Tag Archives: Mayor Eric Papenfuse

LGBT Center left headquarters following dispute with Harrisburg mayor over building

December 16, 2021 | by Maddie Gittens

Former location of the LGBT Center of Central PA on N. 3rd St.

Last October, the LBGT Center of Central PA abruptly left its long-time headquarters in Midtown Harrisburg.

At the time, Amanda Arbour, the center’s executive director, said that “a number of factors have aligned to indicate that now is the right time to make this move.” They would work remotely out of GLO-Harrisburg, located several blocks away, until they find another, larger home, she said.

However, center officials have now publicly released a lengthy statement explaining in greater detail why they left the building at 1306 N. 3rd St. They had to leave due to unaddressed, potentially harmful, environmental factors, they said.

In their statement, center officials placed blame for the departure squarely on the landlord, who also happens to be the city’s mayor. For his part, Mayor Eric Papenfuse thoroughly disputes their version of events.

In a lengthy press release, the center claims that they found mold and asbestos in the basement of their leased building and brought up these concerns with Papenfuse. According to Arbour, the center brought in inspectors who identified the mold as “a serious issue requiring remediation,” she said.

According to Arbour, Papenfuse was resistant to follow the remediation treatment proposed by inspectors that the center brought in. Instead, she said, he proposed an alternate treatment, which Arbour did not believe would address the issue.

In the meantime, the center closed off impacted areas of the building, she said.

While the center did not rent the basement of the facility, Arbour said that Papenfuse allowed them to use it for storage.

“It was a stressful, frustrating, and exhausting process trying to address these serious issues in our building with no support or acknowledgment of the potential impact on our health and safety from our landlord,” Arbour said. “We wish our departure had been under different circumstances, but with the lack of response and subsequent non-action from Eric Papenfuse, we had no other option.”

However, Papenfuse, responding to TheBurg via text message, said that he wasn’t against remediation, but rather wanted to hire his own contractor, stating that Arbour’s suggested company would’ve cost $10,000.

“We never said we wouldn’t remediate the mold in the basement,” he said. “A lot of Harrisburg basements are unfinished and have areas where water penetrates. It was simply a matter of cost and approach.”

According to Arbour, Papenfuse asked them to remove their items from the basement so that they could do a walk-through with him. Papenfuse said that they shouldn’t have been using the basement.

“He did not address any of our specific requests or the documentation that we had provided,” Arbour said in a statement on the center’s website. “This response indicated to us that he had no intention of addressing these serious health and safety issues in his property.”

The center requested an early lease termination, which Papenfuse said he honored.

“They were not forced out,” he said. “The situation was handled professionally at all times.”

Papenfuse said that he has since remediated the mold in the basement.

He added that he saw the public statement, which was also posted on social media, as a fundraising tactic by the center.

“It’s a viciously slanderous email that uses hate as a fundraising tool,” he said.*

The LGBT Center stated that they decided to wait to share their experience until after the recent 2021 municipal election, in which Papenfuse ran as a write-in candidate for mayor and ultimately lost to Democratic nominee Wanda Williams. Arbour said that they wanted to avoid the appearance of involvement in a political campaign which could have affected their tax-exempt status as a nonprofit.

“We feel it is important to hold Eric Papenfuse publicly accountable for how he treated us as a tenant, and to do our part to ensure that other tenants or potential tenants aren’t put in the same position as we were,” Arbour said. “We will not be silent in the face of injustice and mistreatment.”

As part of their statement, the center added that for those who would like to help offset the costs associated with the mold, the move and the ongoing operations that have been affected, they welcome donations.

* This story was updated with an additional quote from Mayor Papenfuse.

Support quality local journalism. Become a Friend of TheBurg!

The Week that Was: News and features around Harrisburg

December 3, 2021 | by Lawrance Binda and Maddie Gittens

Local photographer Kim Love has an exhibit in Harrisburg’s City Government Center.

Our December issue of the magazine is out! Throw on a coat and pick up a copy at a location near you or read it online. If you’re ready for all the holiday feels, you’re going to want to read these stories. But first, make sure you’re in the know on this week’s news, listed below.

Capital Region Water approved new 2022 rates for Harrisburg customers, our online story reported. The budget includes a 3% increase for drinking water and a 4% hike for wastewater service.

Crossroads Christian Ministry found a new church location after the congregation was forced out of its former building a few years ago. In our magazine feature, read the church’s story of sticking together through transition and finding a new home.

