Comitta Announces New Funding for Teacher Preparation at West Chester University 

January 17, 2023

West Chester, Pa (January 17, 2023) – West Chester University will receive $96,000 in state grant funding to support new teacher preparation programs, State Senator Carolyn Comitta announced today. 

The funding is awarded through the Pennsylvania Department of Education’s Innovative Teacher Prep2Practice Grant Program. 

“As a former educator, I have seen the importance of having quality preparation programs that set our teachers up for success in the classroom as they provide our children with a fulfilling educational experience,” said Comitta, who serves on the Senate Education Committee. “With this new funding, we are supporting individuals who wish to enter this rewarding career path while solidifying West Chester University’s place as a leading institution for new educators.” 

The new grant program is designed to stimulate the creation of highly cohesive and innovative clinical experiences for teachers that make explicit connections across the three stages of clinical experience: early clinical experiences starting in the first year of a preparation program, a capstone student teaching experience, and a post-graduate clinical experience. 

Teacher Prep2Practice is one of three initiatives from the Pennsylvania Department of Education that recently awarded $5 million in total funding to strengthen Pennsylvania’s educator workforce.  

For more information on this and other programs offered by the Pennsylvania Department of Education visit www.education.pa.gov. 

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Comitta, Pielli Announce New Loan to Improve West Chester Area Water Infrastructure

January 13, 2023

West Chester, Pa (January 13, 2023) – Water infrastructure in the West Chester area will be improved thanks to a $6 million loan from the Pennsylvania Infrastructure Investment Authority (PennVEST), state Senator Carolyn Comitta and state Representative Chris Pielli announced today.

The loan to Aqua Pennsylvania, Inc. will help replace 450 lead and galvanized lines in the utility’s West Chester service with 18,000 feet of new line made of safer, modern materials. The improvements will help prevent corrosion and eliminate potential sources of contamination.

“Access to clean drinking water is a right granted to every Pennsylvanian, but our aging infrastructure can threaten this basic necessity for our residents,” Comitta said. “Loans such as this help speed up the ability of water systems to make critical investments in our water system and ensure safe drinking water for every community.”

The award is part of a $236 million investment in water infrastructure projects across the commonwealth. Funding comes from a variety of sources including state funds approved by voters, Growing Greener, Marcellus Legacy funds, the Infrastructure Investment & Jobs Act, federal grants to PENNVEST from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, and recycled loan repayments from previous PENNVEST funding awards.

“I am extremely happy and thankful for Governor Wolf‘s announcement that Chester County residents will benefit from a $6 million loan to Aqua water company to replace old lead and galvanized service lines in the West Chester service area with at least 18,000 feet of new line,” Pielli said. “This initiative continues our commitment to the constitutional right of clean water for all of our residents.”

PennVEST provides grants and low-interest loans for the construction or improvements to public utilities such as drinking water infrastructure, storm water or sewage treatment facilities, and provide best management practices for non-point source pollution prevention.

For more on this announcement and other investments made by PennVEST go to www.pennvest.pa.gov
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State Lawmakers Announce Funding for Watersheds, Parks and Open Space

January 13, 2023

West Chester, Pa (January 13, 2023) – Four projects in Chester County to support clean watersheds, conserve land, and expand opportunities for outdoor recreation will receive nearly $1.8 million in total grant funding, state Senator Carolyn Comitta and state Reps. Dan Williams, Kristine Howard, and Melissa Shusterman announced today.

“Investments in clean water, open space, and public parks pay dividends in the health, well-being, and overall quality of life in our communities. These funds will support more opportunities for outdoor recreation in Coatesville and Malvern, cleaner streams in Willistown and the surrounding area, and more trees, meadows, and forests across Chester County,” said Comitta, who serves as minority chair of the Senate Environmental Resources and Energy Committee.

The grants, which come through the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Community Conservation Partnerships Program (C2P2), are funded through a variety of state and federal sources, including the federal American Rescue Plan Act, the Environmental Stewardship Fund, and the EPA Chesapeake Bay Program. They are as follows:

• The City of Coatesville will receive $1,136,400 for the rehabilitation of Ash Park, including renovation of a comfort station, construction of a spray park and pedestrian walkways, installation of filtration and recirculation systems, utilities, and electrical upgrades, ADA access, landscaping, project signage, and other related site improvements.

“I’m very happy to see this much-needed funding for Ash Park. In order to be beneficial for everyone, plans for the revitalization of Coatesville should consider all aspects of the community, not just those related to business or infrastructure,” said state Rep. Dan Williams. “The transformation of Ash Park will provide a beautiful recreation area that our children and families will be able to enjoy soon and for generations to come.”

