Summer Edition of Business Matters Tab Published in Press Enterprise
Today’s Press Enterprise includes the Summer edition of our Business Matters tab. This season’s publication includes information about the state budget, which was finalized late last week, details on the Chamber’s upcoming events including women’s Leadercast and our Third Annual Mixer w/ Nonprofits, and expanded information on programs to support members. You can also view the full Summer edition of our Business Matters tab online here.
LEGISLATURE REACHES COMPROMISE TO END BRIDGE TOLLING
The State Legislature has passed a bill led by Sen. Wayne Langerholc, Jr. (R-35), chairman of the Senate Transportation Committee, and co-sponsored by Senator John Gordner to stop the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) from imposing new tolls on existing bridges with a Public-Private Transportation Partnership (P3).
“Bipartisan compromise was reached on my Senate Bill 382 to save over 550,000 daily motorists from paying a new toll on major bridges that drive local economies,” said Langerholc. “As elected leaders, our duty to this Commonwealth will require tremendous action to preserve our freeways for future generations.”
Langerholc was appointed chairman of the Senate Transportation Committee in January 2021, and the committee’s first public hearing was on PennDOT’s P3 bridge tolling initiative. In February 2021, Langerholc introduced Senate Bill 382 to reform the P3 statute and end PennDOT’s P3 bridge tolling initiative. Following the Senate’s passage of the bill in April 2021, Langerholc unveiled the DRIVE SMART Act in June 2021 to reform and invest in the Commonwealth’s transportation system. The House of Representatives passed Senate Bill 382 in November 2021 and returned it to the Senate for concurrence.
Senate Bill 382, as amended, is agreed-to with Gov. Wolf, who previously intended to veto the bill. Following extensive negotiations, this legislation now includes the following:
- Increases transparency by requiring PennDOT to publish a detailed analysis and requiring PennDOT to distribute a copy of the P3 Board’s resolution.
- Incorporates public comments by creating a new 30-day public comment period prior to the P3 Board’s voting meeting.
- Creates a checks-and-balance by reducing the scope of PennDOT’s power to optional user fees for new infrastructure and ensuring the General Assembly has more time to assess any transportation projects passed by the P3 Board.
- Rescinds the PennDOT Pathways Major Bridge P3 Initiative and limits the scope to the nine candidate bridges (instead of any major bridge in the State) without user fees.
- Saves taxpayer dollars by allowing PennDOT to preserve the preliminary designs and engineering plans for the nine candidate bridges.
“I had serious concerns with PennDOT’s authority to essentially tax and appropriate funds without additional oversight from the General Assembly,” said Langerholc. “At a time when the price of gas is hitting historic records under the Biden Administration, we had to stop PennDOT from adding more costs on Pennsylvania’s hardworking families.”
The compromise to the bill was reached following the Commonwealth Court’s two rulings against PennDOT’s oppressive overreach. The last order issued by the Commonwealth Court on June 30, 2022, voided the entire Major Bridge P3 Initiative.
The Columbia Montour Chamber of Commerce joins the Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry in applauding the General Assembly and Governor Tom Wolf for passage of significant reforms to the Commonwealth’s tax structure, including a reduction to the state’s uncompetitive Corporate Net Income Tax (CNI) rate and tax relief for small businesses.
“There’s been discussion about reducing the CNI for years,” said Columbia Montour Chamber President Fred Gaffney. “This agreement supports existing Pennsylvania employers, and significantly improves our opportunities for business growth.”
The Columbia Montour Chamber worked with the PA Chamber and a broad coalition of fellow chambers from throughout the Commonwealth to advocate for tax reductions and reforms to support employers, including sending a letter signed by more than 50 chambers of commerce that urged lawmakers to reduce the CNI for the economic benefits that studies show it will bring to the Commonwealth – including an increase in state GDP, wages and home values, job creation and the attraction and retention of new talent.
“This monumental tax reform package is a win for businesses and the people of Pennsylvania,” said PA Chamber President and CEO Luke Bernstein. “Chambers of commerce have been our steadfast allies in this effort and their joint advocacy proved critical. In a time when compromise can be elusive, this bipartisan measure is a good illustration that by working together, we can put Pennsylvania jobs, businesses, and investment first and chart a path towards a brighter future for our Commonwealth.”
For decades, Pennsylvania’s CNIT rate, which at 9.99 percent was the highest flat rate in the country, served as a barrier to growth. The budget cuts the rate in half over the course of eight years – starting with a full one percent reduction in 2023 to 8.99 percent and then phasing down each year by .50 percent until reaching 4.99 percent in 2031. Based on current state corporate tax rates, the full reduction takes Pennsylvania from the highest CNI tax rate in the country to the sixth lowest by 2031 and is the first change in the rate since 1995 – giving our economy a vigorous boost in our post-pandemic recovery.
