Please ensure Javascript is enabled for purposes of website accessibility Product Leak at Munroe Tank Farm, Harrisburg Updates, and Happy Holidays

Product Leak at Munroe Tank Farm, Harrisburg Updates, and Happy Holidays

Dear Neighbor,

 

As the holiday season continues, I wish you and your loved ones joy, peace, and good health. Whether you celebrate Hanukkah, Christmas, Kwanzaa, or simply treasure time with family and friends, I am deeply grateful for our wonderful community. Thank you for the kindness, care, and connection you share throughout the year. Wishing you a safe, happy, and hope-filled New Year as we welcome 2026.

 

 

Statement on Product Leak at Monroe Tank Farm in Aston

State Reps. Leanne Krueger and Carol Kazeem, both D-Delaware; and State Sen. John Kane, D-Delaware, today released the following statement regarding the Monroe Energy incident and ongoing cleanup efforts in Aston Township:

 

“We are deeply concerned by reports received this week regarding the release of up to 9,000 barrels of unleaded gasoline associated with MIPC LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Monroe Energy LLC, at its Chelsea Tank Farm in Aston Township. Monroe Energy has notified nearby residents of the incident, and multiple regulatory agencies were informed, including the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration, and the Environmental Protection Agency.

 

“PHMSA has issued a corrective action order to Monroe Energy related to the tank failure, and DEP is evaluating enforcement action that may require Monroe Energy to provide bottled water to Aston Township residents who rely on private wells in impacted neighborhoods. Any residents in the area with private wells should contact Monroe immediately.

 

“We appreciate the continued oversight by state and federal agencies and will remain engaged to ensure appropriate actions are taken to protect public health and the environment.”

 

Members of the media seeking additional information may contact Krueger’s office at 717-443-1075. Members of the public seeking information should call the PADEP at 800-541-2050.

 

 

State investments coming back to our community

I work hard to ensure that state dollars are reinvested in Delaware County and our district, directly benefiting residents. I’m excited to share several recent state investments that will strengthen our communities and enhance the quality of life across the 161st District.

 

I’m excited to share that $2.1 million in new Local Share Account grants are coming back to the 161st District. These investments will support public works equipment, enhance emergency services, fund essential building renovations, and help improve the quality of life across our communities.

 

The following grants were awarded:

  • $200,000 to Chester Township for the purchase of public works equipment, including a street sweeper, leaf collection apparatus, snowplow, and dump truck.
  • $575,763 to the Delaware County Industrial Development Authority to renovate the second floor of the Aston Township Fire Department’s fire station. The renovation will include new dorm-style rooms, bathrooms, and electrical and plumbing installation to support a live-in firefighting program.
  • $283,392 to the Delaware County Redevelopment Authority to renovate the Fred P. Meagher Theater and art gallery at the Bruder Life Center of Neumann University.
  • $28,000 to Nether Providence Township to purchase and install 16 license plate readers through four intersections in response to a rise in stolen vehicles and theft from vehicles in the area.
  • $415,000 to Upland Borough to upgrade the James W. Reese Center to achieve code compliance so that it can be used year-round as the home of the Upland Borough Police Department and as a countywide emergency management center.
  • $150,000 to Delaware County to update the lighting at the Delaware County Emergency Services Center in Middletown Township to more energy efficient bulbs and fixtures (supported in partnership with state Rep. Lisa Borowski).
  • $454,604 to the Middletown Township Sewer Authority to replace the Fair Acres Pump Station with new equipment that has increased capacity (supported in partnership with state Rep. Lisa Borowski).

To read more visit HERE.

 

I’m also proud to announce a $408,500 investment through the Neighborhood Assistance Program to support projects across Delaware County. This program offers tax credits to businesses that contribute to nonprofit organizations dedicated to revitalizing communities and assisting those most in need.

 

The following programs received NAP funding:

  • $9,750 for the Boys & Girls Club of Chester to implement a multi-faceted youth violence prevention program for 75 youth through after school, weekend, and summer activities. The project aims to prevent youth involvement in violent incidents by 20% and improve conflict resolution skills in 85% of participants.
  • $16,250 for the Community Action Agency of Delaware County, Inc. to renovate and upgrade the facility to continue to provide essential support to over 3,000 households annually.
  • $47,700 for Domestic Abuse Project of Delaware County, Inc. to expand DAP’s legal services, increase safety, empower self-advocacy, and support long-term independence.
  • $31,500 for Entrepreneur Works Fund to help it provide affordable, flexible loans and business support services to low-to-moderate income entrepreneurs.
  • $18,000 for Chester Community Improvement Project Chester, in partnership with RADC, to fund exterior repairs for 12 owner-occupied homes in Grace Manor.
  • $4,500 for the Family Support Line of Delaware County, Inc. to provide ride-share transportation for 125 low-income families in Delaware County, removing barriers to mental health treatment for child victims of sexual abuse.
  • $280,800 for The Foundation for Delaware County’s Housing Opportunities Program for Equity to help at least 300 families maintain safe, stable housing.

To read more visit HERE.

 

These investments reflect a continued commitment to bringing resources home and making sure our communities have the support they need to thrive.

 

 

Harrisburg Updates

Last week was our final voting session in Harrisburg for 2025, and it was a busy one. I wanted to share a few highlights of what we worked on before wrapping up the year.

 

HB 1881 – expands access to health care by allowing pharmacists to provide vaccines based on recommendations from Pennsylvania health authorities.