Dauphin County Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) is hoping to raise money this holiday season to support its advocacy efforts, our online story reported. The organization works to support youth in the foster system.

December brings lots of events with it, and we have them all in our monthly Happenings listing. Take a look, here.

The federal building in Harrisburg saw a final offer of $10 million on Thursday, after the online auction closed, our reporting found. The 246,000-square-foot building is located at 228 Walnut St.

The Harrisburg School District offered free flu shots to staff, students, families and the community this week, our online story reported. The clinic was held in partnership with UPMC.

Holiday events take the spotlight in our December Community Corner. If you’re looking for something festive to do, look no further.

As Mayor Eric Papenfuse approaches the end of his two terms in office, our editor reflects on his most significant accomplishments and shortcomings.

Mountain biking has become popular in the Harrisburg area, our magazine story reported. The Susquehanna Area Mountain Biking Association (SAMBA) provides local support to bikers through information and education.

New Year’s Eve celebrations are returning to Harrisburg this year after being held virtually last year due to the pandemic, our reporting found. The festivities will be held at FNB Field on City Island and will include fireworks, food trucks, live music and the traditional strawberry drop.

Open Stage is bringing back its traditional “A Christmas Carol” show that takes the stage each December. It’s a classic and perfect for the whole family to enjoy. Need more convincing? Here are the top five reasons why you should get tickets.

Our editor isn’t the biggest fan of winter, but is looking on the bright side of things this holiday season. Read his December Editor’s Note, here.

Pennsylvania awarded Harrisburg two grants to improve public safety and recreation in the city, our online story reported. One $500,000 grant will go towards the city’s community policing division and $150,000 will help with Reservoir Park improvements.

Photographer Kim Love’s exhibit “The Forgotten City” is on display at Harrisburg’s City Government Center, our online story reported. Through her art, Love seeks to give a voice to the overlooked in the city.

Sara Bozich has a list of weekend events perfect for getting into the Christmas spirit. There are light shows, holiday craft classes and seasonal shows, among other fun things.

Suicide is the nation’s 10^th leading cause of death, our magazine story reported. Capital BlueCross has some tips for how to spot the warning signs and support someone who is contemplating it.

Do you receive TheBurg Daily, our daily digest of news and events delivered right to your email inbox? If not, sign up here!

Support quality local journalism. Join Friends of TheBurg today!

Float Fun: Harrisburg’s holiday parade returns with balloons, bands, Santa

November 17, 2021 | by Maddie Gittens

A past holiday parade in Harrisburg

With Thanksgiving just a week away and the Christmas countdown on, Harrisburg is ready to get you in the holiday spirit.

The city’s 2021 holiday parade will be held this Saturday downtown, featuring all the traditional staples, including marching bands, balloons and floats.

“We are very excited about this year’s parade,” said Mayor Eric Papenfuse. “The parade route spans 1.5 miles, allowing ample space to socially distance and safely kick off the holiday season.”

Last year, the holiday parade was modified to be a drive-through event due to the pandemic. This year, the traditional parade will return with the theme “Merry and Bright.”

The parade will begin at 10 a.m. at Market Street and travel down N. 2nd Street. It will then turn on North Street and again onto N. Front Street. The parade will then make its way to City Island.

Road closures of the Market Street Bridge, N. Front Street and 2^nd street from Market to Forster streets will begin at 7 a.m. and end at about 2 p.m.

The marching band from Harrisburg High School, as well as other area schools will perform, along with local dance and step teams.

Large balloons will be part of the parade and feature Daniel Tiger, Buddy the Dinosaur, a nutcracker and Rudolph.

And what’s a holiday parade without Santa? Following the parade, families can visit St. Nick in Strawberry Square and enjoy free cookies and hot chocolate.

At 12:30 p.m., awards will be given to the top dance, step and drill teams, as well as the marching bands. Parade participants can also enter to win the “Best in Theme” contest.

A free COVID-19 vaccine clinic, provided by East Shore Pharmacy, will administer shots from 9:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. on parade day. The clinic will be located next to the stage at 10 N. 2^nd Street. The primary and booster series for Johnson & Johnson, Pfizer and Moderna will be offered. Pediatric vaccines will not be available.

In addition, local coffee shops will offer specialty drinks and discounts including Denim Coffee, Good Brothas Book Café and Little Amps.

