Bizzarro: Grant to boost Millcreek Police recruitment

MPD one of only 20 agencies in PA selected for initial round of funding

ERIE, DEC. 13 – A state grant will help put more cops on the street in Millcreek Township Representative Ryan Bizzarro announced Wednesday. 

Millcreek Township was awarded $10,000 from the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD) as a recruitment incentive to help the police department hire and train new officers.  

“Only 20 police departments in Pennsylvania made the cut in this highly competitive first round, and I was glad to see Millcreek Township on that list,” Bizzarro said. “I’m a strong advocate for them in Harrisburg, and their professionalism is noticed statewide.” 

This $10,000 grant announcement builds on recent state support for Millcreek Township Police. In 2022, Bizzarro help secure more than a million dollars for the department, including funding for gun violence prevention efforts and a new armored vehicle for special operations. 

“Millcreek Police officers have our back day and night, answering the call when we need them most,” Bizzarro said. “I have their backs, and I will always do what I can to make sure they get the resources they need to keep us safe.” 

The PCCD recruitment incentive funding will eventually distribute a total of $14 million statewide. This new funding was part of the commitment Governor Shapiro and Lt. Governor Austin Davis made to support local law enforcement and address the staffing shortages statewide. 

“Being a police officer is a tough job – and the strong job market means potential recruits have options,” Bizzarro said. “We want the best here in Millcreek Township, and I’m glad to see this money help the Police Department continue their outstanding work.” 

Today’s announcement continues Bizzarro’s efforts to allocate state money to properly fund Erie schools, workforce development, nonprofits, first responders, public works, utilities and local businesses in his district and Erie County. So far this year, Bizzarro has helped secure more than $55.2 million for Erie County projects.