The Lackawanna County Commissioners intend to introduce legislation at their next meeting (January23) to propose the elimination of three row offices and the consolidation of a fourth row office.
The County Commissioners intend to seek the voters support by placing a referendum on the May 21 primary ballot, giving the taxpayers the opportunity to amend the Home Rule Charter and eliminate the Register of Wills, Recorder of Deeds and Clerk of Judicial Records Offices.
The Commissioners will also seek voter approval to consolidate the Sheriff into an appointed County office.
The Commissioners expect to save at least $225,000 per year in 2014 and 2015 and then $325,000 in 2016 and 2017 by amending the Home Rule Charter.
The functions associated with the selected row offices would be continued to be offered under a consolidated County government.