April - June

North Central
Pennsylvania Regional
Planning and Development
Commission
Quarterly Report
April—June 2016
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Table of Contents
Community Development/Regional Planning
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Enterprise Development Program
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Human Resource Department
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Information Technology Program
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Workforce Development Board
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Workforce Development Operations
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WIC Program
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COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT/REGIONAL PLANNING
NORTH CENTRAL PENNSYLVANIA REGIONAL
PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION
QUARTERLY REPORT
April - June 2016
MISSION/PROGRAM CHARGE
The Department has been charged with developing integrated strategies and policies for
community development and regional planning activities that are consistent with the
organizations Regional Action Strategy and Strategic Plan.
ORGANIZATIONAL/DEPARTMENT GOALS
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Promote cooperative efforts among community (county, city and municipal
governments) and economic development agencies that advance individual and
common interests in targeting commercial, industrial and infrastructure development
that is data driven and supported
Promote quality of life initiatives while safeguarding the region’s assets
Assess and inventory regional infrastructure needs, including water, sewer,
transportation, energy, utilities, recreation, education, healthcare, housing and site
remediation
Expand community outreach and engagement in a range of regional planning and
development topics
Establish and implement a communication plan to update stakeholders and the general
public, share success stories, and promote community and regional planning
Collect, compile, organize, analyze and disseminate data and data procedures needed
for regional policy-setting and decision-making using the evolving capabilities of GIS
Provide a desirable work environment and promote employee excellence
PROGRAMS/ACTIVITIES
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Appalachia Regional Commission/Economic Development Administration (ARC/
EDA) - Provides assistance and support to public infrastructure such as water and
wastewater system improvements, industrial parks, industrial multi-tenant buildings,
access roads to industrial areas, and other similar projects that promote community/
economic development and job creation.
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Energy Program – Provides assistance to business, local government agencies and
communities to help reduce pollution and save energy.
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Municipal Technical Assistance Program (MTAP) – Assists local governmental agencies
with information technology, software and related training services.
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Local Technical Assistance Program (LTAP) – Promotes transportation technology
through training, technical assistance and other customer services to elected municipal
officials and their staff.
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Transportation Planning – Provides a forum where federal, state, regional and local
decision makers identify issues/opportunities, conduct studies and make informed
recommendations regarding the programming and implementation of transportation
projects.
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Geographic Information System (GIS) – Collaborates with governmental agencies,
community and business leaders as well as internal North Central departments to
provide access to high quality geographic information.
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Community Development/Regional Planning – Encourages the exchange of meaningful strategies on how communities can soundly manage growth and development to
efficiently and effectively link land use, transportation, and economic development
decision making at a regional level (Greenway Planning, PA Wilds, etc.).
KEY ACTIVITIES/OUTCOMES FOR THIS PERIOD
The Community Development Department remains extremely active and during the quarter,
staff continued to promote cooperative efforts between community and economic development
agencies throughout the region. As the progress report will indicate, outreach and engagement
in a range of regional planning, tourism, and municipal assistance took precedence, including
the continued monitoring and participation in activities related to the Community
Development, Municipal Assistance and infrastructure impacts.
Below you will find additional core program activities for this period:
A. Appalachian Regional Commission
During the April - June 2016 reporting period staff continued assistance previously
approved application, and initial development work on new projects seeking fiscal year
2017 ARC funding consideration. Nine new projects for FY 2017 ARC funding
consideration (details currently being worked on and will be identified at a later date):
 Beaver Meadow Industrial Park Access Road Upgrades
 Bradford Regional Medical Center Patient Centric Equipment
Enhancements
 Brockway Borough Access Road Project
 Curwensville Streetscape Master Plan
 Driftwood Water System Filter Plant Well Reconstruction
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 Lewis Run Borough Main Street Access Road Extension
 North Central Partnership for Regional Economic Performance
 Port Allegany Flood Protection: Easement Acquisition and Sponsor
Adjustment
 St. Marys Airport Industrial Park Access Road Improvement
Other Technical Assistance.
Assistance was provided to several communities inquiring about possible ARC grant
funding for infrastructure projects in the region. Information about funding requirements,
matching funds, project eligibility, and implementation timetables was provided to these
inquiries.
B. Economic Development Administration
During the April - June 2016 reporting period one Comprehensive Economic Development
Strategy (CEDS) committee meeting was held, follow-up work on one previously approved
EDA project (Jefferson County Business Park) was provided, and technical assistance to
another community (Curwensville Borough) was initiated.
EDA Partnership Planning Grant
Follow-up work on the EDA Partnership Planning Grant submission in May 2016 for
$70,000 in EDA funding
May 18, 2016 CEDS Meeting.
The purpose of this meeting was to reconvene the committee after the winter recess,
discuss EDA’s new application process, discuss a CEDS update, and listen to a
presentation on the status of the natural gas industry. Agenda highlights included:
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Jefferson County Business Park Update.
Regional Statistics/Information.
Appalachian Regional Commission Projects FY 2016.
ARC project Summaries for FY 2017
Guest Speaker: Gary L Anderson, Vice President of Engineering and
Research, Keystone Powdered Metal Company. Mr. Anderson discussed the
future of manufacturing and the future of the powdered metal business and
issues facing manufactures such as workforce development and training needs.
Jefferson County Business Park
The project involves providing infrastructure to a 166 acre site north of Interstate 80 at the
intersection of Interstate 80 and Pennsylvania Route 28 (exit 81) in Jefferson County. The
project was funded by a $297,850 grant from the Economic Development Administration, a
$250,000 grant from the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic
Development, and $69,000 in local funds. Total project cost is estimated at $616,850. The
project was completed in late November 2015. The one hold up for construction by
businesses purchasing land to begin is the approval of the wetland development plan by the
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. It hopefully will be approved in the third quarter of 2016.
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Curwensville Borough Municipal Authority
Technical assistance was provided to the Curwensville Borough Municipal Authority per
a possible relocation of their office from the Curwensville Borough Municipal Building
to another existing building in downtown Curwensville. This would serve two purposes.
