SMETHPORT — Pennsylvania is the only state in the nation where 4-H engagement has actually increased.
Statewide, 4-H is delivered in all 67 counties to 77,000 youth ages 5 to 18 by a Penn State Extension network of staff members and more than 6,000 adult volunteers. They engage and mentor youth in learning activities and hands-on projects in agriculture, S.T.E.M., civic engagement and health and wellness.
Commissioners proclaimed March 13 to 23 as 4-H Week in the county, during their regular meeting Tuesday morning at the courthouse.
Penn State Extension — McKean County staff members Rob Dickinson and Emily Miller were on hand to assist commissioners with the proclamation.
Miller said, “4-H week showcases the incredible ways 4-H inspires kids to achieve and highlights remarkable youth in McKean County who work hard each day to make a positive impact. 4-H is an opportunity for leadership development, career exploration, problem solving, friendship, community involvement, passion and purpose.”
America’s largest youth development organization, 4-H supports 6 million youth across the country. During the last program year, 4-H helped 276 youth in McKean County to become confident, independent, resilient and compassionate leaders as they learn by doing.
Commissioner Tom Kreiner said, “It’s an exciting program, no doubt. Many think of 4-H as strictly animal-involved and it’s not; it’s so much more than that.”
Commissioners also declared March as Bleeding Disorders Awareness Month in the county, raising awareness of inherited bleeding disorders that affect millions globally and for which there is no cure.
During regular business, commissioners announced new employees Logan Kiff, part-time 911 dispatcher; Jaclyn Butler and Ashlyn Southard, CYS case aides; and Hannah Wilson, part-time correctional officer.
Erik Ross was appointed to the Area Transportation Authority board, effective through Dec. 31, 2028.
They approved an American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) grant funding agreement with Ceres Township and an ARPA recovery request from Foster Township for an infrastructure/blight remediation project totaling $58,637.
Commissioners also approved contracts for the Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG) Program for $160,000; part-time use of the Erie County forensic pathologist, including a $5,000 retainer for 2024; and a 5-year lease of the CYS Annex Building at $285.84 per month.
YWCA Bradford Executive Director Vanessa Castano explained the funding supports the YWCA’s emergency shelter services, which include street outreach such as efforts to locate individuals living in their cars or in abandoned buildings and provide case management.
During the public comment period, Jim Giordano with McKean County Special Operations Group — Dive Team indicated the average cost to maintain a diver’s gear is $524 just for labor and, parts included, totals $2,625 per diver.
The current task force numbers 26, “and growing,” he said. “Our goal when we are on a scene is either to recover a body or evidence. We’re very dependent on our gear.
“The next closest dive team is 6 hours away. We respond within the hour. We just need a little more help” with costs, he said.
The commissioners’ next meeting is scheduled for 10 a.m. March 26.
