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Commissioners approve ethics exception to let county employee run STABLE program at up to $37,000
Summary
The Board of Commissioners created an exception to the county code of ethics to allow Jesse Van Dusen, a full‑time Coroner’s Office employee, to contract with the county to run the STABLE equine instruction program; the contract is capped at $37,000 and reimbursable at 80% by the state.
The Lackawanna County Board of Commissioners on July 16, 2025, approved a one‑year exception to the county conflict‑of‑interest and code of ethics policy to allow Jesse Van Dusen, a full‑time employee in the Coroner’s Office, to enter a county contract to run the STABLE instruction and coordination program for the Office of Youth and Family Services.
The resolution (25‑0180) creates a one‑year contract beginning in July 2025 and terminating on July 30, 2026, with an amount “not to exceed” $37,000, and the county said the program costs are reimbursable at 80% by the state. Director Carrie Browning told commissioners the exception would allow the program to continue and that Van Dusen has the skills and experience needed. The resolution specifies the contractor arrangement must not interfere with Van Dusen’s full‑time duties in the Coroner’s Office and that the program will be solicited annually via RFQ or RFP thereafter.
Why it matters: The vote creates a narrow, time‑limited exception to the county’s ethics rules to enable a current county employee to receive a contract with the county. The board described the action as ensuring continuity of the STABLE program, which provides equine‑assisted instruction for children served by Youth and Family Services.
Details from the meeting: Director Browning said the contract will not exceed $37,000 and reiterated the program is reimbursable at 80% by the state. The resolution text, as read at the meeting, notes the county’s code of ethics (adopted February 21, 2024) generally prohibits employees from having a financial interest in a firm that does business with the county; the exception was created for this single program and requires annual solicitation following the contract term.
Outcome: Commissioners approved the resolution by voice vote (all present responded “aye”).
Context and limits: The resolution authorizes only an exception for this specific program and period. Commissioners and staff stated the contract must not conflict with Van Dusen’s full‑time county duties; the county will run a competitive process for the position annually going forward.
