June 14, 2022
HARRISBURG, June 14, 2022 – Projects in the 45th Senate District aimed at expanding housing and preventing homelessness will get a $1.6 million boost from the state, Sen. Jim Brewster announced today.
“Safe and sufficient housing is becoming out of reach for too many in our region,” Brewster said. “These grants will help increase the stock of available and affordable living space for struggling families. I’m proud to work with so many good organizations dedicated to addressing this crisis.”
The funding comes through the Pennsylvania Housing Affordability and Rehabilitation Enhancement (PHARE) fund. Gov. Tom Wolf named 245 housing and community development initiatives in 67 counties that will share a portion of a total $48.4 million in PHARE funding for fiscal year 2021-22. The PHARE fund is managed by the Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency.
“Too many seniors and young families are being priced out of the market,” Brewster said. “With this program, the money goes where it is needed most and helps our neighbors remain our neighbors.”
A list of the proposals receiving PHARE funding is available at www.phfa.org/legislation/act105.aspx
Funding for 45th district projects was awarded to:
712 Hawkins Avenue, Za’kiyah House Housing Inc
$300,000 to create three affordable housing units in a historic church which will additionally be the future site of programs and services to address homelessness and promote healthy lifestyles. The apartments will be priority housing for individuals facing housing discrimination because of their criminal record or substance use disorder.
Allegheny County Accessibility Program, Allegheny County Economic Development
$200,000 to provide accessible modifications to households in Allegheny County, excluding the City of Pittsburgh, for individuals with low to moderate incomes and at least one permanent physical disability. Allegheny County will provide $100,000 from its Allegheny Housing Trust Fund (AHTF) as 50% matching funds (generated by the Act 137 enabling legislation).
North Hills Affordable Housing, Inc: A Home For Every Family
$200,000 to maintain safe, decent, and affordable housing and resources to vulnerable populations, including transitional and affordable housing. Funds will be used primarily for individuals with children who are working towards economic mobility after surviving domestic violence or other trauma within HEARTHs transitional housing program. The focus of the funding priority is homelessness prevention to assist households below fifty percent (50%) of the median area income.
Housing Connector, The United Way of Southwestern Pennsylvania
$200,000 to support the salary of a Housing Connector, who assists people with disabilities to locate and obtain housing that is affordable and accessible. Additionally, two expert housing navigators will offer one-on-one assistance using a custom database created in collaboration with community resources, providing tangible support to make a move possible and help people maintain stable housing.
Homeless Prevention Assistance Program, Westmoreland Human Opportunities, Inc.
$100,000 to provide necessary supports to Westmoreland County residents to prevent homelessness. These supports are accompanied by case management to ensure the assistance will make a lasting impact on the individual or family and provide the tools necessary to help the individual or family reach self-sufficiency.
Morning Sun Senior Lofts, The Westmoreland County Land Bank
$500,000 for adaptive reuse purposes of the former East Vandergrift school building. Work to include interior selective demolition, roof replacement, limited façade restoration, and closure to points of entrance for weather elements.
The SMART Housing Program, Westmoreland Human Opportunities, Inc.
$100,000 to prevent homelessness and provide rapid-rehousing and rental assistance to nine transition-age youth (ages 18-24) who are homeless or at-risk for homelessness. All enrolled youth will receive supportive services from a Peer Support Specialist and Case Manager including assessing educational needs, job skills, financial stability, and transportation needs.
June 3, 2022
MONROEVILLE, June 3, 2022 – State Senator Katie Muth (D- Berks/Chester/Montgomery), chair of the Senate Democratic Policy Committee, joined Senator Jim Brewster (D-Allegheny/Westmoreland) to co-host a public hearing on state policies and the public health impacts of the development of the shale gas industry in Pennsylvania yesterday in Allegheny County.
“Pennsylvania is one of the largest gas producing states and therefore one of the biggest waste and pollution-producing states in our nation. The continued development of the fracked gas industry with regulators using discretionary enforcement, allowing reckless companies to put people in harms way all across our state, writing off the harm as the cost of doing business,” Muth said. “The stories we heard from impacted residents and research presented on the health impacts of the drilling industry make it abundantly clear that the Majority party in the House and Senate in Harrisburg must enact stronger regulations and close loopholes in the law so that the fracked gas industry is held to the same standards as other industries operating in our Commonwealth, and take urgent action to replace contaminated water supplies and ensure healthcare to every resident suffering from the harms they’ve been forced to endure for the sake of corporate profits.”
The Senate Democratic Policy Committee hearing, hosted at CCAC’s Boyce Campus in Monroeville, featured three panels of testimony that included Pennsylvania residents impacted by the shale gas industry and public health and policy experts.
“Thanks to the experts who provided informative testimony about the policies surrounding Pennsylvania’s shale gas boom,” Brewster said. “While I am a supporter of the shale gas industry because it boosts our economy and creates family-sustaining jobs, I also believe that companies need to pay their fair share and follow the rules to protect the health and safety of residents.”
In April, the Environmental Health Project presented its latest white paper, Pennsylvania’s Shale Gas Boom: How Policy Decisions Failed to Protect Public Health and What We Can Do to Correct It, which demonstrated that public health considerations have not been central to the conversation in the development of the shale gas industry in Pennsylvania.
“The path that got us to where we are today involved downplaying existing public health research, presuming safety and vast economic benefits based on the word of industrial interests, and pushing the burden of proof to those who are often least equipped to advocate for themselves,” Alison L. Steele, Executive Director, EHP added. “It is within the government’s capability to create a better, stronger, more health-protective approach, starting today. We call on leaders in the Pennsylvania government to introduce policy and support decisions that protect the public’s health in the face of this emission-intensive extractive industry. There is much to be done.”
