September 17, 2019
Harrisburg – Sept. 17, 2019 – State Sen. Jim Brewster (D-Allegheny/Westmoreland) today said he is pleased that more than $500,000 in state grant funding was approved for an array of recreation projects in Allegheny and Westmoreland counties.
“Our ability to help local communities improve their recreation and public spaces is significantly bolstered by funding that is brought back from Harrisburg,” Brewster said. “These new dollars for the enhancement of recreation projects in both Allegheny and Westmoreland counties will improve the quality of life in our communities.”
Funding was approved for park and recreation projects in Port Vue, Baldwin, Plum, Elizabeth and North Versailles in Allegheny County. Vandergrift and Lower Burrell in Westmoreland County also received state funds for park and pool rehabilitation projects.
The grants were made available through the Commonwealth Financing Authority’s Act 13 program funds. The following program dollars were approved in this round of funding for projects in Brewster’s district in Allegheny County:
- Port Vue Borough Port Vue Athletic Association Recreation Building $53,763
- Baldwin Borough Elm Leaf Park Improvements $50,000
- Plum Borough Logan’s Ferry Park Improvements $150,000
- Elizabeth Borough Streetscape, Riverfront Park Improvements $50,000
- North Versailles Crestas ball field lighting $50,000
In the Westmoreland County portion of Brewster’s district, funding for the following projects were approved:
- Lower Burrell Veterans Central Park Improvements $50,000
- Vandergrift Borough Pool Renovation $165,313
Brewster said that while he is pleased that these grants were approved, he will continue to seek other resources for communities through other state programs.
September 13, 2019
McKeesport, September 13, 2019 – State Sen. Jim Brewster today announced a total of $811,844 in state funds for four local crime reduction and victim services programs.
“I am committed to using state resources to strengthen local efforts to curb gun violence and help those who are victimized by crime,” Brewster said.
Brewster said the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency this week approved the following grants:
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September 13, 2019
Harrisburg, September 13, 2019 – State Sen. Jim Brewster today announced a total of $26.5 million in state funds for construction work at the community colleges in Allegheny and Westmoreland County.
“As our community colleges become a more viable and important educational opportunities for area students, I am pleased that state funds are being used to improve and expand their facilities.”
According to Brewster, the state Department of Education has approved $20 million for the Community College of Allegheny County for construction of its Workforce Training Center. An additional $6.5 million was earmarked for the Westmoreland County Community College to modernize its Enterprise Resource Planning System.
The department monies represent 50 percent of the annual capital expense for the projects, with the remainder financed by local sponsorship.
“I will continue to seek state support for projects and programs that enhance our community colleges,” Brewster said.
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August 29, 2019
Harrisburg – Aug. 29, 2019 – The statewide School Safety and Security Committee has endorsed state Sen. Jim Brewster’s (D-Allegheny/Westmoreland) plan to create a subcommittee to explore the development of baseline safety and security standards applicable to all schools.
“To ensure the safety and security of our students and all who go into public schools, it is critical that schools’ baseline safety standards be in place,” Brewster said. “A detailed safety and security plan with a focus on a school’s physical plan, accessibility to mental health services and environmental protections is necessary.”
Recommendations produced by the subcommittee will be sent to the full School Safety and Security Committee for approval, Brewster said.
Earlier this year, Brewster sent a letter to the members of the School Safety and Security Committee asking that they consider his proposal. Brewster, who serves on the committee, has sponsored Senate Bill 788, which would create baseline standards by statute.
Brewster said he asked the committee to act on his idea to expedite work on developing the standards.
“All school districts should have state resources available to adhere to easily understandable and clear baseline standards regarding the physical structure of schools, access to mental health professionals for counseling, and protection from environmental problems such as lead, mold and other health threats,” Brewster said. “Our efforts are centered on protecting students, teachers, administrators and parents who are in our school buildings and on campus.”
The McKeesport lawmaker said the state budget has included $60 million installments for each of the last two years for school safety. This funding can be applied to helping school districts comply with baseline requirements developed by the subcommittee, he said.
The School Safety and Security Committee was established by statute in 2018 and is administered by the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency.
Brewster said he is grateful that the committee acted on his request and pleased that it made his proposal a priority.
August 28, 2019
Harrisburg – August 28, 2019 – State Sen. Jim Brewster (D- Allegheny/Westmoreland) said today that Allegheny County Airport has been awarded a state grant for $900,000 to upgrade airport buildings.
“Allegheny County Airport is a regional resource that enhances development potential throughout the Mon Valley,” Brewster said. “An improved airport, in addition to the new Mon-Fayette Expressway and other local economic projects create business development opportunities for the area.”
Funding for the $900,000 grant was through PennDOT’s Aviation Transportation Assistance Program, Aviation Development Program, and the Multimodal Fund.