“The City of Coatesville is honored to be one of the projects funded by the Community Conservation Partnerships Program in this funding round. The recognition given to the Ash Park Master Plan speaks to Senator Comitta’s and Rep. Williams’ awareness to provide safe environments designed to enhance the quality of life and youth development opportunities for park visitors and residents,” said James Logan, Coatesville City Manager. “Ash Park is one of Coatesville’s oldest parks in the city, covering 9.3 acres of open recreational space. According to county records, Ash Park was purchased by the City of Coatesville in 1917. This funding serves as the kick-starter for Phase I of a five-year renovation, preservation, and construction improvement project. The new features will help shape programming, events, and other outreach efforts to bring thousands of people to the park. We are excited about the future of Ash Park and thanks to Sen. Comitta and Rep. Williams we are already making great strides toward the future.”

• Chester County will receive $70,000 to install approximately 9 acres of riparian forest buffers, 1 acre of meadow, and 700 trees within Chester County. Work will include landowner outreach and engagement, watershed forestry plantings and post-planting establishment, project signage, and other related site improvements.

• Malvern Borough will receive $324,800 for the rehabilitation and further development of the Randolph Woods Nature Preserve, including renovation of the access drive, installation of a pavilion, fencing and gates, ADA access, landscaping, project signage, and other related site improvements.

“I am so happy to see this wonderful preserve receive this rehabilitation grant,” said state Rep. Kristine Howard said. “The preserve is a tremendous resource for the community.”

“With this additional grant funding, Malvern Borough is preparing for a $1,151,500 investment in the Randolph Woods Nature Preserve. We are thrilled to preserve and protect this natural setting while enhancing access for all our citizens,” said Malvern Borough Council President Amy Finkbiner.

• The Willistown Conservation Trust will receive $260,000 to install approximately 50 acres of meadows in the Crum, Darby, and Ridley Creek watersheds. Work will include landowner outreach and engagement, watershed forestry plantings and post-planting establishment, project signage, and other related site improvements.

“The Willistown watershed areas are of significant importance to the health of our communities. These streams play a vital role in providing clean water and habitats for a variety of wildlife,” said state Rep. Melissa Shusterman. “This grant will ensure Willistown, and other streamside communities can continue to be good stewards of these natural resources that improve the quality of life for the entire region.”

DCNR’s C2P2 grants can fund:

• Planning, acquisition, and development of public parks
• Recreation areas
• Motorized and non-motorized trails
• River conservation and access
• Conservation of open space
• Community and Watershed Forestry

Grants also support regional and statewide partnerships that build the capacity to better develop and manage resources.

The 2023 grant round will open on January 17 and close in April. For more information, visit www.dcnr.pa.gov

Comitta Announces State Funding for Youth Mentoring Partnership

January 13, 2023

West Chester, Pa (January 13, 2023) – A local organization serving the Coatesville Area School District will receive state grant funding to support youth mentoring and physical fitness programs, state Senator Carolyn Comitta announced today.

The Youth Mentoring Partnership (YMP) was awarded more than $420,000 in state funding to provide trauma-informed mentors, safe havens, and social emotional learning curricula in partnership with local schools and community organizations.

“Programs like the ones provided by the Youth Mentoring Partnership help our young people develop the skills necessary to set goals, overcome adversity, and practice kindness, respect, and gratitude,” Comitta said. “I’m glad to support YMP and its mission to lead our children on a path to success in school, work, and life.”

YMP aims to leverage fitness and sports to cultivate healthy relationships, develop critical emotional intelligence skills, and foster opportunities for mentorship with positive figures like community educators, teachers, coaches, civic leaders, and law enforcement.

“Our youth deserve opportunities to succeed, no matter what their circumstance, and YMP is going to do our best to give it to them,” said Mark Mintzer, CEO and Founder of Youth Mentoring Partnership. “Thanks to all for helping us get this grant across the finish line.”

The funding was awarded through the Violence Intervention and Prevention (VIP) Competitive grant program through the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD). The program provides grants and technical assistance to address community violence throughout the Commonwealth.

YMP is one of 122 applications from across Pennsylvania awarded nearly $88.5 million in total funding through the VIP grant program.

The funding will be used for site coordination, personnel, supplies, and operating expenses for the organization’s fitness and sports programming.

For more information on Youth Mentoring Partnership, visit their website: www.youthmp.org

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Comitta Announces $54,000 for WCU to Address Hunger on Campus

January 12, 2023

West Chester, Pa (January 12, 2023) – West Chester University (WCU) is one of the first recipients of funding through Pennsylvania’s Hunger-Free Campus Initiative, a new program aimed at combatting student hunger on campus, said state Senator Carolyn Comitta.

“West Chester University is a leader in addressing food and basic needs insecurity on campus. And with these additional resources we will continue to work together to ensure that no student must go hungry to access the dream of higher education,” said Comitta, a WCU alumnus and member of the Senate Education Committee. “I am proud of West Chester and all the institutions of higher education that are taking steps to ensure that all students have access to the nutritious food and other necessities they need to learn, grow, and thrive.”

