September 17, 2019
Harrisburg – Sept. 17, 2019 – State Sen. Jim Brewster (D-Allegheny/Westmoreland) today said he is pleased that more than $500,000 in state grant funding was approved for an array of recreation projects in Allegheny and Westmoreland counties.
“Our ability to help local communities improve their recreation and public spaces is significantly bolstered by funding that is brought back from Harrisburg,” Brewster said. “These new dollars for the enhancement of recreation projects in both Allegheny and Westmoreland counties will improve the quality of life in our communities.”
Funding was approved for park and recreation projects in Port Vue, Baldwin, Plum, Elizabeth and North Versailles in Allegheny County. Vandergrift and Lower Burrell in Westmoreland County also received state funds for park and pool rehabilitation projects.
The grants were made available through the Commonwealth Financing Authority’s Act 13 program funds. The following program dollars were approved in this round of funding for projects in Brewster’s district in Allegheny County:
- Port Vue Borough Port Vue Athletic Association Recreation Building $53,763
- Baldwin Borough Elm Leaf Park Improvements $50,000
- Plum Borough Logan’s Ferry Park Improvements $150,000
- Elizabeth Borough Streetscape, Riverfront Park Improvements $50,000
- North Versailles Crestas ball field lighting $50,000
In the Westmoreland County portion of Brewster’s district, funding for the following projects were approved:
- Lower Burrell Veterans Central Park Improvements $50,000
- Vandergrift Borough Pool Renovation $165,313
Brewster said that while he is pleased that these grants were approved, he will continue to seek other resources for communities through other state programs.
September 13, 2019
McKeesport, September 13, 2019 – State Sen. Jim Brewster today announced a total of $811,844 in state funds for four local crime reduction and victim services programs.
“I am committed to using state resources to strengthen local efforts to curb gun violence and help those who are victimized by crime,” Brewster said.
Brewster said the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency this week approved the following grants:
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September 13, 2019
Harrisburg, September 13, 2019 – State Sen. Jim Brewster today announced a total of $26.5 million in state funds for construction work at the community colleges in Allegheny and Westmoreland County.
“As our community colleges become a more viable and important educational opportunities for area students, I am pleased that state funds are being used to improve and expand their facilities.”
According to Brewster, the state Department of Education has approved $20 million for the Community College of Allegheny County for construction of its Workforce Training Center. An additional $6.5 million was earmarked for the Westmoreland County Community College to modernize its Enterprise Resource Planning System.
The department monies represent 50 percent of the annual capital expense for the projects, with the remainder financed by local sponsorship.
“I will continue to seek state support for projects and programs that enhance our community colleges,” Brewster said.
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September 4, 2019
McKeesport – Sept. 4, 2019 – State Sen. Jim Brewster (D-Allegheny/Westmoreland) welcomed Pennsylvania Gov. Tom Wolf to Twin Rivers Elementary School today to discuss the governor’s comprehensive plan to reform charter schools.
“Our laws governing the operations of charter and cyber-charter schools need to be reformed. We need to bring greater accountability and transparency so that our children are well educated, and our taxpayers protected,” Brewster said.
“For too long, charter operations have been cloaked in secrecy with the law having multiple loopholes and little oversight capability.”
The governor’s plan is a multi-part effort including executive actions to re-write charter regulations and push comprehensive charter reform legislation.
The governor’s plan includes instituting greater transparency in admissions and enrollment policies to halt discrimination, opening charter school operations, mandating ethical standards for charter boards, new auditing and oversight to prevent overcharging taxpayers.
Brewster has long been a legislative champion of charter school reform. For several sessions, he has offered sweeping charter reform bills to rein in out-of-control cyber and brick-and-mortar charter schools. His legislation includes greater oversight by local school districts, financial accountability and built-in protections for taxpayers.
“As a long-time advocate for charter reform, I believe the governor has offered responsible administrative changes and proposed meaningful legislative solutions. Charters need to complement, not compete with, traditional public schools.”
Charter schools should work in concert with traditional public schools and their operations need to be coordinated with local school districts, Brewster said.
The lawmaker also pointed to needed changes in the statewide charter appeal board to improve the charter school law.
Brewster said he was pleased to welcome the governor to the Mon Valley and thanked the governor for making charter reform a priority.
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August 29, 2019
Harrisburg – Aug. 29, 2019 – The statewide School Safety and Security Committee has endorsed state Sen. Jim Brewster’s (D-Allegheny/Westmoreland) plan to create a subcommittee to explore the development of baseline safety and security standards applicable to all schools.
