State, Counties, Boroughs, and Townships News offers items about local municipal governments and agencies in western Montgomery, eastern Berks, and northern Chester counties PA. Coverage includes stories about residents, leaders, and workers; and issues affecting them.

In 2024

Local Audits in Pennsylvania Easier To Find, Understand

Changes to the PA Auditor General’s website makes it easier to find local borough and township financial data. A test of its new search engine found 14 audits conducted in 10 western Montgomery County municipalities. (Aug. 18, 2024)

Removing Debris in Douglassville; Crack-Filling on PA 562

If you’re traveling at night next week on state Route 562 from Boyertown to Yellow House, use caution. And, debris clean-up efforts at Douglassville Bridge on the Schuylkill take a new approach. (Aug. 17, 2024)

State Traffic Signal Grants Headed to Lower Salford, Collegeville

PennDOT will award grants totaling more than $30 million for traffic signal upgrades in 73 municipalities, it said Wednesday. Local winners are Lower Salford Township and Collegeville Borough. (July 31, 2024)

New Plates Wait is Months-Long; E-mail Updates Offered

Pennsylvania says its newly unveiled license plates won’t be available until Spring 2025. The state expects to maintain public enthusiasm for them, though. Sign up for periodic updates on their arrival. (July 14, 2024)

New Electric Vehicle Fee Coming to Pennsylvania in 2025

If you own an electric vehicle, the state beginning next year will charge an annual fee for its registration. The revenue will help pay for maintenance of Pennsylvania roads and bridges. (July 12, 2024)

Pottstown Plans Grand Opening for Replacement Bridge

An August ceremony is being scheduled to celebrate replacement of the pedestrian bridge in Pottstown’s Memorial Park on West King Street. The earlier bridge was lost during a 2019 flood. (July 12, 2024)

Squatters Bill Headed to PA Governor with Local Support

Gilbertsville-based state Rep. Donna Scheuren was among supporters Tuesday of a bill that partly dismantles “squatters rights” in Pennsylvania. It now awaits Gov. Shapiro’s signature. (July 10, 2024)

With Dry Conditions, Lower Frederick Bans Open Burning

A ban on open burning, ordered by the Lower Frederick fire marshal, took effect June 26. No date has been set for its end. In a Monday e-mail, the township also said it invalidated existing burn permits. (July 9, 2024)

https://travelswiththepost.com/2024/07/09/with-dry-conditions-lower-frederick-bans-open-burning/

Liquor Law Citations Issued by State to Area Businesses

Six state liquor licensees in Montgomery, Berks, and other counties have been cited for alleged law violations, a June report states. They could face an administrative law judge. (July 9, 2024)

Cast Independently! Fish for Free on July 4 in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania’s Fish and Boat Commission allows people to fish without a license on only two days during 2024. One is May 26, Mentored Youth Day. The other: July 4, Independence Day. Grab your gear. (July 3, 2024)

State Agency Grants Assist Local Affordable Housing Proposals

Proposals to create, enhance, or extend affordable housing programs in Montgomery, Berks, and Chester counties won more than $9 million Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency grants. Three benefit Pottstown. (June 26, 2024)

Four Local Cadets Among Police Academy June Graduates

Four western Montgomery County residents were among graduates of the Municipal Police Academy’s June graduating class. Two were honored with academy awards for distinction, and superior conduct. (June 26, 2024)

Local News Briefs for Friday (June 21, 2024)

Read about a Limerick hearing on PECO’s proposed utility rate hike; more traffic restrictions in Lower Pottsgrove on 422; the July return of Blobfest in Phoenixville; and rising home sale prices. (June 21, 2024)

Ciresi ‘Calls Out’ Aqua PA on Proposed Limerick Rate Hike

A proposed rate hike request, filed by Aqua Pennsylvania, is an “injustice” to Limerick Township rate payers, state Rep. Joe Ciresi claims. He’s holding an event Friday to offer suggestions to protect the public. (June 5, 2024)

Local Senior Centers Win State Funds for Projects, Programs

Three local senior centers won a combined total of more than $154,000 in grants distributed Tuesday by the state Department of Aging. Four other local centers won smaller amounts to aid their efforts. (May 16, 2024)

PennDOT Crews to Work in Lower Salford; and on U.S. 202

Resurfacing work on seven state-owned highways in Lower Salford Township starts later this month. Then on U.S. Route 202 in Montgomery County, the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation said to expect traffic delays May 20-24. (May 15, 2024)

New Troopers Assigned to Barracks Covering ChesCo, Berks

State Police Troops J and L, which respectively cover parts of Chester and Berks counties, are welcoming a total of 13 new troopers to their ranks. All graduated Friday from the state police academy. (May 15, 2024)

State Police in Montgomery County Using Enhanced Video

Part of a statewide roll-out of enhanced body-worn and vehicle-mounted video cameras, begun in 2023, is now completed for Pennsylvania State Troopers in Montgomery, Delaware, and Philadelphia counties, the agency said. (April 29, 2024)

Local Police, State Troopers, Wegmans Take Back Drugs Saturday

Thanks to 12 local police department, state troopers, and the Wegmans Market in Collegeville, western Montgomery County residents Saturday have 14 locations to drop off unwanted or unneeded medications. (April 24, 2024)

State House Passes Ciresi Historical Renovation Bill

Legislation proposed by 146th District state Rep. Joe Ciresi, to create a program that would fund the renovation of historic buildings to promote economic development, passed Monday in a House vote. (April 16, 2024)

PennDOT Plans Tuesday Job Fair for Open Positions

If you’re looking for a job, have the proper qualifications, and want to work for the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation, is district that includes Berks County is holding a job fair Tuesday. (April 15, 2024)

Get Rid of Household Hazardous Waste, Starting April 27

Registration to recycle hazardous wastes from households in Montgomery and Chester counties is still available. Locations include Harleysville, Royersford, and Phoenixville. Hurry! Slots are filling. (April 11, 2024)

Lower Frederick Easter Hunt Draws Biggest Crowd Yet

With 11 photos. Was the Easter holiday a success in Lower Frederick? Judging by the number of hunters (more than 300), the number of eggs discovered (more than 3,000), and lots of kids’ smiles, the answer is “yes.” (April 6, 2024)

Ten Local Projects Win State Financing Authority Grants

Projects in Pennsburg, Green Lane, Royersford, and Boyertown boroughs, as well as Lower Salford, Skippack, Hereford, Robeson, Union, and Schuylkill townships, all won state grant funding Tuesday. (March 28, 2024)

Area Police Join Enforcement Aimed at ‘Aggressive’ Drivers

Police departments responsible for public safety in 13 Montgomery and Chester county municipalities will work through April 28 in a law enforcement campaign to limit aggressive driver behaviors. (March 19, 2024)

County Gem, Green Lane Park, Ready for Final Plan Review

Montgomery County is in the final stages of its new master plan for the 3,400-acre Green Lane Park. It hopes the public will offer comments during a March 20 meeting, but it hasn’t yet named a location.

