MAYOR

Peter Poborski, 111

EAST CONEMAUGH BOROUGH COUNCIL

Robert E. Fisher, Jr., President Peter Pencola Stephen Urban John Stecik Thomas E. Gustkey Raymond J. Regula Constance J. Gavin

EAST CONEMAUGH BOROUGH PLANNING ,, COMMITTEE

Robert E. Fisher, Jr. Peter Pencola Constance J. Gavin

"This project was financed (in part) by a grant from the Federal Department of HUD, under the administration of the COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA, DEPARTMENT OF COWUPJITY AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT." TABLE OF CONTENTS Page Chapter Headings No. I. INTRODUCTION AND BACKGROUND------1 Intergovernmental Cooperation Need Community Facilities Need Community Conservation Need Economic Development Need

111. MUNICIPAL SETTING AND INVENTORY------8 IV. COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ASSETS AND CONSTRAINTS---- 14 Household Opinion Survey Business Opinion Survey V. DEVELOPMENT GOALS AND OBJECTIVES------33 Intergovernmental Cooperation Goal Community Facilities Goal Community Conservation Goal Economic Development Goal VI. INTERGOVERNMENTAL COOPERATION NEED------36 Methods of Cooperation Intergovernmental Programs and Needs VII. COMMUNITY FACILITIES NEED------46

Inventory of Services and Facilities Community Facilities Programs and Needs VIII. COMMUNITY CONSERVATION NEED------54 Housing Unit Trends Housing Unit Characteristics Housing Condition Inventory Housing Inventory Summation Housing Stock Management Housing Needs and Programs IX. ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT NEED------72 Economic Planning Industrial Employment Trends Industrial Employment Comparison Economic Development Need and Programs

i. L.. TABLE OF CONTENTS (Continued) I' Page Chapter Headings No. X. COMMUNITY NEEDS ASSESSMENT------83 Intergovernmental Cooperation Needs Assessment Community Facilities Needs Assessment Community Conservation Needs Assessment Economic Development Needs Assessment XI. COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT STRATEGIES------86 Intergovernmental Cooperation Strategies Community Facilities Strategies Community Conservation Strategies Economic Development Strategies XII. STRATEGY IMPLEMENTATION SCHEDULE------94 APPENDICES PA DCED 1996-97 Programs and Services Household Opinion Survey Business Opinion Survey Exterior Housing Survey

LIST OF TABLES

Table Page No. No. 1 4 2 20 3 28 4 56 5 57 6 62 7 76 8 77 9 95 10 96

LIST OF MAPS

Map Page -No. No. 1 13 2 APP

ii. I. INTRODUCTION AND BACKGROUND .- The purpose of the Community Development Strategy for East Conemaugh Borough is to prepare a comprehensive examination of community needs and problems and from this examination develop a series of strategies to address each of these major needs. A strategy is different from a Comprehensive Plan. A Comprehensive Plan is concerned with localized growth, development, and the various impacts this has on land use, housing, transportation, and community facilities. It also includes budget schedules and ordinances used to implement the Plan. Whereas, a strategy abbreviates and condenses descriptions and background information and focuses its attention on the special needs or problem areas within a particular municipality. By placing its emphasis into a small geographical area, a strategy can isolate community needs and develop pragmatic solutions which are directly related to solving existing and potential problems. The overall goal of this Strategy is to promote community and economic development within East Conemaugh Borough. To address this goal, the Community

Development Strategy will formulate specific stratecriesa based on an assessment of the followihg community c needs :

1. Intergovernmental Cooperation Need The advantages of intermunicipal cooperation for the provision of fire and police protection, shared professional services, street maintenance, and refuse collection will be analyzed. This community need will also investigate the potential for consolidation with a nearby municipality. 2. Community Facilities Need A review of the need for future community facilities within East Conemaugh Borough will be analyzed. Included in this analysis will be a description of future needs for water and sewage service, local streets and bridge improvements, public utilities, and recreation facilities. 3. Community Conservation Need Recommendations to conserve existing sound housing, rehabilitate housing in decline, and accommodate new housing of different dwelling types and densities for all income levels will be made.

1. 4. Economic Development Need h This need will address local economic development in areas of existing business retention, expansion, and new economic development incentives. A determination will be made as to the types of business support activities that the public sector can initiate to stimulate investment and job creation. The following demographic assessment is useful in comparing East Conemaugh Borouqh with overall data for Cambria County and the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. In comparing these statistics, we can make some observations as to the size and median age of the Borough's population; the size, age, ownership, and state of deterioration of the Borough's housing stock; and the income, employment, and level of poverty within the Borough. These observations are important to determine how the Borough compares with other municipalities within the County and within the State. They also begin to outline the needs and/or problem areas that may exist within the Borough. As illustrated in Table 1, East Conemaugh ,-- Borough's small size, higher than average elderly population, and lower than average median household and per capita income levels indicate a need to seriously consider the advantages of intergovernmental cooperation. In years to come, municipal tax revenues will be increasingly harder to raise which may cause a reduction or elimination of certain current municipal services. _. East Conemaugh Borough exceeds both the County and State percentage of housing units with public water and public sewer. However, other community facilities such as streets, bridges, utilities, and recreation will have to be analyzed. Also illustrated on Table 1, East Conemaugh Borough has a lower than average owner-occupancy percent, a higher than average housing vacancy rate, and a housing stock that is much older than both the County and State average. This indicates the need for the conservation of existing well-maintained housing units, the rehabilitation of older housing in decline, and the provision of new housing, especially for the elderly.

2. The demographic data shown on Table 1 c indicates that East Conemaugh Borough has a high percentage of low income families and families below the poverty level, a high rate of unemployment, and a low rate of high school graduates. These facts suggest that there is an immediate need to encourage economic development within or nearby the Borough. In conjunction with economic development, there is also a need for education and retraining of the Borough's labor force. As indicated on the foregoing pages of this Introduction, all of the four (4) major need categories will address areas of concern that impact low to moderate income residents. Through intergovernmental cooperation, residents on fixed and/or low incomes will continue to be protected as the costs for municipal services increase. The ability to provide and/or improve basic community facilities will have a direct impact on low to moderate income residents as they require sanitary water and sewer service, transportation facilities, public utilities, and basic recreational facilities. The ability to provide safe and sanitary housing, especially for those on low or fixed incomes, will be addressed under Community Conservation. The needs for providing and/or improving ,...,- economic development in or adjacent to the Borough will have a positive impact on all residents, not only those of low or moderate income levels. Therefore, this entire Strategy for Community Development will address these critical needs that have a major impact on low to moderate income residents.

3. TABLE 1 EAST CONEMAUGH BOROUGH BACKGROUND INFORMATION East 1990 Conemaugh Cambria Demographic Data Borough County Pennsylvania

Population 1,470 2,547l 4,6202 Median Age 41.0 37.3 35.0 % 65 and Over 23.7% 18.8% 15.4% Persons Per Household 2.33 2.53 2.57

Total Housing Units 723 1,0531 1,9202 % Owner Occupied Units 56.2% 67.5% 64.3% % Vacant 12.7% 8.0% 9.0% Median Year Built 1939 1946 1954 % Lacking Complete Plumbing 1.2% 1.1% NA % with Public Water 100 .O% 86.3% 78.1% % with Public Sewer 99.7% 72.0% 74.3%

% in Labor Force 40.6% 40.4% 48.6% Primary Employer Service Service Service Industries Industries Industries % Unemployed 12.2% 8.4% 5.4% % High School Graduates 65.6% 71.2% 74.7% Median Household Income $16,213 $21,462 $29,069 Per Capita Income $ 8,648 $10,460 $18,679 % Low-Mod Income 55.1% 38.7% 36.9% % Below Poverty Level 20.8% 14.0% 11.1%

SOURCE: 1990 U.S. Bureau of Census NOTES: 1 - Figure shows an average of all 64 municipalities in the County 2 - Figure shows an average of all 2,572 municipalities in the State

4. 11. CITIZEN INVOLVEMENT In order to be an effective and responsible tool, the East Conemaugh Strategy must solicit the participation of local citizens, organizations, and agencies. Local input and involvement are crucial in identifying community need and determining future goals and objectives. The establishment of clear, continuing, and productive links between the public and private sectors will help solidify the planning process. Citizen involvement relevant to the preparation and development of the East Conemaugh Borough Community Development Strategy considered three (3) separate but interrelated public input sources: 1. As part of the application process for the Small Communities Planning Assistance Program (SCPAP), East Conemaugh Borough, in cooperation with the Cambria County Planning Commission, conducted two (2) public hearings. The purpose of the hearings was to obtain citizen views and comments on a wide range of planning activities which could be addressed within the overall framework of the Strategy. Based upon citizen input received during the two (2) scheduled public meetings, .- the application's project summary was revised to include the following issues: * The project summary shall be revised to include an analysis on forming a business/industrial development authority. Reference to this analysis shall be included in the Intergovernmental Cooperation Need component of the project summary. * The project summary shall be revised to include a brief analysis on the municipal power and light department. This analysis will consider the department's needed equipment, repairs, and capital improvements (including the underground installation of power lines). Reference to these revisions shall be included in the Community Facility Need component of the project summary. * The project summary shall be revised to include an evaluation on potential tourism sites and facilities within the Borough. Also included within the study will be recommendations on enlarging the

5. Borough's commercial zoning district. Reference to these additions shall be included in the Economic Development Need component of the project summary. * The project summary shall be revised to include a brief analysis on the need for housing for the elderly. Reference to this analysis shall be included in the Community Conservation Need component of the project summary. 2. During the preparation of the Strategy, the East Conemaugh Borough Planning Committee will function as an element of local citizen participation. The Committee will review each work element of the Strategy and provide the Cambria County Planning Commission with comments and recommendations at scheduled monthly meetings. To this extent, the Borough Planning Committee will be the primary local advisory group providing the following kinds of assistance. * Conduct reviews and make comments on preliminary drafts of the Strategy's text, tables, and maps. * Provide input and recommendations concerning the overall development of the Strategy's major activity components. * Aid in the development and evaluation of municipal surveys and special projects. * Assist in the formulation of community-wide goals and objectives. * Assist in the determination of community-wide needs and recommended improvements. * Provide coordination and assistance in implementing the Strategy's recommendations. * Promote public interest in, and an understanding of, the Community Development Strategy. 3. In addition to input received from the Borough Planning Committee on a monthly basis, local citizen input in development of

6. the Strategy will be obtained from two (2) municipal surveys. A household opinion survey and a business opinion survey will be conducted to determine community-wide goals, objectives, and needs. In this manner, the Strategy's recommended improvements and/or projects will be directly related to the expressed opinions of the local citizenry and business community. The East Conemaugh Borough Council will also be invited to each Planning Committee meeting so as to include their participation in the planning process. All scheduled meetings of the East Conemaugh Borough Planning Committee will be advertised under the Sunshine Law and thereby be open to all residents of the Borough and the general public.

7. 111. MUNICIPAL SETTING AND INVENTORY East Conemaugh Borough is located northeast of the City of Johnstown along the flood plain of the Little Conemaugh River (see Map No. 1). It is also bordered by the Township of East Taylor to the north and west, and Franklin Borough to the east and south. Topographically, the Borough of East Conemaugh can be described as a moderately to steeply sloping floodplain with elevations ranging from 1,220 feet above sea level in the southwest to 1,570 feet above sea level in the northeast portion of the Borough. East Conemaugh Borough was incorporated on September 10, 1868 out of East Taylor Township. Originally named Conemaugh Station, it was later changed to East Conemaugh to distinguish it from Old Conemaugh Borough, now part of the City of Johnstown. During the construction of the Pennsylvania Railroad, many railroaders made their homes along the Railroad Street section of the Borough. Unfortunately, a large portion of this area was destroyed by the Great Johnstown Flood of 1889. East Conemaugh Borough made a quick recovery after the flood and by 1930 had reached its peak population of 4,979 people. This thriving community's employment was centered around the steel, coal, and railroading industries. After 1940, the Borough's population began a slow but steady decline. By 1990, the population had declined to 1,470 with almost 25% of this population over the age of 65.

The Borough of East Conemaugh contains 205 acres, for a land area of approximately 0.3 of a square mile. The predominant land use is occupied by the tracks of the Consolidated Rail Corporation (ConRail) and by the numerous state and local streets covering approximately 50% of the Borough. Residential land uses occupy approximately 30% of the Borough's land area, with industrial and commercial land uses occupying approximately 10%. The remaining 10% of land area within the Borough contains Public/Semi-Public land uses, and an approximately equal amount of undeveloped land. The following municipal inventory indicates the basic demographics associated with the Borough of East Conemaugh. Included in this inventory is information on the following: population trends and projections; housing trends and conditions; income and employment characteristics; land use characteristics ,-- and regulations; road mileage; and various community facilities.

8. EAST CONEMAUGH BOROUGH I -. MUNICIPAL INVENTORY POPULATION DATA

1980 1990 Total Population 2,128 1,470 Male 990 (46.5%) 686 (46.7%) Female 1,138 (53.5%) 784 (53.3%) 65+ Years 317 (14.9%) 348 (23.7%) Median Age 36.4 41.0

Area = 0.3 square miles Population Density 7,093 persons. 4,900 persons per sq. mi. per sq. mi.

Population Trend 1950-1990 Population Projections 2000-2040 -----1950 1960 1970 1980 1990 -----2000 2010 2020 2030 2040 4101 3334 2710 2128 1470 1166 1122 1136 1145 1159

HOUSING DATA Percent 1980 1990 Change Total Housing Units 826 723 -12.5% Owner Occupied 468 (56.7%) 406 (56.2%) -13.2% Renter Occupied 298 (36.1%) 225 (31.1%) -24.5% Vacant 60 ( 7.3%) 92 (12.7%) 53.3% Percent 1980 1990 Change Median Value of Housing Units $18,400 $21,200 15.2% Persons Per Household 2.78 2.33 -16.2% Served by Public Water System 100% 100% Served by Public Sewerage System 100% 100% Lack Complete Plumbing (Total Units) 26 9 -65.4% (3.1%) (1.2%)

9. Year Housing Unit Built

Year % of Total Units Before 1940 85.6% 1940 - 1949 3.5% 1950 - 1959 5.3% 1960 - 1969 3.7% 1970 - 1979 1.9% 1980 - 1984 0.0% After 198 4 0.0% Median Year 1939

INCOME/EMPLOYMENT DATA 1980 1990 Civilian Labor Force 979 persons 597 persons Percent Unemployed 15.2% 12.2% Per Capita Income $5,833 $8,648 Percent High School Graduates 50.7% 65.68 Percent Persons Below Poverty Level 9.6% 20.8% (204 persons) (306 persons) Employment by Occupation 1980 1990 Management/Professional Specialty 12.4% 17.7% Technical Sales/Administrative Support 13.6% 25.8% Service 26.1% 26.1% Farming/Forestry/Fishing 0.0% 1.0% Precision Production Craft/Repair 11.4% 10.3% Operator/Fabricator/Laborer 36.5% 19.1%

LAND USE DATA 1980-92 Percent Categories 1980 Acreage 1992 Acreage Change Agriculture 0.0 0.0 0 Commercial 3.5 7.0 50.0% Industrial 13.5 12.0 -11.0% Residential 59.0 60.0 1.7% Public/Semi-Public 5.5 9.0 63.6% Transportation 101.0 103.0 2.0% Developed Total 182.5 191.0 4.6% Undeveloped/Water 22.5 14.0 -38.0% Total Acreage 205- 0 205- 0

10. LAND DEVELOPMENT REGULATIONS 1994 I 1 Land Regulation Documents

Comprehensive Plan Yes Zoning Ordinance Yes Subdivision Ordinance No Building Codes Yes Housing Codes Yes Building Permits Yes

TRANSPORTATION DATA 1990 Road Mileage: Federal/State = 0.79 mi. Local/Municipal = 5.08 mi. Railroads: Conrail Airports: None

WATER AND SEWER PROVIDERS Public Water Service: East Conemaugh Borough

L Greater Johnstown Water Authority Manufacturers Water Company Public Sewer Service: East Conemaugh Borough Municipal Authority Johnstown Redevelopment Authority/City Bureau of Sewage

UTILITY PROVIDERS Electricity Service: East Conemaugh Borough (Purchased from Penelec)

Natural Gas Service: None Telephone Service: GTE North Inc.

SCHOOL DISTRICT ENROLLMENT FY 1993-94 Conemaugh Valley School District Total School District Enrollment: 1,074

A

11. MILLAGE RATES 1991 1994 Coun ty-wide East East County-wide Average Conemaugh Conemaugh Average

Municipality -- 16 16 School -- 76 76 County -- 29.7 28.7 -- Total 122.1 mills 121.7 mills 120.7 mills 126.9 mills

GENERAL INFORMATION

Solid Waste Ordinance: Yes, Municipal Collection Recycling Ordinance: No

Emergency Services Fire: Conemaugh Fire Police: East Conemaugh Borough Police E .M. S . : Conemaugh Contact Persons: Municipal Secretary: Kay Novitsky 355 First Street Conemaugh, PA 15909

Local Representatives to the PA State Legislature: District 35 - Senator: John N. Wozniak 3201 Elton Road Suite 2 Johnstown, PA 15904

District 71 - Representative: Edward Wojnaroski 419 Locust Street Johnstown, PA 15901 ...... SOURCES: 1990 U.S. Census of Population and Housing Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection Cambria County Planning Commission

12. 0

I APPROXIMATE SCALE FEDERALEMERGENCYMANAGEMENTAGENCY 0 4000 6000 FEET 2000e-- ZOO0 I I BOROUGH OF EAST CONEMAUGH, PA . I I 1 z 0 (CAMBRIA CO.) VICINITY MAP w I 13. IV. COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ASSETS AND CONSTRAINTS East Conemaugh Borough is located in southwestern Cambria County near the City of Johnstown. Historically, East Conemaugh Borough has long been associated with the railroad, steel, and mining industries. However, with recent downsizing and/or closing of these industries, concerned citizens are struggling to determine how to improve their local economy. Therefore, in an effort to provide some community development direction, the Cambria County Planning Commission conducted two (2) random sample surveys. These surveys were designed to facilitate the decision-making process by providing information about attitudes toward community assets and constraints, as well as attitudes toward economic development. Both of these surveys were conducted during the month of December 1995. The first survey conducted was a random household opinion survey. This survey involved a mail-out and mail-back, postage-paid survey to 220 randomly selected households in East Conemaugh Borough. Out of the total of 220 surveys sent, the Planning Commission received 53 completed surveys for a response rate of 24 percent. The second survey that was conducted was a merchant or business opinion survey. This survey involved a mail-out and mail-back, postage-paid survey 0- to 40 local businesses. These surveyed businesses were 100 percent of the businesses located in East Conemaugh Borough. Out of the total of 40 surveys sent, the Planning Commission received 10 completed surveys for a response rate of 25 percent. In addition to the information collected through the above-mentioned surveys, other community features will also be evaluated for their contributions as either community assets or community constraints. Household Opinion Survey In order to adequately identify and determine community-wide growth and development strategies for East Conemaugh Borough, a Household Opinion Survey was conducted (see appendix for survey form). This household survey intent was five-fold. First, it was intended to provide valuable insight into local community development assets and constraints. Second, it was designed to determine needed Central Business District improvements. Third, the survey indicated needed business establishments to stinlulate economic development. Fourth, it helped determine the importance of various community improvements. Fifth, the survey indicated a method to finance community

14. improvements. To provide the necessary input to respond to the intent of the survey, five (5) questions 0. were asked. One question dealt with community development assets and constraints, one question on needed CBD improvements, one question on needed business establishments, one question on important community improvements, and one question on the method to finance community improvements. The results of this survey are summarized on the following pages. Table 2 shows the actual number of responses to each question on the Household Opinion Survey. Question 1. From the following list of community services and facilities being provided in East Conem.augh Borough, please indicate whether you consider each to be a positive community factor or a negative community factor. This question was asked to determine the various community assets and constraints within East Conemaugh Borough. Each respondent was asked to determine whether the listed community factors were an asset (positive community factor) or a constraint (negative community factor). The list of community factors were divided into three categories - Public Services, Physical Infrastructure, and Living Environment. The category receiving the most positive responses was Public Services with 370 responses. Every respondent out of the 53 respondents to the survey indicated that local fire protection was a positive community factor (asset). Fifty-two (52) respondents indicated that both the ambulance service and garbage collection were positive community factors (assets). Police protection followed a close third with 51 respondents indicating that it was a positive community factor (asset). The second category receiving positive responses was Physical Infrastructure with 247 responses. In this category, sewage disposal received the highest number of responses with 47. A close second was water supply with 45 positive responses. The third factor receiving the most responses was public utilities with 43 positive responses. The third category receiving positive responses was Living Environment. Within this category, public safety received the highest number of positive responses, with 48 responses. The second highest factor receiving positive responses was community pride with 40 responses. The factor receiving the third highest number of positive responses was the educational system with 39 responses. The category receiving the most negative (constraints) responses was Living Environment with 178 responses. That factor considered the most negative

15. community factor (constraint) within East Conemaugh Borough was the library system, with 26 responses. 0. Historical buildings was the second highest with 24 negative responses. Visual impact and image was third with 22 negative responses. The second category receiving the highest number of negative responses was Physical Infrastructure with 56 responses. Within this category, sidewalks and curbing received the highest number of negative (constraints) responses with 21 responses. The factor receiving the second highest number of negative responses was street maintenance with 12 responses. That factor with the third hiqhest number of negative responses was traffic circulation, with 9 responses. The third category to receive negative responses was Public Services. Within this category, recreation facilities received the most negative responses with 18 responses. The Book mobile was second highest with 11 negative responses. Third highest was snow removal with 7 negative responses. To summarize Question Number 1 on this Household Survey, we could indicate that the residents within East Conemaugh Borough felt that the Public Services of fire protection, ambulance service, garbage collection, and police protec-ly considered as positive community factors or community assets. Those factors that were considered as negative community factors or community constraints included the following L iving Environment factors: the library system (or lack of a system), the historical buildings (or lack of attention to historical buildings), and the Borough's visual impact and image (or relatively poor visual image).

