faces Pennsylvania the farm family needing to access to solve a Rubik’s in expanding high-speed, remote diagnostic services because quality broadband service their robotic milking equipment has cube? It’s hard to Nas a Rubik’s cube. How do many stopped functioning, or the local perfectly line up all of hands work together to connect farmers’ market vendors who want to Pennsylvania’s large and diverse be able to accept credit card payment. those blocks to form landscape so that all residents have For other blocks, it’s parents who the opportunity to access high-speed, need access at home so they’re not the solid walls of red, quality broadband and connect with driving a child to the school parking yellow, blue, orange, the world around them? lot an hour before school starts to finish the online lesson she started in green and white. For WANTS AND NEEDS class yesterday, or the campground owner when the first question asked many people, it can Think of each color-block in the cube by potential weekend visitors is, “Does as all of the people who want, and your campground have Wi-Fi?” One be frustrating, and need, that connection. One block is block alone could be focused solely those who want access to expanded maybe even a bit on accessing government programs, entertainment, and the latest news. services, and forms, or paying your overwhelming. But for Other blocks represent those in the taxes. These are some of the real health care industry needing reliable challenges that rural Pennsylvania those with patience connectivity for transmitting patient residents face every day because information from a home health and determination, they don’t have access to quality care visitor to a hospital or providing broadband. and a mindset for tele-psychiatry services because solving a challenge, the patient lives 50 miles away from As advances in technology have the nearest provider, or those small resulted in many urbanized the end result is very manufacturing companies wanting to communities having four and five expand marketing, sales and customer Gigabit levels of connectivity, and rewarding. service over the internet. as the world expands its reliance on

Think of each color-block in the cube as all of the people who want, and need, that connection.

www.pacounties.org 11 high-speed broadband to conduct the ISPs’ self-reported broadband indicated that connectivity speeds business and financial transactions, speeds in all 67 counties. According are substantially slower in our rural provide education, and access health to the FCC’s official broadband maps counties than in our urban counties. care, government services and more, a from December 2017, there was 100% The researchers rightly pointed valid question remains: what must be availability of broadband, which out that ISPs have numerous done to provide rural Pennsylvanians the FCC defines as 25 megabits per challenges in deploying broadband with high-speed quality broadband second download and three megabits in rural areas, including geography, availability and access and how can it per second upload, across every population density, and access to be achieved? county of Pennsylvania. infrastructure. Questions remain RESEARCH In submitting their data to the for some as to the level of demand FCC, ISPs are permitted to state for high-speed broadband within To learn more about broadband that a census block has broadband un- and underserved areas, and challenges and the opportunities, the availability at the 25/3Mbps level if whether the customer’s willingness Center for Rural Pennsylvania held part of the area, or limited customers, to pay is sufficient to warrant major a public hearing in Wellsboro, Tioga have that service. Generally, census investments. ISPs are continually County in 2018. The information blocks contain between 600 and supporting research and development provided furthered the Center 3,000 people, with an optimum size to find advanced ways and board of directors’ commitment of 1,500 people. The accuracy of technologies to deploy broadband. to supporting research that would declaring that a rural census block has determine the level of broadband 25/3Mbps broadband service, if only The team’s archival research availability and access in rural a few customers out of potentially documents that broadband Pennsylvania. The research, led by 1,500 actually have broadband, is connectivity has been successfully Professor Sascha Meinrath, the Palmer questionable. deployed in previously underserved Chair in Telecommunications at Penn areas, both within Pennsylvania and State University, was extensive and SPEED TESTS across the country, using a diverse was recently completed. array of business models. These To verify the speeds from the FCC examples can provide policy makers The researchers used the latest maps, the Penn State research team with ideas on how they can help available Federal Communications used a broadband speed test to improve broadband availability in Commission (FCC) broadband data— determine what the actual on-the- those areas where adequate facilities which are collected from Internet ground broadband speeds were and services do not yet exist, while Service Providers (ISPs) from a throughout Pennsylvania in locations recognizing that one solution may not mandatory bi-yearly data collection that have confirmed access. The test work for the entire commonwealth. effort using FCC Form 477—to map was strictly voluntary for participants who simply logged onto the test FUNDING website that then recorded their speed of connectivity. One recent initiative is Tri-County Rural Electric Cooperative, a member- The research team collected more owned utility. Tri-County provides than 11 million broadband speed electricity to over 16,000 members tests from across Pennsylvania in residing in seven rural counties. It will 2018. According to the test results, use federal Connect America II funds there isn’t a single Pennsylvania in the amount of $3.2 million annually, county where at least 50 percent for 10 years, along with a $1.5 million of the population has broadband grant from the state’s Redevelopment connectivity at the 25/3 Mbps level. Assistance Capital Project program to That’s a big difference from the FCC construct 103 miles of above-ground, Form 477 maps. The test results also fiber-to the-home in Potter County.

12 PENNSYLVANIA COUNTY NEWS | SUMMER 2019 Yet, a lingering question in the debate of our rural youth to pursue sponsored research suggests there about broadband connectivity is educational and career goals. It’s lost are multiple ways to bring high speed cost. It’s the proverbial elephant revenue for small rural businesses quality broadband service to all of in the room. The cost factor is not that cannot connect with a potential Pennsylvania. By focusing on the only for installation, but ongoing customer base located far beyond possibilities, rather than the challenges, maintenance and upgrades. These their Main Street location. It’s lost cost the end result will be very rewarding. are very legitimate concerns that savings for a patient or a payer when elected officials must consider. There the lack of telemedicine means a visit The full research report, “Broadband is, however, another cost that should to an emergency room is the only Access and Availability in Rural also be brought into the discussion option. And while a dollars and cents Pennsylvania,” is available at to help inform both public and figure may be difficult to calculate, https://www.rural.palegislature.us/ private investment decisions. What is there is a cost for rural Pennsylvania publications_broadband.html. The the ongoing cost that Pennsylvania when access to government programs Center for Rural Pennsylvania’s website incurs by not expanding high-speed and services is increasingly becoming at https://www.rural.palegislature.us broadband availability and access to only a mouse click away. also includes infographics by county, all its communities and residents? There is so much at stake for our showing the FCC Form 477 data on According to a US News and World Pennsylvania communities that broadband service availability and the Report article, titled, Best States 2019, do not have high-speed, quality results of the PA broadband speed Pennsylvania ranks 29th for Internet broadband. But just as there are test. For the live data, visit https:// Access. That ranking comes at a cost multiple ways to solve a Rubik’s cube, pa.broadbandtest.us. in the form of continuing outmigration the Center for Rural Pennsylvania’s

CONNECTED COMMUNITIES Modernize your operations ARE THRIVING COMMUNITIES to give your community the ability to thrive.

Your effort and your time are valuable resources. When mountains of paper and antiquated software are in your way, your job becomes harder.

Imagine implementing tailored appraisal and tax software and services to make operations run smoothly, allowing your community to focus on improvement. Our elite solutions eliminate limitations and deliver the agility and efficiency you need. With Tyler’s software and services, communities are thriving.

See what’s possible at tylertech.com/appraisal.

www.pacounties.org 13 Lack of Broadband Access Is Hurting Pennsylvania

RESTORE PENNSYLVANIA OFFERS A SOLUTION

14 PENNSYLVANIA COUNTY NEWS | SUMMER 2019 Sheri Collins Acting Director Governor’s Office of Broadband Initiatives

Imagine a world without access to high-speed internet. How would you perform the necessary functions of your job, connect with business associates, or run a business? How would educators teach, and students learn? How would doctors and medical professionals utilize technology to care for the sick or injured? How would you stay in touch with your loved ones? Many of us simply can’t imagine it.

And yet across Pennsylvania, hundreds would be eligible to apply for nologies like fiber optic equipment, of thousands—perhaps millions—of loans, grants and other forms of and expanding or developing new people do not have access to high funding to assist with broadband networks. And the governor’s Restore speed internet, and it’s holding expansion. Our priority is to focus on Pennsylvania proposal calls for $4.5 us back as a commonwealth. This unserved and underserved regions. billion to fix Pennsylvania’ most critical problem isn’t exclusive to our rural For communities that have not yet infrastructure issues, including the areas either. In fact, more than a formally studied their broadband expansion of broadband access. quarter of a million of Pennsylvanians accessibility and possible solutions living in urban or suburban areas to expand it, Restore Pennsylvania RELIABILITY REQUIRED can’t get a fast, reliable connection. funding could be used for feasibility Access to high-speed internet is While we recognize the importance studies that can help them identify essential to growing our economy of having access to broadband, we an inventory of existing broadband and enhancing the lives of our continue to accept the ever-present assets. Additionally, these studies can citizens. Businesses need a fast, and glaring digital divide that exists in conduct a systematic assessment and reliable connection to process their our most rural communities. prioritization of broadband needs; day-to-day transactions, adopt secure professional consultants; assess Governor Wolf’s Pennsylvania new technologies, and reach new financing options; identify an anchor Broadband Initiative is working to markets. Medical professional and first tenant with enough demand to spur change that. Launched last year, the responders require reliable broadband infrastructure investment; and develop Pennsylvania Broadband Initiative is infrastructure to provide the best a comprehensive strategic plan for working to reach the governor’s goal of possible care to their patients and deploying broadband. providing high-speed internet access respond to emergency situations. to every Pennsylvanian by 2022. For areas that have already complet- And if we want our commonwealth to ed a feasibility study, Restore Penn- be home to the best-educated and APPLYING FOR FUNDING sylvania funding could be used for strongest workforce in the nation, build-out of infrastructure. Applicants then we need to equip our educators Under the Restore Pennsylvania plan, could use these funds for middle mile and their students with access to high providers, commonwealth agencies and last mile connections, purchasing speed internet not only at school but and political subdivisions, nonprofit and installing new broadband tech- at home. entities and rural electric cooperatives

www.pacounties.org 15 You need not travel far outside of our If EMS personnel respond to an emergency office here in Harrisburg to witness in what is a known “non-covered area,” the frustration our rural communities they drive to a known “covered area” so experience daily. On a recent visit with an emergency medical services crew, I they can transmit critical patient data to the learned that EMS personnel have come responding medical facility. to learn where coverage is and isn’t available in their community. If they In a field in which every second matters, this delay respond to an emergency call in what can mean the difference between life and death. is a known “non-covered area,” they drive to a known “covered area” so they can transmit critical patient data years. They are small business owners Hampered by his own ability to to the responding medical facility. In who came to Pennsylvania from a connect while on a tour of rural a field in which every second matters, neighboring state to launch their Pennsylvania and armed with stories this delay in transmission can mean the business; parents of young and school like those outlined above, Governor difference between life and death. aged children; life-long learners Wolf recognized the challenges that who want to do on-line schooling; rural Pennsylvania is facing as it relates At Penns Valley School District in and community leaders who feel to broadband connectivity. Committed Centre County, which is less than 20 neglected. They are frustrated. And, to addressing the multiple issues miles from Penn State University, this is just one example of the many largely facing rural Pennsylvania, nearly eight percent of students visits I have been on over the past Governor Wolf proposed Restore have dial-up internet access. These eight months. The communities and Pennsylvania to amass the necessary students struggle to complete online faces change, but the stories remain financial resources needed to homework assignments, download the same. address Pennsylvania’s most critical textbooks, communicate with teachers infrastructure deficiencies, especially and classmates, and conduct research. JUST LIKE WATER broadband. Access to high speed With an increasing emphasis on a AND ELECTRICITY internet should be available to all flipped classroom teaching model, Pennsylvanians—just like water and limited access at home jeopardizes Deploying a robust, reliable electricity. not only the student’s ability to learn broadband infrastructure isn’t but the school’s ability to compete cheap nor is it easy. Pennsylvania’s The Restore Pennsylvania legislation with other schools across the state. mountains, valleys and wide-open calls for raising $4.5 billion during And it’s not just the students who spaces prove to be a challenge in the next four years by applying a are impacted. Educators are forced the deployment of broadband. While severance tax on the natural gas to stay at school to complete lesson solutions exist to what appears to be industry. Pennsylvania remains the plans, enter grades, and participate a never-ending problem, it comes only gas-producing state in the in mandatory on-line professional with a hefty price tag. But in an era country without a severance tax—yet development courses because access in which communities have to do we are the second largest producer of at home either doesn’t exist or it isn’t more with less, they simply don’t natural gas. With every passing year, fast enough or reliable to be of use. have the resources needed to expand we lose the opportunity to reinvest broadband access to every resident, the benefits of those resources that On a recent visit to Monroe County, business, and organization. They need will help to stimulate our economy approximately 40 residents shared the financial support. In fact, achieving full and move Pennsylvania forward. challenges they face in getting faster broadband deployment is projected Our goal is to put the citizens of and reliable internet to their small to require between $480 and $715 Pennsylvania first. It’s time to let the rural community. Situated in a densely million of commonwealth funding. people of Pennsylvania know that they populated area, the residents of this Right now, Pennsylvania does not matter, regardless of their zip code. small community expressed their have a designated state fund for frustration with a situation that has broadband projects. By providing broadband connectivity been in existence for more than 15 to these areas of Pennsylvania, we’re

16 PENNSYLVANIA COUNTY NEWS | SUMMER 2019 helping to close a technology gap because they understood it wasn’t just businesses, our health care providers, that puts rural areas—and certain an investment in the region’s economy, and our educators and students. We suburban and urban neighborhoods— but in the region’s public health. owe it to families that struggle to at an educational and economic stay in touch with one another simply disadvantage. Public-private partnerships are vital because of the broadband access for expanding broadband access where they live. COLLABORATION because many private businesses and organizations understand that it To address this issue, we must work Building relationships between will help everyone in the community, together and pass the Restore municipal and county government, both residents and businesses. The Pennsylvania legislation. It will take nonprofit organizations and private DRIVE/Geisinger project is one that a great deal of coordination and businesses is essential in reaching our can be used as a model for many collaboration and the willingness to goal of full broadband deployment. communities across Pennsylvania. put personal and political agendas For instance, in Montour County, aside., but this isn’t a Republican or DRIVE—an economic development Yet, the biggest obstacle still comes Democratic issue. This is a human organization in the region—partnered back to funding. Communities may be issue. The future of Pennsylvania rests with Geisinger to implement a able to implement projects that help squarely on what steps we take today pilot program to improve access to take small bites out of the problem, to address this issue and position significant portions of the county but if we want to tackle this issue at Pennsylvania for future growth and while also providing a secure network a comprehensive level, it’s clear that opportunity. for its county government offices. we need to do something different. Geisinger invested in the project We owe it to our communities, our

www.pacounties.org 17 67 COUNTIES 1 STATE

PENNSYLVANIA COUNTS IN 2020

18 PENNSYLVANIA COUNTY NEWS | SUMMER 2019 The census matters for all Pennsylvanians. Each person counted in rural, urban and suburban areas contributes $2,093 in federal funds annually. In a period of ten years, that equals $20,930 per individual independently of age, gender, address, or immigration status.

