Commissioners Respond To Lingering Issues

On Thursday, Washington County Commissioners spent time answering public comment questions about issues that have reappeared as of late. Commissioner Chairwoman Diana Irey-Vaughan addressed questions from North Strabane Township Supervisor Harold Close regarding the award of a contract to MRA/TAIT instead of Motorola for the emergency responder radio system. Irey-Vaughan indicated that a lower bid from Motorola came in after bids were awarded. She also stated that American Rescue Plan Act funds dedicated to the project were limited to upgrades and improvements and not a total replacement project such as Motorola’s bid. Pennsylvania State Representative Bud Cook (R-50) continued his years long campaign to get answers as to why he feels that $10 million in LSA funds are unaccounted for. Irey-Vaughan addressed him telling him that the funds are monitored by the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development and administered by the Redevelopment Authority of Washington County. She said his claims of missing money are not true. Some funds are being held in escrow until the awardees receive matching funds or are ready to begin their projects.