Participants in the hearing included Gillian Graber, Executive Director, Protect PT; Cathy Lodge, Washington County resident; Mackenzie White, Public Health Manager, EHP; Dr. Brian Schwartz, Professor of Environmental Health and Engineering, Epidemiology, and Medicine, Johns Hopkins University; Lisa Graves-Marcucci, Pennsylvania Coordinator, Community Outreach, Environmental Integrity Project; and Alison L. Steele, Executive Director, EHP.
“Pennsylvania residents are reporting serious health impacts from shale gas development. As a public health professional, I find these stories to be quite concerning,” Mackenzie White, Public Health Manager, EHP, said. “While not everyone can be a public health professional, legislators are in a position to represent their constituents—so many of whom have similar stories. We can still take actions to protect the health of Pennsylvanians and ensure a healthier future for all.”
Other members of the Senate Democratic Policy Committee that participated included Senate Minority Leader Jay Costa, Senator Lindsey Williams, Senator Wayne Fontana, and Senator John Kane.
“Yesterday’s hearing emphasized that more work needs to be done to address the serious public health concerns surrounding natural gas extraction,” Costa said. “The economic, health and environmental factors surrounding the matter are not mutually exclusive and I know that we can balance those needs in an effective, responsible manner.”
All submitted testimony from the policy hearing and the full video is available at SenatorMuth.com/Policy
Agenda →
Testimony
Panel 1: Community Impact
Panel 2: Health Effects
Panel 3: Policy Solutions
Other Documents
May 16, 2022
McKeesport– May 16, 2022 – With National EMS Week commencing on the heels of the announcement of a historic state revenue surplus, state Sen. Jim Brewster today urged the General Assembly to invest $1 billion to bolster emergency medical services organizations across the state.
“This is the week where we take time to sing the praises of our critical first responders, but we need to put more money behind those words,” Brewster said. “Frontline caregivers put themselves and their families at great risk to continue providing service through the pandemic. Any plans for recovery spending must include significant investment in preserving their future.”
Two weeks ago, Gov. Tom Wolf announced that April revenue collections of $1.8 billion were the highest for any month in state history, pushing the General Fund surplus to $8 billion and beyond.
In addition, Pennsylvania is sitting on more than $2 billion in unused American Rescue Plan funds and $2 billion in the Rainy Day Fund.
Brewster said EMS agencies in his district are struggling to recruit, fundraise and replace expensive equipment.
“When you dial 9-1-1 in an emergency, we’ve come to expect the best care and service in the world,” Brewster said. “But keeping that high level of training and technology is expensive and time consuming. The General Assembly needs to step up to ensure the continuation of top-tier service to communities.”
Brewster said depreciating equipment could result in increasing insurance costs, hitting the pockets of homeowners.
May 15, 2022
McKeesport – May 15, 2022 – Sen. Jim Brewster (D-Allegheny) issued the following statement on the death of former Sen. Jim Ferlo:
“Senator Jim Ferlo was a fighter, a leader and friend. He stood up for the most vulnerable and was a fierce advocate for those in need.
“Jim never stepped back from his principles, nor did he shy away when faced with great challenges. Jim was not a quiet advocate. He was direct, enthusiastic, and energetic.
“Jim leaves behind a long record of achievements. He enjoyed success as a member of council in Pittsburgh and did outstanding work in Harrisburg as state senator. He fought to cut high utility bills, create affordable housing, improve access to health care and battle injustice.
“Senator Jim Ferlo leaves behind many people who were touched by his good works. They remain as a lasting tribute to a long, accomplished life in public service.”
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April 22, 2022
ARNOLD − April 22, 2022 − The City of Arnold has been awarded a $53,000 state grant for improvements to Rankin Street, state Sen. Jim Brewster announced today.
“Our local communities have struggled to keep up with infrastructure improvements and state support is important,” Brewster said. “This grant will help make travel easier for drivers, pedestrians, cyclists and wheelchair users.”
The funding comes from the PennDOT’s Multimodal Transportation Fund, aimed at improving local infrastructure for all modes of transportation.
Arnold’s grant will go toward improvements to Rankin Street from Woodmont Avenue to Freeport Road, including roadway paving, sidewalk enhancements and ADA compliance.
PennDOT evaluated applications and made selections based on such criteria as safety benefits, regional economic conditions, the technical and financial feasibility, job creation, energy efficiency, and operational sustainability.
April 21, 2022
PITTSBURGH – April 21, 2022 – State Senator Katie Muth (D- Berks/Chester/Montgomery), chair of the Senate Democratic Policy Committee joined Senator Lindsey Williams (D-Allegheny), state Rep. Ryan Bizzarro (D-Erie) and state Rep. Nick Pisciottano (D-Allegheny) to host a roundtable discussion yesterday on various issues facing Pennsylvania’s Emergency Medical Services (EMS) agencies.
The roundtable discussion, organized jointly by the Senate Democratic Policy Committee and the House Democratic Policy Committee, was held at the Community College of Allegheny County in Pittsburgh.
“Our EMS agencies play a critical role in our communities and knowing that they will always answer the call is in itself invaluable, but it doesn’t mean they should not be fully funded,” Muth said. “Our mission is to fight that fight in Harrisburg and to ensure that our EMS agencies have adequate funding, appropriate reimbursement rates, access to mental health services, and the tools they need to recruit and retain EMTs.”
The COVID-19 pandemic dramatically worsened a nationwide staffing shortage for emergency medical technicians and paramedics bringing longstanding issues — including low federal reimbursement rates and salary constraints — to the forefront of an industry already dealing with extremely high turnover.