Norman Bristol Colón Executive Director Pennsylvania Governor’s Census 2020 Complete Count Commission

ennsylvania is getting ready urban areas. They include young the Pennsylvania Census 2020 to join all other 49 states and children, racial and ethnic minorities, Interagency Workgroup to provide U.S. territories to comply with people who do not speak fluent assistance and cooperation for a the constitutionally-mandated English, the poor and the homeless, complete and accurate count. Pdecennial census. The census 2020 undocumented immigrants, The census is an essential policy is the first high-tech census with the refugees, mobile individuals such tool for state government, county questionnaire available online, but as college students, LGBTQ people, government, and local municipalities. responses can still be submitted in and individuals who are angry at The federal government depends on paper and by phone. or distrustful of the government. census data to allocate resources. Children aged zero to four comprise Governor Tom Wolf established the State governments use it to draw the most undercounted age category. Governor’s Census 2020 Complete legislative districts and to direct Count Commission by executive order THOROUGH spending. Academics, nonprofits, and in September 2018. The commission is REPRESENTATION businesses rely on it to inform and tasked with recommending methods direct their work. Almost everything and policies to facilitate the most The 41-member commission consists we know about our population complete and accurate census count, of individuals representing business, and our communities comes from including implementing strategies academia, community and nonprofit information collected during the to reach hard-to-count populations organizations, religious communities, decennial census and its related (HTCs). health care communities, elected and surveys. appointed officials, and employees HTCs are groups that have historically The census also directly impacts the from all levels of government. All been less likely to respond to the funding that municipalities will receive agencies under the governor’s census immediately. These groups over the next decade. According to jurisdiction are represented through can be found in both rural and the National Conference of State

www.pacounties.org 19 20 PENNSYLVANIA COUNTY NEWS | SUMMER 2019 Legislatures, from the 16 largest Housing and Infrastructure assistance federal programs for federal programs that allocate funds Development Pennsylvania in FY 2016-17 was based primarily on census data, $760,728,267. That funding was Many communities in Pennsylvania Pennsylvania receives $26.8 billion allocated to assist with housing rely on the kinds of programs annually—the fifth largest allocation in and electrification loans and loan financed by Community Development the nation. This funding goes toward guarantees, water systems for rural Block Grants (CDBG), including the critical infrastructure, roads and communities, rural rental assistance construction of affordable housing bridges, Medicare, education, senior programs, business and industry and public facilities, infrastructure citizens’ programs, human services loans, and other initiatives. enhancements, and job creation support, and rural development. initiatives. In fiscal year (FY) 2016-17, The Most Reliable Data That is equal to more than $2,000 per thanks to census data, communities The census provides the most reliable citizen in Pennsylvania. A complete across Pennsylvania were awarded and complete data for research, census determines funding vital to our more than $196 million in CDBG funds. decision-making, and planning for commonwealth and our future. When Federal-aid Highway Program the public, private, and nonprofit Pennsylvanians respond to the census, sectors. While it only asks a few basic our commonwealth and communities Pennsylvania’s geographic size questions, the population counts and get a fair share of federal funds to and large population means there demographic data that it produces spend on schools, hospitals, roads, are thousands of miles of road to serve as a benchmark for most other public works, and other programs. It is maintain. In FY 2017-18, census data current statistics that help us gain in every Pennsylvanian’s best interest helped Pennsylvania receive more deeper insights into our communities. to ensure an accurate census 2020 than $1.68 billion in funding for count. maintenance of national highways, as Academic institutions use census data well as the construction and repair of to craft educational curricula. Medical The importance of the census extends bridges. facilities and health institutions use it to several key areas: to track the well-being of communities Nutritional Assistance for Fair Political Representation and to control diseases. Businesses the Elderly of all sizes use the data as a tool to An accurate census helps ensure Pennsylvania has a large elderly determine new markets and develop fair representation at all levels of population. Many seniors rely on expansion plans, to forecast sales government. federal assistance for food, shelter, and growth projections, for supply The primary constitutional purpose and medical care. An example of chain and logistics management, for the decennial census is to a program that provides critical and even to provide workforce determine how many congressional assistance to older Pennsylvanians development initiatives to surrounding representatives each state will have for in need is the Nutrition Services communities. the next decade and to ensure equal component of the Older Americans All levels of government also rely on representation in the redistricting Act. In FY 2016-17, census data census data to inform their research, process. For instance, congressional directed more than $31 million for decision-making, and planning from districts and the boundaries of your nutrition services to the state. the basic demographic composition city ward are determined by census Programs Targeting Rural of a community to infrastructure and numbers. Today, Pennsylvania has half Communities transportation planning. Census data of the representatives it did from 1913 is used for emergency preparedness, to 1933. Despite a modest increase Fifty-five programs targeting rural disaster relief, and resiliency planning. in population from 2000 to 2010, communities were identified in It is also used for zoning and the state lost its 19th seat in the U.S. the Catalog of Federal Domestic permitting processes and to measure House of Representatives and is on Assistance for FY 2016-17 for a total the success and outcomes of local track to lose at least one more in 2020. fund distribution of $30.7 billion programs or initiatives. nationally. Expenditures of six rural

www.pacounties.org 21 The total loss for programs such as Medicaid, Medicare, CHIP, and several others due to a one percent undercount in the 2010 census for Pennsylvania was $221,762,564.

The importance of the census extends to several key areas:

Housing and Nutritional Fair Political Infrastructure Federal-aid Assistance for Programs Targeting The Most Representation Development Highway Program the Elderly Rural Communities Reliable Data

UNDERCOUNTING Workers and businesses pay their The census matters for all IS COSTLY fair share of taxes. They should Pennsylvanians. Each person counted receive a fair share from the benefits in rural, urban and suburban areas According to the George Washington government offers in return. And the contributes $2,093 in federal funds University’s Institute of Public Policy, fairness of this exchange between the annually. In a period of ten years, the fiscal costs of a census undercount government, communities, and their that equals $20,930 per individual to Pennsylvania would strike a strong constituents depends on the accuracy independently of age, gender, blow to the state’s fiscal stability. of the census. address, or immigration status. The projected fiscal loss in federal The Governor’s Census 2020 Complete We have only one chance to get a medical assistance programs per Count Commission is working closely complete and accurate count. There person missed in the 2010 census in with the U.S. Census Bureau, the are no recounts. The Pennsylvania Pennsylvania was $1,746—the second- Pennsylvania State Data Center, population number submitted to highest loss in the country. The total Philly Counts, the Allegheny County/ the president in 2020 will dictate the loss for programs such as Medicaid, City of Pittsburgh Complete Count federal funding and representation for Medicare, CHIP, and several others Committee, and other partners to our state until we get the opportunity due to a one percent undercount in develop the infrastructure to “get out to update it in 10 years through the 2010 census for Pennsylvania was the count.” census 2030. $221,762,564.

An accurate and complete census is, therefore, essential to ensuring that government monies are distributed to areas where they are needed most and will have the greatest impact. We need significant investments in Census Day is April 1, 2020 schools, infrastructure, public health, public institutions, and services.

22 PENNSYLVANIA COUNTY NEWS | SUMMER 2019 Need help with your budget or union negotiations? You can access salary information for nearly 17,000 county positions from 58 Pennsylvania counties and county related entities.

The 2019 CCAP SALARY SURVEY is available at NO COST for all CCAP and SCHRPP members and their approved staff. Others may purchase access for a fee.

For more information on the SALARY SURVEY, please contact Desiree Nguyen at [email protected] or (717) 736-4779.

Access the SALARY SURVEY at www.pacounties.org/SalarySurvey

www.pacounties.org 23 How Counties Can Help Ensure a Fair and Accurate Census

Jayant Kairam Director of Program Strategy National Association of Counties

midst all debate about new initiatives like Opportunity Zones. undertaken by the government, and what will be included Various predictions suggest that the with this year’s digital transition, on the Census 2020 census will cause major changes in the the complexities have increased. A questionnaire, the main U.S. House of Representatives, shifting host of cybersecurity concerns were Aconstant is that the decennial census the 435 seats with potential gains in highlighted in a recent GAO study. is a hugely important civic exercise the West, South and Southwest and Budget challenges have resulted in with important consequences for losses in the Midwest. the Census Bureau’s plans to reduce counties. For the past year, the the number of enumerators and local National Association of Counties has INCREASED offices. Further, there is concern that provided information and guidance to COMPEXITIES printing delays could result from our members on strategies that can the determination on the citizenship The Census and the related American help ensure a fair and accurate count, question. While the Census Bureau Community Survey also paint while also emphasizing what’s at maintains it is on track and on critical portraits of the population stake. Through these efforts, we have time, it’s hard to ignore the difficult and unmatched data sets that been able to identify how counties can landscape they are navigating. An all- inform private business decision- lead and support an effective Census hands-on-deck approach to achieving making and siting, independent 2020 administration effort. a full and accurate count is more research and countless state and necessary than ever. The Constitution mandates that a local programmatic and policy census of the U.S. be conducted every determinations on services covering COUNTY STRATEGIES 10 years. The first census was taken transportation, schools, emergency in 1790, and the 2020 Census will be response and law enforcement. In Counties are key ambassadors and the first to lean on a large-scale online truth, local officials are well-versed beneficiaries of a full count. These completion. Census data drive the in the centrality of the census to how are some key strategies we are allocation of more than $900 billion government and citizens interact, encouraging counties deploy to in annual funding across hundreds but many Americans fail to see that support Census 2020. of federal programs. These include connection. It is important for local Complete Count Committees core safety net programs like the governments to highlight this for our Children’s Health Insurance Program residents. Many counties are developing local and Medicaid, Title 1 grants to Local campaigns that bring together The census is often characterized Education Agencies and Head Start, representatives from all critical as the largest civilian mobilization and determinations on eligibility for demographic groups such as children,

24 PENNSYLVANIA COUNTY NEWS | SUMMER 2019 The decennial census is a hugely important civic Census data 2020 drive the exercise with important allocation of consequences for counties. more than $900 billion in annual season in spring 2020 and into the funding across summer, with a focus on hard to reach hundreds populations such as post-disaster of federal communities, homeless, seasonal programs. turnover and group homes. There will be around 500,000 field staff positions ranging from administrative to recruitment to enumeration.

Access & Marketing

Next year’s digital census comes with a new set of administrative challenges, and counties have an important role in helping overcome access barriers. Counties must step up to help enable online submission for residents with limited internet access. Fortunately, counties either manage or have close teens, millennials and ethnic groups Including kids as a priority for relationships with libraries, school and stakeholders like local chambers complete count committees is critical, systems, community centers, hospitals, of commerce, civic associations and and resources like the Count All Kids health clinics and job training sites that religious entities. These stakeholders initiative can help with materials, can host kiosks and information booths can help develop messaging and outreach strategies and tools to locate with internet and engage those hard outreach strategies, translation needs where kids are being undercounted. to reach populations. Many counties and partnerships to ensure that Employment Opportunities are getting creative. In Miami-Dade trusted messengers communicate County, for example, officials used 2010 with traditionally undercounted Census 2020 is creating jobs. Leading response rates to target areas, called populations. While some states like up to the official start of counting “census tracts,” with low participation California are providing funding operations in Alaska in 2020, there will with customized messaging from for regional and local committees, be significant opportunity for counties trusted community partners. others are leveraging general fund to promote jobs and help facilitate dollars or community, business placements around key quality control Throughout 2019 the National and philanthropic contributions measures like address checks and Association of Counties will continue and partnerships to mobilize these regional operations. Local talent will to provide counties with resources volunteer coalitions, such as San be key in supporting canvassing in and insights on what is working in Antonio and Bexar County, Texas. late summer 2019. Recruitment is the field and how to connect with underway for staffing of 200 Area advocates and technical assistance Counties have a chance to focus on Census Offices and general field staff. providers looking to ensure a fair and young children in particular in this Field staff will provide operational accurate count. Visit www.naco.org to effort. In the 2010 census, one in support, particularly through the peak learn more. 10 young children was not counted.

www.pacounties.org 25 Collective Bargaining & Interest Arbitration Personnel Counseling & Training Grievance Arbitration Labor Contract Administration Retirement Benefits EEO, PHRC & Civil Rights Litigation Civil Service Local Agency Law Proceedings Proactive Appellate Representation

beats Pittsburgh reactive. 535 Smithfield Street, Suite 700 Taking steps to prevent labor and employment issues is a far better strategy than Pittsburgh, PA 15222 trying to mitigate them after the fact. We partner with counties in every corner of the (412) 395-1280 Commonwealth, helping them address potential risks and create work environments Philadelphia where people and public service can thrive. We’d like to do the same for you. One Belmont Avenue, Suite 605 Bala Cynwyd, PA 19004 (610) 227-2591

cdblaw.com

  Coming This Fall... Risk Management and Professional deveopment opportunities for county employees!  20+ Training Sessions    FREE to Sponsoring Program Members   Five Training Locations Statewide

Stay tuned for a copy of the 2019 Fall GLIMPSE! We hope to see you this fall! 

To learn more about our workshops or to receive a copy of the Glimpse Training Catalog contact Linda Rosito at (717) 736-4728 or [email protected]. 

26 PENNSYLVANIA COUNTY NEWS | SUMMER 2019 NEW COURTHOUSE VIDEOS TO AIR

The CCAP/PCNTV Pennsylvania’s Historic County Courthouses videos will again air this year on PCNTV and feature Blair County, Thursday, August 15 at 7 p.m. and Saturday, August 17 at 2 p.m.; Bedford County, Thursday, August 22 at 7 p.m. and Saturday, August 24 at 2 p.m.; and Carbon County, Thursday, August 29 at 7 p.m. and Saturday, August 31 at 2 p.m. After airing, the videos will be placed on the CCAP website.

www.pacounties.org 27 Counties throughout Pennsylvania employ therapy and service pets to comfort individuals in many sensitive settings and perform tasks that mere humans just can’t quite accomplish. Enjoy a few of our furry friends on the following pages. Top: Boone, Allegheny County

Left: Keisel, Cumberland County

Lucie, Allegheny County Oakley and Lexi, Clinton County

www.pacounties.org 29 Top, left to right: Molly, Sadie, Mariah Dirk, Mercer County Bottom, left to right: Caoimhe, Malkin, Lilly, Ellie, Stewie Erie County

Zeus, Allegheny County

30 PENNSYLVANIA COUNTY NEWS | SUMMER 2019 Hercules and Juno Hoover, Allegheny County

MacGuyver Potter County Thousands of Public Entities. Tens of Billions of Taxpayer Dollars. Protected.

