Featured News

The scoop on REAL ID – whether you need one and how to become pre-verified

Rep. Mark A. Longietti

News Center

Longietti: $47,000 grant to improve services for child abuse victims

(1 day ago) Rep. Mark A. Longietti

HERMITAGE , Dec. 11 – A state grant of $47,000 will help improve medical evaluations by the Mercer County Child Advocacy Center and fund medical examinations for suspected victims of child sexual abuse, state Rep. Mark Longietti, D-Mercer, announced today. The grant to the Mercer County Behavioral Health Commission, Inc., is administered by the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency based on a recommendation by the Children’s Advocacy Center Advisory Committee. "Children victimized by sexual abuse need state-of-the-art care – including medical evaluations and examinations that will not add to the trauma they have already endured,” Longietti said. “The funds awarded today will help ensure that our advocacy and support professionals are trained in best practices and have the resources needed to carry out urgent, non-urgent and wellness exams in the most effective, least intimidating manner possible.” PCCD initiates and funds justice-related programs developed by practitioners and experts in the field, with a focus on research, policy, planning, training, evidence-based programs, technology, outreach and support services. The CAC advises the commission on programs and projects related to children’s advocacy center and multidisciplinary investigation teams. Read more

 

Longietti hosting December LIHEAP workshops

(Nov 26, 2019) Rep. Mark A. Longietti

HERMITAGE, Nov. 26 – State Rep. Mark Longietti, D-Mercer, is hosting three workshop sessions in December to help residents apply for the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program, which is now open for the 2019-20 season. “For families struggling to pay heating bills, a LIHEAP grant can make a big difference,” Longietti said. “In addition to cash grants to help with bills, crisis grants are available for emergency situations – such as a broken furnace or an unexpected fuel shortage – and the grants do not need to be repaid. My workshops are a great opportunity for residents to learn whether they qualify and get help applying.” The sessions – two open to the public and one for residents of Greenville House – will be held at the following times and locations: 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. Friday, Dec. 6 at the Pymatuning Township Building, 256 Edgewood Drive Ext., Transfer, PA 16154 (open to public). 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. Monday, Dec. 9 at the Greenville Senior Center, 45 Alan Ave., Greenville, PA 16125 (open to public). 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 18 at Greenville House, 9 N. Penn Ave., Greenville, PA 16125 (open to Greenville House residents only). Longietti emphasized that residents seeking help with the application process must bring a valid photo ID, recent heating bill, and names, dates of birth, Social Security numbers and proof of income for all household Read more

 

Committee unanimously approves Longietti bill benefiting borough planning

(Nov 21, 2019) Rep. Mark A. Longietti

HARRISBURG, Nov. 21 – Leveling the playing field for boroughs wanting to establish a redevelopment authority is the aim of a bill approved unanimously today by the House Urban Affairs Committee, according to the bill’s author, state Rep. Mark Longietti, D-Mercer. Longietti said he introduced H.B. 1860 , which would amend the Urban Redevelopment Authority Act, to address a disparity in the law: Currently, boroughs must have a population of 10,000 or more to establish a redevelopment authority, while cities of any size may do so. Longietti’s bill would remove that restriction and allow boroughs of all sizes to establish a redevelopment authority. “This would be a significant step for boroughs because redevelopment authorities have broad powers to implement plans that can address blight, boost economic development and stimulate area growth.” Longietti said. “These planning bodies can be a critical tool for communities striving to restore infrastructure, revitalize neighborhoods and attract investment.” Longietti said that there is no sound reason supporting the current population restriction placed on boroughs, noting that there are multiple cities with a population of fewer than 10,000. “My bill would simply put Pennsylvania’s boroughs on an equal footing with cities as they work to promote growth and improve life for residents through measures such as expanding Read more

 

Longietti, Brooks: Tax credits will provide for $132,000 in funding to address food insecurity, mitigate blight