Question 2: Which of the following types of physical improvements do you think are needed to promote East Conemaugh Borough's Downtown Business District? This question asked each respondent to rank the three (3) most important physical improvements to the Borough's downtown business district. The following improvements were listed: street restoration; visual impact/image: removal of blighted structures; store frontage and signing; building restoration: sidewalk reconstruction; parking facilities; and curb rehabilitation. Out of these eight listed physical improvements, the removal of hliqhted structures received the highest number of total responses (39) and the highest number of responses that ranked this improvement as the most important (28). Building restoration received the second highest number of total responses, with 25 total responses. It also received the second highest number of responses ranking it as most important, with 10

16. responses. The physical improvement receiving the third highest number of total responses (20) was visual '0I impact/imaqe. This improvement also received the third highest number of responses ranking it as most important with 9 responses. To summarize this question, the resDondents indicated that the removal of blighted structbres was, by far, the most important physical improvement needed to promote the Borough's downtown business district. Question 3: In your opinion, which of the following types of business establishments are needed to stimulate economic activity within East Conemaugh Borough? This question also asked each respondent to rank the three (3) most important types of business establishments needed to stimulate economic activity within the Borough. The following types of business establishments were listed: retail/wholesale; financial/business; manufacturing: professional services; tourism/historical; small speciality shops: medical related: and recreation/leisure. The type of business establishment that was ranked highest with 35 total responses and 20 responses ranking it as most important was retail/wholesale businesses. Second with 25 total responses and 10 responses ranking it as most important was small speciality shops. Third with 20 total responses each was professional services and recreation/leisure businesses. Recreational/leisure businesses had 6 responses ranking it as most important and professional services had 5 responses ranking it as most important. To summarize Question Number 3, retail/ wholesale business was determined as the most important type of business needed to stimulate economic activity within East Conemaugh Borough. Question 4: How would you rate the importance of the following community improvements as to the significance of their role in sustaining the quality of life in East Conemaugh Borough? This question asked each respondent to rate each of the following community improvements as Very Important, Somewhat Important, and Not Important. The list of community improvements included downtown streetscape, recreational facilities, commercial buildings, historical preservation, housing conditions, traffic flow, cultural heritage, parking facilities, sewer and water, public safety, street lighting, sidewalks and curbing, recycling program, public

17. utilities, and street maintenance. Both street lighting and street maintenance were rated highest of ‘0 all the listed community improvements with 46 responses rating them as Very Important. Housing conditions was a close second with 44 responses rating it as Very Important. Both public safety and public utilities were third with 43 responses each rating them as Very Important. Traffic flow and cultural heritage were both rated highest of those community improvements classified as Somewhat Important with 23 responses. Recreational facilities and parking facilities finished second and third in the Somewhat Important category with 21 and 20 responses, respectively. Of all the community improvements listed, cultural heritaqe received the most responses (15) as being Not Important. Second in-the Not Important category was historical preservation with 13 responses. Third, in the Not Important category, with 12 responses was recycling programs. In summarizing Question Number 4, the respondents indicated that street lighting, street maintenance, housing conditions, public safety, and public utilities were very important community improvements in East Conemaugh Borough. Question 5: To help pay for future community-wide improvements, which of the following revenue sources should be increased? This question asked each respondent to indicate how community-wide improvements should be purchased - either through Borough taxes or through increasing Borough electric rates. Only a slight majority indicated that Borough electric rates should be raised to help pay for future community improvements (21 responses). Increasing Borough taxes received 19 responses. However, 11 respondents indicated that Borough taxes and electric rates were high enough and indicated that neither taxes nor electric rates should be raised. East Conemaugh Borough is one municipality that provides electric power to its residents. The Borough purchases power directly from Penelec and then bills each resident and business for their appropriate share. To summarize Question Number 5, either Borough electric rates or Borough taxes could be raised to help pay for future community improvements, but caution must be urged due to a considerable number of residents not wanting any rate or tax hikes.

18. Survey Conclusions The following observations have been made as a result of the East Conemauqh Borouqh Household Opinion Survey conducted in December-of 1995. 1. Positive Community Factors or Community Assets include Fire Protection, Ambulance Service, Garbage Collection, and Police Protection. 2. Negative Community Factors or Community Constraints include an inadequate library system, lack of attention to historical buildings, and a relatively poor visual image of the Borough. 3. The most important physical improvement needed to promote the Borough's business district is to remove blighted structures. 4. The most important type of business needed to stimulate economic activity within the Borough is retail/wholesale businesses. 5. Those community improvements that were listed as very important include street lighting, street maintenance, housing conditions (needed improvements), public safety, and public utilities. 6. Careful consideration must be made prior to raising electric rates or Borough taxes to pay for future community improvements.

19. TABU 2 EAST CONEMAUGH BOROUGH COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT STRATEGY HOUSEHOLD OPINION SURVEY SURVEY RESULTS Dear Resident: The East Conemaugh Borough Planning Committee, in cooperation with the Cambria County Planning Commission, is conducting this survey as part of its efforts to develop a Strategy for community-wide growth and development. Your opinions will help insure that decisions made concerning East Conemaugh's future will be responsive to the needs of local residents. Please help us to better understand our community by answering the following questions and returning the completed survey in the enclosed postage-paid envelope. 1. From the following list of community services and facilities being provided in East Conemaugh Borough, please indicate whether you consider each to be a positive community factor or a negative community factor. (Please check [XIone answer for each community factor.) Positive Negative Community Community Factor Factor Public Services Ambulance Service 52 Responses 1 Response Police Protection 51 Responses 1 Response Fire Protection 53 Responses Recreation Facilities 31 Responses 18 Responses Public Transportation 48 Responses 3 Responses Garbage Collection 52 Responses Snow Removal 45 Responses 7 Responses Book Mobile -38 Responses -11 Responses 370 = 90% 41 = 10% Physical Infrastructure Sewage Disposal 47 Responses 4 Responses Water Supply 45 Responses 4 Responses Street Maintenance 41 Responses 12 Responses Public Utilities 43 Responses 6 Responses Sidewalks and Curbing 30 Responses 21 Responses Traffic Circulation -41 Responses -9 Responses 247 = 82% 56 = 18%

20. Positive Negative Community Community Factor Factor Living Environment

Visual Impact and Image 28 Responses 22 Responses Educational System 39 Responses 11 Responses Community Leader ship 36 Responses 13 Responses Central Business District 29 Responses 18 Responses Cultural Heritage 26 Responses 21 Responses Library System 18 Responses 26 Responses Housing Conditions 34 Responses 15 Responses Public Safety 48 Responses 1 Responses Housing Type and Price 35 Responses 16 Responses Community Pride 40 Responses 11 Responses Historical Buildings -21 Responses -24 Responses 354 = 67% 178 = 33%

2. Which of the following types of physical improvements do you think are needed to promote East Conemaugh Borough's Downtown Business District? Please rank the three most important to you. (Use 1 as the most important to 3 as the least.) Total Number of Responses Improvements Responses Ranked Most Important Street Restoration 7 3 Visual Impact/Image 20 9 Removal of Blighted Structures 39 28 Store Frontage and Signing 15 3 Building Restoration 25 10 Sidewalk Reconstruction 14 8 Parking Facilities 12 3 Curb Rehabilitation 3 0 3. In your opinion, which of the following types of business establishments are needed to stimulate economic activity within East Conemaugh Borough? Please rank the three you consider to be the most important. (Use 1 as the most important to 3 as the least.) Total Number of Responses Business Establishments Responses Ranked Most Important Retail/Wholesale 35 20 Financial/Business 6 1 Manufacturing 18 10 Professional Services 20 5 Tourism/Historical 4 2 Small Speciality Shops 25 10 Medical Related 18 9 RecreatiodLeisure 20 6

21. 4. How would you rate the importance of the following community improvements as to the significance of their role in sustaining the quality of life in East Conemaugh Borough? (Please check [ -X 1 one answer for each community improvement.) Very Somewhat Not Community Improvements Important Important Important Downtown Streetscape 28 15 6 Recreational Facilities 27 21 4 Commercial Buildings 31 16 3 Historical Preservation 19 18 13 Housing Conditions 44 8 -- Traffic Flow 20 23 8 Cultural Heritage 13 23 15 Parking Facilities 24 20 6 Sewer and Water 42 6 4 Public Safety 43 7 2 Street Lighting 46 5 2 Sidewalks and Curbing 37 13 2 Recycling Program 20 19 12 Public Utilities 43 8 2 Street Maintenance 46 6 1

5. To help pay for future conununity-wide improvements, which of the following revenue sources should be increased? (Please check [XI 0 only one answer.) 19 Borough Taxes 21 Borough Electric Rates 11 Neither

THANK YOU FOR COMPLETING THIS SURVEY

22. Merchant Opinion Survey To insure that decisions made concerning a strategy for community-wide development in East Conemaugh Borough accurately reflect the needs of the local business community, a business opinion survey was conducted. (See appendix for copy of survey form.) This survey was designed to provide information on the local business environment as well as opinions on future community development. The merchant opinion survey contained seven (7) questions. Two questions dealt with stimulating economic/business growth, two questions dealt with community improvements, one question on community constraints, one question on community assets, and one question on revenue sources. Table 3 shows the actual number of responses to each question on this Merchant Opinion Survey. The results of this survey are summarized on the following pages. Question 1: In your opinion, which of the following local factors are negatively affecting business growth in East Conemaugh Borough. Please rank the four most constraining to your business. This question was asked to determine what local factors were constraining local business growth. The local factors listed in this question included: street conditions, parking meters, local taxes, highway access/location, public utilities, deteriorated buildings, sewer and water system, traffic congestion, truck traffic, and interest rates. That factor which received the most responses as well as received the most responses ranking it as the most negative local factor was deteriorated buildings. This factor received 7 total responses with 4 responses ranking it as the most negative factor affecting local businesses. Parking meters was a close second with 5 total responses, and also 4 responses ranking it as the most negative factor. Third was highway access/location with 4 total responses and 1 response ranking it as the most negative local factor. In summary, the local business community indicated that deteriorated buildings were the most negative factor constraining local business growth. Question 2: Which of the following types of physical improvements do you think are needed to promote East Conemaugh Borough's Downtown Business District? Please rank the three most important to you. This question was asked to determine what physical improvements are needed to the Borough's business district. The following choices were listed:

23. building restoration, sidewalk reconstruction, parking facilities, curb rehabilitation, street restoration, visual impact/image, removal of blighted structures, and store frontage and signing. The improvement that received the most number of total responses (7) was removal of blighted structure. This improvement also received the highest number of responses (3) ranking it as most important. This response confirm9 the primary response given the Question Number 1, indicating that deteriorated buildings is the most negative factor constraining business growth. Sidewalk reconstruction was second in total responses (5), and also received 3 responses ranking it as most important. Buildinq restoration was third with 5 total responses.and 1 response ranking it as most important. The most important result of this question was this confirmation of the need to remove blighted buildings in the Borough to promote business development. Question 3: In your opinion, which of the following types of business establishments are needed to stimulate economic activity within East Conemaugh Borough? Please rank the three you consider to be the most important. This question was asked to determine what types of businesses should be encouraged to locate in the Borough. Each respondent was asked to rank the 3 most important types of business establishments from the following: retail/wholesale; financial/business; manufacturing: professional services; tourism/ historical; small speciality shops; medical related; and recreation/leisure. That type of business receiving the most total responses was professional services with 7 total responses and 4 responses ranking it as the most important. The second type of business to be encouraged was small speciality shops which received 6 total responses and received 1 response ranking it as most important. Third was retail/ wholesale establishments with 4 total responses and 2 responses ranking it as most important. Professional services and small speciality shops were felt by the business community as the most desirable to stimulate economic activity within East Conemaugh Borough.

24. Questions 4: Which of the following factors/entities do you consider to be most important for business growth and development within East Conemaugh Borough? Please rank the four you consider to be most important. This question was asked to determine what is important to stimulate business growth. Each respondent was asked to rank the four most important factors from the following: public/private cooperation; tax abatements; community leadership; elected officials; local financial aid; business leadership; community cooperation; citizen involvement; low interest loans; and business district authority. The factor that received the most total responses (8) was local financial aid. This factor also received the most number of responses ranked most important (3). Second in total responses was low interest loans with 7 total responses and 2 responses ranked most important. Business leadership and community cooperation were tied for third in total responses with 4 each. Both factors also had 1 response ranked most important. The most important feature brought out in this question was the need for local financial aid and low interest loans to help stimulate business growth and development. Question 5: In your opinion, which of the following local factors do you consider as positive aspects for business growth in East Conemaugh Borough. Please rank the four most important to your business. This question was asked to determine what local factors were assets for business growth in East Conemaugh Borough. The business respondents were asked to rank the four most important local factors from the following list: Johnstown/Cambria County Airport; regional highway system; community and civic pride; support of local officials; historic buildings; manufacturing facilities; cultural heritage; railroad facilities; market area; and intergovernmental cooperation. Community and civic pride received the highest number of total responses (71, however, this factor only received 1 response ranking it as most important. The regional highway system received 5 total responses and received 2 responses ranking it as most important. The Johnstown/Cambria County Airport and support of local officials were tied for third place with each factor receiving 4 total responses, and 2 responses each ranking it as most important. In summary, the local merchants indicated that they felt community and civic pride and the community's regional highway system were local assets

25. for encouraging business growth in East Conemaugh Borough. Question 6: How would you rate the importance of the following community improvements as to the significance of their role in making East Conemaugh Borough a better place to conduct business? This question was presented as to evaluate certain community improvements as to their importance in making the Borough a better place to conduct business. The respondent was asked to evaluate a list of improvements as being Very Important, Somewhat Important, or Not Important. This list of improvements included downtown streetscape, recreational facilities, commercial buildings, housing conditions, historical preservation, traffic flow, cultural heritage, parking facilities, sewer and water, public safety, street lighting, sidewalks and curbing, recycling program, public utilities, and street maintenance. Out of this list of community improvements, the highest number of responses rated under the Very Important category went to commercial buildings with 8 Very Important responses. Those improvements that came in second under this category (Very Important) included downtown streetscape, public safety, street lighting, and sidewalks, and curbing, all having 6 Very Important responses. The highest number of responses under the a Somewhat Important category went to historical preservation, with 7 Somewhat Important responses. Those improvements coming in second under this category included recreational facilities and cultural heritage both having 5 Somewhat Important responses. Under the Not Important category, traffic flow received the most responses with 4 Not Important responses. Second under this category was recycling program with 3 Not Important responses. To summarize this particular question, the merchants responding to the survey rated community improvements that involved commercial buildings (such as facade improvements and/or structural improvements primarily funded with community assistance) as their first priority under very important community improvements. Downtown streetscape, public safety, street lighting, and curb and sidewalk repairs were rated a close second as being very important community improvements.

26. Question 7: To help pay for future community-wide improvements, which of the following revenue sources should be increased? Most merchants responding to this question indicated that Borough taxes should be increased to help pay for any future community improvements. Eight (8) out of ten (10) merchants responding to this question indicated that Borough taxes should be raised. One respondent indicated that neither taxes nor electric rates should be raised. Responses to this question were almost unanimous for using Borough taxes to help pay for future community improvements. Survey Conclusions The following conclusions were made based on the East Conemaugh Borough Business Opinion Survey conducted in December of 1995. 1. Deteriorated buildings were viewed as constraining local business growth.

2. Blight removal is necessary to promote business development.

3. Professional services and small speciality shops were viewed as most desirable to stimulate economic development. 4. Local merchants need local financial aid and .-lowinterest loans to help stimulate business growth. 5. Local assets for encouraging business growth include community and civic pride and the community's regional highway system.

6. Merchants felt that improvements to commercial buildings were very important to improve the Borough's business climate. 7. Merchants felt that Borough taxes could be raised to help pay for future community improvements.

27. TABLE 3 EAST CONEMAUGH BOROUGH COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT STRATEGY BUSINESS OPINION SURVEY SURVEY RESULTS

Dear Proprietor: The East Conemaugh Borough Planning Committee, in cooperation with the Cambria County Planning Commission, is conducting this survey as part of its efforts to develop a Strategy for community-wide growth and development. Your opinions will help insure that decisions made concerning East Conemaugh's future will accurately reflect the needs of the business community. Please help us to better understand the local business environment by answering the following questions and returning the completed survey in the enclosed postage-paid envelope. 1. In your opinion, which of the following local factors are negatively affecting business growth in East Conemaugh Borough. Please rank the four most constraining to your business. (Use 1 as the most negative to 4 as the least negative.)

Total Number of Responses Local Factors Responses Ranked Most Negative Street Conditions 1 Parking Meters 5 Local Taxes 2 Highway Access/Location 4 Public Utilities 3 Deteriorated Buildings 7 Sewer and Water System 1 Traffic Congestion - Truck Traffic 1 Interest Rates 1 2. Which of the following types of physical improvements do you think are needed to promote East Conemaugh Borough's Downtown Business District? Please rank the three most important to you. (Use 1 as the most important to 3 as the least.) Total Number of Responses Improvements Responses Ranked Most Important Building Restoration 5 Sidewalk Reconstruction 5 Parking Facilities 1 Curb Rehabilitation 3 Street Restoration - Visual Impact/Image 3 Removal of Blighted Structures 7 Store Frontage and Signing 2

28. 3. In your opinion, which of the following types of business establishments are needed to stimulate economic activity within East Conemaugh Borough? Please rank the three you consider to be the most important. (Use 1 as the most important to 3 as the least.)

Total Number of Responses Business Establishments Responses Ranked Most Important Retail/Wholesale 4 Tourism/Historical Financial/Business Small Speciality Shops Manufacturing Medical Related Professional Services Recreation/Leisure 4. Which of the following factors/entities do you consider to be most important for business growth and development within East Conemaugh Borough? Please rank the four you consider to be most important. (Use 1 as the most important to 4 as the least.)