Allegheny County Airport (AGC) is a key cog in the transportation infrastructure of the region. The airport began serving the county in 1931. The airport has more than 60,000 commercial and scheduled flight takeoffs and landings every year.
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August 22, 2019
Join Forces on Collaborate-Educate-Enroll events
Harrisburg – August 22, 2019 – Sen. Jim Brewster (D-Allegheny/Westmoreland) announced today a new outreach partnership with the Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank on Collaborate-Educate-Enroll events.
“My office has worked with the Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank over the past year to successfully share state services with those who attend the Produce To People event at the Food Bank’s facility in Duquesne,” Brewster said. “I look forward to expanding our educational partnership by traveling to numerous libraries in the region this September to offer state assistance.”
A wide variety of state services will be presented at local libraries including the Property Tax/Rent Rebate, PennDOT’s Yellow Dot Program, Unclaimed Property and the new Senior Bus Pass (ConnectCard). A representative from the Food Bank will also be on hand to discuss numerous food assistance programs.
“The Food Bank is delighted to partner with Senator Brewster and his team to reach out to our neighbors throughout September to help them access food assistance and other resources. Hunger Action Month 2019 is a great time to draw awareness not only to the problem of hunger, but also the ways we can help each other meet the basic need for food,” said Lisa Scales, President and CEO of Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank.
Collaborate-Educate-Enroll events will be taking place at the following libraries:
- Braddock Carnegie Library, 419 Library Street, Braddock
Wednesday, September 4, 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
- North Versailles Public Library, 1401 Greensburg Avenue, North Versailles
Tuesday, September 10, 10 a.m. – 11 a.m.
- Baldwin Borough Public Library, 5230 Wolfe Drive, Baldwin
Wednesday, September 18, 10 a.m. – 11 a.m.
- Carnegie Library of McKeesport, 1507 Library Street, McKeesport
Thursday, September 19, 1 9.m. – 2 p.m.
- Carnegie Library of McKeesport-Duquesne Branch, Duquesne Education Center 300 Kennedy Avenue
Thursday, September 19, 4 p.m. – 5 p.m.
- Monroeville Public Library, 4000 Gateway Campus Boulevard
Friday, September 20, 1:30 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.
“Libraries are key resources to help educate and inform,” Brewster said. “I am grateful that local libraries are excited to join us in this new collaboration.”
To learn more about this event or food assistance services in the district visit www.senatorbrewster.com/producetopeople.
August 16, 2019
Harrisburg – Aug. 16, 2019 – Seniors can sign up for Port Authority ConnectCards at Senator Jim Brewster’s offices in Monroeville, McKeesport or New Kensington.
“Senior ConnectCards enable those over the age of 65 to use public transportation for free,” Brewster said. “This is an important cost-saver for seniors.”
Brewster, who is a board member of the Port Authority of Allegheny County, said he hopes seniors take advantage of the convenience of his office locations to acquire Senior ConnectCards.
“My staff is available to help seniors with the applications and resolve any bureaucratic issues that arise,” he added.
Once the applications are completed and submitted, it takes about two to four weeks for the cards to be issued, Brewster said.
The Port Authority will continue to accept blue or yellow senior transit ID cards, however, seniors who use their Medicare cards to ride public transportation must switch over to ConnectCards by January.
To obtain a Senior ConnectCard, an applicant must be 65-years of age and provide proof of age. Driver’s licenses, birth and baptismal certificates, armed forces discharge papers, PACE or another state issued ID card or a statement from the Social Security Administration can be used to verify age.
Brewster’s district offices are located in: McKeesport at 201 Lysle Boulevard (412) 664-5200; One Monroeville Center, 3824 Northern Pike, Suite 1015 in Monroeville (412) 380-2242; and New Kensington City Hall, 301 11th Street, Suite L (724) 334-1143.
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August 8, 2019
August 8, 2019 – Senator Jim Brewster announced today that the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) approved a request to declare a disaster in Allegheny County for damage from storms and flash flooding on July 21 and 22, 2019.
“This news is great for residents and businesses of this region who suffered losses from these storms and floods last month,” said Senator Brewster. “This decision by the SBA would not have happened without local, county, and state officials and emergency services staff working together.”
Homeowners, renters and businesses impacted by the flooding from the storms on July 21 and 22 in Allegheny County, as well as those in Armstrong, Beaver, Butler, Washington, and Westmoreland Counties may be eligible for low-interest disaster loans through the SBA Disaster Loan Programs.
Low-interest loans of up to $200,000 are available to homeowners to repair or replace damaged or destroyed real estate. SBA regulations permit loans up to $40,000 to repair or replace personal property. Businesses and nonprofits can borrow up to $2 million to restore damaged or destroyed buildings, inventory, equipment and assets. Loan amounts and terms are set by the SBA and are based on each applicant’s financial qualifications. Information about the program can be found at https://disasterloan.sba.gov.
