Pa. Township News

In the September 2025 Pa. Township News

PUBLIC SAFETY ISSUE

Protect and Serve: Townships Play Critical Role in Police Department Management
Municipal police serve Pennsylvania communities well in some of the most trying circumstances. When things go wrong, though, who is responsible? What role does the township play in managing the police department? That can vary, depending on the situation. Regardless, elected officials should be familiar with every aspect of police operations, whether a municipal department or regional force.

Emergency Response: Municipalities Across the Commonwealth
Get Creative to Address the EMS Crisis
There’s no one-size-fits-all solution to the myriad issues plaguing emergency medical services providers in Pennsylvania. Local officials are meeting challenges head-on with creative solutions based on their communities’ needs and with little help from Harrisburg or Washington. Various models of service are keeping ambulances and paramedics on the road, responding to residents in need.

Public Safety: Law Enforcement Relationships, Resources
Help Keep Township Officials, Staff, and Residents Safe
Creating and maintaining a safe work environment for elected officials and staff that work daily with the public can be a challenge for municipalities with tight budgets. Resources are available, however, to provide assessments and recommendations for tightening security and boosting the safety of township officials and staff.

Protecting Unsung Heroes: Training, Public Awareness Help Keep Volunteer Fire Police Safe
When an emergency happens along a roadway, police, firefighters, and EMS immediately respond to the scene. Volunteer fire police also play a crucial role in many townships, keeping first responders who are working on the scene safe by directing motorists around the incident. Training and public awareness can help keep these unsung heroes safe while they work to protect first responders.

TEMA for Township Supervisors: Feasibility Studies
Lay the Groundwork for Stronger Emergency Services
For municipalities across Pennsylvania, ensuring responsive, resilient emergency services begins long before the sirens sound. It starts with a solid foundation — facilities that are functional, safe, and adaptable to the growing demands of police, fire, and EMS operations.

Protecting the Protectors: Townships Must Provide
Workers’ Comp for Most Fire Department Members
Passed in 1915, the Workers’ Compensation Act covered all members of volunteer fire companies, regardless of whether they went on calls. More than 100 years later, though, narrower criteria in Act 108 of 2020 means some fire department members are no longer eligible for workers’ compensation coverage.

And More …
The September edition also profiles another 2025 PMGA graduate and includes all the other columns you count on each month.