Rep. Dane Watro and Sen. Dave Argall announced on Dec. 18 that approximately $1.1 million in Local Share Account funds have been awarded by the Commonwealth Financing Authority to several municipalities in Schuylkill and Luzerne counties.
The funding is intended to help local governments invest in infrastructure improvements and essential equipment without increasing the financial burden on taxpayers. The funds are made possible through gaming revenues distributed under the Pennsylvania Race Horse Development and Gaming Act (Act 71 of 2004).
In Schuylkill County, East Union Township will receive $250,000 for a new township building and public works garage, Kline Township will get $73,309 for a police vehicle, Mahanoy Township will receive $94,000 for a mini-excavator and trailer, McAdoo Borough will get $49,978 for sidewalk renovations at the fire company, Ringtown Borough will receive $271,000 for wastewater treatment plant improvements, and North Union Township will get $70,408 for upgrades to the Twin County Joint Municipal Authority wastewater system serving both North Union and Black Creek townships.
Banks Township in Carbon County was also approved for a $114,889 grant to purchase equipment that will improve operation and maintenance of its wastewater treatment plant. This facility processes sewage from McAdoo Borough and parts of Kline Township in Schuylkill County. In Luzerne County, Hazle Township received $150,000 to construct a pole barn for equipment storage.
“Regardless of the municipality, there is always a pressing need to maintain and upgrade local infrastructure and ensure that essential work vehicles are available,” said Watro. “This funding, made possible through gaming revenues, is vital because it empowers our local governments to invest in critical improvements without placing additional financial burdens on taxpayers. I’m glad I could help ensure these dollars benefit 116th District communities.”
Senator Argall said towns across the region would benefit from this support: “Towns and neighborhoods in all corners of our region will benefit from this funding.” The Commonwealth Financing Authority was established as an independent agency within the Department of Community and Economic Development to administer Pennsylvania’s economic stimulus packages.