“To ensure the safety and security of our students and all who go into public schools, it is critical that schools’ baseline safety standards be in place,” Brewster said. “A detailed safety and security plan with a focus on a school’s physical plan, accessibility to mental health services and environmental protections is necessary.”
Recommendations produced by the subcommittee will be sent to the full School Safety and Security Committee for approval, Brewster said.
Earlier this year, Brewster sent a letter to the members of the School Safety and Security Committee asking that they consider his proposal. Brewster, who serves on the committee, has sponsored Senate Bill 788, which would create baseline standards by statute.
Brewster said he asked the committee to act on his idea to expedite work on developing the standards.
“All school districts should have state resources available to adhere to easily understandable and clear baseline standards regarding the physical structure of schools, access to mental health professionals for counseling, and protection from environmental problems such as lead, mold and other health threats,” Brewster said. “Our efforts are centered on protecting students, teachers, administrators and parents who are in our school buildings and on campus.”
The McKeesport lawmaker said the state budget has included $60 million installments for each of the last two years for school safety. This funding can be applied to helping school districts comply with baseline requirements developed by the subcommittee, he said.
The School Safety and Security Committee was established by statute in 2018 and is administered by the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency.
Brewster said he is grateful that the committee acted on his request and pleased that it made his proposal a priority.
August 28, 2019
Harrisburg – August 28, 2019 – State Sen. Jim Brewster (D- Allegheny/Westmoreland) said today that Allegheny County Airport has been awarded a state grant for $900,000 to upgrade airport buildings.
“Allegheny County Airport is a regional resource that enhances development potential throughout the Mon Valley,” Brewster said. “An improved airport, in addition to the new Mon-Fayette Expressway and other local economic projects create business development opportunities for the area.”
Funding for the $900,000 grant was through PennDOT’s Aviation Transportation Assistance Program, Aviation Development Program, and the Multimodal Fund.
Allegheny County Airport (AGC) is a key cog in the transportation infrastructure of the region. The airport began serving the county in 1931. The airport has more than 60,000 commercial and scheduled flight takeoffs and landings every year.
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August 22, 2019
Join Forces on Collaborate-Educate-Enroll events
Harrisburg – August 22, 2019 – Sen. Jim Brewster (D-Allegheny/Westmoreland) announced today a new outreach partnership with the Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank on Collaborate-Educate-Enroll events.
“My office has worked with the Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank over the past year to successfully share state services with those who attend the Produce To People event at the Food Bank’s facility in Duquesne,” Brewster said. “I look forward to expanding our educational partnership by traveling to numerous libraries in the region this September to offer state assistance.”
A wide variety of state services will be presented at local libraries including the Property Tax/Rent Rebate, PennDOT’s Yellow Dot Program, Unclaimed Property and the new Senior Bus Pass (ConnectCard). A representative from the Food Bank will also be on hand to discuss numerous food assistance programs.
“The Food Bank is delighted to partner with Senator Brewster and his team to reach out to our neighbors throughout September to help them access food assistance and other resources. Hunger Action Month 2019 is a great time to draw awareness not only to the problem of hunger, but also the ways we can help each other meet the basic need for food,” said Lisa Scales, President and CEO of Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank.
Collaborate-Educate-Enroll events will be taking place at the following libraries:
- Braddock Carnegie Library, 419 Library Street, Braddock
Wednesday, September 4, 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
- North Versailles Public Library, 1401 Greensburg Avenue, North Versailles
Tuesday, September 10, 10 a.m. – 11 a.m.
- Baldwin Borough Public Library, 5230 Wolfe Drive, Baldwin
Wednesday, September 18, 10 a.m. – 11 a.m.
- Carnegie Library of McKeesport, 1507 Library Street, McKeesport
Thursday, September 19, 1 9.m. – 2 p.m.
- Carnegie Library of McKeesport-Duquesne Branch, Duquesne Education Center 300 Kennedy Avenue
Thursday, September 19, 4 p.m. – 5 p.m.
- Monroeville Public Library, 4000 Gateway Campus Boulevard
Friday, September 20, 1:30 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.
“Libraries are key resources to help educate and inform,” Brewster said. “I am grateful that local libraries are excited to join us in this new collaboration.”
To learn more about this event or food assistance services in the district visit www.senatorbrewster.com/producetopeople.