Local nonprofit All you Can Inc. will serve a free community Thanksgiving dinner from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. at the bus station at N. 2^nd and Market streets.

The Market Square Garage will offer a $10 special event rate from 8 a.m. until 8 p.m., courtesy of Park Harrisburg. Parade attendees can use the ParkMobile App to get up to four hours of free street parking in downtown Harrisburg using the code “LUVHBG.”

Sponsors for the Holiday parade include Visit Hershey & Harrisburg, Explore HBG, T-Mobile, Cargill, Capital BlueCross, UPMC, Belco Community Credit Union, Harrisburg Downtown Improvement District, JP Lilley, Aetna, Fox Pest Control, Staybridge Suites, CBS21 and Park Harrisburg.

For a 2021 Holiday Parade route map and more information, visit their website.

If you like what we do, please support our work. Become a Friend of TheBurg!

Pennies from Heaven: Flush with cash, Harrisburg needs a plan

October 29, 2021 | by Lawrance Binda

Illustration by Rich Hauck

In the often-cruel world of municipal finance, it’s not everyday that a bucketful of money drops into your lap.

But that’s what’s happening in cities and towns across the country.

Back in March, Congress passed the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), which, in part, gave $350 billion in relief to state, local and tribal governments.

Harrisburg’s share of these “local relief” funds: a cool $48 million.

Now, many months have elapsed since the federal government told Harrisburg how much money it will receive and issued rules on how it can be spent. However, unlike many cities and towns across the country, the real conversation in Harrisburg has only just begun.

In a press conference last month, Mayor Eric Papenfuse said that he wanted to use the funds for city pool replacement and a guaranteed income pilot program. Meanwhile, council members have mentioned such things as infrastructure work, COVID expense reimbursement, affordable housing and small business support.

Harrisburg, though, has yet to officially introduce an ARPA plan, the first real step in a long process before these funds can be put to work to help city residents. Some council members also have expressed an interest in public hearings before drawing up a plan.

Personally, I like many of the ideas proposed so far. Harrisburg has plenty of unaddressed needs, and this unexpected bounty could have a huge impact on people’s lives.

I would like, though, to make a case for devoting at least some share to the city’s aged, dysfunctional sewer infrastructure. Let me explain why.

First, ARPA money can be deployed only for certain types of things. Most routine municipal infrastructure projects, such as building or fixing roads or bridges, are not allowed. But, notably, water and sewer projects are permitted.

Secondly, Harrisburg has become a regional poster child for water pollution. Its ancient, “combined” sewer system suffers from two main problems—leaks and sewage overflows. The water/sewer authority, Capital Region Water (CRW), reports that some 800 million gallons of raw sewage mixed with stormwater rush into the Susquehanna River each year.

Obviously, this is a problem for our environment, but also for the people of Harrisburg.

“The ongoing sewage releases are an environmental justice problem that must be addressed so that the people of Harrisburg can safely use their own waterfront to fish and swim,” according to Mary Greene, deputy director of the Environmental Integrity Project, a Washington, D.C.-based policy group.

For the past six years, Harrisburg has been under an agreement with the U.S. Department of Environmental Protection to repair and upgrade its outmoded, decaying sewer infrastructure and slash the pollutants damaging the river.

As a result, CRW has embarked on a set of solutions called “City Beautiful H2O,” which emphasizes “green infrastructure” to reduce stormwater flowing into the Susquehanna, as well as other fixes and improvements.

The schedule, however, is long, and the cost is high. CRW has a 20-year time horizon for the project at a price tag of up to $315 million.

To help pay for all this, CRW last year imposed a new stormwater fee on residents and businesses, which raises about $5 million a year. It also has received substantial state support in the form of low-interest loans.

Absent grants, though, nearly all of the cost eventually will be borne by Harrisburg consumers, who generally are in no position to pay it.

So, in my mind, sewer improvements are an all-around winner. They help solve an enormous challenge, offer a cleaner environment and may help relieve residents of high and likely rising utility costs.

It’s like money falling from the sky to help fix a festering, wildly expensive problem.

But there is urgency. Under ARPA rules, cities have just until the end of 2026 to exhaust these funds, which, in the world of capital projects, is not very long at all. In the meantime, Harrisburg must come up with a detailed plan for the money, get public input, fund the projects, deploy the money and undertake the work.

As I mentioned above, many municipalities already are deep into the process for using their funds.

