County approves college and healthcare bond actions, backs cybersecurity grant application

Cumberland County's finance authority approved two bond-related financing items and authorized a state cybersecurity grant application during its meeting.

Dickinson College representatives said the request is a partial refinancing of 2016 bonds and includes approximately $30,000,000 for renovations to the college's Union building on High Street to improve access, student spaces and modernization. Presenters reported that a TEFRA hearing was conducted and that no members of the public attended or commented. The board moved, seconded and approved the financing.

The board also approved a refunding transaction for Messiah Lifeways. Counsel and Messiah representatives said most proceeds will refund prior series of debt to take advantage of favorable market rates; a small portion will pay predevelopment costs for an independent-living expansion planned in Fairview Township. Counsel explained that Messiah Village in Mechanicsburg (located in Cumberland County) serves as the obligated-group collateral; neither the authority nor the county pledges taxing power or assets to secure repayment. The presenter noted an advertising error limited the agenda to the single Messiah item today; the organization indicated it would return for the second item.

Separately, Mark Adams presented a third-year state and local cybersecurity grant application. The county plans to request $75,000; the county share would be 30 percent and the state would reimburse 70 percent of eligible costs. The board approved applying for the grant.

All three items were approved by voice vote with no public opposition recorded during the meeting.