It would free up space at the Curwensville Borough Building for their internal use and
enable the Curwensville Municipal Authority to have more space for their operations,
records storage, public meeting space, and storing equipment. Financial assistance is
being requested from both Pennsylvania State Representative Tom Sankey and
Pennsylvania State Senator John Wozniak for renovation costs that would be incurred
sometime in 2017 once the building is acquired.
Port Allegany Borough
Preliminary work with Port Allegany Borough Manager Robert Veilleux on possible
EDA funding for a flood project assistance project
Other Technical Assistance
Additional technical assistance was provided to various inquiries for state and federal
funding for municipal economic development projects. Updated U.S. Census information and other pertinent data was provided to individuals, government institutions,
non-profit organizations, and businesses during the period.
C. Energy
During the April - June reporting period, various work program activities for the Energy
program involved the following:
• Continue work with Advantage Metal Powders on Hydronic flooring. Additional
assistance will be needed June and July. Due to budget constraints, need, etc.,
need not necessary in June. Continued working towards July to meet need
• Continue research regarding new OSHA standards requiring certification for
Confined Space Entry for attic/crawl space areas
• Review Great Lake Pollution Prevention Roundtable, the Snell Group, et. al.
emails/articles relating to energy, energy products, energy white papers on
specific topic areas. Forward articles as may be appropriate both in-house and to
business and municipal staff within region
• Research training to meet new OSHA requirements for confined space entry
D. MTAP/LTAP
During the April - June reporting period, various MTAP and LTAP training and
technical assistance activities took place:
MTAP
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Continued discussions with local governments, etc. regarding technology
Upgrades, where budget stands vis-à-vis this specific program
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Completed MTAP invoices:
 Brady Township/Clearfield County
 Port Allegany Borough/McKean County
 Madera Fire Department/Clearfield County
 Huston Township/Clearfield County
 Curwensville Borough/Clearfield County
 Irvona Borough
 Jefferson County Solid Waste
 McCalmont Township
 Decatur Township
 Greater Jeff COG
 Port Allegany
 Lawrence Township
 Ringgold Township
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Technical Assistance provided to:
 Heath Township/Jefferson County - No Follow-up for technology
 Decatur Township/Clearfield County - Done and submitted
 Moshannon Valley Council of Governments - No Follow-up for technology
 Coudersport Borough/Potter County - No Follow-up for technology
 Curwensville Borough Police Department (ongoing) - Done and submitted
 Bigler Township/Clearfield County - No Follow-up for technology
 Madera Volunteer Fire Department - Done and submitted
 Greater Jefferson Area Council of Governments (9mcd) - Done and
submitted
 Lawrence Township/Clearfield County - Done and submitted
 Ulysses Township/Potter County - Supervisors said no
 Jefferson County Commissioners/JCSWA-Brookville/Jefferson County - Done
 Ringgold Township/Jefferson County - Done and submitted
 Brady Township/Clearfield County - Done and submitted
 Bradford Township/McKean County - Done and submitted
 Kane Borough/McKean County - No Follow-up for technology
 Huston Township - Done and submitted
 Coalport Borough - No Follow-up for technology
 Houtzdale Fire Department - No follow-up for technology
LTAP
• Provides local government officials and employee’s technology transfer and
technical assistance opportunities regarding safety and maintenance issues for their
local road programs. Activities this past quarter included:
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Monthly report to Harrisburg for LTAP
Monthly phone call to PennDOT Central Office/LTAP/BRS
Courses held:
 Cameron County – Traffic Safety Development Plan for Local Roads/
Emporium
 Clearfield County: Warm Mix Asphalt: Bigler Township
 Signs and Safety Features for Bridges and Culverts – Jefferson County
Conservation District/Brookville/Jefferson County
 Traffic Safety Plans – Cameron County (Cameron County Recreation
Center)
Worked on inputting registrations for first quarter 2016-2017 program year
 Input registrations into the LTAP system for:
 Coudersport Borough (Potter County) class on 7/14/16 – 9 persons
 Punxsutawney Borough (Jefferson County) class on 8/3/16 – 18
persons
 Hamlin Township (McKean County) class on 8/25/16 – 1 person
 Bigler Township (Clearfield County) class on 9/8/16 – 3 persons
 Brady Township (Clearfield County) class on 9/20/16 – 3 persons
 Confirmed with Brady Township Supervisors regarding hosting updated
Winter Maintenance/Snow and Salt Academy Training and input into
LTAP system
Reviewed recent technical assistance requests and status for safety and
maintenance related issues. Appropriate follow-up/update with technical assistance
provider/municipality/municipal services office
Follow-up with the Annual Moshannon Valley Council of Governments
Equipment Show at Clearfield Firemen’s Park on May 25, 2016
Continued interaction with PennDOT, STIC, PSATS, etc. regarding Moshannon
Valley COG Equipment Show on May 25, 2016
Follow-up discussions with PSATS regarding non-availability of Maintenance
Training opportunities and limited Technical Assistance that is/will be available
for the coming months as many of these municipalities in our region and throughout the state are beginning to work on budgets that must be balanced and approved
by December. This is critical time as they prepare for maintenance for this winter,
next spring, etc. and have necessary funds in place to handle infrastructure issues
and preventive maintenance. Continue to bring this up each year as a concern to
the MPO/RPO annual partners meeting
E. Transportation
During the April - June reporting period, primary activities for the Transportation Program
involved working with PennDOT and the Rural Planning Organization’s Transportation
Committee regarding the FY 2015 and 17 Transportation Improvement Program and Long
Range Transportation Plan.