The tax reform package also targets relief to small businesses, including allowing tax liability to be deferred when small businesses upgrade property assets, known as “like-kind exchanges”, and allowing small businesses to deduct qualifying equipment purchases, just as federal law provides for under Section 179 of the federal tax code. These tax reforms will make it easier for small businesses to expand, buy equipment, and invest in their operations and workforce.
The Columbia Montour Chamber of Commerce applauds state lawmakers for working in a bipartisan way to advance these important priorities and support Pennsylvania employers.
From the PA Chamber of Business & Industry
PA Chamber President and CEO Luke Bernstein issued the following statement on the Commonwealth Court’s granting an injunction suspending the state’s implementation of the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative, which took effect July 1:
“This delay is an important, much-needed step for Pennsylvania residents and businesses. We appreciate the Court pressing pause on this policy, which threatens to significantly increase energy prices at a time of high inflation, while also pushing more economic activity to states on our grid that are not in RGGI. Businesses and families are already facing high energy prices due to a lack of supply and infrastructure, and this is an opportunity for policymakers to embrace abundant domestic energy production, facilitate building new infrastructure, support competitive markets, and set long-term policies that encourage innovation.”
“As we noted at the onset, and as we did throughout the comment process and through an amicus brief, the regulation did not sufficiently protect the state’s electricity and manufacturing sector, nor did it guard against the potential for significant run-up in electricity or commodity prices. Businesses, whether they generate or consume power, need both affordable energy and long-term certainty. We look forward to working with the General Assembly, this administration, and the next governor on policy that leverages our state’s strengths for the benefit of our economy, national security, and the environment.”
The Chamber of Commerce’s website, columbiamontourchamber.com, has been recently redesigned to better provide information to area employers, residents, and people interested in coming to the area. Resources include news of importance to businesses, information on money-saving programs, job listings, wage rates, and cost of living comparisons. The new layout also improves functionality for mobile devices.
Individuals can connect with the Chamber’s 400+ members through the online directory, or search for products and services by category. Special offers from members are listed on the ChamberPack page. The public is also invited to connect with the Chamber’s social media through the site to stay up to date on the activities of the organization and its members.
Visitors can learn about some of the area’s major assets and find restaurants and lodging during their stay. A link to the Columbia-Montour Visitor’s Bureau’s Calendar of Events provides a comprehensive list of festivals, carnivals, and other activities.
The News section also highlights members and provides information on legislation and other items impacting employers. Chamber programs that can help employers save on their energy costs, get money back on business insurance, and provide assistance with benefits and human resources are listed on the Member Benefits and Discounts page. Data that employers regularly request to assist in hiring employees is available in the About the Region section.
The website is designed to be a general portal to information about Columbia and Montour counties.
Member News – July 6, 2022
Integration of Bloomsburg, Lock Haven, Mansfield Universities Complete
After more than 18 months of work by nearly 1,000 individuals, the integration of Bloomsburg, Lock Haven, and Mansfield universities under the banner of Commonwealth University officially took place on Friday, July 1.
“My sincere thanks go to the teams at each of our universities who have dedicated themselves tirelessly to the integration process and to creating opportunities for a new generation of students to follow their dreams and pursue lives of meaning and success,” said Bashar W. Hanna, who will serve as president of Commonwealth University. “I’m confident that we have the right teams of people in place to proceed courageously and compassionately, grounded in the mission of supporting student success and changing lives through education.”
This spring, the integration process took several milestone steps to make the transition a reality. On March 15, initial approval by the institutional accrediting agency, Middle States Commission on Higher Education, confirmed the path to integration. Accreditation by Middle States is required by the U.S. Department of Education and assures students, families, and communities that the University has completed a rigorous review process and provides a high-quality education.
“Together, Bloomsburg, Lock Haven, and Mansfield embody the power of three, which will create a higher education experience, the likes of which is not possible without integration,” Hanna said.
In March, the Board of Governors of Pennsylvania’s State System of Higher Education voted to approve the name Commonwealth University of Pennsylvania to represent the integrated entity for Bloomsburg, Lock Haven, and Mansfield universities.
The final piece of the puzzle came in late April when the NCAA approved to proceed with the proposed plan to retain a full complement of NCAA athletic programs on the campuses that currently host them. Each campus will maintain its full complement of sports offerings and will continue to use its respective location name, existing logos, colors, mascots, and traditions.
The integration of Bloomsburg, Lock Haven, and Mansfield universities under the banner of Commonwealth University is a bold investment in the communities and people of Pennsylvania. Our mission is to expand high-quality, affordable academic opportunities to support the needs of all learners. We’re building a powerful tomorrow by boldly changing the trajectory of public higher education to position ourselves for growth, increased access, and to meet economic and workforce development needs. Together we’re honoring our history, investing in today, and building a powerful tomorrow. That’s the power of three.
