Lackawanna County residents demand action on child safety concerns
November 06, 2024 | Lackawanna County, Pennsylvania
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During a recent Lackawanna County government meeting, community members raised pressing concerns regarding public safety, budget transparency, and the management of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds.
One speaker emphasized the need for improved access to collective bargaining agreements on the county's website, highlighting the importance of transparency in understanding employee compensation and benefits, particularly for prison staff who have received consistent pay raises since 2012.
Katrina Bauer, a resident from Jessup, voiced her alarm over a recent incident involving child abuse linked to the county's Children and Youth Services (CYS). She criticized the lack of safety protocols and the expiration of CYS's provisional license, urging county officials to prioritize child safety over financial concerns. Bauer's comments sparked a heated exchange with commissioners, who defended their actions and clarified that the incident in question occurred prior to their administration.
Budget discussions also dominated the meeting, with residents expressing concerns about the potential loss of $5 million in unobligated ARPA funds by the end of the year. Amanda Sagona urged for a clear plan regarding the allocation of these funds to ensure they are utilized effectively. She also called for greater public engagement in budget hearings, suggesting that department heads should present their proposals to foster transparency and community understanding.
Len Dobson raised questions about the county's budget figures, particularly regarding a proposed 33% increase, and suggested that a collaborative approach involving various stakeholders could lead to more informed financial decisions.
The meeting concluded with residents requesting better communication from the county regarding agendas and meeting formats, emphasizing the need for evening sessions to accommodate working individuals. Overall, the discussions underscored a community eager for transparency and accountability in local governance, particularly concerning the welfare of children and the prudent management of public funds.
One speaker emphasized the need for improved access to collective bargaining agreements on the county's website, highlighting the importance of transparency in understanding employee compensation and benefits, particularly for prison staff who have received consistent pay raises since 2012.
Katrina Bauer, a resident from Jessup, voiced her alarm over a recent incident involving child abuse linked to the county's Children and Youth Services (CYS). She criticized the lack of safety protocols and the expiration of CYS's provisional license, urging county officials to prioritize child safety over financial concerns. Bauer's comments sparked a heated exchange with commissioners, who defended their actions and clarified that the incident in question occurred prior to their administration.
Budget discussions also dominated the meeting, with residents expressing concerns about the potential loss of $5 million in unobligated ARPA funds by the end of the year. Amanda Sagona urged for a clear plan regarding the allocation of these funds to ensure they are utilized effectively. She also called for greater public engagement in budget hearings, suggesting that department heads should present their proposals to foster transparency and community understanding.
Len Dobson raised questions about the county's budget figures, particularly regarding a proposed 33% increase, and suggested that a collaborative approach involving various stakeholders could lead to more informed financial decisions.
The meeting concluded with residents requesting better communication from the county regarding agendas and meeting formats, emphasizing the need for evening sessions to accommodate working individuals. Overall, the discussions underscored a community eager for transparency and accountability in local governance, particularly concerning the welfare of children and the prudent management of public funds.
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