This spring I co-sponsored legislation that creates an incentive program for local small
businesses to raise their pay above the minimum wage. For businesses that raise their
wages to the federally recommended $10.10/hour, the city will offer free advertising on
bus shelters. The program is designed to bring more middle class, family sustaining jobs
to Pittsburgh.
Did you know that the Urban Redevelopment Authority offers 0% interest loans to city
residents for home improvements? The program is only offered to households that meet
the income requirements. Find more information here:
http://www.ura.org/pittsburgh_residents/home_improvement_loans.php
PWSA recently announced a Green Infrastructure Grant program to fund projects like
rain gardens, or porous pavement, which help keep rain water out of our overstressed
sewer system. The program, which is geared towards private property owners and
community groups, will include 50% matching funds for larger-scale projects, and mini-
grants of up to $5,000. Contact Katherine Camp at 412-255-8800 x2656 or
kcamp@pgh2o.com for more information.
Having worked as a community activist on the North Side for nearly forty years, I have
always believed that volunteer work is the best way to strengthen neighborhoods, and
make our city a more livable place. To support communities throughout District 1, I’ve
recently made numerous allocations through the city’s Neighborhood Needs and
Community Development Block Grant programs, to support neighborhood projects and
to help build organizational capacity, including $12,500 for the Brighton Heights
Citizens’ Federation.
Please contact my office if you have any questions or concerns. I can be reached at
412.255.2135 or online at http://pittsburghpa.gov/district1/feedback.