August 16, 2019
Harrisburg – Aug. 16, 2019 – Seniors can sign up for Port Authority ConnectCards at Senator Jim Brewster’s offices in Monroeville, McKeesport or New Kensington.
“Senior ConnectCards enable those over the age of 65 to use public transportation for free,” Brewster said. “This is an important cost-saver for seniors.”
Brewster, who is a board member of the Port Authority of Allegheny County, said he hopes seniors take advantage of the convenience of his office locations to acquire Senior ConnectCards.
“My staff is available to help seniors with the applications and resolve any bureaucratic issues that arise,” he added.
Once the applications are completed and submitted, it takes about two to four weeks for the cards to be issued, Brewster said.
The Port Authority will continue to accept blue or yellow senior transit ID cards, however, seniors who use their Medicare cards to ride public transportation must switch over to ConnectCards by January.
To obtain a Senior ConnectCard, an applicant must be 65-years of age and provide proof of age. Driver’s licenses, birth and baptismal certificates, armed forces discharge papers, PACE or another state issued ID card or a statement from the Social Security Administration can be used to verify age.
Brewster’s district offices are located in: McKeesport at 201 Lysle Boulevard (412) 664-5200; One Monroeville Center, 3824 Northern Pike, Suite 1015 in Monroeville (412) 380-2242; and New Kensington City Hall, 301 11th Street, Suite L (724) 334-1143.
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August 15, 2019
Harrisburg – August 15, 2019 – State Sen. Jim Brewster (D-Allegheny/Westmoreland) said today that he welcomed Gov. Tom Wolf’s proposal to change Pennsylvania’s charter school law and institute reforms through administrative action.
“The governor has proposed a significant effort both through executive action and changes in law to make charter schools more accountable and their activities more transparent,” Brewster said. “As someone who has, for years, sought changes in the charter law to protect taxpayers I am pleased that the governor has become fully engaged.”
Earlier this week, Wolf proposed a comprehensive approach to charter reform. The governor said that he was initiating executive action to have the state Department of Education develop regulations to increase access, transparency, funding equity and accountability.
Among many elements, the governor’s plan includes: developing greater oversight over charter school management companies; ensuring that charter board members do not have conflicts of interest; establishing a process so charters do not overcharge districts and taxpayers.
Brewster said the governor is also seeking charter school reform legislation that includes student performance standards, a cap on enrollment in low performing cyber-charters, Right-to-Know and Ethics Act coverage and fair and equitable funding.
Brewster has sponsored charter reform legislation over the last several sessions. His legislation includes provisions to enhance financial reforms, produce greater accountability and alter the charter appeal process. He reintroduced his charter reform plan this year as Senate Bill 457.
Though unsuccessful, the McKeesport lawmaker has forced votes on a series of charter reform proposals during Senate Appropriations Committee consideration of related legislation.
“There are reasonable provisions in both my legislation and the governor’s plan to align charter schools, so they complement, not compete, with traditional public schools while protecting taxpayers,” Brewster said. “I think the governor’s approach is a solid way to ensure that there is greater access, accountability and transparency.”
Brewster said he looked forward to working with the governor and senators on both sides of the aisle to develop a far-reaching and comprehensive package of reforms.
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August 8, 2019
August 8, 2019 – Senator Jim Brewster announced today that the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) approved a request to declare a disaster in Allegheny County for damage from storms and flash flooding on July 21 and 22, 2019.
“This news is great for residents and businesses of this region who suffered losses from these storms and floods last month,” said Senator Brewster. “This decision by the SBA would not have happened without local, county, and state officials and emergency services staff working together.”
Homeowners, renters and businesses impacted by the flooding from the storms on July 21 and 22 in Allegheny County, as well as those in Armstrong, Beaver, Butler, Washington, and Westmoreland Counties may be eligible for low-interest disaster loans through the SBA Disaster Loan Programs.
Low-interest loans of up to $200,000 are available to homeowners to repair or replace damaged or destroyed real estate. SBA regulations permit loans up to $40,000 to repair or replace personal property. Businesses and nonprofits can borrow up to $2 million to restore damaged or destroyed buildings, inventory, equipment and assets. Loan amounts and terms are set by the SBA and are based on each applicant’s financial qualifications. Information about the program can be found at https://disasterloan.sba.gov.
The SBA will open a Disaster Loan Outreach Center (DLOC) to help with loan applications and answer questions about the disaster loan program. The DLOC will be open at the following location and times:
Renton Volunteer Department
Plum Borough
1996 Old Mine Road
Pittsburgh, PA 15239
Opening: Friday, Aug. 9 at 11 a.m.