“EMS companies across PA share the revenue and staffing challenges that we heard about today. These stories and those I’ve heard from EMS companies in Erie County are why I introduced the Community Paramedicine bill which enables EMS providers to do more and honors their service to those in need,” Bizzarro, chair of the House Democratic Policy Committee, said. “We need action in Harrisburg and our Caucus is prepared to help those who help us.”
The roundtable discussion featured local and regional leaders in the EMS field from Western Pennsylvania who discussed many of the challenges facing Pennsylvania’s EMS agencies which include state funding, reimbursement, recruitment, and retention.
“I’m grateful to my co-hosts and the EMT’s who testified during our roundtable. Our communities rely on the fact that a well-equipped and professionally staffed ambulance will be there when an emergency happens,” Williams said. “In order to make sure that assurance continues, we must work together to provide the funding and structural support our EMTs are telling us they need to continue to serve all of us.”
The SR 6 Report of 2018 illuminated the financial situation of the state’s EMS agencies and indicated its poor financial state is a key reason for the consistent decline in the number of agencies. The report showed that the number of Emergency Medical Technicians had fallen by over 6,000 since 2012, while the number of paramedics is down by 4,000 providers in the same time frame.
“There’s a bicameral and a bipartisan understanding that we need to do more for our EMS companies but we need to keep communicating these challenges so we can find the political will in Harrisburg to do more,” Pisciottano said. “Our EMS companies do so much for our communities and we need to honor that. Thank you to all those who serve our communities and those who came to testify today.
Participants in the roundtable included Greg Porter, Assistant Director, Ross/West View EMS; Eric Schmidt, Chief, Shaler Hampton Township EMS; Douglas Pascoe, Chief, South East Regional EMS; Bill Miller, Chief, McKeesport Area EMS Rescue; Jim Erb, EMS Supervisor, Citizens Hose Ambulance Service; and Todd Plunket, Chief, Baldwin EMS.
“Our EMS heroes have been on the front lines of the pandemic and given their best to continue to provide services despite the immense challenges of the last two years,” state Rep. Austin Davis (D-Allegheny), chair of the Allegheny County Delegation, added. “However, EMS companies are struggling with burnout, staffing shortages, and having enough funds to stay in service. We should be doing everything we can to support them as much as they’ve supported our communities.”
All submitted testimony from the policy hearing and the full video is available at SenatorMuth.com/Policy
# # #
Testimony
Panelists
- Greg Porter, Chairman, Allegheny County EMS Council, Ross West View EMS Assistant Director
- Eric Schmidt, Chairman, Allegheny County EMS Chiefs Association, Shaler Hampton Township EMS Chief
- Douglas Pascoe, Chief, South East Regional EMS
- Bill Miller, Chief, McKeesport Area EMS Rescue
- Jim Erb, EMS Supervisor, Citizens Hose Ambulance Service
- Todd Plunket, Chief, Baldwin Emergency Medical Service
March 24, 2022
McKeesport, March 24, 2022 – State Senator Jim Brewster today reminded Emergency Medical Services (EMS) agencies in Pennsylvania to complete the online certification to receive some of the $25 million made available by the American Rescue Plan Act to support these companies.
The Office of the State Fire Commissioner (OSFC) opened the online Certification Portal where eligible EMS agencies must complete certification by Sunday, April 10 to be awarded grant funding through the Emergency Medical Services COVID-19 Recovery Grant Program. The grant program was established through Act 10 of 2022.
“Throughout the pandemic, EMS workers and our health care professionals have been sacrificing so much of themselves in our communities,” Brewster said. The creation of our grant program was a bi-partisan effort and passed unanimously to help boost necessary resources these EMS companies need to continue to save lives.”
Brewster noted that the OSFC will not accept any late certifications for the grant program. Some items required for the grant, like an active SAMS registration, can take up to three weeks for processing so it is important that agencies start the certification process as soon as possible. Grant funding through the Emergency Medical Services COVID-19 Recovery Grant Program will be divided equally among all agencies that process certification by April 10.
I encourage all eligible EMS agencies to complete online certification as soon as possible to ensure that they receive their portion of the available $25 million in grant funding, Brewster added.”
A list of eligible EMS companies is available online. If you believe your company should be eligible for grant funding and is not listed, please email the Pennsylvania Department of Health, Bureau of EMS at paemsoffice@pa.gov immediately.
More information about the Emergency Medical Services COVID-19 Recovery Grant Program can be found here.
March 22, 2022
McKeesport, March 22, 2022 – State Senator Jim Brewster partnered with the Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank and U. S. Steel to host a drive-up food distribution event at the West Mifflin Area High School on Tuesday.
“Our country grows more food than any other nation, so it is unthinkable that anyone should go hungry,” Brewster said. “I am grateful for the opportunity to partner with these organizations to bring this vital need to area residents.”
The event took place between 4:30 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. in the West Mifflin Area High School parking lot, with volunteers loading boxes of food into vehicles and handing out information about state-related programs to help combat food insecurity.
Lisa Scales, President & CEO of Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank added, “Partnerships in the community are critical in making sure our neighbors have access to food when and where they need it. We’re seeing more and more families struggle with paying more at the gas pump and in the grocery store. Our entire network is here to make sure no family has to choose between paying their bills and feeding their loved ones.”
Senator Brewster’s office helped to register over 250 vehicles to drive up and receive a box of food, which included frozen ground beef, chicken breast, and ham steak, along with a non-perishable box of food and a box of produce.