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Participated on numerous PennDOT Work Group activities
Continued outreach to PennDOT District and project sponsors on the Knox Kane
TAP project. Numerous phone and conference calls between project sponsor, PennDOT staff and FHWA
Continued meeting with DuFAST transit on route re-evaluations and new timetables
for their service area
Reviewed 28 epermitting requests during the past quarter
Finalized and submitted Public Participation Plan Documents for 45-day Public
Comment and review period (May 11-June 30). Posted to website and delivered to
County Planning, Libraries and CareerLinks throughout the region
Prepared and finalized FY 17 TIP package for 30-day comment period (May 25June 30). Posted to website and delivered to County Planning, Libraries and
CareerLinks throughout the region
Met with District 10 on May 18 regarding DCED Multimodal application for the
Route 28/219 Brockway Intersection. Began work on an application
Attended DuBois Regional Airport Chamber and legislative event
Participated in 2016 Pennsylvania Highway Safety Summit
Attended ATA and DuFAST Public Transit Board Meetings
Attended Safe Routes to School (SRTS) Conference in Columbus, Ohio
Conducted FHWA Peer exchange with ODOT and PennDOT Planning Partners
Conducted Statewide TAP reviews centered around transit oriented pedestrian
development
Attended RPO America Conference in Chattanooga, TN. North Central was winner
of NADO Award for Asset Management
Participated in Route 6 Statewide Bicycle Pedestrian Corridor Plan
F. GIS
During the April - June reporting period, various work activities that took place for the GIS
program involved the following:
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Continued GIS support for McKean and Cameron County (Asset Management)
Local Asset Data Coordination for Port Allegany and Bradford Township in
McKean County
Continued working with McKean County Planning staff on enhanced Local Zoning
data in Foster Township and Kane Borough, McKean County
Reviewed Ridgway Township, Elk County Municipal Property Mapping w/Tax
Parcel lines for internal land utilization planning
Attended PA GIS Conference in St College
Attended GIS-T in Raleigh, NC
Reviewed Weatherization mapping and transportation resiliency mapping and
website
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G. Community Development/Regional Planning
During the April - June reporting period, various activities took place in regard to
community outreach and engagement in a range of regional planning, tourism and
municipal assistance:
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Continued regional discussion regarding integrating regional Land Use,
Transportation and Economic Development strategies and project prioritization into
regional planning processes
Continued Implementation of the North Central Greenways Mini-Grant Program,
including maintenance of Greenway website
Attended meetings and held discussions with various stakeholders regarding
potential Greenway projects, to include project closeout field views
Continued coordination with Headwaters RC & D staff regarding proposal to
develop the Knox and Kane Railroad. Numerous follow up telephone conversations
on possible future grant applications through Multimodal Fund, TAP and DCED/
ARC
Safe Routes to School (SRTS) webinars
Attended Route 6 Annual meeting as part of the Route 6 tourism infrastructure
committee
Continued Assistance with Elk County Recycling Center
Met with the City of St Marys regarding ARC Access Roads and Community
Development planning
Public comment meetings with Mount Jewett Borough, County Planning, County
Engineer, PennDOT, and Headwaters RC & D regarding the Knox-Kane Project
Attended the PA Wilds Annual Banquet
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ENTERPRISE DEVELOPMENT
NORTH CENTRAL PENNSYLVANIA REGIONAL
PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION
QUARTERLY REPORT
April - June 2016
MISSION/PROGRAM CHARGE
The mission of the North Central Enterprise Development Program is to foster economic
vitality of the six-county area through a comprehensive regional economic development
strategy – a strategy that focuses upon needs and potential opportunities that will result in
improving the existing economic base and creating opportunities for new growth to enhance the
overall quality of life in the region.
To achieve this mission, a private sector-oriented program was developed to provide the
opportunities for growth by way of direct assistance in increasing market share, low-interest
loans, access to space, and access to technologies.
ORGANIZATIONAL/DEPARTMENT GOALS
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Promote the resources and assistance available to encourage and sustain economic
growth
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Meet and exceed specific program compliance goals as identified in the various program
contracts
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Collaborate and coordinate program activities with local and regional economic
development entities
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Identify and pursue opportunities that will expand and/or enhance current programs to
benefit growth
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Respond to private sector needs that encourage the creation or retention of familysustaining jobs
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Disseminate information, provide training/education information and promote seminars
to keep industry sectors current on relative data
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Provide a desirable work environment and promote employee excellence to address the
goals and objectives of the Regional Action Strategy and Strategic Plan
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PROGRAMS/ACTIVITIES
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Loan Assistance Program – Provide access to low-interest loans and packaging loan
assistance to address capitalization requirements.
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Export Program – Provide assistance to companies that are new to exporting and new
to export markets and access to overseas markets to expand customer base of
existing businesses within the region.
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Procurement Program – Provide assistance to companies to capitalize on
opportunities to sell goods and services to the Department of Defense, Federal and
State governments.
KEY ACTIVITIES/OUTCOMES FOR THIS PERIOD
Loan/Finance Assistance – Maintained active loan portfolio of 223 loans representing
$23,424,292.36 in financing from all funds.
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Two loans were closed totaling $511,175 in financing
Private sector leverage was $308,175 and public sector leverage was $203,000
Three new jobs were created and 41 were retained
Ten loans were satisfied.
Six applications were reviewed and four applications were recommended for approval
by the Loan Review Committee
Companies continue with the “At-Risk” Business Program. Four of these businesses
have developed work-out strategies to bring their accounts current
We continue to monitor the foreclosure proceedings on two defaulted loans and a
Chapter 11 bankruptcy action which is a re-organization
Six pre-application interviews and seven site visits were conducted with businesses in
Elk, Clearfield, McKean and Potter counties
Approved applications pending closing include four projects involving businesses in
Clearfield, Jefferson, McKean and Potter Counties. The pending loan closings
represent $565,000 in financing which will leverage $910,000 in private sector
financing and $90,000 in other public sector financing
Loan Program Director Pat Brennen retired from North Central on April 8
Staff met with representatives from the PA Department of Community and Economic
Development, Office of Business Financing on May 18 and 19 to discuss portfolio
management of state-funded loans and conduct project site visits
Staff attended the 2016 Pennsylvania Economic Development Association Spring
Conference from April 11 - 13
Staff attended the WEDnetPA Professional Development Conference along with
WEDnetPA staff April 27 - 29 and became certified for fiscal year 2016-2017
Including WEDnetPA with the loan program client management process will stream
line the monitoring and reporting requirements of the Enterprise Development
Department
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Staff attended the Western Pennsylvania Small Business Administration Guaranteed
Lenders Quality Circle Conference in Farmington, PA on May 23 and 24
Staff assisted with an Export Seminar on May 4 and 5 with North Central Export staff
in St. Marys
Staff assisted with a Mining, Oil and Gas Field Media Tour with North Central Export
staff in Jefferson County on June 14 and 15
Loans closed during the quarter of April 1 thru June 30, 2016 reporting period:
J.I.T Tool & Die, Inc.
