HARRISBURG, PA — The Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) has granted $1,096,322 to 13 municipalities as part of the Strategic Management Planning Program (STMP). The funding aims to strengthen financial capacity and foster economic stability in communities across the state. DCED Secretary Rick Siger emphasized the program’s vital role in supporting local governments in managing their fiscal challenges and preparing for sustainable growth.
The STMP provides matching grants, capped at $200,000 per municipality, to help local governments experiencing financial stress. These funds are designed to aid in multi-year financial planning and the development of long-term fiscal strategies. Governor Josh Shapiro secured additional funding for the program in the 2023-24 bipartisan budget, reflecting his administration’s focus on supporting Pennsylvania’s economic resilience.
Key grant recipients include Upper Darby Township in Delaware County, which received $200,000 to upgrade financial management systems, including a new HR and payroll platform. Perry County was awarded $135,000 to implement a government-wide technology needs assessment and create a capital improvement plan. Forest County will use its $55,899 grant to hire consultants to assess financial systems and map a path to stability, while Sharpsburg Borough in Allegheny County received $126,212 for technology upgrades and emergency notification tools.
Secretary Siger noted that “healthy, vibrant communities” are fundamental to economic strength and credited the STMP with empowering municipalities to craft sound financial strategies for a sustainable future.
This initiative forms part of Governor Shapiro’s broader efforts to bolster Pennsylvania’s economy, which also include implementing a statewide economic development strategy, funding programs to assist minority-owned businesses, and growing shovel-ready industrial sites through the PA SITES program.
By equipping local governments with critical planning resources, the Strategic Management Planning Program positions municipalities to build robust financial frameworks. These efforts are expected to drive regional economic development and enhance community vitality across Pennsylvania in the years ahead.
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