Hours: Monday – Friday, 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Saturday, August 10 & August 17, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Closed: Sundays
Closes: Tuesday, August 20 at 4 p.m.
Individuals and businesses unable to visit the centers in person may obtain information and loan applications by calling the SBA’s Customer Service Center at 1-800-659-2955 (1-800-877-8339 for the hearing impaired), or by e-mailing disastercustomerservice@sba.gov.
Loan applications can also be downloaded at www.sba.gov/disaster. Applicants may apply online using the Electronic Loan Application (ELA) via the SBA’s secure website at https://disasterloan.sba.gov/ela. Completed applications should be returned to the local DLOC or mailed to:
U.S. Small Business Administration
Processing and Disbursement Center
14925 Kingsport Road
Fort Worth, TX 76155
The filing deadline to return applications for physical property damage is October 7, 2019. The deadline to return economic injury disaster loan applications is May 7, 2020.
August 1, 2019
McKeesport – August 1, 2019 – State Senator Jim Brewster today announced three state grants totaling $2.75 million for local development projects.
“These renovation and construction projects will help expedite key local projects and spur additional economic development in our region,” Brewster said. “I will continue to help obtain state resources for local projects.”
The projects include:
- $1 million to renovate and expand the Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank building in Duquesne. Workers will build a new cold dock, improve refrigeration capability, and construct offices and meeting rooms;
- $1 million to build a new addition and parking lot for the Bechtel Plant Machinery, Inc. expansion on Jamison Lane, Monroeville. The funds will be used to purchase additional land, construct a three-story building and interior design; and
- $750,000 to reconstruct the RiverLift Industries barge dock wall in West Elizabeth Borough. Workers will replace the existing embedded barge dock structure with a new 500-foot steel sheet pile wall and tie-back system.
The funds were obtained from the Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program (RACP), which is used for the acquisition and construction of regional economic, cultural, civic, recreational, and historical improvement projects. Qualifying projects have a regional or multi-jurisdictional impact, help create or maintain jobs and generate economic activity.
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July 15, 2019
July, 15, 2019 — Today, Senator Jim Brewster announced the award of federal grants to local elementary schools to fund healthy, fresh food programs for students.
“It is important to make healthy food accessible to students so they are nourished and prepared to learn,” Brewster said. “This program is also a great way to introduce children to produce they may not be able to get otherwise.”
Funding priority is given to the schools with the highest rates of students eligible for free and reduced-price meals. Grantees are required to spend a majority of their grant on the purchase of fresh fruit and vegetable and must develop a plan to establish partnerships to reduce other costs. Schools are also required to provide nutrition education to students, but cannot use Fresh Fruit and Vegetable (FFVP) funding to purchase nutrition education materials.
Local schools receiving funds include:
| · Mon Valley School, Clairton |
$ 2,300.00 |
| · Sunrise School, Monroeville |
$2,530.00 |
| · Clairton Elementary School |
$24,092.50 |
| · Duquesne Elementary School, Duquesne |
$22,252.50 |
| · Logan Elementary School, North Versailles |
$46,057.50 |
| · Francis McClure Elementary School, White Oak |
$38,525.00 |
| · Twin Rivers Elementary School, McKeesport |
$45,022.50 |
| · Propel Charter School, Pitcairn |
$13,110.00 |
| · Propel East, Turtle Creek |
$17,940.00 |
| · Propel, McKeesport |
$16,732.50 |
| · South Allegheny Elementary, McKeesport |
$32,142.50 |
| · Clara Barton Elementary School, West Mifflin |
$13,282.50 |
| · Homeville Elementary School, West Mifflin |
$19,377.50 |
| · New Emerson Elementary School, West Mifflin |
$9,947.50 |
| · Young Scholars Of McKeesport Charter School, McKeesport |
$10,810.00 |
| · Kiski Area East Primary School, Vandergrift |
$26,737.50 |
The funding was awarded through the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program. The program’s goals are to create healthier school environments by providing healthier food choices, expand the variety of fruits and vegetables students experience, increase fruit and vegetable consumption, and positively impact students’ present and future health. FFVP was first implemented in Pennsylvania in 2004 and expanded to all 50 states in 2008.
“Fresh fruits and vegetables provide vital nutrients to growing children,” said Education Secretary Pedro A. Rivera. “These grants are another way to help address food security in our schools while also providing an opportunity to teach students how to make smart and nutritious choices.”