The SBA will open a Disaster Loan Outreach Center (DLOC) to help with loan applications and answer questions about the disaster loan program. The DLOC will be open at the following location and times:
Renton Volunteer Department
Plum Borough
1996 Old Mine Road
Pittsburgh, PA 15239
Opening: Friday, Aug. 9 at 11 a.m.
Hours: Monday – Friday, 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Saturday, August 10 & August 17, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Closed: Sundays
Closes: Tuesday, August 20 at 4 p.m.
Individuals and businesses unable to visit the centers in person may obtain information and loan applications by calling the SBA’s Customer Service Center at 1-800-659-2955 (1-800-877-8339 for the hearing impaired), or by e-mailing disastercustomerservice@sba.gov.
Loan applications can also be downloaded at www.sba.gov/disaster. Applicants may apply online using the Electronic Loan Application (ELA) via the SBA’s secure website at https://disasterloan.sba.gov/ela. Completed applications should be returned to the local DLOC or mailed to:
U.S. Small Business Administration
Processing and Disbursement Center
14925 Kingsport Road
Fort Worth, TX 76155
The filing deadline to return applications for physical property damage is October 7, 2019. The deadline to return economic injury disaster loan applications is May 7, 2020.
July 15, 2019
July, 15, 2019 — Today, Senator Jim Brewster announced the award of federal grants to local elementary schools to fund healthy, fresh food programs for students.
“It is important to make healthy food accessible to students so they are nourished and prepared to learn,” Brewster said. “This program is also a great way to introduce children to produce they may not be able to get otherwise.”
Funding priority is given to the schools with the highest rates of students eligible for free and reduced-price meals. Grantees are required to spend a majority of their grant on the purchase of fresh fruit and vegetable and must develop a plan to establish partnerships to reduce other costs. Schools are also required to provide nutrition education to students, but cannot use Fresh Fruit and Vegetable (FFVP) funding to purchase nutrition education materials.
Local schools receiving funds include:
| · Mon Valley School, Clairton |
$ 2,300.00 |
| · Sunrise School, Monroeville |
$2,530.00 |
| · Clairton Elementary School |
$24,092.50 |
| · Duquesne Elementary School, Duquesne |
$22,252.50 |
| · Logan Elementary School, North Versailles |
$46,057.50 |
| · Francis McClure Elementary School, White Oak |
$38,525.00 |
| · Twin Rivers Elementary School, McKeesport |
$45,022.50 |
| · Propel Charter School, Pitcairn |
$13,110.00 |
| · Propel East, Turtle Creek |
$17,940.00 |
| · Propel, McKeesport |
$16,732.50 |
| · South Allegheny Elementary, McKeesport |
$32,142.50 |
| · Clara Barton Elementary School, West Mifflin |
$13,282.50 |
| · Homeville Elementary School, West Mifflin |
$19,377.50 |
| · New Emerson Elementary School, West Mifflin |
$9,947.50 |
| · Young Scholars Of McKeesport Charter School, McKeesport |
$10,810.00 |
| · Kiski Area East Primary School, Vandergrift |
$26,737.50 |
The funding was awarded through the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program. The program’s goals are to create healthier school environments by providing healthier food choices, expand the variety of fruits and vegetables students experience, increase fruit and vegetable consumption, and positively impact students’ present and future health. FFVP was first implemented in Pennsylvania in 2004 and expanded to all 50 states in 2008.
“Fresh fruits and vegetables provide vital nutrients to growing children,” said Education Secretary Pedro A. Rivera. “These grants are another way to help address food security in our schools while also providing an opportunity to teach students how to make smart and nutritious choices.”
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June 26, 2019
Harrisburg – June 26, 2019 – Legislation to permit hunting on three Sunday’s throughout the year passed the Senate today on a 36-14 vote according to Sen. Jim Brewster (D-Allegheny/Westmoreland), one of the bill’s prime sponsors.
“This is an incredibly important piece of legislation for sportsmen and women in Pennsylvania,” Brewster said. “Opening up selected Sundays for hunting will spur interest in the sport, increase the number of hunters, retain in-state hunters and attract men and women from other states.”
The legislation specifies that hunting will be on three days including: one day during deer rifle season, one day during deer archery season and another day selected by the Game Commission.
Brewster said the measure would generate additional revenues for the commission. He said these revenues will help shore up finances and promote new initiatives.
The bill also includes new provisions to ensure to address trespassing. The lawmaker said that organizations representing farmers were engaged to help craft language.
Brewster teamed up with Sen. Dan Laughlin (R-Erie) to sponsor the measure. Brewster applauded Laughlin for his work and leadership on the bill.
“Senator Laughlin did an excellent job working through issues, finding common ground and moving the legislation forward,” Brewster said.
