Public Forums Scheduled on Harrisburg's Act 47 Status

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Pennsylvania Department of Community & Economic Development

Feb 17, 2011, 11:21 ET

Coordinators to Answer Questions, Seek Input for Comprehensive Recovery Plan

HARRISBURG, Pa., Feb. 17, 2011 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The Act 47 coordinators assigned to develop a comprehensive recovery plan for Harrisburg have scheduled two meetings to answer questions, hear concerns, and gain input from the public.

Representatives from Harrisburg's Act 47 team, which is led by The Novak Consulting Group and includes Bob O' Donnell of O'Donnell Associates, the Pennsylvania Economy League and the law firm of Stevens and Lee, will lead the meetings at the following dates and times:

Meeting 1: Monday, Feb. 28; 5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
Location: YWCA, Highmark Ballroom, 1101 Market St., Harrisburg

Meeting 2: Monday, March 7; 5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
Location: Heinz-Menaker Senior Center, 1824 N. 4th St., Harrisburg

Act 47 coordinators are responsible for working with city officials, employees, civic and business organizations and the broader community to develop a comprehensive recovery plan that address all areas of municipal operations. The plan will recommend improvements to Harrisburg's organizational structure, financial administration, debt situation, municipal service levels, and overall economic base.

Once drafted, the recovery plan will be subject to additional public hearing and comment. Following the plan's adoption by the city, the coordinators will then help to implement the plan's recommendations.

Act 47 of 1987 directs the commonwealth to provide oversight and develop a formal partnership with cities that are experiencing financial distress to ensure that taxpayers receive vital services. Pennsylvania's oversight includes fiscal management, technical assistance, planning and financial aid, with emphasis on long-term fiscal management improvements, service delivery efficiencies, intergovernmental cooperation, and economic/community development activities.

For more information on the resources available for local governments experiencing financial distress, or additional information about Act 47, visit www.newpa.com or call 1-866-466-3972.

Media contact: Jamie Yates, 717-783-1132

SOURCE Pennsylvania Department of Community & Economic Development