For instance, Chambersburg already has developed, held a public hearing on and approved a list of eight projects, including a stormwater project, for its $7.7 million in local relief money. So, the borough is well on its way to getting a bang for its ARPA bucks.

Not so in Harrisburg.

In Harrisburg, a formal plan has yet to be introduced, much less vital consensus reached between the administration, city council and the public on how to spend the funds. In fact, given the ongoing, grueling conflict between the mayor and council, I don’t expect any real resolution until 2022.

I often say that, in Harrisburg, nothing is easy. This won’t be easy, either. Maybe you agree with my hopes for the ARPA money, maybe you don’t. But, whatever the plan is, we need to get the process rolling.

Lawrance Binda is co-publisher/editor-in-chief of TheBurg.

If you like what we do, please support our work. Become a Friend of TheBurg!

Harrisburg cleans up blighted properties, works to address illegal dumping

October 28, 2021 | by Maddie Gittens

1704 Walnut St. was full of illegally dumped trash before Harrisburg’s public works department cleaned it up.

For years, Assad Brunner had to deal with the heaping pile of trash on the property next to his restaurant, Sad’s Soul Food Café in Allison Hill.

“It was hurting my business,” he said.

But on Thursday, Harrisburg officials stood in front of a clean, trash-free lot, explaining that this is just the beginning of their cleanup plans.

Over the span of two days, Harrisburg public works personnel hauled out over 20 tons of trash that, for years, was illegally dumped on the blighted property.

“Behind me, as of just a week ago, was one of the worst illegal dumping, accumulation of blight and trash, sites that I’ve seen anywhere in the City of Harrisburg,” Mayor Eric Papenfuse said. “We decided to mount a collective action.”

Cleaned up property at 1704 Walnut St.

Walk around the neighborhood, and you’ll see a number of blighted properties. While this has been an issue for years, the public works department is finally reaching the size and receiving the resources to be able to address the issue, Papenfuse said.

The department has doubled in size over the past eight years, according to the city. Public Works Director Nate Spriggs took his position just a few weeks ago, but has hired five new workers in that amount of time. City officials also pointed out the newly purchased machinery that makes large-scale trash cleanups possible.

Harrisburg began cleaning up a property on 18th Street on Thursday.

Just around the corner, on Tuesday, the city demolished a house on 18^th Street. The house was blighted and blocking public works from removing a large pile of trash in the backyard.

On Thursday, a crew was finally able to access the trash.

Mike Mayo, who lives in the neighboring house, stood across the street watching.

“It’s a relief,” he said. “It was scary. It was like a landfill.”

Mayo recalled hearing rats and seeing the animals crawling around the house and the pile of trash.

“Since they knocked the house down, I haven’t really heard much,” he said.

Harrisburg recently demolished a blighted building on 18th Street and began cleaning up trash from the rear of the property.

Crews also worked to clean up a property on Curtin Street in Uptown Harrisburg on Thursday morning.

To ensure the Walnut Street lot doesn’t fill up with trash again, security cameras were installed on Brunner’s Café and a fence was built. If trash is illegally dumped, the city will prosecute, Papenfuse said.

Currently, Dave Patton, city codes enforcement officer, said he is in search for a long-term solution to illegal dumping and blight. He’s serving on a statewide blight task force to support creating legislation that holds property owners accountable, especially those who purchase tax sale properties.

With all of these efforts, Papenfuse said the city is finally beginning to make substantial progress on the longstanding problem.

“We have a large backlog of illegal dumped sites throughout the city,” Papenfuse said. “We are going to make sure people see a noticeable difference moving forward.”

But for residents like Mayo, these efforts are just a small dent in a huge issue.

He pointed out several other properties on the block that were abandoned or blighted.

“It becomes second nature; you get so used to seeing it,” he said. “There are so many. This is just like scratching the surface.”

To report blight, residents can call the city at 311 or 717-255-3040.

If you like what we do, please support our work. Become a Friend of TheBurg!

The Week that Was: News and features around Harrisburg

October 22, 2021 | by Lawrance Binda and Maddie Gittens

“Over the Edge” is coming to Harrisburg on Oct. 29.

Whether you plan to head to the pumpkin patch, sit around the campfire or sip a latte at your favorite coffee shop this weekend, take time to get up to date on the current local news. Our week’s coverage is all listed and linked below.

