We wanted to begin this week’s eblast with some great news! PENNVEST has approved $10 million to support Phase 6 of Erie’s customer-side galvanized service line replacement project.

This funding will accelerate the replacement of about 1,250 aging service connections — including excavation and restoration — while avoiding potential rate increases for households. 

The system serves nearly 57,000 households across Erie and surrounding municipalities, and this investment helps ensure clean, reliable, and affordable water for our communities.

Erie County organizations have also been awarded more than $5.37 million in tax-credit investments through the Neighborhood Assistance Program. These funds will support dozens of community-driven projects that strengthen neighborhoods, expand access to essential services, and boost economic opportunity across the county.

A quick reminder that your voice truly matters in the upcoming November 3 General Election. As we get closer to key dates, now is the perfect time to make sure you’re ready to participate.

The next important deadline is October 27 — the last day to apply for a mail-in or absentee ballot. If you plan to vote by mail, be sure to submit your application as soon as possible.

Upcoming dates to keep in mind:

 • October 27: Last day to apply for a mail-in or absentee ballot
• November 3: Election Day

You can review your voting information or check the status of a ballot at vote.pa.gov.

Harborcreek Fall Fest was a fantastic time! The weather was perfect, and it was great to see so many people enjoying the event.

A big thank-you to the Harborcreek Community Engagement Team for putting together such a wonderful day.

We had an incredible time celebrating the 150th anniversaries of the Corry State Fish Hatchery and the Union City Aquatic Conservation Center. It was an honor to be part of such an important milestone in our region’s conservation efforts.

In honor of Financial Planning Month, the PA Auditor General’s Office is excited to invite all Pennsylvania students in grades K–12 to take part in this year’s Be Money $mart Activity Book Cover Contest!

Students are encouraged to create a cover design for our upcoming Be Money $mart Activity Book, which features coloring pages, word searches, crosswords, and budgeting activities — all focused on building financial literacy skills. The winning artwork will be showcased on the cover of the published book, and the winning student’s class or school will receive a special visit from the Auditor General for a fun and educational financial literacy session.

Submissions are due October 30.

Learn more, download templates, and submit your design at https://www.paauditor.gov/take-action/be-money-smart/activitybook/activity-book-cover-contest/.

Bob Merski

District Office

3921 Buffalo Rd.

Erie, PA 16510

(814) 455-6319

Pennsylvania State Capitol

221 Irvis Office Building

P.O. Box 202002

Harrisburg, PA 17120

(717) 787-4358