Elk County
$131,000
IRP 5
Denton Hill Promotions, Inc.
Potter County
$ 72,000
ARC
Upcoming events include:
• Staff to assist with a WEDnetPA informational seminar on July 19
• Staff to attend a finance training course through the National Development Council,
August 22 - 26
Export Marketing Program – Provides value-added assistance to North Central clients who
are interested or engaged in international trade. Reflective of the strategic goals established by
North Central, the major objective of the Export Marketing Assistance Program is to assist in
job and business creation through an economic development defined program that promotes
diversification and advancement in regional growth at the international level.
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Work Orders for this reporting period totaled 21. Work Orders capture the counseling
assistance that includes the services of the now reduced 15 Overseas Offices located
Australia, Canada, Czech Republic, Germany, India, Indonesia, Israel, Mexico,
Netherlands, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, South Korea, Taiwan, United Arab Emirates,
and the United Kingdom, Each request to an overseas office is tracked separately so a
company may have multiple Work Orders.
Export Actions were tracked at 21. Export Actions are defined as counseling successes:
traveling to market, participation in overseas trade shows or missions, meeting with
prospective customers overseas and signing an agent or distributor. Export Actions for
this reporting included: Trade Show participation (five), company meeting with a PA
Overseas Office Representative in-county (Korea – one) and company meeting with
potential partners (15).
Active export companies for this reporting period – 54.
Conducted 91 Counseling sessions including new client outreach regarding export
assistance services, Export Compliance and Audit Procedures, Export Documentation,
and the Global Assistance (GAP) Program, follow-up of work orders/market research
reports, trade show participation and international travel assistance.
Export marketing staff participated in the Annual NASBITE Conference which was
held in Newport, Rhode Island, April 4 - 9. Participation in the NASBITE Annual
Conference affords the opportunity for the recertification of staff under the Certified
Global Business Professional (CGBP) criteria.
North Central Export, in cooperation with the PREP Network, hosted two Exportrelated seminars. May 4 was a day-long event focusing on Export Documentation and
Procedures. The session took attendees through the entire export process from the
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inception of an order to the delivery of the goods at the final destination. Forty
individuals, representing 19 companies, participated in this session. May 5 was a half
-day session focusing on Incoterms® 2010 in Practice. The Program was designed to
provide not only an understanding of definitions of the various Incoterms® 2010, but
actual examples of using the terms to the advantage of Purchase Orders, Sales
Agreements and Letters of Credit. Thirty-one individuals, representing 16 companies,
attended the second day. The Seminars were designed to either stand alone for
companies/individuals or as a packaged event. Sixteen companies and 25 attendees
capitalized on the opportunity to participate in both sessions.
Robert (Bob) Imbriani, Executive Vice President International at Team WorldWide,
was the speaker for each event. In addition to Christine Perneski of the Export
Program, Kristi Wendel, of the North Central Loan Department, and Annette
Campbell, Business Service Representative Pennsylvania CareerLink® Elk/Cameron
Counties, assisted during the events. Deb Delhunty, North Central Administrative
Assistant, took the lead in organizing the presentation materials. Recruitment for the
event was supported by all PREP partners. The event was held at the Red Fern in
Kersey.
North Central, in partnership with AHUG and GT Thompson, co-sponsored the
AHUG Annual Dinner pre-meeting session of May 31, 2016, at the Red Fern.
As part of Core PA Global – Make It In America Grant, the PREP Partners of Clearfield
County EDC, Jefferson County EDC and North Central, coordinated in the hosting of
seven international journalists as part of the June 13-17, 2016, Mining, Oil and Gas Field
Media Tour. North Central coordinated with the EDCs for events on the evening of June
14 and the day of June 15. The North Central events kicked off with a dinner at the
Gateway Lodge with Paul McCloskey of Clearfield County EDC presenting on the Future
Opportunities from the Energy Sector. First Energy sponsored the reception. On June 15
Bradley Lashinsky of Jefferson County EDC presented on the Advantages and
Opportunities of Investing in the North Central Region. The group visited “O” Ring CNG
Fuel Systems LP in Brookville for a presentation and tour. A working lunch included a
presentation by DCNR Bureau of Forestry, David Schmit. The afternoon included a tour
of Blackbird Distillery, an example of a downstream user of natural gas. The journalists
represented international publications and traveled from the countries of Australia, Canada,
India, Nigeria and the United Kingdom. Two journalists representing on-line international
publications based out of Texas were also part of the group. The North Staff of Christine
Perneski, Director of International Business Development, Kristi Wendel, Loan
Coordinator, and Debbie Delhunty, Administrative Assistant, were responsible for
organizing the two day event in the region and hosting the group.
Bringing the World to North Central Pennsylvania is scheduled for Friday, September 16,
2016. This event provides the opportunity for North Central to host one-to-one company
meetings with Pennsylvania’s 15 Authorized Trade Representatives severing 55 countries.
Procurement Technical Assistance Program – The Procurement Technical Assistance Center’s
mission is to maximize the number of capable companies participating in the government marketplace by determining contracting readiness and assisting business become contract ready. Services
offered by the PTAC include: one-on-one counseling, free bid-match services, assistance with
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registrations and socio-economic certifications, solicitation/proposal and documentation
reviews; provision of military specifications and standards, and the offering of training/
workshops.