Bethesda Mission will soon kick off its annual food drive, our reporting found. The nonprofit hopes to collect 120,000 pounds of food for those in need during the holidays.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Capital Region’s (BBBSCR) “Over the Edge” event is on Oct. 29, our online story reported. It will challenge participants to go over the edge of Harrisburg’s Fulton Bank building and rappel 21 stories, or 257 feet, down to the street below.

Federal and local law enforcement agencies are teaming up to target illegal gun purchases in Harrisburg, our reporting found. “Operation Scarecrow” seeks to track down people who illegally use a third party (straw party) to buy guns for them.

The Harrisburg School District may soon be adding increased mental health support to its students, our reporting found. They plan to work with Effective School Solutions (ESS), which provides mental health programming to K to 12 students.

The Harrisburg Zoning Hearing Board approved plans for a large apartment building proposed for Midtown, our reporting found. The project consists of one- and two-bedroom, market-rate apartments and a 3,000-square-foot commercial space.

The Hershey History Center tells the story of Hershey and Derry Township through exhibits and events, our magazine story reported. Currently, it’s showcasing an exhibit of locomotives and trolleys.

The LGBT Center of Central PA announced that it will move out of its current home on N. 3^rd Street in Harrisburg, our online story reported. According to the executive director, the center will continue operations remotely while looking for a new, larger building.

Harrisburg Mayor Eric Papenfuse announced his proposal to use over $12 million in federal funds to support seniors, our online story reported. The money would go towards creating a guaranteed income program for seniors, devoting money to a proposed affordable housing project and funding improvements to a local senior center.

Minority women entrepreneurs had a chance to network and learn at “EmergeHer,” a panel discussion, our online story reported. Harrisburg business owner Christine Titih held the event in hopes of providing resources to those looking to start a business.

The PA Farm Show is set for Jan. 8 through 15. However, the show can only go on if they can hire over 100 employees, our online story reported. Open positions range from part-time, temporary and permanent positions in security, maintenance and skilled trades.

Sara Bozich comes through again with her list of events in the Harrisburg area this weekend. Find something fun to do, here.

Seven Mountains Wine Cellars in Spring Mills offers 40 varieties on its wine list at any one time—many of them award-winners. In our magazine story, read about the father-son duo behind the brand and their mission to make great wine.

Small Business Saturday has created a platform for local businesses to get their name out during the pandemic. In our magazine story, read about founder Ashley Smith’s desire to support budding entrepreneurs through the monthly pop-up shops.

Do you receive TheBurg Daily, our daily digest of news and events delivered right to your email inbox? If not, sign up here!

Support quality local journalism. Join Friends of TheBurg today!

Harrisburg mayor proposes using $12 million in federal funds for senior assistance, including direct monthly payments

October 21, 2021 | by Maddie Gittens

Mayor Eric Papenfuse announced, at the Heinz-Menaker Senior Center, his proposal to use American Rescue Plan funds to support seniors.

On a sunny Thursday morning, a small group of senior citizens gathered near the Heinz-Menaker Senior Center to hear a proposal that would benefit them.

Harrisburg Mayor Eric Papenfuse announced his proposal to use over $12 million of the city’s federal American Rescue Plan Act money to invest in senior residents.

Those plans would create a one-year, guaranteed income program for seniors, would devote money to a proposed affordable housing project and would fund improvements to the senior center.

“It is our seniors that have been most affected by this COVID crisis and could most use our assistance as we begin to bounce back next year as a city,” Papenfuse said.

The over $12 million in funding constitutes about half of the federal dollars that Harrisburg has already received. With additional money coming next year, the city is set to receive $48.8 million in total.

His proposal is to use $10.8 million to provide 3,000 Harrisburg senior residents experiencing poverty with a $300 monthly check. The payments would last for just one year, he said, explaining that this is a pilot program.

According to Papenfuse, a majority of Harrisburg’s seniors are facing poverty, living on 30% of the area’s median income.

Any senior 65 and older, whose income does not exceed $17,850 per year, would be eligible for the guaranteed income program. The program, he said, will accept all eligible applicants.

“The choice on how to spend that income rests with the individual, and this is something we believe very strongly in,” Papenfuse said. “If a senior needs to be able to spend that money on food or transportation or rent, whatever the issue is, that choice lies with the senior.”

The program would serve as a pilot, and the city would collect data throughout the year, Papenfuse said. There eventually could be a discussion about continuing the program in the future, he said.

The Harrisburg Housing Authority would help with marketing the program and assisting seniors with applying.

