Schuylkill commissioners honor Frank Staudenmeier

A depth of feeling encompasses the Schuylkill County Courthouse, where the American flag flies at half-staff to honor Commissioner Frank Staudenmeier, who passed away Saturday.

Commissioners’ Chairman George Halcovage requested moments of silence and prayer “for our departed colleague and friend” Wednesday at the start of the board’s workshop meeting, where Staudenmeier’s name plate and empty chair were reminders of the tremendous loss felt by his family, co-workers and friends.

During the meeting, county leaders commented on Staudenmeier’s legacy, often struggling to speak while retaining their composure.

“Schuylkill County is better for what he did,” Commissioner Gary Hess said. “He wanted to see it grow and expand for future generations.”

Halcovage said, “Well done, good and faithful servant.”

Frank Zukas, president of Schuylkill Economic Development Corporation, attended the meeting to represent SEDCO as the commissioners approved a new Local Economic Revitalization Tax Assistance district, located along the Interstate 81 corridor in Frailey Township. The board named the decision the Staudenmeier Resolution, to honor his work as chairman of the SEDCO board.

Zukas detailed the scope of projects that were achieved during Staudenmeier’s leadership, which included bringing new industries to the Highridge, Morea Road, Tide and Deer Lake industrial parks, as well as facilitating the creation of rail service for the expansion of Yuengling Brewery near Saint Clair, the construction of Big Lots warehouse in Tremont and the Air Products expansion in Rush Township.

“All these were benchmarks of Frank’s years,” Zukas said. “He will truly be missed.”

Halcovage said championing economic development was just part of Staudenmeier’s work.

“That’s a piece of his legacy — the touch he’s had on our county,” Halcovage said. “He set the bar, and that’s one of the things we’ll take with us.”

Director of Finance Paul Buber called Staudenmeier a “great team member” whose input was greatly appreciated.

“He’ll be dearly missed,” Buber said.

At dozens of events over several decades, Staudenmeier could be counted on to utter a particular phrase.

“He’d always say, ‘This is a great day for Schuylkill County,’ ” Hess said.

The Schuylkill County Courthouse will close Friday at noon.