Commissioners accept Clean Water Action Plan funding and approve small-bridge grants, Sheehanford right-of-way plans

Cumberland County commissioners accepted Clean Water Action Plan funding from the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection and approved several municipal bridge grants and right-of-way certification for a joint rehabilitation project with York County.

Curtis (department lead) described the Clean Water Action Plan grant as “about $1,000,000,” with roughly $100,000 for a clean water coordinator/consultant (HRG) and the remainder earmarked for water-quality projects to be carried out in partnership with the conservation district. Commissioners approved acceptance of the grant.

Kirk Stoner presented three small-bridge contracts under the county’s liquid fuels/bridge assistance program. Stoner said the county had set these up as grants and that municipalities will deliver the projects and be reimbursed for eligible costs. In response to a constituent concern, a commissioner asked whether the county was “forcing the municipalities to pay for bridges,” and Stoner replied: “We’re not forcing municipalities to do this. The program is actually in response to municipal demand for additional funding.” Commissioners approved the three small-bridge grants.

Separately, the board certified right-of-way plans needed for the Sheehanford Bridge rehabilitation project, which York County is leading; the certification allows the plans to be recorded. Commissioners approved executing the right-of-way plans so York County can proceed with recording.

All three motions — Clean Water grant acceptance, small-bridge grants, and Sheehanford right-of-way certification — were moved, seconded and approved by voice vote.