26 de marzo de 2021
Harrisburg – Marzo 26, 2021 – At the request of state Senators Wayne D. Fontana (D- Allegheny), Jim Brewster (D- Allegheny/Westmoreland), Lindsey Williams (D- Allegheny) and Representative Sara Innamorato (D-Allegheny), the Pennsylvania Senate and House Democratic Policy Committees held a virtual public hearing on the issues of abandoned and blighted property conservatorship, the effect of blight on neighborhoods, and tools to eradicate blight while preserving the integrity of communities.
“Making sure that blight does not continue to bring down our thriving communities is of the utmost importance,” Sen. Fontana said. “The premise of Act 135 and all blight remediation legislation are overall positive and essential to eliminating blight. The purpose of this hearing is to examine the act to make sure the law is being used for its intended purpose and make any necessary changes to achieve this goal.”
Act 135 of 2008, the Abandoned and Blighted Property Conservatorship Act, was passed in Pennsylvania to allow responsible owners to take over empty buildings that have become eyesores in neighborhoods for years. Owners are required to act under court supervision, however, there have been housing developers in recent years that have taken advantage of Act 135 cheaply acquire properties.
“I have been an advocate of this kind of blight removal legislation over the years, because run-down and abandoned buildings hamper local communities as they implement development initiatives and attract new opportunities to the area,” said Sen. Brewster. “The legislation discussed today is necessary to support community revitalization efforts and to build stability throughout the region.”
There have been many community organizations and municipalities who have used act 135 to rehabilitate blighted properties and allowed easier access to affordable home ownership to underserved communities. But there are still concerns that in rehabilitating these properties, these neighborhoods are being gentrified.
Brewster said that he expects there to be changes to Act 135 of 2008 after the testimony heard at the policy hearing today.
Ernie Hogan, Executive Director of the Pittsburgh Community Reinvestment Group (PCRG) said, “Since the passing and amendment of the legislation, there have been abuses of the law that have emerged, resulting in lost equity, lost access, and damaging speculation. Our members have told us loud and clear that many neighborhoods have seen unscrupulous investors surface with the desire to speculate and flip real estate, in some cases competing with local neighborhoods organizations.”
“Another shared theme in the tragic story of blight includes the concentration of these properties in areas of existing high poverty and low property values. Places like my neighborhood – far too long ignored by the private market and public investment alike,” Diamonte Walker, Deputy Executive Director of the Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) of Pittsburgh, said.
“Once it gets started, this vicious cycle of abandonment and blight, leading to further abandonment and blight, is hard to stop. Not to mention that our current ability to reverse the cycle without sparking gentrification is a feat that too rarely occurs,” Walker continued.
Walker emphasized that the issue of blight does fall more heavily on communities of color, and that if the resources are not given directly to the communities that blight and devaluation of property are affecting, this issue will persist. She said that she has been working with Sen. Fontana on changes to the Municipal Claims and Tax Lien Law (MCTLL) to provide for an expedited Sherriff Sale process, currently only available to the City of Philadelphia. Legislation extending this option to Pittsburgh would dramatically enhance the ability of the City, URA, and the land bank to return vacant, abandoned, and tax delinquent property to productive use.
Winnie Branton, Founder and President of Branton Strategies, L.L.C, also spoke about the importance of land banks in Pennsylvania to combat blight and revitalize neighborhoods. A land bank is a governmental entity whose mission is to convert vacant, abandoned, and tax-delinquent properties to productive use. In Pennsylvania, a land bank operates similar to how an area housing authority would. Land banks were established in Pennsylvania by Act 153 of 2012, and there are currently 29 land banks throughout the commonwealth.
As the sergeant in charge of sheriff sales for the Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, Gina Dascola said that her office is very happy working with the Tri-COG land bank in Allegheny County because it allows them to waive certain fees and tax liens associated with a sheriff sale of a property helps foreclosed properties get rehabilitated more quickly.
While Mandi Culhane, Shareholder with the Pittsburgh based law firm GRB Law, said that waiving tax liens is detrimental to municipalities and their finances, both Ernie Hogan of PCRG and Diamonte Walker of URA disagreed.
Hogan and Walker believe that is more beneficial to communities, and the financial situations of municipalities, to rehabilitate blighted homes and properties to make housing more affordable and get more responsible homeowners on municipal tax rolls.
Gerald Driggs, Director of the Upper Allegheny Valley Community Development Corporation (CDC) said that his organization does not even utilize blight conservatorship as it is currently written into law in Pennsylvania because his organization finds the process too complicated and too expensive.
Driggs and his CDC adopted a strategy called ‘Proactive Blight Remediation’.
“We see blight remediation as a continuum that ranges from demolition to returning a blighted building to the tax rolls while meeting community needs and priorities and creating a viable community asset,” Driggs said.
Driggs also advocated in his testimony for ‘Spot Blight Eminent Domain.’ This form of eminent domain is a tool for a municipality under very specific and regulated circumstances, to take individual properties for redevelopment or rehabilitation, and is designed to transfer blighted properties to responsible new owners in a short timeframe with limited administrative overhead.
“So many of our local municipalities struggle with cost-effective ways to manage blighted properties in a way that both improves the safety and appearance of their neighborhoods and moves these properties off of the delinquent tax rolls,” Sen. Lindsey Williams said. “Learning more about how we as legislators can effectively remove barriers and lower costs for our municipalities while balancing the rights of current property owners, if they exist, and protecting historic properties has been incredibly useful. I’m looking forward to putting this knowledge into legislative action that will help our local leaders and communities.”
“Blight conservatorship, housing equity, and making sure that the laws we have passed here in the legislature are truly serving communities is so important,” Sen. Katie Muth (D-Berks/Chester/Montgomery), chair of the Senate Policy committee, said. “I am grateful for the testifiers here today for presenting possible options on how we can improve polices to eliminate neighborhood blight while still protecting communities.”
Below are all who testified in today’s hearing:
- Ernie Hogan, Executive Director, Pittsburgh Community Reinvestment Group
- Joe Mistick, Professor, Duquesne University School of Law
- Mandi Culhane, Shareholder, GRB Law
- Judy Berkman, Senior Counsel, Regional Housing Legal Services
- Gerald Driggs, Director, Upper Allegheny Valley Community Development Corporation
- Diamonte Walker, Deputy Executive Director, Urban Redevelopment Authority of Pittsburgh
- Gina Dascola, Sergeant, Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office
- Winnie Branton, Founder and President, Branton Strategies, L.L.C
The full recording of this hearing can be found at senatormuth.com/policy or on the PA Senate Democratic Facebook.
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16 de marzo de 2021
HARRISBURG, 16 de marzo de 2021 - Con miras a reforzar la confianza en los funcionarios electos, el senador estatal Jim Brewster anunció hoy que ha vuelto a presentar una serie de proyectos de ley que prohibirán los pagos de viáticos, aumentos de sueldo automáticos, arrendamiento de automóviles y regalos de cualquier valor para los legisladores estatales.
