|
||
|
Mobile Office Hours – Times & Locations! Dear Friends, As our nation celebrates America’s 250th anniversary, communities across our district are finding meaningful ways to honor this historic milestone, from educational programs and historical exhibits to community gatherings and commemorative events. If you know of an America250 event happening in our district, I would love to hear about it. By sharing your event details, you help us spread the word and highlight the great work taking place in our local communities. Event organizers are encouraged to submit information and upload their event flyer through my website so we can help promote these celebrations districtwide. Submit your event here! Sincerely,
In this Update:
Grant Secured for Oysterdale Road Safety Improvements
This week, I met with a coalition of stakeholders, including the Berks County Conservation District, the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT), and the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission, to celebrate a $143,073 grant I helped secure for the Oysterdale Road/Streambank Safety Improvement Project in Pike Township. This project is an important step toward addressing long-standing safety and environmental concerns along Oysterdale Road. The funding was awarded through the Commonwealth Financing Authority’s Watershed Restoration and Protection Program, which supports projects that improve water quality and protect local waterways. I appreciate the collaboration of our community partners and look forward to continuing these conversations as we work together to advance important improvements like this for our region. New Hanover Township Police Department Earns Accreditation
Congratulations to the New Hanover Township Police Department on reaching an historic milestone by earning its first-ever accreditation from the Pennsylvania Law Enforcement Accreditation Commission (PLEAC). With only about 17% of police agencies in Pennsylvania holding this distinction, the achievement reflects the department’s strong commitment to professionalism, accountability, and best practices in law enforcement and community safety. I would also like to recognize Police Specialist Joanna Vanaman and Corporal Matt Dean, who received Commendation Awards for their hard work and dedication throughout the accreditation process. Their efforts played a key role in making this accomplishment possible. Congratulations to the entire New Hanover Township Police Department on this well-deserved recognition and for their continued service to the community. Grant Funding Secured for New Hanover Township
I was pleased to visit New Hanover Township last week to present two grant funding checks that State Rep. Donna Scheuren and I were proud to help secure for the community. The New Hanover Township Police Department will receive $225,708 to expand its police fleet, supporting the purchase and upfitting of three new police vehicles to help officers respond quickly and safely. The New Hanover Township Authority will receive $350,000 for its Slide Gate Replacement Project, an important infrastructure improvement that will help maintain reliable operations. Investing in public safety and critical infrastructure helps ensure our communities have the resources they need to continue serving residents effectively. Collegeville Rotary Celebrates 75 Years
I had a great evening in Collegeville speaking with members of the Collegeville Rotary about the state budget and the important issues facing our Commonwealth. During the event, I was also honored to present the Collegeville Rotary with an official Senate citation in recognition of their 75th Anniversary. For decades, the organization has demonstrated a strong commitment to service and making a positive impact in our community. Congratulations again to the Collegeville Rotary on this outstanding milestone and thank you for all you do to support our region. The Journey Home
I encourage you to join the Veterans Brotherhood on March 29 for a showing of The Journey Home, a powerful film that highlights the challenges many veterans face when returning from service and the importance of community and support. As a United States Army combat veteran, this message resonates deeply with me. Our servicemen and women never stop serving, and they deserve our continued support when they return home. I hope you will take the time to watch this meaningful film and learn more about how we can stand by those who have served our country. Learn more here. Outreach Days: Property Tax & Rent Rebate Assistance
Every Thursday through April 9, our office will host Outreach Days from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM at the Boyertown Area Multi-Service (200 Spring St, Boyertown, PA 19512). These events are designed to help residents apply for the Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program. The Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program provides important financial relief to homeowners and renters across Pennsylvania. Eligible older adults and people with disabilities age 18 and older may receive rebates ranging from $380 to $1,000, and only half of Social Security income is included in the eligibility calculation. During Outreach Days, our staff will be available to guide residents through the application process, answer questions, and help determine eligibility. Assistance is provided by appointment only, and all services are free of charge. Applications must be submitted by June 30. To make an appointment, visit here. For more information, please visit the Pennsylvania Department of Revenue’s website. Join Me for a Free Scam Jam in Topton on March 27
Financial scams continue to target individuals and families across Pennsylvania, especially seniors. That’s why I am partnering with the Pennsylvania Department of Banking and Securities to host a free Scam Jam to help residents recognize and prevent financial fraud. This educational program will take place on Friday, March 27 from 1:00 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. at the Lutheran Home at Topton (One S. Home Ave, Topton, PA 19562). Scammers are constantly changing their tactics, and staying informed is one of the best ways to protect yourself. During this event, attendees will hear from experts representing:
These professionals will share practical tips on spotting red flags, safeguarding personal information, and reporting suspicious activity before it’s too late. Registration is strongly recommended, as space is limited. You can reserve your spot online or by calling my office at (215) 541-2388. Scenes from the 24th Senatorial District – Photo Submissions Open!