SEDA-COG Announces New Chief of Community Services
SEDA-Council of Governments (SEDA-COG) is pleased to announce that Teri Provost, a 15-year staffer, will be taking on the role of Chief in the newly formed Community Services Division.
The Community Services Division (CSD) will encompass SEDA-COG’s Community Development, Flood Resiliency, Housing Rehabilitation, and Community Revitalization programs. In the CSD, the intentionally coordinated efforts of these departments will further allow SEDA-COG to respond to community needs in a more comprehensive way. These efforts will ultimately provide improved service opportunities to our member counties and regional communities.
Provost worked in SEDA-COG’s Community Development Program for 9 years before becoming the Director of Housing Rehabilitation and Flood Resiliency. Throughout her 15-year career at SEDA-COG, she has prepared numerous grant applications and has proficient experience with Federal Emergency Management Agency and Housing and Urban Development programs.
Provost has been a member of The Association of State Floodplain Managers (ASFPM) since 2018 and serves as the Chapter District 2 Director. This position has a 2-year term.
She also serves as past chair of the Pennsylvania Association of State Floodplain Managers (PAFPM) board. Her board appointment is from January to December 2022. Before this appointment, Teri held the Vice Chair position with PAFPM from January to December 2021.
Provost has also developed and managed public works projects throughout the central Pennsylvania counties served by SEDA-COG. Additionally, she is a Certified Floodplain Manager (CFM) and has administered several state- and federally-funded buyouts and residential elevation projects in flood-prone communities.
“My top priority is to ensure that our Agency can serve the Region for years to come in a truly impactful manner, not only by leveraging grant funding opportunities, but also by building long lasting meaningful relationships. In the CSD, the orchestration of multiple aspects of municipal assistance will provide a comprehensive community approach to community resiliency, augmented by diversity in leadership and innovation,” Provost said.
SEDA-COG Executive Director Kim Wheeler said Provost’s background has prepared her perfectly to take on this role.
“Teri has been with SEDA-COG for 15 years and has had the opportunity to work in several departments and grow her expertise in each area. She embodies a collaborative spirit and I truly believe that her skills and abilities are going to take SEDA-COG to new heights in this role,” Wheeler said.
Provost earned her bachelor’s degree in Psychology and Sociology from Clarion University in 2002.
Provost is grateful for the opportunity to deepen the partnerships between SEDA-COG and our surrounding municipalities.
“This role will allow our Region to maximize collaboration, funding opportunities and expertise. I am looking forward to having the opportunity to work with so many talented staff in our communities, with our partners, with grant funding agencies, and certainly within our office location,” Provost said.
The Bloomsburg Children’s Museum Lists July Programs
The Bloomsburg Children’s Museum officially announced its July 2022 programs. The Museum is open Monday through Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Click HERE to view the full calendar for July.
North Shore Railroad Assumes Operations of Selinsgrove Branch
On April 28 of 2022, it became official that North Shore Railroad assumed operations of the Selinsgrove branch (a new addition to the NSHR line). Soon after the transition, the Maintenance of Way team made improvements on the branch that led to increased operational efficiency and expanded customer opportunity.
This new branch for North Shore Railroad adds 7.7 miles of track from Selinsgrove, Pa., to Kreamer, Pa., and 1.3 miles of track from Selinsgrove, Pa., to Shamokin Dam, Pa. The addition of the line increases the overall network size to 256.2 miles of track.
West End and Fishing creek mitigation studies final reports posted online
The final reports for the West End and Fishing Creek Flood Mitigation Studies are now posted online.
With the support of Representative Millard and Senator Gordner, funding was secured for these pioneering studies. The Columbia County Board of Commissioners, working with SEDA-Council of Governments (SEDA-COG), engaged Borton-Lawson to develop the West End Flood Mitigation Study and Herbert, Rowland & Grubic, Inc. (HRG) to develop the Fishing Creek Flood Mitigation Study. The goals of the studies were to:
- detect flooding problem areas within the County’s 18 municipalities/West End of the Town of Bloomsburg,
- identify best approaches that can be implemented by the County to mitigate flood impacts, reduce flood risk and improve residents’ quality of life,
- highlight mitigation options for the problems identified and implementable projects offered as a solution to those problems.
Both final reports can be found on SEDA-COG’s website. The Columbia County Board of Commissioners have already begun the next steps and will continue to implement resiliency measures as a result of the studies.
The study kicked off with a combined public meeting in July 2021, two separate follow-up public meetings held at the end of November and beginning of December 2021, and final meetings held in March 2022. Presentation slides and other materials can also be found at the website link above.
SEDA-COG assisted Columbia County in the grant administration of the studies. The studies were financed by grants from the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, Commonwealth Financing Authority and the Department of Community and Economic Development.
