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

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

Commissioner Geoff Brace noted how fortunate the residents of Lehigh County have been to have someone so dedicated and said 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” he said.

Lehigh County Director of General Services Richard Molchany confirmed Lehigh County Executive Phillips Armstrong will present a proclamation next month honoring Bohner’s volunteerism. Of that upcoming proclamation, Molchany was able to share this passage with the commissioners:

“During his 50 years, Richard provided consistent leadership in his decisions that shaped the provision of water and wastewater services throughout the county. 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. Bill 2022-44 is to approve a change of use of subgrant funds previously allocated to Whitehall-Coplay Hunger Initiative Under the Community Development Block Grant – CARES Act. Bill 2022-45 authorizes 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 which commence in 2024, Bill 2022-42: setting the salary level for the position of Lehigh County Executive effective with the term of office which commences in 2026 and Bill 2022-43: approving a memorandum of agreement between the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and the County of Lehigh.

There are two scheduled meetings remaining for 2022: Dec. 7 and Dec. 14.