HOLLIDAYSBURG

Blair to contract with debt collector

Blair County will be contracting with Credit Control Collections for assistance in attempting to increase cost and fines revenue.

Commissioners Dave Kessling, Amy Webster and Laura Burke voted Thursday to approve a contract, effective May 1 through April 30, 2027, with a debt collection company recommended by President Judge Wade A. Kagarise.

“There’s no cost to the taxpayers,” the judge said in describing the contract which allows the company to add a fee to the balance owed, if and when the company collects payment.

The contract, with an annual auto renewal, indicates that the fee will be 25% of the original balance.

Kagarise described use of the company as a way for the county to be more aggressive with the collection of cost and fines.

HOLLIDAYSBURG

Firm to act as consultant for benefits

Blair County has authorized a contract with L.R. Webber Associates Inc. to act as a consultant and broker for assistance with administering employee benefits through Selerix, an internet-based system.

The contract, which commissioners approved Thursday with an effective date of March 1, was set up at no cost to the county. Webber’s services are expected to be helpful during restructuring in the human resources office, according to Commissioner Dave Kessling.

What has been a four-person office is now operating with two employees. Assistant Director Brian Walters retired as of Feb. 27 and Director Melena Koegler left her position as of March 4.

Commissioners also on Thursday approved agreements with The Standard Insurance Co., effective April 1, to handle the administrative tasks associated with dental insurance and short disability, FICA and W-2 tax reporting services.