“U. S. Steel and our employees are pleased to be working with Senator Jim Brewster and the Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank to support the Mon Valley communities where we live and work,” said Don German, Plant Manager, U. S. Steel Irvin Plant. “We hope these boxes help our neighbors, and we thank Senator Brewster for his years of leadership and support in the Mon Valley.”
With the help of supporters and partners, the Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank distributed nearly 45 million meals in Southwestern Pennsylvania from July, 2020 through June, 2021. However, there are more than 343,000 people in the Food Bank’s service area who experience food insecurity, according to a study conducted by Feeding America’s Map the Meal Gap. That means 1 in 7 of our neighbors are living with food insecurity. Individuals who want to help, can donate or volunteer by visiting www.pittsburghfoodbank.org.
Senator Brewster added that anyone unable to attend on Tuesday can find more food distribution events in the region, as well as additional information about food assistance programs by visiting www.pittsburghfoodbank.org or by calling 412-460-3663 ext. 655.
March 21, 2022
Harrisburg, March 21, 2022 – Sen. Jim Brewster (D – Allegheny/Westmoreland), Democratic Chair of the Senate Law and Justice Committee, made the following statement following the deaths of Pennsylvania State Troopers Martin F. Mack III, Branden T. Sisca, and an unnamed civilian.
“My family and I are praying for the two Pennsylvania State Troopers, Martin F. Mack III and Branden T. Sisca, and an unnamed civilian who were struck and killed this morning outside of Philadelphia on I-95. Our law enforcement officers selflessly put their lives on the line everyday trying to keep our neighborhoods and community members safe. This loss will be deeply felt across the Commonwealth, and I hope I will be joined in keeping the lives of these troopers, the unnamed civilian, and all of their families and loved ones in my thoughts and in my prayers.”
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February 8, 2022
HARRISBURG – February 8, 2022 – State Sen. Jim Brewster released the following statement today regarding Gov. Tom Wolf’s proposed 2022-23 state budget and its implications for Pennsylvanians:
“Since taking office seven years ago, Gov. Wolf has recognized education as the building block for prosperity, safety and sustainability. This budget, with its ambitious investments in education from toddlerhood to college, is an indication that he wants to leave the next chief executive in a position to continue the revenue surplus and economic success we’ve enjoyed despite the catastrophic pandemic.
After weathering the turmoil caused by COVID-19, Pennsylvania is sitting on $6 billion that can and should be used to make investments in not just the next administration, but the next generation.
Tackling disparities in education and providing economic relief to graduating seniors will help mitigate the costly problems that dog our economy now, including crime, violence, and drug abuse.
The governor and I agree that investments in education will provide dividends for many years to come and we’ve never had a better opportunity to make that generational change than we now do.
I’m looking forward to working over the next several months to help that vision become a bipartisan consensus.”
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February 2, 2022
Harrisburg, February 2, 2022 – Despite the news delivered by Pennsylvania’s most famous groundhog today, State Senator Jim Brewster said there are real signs that spring is on the way.
“With due respect to Phil, for thousands of Pennsylvanians like me, this week’s release of the Trout Stocking Schedule is enough to let us know to start preparing for spring,” Brewster said. “It’s time for anglers across Pennsylvania to get their maps and equipment together to pick out their prime spots and be ready to cast.”
In Punxsutawney today, Phil predicted six more weeks of winter.
The trout stocking schedule is searchable by county, lists the waterways in alphabetical order and indicates stocking dates, meeting locations for volunteers, and the species of trout that will be stocked.
In 2022, Pennsylvania will return to a single, statewide Opening Day of Trout Season on April 2. A single, statewide Mentored Youth Trout Day will take place on Saturday, March 26. Under this change, which will result in a longer regular season for trout statewide, the practice of holding a separate regional opening day and mentored youth day for Pennsylvania’s 18 southeastern counties will no longer occur.
Senator Brewster, also the Chairman of the PA Senate Game & Fisheries Committee, volunteers annually to help with the stocking and urged others to do the same.
“Volunteering is a good way to give back to the sport that gives so much to families in our region,” he said. “It’s a great way to initiate young people into giving their time to help their communities.
The Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission (PFBC) will be welcoming the volunteers to help distribute approximately 3.2 million hatchery-raised adult trout to hundreds of waterways statewide throughout the 2022 season. The PFBC is proud to partner with conservation groups, schools, and walk-up volunteers to help spread out the trout in local waterways. Volunteers are asked to keep the safety of PFBC staff and other volunteers in mind, obey traffic laws while following stocking vehicles, and stay home if they are not feeling well.
For more information on trout stocking, visit the PFBC website.
January 31, 2022
Harrisburg, January 31, 2022 – State Sen. Jim Brewster today stood with colleagues in the House and Senate to announce a school budget plan that would represent the largest investment in public education in Pennsylvania history.
The $3.75 billion outline, dubbed the Full Funding Plan, would take advantage of an expected $6 billion year-end state revenue balance to address generational inequity, crumbling school infrastructure and staffing problems exacerbated by the pandemic.
Brewster, who sits on the PA Senate Education Committee and the PA Commission on Crime and Delinquency’s School Safety and Security Committee, said inadequate school funding and disinvestment in struggling communities are at the root of numerous costly social problems.
“We can’t effectively address crime or violence without investing in struggling schools and closing the opportunity gap in education,” he said. “In many neighborhoods the school is the safe haven and the resource of first choice for disadvantaged families. This plan is an opportunity to truly create the ‘thorough and efficient’ system of public education that our constitution requires.”
