I am pleased to share key highlights from Gov. Shapiro’s recent announcement of a 10-year Strategic Plan for Economic Development in Pennsylvania and budget address, particularly focusing on Berks County’s pivotal role in the proposed statewide economic development strategy.
We applaud the efforts of Gov. Shapiro, his administration and TeamPA in shaping this plan, which presents an opportunity for Berks County to leverage its resources and talent for further growth. The plan’s emphasis on reinvesting in successful economic development programs, breaking down bureaucratic barriers and supporting innovation aligns well with our countywide Imagine Berks strategy and the work of the Greater Reading Chamber Alliance (GRCA).
While the strategy has a statewide focus, several priorities resonate strongly with us in Berks County. These include the emphasis on priority industries particularly manufacturing and agriculture, support for disadvantaged businesses, regional collaboration, and site development. At GRCA, we are committed to fostering regional collaboration and exploring collaborative opportunities with our neighboring communities, recognizing the interconnectedness of the economic ecosystem in Greater Reading.
| We are encouraged that Gov. Shapiro’s budget address aligns significant resources to implement the economic development strategy this includes:• $500 million in PA SITES funding to bring more commercial and industrial sites online and ensure companies have options for attractive business environments where they can move quickly and thrive in Pennsylvania. The infusion of funding presents a significant opportunity to address the challenges facing commercial and industrial site development in Berks County. With limited available sites, this funding could catalyze efforts to overcome utility capacity constraints and regulatory barriers. Moreover, it aligns with GRCA’s ongoing commitment to support the return of passenger rail and transit-oriented development in the City of Reading. By leveraging these resources, we can enhance connectivity and economic opportunities, advancing our collective goals for sustainable growth and development in the region. GRCA will closely monitor the site readiness process for any updates and developments. |
| • $25 million for the Main Street Matters program, to support small businesses and commercial corridors that are the backbone of communities across our Commonwealth. Berks County boasts five commercial corridors, and securing additional funding is essential to support their ongoing redevelopment and expansion. Initiatives like the Community Revitalization and Improvement Zone (CRIZ) in the City of Reading are pivotal in revitalizing communities and enhancing their commercial vibrancy. As GRCA continues its national talent attraction and retention campaign through Meet Greater Reading, the significance of placemaking and vibrant commercial destinations becomes increasingly evident, showcasing the vibrant culture of our region. |
| • Focusing resources on workforce development and childcare. The Governor’s budget proposal includes major policy initiatives to better coordinate and streamline workforce training programs statewide. In Berks County, we are blessed to have a thriving and collaborative workforce training network amongst our academic institutions and employers. We encourage policymakers to emulate our successful, nimble model that includes national award-winning institutions and tailor-made programs to fit local needs. The budget also includes $66.89 million in various childcare programs including Pre-K Counts and Head Start, offering more parents the opportunity to reenter the workforce. Last year, Pennsylvania expanded the childcare tax credit to help offset some of the cost of childcare. We look forward to expanding discussions related to reducing regulatory burdens on childcare operators, removing red tape barriers to opening a childcare center, and identifying funding to help reduce the cost of childcare to families while increasing the rate of pay for childcare workers. As the budget process progresses, we hope to continue discussions related to several key policy areas: • Permitting and regulatory reform: The Shapiro Administration has shown a commitment to realigning and reforming the antiquated processes for achieving state permits and certifications. The next step in the process is to identify the regulatory language in permits that slows down the process for approval. Analyzing the most often utilized permits, especially related to construction activities, and finding ways to reduce the time to approval will save state resources and help “Get Stuff Done.” As we advocate for these reforms, it is imperative to recognize the local impact, particularly in municipalities across Berks County which have pledged to be “open for business.” By identifying regulatory barriers and working collaboratively with municipalities, we can collectively enhance efficiency, reduce approval timelines, and foster a more conducive environment for businesses to thrive in our region. • Business Tax Reform: Pennsylvania is on the path to having a more competitive Corporate Net Income Tax(CNIT) in the future, but we’re competing for and losing out on projects today. Speeding up the reduction of the CNIT and reforming how Pennsylvania treats Net Operating Losses would help most Pennsylvania businesses, freeing up resources to reinvest in the growth of their business and the development of their employees. |
