BREAKING: Luzerne County voters have decisively rejected a proposed revision to the county’s Home Rule charter, with unofficial results showing 29,993 votes against the charter compared to 20,184 in favor, as of early reports from 120 of 186 precincts.
The rejection, occurring during Tuesday’s election, underscores significant resistance to changes that would have reduced the size of the county council from 11 to 9 members and modestly revised the structure of local government. The proposed charter would not have altered the current system where only a few elected officials—namely the district attorney, controller, and council members—are retained.
Critics, including former council member Tim McGinley, labeled the proposed charter a diversion from the original 2010 charter, which aimed to minimize political influence within the county’s governance. McGinley expressed concerns that the new charter would centralize power and diminish representation for smaller communities and underrepresented groups.
Controller Walter Griffith denounced the proposal as a “bait and switch charter,” highlighting how council members could manipulate charter requirements affecting the county election board and ethics commission.
Despite this opposition, some local leaders endorsed the charter. Notably, Luzerne County District Attorney Sam Sanguedolce and State Rep. Brenda Pugh expressed support, emphasizing the need for a more effective and accountable government. Pugh stated, “This isn’t change for change’s sake — it’s about a more effective, ethical, and responsive county government,” while Sanguedolce argued that fewer council members would enhance accountability.
The proposed charter followed a April 2024 referendum that established a county government study commission, which voted 4-2 in July to propose the changes. The commission sought to address issues of governance, but the overwhelming voter rejection indicates a strong desire to maintain the status quo.
Moving forward, the defeat of this charter proposal raises questions about future governance reforms in Luzerne County. As local officials and community members reflect on this outcome, it will be critical to monitor any new initiatives aimed at revisiting the county’s governance structure.
With the election results still unfolding, all eyes are on Luzerne County as residents and leaders assess the implications of this significant decision. Stay tuned for further updates as this story develops.
