Electric Rate Increases June 1, 2023!

Last week the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission announced that most electric utilities will adjust their electric generation prices for default service customers on June 1, 2023! Provider increases in our region include: 

• Duquesne Light, estimated increase from 11.25 to 11.45 cents per kWh (up 1.8%);
• Penn Power, increase from 10.439 to 10.556 cents per kWh (up 1.1%);
• West Penn Power, increase from 8.228 to 9.929 cents per kWh (up 20.7%)

To be sure you are paying the best rate, go to PAPowerSwitch.com where you can explore and compare offers from competitive energy suppliers and get tips on energy conservation measures in your home or business. 

For more information go to PUC Alerts Consumers of June 1 Electric Price Changes; Urges Exploring Shopping & Conservation Options to #SaveinPA | PA PUC. 

IRS Identity Verification Letters

We talked to several constituents over the past month who were concerned about being scammed after receiving form letters from the IRS asking for identity verification. Thankfully, all the letters were legitimate, which we confirmed on the IRS website!

The IRS sends these letters when returns are flagged for anything unusual by one of their filters. Refund payments are held until the taxpayer’s identity is verified and by sending the letter to home addresses, only the taxpayer can confirm their identity and release the refund.  If you receive one of these IRS form letters you can look up the letter number to verify its legitimacy and what steps to take next at Identity and Tax Return Verification Service | Internal Revenue Service (irs.gov). 

Of course, if you have any additional questions or concerns do not hesitate to contact our office. Call us at 412-364-0469 (Ross) or 724-224-2131 (Harrison) or email us at [email protected]. 

Contact Just Harvest to Apply for SNAP Benefits

If you or someone you know is experiencing food insecurity, let Just Harvest help you determine whether you qualify for SNAP/food stamps. The PA Department of Human Services contracts with Just Harvest to provide free SNAP eligibility screenings and streamlined application assistance to Allegheny County residents and can help with all of your SNAP questions, problems, or concerns. Every little bit helps these days so don’t leave money on the table that could help fill your pantry!

For more information or to have Just Harvest contact you go to How to Apply for Food Stamps in PA (justharvest.org) or call 412-431-8960.

PHRC Fair Housing Trainings

Have questions about housing? Don't miss the Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission (PHRC) virtual free Fair Housing Trainings this spring. Everyone is welcome! Links to register for each webinar are below:

• May 31, 12 - 1 Accessibility & Fair Housing:  Meeting Registration - Zoom.
• June 28, 12 - 1 Fair Housing Fundamentals Meeting Registration - Zoom.

Recycle Your Glass at Deer Lakes Park 

Attention Allegheny Valley residents! The Pennsylvania Resources Council’s Traveling Glass Recycling Bin Program in Allegheny County Parks is coming to Deer Lakes Park June 3-8, 2023! Drop off glass bottles, jars and jugs of all colors. No color sorting is required. Containers should be empty and rinsed, with lids and labels still on. Bags and boxes used to deliver glass must be discarded off-site.

For more details click here. 

PRC Hard to Recycle Collection next Saturday at Pittsburgh Mills!

Register today for the Pennsylvania Resources Council (PRC)’s June 3, 2023 Hard to Recycle Collection at the Galleria at Pittsburgh Mills in FrazerTownship. Dispose of tires, e-waste, small freon appliances, and more!

You can see the complete 2023 Hard to Recycle Collection schedule and register for this event at PRC - Hard To Recycle Collections. 

Volunteers Needed for Hartwood Acres Trail Project 

Join the Allegheny County Park’s Rangers for an evening of stewardship to improve trail conditions in Hartwood Acres Park on Wednesday, May 31, 2023 from 5:30 PM - 7:30 PM. Meet at the Hartwood Acres Park Mansion parking lot and expect to participate in physical activity. No experience is necessary. All tools, gloves and eye protection will be provided. Bring water, wear long pants and closed toe shoes!

West View Hub’s 2023 Hubfest

Mark your calendars! West View HUB's 2023 Hubfest is on Wednesday, June 7 from 5-8pm. Check out the grand opening of Hubworks, the brand-new immersive arts center, and learn all about the HUB's summer programming!

Check with your municipality for parade and picnic information!