Safe, Smart, Flexible Solutions for Managing Public Funds. Across the United States, thousands of local and state governmental organizations use the Insured Cash Sweep®, or ICS®, and CDARS® services to access multi-million-dollar FDIC insurance through a single bank relationship, safeguard taxpayer money, keep the amount of their deposit in the community to support local lending, and eliminate the burden of ongoing collateral tracking. What could be easier? See if your bank offers ICS and/or CDARS, or find one of the thousands that do. www.ICSandCDARS.com

Placement of funds through the ICS or CDARS service is subject to the terms, conditions, and disclosures in the service agreements, including the Deposit Placement Agreement (“DPA”). Limits apply and customer eligibility criteria may apply. In the ICS savings option, program withdrawals are limited to six per month. Although funds are placed at destination banks in amounts that do not exceed the FDIC standard maximum deposit insurance amount (“SMDIA”), a depositor’s balances at the relationship institution that places the funds may exceed the SMDIA (e.g., before ICS or CDARS settlement for a deposit or after ICS or CDARS settlement for a withdrawal) or be ineligible for FDIC insurance (if the relationship institution is not a bank). As stated in the DPA, the depositor is responsible for making any necessary arrangements to protect such balances consistent with applicable law. If the depositor is subject to restrictions on placement of its funds, the depositor is responsible for determining whether its use of ICS or CDARS satisfies those restrictions. When deposited funds are exchanged on a dollar-for-dollar basis with other banks in the network, the relationship institution can use the full amount of a deposit placed through ICS or CDARS for local lending, satisfying some depositors’ local investment goals/mandates. Alternatively, with a depositor’s consent, and in states where this is allowed by law, the relationship institution may choose to receive fee income instead of deposits from other banks. Under these circumstances, deposited funds would not be available for local lending. ICS, Insured Cash Sweep, and CDARS are registered service marks of Promontory Interfinancial Network, LLC. 05/18 County Leaders Graduate from CCAP Center for Excellence

Left to right: Rick Mirabito, Lycoming County commissioner; Ed Heasley, Clarion County commissioner; Chad Schnee, Berks County first assistant county solicitor; Deanna Giorno, Bucks County chief clerk; Steve Nevada, Franklin County assistant county administrator; Robert Kagel, Chester County administrator; and, Pat Fabian, Armstrong County commissioner.

or two and a half days they styles of leadership, managerial ver- program will be held June 17 -19 at gathered at the CCAP offices satility, interpersonal dynamics; crisis the CCAP Office in Harrisburg. Please in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania for communication, media management, see our website, www.pacounties. intense and in-depth, high level daily communication problem solving, org/ME/Pages/CELProgram.aspx, for Ftraining by a team of experts, some decision making and other areas. more information; applications will be hands-on practice and exploration posted in September. Participation is available to one during CCAP’s Center for Excellence eligible person per county per year, The 2019 program was produced by in County Leadership (CEL) program, with a maximum of 12 participants The Professional Edge, Inc. (www. a premier professional development annually. An application is required program for county officials. At the theprofessionaledgeinc.com). Program for admittance to the program, with end of those long and often thought- sponsors include the Pennsylvania final selection being made by a provoking days, seven county officials Counties Risk Pool (PCoRP), the standing CCAP committee. Eligible became the program’s fifth set of Pennsylvania Counties Workers’ participants are the CCAP voting graduates. Compensation Trust (PComp), the members in each county: county Unemployment Compensation Trust CEL training focuses on fostering indi- commissioners, council members, (UC Trust), Cafardi Ferguson Wyrick vidual growth through interactive and chief clerks, county administrators, Weis + Stotler LLC (CFWW+S), and high-level classroom training aimed and solicitors. Key county leaders Campbell Durrant Beatty Palombo & at improving participants’ communi- and department heads also may be Miller, P.C. cation, management and leadership eligible with a written letter of support skills. CEL includes intense classes in from their county official. The 2020

www.pacounties.org 33 PENSION TECHNOLOGY GROUP (PTG)

PTG has over 100 client installations spanning multiple states with plans on developing its presence in the Pennsylvania market and accommodating all aspects of ACT 96 into our pension administration software. PTG specializes in new pension administration system installations, replacing legacy, and or homegrown system’s with its cost effective and efficient cutting edge technology solutions. Today more than ever, public employee retirement systems need to stay ahead of the curve in securing and protecting its membership data. PTG's innovative solutions are designed to mitigate the overall possibility of harm or loss to their clients data.

WHO IS PTG? • Founded in 2006, PTG and its software technologists have maintained a 100% success rate in implementing PensionPro. Implementations have been on time, within budget, and within 8 - 14 months. • PTG is the leading provider of web-based pension administration software systems serving the public employee retirement community. • PTG PensionPro is currently being utilized by over 100 public employee pension funds to assist in serving the needs of their membership.

WHAT IS THE PTG PENSION PRO? • Fully functional web based pension administration software suite. • Easily configurable to meet all pension fund requirements such as DROP and Share Plans. • PensionPro is hosted by Rackspace Inc., the #1 managed cloud provider. Rackspace monitors all data and web traffic against foreign and domestic intrusions as well as providing collocation redundancy.

The PTG team is looking forward to becoming a trusted technology partner to the Pennsylvania community. For more information or to request a demonstration of the PTG PensionPro, please contact: Stephan Georgacopoulos at [email protected] or 617-977–8408 x15

[email protected] WWW.PTG-USA.COM 617-977-8408 X15

34 PENNSYLVANIA COUNTY NEWS | SUMMER 2019 Pursuing the Profession While Promoting the Public Good®

www.md-cpas.com

Over 25 Years of Service to Governments

Pittsburgh ● Harrisburg ● Butler ● State College ● Erie ● Lancaster

Tim Morgus, CPA, CFE, CGFM Brian T. McCall, CPA, CGFM Partner Partner 412.535.5502 412.535.5540 [email protected] [email protected]

● Governments are the Core of Maher Duessel’s Practice. ● Currently Working in all Counties Across Pennsylvania with Statewide Capacity. ● Dedicated to Providing Comprehensive Auditing and Consulting Services to County Governments. ● National and State Appointments to GFOA, GASB, AICPA and PICPA Committees Provides Unparalleled Expertise. YOUTH MENTAL HEALTH FIRST AID:

Working to Prevent Youth Suicide IN CHESTER COUNTY

36 PENNSYLVANIA COUNTY NEWS | SUMMER 2019 Dana M. Heiman Chief Impact Officer “Every single day I tell people about Brandywine Health Foundation the Youth Mental Health First Aid Alyson Ferguson, MPH Director of Grantmaking program and how it’s changed Thomas Scattergood Behavioral Health Foundation my life. My mom, along with other Stacie M. Metz, PhD, MSW, MPH, MA Professor, Department of community members, would like to Graduate Social Work West Chester University partake in the program themselves!” Diamond Marrow, Coatesville Area Senior High School student, Youth Mental Health First Aider

ocated in the western suburbs Area School District (CASD) had IDENTIFY, UNDERSTAND, of Philadelphia, Coatesville is been disproportionately affected by RESPOND one of Pennsylvania’s poorest neglect, abuse, delinquency issues, communities. The City of and low graduation rates. Youth Mental Health First Aid teaches LCoatesville is very typical of small the knowledge and skills needed to These statistics demonstrated not former industrial mid-Atlantic towns identify, understand, and respond to only the need for a strong behavioral that once had the steel industry for signs and symptoms of behavioral health system of care, but also the local employment but have been in health challenges or crises. The critical importance of prevention and the throes of rapid decline. The City curriculum provides an overview of early intervention for the ongoing of Coatesville’s 1.9 square miles are the signs and symptoms of various success of Coatesville youth. Building home to about 13,164 people, with behavioral health challenges such on their existing momentum of more than 30% of them living in as depression, anxiety, suicide, and funding two key behavioral health poverty according to the most recent substance-use disorders. The course agencies, the Brandywine Health Census estimates. content also teaches a five-step Foundation decided to further action plan using the mnemonic In the fall of 2013, when this program prioritize behavioral health issues in “ALGEE,” which stands for: Assess was initiated the estimated income Coatesville and turned to colleagues for risk of suicide or harm, Listen per capita for Coatesville residents at the Thomas Scattergood Behavioral nonjudgmentally, Give reassurance was just $17,702. At that time the Health Foundation in Philadelphia and information, Encourage Brandywine Health Foundation and for ideas and evidence-based appropriate professional help, and key area leaders learned from the practices. After several meetings, the Encourage self-help and other support Pennsylvania Youth Survey about Brandywine Health Foundation’s staff strategies. ALGEE is the cornerstone of the high rates of depression among and board of directors decided to the curriculum. Coatesville-area youth compared to move forward with a plan to bring the their peers in the remainder of Chester Youth Mental Health First Aid (YMHFA) Though the Brandywine Health County and the state as a whole. In curriculum to Coatesville. Foundation and its partners were addition, children in the Coatesville confident that bringing YMHFA to

www.pacounties.org 37 Proud Supporter of CCAP

Largest correctional healthcare provider Largest corectional healthcare provider Largest corectional healthcare provider to counties in theto Commonwealth counties in the Commonwealth to counties in the Commonwealth 41 Facilities 41 Facilities 41 Facilities

3940 Locust Lane, Harrisburg, PA 17109 717-545-5787 www.primecaremedical.com

Competitive yields… fi lled with substance. Some would say “You reap what you sow.” PLGIT’s fund managers would agree. They call it True Yield. PLGIT understands that maximizing growth solidifi es and strengthens your future. Simply put; True Yield is the harvest of what’s left at the end of the day and while it is a primary focus, you also get real substance working with PLGIT. We’ve been able to combine competitive rates with a history of commitment to public entities that has earned us a long-standing reputation for outstanding hands on service. It’s a reputation that reaches across the state, a reputation strengthened by the endorsement of the 7 statewide associations. Choose PLGIT, where we seek to take advantage of opportunities to maximize your growth. Contact us today for a no obligation analysis of your cash management and investment program.

1-800-572-1472 • www.PLGIT.com • Existing Solely for Your Success

This information is for institutional investor use only, not for further distribution to retail investors, and does not represent an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy or sell any fund or other security. Investors should consider the investment objectives, risks, charges and expenses before investing in any of the Trust’s portfolios. This and other information about the Trust’s portfolios is available in the current Information Statement, which should be read carefully before investing. A copy of the Information Statement may be obtained by calling 1-800-572-1472 or is available on the Trust’s website at www.plgit.com. While the PLGIT, PLGIT/ARM and PLGIT/PRIME portfolios seek to maintain a stable net asset value of $1.00 per share and the PLGIT/TERM portfolio seeks to achieve a net asset value of $1.00 per share at its stated maturity, it is possible to lose money investing in the Trust. An investment in the Trust is not insured or guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or any other government agency. Shares of the Trust’s portfolios are distributed by PFM Fund Distributors, Inc., member Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) (www.fi nra.org) and Securities Investor Protection Corporation (SIPC) (www.sipc.org). PFM Fund Distributors, Inc. is a wholly owned subsidiary of PFM Asset Management LLC. SMPLGIT, PLGIT-Class Shares, PLGIT/PLUS-Class Shares, PLGIT/I-Class Shares, PLGIT/TERM, PLGIT-CD, PLGIT/ARM, PLGIT/PRIME, PLGIT/SAM, and PLGIT-CAP are service marks of the Pennsylvania Local Government Investment Trust. All facts and fi gures are as of December 31, 2018.

38 PENNSYLVANIA COUNTY NEWS | SUMMER 2019 Coatesville would have a significant Reynolds Foundation; Philadelphia impact, the group was committed to Health Partnership; Rotary Club of having an independent evaluation of Coatesville; Mr. Samuel Slater and Ms. the program. Results from pre- and Eleanor Forbes; Substance Abuse and post-training surveys were developed Mental Health Services Administration; and analyzed by West Chester the Thomas Scattergood Behavioral University, and show the training Health Foundation; United Way of significantly raises awareness about Chester County; and van Ameringen the proper way to respond to youth in Foundation Inc. need, and the confidence to do so. POSITIVE IMPACT The Coatesville program garnered ALGEE national attention resulting in a two- Several stories emerged of the year federal grant to the Coatesville positive impact of the training Assess for risk of suicide Area School District (CASD) to and though completing a rigorous implement YMHFA, one of just evaluation, it is known that countless or harm 105 U.S. school districts to receive stories of impact exist but are such recognition. The Coatesville unable to be captured. For example, Listen nonjudgmentally YMHFA planning team had the counselors at the coed after-school opportunity to share this work at homework program called Backing Give reassurance and conferences held by a number of Our Young Sons & Giving Girls organizations, including the National Guidance have twice intervened after information Council for Behavioral Health, Penn hearing youth discussing suicide. So State Public Health Symposium, have five cafeteria workers at the Encourage appropriate Society for Public Health Education, North Brandywine Middle School Pennsylvania National Association after noticing that a student appeared professional help of Social Workers, American Public withdrawn and isolated. Prior to Health Association, Substance Abuse the training, both the counselors Encourage self-help and Mental Health Service Administration, and cafeteria workers may not have other support strategies Grantmakers In Health’s annual known what to do but having learned conference and conducted a webinar warning signs and proper assessment for The County Commissioners at the training session, they promptly Association of Pennsylvania (CCAP) referred the student to appropriate on behalf of its Comprehensive personnel to receive help. Behavioral Health Task Force. At a football game, two Coatesville The program’s success was also School District administrators noticed largely made possible because of a student looked sullen and not like the remarkable generosity of the herself. They pulled the student aside funding collaborative, which included: and asked how she was doing. “Not Aegon Transamerica Foundation; well,” she replied. They continued The Applestone Foundation; CCRES; to talk to her, discovering that she Coatesville Community Health was contemplating suicide. The Foundation, a fund of the Chester administrators stayed with the student County Community Foundation; until her parents could pick her up County of Chester Department and then connected the family with of Human Services; The Dansko mental health resources. As a result, Foundation; Genuardi Family the student is getting the help she so Foundation; The Gunard Berry Carlson desperately needs. Memorial Foundation Inc.; Marshall-

www.pacounties.org 39 40 PENNSYLVANIA COUNTY NEWS | SUMMER 2019 Thanks to the Brandywine Health Thanks to a funding collaborative of Pre-Post Test Mental Health Foundation’s Youth Mental Health 16 private, public and government Knowledge Improvement First Aid Training Program, the school funders, including the County of Using a 15-item mental health district employees recognized a youth Chester’s Department of Human knowledge survey developed and in crisis, and even though they had Services, this project has helped the validated by the inter-professional planned on cheering for their team, greater Coatesville community and YMHFA planning and evaluation they ended up saving a life. Chester County residents as a whole, committee members (who held recognize the signs of depression expertise in the field), mental health 63 SUICIDES in themselves and in others and knowledge summary score statistically empower them to get help or provide improved from pretest (average of Nearly three times as many people in help to an individual in crisis.” 10.9 out of 15 correct) to posttest Pennsylvania die by suicide annually (average of 12.9 out of 15 correct), than by homicide. In fact, suicide is HIGHLIGHTS p < .05. Specifically, 13 out of the 15 the third leading cause of death for knowledge items exhibited statistical Pennsylvanians between the ages of Highlights of the final evaluation improvement from pretest to posttest 10 and 24, according to the American report conducted by West Chester (at p < .05 level). Foundation for Suicide Prevention. University include: Knowledge items with large statistical In Chester County, 63 suicide deaths Tracking of Trainings and Audience improvement included: were reported by the coroner’s office From September 2014 to June 2018, • It is not a good idea to ask someone in 2018, which is more than double the trainers facilitated 81 trainings (21 if they are feeling suicidal in case number of suicide deaths that were for CASD employees/high school you put the idea in their head. (false) reported 10 years ago. students, 56 for community, and 5 [66% correct at pretest to 93% at mixed CASD/community), reaching In response to two recent student posttest] deaths by suicide in the Coatesville 1073 persons specifically affiliated • A first-aider can distinguish a panic School District, an eight-hour with Coatesville and 361 persons attack from heart attack. (false) [37% YMHFA training was conducted for not affiliated with Coatesville. CASD to 64% correct] students involved in extracurricular employees represented all schools and organizations such as Students jobs such as teachers, administrators, • Mental health problems often Against Destructive Decisions (SADD) custodians, and guidance counselors. develop during adolescence or and student council. As a result, many The remainder of attendees were young adulthood. (true) [72% to felt comfortable referring themselves community members living, working, 93% correct] and/or volunteering in the Coatesville and their friends to suicide prevention • Youth are often resilient when they area. One-hundred and fifty-six resources. “So many of us are hurting,” face difficulties. (true) [55% to 82% individuals were parents or guardians said a student participant. “I hope this correct] training will help me to help others.” of a CASD student.

Commissioner Kathi Cozzone noted, “The Chester County commissioners PARTICIPANT COMMENT were pleased that the Brandywine Health Foundation along with so many other partners were committed to and “I was very impressed because of the had such significant impact with this very realistic goals they set: opening up four-year Youth Mental Health First Aid program in the greater Coatesville human contact with troubled people and community. Depression is a treatable medical condition, but too often, it giving them someone to speak with.” goes unrecognized and is one of the leading causes of death by suicide.

www.pacounties.org 41 • When a young person tells you • Recognize the signs and symptoms PARTICIPANT COMMENT they are thinking about suicide, it is that a young person may be dealing important to ask if they have a plan with a mental health challenge or for completing suicide. (true) [50% crisis. “It’s basic mental to 95% correct] • Ask a young person whether s/he is health first aid or Pretest-Posttest Improvement in considering killing her/himself. Confidence Interacting or Helping • Offer a distressed young person CPR that gives the Youth Experiencing Mental Health basic “first aid” level information and Challenges/Crises reassurance about mental health general public tools At pretest, participants, on average, problems. to respond if they reported moderate confidence inter- • Be aware of my own views and acting or helping youth experiencing feelings about mental health see someone in an mental health challenges or crises problems and disorders. across the National Council on Behav- • Actively and compassionately listen acute crisis.” ioral Health’s eight-item scale assess- to a young person in distress. ing perceived confidence in imple- menting ALGEE first aid behaviors. The • Assist a young person who confidence scale summary score and may be dealing with a mental all eight items demonstrated moder- health problem or crisis to seek ate to large statistical increases from professional help. pretest to posttest.

