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Washington County shifts state food-purchase and emergency food contracts to Greater Washington County Food Bank after public comment
Summary
After public testimony from pantry operators and food-bank leaders, commissioners voted to notify the current provider and move upcoming state food‑purchase and emergency food assistance agreements to the Greater Washington County Food Bank, subject to final contract terms and approvals.
The Washington County Board of Commissioners voted June 18 to notify the Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank and to award the county’s upcoming state food‑purchase and emergency food assistance provider agreements to the Greater Washington County Food Bank, subject to contract completion and required approvals.
The decision followed extensive public comment from food‑pantry operators and Greater Washington County Food Bank leaders who urged local control and quicker county‑focused responses. Ken Kulak, board chair of the Greater Washington County Food Bank, told commissioners the organization is prepared to expand distribution and emergency response capacity, saying, “We are ready to expand access to food assistance by creating additional pantries to reach more individuals and families.”
Several pantry operators urged caution about a fast transition. Cathy Kennedy, a local pantry volunteer, said recent storms and distribution challenges left some pantries uncertain whether a county vendor changeover could maintain steady deliveries, and she asked commissioners to “reconsider allocating all the funds to Washington County Food Bank” until pantries are assured of continuity.
During debate on the motion, one commissioner disclosed a board role with the local food bank and said for transparency she would abstain. Commissioner Janas stated she serves on the Food Bank board and would abstain from the final vote. Commissioners Maggi and Sherman recorded yes votes; the motion passed with two yeas and one abstention.
The Human Services motion, as passed, directs staff to notify the incumbent provider and pursue a contract with the Greater Washington County Food Bank subject to completion of required processes, approvals and contract execution. Commissioners and Food Bank leaders said implementation will include outreach to local pantries, coordination on delivery schedules and continued emphasis on emergency-response capability.