"Hace tiempo que ha llegado el momento de eliminar estas prebendas legislativas que han costado millones a los contribuyentes y han hecho perder a sus representantes electos la confianza del público, que es fundamental para un gobierno eficaz", dijo Brewster. "Tendremos que tomar decisiones difíciles en el futuro mientras reconstruimos nuestra economía y hay que restaurar la confianza y compartir el sacrificio".
Brewster (D-Allegheny/Westmoreland), presentó por primera vez las medidas de reforma en 2015, y las ha vuelto a presentar en cada sesión desde entonces.
"Creo que ha llegado el momento de una seria autorreflexión en la Asamblea General que nos dé impulso esta vez", afirmó.
Los proyectos de ley incluyen:
SB 361 - Sustituye anualmente, los ajustes automáticos del costo de vida (COLA) por un aumento de una vez por década consideración tras el censo decenal de EE.UU. y calculado por el Índice de Precios al Consumidor.
SB 362 - Sustituye los pagos de dietas por el reembolso de los gastos reales previa presentación de documentación suficiente.
SB 363 - Pone fin a los arrendamientos de vehículos estatales para los miembros de la Asamblea General, en lugar de reembolsar el kilometraje real y los peajes para los viajes documentados del gobierno.
SB 364 - Prohíbe los regalos de cualquier valor a los miembros de la Asamblea General. Ningún miembro podría solicitar o aceptar, para su uso personal o para el uso de otro; un regalo, favor, entretenimiento, hospitalidad, préstamo o cualquier otro artículo de valor monetario.
Los proyectos han sido remitidos a la Comisión de Gobierno Estatal del Senado.
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Marzo 13, 2021
McKeesport, Marzo 13 – State Sen. Jim Brewster (D-Allegheny/Westmoreland) is encouraging Allegheny County residents who are struggling to pay rent and utilities to apply for financial assistance on Lunes, Marzo 15.
Eligible county residents will be able to apply for rent and utility assistance from the Emergency Rental Assistance Program online at https://covidrentrelief.alleghenycounty.us. The program, administered by the Allegheny County Department of Human Services, will distribute $79.9 million in federal funding to county residents who have been financially impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. That includes those who:
- have at least one person who qualifies for unemployment, has lost income, or suffered financially due to COVID-19;
- are at risk of experiencing homelessness;
- have a total income below 80% of the Area Median Income for Allegheny County.
“There is a light at the end of the tunnel, especially as more and more people are vaccinated, but so many in our community have taken a financial hit because of the pandemic,” Brewster said. “This program can help people struggling with rent and utility payments to find a little help. I encourage anyone who needs assistance to apply for the program.”
Drop-in centers with internet access and computers will also be available across the county for those who need assistance with the application. Two of those centers will be located in Senator Brewster’s district at The Wander Building, 337 Fifth Avenue, McKeesport, and at Greater Valley Community Services, 300 Holland Avenue, Braddock.
ACTION-Housing can help with applications over the phone at 412-248-0021.
Febrero 19, 2021
HARRISBURG – Febrero 19, 2021 – State Sen. Vincent Hughes (D-Philadelphia/Montgomery) and Rep. Elizabeth Fiedler (D-Philadelphia) were joined by several Democratic House and Senate members from a cross Pennsylvania on Viernes to call for repairs to hazardous and toxic schools across Pennsylvania.
Sen. Jim Brewster (D-Allegheny/Westmoreland), Sen. Judy Schwank (D-Berks) and Rep. Kyle Mullins (D-Lackawanna) pointed to public school buildings in their districts in desperate need of repair during the virtual press conference. The legislators spoke in support of recently unveiled proposals in the House and Senate pushing for significant investment in school infrastructure.
“Today’s event addressed conditions in schools all across the commonwealth, and make no mistake, these same hazardous and toxic conditions exist in communities represented by the Republican caucuses,” Sen. Hughes said. “Rural, suburban and urban communities alike face daunting challenges because of our aging public school buildings. We cannot wait any longer to act. I am grateful to my colleagues for their support on this legislation, as well as the awareness they are helping raise for this important issue.”
The first proposal would expand the Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program (RACP) by $1 billion to help address health hazards in public school buildings across Pennsylvania. Gov. Tom Wolf put forth the RACP proposal as a top priority in his recent 2021-22 budget address.
“Our schools were already dangerous places for students, educators and staff before the pandemic hit,” Rep. Fiedler said. “As we seek to make schools safe in the age of COVID, we are determined to also remediate the lead, asbestos and other toxins. Our coalition is powerful. Together, we are committed to investing state dollars in our public buildings and giving communities across Pennsylvania the schools they deserve!”
The second proposal would create the Public School Building Emergency Repair and Renovation Grant program, distributing grants to public schools for emergency repairs including lead and asbestos abatement or remediation, HVAC repair or replacement, electrical system repair or replacement, plumbing repair or replacement, roof and window repair or replacement and other repairs or replacements that present a health or safety issue. This proposal would rely on federal funding provided through the American Rescue Plan.
“Safe and healthy school environments are vital to the success of our students, teachers and staff,” Sen. Brewster said. “As a former educator, I know firsthand the importance of a safe environment for a student’s physical health and academic achievement. While touring schools throughout the district and discussing concerns with numerous school officials, it is evident that assistance in bringing our public school buildings up to date is a top priority. The proposals discussed this morning will give districts the opportunity to make these necessary upgrades.”
Pennsylvania has some of the oldest school buildings in the nation. Most school buildings were constructed between 1950 and 1959. More than 200 buildings constructed prior to 1950. The aging buildings pose many health hazards including lead in the drinking water; asbestos in cracked floor tiles; mold outbreaks in classrooms; broken boilers in the winter; and no air conditioning in the summer.
“Pennsylvania students’ ability to access a quality education is fundamental to our Commonwealth’s future,” Sen. Schwank said. “But how can we expect our students to learn if they are in unfit and unsafe classrooms? Too many schools were in terrible physical condition even prior to the pandemic. They should have been repaired long ago, and now we are facing a crisis. If we truly want to provide a safe environment for our students, faculty and staff these bills must be passed.“
Legislators are hopeful to gain bipartisan support for the initiative to repair schools statewide. Beyond the clear benefits in creating healthier, safer schools, they point to the potential economic impact from the jobs that would be created as a result of the infrastructure investment.
“No child’s health, safety, or the quality of their education should be safeguarded any less simply because of what school district they happen to live in,” Rep. Mullins said. “It is long overdue that state leaders finally rectify these chronic inequities across our school districts and recognize these as matters of civil rights and public health.”
In 2018, the Public School Building Construction And Reconstruction Advisory Committee released the PlanCon final report. The legislature has not funded programs to address the facilities issued raised in the PlanCon report. Conditions in many districts have worsened, and become more costly, as a result of inaction.