The plan would make significant additional investments in the following areas:
- $1.1 billion into the Fair Funding Formula
- $750 million into Level Up (targets 200 districts with the most inequitable funding, and largest adequacy gap)
- $1.1 billion into school facilities
- $250 million into historic staffing problems
- $125 million into mental health supports
- $100 million into academic supports
“We are confident in the sustainability of this plan because Pennsylvania is experiencing an unprecedented revenue surplus due to a huge economic turnaround aided by federal investments,” said State Sen. Vincent Hughes, Democratic Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee. “There can be no more excuses for toxic schools and inequality of opportunity. We are sitting on the largest pool of unspent funds in Pennsylvania history.”
Hughes said state revenues are on track to outperform estimates by well over $2 billion, while nearly $2.2 billion of American Rescue Plan funds remain unused.
“The time is now. The time is right,” said Sen. Jay Costa, the Democratic Leader. “The resources are there, and its incumbent upon all of us to really make a significant statement on the steps we need to take to adequately fund public education.”
Pennsylvania’s strong revenues combined with federal assistance will result in a year-end balance of well over $6 billion.
January 28, 2022
Harrisburg, January 28, 2022 – State Senator Jim Brewster will serve another term as Secretary of the Board of the Port Authority of Allegheny County.
“We are facing very challenging times in public transportation, so we need to work together to rebuild our systems to meet the needs of the region,” Brewster said.
Brewster is a veteran of the board and serves on the Financial Audit Committee. He is a member of the Pennsylvania Senate Transportation Committee and has been a strong advocate for funding to fix our roads, bridges, and mass transit systems.
“The Port Authority Board works well addressing transportation needs,” Brewster said. “The board members are all dedicated and committed to making our transportation network better for everyone.”
The Port Authority has 2,600 workers and serves more than 200,000 daily riders.
January 28, 2022
Harrisburg – January 28, 2022 – State Senator Jim Brewster will again lead the McKeesport Housing Authority.
“It has been a privilege to be the Chairman of the McKeesport Housing Authority,” Brewster said. “We have achieved many things during my tenure as Chair, but we have more to do.”
“Since the pandemic began, we have been faced with unprecedented housing challenges. Now more than ever, it is important that affordable housing is available.”
Brewster said that quality, affordable housing is an important element of a strong, healthy community. He said that he will continue to work with the members of the authority to solve issues and deliver secure housing.
The authority is responsible for more than 1,000 units including senior, handicapped-accessible, and neighborhood sites.
The McKeesport Housing Authority is the third oldest housing authority in Pennsylvania. It was created under the auspices of the United States Housing Act of 1937. In addition to providing housing, the authority works in concert with other organizations to provide community assistance programs.
For more information on Sen Brewster’s activity in the community and the McKeesport Housing Authority, visit senatorbrewster.com
January 26, 2022
Harrisburg, January 26, 2022 – A McKeesport violence prevention program will receive a $150,000 state grant to help address an uptick in incidents that coincided with the COVID pandemic.
“I’m proud of this community-based effort to interact with people where they live and where they congregate to prevent conflict from erupting into violence,” Brewster said. “This boots-on-the-ground approach takes time and hard work but it’s an important complement to wider efforts in the region.”
The Healthy Village Learning Institute requested $150,000 over two years to support an intensive community outreach process in McKeesport that will train and prepare Violence Intervention Outreach workers to directly engage McKeesport resident members on how to respond to community violence. The program will also identify “hot spots” and will connect directly with individuals at risk of perpetrating violence.
The grant, administered through the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency’s School Safety and Security Committee, was among more than $23 million awarded at the committee’s meeting in Harrisburg today.
Brewster, who sits on the committee, congratulated the Healthy Village Learning Institute and several other Allegheny County grant winners for their efforts.
“These grants are highly competitive, and applications far outpace the money available,” Brewster said. “You have to take your best ideas and turn them into solid plans. They did a great job.”
Last year, Brewster worked with colleagues in the Senate and House Democratic Leadership and the Wolf Administration to appropriate $30 million in the 2021-2022 state budget to stem the surge in violence across the state. By December, nearly $23 million of state funds were awarded to community groups and municipalities across the state to combat the increase in gun violence, but applications outstripped the appropriated funds by a ratio of 7-1.
“There’s more work to be done and we’d like to see a continued commitment to local efforts where the programs know their communities and respond to their unique circumstances,” Brewster said.
For detailed information the statewide grant winners, click here.
Allegheny County organizations winning grants today were:
Healthy Village Learning Institute
The Healthy Village Learning Institute requested $150,000 over two years to support the planning and implementation for an intensive community outreach process in McKeesport that will train and prepare Violence Intervention Outreach workers (female and male) to directly engage McKeesport resident members in educating them in how to respond to community violence.
Additionally, the program intends to have a weekly presence throughout McKeesport with concentration on the “hot spots” and will connect directly with individuals at risk of perpetrating an incident of violence. Funds will support the training costs of the part-time Outreach Workers and Violence Specialists/Interrupters; several consultants, including a Program Coordinator, two part-time Summer Violence Prevention Specialists/Interrupters; as well as supplies to support their work, including laptops and cellphones.
Community College of Allegheny County – $800,000
Requested funds to develop a holistic approach to reducing the ever-increasing rates of gun violence for youth within the City of Pittsburgh and all of Allegheny County. CCAC’s approach includes mental health/social work services, transportation services to and from workforce development programs provided by CCAC as well as mentorship opportunities during and after successful completion of any program provided through CCAC. Funds will support personnel (one full-time staff member to manage the program, two full-time staff members to provide academic support and job search services); financial assistance to potential participants; transportation services for participants to attend courses at the West Hills Center; various supplies and operating expenses; and compensation for licensed community mental health providers in the region.