Yard Waste Weekly Pick-Ups in Pottstown Start April 3

If you’ve taken advantage of the recent warm and sunny weather to do some yard work in advance at your Pottstown property, here’s good news! Borough yard waste collections start April 3. (March 4, 2024)

Registration Now Available for Hazardous Waste Recycling

Household (not commercial) hazardous waste recycling dates are now available to Montgomery and Chester County residents for advance registration. Some early time slots are already full; don’t wait. (Feb. 26, 2024)

Better Funding for Public Transit Open for Discussion

A public hearing on how to supply more reliable annual funding to public transit providers like those that serve Pottstown, Boyertown, and elsewhere is scheduled Tuesday by a state House committee. (Feb. 18, 2024)

All headlines link to articles published earlier in Travels With The Post
Top photo in collaboration with Getty Images on Unsplash+, used under license

Earlier Stories in Full

Dozens of Local Fire and EMS Providers Win State Grants

HARRISBURG PA – More than 50 municipal fire companies, fire departments, and non-profit emergency medical service (EMS) agencies across western Montgomery, eastern Berks, and northern Chester counties won state grants Thursday (Feb. 15, 2024).

The money they will receive can be used to cover a wide range of costs in providing fire and emergency services. The grants, awarded by the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency and Office of the State Fire Commissioner, are funded by proceeds from slot machine gaming.

Borough and township responders, and how much they won

Grant winners in western Montgomery County, and the amounts they will receive, are:

• East Greenville Fire Company, $15,590.33;
• Friendship EMS of Royersford, $15,000;
• Gilbertsville Area Community Ambulance Service, $15,000;
• Gilbertsville Fire and Rescue Company, $16,951.99;
• Goodwill Steam Fire Engine Company of Pottstown, for fire, $16,951.99;
• Goodwill Steam Fire Engine Company of Pottstown, for EMS, $15,000;
• Green Lane Fire Company, $14,034.16;
• Harleysville Area Emergency Medical Service, $10,000;
• Harleysville Community Fire Company, $16,951.99;
• Limerick Fire Department, $29,951.99;
• Lower Frederick Fire Company, $29,951.99;
• New Hanover Volunteer Fire & Rescue Services, $29,951.99;
• North End Fire Company of Pottstown, $15,000;
• Pennsburg Fire Company, $16,951.99;
• Perkiomen Township Fire Company, $16,951.99;
• Philadelphia Steam Fire Engine Company of Pottstown, $16,173.90;
• Red Hill Fire Company, $15,000;
• Ringing Hill Fire Company Fire of Lower Pottsgrove, $15,979.38;
• Royersford Fire Department, $15,590.33;
• Sanatoga Fire Company of Lower Pottsgrove, $15,201.29;
• Skippack Emergency Medical Services, $15,000;
• Skippack Fire Company, $16,951.99;
• Upper Frederick Fire Company, $15,784.85;
• Upper Perkiomen Valley Ambulance Association of Pennsburg, $15,000;
• Upper Pottsgrove Township Fire Company, $16,951.99;
• Upper Providence Township Fire and Emergency Services, $14,617.72; and
• Upper Salford Volunteer Fire Company, $16,951.99.

Receiving grants in eastern Berks County are:

• Amity Fire Company Fire, $16,562.94;
• Bally Community Ambulance Association, $15,000;
• Birdsboro-Union Fire Department, $15,395.81;
• Boyertown Area Fire and Rescue, $42,368.42;
• Boyertown Lions Community Ambulance Service, $15,000;
• Earl Township Volunteer Fire Company, $14,423.20;
• Eastern Berks Fire Department of Barto, $42,951.99;
• Hereford Fire Company Fire Hereford BERKS $15,006.77;
• Monarch Fire Company of Douglassville, $15,006.77;
• Oley Fire Company, for fire, $16,757.46;
• Oley Fire Company, for EMS, $15,000;
• Pioneer Hose Company of Robesonia, $13,450.59; and
• Twin Valley Fire Department Fire of Elverson, $20,000.

Benefiting from grants in northern Chester County are:

• Friendship Diving Rescue Unit of Phoenixville, $14,228.68;
• Kimberton Fire Company, $16,951.99;
• Liberty Steam Fire Engine Company of Spring City, $14,617.72;
• Norco Fire Company of North Coventry, $14,812.24;
• Phoenix Hose Hook and Ladder Company of Phoenixville, $16,951.99;
• Ridge Fire Company of Spring City, $16,951.99;
• Valley Forge Volunteer Fire Company, for fire, $16,951.99; and
• Valley Forge Volunteer Fire Company, for EMS, $15,000.

Applications for which the grants can be used in combination include construction or renovation of facilities, purchase or repair of equipment, debt reduction associated with facilities or equipment, member training and certification, fire prevention educational materials for public distribution, overtime costs incurred to fill positions while firefighters attend training, recruitment and retention, and (for fire companies only) construction savings accounts.

Photos by Travels With The Post

New State Game Wardens Assigned in Berks, Chester Counties

HARRISBURG PA – Berks and Chester counties will benefit from the recent assignments of two of Pennsylvania’s newest state game wardens, the Pennsylvania Game Commission announced Tuesday (Feb. 13, 2024).

Benjamin M. Sawina of Newark DE, assigned to Berks County; and Nelson E. Yocum Jr. of Honey Brook PA, assigned to Chester County, are among 12 wardens who were promoted into the field after receiving their credentials (at top) from the commission’s Ross Leffler School of Conservation. Graduation of its 35th class was held Feb. 3 (Saturday).

Yocum Jr. also was honored with the Emergency Vehicle Operator’s Course driving award, for what the school said was “exhibiting safe and exceptional police driving skills during the training program.”

