Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Lycoming County, Pennsylvania public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
5 issues with critical priority
911 Center Staffing and Phone-line Savings
Eight of 18 candidate interviews for the understaffed 911 center are complete, with high-quality candidates showing up. The county is still evaluating whether an outside agency (Motivation) could help, and open-door outreach to 911 advocates continues.
Homeless shelter crisis — Saving Grace closure
$24,385 is being pulled from a stalled home-ownership parking lot project and sent to the Saving Grace shelter's renovation instead. The original project's ownership is changing hands, so the county moved the money where it can actually be spent.
September 2026 storm damage — federal EWP sponsorship
Heavy storms dropped nearly 7 inches of rain in places, causing foundation collapses in South Williamsport, flooding in Jersey Shore, and closed roads near Waterville. Residents should report damage via 211 as EMA teams assess structural damage, with more rain expected this week.
Landfill finances and 2027 rate increases
Todd Lauer pushed for details on the landfill's closure and post-closure accounts. Commissioners explained the funds come from landfill operating costs, are legally restricted, and now stand below $40 million (around $33 million) as fields are closed — they're currently on field 12.
September 2–3 storm recovery and SBA disaster assistance
Flooding from 3–7 inches of rain damaged homes, roads and property across central and western Lycoming County. An SBA Disaster Loan Outreach Center opens September 25 at the Woodward Township building, and officials are urging everyone with damage — even minor — to report it and ask what help exists.