WCU was awarded more than $54,000 in state grant funding through the program, which Committed championed and successfully worked to secure a $1 million allocation for in this year’s state budget. The initiative is based on legislation introduced in the state Senate by Comitta and in the state House by Representatives Malcolm Kenyatta and Jennifer O’Mara.

“I am very grateful to First Lady Frances Wolf and key legislators including Senator Carolyn Comitta and Representatives Jennifer O’Mara and Malcolm Kenyatta for their leadership in elevating the issue of college student food insecurity. The funding we have been awarded through the PA Hunger Free Campus Grant will allow WCU to expand our capacity to serve students experiencing food insecurity through additional programs and infrastructure both on our main campus and at our satellite campus in Philadelphia. I am also hopeful that moving forward Governor Shapiro and the new legislature will continue to prioritize this critical social justice issue,” said Ashlie Delshad, a WCU professor and a founder of the WCU Campus Community Garden.

At WCU, students can access the Campus Resource Pantry, which offers non-perishable food, fresh produce from campus gardens, personal care items, school supplies, and winter and career clothing. It is open to all undergraduate and graduate students regardless of need level.

“WCU has been a leader in the state of Pennsylvania when it comes to taking action to address the issue of college student food insecurity; however, student need continues to outpace campus resources and food price inflation has further compounded this problem. Consistent with national averages, a quarter to a third of WCU students experience food insecurity and students who identify as female, as LGBTQ+, as Black or as Latinx are all at heightened risk of experiencing food insecurity,” Delshad said.

Last summer, Pennsylvania First Lady Frances Wolf unveiled the Hunger-Free Campus Initiative, featuring the PA Hunger-Free Campus and PA Hunger-Free Campus+ designations, to build a coalition of Pennsylvania institutions of IHEs focused on addressing hunger and other basic needs for their students, creating opportunities for connection among student hunger advocates, providing resources and strategies for campuses, and supporting opportunities to apply for grants related to addressing food insecurity.

“With more than a third of students knowing someone who dropped out of college due to food insecurity during the pandemic, hunger affects far too many postsecondary students across the nation,” said Gov. Wolf. “The PA Hunger-Free Campus designation and grant program gives Pennsylvania’s colleges and universities the tools they need to combat hunger on their campuses and provide students with access to healthy food so they can stay focused, learn, and grow.”

Through the 2022-2023 PA Hunger-Free Campus Grant Program, colleges with the PA Hunger-Free Campus or PA Hunger-Free Campus+ designation applied for competitive funding in an amount up to:

• $20,000 for institutions with 3,000 or fewer learners; 
• $40,000 for institutions with 3,001 to 7,000 learners; and 
• $60,000 for institutions with 7,001 learners or more.

Postsecondary institutions that received a PA Hunger-Free Campus+ designation implemented additional innovative solutions to address student hunger and other basic needs for their campus community in conjunction with demonstrating additional criteria. Examples of these initiatives included offering a variety of meal plans, including an option that provides ten or fewer meals weekly to avoid interfering with SNAP eligibility, creating or implementing meal-sharing programs, educating student leaders on campus to develop student-centered programs, or facilitating innovative community partnerships.

“Hunger should never be what holds someone back from taking steps to invest in their future – and the future of Pennsylvania. From high school graduates pursuing career pathways to adults making career changes and adapting to shifts in workforce needs, students deserve proper support in achieving their higher education goals,” said First Lady France Wolf. “I’m proud that the Hunger-Free Campus program can offer that support and look forward to seeing the innovative ways that schools address food insecurity on their campuses.” 

The grants are awarded to address food insecurity on campus, including expanding access to food options, creating awareness initiatives, and upgrading facilities. Awardees will be able to utilize the grant funds until December 31, 2023.

The PA Hunger-Free Campus designations are reopened and institutions can apply. Designees receive a certificate of recognition and placement on the PA Hunger-Free Campus website, and they also have an opportunity to apply for future grant opportunities. 

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Comitta, Kane Remind Residents of Friday Deadline to Review Broadband Access Map

January 10, 2023

West Chester, Pa (January 10, 2023) – Residents have until Friday, January 13 to review the Federal Communications Commission’s (FCC) broadband access map and challenge any inaccuracies regarding location, service, speed, or availability, said State Senators Carolyn Comitta and John Kane.

The FCC’s broadband access map shows all broadband serviceable locations across the nation where fixed broadband internet access service is or can be installed. It can be viewed at www.broadbandmap.fcc.gov. The Commonwealth’s allocation of funding for broadband deployment under the federal infrastructure law is dependent upon the map being accurate. Pennsylvanians should visit the map to search for their home address to determine whether the information listed by the FCC is accurate.