Brewster said that one of the greatest assets we have are state game lands. The game lands were paid for by hunters and help maintain open spaces for hunting and recreation.
“As a life-long sportsman, I have a tremendous appreciation of Pennsylvania’s natural resources,” Brewster said. “We have to do more to preserve natural habitats, promote conservation and safe wildlife management practices.”
There are nearly 1.5 million acres of state game lands owned and maintained by the Game Commission.
“Our hunters have supported conservation efforts in the past and we need to find ways to encourage more hunters to adopt the sport,” Brewster said. “Sunday hunting is an excellent way to spur interest in hunting and engage more young people.”
The bill now goes to the state House of Representatives for its consideration.
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June 24, 2019
Harrisburg – June 24, 2019 – State Sen. Jim Brewster (D-Allegheny/Westmoreland) released the following statement concerning the 10-year agreement between Highmark and UPMC to permit in-network access to UPMC doctors and hospitals.
The agreement was announced less than a week before those with Highmark insurance would have lost in-network access to UPMC doctors and facilities.
Brewster’s comments follow:
“The agreement today will preserve health care options and is excellent and welcomed news. The agreement will relieve tension and anxiety from patients who were caught in the middle between the providers.
“In the Pittsburgh area, we have world class health care. Those who are sick and need help should be able to continue to access care from professionals they are comfortable with, regardless of the insurance that they carry.
“Highmark and UPMC have a responsibility to serve those who need care and I applaud them for their ability to reach this agreement. Insurance coverage should not be a barrier that prevents a sick patient from seeing a doctor or provider of their choice.
“I applaud Governor. Tom Wolf, Attorney General Josh Shapiro, officials from UPMC and Highmark, Senator Jay Costa, Representative Dan Frankel and so many others for digging in and working toward a solution to this very difficult issue.”
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June 20, 2019
Legislation will be brought to a vote in the Senate
Harrisburg – June 20, 2019 – Sen. Jim Brewster (D-Allegheny/Westmoreland) applauded the passage of his Sunday Hunting Bill (Senate Bill 147) out of the Senate Appropriations Committee. The legislation, which would authorize the Game Commission to allow Sunday hunting in Pennsylvania for up to three Sundays, will be brought to the Senate floor for a vote.
“I am happy the Appropriations Committee realized the benefits of allowing Sunday hunting in Pennsylvania,” said Brewster. “Increased tourism to our state game lands, increased revenue from hunting licenses, and providing working hunters a little extra time to enjoy their sport are all positive impacts of SB147.”
Brewster authored the legislation with Sen. Dan Laughlin (R-Erie) to start a dialogue on the number of established hunting days, the process of managing public lands, protections for farmers and their crops, and how to combat chronic wasting disease that effects Pennsylvania’s deer herd. The way the bill will be amended would permit hunting on three Sundays throughout the year.
“We set out to start a conversation and I believe the approval of the bill is a positive sign that the conversation has been successful,” said Brewster. “If we are going to be a state that values the environment and conservation efforts to protect it, allowing Sunday hunting is a revenue stream that we must tap into.”
Brewster is confident that allowing the Game Commission to open state game lands for three Sundays per year will combat the decrease in hunting license sales, encourage Pennsylvania hunters to hunt in-state, and attract out-of-state hunters for weekend trips. These three aspects will bring increased revenue for conversation initiatives championed by the Game Commission and support rural communities near state game lands.
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May 29, 2019
McKeesport – May 29, 2019 – Sen. Jim Brewster (D-Allegheny/Westmoreland) announced that McKeesport is set to receive funding assistance to improve traffic safety through the Automated Red-Light Enforcement (ARLE) fund.
“This funding is instrumental to improve traffic flow and safety,” Brewster said. “I am glad to see our region receiving assistance to invest in traffic projects that will ensure both motorists and pedestrians are able to travel safely.”
Three projects were approved for ARLE funding totaling $344,000.
They include:
- McKeesport Traffic Safety Project;
- Versailles Avenue and Evans Street Signal Replacement; and
- Lysle Boulevard and Coursin Street Audible Pedestrian Upgrade.
The approved projects will provide a variety of traffic safety improvements in McKeesport such as new traffic signal supports, updated pedestrian accommodations, and the creation of traffic safety programs.
According to Brewster, the improvements implemented with the ARLE funding will help to remediate speeding and sight issues that have concerned pedestrians and motorists in McKeesport.
“As travel increases in our area, we must do what we can to provide for traffic improvements that keep motorists and pedestrians safe,” Brewster said. “I believe this funding is an excellent step in addressing the traffic concerns of local residents and those traveling through the area.”
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March 26, 2019
Harrisburg – March 26, 2019 – State grant funding including $525,000 for road slide repairs in Pitcairn and $200,000 for a streetscape project in White Oak was approved today, state Sen. Jim Brewster (D-Allegheny/Westmoreland) said.
