KERSEY – Keeping up with emerging technology is permitting a slight change in business practices for the North Central Pennsylvania Regional Planning and Development Commission.

The board, at its monthly meeting and retreat held Wednesday at the Red Fern in Kersey, unanimously approved a resolution allowing electronic signatures for routine contracts.

Jim Chorney, who serves as executive director at North Central, said the move will allow the organization to process paperwork more quickly as the signatures will be gathered electronically.

Chorney said the resolution was reviewed by the solicitor, who agreed the updated policy is appropriate.

Board Chairman Dave Glass, who is a Clearfield County commissioner, said it was “a good move” in regard to moving toward electronic signatures.

Amy Kessler, director of community development and regional planning, gave an update on the Greenways program. The program is run by the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources.

Kessler said that applications for the next round of mini-grants will be accepted this coming week.

“I am trying to get our finalized document all put together and have letters of support from each of the county planners encouraging the project,” Kessler said. “This resolution is the last piece and will allow us to apply to continue the mini-grant program.”