In addition to the guaranteed income program, Papenfuse proposed allotting $1 million for affordable housing development. Most of that would go to the Harrisburg Housing Authority for the recently approved Bethel Village project planned for N. 6^th and Herr streets, in partnership with local RB Development.

The affordable housing project received praise from city council members for its commitment to providing housing for low-income seniors. However, it solicited concern from the community over its lack of parking.

Papenfuse said that the rescue plan dollars would likely fund the creation of an underground parking garage at the site.

The Heinz Menaker Senior Center at 1824 N. 4th St., Harrisburg

The Heinz-Menaker Senior Center would also benefit from Papenfuse’s proposal as he suggested giving the facility $500,000 for building and program improvements and expansions.

“There’s a lot of deferred maintenance on this center,” said Les Ford, director of the senior center. “I want to make sure that, as we try this round of rebuilding, we focus on our senior citizens. It is money that will be well spent.”

A final $50,000 of the over $12 million total would be spent to purchase a senior shuttle for city residents, Papenfuse said.

As part of this initiative to assist seniors, Papenfuse proposed establishing a new senior services advocate position to help coordinate services for seniors and work with the state and county departments of aging.

Papenfuse is hoping to receive feedback from residents on his proposals through online surveys, comment drop boxes and pop-ups around the city.

“It would be nice if this happens,” said 83-year-old resident Phyllis Hinnant, who is also a member of the Heinz-Menaker Senior Center. “It would help all of us. We deserve that.”

Papenfuse recently announced his plan for another $13 million of the rescue funds. He proposed reconstructing the city’s Hall Manor and Jackson Lick pools, which are over 50 years old.

He plans to present both of these ideas to city council as part of the 2022 budget process in November, he said. Papenfuse stated that he believes council members are on board with the proposals.

However, city council has increasingly voiced frustration with the lack of communication from Papenfuse on his plans for the rescue plan money. Many members have spoken out at council meetings, asking to be included in the planning process.

City council will need to approve these proposals in order for them to move forward.

“I’m glad we are in the position with these American Rescue Plan funds to make a difference in this important way,” Papenfuse said.

To complete the senior assistance proposal survey, click here. For more information, visit the city’s website.

If you like what we do, please support our work. Become a Friend of TheBurg!

Federal, local law enforcement targets illegal gun purchases in Harrisburg area through “Operation Scarecrow”

October 19, 2021 | by Maddie Gittens

Local and federal law enforcement officials introduced “Operation Scarecrow” at a press conference.

Getting illegal guns off the streets is the focus of a new initiative by federal and local law enforcement agencies.

At a press conference on Tuesday, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Pennsylvania Bruce Brandler announced “Operation Scarecrow,” which targets those who illegally purchase and possess guns.

The initiative is a partnership between the attorney’s office, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Harrisburg Police Bureau.

“As we all know and read about far too often in the press, violent crime is rising around the nation,” Brandler said. “Unfortunately, Harrisburg is not immune to this trend and ‘Operation Scarecrow’ is part of our strategy to reduce violent crime.”

Under “Operation Scarecrow,” officials will focus on finding those who are prohibited from purchasing a gun due to a prior felony, but who use a third party, or “straw party,” to buy guns for them. All parties involved in these straw transactions are subject to criminal prosecution, Brandler said.

The initiative began this past April and will continue indefinitely, he added.

Since its beginning, officials have charged 10 people for 139 straw purchases. Only 26 of those firearms have been recovered, Brandler said, explaining how hard it is to track illegal guns.

Often officials are able to track down criminals involved in straw purchases through tips from gun dealers or colleagues of criminals who “snitch,” Brandler said.

“When you go to any neighborhood in Harrisburg, the question you hear is how can we get the shootings to stop,” Mayor Eric Papenfuse said. “It is a complicated answer to those questions, but one of the things we have to focus on is getting the guns off the street that are being utilized illegally.”

This year in Harrisburg, there have been eight homicides, a decrease from last year’s numbers, Papenfuse said.

According to Harrisburg Police Commissioner Thomas Carter, the police bureau has taken 153 illegal guns off the streets this year.

Brandler said that “Operation Scarecrow” has been started in other districts in the state, as well.

The initiative is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods, a U.S. Department of Justice program that aims to bring together all levels of law enforcement to reduce violent crime.