Click here to watch the full press event.
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Enero 29, 2021
(Harrisburg – Enero 29, 2021) – State Sen. Jim Brewster (D-Allegheny/Westmoreland) will again serve as Secretary of the Board of the Port Authority of Allegheny County.
“We face many challenges in public transportation,” Brewster said. “We are in the middle of challenging times so it important that we work together to solve these problems by rebuilding our public transportation system to meet the needs of the region.”
Brewster is a veteran of the board and serves on the Financial Audit Committee. He is a member of the Senate Transportation Committee and a strong advocate for funding to fix our roads, bridges, and mass transit systems.
“The Port Authority board works well in trying to address transportation needs,” Brewster said. “The board members are all dedicated and committed to making our transportation network better.”
The Port Authority has 2,600 workers and serves more than 200,000 riders on a daily basis.
Enero 27, 2021
Harrisburg, Enero 26, 2021 – Seven schools in the 45th Senate District will share more than $100,000 in state grants aimed at food service improvements, state Sen. Jim Brewster announced today.
“We know that too many students show up to school hungry and making sure that they are fed is critical to their academic achievement,” Brewster said. “Food-service investments in schools pays long term rewards for local school districts.”
The local schools were among 59 that successfully competed with others from across the state for a total of $875,000 in grants that were announced today by the Pennsylvania Department of Education.
“Success in this competitive program means our schools are serving students well and planning carefully for the future,” Brewster said. “I thank these school employees for their efforts and congratulate them on their success.”
Funding for the grants is made available through the U.S. Department of Agriculture and they’re awarded to schools that participate in the National School Lunch Program.
The grants can be used to purchase or upgrade equipment such as refrigerators, freezers, stoves, and dishwashers.
Schools in the 45th Senate District who won grants are:
Elizabeth Forward Middle School (Elizabeth Forward School District)
Plum Senior High School (Plum Borough School District)
Turtle Creek Elementary STEAM Academy (Woodland Hills School District)
Edgewood Elementary STEAM Academy (Woodland Hills School District)
Martin School (New Kensington-Arnold School District)
Harrison Park Elementary School (Penn-Trafford School District)
Level Green Elementary School (Penn Trafford School District)
For details about the grant amounts and projects funded, click here.
Enero 15, 2021
(Harrisburg – Enero 15, 2021) – The McKeesport Housing Authority will again be led by Senator Jim Brewster (D-Allegheny/Westmoreland) who has volunteered his time for the 31st consecutive year.
“It has been a privilege to lead the McKeesport housing authority,” Brewster said. “We have achieved many things during my tenure as chair, but we have more to do.
“Now more than ever, it is important that affordable housing is available.”
Brewster afirmó que la vivienda asequible y de calidad es un elemento importante de una comunidad fuerte y sana. Afirmó que seguirá trabajando con los miembros de la autoridad para resolver problemas y ofrecer viviendas seguras.
La autoridad es responsable de más de 1.000 unidades, entre las que se incluyen emplazamientos para personas mayores, accesibles para minusválidos y vecindarios.
La Autoridad de Vivienda de McKeesport es la tercera autoridad de vivienda más antigua de Pensilvania. Fue creada bajo los auspicios de la Ley de Vivienda de Estados Unidos de 1937. Además de proporcionar viviendas, la autoridad trabaja en concierto con otras organizaciones para ofrecer programas de asistencia comunitaria.
For more information on Sen Brewster’s activity in the McKeesport community and the McKeesport Housing Authority, visit senatorbrewster.com
Enero 15, 2021
Harrisburg – Enero 15, 2021 – After a contentious and controversial election and court battle for the 45th District, State Senator Jim Brewster (D-Allegheny/Westmoreland) has again been appointed Democratic chair of the Senate Law and Justice and Game and Fisheries committees, two of the most influential and prestigious committees in the Senate, because of his considerable experience and knowledge in the fields.
“Serving as chair on these committees is an honor and privilege,” Brewster said. “There are significant issues to be discussed and key decisions will have to be made.”
Brewster has served as Democratic chair of both committees in the last two-year legislative session.
The McKeesport lawmaker was also reappointed to seats on the Senate’s Banking and Insurance, Education and Transportation committees.
"Como miembro de comités clave que se ocupan de asuntos importantes para mi distrito, puedo garantizar que se atiendan las necesidades de nuestra región", declaró Brewster.
On education, Brewster has led the effort to reform charter schools. He has fought for additional dollars for education and supports a responsible energy extraction tax on Marcellus Shale drillers that will provide funding not only to bolster basic education, but also to fund school safety and environmental protection initiatives.
Brewster serves as member of the statewide School Safety and Security Committee, established under Act 44 in 2018, and has become known as a fierce advocate for more safety in schools.
“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 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.
“Building and expanding the reach of transportation systems that serve Allegheny and Westmoreland Counties continues to be a priority,” Brewster said.
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.
“In addition to dealing with the ongoing problems from the pandemic, including helping families and small businesses, I plan to continue fighting for quality, safe education for our children and reliable transportation projects to attract new businesses to the region,” Brewster said.
13 de enero de 2021
Takes oath of office today in Harrisburg ceremony
Harrisburg – Enero 13, 2021 – State Senator Jim Brewster (D) was sworn in today for another term in the Pennsylvania State Senate, serving constituents in portions of Allegheny and Westmoreland Counties.
“It is an honor and privilege to serve the citizens in the 38 communities that are a part of the 45th District,” Brewster said. “I will continue to pursue a broad agenda that is focused on families.
“My legislative proposals include measures to promote job creation, economic development, tax relief, education support and safety, and help for those who are in need.”
The lawmaker has also proposed plans to help small businesses and families during the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as to institute a responsible energy extraction tax on Marcellus Shale drillers and to use the revenue to fund education and environmental protection. He is also the prime sponsor of a package of bills to reform the legislature and make it more transparent, including eliminating per diems, state vehicles, and a gift ban.
Brewster was first elected to the Senate in a special election in 2010. He was re-elected in 2012, 2016, and 2020.
Brewster said there are great challenges ahead for lawmakers this session. A budget deficit and the continuing challenges from the pandemic, he said. Even amid these substantive and difficult issues, he said that there was an opportunity to address issues involving local government.
“As the former mayor of McKeesport, I know the difficulties that economically-stressed communities face,” Brewster said. “Lawmakers in Harrisburg also need to focus on addressing the problems of small cities and struggling communities across Pennsylvania.”
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Enero 1, 2021
Diciembre 28, 2020
McKeesport, PA − Diciembre 28, 2020 − Senator Jim Brewster today announced the Port Authority of Allegheny County approved a two-year contract with Amalgamated Transit Union Local 85.
“I am happy to support our courageous employees and our Port Authority Administration for working hard to produce a contract that is fair,” said Senator Brewster, who is also a member of the Port Authority Board. “This contract will enable us to continue providing a valuable service to the general public.”
