PLAINS TWP. — The Wilkes-Barre Area School Board approved a 2024-25 budget on Monday that not only avoids any tax increase but, if an innovative plan works, will result in a tax decrease for homeowners. Superintendent Brian Costello said the budget anticipates revenue of $172 million, but spending will be about $433,480 less. The district aims to use that money with the state funds to reduce property taxes through the Homestead Exemption.

WILKES-BARRE — Congressman Matt Cartwright stated on Monday that the efforts of our local governments to assist with affordable housing are extremely important, and the federal assistance will ensure that this work persists.

WILKES-BARRE — Children’s Service Center recently celebrated its 162st anniversary in April by honoring Coterra Energy and long-standing board members Paul Siegel and Jonathan Spohrer for outstanding work to improve the lives of children and families in Northeastern PA.

MOUNTAIN TOP — When the Schuylkill County Chamber of Commerce decided to recognize St. Luke’s doctor Gregory Dobash, MD, for his track record of caring for the critically needy, at-risk and overlooked population in the county, they established a special award.

JENKINS TWP. — Law enforcement in Jenkins Township took Jillian Clapps into custody over claims that she stabbed a man in the back early on Monday, as per legal documents.

WILKES-BARRE — An ex-lawyer from Lackawanna County accused of creating and presenting false papers for clients in civil settlement cases was sentenced to a month in prison and five years probation on Friday.