Pennsylvania 2025-2026 Regular Session

Pennsylvania House Bill HB1185

Introduced
4/9/25  

Caption

In auditors and accountants, further providing for surcharge by auditors; and, in township manager, further providing for township manager, appointment, removal, powers and duties, compensation and bond.

Impact

The enactment of HB 1185 is poised to create a more structured approach to local management, allowing townships to streamline their operations through clear roles and compensation guidelines. It may also enhance the accountability of township managers and auditors by providing protections against unwarranted surcharges, thus potentially improving efficiency in local governance. By reinforcing the authority of township managers and defining their relationships with legal advisers, the bill seeks to facilitate better decision-making within townships, aligning with contemporary governance needs.

Summary

House Bill 1185 is an act that amends the Second Class Township Code in Pennsylvania, particularly focusing on the roles and responsibilities of township managers and the conditions under which auditors can impose surcharges. The bill stipulates that a township manager can be an individual or a professional entity, bringing flexibility to the appointment process. It outlines the powers, duties, and compensation elements while also establishing the management's accountability through employment agreements that can define severance conditions. Importantly, the bill aims to clarify the legal protections for township officers acting under the guidance of solicitors, emphasizing good faith reliance on written opinions.

Sentiment

The general sentiment around HB 1185 appears to be supportive among proponents of local government reform who appreciate the clarification of the roles of township management and auditing. Advocates argue that the bill enhances governmental efficacy and accountability, which aligns with public expectations of transparency and responsible management. However, as with many legislative proposals, there may be concerns from those wary of potential abuses of power by township managers if sufficient oversight mechanisms are not simultaneously reinforced.

Contention

Notable points of contention might arise concerning the balance of power between elected officials and appointed township managers, particularly regarding accountability if mismanagement occurs. Critics could voice concerns that while the protections provided for township officials are designed to promote good governance, they may unintentionally shield individuals from necessary oversight. Furthermore, the implications of allowing partnerships or corporations to serve as township managers instead of solely individuals could lead to debates about the appropriateness of public leadership roles.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

PA HB1230

In auditors and accountants, further providing for surcharge by auditors; and, in township manager, further providing for township manager, appointment, removal, powers and duties, compensation and bond.

PA SB749

In auditors and accountants, further providing for surcharge by auditors; and, in township manager, further providing for township manager, appointment, removal, powers and duties, compensation and bond.

PA HB1232

In powers and duties of elected officials, further providing for surcharge by auditors; in powers, duties and rights of appointed officers and employees, further providing for borough manager created by ordinance and election, for powers and duties, for other offices not incompatible and for organization of commission; and, in taxation and finance, further providing for preparation of budget.

PA SB765

In powers and duties of elected officials, further providing for surcharge by auditors; in powers, duties and rights of appointed officers and employees, further providing for borough manager created by ordinance and election, for powers and duties, for other offices not incompatible and for organization of commission; and, in taxation and finance, further providing for preparation of budget.

PA SB978

In auditors and accountants, further providing for appointment of accountant.

PA HB1850

In auditors and accountants, further providing for appointment of accountant.

PA SB740

In auditors and accountants, further providing for auditor's compensation.

PA HB2019

In auditors and accountants, further providing for appointment of accountant and providing for appointment of independent auditor and abolishment of office of elected auditor.

PA HB2288

In township supervisors, further providing for compensation of supervisors.

PA HB570

In township engineer, further providing for township engineer and providing for waiver.

Similar Bills

PA SB749

In auditors and accountants, further providing for surcharge by auditors; and, in township manager, further providing for township manager, appointment, removal, powers and duties, compensation and bond.

PA HB1230

In auditors and accountants, further providing for surcharge by auditors; and, in township manager, further providing for township manager, appointment, removal, powers and duties, compensation and bond.

IL SB3558

TRANSPORTATION BENEFIT PROGRAM

IL SB2406

TRANSPORTATION BENEFIT PROGRAM

IL HB3094

TRANSPORTATION BENEFIT PROGRAM

FL H4057

Tohopekaliga Water Authority, Osceola County

IL SB1651

TWP CD-DISCONTINUANCE MEETINGS

IL HB2068

TRANSPORTATION BENEFIT PROGRAM