Berks County News

The Pennsylvania Game Commission's (PGC) alleged lack of transparency has led Republican House Game and Fisheries Committee Chairman David Maloney to once again reach out to the governor, state Office of Administration, and the PGC. He is urging action against what he describes as an agency that has lost sight of its mission.

Maloney's concerns were triggered by a recent incident involving the PGC Board. According to him, on May 12, 2024, late in the evening, he discovered that the Game Commission had attempted to schedule a "Special Meeting of the Board of Commissioners" for noon the following day. This notice was posted online before noon on Sunday May 12, 2024, barely meeting the 24-hour notice requirement under Title 65.

In his letter to Governor Josh Shapiro and Neil Weaver, Secretary of Office of Administration, Maloney expressed his disappointment with this action. He acknowledged understanding the need for this "special meeting", as it was his previous letter that highlighted the Commission’s error in voting to appoint a new director at an executive session. However, he felt that their attempt at rectifying this mistake lacked sincerity and commitment towards open and transparent governance.

Maloney further criticized how the Commission handled public notice for this meeting. As per Title 65 § 703, public notice for a meeting must be shared “in a newspaper of general circulation”. To his knowledge, there was no such notice published in any newspaper regarding this hastily arranged meeting.

He also pointed out that there seemed to be no opportunity for public participation or comments on matters of concern. The appointment of Stephen Smith as Executive Director appeared pre-determined without interviewing any other candidates or seeking public input.

Maloney concluded his letter by offering suggestions for future actions. He proposed posting the position of Executive Director publicly to attract potential candidates, conducting interviews openly, hosting duly noticed public meetings for discussions and finally holding a vote on prospective candidates.

Chairman Maloney eagerly awaits a response to his concerns and offers his assistance in rectifying the perceived wrongs.