The new wardens were engaged in 44 weeks of intensive training, including 10 weeks in the field. Training School Director Kyle Jury praised the class for its dedication and demonstrated commitment to the state’s natural resources.

“They fulfill an instrumental part of the agency’s continued and dedicated effort to wildlife conservation,” Jury added. “Having these individuals join the ranks of game wardens will strengthen … efforts to safeguard the hunting heritage” on which the commission was founded, he said.

About the Leffler School

In 1930 Ross Leffler, then president of the Pennsylvania Board of Game Commissioners, proposed establishing a training school for game protectors, as wardens then were called. When the training school opened during 1932 in Jefferson County, it was the first such conservation officer training center in the world, and served as a model for other states.

From 1932 until 1935, the Ross Leffler School of Conservation offered in-service training for game protectors. The school became a permanent facility until 1986, when it was moved to the commission’s Harrisburg headquarters.

Photo from the Facebook page of the Pennsylvania Game Commission

Perkiomen Township Receives State Check for Park Improvement

Friday, Feb. 9

PERKIOMEN TOWNSHIP PA – A ceremonial check, representing a $250,000 grant awarded last month to Perkiomen Township by the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development, was presented Thursday (Feb. 8, 2024) to the township by state Sen. Tracy Pennycuick and Rep. Matthew Bradford.

The money comes from the department’s Greenways, Trails, and Recreation Program. It will be used by the township to make improvements designated for Highland-Huber Park, which is bordered in part by Salem and Township Line roads (at top). They include Americans With Disabilities Act-accessible trails, restrooms, and a community garden.

Pennycuick, of the 24th Senatorial District, and Bradford, of the 70th House District, both represent township residents and supported the municipal application. Receiving the check were township manager Cecile Daniel, and township Board of Supervisors’ Chair Adam Doyle and Vice-Chair Pamela Margolis (above).

“I am always happy to see projects that preserve green open space for future generations,” Pennycuick said. “This funding will go toward the development of a much-needed park in a community that currently lacks sufficient recreational space,” Bradford added.

Park boundaries graphic from Perkiomen Township
Check photo provided by Sen. Pennycuick’s office

Boyertown Environmental Company Updates Its Brand

Sunday, Feb. 4

BOYERTOWN PA – ClimeCo, a borough-based provider of solutions to help companies reduce or eliminate their carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gas emissions, recently updated its brand identity.

The company said it introduced new marketing graphics, consolidated several websites into one, simplified its e-commerce usability, and made its content library more easily accessible and searchable.

Headquartered at 1 Philadelphia Ave. in the borough, ClimeCo said it spent a year working on the update after seeking comments from customers and partners. It sought out their thoughts on “the current environmental solutions market and areas of opportunity” for businesses in need of decarbonization assistance.

For more information, call ClimeCo at 484-415-0501, or send an e-mail to info@climeco.com.

Update graphic provided to Travels With The Post by ClimeCo

Utility Pole Work Slows Lower Pottsgrove Township Traffic

Friday, Feb. 2

State Invests in Townships Traffic Safety Improvements

Wednesday, Jan. 31

HARRISBURG – Eleven TriCounty highway safety projects will receive a local total of $2,309,308 in funding from the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation, the agency said Monday (Jan. 29, 2024). Its list includes traffic upgrades in Upper Hanover, Salford, Lower Salford, and North Coventry townships, as well as seven others across Montgomery, Chester, and Berks counties.

Overall, PennDOT said it would distribute a total of about $13 million to help cover the costs of 39 projects.

The money is the result of fines collected from red-light violations at 34 intersections in Philadelphia. The enforcement program aims to improve safety, using cameras and automated enforcement, at locations where data shows drivers running through red lights is a concern.

Selected in Montgomery County were:

• Upper Hanover Township, $205,300 to install overhead “red signal ahead” warning assemblies and retro-reflective backplates at the intersection of Layfield, Knight, and Kutztown roads;
• Salford Township, $346,723 to modernize the signal equipment at Ridge and Allentown roads;
• Lower Salford Township, $86,200 to upgrade pavement markings on various roadways to provide for bike lanes, where appropriate, and the installation of on-road bike lane legends and associated signage; and
• projects in East Norriton, Lower Moreland, and Whitemarsh townships.

Selected in Chester County were:

• North Coventry Township, $287,100 for traffic signal upgrades along the Route 100 and Route 724 corridors, including installation of stop bar and dilemma zone detection, LED signal indication upgrades; installation of new backplates with reflective strips, and installation of ADA compliant pedestrian push-buttons with LED latching; as well as
• projects in East Pikeland, London Britain, and West Fallowfield townships.

Selected in Berks County was a project in Wernersville Borough.

Municipal counties, township, and agencies combined to submit 97 grant applications, totaling $54 million in requests. Projects were selected by an eight-member committee based on criteria such as safety benefits and effectiveness, cost, and local and regional impact.

Photo by Igor Vetushko on Deposit Photos, used under license

State Obtains $5 Million to Fix Electric Vehicle Chargers

Monday, Jan. 22 (2024)

HARRISBURG PA – Dozens of existing electric vehicle charging sites in Pennsylvania will be repaired or replaced, paid for by a new $5 million federal government grant, Gov. Josh Shapiro’s administration said Friday (Jan. 19, 2024).

The state Department of Transportation said it intends to “run a competitive program” in coming months to select winning chargers and sites. As a result the state cannot yet report which, if any, sites in Montgomery, Berks, or Chester counties would be among those fixed or improved.

A total of 293 charging ports at 174 locations, all of which are privately owned, could qualify for the funding, according to PennDOT. Between 20 and 50 sites “will receive an award,” it added. A 20-percent match will be required for awarded funds. The funding comes from the federal Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.

Pennsylvania is “now among the nation’s leaders in rapidly implementing federal electric vehicle investments,” and is “pleased to be a part of this new program,” PennDOT Secretary Mike Carroll claimed.

Photo by Travels With The Post

Farm Preservation Closes 2023 State Books with Local Agreements

Sunday, Dec. 31 (2023)

HARRISBURG PA – Pennsylvania’s Farmland Preservation Program closed its 2023 ledgers by buying property development rights for more than 400 acres of agricultural land across five farms in Berks, Chester, and Montgomery counties, the Shapiro Administration reported.

For all of 2023, the administration added, the program invested nearly $46.3 million to purchase land rights for 13,663 acres on 166 farms statewide.

