$10 Million Secured for Erie, My Bill to Fight Blight Passes House, Championing Responsible Firearm Ownership, and more!

Rep. Robert Merski April 25, 2025 | 12:23 PM

Erie County's Water Infrastructure Receives Boost

Thanks to $10 million in funding from the Pennsylvania Infrastructure Investment Authority (PENNVEST), Erie County is taking a monumental step toward cleaner, safer water for all.

This project will replace 1,250 service connections, eliminating lead risks and modernizing our water infrastructure. But this isn’t just about upgrading pipes—it’s about safeguarding public health and building a stronger future for the 31,748 households we serve.

Together, we’re ensuring Erie County continues to thrive.

A Major Step Forward for Our Communities

The Pennsylvania House has passed my bill, H.B. 273, a key step in our fight against neighborhood blight. This legislation would establish a Municipal Codes Enforcement Grant Program and a neighborhood mitigation fund to help our communities restore and revitalize affected areas.

Having served on city council, I've seen firsthand how urban decay undermines community spirit. This bill would provide our municipalities the resources they need to rebuild and enhance local safety and pride. I extend my heartfelt thanks to my colleagues and community advocates for their crucial support.

Click here to watch me speak in the PA House regarding this vital legislation.

Community Event on Responsible Firearm Ownership is Next Week

Our community event with the Erie County Sheriff’s Office is taking place next week—Wednesday, April 30, from 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. at the Greene Township Municipal Building (9333 Tate Road, Erie, PA).

This event will provide an excellent opportunity to dive into your rights and responsibilities as a legal firearm owner. It’s the perfect setting to get informed, ask vital questions, and ensure you’re equipped with the knowledge to stay safe and compliant.

We look forward to seeing you there and engaging in this important conversation.

Harbor Creek's Talon King Raises the Bar at the 2025 Teen Driver Safety Competition

Congratulations to Talon King of Harbor Creek High School for her outstanding achievement at the 2025 Teen Driver Safety Competition in Erie County!

Talon’s skill and commitment are impressive and inspiring for our community. Her dedication to safe driving is a shining example of the talent we nurture here in Pennsylvania. Keep raising the bar, Talon!

Opportunity to Strengthen Our Communities

We wanted to take this opportunity to provide some vital information about the Neighborhood Assistance Program, a tax credit initiative administered by the PA Department of Community and Economic Development. This program encourages businesses to invest in projects that improve distressed areas across the Commonwealth, fostering positive change in our communities.

The NAP offers several programs designed to assist low-income and distressed neighborhoods, promote positive health outcomes, and enhance the safety and welfare of residents. Importantly, proposed projects must not result in the displacement or forced relocation of low-income individuals or households.

The program’s goals include:

Encouraging community participation and collaboration among residents, nonprofits, and businesses.
Producing meaningful outcomes that benefit distressed areas or low-income populations.

Applications for the NAP must be completed and submitted by 5 p.m. on May 30, 2025.

For more details about the program and the application process, please visit the DCED website.

Let’s work together to strengthen our communities and create lasting positive change.

Help Shape PennDOT's Winter Services

Safe and reliable travel on our roadways is always a top priority. As we move into spring, PennDOT is asking for your feedback on their winter services through a quick, anonymous online survey available until April 28. Your input helps shape how PennDOT communicates and enhances its operations.

The survey covers topics like snow removal, road safety, and the use of tools like 511PA’s real-time traveler services. Take five minutes to share your thoughts and help improve our community's roadways!

Share Your Vision for PA Transportation

The 2025 Public Comment Period for updating the 12-Year Program closes next Wednesday, April 30. Now is the perfect time to take the Transportation Survey and have your voice heard!

Your feedback is crucial. The State Transportation Commission (STC) and PennDOT are committed to ensuring that our statewide transportation planning reflects the needs of our communities. Click here to access the survey.

Submit Your Designs for “Bells Across PA”

As part of the America250PA initiative, we’re launching “Bells Across PA”—a public art series that celebrates our nation’s heritage by installing uniquely designed fiberglass bell sculptures in every one of our 67 counties.

Key Project Details:

Exterior Bells: Installation runs from April 2025 through December 2025. All must be in place by Dec. 31, 2025, and remain on display until Dec. 31, 2026.
Interior Bells: Installation timing will vary.
Who Can Apply: Open to all Pennsylvania artists and creative groups—from seasoned professionals to emerging talents.
Honorarium: Each commissioned bell will receive an honorarium, regardless of team size.

This initiative is your chance to help mark a historic milestone while leaving a lasting, positive impact on communities across our state. We encourage every passionate artist to seize this opportunity and submit your innovative designs.