Foundation of HOPE – $1.3 million
The Foundation of HOPE is requesting up to $1,300,000 to support the implementation of an Aftercare/Diversion model program where trained peer support specialists work hand in hand with case managers and a mental health therapist to support those negatively impacted by the criminal justice system, thereby attempting to break the cycle of incarceration and gun violence within marginalized communities. Additionally, this request would permit the Foundation of HOPE to support and serve those traumatized for almost two years of isolation behind bars for 23/24 hours as a result of COVID isolation restrictions. These efforts would strengthen families and support local communities. Funds will support the training and hiring of several peer support specialists; additional case managers; a mental health therapist; the cost of a consultant; support staff. Funds would also cover programming and supplies to support their work, including benefits, laptops and cellphones, travel, and community education expenses.
January 25, 2022
McKeesport, January 26, 2022 – State Sen. Jim Brewster announced today that the Redevelopment Authority of Allegheny County (RAAC) has awarded $600,000 in Gaming Economic Development Tourism Fund (GEDTF) grants for projects in his senatorial district.
“I was happy to support and advocate for these projects,” Brewster said. “I have been lobbying the Governor and the General Assembly as a member for many years for these types of grants to help our communities.”
GEDTF grants were awarded to the following projects in Senator Brewster’s District:
- North Braddock Borough received $100,000 for bridge rehabilitation on Hawkins Avenue
- Plum Borough received $100,000 for Center Beach flood improvement
- Wilmerding Borough received $75,000 for the Wilmerding Community Center rehabilitation
- Port Vue Borough received $75,000 for blight remediation
- Liberty Borough received $75,000 for storm inlet replacement
- Elizabeth Borough received $75,000 for the Historic Elizabeth Building
- Elizabeth Township received $50,000 for the Greenock Log House
- Wall Borough received $50,000 for a retaining wall on Marie Street
“These projects will go a long way in our ongoing efforts to revitalize these communities,” Brewster added. “I’d like to say congratulations to the awardees and thank you to the RAAC for investing in this region.”
GEDTF grants allow awardees to carry out important economic development projects. Eligible applicants include municipalities, authorities, councils of government, non-profit organizations, trusts, and for-profit businesses.
January 24, 2022
Harrisburg – January 24, 2022 – State Sen. Jim Brewster today announced that more than $229,000 in competitive Safe Schools Targeted grants has been awarded to local school districts to increase school safety through new equipment, programs and personnel.
“Through my many conversations with local school officials, I know that they are committed to providing students a safe environment to learn and are actively seeking new ideas and new resources to preserve that environment,” Brewster said. “These grants recognize and reward that commitment.”
More than $40 million in Safe Schools Targeted grants has been awarded to Local Education Agencies (LEAs) across Pennsylvania since 2015. The list of 2021 awards can be found here.
“Competition for state funding is stiff and these local school districts should be proud to have secured funding, with some of them receiving the maximum amount through this program,” Brewster said.
Under the program, the Pennsylvania Department of Education’s (PDE) Office for Safe Schools offers four types of targeted safety grants: equipment grants of up to $25,000; program grants of up to $20,000; School Police Officer (SPO) grants of up to $40,000; and School Resource Officer (SRO) grants of up to $60,000. The grants help LEAs reduce unnecessary student disciplinary actions and promoting an environment of greater productivity, safety, and learning; and enhance anti-violence efforts between schools and parents, local governments, law enforcement and community organizations.
Local districts receiving grants were:
Equipment:
West Mifflin Area School District – $25,000
Penn-Trafford School District – $24,900
Program:
South Allegheny School District – $20,000
School Police Officer:
Brentwood Borough School District – $39,638
School Resource Officer:
New Kensington Police Department – $60,000
Penn-Trafford School District – $60,000
Seventy-eight LEAs received equipment grants totaling $1.74 million; 39 received program grants totaling more than $583,000; 24 received funding to hire school program officers totaling approximately $949,000; and 29 LEAs received grants to hire school resources officers totaling nearly $1.6 million. Additionally, 132 intermediate units received funding for equipment totaling nearly $2.6 million, and $670,000 was awarded to 53 intermediate units in program funding.
December 30, 2021
HARRISBURG, December 30, 2021 – Sen. Jim Brewster announced today that $228,100 in community development and recreational development grants have been awarded to projects within his Senate district.
“Infrastructure encompasses many things. It certainly includes our roads, water systems, and power grids, but it also encompasses the areas of our society where people do the real living,” Brewster said. “Our parks and recreation areas are where people come together to enjoy the great outdoors and hang out with their friends. These spaces are what make our community strong, and they make neighborhoods feel like home.”
The projects that received funding will utilize the grants to make recreations and community areas accessible with long-term plans for maintenance and upkeep.
Funding comes from the Keystone Fund, which is generated from a portion of the realty transfer tax, the Environmental Stewardship Fund, fees for ATV/Snowmobile licenses, and additional federal funds. The grants are distributed by the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) Community Conservation Partnerships Program.
Projects that received funding include:
- Western Pennsylvania Conservancy – Prepare a Community Greening Plan for McKeesport Borough in Allegheny County. – $44,000
- White Oak Borough – Rehabilitation of Heritage Hill Park in the White Oak Borough, Allegheny County. The project will include construction of pedestrian walkway and parking area; installation of play equipment with required safety surfacing; ADA access, landscaping, project sign and other related site improvements – $184,100
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December 20, 2021
HARRISBURG – December 20, 2021 –The deadline to apply for relief from property tax and rent costs is quickly approaching, State Senator Jim Brewster reminded constituents today.