(Nov 18, 2019) Rep. Mark A. Longietti

HERMITAGE, Nov. 18 – Efforts to tackle food insecurity and address blighted areas in Mercer County will receive a boost, thanks to $72,600 in state tax credits that will provide for $132,000 in funding, Rep. Mark Longietti, D-Mercer, and state Sen. Michele Brooks, R-Crawford/Mercer/Erie/Warren, announced today. “These tax credits are going to help area organizations strengthen the reach and power of their current programs by allowing them to do more for the community,” Longietti said. “Tax credits of $55,000 to the Community Action Partnership, for example, will help that organization and the City of Sharon launch the ‘Lots of Love’ pilot program to address blight created by vacant lots when demolished houses are removed. “Likewise, $17,600 in tax credits to the Community Food Warehouse of Mercer County will enable this important food provider to launch projects tackling two key issues of food insecurity – lack of transportation to food pantries and summer-months hunger, when children are not in school receiving breakfast and lunch meals. Programs funded by these tax credits are going to make a meaningful difference in our community.” Longietti explained that the $55,000 tax credit will leverage a $100,000 contribution from local businesses to support the Lots of Love project and that the $17,600 tax credit will leverage a $32,000 contribution by local businesses to support the Read more

 

Longietti, Brooks: $40,000 to fund Sharpsville playground improvements

(Nov 14, 2019) Rep. Mark A. Longietti

HERMITAGE, Nov. 14 – Area families will enjoy greater access to a newly renovated playground thanks to a $40,000 grant, state Rep. Mark Longietti, D-Mercer, and state Sen. Michele Brooks, R-Crawford/Mercer/Erie/Warren, announced today. The grant awarded by the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources will fund renovations to the 13th Street Playground located adjacent to the Sharpsville – South Pymatuning Little League complex. “The park’s location next to the Little League complex makes it a natural gathering place for families with children of different ages,” Longietti said. “The improvements planned – replacing outdated playground equipment; substituting mulch for gravel; improving sidewalk and ADA accessibility; and installing picnic tables, benches, a shelter and T-ball facilities – will give parents and caregivers a better place to socialize and spend time with their younger children, who will enjoy updated and expanded play options while their older siblings use the ball field,” he added. Brooks agreed, saying, “I appreciated the opportunity to work with the Sharpsville community and Representative Longietti on the makeover of a family gathering place that has been the scene of many happy memories for decades. With new picnic tables, sidewalks, and playground equipment, along with safer, softer ground covering, the playground will be more engaging and accessible to Read more

 

Longietti, Brooks: $730,000 in grants to fund roadway improvements for new Town Center project

(Nov 12, 2019) Rep. Mark A. Longietti

HERMITAGE, Nov. 12 – A $730,000 state grant will fund roadway improvements at the Shenango Valley Mall property in Hermitage as part of an overall project to revitalize the site and create a Hermitage Town Center, state Rep. Mark Longietti, D-Mercer, and state Sen. Michele Brooks, R-Crawford/Mercer/Erie/Warren, announced today. “This funding is critical because it will ensure that the key infrastructure components are in place to support the planned Hermitage Town Center.” Longietti said. “Having a mixed-use, regional town center as a gathering place for our community is going to be truly transformative. But before the buildings, businesses and amenities can go up, the essential infrastructure needs to be in place. “The grant announced today will make that happen, by allowing the city to move forward with reconstructing a roadway through the Shenango Valley Mall property that will connect East State Street to North Hermitage Road, installing a new traffic signal and realigning the intersection at McConnell Road and Hermitage School District Drive.” Brooks added, “ This funding was something we all worked very hard for at the state and local levels, knowing how significant it will be to the city of Hermitage. This support will further our efforts to fully develop the Hermitage Town Center Project at the current site of the Shenango Valley Mall. “I appreciate the opportunity to again Read more

 

