Mar. 17, 2023
HARRISBURG – Rep. Rob Kauffman (R-Franklin) today announced four local entities in his legislative district have been awarded funding through the state for community projects or acquisitions.
“I am so pleased to have these worthy organizations receive state funding through this highly competitive program,” said Kauffman. “From the purchase of needed first responder vehicles, a new construction vehicle for the local Habitat for Humanity organization and the development of an amphitheater in Chambersburg, these grants will go a long way in improving our communities here in Franklin County.”
Funding was awarded under the Local Share Account program, which is funded by revenue collected as part of Pennsylvania’s Gaming Act, not by taxpayer dollars.
Chambersburg Borough is being awarded $879,865 to construct an outdoor amphitheater and greenspace in Chambersburg Borough. The project consists of purchasing a vacant lot at
59 Lincoln Way West in Chambersburg; construction of a park-like open-air amphitheater, including hardscape seating, performance space cover, landscaping, fencing, pedestrian and pathway lighting; pathways connecting throughout the park site; and adjacent existing greenways and other fixed amenities.
“We are extremely appreciative for this funding,” said Sam Thrush, president of Downtown Chambersburg Inc. “This funding would not be possible without the support of the borough, Rep. Kauffman, Sen. Mastriano and the Commonwealth Financing Authority. We look forward to the day we can unveil the completed project, which will offer an exciting outdoor space for musical performances and entertainment. It is our hope this project also serves as a catalyst for revitalization of all the properties along Lincoln Way West.”
Marion Volunteer Fire Company is being awarded $374,310 for the purchase of a new ambulance for use in Guilford Township. The ambulance will be a new F-550 4x4 Gasoline Rescue 170 Module Ultramedic Type 1 Ambulance with Stryker Power Load stretcher loading system and stretcher.
“The Marion Volunteer Fire Company was excited to hear the news that the PA Commonwealth Financing Authority awarded our company a $374,310 grant from Local Share Accounts funds, which will allow us to replace our 2001 ambulance to better serve the community. Many thanks to our administrator, Jim Birgfeld, and Guilford Township supervisor, Don Clapper, for completing and submitting all the necessary documents required to be considered for this funding. Receiving this grant for an ambulance allows our fundraising efforts to now be directed to other needed equipment and improvements to our station,” said Amy Murray, president of Marion Volunteer Fire Company.
The Franklin County Sheriff’s Department is being awarded $53,708 for the purchase of a K9-equipped vehicle to transport a newly acquired explosives detection and human tracking K9 police dog.
“The money awarded to the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office for the purchase of a new K9 vehicle is a game changer. Since K9 Iron joined the sheriff's office family in 2022, he has been serving Franklin County and the South-Central region with pride. Since graduating the basic academy in April of 2022, K9 Iron and his handler, have responded to many calls, and done hundreds of proactive searches within Franklin County. Proactive sweeps are conducted at schools, businesses and government buildings. Due to the type of work they do and their need to always be available, a reliable and specially equipped vehicle is paramount to maximizing this resource. This money will ensure they can go where needed quickly, safely and ready to go to work,” said Chief Deputy Benjamin Sites. “Since the inception of our first-ever K9 program, it was always a mission of our office to reduce the burden of the cost of this resource on the citizens of the county. Though in desperate need of a specialty vehicle, we did not ask the county for a vehicle, and applied for multiple grants. We are very proud and excited to learn of this award and cannot wait to get Iron and Deputy Flannery in their new ride!”
Habitat for Humanity of Franklin County Inc. is also being awarded $65,888 for the purchase of a Ford F-250 SD Crew Cab Truck for delivery of tools and materials for the Habitat for Humanity Chambersburg office located in Guildford Township.
The funding was approved by the Commonwealth Financing Authority (CFA) on March 16. CFA is an independent agency that holds fiduciary responsibility over the funding of programs and investments in Pennsylvania’s economic growth.
Representative Rob Kauffman
89th District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
Media Contact: Tricia Lehman
717.772.9840
tlehman@pahousegop.com
RepKauffman.com