County To Create Film Commission
In an effort to capitalize on Lackawanna County’s rich history, architecture and natural beauty as assets to accommodate movie production, county Commissioners Bill Gaughan and Matt McGloin plan to establish the Lackawanna County Film and Multimedia Commission.
The commissioners will introduce an ordinance at their regular meeting Wednesday to establish the commission. Bob Savakinus, a documentary filmmaker from Carbondale who has championed the idea, will address the board at the 10 a.m. meeting in the Lackawanna County Government Center, 123 Wyoming Avenue.
According to the commissioners, the objective is to create a mechanism to help attract film productions to boost the economy and the county’s profile. The commissioners will not commit any public funds to the commission or to any particular production that occurs in Lackawanna County.
The ordinance establishes a nine-member commission to be appointed by the county commissioners. It would establish a database of potential film locations to assist producers, develop a marketing plan, showcase local talent through film festivals and other events, and generally strive to meet producers’ needs.
Pennsylvania’s government offers a tax credit of up to 25% of the amount that a film producer spends in the state, if at least 60% of the film’s total budget is spent in Pennsylvania.
“We have a lot to offer filmmakers of all kinds in terms of locations, cost and proximity to major film centers, especially New York,” Gaughan said of the effort. “This also meshes well with the impending re-establishment of passenger rail service between Scranton and New York.”
“The establishment of the new Lackawanna County Film Commission marks a significant step towards showcasing our region’s potential as a cinematic destination,” McGloin added. “Notably, this initiative incurs no cost to the county, highlighting a commitment to leveraging our natural landscapes, historical sites, and vibrant communities to attract film projects by promoting our area as a prime location for filmmakers. The commission aims to stimulate economic growth and enhance cultural exchange. This proactive approach underscores a collective endeavor to position Lackawanna County prominently on the filmmaking map, harnessing the power of visual storytelling to amplify our unique identity and allure.”