The Port Authority’s Board approved the contract on Diciembre 23rd for the agency’s 2,300 bus and rail operators, service personnel, maintenance and administrative employees, and first-level supervisors.
“This agreement is good for the taxpayers, the riders, and the employees who have worked hard, especially during this difficult year to provide quality service,” said Brewster. “I would like to congratulate everyone who was involved in getting this done.”
Diciembre 23, 2020
McKeesport – Diciembre 23, 2020 – Senator Jim Brewster today announced more than $6 million in state grants that will go to projects in the 45th senatorial district.
“I was happy to advocate for these important projects, and I am excited to see them come to fruition thanks to this investment from the state,” said Senator Brewster. “Each of the projects funded today will bolster our region’s economy.”
The funding comes from the Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program (RACP), a Commonwealth grant program administered by the Office of the Budget for the acquisition and construction of regional economic, cultural, civic, recreational, and historical improvement projects.
One of the projects funded will be the expansion of PurePenn in McKeesport. The medical marijuana manufacturer will receive $2,000,000 to conduct an interior build-out which will include mechanical, electrical, fire protection, and other interior building components.
“This investment in McKeesport has been a job creator and a real contributor to the regional economy”, said Brewster. “I am looking forward to what comes for the area from this substantial funding.”
Also, UPMC St. Margaret’s Family Health Center in New Kensington will receive $1,250,000 for a new clinical space to accommodate more patients, provide room for team and group meetings, and offer swing spaces for outside social service agencies.
The Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank will receive $1,000,000 to improve overall efficiency and support distribution of more fresh produce.
In addition to these investments, the Braddock Carnegie Library Association is slated to receive $1,000,000 to implement the first comprehensive building renovation and preservation plan in the 132-year history of the Braddock Carnegie Library.
And finally, the Former Westinghouse HQ/Pittsburgh Supercomputing Center in Monroeville will receive $1,000,000 as it moves forward with efforts to provide university, government and industrial researchers with access to systems for high-performance computing, communications, and data storage.
Diciembre 8, 2020
McKeesport – Diciembre 8, 2020 – State Senator Jim Brewster today announced the following state tax credit monies for COVID-19 relief and community development initiatives.
“I was pleased to support this initiative that will help our communities overcome some of the challenges caused by the pandemic,” Brewster said. “The dollars will also help kick-start some vital economic and community development initiatives in our neighborhoods.
Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank in Duquesne
- $1,435 million to serve over 260,000 people in an 11-county area in southwestern Pennsylvania. The food bank expects to distribute the equivalent of more than 35 million meals to food to struggling families this fiscal year.
Tube City Renaissance in McKeesport
- $13,500 to address blight, safe housing, quality of life and employment opportunities. The density in housing fosters greater health risks to individuals and families living in crowded apartments or rundown homes with little access to safe and adequate housing. The organization is looking to renovate a vacant home on Cornell.
Westmoreland County Action in New Kensington
- $160,000 to develop and renew downtown with community involvement and staying focused on the needs of residents. Create a temporary site for the farmers market during construction of the New Kensington Market House and Community Center, provide food/supplies and infrastructure needs for the community related to COVID, and more.
McKees Point Development Group in McKeesport
- $360,000 to stabilize housing stock and create new home ownership opportunities, by working with Rebuilding Together Pittsburgh; Rehabilitate and resize the downtown business district while creating new businesses opportunities. Maximizing the potential for job creation related to the tourism industry by targeting development toward the key historical/recreational area surrounding the Penn McKee Hotel, the Marina at McKees Point, and the Great Allegheny Passage.
Mon Valley Initiative
- $160,000 in Braddock to focus on residential stabilization. Expected to make a positive impact on over 700 low-income people in Braddock with Braddock Library’s numerous programs, adjusted for COVID-19 impacts. During the six-year plan, they will sell six newly built homes and secure financing for eight rental units.
- $380,000 in Clairton for home construction projects that are in pre-development, including the Clairton Inn, a mixed-use project with 49 residential apartments and 5 commercial spaces. Along with a focus to improve home ownership rates, provide direct health and human services, including the provision of 1,200 meals to families, connecting residents to health services, youth programming, and training residents on the use of NARCAN.
Rebuilding Together Pittsburgh
- $37,500 in McKeesport. The group’s goal is to enhance the quality of life for low-income residents through renovations allowing homeowners to remain living independently. Targeted repairs further stabilize homeownership and value of their neighborhood, enhancing the economic revitalization of McKeesport as a whole.
- $41,250 in Clairton for home repairs and neighborhood revitalization. Will serve at least nine residents, repair seven homes, retain jobs, and utilize local and minority-owned contractors as much as possible.
Administered by the state Department of Community and Economic Development, the tax credits are distributed through Neighborhood Partnership Programs.
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Noviembre 20, 2020
McKeesport – Noviembre 20, 2020 – State Senator Jim Brewster today issued the following statement on the final 2020-21 state budget:
“With the dire impact of the pandemic as the backdrop, I am pleased that the legislature was able to hold the line on taxes while fully funding key programs and initiatives,” Brewster said.
The harsh economic impact from the pandemic complicated this year’s budget planning and necessitated difficult and innovative decisions, such as using over $4 billion in one-time funds and supplemental federal dollars to balance the budget.
In the year ahead, we will need to re-examine spending priorities and base projections on more reliable and continual revenue sources.
Like all budgets, there are things I agree and disagree on. While I’m pleased that we were able to maintain support for key state programs and resources without raising taxes, I’m disappointed that we were not able to free up more dollars to help front line workers, struggling business owners and unemployed workers.
It is crucial that we focus in the coming year on ways to help these workers and businesses endure until we get this horrific pandemic behind us.”
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Octubre 21, 2020
McKeesport – Octubre 21, 2020 – State Senator Jim Brewster today announced over $40 million in state low-interest loan funds for two key local water projects.
“These state PENNVEST dollars will help these communities expedite the completion of these important projects,” Brewster said. “I will continue to seek state support for local public projects.”
According to Brewster, the projects include:
- Elizabeth Township will receive a $17.299 million loan to install a new pump station and conveyance system, including a new force main to convey sewage to an existing multi-municipal treatment center in McKeesport. Brewster said the project will addresses a 2016 Department of Environmental Protection consent order that will also reduce wet weather overflows into a nearby water source.
- Clairton Municipal Authority received a $23 million loan to install four membrane bioreactor basins, two effluent storage tanks, clarifiers and contact tanks. The project will address the system’s long-term control plan, reducing Combined Sewer Overflow bypasses, and reduce wet weather overflows into streams.
The projects wre approved by the PENNVEST board today. The funding for these projects comes from a combination of funds including: Growing Greener, Marcellus Legacy funds, federal grants to PENNVEST from the Environmental Protection Agency, and recycled loan repayments from previous PENNVEST funding awards.