Procurement Program operates on calendar year – January through December 2016. Below is our
second quarter report – April through June 2016:
• Professional development training:
Donna attended 28.75 of professional development training including:
 April 3: Teaching PTAC Clients What They Need to Know about the FAR; the Contracting Academy; APTAC Spring Pre-Conference, St. Louis, MO
 April 3: The Complete FAR Guide for PTAC Counselors; the Contracting
Academy; APTAC Spring, Pre-Conference, St. Louis, MO
 April 4 -6: APTAC Spring Conference, St. Louis, MO
 Recent Legislation
 Simplified Acquisitions
 Understanding Gov’t Contracting Methods and Source Selection Process
 After the RFP Win or Lose: Listing a Post Award Debrief as a Marketing
Tactic
 Winning Business in the New Normal Environment
 How to Staff a Winning Proposal in the Climate of Change
 How Change in Ownership Impacts Already Certified Small Business
 Can Compliance Really be User Friendly
 Region III meeting
 Creating Competitive Advantage from a Changing Acquisition Landscape
 Accountability in Contracting
 May 17: DLA Internet Bid Board System (DIBBS) Solicitations; DLA webinar
 May 24: DIBBS Submitting a Quote; DLA webinar
 June 15: Intellectual Property Issues for Government Contractors; Piliero Mazza
 Attorneys; webinar
• Two new clients added:
 0 clients – April
 2 clients – May
 0 clients – June
 Working with 61 active clients
• Provided 71:21 hours of counseling services to 21 businesses / 90 sessions
 Counseling Highlights
 CVE Certification
 Capabilities Statements
 Proposal Reviews/Submissions
 Costars
• Sponsored 4 training events
 April 11: Break for 15: Accelerate Your Business – Navigating the Federal Contracting Highway; eChat series with JARI PTAC and the SBA Pittsburgh District
Office; 31 attendees
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 May 3: Skyrocket Your Business with Tim Piccirillo Keynote Speaker “Everything
You Do is Marketing”; 20 attendees
 May 10: Introduction to the Federal Government webinar co-sponsored with JARI
PTAC and the SBA Pittsburgh District Office; 34 attendees
 June 14: Break for 15: Accelerate Your Business: NAICS Codes; eChat series
with JARI PTAC and the SBA Pittsburgh District Office; 30 attendees
Upcoming Events
 July 12: NAICS: The Code of the Road; webinar; 11:00am – 12:00pm
 July 19: What is WEDnetPA?; North Central 9am – 12pm
 August 9: Break for 15: Accelerate Your Business: System for Award
Management (SAM) eChat with JARI PTAC and the SBA Pittsburgh District
Office; 11:00am – 11:30am
 September 13: System for Award Management (SAM) webinar with JARI PTAC
and the SBA Pittsburgh District Office; 11am – 12pm
 September 14: COSTARS Connection; Members & Suppliers; Co-sponsored by
threee area PTACs and the Clarion SBDC; Clarion University-Gemmell Student
Complex; 12:30pm – 4:00pm
KOZ
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Assisted new property owners with filing for benefits and explaining the program eligibility
requirements and benefits.
Closed out the 2015 applications and followed up with counties for those property owners
that were not in compliance for their annual benefits.
Processed 2016 KOZ applications as submitted for approval of benefits.
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HUMAN RESOURCE DEPARTMENT
NORTH CENTRAL PENNSYLVANIA REGIONAL
PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION
QUARTERLY REPORT
April - June 2016
MISSION/PROGRAM CHARGE
To provide quality services, and support in employment, training, employee relations,
benefits, compensation and safety. Create and maintain a foundation which will enable North
Central to promote the development, the involvement, and the retention of its employees to
ensure customer satisfaction.
ORGANIZATIONAL/DEPARTMENT GOAL
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Make quality a part of the way we work
Improve efficiency and effectiveness and employ technology and methods which
enhance service, communications and productivity
Help make North Central a great place to work - professionally and personally
KEY ACTIVITIES/OUTCOMES FOR THIS QUARTER
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We will be hiring two summer interns through Stackpole/Hall this year. The
application process for the students will begin soon. PHEAA will be releasing the
2016 job application form sometime in March. The hourly rate for the summer job
students will increase to $8.00 per hour.
MassMutual requested a Census File and Plan Sponsor Questionnaire to be completed
for our 403B compliance testing by February 10, 2016. This is the first step in the
5500 Audit for our 403B Retirement Plan.
Jerry Stewart retired on January 8, 2016, from our Workforce Department. He
worked in the Clearfield CareerLink as a Youth Employability Counselor for more
than 20 years.
We hired Kerri Button as an Adult Employability Counselor in our Workforce
Development Department based in Clearfield County. Kerri started her employment
with us on February 16, 2016.
We have another new employee who started work on February 22, 2016. Amy
Preston has been hired as a Career Counselor by the WDB based in Jefferson County.
We sent a census report and employer application to Anderson and Kime for our
medical coverage which will be coming up for renewal on July 1, 2016.
Principal Life, AD&D, STD and LTD is up for renewal on April 1, 2016. We have
negotiated with Principal for the most cost effective plan.
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We are in the process of hiring an Adult Employability Counselor/Instructor for the
Workforce Development Department in Elk County. The applications have been
received and will be reviewed.
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INFORMATION SYSTEMS
NORTH CENTRAL PENNSYLVANIA REGIONAL
PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION
QUARTERLY REPORT
April - June 2016
MISSION/PROGRAM CHARGE
The Information Systems Department serves three major functions at North Central; Internet
Service Provider, Information Technology (IT) development, and IT support. Each function is
essential in enabling North Central to provide services to our six county region. Our goal is to
maintain and enhance our current technology infrastructure, equipment, and software while
continuing to develop improved processes for North Central staff and clients.
ORGANIZATIONAL/DEPARTMENT GOALS
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Provide Help Desk, networking, and training support for North Central staff
Maintain and support Internet service
Develop and maintain North Central software and data files
Maintain and enhance Wireless Wide Area Network
Provide Telecommunication and Media support
Provide technology and telecommunication infrastructure support to outside entities
Provide videoconferencing capacity for all North Central departments
KEY ACTIVITIES/OUTCOMES FOR THIS PERIOD
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Used Microsoft’s Hyper-V technology to create a virtual server to house our client web
sites and our database programs. This setup increases data throughput and also enhances
our data backup procedures.
Researched a new Antivirus solution for all North Central PCs and servers. This will
replace our current 3-year solution that ends in June. Sophos appears to be package that
best suits our needs. Still pending additional information.
Installed updated loan reporting software (Porfol) onto accounting server for shared use.
Set up PC for new staff at Elk County CareerLink.
Added another client to the WAN off our Cent16 tower site.
Replaced undersized 24 port WAN switch with new 48 port switch that has Power-Over
-Ethernet (POE) functionality that will eliminate the need for the numerous power
supplies currently on use.
