Franklin County Addresses Jail Staff Concerns Amid Contract Negotiations

Franklin County officials have provided an update following public comments concerning the jail’s correctional officer contract, addressing issues of alleged safety concerns, pay, and work-life balance. The county commissioners received this information from Warden Heather Franzoni and jail staff during a recent meeting, detailing the county’s perspective on contract negotiations with the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME).

During a prior public meeting on October 15, members of the public and an AFSCME representative raised concerns that the proposed contract’s wage scale was insufficient, that the jail environment was perceived as unsafe, and that existing conditions contributed to burnout and low morale among staff. The AFSCME representative had presented a counteroffer that included proposals for revised new hire training, a retention bonus, and an increase in base wages for all correctional officers.

In response to the allegations of an unsafe environment, Warden Franzoni presented findings from an examination of safety data. According to data tracked by the jail, which aligns with standards set by the Pennsylvania Department of Corrections, there has been no significant rise in reported staff assaults, inmate-on-inmate violence, disturbances, or hostage situations. The jail has reported zero disturbances over the past three years. A comparison with similar counties in terms of inmate population indicated that Franklin County experiences lower rates of violence. Notably, the county’s jail has not experienced any disturbances or hostage incidents when compared to six peer counties. To maintain preparedness, Franklin County Jail administration conducts regular emergency drills throughout the year, covering scenarios such as fires, medical emergencies, and staff response protocols.

Further supporting the administration’s claims regarding safety, Human Resources Director Tiffany Bloyer shared data indicating a decrease in workers’ compensation incidents. Year-over-year comparisons showed that these incidents were reduced by half in 2025 compared to 2024.

Addressing the concerns about compensation, Bloyer acknowledged that starting wages for correctional officers in larger neighboring counties such as Dauphin and York are indeed higher. However, she pointed out that Franklin County’s starting wage exceeds that of Adams County and, after academy graduation, increases by $0.50 per hour, making the hourly rate for new Franklin County officers higher than that in Cumberland County.

County staff also reviewed the three key components of the AFSCME counteroffer: changes to new hire training, a retention bonus, and base wage increases. Warden Franzoni indicated a willingness to consider revisions to new hire training, contingent upon adequate staffing levels. She also noted that the current training schedule was implemented based on a request made by AFSCME during previous contract negotiations.

Regarding the proposed hourly wage increase of $4 for correctional officers starting in 2026, the county has stated this would represent a 22% impact on the county’s budget. They view this as a significant departure from the union’s earlier counteroffer of a $2.50 per hour increase, which would have had a 15% budget impact. Franklin County Administrator Carrie Gray emphasized that proposed increases of either 15% or 22% are not financially feasible within the county’s budget constraints.

County Commissioner Chairman Dean Horst reiterated the county’s commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of its employees while maintaining fiscal responsibility to taxpayers.

Administrator Gray outlined the county’s proposal, which includes incentive pay and substantial annual base wage increases for correctional officers with longer tenure. For newer officers, the proposal offers significant wage increases and retention bonuses. The county’s offer includes a $5,000 retention bonus for future correctional officers and those hired in 2025, which is more than double the $2,000 proposed by AFSCME. Collectively, the county’s offer is projected to provide over $19,000 in additional compensation during the contract period for officers hired between January 1 and May 1, 2025. Officers hired between May 1 and November 30, 2025, would see an increase of approximately $14,000 over the same period.

Franklin County plans to continue working collaboratively with AFSCME and other stakeholders to find workable solutions that are financially sound. The county remains dedicated to supporting the safety and well-being of its correctional officers while upholding its financial obligations to taxpayers. The ongoing negotiations aim to address current challenges and establish sustainable solutions for the future.

The county expressed its commitment to negotiating in good faith to reach a sustainable agreement that benefits both correctional officers and county taxpayers. Prison Board Chairman and Commissioner John Flannery stated that while the county values its correctional officers, any proposed pay increases must be within its financial capabilities, suggesting that a solution that enhances retention while ensuring fiscal stability is achievable through compromise and new approaches.

This situation may impact correctional officers in Franklin County through revised contract terms, potentially affecting wages, benefits, and working conditions. Taxpayers in Franklin County may also be affected by the county’s efforts to balance budget constraints with employee compensation and retention.

Article by Mel Anara, based upon information from a Franklin County Press Release.

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