Older adults and people with disabilities have until Friday, December 31 to apply for rebates on property taxes and rent paid in 2020. The rebates are available through the Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program, which benefits eligible Pennsylvanians age 65 and older; widows and widowers age 50 and older; and people with disabilities age 18 and older.
“This program helps many Pennsylvanians every year, and I don’t want to see any qualified homeowners or renters miss out on this opportunity for failing to meet the application deadline,” Brewster said. “If you know someone who might qualify, have them reach out to my office and we can help.”
Eligible applicants can also visit mypath.pa.gov to electronically file their rebate applications.
The income limit is $35,000 a year for homeowners and $15,000 annually for renters, and half of Social Security income is excluded.
The maximum standard rebate is $650, but supplemental rebates for certain qualifying applicants can boost rebates to $975. The Department of Revenue automatically calculates supplemental rebates for those who qualify.
The Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program is one of five programs supported by the Pennsylvania Lottery. Since the program’s 1971 inception, older and disabled adults have received more than $7.1 billion in property tax and rent relief. The rebate program also receives funding from slots gaming.
Anyone who hasn’t yet applied for a rebate for 2020 or who needs an application can contact any of Senator Brewster’s offices and his staff can help.
December 7, 2021
HARRISBURG, December 7, 2021 – Local projects to improve health, public safety and veteran support will receive a boost of more than $5.5 million, state Sen. Jim Brewster announced today.
“This is great news for these local community leaders that are working hard to improve the quality of life for residents and provide better facilities for those they serve,” Brewster said. “Governor Wolf and Allegheny County Executive Rich Fitzgerald have been valuable partners in bringing these funds to Western Pennsylvania.”
Funding was granted through the Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program, 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.
“The program is competitive and limited so local leaders had to do their homework and prove the value of the projects to receive this funding,” Brewster said.
Local recipients include:
Braddock Arts & Media (Renovation II), Braddock Borough – $500,000
Project will include new roofing, masonry restoration, new exterior doors and windows, and interior doors as well as a new efficient HVAC system and plumbing. The building will provide three floors of arts and media focused activities.
Brentwood Municipal Public Safety Center, Brentwood Borough – $750,000
The project will purchase a contaminated property and demolish the condemned building and remediate the site. A new 11,000-square-foot, building will be constructed to house the Brentwood Police Department, a community room, and borough administration offices.
Central Industrial Center of Clairton, DiMarco Construction Company, Clairton City – $1,250,000
The proposed project will take place on a disused brownfield site. Construction elements will include earthwork and grading, erosion control measures, installation of on-site utilities, on-site circulation and parking, a 900-foot rail siding and site amenities including lighting, fencing, and signage.
Alcoa Legacy Project Phase 1, Zion Community Network, New Kensington City – $3,000,000
The project will focus on site infrastructure work and renovation of the current buildings to bring them up to code and become fully usable. Improvements include elevator, roofing, thermal insulation, wall repair, water service for bathroom/kitchen areas, interior HVAC systems, and core and interior electric service. These renovated buildings will house veteran services such as certified HUD counseling, addiction recovery counseling, certified counseling and family support, economic development and job readiness programs, and community integration.
December 2, 2021
Harrisburg, December 1, 2021 – Violence prevention efforts in Allegheny County have been awarded more than $3.4 million in state grants, Sen. Jim Brewster announced today.
The grants were part of the $30 million in funding secured in the most recent state budget by Senate Democrats in the midst of rising violence across the Commonwealth.
“Today’s grants are a good first step and an important shift in focus to neighborhood-based organizations that can put feet on the street and make personal connections in communities,” Brewster said. “There is more work to be done and we need the creative input from a variety of organizations to accomplish it.
Grant applications were processed by the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD) and its School Safety and Security Committee. Brewster, a member of the committee, said the effort focused on neighborhood-based organizations. A quarter of the grant winners were organizations with budgets of less than $25,000.
Across Pennsylvania, $15.7 million was awarded today and PCCD will continue to review applications before awarding another $8.2 million in January. But grant applications outstripped available funding by 7-1, Brewster said.
“We have people in our communities who are ready to do the work necessary to mentor young people and intervene in volatile situations before violence erupts,” Brewster said. “With billions in American Rescue Plans sitting unused, we have a unique opportunity to make these investments.
For a complete list of grant awardees, click here.
November 19, 2021
Harrisburg, November 19, 2021 – State Sen. Jim Brewster today announced $1,025,000 in state grant funding for community projects in the 45th Senate District.
“Local officials are working hard to improve our communities while protecting taxpayers,” Brewster said. “It is a privilege to advocate for state funding on their behalf in Harrisburg so that we can continue to move our communities forward.”
The grants were approved by the Commonwealth Financing Authority today at a meeting in the Capitol.
Grants approved today include:
Act 13
- Pool improvements in Baldwin, $50,000
- East field wall repair in East McKeesport, $40,000
- Amphitheater construction in West Mifflin, $35,000
Multimodal Transportation
- Phase 2 of the revitalization of Rankin Street in Arnold, $100,000
- Repair of Eagle Lake by Friends of the Riverfront in Baldwin, $50,000
- Road reconstruction of Delaware Avenue in Glassport, $300,000
- Virginia Avenue storm sewer in Lincoln, $150,000
- Repair of Naser Road in North Versailles, $300,000
Multimodal Transportation Grants and Act 13 grant funding is distributed by the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED). For more information, visit DCED’s website.
November 9, 2021
HARRISBURG – November 9, 2021 – Community revitalization efforts will receive more than $2.6 million in tax credits to help fund their projects, state Sen. Jim Brewster announced today.
