Potter County Today

Potter County Human Services (PCHS) has received numerous inquiries from individuals and families who are concerned about the potential suspension of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits that could begin for some recipients as early as Saturday. Human Services Administrator Thomas Patterson reports that the agency is working with community partners to link those in need with appropriate support as needed. Individuals with unmet needs are advised to call 211 to reach a regional resource navigator, or they can reach PCHS directly at 1-800-800-2560. 

Potter County buildings will be illuminated in green from Monday, Nov. 4, through Monday, Nov. 11. It’s part of the National Operation Green Light for Veterans campaign, which is designed to let veterans know they are seen, appreciated and supported; and to raise awareness of resources available to assist veterans and their families. Residents, businesses and government offices are encouraged to light up their buildings in green. Operation Green Light is a project of National Assn. of Counties’ Veterans and Military Services Committee.

Last year, the Potter County Commissioners expanded veterans affairs staffing and relocated the department. The office at 24 Maple View Lane provides additional space for enhanced privacy and record storage, a waiting area and convenient parking. Veterans Services Director Pepper and Veterans Services Officer Cristal Cary provide services by appointment on Monday through Friday, 8:30 am to 4:30 pm. Contact information is 814-274-8290, option 8; or email mpepper@pottercountypa.net, or ccary@pottercountypa.net.

During their Oct. 30 public meeting, the Potter County Commissioners will adopt the following proclamation:

Operation Green Light for Veterans 2025 Proclamation

WHEREAS, the residents Potter County have great respect, admiration, and the utmost gratitude for those who have selflessly served our country and this community in the Armed Forces; and

WHEREAS, their contributions and sacrifices have been vital in maintaining the freedoms and way of life enjoyed by our citizens; and

WHEREAS, veterans continue to serve our community in the American Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars, religious groups, civil service, and by functioning as County Veterans Service Officers to help fellow former service members access health, disability and compensation benefits each year; and

WHEREAS, more than half of returning service members experience high levels of stress and some are at a high risk for suicide; and

WHEREAS, Potter County appreciates the sacrifices of our United States military personnel and believes specific recognition should be granted;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, with designation as a Green Light for Veterans county, Potter County hereby declares Nov. 4-11, 2025, as a time to salute and honor the service and sacrifices of those transitioning from active service; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that Potter County will illuminate county buildings in green, and does hereby encourage others to honor our veterans by displaying green lights in a window of their place of business or residence from Nov. 4-11, 2025.

Marsha Dippold (second from left) has directed employment support services across the region for many years through Dickinson Center Inc. She accepted a copy of a Potter County proclamation recognizing October as National Disability Employment Awareness Month from Commissioners (from left) Paul Heimel, Nancy Grupp and Robert Rossman.

National Disability Employment Awareness Month is being recognized in the region, thanks largely to a concerted effort by Marsha Dippold of Dickinson Center Inc. Dippold, director of employment support services (ESS) at Dickinson, said the agency has helped dozens of individuals with disabilities find employment in Cameron, Potter, Elk and McKean counties. During a presentation to the Potter County Commissioners, she reported that a record number of that county’s disabled residents have been placed in jobs through ESS over the past year.

Clients are provided with assistance through the entire job search process, from constructing resumes, practicing interview skills, and applying for jobs. The support continues after being hired until the employee, employer, and employment specialist are all confident that the job can be performed independently. Disabled individuals with full or part-time jobs take fewer medications, enjoy reduced rates of heart disease and have lower suicide rates. Employment opportunities also allow the disabled to eliminate or lessen their dependence on government assistance programs by supplementing that income with earned income.

Nationwide, the unemployment rate for the disabled is twice that of the non-disabled. “Finding work puts these individuals one step closer to independence,” Dippold said. “We need to continue to educate the community and reach out to local businesses and industry. There’s a staggering amount of untapped potential in our region.”

A proclamation recognizing October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month was approved by the Potter County Commissioners. It followed a discussion of issues that have strained the services of A Way Out, the local domestic violence and sexual assault services agency. Shown from left are Commissioners Robert Rossman and Nancy Grupp; Michele Boden and Dave Hyde from A Way Out, and Commissioner Paul Heimel.

Domestic violence and sexual assault trends across the nation are concerning, and Potter County is hardly immune from the epidemic. Two representatives from A Way Out, the county’s victims’ services and public education agency, shared details as guest speakers for the Potter County Commissioners’ passage of a resolution recognizing October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month.

Executive director Dave Hyde, executive director, reported that the agency’s caseload has risen for both domestic violence and sexual assault incidents. He cited two long-standing challenges: lack of housing and limited transportation options. Other factors include economic issues, substance abuse and untreated mental illness. As a result, more victims are staying in unsafe conditions.

Meanwhile, Hyde said the state budget impasse, coupled with plummeting donations to A Way Out, could force changes that further limit the agency’s services. State allocations provide the majority of A Way Out’s operating budget. Board members will be meeting to discuss options that could include employee furloughs and fundraisers.

A Way Out offers confidential emergency short-term shelter, 24-hour crisis counseling and many other services. The agency offers a 24-hour helpline, 814-274-0368.

Potter County Commissioners Nancy Grupp, Robert Rossman and Paul Heimel continue to seek volunteers willing to serve on any of several county authorities, commissions and advisory boards. In an effort to broaden diversity, geographic representation and background knowledge, the Board of Commissioners periodically issues call for volunteers. Goal is to build a roster of qualified individuals who have a willingness to serve. As vacancies arise or incumbents’ terms expire, the commissioners rely on that these rosters to determine potential appointees for agencies such as:

Potter County Planning Commission. Administers subdivision and land use/development regulations; countywide comprehensive planning and community development; Revitalize Potter County initiative; regional advocacy on transportation funding priorities and other initiatives; GIS services; reliable resource/liaison for township and borough governments.

Potter County Redevelopment Authority. Economic development; support services for business and industry; administration of federal/state grants and loans for economic development.

Potter County Housing Authority. Administration of programs meeting needs for safe, healthy and affordable housing.

Potter County Human Services. Multiple advisory boards to guide administrators on meeting local social service needs.

Potter County Solid Waste Authority. Operation of transfer station/recycling center in Gold; administration of state-approved solid waste management/flow ordinance.

Potter County Hospital Authority. Public agency assisting UPMC Cole in acquisition of funds for capital improvements and implementation of long-term planning objectives.

Farmland Preservation Board. Responsible for purchase of development rights to preserve agricultural land.

Local Emergency Planning Committee. Coordinates activities of firefighters, emergency medical services, fire police and related responders; liaison with Potter County Department of Emergency Services for training, funding opportunities, drills/exercises to test preparedness.

Those wishing to be considered for appointment should contact Paige Barroqueiro at 814-274-8290, ext. 214 or pbarroqueiro@pottercountypa.net.