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June 27, 2019
Harrisburg – June 27, 2019 – State Sen. Jim Brewster (D-Allegheny/Westmoreland) today said that the state budget package includes $60 million for school district safety initiatives.
“There are a great many needs to fill in helping school district improve safety and security for students, teachers, administrators and all who enter school buildings,” Brewster said. “The funding will enable even more local school safety projects to be completed.”
Brewster, a member of the Senate Education Committee, also serves as the Senate Democratic appointee to the statewide School Safety and Security Committee that was established within the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency.
The funding for the school safety grants were included as a part of the state’s Fiscal Code (Senate Bill 712) legislation.
“In our first year of the safety grants, we made some strides in completing safety surveys and finding out needs in school districts throughout the state,” Brewster said. “The funds that are included in this budget package will enable the committee to take even more projects on and channel state resources to better protect children.”
The McKeesport lawmaker has long been a strong advocate of increased school safety. In previous sessions of the General Assembly, he prime-sponsored legislation to establish a school safety committee and require new school construction to include school safety and security upgrades.
This session, Brewster authored comprehensive legislation designed to address three critical aspects of school safety. His measure would require state resources to be distributed to all school districts according to the results of the baseline survey. The baseline survey would delineate school security needs based on statewide standards.
Under his legislation, funding would be made available for school building upgrades, mental health services and environmental cleanup.
“We can do more to identify and address school security needs, but we must acknowledge that a robust school security plan has to include more elements than facility upgrades,” Brewster said. “Improving the access to professional mental health services and removing lead pipes and paint, cleaning air and repairing school buildings up to a state standard are crucial to safety and security of children.”
Brewster said other changes were made to the School Safety and Security Committee as a part of the budget package. This includes adding members of the committee who have background in behavioral health or trauma approaches and altering the amount of grants available to schools.
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June 26, 2019
Harrisburg – June 26, 2019 – Legislation to permit hunting on three Sunday’s throughout the year passed the Senate today on a 36-14 vote according to Sen. Jim Brewster (D-Allegheny/Westmoreland), one of the bill’s prime sponsors.
“This is an incredibly important piece of legislation for sportsmen and women in Pennsylvania,” Brewster said. “Opening up selected Sundays for hunting will spur interest in the sport, increase the number of hunters, retain in-state hunters and attract men and women from other states.”
The legislation specifies that hunting will be on three days including: one day during deer rifle season, one day during deer archery season and another day selected by the Game Commission.
Brewster said the measure would generate additional revenues for the commission. He said these revenues will help shore up finances and promote new initiatives.
The bill also includes new provisions to ensure to address trespassing. The lawmaker said that organizations representing farmers were engaged to help craft language.
Brewster teamed up with Sen. Dan Laughlin (R-Erie) to sponsor the measure. Brewster applauded Laughlin for his work and leadership on the bill.
“Senator Laughlin did an excellent job working through issues, finding common ground and moving the legislation forward,” Brewster said.
Brewster said that one of the greatest assets we have are state game lands. The game lands were paid for by hunters and help maintain open spaces for hunting and recreation.
“As a life-long sportsman, I have a tremendous appreciation of Pennsylvania’s natural resources,” Brewster said. “We have to do more to preserve natural habitats, promote conservation and safe wildlife management practices.”
There are nearly 1.5 million acres of state game lands owned and maintained by the Game Commission.
“Our hunters have supported conservation efforts in the past and we need to find ways to encourage more hunters to adopt the sport,” Brewster said. “Sunday hunting is an excellent way to spur interest in hunting and engage more young people.”
The bill now goes to the state House of Representatives for its consideration.
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June 25, 2019
Harrisburg – June 25, 2019 – Legislation designed to improve teacher evaluations through the increased use of observation instead of standardized testing is a significant step forward, according to state Sen. Jim Brewster (D-Allegheny/Westmoreland).
Brewster voted in support of Senate Bill 751, which passed 38-11. The legislation now heads to the state House of Representatives for consideration.
“There were several elements of the legislation that will improve teacher evaluations,” Brewster said. “Not only does the bill call for reliance on more observations rather than standardized testing in evaluating teachers, it also brings other key factors into the evaluation mix.”
Brewster said that the bill requires consideration of the percentage of economically disadvantaged students enrolled and the impact of poverty on student academic performance.
“This approach is much better than a system that is heavily reliant on standardized testing,” Brewster said. “Using more teacher observations and recognizing that economic conditions influence education is a step forward.”
