The box tree moth, a highly destructive, invasive insect new to North America, was recently discovered for the first time in Pennsylvania in Erie County. The state Department of Agriculture has issued a quarantine in Erie County to help residents…
Federal Disaster Aid Approved for Debby Disaster in Four Counties
Yesterday, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) announced that federal disaster assistance was approved for individuals in Lycoming, Potter, Tioga, and Union counties affected by Tropical Storm Debby from August 9-10. The assistance makes grants for temporary housing and home…
Inflation Stagnant, Interest Rate Cut Expected Next Week
Inflation was stagnant for August, with the increase at 0.2% over July but up only 2.5% over the last 12 months, the smallest 12-month increase since February 2021. The energy index decreased 4% over the last 12 months while the…
Commission Declares Regulations Obsolete, Urges Agencies to Update
At the request of several state legislative committees, the Independent Regulatory Review Commission examined existing regulations for five state agencies. The commission determined that numerous state regulations under the oversight of these agencies were outdated due to legislative or other…
We Will Never Forget
Twenty-three years ago, on the morning of September 11, 2001, we witnessed a day of sorrow and tragedy. Each year, we remember the dedication, commitment, and strength of those who responded, including a rural township in western Pennsylvania. Flight 93…
Commonwealth Accepting Fire and EMS Grant Applications
The Office of the State Fire Commissioner is accepting applications for the Fire and EMS Grant Program until October 20, 2024. All fire companies, emergency medical services, and volunteer rescue squads may apply for this grant. Fire and rescue companies must be actively reporting to PennFIRS…
DCED’s New Main Street Matters Grant Now Open
DCED is now accepting applications for the Main Street Matters (MSM) program to support and create healthy, vibrant, and welcoming communities. Funding is available in several grant categories of planning, business support, aesthetic improvements, and safety and security. Townships are eligible…
Last Call to Submit Proposals for Conference Workshops at PSATS’ 2025 Educational Conference & Exhibit Show
The deadline to submit proposals for conference workshops at PSATS’ 2025 Educational Conference & Exhibit Show, which will be held May 4-7, 2025, at the Hershey Lodge in Hershey (workshops are May 5-6), is rapidly approaching. Interested parties must submit proposals to…
Township Maintenance Vehicles Can Use Green/Amber Lighting for Safety and Visibility
On July 17, Governor Shapiro signed into law Act 78 of 2024, which allows townships and contractors working on townships’ behalf to use flashing or revolving green lights in addition to flashing or revolving yellow (amber) lights on maintenance vehicles. PennDOT…
Reminder: PennDOT Bureaucracy Streamlining
The state Department of Transportation will not collect FHWA Form 536 in 2024, which means township officials can cross one item off their to-do lists! The form will return in 2025 but the due date will shift to June 15…