The rights – bought with funding from the state, participating counties, and occasionally other entities – now restrict those acres in perpetuity to only agricultural use. They are said by the state Agriculture Department to be “protected forever from residential or commercial development.” So too are more than 630,000 acres under earlier program transactions that date back to the late 1980s.

Five local farms most recently involved

The most recent rights purchases, announced Dec. 22 (Friday), involved $2.67 million in funding from the state and three counties:

• In Berks County, Jerry L. and Darlene A. Berk, for an 89-acre crop farm in Albany Township; Dean E. and Darene B. Hartman, an 140-acre crop farm in Lower Heidelberg Township; and Elam G. Hoover, an 133-acre crop farm in Bern Township; for a total combined investment of $1,011,061;
• In Chester County, Thomas W. Morelli, Jr., a 42-acre crop farm, in East Nantmeal Township, for a combined investment of $239,977; and
• In Montgomery County, Andrew Dale and Tanya Joy Frankenfield, a 12-acre crop and livestock farm in Franconia Township, combined investment of $1,420,431.

Those five agreements were part of a larger round of transactions valued at more than $8.7 million to preserve 2,553 acres on 30 farms in 21 counties, the administration said. They help “ensure that Pennsylvania farmers will have prime farmland to feed our families and economy in the future,” Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding said.

Pennsylvania farm families who sell their land development rights leave “a legacy that ensures (the state’s) families will have green spaces and healthy farmland available to produce food, income, and jobs,” Redding noted.

Three decades of state farm preservation

Pennsylvania leads the nation in preserved farmland, the department stated. Since 1988, when voters overwhelmingly supported creation of the preservation program, Pennsylvania has protected 6,314 farms in 58 counties from future development.

Over that 35-year period Pennsylvania has invested “more than $1.69 billion in state, county, and local funds” for rights purchases, the department noted. The state partners with counties and sometimes local municipal governments and nonprofits to purchase development rights.

Photo for The Municipal Blog by Travels With The Post

Gilbertsville Firefighters Selling Utility Terrain Vehicle

Saturday, Dec. 30

GILBERTSVILLE PA – Proceeds from an early January 2024 online auction of a 2011-model utility terrain vehicle (UTV), offered by the Gilbertsville Fire and Rescue Company, will help it buy essentials needed to fight fires and save lives, the company reported.

Its leaders and volunteers are relying on the ’round-the-clock, Internet-based auction services of Municibid for the public sale. Bidding is open until Jan. 9 (2024; Tuesday) at 12:42 p.m. With funds generated by the auction, the company expects to purchase another vehicle, new water hoses, helmets, and other items.

The UTV is a 2011 Polaris Ranger 800 with 1,357 miles. It’s equipped with a windshield, roof, hard shell doors, windshield wiper, a winch, and emergency lighting and siren. The cared for and well-maintained unit was bought to be used on trail systems and hard-to-reach areas for brush and field fires, and is being sold because it is underutilized, according to a media release.

Its several emergency lights and features, all sold with the vehicle, consist of a Whelen red emergency light on the roof, Whelen red emergency lights installed on the front and rear of vehicle, and a handheld Whelen siren. It also includes two scene lights mounted on the rear of the cab, and a public address speaker.

The vehicle might be considered suitable for a volunteer fire department, or landscaping, agriculture, or construction firms, the fire company suggested.

Bidders must meet or exceed a minimum reserve price, according to auction information available online. The successful bidder also will be charged a 9% buyers fee by Municibid. As of Saturday (Dec. 30, 2023) at 4:30 p.m. the auction page had been viewed more than 5,500 times, and 22 bids for the UTV had been submitted. Bidding began Tuesday (Dec. 26).

Many local government, school district, and municipal agency leaders are familiar with Municibid founded in 2006. It works with more than 5,000 entities across the U.S. that use its services to auction off fire trucks, buses, ambulances, heavy machinery, agricultural equipment, and other surplus goods to the public.

Photo provided by the Gilbertsville Fire and Rescue Company

State Police Cadets Graduate, and Prepare for Assignments

Tuesday, Dec. 26

HARRISBURG PA – Seventy-four new Pennsylvania State Police troopers graduated Friday (Dec. 22, 2023) from the Pennsylvania State Police Academy. Of them, eight will begin assignments in early January at the Troop L barracks in Reading. They will provide service, in part, to eastern Berks County.

Listed for Troop L assignments were troopers Hana J. Ford, Alex J. Fuhrman, Joseph J. Guiliano, Ryan C. Lesko, Dallin M. Ocasio, Jordan J. Skoff, Cody P. Taft, and Dominic A. Viscomi.

Also among the graduates are seven troopers assigned to the Troop K barracks in Philadelphia. Montgomery County is part of the troop’s overall coverage area. Listed for assignments there were Anthony R. Bonacci, Dylan C. Burnett, Gabriel C. Fetter, Nicolette M. Gallo, Royce M. Guagliata, Alexandro Magana, and William F. McCrossan.

Friday marked “the culmination of hard work, determination, and excellence that our cadets exhibited throughout their time at the academy,” state polce Commissioner Col. Christopher L. Paris said. He expressed “the utmost confidence” that the graduates will use their knowledge and training “to uphold PSP’s mission to protect and serve our great Commonwealth.”

The ceremony for the 168th graduating class was held at the Scottish Rite Cathedral in Harrisburg.

Photo by georgeshelton on Deposit Photos, used under license

Wednesday ‘Code Blue Forum’ to Address Housing Crisis

Monday, Dec. 4

POTTSTOWN PA – A panel discussion and open forum among neighbors, community organizers, and municipal officials about Montgomery County’s housing affordability crisis is scheduled for Wednesday (Dec. 6, 2023) beginning at 7 p.m. at the Tri-County Active Adult Center, 288 Moser Rd. The event is free to attend and open to the public.

Called a “Code Blue Forum,” the event is hosted by the Montco 30% Project. Organizers said its focus “will be on finding areas of common ground and solutions to help alleviate homelessness in our current climate.” Homelessness is being defined by “a shortage of decent, affordable housing.”

Its panel discussion will involve local leaders with experience in serving unhoused people. Additionally, an “open mic” will be available for those who attend to share ideas, struggles, and ask questions.