“It is gratifying that the efforts of these organizations are being recognized for the work they’re doing to improve their communities, especially for the most challenged among us,” Brewster said. “These are highly competitive awards, and I was honored to help these efforts stand out in Harrisburg.”
The funding through the Neighborhood Assistance Program (NAP) supports nonprofits, businesses, and resident projects in distressed areas or low-income neighborhoods.
The program also provides for COVID-19 and social justice related assistance. In this round of funding, priority was given to projects that sought to address critical issues related to the pandemic, its aftermath and recovery, social justice and support for policy changing movements, and improving opportunities for marginalized populations.
“We know that the pandemic hit some communities harder than others,” Brewster said. “We are striving for a recovery that recognizes disparities and aims to build a more equitable economy going forward.”
The Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank located in Duquesne, which serves 11 counties in southwestern Pennsylvania will receive more than $1.3 million to help cover a more than 30 percent increase in need since the pandemic began.
Other recipients in the 45th District include:
- McKees Point Development Group – McKeesport, $360,000
- Rebuilding Together Pittsburgh, McKeesport – $150,000
- Rebuilding Together Pittsburgh, Clairton – $15,000
- Mon Valley Initiative, Clairton – $380,000
- Mon Valley Initiative, North Braddock – $160,000
- Westmoreland Community Action, New Kensington $160,000
- Tube City Renaissance – McKeesport, Allegheny County $13,750
For more details on the applicants and awards, click here.
October 6, 2021
McKeesport, PA – October 6, 2021 – State Sen. Jim Brewster today praised the completion of a nearly 37-acre land deal that will expand a medical cannabis cultivation site in the Industrial Center of McKeesport.
Regional Industrial Development Corporation of Southwestern Pennsylvania (RIDC) closed the deal with Trulieve, a multi-state operator (MSO) in the medical cannabis industry. The deal includes two buildings at the RIDC’s Industrial Center of McKeesport along with nearly 37 acres of property.
“Trulieve’s expansion in McKeesport is another example of how the Mon Valley continues to grow,” Brewster said. “The expansion not only brings employment opportunities but also strength to the local economy. I am proud to have Trulieve in my district and look forward to their continued success.”
Officials said Trulieve will build a processing and cultivation facility with 800 employees and covering more than 500,000 square feet at the site.
The sale is a landmark event in a more than three-decade effort to restore the former brownfield to productivity, said Brewster who has contributed to the process as a city councilman, mayor and now state Senator representing the region.
“This has taken a long-term partnership between local and state government and I’ve worked on it from both ends for 30 years,” he said. “We never gave up on the idea that our best days were ahead of us and, while the officials changed, the mission never did.”
“Trulieve is thrilled to partner with RIDC as we strive to bring high-quality medical marijuana to patients in Pennsylvania,” said Jim Wernick, Trulieve’s Director of State Expansion. “We look forward to building lasting partnerships with communities and benefiting from the strong talent pool that exists in McKeesport and the surrounding areas.”
“We have three decades of history in McKeesport,” said Donald F. Smith, Jr., RIDC President. “In 1990 we were leading brownfield redevelopment on this former U.S. Steel site in coordination with Allegheny County. Now we’re welcoming companies like Trulieve, Dura-Bond Industries, Trillium Flow Technologies, American Textile Company, and River Materials Inc. to make their new homes here. And the Mon Valley truly has some valuable assets: availability of a talented workforce to fuel expansion and proximity to national transportation and distribution networks.”
McKeesport Mayor Michael Cherepko said the City of McKeesport is ecstatic over Trulieve’s expansion. “Trulieve’s decision to expand its presence here truly exemplifies the vision we had when PurePenn first broke ground in RIDC park,” said Mayor Cherepko. “It’s because of companies like Trulieve—the jobs they bring and their investments in the community—that our economy is steadily growing. This tremendous investment will translate to several hundred more jobs coming to our community.”
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October 4, 2021
Harrisburg, October 4, 2021 – State Sen. Jim Brewster, Democratic Chair of the Senate Law and Justice Committee, issued the following statement regarding recent action by the state Liquor Control Board to limit purchases of certain alcohol products and the resulting criticism:
“Over the years, critics of the Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board and its management of the commonwealth’s retail alcohol sales have aired various complaints in a not-so-subtle move to dismantle the system and turn its profitable business over to private interests.
Some of those complaints have been warranted, and the PLCB has responded with reforms that have made liquor sales in Pennsylvania more consumer friendly and increasingly profitable to taxpayers.
The pandemic brought more challenges to the system and its thousands of employees, along with the predictable volley of complaints from the long-time critics. The latest protest against the board’s decision to ration certain high-end alcohol products to prevent hoarding is perhaps the weakest brew they’ve ever distilled.
The pandemic brought a certain level of chaos to the free-market system, and liquor products are no exception. Pennsylvanians are fortunate to have a single manager of alcohol sales, allowing fairer and more rational distribution. Rather than hurting consumers, the rationing plan helps preserve availability across the state, which could otherwise see supply dominated by wealthier markets.
In New Jersey, for instance, there were widespread reports that wealthy New Yorkers were traveling south to buy up entire store supplies of certain products making them unavailable to locals.
The PLCB was also criticized 18 months ago when it made the decision to close stores to prevent unnecessary public gathering, giving the outlets opportunity to develop socially distant shopping procedures and protecting its employees from a dangerous health threat.
Due to the leadership and the more than 3,500 employees, the PLCB has delivered $2.91 billion in profits on behalf of the taxpayers, while ensuring availability and selection in areas with lower customer traffic.
We are still facing numerous serious threats as the pandemic lingers and dangerous variants emerge. A two-bottle limit on $80 bourbon isn’t one of them.”