Total Number of Responses Factors/Entities Responses Ranked Most Important

Public/Private Cooperation 3 2 Business Leadership 4 1 Tax Abatements 3 1 Community Cooperation 4 1 Community Leadership - - Citizen Involvement 2 - Elected Officials - - Low Interest Loans 7 2 Local Financial Aid 8 3 Business District Authority 3 2 5. In your opinion, which of the following local factors do you consider as positive aspects for business growth in East Conemaugh Borough. Please rank the four most important to your business. (Use 1 as the most important to 4 as the least important.) Total Number of Responses Local Factors Responses Ranked Most Important Johnstown/Cambria Airport 4 2 Regional Highway System 5 2 Community 61 Civic Pride 7 1 Support of Local Officials 4 2 Historic Buildings 1 1 Manufacturing Facilities 4 1 Cultural Heritage 2 1 Railroad Facilities 2 2 Market Area (Johnstown) 4 1 Intergovernmental Cooperation 1 -

29. 6. How would you rate the importance of the following community improvements as to the significance of their role in making East Conemaugh Borough a better place to conduct business? (Please check [- X ] one answer for each community improvement.) Very Somewhat Not Community Improvements Important Important Important Downtown Streetscape 6 3 Recreational Facilities 5 5 Commercial Buildings 8 1 Housing Conditions 5 3 Historical Preservation 2 7 Traffic Flow 1 4 Cultural Heritage 1 5 Parking Facilities 5 4 Sewer and Water 4 4 Public Safety 6 1 Street Lighting 6 2 Sidewalks and Curbing 6 3 Recycling Program 3 3 Public Utilities 5 3 Street Maintenance 5 3 7. To help pay for future community-wide improvements, which of the following revenue sources should be increased? (Please check [XI only one.

-8 Borough Taxes -1 Borough Electric Rates -1 Neither

THANK YOU FOR COMPLETING THIS SURVEY

30. Other Community Assets and Constraints In addition to the assets and constraints revealed in the local opinion surveys, other assets and constraints alluded to in the Municipal Setting and Inventory must also be listed. These other features or factors that can be regarded as community assets or constraints are summarized below. Community assets are commonly regarded as features that encourage residential, commercial, and/or industrial growth. Whereas, constraints are commonly regarded as factors which restrain or hold back community growth. Other Community Assets * Median value of Borough housing units is increasing. * The average number of persons per household is decreasing. * 100% of Borough residents are served by sanitary water and sewer facilities. * Housing units that lack complete plumbing systems are declining. * The percent of unemployed within the borough is declining. * The Borough's per capita income is increasing.

* .. The percent of Borough population that has graduated from high school is increasing. * The percent of Borough population employed in management and sales occupations is increasing. * Commercial acreage in the Borough is increasing. * Borough millage rates are approximately 6 mills lower than the Cambria County average (1994). * The Borough has a municipal solid waste collection ordinance.

31. Other Community Constraints * Total Borough population continues to decline. * The elderly (65+) population continues to increase. * The civilian labor force is declining.

* Over 85% of existing housing units are over 55 years old. * The percent of persons below the poverty level is increasing. * The percent of land area devoted to public/ semi-public use is increasing (taken out of taxation). * Borough residents do not have access to natural gas service. * There is no local recycling ordinance in place.

32. V. DEVELOPMENT GOALS AND OBJECTIVES East Conemaugh Borough's overall community development goals and objectives reflect the most dynamic and crucial community needs or problems. The Borough's most important needs are specific to the following four (4) areas: (A) Intergovernmental Cooperation; (B) Community Facilities; (C) Community Conservation; and (D) Economic Development. The goal assigned to each need reflects the ideal statement of community aspirations in regard to solving existing problems. In contrast to the stated community goals, the objectives provide a means for obtaining each individual goal and focus on the specific steps to be taken. The stated objectives will serve to formulate an assessment of desired needs within East Conemaugh and help to derive the specific strategies to resolve the needs. In order to be effective, community-wide goals and objectives must incorporate the opinions and concerns of the general public. If the Community Development Strategy is to be accepted and utilized as a guide for future decisions, it must reflect the views of community leaders, local residents, and the business community. These groups should be given the opportunity to have their concerns recognized and expressed to some extent within the Strategy's desired goals and objectives. The goals and objectives of the East Conemaugh Borough Strategy were primarily derived from the results of two (2) separate but interdependent public opinion surveys. The East Conemaugh Borough Council and Planning Committee, acting as an element of public participation, provided valuable input into developing the surveys and editing the final series of goals and objectives. A. Intergovernmental Cooperation Goal: Coordinate the provisions for municipal services within East Conemaugh Borough so as to involve the consultation, cooperation, and resources of elected officials from neighboring municipalities. Objectives: 1. Form a working relationship with elected officials and agencies.

2. Maintain or improve the delivery of basic municipal services.

33. 3. Consider the associated cost savings by purchasing through state contracts. 4. Reduce the potential for negative impacts resulting from land use activities. 5. Sponsor or attend joint-municipal training and educational programs. B. Community Facilities Goal: To maintain and improve upon the various facilities and services provided by East Conemaugh Borough, thereby fostering a higher quality of life. Objectives: 1. Encourage the support and cooperation of local residents and the business community. 2. Continue to support police, fire, ambulance, and garbage collection services. 3. Expand the provisions for community infrastructure. 4. Improve upon the recreational, library, and social needs of all citizens. C. Community Conservation Goal: To establish a higher quality of residential living within East Conemaugh Borough through improved housing conditions and expanded housing opportunities. Objectives: 1. Support a program for the removal of blighted structures. 2. Support housing related community development activities. 3. Create a housing improvement program based upon tax incentives. 4. Encourage new housing development on undeveloped tracts of land and vacant lots. 5. Permit multi-family and elderly housing development. 6. Promote the conservation and preservation of historically significant housing.

34. D. Economic Development Goal: To provide public support and incentives for business retention, expansion, and new development activities that stimulate private investment and job creation within East Conemaugh Borough. Objectives:

1. Consider providing free parking to customers of local businesses. 2. Explore the potential economic benefits of a Business or Industrial Development Committee. 3. Sponsor governmental grants and loans.

4. Help provide information and access to financing mechanisms. 5. Support the development of new and/or expanded retail/wholesale establishments.

6. Help secure state supported low-interest loans. 7. Encourage the development of educational/ vocational retraining programs. 8. Enhance and manage cultural and recreational resources.

35. VI. INTERGOVERNMENTAL COOPERATION NEED The delivery of cost-effective municipal services and facilities within East Conemaugh Borough can be greatly enhanced through joint or multi- municipal financing. The decision-making process at the municipal level is generally best served through the consultation, cooperation, and combining of local resources. East Conemaugh Borough and 17 other municipalities, including the City of Johnstown, comprise the Johnstown Urbanized Area. The area exhibits a moderate degree of regionalism in terms of certain municipal facilities such as water and sewage services. Other municipal services such as police and fire, professional services, street maintenance, and refuse collection are somewhat fragmented and exhibit a defined need for programs directed toward intergovern- mental cooperation. Purpose and Authorization Intergovernmental cooperation is a mechanism for providing services and programs that involve more than one (1) municipality or one (1) or more munici- palities and Cambria County. The Intergovernmental Cooperation Act (1972 P.L. 762, Act 180) has afforded Pennsylvania municipalities one of the nation's most liberal grants of authority for intergovernmental cooperation. This law enables any municipality, by act of its governing body or upon voter initiative and referendum, to cooperate or agree in the exercise or transfer of any function, power, or responsibility with any other municipality or district in Pennsylvania, the Federal government, or any other state or its governmental units. Methods of Cooperation Various methods of organizing intermunicipal cooperation within the State of Pennsylvania are currently being utilized. Four (4) major approaches relevant to East Conemaugh Borough will be subsequently discussed: (1) Handshake Agreements; (2) Act 180 Agreements; (3) Council of Governments: and (4) Joint Authorities. Intergovernmental cooperation is a highly flexible activity. The methods outlined here should be used as examples, not as formal rules. It is also possible and often desirable for a municipality to have different intergovernmental arrangements with different neighboring municipalities. A municipality such as East Conemaugh need not be contiguous to cooperate. There is no legal requirement that cooperating municipalities share common boundaries. There is also no size requirement for participating in intergovern- mental cooperation.

36. Handshake Agreements Handshake agreements are informal. That informality is both the benefit and the bane of such agreements. As a result of their informality, handshake agreements are easy to arrange. Often the informality, the "lets just work it out'' approach, is the only way municipalities can work together. The parties shake hands only if cooperation is of mutual benefit, and no formal or long lasting commitment is required which may be threatening to the participants. The informality of handshake agreements also leads to their shortcomings and limitations. Because there is no formal agreement, misunderstandings often result and the intergovernmental partnership dissolves with a residue of hard feelings. In addition, major concerns such as liability and workers' compensation coverage are often overlooked. This may be fine for many years but once a problem occurs, it's too late. Handshake agreements are also limited to activities which do not entail formal joint ownership of property, borrowing funds, or other legal responsibilities. This limitation may seem minor for municipalities just beginning to work together, but in the long run it is better to work out all the details in a formal agreement. Act 1-80 Agreements The Intergovernmental Cooperation Law was enacted by the General Assembly in 1972 to implement the provisions of Article IX, Section 5 of the new Pennsylvania Constitution, the Intergovernmental Cooperation Provision. The language of Act 180 is very broad. It includes "any function, power, or responsibility" that a municipality may have. The required features of an intergovernmental cooperation agreement established according to the terms of Act 180 includes the following: a. The agreement must be enacted by ordinance b. The ordinance must specify: (1) The conditions of the agreement. (2) The duration of the agreement.

37. The purpose and objectives of the agreement, including the powers and scope of authority delegated in the agreement. The manner and extent of financing the agreement. The organizational structure necessary to implement the agreement. The manner in which property, real or personal, shall be acquired, licensed, or disposed of; and That the entity created under this section shall be empowered to enter into contracts for policies of group insurance and employee benefits, including social security, for its employees. An agreement enacted under the provisions of Act 180 is essentially a legal contract among two or more municipalities. Separate agreements (or a clearly stated multiple purpose agreement) are needed for two or more different functions. The terms of the agreement are whatever is negotiated among the participants, subject to the general requirement of the law. Councils of Governments Councils of Governments or COGs are a special kind of Act 180 organization. COGs are general or multi-purpose organizations that provide municipal services. The Cambria-Somerset COG was established to enable local municipalities to work together on programs and services for their mutual interest. The Cambria-Somerset COG provides services to 21 participating municipalities including East Conemaugh Borough. A Council of Governments is both a method of cooperation and a cooperative program in and of itself. COGs differ from the typical Act 180 joint program in several ways: (1) A COG has a broad responsibility. Not only may it oversee specific joint (Act 180) programs, but it may be responsible for studying and proposing new joint programs and projects and for coordinating other municipal activities.

38. (2) Several existing or proposed Act 180 agreements among COG municipalities can be included under the umbrella of a COG.

(3) No specific program must be undertaken.

(4) The COG board or council is almost always composed of elected officials. Other Act 180 programs may be overseen by either elected or appointed officials. Joint Authorities The Municipality Authorities Act of 1945 authorizes the creation of municipal authorities by two or more local governments. These are termed joint authorities. Joint authorities received their main impetus in the 1960's when the federal Environmental Protection Agency embarked on a program of regionalization of municipal sewage treatment facilities. Joint authorities are most often used when major capital investments are required. In addition to sewage treatment, joint authorities have been formed for water supply, airports, bus transit systems, swimming pools and others. Joint authorities have well-established powers to receive grants, borrow money, and operate revenue- generating programs. The Municipality Authorities Act specifically enables authorities to sell bonds, acquire property, sign contracts, and take similar actions. Handshake agreements do not convey such powers; Act 180 agreements do so only when the agreements are specifically drafted to do so. Other Methods of Cooperation In addition to the general legislation enabling intergovernmental cooperation (Act 180) and joint authorities (the Municipality Authorities Act), there are provisions for intergovernmental cooperation in a number of laws relating to specific governmental activities including planning, tax collection, and transportation. 1. Planning The Pennsylvania Municipalities Planning Code (Act 247 of 1968 as amended) establishes the authority for municipalities to exercise land use controls through comprehensive planning, subdivision ordinances, and zoning ordinances. The Department of Community

39. Affairs publishes copies of Act 247 including the most recent amendments and can provide technical assistance and informational services to municipalities. 2. Tax Collection The Local Tax Enabling Act (Act 511 of 1965 as amended) gives municipalities the power to make joint agreements for the collection of Act 511 taxes (earned income, occupational privilege, amusement or business gross receipts). The Department of Community Affairs can provide assistance to municipalities exploring this idea. 3. Transportation Partnerships The Transportation Partnership Act (Act 47 of 1985) enables municipalities to work together, and with the private sector, to improve transportation facilities and services in a designated area. The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation can provide assistance to municipalities interested in forming transportation partnerships. Intergovernmental Programs and Needs When developing intergovernmental cooperation programs, it is important for those involved to have an understanding of the following basic factors: who is in charge of the program; who is responsible for carrying out the program: what is to be accomplished by the program; and how are the program costs to be allocated. An organizational approach to intergovern- mental programs should consider the following factors: * Intergovernmental cooperation is a highly flexible activity. The programs discussed herein are examples that can be adjusted to meet individual community needs. * It is possible and often desirable for a municipality to have different intergovernmental agreements with different neighboring municipalities. * Municipalities do not have to be contiguous to cooperate. There is no legal requirement that cooperating municipalities share common boundaries. * There is no municipal size limitation. Some municipal officials believe their municipality is too small (or too large) to work with an adjacent municipality.

40. The intergovernmental cooperation programs that are relevant to East Conemaugh Borough are presented below. The programs serve to substantiate the need for the continuation of the Borough's existing programs while referencing the defined benefits of some additional programs. 1. Cambria-Somerset COG Council of Governments or COGS are general or multi-purpose organizations. The Cambria-Somerset COG was established as a coordinating agency for local governments within Cambria and Somerset counties. As a member of COG, East Conemaugh Borough, along with other participating municipalities, is provided with the following types of programs and/or services: BOCA Code Enforcement Program - Building Codes - Plumbing Codes - Fire Prevention Codes - Electrical Codes - Existing Structure Codes - Building Permits Building Inspector/Codes Officer Preparation of Grant Applications Sponsorship of Municipal Credit Union Cooperative Municipal Purchasing Program Dilapidated Housing and Playground Survey Coordination of Regional Police Studies Reqional Equipment Sharing Administrative and Technical Advice 2. Joint Purchasinp The basis for a joint purchasing program is to obtain municipal materials and equipment at the lowest possible price, a lower price than that which can be obtained by a single municipality. Joint purchasing is provided to East Conemaugh through the Cambria-Somerset COG. Cost savings to the Borough from the joint purchasing program fall into two (2) major categories: (1) the cost of equipment and materials; and (2) the cost of administration (advertising, bid specification preparation, and copying). 3. Equipment Sharing The sharing of municipal equipment is a way to overcome the inefficiency of idle equipment and the

41. money saved makes it possible to acquire the next piece of equipment by pooling resources and usage. Equipment can be shared through several mechanisms: joint ownership, rental arrangement, and equipment trades. The 12th Congressional Regional Equipment Center maintains a roster of over 60 pieces of equipment available for lease to participating municipalities in Cambria and six (6) other counties in southwestern Pennsylvania. The Center, which is presently located in Blairsville Borough, Indiana County, is run by a Board of Directors consisting of 11 members representing the seven (7) counties. East Conemaugh Borough is a participating municipality in the Regional Equipment Center and currently leases a high-lift and a five-man pick-up truck on a month-to-month basis.

4. Contract Police Services Regional police forces constitute one of the most important, and one of the most difficult, intergovernmental cooperation programs. There are two (2) major approaches: contract police services and a joint police force. Contract services are provided to adjacent municipalities, but the "home" municipality controls the department and appoints the Chief of Police. In contrast, a joint police force is one that serves two (2) or more municipalities and is under the joint control and direction of the participating municipalities. East Conemaugh Borough provides municipal police services to Franklin Borough on a contractual basis. The agreement between East Conemaugh and Franklin Borough provides for the following kinds of police services: Service Scheduling * Hours and days of police service * Preventive patrol and incident response Program Input * Coordinating and discussing level of service * Cooperation in solving mutual safety issues Program Costs * Hourly rates for police protection * Budget annual amount of contract services

42. The Borough also provides contracted police protection to the Conemaugh Valley School District. I Service is provided throughout the school year to all the District's educational facilities and to various school-realted activities and events. 5. Contract Garbage Service As is the case with police services, a contract for garbage service involves two (2) or more municipalities and is under the control and direction of the municipal governing body providing the service. The issues of service scheduling, program input, and program costs must be addressed by the participating municipalities. East Conemaugh Borough provides garbage disposal to Franklin Borough under a yearly purchase of service contract. Garbage collected by Franklin is transported to East Conemaugh's Solid Waste Department and transferred to a designated County landfill. The Borough also provides contracted garbage service to the main school complex of the Conemaugh Valley School District located in East Taylor Township.

6. Shared Recreation Facilities Pennsylvania municipalities frequently combine efforts to provide shared recreational facilities and services. Small communities such as East Conemaugh may join together with adjacent municipalities to restore existing facilities or to develop new facilities that are mutually beneficial. There are a number of factors affecting the overall scope of recreational facilities. These include the identified needs of the community, public and private facilities already in place, size of population base, and available resources. Combining municipal resources would enable East Conemaugh to consider recreational facilities not presently within their reach as a lone municipality. The following is a list of possible shared recreational facilities: * Baseball Field * Basketball Court * Bikeway * Jogging/Fitness Trail * Picnic Pavilion * Playground * Community Pool * Recreation Center

43. * Soccer Field * Tennis Courts 7. Circuit-Riding Manager

A circuit rider is a professional municipal manager who serves two (2) or more municipalities at the same time. By joining together, several small municipalities can hire a circuit-rider manager bringing in expertise that no one municipality is able to obtain on its own. For example, the Boroughs of East Conemaugh, Franklin, Brownstown, and Daisytown could put together a circuit rider program that might consider the following cooperative activities:

1. Manage the day-to-day activities of the municipalities.

2. Prepare agendas for meetings of the municipal governing bodies. 3. Attend all meetings of the governing bodies to report on municipal operations and advise the board/council on policy issues. 4. Prepare, present, and administer municipal budgets. 5. Appoint, supervise, and direct municipal employees. (Appointment of department heads may require governing body approval, as desired.) 6. Represent the municipalities at public meetings and forums, communicate with the media, and serve as a key contact point for the citizens. 8. Economic Development Local economic development efforts must recognize municipal interdependence and address problems on a regional basis. By its nature, economic development efforts of local governments such as East Conemaugh Borough, especially in an urbanized area, can be most effective when proceeding from a local analysis of economic needs, problems, and opportunities. This analysis is best served under the direction of a local coalition of government, business, and civic leadership who are most familiar with local issues and problems. Such a coalition could be organized formally in East Conemaugh Borough under a local business or industrial development committee which could work in cooperation with other development agencies at the municipal,

44. county, and state levels. A Business/Industrial Development Committee would provide East Conemaugh with the following economic development incentives: * Enhance local and regional public/private partnerships * Locate or expand economic development across municipal boundaries * Identify areawide development constraints and opportunities * Serve as a single contact point for local business needs * Promote local business retention and growth * Improve community image through marketing activities * Mobilize support of business, elected officials, and citizen groups' Other Programs of Cooperation In addition to the eight (8) intergovern- mental cooperation programs previously discussed, there exist a number of other possibilities. A listing of programs that could be pursued and implemented by East Conemaugh Borough and surrounding municipalities are presented below: * Auction of Surplus Equipment 0 (Cambria/Somerset COG) * Code Enforcement (Cambria/Somerset COG) * Emergency Management (Cambria County 911) * Public Mass Transit (County Transit Authority) * Community Planning (PA Department of Community Affairs) (Cambria County Planning Commission) * Recycling (County Recycling Coordinator) * Solid Waste Collection (County Solid Waste Management Authority) * Economic Development (Johnstown Area Regional Industries) * Industrial Development (Cambria County Industrial Development Authority) * Tourism (America's Industrial Heritage Project)

45. VII. COMMUNITY FACILITIES NEED Community facilities may be identified as the physical structures, services, and other facilities owned, maintained, and operated by a public body for the benefit of the community as a whole. The East Conemaugh Borough Community Facilities Plan will emphasize those public facilities under the direct or indirect control of the Borough Council. An inventory of existing and future public facilities and services is necessary to insure the general health, safety, and welfare of Borough residents. This inventory will consider the basic characteristics and overall potential of the following community facilities and services: (1) Police, Fire, and Ambulance Protection; (2) Street Maintenance; (3) Municipal Buildings; (4) Recreation Facilities; (5) Water Service and Sanitary Sewage; (6) Municipal Waste; (7) Public Utilities; and (8) Educational Facilities. The identification and location of East Conemaugh Borough's community facilities are shown on the Community Facilities Map (Map No. 2). Inventory of Services and Facilities Governmental Organization East Conemaugh Borough is authorized by the Pennsylvania Constitution and is organized under the Borough Code as granted by the Pennsylvania General Assembly. The Borough operates under the Weak Mayor-Council form of government. The Mayor is elected for a four (4) year term and the seven (7) Council members are elected for four (4) year overlapping terms. The governing body of the Borough is the elected Council. In addition to the Mayor and Council Members, registered voters in East Conemaugh Borough also elect a tax collector, assessor, and constable. All other municipal officials and departments are appointed by the Council on an as-needed basis to insure that municipal government is properly maintained. In East Conemaugh, the following municipal officials are appointed: Secretary/Treasurer, Solicitor, Street Commissioners, Engineer, and Auditor. Borough Council also utilizes the services of the Cambria/Somerset Council of Governments (COG) for administrative, code enforcement, and housing rehabilitation programs.