Confirmed panelists to date include Tom Niahros, executive director of Beacon of Hope Church; Stephanie Sena, anti-poverty fellow at Villanova University’s Charles Widger School of Law; Kelly Horvat, co-founder of Ann Francis Outreach and a Pottstown High School graduate; and the Rev. Alex Evangelista, pastor at Church on the Mall in Plymouth Meeting. The church will serve as a Code Blue shelter this season.

For more information, send an e-mail to montco30percent@gmail.com.

Photo (at top) by Matt Collamer on Unsplash, used by Travels With The Post under license
Graphic provided the Montco 30% Project

Montgomery County Remains Under State Drought Watch

Sunday, Dec. 3

HARRISBURG PA – A drought watch remained in Montgomery County, and 12 other counties across Pennsylvania as of Friday (Dec. 1, 2023), the state Department of Environmental Protection’s Drought Task Force declared.

The task force determines drought conditions on a county-by-county basis, based on data provided by public water suppliers that reports levels of precipitation, stream and river flow, groundwater, and soil moisture.

The National Weather Service drought website reports that more than 52 percent of land in the county is “abnormally dry.” Another 11 percent is suffering from “moderate drought.”

Also remaining under drought watch were Adams, Bucks, Cameron, Cumberland, Dauphin, Franklin, Fulton, Huntingdon, Lancaster, Lebanon, Northampton, and Perry counties. Clinton County, which had been under drought watch, was moved to the task force drought warning list. York County remains in warning status.

A drought watch is less severe than a warning. Residents in drought warning counties can be asked to reduce individual water use by 10-15 percent, or about six to nine gallons of water per day. Depending on local conditions, water suppliers or municipalities under warning status may look to enforce more stringent conservation actions.

Photo (at top) by Tahlia Doyle on Unsplash, used by Travels With The Post under license

Affected by July Flooding in Berks? SBA Offers Help

Tuesday, Nov. 14

READING PA – Berks County homeowners, renters, and business owners who were affected by severe storms and flash flooding during July 9 (2023) in townships just north of Reading may be able to take advantage of financial assistance offered by the federal Small Business Administration (SBA).

The administration said Tuesday (Nov. 14) it was opening a disaster loan outreach center that will operate Mondays through Fridays from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., at Antietam Pool, 905 Byrum St., Reading. It is scheduled to close later this month.

Its bilingual customer service representatives will be available to answer questions about the disaster loan program, check an application’s status, upload documents, and assist with reconsideration requests. Additionally, representatives also may be able to help those affected by six other qualifying administration-declared disasters that date back to March.

SBA Public Affairs Specialist Anita Steenson warned that application deadlines are approaching, and the administration wanted to ensure the public was aware of, and would not “miss out” on, recovery and mitigation money set aside for assistance. She noted that about 80 percent of SBA disaster loans are to residential homeowners and renters with physical property damages.

For more information, call Steenson at 571-459-6598 or send her an e-mail at Anita.Steenson@sba.gov.

Photo by Vidar Nordli-Mathisen on Unsplash, used by Travels With The Post under license

Celebration of Life Service Set for Attorney Robert L. Brant Jr.

Monday, Nov. 6
An appreciation, by Managing Editor Joe Zlomek

LOWER POTTSGROVE PA – A celebration of life service is scheduled Nov. 17 (2023; Friday) in Collegeville PA for well-known local attorney Robert Lewis Brant Jr., Esq., 68, who died Oct. 23 at Reading Hospital, surrounded by his family. Brant formerly served as solicitor for Lower Pottsgrove Township PA.

Founder of the Robert L. Brant & Associates LLC law firm in Trappe PA, Brant was a member of the Montgomery County Bar Association and highly respected for his knowledge of real estate and municipal law.

Commercial and residential property developers sought his counsel when proposing new, or expanding existing, projects. Area governments engaged him and his firm as solicitor to zoning hearing boards, municipal authorities, and municipalities for the same reason.

Institutions and businesses valued his expertise too. He was an emeritus trustee of Ursinus College, a member of the board of directors of the Gilmore & Associates Inc. engineering firm, and also of the board of directors of The Victory Bank.

Brant was skilled in putting people at ease, particularly in public settings. At zoning meetings, in which legal terminology occasionally seems arcane or inexplicable, he often discussed concepts so they could be easily understood. Many of those attending such hearings usually were neighbors to a property under review, had no background in law, and said they appreciated his explanations.

Brant also had a good sense of humor. He sometimes publicly told jokes about himself. He regularly declined to wear a necktie unless one was dictated by protocol or the formality of an occasion.

Brant was a graduate of Pottsgrove High School, earned a bachelor’s degree in history at Ursinus College, then graduated from Temple University with a law degree. He was one of four people inducted during December 2021 into the Pottsgrove School District Alumni Honor Roll, for “distinguished service” to the district and “outstanding contributions to society” after graduation.

Family, friends, and colleagues are invited to the Nov. 17 celebration of Brant’s life from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Berman Museum of Art on the Ursinus campus in Collegeville PA.

His full obituary is recommended reading; it was published Oct. 29 in The Philadelphia Inquirer, and also is available though Legacy.com. Arrangements are by the Catagnus Funeral Home and Cremation Center, 329 N. Lewis Rd., Royersford.

Photo provided to Travels With The Post by the Catagnus Funeral Home

Four Counties Partner to Buy Low-Cost Renewable Energy

Thursday, Nov. 2

PHILADELPHIA PA – Four counties in the Philadelphia region – Montgomery, Chester, Delaware, and Bucks – will use their group buying power to obtain electricity at wholesale rates for their operational needs, the Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission (DVRPC) reported Wednesday (Nov. 1, 2023) in its monthly newsletter.

The counties hope to lower and stabilize electricity costs, gain future access to renewable energy sources, and use resources more efficiently. DVRPC said it has been working with them since September 2000 on ways to buy renewable energy for county operations from available sources.

The group calls itself the Sustainable Energy Partnership of Southeast PA. Each county’s board of commissioners voted during October to jointly create a Southeast Pennsylvania Energy Board that will be guided by DVRPC and a consultant, Enel X. DVRPC will serve as board coordinator; Enel X will advise the board on its wholesale account.

A dedicated wholesale account is an electricity procurement mechanism. It allows the municipal partners to make and track energy purchases over time using approved cost-management strategies. To that end, Enel X will supply the partnership with “ongoing energy market intelligence, guidance, and direction,” according to the newsletter. Similar accounts are already in use by other large local governments.

