Memorial Day Ceremonies, $850K Secured for Downtown Erie, PTRR Deadline Extension, & more!

Rep. Robert Merski May 28, 2026 | 3:58 PM

Honoring the Fallen

Sunday’s Memorial Day observance at the Erie Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Home was an honor to attend. The event was both humbling and heartfelt. Conversations with residents, staff, and neighbors revealed vivid memories of service, friendship, and hardship.

Those stories are a poignant reminder of the meaning behind Memorial Day and of our ongoing duty to care for veterans and their loved ones.

Wesleyville Memorial Day Events

We also attended Memorial Day ceremonies at Wesleyville Borough and at American Legion Carl Neff Post 571. Both events were a moving tribute to the men and women who paid the ultimate sacrifice in service to our country.

These ceremonies remind us of the debt we owe to those who served and the importance of supporting veterans and their families year-round.

Remembering Our Heroes at Veterans Park

We stood with neighbors, veterans, and local leaders at the City of Erie’s Memorial Day ceremony at Veterans Park. The program was solemn and deeply moving. It was an honor to remember their courage and commitment.

$850,000 Awarded to Revitalize Flagship City Commons

We were ecstatic to hear the news that the Erie Downtown Development Corporation has been awarded $850,000 in Main Street Matters funding to transform the Flagship City Commons on North Park Row.

This project will breathe new life into a historic block, converting under-utilized buildings into roughly 40,000 sq. ft. of affordable retail and office space and a small business incubator. Expect more local shops, new jobs, and fresh opportunities for entrepreneurs, helping to make downtown Erie a livelier place to work, shop, and visit.

Free Family Support from the Erie Family Center

The Erie Family Center offers free, evidence-based programs to strengthen families, empower parents, and promote child well-being through positive parenting education and resources.

Services are available at no cost and with no income restrictions. Offerings include home visits, group classes, and resources like the Diaper Depot. We were proud to support their recent book fair.

To learn more or access services, visit eriefamilycenter.org.

Property Tax/Rent Rebate Application Deadline Extended

The Shapiro Administration has extended the PTRR application deadline to Dec. 31, 2026, giving eligible Pennsylvanians additional time to apply for rebates on property taxes or rent paid in 2025. The extension is intended to help older adults, widows and widowers, and individuals with disabilities who may be feeling the impact of rising costs.

If you think you may qualify, please consider applying or encouraging an eligible family member or neighbor to apply. For application forms, eligibility details, and filing instructions, visit the Pennsylvania Department of Revenue website or contact our office and we will help connect you with the right resources.