Emmaus High School graduate Rose Varano was honored at the July 29 Lehigh County Commissioners meeting. Varano, who has cerebral palsy, was recently crowned as Pennsylvania Junior Miss Amazing 2022.

A proclamation, sponsored by District 5 Commissioner Jeffrey Dutt, passed unanimously by the commissioners, congratulating and wishing Varano all the best for the National Miss Amazing Summit 2022, taking place July 29-31 in Nashville, Tenn.

The National Summit Miss Amazing is a gathering of young girls and women with disabilities who come together to exchange stories, make connections and share resources. They are community leaders focused on educating others on the important contributions and achievements made by those members of society who struggle with certain disabilities.

In other business, motions were carried for Bill 25 - amending the 2022-2026 Lehigh County Capital Plan to include the purchase of mail ballot sorting equipment, Bill 26 - approving a temporary wage increase for employees within the 911 communication center pursuant to the personnel policies and procedures manual, as well as for Bill 27 - approving a temporary wage increase for certain employees within Cedarbrook Senior Care and Rehabilitation pursuant to the personal policies and procedural manual.

Commissioner Geoff Brace reminded everyone Bills 26 and 27 are budget neutral. The wage increases for these crucial 24/7 staff positions will be paid out of unutilized funds.

Bill 29 - approving a lease agreement with the City Center Investment Corporation for parking spaces in the Fifth and Walnut streets lot, received a first reading. Further consideration of this bill is scheduled for the next meeting, scheduled for Aug. 10.