As the partnership succeeds, it could add other municipalities, authorities and school districts in the future, DVRPC noted.

In the partnership, the counties’ leadership teams have demonstrated a commitment “towards reducing greenhouse gas emissions, realizing their renewable energy targets, and addressing the climate crisis,” DVRPC Executive Director Ariella Maron said.

Photo by Travels With The Post

Six Secure Ballot Drop Boxes Now Available Locally

Sunday, Oct. 29

NORRISTOWN PA – Six of Montgomery County’s 12 secure ballot drop boxes are located within the county’s western half, its Voter Services Department announced, and all became available Saturday (Oct. 28, 2023) through Nov. 7 in anticipation of the coming general election.

Local ballot drop boxes are now found in:

• Pottstown, daily from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., at the county Office of Public Health, South Hall, 364 King St.;
• Royersford, daily from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., at the Victory Park Parking Lot, near the electric vehicle charging stations, 2nd and Arch streets;
• Skippack, daily from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., at the county 4H Center, 1015 Bridge Rd.;
• Upper Frederick, daily from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., at the Green Lane Park Office, 2144 Snyder Rd.;
• Norristown, daily from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., at the county’s Airy Street Parking Lot, on the corner of Airy and DeKalb streets; and
• Norristown, weekdays from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. and Saturdays and Sundays from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. inside One Montgomery Plaza, 425 Swede St.

Six more drop boxes have been set up in Cheltenham, Lansdale, Lower Merion, Upper Dublin, Upper Merion and Upper Moreland. Specific addresses for those are offered online by Voter Services.

All drop boxes “are fully staffed and under video surveillance,” the county noted.

District Attorney’s Office opens tip line

Measures are already in place to ensure the security of the general election, according to county First Assistant District Attorney Edward F. McCann Jr. They include establishment of an “Election Tip Line,” 610-292-2023, “to report any suspicious activity around ballot drop boxes or on Election Day.”

Anyone who sees someone attempting to break into ballot drop boxes, delivering multiple ballots to the boxes, damaging the boxes, or otherwise doing something suspicious or criminal is asked to immediately call 610-292-2023. “We don’t expect any irregularities with the upcoming election,” McCann said, but he offered assurances the office would “make certain we have a safe, secure and valid election.”

“If the facts and evidence warrant it, we will prosecute anyone who attempts to interfere with this election,” McCann said. Poll worker safety also is a priority, he added.

A team of prosecutors and detectives will be available for referral, and to respond to complaints, on Election Day. It includes McCann, Assistant District Attorney Jediah P. Grobstein, and county detectives, who also will work with state, county and local law enforcers, and other government officials.

Election Day potential problems should be called in to the tip line, sent by e-mail to jediah.grobstein@montgomerycountypa.gov, or called in to the county radio room at 610-275-1222.

County election box graphic provided by the District Attorney’s office
Stickers photo by Element5 Digital on Unsplash, used by Travels With The Post under license

Lines of Cars Stretch Across Lot for Municipal Shredding

Tuesday, Oct. 24

LOWER POTTSGROVE PA – Who knew so much paper needed shredding?

To call the Sunday (Oct. 22, 2023) secure shredding event at Pottsgrove High School a success amounts to understatement, volunteers working there agreed.

The school parking lot was packed for several periods during the event, at one point with two lines of up to 17 bumper-to-bumper cars each. All sought to take advantage of the free service offered by state Rep. Joe Ciresi and Lower Pottsgrove Township.

Ciresi, whose district includes includes Limerick, Lower Pottsgrove, and West Pottsgrove townships, and Pottstown and Royersford boroughs, seemed to relish the opportunity. He helped unload cars, directed staff and volunteers, and – politician that he is – chatted with drivers, and shook an abundance of hands.

He shot a selfie video on site, too, inviting more people to stop by.

Lower Pottsgrove Board of Commissioners President Ray Lopez was on hand too, and declared he was “delighted by the turnout.” Commissioners considered the event an important one for area residents, Lopez added, and readily to co-sponsor it with Ciresi. “Just look at the lines,” he said, pointing out across the asphalt.

Photos by Travels With The Post

East Vincent Selected for New Water Treatment Plant

Tuesday, Oct. 17

EAST VINCENT PA – A new water treatment plant valued at $123 million will be built in East Vincent Township to provide drinking water and fire protection to nearly 50,000 people in what Pennsylvania American Water calls its “Royersford district,” the company announced.

The district consists of all or parts of East Coventry, East Pikeland, East Vincent, West Vincent, Upper Providence, Limerick, and Lower Pottsgrove townships, and Spring City and Royersford boroughs, it added.

The company broke ground for the plant during a ceremony Tuesday (Oct. 17, 2023) at 2 p.m. at its future location, 830 Brown Dr. Listed to attend the event were local elected officials and Pennsylvania American Water President Justin Ladner.

The new greenfield site was necessary due to limitations at the existing East Vincent treatment plant on Shady Lane, the company reported. The current plant “was constructed in 1918 and has been upgraded and expanded numerous times,” according to the company. It now “is reaching the end of its useful life,” Pennsylvania American Water said.

It did not indicate if or when the plant would be dismantled, or if the property will be retained.

While continuing to “deliver safe, reliable water service,” Pennsylvania American said the new plant will also increase capacity and address new regulatory compliance by adding ultraviolet light disinfection.

The water treatment plant will be named “Lock 57,” in honor of the historic lock on the former Schuylkill Canal, which still exists nearby.

Top photo by Andres Siimon on Unsplash, used by Travels With The Post under license
Winter faucet photo by Joe Zlomek on Unsplash, used under license

PennDOT Warns of Utility Work on Route 73 in Worcester

Tuesday, Sept. 26

WORCESTER TOWNSHIP PA – Residential and commercial builder Toll Brothers will begin a month-long utility construction project next week on eastbound Route 73 in the township, the District 6 office of the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation said Tuesday (Sept. 26, 2023).

PennDOT warned drivers to expect a lane closure weekdays and overnights from Monday (Oct. 2) through Oct. 31 (Tuesday) on the state-owned highway between Whitehall and Cassel roads. Planned hours for the closure are from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. during the day, and overnights from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m. the following morning.