Longietti hosting Real ID information sessions Nov. 8

(Oct 31, 2019) Rep. Mark A. Longietti

HERMITAGE, Oct. 31 – State Rep. Mark Longietti, D-Mercer, will host two information sessions about Real ID on Friday, Nov. 8. Longietti said he wants to get the word out now so Pennsylvanians have plenty of advance notice about the federal requirements going into effect next year that will impact air travel and access to secure federal facilities. “Enforcement of the Real ID Act will begin Oct. 1, 2020,” Longietti said. “From that time on, Pennsylvanians will no longer be able to simply present their regular driver’s licenses to board domestic flights or visit secure federal facilities such as military bases. Instead, they’ll need a Real ID or some other form of federally accepted identification, such as a passport. “Once enforcement starts, there will be no grace period. It’s important to understand the requirements now, because it can take some time to get a Real ID. Waiting until the act is already being enforced will be too late. I don’t want to see people turned away from boarding flights.” The two identical, Nov. 8 sessions will be held at the following times and locations: 10 a.m. at the Greenville Knights of Columbus Hall, 170 Clarksville St. 1 p.m. at the Hermitage Municipal Building, 800 North Hermitage Road. Longietti said the sessions will help residents decide whether they need a Real ID and learn how to get one. A representative from the Department Read more

 

Longietti to present certificates of recognition to afterschool programs

(Oct 21, 2019) Rep. Mark A. Longietti

HERMITAGE, Oct. 21 – State Rep. Mark Longietti will present certificates of recognition to area afterschool programs at the national “Lights On Afterschool” event from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 24 at Hickory High School. The “STEAMapalooza” event celebrating “Lights On Afterschool” will bring together afterschool programs from across the county to celebrate afterschool programs. “Afterschool programs are extremely valuable because they provide extra time for students to grasp academic concepts and help one another learn in a supportive, structured environment,” Longietti said. “It’s going to be an honor to present certificates to these programs and the dedicated workers who staff them.” Launched in October 2000 by the Afterschool Alliance, Lights On Afterschool is the only nationwide event celebrating afterschool programs and their important role in the lives of children, families and communities. Locally, afterschool programs supported through the 21st Century Community Learning Center grants from the PA Department of Education include: STEAM Academies serving middle school programs through afterschool programs at Hermitage, Sharpsville, West Middlesex, Mercer, Reynolds, Keystone Charter, Greenville and Commodore Perry. C.O.O.L. Afterschool Program that engages students in 5th-9th grades at Sharon City Schools and Farrell Area Read more

 

Longietti: More than $61,500 in grants awarded to enhance school safety

(Oct 18, 2019) Rep. Mark A. Longietti

HERMITAGE, Oct. 18 – Three state grants totaling $61,508 will fund safety-related equipment and personnel for two Mercer County school districts, state Rep. Mark Longietti, D-Mercer, announced today. Longietti said that West Middlesex Area School District will receive $33,808 for a school resource officer and $16,275 for safety-related equipment, while Sharon City School District will receive $11,425 for safety-related equipment. “Our school districts have performed safety assessments and have identified personnel and equipment-based needs specific to each school,” Longietti said. “The grants announced today will allow the districts to move forward with addressing those needs so that our students enjoy the safest possible learning environment. It’s reassuring to know those security upgrades are on the way.” The grant is part of a package of $7.2 million in competitive 2019-20 Safe Schools Targeted Grants from the state Department of Education. The funding – awarded to both public and non-public schools throughout the commonwealth – is designed to help schools prevent or curb violence, purchase safety and security-related equipment, and provide for the training and compensation of school resource and police officers. This program is separate from the School Safety and Security Grant program administered by the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency. That Read more

 

Longietti, Brooks: $225,000 in state grants will help connect Mercer County residents to recreational activities, amenities

(Sep 17, 2019) Rep. Mark A. Longietti

HERMITAGE – Sept. 17. Two state grants totaling $225,000 will help fund projects to construct and rehabilitate pedestrian trails in Hermitage and extend an existing bike trail to connect sections of Greenville to the athletic complex in neighboring West Salem Township, state Rep. Mark Longietti, D-Mercer, and state Sen. Michele Brooks, R-Crawford/Mercer/Erie/Warren, announced today. “I’m thrilled that we were successful in our efforts to obtain these grants,” Longietti said. “Quality of life for residents depends on having easy access to recreational facilities and other community amenities. The grants announced today will lay the groundwork for projects to extend existing trails and create new ones that will bring residents together and help them better enjoy all the activities our community has to offer.” Brooks agreed, saying, “I appreciate the opportunity to continue to work with the city of Hermitage and the local community in moving forward the Town Center project, which has the potential to be truly innovative and transformative.” Regarding the bike trail project, she added, “Like the Hermitage Town Square project and its goal to enhance interconnectivity, it is my hope that this funding will promote greater connectivity within the businesses of Greenville’s downtown area, the Thiel College campus, and the athletic fields and recreational areas in our beautiful community.” The Read more