“The ability to successfully access state resources to address key projects in the area is very important,” Brewster said. “Many communities need the state dollars to undertake valuable projects and enhance the quality of life in their communities.
“Local municipalities try to stretch dollars to meet needs, yet critical projects cannot be considered unless the state steps up to help fill funding gaps.”
The money for Pitcairn and White Oak was approved by the Commonwealth Financing Authority.
The projects include:
- Pitcairn Borough: Center Avenue slide remediation project involves cutting the hillside, removing material, stabilizing the hill and relocating portions of Center Avenue between Fifth and Highland Avenues ($525,000);
- White Oak: Streetscape and pedestrian safety improvements along Lincoln Way including new light poles, electrical work and street signs ($200,000).
Brewster said that he would continue to be a strong advocate for funding and work to bring even more state funding to the district through other state programs.
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March 14, 2019
Harrisburg – March 13, 2019 – State Sen. Jim Brewster (D-Allegheny/Westmoreland) said that the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD) has approved funding for numerous programs to aid victims in Allegheny and Westmoreland counties.
“The funding is critical for important programs to address those impacted by crime,” Brewster said. “The dollars will help fund outreach activities, training, improved communications, advocacy and those impacted by crime.”
Brewster said a total of nearly $6 million was approved for a wide range of programs in Allegheny and Westmoreland counties. The funding is available through the Victims of Crime Act and includes both non-competitive and competitive grants. Among others, the grant recipients include:
- Alle-Kiski Area Hope Center $225,430
- Center for Victims $571,538
- Court Appointed Special Advocates of Allegheny County $2,159
- Neighborhood Legal Services $244,803
- Womens Center and Shelter of Greater Pittsburgh $511,251
- Center for Victims $1,265,361
- Casa of Westmoreland Inc. $173,174
PCCD supports justice-related programs with a focus on research, police and support services. The approved funding support programs that serve individuals countywide.
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March 7, 2019
McKeesport − March 7, 2019 – State Sen. Jim Brewster (D-Allegheny/Westmoreland) was recently reappointed to serve on the board of directors for the Port Authority of Allegheny County.
“Public transportation has always been a priority for me,” Brewster said. “Accessible public transportation is an important feature of a community’s quality of life and is an essential element in the development of business and industry.”
Brewster, who has been a member of the board since 2013, was reappointed by Sen. Jay Costa (D-Allegheny). Brewster serves as board secretary.
“Public transportation helps build a strong economy by making employment opportunities accessible,” he said. “An efficient public transportation system is good for workers and their companies. Public transportation connects workers to their jobs in urban, suburban, and rural areas.”
Brewster has long been an advocate for an enhanced public transportation system. He supported additional funding for mass transit systems that added routes and service in various communities.
In 2018, the Port Authority conducted a customer satisfaction survey that revealed that nearly 60 percent of customers use the service five or more days per week, and 90 percent at least three days a week.
“There are many challenges that we face in public transportation and hurdles to overcome,” Brewster said. “I am confident that by working together we can rebuild and restructure our public transit system to meet the needs of public transit consumers throughout the county.”
The Port Authority is the second-largest transportation system in the state, employing about 2,600 people and serving approximately 200,000 daily riders.
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January 29, 2019
Harrisburg – January 28, 2019 – Sen. Jim Brewster (D-Allegheny/Westmoreland) announced more permanent satellite offices throughout the 45th Senatorial District.
“I am happy to announce new satellite offices and extended office hours that will be available in many communities throughout the district,” Brewster said. “I look forward to continuing and improving the services that are offered and the help that my staff and I provide.”
The senator’s district offices have been instrumental in helping local residents apply for essential state programs and services including property tax relief, rent rebate programs, the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), the Pharmaceutical Assistance Contract for the Elderly program (PACE), and many others.
“With new offices and hours available in more communities, residents can better access the programs and services they need with the assistance of my district offices,” Brewster said.
New district office locations and hours of operation are:
- North Braddock Municipal Building, 600 Anderson Street, North Braddock open every Monday, 9:00 am-4:00 pm;
- Turtle Creek Borough Building, 125 Monroeville Avenue, Turtle Creek open every Tuesday, 9:00 am-4:00 pm;
- North Versailles Township Building, 1401 Greensburg Avenue, North Versailles open every Wednesday, 9:00 am-4:00 pm;
- Lower Burrell City Hall, 2800 Bethel Street, Lower Burrell open the 2nd Tuesday of each month, 1:00 pm-4:00 pm;
- Elizabeth Twp. Municipal Building, 522 Rock Run Road, Elizabeth open the 2nd Tuesday of each month, 1:00 pm-4:00 pm.