Toll Brothers will complete this project under a PennDOT Highway Occupancy Permit, PennDOT added. It did not specify the nature of or reason for the utility work. Drivers were advised to allow extra time when traveling through the work area. Backups and delays will occur, the agency said. All scheduled activities depend on acceptable weather, it added.

Photo by Travels With The Post

Central Perkiomen Valley Starts Planning Its Future, Again

How will Perkiomen, Lower Frederick, and Upper Frederick townships, and Schwenksville, Trappe, and Collegeville boroughs look like in the next 20 years? Planners hope those municipalities’ residents will tell them in a survey. (Sept. 17, 2023)

Older State Residents to See Municipal Property Tax, Rent Relief

By Danielle Smith of Public News Service for Travels With The Post

Thursday, Sept. 14

HARRISBURG PA – Older Pennsylvania adults are expected to benefit from a 2024 expansion of the state’s existing property tax and rent rebate program, following Gov. Josh Shapiro’s recent approval of House Bill 1100.

Expansion of the program will significantly boost property tax rebates for older adults, according to Bill Johnston-Walsh, state director for AARP Pennsylvania. That should alleviate financial burdens for homeowners and renters. The Keystone State is home to almost 3.5 million people age 60 and older.

The yearly maximum standard will increase from $650 to $1,000 for individuals, he added. The program will be adjusted for cost-of-living hikes over time. AARP Pennsylvania fought for the expansion, Johnston-Walsh said, because “both property taxes across the state, and rents have been increasing year after year.”

The program provides financial relief to those who need, Johnston-Walsh explained, and also demonstrates a proactive approach to addressing the needs of an aging population.

What the Pennsylvania Legislature and Shapiro hope for, he noted, is the ability to help people stay in their homes longer? “How do we put more money in their pockets so that, you know, they’re able to put food on their table, pay for their medications, and also pay for their property tax and their rents?,” Johnston-Walsh asked.

Shapiro and state Secretary of Aging Jason Kavulich recently participated with AARP in a telephone-based “town hall” meeting to answer questions from older Pennsylvanians about the expansion. Its intent: to reach as many Pennsylvanians as possible, and advise them of the program.

About 400,000 people are already qualified to receive the benefit. Pennsylvanians have until Dec. 31 to apply for the program. Area agencies on aging, local senior centers, and state legislators’ offices will be offering assistance, Johnston-Walsh said. “We know there’s going to be nearly 175,000 additional Pennsylvanians that will be eligible for the program next year,” he added.

AARP Pennsylvania’s goal is to ensure as many people apply for it as possible.

Editor’s Note: AARP Pennsylvania contributes to Public News Service funds for reporting on budget policy and priorities, consumer issues, livable wages/working families, and senior issues.

Photo by Joe Zlomek on Unsplash, used by Travels With The Post under license

Publicker Buildings Demolition Set to Start Sept. 1

Sunday, Sept. 3

LIMERICK PA – “Large-scale demolition” of deteriorating buildings on the former Publicker distillery industrial site at 1301 Main St., Linfield, is scheduled to begin Sept. 11 (2023; Monday), Limerick Township announced on its website.

The 197-acre property is owned by Connecticut-based Limerick Town Center LLC. It bought the land for $17.1 million in September 2022, according to Montgomery County property records. It most recently was proposed as a potential site for warehouses. Earlier it was mentioned as a possible location for development of homes, offices and stores.

“The property owner will be required to maintain proper dust control measures, and adhere to all township requirements concerning hours of operation,” Limerick reported Friday (Sept. 1) in a website “news flash” notice about the demolition. It was accompanied by a graphic (above) that included three photos of the site.

A demolition permit for the work was issued by the township during February, but at the time no schedule had been issued for its start. Township Manager Dan Kerr told the Pottstown Mercury newspaper that the property owners would provide “adequate notice” before demolition began so community residents would be informed in advance, reporter Evan Brandt wrote on Feb. 20.

Any new use of the long-vacant property would play an important role in fulfillment of or changes to master plans for the Linfield section of the township, Brandt’s article noted.

The township’s news flash also stated that residents with “any concerns” should contact the municipality by calling 610-495-6432 or send an e-mail to info@limerickpa.org.

File photo by Travels With The Post
Publicker property graphic from Limerick Township

To Sell a Home for More, Select Photos and Words with Care

Wednesday, Aug. 23

AMES IA – When it comes to selling a home, researchers in Iowa on Wednesday (Aug. 23, 2023) again confirmed what real estate brokers and agents have long known. The more that’s selectively shown and said about a property, the faster it may sell … and at a better price.

Online real estate listings with more photos and accompanying well-written descriptions earn higher sale prices, says Cheng Nie, information systems assistant professor at Iowa State University. But Nie and a team of four emphasize that not just any photos of a home will do. They place a premium on what are described as “experience attributes” to increase the sale price of properties.

Experience attributes “signal the aesthetic and less tangible benefits of a property,” the researchers state. Examples they offer are photos and descriptions like “upscale bathroom fixtures,” “a sunlit kitchen,” or “an exceptional lake view.”

Additionally, experience attributes “play an even bigger role in the sale price of homes valued significantly higher or lower than the neighborhood average,” according to study data.

The team’s research focuses primarily on Zillow, a nationally known real estate marketing and information website. It was founded in 2006 by several technology company executives. Zillow users can browse homes, take virtual tours, save their searches, find local agents, and use financial tools and resources.

The study, titled “How Does Online Information Influence Offline Transactions: Insights from Digital Real Estate Platforms,” currently appears on the Social Science Research Network (SSRN).

Would-be buyers gravitate to online real estate sites because they save time and travel. “Digital real estate platforms like Zillow help people see what’s available, which saves them time by preventing wasted trips to properties that don’t fit their criteria. Even when working with a real estate agent, these platforms often play an important role in the home-buying process,” Nie reports.

The researchers acknowledge real estate platforms, although not perfect, can be reliable sources of information for home buyers. It’s no surprise, then, that almost every broker and many agents operate websites to meet seller and buyer demand.

Besides experience attributes, what gets written about a listing and its photos also is important. Sellers and their real estate representatives should tap “into the potential buyer’s emotions and experiences,” Nie suggests. In the examples he offers, which interests you more?:

• “This is a four-bedroom, three-bathroom property.” Or,
• “This four-bedroom haven is perfect for families, with a sun-soaked living room ideal for Saturday morning cartoons, and a master bathroom that feels like your personal spa.”