46. Police Department Police protection within East Conemaugh Borough is provided by the East Conemaugh Borough Police Department. The department provides 24-hour service in cooperation with Cambria County's 911 Department of Emergency Services. The Department operates seven (7) days a week and also provides police protection on a contractual basis to the residents of Franklin Borough. The Police Department is headquartered in the Municipal Building at 355 First Street. A full-time police chief and assistant chief are supported by a staff of eight (8) part-time employees. The Department maintains a roster of three (3) police vehicles. Fire Department The Conemaugh Fire Company provides fire protection services to residents of East Conemaugh Borough. The 25-member volunteer fire company is housed in the Borough Building at 355 First Street. This fire company is responsible for all related calls in East Conemaugh Borough and also serves as a back-up unit to surrounding municipalities when called upon. The fire company and ambulance can be dispatched by direct telephone line to the fire station or by the County's 911 Emergency Services Department. Ambulance Service "Emergency ambulatory service is provided in East Conemaugh by the Conemaugh Fire Department. The ambulance service is also headquartered at 355 First Street and, in cooperation with Cambria's 911 Dispatch Center, provides 24-hour emergency service to East Conemaugh and surrounding municipalities. Street Maintenance (Public Works Department) The maintenance of local streets in East Conemaugh Borough provides for a wide range of public services such as keeping roads open, road repair and paving, construction of new roads and sidewalks, and street lighting. Road maintenance within the Borough is one of the primary responsibilities of the Street Department. Street maintenance is conducted on a daily basis by five (5) full-time and one (1) part-time Borough employee under the supervision of the Borough Council. The East Conemaugh Borough maintenance

47. garage is located on Greeve Street and serves as the center for storage and repair of road maintenance equipment. Municipal Buildings The East Conemaugh Borough Municipal Building (Mayor's Office) serves as the central headquarters for daily governmental operations and activities within the Borough. The Municipal Building is a multi-purpose facility located at 355 First Street and currently houses space for the following offices, agencies, and departments:

Mayor and Council Members Tax Collector Secretary/Treasurer Assessor Fire Department Auditor Street Department Solicitor Public Hearings & Meetings Engineer Sewage Authority Planning Committee Municipal Waste Department Codes Enforcement Municipal Electric Department Zoning Hearing Board Police Department Zoning Officer Recreation Facilities Recreation facilities and activities are important resources of the community environment and are necessary for maintaining the physical well-being of children and adults as well. Providing for recreation or the expenditure of leisure time is an essential function of local government. Within the East Conemaugh Borough, the operation and maintenance of recreation facilities is the responsibility of the Borough Council and the East Conemaugh Youth League. The following inventory of neighborhood recreation facilities and open space are available to the residents of East Conemaugh. * East Conemaugh Borough Recreation Field The Borough's primary recreational facility is located between First and Second Streets. The 1.4-acre facility includes two (2) basketball courts, a baseball/T-ball field, and a tennis/street hockey court. The multi-purpose facility also contains dugouts, bleachers, a concession stand, and minor play equipment. * Fourth Street Playground This 1.0-acre recreation facility is located on Fourth Street and Linden Avenue. The playground contains a combination basketball- volleyball court and minor play equipment.

48. Water Service 0 The Greater Johnstown Water Authority provides public water service to residents of East Conemaugh Borough. The Authority's water system is managed by Laurel Management Company, which in addition to East Conemaugh, serves the City of Johnstown and 16 surrounding municipalities. The primary sources of the Authority's water supply are the North Fork, Saltlick, and Dalton Reservoirs with a combined capacity of 2 billion gallons. The Authority utilizes 8.3 million gallons per day to serve about 22,000 metered customers. All water supplies are chlorinated at the source and in 1989, fluoride was added to the system for the first time. The Greater Johnstown Water Authority is responsible for the overall operation and maintenance of water lines and various appurtenances. Sewage Service The City of Johnstown, Bureau of Sewage, provides sewage treatment service for East Conemaugh Borough. The Bureau of Sewage is managed by the Johnstown Redevelopment Authority and serves the City of Johnstown and all or part of 17 surrounding municipalities within the Johnstown urbanized area. The system provides sewage collection and secondary treatment at the City's Dornick Point Sewage Treatment 0 Plant. The Bureau of Sewage serves over 23,000 metered customers. The design loading for the treatment plant is 12 million gallons per day (MGD) average daily flow. East Conemaugh Borough is responsible for maintenance and service of sewage collection lines and appurtenances within the Borough. Municipal Waste The collection and disposal of municipal waste in East Conemaugh Borough is regulated by the Borough's Municipal Waste Ordinance. Garbage collection is conducted weekly by five Borough employees at a flat rate of $120.00 per year per household or commercial establishment. Garbage disposal in Franklin Borough is conducted under purchase-of-service contract with East Conemaugh Borough on a yearly basis. Garbage collected is transported by East Conemaugh's municipally-owned hauling service to a designated County landfill. East Conemaugh Borough, by resolution, has also adopted Cambria County's Municipal Waste Hauling Ordinance which governs the transportation of municipal solid waste to approved County landfills.

49. Public Utilities Utility service within East Conemaugh Borough is provided by several licensed public utility companies. Additionally, the Borough operates and maintains its own Municipal Power and Light Department. Power is purchased from the Pennsylvania Electric Company (Met Ed/Penelec) and distributed throughout the Borough's system. The Municipal Light Department is responsible for maintaining and servicing the municipal electric system. East Conemaugh is also served by the following utility providers as licensed by the Public Utility Commission (PUC): * General Telephone Company (GTE North) * Adelphia Cable Company * Greater Johnstown Water Authority (Municipal Water) * Johnstown Bureau of Sewage (Municipal Sewage Treatmeni Educational Facilities East Conemaugh Borough is part of the Conemaugh Valley School District which also provides educational services to residents of four (4) other municipalities. The District's administrative offices and the main school complex are located northwest of the Borough along the William Penn Highway (SR 3037) in East Taylor Township. The Conemaugh Valley School District is a participating member of the Greater John town Career and Technology Center which provides vocational-technical education to Conemaugh and other school districts. Elementary and secondary parochial school systems operated by the Altoona-Johnstown Diocese also provide educational services to residents of East Conemaugh and the Greater Johnstown Urbanized Area. the Appalachia Intermediate Unit 08 (IU8) special education system services the Conemaugh Valley District and thirty-four other districts in Western Pennsylvania. Community Facilities Programs and Needs The following community facility programs and needs will serve as the framework for improving the overall quality and quantity of East Conemaugh's community facilities and services. The recommended programs and needs are based upon three (3) sources: (1) the preceding inventory of existing community facilities and services; (2) the results of the East Conemaugh Household and Merchant Opinion Survey: and (3) the stated community-wide goals and objectives.

50. Police Protection * Continue to financially support the programs of the East Conemaugh Borough Police Department * Promote educational programs which encourage community crime prevention and public safety * Continue contracting cost-effective police protection to residents of Franklin Borough Fire Protection * Continue to provide financial support for the East Conemaugh Volunteer First Company * Support programs which provide funding for new training opportunities for fire fighters * Support Cambria County's 911 Emergency Management System as a clearinghouse for fire and police calls Ambulance Service * Provide financial assistance for the continuation of emergency ambulance service within East Conemaugh * Assist other local and area-wide emergency management providers when called upon * Coordinate emergency police, fire, and ambulance dispatch services with the county-wide 911 system Street Maintenance * __ Continue to maintain and upgrade East Conemaugh's streets, curbs, sidewalks, and related appurtenances * Continue to purchase equipment, material, and supplies in cooperation with the Cadria/ Somerset COG * Provide dedicated funding for the on-going repair of local streets, curbing, sidewalks, and stormwater drainage Municipal Buildings * Preserve East Conemaugh's Municipal Building (Burgess Office) through a program of on-going maintenance and renovations * Provide funding support for needed improvements to public facilities such as the Borough Library * Protect and restore public buildings and structures that are considered historically significant

51. * Develop a facade restoration program that provides incentives for building improvements Recreation Facilities * Continue to operate and maintain existing recreational facilities and services within East Conemaugh Borough * Expand both passive and active recreational opportunities by acquiring available land for development * Preserve wetlands, floodplains, water bodies, and green spaces as land resources for recreation Water Service * Continue to purchase safe and reliable water service at a reasonable cost for residents of East Conemaugh * Provide funding for the continue maintenance and flow of fire hydrants. Sewage Service * Continue to operate and maintain existing sewage service lines within East Conemaugh Borough * Secure funding for the on-going maintenance of sewage collection lines and related appurtenances Municipal Waste * Continue to provide garbage disposal service to residents of East Conemaugh and Franklin Boroughs * Promote a volunteer recycling program to help minimize the cost of garbage disposal Public Utilities * Continue to provide cost-effective and reliable electricity and lighting throughout .East Conemaugh Borough * Develop a capital improvement program for the continued operation of the Municipal Power Department * Consider developing a three (3) phase electrical system to provide power for the operation and maintenance of heavy equipment

52. Educational Facilities

* Promote the development of advanced curriculums and modern educational facilities for residents of East Conemaugh * Continue to provide cost-effective contracted police protection to the Conemaugh Valley School District. * Continue to provide cost-effective contracted garbage service to the Conemaugh Valley School District.

53. VIII. COMMUNITY CONSERVATION NEED ..- .. The defined purpose of the East Conemaugh Borough Housing Study is to inventory the existing housing stock and to provide a determination of future housing needs. Adequate housing may be considered a vital community asset supporting the local tax base and contributing to the overall economic and social well-being of the population. To this extent, the East Conemaugh Housing Study will identify the location and extent of substandard, deteriorated, and blighted housing within the Borough by conducting a community- wide exterior housing survey. Policies will be developed that'promote affordable housing for low - moderate income residents and for the specialized housing needs of elderly and disabled residents. A housing unit, as defined by the U.S. Bureau of Census, is a house, an apartment, a mobile home or trailer, a group of rooms, or a single room that is occupied as separate living quarters. Separate living quarters are those in which the occupants live and eat separately from any other persons in the building and which have direct access from outside the building or through a common hall. It is important to note this definition when discussing housing unit trends and

.e. characteristics. Housing Unit Trends Selected housing unit trends for East Conemaugh from from 1980 to 1990 are presented on Table 4. The housing data as presented generally supports the following trend considerations: * The Borough's housing stock decreased by 103 units or 12.5% from 1980 to 1990. * Owner-occupied housing decreased by 62 units or 13.2% over the ten (10) year period. * Renter occupied housing decreased by 73 units or 24.5% during the same period of time. * From 1980 to 1990 the number of vacant units increased by 32 or 53.3% in East Conemaugh. * The Borough's vacancy rate over the 10-year period from 1980 to 1990 increased by 5.4%. * Median Home Value in East Conemaugh increased by $2,800 or 15.2%.

54. * Median monthly gross rent increased by $89.00 or 54.3%. * Median household income increased by $2,775.00 or 20.7%. * Median family income increased by $2,056.00 or 12.1%. Housing Unit Characteristics Table 5 presents three (3) separate housing characteristic profiles for East Conemaugh's housing stock as it existed in 1990. The following considerations can be formulated from the information presented. * The majority of East Conemaugh's 723 housing units, 406 units or 56.2%, were owner-occupied. * Renter-occupied housing represented 225 units or 31.1% of the total housing stock in 1990. * Vacant housing totaled 92 units or 12.7% of all housing units. * The average household size was 2.33 persons per occupied household. * Housing units built in 1939 or earlier comprise 619 units or 85.6% of all housing.

* Only 14 housing units or 1.9% were built between 1970 and 1990. * All the Borough's housing was served by public water and 99.7% were served by a public sewer system. * 498 housing units or 78.9% use fuel oil as their primary heating fuel. * 9 housing units 1.2% lack either hot and cold piped water, a flush toilet, or a bathtub or shower. * Housing with a householder 65 years and over comprise 252 units or 29.3%. * Owner-occupied housing valued at less than $50,000 totaled 337 units or 83.0%. * The majority of housing units, 198 or 88.0%, paid less than $300.00 a month in rent.

55. * Single-parent households represent 198 units or 31.4% of all occupied housing.

* In 1990, 81 families or 19.2% of all families had incomes below the poverty level. * 306 persons or 20.8% of the Borough population had incomes below the poverty level.

TABLE 4 EAST CONEMAUGH BOROUGH HOUSING UNIT TRENDS 1980 - 1990

Numerical % Housing Data 1980 1990 Change Change Total Housing Units 826 723 -103 -12.5% Owner Occupied 468 406 - 62 -13.2% Renter Occupied 298 225 - 73 -24.5% Vacant Units 60 92 32 53.3% Vacancy Rate 7.3% 12.7% N/A% 5.4%

Median Home Value $18,400 $21,200 $ 2,800 15.2% Median Gross Rent $164 $253 $89 54.3% Median Household Income $13,438 $16,213 $ 2,775 20.7% Median Family I-ncome $17,023 $19,079 $ 2,056 12.1%

SOURCE: U.S. Dept. of Commerce, Bureau of Census, 1980-1990 Census of Population and Housing.

56. TABLE 5 EAST CONEMAUGH BOROUGH SELECTED HOUSING CHARACTERISTICS 1990

Housing Unit Tenure Percent of Tenure Number Total

Owner-Occupied Housing Units 406 56.2% Renter-Occupied Housing Units 225 31.1% Vacant Housing Units 92 12.7%

Total Housing Units 723 100.0%

Vacancy Rate - 12.7% Persons Per Household - 2.33

Age and Structural Characteristics Percent of Characteristics Number Total ,- Built 1970 to 1990 14 1.9% Built 1939 or Earlier 619 85.6% Lacking Complete Plumbing 9 1.2% With Public Water 723 100.0% With Public Sewer 721 99.7% Heating (Fuel Oil) 498 78.9%

Value and Income Characteristics Percent of Characteristics Number Total

Householder 65 Yrs. and Over 252 29.3% Value Less than $50,000 ( Owner-Occupied) 337 83.0% Contract Rent Less than $300 (Renter-Occupied) 198 88.0% Single-Parent Households 198 31.4% Income Below Poverty Level (Families 81 19.2% Income Below Poverty Level (Persons) 306 20.8%

SOURCE: U.S. Dept. of Commerce, U.S. Bureau of Census, 1990 Census of Population and Housing

57. Housing Condition Inventory The housing unit trends and characteristics as discussed have provided a comprehensive overview of East Conemaugh's existing housing stock. However, the information presented provides no insight into existing housing conditions and makes no reference to those units classified as substandard, deteriorated, or blighted. This section of the East Conemaugh Borough Housing Study will survey the physical (exterior) condition of the housing stock. The results of this inventory will reveal the overall quality of the housing and identify any areas which exhibit blighted housing. The housing condition inventory is premised upon a visual field survey of housing units within East Conemaugh. (See Exterior Housing Survey form in the Appendix.) Only structures primarily utilized for living occupancy will be examined and includes single family, multi-family, and mobile homes. The inventory will examine only the exterior condition of the housing unit and property so as to provide for an appropriate visual inspection of the unit's overall appearance. For the purpose of the inventory, seven (7) exterior housing criteria were examined to determine a housing unit's overall deficiency. Based upon the number and extent of exterior deficiencies, a unit was classified as being standard (1 or no deficiencies), substandard (2 deficiencies), deteriorated (3 deficiencies) or blighted (4 or more deficiencies). The exterior housing criteria utilized to inventory East Conemaugh's housing stock is presented below: 1. Exterior (Minor) - Paint, Siding, Roofing, Windows, Porches 2. Exterior (Major) - Cracks, Holes, Bulge, Rot, Fire Damage 3. Foundation - Cracks, Holes, Bulge, Settlement 4. Roof - Sag, Missing Shingles, Rot, Fire Damage 5. Windows - Missing Glass, Broken Glass, Boarded-Up 6, Porches - Sag, Broken Steps, Missing Decks or Rails 7. Chimney - Cracks, Holes, Settlement, Bulge The East Conemaugh Borough housing condition inventory will provide a mechanism to survey the existing housing stock and to subsequently classify it into one (1) of the following four (4) housing categories: ,n

58. 1. Standard - The housing units show signs of one (1) or none of the exterior deficiencies, based upon a visual inspection involving the seven (7) exterior housing criteria. 2. Substandard - The housing units show signs of exterior deficiencies involving at least two (2) of the seven (7) exterior housing criteria. 3. Deteriorated - The housing units classified in this category show signs of exterior deficiencies which can range from minor repairs to substantial rehabilitation. A dwelling unit would be lacking in at least three (3) of the seven (7) housing criteria and considered substandard.

4. Blighted - The housing units are in such condition that it would not be economically feasible to rehabilitate the unit to bring it up to building standards. These units have major structural problems and are deficient in at least four (4) of the exterior housing criteria. Housing units classified as substandard,

<--. deteriorated, or blighted will be considered for additional inspection after being placed into one (1) of the recommended programs discussed below: Maintenance Program: A substandard housing program designed to promote the repair of minor and major exterior building and property deficiencies such as improvements to exterior walls, windows, and roofing. A program of housing maintenance would also consider exterior property improvements such as yard beautification and debris removal. Rehabilitation Program: A housing program designed to improve and upgrade major exterior . building deterioration in areas showing significant structural damage to foundations, exterior walls, and roofs. A program of housing rehabilitation would support and be consistent with acceptable housing, building, electrical, fire, and plumbing codes and other local ordinances. Demolition Program: A housing program designed to remove blighted structures exhibiting signs of major structural damage rendering the housing unit uninhabitable. Units recommended for demolition are very often abandoned and pose a significant threat to public health, safety, and welfare.

59. Housing Inventory Summation The East Conemaugh Borough Housing Inventory, utilizing the methodology described above, identified twenty-two (22) housing units as being substandard, twenty-four (24) units as deteriorated, and three (3) vacant units classified as blighted. Table 6 presents a listing of the housing units identified in the survey with respect to exterior deficiencies. Each unit has been identified in terms of Street Address, Exterior Appearance, Housing Classification, Housing Program, and Map Number. The Community Facilities Map (Map No. 2) delineates the location of East Conemaugh's substandard, deteriorated and blighted housing. The housing inventory indicated that the majority of the Borough's housing stock can be classified as standard housing. The exterior housing deficiencies most often encountered during the drive-by windshield survey were in terms of minor exterior problems. In most cases, basic fix-it-up type minor repair activities such as exterior painting, replacing missing shingles or broken glass, new roofing and soffit and fascia, and replacing porch decking or rails appeared to be the only type of housing maintenance necessary to bring the units up to standard condition. The 22 single-family housing units (6 units are double houses) in East Conemaugh classified as substandard would best be served by an on-going maintenance and repair program supported and promoted by both the public and private sectors. A housing maintenance program would assume the following considerations: * The repair of minor and/or major exterior property deficiencies, e.g., paint, roof, window, siding, porch, chimney, and foundation. * Public support of housing maintenance and improvement through the establishment of residential tax incentive programs such as the Local Economic Revitalization Tax Act (LERTA). * Community-wide promotion of clean-up, fix- it-up, and beautification programs enhanced by municipal resources and equipment. * Private sector support in terms of providing low interest loans and other financial incentives for home improvements.