Brewster also reminds residents that other community district offices remain open and staffed during their scheduled hours of operation:
- Allegheny Twp. Municipal Building, 136 Community Building Road, Leechburg open every Monday and Tuesday, 9:00 am − 4:00 pm;
- Vandergrift Municipal Building, 109 Grant Avenue, Vandergrift open every Wednesday and Thursday, 9:00 am − 4:00 pm;
- Forward Twp. Municipal Building, 1000 Golden Circle, Elizabeth open the 2nd Tuesday of every month, 9:00 am − 12:00 pm;
- Human Services Center Corp.,413 Penn Avenue Ext., Turtle Creek open the 1st Thursday of every month, 1:00 pm − 4:00 pm.
In addition, Brewster operates full-time offices in Monroeville, McKeesport and New Kensington.
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January 25, 2019
Brewster, Costa, Kortz, Davis receive update during morning conference call
McKeesport – January 25, 2019 – State Sens. Jim Brewster (D-Allegheny/Westmoreland), Jay Costa (D-Allegheny) and state Reps. Bill Kortz (D-Allegheny) and Austin Davis (D-Allegheny) received an update from officials from the Allegheny County Health Department concerning the Dec. 24 fire at U.S. Steel’s Clairton Coke Works.
The update was provided during a morning conference call.
“We had a discussion with Dr. Karen Hacker and her team at the health department about the fire and its aftermath,” Brewster said. “Conversations will continue at a public meeting on February 7 at the Clairton Municipal Building.”
Brewster said the discussion focused on proper community notification procedures, air quality monitoring, improving communications and emergency response. He said the county officials pledged that these issues would be covered at the February public meeting.
The fire damaged the coke work’s gas processing system. The fire and response were the focus of a public meeting held in Clairton earlier this week.
Brewster said that additional information would be available at a public meeting, which is a joint Senate-House Democratic Policy Committee hearing, scheduled for Feb. 7 beginning at 12 noon at the municipal building, 551 Ravensburg Boulevard, Clairton.
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January 18, 2019
Harrisburg, Jan. 17, 2019 – Education grants dedicated to the implementation and improvement of computer science programs and career-readiness have been awarded to schools in Allegheny and Westmoreland counties, said Sen. Jim Brewster (D-Allegheny/Westmoreland).
“As computer technology continues to evolve, it is important that students can experience and learn new computer skills first hand,” Brewster said. “I am pleased that students in our area will benefit from Pennsylvania’s grants dedicated to improving computer science programs in local schools.”
Baldwin-Whitehall, Duquesne, East Allegheny and South Allegheny in Allegheny County, along with Burrell and Kiski school districts in Westmoreland, were approved for funding through the PAsmart initiative. The grants are for $35,000 each.
PAsmart grants are used to fund high-quality STEM and computer science courses for K-12 students, specifically those in low-income areas where access to up-to-date STEM technology may be limited.
Brewster noted that the state’s commitment to funding innovative technology and STEM education for Pennsylvania students has resulted in the state ranking second in the country for STEM education funding.
“PAsmart grants are an excellent investment in the future of our students,” Brewster said. “We must continue to provide for educational programs and opportunities that will prepare students to enter the ever-changing, fast paced workforce.”
A total of $8.7 million were distributed to 221 school districts for 765 individual schools.
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January 16, 2019
Veteran lawmaker also appointed to seats on Banking and Insurance, Education and Transportation
Harrisburg – January 16, 2019 – State Sen. Jim Brewster (D-Allegheny/Westmoreland) has been appointed Democratic chair of the Senate Law and Justice and Game and Fisheries committees.
“Serving as chair on both Law and Justice and Game and Fisheries is an honor and privilege,” Brewster said. “There are significant issues to be discussed and key decisions will have to be made about modernizing our liquor system and redefining game and fishing rules and regulations.”
Brewster also served as Democratic chair of both committees in the last two-year legislative session.
The veteran lawmaker was also reappointed to seats on the Senate’s Banking and Insurance, Education and Transportation committees.
“As a member of key committees that handle issues that are important to my district, I can ensure that the needs of our region are served well,” Brewster said.
On education, Brewster has led the effort to reform charter schools. He has fought for additional dollars for education and plans to reintroduce his “Extraction for Education” severance tax plan that will provide dollars not only to bolster basic education, but also to fund school safety initiatives.
Brewster was appointed as an inaugural member of the statewide School Safety and Security Committee established under Act 44 in 2018.
“There are key problems in education that need to be fixed,” Brewster said. “I’ve sponsored bills to reform charter schools, aid school safety initiatives and ensure that we have more resources for our children to learn.”
The McKeesport lawmaker said his appointment to the Transportation Committee will ensure that issues that arise relative to the construction of the Mon-Fayette Expressway and mass transit will be addressed. Brewster has long been an advocate of the Mon-Fayette Expressway and rapid expansion of mass transit into underserved areas. He currently serves as secretary of the Port Authority of Allegheny County Board of Directors.
