Dear Neighbor,
Like many of you, I’m troubled about what lies ahead for SEPTA if the state doesn’t pitch in to help with its budget shortfall. Cuts to bus routes and rail lines are planned to start on Aug. 24 if funds are not allocated by Aug. 14. Many of you have been in contact with my office about how these cuts will impact you and your community, and I understand why you’re worried.
There is also the overdue state budget—meaning schools and human service agencies are looking to borrow money or tap into reserve funds. It shouldn’t be this way.
The state House has stepped up. This summer we approved Gov. Shapiro’s plan to send additional money to SEPTA and other transit agencies, as well as road and bridge projects, without raising taxes. We also passed a compromise state budget, a pared-back version of the governor’s budget proposal, that sends more to schools and vital human services. This week, the House Transportation Committee came back again and approved another proposal to fund mass transit across PA. This plan includes suggestions from Senator Picozzi for oversight over PA’s two largest transit agencies. It passed committee with bi-partisan support and now heads to the full House for consideration.
The Senate hasn’t touched either the budget or transportation plan, nor have they planned to come back to Harrisburg this month to do so. The Senate needs to recognize that mass transit requires funding, and that our schools and human services shouldn’t have to borrow or dip into reserves. It’s time the Senate returns to Harrisburg to get moving on a budget and a transit funding plan. If you’re concerned about SEPTA funding and the late budget, contact the offices of Senate Republicans and ask them to come back to Harrisburg to finish the job.
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Welcoming William Joseph
Introducing William Joseph Bitting!
Our little miracle arrived last week and we are over-the-moon in love. Special thanks to the incredible team at Lankenau Medical Center for ensuring mama and baby are both home and healthy. We appreciate all the love and support as we become a family of four.
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Get help with overdue PECO bills
PECO is offering $500 grants to eligible customers to pay off overdue bills. The temporary program is meant to help low- to middle-income customers whose incomes are too high for existing energy assistance programs, and it will be available through Dec. 31.
For more information or to apply, visit peco.com/relief.
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Veterans: Get help with your benefits
If you know a veteran who needs help with their benefits, we have help available. A Veteran Service Officer (VSO) is available at my office by appointment on the second Monday of every month from 10 am to 2 pm. Spots are limited. Call 610-544-9878 to schedule an appointment.
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Mark your calendar for Morton’s blood drive
The American Red Cross says its need for blood donors is critical, so please consider giving blood when the Red Cross hosts a blood drive at Morton Borough Community Center on Sept. 16. To schedule an appointment, call 1-800-733-2767 or visit www.redcrossblood.org and enter Morton Borough.
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Enjoying National Night Out
My staff had a great time this week at National Night Out in Marple and Springfield! Huge thanks to both police departments for hosting such fun, family-friendly nights that bring our communities together.
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Children’s Mental Health Forum
Learn about resources available in Delaware County to support children facing behavioral and mental health challenges. The event will be held in Main Building Room 101 and will feature school, county, and non-profit mental health professionals.
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Discounted vehicle registration fees for eligible retirees
Are you a retiree earning less than $29,906 a year? You may qualify for a reduced vehicle registration fee of $12 through PennDOT!
My office can help you check your eligibility and complete the application. Call us at 610-544-9878 for assistance or visit the PennDOT website.
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Apply for Main Street Matters grants
The PA Department of Community and Economic Development is accepting applications through Aug. 31 for grants that can help revitalize neighborhoods and downtowns in a variety of ways—from aesthetic improvements to security measures. Eligible applicants for the Main Street Matters program include local governments, redevelopment or housing authorities, nonprofits, community development corporations, and business and neighborhood improvement districts.
For more information, visit the DCED Website.
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Upcoming Events:
Dining Under the Stars
Weekly on Wednesdays, starting at 5 pm
State Street in Media
Swarthmore Farmers Market
Weekly on Saturdays, 9 am to 12 pm
Swarthmore Borough Parking Lot
Media Farmers Market
Weekly on Sundays, 10 am to 1pm
Edgemont Avenue, between State and Front streets
Rose Tree Summer Festival
Weekly from Wednesday-Sunday, 7:30 pm
Rose Tree Park
Media Outdoor Movie Night
Friday, July 11 at dusk
Community Center Lawn, adjacent to Monroe between 3rd and 4th streets
Children’s Mental Health Forum
Thursday, August 21st, 4 pm to 6 pm
Penn State Brandywine, Main Building Auditorium
Morton Summer Social
Thursday, August 21, 6 pm to 6 pm
Scioscia Field
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Pennsylvania State Capitol
217 Irvis Office Building
P.O. Box 202165
Harrisburg, PA 17120-2165
(717) 783-4090
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District Office
26 E. 4th Street
Media, PA 19063-3042
(610) 544-9878
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