In a letter dated January 20, attorney George Joseph of the Erie based Quinn Law Firm informed the PENNCREST School Board president Luigi DeFrancesco and Superintendent Timothy Glasspool, he and his firm will no longer be serving as the districts solicitor. 

​This letter was published and shared on social media on January 26 by school board member Jeff Brooks.

​The resignation was reported on that same day by Saegertown High School Panther Press editor Brennen McWright.

​Joseph voiced concerns that his law firm could no longer adequately perform its role as the district solicitor under the current administration and board.

​"An attorney and solicitor for a school district has an obligation to represent the interests of the district zealously within the bounds of the law," George's letter stated.

​"Recent actions by the board have highlighted a fundamental disagreement by the majority of the board with the legal analysis and opinions of our office and, in our analysis, significantly compromised our ability to provide legal ongoing services to the District and the existing School Board."

Joseph then pointed out recent opinions he has presented to the board that were rejected by board members and in his understanding scoffed at by board members.

"If I conclude that the officers of the organization (the School Board) intend to act in a manner that would likely result in an injury to the organization, which I believe includes decisions which would risk embroiling the District in unnecessary litigation, I have a duty to proceed a reasonably necessary in the best interest of the organization," George's letter continued.

​In a recent board meeting, school board member David Valesky said "My conscience is clear, if we go to court on it, so be it, because at the end of the day we're standing up for what's right and we're standing up for God has said is right."

Valesky's basically saying bring on the lawsuits. George is contending that these are unnecessary and therefore he, and his law firm, are not comfortable defending them.
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​George also pointed out in several instances that the board itself isn't confident in the representation he and the Quinn Law Firm provide given comments by members who disagree with his legal opinions.

It is a county election year in Venango County. and the three commissioner seats are up for grabs. At least two of the current commissioners are planning to run; the third has yet to commit. A Franklin businessman has also tossed his hat in the ring and rumors about other possible candidates are flying around like swallows on a hot summer lake.

We'll leave rumors where they belong and just deal with what we know.

Commissioner Albert Abramovic, better known as Chip, posted his announcement up on social media a few weeks back. The local papers carried it and the race for Venango County Commissioner had begun.

Commissioner Sam Breene told us "I've been telling anybody who will listen that I plan to run again." He indicated that he plans to make it official soon.

Commissioner Mike Dulaney says he hasn't made up his mind yet.

Joining Abramovic on the Democratic primary ballot is Mathew Beith, who announced his candidacy earlier this week.

​The heavily Republican county traditionally has two Republican commissioners and only one Democrat. By rule, one other party candidate must be elected for the balance of power. Currently, Dulaney and Breene represent the Republican Party and Abromovic the Democrats.
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The primary, where Republicans and Democrats get to vote for who will appear on the general election ballot on their party's behalf, is May 16.

​“It’s not politics. It’s public service”

Franklin businessman and community volunteer Mathew Beith is announcing his candidacy for Venango County Commissioner in the 2023 election. Beith brings a vision for long term economic prosperity built on the pillars of housing, health care, and education.

By working closely with existing economic development organizations, companies, county human services departments, housing authorities, health care providers, and education institutions, Beith believes that Venango County residents and businesses can flourish in ever greater ways. With this effort, the county can become an attractive community for individuals and companies looking to establish new commercial enterprises in northwestern Pennsylvania.

“Education, adequate housing, and addiction and mental health services are the keys to unlocking our full potential,” said Beith. He continued, “By providing these resources to all residents of Venango County, we can ensure that they have the tools and support necessary to be successful in all phases of life.”

In conjunction with workforce development, these core services will help create more engaged and employable individuals, which is a benefit for existing local businesses, and also for companies looking to relocate or expand their footprint. This increased tax revenue can be used to invest in the continued development of County-wide infrastructure to meet 21st century challenges, such as broadband expansion and other connectivity projects.

Beith, who is a Realtor with Beith Associates, has significant experience developing relationships with existing residents and industries, while being an ambassador for individuals and businesses looking to relocate to Venango County.

Outside of his primary occupation, he serves the City of Franklin as the chair of the Housing Authority, the chair of the Historical and Architectural Review Board, and the vice chair of the Planning and Zoning Commission.

​He is also a director of the Allegheny Valley Board of Realtors, and sits on the Venango County Economic Development Authority Strategic Planning Commission, as well as participating on numerous other municipal and non-profit boards and commissions.

These appointments give Beith the expertise, insight, and relationships necessary to be an effective leader of Venango County.

“I love Venango County, and I want to see all residents achieve their dreams. That’s why I’m proud to announce my candidacy for Venango County Commissioner.” Beith said, concluding, “It’s not politics. It’s public service. I believe Venango County deserves a leader with vision, passion, and dedication to the betterment of all residents.”
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Mathew Beith lives in Franklin with his wife, Mishelle, and their three children.

He graduated with honors from Franklin High School, and holds a B.A. from Middlebury College. His work experience encompasses real estate, retail finance, and farming.

Beith prides himself on community service, including emceeing many of the parades and community events in Franklin.
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For more information, visit www.beithforcommissioner.com.