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In this Update:
- Mastriano Announces Nearly $1.7 Million for Water and Sewer Infrastructure Projects in the 33rd District
- Legislation to Fund Emergency Services Now Law
- PA Farm Show Runs Jan. 6-13
- Mature Drivers: Take a Course, Save on Insurance
- Resources to Help Quit Using Tobacco
- Happy New Year!
Mastriano Announces Nearly $1.7 Million for Water and Sewer Infrastructure Projects in the 33rd District
Sen. Doug Mastriano (R-33) today announced nearly $1.7 million in state grants have been awarded for water and sewer infrastructure projects in Franklin and Adams counties.
“These water infrastructure grants ensure residents have access to clean drinking water and their wastewater from showers, toilets and dishwashers can properly be carried away and treated,” Mastriano said. “The creation and maintenance of infrastructure to provide clean water to homes and businesses and carry wastewater away from them is one of the core functions of local governments.”
Two grants are being funded with money from the federal COVID-19 American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) that is disbursed through the H20 PA Program:
- Berwick Township will receive $525,000 for improvements to the township’s wastewater treatment facility.
- East Berlin Area Joint Authority will receive nearly $400,000 for the construction of a sewer line extension along Route 194.
Three grants are being funded with money from the federal COVID-19 ARPA funds administered through the PA Small Water and Sewer (SWS) Program:
- Biglerville Borough Authority will receive nearly $50,000 to replace components of its wastewater treatment system.
- Washington Township has been awarded more than $340,000 for a storm sewer improvement project.
- East Berlin Area Joint Authority has been awarded nearly $380,000 for improvements to its wastewater treatment plant.
The grants were awarded by the Commonwealth Financing Authority (CFA). The CFA was created in 2004 as an independent agency of the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development to administer the commonwealth’s economic stimulus packages.
Established by the General Assembly in 2008, the H2O PA Program provides for single-year and multi-year grants for the construction of drinking water, sanitary sewer and storm sewer projects; the construction or renovation of flood control projects; and the repair or rehabilitation of high-hazard unsafe dams.
The SWS Program provides grants for small water, sewer, and storm water infrastructure projects. Municipalities and municipal authorities that own and maintain a public water supply, sanitary sewer or storm water systems are eligible to apply as long as their projects exceed a total cost of $30,000.
Legislation to Fund Emergency Services Now Law
The Senate passed legislation that is now law to preserve the availability of life-saving services for Pennsylvanians. It supports the 911 emergency communications service by reauthorizing a fee assessed to wireless lines.
Costs for equipment, operations and new technology continue to rise, threatening the availability of these critical services. The reauthorization helps to offset operation and maintenance costs associated with the state’s emergency response infrastructure.
The law has been extended until Jan. 31, 2029.
PA Farm Show Runs Jan. 6-13
As a state where agriculture is one of the top industries, Pennsylvania is proud to host the largest indoor agricultural exposition under one roof in the nation. The 108th Pennsylvania Farm Show runs from Jan. 6-13 in Harrisburg.
The Farm Show features nearly 6,000 animals and more than 10,000 exhibits. There are also thousands of competitions and educational and entertaining events – and of course the famed Food Court, offering Farm Show milkshakes, fried cheese and so much more. Admission is free, and parking is $15 per car. Make the most of your trip with the visitor’s guide.
Agriculture in PA employs nearly half a million people and contributes $132.5 billion to the state’s economy annually.
Mature Drivers: Take a Course, Save on Insurance
Mature drivers who would like to brush up on their driving skills and save money on car insurance are invited to take a Basic or Refresher Mature Driver Improvement course.
The approved courses provide information about how aging affects driving abilities and insight into driving on today’s roadways. There are no written or practical driving tests.
By completing the Basic Mature Driver Improvement Course, drivers are eligible for a 5% discount on their vehicle insurance. Check course fees and availability here.
Resources to Help Quit Using Tobacco
As we approach the New Year, many people are thinking about changes they can make in 2024. If one of your resolutions is to stop smoking – or to give up tobacco use in any form – resources are available.
Learning tobacco-free coping skills is safe and achievable; improves physical and mental health; and aids long-term success. Access free online resources.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention also offers a free support hotline at 1-800-QUIT-NOW (1-800-784-8669).
Happy New Year!
Pennsylvania is a wonderful and unique place to live all throughout the year, including during the holidays. Our state offers some quirky New Year’s Eve drops, from the bologna drop in Lebanon to the strawberry drop in Harrisburg. There are also family-friendly options, including Crayola’s Jazzberry Jammin’ New Year’s Eve in Easton. Find a special way to celebrate.
No matter how you choose to ring in the New Year, I would like to thank you for the opportunity to serve as your state senator. Helping our communities is a true honor.
May your 2024 be filled with blessings and happiness.
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