“Pennsylvania is in line to receive significant federal funds to support a coordinated and strategic rollout of broadband areas without reliable service. Public input is key. The map represents a crucial first step in the process to ensure resources are allocated effectively and efficiently,” Comitta said. “I encourage everyone to review it for accuracy, because reliable broadband is no longer a luxury – it’s a necessity in nearly every facet of our lives.”

“Reliable and consistent broadband access needs to be the standard for every home and business throughout our Commonwealth. My office has been in constant contact with our partners and stakeholders in different municipalities to ensure that the broadband issues of each community are acknowledged and addressed,” said Kane, a member of the Pennsylvania Broadband Development Authority (PBDA). “We’ve received valuable feedback from multiple township managers, community leaders, and public officials, and it is clear that there’s a critical need for dependable and affordable broadband all over Pennsylvania. The PBDA is here to strengthen connectivity in our Commonwealth and connect the FCC to the realities facing southern Chester County. We are closing in on getting this map right, but we have to continue to hear from those with broadband issues.”

Pennsylvanians should submit challenges to the map to help improve its accuracy by January 13, 2023. Challenges to the map can include:

• A location that meets the FCC’s definition of a broadband serviceable location is missing from the map.
• A location’s broadband serviceability is incorrectly identified.
• Information such as the address or unit count for the location is incorrect.
• The location’s placement (its geographic coordinates) is incorrect.

There are two ways to submit a challenge: by a single location, or in bulk. The location challenge can be completed by individual consumers utilizing the map itself. Bulk challengers will be required to use the Broadband Data Collection (BDC) platform to submit information to the FCC.

In addition, the PBDA is hosting its last broadband listening session on Thursday, January 12, 2023, at 8:30 a.m. at the Pennsylvania Farm Show in Harrisburg. Public participation is encouraged virtually or in-person at this hybrid listening session but in-person space is limited. In-person will be held at the PA Department of Agriculture Farm Show Complex & Expo Center, 2300 North Cameron Street, Susquehanna Room, Harrisburg, PA 17110

Additional information about the Challenge Process can be found on the FCC’s website. A consumer may also challenge mobile data coverage through the FCC Speed Test App – a free application that can be downloaded from the Apple or Google Play Store.

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Comitta, Williams Announce Funding for Rail Upgrades at Coatesville Steel Plant

January 6, 2023

West Chester, Pa (January 6, 2023) – State Senator Carolyn Comitta and state Rep. Dan Williams announced that Cleveland-Cliffs Coatesville was awarded $1.4 million in state grant funding to support the facility’s rail improvements. The funds, recently approved by State Transportation Commission, will support track rehabilitation at the Coatesville melt shop.

“It’s important that we continue to invest in our rail infrastructure to support job growth in the business and manufacturing community while keeping Pennsylvania competitive in the global economy,” Comitta said.

Cleveland-Cliffs is the largest flat-rolled steel producer in North America. The Company is vertically integrated from mined raw materials, direct reduced iron, and ferrous scrap to primary steelmaking and downstream finishing, stamping, tooling, and tubing. The Coatesville plant produces steel plate in an electric arc furnace and has the capacity to produce 800,000 tons of raw steel annually. The plant, which employs more than 600 workers, produces steel plate for the aircraft and aerospace, construction, distribution, energy, heavy equipment, military, mold and tool, and shipbuilding industries.

“For more than a century the mill has been one of the largest employers and key to our economy in the greater Coatesviille area,” Williams said. “I’m proud to have helped bring this funding to Cleveland-Cliffs so they can complete critical upgrades to their internal rail system.  One of my greatest priorities is to continue to bring support for both the large and small businesses of the region.”

The funds come as part of $26 million in total funding approved for 24 projects across the Commonwealth through the Rail Transportation Assistance Program and the Rail Freight Assistance Program. The projects will enhance freight mobility while creating or sustaining more than 340 jobs across Pennsylvania. 

According to PennDOT, the RTAP and RFAP provide financial assistance for investment in rail freight infrastructure to preserve essential rail freight service where economically feasible and preserve or stimulate economic development through the generation of new or expanded rail freight service.

Comitta Secures $50,000 for United Way of Chester County

January 6, 2023

West Chester, Pa (January 7, 2023) – State Senator Carolyn Comitta recently secured $50,000 in state funding for the United Way of Chester County’s new Leadership and Innovation Center.  

“The United Way of Chester County is the backbone of support, resources, and knowledge for so many nonprofit organizations and volunteers who are making a positive difference in the lives of  residents and families,” Comitta said. “I’m thrilled that the United Way has a new, permanent home and one that will serve as a community asset for all people. And I want to thank the volunteers, staff, supporters, and donors who continue to make its all-important work possible.”

The funds helped outfit the new state-of-the-art facility with training tables, chairs, desks, smart boards, audio and visual technology, wiring, and other equipment and furniture.

