Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Luzerne County, Pennsylvania public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
5 issues in development with high priority
2027 Capital Plan and Courthouse Facade Priority
The county owns roughly 300 bridges and structures; inspections of smaller ones had lapsed for 20 years and are now ~70% caught up. Ten unfunded bridges are in poor or serious condition, many built with a faulty 'box beam' design that rotted from the inside. Council wants a heat map, priority schedules, and a funded maintenance plan.
Sale of county-owned rail holdings to RJ Corman
More than 20 residents — and dozens of emailed comments — pushed council to object to the proposed sale of the county's railroad holdings, including concerns about Rocky Glen abandoned land. Council voted unanimously to formally object.
Primary election canvassing, cure, and adjudication schedule
Council Member Chris Belles requested extra time to challenge petitions that weren't included on the USB drive used for prior challenges. The Board's decision could affect which petitions face further scrutiny before certification.
Polling place changes in Plains Township and Swoyersville
Two polling places would move if the motions were approved: Plains Township Ward 3 voters would go to St. Peter and Paul Parish's Bernadine Hall, and Swoyersville Ward 1 voters to Maltby Volunteer Fire Co. Voters in those wards should confirm their polling location before Primary Day.
2026 General Primary ballot approval
The board was scheduled to approve the official Democratic and Republican ballots for the May 19, 2026 primary. Ballot approval is the step that lets the county print and distribute ballots to voters.