Municipal Leaders Participate In Panel Discussion

The Washington County Chamber of Commerce hosted a panel discussion with municipal managers to discuss what challenges face their communities and what is most important to the continued development of each. Township managers form South Strabane, North Strabane, Peters Township and North Franklin gathered and public safety was a key to maintaining growth. Peters Township and North Strabane townships are opening new fire stations to serve residential growth. South Strabane Township is moving to enlarge its full time fire fighter staff. North Franklin is served by three volunteer companies but the township not only contributes to their support, they offer each fire fighter a $20 stipend to each call that is responded. Township amenities such as parks are important as well. North Franklin and North Strabane are in the process of building new municipal offices. Peters Township and North Franklin also are investing into parks for their resident’s enjoyment. Paul Lauer, Township Manager for Peters Township pointed out the biggest hidden challenge to all local governments in southwestern Pennsylvania will be how to recruit and retain qualified people to serve in all aspects of local government.