Court Facility Improvement Project Deliberation Set for Thursday

January 23, 2018 – Chambersburg, PA – Franklin County Commissioners have been collecting public input on a court facility improvement project that could address concerns of security, inadequate space, fragmented court office locations, and aging county buildings. At Tuesday’s board meeting, Project Manager John Hart addressed the Commissioners stating that this project was brought before them and considered nine years ago for all the same reasons it is before them today.

“As requested, the commissioners have received information related to facility improvements for court and administration operations. This initiative was contemplated nine years ago and the issues and concerns with safety and security, co-location, and efficiencies continue,” stated Hart. “It’s not a matter of if we confront these issues. It’s a matter of when.” A timeline for discussion and deliberation of the project was requested.

To keep the public informed and offer a time for conversation, the commissioners have held two informational open houses since a public presentation was given on January 3^rd unveiling the proposed project. A project webpage was created on the county’s website with updates shared through social media. Various news outlets have published articles on the proposed project.

"My impression is that people seem to be generally accepting of what has been proposed and seem to understand the need for security and efficiency," said Commissioner Chairman Dave Keller.

Commissioner Bob Thomas commented, “Franklin is a growing county and this puts increasing demands on our judicial system. We must prepare now for this and future generations.”

From his public interactions in a variety of venues, Commissioner Bob Ziobrowski feels that residents have more than just accepted the project, he feels as though they have embraced it. “What I’ve seen from people is a sense of pride and a sense of purpose.”

A formal deliberation of the Court Facility Improvement Project is scheduled for Thursday, January 25^th during the Commissioners Board Meeting starting at 9:30am in the Commissioners’ Complex at 14 North Main Street, Chambersburg.

If you have a question or would like more information on the Court Facility Improvement Project, please visit www.franklincountypa.gov or email facilityprojectinfo@franklincountypa.gov.

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