Installed a private cloud service for all NCP staff. This keeps all files on a storage
device located on site providing data security while allowing staff remote access and file
sharing.
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Converted our videoconferencing system to LifeSize Cloud. This eliminates the need to
maintain sophisticated hardware and software. Devices like cell phones, iPads, laptops
and desktops can all access the service from anywhere.
Purchased an enterprise version antivirus package named Sophos Endpoint Protection. It
will replace our current Comodo solution which was creating bandwidth problems
throughout our network.
Began changing our timesheet process the allow entries that exceed 8 hours in a day.
This is in preparation of the pending FLSA changes.
Installed UniFi wireless equipment and Mikrotik routers in Clearfield and Punxsy
CareerLinks. This configuration will allow North Central IT staff to remotely manage,
troubleshoot and upgrade all PCs at these sites. This will eliminate the many support
trips needed each year. The remaining sites will be upgraded in June and July.
A preliminary 2017 budget has been created and will be finalized pending the results of
our accounting department.
The PA Game Commission has asked North Central to install another WiFi hotspot at
their new Elk Viewing Site.
Changes have been made to the NCP staff time entry system to allow for entries less
than one hour.
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WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT BOARD
NORTH CENTRAL PENNSYLVANIA REGIONAL
PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION
QUARTERLY REPORT
April - June 2016
VISION:
The North Central Workforce Development Board will be a strategic workforce development
leader focused on promoting economic prosperity and self-sufficiency of individuals by
creating a workforce that is competitive in the global marketplace.
MISSION:
The North Central Workforce Development Board serves as the premier facilitator of an
innovative workforce development system that meets the changing human capital needs of our
employers and provides resources for our job seekers that maximizes their career
potential and focuses on the customers’ needs.
WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT BOARD GOALS:
•
Enhance public-private partnerships through better connectivity and communication in
order to increase investment in our workforce system leading to greater economic
vitality for our region.
• Engage in Sector Strategies of our growth industries identifying current skill gaps of
both the incumbent and entry-level worker that will result in skill upgrades through
customized training and partnerships.
• Design innovative workforce development strategies to reach young adults and keep
them engaged through the identification of best practices and development of new
programs utilizing the Customer Centered Design Method.
• Identify Career Pathways in major industry sectors to enhance career counselling that
will result in training opportunities for our customers through skill, credential and
degree attainment.
• Ensure that our customers, both employers and job seekers, remain in the center of our
design of all services and encourage our partners to do the same.
*Note – Mission, Vision, and Goals were revised at the April 2016 WDB Meeting.
PROGRAMS/ACTIVITIES
WDB Board
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We were honored to have Kathy Manderino, Secretary of Labor and Industry, visit our
region on April 20. She was here as part of the Governor’s “Jobs that Pay” tour. We
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assembled a round table of employers and partners for a robust discussion regarding
our regional economy, what works, what doesn’t, key success, and next steps.
Following the round table, the Secretary, Dave Eckleman from the press office and
Susie participated in a tour of Keystone Powdered Metals.
As the chair of the Pennsylvania Workforce Development Association, Susie was
invited to a meeting with the Acting Deputy Secretary for Workforce Development,
Bobby O’Brien along with Bureau Directors to discuss key issues in workforce
development and future collaboration. The meeting was deemed a huge success!
Pam and Susie, along with other North Central staff, attended the DuBois Chamber
event hosting Senator Scarnati. He discussed the budget and other top priorities of the
senate.
Linda updated the procedure for the Eligible Training Provider List and created an
information packet for our post-secondary providers.
Staff, along with other partners, are participating in a new Customer Centered Design
Challenge. One team is called Mission Possible – focusing on the CareerLink
experience. The other team is named North Central PA - Collaborating for Second
Chances – focusing on re-entry.
Linda, Susie, Pam, and Jim attended the Pennsylvania Workforce Development
Association Annual Conference in Hershey. Susie had the opportunity to welcome
everyone to the conference and participate in the presentation of the awards. Linda and
Pam helped facilitate a Customer Centered Design Mini Institute. Pam, along with
Blythe Brunner, Teresa Neal and Troy Johnson, presented a workshop on Customer
Centered Design. Their workshop provided hands-on activities and everyone enjoyed
their presentation.
Linda is working with Tracey Vernon of Vernon Land Use, LLC in the development of
a Workforce System Focus Group for the Long Range Transportation Plan.
Susie has met with our new County Commissioners that are members of our Chief
Elected Official Board providing an orientation and overview of their role on this
Board.
Joe, Susie and Pam assisted with and attended the 3rd Annual Appalachian Higher
Education Network Conference in Kingsport, Tennessee. Education, workforce and
economic development agencies from throughout the Appalachian states gathered to
discuss how to increase Postsecondary Attainment in Appalachia using the 4 Pillars of
Success – Family, Community, Institutions and Self. Susie and Pam facilitated a work
shop at the conference entitled introducing those in attendance to the Customer
Centered Design Process.
At the Workforce Development Board meeting on June 29, Board members continued
their strategic planning by establishing action steps for two of their goals approved
earlier this year. Using the Customer Centered Design process, members broke into
groups and brainstormed ideas on how the board will succeed in our new vision,
mission, and goals. Following a brief brainstorming session board members were
challenged to prototype an idea. Members enjoyed the experience and commented
that it was a fun, creative way to brainstorm solutions.
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Planning
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Pam hosted a Career Education class with the Ridgway Area High School and the
DISCOVER Partnership. As part of the Career Cruise program staff engaged the
students in a teamwork activity, provided a tour of the facility as well as discussed the
career exploration process and local Labor Market Information with the 10th grade
students.
Staff held a public meeting to review the process for providing input into the regional
and local plans for the Workforce Development Area. The plans, due to the PA
Department of Labor and Industry by June 2, are one year transitional plans and can be
viewed on our website – www.ncwdb.org. Special thanks to staff for all of their work
to submit our Regional and Local Workforce Plan.
Pam participated in the State Leaders WIOA Youth Convening in Philadelphia
presenting for the North Central Our Youth Our Future Customer Centered Design
Team. The event was held by the Employment and Training Administration.