SINCE 2004, NACo’S LIVE $685 MILLION SAVED HEALTHY PRESCRIPTION 50 MILLION PRESCRIPTIONS FILLED DISCOUNT PROGRAM HAS SEEN: 1,316 COUNTIES PARTICIPATING

Behind each of these numbers is a county resident who was helped by the Live Healthy program. Each dollar saved is money in the pocket of a county resident struggling with the high costs of prescription drugs.

Join the Live Healthy Contact NACo to join program, to save your the program and get residents an average free marketing re- of 32%* off retail sources to ensure this prescription prices. essential cost-saving program reaches more people in your county.

The Live Healthy discount program is NOT insurance. *Savings may vary by drug and by pharmacy. The Pre- scription Discount Card is operated by CVS/caremark®. The Discount Medical Organization for NACo Health and Dental Discounts is Alliance HealthCard of Florida, Inc. All rights reserved. ®2018 CVS Caremark www.naco.org/health 1-888-407-6226 Endorsed by:

42 PENNSYLVANIA COUNTY NEWS | SUMMER 2019 • Assist a young person who may Human Services, Inc., and Gaudenzia. be dealing with a mental health Referral data were compiled for clients PARTICIPANT COMMENT problem or crisis to connect with younger than 20 years of age and who appropriate community, peer, and were living in the CASD. personal supports. “Such a stigma During the first year of • Reach out to a young person who implementation the total number of surrounds mental may be dealing with a mental health referrals to the three agencies more challenge. than doubled as compared to the health issues that Satisfaction with Program baseline year (174 to 416). After the initial year of a significant increase people often are In participants who responded to the following years slightly decreased reluctant to talk about the program satisfaction items, 97% and stabilized in subsequent years but of respondents agreed or strongly remained higher than the baseline. agreed the course content was them… this training practical/easy-to-understand and For more information on the Youth 98% would recommend the YMHFA Mental Health First Aid program and/ empowers laypeople training course to others. or to receive a copy of the complete evaluation, contact Dana Heiman at to know the signs and REFERRALS TO LOCAL dheiman@brandywinefoundation. symptoms of a mental AGENCIES org, Alyson Ferguson at aferguson@ scattergoodfoundation.org, or Dr. Stacie health crisis, then to Referral data from three local mental Metz at [email protected]. health/substance abuse agencies act by knowing where were routinely collected to assist in identifying the YMHFA training impact Sources: Brandywine Health to send those in need on youth referrals to providers in the Foundation’s YMHFA Report, region. These three agencies include: September 1, 2014 – June 30, 2018, for help.” Child Guidance Resource Centers, written by West Chester University.

Community Based Provider Referrals during Youth Mental Health First Aid Implementation in Coatesville, PA

Year of Implementation

Pre-Implementation Baseline Year Year 1 Year 2 Year 3 Year 4 Total

Child Guidance Resource Center 111 366 338 304 182 1190

Gaudenzia Unavailable 15 16 7 3 Data 26

Health Services Inc. 48 34 37 40 41 152

Total 174 416 382 347 223† 1368

†In Year 4 only two behavioral health providers reported referral data.

www.pacounties.org 43 FOCUS ON Lawrence County

Dan Vogler Janet Falotico Commissioner Executive Director Lawrence County Visit Lawrence County

Lawrence County, one of Pennsylvania’s newer counties, order Amish, living and working as their ancestors did was incorporated in March, 1849, when Governor William more than 200 years ago, reside in the county, making F. Johnston signed legislation creating it. The southern the site of horse-drawn buggies on major roads and portion of Mercer County and the northern portion of highways an everyday occurrence. Beaver County were joined together to form the new Adding to the diversity are the descendants of the large County, and New Castle was named as the County seat. number of immigrants who flocked to Lawrence County With approximately 90,000 residents and a land area in the earlier part of the 20th century. Restaurants of 358 square miles, Lawrence County is situated in offering the cuisine of the Italian, Polish, Middle Eastern, the extreme western part of the commonwealth and is Slovenian and other cultures are abundant. bordered on the north by Mercer County, on the east by Eat like a local by choosing the New Castle Chili Dog. A Butler County, on the south by Beaver County and on the product of Greek immigrants who came to New Castle west by the State of Ohio. Three interstate highways (I- in the early 1900s, New Castle chili is difference from 76, I-79 and I-376) pass through the County. The County any other chili - it’s a thin sauce with minced meat. A hot is comprised of one third-class city, ten boroughs and dog with everything means chili, onions and mustard. sixteen townships. Also indicative of our Western Pa. culture is the heaping A TRANQUIL RESPITE helping of crispy french fries atop your favorite steak or chicken salad. Wedding soup is a hearty soup made with Lawrence County offers a tranquil respite to those greens, meatballs, chicken, pastina and vegetables in a escaping the urban pressures and confines of large delicious chicken broth. This warm bowl of Italian comfort metropolitan areas. Residents are proud of the county’s is not just for weddings anymore. A must eat Lawrence diverse cultural heritage, quaint villages, scenic beauty County are the Sticky Buns which were made famous in and abundance of community events. Two sects of old- 1931. Hard to resist these as an appetizer, dessert or take home as a treat!

44 PENNSYLVANIA COUNTY NEWS | SUMMER 2019 McConnells Mill covered bridge. Photo credit Michael Fornataro.

FIREWORKS

Several historical museums, plus genealogical research facilities dedicated to helping visitors trace their ancestry, may also be found here. The heritage of the area also contributes to New Castle’s title of “Fireworks Capital of America”. At one time there were more fireworks manufactured in Lawrence County than in any other part of the United States. Two of the nation’s largest fireworks display companies, Zambelli Internationale and Pyrotecnico, are still located in the community.

Quaint villages offering craft, specialty and antique shopping abound. Small town outlets and art galleries, not usually found in larger malls, also dominate the friendly atmosphere. Major shopping center and strip plazas add to the mixture. Lawrence County Amish countryside. Photo credit Visit Lawrence County. OUTDOOR FUN

In addition to shopping, the scenic beauty of the rural countryside provides a relaxation not found in metropol- itan communities. Intermingled with lush farmlands are hiking trails, rivers for fishing and canoeing, two historic covered bridges, a world-class whitewater stream, plus the ruggedly beautiful McConnell’s Mill State Park.

www.pacounties.org 45 It’s all about the trails in Lawrence County; Wine, Craft PENNSYLVANIA TO OHIO Beer Hiking, River, Biking, Amish and Burger. Find your inner “trail” and experience it here. With so many “off the Lawrence County also is a bikers dream on the 12 mile wheel” experiences waiting, be sure to stay overnight and paved National Recreation Stavich Bicycle Trail. Scenic views relax and recharge. The North Country Trail runs through abound. Twelve miles long and eight feet wide, the trail runs several townships in the County and passes through parallel to the scenic Mahoning River and the rails of the McConnell’s Mill State Park as well as Pennsylvania’s first former Youngstown-New Castle street car line. Originating trail town, Wampum, PA. in New Castle, Pa. the trail begins in Union Township and moves through Mahoning Township and continues onto Hike on our many greenways or enjoy water activities Struthers, Ohio. Over rolling hills, through farmlands and such as kayaking or paddle boarding on our blue ways. wooded countryside, the trail unfolds east and west to There is also a guided white water experience on the provide safe, barrier-free recreation all year long. In the Connoquenessing Creek in Ellwood City. Fishing is at its spring, summer and fall, the trail is open for riding, hiking, best, especially for trout, on the Neshannock Creek. Nine walking and jogging, and in the winter the trail is commonly boat launches allow many adventures on the waters that used for cross country skiing. surround Lawrence County. And, get down and dirty with Pennsylvania’s premiere ATV Park rolling through the underground mines. This is an It’s all about the trails in experience you will never forget. Enthusiasts may travel Lawrence County; Wine, Craft miles while accepting the challenges that include riding through abandoned limestone mines in New Beaver and Beer Hiking, River, Biking, Amish Wampum. Lawrence County has much to offer and we and Burger. Find your inner “trail” welcome you to visit us! and experience it here.

Lawrence County courthouse.

46 PENNSYLVANIA COUNTY NEWS | SUMMER 2019 Expanding our public sector practice! Baker Tilly has joined forces with H.J. Umbaugh and Associates and Springsted Incorporated.

The three-way combination creates one of the largest independent municipality advisory firms in the U.S., ready to help your county meet its growing needs.

Specialized solutions for state and local governments: — Accounting and auditing — Regulatory impact assessments — Financial forecasting and analysis — Billing and collection procedures — TIF projections — Strategic planning — Developer and inter-municipal — Enterprise resource planning negotiations — Process and efficiency analysis — Consolidations and shared services — Internal controls reviews and — Forensics and expert witness services recommendations

Let’s face the future, together. Great relationships Connect with us: bakertilly.com Great conversations John Compton, CPA, CGFM, Partner Great futures [email protected] +1 (570) 651 1742

Baker Tilly Virchow Krause, LLP trading as Baker Tilly is a member of the global network of Baker Tilly International Ltd., the members of which are separate and independent legal entities. © 2019 Baker Tilly Virchow Krause, LLP. Criminal Justice Best Practices Awards

The County Commissioners Association of Pennsylvania (CCAP) recently bestowed Criminal Justice System for the 21st Century Best Practices Awards.

Bucks County Prison received Northumberland County received The Juvenile Alternatives Program Best Practices Award in the large the 2019 Best Practices Award in the Award was presented to Berks county jail category for their small jail category for their County County for their JusticeWorks educational and treatment Hope Rehabilitation Center. After the YouthCare Program. The and Hearts Programs for the original county jail was destroyed by JusticeWorks Reintegration program offender population. The HOPE a fire in 2015 the county wanted to was developed to provide the “missing (Helping Others Prosper Eternally) do more than just build a new prison link” in intensive long-term treatment program is a voluntary drug and facility and decided to expand on and residential programs. Aftercare alcohol educations and treatment drug recovery efforts for arrested requires the creation of a seamless set program for males. It utilizes cognitive or incarcerated individuals that are of systems across formal and informal behavioral interventions and assists affiliated with drugs. They partnered social control networks as well as a with re-entry into the community with Gaudenzia and seven other continuum of community services to and/or community-based treatment. counties including Clinton, Columbia, prevent the recurrence of antisocial The HEART (Healing, Empowering, Lycoming, Montour, Schuylkill, Snyder behavior. This program works with the and Recovering Together) program and Union to create a rehabilitation youth as well as the family to which incorporates Medication Assisted facility that would assist individuals they will be returning and aims to Treatment, is voluntary and provides from all of the counties suffering address family dysfunction. intensive substance abuse education from drug addictions. This facility The Partner Award, submitted by for the female population. It was offers arrested individuals that are Bucks County, was given to The Cen- started with grant funds in 2018 and suffering from drug addictions a more tral Bucks Family YMCA (CBFYM- mimics the HOPE program. productive alternative than prison. CA). The organization has provided

48 PENNSYLVANIA COUNTY NEWS | SUMMER 2019 on-site membership for adjudicated a workforce development program submitted nominations based on their delinquents since 1998. The Central that provides employment readiness, interaction with this county CJAB in Bucks County YMCA worked with the financial literacy, job placement and their application of best practices. Bucks County Youth Center to create a job retention to individuals returning to Over the past few years the Lycoming grant-funded project to train residents the community from incarceration and County Criminal Justice Advisory of the youth center to participate hosts a Returning Citizens Career Fair Board has accomplished many Criminal Justice in training for and completing the which provides them access to em- goals including: providing mental CBFYMCA ‘Y Run 5k’ using a couch ployment opportunities second chance health first aid training to court to 5k training program. This program employers. The Rebuilding Reentrants staff, law enforcement professionals, Best Practices Awards aims to create a sense of normalcy by and Reading program is a comprehen- and prison staff; implementing a engaging youth in volunteer activities sive pre-apprenticeship program in the Crisis Intervention Team; hiring a within the community and to develop construction trades supported through CIT Coordinator that serves both and nurture a sense of accomplish- a U.S. Department of Labor Reentry Lycoming and Clinton counties; and ment and pride by obtaining a goal. Training grant. To date they have grad- supported the implementation of the uated 76 participants. 76 percent of Supportive Housing Program, as well Berks County also received the newly them were employed within six weeks as many others. created CCAP Re-entry Award for of graduation. their Berks Connections/Pretrial Ser- CCAP salutes everyone involved in vices. The program has provided ser- The Criminal Justice Advisory these efforts for being innovative vices to the criminal justice population Board (CJAB) Award was presented pioneers in meeting the challenges in the county for more than 40 years to the Lycoming County Criminal facing all county jails and juvenile and are the leading provider of reen- Justice Advisory Board. Three CCAP justice providers. try services in the county. It operates PCCD CJAB Regional Specialists

Prison Inmate Medical Cost Containment is a medical cost management, educational program dedicated to assisting county prisons with the containment of all costs relating to prison inmate medical expenses.

WHY JOIN PIMCC? • Complete review of existing medical program and services providers • Group prescription drug purchasing program • Drug formulary for physician use • Auditing of inmate medical bills • Periodic on-site visits to discuss trends and program status • Preliminary notification program for outside treatment • Concurrent review of all hospitalizations • Subrogation to insurance when applicable • Overall case management • And much more! For more information on PIMCC, please contact Desiree Nguyen at [email protected] or (717) 736-4779. Ask Us First...We Cover It All!

www.pacounties.org 49 Newsworthy SUMMER 2019

Please join CCAP in welcoming the Scantek, Inc. following new Associate members. www.scantek.info • Technology With over 50 years of experience and many references, Johnson Controls, Inc. Scantek (www.scantek.info), provides document scanning, www.johnsoncontrols.com • Energy records management and consulting solutions for counties and municipalities throughout Pennsylvania, with affordable and Johnson Controls Inc. is an integrated, full easy-to-use document management software options. Scantek service performance contractor. We work with is a COSTARS-authorized business partner, and we are experts our clients to maximize the energy efficiency of in helping you convert your paper files to secure, searchable all their facilities and to take advantage of the electronic images to meet both your backfile and day-forward savings associated with those improvements to requirements. pay for themselves and to free up capital for other needed improvements and operations. We work with our clients to construct a comprehensive list of opportunities, the savings associated with those improvements and a plan to implement them.

M&T Bank www.mtb.com • Finance At M&T Bank, we have a dedicated govern- ment banking team that provides financial solutions to meet the operating and financial needs of Pennsylvania counties. We offer services such as financing/credit (tax-exempt financing/leasing, lines of credit) depository (interest bearing checking, money market), treasury management (payables/receivables, Recently, Stephen Amos, Chief of the Jails Division of the fraud protection), collection (cash vault, lock- National Institute of Corrections, Department of Justice box), merchant (credit card), capital markets and Jennie Simpson, Senior Drug Policy Advisor (IPA), financing, and insurance (crime, cyber). Bureau of Justice Assistance, visited Franklin County Jail to tour the facility and learn more about its medication assisted Teleosoft, Inc. treatment program. Among the many invaluable people who make www.telesoft.com • E-Government, the program work, the group photo includes Representative Technology Paul Schemel, Commissioner Bob Thomas, Warden Bill Bechtold, Deputy Warden Michelle Weller, County Teleosoft provides comprehensive industry Administrator Carrie Gray, Assistant County Administrator leading software solutions for county Steve Nevada, Health Services Administrator of PrimeCare government. Our CountySuite sheriff and Justin Lensbower, the National Association of Counties’ court products are implemented in over 40 Lindsey Holman and Brett Matson, and CCAP’s Ken Kroski. counties in Pennsylvania.

