Coronvirus pretty much made face-to-face engagement between the public and government representatives temporarily impossible.
But the COVID-19 pandemic did not stop the lines of communication at several City Halls and municipal buildings around the state.
In the Pittsburgh suburb of Bethel Park, municipal officials improvised when they closed the office last year.
“We knew we could not communicate normally,” said Lawrence Christian, Bethel Park’s manager. “You can’t be transparent enough.”
The local government posted its agenda and minutes on its website, including budgets and hired a part-time social media provider, produced its Quarterly Chronicles report and developed a system of having the mayor do two- to- three-minute discussions with constituents via their home phones, Christian said.
Chambersburg Public Opinion
Bill McLaughlin didn t grow up in Chambersburg, but he spent much of his life improving the town for future generations.
Through his more than two decades on Chambersburg Borough Council and his roles with local development organizations, he helped guide the town through changing times.
McLaughlin passed away last Saturday, Jan. 23, at age 71 after a battle with COVID-19. He left behind his wife of nearly 50 years, Sue, two sons, a cherished daughter-in-law and a young granddaughter, among other family members.
“Bill was a unique individual, said Mike Ross, a friend and colleague of more than 30 years. He was witty, he was insightful on political and community issues and he was passionate about Chambersburg. He was not native to Chambersburg but he embraced the community for the 40 plus years he lived here.