Pam implemented Industry Partnership training for the Manufacturing and Healthcare
Industry Partnerships held at North Central. Two sessions of the Leadership Academy,
a 3–1/2 day in-depth training for new supervisors offered by Dering Consulting,
brought together 48 incumbent workers from throughout the region. The training and
provider was requested by employers.
Quality Assurance/Continuous Improvement
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Staff, along with Accounting Staff, have researched and completed the Pennsylvania
Department of Labor and Industry, Bureau of Workforce Administration, “Local Board
Compliance and Oversight and Local Area Fiscal and Procurement System Analysis
and Review” for Program Year 2015. Our State Monitor, Jennifer Reams, spent the
week of June 27, 2016, in our office completing this review. Many thanks to everyone
involved for a great review. Ms. Reams will be scheduling an exit review sometime in
July.
Workforce/PA CareerLink® Systems
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Linda, along with the Site Administrators and Bruce Jones, traveled to Centre County
PA CareerLink® Center to observe triage and referral policies.
Linda facilitated a meeting between the Operator Consortium and the Local
Management Committee to discuss and implement procedures to assist food stamp
customers seeking services at the PA CareerLink® Centers.
At the request of CareerLink Site Administrators, Linda facilitated a meeting with the
Site Administrators and the Operator to discuss plans for the implementation of a
customer centered welcome and referral process in our PA CareerLink® centers.
Linda met with Ann Dixon to discuss new approaches to update workshop curriculum.
In an attempt to utilize technology and provide more hands-on activities.
Linda assisted in gathering and the exchange of CareerLink staff suggestions for
assistive technology as requested by the state.
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Career Counseling
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Joe and Amy worked with students in both the high schools and middle schools in
Jefferson and Clearfield counties to complete career plans, provide labor market
information and career related experiences.
Joe also worked on senior portfolios with CCCTC students.
Amy presented to the 10th grade students in multiple classes at the Brookville Area
High School. She discussed different types of jobs, Holland interest codes, workforce/
post high school opportunities, skills gaps, the trades and high priority occupations.
Amy assisted Jeff Tech with judging NOCTI test on April 28, 2016, and attended the
BC3 Career Fair. She also assisted 39 students with Career plans for the month of
May.
Joe completed exit interviews with seniors from Curwensville and Harmony High
Schools. He also assisted with a tour of the PA CareerLink ® Center in Clearfield for
Philipsburg students. Joe continues to attend advisory council meetings at Philipsburg
and Harmony High Schools.
Amy is assisting Teresa Neal with the Summer Youth Work Program and acted as the
Brookville crew supervisor June 6 - 24. The crew helped prepare Scripture Rocks with
the Jefferson County Historical Society for their grand opening; assisted the Brookville
Library in setting up for their annual book sale; and will work at Quiet Creek Herb
Farm, the YMCA, and the Jefferson Manor in the upcoming weeks.
Joe is also busy this summer assisting with implementation of the summer youth work
experience program.
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WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT OPERATIONS
NORTH CENTRAL PENNSYLVANIA REGIONAL
PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION
QUARTERLY REPORT
April - June 2016
MISSION/PROGRAM CHARGE
The Workforce Development department is focused on four areas of quality service: 1) All
customers will receive a needs assessment to determine the appropriate mix of services, 2) Job
seekers and Employers will be provided with workshop opportunities to address training or
information needs, 3) Job seekers will be provided financial aid to address technical
training needs driven by employer demands and market needs, 4) All customers will have
access to job placement services.
HIGHLIGHT OF ACTIVITIES:
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Job Driven NEG: On-the-Job (OJT) and Individual Training Accounts (ITA)
continue to be developed. Workforce Development staff have expended the original
award and all but $12,500 of additional $65,000 in Training funds. North Central is
presently the top provider in the State developing OJT contracts. The JD NEG funds
end September 30, 2016.
WIOA Youth Programs: Employability Counselor throughout the six counties are
processing applications and developing worksites for the initial start of the Summer
Work experience program for In School Youth and TANF Youth. Estimated 57 youth
will begin work experience in June. Approximately 125 additional youth will begin a
work experience opportunity during July and August. A full Youth report is part of the
Youth Standing Committee report.
PA CareerLink®: North Central staff participated with other partners in a Rapid
Response service for the laid off worker: Total laid off workers affected 422; Company
list – Graftech, Global Fabrication, Rosebud Mining, Osram Sylvania, Hedges Fine
Food, K&B Mechanical, Universal Well Services, Pittsburgh Corning, Niagara Cutter,
AD Bargain, Hallmark Heritage Shop. A request through the WDB is being processed
to address service needs to those laid off.
PWDA Governor Achievement nominations: Scott Caltagarone, OSY Customer,
received his Governor Achievement award at the 2016 PWDA Annual Conference held
May 18 - 19. Scott’s parents and staff were in attendance for the award ceremony.
Workforce Development Operations: The Elk-Cameron County Employability
Counselor position has been filled. Joe Fritz will start as the new Employability
Counselor on April 25, 2016.
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FIT 4 model replications: Workforce Development, the Workforce Development
Board, CEC, and IU-9 are collaborating with Health Care employers to create a FIT 4
Health Care training program. Enrollment will begin August 1, 2016, and Technical
training will begin September 6, 2016. Training will be offered in Coudersport and St.
Marys. Interested parties may contact the PA CareerLinks® for details and enrollment.
•
www.ncentral.com/workforce: Workforce Development staff encourages everyone to
visit the website for workshop updates, program information, and highlights of success
stories. Staff directory for each county and directions to each PA CareerLink® office are
available.