 

HB 1286 – takes an important step to combat human trafficking by requiring hotels, motels, and third-party booking platforms to train employees and rental operators on what human trafficking is, how to recognize the warning signs, and how to respond if trafficking is suspected.

 

HB 1251 – allows certified midwives to refer patients for physical therapy, helping patients get the care they need more quickly.

 

HB 1957 – is a proposed constitutional amendment to protect personal reproductive freedom and give people the right to make their own health care decisions. This amendment would add protections to Pennsylvania’s Declaration of Rights, affirming that individuals have the right to make their own reproductive health care decisions without government interference. Because this is a constitutional amendment, it must pass both the House and Senate in two consecutive legislative sessions before it can appear on the ballot for voters to weigh in. HB 1957 passed the House and now heads to the PA Senate.

Reproductive health care is deeply personal, and medical decisions should be made between patients and their health care providers.

 

Here’s a video update that I taped just after HB 1957 passed the PA House:

Video
 

 

Philadelphia Orchestra at the Capitol

I was delighted to hear the Philadelphia Orchestra perform on the House floor last week. The last time the Orchestra performed here was in 1919, and I’m grateful to Speaker McClinton for inviting them again. Having world-class musicians fill the Capitol with music provided a beautiful pause during a busy session and a meaningful reminder of the importance of supporting arts and culture across Pennsylvania.

 

 

Leading the House During Session

Last week, I had the honor of serving as Speaker Pro Tempore during our voting session, filling in for Speaker of the House Joanna McClinton. It was a privilege to lead the chamber as we debated and voted on important legislation affecting communities across Pennsylvania. I’m grateful for the opportunity to serve in this role and to continue advocating for the people of the 161st District.

 

 

Upcoming holiday office hours

 

 

In the District

 

Diaper Drive Success

Last Friday, I joined Senator Tim Kearney to deliver a generous donation of diapers and formula to the WIC office at the Foundation for Delaware County. These contributions will go directly to families in our community, ensuring they have access to essential resources and support.

 

Thank you to everyone in our community who contributed to our diaper drive! Your generosity truly warms my heart and makes a meaningful difference for local families in need.

 

 

Important Programs & Services

 

Last chance to file your 2024 Property Tax/Rent Rebate

Don’t miss out on filing your Property Tax/ Rent Rebate. The deadline for applying is December 31, 2025.

You may be eligible for a Property Tax/Rent Rebate for claim year 2024 if your annual household income was $46,520 or less and you were:

  • 65 or older as of December 31, 2024.
  • 50 or older and a widow or widower during all or part of 2024.
  • Permanently disabled and 18 or older during all or part of 2024.

*Note: when calculating total income, exclude one-half of your Social Security benefits.

Call my office at 610-534-6880 to find out if you qualify and to get help applying.

 

Did you already apply for your Property Tax or Rent Rebate? You can track the status of your rebate online.

 

 

2026 Internship Opportunities

Attention college students: Paid summer internship opportunities for 2026 are now available with Pennsylvania state parks and forests, the Geological Survey, and the DCNR Central Office in Harrisburg. These positions provide valuable, hands-on experience in public service. Check back regularly, as additional opportunities may be posted.

 

Visit HERE to see what’s available.

 

 

Special deadline extension for PENNIE – December 31, 2025

Pennie, Pennsylvania’s official health insurance marketplace, has extended the first enrollment deadline for Jan. 1 coverage, giving you extra time to get covered. If you don’t currently have health insurance, now is the perfect time to visit Pennie and explore your options. The new deadline to enroll for coverage starting on New Year’s Day is December 31, 2025.

 

Visit pennie.com to shop and enroll today!

 

 

Our Events

Looking Ahead to What’s Coming in 2026!

 

Dog Licensing Event

Thursday, January 22

3 PM – 6 PM

Brookhaven Municipal Center

2 Cambridge Rd., Brookhaven, PA 19015

Registration is required. Call 610-534-6880 to register.

 

Property Tax/Rent Rebate Event

Wednesday, February 11

11 AM – 3 PM

Ridley Township Public Library

100 MacDade Blvd., Folsom, PA 19033

 

To register for this event call 610-544-6120 or 610-534-6880.

 

 

Happening in the Community

DCHD is partnering with Pennie

Every Wednesday

10 AM – 2 PM

Wellness Center at Yeadon

125 Chester Ave., Yeadon, PA 19050

 

A Pennie staff member will be on site to help you find affordable, high-quality health coverage.

 

The Pennie enrollment period is from Nov 1, 2025 – Jan 15, 2026

Enroll by Dec 15 for coverage starting Jan 1, 2026

Enroll by Jan 15 for coverage starting Feb 1, 2026

 

Main Line Health Smokefree Program

 

Program 1

Tuesdays: January 6, 13,20, 27 Feb. 3, 10

Virtual: 6:30 PM – 7:30 PM

 

Program 2

Thursday: January 15. 22.29. Feb. 5, 12, 19

Virtual: 4 PM – 5 PM

 

Program 3

Tuesday: February 10, 17, 24, March 3, 10, 17

Virtual: 10 AM – 11 AM

 

Program 4

Wednesday: February 25, March 4, 11, 18, 25, April 1

Virtual: 7 PM – 8 PM

 

Register by calling 484-227-3733

 
 

Pennsylvania State Capitol
512-E Main Capitol Building

 PO Box 202161
Harrisburg, PA 17120-2161
(717) 705-2567

District Office

115 E. Brookhaven Rd.
Brookhaven, PA 19015
(610) 534-6880

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