Established in 1988, PENNVEST helps fund water and sewer projects statewide.
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Septiembre 15, 2020
McKeesport – Septiembre 15, 2020 – Nearly $1.5 million in grant funding has been approved by the Commonwealth Financing Authority (CFA) for nine projects in the area, according to state Sen. Jim Brewster (D-Allegheny/Westmoreland).
“The ability to secure grant dollars to fund critical local projects is helpful to our municipalities and taxpayers,” Brewster said. “The nearly $1.5 million in grant funding will be used by nine communities to complete important projects that may not be possible without additional support.”
Brewster said the funding for the projects was approved through the CFA’s Gaming Economic Development and Tourism Fund Program. The fund is established to support economic development projects in Allegheny County. It is funded through gaming revenues.
The grants include:
- Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank in Duquesne: $100,000 grant to build new sidewalks and ramps;
- Clairton: $100,000 for the installation of safety lighting;
- Monroeville: $100,000 to help Allegheny Petroleum purchase computer equipment to outfit its new building in the municipality;
- North Versailles: $250,000 grant to add lighting upgrades to Crestas Ballfield complex;
- While Oak Borough: through Steel Rivers COG, $100,000 grant to aid in the construction of retaining walls and add to the Center Street Extension Remediation project;
- Liberty Borough: $151,250 through Steel Rives COG, to demolish Old Liberty School;
- Plum: $150,000 grant through the Turtle Creek Valley COG, to replace storm sewer pipes as a part of the Holiday Park Storm Sewer Project;
- Healthy Village Learning Institute in McKeesport: $85,501 grant to replace obsolete windows;
- Elizabeth Borough: $376,250 grant for façade upgrades, sidewalk repairs and streetscape improvements.
Brewster has a long record of success in helping to secure federal, state, county, and local funding for key projects. He said he was pleased that the grant funding was available in this round, and that additional dollars will be secured for other projects in the next funding cycle.
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Septiembre 8, 2020
McKeesport – Sept. 8, 2020 – State Sen. Jim Brewster’s (D-Allegheny/Westmoreland) effort to safely increase indoor and outdoor seating for bars and restaurants moved forward today as the Senate Law and Justice Committee approved legislation to expand capacity.
Brewster supported a bill (House Bill 2513) to increase indoor occupancy and offered a revised plan to expand seating for outdoor dining. Brewster’s amendment to increase capacity for bars passed unanimously.
Earlier this year, he wrote a letter to the governor seeking state regulatory permission for bars and restaurants to safely reopen with additional seating.
“Since the COVID-19 pandemic struck, I have been trying to make sure that our economy can reopen safely, including increasing capacity for bars and restaurants,” Brewster said. “The committee action today to increase capacity, in addition the announcement by the governor to ease restrictions, will help restaurants, bars and the hospitality industry.
Restaurants have been hit particularly hard by seating restrictions and have sought ways to safely reopen with expanded capacity.
Just prior to the committee’s action, the governor announced that he was easing restrictions on restaurants. The governor said that restaurants can increase their indoor occupancy to 50 percent beginning Sept. 21.
Brewster, who serves as Democratic chair of the Law and Justice Committee, has been a strong and forceful advocate for protecting workers and patrons while reopening the economy in the face of the pandemic.
In Julio, along with his colleague, Sen. Pam Iovino (D-Allegheny/Washington), Brewster offered plan to use $100 million in federal pandemic recovery funds to help restaurants and bars impacted by forced closures.
Earlier this year, the lawmaker outlined a six-point economic stimulus plan to help workers and small businesses and he detailed a safe reopening strategy for area businesses that protected workers and consumers.
Septiembre 4, 2020
McKeesport – Sept. 4, 2020 – Decisions on whether to restart interscholastic fall sports should be left to local school district officials, state Sen. Jim Brewster (D-Allegheny/Westmoreland) said today following his vote in support a bill that would leave it to school boards to decide.
“The legislation makes it clear that local school boards will make that decision — as long as health and safety protocols are in place,” Brewster said.
Brewster voted for House Bill 2787 in the Senate Education Committee on Viernes for the second time following a reconsideration of Jueves’s vote. The committee voted 10 to 1 in favor of the bill, which will now be reported to the full Senate.
“The legislation enjoys strong and wide support and should be quickly passed by the full Senate,” Brewster said. “We need to give local officials discretion to make decisions once safety protections are established.”
Brewster serves on the statewide School Safety and Security Committee. In Junio, the committee recommended a framework to distribute more than $150 million in federal pandemic relief funds to school districts across the state. The funding was earmarked to help schools deal with COVID-19 expenses.
“We have distributed funding to local schools to help defray costs, but more needs to be done,” Brewster said. “These funds and the approval of bills to give local school districts discretion on reopening strategies and school sports are key aspects of the recovery.”
Brewster said school directors get input each day from parents, school administrators and others on reopening school sports and are well positioned to make that decision.
The McKeesport lawmaker has been recognized as a leader on boosting the economy and safely reopening in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic.
In Marzo, Brewster offered a six-point economic stimulus plan to quickly regain jobs and spur a quick recovery from COVID-19. In Abril, he detailed a health and safety strategy to ensure that a rapid, but safe reopening, featuring more testing and protections for workers.
Agosto 27, 2020
Harrisburg, PA – Agosto 27, 2020 – Today, State Senators Iovino, Street, Brewster, Schwank, and Hughes joined members of the Commonwealth’s small business community via Zoom to advocate for bipartisan legislation that would help Pennsylvania businesses file claims on their business interruption insurance policies, a potential source of funds that could help prevent businesses from being forced to close their doors. Business interruption insurance is coverage that replaces income lost in the event that business is halted due to a disaster. Since the pandemic and resulting shutdown, many Pennsylvania small businesses have sought financial relief by filing claims on their business interruption insurance policies, only to be denied due to ambiguous insurance policy language.
“To confront the most daunting economic challenge of our time, we need to put in place every available option to provide safety nets and recovery tools to support our businesses and our economy – and that includes business interruption insurance,” said Senator Pam Iovino (D – Allegheny & Washington). “Businesses that have consistently paid their business interruption insurance premiums expect their insurance coverage to provide security during a time of need. They need to know that a lifeline they planned for is available and within reach, and this bipartisan bill would do just that.”
Senator Iovino’s legislation, Senate Bill 1127, is designed to clarify Pennsylvania law and specifically applies to businesses with business interruption coverage that contains a “civil authority” clause. These clauses provide protections when government action, typically taken in response to a natural disaster or similar life-threatening event, prevents the business from operating. The Pennsylvania Supreme Court has characterized the pandemic as a “natural disaster and a catastrophe of massive proportions.” Also, the legislation would clarify that the presence of COVID-19 in a community constitutes “property damage.”
Under this legislation, businesses would not receive additional payment beyond what their existing coverage permits. Insurance companies would not be mandated to immediately pay claims – the normal claims review process would take place before any payments are made.
