CHAMBERSBURG, Pa. – The Franklin County Council of Governments hosted its annual Municipal Officials Breakfast on Friday, Oct. 16, at the Franklin County 11/30 Visitors Bureau in downtown Chambersburg.
The event brought together municipal officials, school district representatives, judicial leaders and law enforcement professionals to discuss issues affecting Franklin County communities and strengthen collaboration among local agencies.
This year’s panel featured President Judge Shawn Meyers, Franklin County Court of Common Pleas; District Attorney Ian Brink; Sheriff Ben Sites and Chief Deputy Dan Foy, Franklin County Sheriff’s Office; and Magisterial District Judge Annie Gomez Shockey.
Panelists discussed probation reform, drug trafficking, mental health challenges, emerging court trends and the growing role of technology and interagency cooperation in law enforcement. The conversation also gave municipal officials an opportunity to learn more about the work of the courts and public safety agencies serving their communities.
“One of the greatest strengths of our Council of Governments is creating opportunities for local leaders to come together, exchange ideas and learn from one another,” said the group’s chairman, Chris Ardinger. “These discussions give our municipal officials a better understanding of the issues facing our courts and law enforcement agencies, while also highlighting the important work being done throughout Franklin County.”
“Strong communities are built on strong relationships. Bringing our municipal leaders, courts and law enforcement together helps us better understand one another’s challenges and work toward solutions that benefit all of Franklin County,” said Franklin County Commissioner Dean Horst.
Members of the Franklin County Council of Governments extend their appreciation to Community State Bank, Brown & Walters Insurance Agency, Salzmann Hughes and JHA Companies for sponsoring the breakfast. They also thanked the panelists, attendees and Franklin County Visitors Bureau for their participation and support.
Following the breakfast, the Franklin County Planning Department hosted its annual Municipal Summit, which provided additional updates and educational opportunities for local officials. Presentations included representatives from South Central Community Action Programs, the Franklin County Conservation District and Franklin County’s mosquito and tick-borne disease control program. The Franklin County Council of Governments remains committed to fostering communication and cooperation among local governments and the agencies serving Franklin County.