60. The twenty-seven (27) single-family housing units (8 units are double houses) classified as deteriorated within the Borough may be eligible to participate in East Conemaugh's existing housing rehabilitation program. The housing program considers the following parameters: * The improvement and upgrading of major exterior building deficiencies in areas showing significant structural damage to foundations, exterior walls, and roofs. * Deteriorated housing rehabilitation that is consistent with the Borough's prescribed Building Officials and Code Administration (BOCA) basic building and basic housing code. * An owner-occupied housing program supported by state funding that provides grants to qualified low and moderate income persons and families. * A housing program that is administered by the Cambria-Somerset Council of Governments (COG), the Borough Council, and the Pennsylvania Department of Community Affairs. The three (3) vacant/abandoned units classified as blighted within East Conemaugh Borough should be condemned and placed in a housing demolition program consistent with the following parameters: * The unit is structurally deficient in terms of major exterior criteria such as roof, siding, windows, chimney, and foundation and presents a public health and safety issue. * An official determination of housing condemnation based upon the Borough's building and housing codes (BOCA) should be made in regard to deteriorated units. * Following official notification of property status, it will become the responsibility of the property owner to finance the associated demolition costs. * Demolition costs may be pursued privately or in cooperation with a public entity with condemnation powers such as the Cambria County Redevelopment Authority.

61. TABLE 6 EAST CONEMAUGH BOROUGH HOUSING CONDITION INVENTORY Housing Housing Street Address Exterior Appearance Classification Program Map No. 312 4th Street Facade Restoration Substandard Maintenance 1 306-308 4th Street Facade Restoration Substandard Maintenance 2 224 4th Street Soffit & Fascia Deteriorated Rehabilitation 3 272 5th Street Facade Restoration Substandard Maintenance 4 254 5th Street Yard Maintenance Substandard Maintenance 5 223-225 5th Street Debris Removal Deteriorated Rehabilitation 6 423 Oak Street Structural Deficiencies Blighted Demolition 7 117 Jackson Street Soffit & Fascia Substandard Maintenance 8 106 Jackson Street Facade Restoration Deteriorated Rehabilitation 9 90 Jackson Street Facade Restoration Substandard Maintenance 10 2 Coulter Street Facade Restoration Deteriorated Rehabilitation 11 104 Van Buren Street Yard Maintenance Substandard Maintenance 12 329 Main Street Facade Restoration Substandard Maintenance 13 Main & 4th Street Facade Restoration Deteriorated Rehabilitation 14 355 4th Street Facade Restoration Deteriorated Rehabilitation 15 260 3rd Street Structural Deficiencies Substandard Maintenance 16 300 Linden Avenue Structural Deficiencies Deteriorated Rehabilitation 17 167 4th Street Facade Restoration Deteriorated Rehabilitation 18 161 3rd Street Facade Restoration Deteriorated Rehabilitation 19 354 Second Street Facade Restoration Deteriorated Rehabilitation 20 R232 Elder & Basswood Facade Restoration Deteriorated Rehabilitation 21 R146 Citron & Basswood Soffit & Fascia Substandard Maintenance 22 154 Second Street Structural Deficiencies Substandard Maintenance 23 120 Oak Street Facade Restoration Deteriorated Rehabilitation 24 235 2nd Street Structural Deficiencies Deteriorated Rehabilitation 25 427 2nd Street Facade Restoration Substandard Maintenance 26 429 2nd Street Facade Restoration Deteriorated Rehabilitation 27 431 2nd Street Structural Deficiencies Blighted Demolition 28 514 1st Street Facade Restoration Substandard Maintenance 29 507 1st Street Soffit & Fascia Substandard Maintenance 30 470 1st Street Soffit & Fascia Substandard Maintenance 31

62. TABLE 6 (Continued) EAST CONEMAUGH BOROUGH HOUSING CONDITION INVENTORY Housing Housing Street Address Exterior Appearance Classification Program Map No. 306-308 1st Street Facade Restoration Deteriorated Rehabilitation 32 300 1st Street Facade Restoration Deteriorated Rehabilitation 33 305-307 1st Street Soffit & Fascia Deteriorated Rehabilitation 34 217 1st Street Facade Restoration Deteriorated Rehabilitation 35 R217 1st Street Soffit & Fascia Substandard Maintenance 36 R219 1st Street Facade Restoration Deteriorated Rehabilitation 37 25-27 Locust Street Structural Deficiencies Deteriorated Rehabilitation 38 167-168 Van Buren Street Soffit & Fascia Substandard Maintenance 39 4 Headrick Avenue Soffit & Fascia Substandard Maintenance 50 246 Greeve Street Soffit & Fascia Deteriorated Rehabilitation 41 312 Railroad Street Facade Restoration Deteriorated Rehabilitation 42 407 Chestnut Street Structural Deficiencies B1 igh ted Demolition 43 50 Cambria Street Facade Restoration Deteriorated Rehabilitation 44 R419-421 Main Street Soffit & Fascia Substandard Maintenance 45

SOURCE: Cambria County Planning Commission; Exterior Housing Survey; June, 1996.

63. Housing Stock Management F The overall management of East Conemaugh Borough's housing stock consists of several programs designed to insure minimum standards of health and safety in existing and new housing construction. To this extent, the Borough has initiated a Housing Rehabilitation Program, Codes Enforcement Program, and local Land Use Regulations. A description of the Borough's existing housing stock management programs is listed below. Housing Rehabilitation Program The East Conemaugh Borough Council, in cooperation with the Cambria-Somerset Council of Governments (COG) has established an on-going housing rehabilitation program. The program, funded by the State Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program, is designed to conserve the Borough's housing stock by making improvements to deteriorated housing. The purpose of the program is to assist property owners in the repair and upgrading of properties determined to be deficient in terms of compliance with national/county/ municipal housing codes and ordinances. East Conemaugh's Housing Rehabilitation Program began in 1991 with the rehabilitation of 26 owner-occupied units. In 1993, the Borough received CDBG funding to rehabilitation 31 additional housing units. In February 1996, the Borough, in cooperation with the Cambria-Somerset COG, submitted an application to the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) to rehabilitate 20 housing units. As of July, 1996, official state notification of the housing application's approval of denial has not been received. East Conemaugh Borough's 1996 CDBG Housing Rehabilitation Program is outlined below. Program Administration - The Cambria-Somerset Council of Governments and the East Conemaugh Borough Council in cooperation with the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED). Program Description - To provide direct rehabilitation grants to qualified low and moderate income persons and families who own and occupy their properties. Program Purpose - To improve and upgrade substandard dwelling units for the purpose of

64. providing a standard living unit in accordance with the Housing Rehabilitation Guide of ECD and the 1990 BOCA Property Maintenance Code. Program Eligibility - To be eligible for a rehabilitation grant, a property owner must meet the following minimum criteria: * Be a family or individual having legal title to a dwelling unit located in East Conemaugh Borough for at least one (1) calendar year prior to filing an application. * Have occupied the dwelling unit to be rehabilitated for at least one (1) calendar year prior to the filing of the grant application. * Have assets of less than $20,000.00. * No rental rehabilitation is permitted under CDBG housing rehabilitation guidelines. * Have a family income at or lower than the current Section 8 income limits. Grant Amount and Liability - The 1996 East Conemaugh Borough CDBG housing rehabilitation grant is for $250.000.00. The grant will provide funding up to $8,000.00 per eligible unit and will rehabilitate at lest twenty (20) housing units. Eligible Costs - Costs includable in an assisted rehab grant shall be limited to (1) costs for correction of immediate basic code deficiencies (such as repairs to roofs, electrical wiring systems, plumbing and heating systems and certain other structural defects affecting the use and livability of the dwelling), (2) costs for placing the property in generally good and readily maintainable conditions, and (3) costs for corrections of conditions which could cause deficiencies within three to five years of the initial inspection, dependent upon the availability of federal community development funds which have been specifically set aside for the purpose of rehabilitation.

65. Code Enforcement Program The basic philosophy relevant to East Conemaugh's code enforcement program is to insure minimum standards of health and safety in existing and new housing construction. The Borough, in the interest of housing conservation, has adopted uniform Building Officials and Code Administration (BOCA) basic building code and basic housing code regulating the construction of new housing, the rehabilitation of substandard and deteriorated housing, and the demolition or removal of blighted structures. East Conemaugh's building and housing codes are administered and enforced through the cooperative efforts of the Borough Council and the Cambria-Somerset Council of Governments (COG). Building and Housing Codes The purpose of the building code is to insure minimum standards of health and safety in new residential construction, including the substantial rehabilitation of an existing deteriorated structure. The housing code is designed to insure minimum standards of

L health and safety in existing dwellings. East Conemaugh's building and housing codes are the primary tools for preserving the quality and quantity of the existing housing stock. Code enforcement, when utilized in conjunction with a system of on-going maintenance and rehabilitation, can enhance community housing efforts. East Conemaugh's first priority is to. stimulate the maintenance of existing homes by the private sector. Second, East Conemaugh should work to stimulate, insure, and ultimately support, the rehabilitation of substandard and deteriorated structures. Finally, East Conemaugh, in conjunction with delinquent owners and state and local agencies, should develop a program to demolish deteriorated ' structures that are public health hazards. Local Land Use Regulations The East Conemaugh Zoning Ordinance is the type of land use regulation that can affect housing conditions, costs, and opportunities. Other factors include local wages ad employment and the influence they have on housing demand, the cost of labor and materials, the cost of construction and

66. mortgage financing, and the price of land. Land use regulations such as zoning and subdivision ordinances are influenced by local decision-making and can be designed and implemented so as to be a positive force in the development of housing management. East Conemaugh Zoning Ordinance The East Conemaugh Zoning Ordinance can have a positive impact on housing growth and development within the Borough. First, because zoning regulates the type of housing that can be built, where it can be built, and how much of it can be built, it influences the types and numbers of housing opportunities that are available in a community for different types of households with different types of housing needs. Second, because the zoning ordinance regulates the density of development, it has a significant impact on overall housing costs. It directly determines the amount of land needed for development. This, in turn, affects the size and the cost of the unit that is built on the land. Finally, the zoning ordinance affects the overall cost of housing through minimum lot width and setback requirements. When these requirements are excessive, a variety of housing related infrastructure costs such as sidewalks, curbing, streets, and utility service lines, increase. In addition, when minimum lot width and setback requirements promote wide, shallow lots, as opposed to narrow, deep lots, even though the overall lot sizes are the same, infrastructure costs are also increased. Wide lots require more sidewalks, curbing, and longer utility lines than do narrow lots. Housing Needs and Programs The existing housing management programs being implemented by East Conemaugh Borough serve to monitor and regulate local housing. However, some additional housing needs such as the programs discussed below offer expanded opportunities in areas of housing maintenance, development, and preservation within East Conemaugh. The implementation of one (1) or all three (3) of the programs would enhance the Borough's ability to improve and protect its housing stock.

67. Housing Maintenance Programs

A successful maintenance program is'based upon two (2) parallel sets of policies: (1) mandatory requirements such as building and housing codes; and (2) an inspection system that is based upon housing transactions and housing complaints. When inspections are not conducted, code enforcement has limited results in terms of fostering a successful housing maintenance program. A comprehensive review of all structures in East Conemaugh would insure the most successful system of code enforcement. With this approach, the owner-occupied housing stock would be inspected once and the rental stock twice every 10 years. However, such a housing inspection program would not be cost-effective and would eventually drain the resources of the Borough. The East Conemaugh Exterior Housing Survey will help to identify visual housing problems but makes no attempt to survey interior building conditions. On-going housing inspections should be "transaction-based" within East Conemaugh Borough. This type of housing program would necessitate that the Borough inspect all properties at the time they are sold in cooperation with potential buyers, real estate agents, and lending institutions. In addition, the rental housing stock would be inspected at the time a tenant vacates a unit in cooperation with potential renters and landlords. A transaction-based or housing tenure system would at least insure that most housing would come under periodic inspection. Such a system would also provide East Conemaugh with a mechanism for tracking renters so that local municipal taxes can be levied. The Borough would also need to enhance the transaction-based system with a formal program of "complaint response notification" . This inspection program is based upon information received from concerned neighbors and local residents as to a specific housing problem or situation. A long-term homeowner that has neglected his or her property will only come to the Borough's attention through a complaint. A landlord who allows the rapid deterioration of a unit could avoid detection without a formal complaint response program.

68. Subdivision and Land Development Ordinance Subdivision and land development regulations provide for the orderly division and development of raw land into building lots and development sites. These regulations could be used by East Conemaugh to insure adequate vehicular access to the building site, safe pedestrian movement, sufficient stormwater drainage, safe drinking water and sanitary sewage disposal systems, and protection of the environment. The administration of subdivision and land development regulations is another factor that affects the cost of housing. When unanticipated project delays occur, as a result of the administration of the regulations, either because of a lack of a clearly articulated review process or by unanticipated requirements imposed upon the developer, or by a lack of coordinated among those entities involved in the administration of the regulations, development costs increase unnecessarily. In terms of the subdivision regulations themselves, street width requirements, sidewalk standards, parking and landscaping standards, sewer and water facilities, and stormwater management requirements should not exceed the minimum necessary to insure public health, safety, and welfare. Future Housing Considerations Future demands from population characteristics and household formation will be the primary factors affecting housing growth in East Conemaugh Borough into the year 2010. The continuing decline in family size and the increase in the number of one-and-two person households points to the need for smaller housing units. The development of small, relatively affordable, 1-unit detached homes would also provide for the housing needs of growing segments of the population, such as the elderly and single adults. Additionally, the two (2) income family most likely will continue as an economic necessity in order to afford the purchase of a home. Subsequently, housing planning must correspond to existing and future demographic trends and economic conditions. Affordable Housing Needs Consideration must be given to providing affordable low - moderate income rental housing

69. within East Conemaugh. The issue of affordable housing is complex and subject to many factors and market forces. In Pennsylvania, implementation of many planning mechanisms and programs is left up to individual municipalities under the Municipalities Planning Code (MPC), Act 247 of 1968. Unfortunately, East Conemaugh Borough has no distinct power to require developers to build affordable units. Basically, the Borough is left with only the ability to study and advocate appropriate housing policies. The Pennsylvania courts have recognized this issue and emphasized that all communities in the path of growth must provide for their fair share of the region's growth, including more affordable housing. However, the legislature has yet to provide the legal mechanism to effectively bring fair share about. The concept of affordable housing is a necessary element of East Conemaugh's housing plan. The Borough will address the affordable housing need of individuals and families currently residing within its boundaries through appropriate policy planning and through zoning. Zoning will insure that sufficient amounts of land will be available at a variety of densities, thus providing housing opportunities for individuals and families of all income levels. Policies 1. Utilize zoning to regulate and mitigate the affects of housing growth on municipal services and facilities while providing for affordable housing. 2. Promote the use of zoning that allows for the provision of adequate multi-family residential development affordable to low - moderate income households. 3. Encourage the preservation and availability of existing private and public rental properties for low - moderate income households. Special Housing Needs Persons with special housing needs comprise several main groups: the elderly, the physically disabled, and the mentally ill. The housing needs of persons 65 years old and over warrants special

70. attention because they make up the fastest-growing -. age group in East Conemaugh. Overall, the Borough's population decreased by 658 persons or 30.9% between 1980 and 1990. However, during the same 10-year period, the elderly population age 65 and over increased by 31 people or 9.8 percent. East Conemaugh's median age also increased from 36.4 years in 1980 to 41.0 years in 1990. Most elderly persons in East Conemaugh continue to reside in single-family detached homes they find too large and expensive to maintain. While some remain by choice, others remain because of a lack of alternative housing opportunities such as low - moderate income subsidized housing. Senior citizens desire independence, yet they want to remain within the communities in which they have lived most of their lives, close to family and friends. Handicapped and disabled people also want housing that promotes and maintains their independence. In order to address the growing needs of senior citizens and those persons with disabilities, East Conemaugh Borough must assure that housing, such as residential conversions or group homes, is permitted through zoning and subdivision and land development regulations. Emphasis must be given to provisions permitting the creation of alternative housing policies that fit the lifestyle needs of special population groups. Policies 1. Promote programs that enable elderly, physically disabled, mentally ill, and mentally challenged to remain in their private homes. 2. Provide expanded opportunities and independent living arrangements for those residents with special housing needs, including the elderly and handicapped. 3. Address existing and future public housing needs of elderly and disabled persons by supporting the creation of new subsidized housing.

71. IX. ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT NEED A diversified and stable local economy that provides business and employment opportunities for all residents of East Conemaugh Borough must be considered within the overall context of economic activities at the county and regional levels. Economic development encompasses a multitude of activities, ranging from community planning to retention, expansion, and attraction of business and industry in East Conemaugh Borough to the training and equipping of the local labor force to meet changing skill levels and future employment requirements. In Cambria County, economic development is largely the responsibility of five (5) organizations: the Cambria County Industrial Development Corporation/Authority (CCIDCA), the Johnstown Area Regional Industries and Johnstown Area Economic Development Corporation (JARI/JAEDC), the Johnstown Office of Labor and Industry/Bureau of Employment Security (BES), the Cambria County Area Community College (CCACC), and the Southern Alleghenies Planning and Development Commission (SAPDC). The activities of these agencies usually involve business outreach, marketing, business retention and expansion, education, employment training, and referral activities. Since the beginning of the 1980s, the federal role in economic development has dwindled. Because of the changing federal role, state governments have become more involved in economic development programs, offering such economic development assistance as financial incentives, tax incentives, infrastructure development grants and loans, and various types of non-financial assistance, such as job training, site selection, and export encouragement. Economic Planninq Despite the multiplicity of organizations providing assistance and guidance, there still exists a need to provide comprehensive economic development planning. The development and implementation of sound economic planning should be produced through coordinated and cooperative efforts of all relevant agencies and organizations. Planning and implementation must center on providing a balanced and diverse economy, while pursuing business retention, expansion, and attraction. Efforts must also encompass provisions for adequate educational and training opportunities and facilities for the existing and future labor force.

72.

. . .. In line with national trends, key structural changes and shifts have taken place in the region's and the county's economy in the last 20 years. Since the 1970s, the proportion of workers employed in manufacturing and coal mining has declined, while the proportion of workers employed in service and retail industries has significantly increased. This economic shift has caused a significant restructure of the county's business and employment base. Industrial Employment Trends

A brief analysis of East Conemaugh's employment characteristics using Standard Industrial Classification (SIC) supports the conclusion that significant changes have occurred in the local employment picture. An economic base study of East Conemaugh has been prepared, focusing on labor force data by industry. The data considers information by place of residence detailing the types of businesses in which the local labor force is employed. The data on Table 7 was taken from the 1980 and 1990 U.S. Census and is presented by industry sector for employed residents of the Borough. The data reveals a number of employment trends for the 10-year period which have been summarized below: * Overall, East Conemaugh's total work force declined by 196 workers between 1980 and 1990.

* The largest reduction (-165 workers) took place in the manufacturing of durable goods. * Noticeable employment decreases also occurred within the Health Services (-48 workers) and Public Administration (-26 workers) Industries. * Noticeable employment increases over the 10-year period took place within the Construction (17 workers); Finance, Insurance, Real Estate (22 workers); and Other Professional (17 workers) Industries.

* In 1990, 109 workers or 20.8% of East Conernaugh's work force were employed in the Retail Trade Industry, the largest employment sector.

73. * In 1990, 77 workers or 14.7% were gainfully employed in the Health Services Industries. * Retail Trade, Health, Education, and Other Professional Services combined employed 278 workers or 53.1% of all workers in 1990. * The Durable Goods Manufacturing Sector employed 50 workers or 9.5% of the work force in 1990, the third largest employment sector. Industrial Employment Comparison A brief analysis of the employment by industry for residents of East Conemaugh Borough in 1990 is also important for understanding the local economic base and for future economic development planning and implementation activities. Knowledge of industrial employment provides information on the types of industries important to the labor force and any potential strengths, weaknesses, and training needs. Table 8 statistically details and compares by percentages the 1990 industrial profile for the work force in East Conemaugh, Cambria County, and the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. The data makes possible a number of employment comparisons that are relevant in terms of understanding the Borough's economic base. The employment data as presented on Table can be summarized as follows : * Overall, a larger percentage of workers in East Conemaugh are employed in the Retail Trade (20.8%), and Health Service (14.7%) Industries than is the case for the county and state. * When comparisons are made, fewer Borough workers are employed in manufacturing (13.9%), Wholesale Trade (2.1%), and Public Administration (3.6%) than are county and state workers. * Employment figures in Agriculture (0.4%), Mining (0.6%), and Communication (1.3%) are much lower in East Conemaugh than for the rest of Cambria County.

