Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Monroe County, Pennsylvania public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
8 issues in public safety with high priority
Opioid settlement recovery grants
The county is putting $166,300 of opioid settlement money toward three treatment and recovery organizations, including Path to Peace, Northbound and the Carbon-Monroe-Pike Drug & Alcohol Commission.
Downtown Stroudsburg public safety concerns
A resident told commissioners violence downtown is escalating weekly and demanded a joint meeting with borough council, the borough manager, police chief Jennifer Lyons and county officials to find solutions. She said she has not received follow-up from the police chief.
287(g) Immigration Agreement Follow-up
Residents asked whether the jail is holding arraigned people up to 48 hours for ICE or sending lists of foreign-born inmates to federal authorities. Chairman Christy said the county has NOT adopted 287(g) and promised to check with the warden.
July 4th storm recovery resources
Businesses hit by the July 4th storms and power outages can apply for SBA low-interest disaster loans, and residents can tap a new $50,000 Realtors Relief grant (capped at $1,000 each). A relief center at the Middle Smithfield community center is open through August 21.
Foster family shortage
The county locked in $84,554 in rapid rehousing contracts and up to $340,000 in group home and therapy services for children and youth placed by the courts.
Gun safety youth survey and PCCD funding
Dr. Toleno reported two gun-safety sessions reached about 60 people each, with cable gun locks given to participants — and he and John Jakobsen will testify before the PA House Judiciary Committee on April 13 about the grant program's success.
Hazard mitigation plan adoption
A resident argued the federal and local emergency management plans leave ordinary residents out — no guidance on where to go or how skilled people can help during a disaster. The Vice Chairman pointed him to the Salvation Army, Red Cross, and volunteer fire companies.
Rural EMS certification training
A new MOU with Eastern PA EMS Council funds BLS and ALS initial certification classes aimed at rural areas — a step toward the local EMS staffing shortage.