“When we took on this ambitious project for the community, Senator Comitta immediately reached out to offer whatever support we needed. She has been a great friend to United Way of Chester County and securing these funds for this project allowed us to create the best facility possible for nonprofits throughout the county to use. We are so grateful for her tireless efforts on our behalf,” said Chris Saello, President and CEO of the United Way of Chester County. 

Over the summer, the United Way of Chester County acquired and moved into a new 5,000-square-foot building in Exton. In addition to the Leadership Training Center and Social Innovation Lab, the facility houses the organization’s headquarters and offices, as well as a Financial Independence Hub.

The Financial Independence Hub helps residents navigate a path toward a more secure financial future and serves as a site for the United Way’s Mobile Home Tax Reassessment registration program and Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program.

The Social Innovation Lab is designed to support the next generation of social entrepreneurs by jumpstarting innovative, collaborative, and creative approaches to community problems. It also includes incubation space for small and start-up nonprofits in a co-working environment.

The Leadership Training Center offers programs, workshops, and guidance for nonprofits working to scale up their operations to meet community needs, as well as a meeting space for community and other nonprofit events.

By moving into its own building, which is completely paid for thanks to the generosity of donors and supporters, the United Way of Chester County is freeing up an additional $1 million every 10 years in funds that would otherwise be used for rental and occupancy costs – resources that can be invested in the community

For more about the United Way of Chester County, visit www.unitedwaychestercounty.org

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Federal Change Opens Up Tax-Free Savings Accounts to More Pennsylvanians with Disabilities

January 6, 2023

West Chester, Pa (January 6, 2023) – More Pennsylvanians with disabilities and their families will soon be able to access a tax-free way to save for disability-related expenses thanks to a new law passed at the federal level, said U.S. Rep. Chrissy Houlahan and state Senator Carolyn Comitta.

The ABLE Age Adjustment Act expands ABLE program eligibility by raising the age limit for the onset of a disability from 26 to 46 beginning in 2025. The change, led by U.S. Senator Bob Casey and supported by Houlahan, will open up the program to an estimated 6 million more Americans, including one million veterans.

The Pennsylvania ABLE Program allows eligible individuals with qualified disabilities, and their families and friends, a tax-free way to save for disability-related expenses through a savings account while maintaining government benefits.

“On behalf of all Americans living with disabilities, I am proud to have put my voice and vote behind the ABLE Age Adjustment Act. This law will enable more Pennsylvanians to plan for their long-term care and disability expenses, empowering them to not only reach greater economic independence, but to do so sooner,” Houlahan said. “Personally, I am proud to celebrate this win alongside my nephew who lives with disabilities. I will continue fighting in Congress to ensure that all people have access to the same opportunities so they can provide for themselves and their families.”

“The Pennsylvania ABLE Program continues to be a success story in empowering individuals with disabilities and their families to save for future expenses without jeopardizing the aid and support they rely on,” Comitta said. “Expanding the opportunity to help more Pennsylvanians, including more veterans makes sense and is the right thing to do. I want to thank U.S. Senator Casey, U.S. Rep. Houlahan, and all those who supported this important change.”

The Pennsylvania ABLE Program allows for up to $16,000 in savings per year (this limit will increase to $17,000 starting on Jan. 1, 2023) and up to $100,000 total without impacting government benefits. Funds are easy to access and may be used for a wide range of disability-related expenses.

Pennsylvania ABLE account owners can choose from six different investment options and an interest-bearing checking account. Contributions and earnings in ABLE accounts can be used to help save and pay for short- or long-term disability-related expenses. Qualifying expenses include education, housing, transportation, assistive technology, health care, financial management, and more.

Since being established five years ago, nearly 6,300 Pennsylvanians have opened ABLE accounts and saved more than $72 million for disability expenses, according to the Pennsylvania Treasury. And the Pennsylvania ABLE Program is one of the largest, and fastest growing in the country, accounting for nearly 25 percent of the total assets of the 18-member National ABLE Alliance.

Eligible individuals can begin saving by enrolling in an account at paable.gov

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Comitta Announces Funding to Support, Restore Clean Streams and Waterways

December 28, 2022

West Chester, Pa (December 28, 2022) – Efforts to support clean streams and waterways in Chester County will receive more than $280,000 in state funding, state Senator Carolyn Comitta said.

The funds were awarded to the Chester County Conservation District to help reduce nutrient and sediment pollution and restore the health of local streams, rivers, and waterways.

“Protecting and restoring our streams and rivers is a matter of public health, environmental health, and economic health,” said Comitta, who serves as minority chair of the Senate Environmental Resources and Energy Committee. “Clean waterways support local wildlife and biodiversity, they’re a vital source of drinking water, and they’re crucial to tourism and outdoor recreation, like fishing and swimming.”

