A proposal for a citizen's advisory board to enhance oversight of the Lycoming County Prison took center stage during the recent Prison Board meeting. Tony Cooper, a local resident, presented the idea, emphasizing that while the county is not mandated to establish such a board, the law permits it.

Cooper outlined that the proposed advisory board would consist of three citizens who are not county employees, allowing for independent oversight. He noted that the decision to create this board would rest with the county's chief executive and the prison board. The framework for this initiative is detailed in Title 61 of the law, which Cooper provided for reference.

In addition to the advisory board discussion, public comments included inquiries about the housing of juveniles within the prison system and the accessibility of visits for their families. The board acknowledged these concerns, indicating that questions regarding juvenile housing would need to be directed to the courts.

The meeting highlighted a growing interest in community involvement in prison oversight, with Cooper's proposal representing a significant step towards increased transparency and accountability in the county's correctional system. The board's next steps regarding the advisory board will be closely watched by community members eager for reform.