 

Longietti Discusses Concerns Of Aging School Buildings

(Sep 06, 2019) Rep. Mark A. Longietti

Pa. state Rep. Mark Longietti participated in a public hearing in Philadelphia to discuss the health concerns aging school buildings are causing for students and teachers. He explained how bringing back a state program would help create a safe learning environment for children and ease the burden for property taxpayers. Read more

 

Longietti: Grant of nearly $30,000 to bolster South Pymatuning traffic safety

(Sep 04, 2019) Rep. Mark A. Longietti

HERMITAGE, Sept. 4 – A $29,785 grant will fund two traffic safety improvement projects in South Pymatuning Township, state Rep. Mark Longietti, D-Mercer, announced today. Longietti noted that the funding – which comes from fines collected under the state’s Automated Red Light Enforcement program – will support projects to install guiderails protecting motorists along Cascade Street and Shadow Drive and to erect safety signage warning motorists turning onto or merging from State Route 302/Tamarack Drive. “I’m delighted that we were successful in our efforts to obtain this funding,” Longietti said. “South Pymatuning is home to Dean Foods’ largest milk processing plant, and its 200 employees and multiple trucks make heavy use of State Route 302/Tamarack Drive, creating potentially dangerous traffic patterns entering and exiting the most heavily traveled portion of the township. “Funds from this grant will allow the township to erect signs warning motorists who are turning from Shadow Drive onto State Route 302/Tamarack Drive or merging from 302 onto Buckeye Drive that opposing traffic – including dairy trucks – is not required to stop at those intersections. The grant will also allow for installation of guiderails to protect motorists from steep embankments alongside nearby Shadow Drive and Cascade Street. Motorist safety is our No. 1 priority.” Longietti noted that the guiderail project will Read more

 

Longietti reappointed to Special Education Funding Commission

(Sep 03, 2019) Rep. Mark A. Longietti

HARRISBURG, Sept. 3 – Continuing his efforts to ensure that Pennsylvania’s special education students receive the resources they need to succeed, state Rep. Mark Longietti, D-Mercer, announced that he has been reappointed to sit on the House Special Education Funding Commission as it reconvenes this year to review its funding formula. First established in 2012, the commission developed a formula for determining how special education funding is distributed to school districts throughout the commonwealth. Longietti noted that the formula – which took effect for the 2014-15 fiscal year – dramatically changed how funding decisions were made. “Before the commission was established, funding for special education students was based on bare assumptions and general estimates that often failed to reflect real-world numbers and needs,” Longietti said. “The formula developed by the commission and later adopted into law factors in the actual number of students needing services in each district, the different levels of services needed, and the amount of funding needed relative to regular education students. “The result is a better way to allocate funding that treats districts fairly, eliminates guesswork, trims waste, and delivers services where they are actually needed. But like any formula that is based on real-world circumstances, the numbers, categories and criteria may need to be adjusted to keep pace with changing times and Read more

 

Longietti, Brooks partner with community to secure $2.5 million in funding for Hermitage

(Aug 01, 2019) Rep. Mark A. Longietti

HERMITAGE, Aug. 1 – After working with the local community to help advance an exciting new collaboration in Hermitage, Rep. Mark Longietti, D-Mercer, and Sen. Michele Brooks, R-Crawford/Mercer/Erie/Warren, announced the awarding of a $2.5 million state grant to Hermitage from the highly competitive Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program. The goal of the project is to implement a comprehensive strategy to revitalize the Shenango Valley Mall area, providing retail, commercial, recreational and housing opportunities for local families and visitors. “I am so very pleased and optimistic at the news of this grant,” Brooks said. “With this vital funding, a proactive public–private partnership will be able to move forward, from the drawing board to reality, in creating a ‘Town Center-style’ development for today and future generations.” Longietti agreed, saying, “"Establishing a Town Center where citizens from throughout the region can gather, recreate and enjoy retail, entertainment and culinary amenities is a key part of advancing our local economy. I am pleased that we were able to secure the necessary public funding to help implement this visionary project." Longietti pointed out that similarly styled developments have been successful in cities such as Pittsburgh and Cleveland and help communities attract the next generation of workers and residents. Brooks said the project will combine public and Read more