74. * Other industrial employment figures such as Construction (6.5%), Transportation (4.2%), and Finance, Insurance, and Real Estate (6.3%) largely conform with county and state figures. * In East Conemaugh, the Retail Trade (20.8%), Health Services (14.7%), and Manufacturing (13.9%) sectors are the most important industries in terms of total employment. * The percentage of Borough workers employed in Education (8.8%) and Other Professional Services (8.8%) is greater than that of the county or state. A final analysis of industrial employment figures reveals that Professional and Related Health Services now dominate the employment picture for all three (3) levels of government. However, Manufacturing employment in both the durable and non-durable sectors still remains an important aspect of the overall economic base in East Conemaugh, Cambria County, and the Commonwealth. Therefore, economic planning needs to focus on creating business and employment opportunities with the most growth potential such as Health and Related Services, and address the retention and expansion of employment in tenured industries such as Manufacturing and Mining. Economic Development Needs and Programs Create a Business Industrial Development Committee in East Conemaugh Borough to act as a conduit for formulating, implementing, and evaluating economic development efforts and activities. Formalize the relationship between county development agencies, the Borough, and the business community. Support and help promote Cambria County's efforts to develop and market business retention and expansion programs in cooperation with the County's economic development organizations. Promote economic development activities in East Conemaugh where suitable infrastructure and means of access exist, particularly in areas in needs of urban revitalization.

75. TABLE 7 EAST CONEMAUGH BOROUGH INDUSTRIAL EMPLOYMENT TRENDS 1980-1990 N ume r i ca 1 % of Total Employment Employment Change Employment Industry 1980 1990 1980-90 1990 Agriculture, Forestry 3 2 -1 0.4% Mining 5 3 -2 0.6% . Construction 17 34 17 6.5% Manufacturing, Non-Durable 14 23 9 4.4% Manufacturing, Durable 215 50 -165 9.5% Transportation 28 22 -6 4.2% Communication, Public Utilities 4 7 3 1.3% Wholesale Trade 12 11 -1 2.1% Retail Trade 121 109 - 12 20.8% Finance, Insurance, Real Estate 11 33 22 6.3% Business Service 23 19 -4 3.6% Personal Service 26 17 -9 3.2% Recreation, Amusement 4 6 2 1.2% Health 125 77 - 48 14.7% Education 38 46 8 8.8% Other Professional 29 46 17 8.8% Public Administration 45 -19 - 26 3.6% Total -720 -524 -196 100.0%

SOURCE: 1980 and 1990 U.S. Bureau of Census

76. TABLE 8 EAST CONEMAUGH BOROUGH INDUSTRIAL EMPLOYMENT COMPARISON PERCENT OF TOTAL WORK FORCE 1990 Industry Pennsylvania Cambria County East Conemaugh

Agriculture, Forestry 1.8% 1.3% 0.4% Mining 0.6% 4.0% 0.6% Construction 6.1% 5.6% 6.5% Manufacturing, Non-Durable 8.2% 5.2% 4.4% Manufacturing, Durable 11.8% 0.2% 9.5% Transportation 4.4% 4.8% 4.2% Communication, Public Utilities 2.5% 3.5% 1.3% Wholesale Trade 4.3% 3.1% 2.1% Retail Trade 17.1% 8.7% 20.8% Finance, Insurance, Real Estate 6.5% 5.6% 6.3% Business Service 4.4% 3.1% 3.6% Personal Service 2.5% 2.4% 3.2% Recreation, Amusement 1.0% 1.2% 1.2% Health 9.9% 2.9% 14.7% Education 8.3% 8.0% 8.8% 0ther Professional 6.5% 6 .O% 8.8% Public Administration 4 .O% 4.2% 3.6%

Total 100 -0 100.0% 100.0% SOURCE: 1990 U.S. Bureau of Census

77. Education and Training In today's dynamic and global economy, the need exists for up-to-date and continuous education and training of those entering or re-entering the work force. As employment trends and comparisons have revealed, there have been, and will continue to be, changes and shifts in the structure of the economy. Educational and training programs must be flexible enough to adjust to the changing requirements of the work force. The diversification of the local and regional economy from manufacturing into services has been accompanied by the need for increasing skill level requirements in many industries. To address this issue, Cambria County, East Conemaugh Borough, and the business community need to promote and make available employment training and educational opportunities to all county residents. Overall, it can be concluded that there is a need to increase public/private funding and create employer incentives to provide on- and off-site training and education programs. Education and Training Needs * Promote the availability of employment education and training opportunities for all Borough residents. * Promote secondary and adult education programs appropriate to the emerging employment base. * Encourage public and private support of educational and training opportunities and facilities. Business Attraction/Retention/Expansion Presently, no overall economic development policy exists at the county level to help guide the efforts of local municipalities such as East Conemaugh that want to get involved in business attraction, retention, or expansion. Efforts are needed in the following areas: * To identify and target desirable industries (i.e., industries which generate minimal impact on the environment); * To promote industries that contribute to economic diversity and relate to existing industries;

78. * To match employment opportunities to job skills and contribute to the Borough's tax base: .- * To promote export-based industries; and * To identify and support competitive industries (i.e., high tech and pharmaceutical) . This set of issues calls for the establishment of more coherent and clear guidelines on the part of the county economic development agencies and the establishment of a formal body (i.e., private/ public leadership group) to advise county and municipal government on business and economic matters and help coordinate the efforts of local economic development agencies and organizations. Business Attraction/Retention/Expansion Needs * Encourage the attraction of both public and private funding to create innovative partnerships for economic development. * Promote the attraction and retention of employers hiring local residents and offering a diversified employment base. * Promote business enterprises that can generate high levels of manufacturing and service sector employment. * Encourage the development of a diversified industrial mix that can withstand changing market conditions. * Promote tourism and educational use of local historical, cultural, and natural resources. Historical Preservation Preservation planning involves the use of historical site survey information in making informed decisions about historical and cultural resources which can be used to stimulate economic development through tourism. The formal designation of an historic district in East Conemaugh Borough could provide certain financial incentives associated with tourism and also provide legal protection for the preservation of both the equality of the housing stock and the historical character of the Borough. The identification of historical properties within the Borough which have historic and/or architectural

79. significance may be seen as an initial step toward protecting these properties through municipal regulations. Historical Preservation Program The formal designation of an historic district in East Conemaugh Borough would provide certain financial incentives and legal protection for the preservation of both the quality of the housing stock and the historical character of East Conemaugh. The identification of historic properties within the Borough which have historical and/or architectural significance may be seen as an initial step toward protecting these properties through municipal regulation. Certified Local Government (CLG) Program East Conemaugh should consider the identification, evaluation, and protection of historic homes by becoming a Certified Local Government (CLG) pursuant to the National Historic Preservation Act. As a CLG, the Borough would be (1) eligible to apply to the State Historic Preservation Officer for matching funds earmarked for "Certified Local Government" and (2) responsibility for review of nomination of properties to the National Register of Historic Places. In order to become certified, East Conemaugh must meet a number of requirements, chief of which are to have enacted an Historic Preservation Ordinance and appointed Historic Architectural Review Board or Preservation Commission. As a CLG, East Conemaugh would be eligible to apply for special grants from the State Historic Preservation office. These grants can be used to fund the following types of historical preservation activities and needs:

* A survey and inventory of historic buildings and other historic features including parks, roads, and bridges. * A survey of local prehistoric and historic archeological resources. * The preparation of nominations of local properties and districts to the National Register of Historic Places.

80. * Providing staff support for a Certified Local Government's historic preservation commission. * Developing published design guidelines for use by historic preservation commissions in their review of new construction and alterations to properties within the historic district. * Writing or amending preservation ordinances. * Preparing preservation plans for the protection of local historic resources. * Testing archeological sites to determine their significance. * Preparing and producing exhibits and brochures concerning local historical resources and their protection. * Preparing special events that educate the public about local history, the community's historic resources and preservation issues. Commercial Zoning East Conemaugh Borough's Zoning Ordinance regulates the use of land and structures utilized for commercial purposes. The Ordinance and corresponding Zoning Map also dictates in which area of the Borough a given commercial development can be placed. The size, height, bulk, location, erection, construction, repair, maintenance, alteration, razing, and removal of commercial structures is also controlled by the Borough's Zoning Ordinance. In terms of economic development, zoning can have a direct impact on the location and extent of commercial development. Within East Conemaugh, the extent of the commercial zoning district is restricted to the historically-identified Central Business District (CBD). This aspect of the Borough's existing Ordinance could restrict economic development by limiting the amount of land available for commercial growth. The following types of adjustments to the Borough Zoning Ordinance Map could help stimulate economic growth but should only be considered on a case-by-case basis as commercial growth takes place. * Extend the Central Business District (CBD) Commercial Zone District to incorporate

81. adjacent parcels of land that provide for a natural extension of existing commercial growth. * Expand the Borough's existing Commercial Zoning District to allow for additional in-fill commercial development that is compatible with surrounding land use. * Avoid spot re-zoning of commercial land (i.e., business use in a residential area) when the new commercial use can have a negative impact on adjacent properties. * Be aware of the potential impacts of expanded commercial zoning on police and fire protection, sewer and water facilities, street maintenance, and traffic patterns.

82. - X. COMMUNITY NEEDS ASSESSMENT The following assessment of East Conemaugh Borough's most defined needs serve to synthesize the community development assets and constraints (Chapter Heading IV) with the desired listing of community development goals and objectives (Chapter Heading V). The needs assessment will focus on the major issues facing the Borough in terms of the overall development potential. The identified needs only expand upon the Borough's stated goals and objectives and will set the stage for the Community Development Strategies and Implementation Schedule that follow. East Conemaugh's goals and objectives alluded to four (4) activity component areas in which community-wide needs should be addressed and further explored. The needs assessment will expand upon the four (4) activity components by describing the key elements or improvements necessary to accomplish them. The goals and needs of the East Conemaugh Strategy were derived from the results of the household and business opinion surveys (Chapter Heading IV) supported by the findings and determinations alluded to within each of four (4) activity components or Chapter Headings.

A. Intergovernmental Cooperation Goal: Coordinate the provisions for municipal services within East Conemaugh Borough so as to involve the consultation, cooperation, and resources of elected officials from neighboring municipalities. Needs Assessment: Form a working relationship with elected officials and agencies from neighboring municipalities to help resolve mutual concerns. Maintain or improve the delivery of basic municipal services such as fire and police protection, economic development, library service, and recreational programs or activities by sharing professional services with other communities. Consider the associated cost savings by purchasing materials, equipment, and supplies through state contracts. Reduce the potential for negative impacts resulting from land use activities by coordinating community development projects with adjacent municipalities.

83. Sponsor or attend joint-municipal training and educational programs to improve the daily administration and operation of local government. B. Community Facilities Goal: To maintain and improve upon the various facilities and services provided by East Conemaugh Borough, thereby fostering a higher quality of life. Needs Assessment Encourage the support and cooperation of local residents and the business community in resolving transportation issues such as parking, street lighting, and street maintenance. Continue to support the upgrading, modernization, and expansion of police, fire, ambulance, and garbage collection services and equipment. Expand the provisions for community infrastructure such as sewage, water, electricity, and natural gas through public/private sector cooperation. Improve upon the recreational, library, and social needs of all citizens and special population groups such as senior citizens. C. Community Conservation Goal: To establish a higher quality of residential living within East Conemaugh Borough through improved housing conditions and expanded housing opportunities. Needs Assessment Support a program for the removal of blighted structures throughout the Borough. Support housing related community development activities that encourage housing of different types, densities, and for various income levels. Create a housing improvement program based upon tax incentives to help home-owners rehabilitate deteriorated housing. Encourage new housing development on undeveloped tracts of land and vacant lots that are accessible to public sewer and water facilities. Permit multi-family and elderly housing development where feasible to compliment the construction of single-family units.

84. Promote the conservation and preservation of historically significant housing and other structures as local resources. D. Economic Development Goal: To provide public support and incentives for business retention, expansion, and new development activities that stimulate private investment and job creation within East Conemaugh Borough. Needs Assessment Consider providing free parking to customers of local businesses. Explore the potential economic benefits associated with the formulation of a Business or Industrial Development Committee to encourage economic development. Sponsor governmental grants and loans that rehabilitate blighted commercial or industrial sites. Help provide information and access to financing mechanisms that provide cost-effective capital for business growth. Support the development of new and/or expanded retail/wholesale establishments, as well as professional services within East Conemaugh Borough. Help secure state supported low-interest loans to small businesses for capital improvements. Encourage the development of educationall vocational retraining programs for laid-off or underemployed residents. Enhance and manage cultural and recreational resources that create economic development opportunities through tourism.

85. _- XI. COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT STRATEGIES The preceding goals, objectives, and needs assessment for East Conemaugh Borough decidedly focused on a comprehensive examination of four (4) problem areas. The directional effort for resolving these existing problems will now be addressed in specific steps or strategies relevant to each problem area. The intent is that each strategy will help provide a format and possible solution to the problems identified through the needs assessment. This approach will consider a comprehensive listing of relevant state and county programs, whereby strategy linkage and overlap can be applied to problem resolution on a multi-municipal or individual community basis. The development strategies recommended for East Conemaugh Borough are limited to applicable existing state and local programs for Pennsylvania's small towns and rural communities. The strategies as listed should not be considered inclusive in terms of both program scope and project limitations. Because of the diversification and extent of state and federal assistance programs, an expanded and updated listing of relevant programs and services has been placed within the Appendix and may also be pursued to help implement the recommended strategies. The programs have been recently released by the newly- created Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) for FY 1996-97.

A. Intergovernmental Cooperation Strategies -A-1 Strategy Statement: Share the Costs of Employing a Full-time Economic Development Coordinator. Program: Circuit Rider Program (CRP) Contact Agency: PA Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) (717) 783-4657 Type of Assistance: Municipal Service Grant/Local Matching Funds Improvement Area: Intergovernmental Cooperation Phase/Time Period: Phase I/1997-2000 #- Implementation Agencyiies): East Conemaugh Borough (ECB), East Taylor Township (ETT)

86. -A-2 Strategy Statement: Promote Joint Ownership of Municipal Equipment and Shared Data Processing Operations Program: Council of Governments/Intermunicipal Projects Program (COG/IP) Contact Agency: PA Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) (717) 783-4657) Type of Assistance: Municipal Service Grant/Local Share Improvement Area: Intergovernmental Cooperation Phase/Time Period: Phase II/2000-2003

Implementation Agency(ies) : East Conemaugh Borough (ECB), East Conemaugh Public Works Department (ECPWD) A-3- Strategy Statement: Purchase Materials, Equipment, and Supplies from State Contracts Negotiated by the Department of General Services Program: Local Piggyback Purchasing Program (LPPP) Contact Agency: PA Department of General Services (DGS) (800) 438-5370 Type of Assistance: Municipal Service/ Non-Grant Improvement Area: Intergovernmental Cooperation Phase/Time Period: Phase III/2003-2007 Implementation Agency(ies): East Conemaugh Borough (ECB), East Conemaugh Public Works Department (ECPWD) -A-4 Strategy Statement: Seek Advice and Technical Assistance as Necessary to Improve the Delivery of Municipal Services Program: Peer-to-Peer Program (PPP) Contact Agency: PA Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) (717) 783-4657

87. Type of Assistance: Municipal Service/Non-Grant Improvement Area: Intergovernmental Cooperation Phase/Time Period: Phase I/1997-2000

Implementation Agency(ies1 : East Conemaugh Borough (ECB), East Conemaugh Borough Planning Committee (ECBPC) B. Community Facilities Strategies -B-1 Strategy Statement: Make Necessary Improvements to Sewage, Water, Electricity, and Natural Gas Infrastructure. Program: Community Development Block Grant Program (CDBG) Contact Agency: PA Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) (717) 783-4657 Type of Assistance: Infrastructure/ Competitive Grant Improvement Area: Community Facilities Phase/Time Period: Phase I/1997-2000 Implementation Agency(ies): East Conemaugh Borough (ECB), East Conemaugh Public Works Department (ECPWD) -B-2 Strateqy Statement: Place Qualified Highway and Local Road Improvement Projects on PA DOT'S 12-Year Program Program: Local Highway and Bridge Program (LHBP) Contact Agency: PA Department of Transportation (PA DOT) (717) 787-5246 Type of Assistance: Transportation Grant - Local Funding Match Improvement Area: Community Facilities Phase/Time Period: Phase I/1997-2000 Implementation Agency(ies): East Conemaugh Borough (ECB), Cambria County Planning Commission (CCPC)

88. -B-3 Strategy Statement: Secure Low-Interest Loans to Acquire Municipal Equipment and Facilities Program: Local Government Capital Projects Loan Program (CPLP) Contact Agency: PA Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) (717) 783-4657 Type of Assistance: Capital Improvements/Low Interest Loans Improvement Area: Community Facilities Phase/Time Period: Phase III/2003-2007 Implementation Agency(ies): East Conemaugh Borough (ECB), East Conemaugh Public Works Department (ECPWD) -B-4 Strategy Statement: Secure Funding Necessary for the Improvements and/or Expansion of Recreation Facilities Program: Keystone Recreation, Park and Conservation Fund - Keystone Fund (KRPCF) Contact Agency: PA Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) (717) 787-7672

Type of Assistance: Recreation/Grant - No Local Match Grant Improvement Area: Community Facilities Phase/Time Period: Phase II/2000-2003 Implementation Agency(ies): East Conemaugh Borough (ECB), East Conemaugh Youth League (ECYL) C. Community Conservation Strategies -C-1 Strateqy Statement: Continue to Rehabilitate Existing Deteriorated Housing for Low-to-Moderate Income Residents Program: Community Development Block Grant Program (CDBG)

Contact Agency: PA Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) (717) 783-4657

89. I -. Type of Assistance: Housing/Grant - No Local Match Improvement Area: Community Facilities Phase/Time Period: Phase I/1997-2000 Implementation Agency(ies): East Conemaugh Borough (ECB), Cambria-Somerset Council of Governments (COG) -C-2 Strategy Statement: Support the Rehabilitation of Housing for Sale and/or Rent to Very Low and Low Income Residents Program: Housing and Community Development Program (HCDP) Contact Agency: PA Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) (717) 787-5327 Type of Assistance: Housing/Grant - No Local Match Grant Improvement Area: Community Facilities Phase/Time Period: Phase II/2000-2003 Implementation Agency(ies): East Conemaugh Borough (ECB), Redevelopment- Authority of Cadria County (RACC) C-3 Strateqy Statement: Support Appropriate Financing Mechanisms for the Purchase of Single-Family Home by First-Time Home Buyers. Program: Single Family Homeownership Program (SFHP) Contact Agency: Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency (PHFA) 1-80 0-8 22-1175 Type of Assistance: Housing/Low-Interest Home Mortgages. Improvement Area: Community Conservation Phase/Time Period: Phase III/2003-2007 Implementation Agency(ies): East Conemaugh Borough (ECB), Participating Lending Institution (PLI)

90. C-4 Strategy Statement: Encourage the Development of Affordable Multi-Family Housing for Low-Moderate Income Residents Program: Home Investment Partnership Program ( HOME Contact Agency: Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency (PHFA) (717) 787-3800 Type of Assistance: Housing Grants - Local Match Improvement Area: Community Conservation Phase/Time Period: Phase III/2003-2007 Implementation Agency(ies): East Conemaugh Borough (ECB), Private Non-Profit Organization (PNO), Redevelopment Authority of Cambria County (RACC) D. Economic Development Strategies -D-1 Strategy Statement: Encourage Public/Private Partnerships that will Develop and Sustain Increased Rates of Business Investment and Job Creation. Program: Enterprise Zone Program (EZP) Contact Agency: PA Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) (717) 787-7400 Type of Assistance: Economic Development/ Grant and Loans Improvement Area: Economic Development Phase/Time Period: Phase II/2000-2003 Implementation Agency(ies): East Conemaugh Borough (ECB), Redevelopment Authority of Cambria County (RACC), Local Business Community (LBC)

91. -D-2 Strategy Statement: Generate Employment and Tax Revenues and Improve the Quality of Life by Revitalizing the Downtown Area Program: Communities of Opportunities Program (COOP) Contact Agency: PA Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) (717) 787-4282 Type of Assistance: Economic Development/ Competitive Grant - Local Match Improvement Area: Economic Development Phase/Time Period: Phase I/1997-2000 Implementation Agency(ies): East Conemaugh Borough (ECB), Redevelopment Authority of Cambria County (RACC) D-3 Strategy Statement: Support the Development of Infrastructure Necessary to Complement Industrial Development by Private Companies Program: Infrastructure Development Program (IDPI Contact Agency: PA Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) (717) 787-7120 Type of Assistance: Economic Development/ Grant and Loans Improvement Area: Economic Development Phase/Time Period: Phase III/2003-2007

Implementation Agency (ies): East Conemaugh Borough (ECB), Cambria County Industrial Development Corporation/Authority (CCIDC/A) -D-4 Strategy Statement: Encourage the Reuse of Dormant and/or Blighted Manufacturing and Industrial Facilities so as to Attract Private Investment. Program: Industrial Sites Reuse Program (ISRP) Contact Agency: PA Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) (717) 787-7120

92. /c4 Type of Assistance: Economic Development/ Grant and Loans 0 Improvement Area: Economic Development

Phase/Time Period: Phase III/2003-2007

Implementation Agency(ies): East Conemaugh Borough (ECB), Cambria County Industrial Development Corporation/Authority (CCIDC/A)

-7 a

93. XII. STRATEGY IMPLEMENTATION SCHEDULE A tentative schedule for the implementation of each respective strategy has been developed and is presented on Table 9. The schedule alludes to the specific strategies as identified in Chapter XI by letter, number, and acronym. (See Table 10 for List of Acronyms.) The tentative schedule provides a listing of each Strategy Statement, Program, Improvement Area, Phase/Time Period, and Implementation Agency. The strategies, phases, and time periods are not absolute, but reflect an overlapping and on-going sequence of community development programs and activities in terms of project initiation and implementation. The implementation schedule considers both short-term and intermediate-type improvements for the ten (10) year period beginning in 1997 and ending in the year 2007. Phase I improvements may be considered short-term and could be initiated and/or implemented during the first three (3) years of the tentative schedule. Phase I1 and Phase I11 improvements may be considered as intermediate-type improvements and would probably best be initiated over the remaining seven (7) years of the schedule. However, depending on local resources, improvement priorities, and available funding programs, the tentative phases and time periods for the various strategies could overlap and vary considerably over the course of the ten (10) year period. The schedule has been developed with emphasis on the initiation or start-up of at least one (1) strategy for each improvement area during the short-term or next three (3) year period. Table 9 identifies the primary state program relevant to each strategy. However, it should be noted that a particular improvement or project may contain an area or range of activity common to other state programs. The programs as listed are specific, but not inclusive in terms of identifying all of the available state programs with activity oversight. The primary local agency (ies) responsible for initiating and/or implementing the proposed strategies have been limited to just one (2) or two (2) relevant agencies. However, in reality, the proposed projects will involve a collective approach noting that there will be an inherent overlap and a high degree of interaction and cooperation with various other agencies and/or organizations during project initiation and implementation.