Senate Bill 1127 was referred to the Senate Banking and Insurance Committee on Abril 30. The next step in the legislative process would be a Senate hearing.
“The economic damage caused by the pandemic is something our communities have never faced,” said Senator Sharif Street (D – Philadelphia). Small businesses are the foundation of economic ecosystems throughout communities in the Commonwealth, we must do all we can to sustain them. As Democratic Chair of the Banking & Insurance committee I am committed to working with Chairman Scavello (R) to convene a hearing pending growing reports of businesses across communities having their insurance claims denied. This bill will ensure that we protect the small businesses that drive our economy which have been interrupted through no fault of their own. I’m proud to join Senator Iovino, a leader in this bipartisan effort. “
“Businesses that have paid insurance premiums to financially protect themselves when there is an interruption in operations – such as when the coronavirus pandemic struck – shouldn’t have to struggle when a claim is made,” said Senator Jim Brewster (D – Allegheny & Westmoreland). “Entrepreneurs and small business owners rely on insurance to cover these types of situations.
Covering losses from situations beyond the control of businesses is exactly why you buy and pay for insurance. There should be no problems when operations are suspended and claims are filed.”
Lori Poe, who co-owns The Tandem Connection Bike & Running Shop in Washington County with her husband, said “if we were able to get some reimbursement from our insurance company for the business interruptions and loss of our second store, it would help us stay above water in the winter months when we are typically very slow. We appreciate Senator Iovino, her staff, and other legislators going to bat for the small businesses in our area.”
“As President/CEO of the Pittsburgh Airport Area Chamber of Commerce, one of the largest regional chambers in the Commonwealth, I feel compelled to advocate and to support legislation that is specifically designed to add a ‘lifeline’ to our small business community devastated by the pandemic,” said Chris Heck. “Financial relief should not be denied to those due to ambivalent insurance policy language. We support Senate Bill 1127, introduced by our PA Senator, Pam Iovino.”
“There’s no doubt about it – small businesses in Pennsylvania are suffering,” Senator Judy Schwank (D – Berks) said. “These businesses, which have done everything we’ve asked of them, should not be further penalized by their insurance carriers because of vague language.”
Jack Goodrich, a Pittsburgh attorney who specializes in business interruption insurance claims, said that “all we want to do is protect the small business owners that are the backbone of this country. They paid their premiums for years and deserve compensation now for their business losses through no fault of their own.”
“Small businesses all across Pennsylvania are bearing an undue share of the economic collapse caused by the coronavirus pandemic,” said state Senator Vincent Hughes (D – Philadelphia & Montgomery). “Taking action on business interruption insurance is a must. We should be providing every option possible to help their survival and recovery because they are the backbone of our economy.”
A downloadable video of today’s virtual press conference can be accessed here.
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Agosto 25, 2020
McKeesport – Agosto 25, 2020 – State Sen. Jim Brewster’s (D-Allegheny/Westmoreland) call for legislative reforms including a ban on gifts for lawmakers was endorsed today by Gov. Tom Wolf.
Wolf unveiled his governmental reform and broader issue agenda for the fall and the gift ban was included among items cited by the governor. Brewster has called for the gift ban in addition to eliminating taxpayer-funded legislative per diems and car leases.
“Several years ago, I authored a package of legislative reforms including a ban on gifts for lawmakers — plus the elimination of per diems and car leases –because I thought it was the right thing to do to protect taxpayers,” Brewster said. “My effort to push these reforms forward has been well received by taxpayers in my district and throughout the state.
“The fact that the governor renewed his call for legislative reform will hopefully give my legislation the push it needs to ultimately become law.”
Brewster first introduced the reform package in the 2015-16 Senate session. His bill to ban legislative gifts was re-introduced this session as Senate Bill 646. Brewster’s bill to end legislative per diems for lawmakers is Senate Bill 644, and his proposal to do away with taxpayer-funded car leases is Senate Bill 645.
“I have been a staunch advocate for these reforms for years,” Brewster said. “Removing the access to gifts and per diems will help make government more transparent and accountable.”
Brewster said he looks forward to debating his reform proposals when the General Assembly reconvenes in Septiembre.
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Agosto 19, 2020
McKeesport – Agosto 19, 2020 – More than $3.7 million in state grant funding for water and sewer projects was approved for municipalities in Allegheny and Westmoreland Counties, state Sen. Jim Brewster (D-Allegheny/Westmoreland) said.
The Commonwealth Financing Authority (CFA) approved grants for 16 projects in Brewster’s district through their Small Water and Sewer and H2O programs. All told, there were 11 grants in Allegheny and five in Westmoreland.
“Securing resources from the state to pay for water and sewer upgrades is critical to improving service delivery and reducing local taxpayer burdens,” Brewster said. “These funds will help complete essential projects.”
Small Water and Sewer Program projects include:
Allegheny County –
- Liberty Borough ($200,000) River Road Pump Station improvements
- Turtle Creek Borough ($229,250) Combined sewer rehabilitation
- West Mifflin ($116,268) Duquesne Avenue Culvert Replacement Project
- Monroeville Municipal Authority ($422,675) Sanitary sewer rehabilitation Woodhaven Drive
- North Versailles Township Sewer Authority ($146,942) Star Alley Lane Street sanitary sewer replacement
- Braddock ($250,000) Sewer system deficiency repairs
Westmoreland County –
- Arnold ($69,023) 14th Street outfall
- Lower Burrell ($132,352) Craigdell Road stormwater repairs
- Municipal Authority New Kensington ($148,360) Waterline replacement
- Parks Township Municipal Authority – Allegheny Township ($90,950) Water line replacement
H2O Program grants include:
Allegheny County –
- Duquesne ($500,000) Water system improvements
- Clairton Municipal Authority ($200,000) Phase II, wastewater treatment project
- Monroeville Municipal Authority ($300,000) Woodhaven Drive sanitary sewer Phase 2
- North Versailles Township Sanitary Sewer Authority ($200,000) Crestas Pump Station improvements
- Turtle Creek Maintenance Project ($100,000) Flood protection, sediment removal
Westmoreland –
- Arnold ($600,000) Combined sewer separation
Brewster, who served as mayor and on council in McKeesport prior to being elected as senator, said that it was important for local municipalities to seek state funding and that he was pleased communities throughout his district received funding in this round of CFA grants.
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10 de agosto de 2020
Statewide, Pa. – Agosto 10, 2020 – The Pennsylvania CDFI Network and the PA State Senator Democrats today announced $96 million in grant awards under the COVID-19 Relief Pennsylvania Statewide Small Business AssistanStatewide, Pa. – Agosto 10, 2020 – The Pennsylvania CDFI Network and the PA State Senator Democrats today announced $96 million in grant awards under the COVID-19 Relief Pennsylvania Statewide Small Business Assistance program. The small businesses that have been approved for awards span all 67 Pennsylvania counties.ce program. The small businesses that have been approved for awards span all 67 Pennsylvania counties.