“Building and expanding the reach of transportation systems that serve eastern Allegheny and western Westmoreland counties, plus meeting the unique needs of the Mon and Allegheny Valleys continues to be a priority,” Brewster said.
Prior to his election to the Senate, Brewster served as mayor of McKeesport, and was formerly Vice-President of Operations at Mellon Bank in Pittsburgh.
Brewster said his appointment to a seat on the Banking and Insurance Committee provides an opportunity to utilize his expertise and experience in banking to have significant impact on crafting better banking laws.
Brewster said his legislative agenda is chalk full of important initiatives. In addition to his charter school reform package and severance tax piece, Brewster has advocated changing game laws to allow hunting on Sundays and more financial support for the Game Commission. He has introduced a far-reaching plan to address the opioid crisis, including mandatory treatment for those addicted.
In addition, Brewster has prime sponsored legislation to promote the use of American made steel in Marcellus Shale drilling and improve pipeline safety. Several years ago, Brewster spearheaded a study of the country of origin for steel pipe used in drilling.
He said he will introduce legislation to invest new dollars in environmental protection and school safety.
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January 16, 2019
Harrisburg – January 16, 2019 – Education Partnership Grants to improve technical career training have been approved for projects in Allegheny and Westmoreland counties, said Sen. Jim Brewster (D-Allegheny/Westmoreland).
Westmoreland/Fayette Business Education Partnership and Three Rivers were approved for grant funding to help implement programs that will demonstrate the importance of technical careers to students and help those interested in technical careers prepare for post-secondary education and apprenticeship opportunities.
“STEM and technical careers are essential to our local and state economy,” Brewster said. “It is important that we continue to fund education programs that offer students pathways into these career fields.”
Westmoreland/Fayette Business Education Partnership was awarded $127,050 to develop technology projects and interactive programs that will allow students to explore and prepare for post-secondary education and careers within the STEM field. The programs, which will serve 600 K-12 students in the Westmoreland and Fayette area, will include both classroom and work-based learning opportunities.
Three Rivers in Allegheny was awarded $115,641 to implement a three-phase conference and networking program that will showcase careers in the building and construction industry.
“Providing students with the opportunity to explore more careers and the chance to gain hands-on experience is a great educational investment,” Brewster said. “I am happy that these local programs have been awarded the funds to help students see more options available to them in their future.”
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January 11, 2019
Brewster, Hughes, Yudichak to introduce comprehensive legislative package
Harrisburg – January 11, 2019 – Three Democratic state senators today announced a comprehensive package of legislation aimed at sparking a rapid and sustained expansion of Pennsylvania’s manufacturing sector.
State Sens. Jim Brewster (D-Allegheny/Westmoreland), Vincent J. Hughes (D-Philadelphia/Montgomery) and John Yudichak (D-Luzerne/Carbon) said they will sponsor legislation that would better focus state efforts to develop manufacturing opportunities and create jobs.
“We need to focus our efforts and address all aspects of economic development, including manufacturing,” Hughes said. “We have to do better coordinating our efforts, funding job training, purchasing new equipment and investing in communities in need.
“Manufacturing is a large and important part of our economy and it needs to continue to grow and develop. Our urban and rural areas are heavily dependent on this sector of our economy.”
According to the Center for Manufacturing Research, 12 percent of Pennsylvania’s gross state product is directly related to manufacturing with more than 550,000 workers engaged. Manufactured products account for $33 billion annually in exports.
Yudichak’s legislation calls for the creation of a “Chief Manufacturing Officer” within the governor’s office and a “Manufacturing Competitiveness Board” to help craft an overall manufacturing strategy.
“A chief manufacturing officer would serve as a strong advocate for manufacturing at the highest level of state government,” Yudichak said. “The individual who serves in that position should be well-schooled in the development of manufacturing strategies, especially as it relates to rural areas.”
A key aspect of growing the manufacturing sector is having capital on hand to help businesses invest in new equipment and training. Brewster’s legislation would channel up to $5 million in state grants for vocational technical schools, vocational programs and equipment purchases from the state’s Machinery and Equipment Loan Fund. The proposal would increase the maximum loan amount from $5 million to $7.5 million and authorize loans to retrofit equipment.
“This grant program is essential for vocational schools and small businesses,” Brewster said. “The grants would allow schools to purchase state-of-the-art equipment to train a new generation of skilled workers.”
Over the next decade, nearly 3.5 million manufacturing jobs will likely be needed, and 2 million are expected to go unfilled due to the skills gap, according to Deloitte and the Manufacturing Institute.
Hughes’ legislation would expand the Manufacturing Tax Credit by lifting the credit cap to $12.5 million from its current $4 million. A portion of the tax credit – up to $2.5 million – would be set aside for businesses in distressed communities. It would also be used for disadvantaged, minority, women and veteran-owned businesses.