94. EAST CONEMAUGHBOROUGH COMMUNITYDEVELOPMENTSTRATEGY- IMPLEMENTATION SCHEDULE

I I Develooment Strateaies I ImDrovement Area I Implementation Schedule i Implementation Agency I i I I Strategy 1 strategy 1 Intergovernmental Community Community Business I Phase1 Phase11 1 Phaselll Local Statement Proaram CooDeration I1Facilities Conservation Development i 1997-2000 2000-2003 ' 2003-2007 ! Agency State Agenc ECBl PADCED

PADCED

PADGS

PADCED

PADCED

PADOT

PADCED

PADCNR

PADCED

PADCED

PHFA

US HUD

PADCED

PADCED

D-3 PADCED

D4 I ~SRP i I I

SOURCE: Cambria County Planning Commission. East Conemaugh Borough Strategy, October, 1996. TABLE 10 EAST CONEMAUGH BOROUGH COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT STRATEGY STRATEGY IMPLEMENTATION SCHEDULE LIST OF ACRONYMS STRATEGY PROGRAMS CDBG - Community Development Block Grant Program COG/ IP - Council of Governments/Intermunicipal Projects Program COOP - Communities of Opportunities Program CPLP - Local Government Capital Projects Loan Program C RP - Circuit Rider Program EZP - Enterprise Zone Program HCDP - Housing and Community Development Program HOME - Home Investment Partnership Program IDP - Infrastructure Development Program ISRP - Industrial Sites Reuse Program KRPCF - Keystone Recreation, Park and Conservation Fund LHBP - Local Highway and Bridge Program LPPP - Local Piggyback Purchasing Program PPP - Peer-to-Peer Program SFHP - Single Family Homeownership Program LOCAL IMPLEMENTATION AGENCIES COG - Cambria-Somerset Council of Governments CCIDC/A - Cambria County Industrial Development Corporation/ Authority CCPC - Cambria County Planning Commission ECB - East Conemaugh Borough ECBPC - East Conemaugh Borough Planning Committee ECPWD - East Conemaugh Public Works Department ECYL - East Comemaugh Youth League ETT - East Taylor Township LBC - Local Business Community PLI - Participating Lending Institution PNO - Private Non-Profit RACC - Redevelopment Authority of Cambria County STATE IMPLEMENTATION AGENCIES PA DCED - PA Department of Community and Economic Development PA DCNR - PA Department of Conservation and Natural Resources PA DGS - PA Department of General Services PA DOT - PA Department of Transportation PHFA - Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency

SOURCE: Cambria County Planning Commission, October, 1996.

96. APPENDICES

. .-.i &$LL-' 1996-97 PROGRAMS .LVD SERVICES Center for Local Government Services - Kim Coon, Director

iewes as one stop center for all local governments. Designated as super agency when needed to draw resources of other state agencies in response to local gp-rnrnent needs. Utilizes toll free phone and Regional offices for ease of access. BBSZ-CENTER

~~ rogramdSewicdechn ical Assistance Eligibility/Tenns & Conditions Contact

.4ct 4l, MunicipJites Km*dRcconr). Act Varied statutory requirements. Fred Reddig Empowers the Department to declare cemin municipalities- Center for Local as financially distressed and provides plans for financial Covemment Services recovery. In-depth, extensive Technical Assistance provided Room 332 Forum Building to eligible municipalities. Harrisburg PA 1 71 20 71 7-783-4657

~~

1 Shred Municipal Program Eligible applicants are newly formed Fred Reddig Center for Local

~ A matching grant program to promote cooperation between Councils of Governments (COGS)using Same AddressPhone as Government neighboring municipalities to discover those municipal funds for inititial admin. (>year mad. above Services functions they can provide more efficiently and effectively Croups of two or more municipalities to together than they can separately. Examples of projects defray cost of any municipal function mclude combined police record administration, joint undertaken joindy. Grants to 50% of ownership of municipal equipment shared data processing total project Grantee match is cash, omrations and ioint signmaking. municipal labor, or other in-kind.

~~ ~~~~ ~ Local Government Capital Projects Loan Program Maximum of $50,000or 50% of Fred Reddig Center for Local To assist municipal governments with populations of 12,000 building project costs 2% interest to be Same Addresflone as C overnment or less in the acquisition of equipment and municipal repaid in 10 years - loans may be used above Services facilities by providing low interest loans to those for the purchase, construction, governments which find conventional loans cost renovation or rehabilitation of municipal 1 prohibitive. Priorities are established for projects that buildings. Maximum of $25,000 or impact upon the health. safety or welfare of the residents of 50% for equipment purchases - loans a municipality, involve intergovernmental cooperation or may be used to acquire cars, trucks, benefit financially disadvantaged municipalities. backhoe, lifts, sweepers, and other types of mechanized vehicles, as well as data pmesing equipment

~ Service for Municipalities Sharon Crau Not Applicable Center for LCS 71 7-787-51 77 Address as above

Service for any interested persons Any Center for LCS Staff Not Applicable

Intergovcmmental Cooperation Service for local government Any Center for LCS Staff Not Applicable Promote Cooperation between and among units of local administrators I Cooperative hrchmg Service for local government Any Center for LCS Staff Not Applicable I Provide basic infonnation to local officials on hestate administrators cooperative purchasing program. I Mu&@ Statisth Service for any intcrerted perwmr Any Center for LCS Staff Not Applicable Maintain statistical data on local government reporting requirements

Mice Technical hsistance for municipalities Domer Omdodf Not Applicable Provide technical assistance to municipal police agencies in 71 7-787-7148 matters of regionalization, complement managanent Center for LGS address ah

~~~~~ ~

Kf?dlUX Technical Assistance for local David Stauffer Not Applicable Provide assistance on matters of local government government administratoo 71 7-787-1027 budgeting. accountinp, tax collection, auditing and fiscal Center for LCS address management. above

~~ ~ Vduntm fire Technical Assistance for municipalities Dean Femsler Not Applicable Provide assistance in fostering improved relations heen 71 7-783-2468 t municipal officials and volunteer fire departments leading to Center for LCS address ter public safety programs. ah I Community Empowerment Office - Dennis Darling, Director

Program El igibil ityflerms & Conditions Contact Apply Througt.

~ Community scnicc Block. Grant (CSBC) Low income 125% PaWRy line lam&tg Reed Local Community $1 6 million in federal funds to combat the applicantsZmtees -designated Community Community Empowerment Office Action Agency causes of powy. 90% earnadd for he 43 ActhAgencies 352 Forum Building Community Action Agencies (C4A-S)in Harrisburg PA 17120 Pennsylvania. Remaining 10% is available for 71 7-787-1984 state administration and 'discretionary gfank.'

~ ~~ NeighlmrhmdAairtum PmSM, (NAP) Fled Abrams $16.5 million in tax cledik broken down as Community Empowerment Office 1 .community Affaio & follows: 352 Forum Building Development Regional 1. General credits: $10.5 million for 1. Low income/impoverishedarea. 50% tax Harrisburg. PA 171 20 OfficedCommunity services, education, job training, crime credit for charitable contribution to 501-C-3. 71 7-787-1984 Empowerment Office. prevention and physical improvemenk to distressed communities. 2. Low Incorn4mpowrished area. 70% tax 2. Community 2. Comprehensive Services: $2 million in credit for corporate parnets contribution. Empowerment Office credits for long term programs for comprehensive comrnunityheighbohd 3. Enterprise Zone location by a business. 3. Community development 20% tax credit for irnprovemenk to real Empowerment Office 3. Enterprise Zone Credik: $4 million in Property. credik for investments in state enterprise zones.

hnpioyment and Community Consuv..h Low income population not be exceed 125% Fred Abrams Community Affairs and CEO federal poverty guideline. Same addredtelephoneas above Development Regional Currently $6.3 million in state funds for social Applicantfgrantee- local government and offices services, job training housing, community private non-profik. planning and related programs.

~~ wcrthcrirrtia, ApgM, Low Income - 150% of poveny. JamesEtta Reed Community $1 8 million in federal funds to support a 44 Applicandgranteesnocal Cowmment and Community Empowerment Office Empowerment Offic agency network (private nowprofits and loa1 non-profitr. 352 Forum Building LWlWeaherizatio gowmmena) that perform minor home Harrisburg. PA 17l20 Agency improvements to decrease home heating costs. 71 7-787-1904 Targeted to low-income, elderly and handicapped. Ceiling on individual home improvements of $l,WO.

Community Affairs and Development Regional Offices

1 i Northwest David C. Rothrock, Director - 3rd Floor, Rothrock Building, 121 West 10th Street, Erie, PA 16501 - 8144714241 - fax: 814454- I 7494 I sou6hwest Ellen C. Kight, Diector-413 State Office Building, 300 Uberty Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15222 - 412-565-5002 -.Fax: 412-565.2635 Central JenyL Spangler, Director - 578 Forum Building, Harrisburg, PA 17120 - 71 7-787-2412 - Fox: 71 7-234-4560 No~-thwt Jane Lee, Director - 201 Samten Building, 101 Penn Avenue, Scranton, PA 18503-2025 - 71 7-963-4571 - Fax: 71 7-963-3439 soudhtart Charles F. Nahill, Jr., Director- 908 State Office Bldg., Broad & Spring Garden Streets, Philadelphia, PA 19130 21 5-56&2256 Fax 2155606722 - ~~ Community Affairs and Development - David E. Black, Deputy Secretary qlategic Planning and Program Operations Office -Dallas A. Dollase, Director

Program Eligibility/Terms & Conditions Contact Apply Through

brterprise Zom Program - The Enterprise Zone Proceeds of grants to municipalities are David Messner, Chief Strategic Planning and Program is a grant program designed to assist loaned to EZ firms at below market rates for Enterprise Zone Program Program Operations financially disadvantaged communities in facility acquisition. construction, Strategic Planning and Program Office preparing and implementing business renovaticm, and for machinery and Operations Office development strategies within municipal equipment purchases. Other uses Room 31 8 Forum Building Enterprise Zones. It is a private sectordriven considered. Loans of $75,000to $250,000 Harrisburg. PA 171 20 program, compatible with public sector purposes for up to 30% of total projtxt costs. 71 7-787-7400,Fax: 71 7-2344560 .md designed to increase the quantity and quality Interest rates determined locally. 15-20 yr. of available job opportunities within an Enterprise terms on leal prow, 5-7 yr. terms on Zone. machinery and equipment. Can subordinate to shared second or sole third. One job must be created or retained for every $1 8.000 capital.

Small Communities Planning Assistance hgram Eligible applicants are Pennsylvania J.Wilson Bartiey, Chief Strategic Planning and ISCPAP) boroughs, incorporated towns, and Community Planning Division Program Operations This is a program providing grant funds to townships including those identified as Strategic Planning & Program office nunicipalities to assist with preparation of entitlement under the PA CDBC program Operations Office community and economic development which have populations of 10,WOor less. Room 31 8 forum Building strategies. Funded by a set-aside of 5250,000 Most have a lowmcderate income of Harrisburk PA 17120 annually from the CDBC Program. 51 .O%. 71 7-787-7400.Fax: 71 7-234-4560

~ ~~ ~ State Phning Assistance Grant Program (SPAG) Eligible applicants are any Pennsylvania j. Wilson Bartley Strategic Planning and This program provides direct grants to county, city, borough, township, town, or Same Address & Phone as above Program Operations municipalities on a 50/50 match basis, for region (Council of Governments). Office r-oaration and updating community plans, )is, and implementing mechanisms such as .,.ling ordinances and subdivision and land development Rgulations.

~~~ ~~ Hoodplain Mwgement Rvgrm (FMP) Technical Assistance Bruce Heam, Chief Not Applicable This programprovides technical assistance to Flood Plain Management Program municipalities to comply with the requirements of Strategic Planning & Program the National Flood Insurance Program and the Operations Office Pennsylvania Floodplain Management Ad(Ad Same Address and Telephone as 166 of 1978). In particular, the program involves above helping municipalities with preparation, enacnnent and administration of the required floodplain management regulations which affect development in the flood plains.

Hanning and land Use Technical Awktance Technical Assistance and Service Stephen E. Fehr, Chief Not Applicable This is a program of assistance to local Planning Services Oivision government officials, planning agencies and zoning hearing boards to help them fulfill heir Strategic Planning & Program duties in planning and managing community Operations Oftice development and growth. This help is provided Room 343 Forum Building in a variety of ways, including a series of hawe Harrisburg. PA 171 20 deit publications, written correspondence, via 71 7-787-7400,fax: 71 7-234-4560 telephone, at meetingr and thmd swingat training courses for local officials. Governor's Action Team (GAT) - Steve Kohler, Director

Program Service/Technical Assistance Contact 1

~~ Business Retention and Expansion: The Services and Technical Assistance in Governor's Action Team Office of the Governor's Action Team is the areas of demographic information, 439 Forum Building responsible for creating and preserving job state and local tax rates, available sites Harrisburg, Pennsylvania opportunities by assisting existing and buildings, utility rates, state and 1 71 20 Pennsylvania businesses to expand and by local financial incentives, state permits, 7 1 7-787-81 99 recruiting out-of-state businesses to the infrastructure, and training programs fax: 71 7-772-5419 Commonwealth. It serves as the Governor's are offered to businesses looking to economic development interagency group locate or expand in Pennsylvania. for individual projects. community Development and Housing Office - Larry Segal, Director

D-vam Eligibilityflerms & Conditions I Contact Apply Through

~~ ~~ I' 4 L-'W Ocnkpmcnt 8lodr CrMt Counties, cities, boroughs and tawnships Riley Stoy Community 080 which are not designated by HUD as urhn Office of Community Development Development and A program of financial and technical assistance counties or atidement municipalitia, are and Housing Housing to aid communities in their community and eligible to apply in accordance with Room 359 Forum Building OfficdRegional economic development efforts. prwisions of Pennsylvania Act 179. Eligible Ham'sbua Pennsylvania 17120 Community Affairs and activities include housing and rehabilitation, 71 7-7874399 Development offices community facilities, infrastructure, public fax: 71 7-2344560 services, economic development and planning 70% of each grant must be used for activities that knetit low and moderate income persons.

s4xtion 108 Lou, GImrurtFcl Eligible applicants are the same as for the Riley Stoy community Developmru A program utilizing CDBC funds as security for CDBC pmgmand the loans are used Same Address & Phone as above and Housing Federal Loans for local community and primarily for economic development activities offia/Regional Tonomic development effors. which benefit low and moderate income ComnityAffain and persons. Develqmrnt OfFices

~ ~~ ~ ~~~~~~ NomInvestment Partnership Program Eligible applicants include municipalities who David Chittister Comnnlnity Developmn! i"0MQ are not HUD participating jurisdictions, and Community Development and and Housing A program of financial assistance to municipalities on behalf of private non-profit Housing Office oficc/Rcgional municipalities for the provision of affordable and for profit housing development Room 359 forum Building ComnityAffairs ami housing for rent and for sale. corporations, Eligible activities include new Harrisburg Pennsylvania 17120 DeveIoprmnt offices construction, rehabilitation and acquisition of 71 7-187-5327 rental or sales housing and rental assistance fa: 71 7-2344560 for low and moderate income families. Operating and predevelopment loans for Community Housing Development Organizations is also eligible.

bnergency Wte Grant -am Municipalities are eligible to create or David Chittisaw A omgram of grants to municipalities to create rehabilitate shelter space for homeless, Same Address & Phone as above Llabilitate shelter space for the homeless. provide new social services and pudase J needed machincry, equipmmf furniture and appliances.