 

Longietti: $1 million available in DEP grants for small businesses and farmers

(Jul 26, 2019) Rep. Mark A. Longietti

The state Department of Environmental Protection is offering $1 million in Small Business Advantage grants for projects that foster energy efficiency, pollution prevention and natural resource protection, state Rep. Mark Longietti, D-Mercer, announced. Read more

 

Longietti: More than $35,000 in grants will bring fresh fruits, vegetables to area elementary school menus

(Jul 16, 2019) Rep. Mark A. Longietti

SHARON, July 16 – Mercer County elementary school students will benefit from more fresh fruits and vegetables on the menu, thanks to two grants to the Sharon City School District totaling $35,306, state Rep. Mark Longietti, D-Mercer, announced. Longietti said the funding – which comes from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program – includes $17,538 to C.M. Musser Elementary School and $17,768 to West Hill Elementary School. “I’m thrilled that we were successful in helping to secure this funding,” Longietti said. “There are so many benefits associated with proper nutrition in school. Studies consistently show that students with healthier diets are better able to concentrate and retain information and that they perform better academically, particularly in subjects like math and reading. “Supplementing the menu with fruits and vegetables is also a great way to boost kids’ immune systems and fight against infection, which is so important in a school setting, where close contact means it’s easy for germs to spread.” The Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program began in Pennsylvania in 2004 and is now in every state. Funding priority is given to the schools with the highest rates of students eligible for free and reduced-price meals. The program’s goal is to expand the variety of fruits and vegetables in schools by increasing consumption among students with the hope of Read more

 

Longietti: $18,000 to fund Mercer County rental assistance program

(Jul 12, 2019) Rep. Mark A. Longietti

HERMITAGE, July 12 – Funding of $18,000 through the through the Pennsylvania Housing Affordability and Rehabilitation Enhancement fund will help the Community Counseling Center of Mercer County provide housing assistance to residents in need, state Rep. Mark Longietti, D- Mercer, announced. “Affordable housing is fundamental to restoring dignity and normal lives to those who may be struggling with mental health issues and other problems,” Longietti said. “I’m so pleased that we were successful in our efforts to help secure this funding, because it will help so many deserving residents and families undergoing counseling and struggling to resume productive lives. By helping them rebuild their lives, we’re also helping them give back to the community and contribute to the economy, so these programs benefit everyone.” The PHARE fund is managed by the Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency. Funding comes from three main sources: a portion of the impact fees collected from natural gas companies operating in Pennsylvania to address the housing shortage caused by the impact of drilling, a portion of the realty transfer tax, and money from the National Housing Trust Fund. More information is available by visiting https://www.phfa.org/legislation/act105.aspx Read more

 

Longietti to host Senior & Health Education Fair July 18

(Jul 12, 2019) Rep. Mark A. Longietti

HERMITAGE, July 12 – State Rep. Mark Longietti, D-Mercer, will host his 13th annual Senior & Health Education Fair from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Thursday, July 18 at the Sharon American Legion, 1395 E. State St. The free event will feature approximately 50 exhibitors, health screenings, and valuable information on state programs benefitting seniors. “I’m extremely pleased to be hosting another event for our area’s seniors,” Longietti said. “Pennsylvania offers a wealth of services and programs for older adults, but not everyone understands just how much the state has to offer. The fair is a great chance for residents to learn about new and existing programs, obtain applications and brochures, and talk to staff, who will be on-hand to answer questions. “In addition, seniors will be able to browse dozens of community exhibitors offering products and services on health, nutrition, fitness, finance, housing, and other services. It’s a great event because every year, our area seniors leave the fair with a better understanding of how they can make the most of their golden years.” Longietti added that seniors will also find free health screenings, farmers’ market coupons, refreshments and door prizes. Residents interested in learning more should contact Longietti’s Hermitage office at 724-981-4655. Read more

 

Longietti: $3,000 grant to fund school programs, public outreach on backyard water conservation