I’m inviting residents of the 24th District to share their favorite photos capturing life in our community, from scenic landscapes and local landmarks to community events and everyday moments. Selected photos will be featured in my weekly e-newsletter. Photos must be taken within the 24th District and submitted by district residents. Not sure if your photo qualifies? You can check the district map and submit your photo here. Let’s celebrate Berks and Montgomery counties through your lens! This week’s featured photo, submitted by a resident of Bechtelsville, captures a beautiful rainbow in East Greenville just in time for St. Patrick’s Day! Senate Acts to Address Electric Generation Shortfall, Expand Energy Development
Reliable and affordable electricity is a fundamental need for families and the businesses that provide their jobs. The Senate recently passed legislation to streamline energy generation projects and preserve the reliability of our region’s power grid. Senate Bill 704 directs the state departments of Community and Economic Development and Environmental Protection to work together to identify suitable sites for natural gas electric generation projects. The goal is to address electricity generation shortages in the PJM power grid and attract investment by speeding up site preparation. The bill was sent to the House of Representatives for consideration. Other measures we passed to promote access to affordable energy prevented the creation of a new electricity tax and would authorize creation of a Pennsylvania Independent Energy Office to ensure a more cohesive strategy for managing energy resources. Measure to Speed Up Plugging of Abandoned Wells Approved by Senate
There are an estimated 350,000 abandoned oil and gas wells statewide posing safety and environmental risks. The Senate approved legislation to streamline plugging operations, eliminating uncertainty and accelerating cleanup efforts. The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection requires well pluggers to clean out a well to its total depth before plugging. Senate Bill 712 removes longstanding roadblocks by defining what constitutes a reasonable effort to reach the attainable bottom of a well, eliminating ambiguity that has led to costly delays. This clarity will help Pennsylvania fully leverage nearly $400 million in federal funding to plug more wells in less time. The bill was sent to the House of Representatives for consideration. Poultry Owners Urged to Continue Efforts to Combat Avian Influenza
The Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture is reminding poultry owners – backyard flock owners and commercial producers – to continue taking steps to protect their birds from highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI). Since the current outbreak began in 2022, Pennsylvania has lost more than 14.3 million birds, with approximately half of these lost since the beginning of 2026. Steps to reduce HPAI risk include:
Poultry owners should report sick birds or unexplained deaths to 717-772-2852. Anyone encountering sick or dead wild birds should contact the Pennsylvania Game Commission at 1-833-PGC-WILD. You can find more information here. Next Commonwealth Vehicle Auction is April 14
Used commonwealth fleet vehicle auctions featuring more than 200 vehicles are open to the public, including dealers. The next auction is April 14. The auctions are conducted at the Manheim Keystone Pennsylvania Auto Auction, 488 Firehouse Road in Grantville, Dauphin County. Auctions begin at 10 a.m. and prospective buyers should register on the Saturday, Sunday or Monday before the sale. There is no registration on sale day. You can see what was sold at prior auctions and the most updated offerings, along with registration information and more here. Additional information, including payment options, can be found in the auction policies or by calling 717-469-7900 Monday – Friday, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. Happy St. Patrick’s Day
Nearly two million Pennsylvanians proudly claim Irish ancestry, reflecting generations of families, workers and community leaders who helped shape our commonwealth’s heritage. Whether you’re Irish or Irish-for-a-day, I hope you enjoy St. Patrick’s Day on March 17.
If you are not already subscribed to this newsletter please sign up here. |
||
|
||
Want to change how you receive these emails? 2026 © Senate of Pennsylvania | https://senatorpennycuick.com | Privacy Policy |