In addition to supporting these investments, Comitta also supported the passage of a Clean Streams Fund in this year’s state budget. The fund allocated $220 million from federal American Rescue Plan dollars to clean up rivers and streams damaged by non-point source pollution, including agricultural runoff.

Agricultural runoff is a leading cause of sources of water quality impairment in Pennsylvania, impacting more than 6,400 miles of waterways statewide, according to the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection’s (DEP) 2022 Integrated Water Quality Monitoring Report.

Nutrient pollution and eroded sediment enter streams, rivers, and lakes from wastewater treatment and a range of human activities on land, including using too much fertilizer, plowing and tilling farm fields, stripping away trees and vegetation, and expanding concrete and paved surfaces.

The grant funding comes as part of $12.2 million in total funding awarded to support pollution reduction programs in 34 counties in the Chesapeake Bay Watershed. It comes through DEP’s Countywide Action Plan Implementation Grant program, a key part of Pennsylvania’s Chesapeake Bay Phase 3 Watershed Implementation Plan.

“In every county, local leaders and partners in agriculture, conservation, and other areas are carrying out measures they’ve determined will have the biggest impact in reducing pollution and bringing the benefits of a healthy watershed to their communities,” said DEP Acting Secretary Ramez Ziadeh. “DEP is committed to doing everything it can to support this unprecedented grassroots action and progress. The 2023 CAP Implementation funding will enable teams to build on their previous years’ successes and launch new projects, accelerating Pennsylvania’s Phase 3 Watershed Implementation Plan.”

The plan empowers county teams to take control of local water quality improvement, with state and other partners providing as much data, technical assistance, funding, and other support as possible. It encourages and equips counties to develop strategies and projects that will benefit their communities and farmers, municipalities, businesses, and other landowners, while restoring the environment.

Projects and initiatives include not only stream restorations, streambank tree plantings, and livestock crossing installations, but also scaling up forest land conservation, programs that rent no-till equipment to farmers for low or no cost and using repurposed-timber mats to keep cows from compacting muddy areas.

The Chesapeake Bay Watershed spans half the Commonwealth and includes over 12,000 miles of polluted streams and rivers. Like the other jurisdictions in the watershed — New York, Maryland, Virginia, Delaware, West Virginia, and the District of Columbia — Pennsylvania is mandated by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to lower its nutrient (nitrogen and phosphorus) and sediment pollution levels by 2025. Pennsylvania is required to reduce nitrogen by 32.5 million pounds and phosphorus by 850,000 pounds.

Comitta Announces Funding to Support Law Enforcement, Criminal Justice Services

December 28, 2022

West Chester, Pa (December 28, 2022) – Three Chester County municipalities will receive more than $150,000 in total state funding to support local law enforcement and help prevent crime, state Senator Carolyn Comitta said.

The grant funding, which comes through the Local Law Enforcement Support Program, was recently approved by the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD). Funding for the program was allocated in this year’s state budget, which Comitta supported.

“The quality of life in our communities depends on a strong system of public safety. Investments in effective policing, an efficient criminal justice system, and important services to prevent crime, support survivors, and assist those with behavioral health needs are essential for residents, children, families, and businesses throughout Chester County,” said Comitta, who previously served as Mayor of the Borough of West Chester, overseeing the West Chester Police Department.

The grants are as follows:

• Oxford Borough will receive $77,000 to integrate LiveScan booking capabilities into the department’s local operations and to support the cost for officers to participate in crisis intervention, mental health crisis response, active shooter, and other critical officer training.

Being in the southernmost portion of Chester County, Oxford police face greater challenges accessing critical support services – including having to travel greater distances for fingerprinting and to provide support services to residents facing mental health or other crises.

“Having Life Scan technical capabilities at our station will save time and resources for our department,” Oxford Borough Police Chief Samuel Iacono said. “It will also allow us to share important information with state, county, and regional agencies leading to better outcomes and a safer community.”

• South Coatesville Borough will receive $30,000 for a new CODY record management system. The new system is more advanced and more efficient. It will allow the department to take advantage of the latest in technology to enhance records management capability while alleviating redundant tasks, like manual data entry.

The CODY system will streamline the department’s ability to generate the required monthly National Incident-Based Reporting System reports to the FBI. It also aligns with the Chester County Department of Emergency Services’ tentative decision to utilize the CODY system for dispatching and maintaining their reports and dispatch records. In addition, the CODY system interfaces with South Coatesville’s body camera system, as well as its automated citation system.

“The CODY system will truly enhance our ability to serve the public more efficiently and increase our visibility on the road by enabling our officers to spend more time patrolling and less time on station typing reports,” South Coatesville Borough Police Chief Kevin Pierce said.

• West Goshen Township will receive $43,200 for an Automated License Plate Reader System.