(Jun 28, 2019) Rep. Mark A. Longietti

HARRISBURG, June 28 – A $3,000 mini grant from the state Department of Environmental Protection will fund in-school programs and public outreach on backyard water conservation,” state Rep. Mark Longietti, D-Mercer, announced today. “Programs that teach residents how to conserve backyard water bring tangible results, even on an individual level, by helping to protect the environment, save money and improve growing conditions,” Longietti said. “Another important benefit of these programs is that they bring the ever-important subject of environmental conservation into the classroom. We’re educating our next generation on the importance of being wise stewards of the land and teaching them to think in terms of solving ongoing environmental challenges.” The grant to the Mercer County Conservation District is one of a package of Environmental Education mini grants awarded by DEP to encourage environmental awareness in students and adults. The grant program focuses on projects that educate and empower disadvantaged communities to participate in environmental and public health issues; teach the public about emissions reduction, energy conservation, and renewable energy; and educate local officials, business owners and homeowners about ways of reducing pollution and monitoring and improving water quality. Enacted in 1993, the Environmental Education Act mandates that 5% of all pollution fines and penalties collected annually by Read more

 

Longietti lauds final passage of budget bill, citing ‘strategic investments’

(Jun 27, 2019) Rep. Mark A. Longietti

HARRISBURG, June 27 – State Rep. Mark Longietti, D-Mercer, lauded today’s final passage of the state’s $34 billion spending plan, saying he believed that, although not perfect, H.B. 790 makes sensible investments in the commonwealth’s future. “I’m encouraged that this year’s budget is responsible, that it holds the line on taxes, and that it puts about $300 million into the state’s Rainy Day Fund,” Longietti said. “Most importantly, I voted for this budget because it makes strategic investments that are important to the people of Mercer County and across the commonwealth. “I’m especially pleased that the new budget adds $160 million for basic education funding, which will help our local school districts; a $50 million increase in special education funding; and a $25 million increase for early childhood education. Early education programs like Pre-K Counts are critically important because they provide kids with the fundamentals they need for the best possible start in life, which is key to success later on. “I’m also encouraged by a 2% increase for higher education and a $10 million increased commitment for career and technical education programs, which provide an important pipeline for young job seekers entering the workforce. “Another important aspect of the budget is that it funds programs to support our seniors, those with intellectual disabilities and the most vulnerable Read more

 

Longietti: $47,000 grant to improve services for child abuse victims
1 day ago

Longietti hosting December LIHEAP workshops
Nov 26, 2019

Committee unanimously approves Longietti bill benefiting borough planning
Nov 21, 2019

Longietti, Brooks: Tax credits will provide for $132,000 in funding to address food insecurity, mitigate blight
Nov 18, 2019

Longietti, Brooks: $40,000 to fund Sharpsville playground improvements
Nov 14, 2019

Longietti, Brooks: $730,000 in grants to fund roadway improvements for new Town Center project
Nov 12, 2019

Longietti hosting Real ID information sessions Nov. 8
Oct 31, 2019

Longietti to present certificates of recognition to afterschool programs
Oct 21, 2019

Longietti: More than $61,500 in grants awarded to enhance school safety
Oct 18, 2019

Longietti, Brooks: $225,000 in state grants will help connect Mercer County residents to recreational activities, amenities
Sep 17, 2019

Longietti Discusses Concerns Of Aging School Buildings
Sep 06, 2019

Longietti: Grant of nearly $30,000 to bolster South Pymatuning traffic safety
Sep 04, 2019

Longietti reappointed to Special Education Funding Commission
Sep 03, 2019

Longietti, Brooks partner with community to secure $2.5 million in funding for Hermitage
Aug 01, 2019

Longietti: $1 million available in DEP grants for small businesses and farmers
Jul 26, 2019

Longietti: More than $35,000 in grants will bring fresh fruits, vegetables to area elementary school menus
Jul 16, 2019

Longietti: $18,000 to fund Mercer County rental assistance program
Jul 12, 2019

Longietti to host Senior & Health Education Fair July 18
Jul 12, 2019

Longietti: $3,000 grant to fund school programs, public outreach on backyard water conservation
Jun 28, 2019

Longietti lauds final passage of budget bill, citing ‘strategic investments’
Jun 27, 2019