Training Contract Expenditures to June 30, 2016
ITA/IRC
Adult 7916-7900
Youth 8016-8087
Dislocated Worker 4716-4700
DW NEG Jobs Driven 5015 5011
Rapid Response 4816 4886
Rapid Response 4816 4887
Rapid Response 4814-4891
Rapid Response 4816 4892
EARN 5616-5602
TOTAL Training expenditures
Planned
$81,675.00
$0.00
$78,511.50
$94,951.00
$29,279.00
$9,183.00
$8,295.00
$7,833.00
$10,000.00
$319,727.50
Expenditures
$81,306.00
$0.00
$78,511.50
$82,792.00
$29,278.50
$9,183.00
$8,295.00
$7,833.00
$4,038.66
$301,237.66
Obligations
$0.00
$0.00
$0.00
$8,295.00
$0.00
$0.00
$0.00
$0.00
$0.00
$8,295.00
Balance
$369.00
$0.00
$0.00
$3,864.00
$0.50
$0.00
$0.00
$0.00
$5,961.34
$10,194.84
Planned
$85,382.00
$9,582.00
$212,782.00
$27,907.00
$70,763.50
$42,500.00
Expenditures
$80,251.87
$8,281.50
$195,319.43
$27,506.50
$66,629.76
$11,579.50
Obligations
$0.00
$0.00
$8,826.79
$0.00
$0.00
$0.00
Balance
$5,130.13
$1,300,50
$8,635.78
$400.50
$4,133.74
$30,920.50
$5,345.00
$5,345.00
$0.00
$454,261.50
$394,913.56
$8,826.79
$0.00
$0.00
$50,521.15
OJT AND SUBSIDIZED
Adult 7916-7900
Youth 8016-8087
DW NEG Jobs Driven 5015 5011
RR 4816 4886
Dislocated Worker 4716-4700
Subsidized Employment 56165602
Rapid Response 4816-4892
TOTAL Training expenditures
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WIC PROGRAM
NORTH CENTRAL PENNSYLVANIA REGIONAL
PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION
QUARTERLY REPORT
April - June 2016
MISSION/PROGRAM CHARGE
The Pennsylvania WIC Program is committed to improving the health of eligible pregnant
women, new mothers, and children by providing nutrition education, breastfeeding support,
healthy foods, and referrals to health and social programs during the critical stages of fetal and
early childhood development.
ORGANIZATIONAL/DEPARTMENT GOAL
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Increase participant breastfeeding incidence rates and breastfeeding duration rates
Advance WIC’s mission as the premier maternal and child nutrition education
program within our communities
Increase staff expertise in the fields of maternal/child feeding, breastfeeding and
human relations
Increase WIC enrollment by providing outreach services to those target areas where
potential clients reside/frequent
PROGRAMS/ACTIVITIES
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WIC Program staff members are qualified to provide breastfeeding promotion and
support to eligible pregnant and breastfeeding applicants. North Central WIC strives to
improve breastfeeding incidence and duration rates throughout our local service area.
Breastfeeding statistics are released bi-annually (November/May). The May data shows
that a higher number of women enrolled in the North Central WIC program initiate
breastfeeding and breastfeed longer when compared to the Pennsylvania State WIC
Agency over-all statistics. 67.35% of North Central WIC participants initiate
breastfeeding and the duration rate is 16 weeks. The State WIC Agency has a
breastfeeding incidence rate of 61.88% and a duration rate of 15 weeks.
The Breastfeeding Peer Counselor Program provides additional support that is crucial to
help breastfeeding mothers overcome breastfeeding problems and barriers. Peer C staff
accepts client phone calls/text messages/emails outside of the regularly scheduled work
day. During this quarter, the Peer Counselors provided breastfeeding promotion and
support on 642 occasions. Contacts consist of either one on one conversations occurring
in the clinic setting, email contacts, phone discussions, and text messaging.
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WIC Program staff participated in the following Outreach events this quarter:
 WIC Staff attended two Local Inter-Agency Coordinating Council meetings.
 North Central held our 3rd Annual Outreach Day on April 14, 2016. Staff
visited in excess of 90 partnering agencies/community organizations to share
information on eligibility and enrollment in the WIC Program.
 June 3 - WIC Program staff participated in the Cameron County Fun Fair.
North Central WIC Staff participated in the following trainings:
 Three staff members completed the “Compliance Buy” training and are now
qualified to conduct routine, assigned compliance buys in the North Central
service area.
 March 31 - HemoCue Training – assigned staff participated in our annual
HemoCue Training.
 Bonnie Kelly, Retail Store Coordinator for North Central, was chosen by the
State WIC Agency to participate in an I-Pad pilot project. Bonnie traveled to
Harrisburg on May 17 to attend a Retail Store I-Pad Training. Bonnie and
four of her peers began utilizing the I-Pads while conducting activities within
assigned WIC participating retail stores.
 May 19 - Program staff participated in our annual Farmers Market Nutrition
Program Training.
 May 19 - A CIS (Client Information Systems) training was provided to all
staff due to an update in accessing participant on-line data.
WIC Program staff participated in the following State WIC Agency meetings/
conferences:
 April 14 - Quality Assurance & Program Integrity Conference Call
 April 19 – 21 - WIC Director Meeting held in King of Prussia
 April 22 – 23 - Breastfeeding Coordinator Meeting in Harrisburg
 May 19 - State WIC Agency Policy and Procedure Committee Conference
Call
 June 21 – 22 - 16 Nutrition Education Conference in Harrisburg
 June 24 - Key Performance Indicators Conference Call
 June 30 - General Administration Steering Committee Conference Call
KEY ACTIVITIES/OUTCOMES FOR THIS PERIOD
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A WIC Public Meeting was held at the North Central office on May 17 from 10 AM
– 3 PM. Ed Pollock, Regional Manager for North Central WIC and Bradford
Hospital WIC, served as the facilitator. This was one of 11 public meetings held
during the month of May across the state of Pennsylvania.
The DuBois WIC clinic staff welcomed State WIC Agency Staff, Evelyn Arnold and
Crystal Wilson, on June 15 and June 16 for our biennial Program Review. Generally
the reviews are held in our largest clinic sites (Clearfield and DuBois) and rotate
between the two sites every two years. State Agency staff members were on site to
audit our administrative files and review/observe the daily operation of the clinic site.
The administrative part of the review included assessment of our Civil Rights File,
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Exposure Control Plan, Drug Free Workplace Policy, Federal Regulations, and
auditing of our internal monitoring files. The clinic operations review
included observation of staff-client interaction, assessment of client eligibility/
certification, processing standards, dietary assessments, hematological testing,
anthropometry testing, individualized nutrition education support, food delivery
system, breastfeeding promotion, VENA (value enhanced nutrition assessment),
and guided goal setting. Results of the State Review are pending.
An average of 3,692 clients received WIC benefits each month between April and
June 2016.
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