“We routinely target and prosecute other violent criminals who plague our community,” Brandler said. “But prosecuting gun violence is the centerpiece of our strategy to reduce violent crimes in Harrisburg.”

Support quality local journalism. Become a Friend of TheBurg!

The Week that Was: News and features around Harrisburg

October 15, 2021 | by Maddie Gittens

Local officials ceremoniously broke ground on an expansion project at the McCormick Riverfront Library on Thursday.

Tonight is 3^rd in the Burg, which means it’s the perfect time to get out and enjoy some of the best art, music and food that Harrisburg has to offer. While you’re out, grab a copy of the magazine at one of our distribution locations. And don’t forget to check out the most recent local news, listed and linked, below.

“Bergman Island” is playing at Midtown Cinema this month. Our movie reviewer says the film is slow at times, but beautiful to watch.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Capital Region is ready to meet the needs of children dealing with mental health issues, our magazine story reported. According to organization officials, kids need mentorship now more than ever.

Bob loves October almost as much as he loves art. In his art blog, he shares a 3^rd in the Burg preview and highlights artists from Millworks.

The Community Check-Up Center offers medical care in the Hall Manor community for those who may not be accepted elsewhere due to a lack of insurance or available funds. In our magazine story, read about the history of the center and its upcoming fundraiser.

The Dauphin County Library System broke ground on a major expansion project of the McCormick Riverfront Library in Harrisburg, our reporting found. The $3.5 million project partially renovates the library and connects it to the neighboring, historically significant house.

Gamut Theatre is presenting “A Midsummer Night’s Dream,” our online story reported. Actors give their audience a confident delivery of Shakespeare’s signature iambic pentameter, with moments on a sliding scale of sinister and silly, says our theater reviewer.

Harrisburg-area home prices continued to climb while sales dipped in September, our reporting found. For the month, 757 houses sold in the three-county region compared to 812 in September 2020.

The Harrisburg Regional Chamber & CREDC announced its 2021 Catalyst Award winners, our online story reported. Eight community members and organizations were selected for the awards, which recognize positive forces in the community.

Harrisburg Mayor Eric Papenfuse announced his proposal to use $13 million in federal American Rescue Plan funds to reconstruct two city pools, our reporting found. However, City Council members expressed concern that they aren’t being included in the planning process.

The LGBT Center of Central PA unveiled two new historical markers in Harrisburg to honor LGBTQ state history, our online story reported. The plaques tell the stories of past Pennsylvania Gov. Milton J. Shapp and Richard Schlegel, a pioneering gay activist.

Maureen Marks Arts in Lower Paxton Township encourages children and families to create, our magazine story reported. Classes cover topics such as drawing, painting, clay, printmaking, pastel and crafts such as jewelry making.

Radish & Rye Food Hub in Harrisburg is facing a challenge that many small businesses are dealing with right now—staffing shortages. We published a blog post written by co-owner Julia James to give readers a sense of the difficulties local businesses deal with as they try to adapt to an uncertain, rapidly changing economic landscape.

Sara Bozich has the Weekend Roundup of local events, as always. Click here to find a fun way to enjoy fall.

Sip@SoMa is back, reopening just a few doors down from its original location on S. 3^rd Street in downtown Harrisburg, our online story reported. The tasting room will feature products from a rotating lineup of Pennsylvania brewers, vintners and distillers, in limited engagements.

TheBurg Podcast takes several of our magazine features and expands upon the print story. This month, we feature stories of a lost-and-found elk, a very large mural and a place for kids to create art, along with the monthly fan favorite, The Most Harrisburg Thing.

Walnut Street in downtown Harrisburg will receive a secondary name to honor a Black historical figure from the city, our online story reported. It will be named T. Morris Chester Way in remembrance of the prominent lawyer, soldier and the only Black war correspondent during the Civil War.

Do you receive TheBurg Daily, our daily digest of news and events delivered right to your email inbox? If not, sign up here!

Support quality local journalism. Join Friends of TheBurg today!

Harrisburg mayor proposes using federal funds on new pools; council members ask to be included in planning

October 14, 2021 | by Maddie Gittens

Mayor Eric Papenfuse held a press conference at the Hall Manor pool on Thursday.

As Harrisburg finds itself swimming in federal COVID relief money, the mayor has some plans for how to use it.

At a press conference on Thursday at the Hall Manor Pool, Mayor Eric Papenfuse announced his proposal to use a portion of the city’s allocated American Rescue Plan money to rebuild Harrisburg’s two public pools.