In addition, the PCCD approved funding to support victims’ services through the Federal American Rescue Plan Act and the Federal Victims of Crime Act. The funds are as follows:

• The Domestic Violence Center of Chester County will receive $55,000 to provide services to survivors of domestic abuse.

“The Domestic Violence Center of Chester County is extremely grateful for the generous grant,” said CEO Dolly Wideman-Scott, Ed.D. “This will assist with sustaining the critical legal services for survivors and increase our outreach and strengthen our partnership with the District Attorney’s office. It takes a community response to address and end domestic violence.

• The Crime Victims’ Center of Chester County (CVC) will receive $698,000 in annual recurring funds to support its operations.

“We are so grateful for this funding that we receive annually to support our work on behalf of victims and their families in Chester County,” said CEO Christine Zaccarelli, Esquire.  “Our victim advocates provide critical services including notifications to victims of their rights, accompaniment to legal proceedings, and support throughout the criminal justice system through our collaboration with the District Attorney’s Office, Chester County Adult Probation and Chester County Juvenile Probation. Our focus continues to be on providing counseling, advocacy, resources and education to our community.”

And the Chester County Commissioners will receive $449,000 in state funding through the Gun Violence Investigation & Prosecution Program to support equipment for and the operations of the coroner’s office for two years. The commissioners will also receive $47,000 in state funds to support a Children’s Advocacy Center assistant.

Comitta Announces $100,000 for Friends Association’s Women’s Reentry Program

December 21, 2022

West Chester, Pa (December 21, 2022) – A program that helps women impacted by incarceration reenter their communities with housing and other support services will receive $100,0000 in state funding, state Senator Carolyn Comitta said.

The funding, recently approved by the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD), will support the Friends Association’s NIA House Program, which provides holistic re-entry services and transitional and long-term housing options to women impacted by incarceration. 

“Women and their families face unique challenges upon returning to their communities after incarceration,” Comitta said. “This investment will not only pay dividends in reducing recidivism and preventing homelessness, but it will also have an invaluable impact by assisting them on the pathway to long-term healing, empowerment, and economic success. I want to thank the Friends Association for being a leader in implementing this and other forward-thinking programs over its 200-year history.”

The NIA House Program provides a variety of services targeted to address the key factors impacting successful reentry including economic empowerment, long-term housing, trauma-informed support services, peer support, therapeutic experiences, and family reunification. 

“We are grateful for Senator Comitta’s support in securing this grant through the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency,” said Jennifer Lopez, Executive Director of Friends Association. “This grant will not only impact the women who arrive at NIA House, it will also produce a positive ripple effect on their families, local communities, and Chester County’s workforce and economy that is nearly impossible to measure.” 

The Friends Association is one of 21 recipients statewide to receive $2 million in total funding through PCCD’s Women’s Reentry Services Initiatives Grants program. The program was first announced in September to help fund non-profit organizations to provide holistic reentry support services to prevent recidivism. 

“By aiming resources at addressing the dynamic risk factors associated with reincarceration, this initiative will help begin the healing process,” PCCD Executive Director Mike Pennington said.  “Reducing recidivism can help stabilize not only the women directly impacted but their families as well. This could result in less crime and victimization overall, which leads to safer communities.”

Eligible program activities and expenses for the $2 million grant program included, but were not limited to, supportive housing; workforce development services and employment assistance; job readiness support services; access to childcare; transportation assistance; access to effective treatment for healthcare, substance use disorder, mental health, and trauma; access to identification documents essential to obtaining employment, housing, and other government assistance such as driver’s licenses, birth certificates, and social security cards; peer supports and mentoring; and family reunification services.

Comitta also recently secured $50,000 in state funding for important renovations and upgrades to the Friends Association’s emergency shelter.

For more information on the Friends Association and the NIA House Program, visit www.friendsassoc.org

Comitta Announces State Funding for West Chester Storefront, Alleyway Improvements

December 20, 2022

West Chester, Pa (December 20, 2022) – Business owners in West Chester’s historic downtown will have additional opportunities to update storefronts and façades thanks to $50,000 in state funding, state Senator Carolyn Comitta announced today. 

The funding will support the West Chester Business Improvement District’s (BID) Façade and Alleyway Improvement Grant Program. The program helps businesses and commercial property owners make necessary updates and improvements to their existing storefronts and exteriors. 

“As a former borough Mayor, I continue to work to support our downtown business districts and ensure they remain vibrant and sought-after destinations for both residents and visitors alike,” Comitta said. “I am proud to support this funding to assist small business owners in maintaining their storefronts. Together, we can keep historic downtown West Chester thriving as an economic and cultural center.” 

The West Chester grant is one of 51 projects to be awarded funding through the Keystone Communities Program. The program, administered by the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development, encourages the creation of partnerships between the public and private sectors to revitalize and improve local communities. 