50 PENNSYLVANIA COUNTY NEWS | SUMMER 2019 Erie County Veterans’ Support Initiatives program was recognized as Best in Category for the National Association of Counties’ 2019 Achievement Awards.

Erie County Councilmember Two years ago the manner in which veterans and their families in Erie County Fiore Leone was recognized for could access assistance changed. Beforehand, non-profit organizations exemplary service and dedication and private citizens assisted needy veterans and their families in a rather to local government at the 2019 unorganized manner. Help came only when resources and veterans were Governor’s Awards for Local connected; largely by word of mouth. Only the local Erie VA Medical Center Government Excellence, held (VAMC) was connecting veterans with available resources; mostly medical in conjunction with Pennsylvania benefits at that time. Worth noting is that not every veteran qualifies for VA Local Government Week in April. provided services and benefits. Fiore currently is the longest Erie County is home to a moderate population of veterans in need of serving commissioner in the state, assistance who, according to federal and state regulations do not all qualify. having first taken office in 1978. Shortly after hiring Erie County’s Veteran’s Affairs Director he learned of a Additionally, the Reading Bridges Veteran’s Support Initiative created by a very civic minded veteran. This first Workgroup, led by Kevin Veteran’s Support Initiative paved the way for others which eventually cre- Barnhardt, won the Innovative ated a powerful network that connects resources to those veterans in need. Community/Government Initiatives Together, the three initiatives serve in different ways to support veterans Award. Mercer, Lawrence, while not altering the manner in which existing veteran centric organizations Butler and Venango counties have done so for many years. won the Information Technology Six other Erie County programs also received NACo Achievement Awards. Award for their multi-county CAD They are: system for 911. • 911 Dispatch Consolidation – the Erie County Department of Public Safety’s transition of 911 dispatch services from East Erie County Rita Reynolds, who served Communications to the county’s 911 Center. (Criminal Justice and Public Pennsylvania counties with CCAP Safety category) for the past 20 years, has joined NACo as its new chief technology • Bike Around the County – the county executive’s annual public bike officer. Rita will lead NACo’s overall ride, designed to inform residents about county services, history and technology strategy, including natural assets. (Civic Education and Public Information category) oversight and management of • EPIC Outreach – the Erie County Office of Drug and Alcohol Abuse’s internal IT and member-based innovative approach to engaging youth, families and communities in technology solutions and program prevention efforts. (Human Services category) services for county governments • Ice House – the Erie County Human Resources Department’s internal across the country. training program that encourages employees to think entrepreneurially about their work. (Personnel Management, Employment and Training category) • Rail Safety Plan – the Erie County Department of Public Safety’s emergency management plan designed to protect waterways from hazardous spills, resulting in mobile response trailers deployed around the county. (Risk and Emergency Management category) • Up For the Job – the county executive’s efforts to bring together community groups to launch an effort to market the Erie region’s skilled workforce. (Community and Economic Development category)

www.pacounties.org 51 Pennsylvania connected

At AT&T we know businesses help counties thrive. In Pennsylvania and across the nation, we empower connections that help to build a better tomorrow. Keeping communities connected. At AT&T, it’s how we do business. We’re honored to be connected to the County Commissioners Association of Pennsylvania.

© 2017 AT&T Intellectual Property. All rights reserved.

52 PENNSYLVANIA COUNTY NEWS | SUMMER 2019 EMBRACING MEDIA RELATIONS

Lowell A. Briggs If your county employs a full- reputation management? You may Coordinator of Mass Communications time public information officer, cross-train administrative assistants York College of Pennsylvania consider yourselves lucky. A PIO to follow a generic template for (communications director or news releases, fact sheets and spokesperson) is indeed a luxury backgrounders. Beyond that, your across the commonwealth. Some media relations is likely up to YOU! counties embed this strategic person With proper training and guidance, in their emergency management you can comfortably and consistently department for quick media contact affect change in your communities, in a crisis. Other commissioners plant as well as the publics’ knowledge of their PIOs in their own offices, ready county government by handling your to produce and send immediate own media relations. Here are a few county news to local media. ways to get started. Without a PIO, who performs your Ask anyone in your county what media relations? Your community worries them about county relations? Internal and external government! If they know you are communications? Your issue or

www.pacounties.org 53 Building Better Outcomes – Securely Headquartered in Pennsylvania, Unisys is a global information technology company that built a high-performance, security-centric solution for the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Unisys helps give citizens new, more secure ways to access business and government services and enables institutions to create safe cities and deliver customer services faster and at lower cost. To learn more, please email: [email protected]

www.unisys.com

54 PENNSYLVANIA COUNTY NEWS | SUMMER 2019 their commissioner, you may receive polite responses. Others ideally will be brutally honest. Taxes! Potholes! Roads and bridges! Aging programs! Disability services!

Keep a list of these impact points. Direct your department heads in these areas to tell you when improvements are made, services are added or costs are saved. Then, inform media.

WHAT’S NEWS?

News is information that your local media considers important for your voters and their viewing, listening and reading audience to know every day. True! Media decide what news is. But you can help by having story ideas ready.

Tom Olshanski, External Affairs FAKE NEWS news directors, producers do however, Director, United States Fire want to see you do good work. Tell Administration, says every elected The phenomenon of politicians label- them of your successes as well as how official should have a handful of ing a story ‘fake news’ is a national hard you are working to solve the stories ready at all times. So what’s in level strategy to discredit journalists ‘people’s problems’. a story? It’s new information you are and distract attention from the reality You also have your own media! Your the first to tell. It’s something new you of the story. In my opinion, fake news county website is a source for media can direct a news person to go see. is simply journalistic content the sub- to find news that you load to tell your News stories have to have the visual, ject of that story doesn’t agree with. county’s stories. Your social media the image or picture that illustrates However, media have a constitutional platform, if you have one, is a terrific the text of the story. right to report it. Avoid publicly location for you to post information A $250,000 first time grant for your disparaging a member of the media and pictures showing happy residents, county for expanded office space, for ‘fake news’. You never know when or county workers responding to is not itself visual. But the visual your present angst will come full circle emergencies fixing the ‘people’s is showing the current crowded and negatively hurt you politically. problems’. conditions. When the expansion In my judgment, the use of ‘fake news’ Your county is likely part of a tourism is finished, the new look is ‘news’, has done more to destroy the publics consortium. Tourism social media showing how many more people value in democracy-dependent jour- promotes great aspects of your area. needing county help will be better nalism than any other phrase in the last In the comment section, consider served by new offices. 50 years. Its’ use is quite dangerous. writing a thank you response to a News is a product and is tied to visitor who has said nice things about services, anything controversial or YOUR MEDIA your area. Others who read that anyone in prominent positions which thread will be impressed that a county Media believe they work in the public concerns the public interest. At times, commissioner is monitoring Facebook interest. They are not your press agent it may very well be what you offer a or Twitter and is eagerly inviting them and do not exist to make you look reporter who is coming up dry for new back to your area. good. News reporters, their editors, stories.

www.pacounties.org 55 MEDIA RELATIONSHIPS ‘TRUST BUT VERIFY’ EDUCATE THE REPORTER WHEN POSSIBLE Most new reporters and assignment Former President Ronald Reagan used editors will find you and introduce the term ‘trust but verify’ when dealing Remember, you serve the people in themselves to you when they first start with foreign entities. You should too your county and so does the reporter. working in your county. This is a great with media. Trust them to the extent If a reporter does not get the story as time to promote your county and also they will be professional and generally correctly as you would like, take the share the stressors the county and you report your information or soundbite time to inform/educate that reporter are currently managing. This meet-and- accurately. You will always need to on the ‘facts’ or background. While greet opens the door for a constructive watch, listen or read their reportage of you may say the damage of the story working relationship. Media will be you for accurate, correct context and is already done, the reporter will eager to give you their contact infor- fairness. Despite any residual skepti- appreciate your care with them and will mation. You should consider the same. cism you may have, media, accuracy work to be more accurate next time. and fairness are two of several hon- It should also not be uncommon for or-bound tenets of their work. If a negative pattern continues, or if you to visit local media yourself. Once over time, you see a pattern of factual a quarter, you might offer to go to Three protocols you should never errors or unprofessional treatment, the station for an editorial meeting, follow include: asking to see their document the history and facts of in which you candidly discuss local report before air, demanding that they the story and their specific coverage issues with news executives. This time air or report a specific soundbite or down to each fact. Then, contact their together may seem threatening. It is quote, and angrily rebuking a reporter news director, and calmly present the intended to be productive and civil, for making you look poorly. issues and errors by date and fact. but also to air differences of opinion, Here you are not challenging the Also, there are indeed times when a grievances with past coverage, as well person’s journalistic integrity. You are sound bite or a SOT, (sound-on-tape), as identify upcoming issues, problems, complaining about the manner with is edited into a much shorter span of successes and goals. Out of these which they are doing their jobs. Since time than when you actually answered meetings, your media will have a list ‘facts’ are that on which they pride the question. In so doing, the context of story ideas from you which they themselves journalistically, it’s likely may have changed inadvertently or will cover in coming months. You will the news director will appreciate your purposefully. You may see yourself also have a better understanding of insight and counsel the reporter. or listen to your cut (radio’s word for the types of stories they are thinking soundbite), and think that’s not what about in your county government. you wanted to say or said. SOCIAL MEDIA Some stations will also want to MONITORING When this happens or if you have a interview you after the meeting on run-in with a reporter who dismisses Take a look at who is talking about one of the issues you discussed. The you, your message or attempts to you! Social media platforms allow meeting on a slow news day may bully their way into or through an users to read then comment on the actually make air that night. interview, or if concerns or objections posted meme, picture, link to an arti- On a daily basis, when media call or with a reporter continue despite your cle or video. The unfortunate aspect of stop by your office, make time for best efforts, you may wish to angrily this feedback is its anonymity. Anyone them. They are under deadline and call the reporter with a piece of your can say anything! Too often comments will not stay long. But time spent to mind. This tack is not diplomatically are personal, aggressive, hurtful and listen to their questions and consider or strategically recommended. You embittering. However, once you look if you want to respond to their news also may think about refusing to talk past the ‘jerks’, focus on the issue they story questions, will serve you well. to that reporter for a period of time, are attacking. but avoiding a reporter who is your Ed Wickenheiser, retired award- You are demonstrating your vehicle to the people who elected you, winning news director at WGAL, accommodation and facilitation of is simply a lost opportunity to use (NBC), Lancaster, Pa., lived by the media, which is greatly appreciated. media for your benefit.

56 PENNSYLVANIA COUNTY NEWS | SUMMER 2019 Your face and your articulate words represent county government and show you in a positive light. Avoid showing anger or negative emotion at or against a reporter or someone who is your political enemy. Also, resist the urge to be on-air at every opportunity. Only agree to an interview if you have prepared for it and determine both what you will say and what you will not talk about. Despite all reporter attempts to get you to say more than you planned, stay focused on only your key points.

axiom: If one person talks about it, a which you keep current, serves as tell you what systems, strategies or thousand people are thinking it. So if your source for ideas. Reporters are procedures are in place to prevent 20 people are actively arguing about creatures of habit. Under deadline, or mitigate that same crisis or issue an issue, many more could use more they often need your help if sharing from happening in your county. The clarity to be persuaded in your favor. story ideas with them. Overtime, visual of your story locally is the Comment positively in a thread with they’ll rely on you for stories. national video of what occurred. This factual information. Forego engaging tactic is an easy one to pitch media. Next, government stories have ‘legs’. in name calling or challenging the Most will jump at the opportunity of This term means the story continues fear mongers. They are there just to tying a local angle to a national or over time. Criminal stories have legs enflame. You are there to offer public international story. with bail and preliminary hearings, information. arraignments, trials, pre-sentencing This type of story could also benefit ORGANIZING FUTURE hearings and sentencing. Your budget your emergency management process extends over several months department, as its director drills for STORIES of review and deliberations before a variety of crises constantly. If a News assignment editors across all annual passage. Open discussion of disaster occurs, you can assure media phases of journalism keep futures files. key positives associated with your that your county routinely prepares You should, too. A futures file can be budget early-on, along with the and exercises for that eventuality. produced in your computer by simply deficits and loss of state and federal You may want to invite media to listing events, commemorations, funding are possible stories. participate in an actual training public meetings, your appearances, scenario. They will learn about how and anniversaries in your weekly TREND LINES county government incorporates or monthly memo area of calendar incident command, joint information, Every day all across the country, news software. It can also be as basic as and emergency operations centers people survey national and world written notes on paper in an annual work. In the exercise ‘hotwash’ or news and ask if it could happen here. accordion file or a monthly file. review/evaluation, you will find out on Challenge your department heads what cooperative areas both you and Recall, Olshanski’s ‘five-ideas in your to watch the news with that same media need to improve. pocket’ concept. Your futures file question in mind. Next, each should

www.pacounties.org 57 WHEN YOU ARE tree nearby. The PIO on the scene was FINISHED… informed. The photographer’s news Annually, Lowell also works with The supervisor was contacted and the Professional Edge, Inc., teaching at As a reporter, news manager, public photographer was sent home from the CCAP’s Center for Excellence in County information officer and educator, scene and terminated on the spot. No Leadership (CEL) program. I reject the notion that media news person wants to be the center of representatives are ‘evil’. It has a negative story. Their job and career been my experience that media are depend on it. predominantly professional. When a Yet, at the end of your career as bad apple shows up in your county, be a dedicated county politician, I patient. Media will police their own. submit that your openness, care Consider this example. A reporter and respect of the profession of stopped a news conference from journalism will reap an equal measure beginning by loudly demanding a of respect from reporters and their written news release. Two weeks, later, organizations. Of course, media that person was no longer on the air. engagement may be rocky at times. At an airplane crash, a news pho- However, it has been my experience tographer circumvented police lines that the profession of local news to get a closer shot of the debris. A remains rooting in media ethics death investigator on the scene saw and quality storytelling, despite the the photographer crouching behind a ‘bruising’ fake news moniker.

Carroll Engineering Corporation Proud to Serve the Counties of Bucks, Montgomery, Chester, Lehigh, and Northampton Municipal Engineering Wastewater Engineering Water Facilities Engineering Civil Engineering Structural Engineering Traffic & Transportation Engineering Planning & Site Design Environmental Engineering Surveying Construction Management Geographic Information Systems Planning • Architecture • Site Development Surveying • GIS & Mapping Construction Inspection • Drone UAV Services Water/Wastewater • Highways & Bridges Corporate Office: 949 Easton Road When quality matters, call on us. Warrington, PA 18976 215.343.5700 www.eadsgroup.com 630 Freedom Business Center 101 Lindenwood Drive 105 Raider Boulevard Third Floor Suite 225 Suite 206 800.626.0904 King of Prussia, PA 19406 Malvern, PA 19355 Hillsborough, NJ 08844 Engineering, Architecture & Design Services 610.489.5100 484.875.3075 908.874.7500 Altoona • Clarion • Johnstown • Lewistown • Beaver www.carrollengineering.com North Hungtingdon • Somerset • Cumberland • Morgantown

58 PENNSYLVANIA COUNTY NEWS | SUMMER 2019 When county government requires modern services and software specifically tailored to their needs

Pennsylvania stands with EST

CAMA/Tax Admin | CourthouseOnline | Homestead/Farmstead | Clean & Green Tax Billing | Current Collections | Tax Claim

Greensburg | Middletown

Experienced professional solutions for Pennsylvania counties

T: 800.569.6022 | [email protected] | www.evalsvs.com

www.pacounties.org 59 At Nationwide,® participant priorities are our priorities.