Hua Sun, associate professor of finance at Iowa State; Zhengrui Jiang of Nanjing University; Arun Rai of Georgia State University; and Yuheng Hu at the University of Illinois at Chicago all contributed to the study, according to a media release.

Photo by Francesca Tosolini on Unsplash, used under license for The Municipal Blog

Municipal Meeting to Help Form State’s Internet Plans

Tuesday, Aug. 15

POTTSTOWN PA – A Sept. 5 (2023; Tuesday) meeting conducted in part by local state Sen. Tracy Pennycuick has been scheduled to seek public comment on Pennsylvania’s plans to expand broadband Internet access.

An announcement said the meeting would start at 6 p.m. in North Hall Room 202 on the Pottstown campus of Montgomery County Community College, 16 E. High St. Pennycuick represents residents of Montgomery and Berks counties in the state’s 24th Senatorial District.

Pennycuick and Philadelphia Sen. Jimmy Dillion, both chairs of the Senate Communications and Technology Committee, are hosting the session.

The two hope to hear from the community about their broadband use and experiences. The meeting will also provide information about the Commonwealth’s work to develop an action plan to ensure equitable, affordable broadband access for all residents, businesses, and communities.

Businesses, community organizations, nonprofit organizations, and members of the public are asked to attend. A boxed meal will be provided to participants at the event. Online advance registration is requested.

The meeting is intended as a part of a larger strategic effort led by the Pennsylvania Broadband Development Authority. It is tasked with developing plans to address broadband service needs in unserved and under-served communities. The plans are expected “to ensure everyone has the skills, technology, and capacity needed to benefit from our digital economy,” the pair said in a joint release.

The federal Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act authorized a $65 billion investment into broadband to close the “digital divide.” Pennsylvania is guaranteed to receive a minimum of $100 million, and is expected to receive hundreds of millions in additional funding through formula or competitive funding.

Photo from Unsplash, used under license for The Municipal Blog

Public Defender Office Schedules Expungement Clinics

Monday, July 31

NORRISTOWN PA – If prior earlier offenses are keeping you “from making a fresh start” legally, according to the Montgomery County Office of the Public Defender, its staff may be able to help.

Its team of advocates is interested in discussing what a records expungement can, and cannot, accomplish. They also may be able to determine if you are eligible to have certain convictions removed from your record, sealed from the general public, or both.

The office has scheduled two Virtual Expungement Clinics to explain the process and answer initial questions. They are scheduled for online delivery using the Zoom on Aug. 8 (2023; Tuesday) from 4-6 p.m., and again on Aug. 22 (Tuesday) from 4-6 p.m.

Anyone can join the Zoom gatherings on those days and hours. Log in using the Meeting ID 491 292 9804 and the password “expunge.”

For more information, send an e-mail to PDExpungements@montgomerycountypa.gov.

Photo by Anton Matyukha on Deposit Photos, used under license for The Municipal Blog

Lower Salford Township Starts Municipal Sewer Maintenance

Tuesday, July 18

LOWER SALFORD PA – Annual preventative maintenance work on sewers across Lower Salford Township began Tuesday (July 18, 2023), the municipality said.

An e-mail reported its Township Authority, responsible for the sewer system, had hired a contractor for the service. It is expected to clean, and make video inspections of, the sanitary sewer mains. The video look through the pipe occasionally helps identified unexpected sources of water infiltration, possibly including storm water or unauthorized connections.

“The work will not include any construction or digging, and there should be no disruption to the public sewer service,” the e-mail stated. The work is anticipated to affect “various areas of the township throughout the summer,” it added. The contractor, Sewer Specialty Services Co. Inc., is expected to finish its work by mid-September.

Questions about the work should be directed to the Township Authority office by calling 215-256-8676, according to the e-mail.

Photo provided by Lower Salford Township to, and colorized by, The Municipal Blog

State Preserves Farm Acres in Berks, Montgomery Counties

Wednesday, July 12

HARRISBURG PA – Farmland acres on four more properties across Berks and Montgomery counties have been protected from future development, the state reports.

Pennsylvania’s Agriculture Department said state, county, and local sources combined to invest a total of $10.2 million in preservation efforts.

• The Berks County farm parcels were located in Richmond, Jefferson, and Tulpehocken townships. The total investment there amounted to $703,376; $604,966 from the state, and $98,410 from the county.
• The sole Montgomery County parcel is in Horsham Township. Its rights were valued at $1,863,665; $1,367,042, from the state, $211,623 from the county, and $285,000 from the township.

The money bought development rights offered by the landowners. It ensures their land will remain as farms and never be sold to developers. The collective purchases keep future residential or commercial construction away from 29 farms in 15 counties.

“Prime soil and clean water are critical resources for feeding a growing population,” Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding announced June 21 (2023; Wednesday). “Families who preserve their farms forge a partnership with government, investing together in ensuring … the resources to produce food, income, and jobs.”

Photo by Travels With The Post for The Municipal Blog

State Rep. Scheuren Named to Transportation Committee

Saturday, July 8

HARRISBURG PA – 147th House District state Rep. Donna Scheuren, whose constituents include residents of Upper Pottsgrove, Douglass (Montgomery), and New Hanover townships, has been appointed to the House Transportation Committee, her office reported Friday (July 7, 2023).

The committee helps create and adjust state transportation policies on infrastructure, funding allocations and other issues.

“My involvement allows me to influence decisions that can have a significant impact on our transportation system, including roads, bridges and railways, and the lives of the people who rely on it,” Scheuren said.

Photo provided by Rep. Donna Scheuren to The Municipal Blog

When Approved, State Budget Could Mean More School Money

Thursday, July 6 (2023)

The past-the-deadline and yet to be approved 2023-24 Pennsylvania budget is likely to include “$3.4 million more for Pottstown schools,” according to an article published Friday (July 7, 2023) in The Pottstown Mercury newspaper.

It also apparently offers additional funding to Spring-Ford, Pottsgrove, Perkiomen Valley, Methacton, Norristown school districts, Mercury reporter Evan Brandt writes.

The budget has passed the House, but is not yet approved by the Senate or signed by Gov. Josh Shapiro. The holdup is a continuing argument between the governor and some senators over school voucher provisions.

Mercury stories are often unavailable to non-subscribers. If you have a subscription, or if you’re feeling lucky, read the Brandt article.

Flag image provided by the state of Pennsylvania