Brewster, a longtime advocate of public education, is a member of the Senate Education Committee.
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June 24, 2019
Harrisburg – June 24, 2019 – State Sen. Jim Brewster (D-Allegheny/Westmoreland) released the following statement concerning the 10-year agreement between Highmark and UPMC to permit in-network access to UPMC doctors and hospitals.
The agreement was announced less than a week before those with Highmark insurance would have lost in-network access to UPMC doctors and facilities.
Brewster’s comments follow:
“The agreement today will preserve health care options and is excellent and welcomed news. The agreement will relieve tension and anxiety from patients who were caught in the middle between the providers.
“In the Pittsburgh area, we have world class health care. Those who are sick and need help should be able to continue to access care from professionals they are comfortable with, regardless of the insurance that they carry.
“Highmark and UPMC have a responsibility to serve those who need care and I applaud them for their ability to reach this agreement. Insurance coverage should not be a barrier that prevents a sick patient from seeing a doctor or provider of their choice.
“I applaud Governor. Tom Wolf, Attorney General Josh Shapiro, officials from UPMC and Highmark, Senator Jay Costa, Representative Dan Frankel and so many others for digging in and working toward a solution to this very difficult issue.”
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June 20, 2019
Legislation will be brought to a vote in the Senate
Harrisburg – June 20, 2019 – Sen. Jim Brewster (D-Allegheny/Westmoreland) applauded the passage of his Sunday Hunting Bill (Senate Bill 147) out of the Senate Appropriations Committee. The legislation, which would authorize the Game Commission to allow Sunday hunting in Pennsylvania for up to three Sundays, will be brought to the Senate floor for a vote.
“I am happy the Appropriations Committee realized the benefits of allowing Sunday hunting in Pennsylvania,” said Brewster. “Increased tourism to our state game lands, increased revenue from hunting licenses, and providing working hunters a little extra time to enjoy their sport are all positive impacts of SB147.”
Brewster authored the legislation with Sen. Dan Laughlin (R-Erie) to start a dialogue on the number of established hunting days, the process of managing public lands, protections for farmers and their crops, and how to combat chronic wasting disease that effects Pennsylvania’s deer herd. The way the bill will be amended would permit hunting on three Sundays throughout the year.
“We set out to start a conversation and I believe the approval of the bill is a positive sign that the conversation has been successful,” said Brewster. “If we are going to be a state that values the environment and conservation efforts to protect it, allowing Sunday hunting is a revenue stream that we must tap into.”
Brewster is confident that allowing the Game Commission to open state game lands for three Sundays per year will combat the decrease in hunting license sales, encourage Pennsylvania hunters to hunt in-state, and attract out-of-state hunters for weekend trips. These three aspects will bring increased revenue for conversation initiatives championed by the Game Commission and support rural communities near state game lands.
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June 19, 2019
Harrisburg – June 19, 2019 – Sen. Jim Brewster (D-Allegheny/Westmoreland) announced that his legislation to provide counties with an option to establish a demolition and rehabilitation fund for blighted property has been unanimously approved by the Senate Urban Affairs & Housing Committee.
Senate Bill 438, which would amend the Real Estate Tax Sale Law, will be brought to the Senate floor for a vote.
“Blight effects many communities in Pennsylvania,” said Brewster. “Run-down, unoccupied buildings hinder local communities as they strive to rehabilitate and attract new opportunities to the area. This bill is necessary to support community improvement efforts.”
Senate Bill 438 would allow local governing bodies to impose up to a $250 fee for the sale of any property being sold as part of a mortgage foreclosure. Monies generated by the fee will be put into a fund to be used by the county and redevelopment authorities to assist with the demolition and rehabilitation of blighted properties.
“This is a community issue, and it is time we provide local government and redevelopment authorities the power to decide the best options to rehabilitate their communities,” said Brewster.
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June 12, 2019
Harrisburg – June 12, 2019 – Sen. Jim Brewster (D-Allegheny/Westmoreland) announced today that the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD) has awarded funding to various organizations and programs in the region to help victims of crime, domestic violence and substance abuse.
“The funding is earmarked for programs to help those struggling in local communities,” Brewster said. “From substance abuse issues to assisting crime victims, victims of domestic violence and mental health treatment, the funding will serve many in need.”