Brewster said that the investment in manufacturing pays dividends for Pennsylvania’s workers. The average annual compensation for manufacturing employees in Pennsylvania in 2016 was $72,151. The average statewide salary for non-manufacturing and nonfarm business in Pennsylvania in 2016 was $49,059, according to National Association of Manufactures – State Data.
“We must have investments in manufacturing to ensure that Pennsylvania has a well-rounded and diverse economy,” Brewster said. Brewster’s Senate district includes many areas dependent on heavy manufacturing operations in the Monongahela and Allegheny River valley’s in Allegheny and Westmorland Counties.
Yudichak, who is from Northeast Pennsylvania, has a diverse district that includes manufacturing operations in cities and rural areas. He said it was critical that Pennsylvania policy stay current with national and international economics.
“A small manufacturing business, often located in a rural area, produces products that are used in goods manufactured all over the world,” Yudichak said.
The changing world economic landscape has altered how manufacturing is being developed and sustained in the United States. In 2015, compared to urban areas, manufacturing represented a greater share of both private nonfarm rural jobs (14 percent vs. 7 percent) and rural earnings (21 percent vs. 11 percent) according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
While the legislation was also introduced last session, the Democratic senators said they are hopeful they can advance the legislative package this year. They said will question state officials about their commitment to manufacturing during the upcoming budget hearings.
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December 6, 2018
Harrisburg – Dec. 6, 2018 – Allegheny County Airport in West Mifflin is slated to receive a $223,000 grant to acquire equipment for the airport facility, Sen. Jim Brewster (D-Allegheny/Westmoreland) announced today.
“The Allegheny County Airport is a tremendous asset and an important part of the region’s transportation network,” Brewster said. “The grant funds will be utilized to buy equipment and support operations at the facility.”
The funding was approved through the state Department of Transportation’s Aviation Development Program. The Allegheny County Airport is one of 26-grants approved statewide for aviation projects. Over $6 million was approved for aviation projects in this funding round.
“The airport serves the entire economy of southwestern Pennsylvania and will grow in importance when other key local economic projects – such as the Mon-Fayette Expressway – are completed,” Brewster said. “A first-rate airport is a strong economic tool that can be used to attract other development and jobs.”
Brewster said that funding for the grants is generated through the state’s jet fuel tax and the multimodal fund.
Brewster is a member of the Senate Transportation Committee.
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November 16, 2018
Harrisburg – Nov. 16, 2018 – Several state grants were approved to fund conservation partnership projects in Monroeville, Brentwood and Glassport in addition to the Great Allegheny Passage in Elizabeth Township and Lincoln Borough, state Sen. Jim Brewster (D-Allegheny/Westmoreland) said today.
“These grants will not only open up areas for recreation, but they will enhance a community’s quality of life,” Brewster said. “Citizens from the area will be able to enjoy greater access to open space, have improved recreational areas, site improvements, facilities and public walkways.”
The grants include the following:
- Allegheny Land Trust: $20,000 is earmarked toward the acquisition of 30 acres in Monroeville for open space and recreation;
- Brentwood Borough: $697,600 to revitalize the Brentwood Community Park including the reconstruction of the swimming pool, liner, piping, fencing, ADA access, landscaping and other site improvements;
- Glassport Borough: $40,000 to develop the 9th Street Park including walkways, pavilions, fencing, ADA access and other site improvements;
- Great Allegheny Passage in Elizabeth Township and Lincoln Borough: $170,500 to Regional Trail Corporation to rehabilitate 9.8 miles of trail from Buena Vista to Durabond bypass. The project includes installation of gates, ADA access and other improvements.
Brewster said the grants were approved through the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources’ Community Conservation Partnership Program. Partnership grants are funded through a mix of state and federal sources.
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November 5, 2018
Harrisburg – Nov. 5, 2018 –State Sen. Jim Brewster (D-Allegheny/Westmoreland) reminds residents that home heating assistance is available through the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP).
“We have started to experience cold weather in the area as the winter months approach,” Brewster said. “LIHEAP is a lifeline for families who are struggling to afford home heating costs.”
The application process for LIHEAP began on November 1, 2018 and will end April 12, 2019.
Brewster said residents who can benefit from the program should apply now, before the start of winter. He said that his office staff can help residents determine if they are income-eligible for assistance.
“I encourage those who are eligible to apply sooner, rather than later, to ensure their homes will be heated through the winter season.”
Brewster said that staff in his district offices in Monroeville, McKeesport and New Kensington are available to assist residents with the application process and answer any questions they may have regarding the program.
More than 300,000 households statewide received home heating assistance through LIHEAP in the 2017-2018 season.
Information on the program and the guidelines to apply are available through the Department of Human Services at http://www.dhs.pa.gov/citizens/heatingassistanceliheap/index.htm.