“We are thrilled to be awarded this grant that will give our local property owners the opportunity to preserve the beauty and aesthetic of Downtown West Chester, said John O’Brien Executive Director of the West Chester Business Improvement District. “The pandemic has been a difficult time for our small business owners and this grant will give them the ability to make needed repairs to historic buildings throughout the downtown area.” 

The West Chester Business Improvement District was established in 2000 to help enhance the economic vitality of downtown West Chester through public and private partnerships. Thanks to their efforts, West Chester was awarded the 2017 Great American Main Street Award and a 2021 Townie Award from the Pennsylvania Downtown Center for their work in creating a prosperous and thriving small business district. 

The West Chester BID’s Façade and Alleyway Improvement Grant Program is a matching grant program that covers 50 percent of the costs of a project up to $500.

For more information on the West Chester BID, visit www.downtownwestchester.com

 To learn about the Keystone Communities Program, go to www.dced.pa.gov

Six Chester County Organizations Awarded $137,000 in State Funding for Security Upgrades

December 14, 2022

West Chester, Pa (December 14, 2022) – Six Chester County nonprofit organizations that serve diverse communities and those more frequently targeted by hate crimes were awarded more than $137,000 in total state grant funding for important safety and security upgrades, state Senator Carolyn Comitta said today.

The funds, approved by the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD) today, are as follows:

• $25,000 for the Bethel AME Church.
• $23,500 for Chimes Holcomb Behavioral Health Systems.
• $25,000 for the Cornerstone Christian Fellowship in West Chester.
• $25,000 for the Episcopal Church of the Trinity in Coatesville.
• $13,700 for the Islamic Society of Chester County.
• $25,000 for St. Paul’s Baptist Church in West Chester.

The Pennsylvania Nonprofit Security Grant Fund Program was established by the legislature in Act 83 of 2019 to provide grants to nonprofit organizations that principally serve individuals, groups, or institutions that often face bias and hate crimes. Eligible grant projects include a variety of measures to enhance security ranging from equipment and technology upgrades to planning, threat awareness, and response training

Comitta, then a state representative, voted for the legislation (House Bill 859) that created the program.

“As many of our faith communities prepare to celebrate major religious holidays this month, it’s important that we continue to value and uphold our right to worship peacefully and without fear of threats or violence,” Comitta said. “Chester County has long been home to a strong and supportive interfaith community. I hope these investments will help bolster our ongoing efforts to stand together in support of religious freedom, tolerance, and community safety.”

“Considering the incidents of violence against places of worship throughout the country, we are pleased to receive this $25,000 grant that will enable Episcopal Church of the Trinity to improve our facility’s safety and security. We plan to add exterior lighting, among other improvements to our historic building, as added measures for our community’s safety. We greatly appreciate and thank Senator Comitta for her advocacy in obtaining this grant,” said the Rev. Sherry Deets of the Episcopal Church of the Trinity.

“During these unprecedented times, unfortunately, there is a dire need for this grant. We are grateful for Senator Comitta’s commitment to the community and sacred places. We look forward to using this grant for the betterment of our church and community,” said the Rev. Dr. Wayne E. Croft, Sr. of St. Paul’s Baptist Church. 

The Chester County recipients come as part of more than $3.9 million in funding awarded to churches, synagogues, mosques, temples, and other nonprofit organizations statewide.

PCCD selects awardees in consultation with the Governor’s Office of Homeland Security and the Pennsylvania State Police. Eligible applicants are included within a bias motivation category for single bias hate crime incidents as identified by the FBI’s Hate Crime Statistics publication. The categories include race/ethnicity/ancestry, religion, sexual orientation, disability, gender, and gender identity.

Projects that are eligible for funding through the Pennsylvania Nonprofit Security Grant Fund Program include:

• Planning, threat awareness, and response training.
• Equipment and technology, such as metal detectors, lighting, surveillance, communications systems, locksets, deadbolts, trauma kits, and antitheft devices.
• Vulnerability and threat assessments.
• Other projects to enhance safety or security.

According to data from the Pennsylvania State Police Uniform Crime Reporting System, Pennsylvania experienced an uptick in hate crimes over the past two years. From 2016 through 2019, Pennsylvania saw an average of 88 hate crimes annually. In 2020, incidents of hate crimes rose by 27 percent to 112. In 2021, there was a 210 percent increase to 347 crimes.

“In addition to supporting these investments in security and safety, we all have a moral obligation to stand against hate by promoting a healthy dialogue, teaching our young people the values of acceptance and inclusion, and ensuring that our communities remain open, diverse, and welcoming places for all people,” Comitta said.

The Pennsylvania Nonprofit Security Grant Fund Program, now in its third year, was established in response to the 2018 attack on the Jewish community at the Tree of Life, New Light, and Dor Hadash congregations in Pittsburgh. According to the Anti-Defamation League, it is believed to be the deadliest attack on the Jewish community in the history of the United States. 

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