Funding that was approved and awarded by PCCD include:
- $220,130 in Residential Substance Abuse and Treatment Funds for Project Safe Neighbors (PSN) in Allegheny County;
- $818,781 in Substance Abuse Education and Demand Reduction Funds for the University of Pittsburgh in Allegheny County;
- $290,757 in competitive grant funding and $556,150 funding increase through Victims Crime Act Funding for Alle-Kiski Area Hope Center in Allegheny and Westmoreland counties;
- $928,405 Victims Crime Act Funding Increase for the Center for Victims in Allegheny County;
- $670,721 in 2019-2021 Victims Crime Act Funding Increase for the Women’s Center & Shelter of Greater Pittsburgh in Allegheny County;
- $125,131 in 2019-2021 Victims Crime Act Funding Increase for the Westmoreland County Commissioners; and
- $98,278 in Endowment Act – Programs Assisting Victims funding for UPMC-Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh in Allegheny County.
“Reducing substance abuse and helping victims of crime are priorities that will be greatly supported and improved with this funding,” said Brewster. “There is always more that can be done, more programs that will be created to assist those who need it, and funding awards like these are how we ensure help is available in our communities.”
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June 5, 2019
McKeesport – June 5, 2019 – Sen. Jim Brewster (D-Allegheny/Westmoreland) announced that several local schools will receive funding through the 21st Century Community Learning Center (CCLC) program.
“Enriching and enhancing the education of our students is a priority for both our schools and the community,” said Brewster. “These grants will assist local schools in finding creative ways to help students meet their academic potential, in addition to offering educational services to families.”
The CCLC program grants support the implementation of community learning centers that operate during non-school hours. The funding is earmarked for students who attend high-poverty and low performing Title I schools.
The academic programs created with the funding aim to improve student performance in core academic subjects, primarily reading, math and science.
The programs implemented by the grants also serve the community by offering wellness, literacy, and career education.
Local grantees include:
- The Boys & Girls Club of Western Pennsylvania at McKeesport Area High School – $60,160;
- McKeesport Area School District at Francis McClure School – $105,000;
- Propel Charter School at Braddock Hill Elementary, McKeesport Elementary, Hazelwood Elementary, and Pitcairn Elementary – $400,000
“While improving academic performance of students is key, the remarkable part of these grants is how they inspire community-based education as well,” said Brewster. “Providing access to educational services beyond school hours, to adults and students alike, is a great way to instill and grow a love of learning throughout the community.”
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May 29, 2019
McKeesport – May 29, 2019 – Sen. Jim Brewster (D-Allegheny/Westmoreland) announced that McKeesport is set to receive funding assistance to improve traffic safety through the Automated Red-Light Enforcement (ARLE) fund.
“This funding is instrumental to improve traffic flow and safety,” Brewster said. “I am glad to see our region receiving assistance to invest in traffic projects that will ensure both motorists and pedestrians are able to travel safely.”
Three projects were approved for ARLE funding totaling $344,000.
They include:
- McKeesport Traffic Safety Project;
- Versailles Avenue and Evans Street Signal Replacement; and
- Lysle Boulevard and Coursin Street Audible Pedestrian Upgrade.
The approved projects will provide a variety of traffic safety improvements in McKeesport such as new traffic signal supports, updated pedestrian accommodations, and the creation of traffic safety programs.
According to Brewster, the improvements implemented with the ARLE funding will help to remediate speeding and sight issues that have concerned pedestrians and motorists in McKeesport.
“As travel increases in our area, we must do what we can to provide for traffic improvements that keep motorists and pedestrians safe,” Brewster said. “I believe this funding is an excellent step in addressing the traffic concerns of local residents and those traveling through the area.”
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May 20, 2019
Pennsylvania − May 20, 2019 − Advocates, lawmakers and state officials will participate in tours and a statewide day of action on Thursday, May 23rd with businesses that choose to pay their employees a living wage.
Pennsylvania’s minimum wage remains at a regional low of $7.25 per hour, the minimum still set by the federal government. The state is beyond due for an increase in this poverty-level wage.
According to a recent report from the Keystone Research Center, an increase in the state’s minimum wage to $12/hour on July 1, 2019 (as proposed by Governor Tom Wolf and members of the General Assembly as part of this year’s budget negotiations) would impact a total of 1.7 million Pennsylvania workers. More than 1.13 million would see a direct increase; 540,000 people who make slightly more than $12/hour would see their wages increase as payscales are adjusted upwards.
Despite a decade without a mandated increase from the state or federal government, business owners throughout Pennsylvania understand that a $7.25 wage is unacceptable and have taken it upon themselves to ensure that their workers are able to support themselves through full-time work. Those businesses are thriving.
