For the second time in as many months, the Lehigh County Board of Commissioners recognized another 50 years of work and dedication - this time, for Richard H. Bohner.

Bohner was lauded for his years of volunteerism with the Lehigh County Authority during the Nov. 22 commissioners meeting. He has served on the board of directors, most notably in the roles of board secretary, as well as chairman of the board.

Chair Geoff Brace noted how fortunate the residents of Lehigh County have been to have someone so dedicated and that Bohner “is worthy of all the accolades.”

When speaking of Bohner’s work, Brace noted “people who serve on boards do so as volunteers.” He spoke of the various challenges Bohner and the LCA have faced over the decades and commended him for sticking with it.

Commissioner Jeffrey Dutt noted they now know two people who have served for 50 years with Lehigh County.

“That’s amazing,” Dutt said.

Director of General Services Richard Molchany confirmed Executive Phil Armstrong will be presenting a proclamation in December honoring Bohner’s volunteerism.

“During his 50 years, Richard provided consistent leadership in his decisions that shaped the provision of water and wastewater services throughout the county,” Molchany read from the county proclamation. “Whereas Richard’s signature appears on a variety of important historical and contractual documents signaling his leadership in ensuring that viable water and wastewater services would be available for growing communities in Lehigh County.”

In other business, two bills received first reading, with second reading and final passage expected Dec. 14. They include Bill 2022-44, approving a change of use of subgrant funds previously allocated to Whitehall-Coplay Hunger Initiative under the Community Development Block Grant, CARES Act; and Bill 2022-45, authorizing use of grant funds awarded to the county of Lehigh under the election integrity program for eligibility expenses as provided for in Act 88.

The following bills received final passage: Bill 2022-41, setting the salary levels for Lehigh County row officer positions effective with the terms of office that commence in 2024; Bill 2022-42, setting the salary level for the position of Lehigh County executive effective with the term of office that commences in 2026; and Bill 2022-43, approving a memorandum of agreement between the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and Lehigh County.

There are two meetings left for 2022, Dec. 7 and Dec. 14.