“Those pools have served the city well for five decades, but they are now officially beyond their useful life,” Papenfuse said. “The American Rescue plan funds […] are designed to help people who need help the most. This is the perfect use for those funds.”

Papenfuse said that he intends to use $13 million of the city’s rescue plan funds to renovate both the Hall Manor and Jackson Lick pools, which are both over 50 years old.

In total, Harrisburg is set to receive $48.8 million in American Rescue Plan funds. The city has received half of the total funds already and expects to receive the rest next year.

Papenfuse said that rebuilding the pools will provide a form of safe recreation for children and families in Harrisburg.

The city is currently soliciting feedback from residents on what they would like to see incorporated into the designs of the pools, however, Papenfuse already has some ideas.

Proposed plans for the Hall Manor pool

Proposed plans for the Jackson Lick pool

Harrisburg has worked with engineering firm Brandstetter Carroll Inc. to draw up plans for the pools that include water slides, splash pads, lazy rivers, picnic pavilions and lap pools, among other features. Pool houses will be reconstructed, as well.

“The constant feedback from the community has been just how important the pools are to our civic life,” Papenfuse said. “The community would like to see these pools reinvigorated for the next generation.”

He added that, for the past eight years, the city has conducted various studies on the pools. While there has been demand for the pools, the city has never had the funds to reconstruct them, but rather, patched and repaired wherever they could over the years, Papenfuse said.

Both pools have been closed for the majority of the past two years due to COVID. The Jackson Lick pool only opening briefly this past August, after facing a shortage of lifeguards. Parks and Recreation Manager Kevin Sanders said that he thinks finding staff will continue to be an issue even after the reconstruction.

Papenfuse said that the construction would take about three years to complete and that they would stagger work on the pools so that one is always open.

Admission to the pools would be free during construction and for at least a year after, Papenfuse said.

The new pools, Papenfuse said, would last for years to come.

Under the rescue plan fund guidelines, there are rules for how the money can be used. Papenfuse said that this project complies.

“The pools are going to benefit some of the folks who were affected by COVID the most,” he said. “It’s about racial equity; it’s about social justice.”

Harrisburg’s City Council would need to approve the plan, which Papenfuse said he will propose as part of the 2022 budget. He said that he has spoken with members of council about his plan.

“I think they will be very supportive,” he said.

City Council member Westburn Majors said that he had a brief conversation with Papenfuse last week, but that overall, communication with the administration has been lacking.

“It’s extremely frustrating that the first time we formally hear about the plans, it’s at a press conference,” Majors said when reached by phone. “Since the rescue plan money got passed, I have repeatedly asked for the administration to have a conversation with council.”

Majors said that, historically, council has been supportive of renovating and keeping the pools, even when the administration has pushed replacing the pools with splash pads.

“I don’t think anyone is opposed to looking at pools as an option,” he said. “But I want to have a larger conversation. Everyone should have a stake in how this is spent.”

Several other council members have voiced concern about the lack of communication, as well. Most recently, council member Danielle Bowers publicly shared her sentiments towards Papenfuse at a legislative session on Tuesday.

“We are ready and waiting to meet with you to discuss a spending plan for the American Rescue Plan funding that makes sense for the longevity of the city,” she said. “My colleagues have politely inquired about the mayor’s absence and have received radio silence.”

In addition to the pool proposal, Papenfuse has also discussed using about $12 million more in the federal funding to create a guaranteed income program. Under that initiative, the city would provide monthly payments to possibly thousands of qualifying low-income families for a multi-year period, he said.

In addition to the online survey, residents can comment on the pool proposal at various outreach opportunities throughout the city.

The dates for outreach pop-ups are listed below:

Oct. 14, from 2 to 6 p.m. at the Broad Street Market
Oct. 15, from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the Broad Street Market
Oct. 16, from 8 to 11 a.m. at the Broad Street Market and from 1 to 4 p.m. at Capital Rebirth’s Superhero Day on City Island
Oct. 23, from 8 to 11 a.m. at the Broad Street Market and from 1 to 5 p.m. at Southside Fiesta-Hall Manor Apartments

To complete the pool survey, click here.

Support quality local journalism. Become a Friend of TheBurg!

You May Also Like

You May Also Like

You May Also Like

You May Also Like

You May Also Like

You May Also Like

You May Also Like

You May Also Like

You May Also Like

You May Also Like