Peters Township Approves Social Services Coordinator

Peters Township Council approved a measure to operate a pilot program employing a Police Social Services Coordinator. Peters Township Manager Paul Lauer says that the licensed social worker will not only be dedicated to the Police department, but to any other departments that may need the intervention of an individual to help solve repeated incidents. The most common police issues are centered on domestic disturbances and substance use calls. Other departments experience calls dealing with matters such as trash and recycling questions and simple daily tasks. The goal of the coordinator is to solve the repetitive nature of the calls by having the people involved be guided to the appropriate agency to address their concerns. Washington County will be offsetting the cost of the program for the next five years by contributing $42,000 to the annual salary of the position. Lauer interviews are soon to begin and he hopes to have the position filled by May.