SEDA-COG is a community and economic development agency in Lewisburg and is one of seven Local Development Districts in Pennsylvania. SEDA-COG enhances the quality of life and economic advantage for residents and businesses in the 11 central Pennsylvania counties through its vital partnerships and initiatives.
Coalition to stop bridge tolling applauds court decision
Commonwealth Court has voided the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation’s (PennDOT) plan to begin tolling nine interstate bridges across the state. The June 30th decision from the majority of the Court found that PennDOT, the P3 Board, and Sec. Gramian exceeded their statutory authority under Act 88 of 2012 and failed to comply with its requirements. The No P3 Bridge Tolls Coalition praised the Court’s decision in the South Fayette Township case that voids the P3 Major Bridge Tolling Initiative.
“The Commonwealth Court has reinforced the arguments the members of the No P3 Bridge Tolls Coalition, the Legislature, and affected communities have been making to PennDOT since the tolling efforts were announced,” said John Stroup, former Mayor of Clarion. “Thank you for the leadership of officials in South Fayette Township, Bridgeville Borough, Collier Township, and the other entities who joined in this and the 1-83 bridge case. These challenges are neither cheap nor easy, but your efforts are winning the day.”
“This is a win for businesses, residents, and communities across Pennsylvania,” said Fred Gaffney, President of the Columbia Montour Chamber of Commerce. “This ill-conceived plan would have created unnecessary disruptions for local communities. The decision by the Court should send a message to PennDOT that it needs to work with stakeholders to find better solutions for funding our transportation infrastructure.”
Katie Hetherington Cunfer, Director of Government & Community Relations for the Greater Reading Chamber Alliance said, “Berks County businesses and the rural communities surrounding the Lenhartsville Bridge project greatly appreciate this strong decision from the Commonwealth Court. We all hope the Wolf Administration and PennDOT will not appeal this decision. Instead, we hope they will reengage with stakeholders to find long-term, sustainable, and equitable funding solutions for our infrastructure needs.”
While PennDOT could appeal the decision to the State Supreme Court, the Coalition and legislators are urging the administration to abandon this plan once and for all.
Free Webinar Series Helps Spanish-Speaking Entrepreneurs
The Pennsylvania Small Business Development Center network is offering a free webinar series to Spanish-speaking entrepreneurs that want to work on their growth plans and learn what areas are important to bring their business to the next level. Bucknell SBDC, Wilkes SBDC, University of Pittsburgh SBDC and Widener University SBDC will be broadcasting four different webinars in Spanish, one each month, with different topics of Interest:
- Financing Opportunities for Your Business, July 13, 12 p.m.
- International Trade for Small Businesses, August 18, 12 p.m.
- Digital Marketing – Online Resources, September 12, 12 p.m.
- Marketing Plan and Corporate Image for Small Businesses, October 4, 12 p.m.
Interested individuals can register at https://pasbdc.ecenterdirect.com/events/29582.
PPL Offers Business Energy Efficiency Programs
There’s never been a more important time to take control of your business’ energy bill.
With costs rising due to inflation, everyday things are costing a little bit more each month. And no matter how that impacts your business, now is the perfect time to make a plan to save.
PPL Electric Utilities’ Business Energy Efficiency Program aims to give you easy and affordable opportunities to lower your annual energy costs, connect with local contractors, save on high-efficiency upgrades, and more. Whether your business is small but mighty, large yet local or anywhere in between, PPL offers a variety of flexible prescriptive and custom incentive options to help you reach your energy efficiency goals.
If you’re a small business looking for a place to get started, consider scheduling a no-cost energy assessment through the Small Business Direct Install Program. PPL will send a trained Energy Technician to complete complimentary product installations at your business and they’ll also perform an energy evaluation. These no-cost energy assessments, and the included free upgrades, are available to small business customers with a GS1 or GS3 rate code and a monthly peak demand of 200 kW or less.
PPL’s overall Business Energy Efficiency Program is open to all business customers with facilities located in its service territory. They will help you find the path that’s right for you and your business — from prescriptive and custom to Direct Discount, Direct Install and Instant Discounts — so you can start saving energy all year and take control of your energy bill.
To learn more about our various programs, and how to apply, call PPL at 1-866-432-5501 or visit pplelectricbusinesssavings.com.
Added from The Chamber with permission: The Chamber’s energy partner, World Kinect Energy Services, can also help businesses save money by offering options for energy suppliers. Simply provide them with some basic information, and they can provide options for electricity, natural gas, and liquid fuels. World Kinect is not a supplier, so their goal is to find the solutions to best fit your needs and comfort level. Contact them for a free, no-obligation consultation at 412-424-2599. You can easily sign up for the residential or small business fixed-rate program through columbiamontourchamber.com/benefits.