“These grants and the relief they will provide are testament to what we can do when we prioritize the right initiatives,” said Sen. Vincent Hughes (D-Philadelphia/Montgomery). “It is because of collaboration and a collective focus that today we were able to deliver help to the auto body shops, the barbershops, the beauticians, the pizza shop owners, the soul food establishments and other businesses across the commonwealth. And though we are gathering today virtually to recognize the positive impact these grants will have, it is critical to understand that there is still a great deal of need and must continue to direct resources and aid to our small business community to help it recover from the devastation of the pandemic.”
The program is part of $225 million in statewide relief championed by the senate democratic caucus in Junio to support small businesses economically impacted by the pandemic. The first application round drew a strong response with nearly 24,000 applications.
“We’ve seen the impact of this pandemic-fueled economic crisis on the small businesses in our communities and in the immense response to the program in the first round of applications,” said Daniel Betancourt, President & CEO of Community First Fund and Chair of the PA CDFI Network. “The PA CDFI Network is grateful for the partnership of Governor Wolf and the Pennsylvania Legislature as we move quickly to get these resources into the hands of those most impacted by the crisis.”
Of the close to 5,000 small businesses approved in the first round of funding, 50% are historically disadvantaged businesses that have traditionally experienced discrimination when seeking financial services and financial products. Over 2,400 of the businesses are also in communities targeted for business investment by state government programs like Main Street and Elm Street.
“I could not be more proud or more grateful for the great work of DCED and Pennsylvania’s CDFI Network in delivering substantive, fair, equitable, need-based assistance to our state’s main street and historically disadvantaged small businesses. Our program design and the accountability it provides to taxpayers and to our federal funders is a model for the nation,” Senator Blake (D-Lackawanna) said. “I appeal to the US Congress and to our colleagues on both sides of the aisle in Harrisburg to recognize the success of this program in assisting small businesses devastated by the pandemic and to invest further in the program so we can help even more of them.”
The program has targeted getting grants to small businesses with the greatest need and to be eligible to apply businesses had to have less than $1M in revenue and less than 25 employees. Grants ranged in size from $5,000 to $50,000 based on the revenue size of the business. More than 2,300 of the grantee business owners are low-moderate income.
“Our business community has been severely impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic and is in need of immediate assistance. The grant program is targeted to help small businesses manage costs, handle expenses, and stay in operation in this exceptionally difficult time,” said Senator Brewster (D-Allegheny). “Since COVID struck our state and debilitated our business community, I have been advocating for bridge grants and sought millions in aid for impacted businesses and workers. The small business assistance grants are one of the tools we can use to bolster business, maintain jobs and help workers at a time of immense distress.”
More than two thirds of the approved awardees are women-owned businesses and 16 percent located in rural communities. The businesses represent industries that have been especially hard hit by the pandemic including retail, food and hospitality, health and wellness, and personal care.
| Industry |
Applications Approved |
Amount (Millions) |
| Restaurants & Other Eating Places |
1,608 |
$25.80
|
| Drinking Places (Alcoholic Beverages) |
202 |
$4.63
|
| Personal Care Services |
1,001 |
$24.52
|
| Other Amusement and Rec. Industries |
180 |
$3.46
|
| Totals |
2,991 |
$58.41
|
“For minority and women-owned businesses in Pennsylvania COVID-19 didn’t create a crisis, it laid bare the crisis our minority entrepreneurs have been facing for decades,” House Democratic Finance Committee Chairman Jake Wheatley Jr (D-Allegheny) said. “While I’m glad to see the positive impact of these grants and I urge all local community businesses to apply for the next round of grants, we need to expand investment in programs like this because it’s long past time for the legislature to address the systemic flaws that are leaving too many marginalized people behind.”
The second grant application window for the relief funds opened today, Agosto 10, and will remain open for 15 business days closing at 11:59PM on Agosto 28.
“Our small business owners need our help and support,” said state Rep. Carolyn Comitta, D-Chester. “After limited or even no sales due to the virus for almost five months, it would be unfair to let them suffer alone without any intervention. These grants give our small businesses hope and, I am here with my democratic colleagues to provide them whatever help they need to address this pandemic. Our business owners, their employees, and their families deserve our assistance.”
In order to get funds to businesses in need as quickly as possible, the second application window will be the final opportunity to apply for the program. Qualified applicants not awarded in the first round do not need to reapply and will be rolled into the next round for consideration.
Eligible small businesses can apply online at pabusinessgrants.com or through any one of the 17 Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs) that are part of the Pennsylvania CDFI Network.
Summary_Round1
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About the PA CDFI Network
The PA CDFI Network is a coalition of 17 PA-based community development financial institutions that primarily provide financing options for small businesses. The members of the coalition are as follows:
The Progress Fund (Counties Served: Allegheny, Armstrong, Beaver, Bedford, Blair, Butler, Cambria, Cameron, Centre, Clarion, Clearfield, Clinton, Crawford, Elk, Erie, Fayette, Forest, Fulton, Greene, Huntingdon, Indiana, Jefferson, Lawrence, Lycoming, McKean, Mercer, Potter, Somerset, Tioga, Venango, Warren, Washington, Westmoreland)
Bridgeway Capital (Counties Served: Allegheny, Armstrong, Beaver, Butler, Clarion, Crawford, Erie, Fayette, Greene, Indiana, Lawrence, Mercer, Venango, Washington, Westmoreland)
Northside Community Development Fund (Counties Served: Allegheny, Beaver, Greene, Lawrence, Washington)
Metro Action (Counties Served: Carbon, Lackawanna, Luzerne, Monroe, Pike, Schuylkill, Susquehanna, Wayne, Wyoming)
Rising Tide Community Loan Fund (Counties Served: Bradford, Bucks, Carbon, Columbia, Lehigh, Monroe, Northampton)
ASSETS (Counties Served: Berks, Juniata, Lancaster, Mifflin, Snyder, York)
Community First Fund (Counties Served: Adams, Berks, Chester, Cumberland, Dauphin, Delaware, Franklin, Lancaster, Lebanon, Lehigh, Montgomery, Northampton, Perry, Philadelphia, York)
Reinvestment Fund (Counties Served: All Counties)
PIDC Community Capital (Counties Served: Philadelphia)
Impact Loan Fund (Counties Served: Montgomery, Montour, Northumberland, Philadelphia)
Beech Capital (Counties Served: Bucks, Chester, Dauphin, Delaware, Erie, Montgomery, Philadelphia, York)
West Philadelphia Financial Services Institution (Counties Served: Bucks, Chester, Delaware, Montgomery, Philadelphia)
Enterprise Center Capital (Counties Served: Berks, Bucks, Chester, Cumberland, Dauphin, Delaware, Montgomery, Northampton, Philadelphia)
Neighborhood Progress Fund (Counties Served: Chester, Delaware, Montgomery, Philadelphia)
Entrepreneur Works (Counties Served: Bucks, Chester, Delaware, Montgomery, Philadelphia)
Women’s Opportunities Resource Center (Counties Served: Bucks, Chester, Delaware, Montgomery, Philadelphia, Sullivan, Susquehanna, Wyoming)
United Bank (Counties Served: Blair, Bucks, Cambria, Chester, Delaware, Lackawanna, Luzerne, Montgomery, Philadelphia, Union)
The members of the Executive Committee of the network are:
- Daniel Betancourt, Community First Fund — Chair
- James Burnett, West Philadelphia Financial Services Institution — Vice Chair
- Lynne Cutler, Women’s Opportunities Resource Center (WORC) — Vice Chair
- Leslie Benoliel, Entrepreneur Works — Treasurer
- Mark Masterson, Northside Community Development Fund — Secretary
- Chris Hudock, Rising Tide Loan Fund — Assistant Treasurer
Agosto 7, 2020
McKeesport – Agosto 7, 2020 – State Senator Jim Brewster today announced five state pandemic relief grants totaling $163,400 to area schools.