From enrollment through retirement, our people, tools and education support participants so they can confidently make smart decisions.

To find out more, call: Steve Schmittauer Martin Burch 937-284-1212 610-248-2932 [email protected] [email protected] nrsforu.com nrsforu.com

Nationwide, through its affiliated retirement plan service and product providers, has endorsement relationships with the National Association of Counties and the International Association of Fire Fighters-Financial Corporation. More information about the endorsement relationships may be found online at www.nrsforu.com. Nationwide, its agents and representatives, and its employees are prohibited by law and do not offer investment, legal or tax advice. Please consult with your tax or legal advisor before making any decisions about plan matters. Retirement Specialists are registered representatives of Nationwide Investment Services Corporation, member FINRA, Columbus, Ohio. Nationwide and the Nationwide N and Eagle are service marks of Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company. © 2019 Nationwide

NRM-12870AO.3 (03/19)

60 PENNSYLVANIA COUNTY NEWS | SUMMER 2019 GET THE WORD OUT

The National Association of CCAP ADVOCACY AND engaging legislators, working with Counties (NACo) and the County COMMUNICATIONS media representatives, developing Commissioners Association of RESOURCES influential messaging and speaking Pennsylvania (CCAP) work year-round skills, and other materials for your use. to provide information and influence County officials and their staffs have at all levels of government, as well as important roles to play in advocating NACo RESOURCES with the media, the public and other for policy changes at the state level At www.naco.org, NACo’s Counties constituents. We cover a wide range and informing the public of important Matter campaign includes data to of audiences by making thousands of programs and services. CCAP’s Gov- help you explain the county role in connections and hundreds of media ernment Relations website tab at www. key areas of everyday life, including hits but nothing beats your audiences pacounties.org has resources that allow infrastructure, justice and public getting information from local sources counties to quickly contact their legis- safety, health, human services, in your county—in other words—you. lators and constituents regarding key public lands and other functions like issues before the General Assembly. In addition to your media, legislative, elections, parks and record-keeping. publications, public meetings, Among these resources are informa- NACo also has launched an enhanced website and various other methods tion about counties’ priorities, talking version of its online interactive County of reaching your audiences, there are points and sample resolutions on Explorer tool, which includes hundreds numerous NACo and CCAP materials important issues. And, Pennsylvania of data points and printable profiles that make it easier for you to get Counties Are and Pennsylvania County on every county, parish and borough the word out. Much of it is ready to Human Services Are fact sheets offer in America. It’s also been upgraded publish or copy and paste along with a quick and easy way to teach audi- to navigate and use on tablets and your local messaging. ences about how counties touch the mobile devices. lives of their residents every day. The Also, check out NACo’s iCivics and fact sheets gives succinct and valu- Counties Work materials, as well as able summaries on services related to NACo’s Media Relations: A Guide for elections, assessments, human ser- Counties booklet. And, the National vices, courts and corrections, planning County Government Month’s toolkit and land use, emergency services and will help you plan for the annual transportation. recognition each April. It also Also on CCAP’s Legislative Action includes prepared materials for use as Center under the Government proclamations and media releases. Relations tab, you’ll find articles on

www.pacounties.org 61 Simplifying the Sharing of Geospatial Data

Rita D. Reynolds, CGCIO Chief Technology Officer National Association of Counties

Eric Jespersen Business Development Specialist JMT Technology Group

ct 178 of 2014 establishes One may ask why is signing this Data regional and public sector the State Geospatial Sharing Agreement so important? stakeholders; Coordinating Board Historically, every time there is a • Provide an archive of county data (GeoBoard) within the need for geospatial data at the state for long term preservation. This will AOffice of Administration to provide level, a separate request and sign-off save your staff time and money. advice and recommendations to had to be executed by every county. the Governor and the public on By signing the new Data-Sharing Further, sharing basic data (e.g. - geospatial issues, uniform data Agreement, this will: parcel boundaries and identification numbers) will promote counties as standards, coordination and efficiency • Reduce the volume of data requests the authoritative source for this type in geospatial policy and technology made to the counties for basic of information. Counties can still across different sectors. information; generate revenue from advanced One of the goals from this past year • Promote economic development application services but gain the was to facilitate enhanced sharing through the awareness and use of benefits from promoting the counties of GIS data in the commonwealth this information by stakeholders; as the authoritative source for much through the creation of a Multi-Party • Reduce risk/hazards to communities of the Pennsylvania Base Map. Geospatial Data-Sharing Agreement. through the development of a To read more about this agreement This approach replaces the outdated common operating picture; practice of creating specific agree- and to arrange for signing, a copy ments between each and every agen- • Encourage communication and can be viewed at https://www.oa.pa. cy and county separately. accuracy at all levels of government gov/Programs/Information%20 through interaction with state, Technology/Pages/Data-Sharing.aspx.

62 PENNSYLVANIA COUNTY NEWS | SUMMER 2019 Share with PASDA, Data Sharing Agreement Signed

Share with PASDA

Data Sharing Agreement Signed

The agreement covers purpose, key to limit or waive the sovereign require uniform data statewide will definitions as well as restrictions and immunity of any participating party; define specific requirements and responsibilities, as listed below: • Each party shall be responsible for automatically evaluate data for source, • The data may not be used in any its own costs with respect to its completeness, freshness, and format. way that misrepresents the integrity, participation in this agreement. If a county signs the statewide Data quality, or accuracy of the data; Sharing Agreement, there will not be Some key considerations within the a need for separate agreements for • The data shall be used and treated agreement include: each application. as public information, and the parties receiving data under this • All participants sign the exact same Some counties shared information agreement may not sell, license agreement; in open data portals before this or otherwise commercialize • Participants will share what they agreement was finalized. Six counties unaggregated data received from want to share; have already signed the Multi-party the other parties; provided that this • Participation is voluntary; Agreement and the goal is for most, section shall not restrict a party’s if not all, state agencies and county • Each participant determines their ability to aggregate or incorporate governments to sign this Data Sharing own signing authority; the data into its own materials, Agreement by December 31, 2019. products and services, nor shall it • The words “confidential, protected, restrict any use by the public; and privileged” are as defined by each participant; To see a current status of those • Each participating party shall make counties that sign over the reasonable efforts to ensure that • Each participant retains rights to course of the year, visit: https:// the data is maintained and used in commercialize their own data if they pasda.maps.arcgis.com/apps/ compliance with applicable state wish; View/index.html?appid=64d2c and federal laws and regulations; • The agreement has no suspension 828f7254947927e56afa5678772 • Each participating party is date, but any signatory can opt out For more information, contact Laura responsible for its own conduct whenever they so choose. Simonetti, GIS Pros board president, under this agreement, and retains Another benefit of this agreement at [email protected]; or Sean all defenses, including immunities is that it supports the evolution Crager, co-chair for the Geospatial Co- available under applicable state toward open data. For instance, ordinating Board, at [email protected]. and federal law. Nothing in this future public safety applications that agreement shall be construed Industry Intelligence. Focused Legal Perspective. HIGH-YIELDING RESULTS.

Whether it’s serving as solicitor or special counsel, handling land use, labor or economic development challenges, or partnering to navigate day-to-day issues such as contract negotiations, public bidding or public record requests, we help solve legal problems in ways that impact your municipality and protect your bottom line.

Meet our attorneys at babstcalland.com.

PITTSBURGH, PA I CHARLESTON, WV I STATE COLLEGE, PA I WASHINGTON, DC I CANTON, OH I SEWELL, NJ

64 PENNSYLVANIA COUNTY NEWS | SUMMER 2019 The Keystone Markers of Pennsylvania Fayetteville-Gettysburg

John T. Graham Keystone Marker Trust

From Abbottstown in Adams County, all the way around to Zion View in neighboring York County, Pennsylvania has unique town names from A to Z. Almost all of the commonwealth’s cities, towns, and villages were once marked with cast iron name signs, painted the rich blue and gold colors of Pennsylvania. An elongated keystone shape, thus the name, keystone marker, they imparted a sense of place to their communities, and were the guardians of the gateways, offering greeting to residents and travelers alike.

Far too many of these priceless These iron markers date from the keystone design makes it easy to find threads in the fabric of state and local 1920s, a program of the former PA the signs.” No earlier specific reference history have been lost over time, most Highways Department (now PennDot). to the markers has been found. commonly to town growth and road The use of these signs to mark the The town name version of the markers expansion. Simple neglect has also towns of the commonwealth, as well were erected at each end of a mu- been a cause of the demise of the as the crossings of major streams and nicipality if it was traversed by what elegant iron originals. A surprising rivers, was an outgrowth of the “Good was then “the state road.” The typical number still survive, standing tall and Roads“ movement then sweeping small community thus had two. Towns proud in their communities, but it will the nation. The first use of the word at the intersection of more than one require the continuing interest and “keystone” in connection with the state-numbered route, or federal- action of local community leaders if markers is found in the 1926-28 ly-numbered route (U.S. Route 30 for these too do not fall by the side of the Department report: “The wording is example), would have had four such road and disappear forever. brief and to the point, and the uniform

www.pacounties.org 65 signs. It is a rare situation where more “Find a Marker” link. Unfortunately, than two survive in any community present status is often unknown, and today, and many towns are fortunate some photos are old or undated to even have one. The state Historical and Museum Besides the town name, in the Commission (PHMC) has an excellent, biggest and boldest font, the markers extensive, and well maintained also gave explanation as to the program of placing its own markers derivation of the town’s name. The to commemorate notable people, date the town was founded is often places, and events in Pennsylvania clearly noted at the bottom. Often history. These signs too are painted the name of another town, followed the bright blue and gold colors of the Stony Creek Mills by a number, appears on the top line. commonwealth, and are likely familiar This is the name and distance to the to most readers. These are totally “next town” down the road as the distinct from the town and stream THE FUTURE viewer travels. markers, a program in which PHMC Do the towns in your county have had no involvement. Nor does PHMC one or more of these historic signs Keystone shaped markers were also have the resources today to take the still standing? What shape are they found at bridge crossings of significant keystone markers under its wing. in? If they are well cared for, seek rivers and streams across the state. out and thank those involved. If they These were double-sided so one sign 62 OF 67 COUNTIES need work, talk to those involved and placed on a bridge was readable by local officials to urge the adoption traffic in both directions. Few of these At least one keystone marker can be and care of the marker, or volunteer still survive, as they were located at found in 62 of Pennsylvania’s 67 coun- to do it yourself. A few hours with a more remote out-of-town locations ties. None exist in Clinton, Elk, Forest, wire brush and a paint brush can work where no one took a possessive Mifflin or Susquehanna counties, and wonders. All of the trust members interest in them over the years. only one still stands in Blair, Cameron, have worked on restoration projects; Carbon, Erie, Lackawanna, McKean one has personally repainted over KMT and Philadelphia counties. Lancaster fifty of the markers in the past two County leads the list with 85 markers years. They can’t do them all though, Keystone Marker Trust (KMT) was at least, and Montgomery County is so if you have some in your counties, founded in 2008 by several individ- close behind with 73. uals from across the commonwealth don’t wait and hope for someone else who share an interest in these unique Encouragingly, more and more com- to do it. Volunteer to adopt and care markers. The Trust is a volunteer, very munity leaders and individual vol- for this “senior citizen.” Contact the non-profit, organization that has two unteers are stepping up to meet the Trust via their website for advice and important goals: documentation of challenge, and deserve kudos for tak- assistance. We are there to help. as many still existing or once-existent ing good care of the markers in their markers as possible; and restoring towns. Sadly, those that are badly rust- John T. Graham can be reached at existing markers and encouraging ed, in need of a good coat of paint, or [email protected]. and assisting PennDot, local govern- that are broken, leaning, or otherwise ments, organizations, or individuals show the hallmarks of local neglect are to do likewise. far too common. Many show signs of being cared for at some point in time, The Trust’s website, www. showing repairs by welding, bolting, keystonemarkertrust.org, includes or other creativity. Someone cared for entries for more than 700 markers, them once, but that person is probably many of which are no longer extant. It gone now so someone new needs to is the most complete index that exists. step up and do it today. The database can be accessed via the

66 PENNSYLVANIA COUNTY NEWS | SUMMER 2019 Consulting Home & Man ing agm rs en Nu Our Services t

• Accounting & Financial Support Services • Cost Reporting, Monthly Budget Review • Operational Support Services • Clinical Support Services • RNAC Support Services • Certified Music and Art Therapy • Physical, Occupational, Speech Therapy • Doctor of Physical Medicine • Bedside Mobile Diagnostic Services • Strategic Census Development • Physician Services Expansion • Facility Marketing Development

2030 Ader Road • Penn Township, PA 15644 • (724) 327-3557 [email protected] • www.Quest-HCR.com

Call Today for a Courtesy Review of your Facility! (724) 327-3557

www.pacounties.org 67 MAKING A DIFFERENCE A program introduced locally in late 2018 intended to help pregnant women take steps toward recovery and deliver a healthy baby. Reflecting an “it-takes-a-village” mindset, the program supports participants as they cope with the dual challenges of pregnancy/child- rearing and taming an addiction.

Gerard M. Hetman hroughout the Common- Lackawanna County exceeds the Community Relations Coordinator wealth of Pennsylvania and national average for opioid overdoses. Lackawanna County Department across America, the scourge According to information provided of Community Relations of opioid use disorder knows by the Lackawanna County Coroner’s Tno bounds. On average, the epidemic Office and OverdoseFreePA, the coun- Barbara Durkin Director claims 130 lives each day in the United ty suffered 98 deaths due to a drug Lackawanna/Susquehanna Office States, according to the Centers for overdose in the 2018 calendar year. of Drug and Alcohol Programs Disease Control and Prevention. In December 2018, during a single weeklong span, Lackawanna County’s Jennifer Hetro The Keystone State has been espe- largest city, Scranton, experienced a Associate Vice President, cially hard hit by this social and public rash of 10 apparent overdose deaths. Marketing Communications health crisis. On average, Pennsylvania The Wright Center for loses more than 10 people each day Community Health MANY IMPACTS due to drug overdoses, according to Mark Jones a state government webpage titled Each death represents a tragedy; how- Freelance Journalist “Treating Heroin and Opioid Addic- ever, fatal overdose statistics alone do tion.” In fact, Pennsylvania ranked not reveal the full extent of the prob- third among states with the highest lem surrounding opioid use disorder. rates of death due to a drug overdose Issues such as lost human potential, in 2017, according to a CDC analysis. poor worker productivity, broken fam- Neighboring West Virginia topped the ilies, strains on the judicial system and list, and Ohio was second. the cost of medical care are all part of the harmful impact on communities.

