CHAMBERSBURG, Pa. — Franklin County officials have outlined a proposed $6.2 million Human Services Block Grant budget that would support housing, mental health, aging, intellectual disability and other programs serving approximately 9,400 county residents.
Human Services Administrator Tawnya Hurley said housing, crisis services and behavioral health remain among the county’s top priorities.
“We know here in Franklin County that housing remains one of the most critical community needs,” Hurley said.
The proposed spending plan combines state, federal and county funding and will be submitted to the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services later this month.
Assistant Fiscal Director of Human Services Stacy Rowe said the county has used the block grant’s flexibility over the years to expand several programs, including rental assistance, Military Share food distribution and the county’s co-responder program.
Last year, the country served 700 individuals in rental assistance, Rowe said.
Commission Chairman Dean Horst praised staff members for maintaining services despite budget constraints.
“I just want to commend all of you and commend the work you’ve done in the past to maintain those eight senior centers around our county, especially on a tight budget,” Horst said.
County remembers long-time planning commissioner
Commissioners also recognized the service of Dr. Jack Benhart, a longtime member of the Franklin County Planning Commission who recently died at age 83.
Planning Director Quentin Clapper said Benhart served on the commission for more than 30 years while also teaching generations of students at Shippensburg University.
“Dr. Benhart served Franklin County for over 30 years on the planning commission, offering thoughtful guidance, steady leadership and a genuine commitment to the long-term well-being of our community,” he said.
Commissioner John Flannery noted that Benhart leaves “a lasting legacy here in the county,” while Chairman Dean Horst thanked the planning staff for recognizing his contribution.
Benhart taught in the geography-earth science department at Shippensburg University from 1968 until his retirement in 2005, serving as department chair for 33 years.
During his 37-year tenure at the university, Benhart also served as the Interim Dean of Arts and Sciences and Interim Dean of Admissions. Beyond the classroom, he left a lasting impact on the region. He co-founded the Shippensburg University Land Use Center (now the Center for Land Use and Sustainability). His notable public planning contributions include developing the Cumberland Valley Rail Trail and the Shippensburg University bus system.
