Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Lawrence County, Pennsylvania public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
6 issues in development
Humphrey Center construction
The county officially named the former St. Joe's school as the future Children and Youth Services home. State funding could cover up to 80% of renovations, and officials aim to keep the taxpayer cost near zero.
HUD Healthy Homes Production Grant application
A $5.75 million federal grant will remove lead paint hazards from 120 homes across seven counties over four years, with about 62 units in Lawrence County. Families with children under six and low-income homeowners are the focus.
Humphrey Center construction contracts
Ten bids came in for renovating the county's Humphrey Center — the former St. Joseph's property off Cascade Street. Electrical bids run $627,000–$999,000 and general contracting $2.4M–$3M; all were tabled for staff review with a recommendation due next Tuesday.
Homebuyer assistance program handoff
The county is putting another $25,000 from deed-recording fee revenue into grants that cover closing costs for first-time, low-to-moderate income homebuyers. The last round of funding was exhausted in about nine months, and roughly 11 buyers will benefit this time.
Early intervention services for young children
Fifteen contracts were renewed for free therapy and developmental services for Lawrence County babies and toddlers up to age five — fully state-reimbursed, so no cost to families or the county.
Cascade Street government services campus
The county's former St. Joseph property on South Cascade Street is moving toward construction — a Penn Power right-of-way deal is signed and construction bids go out this week, with hopes of moving county agencies in by early spring.