www.pacounties.org 69 With this in mind, Lackawanna County in Pittsburgh learning about the Ma- Commissioners Patrick M. O’Malley, gee model. Jerry Notarianni, and Laureen A. “The power of addiction is unexplain- Cummings have made combating able.” Constantini said. “It’s a very the opioid epidemic a top priority. vicious and, in the height of it, uncon- Much of this work is undertaken by trollable disease.” Around the same the Lackawanna/Susquehanna Office time, Barbara Durkin, Director of the of Drug & Alcohol Programs, with Lackawanna/Susquehanna Office of collaborative partnerships playing a Drug and Alcohol Programs, had been key role. receiving information about some new That brings us to Healthy MOMS—a state funding initiatives. program introduced locally in late The state Department of Drug and 2018 intended to help pregnant Alcohol Programs had previously women take steps toward recovery mandated pregnant and postpartum and deliver a healthy baby. Reflect- women as a priority population. In These mothers—in ing an “it-takes-a-village” mindset, 2018, the department extended grant addition to the unique the program supports participants as opportunities to Single County Au- challenges of caring for they cope with the dual challenges of thorities to aid mothers-to-be strug- pregnancy/child-rearing and taming another human being— gling with opioid use disorder. Durkin an addiction. often face significant connected with TWCCH in July and barriers to healthcare AN ADAPTABLE MODEL quickly submitted a grant application. and recovery services, In September, they learned the project The idea for Healthy MOMS began had been awarded state funding. including limited when Scott Constantini, The Wright financial resources, lack Center for Community Health’s Direc- “I had known that The Wright Center of transportation and tor of Behavioral Health, attended a for Community Health had been really interested in doing some work in this inadequate housing. meeting in Harrisburg. The gathering was related to The Wright Center area; so, when the funding announce- For instance, a woman for Community Health’s selection ment came out, we knew we were in- terested in a partnership.” Durkin said. coping with opioid use as one of Pennsylvania’s Opioid Use Disorder Centers of Excellence, a “We reached out. And all the pieces disorder who doesn’t state-led initiative to expand access kind of fell together pretty well.” have a vehicle and to medication-assisted treatment and CONNECTING can’t consistently get whole-person care throughout the to appointments for commonwealth. While there, Constan- Ultimately, the local partners decid- tini chose to go to a breakout session ed not to follow the Magee model. ultrasounds, OB-GYN led by a physician from the UPMC visits, primary care Instead, they chose to create the Magee-Womens Hospital who talked Healthy MOMS program—patterning exams, medication- about pregnancy and recovery. it after the Ohio-based MOMS mod- el, a community-based, collaborative assisted treatment (MAT) Inspired by the session, Constantini that allows moms to connect with the sessions, etc., is likely to immediately connected with Dr. Linda program through any of the multiple drop out of recovery. Thomas-Hemak, The Wright Center for entry points: hospitals, social service Community Health’s CEO, and asked She also is likely to be agencies, the legal system, treatment her, “Why can’t we do this?” She urged estranged from family providers, etc. him to pursue it. Representatives from and friends. The Wright Center for Community “We researched some best practices Health (TWCCH) later spent two days and we thought the MOMS model was

70 PENNSYLVANIA COUNTY NEWS | SUMMER 2019 The Healthy MOMS Group. From left, Yurii Lynn Harden, licensed clinical social worker, Maternal and Family Health Services; Cindy Kennedy, director COC and DSS operations, Maternal and Family Health Services; Barbara Durkin, director, Lackawanna/Susquehanna Office of Drug and Alcohol Programs; Maria Kolcharno, director of addiction services, The Wright Center for Community Health; Dr. Maria Montoro-Edwards, vice president of strategic initiatives, The Wright Center for Community Health; Bette Saxton, chief executive officer, Maternal and Family Health Services. just spectacular. It became the back- Family Health Services Inc., based in financial resources, lack of transporta- bone off of which we developed our Wilkes-Barre, Moses Taylor Hospital, tion and inadequate housing. Healthy MOMS program.” Constantini and Outreach Center for Community For instance, a woman coping with said. Resources, both in Scranton. opioid use disorder who doesn’t have “They made everything freely avail- RESULTS IN ACTION a vehicle and can’t consistently get able,” added Maria Montoro-Edwards, to appointments for ultrasounds, PhD, The Wright Center for Communi- Mothers-to-be were identified by OB-GYN visits, primary care exams, ty Health’s Vice President of Strategic the state as a priority population medication-assisted treatment (MAT) Initiatives and Grants, when speaking deserving of a focused response. sessions, etc., is likely to drop out of of her Ohio-based colleagues. “Every- Likewise, employees with TWCCH had recovery. She also is likely to be es- body has been very gracious about been seeing pregnant moms entering tranged from family and friends. sharing their information because the Center of Excellence program To be eligible for the Healthy MOMS these initiatives were funded with and knew they required additional program, a woman who is pregnant or public funds. It makes sense that we support. who has recently given birth must be share models and best practices.” These mothers—in addition to the intent on recovering. A mother may— The collaboration began October 1 unique challenges of caring for and is encouraged to—continue in and accepted its first mother into another human being—often face the program until her child turns two the program on Oct. 11. Among the significant barriers to healthcare and years old. early participants were Maternal and recovery services, including limited

www.pacounties.org 71 The Healthy MOMS partners are able a resident of Susquehanna County nity partners, which currently includes to provide MAT and other health has connected to the program, with the Lackawanna/Susquehanna Office services (prenatal care, etc.), as well as hopes for finding additional mothers of Drug and Alcohol Programs, Lack- behavioral healthcare, counseling and through dedicated outreach efforts in awanna County Office of Youth and a range of recovery support services. the county. Family Services, Susquehanna County These services include assistance with Children and Youth Services, Alone “The challenge with Susquehanna transportation to and from appoint- Foundation, The Wright Center for County is it doesn’t have any hospi- ments and even, in some cases, Community Health, Outreach Center tals that deliver.” Durkin said of the temporary housing. Participants might for Community Resources, Catherine expanded efforts. “So, we’re going to also receive items such as bassinets, McAuley Center, Community Care Be- reach out to the hospitals there. I’ve baby formula and infant clothes. havioral Health Organization, Geising- already had the first conversations er Health System, Parker Hill Church, A COLLABORATIVE, about who we are and what we can Scranton Primary Health Center, St. GROUND-UP APPROACH do. But we’re going to expand some Joseph’s Center, Marywood University, of those conversations so that we can Maternal and Family Health Services The program naturally expanded have more moms connected to the Inc., Moses Taylor Hospital, and United into Susquehanna County by vir- program. And then we hope to have Neighborhood Centers. tue of Barbara Durkin’s position as staff available up there, as opposed a “joiner,” overseeing the Single to having people come (to Scranton), New partners are welcomed to join County Authority services for both because transportation is challenging.” the effort, and an updated list of Lackawanna and Susquehanna coun- partners can be found at www.healthy ties. According to Durkin, at least The program also benefits from an MOMS.org/partners. Workers’ Compensation,one mother Unemployment (as of early April) Compensation, who is engaged Property, and growingAutomobile, list of Liability, commu- Nursing Homes, Prison Inmate Medical Cost Containment, Health, Dental, Vision and more!

CCAP’S INSURANCE PROGRAMS Ask Us First... We Cover It All!

11 programs offering a wide range of coverages for your county!

Contact us at [email protected] to learn more about our programs!

72 PENNSYLVANIA COUNTY NEWS | SUMMER 2019 OUTREACH AND “We’ve placed ads in the Scranton TREATMENT Times-Tribune,” Dr. Montoro-Edwards said of the campaign. “We built a web- Healthy MOMS has assisted 40 site, www.healthymoms.org. We’ve dyads—or mom-baby duos—as of done some radio ads and billboards, early May. That’s in line with an initial and we’ve seen some real engage- goal of about 50 by sometime this ment on social media when we share spring. A surge in participation is something about the program.” expected as the program expands into “We did grand rounds at Moses Luzerne County. Taylor Hospital. The focus of that was Most participants receive medica- educating some of their OB-GYNs, tion-assisted treatment, which typi- resident physicians, nurses and social cally involves taking Subutex. It works workers on the program,” Durkin add- to block receptors in the brain so ed. “I think every opportunity that any patients don’t get the euphoric feeling of us has had to meet with potential associated with heroin and other partners in the community, we’ve talk- opioids. Over time, the treatment can ed about Healthy MOMS.” reduce cravings. The Healthy MOMS website was One of the most important aspects designed and programmed by Kerri of the program is that moms also Price, The Wright Center for Com- have access to behavioral health- munity Health’s Senior Marketing Healthy MOMS has care, counseling and other support Strategist, with input from the Healthy assisted 40 dyads—or services. TWCCH uses a team-based MOMS steering committee members. approach that includes a case manag- Although TWCCH’s marketing com- mom-baby duos—as of er, a certified recovery specialist and munications team is small, they are early May. That’s in line others. Services are provided regard- mighty, and were especially passion- with an initial goal of less of the woman’s insurance status ate about ensuring this important about 50 by sometime or ability to pay. initiative was accessible and easy to this spring. A surge in find online. TWCCH recently was awarded grants participation is expected to begin offering certain participants The website development—from as the program expands temporary housing. acquisition of the URL, www.healthy into Luzerne County. moms.org, to launch—took approxi- Partners such as Outreach Center mately one week’s time. Establishing for Community Resources provide a a standalone Healthy MOMS web- range of social, educational and legal site reinforces the uniqueness of this services. Others in the community, in- program as a true community effort, cluding Parker Hill Church, have made not “owned” by any one individual significant financial donations to sup- organization. port the women and supplied gifts, including knit hats, for the newborns. One of the website’s unique features is text to connect capabilities, through Word of mouth accounts for some which moms who are interested in the of the early participation, including program can connect digitally to a a number of moms who had been member of the Healthy MOMS team incarcerated at the Lackawanna County via text message. Prison. However, there has also been an outreach campaign since early 2019.

www.pacounties.org 73 FUNDING AND to reach residents in a wider service Program organizers are exploring SUSTAINABILITY area. It includes Luzerne, Pike, Wayne alternatives for a consistent funding and Wyoming counties. stream that will allow Healthy MOMS At this time, Healthy MOMS relies to become permanent and continue to “Right now, Healthy MOMS is 100 per- on grant funding. The Pennsylvania make a sustainable impact in the lives cent grant-funded. There is no reim- Department of Drug and Alcohol of the women and children it serves. bursement model around this type of Programs provided the initial grant, platform,” Constantini explained. “But “We’re working with moms on goals, a Federal Opioid-State Targeted what we are trying to do is engage but we haven’t gotten that far in the Response Grant in the amount of the state Medicaid MCOs and also program yet,” Dr. Montoro-Edwards $448,763, to begin serving moms in commercial insurers … to give us a said in closing. “It’s so new. We talk to Lackawanna and Susquehanna coun- per-member, per-month, value-based them about goals in terms of, ‘So, you ties. payment to support all non-medical want the baby to be home with you. The AllOne Foundation subsequently services such as case management, You don’t want Children and Youth to awarded a $500,000 grant to Maternal certified recovery specialists and other be involved. Here are some things that and Family Health Services and The things.” we need to work toward to make that Wright Center for Community Health happen.’”

We set your content in motion. Manage your content, processes and cases with Enterprise Content Services and the help of our experienced OnBase Consultants.

Court Case Management Contractor License Renewal E-Filing Document Management Sheriff Mobile Civil Service eDiscovery

Contact us to discuss our government process consulting! 1-800-214-4139 www.paperlessus.com

3580 Progress Drive, Suite I, Bensalem, PA 19020

74 PENNSYLVANIA COUNTY NEWS | SUMMER 2019 Pennsylvania’s largest health insurance cooperative for counties Proudly serving 22 counties across the Commonwealth

Lower costs. County governed. Full transparency.

IN PARTNERSHIP WITH

888-400-4647 | www.benecon.com SERVING PA COUNTIES SINCE 2005

www.pacounties.org 75 Chester County Proves That CHESTER Saving Land

Michelle Kichline, Kathi Cozzone, Terence Farrell Saves Money Chester County Commissioners

The Return on olling countryside dotted with historic farmsteads. Vibrant towns with village greens, community parks, and urban gardens. Robust Environment report farms producing fruit, vegetables, cheese, meat, flowers, honey, offers eye-opening R and more. results about the These are just some of the ways to describe Chester County’s scenic views, economic benefits which have inspired one of the nation’s most successful open space initiatives. A new study, Return on Environment: The Economic Value of Protected Open associated with open Space in Chester County, quantifies the benefits of these efforts. space preservation FROM THE GROUND UP across five areas: Thirty years ago, when Chester County’s remarkable growth was in its property values, infancy, public concern began to outpace suburban sprawl. “If we don’t environmental do something about it now, it will be too late,” said then-Chester County benefits, recreation Commissioner Irene B. Brooks, chair of the county’s Open Space and Environmental Task Force, in 1989. and health, economic In response to these concerns, the task force recommended a $50 million activity, and cost of funding program for open space preservation. County voters overwhelmingly community services. approved a ballot referendum with an 82% “yes” vote in November 1989, and funding has continued ever since.

Chester County’s Department of Open Space Preservation has been leading efforts to administer funds that preserve land for public benefit. The Chester County Planning Commission has been working hand in hand with the Department of Open Space on these preservation efforts through the development and implementation of Landscapes3, the county’s new comprehensive plan. A public survey issued in 2017 as a part of the comprehensive plan update process found that protected open space and the environment was by far the highest ranked issue of importance among county residents. The plan includes a “Preserve” goal that focuses on advancing

76 PENNSYLVANIA COUNTY NEWS | SUMMER 2019 the protection and stewardship of open space, farmland, and natural and cultural features to realize the economic, ecological and quality of life benefits.

As of the end of 2018, nearly 29% of Chester County’s land area, or 140,000 acres, has been preserved as protected open space, which is more land than the size of Philadelphia and Pittsburgh combined. In addition to keeping the county beautiful, protected open spaces—public parks, preserved farmland, and private conserved lands—provide proven and substantial economic, environmental, and public health benefits to surrounding communities.

PRETTY PLACES PLUS Protected open space also provides Developing open space into housing value through naturally occurring can be costly for municipalities and The Return on Environment report environmental processes. If protected school districts. For every $1 received offers eye-opening results about lands were lost to development, from residential developments the economic benefits associated Chester County would need to spend through taxes, local governments with open space preservation $97 million a year to replicate vital spend $1.11 on services, whereas only across five areas: property values, services such as flood control and 7 cents are spent on services for each environmental benefits, recreation air and water pollution mitigation dollar in tax received from farmland and health, economic activity, and through costly alternative methods. and preserved open space. cost of community services. More than just pretty places, open space Chester County’s protected open spac- TEAM EFFORT contributes to local economies and es invite exploration and enjoyment. property values and helps businesses, There is an abundance of opportuni- The Return on Environment report governments, and residents save ties to exercise for free at many parks is an update of a similar study on everything from health care to and nature preserves throughout the completed in 2011 by the Green recreation. county. Recreational opportunities on Space Alliance and Delaware Valley open space keep people healthy and Regional Planning Commission For instance, homeowners are willing account for over $170 million in avoid- that estimated the economic value to pay a premium to live near parks, ed medical costs every year. of protected open space for all of nature preserves, and other protect- Southeastern Pennsylvania. ed open spaces. As a result, protect- Chester County’s preserves, farms, ed open space adds to the overall and trails are destinations that Chester County leadership partnered value of Chester County’s housing create jobs and attract tourists who with many organizations to produce stock. Homes in the county are spend money when they visit. Each the report. The partners included valued at over $11,000 more when year, open space accounts for $238 Brandywine Conservancy, Brandywine they are located within a half-mile of million in spending and $69 million in Red Clay Alliance, Chester County preserved open space, according to salaries earned through 1,800 jobs. Agricultural Development Council, the study. In total, it’s a gain of more Agriculture on protected farmland Chester County Association of than $1.65 billion for Chester Coun- puts about $135 million back into the Township Officials, Chester County ty’s homeowners and economy. economy each year. Department of Open Space

www.pacounties.org 77 County Open Space Summit in May at the ChesLen Preserve. The county and its partners shared the information about the report in various ways after its release, including a press release, social media posts, newsletter, a new webpage, video, marketing brochure, and executive summary. In addition, stakeholders were encouraged to share the message. Social media toolkits were provided to all the stakeholders with infographics and sample messages for use on Facebook and Twitter. Sample articles The amount of protected open space in Chester County were sent to all municipal officials for is greater than the size of Philadelphia. dissemination to residents through their newsletters and websites. PRESERVATION ROOTS Preservation, Chester County economic analysis techniques to Economic Development Council, provide estimates of the economic Not only did the Chester County Chester County Planning Commission, value of protected open space in Department of Open Space Chester County Water Resources Chester County. The study informs Preservation play an important Authority, Delaware Valley Regional elected leaders, policymakers, and role in creating the Return on Planning Commission, Econsult residents on the value of protected Environment report, but it also has Solutions, Inc., French and Pickering open space and contributes to been successfully handling efforts Creeks Conservation Trust, Natural informed decisions concerning both to preserve farms, parks, trails, and Lands, Stroud Water Research Center, preservation and development in the nature preserves in the county since The Land Conservancy for Southern county. its creation in 2004. Chester County, and Willistown Conservation Trust. GROWING MESSAGE The department’s nine-member staff works with the county’s Agricultural The economic analysis was conducted Many people came together to Land Preservation Board to offer by Econsult Solutions, Inc., who ensure the message about the agricultural preservation programs completed the similar study in 2011. Return on Environment was shared that focus on permanently preserving Using data from multiple sources with various stakeholders, including agricultural land by purchasing including peer reviewed studies municipalities, conservation farmland preservation easements. and their own economic models, partners, the business community, The county has preserved more Econsult used Chester County’s open economic development partners, than 500 farms to date. Every year, space data to estimate the monetary the agricultural community, the department’s staff visits at least benefits associated with protected and residents. A working group 275 farms, 100 municipal parks, and open space in the county. Based in was created that included 20 100 land trust preserved sites to Philadelphia, Econsult is an economic representatives from the different ensure the protection of the county’s consulting firm that provides partner agencies that produced the investment in open space. econometric and analytic expertise report. A marketing committee also to businesses and policymakers developed a plan for promoting the In addition, the staff administers a nationwide. report. Municipal Grant Program that helps municipal governments meet local This report builds off the previous The report was unveiled to a crowd demands for parks, recreational regional report and uses standard of 250-plus people at the Chester facilities, and open spaces. Chester

