Late last week, Gov. Josh Shapiro signed an executive order directing the state Department of Community and Economic Development to create the first statewide housing action plan. The department is to work with stakeholders to create a comprehensive plan to…

DEP’s Interstate Water Resources Management Division is now accepting applications for Fiscal Year 2025 Coastal Zone Grants. Townships located within the Delaware Estuary Coastal Zone or the Lake Erie Coastal Zone boundaries are eligible to apply through October 21, 2024.  …

The U.S. EPA is now accepting applications for planning assistance in the 2024 round of the Recreation Economy for Rural Communities program to help communities develop a vision for revitalization through outdoor recreation.  Townships and regional organizations, including councils of…

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…

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 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…

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 The commission determined that numerous state regulations under the oversight of these agencies were outdated due to legislative or other…

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…

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 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…