Members of the press are invited to attend these tours and ask questions of the legislators and business owners. Tour stops include:
Harrisburg
2:00pm at Elementary Coffee
Broad Street Market, 1233 N 3rd St, Harrisburg, PA 17102
Pittsburgh
3:30pm at Bar Marco
2216 Penn Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15222
Philadelphia
1:30pm at La Barberia
Suburban Station Concourse, 17th St. & JFK Blvd, Philadelphia, PA 19103
Delaware County
5:00pm at Five Points Coffee Shop
47 Long Ln, Upper Darby, PA 19082
Chester County
3:00pm at Mabel’s BBQ
607 East Market St. West Chester, PA
Bucks County
1pm at Exact Solar
82 Walker Lane, Newtown PA 18940
Lancaster
11am at El Pueblito Mexican Restaurant
1027 Dillerville Rd., Dillerville Square, Lancaster
Follow along with the day of action on Twitter with #RealJobsRealPay
For more information on the urgent need to raise the minimum wage, visit realjobsrealpay.com
April 25, 2019
Harrisburg – April 25, 2019 – State Sen. Jim Brewster (D-Allegheny/Westmoreland) – a strong advocate for additional mental health funding — applauded state Auditor General Eugene DePasquale’s recent call for more mental health resources to prevent gun deaths.
“A key to reducing reduce gun deaths is properly funding mental health services,” Brewster said.
At a visit to a central Pennsylvania emergency room Tuesday, DePasquale drew the connection between the lack of mental health funding and firearm deaths, according to media reports.
“We need additional mental health services and facilities,” Brewster said.
Earlier this year, Brewster called for using a portion of the estimated $581 million from the legalization of marijuana to build facilities to help those struggling with mental health issues. The McKeesport lawmaker said he is also working to garner additional dollars for mental health through the state budget process.
“If marijuana is legalized, the revenue generated from its taxes and regulation should be earmarked for specific purposes,” Brewster said. “Providing more funds for mental health services and new facilities should be a priority.”
Last November, DePasquale issued a report “A Safer Pennsylvania: A Community Approach to Firearm Safety” that included 12 recommendations. The first two recommendations called for expanded access to mental health care and embarking on an awareness campaign to help people overcome the stigma associated with seeking mental health services.
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March 26, 2019
Harrisburg – March 26, 2019 – State grant funding including $525,000 for road slide repairs in Pitcairn and $200,000 for a streetscape project in White Oak was approved today, state Sen. Jim Brewster (D-Allegheny/Westmoreland) said.
“The ability to successfully access state resources to address key projects in the area is very important,” Brewster said. “Many communities need the state dollars to undertake valuable projects and enhance the quality of life in their communities.
“Local municipalities try to stretch dollars to meet needs, yet critical projects cannot be considered unless the state steps up to help fill funding gaps.”
The money for Pitcairn and White Oak was approved by the Commonwealth Financing Authority.
The projects include:
- Pitcairn Borough: Center Avenue slide remediation project involves cutting the hillside, removing material, stabilizing the hill and relocating portions of Center Avenue between Fifth and Highland Avenues ($525,000);
- White Oak: Streetscape and pedestrian safety improvements along Lincoln Way including new light poles, electrical work and street signs ($200,000).
Brewster said that he would continue to be a strong advocate for funding and work to bring even more state funding to the district through other state programs.
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March 14, 2019
Harrisburg – March 13, 2019 – State Sen. Jim Brewster (D-Allegheny/Westmoreland) said that the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD) has approved funding for numerous programs to aid victims in Allegheny and Westmoreland counties.
“The funding is critical for important programs to address those impacted by crime,” Brewster said. “The dollars will help fund outreach activities, training, improved communications, advocacy and those impacted by crime.”
Brewster said a total of nearly $6 million was approved for a wide range of programs in Allegheny and Westmoreland counties. The funding is available through the Victims of Crime Act and includes both non-competitive and competitive grants. Among others, the grant recipients include:
- Alle-Kiski Area Hope Center $225,430
- Center for Victims $571,538
- Court Appointed Special Advocates of Allegheny County $2,159
- Neighborhood Legal Services $244,803
- Womens Center and Shelter of Greater Pittsburgh $511,251
- Center for Victims $1,265,361
- Casa of Westmoreland Inc. $173,174
PCCD supports justice-related programs with a focus on research, police and support services. The approved funding support programs that serve individuals countywide.
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