“These emergency funds will help these local schools continue to provide a quality educational curriculum during this pandemic,” Brewster said. “It is imperative that schools remain vigilant, viable and flexible. It is equally important for all branches of government to bolster their efforts with sound strategic support and resources.”
The schools include:
- Kiski Area SD $41,300
- Leechburg Area SD $17,650
- McKeesport Area SD $59,250
- Propel CS-McKeesport $13,550
- Propel CS-Pitcairn $12,300
- Propel CS-Braddock Hills $19,350
The schools received Continuity of Education Equity Grant (CEEG) funds. The emergency funds are aimed at helping administrators and school boards avoid disruptions in teaching and learning. The grants are formulated to support schools with high percentages of students unable to participate in continuity of education.
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Agosto 6, 2020
McKeesport – Agosto 6, 2020 – State Senator Jim Brewster today announced eight state pandemic relief grants totaling $658,370 to area schools and technical colleges.
“These emergency funds will help many of these schools remain active and viable as we continue to work our way through the devastating effects of the COVID-19 pandemic,” Brewster said. “I will continue to seek state support for schools, businesses and workers who were set back by this devastating coronavirus.”
The schools include:
- West Mifflin Area School District $68,750
- Woodland Hills School District $76,150
- A W Beattie Career Center $100,863
- Forbes Road CTC (Career and Technical Center) $186,856
- McKeesport Area Tech Center $35,477
- Eastern Westmoreland CTC $32,949
- Northern Westmoreland CTC $45,882
- Central Westmoreland CTC $111,443
The two school districts received Continuity of Education Equity Grant (CEEG) funds. Extended statewide school closures have compelled education leaders to adapt to unprecedented disruptions in teaching and learning to ensure that students have access to quality opportunities for educational continuity. The grants are intended to provide additional financial support to local education agencies (LEAs) and schools with the highest percentages of students unable to participate in continuity of education.
The other grant funds were obtained from the federal Governor’s Emergency Education Relief (GEER) funds towards Equity Grants for Career and Technical Centers. The money is used by postsecondary institutions and adult basic education providers across Pennsylvania to help implement public health and safety plans toward the resumption of fall operations.
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Julio 23, 2020
Senators Iovino and Brewster met today with the Southwestern PA Tavern and Restaurant Association and bar and restaurant owners to discuss the industry’s need for relief. Also in attendance were Senators Costa, Fontana, and Bartolotta, and Representatives Mihalek, Ortitay, and Miller.
Allegheny County, PA – Julio 23, 2020 – Today, State Senators Jim Brewster and Pam Iovino announced a comprehensive proposal to provide emergency relief to Pennsylvania’s restaurants and taverns, which have seen significant financial loss due to the COVID-19 pandemic and resulting shutdown. The seven-point plan includes a $100 million grant program to retail liquor licensees using federal CARES Act funds, as well as a suite of policy changes to financially benefit these struggling businesses.
“Restaurants and taverns are not only favorite neighborhood destinations and community staples, they are the job creators and the cornerstone of vibrant main streets across Pennsylvania, representing the third-largest sector of the state’s economy – and they are in dire need of assistance,” said Senator Iovino (D – Allegheny & Washington). “As these small business owners struggle to determine if they can hang on, they need to know that there are lifelines available to them. This plan would direct financial relief to this specific retail sector and will help position our Commonwealth for a full and lasting economic recovery.”
“Restaurants, bars and the hospitality industry has been hit particularly hard by the COVID-19 pandemic and we have to provide relief,” said Senator Brewster (D – Allegheny & Westmoreland). “Too many bars and restaurants are imperiled, cannot survive under strict mitigation, or have closed their doors putting men and women out of work. We have an obligation and responsibility to move aggressively and provide help now. The assistance package we are offering today is critical for bars and restaurants and their employees.”
Brewster proposed a six-point economic stimulus package in Marzo that included bridge grants for small businesses, including bars and restaurants. He also authored a business reopening plan in Abril to re-open the economy while addressing the health threat.
The full proposal to provide relief to Pennsylvania’s bars and restaurants includes the following components:
- Provide targeted assistance under the Senate Democrats’ small business assistance program to restaurants and taverns. Carve out $100 million from the remaining CARES Act proceeds to capitalize a program to provide grants to these retail liquor licensees for revenue and capital losses experienced during shutdown periods.
- Increase the wholesale licensee discount for wine and spirit purchases from the Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board (PLCB) from 10% to 15% for at least nine months, to Junio 30, 2021 with a gradual phased reduction back to 10% after Junio 30, 2022. The total savings to the retail liquor licensee community will exceed $30 million
- Waive all license renewal and permit fees that are paid by restaurants and taverns for one year from the date of implementation, representing over $35 million annually.
- Eliminate late fees/penalties for delayed sales tax payments and allow restaurants to pay off delinquent accounts by Junio 30, 2021.
- Allow licensees to expand their licensed premises outdoors to non-contiguous areas within a certain distance of the licensee.
- Eliminate the $500 off-premises catering permit and current cap on hours/events for an off-premises catering permit during the declared state of emergency.
- Clarify ambiguous language in business interruption insurance policies to ensure claims filed during the COVID-19 pandemic are quickly and efficiently paid to businesses (Senate Bill 1127).
Under this proposal, liquor licensees that are cited for violating public health orders or the liquor code would be subject to forfeiture of any grants received or any fees waived by the PLCB.
Senators Iovino and Brewster will work closely with Senate leadership to see that relief to Pennsylvania bars and restaurants remains a legislative priority. And they encourage all Pennsylvanians to support their local restaurants and taverns to the greatest extent possible by ordering takeout or delivery; carryoutpa.com provides a listing of local businesses across the state.
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