Cameron County commissioners outline Dark Skies Park master plan, courthouse security review and community events

Commissioner Zucal told the April 4 Cameron County Commissioners meeting that Lardner & Kline will begin work next week on a master site plan for the Dark Skies Park, meeting county departments and community organizations over two days to collect input.

Zucal also said he spoke with CNN regarding the closing of the Penn Highlands birthing unit and is engaged in efforts to facilitate local birthing services. He outlined planned community events: an Eclipse Day viewing at the Recreation Center with protective eyewear and a food truck, upcoming Farmers Market vendor planning for spring and summer, and the Senior Center Expo where commissioners will host a table.

Zucal reported that Cameron County is joining the Farmers Bureau in a governing role to represent local farmers on state regulatory matters. He said Bob Winters from Homeland Security met with the commissioners to review courthouse vulnerabilities and recommended tightening security measures to be implemented with the sheriff's office and the county IT department.

Commissioner Herzing described county participation in a PA Bead webinar and said the county anticipates the PA Bead challenge process to begin April 22; she also said she was invited to sit on the Pennsylvania Treasury Advisory Council through Stacy Garity’s office and will participate in mock interviews with local students. Commissioner Moate reported attending the North Central Safe Streets Steering Committee and provided a brief update on a recent NTCAC meeting.

The treasurer reported March expenses totaling $223,716.85. The minutes do not record further fiscal detail or follow‑up steps tied to those expenses in the April 4 record.