78 PENNSYLVANIA COUNTY NEWS | SUMMER 2019 County’s Municipal Grant Program 10,000 preserved acres. In addition, Chester County for years to come. has completed about 400 open Chester County has invested about Green fields, preserved farms and space projects in 67 of the county’s $4.5 million for the preservation of community parks are more than just 73 municipalities and two regional nearly 500 acres of the Brandywine pretty places that contribute to our recreation authorities. One in five Battlefield through this program. quality of life—they are true assets Municipal Grant Program projects is that generate significant economic located in Chester County’s urban REAPING BENEFITS value for the county. centers. Steps taken by Chester County 30 Another program called the years ago have more than paid View the report: Preservation Partnership Program, off. The investment is providing a http://chescoplanning.org/ or the Conservancy Grant Program, great return and one that is unique OpenSpace/ROE.cfm. helps conservancies preserve to Southeastern Pennsylvania. In natural, agricultural, historic, and fact, nearly half—or 45%—of all conserved land in this region is in culturally significant land resources and promotes responsible public Chester County, according to the access. Over 200 projects have been Pennsylvania Land Trust Association. completed through this program with Open space preservation efforts 18 partners, resulting in more than will continue to be a priority for

www.pacounties.org 79 BEST: Benefit Enhancements and Enrollment Solutions, Streamlined through Technology

We're the BEST Solution for you! BEST helps overwhelmed benefits brokers and HR professionals save time, money and paperwork providing BEST: benefit enhancements and enrollment solutions, all streamlined through technology.

Our benefits administration and enrollment platform options allow us to accommodate a variety of unique needs. OPEN ENROLLMENT: Contact us regarding . Communication materials, automated scheduling for employees our suite of time-saving . Human Resource open enrollment status reports solutions and how they . Call center employee enrollment support can be available at little or no cost to you. REPORTING: . Carrier/vendor open enrollment reports P: 717-490-6313 . Payroll deduction file uploads TF: 888-724-8110 . Dependent verification support tools [email protected] www.benechoice.com No other 'solution' will bring as much experience as BEST!

80 PENNSYLVANIA COUNTY NEWS | SUMMER 2019 HOW SAFE IS YOUR INFORMATION? Protect yourself, your paycheck and your county from email phishing and social engineering

Rita D. Reynolds, CGCIO Chief Technology Officer National Association of Counties

I know there are quite a few avid fishermen (and women) in Pennsylvania. But did you know that fishing or phishing can mean something other than catching fish out of a trout stream!

As you continue reading, it is im- replacing the letter “F” with “Ph” and time; however, there are significant portant to understand terminology. therefore, the word phishing was security dangers of these increasingly Phishing is the fraudulent attempt formed. popular quizzes. While many websites to obtain sensitive information such and platforms offer harmless quizzes The other term to become familiar as usernames, passwords, and credit with engaging content, many mali- with is Social Engineering. Social card details (and money), often for cious attackers use the popularity of engineering, in the context of malicious reasons, by disguising an these quizzes to install malware on information security, refers to the electronic communication as a trust- your devices and steal your data. psychological manipulation of people worthy entity. The word phishing is into performing actions or divulging derived from the common term with One may ask why? Well scammers are confidential information. Similar to the known, correct spelling, “fishing.” after your passwords, your identity, con artist traits of trickery, social The definition of phishing is actually financial information and ultimately engineering’s sole purpose is to quite similar to the word of origin. money! As you can imagine this can gather information or system access. Both phrases refer to catching some- damage your personal life as well The main difference is that there thing by sending out bait. Just as the as the organization you work for, are generally many steps in a more fisherman lures a fish by putting a depending on the situation. complex fraud scheme. fake worm on a hook, so too does In addition to the seemingly innocent the cyberspace criminal lure his prey Social Engineering can occur through social engineering scams, there are all by baiting an email or a website with email phishing or other means, such types of scams. Of particular frequen- false information to catch passwords as ads on Facebook or other social cy these days are emails asking HR and information in the sea of internet media. For example, think of the or payroll to change an employee’s users. Over time (actually since about entertainment quizzes on Facebook. direct deposit information. As CCAP 1996) hackers have tended towards Most view these as a fun use of spare CIO, I have heard of multiple instances

www.pacounties.org 81 in county government over the past first actual direct deposit for an • Avoid clicking directly on links, six months where a county came very employee. whether in email or social media— close to changing or actually changed • Third, ensure that you have policies always search through your search someone’s paycheck to go to an and procedures in place for setting engine to verify legitimacy and find unauthorized user, aka a cybercrimi- up or modifying ACH for your the appropriate site. nal. It’s incredible to think that there employees. • Refrain from opening suspicious are individuals out there like this, but attachments. unfortunately, they are out there. • Finally, train and educate your staff on a continual basis. Counties in • Refrain from sharing highly sensitive So how do we avoid this both in our Pennsylvania have access in 2019 to information through messaging personal lives and in the workplace? a partnership with the state to utilize apps and services. Here are some easy tips to remember: a Phishing scenario subscription • Know your rights when it comes to • Watch out for spelling and grammar called Cofense. This online tool data use and storage. errors allows a county to create fake phishing emails based on template • Be mindful of your emails; always • Check the sender’s address emails that mirror real world check the date, subject line, and • If it sounds too good to be true, it phishing emails. If an employee recipients to confirm that you are probably is. does click on one of these emails, reading and using the correct email. • Beware of unsolicited emails that the employee is then redirected • Check your email, financial accounts, contain attachments, links or login to an educational page to help and credit reports regularly for pages. them become more aware of how abnormal activities. to detect phishing emails. Contact • Check the signature line. If it’s from • Stay up to date on the news CCAP’s Kim Ade, kade@pacounties. another employee does it look regarding recent fraud and phishing org, for more information. like the county’s signature format? attacks to see if you may have been Report those suspicious emails to • And don’t forget to send regular affected. your IT support. reminders to staff to be cautious • Understand the risks of putting your in updating any online payroll personal information into the world Tips specific to ACH or direct deposit access they might have. “Phishers” and only share what you have to scams include: have been known to send emails share. • requesting one verify their login First if the request is coming in to • Minimize the number of accounts credentials. Valid payroll and HR HR or payroll by email, verify that that have direct access to your bank services won’t do that. the email really did come from the account or card numbers. employee. Depending on the size Beyond the email phishing, there are of your county or organization, this One final note about those additional steps each of us as end may mean picking up the phone and entertainment quizzes—protect users can take to protect our identities calling them to verify, or better yet, yourself from these potential and personal information, especially having them complete a form that dangers by exercising caution when with social engineering schemes. To they must hand deliver to either HR participating in online quizzes. While avoid being a victim of a phishing or payroll. utilizing safe and legitimate websites attack or email scam: • Second, payroll should have the is crucial to protecting your data • Use safe password practices prenote option for verifying ACH privacy, even these days that doesn’t including regularly changing accounts. This is a process whereby guarantee security. So maybe avoid passwords and use altogether finance staff or the financial them at all costs! In the end, a one- different passwords for personal institution sends a prenotification minute quiz to show how high one’s and work logins. Take advantage of (or prenote) that involves sending IQ isn’t worth risking your financial Multi-factor Authentication where zero dollar amounts through the loss or your theft of your identity. possible (a PIN number being sent ACH (Automated Clearing House) to your phone or an alternate email) network as a test before the

82 PENNSYLVANIA COUNTY NEWS | SUMMER 2019 Dominion is a proud sponsor of the County Commissioners Association of Pennsylvania! IMAGECAST PRECINCT

The world’s most reliable optical scan tabulator.

SIMPLE FLEXIBLE EFFICIENT SECURE A robust and reliable Optional integrated Integrated physical Dominion implements optical scan tabulator ADA compliant diverter that automatically security protocols that that safely stores and configurations, segregates ballots meet or exceed EAC VVSG 2005 requirements. tabulates marked paper providing all voters containing write-ins, ballots with privacy and saving time after independence. the polls close.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT: JOHN HASTINGS | REGIONAL SALES MANAGER [email protected] | EMAIL 412.208.5073 | MOBILE

www.pacounties.org 83 Berks County BERKS Now a STEPPING UP “Innovator”

It’s time to stop t already has been four years since the launch of Stepping Up: A National Initiative to Reduce the Number of People with Mental Illnesses in Jails, talking about the result of a collaboration between the National Association of Counties (NACo), The Council of State Governments (CSG) Justice Center and the mental health IAmerican Psychiatric Association Foundation (APA Foundation). The program in our county continues to increase awareness about the mental health crisis affecting communities across the nation. jails and to start Since it launched, nearly 500 counties in 43 states have passed a Stepping making a real Up resolution committing to building local leadership teams, identifying the number of people with mental illnesses who enter their jail system, ensuring difference. that those people are connected with services and developing a comprehensive Berks County plan for systems-level change. Commissioner Recently, the Stepping Up partners chose Berks County, Pennsylvania to be a Christian Leinbach Stepping Up Innovator County, recognizing the county’s hard work, strengths and leadership in this area. WHAT IS A STEPPING UP INNOVATOR COUNTY?

Starting in 2018, the initiative’s focus turned to providing counties with the tools they need to have accurate, accessible data on the prevalence of people with serious mental illnesses (SMIs) in jails. Having accurate and usable data is key to making systems-level policy and practice changes to better link people to treatment and services while reducing jail populations and improving public safety in effective and fiscally responsible ways. The Stepping Up partners select counties to serve as Innovators based on the major progress they have made toward this goal by establishing a shared definition of SMI, implementing a mental health screening and assessment process and collecting baseline data.

84 PENNSYLVANIA COUNTY NEWS | SUMMER 2019 Berks County joined the national Stepping Up initiative in December 2015, passing a resolution to reduce the number of people with mental illnesses in jails.

Last year, the national Stepping Up Douglas County, Kansas; Johnson “It’s time to stop talking about mental partners launched the Stepping County, Kansas; Hennepin County, health in our county jails and to start Up Innovator Counties project as a Minnesota; Franklin County, Ohio; making a real difference,” said Berks way to highlight counties that are Lubbock County, Texas; Pacific County, County Commissioner Christian meeting the recommended three- Washington; and now, Berks County, Leinbach. “That’s why we joined this step approach to gathering accurate, Pennsylvania. NACo effort and I’m so proud that accessible data on the prevalence of our team, led by Dr. Ed Michalik and people in their jails who have serious BERKS COUNTY Commissioner Barnhardt have done mental illness (SMI). LEADS THE WAY just that. We are making a difference for taxpayers and most importantly Berks County joined the national The three-step approach includes: in the lives of the people dealing with Stepping Up initiative in December serious mental health issues. It’s great 1. Establish a shared definition of SMI 2015, passing a resolution to reduce to see that Berks County is a leader in for your Stepping Up efforts that the number of people with mental the nation!” is used throughout local criminal illnesses in jails. But even before justice and behavioral health passing the resolution, county PA PARTICIPATES systems. leaders were working to address this issue by completing a cross- 34 counties in Pennsylvania now 2. Use a validated mental health systems mapping exercise to identify participate in Stepping Up, including: screening tool on every person gaps in its processes and programs Allegheny, Berks, Blair, Bradford, booked into the jail and refer and implementing a forensic Bucks, Butler, Carbon, Chester, Clinton, people who screen positive for diversion program and forensic case Cumberland, Dauphin, Delaware, symptoms of SMI to a follow-up management. Data and information- Erie, Fayette, Franklin, Fulton, Juniata, clinical assessment by a licensed sharing have always been a priority for Lancaster, Lycoming, McKean, Mercer, mental health professional, and the county. Mifflin, Montgomery, Northampton, 3. Record clinical assessment results Northumberland, Philadelphia, Pike, “As chair of our County Prison Board and regularly report on this Potter, Tioga, Warren, Washington, and the County Commissioners population. Wayne, Westmoreland and York. Association of Pennsylvania’s So far, these counties, of various sizes Comprehensive Behavioral Health Task County leaders are encouraged to and locations, have been designated Force,” Commissioner Kevin Barnhardt visit https://stepuptogether.org/what- as Stepping Up Innovator Counties said, “it is extremely important to me you-can-do and reach out to Nastassia and are available to help mentor that we engage in a two-way sharing Walsh at [email protected] if they are other counties on how to implement of information and knowledge that meeting the three-step criteria and this approach. They include: all can learn and implement best are interested in becoming Innovator Calaveras County, California; Miami- practices that are custom to their Counties or wish to learn more about Dade County, Florida; Champaign unique criminal justice needs.” Stepping Up. County, Illinois; Polk County, Iowa;

www.pacounties.org 85 AND IN KEEPING WITH AN EARLIER THEME …

Montgomery County Board of Commissioners Chair Dr. Valerie Arkoosh threw out the first pitch at a recent Philadelphia Phillies game as part of the “Bark at the Park” night during which the Valley Forge Tourism and Convention Board promoted their “Embark Montco” brand. The first 350 dogs that brought their owners to the game received treats and information about pet-friendly hotels available in Montgomery County.

EXCEPTIONAL EXPERIENCE. HEALTHCARE EXPERTS. PROVEN RESULTS.

REGULATORY COMPLIANCE | REIMBURSEMENT | CLINICAL TRAINING | COST MANAGEMENT | MARKETING

Providing Balance Between CARE & FINANCIAL STABILITY. AffinityHealthServices.net

86 PENNSYLVANIA COUNTY NEWS | SUMMER 2019 Integrated System

Benefit from Edge™, DEVNET’s Land Records Solution. Edge applications work together to increase the automation of your workflows and provide a comprehensive view of the entire property tax life cycle.

[email protected] | (866) 4-DEVNET | www.devnetinc.com Pennsylvania PRSRT STD COUNTY NEWS U.S. POSTAGE PO Box 60769 PAID Harrisburg, PA 17106-0769 HARRISBURG PA PERMIT NO. 517