The last piece of Gov. Rendell’s economic stimulus package proposed in March 2003 was given final action by the General Assembly this week to fund $350 million in water and wastewater projects and implement the bond issue passed by voters in the Spring.

Senate Bill 1102 (Gordner-R-Northumberland) would allocate $200 million to the Commonwealth Financing Authority and $150 to PennVEST ($50 million from the bond question and $100 million from existing debt authority).

“Water and sewer infrastructure is an important factor for businesses considering relocating into our communities,” Sen. Gordner said. “Aside from the health and safety benefits provided by a clean, safe water supply, this important funding will help us create and retain jobs here in Pennsylvania.”

Debate on the legislation in the House was spirited on the issue of whether the legislation encourages sprawl by requiring the $250 million approved by voters to be used for economic development projects, not limited to projects on land that was previously used or for projects that are exclusively residential development.

The vote in the House was 133 to 63, unanimous in the Senate.

11/21/2004