Communith of Opporhmiir Eligible activities include community and David Chittister comrmnity Develqmvnc A program of state funded grants to counties, economic development and the development Same Address & Phone as above and Hcusing cities, boroughs, townships, and or rehabilihtionof housing. OficdRCgional redevelopmentand housing authorities, and ComlUlnityAffairsand ron-profit housing corporations. Dcvelcpnrnt Offices

~ __~~~ ~~ Indusbializd Hot&# (Moduh) Eligibility is as per industrialized Housing John Boyer Community A program mgulating the industrial housing Regulations. Office of Community Development Development and industry consistingof the mi- and apprwal and Housing Housing Office of testing laboratories to pertom design Room 353 Forum Building approval and plant inspections of all industrial Harrisburg, PA 17120 housing manufacturers who lease, AI, or 71 7-783-7847 install such housing in PA. fax: 71 7-2344560

~~~ A4lnufactllri*Haairg(MobikHana) Raeipt, &cw, follow-up and ttsolutim of John Soycr Community A federal program regulatingthe nunuhhrd cmtrucbion and safety-datedc~)sumer Same Address & Phone as above Development and housing industry. The program consists of dK complaints are the main dementr of the Housing Office Commonwealth acting on behalf of he US. ProerUn. Oepartment of Housing and Uhan Development as a State Mministratin Aggncy. Community Economic Development Office - Linda Goldstein, Director

The main mission of the Community Economic Development Office is to enhance the entrepreneurial vitaliW Of the Commonwealth by building an environment which encourages the creation, expansion and retention Of Successful small, women and minority owned businesses.

Program Eiigibiiity/Terms & Con tact Apply Through Conditions

hall Busincrc Resource Center acts as a hub of a major Services and Technical Nancy Cham Not Applicable referral netwok addressing all stages of small business assistance to small businesses Small Business Resource Center zevelopment. The business consultants also answer Room 357 Forum Building questions abut state and federal government regulations. Harrisburg. PA 171 20 71 7-783-5704

Womens BUSI’M Development Services and Techical Assistance Maly lo Flood Not Applicable The advocate provides information and referral to women Women‘s Business Advocate business owners on financing, technical assistance, Room 354 forum Building networking and business development opportunities. Harrisburg Pennsylvania 171 20 Pennsylvania’s Best Women In Business Conference - 71 7-787-3339 a statewide women‘s business conference featuring 71 1-234-4560 training seminars targeted to specific business development issues and a recognition of women business leaders throughout the Commonwealth. Women’s Network for Entrepreneurial Training - a SBA program where women business ownes and resource partners meet quarterly to discuss specific business issues in small focus groups following a formal presentation on the topic ot the day. Getting the Competitive Edge on State Contracts - a training ream consisting of the Women’s Business Advocate, the Treasury department. and General Services covering the processes of certification and procurement how to use certification as a business development strategy, and crafting a competitive, responsive bid.

Minority Business Development Services and Technical Elvis Solivan Not Applicable The advocate direca, plans, and coordinates available Assistance Minority Businas Advocate resources to promote economic development opportunities Room 354 forum Building for minorityawned businesses. The office provides Harrisburg PA 171 20 information on access to capital and technical assistance 71 7-787-9147 needs. fax: 71 7-2344560

~~ ~ ~~ ~~ Youth Entrepreneurship Program - a program run out of Inner city youth Elvis Solivan Not Applicable Temple University that increased awareness of business Same Addresdtelephone as above ;kills in inner city schools. The program also networks Nith Cannon SBOC and University of Southwest SBDC.

WlBusiness Dedopment Centers - a network of 16 Services and Technical Nancy Chavez Not Applicable icademically based centers that provide indepth kssistance Same addresdtelephone as above nanagement consulting and technical assistance to xospective entrepreneurs and small business ownen.

tppllachian RegidCommissioa - represents a unique $ark Terri Wilson Local Development mtnership between federal,state and local government Community Economic Development Districts 52 PA counties comprise the region and are eligible for Office unding targeting small business asrismnce and local Room 357 Forum :apacity building. Harrisburg PA 171 20 71 7-7834791 fax: 71 7-2344560

hterprise Developmmt Program - a state and federally rechnical Assistance Terri Wilson Local Development unded program providing technical assistance to small Same Addresflelephone as above Districts wsiness to aid their growth, development, :ompetitiveness, and profitability. The core areas of issismnce are business financing, government mcurernent, export assistance, travel development, and nanufacturing network assistance. ~ ~ Business Financing - Emily J.White, Deputy Secretary a Grants Office - Scott Dunkelberger, Director

Program Eligibilityflerms & Conditions Con tact Apply Through

InfrarbUerUtc Dwdopmcnt proSrUn (IDR - Eligible groups include manufacturing, Ted Knorr, Industrial This program provides grant and low interest industrial, research and development C rant3 Office Development loan financing to municipalities, economic agricultural processors, traded services, firms 494 Forum Building Corporations and development organizations, and other sponsors establishing a national or regional Harrisbu4 PA 171 20 Authorities, to finance the construction of public and private headquarters, or private real estate developers 71 7-787-71 20 municipalities, infrastructure needed in order for a business to who are developing sites for business. Loans 71 7-2344560 municipal locate or expand at a specific site. Also and grants to private business at 3% interest authorities, provides financing for infrastructure costs up to 1 Eyr term; public infrastructure grants; redevelopment necessary for the redevelopment of former 2:l private to public match required; $25,000 authorities and local industrial sites, including site clearance and cost per job to be created within 5 years. development cleanup costs. Program target is transportation Maximum $1.25 million; no more than 20% of districts. facilities, clearing and preparation of land and the annual appropriation for a single environmental remediation, water and sewer municipality. systems, energy facilities, parking lots, storm sewers, bridges, rail facilities, and pon facilities. At former industrial sites only: land and building acquisition, construction, renovation, demolition and clearance by private developers.

~~~ Industrial Sites Reuse Program Also knows as Funds must be used for Phase I, I1 and Ill Barb Musko, CranB Office Grants Office the Brownfields Program, this program provides environmental assessments and remediation of 494 Forum Building grant and low interest loan financing to hazardous substances on former industrial Harrisburg, PA 171 20 companies, public and private nonprofit property. Grants and loans up to $2OO,OOO for 71 7-787-7120 economic development entities to perform environmental assessments and $1 million for fax: 71 7-2344560 ironmental site assessment and mediation remediation. Interest rates of 2% with terms ic at former industrial sites. No financing is up to 5 years for assessments and 15 years for dvaitabte to companies or 0th- who caused remediation projecls. A 25% madis the environmental conmmination on the required for grant and loan proje. property. Funds may be used to finance up to 75% of the costs of environmental assessment or remediation. Recipients of funds under this program may receive special consideration under other financing programs.

JobCreutim TuCrea7t.s Prwides a $1 ,OOO tax Eligible applicant3 are businesses creating 25 Ted Knon Grants Office credit to approved businesses that agree to new jobs or new jobs equaling at least 20%of Same TelephondAddress as create or preserve new jobs in the the existingwork force over the next three ab Commonwealth within 3 years. A business years. must agree to create at least 25 jobs or jobs equaling at least 20% of the existing work force. 25% of the tax credits allocated each year must go to businesses with less than 26 employees. The tax credits may not be utilized by a business until the job are actually created.

upp0mnearnt-m- ~rwidap~~tFunds may be used by manufacturing, Ted Knon C rants Office funds to companies or on behalf of companies industrial, research and devdopment, C ran8 Office that will create or p~semjob, within the agricultural processors, traded sewices and Same TelephondAddress as Commonwealth. The pmgram is intended to fim establishing a national or regional above deal with significant projects that offw headquarters to finance job training substantial economic impact either for the infrastructure, land and building Commonweath as a whole or for the locality or improvffnents, machimy and equipment, region in which the company will locate. woking capital and environmental assessment and mediation. No minimum or maximum amount. 4:l private to public ma&. hblic Risk Management Technical Assistance for local lim Lomhrdo Not Applicabk Provide assistance to municipal officials in matters of government administraton 71 7-783-309a municipal insurance and public risk management I 1 Cenw for LCS address I I ah 1. WkAdmininPatim Technical Assistance for local Any Center for LGS staff Not Applicable Plovide assistance in general administrative and government administnmn organizational matters pedning to local government operations.

BcacdmdAppointdCMfiChb Technical Assistance for Id Any Center for LCS staff Not Applicable Provide assistance to newly elected and appointed officials government administramn in defining their el& roles and responsibilities.

Center for Local Government Services Regional Office Staff: Southeast. James Newell, Governor's Southeast Regional Office, Belvue Stratford, 200 South Broad St, 12th Floor, Philadelphia, PA 19103 215-560-2374, fax: 215-560-3458

Northeast Joseph Krumsky, 201 Samters Building, 101 penn Avenue, Scranton, PA 18503-2025 71 7-9634598, fa~:717-963-3439

Southwest: Michael Foreman - 41 2-565-51 99 William Gamble - 41 2-565-2552 Keith Robb , Governor's Southwest Regional Office, 1403A State Offtce Building, 300 Liberty Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15222 41 2-5652361, fax: 412-5652445

Northwest. Leo Lachance, Governor's Northwest Regional Office, 100 State Street, suite 202, Erie, PA 16507 8148714241, far 814454.7494 1 Workforce and Technology - Martha L. Harris, Deputy Secretary

Office of Workforce and Technology Development - Terri Kaufrnan, Director

Program Eligibility/Terms& Conditions Contact Apply Through

Ben Franklin Partnuship hogram - Chd~eGrant Grants, ofbar with royalty payback provisions, Terri Kauhan, Ben Franklin Rogram - A Grant program to assist advanced are for research and dwdopmenr, technology Di-r Technology technology, research and development and start-up transfer, joint research and development Office of Workforce & Cenbm companies. The Ben Franklin Program assists between private companies and universities, Technology companies, primarily small and medium sized entrepreneurial assistance. Grants typically Development companies, to do applied research and development range from $5,000 to $100,OOO. Room 464 Forum projects, and to develop and introduce new products Harrisburg, PA 171 20 and processes. The Ben Franklin Technology Centers 71 7-7874147 also support services at small business incubators and fax: 71 7-772-5080 other innovative special initiatives designed to promote the development and introduction of new technologies.

~~ ~ Ben Franklin Partnership Rogrm - Enrimmental Grants up to $1 00,000 are used for research Teni Kaufman Ben Franklin khndogy Fund- CranB for companies developing and development, technology transfer. Same Phone and Technology recycling processes or markets for recycled materials. Address as above Centeo The Ben Franklin Program assists companies, primarily small and medium sized companies, to do applied research and development projects, and to develop and introduce new produrn and processes. The Ben Franklin Technology Centers also support services at small business incubators and other innovative special 'qitiatives designed to promote the development and ,Muction of new technologies. 0 Ben Franklin Partnership - Seed Venture C+W - Financing used for product devdopment and Tcni Kauhan Designatd Equity Financing program for earlystage venture working capital. Amounts are negotiable. Same Phone and Ventue Capital companies. 7'he Ben Franklin Program assist4 Addm5 as above Funds companies, primarily small and medium sized companies, to do applied research and development projects, and to develop and introduce new produc& and processes. The Ben Franklin Technology Centers also support services at small business incubators and other innovative special initiatives designed to promote the development and induction of new technologies.

Itnhtrid Resomx Cenfm Program - IRG assist Small to medium sized manufaclurers Teni Kaufman Industrial Resource companies in solving problems through the employing 500 or few employees are provided Same Phone and Centeo deployment of technologies by using the technical valueadded service in improving quality, Addras as above expertise of their own staff penonnd or by matching producbivity, and adaption of modem companies with appropriate consultanB. IRGhelp manfuacturing technologies in their companies. undewrite costs of these consultanB and usually act as Financial assistance may bc grant or loan, feer project manager. They also assist companies to secure sometimes charged. Services provided my training programs; maintain technically skilled from company to company in type and value workforce, and suppor~the introduction of technolonies to the comwnies.

~~ ~ Pcnnr~aniaT~al~Pmgun Service, Tewi Kaufman contact PENNTAP (PENNTAP) - Headed by Penn State Univenity, this Same phone and for more program provider free technology informationmica addmas above information to Pennsylvaniacompanies.

~ ~ ~ curtomired /ob Trainin8 Rogram (C/n - Pmides Grana up to 100% of the eligible cos8 for new Tmi Kaufman Office of grant funds to firms in need of training assistance for job crealbs; up to 70% of he -8 for Same Phone and Wokforce and new hires, retraining efforts, and upgrading employees retention; up to 25% of the eligible costs for addras as ab Technology 1 an effort to keep firms in PA, attract new firms, and upgrade training. Funds used for instructional Development .~rovideemployers with a skilled worltforce. Target costs, supplies. consumable materiab, .I .I industries are manufacturing, industrial, agricultukl contraced services, and relevant travd cos8 for enterprises, rearearch and development, advanced instructors I technology and business service firms. flusines Qdify Partnership - Promoting activities of Applicant must be a Ben Franklin Technology Teni Kaufman Not Applicable companies that have or will develop and implement Center, Industrial Resource Center, or Local Same Phone and high performance work practices as a way to impm Developmentdistrict Parmenhip Board must Address as above the quality of their pdu& and sewicer. The goals haw 51 % private sector represenQtiocl, and the of the Pamership are to use the experiences gained chair must be fmm the private mr.Training from the establishment of the 'SuppliCr Training administrator must be certified by the PA Centers' to promote additional nelwodu and teaching Depament of Education as a Local Education factoriesacross the state with an empCuJis on distance Agency. Appmximatdy 5 to 6 pilot grants with learning applications and supplier training a 1 :1 ma6nquirement Three year business plan must be included to show continuation of activities ahw state funding has ended.

lndividd ludngAcrount proSam (IU)- This Funding trrgeaed to education and training Terri Kauhan Office of program will be used to empower emplow and activities. Applicants must be employed @ 20 Same Phone and Workforce and businesses to shape thief own futures through houdweek, and have employer sign off on Address as above Technology continued educational opportunities by providing a application. Students, unemployed non-PA Development means for individuals at all levels of employment to residents and public employees are ineligible. have the oppotiunity to broaden their range of skills. State provides onethird makh up to $500 with The goal is to develop pilot programs that assist required onethird match from employer and progressive companies approach workforce employee. Cunendy 5250,000 available - development as part of a long-term strategic planning guidelines are not yet released. process.

Office of Travel, Tourism, and Film Promotion - Barbara Chaffee, Executive Director -~ El igibilityflerms & Con tact Apply Through Conditions

~ ~~ Travel and Tourism OMce - Matching Grant Program Funds and Fria Smith, Director Contact Travel and Tourism Office Develops and implements stratqies Regional Marketing Initiative Funds Travel and Tourism Office for more information that grow Pennsylvania travel and support the activities and projects of Room 400 Forum Building tourism. The Office manages the Pennsybania's Travel Promotion Harrisburg, PA 171 20 Commonwealth's tourism marketing Agencies CTPA). 71 7-787-5453 campaign, and administen the far 71 7-3454560 Tourism Promotion Agency 1 -8OOA-FRIEND Matching Grant P-m and Regional Marketing Initiative.

Film Mce- The Film Office work Services and Technical Assistance Tim Chambco, Director Contact Film Office for more to attract and facilitate the for film industry Film Office infomation production of motion pictures, 456 Forum Building television, tilms, commercials and Harrisburg PA 171 20 multi-media presentations in 717-783-34~6 Pennsylvania. The Office is fa71 7-772-3581 responsible for creating and implementingPennsylvania Partners in Pictures and Camera Ready Communities initiatives, and pursues a unified maketing approach with the Pitkburgh and Philadelphia regional film office. Off ice of International Business Development- Robin Fisher, Acting Director

ProgramdSewices Eligibiiityflerms & Condition Con tact Through

~ ~~ ~ Trade Shows and Missions - The Office seeks to Participation is open to appropriate Pennsylvania Office of international Not applicable enhance the export capacity of small and medium companies Business Development sized businesses by organizing company for a comprehensive participation in international trade events, helping trade event schedule companies to find agents and distributors, and Room 308 Forum assisting companies with licensing their prcdu~a Bldg. abroad. The Office also provides research on Harrisburg, PA 171 20 foreign market conditions and product standards. 71 7-707-7120 fax: 71 7-234-4560

hport AJsistm Network - the state has Assistance with the mechanics of exporting and Susan Sloane Not applicable designated 10 Regional Export Service Providers to information on international markets is available to Same L coordinate the activities of public and private export any Pennsylvania company. Addresdtelephone as I assistance organizations in their regions. The above networks carry out activities that build on the basic services oifered by each organization.

~ Trade €vent Grant Program - Grants are designed Provides up to $2,000 to Pennsylvania exporters Susan Sloane Regional Export :o encourage Pennsylvania businesses to participate with less than 525 million in annual sales. Same Service Provider in international trade events to develop their export Addredtelephone as sales potential and compete successfully in the above global economy.

Gtyfistate hogram - The Office of International Available to any Pennsylvania company Mary L Mdjlinchey Office of Rusiness Development is a participant in Ex-lm Sa International 'c's City6tate program which assists small and AMelephone as Business 1 . .iumsized exporters access the Banks loan, above Development guarantee, and insurance programs. Of particular interest to small exporters are the Bank's Working Capital Guarantee and Export Credit Insurance programs. Applications submitted through the Cityfitate program receive priority service at Ex-lm Bank.

Shed Foreign Sales Corpwaticm PrOllrM, - Available to Pennsylvania expon companies. Mary 1. McClinchey OHice of Pennsylvania exporters are offered the opporhrnity Same Address and International to participate in a Shared Foreign Sales Corporation Telephone as Ah Business Program which enables companies to obtain a 15% Development federal tax exemption on export sales. The program is managed by MTI Services of Princeton, New Jersey. Omtc~R~pmmfAh - Pennsylvania Assistance is available to any Pennsylvania Office of Intemational Not Applicable offices in major foreign markets provide pmfeuional COrnpmY. Brainess Development in-counay research and assistance These oh provide trade and investment leads, locate agents and distributors, and help to organize the 58te's participation in bade events. Small Business Advocate - Bernard Ryan, Small Business Advocate

This office directs and conmls all activities represenbed &re the Public Utility Commission (PUQ impacting on small businesses within the Commonwealth. Based on the ~~h~can’sdiscretion, hdshc may deamnine the Cwumtr concern and initiate legal or administrative action. The Advocate is appointed he Covemor and subject to Senate txmfin’natk~~~

Contact: Small Businers Achcate, Suite 1102 Commerce Building Harrisburg PA 17101, 71 7-783-2525, Fax: 717-783-2831

~~~ ~ PennPorts - Herb Packer, Director

Direco and controls all phases of the advitie designed to maximize the State’s and increase economic development efforts within the commonewalth. Response for harmonizing port operations and state planning and fiscal operstions; coordinatingport activities with economic development initiativer and priorities; and providing technical assistance to regiona I port authorities.

Contact: PennPorts, Fulton Bank Building Harrisbu% PA 171 20, 71 7-772-3580, fax: 71 7-772-3581 Loans Office -Jerry Kapp, Director

~~ -?gra m Eligibilityflerrns & Conditions ' Contact 4elY Through

I ~ fkrnsyfvlnir Indurbi.l Dcnlopmcnt Loans up to $1 million: no more lhan 30 to 40% of total Marguerite Hams Industrial ~uthorityOffers loans to businam for land eligible project costs depending upon firm size and area PlDA Office Development and building acquisition, building construction unemployment rate. 3.75% to 6.75% interest rate, 480 Forum Building corporations and renovation, industrial park devleopment, depending upon local unemployment rate; up to 1 &year Harrisburg, PA 17120 Jnd multi-tenant spec building construction, tenn on industrial pa&; up to 1 wear term on land and 71 7-787-6245 acquisition and renovation. Jobcreation loans buildings; no less ban a second mortgage on financed fax: 71 7-2344560 re for manufacturinp, industrial research and assets; disbursement to applicant based upon development agricultural processors, or firms reimbursable expenses; $1 5,OOO cost per job to be created establishing a national or regional or retained, and $20,000 cost per job created that meets headquarters. Job retention loans are for wage thresholds in that county. manufacturing firms that meet certain quality standards and wage thresholds in that county.

~ 5mll Business first - Provides low interest Maximum loan amount is $2OO,~,loans up to Small Business First Small Business First loan financing to small businesses (generally 1300,000 or 50%of the total eligible project costs, Office Office !00 employees or less) for land and building whichever is less; 5% interest rate; companies must agree 485 forum Building acqusition and construction, machinery and to create or preserve jobs as a condition of financing. Harrisburg, PA 171 20 equipment and working capital. The program il7-703-5046 also provides iinancing for businesses that need 71 7-2344560 :o come into compliance with environmental qulations or hat are involved in municipal commercial recylcing and companies impacted by the reduction in deienserelated activities.

hhchinery and Equipment Lcun Fund (MELR A Loans up to $500,000 or 50% of the total eligible project Small Business First Small Business First loan fund for machinery and equipment costs, whichever is less. Interest rates as low as 3% ; Up Office Office acquisition and upgrading and related to 7-year ten depending upon the useful life of the Same Zngineering and installation costs. For machinery being financed; may subordinate lien position; addresdtelephone as manufacturing and industrial businesses. privatesector match required; 10%equity required; above $25,000 cost per iob to be retained or created.

~ ~ ., . Minority EurinSr Dcnlopmcnf Auth~dy Manufacturing, industrial, higbtech, international tradeor Small Businas Fist Small Business First (AWBDA) - A loan program for minorityaned franchise companies: loans up to 5500,000 (within Offig Office businesses for land and building acqusition; Enterprise zone - $750,000)or 75% of total eligible 485 forum Building building construction and renovation; project costs, whichever is less. Harrisburk PA 171 20 machinery and equipment acquisition and Retail or commercial finns: loans up to $250,000(wilhin 71 7-783-5046 installation, and working capital. Enterprise Zone, $350,000). 50% of prime rate but no leu 71 7-2344560 than 4%. Up to 20-year term for land and building. Up to 7-year term for machinery and equipment. Up to >year term for working capital. 25% privatPsector match required. May subordinate lien position. Disbursement at closing. $1 5,OOO cost per job to be created. Bonds Office - Kim Kaufman, Director

Program EligibilitylTerms & Conditions Contact Apply Through

~ ~ -

Pmnsylvanja EconomK* DCVel0pmCnt Uses of funds are for land and building acquisition, Kim Kaufman Industrial financingAuUdty fPfDfAI Tax-€rempt building renovation and new const~cb'on, Bonds Office Development podcd Bond -am - This program is machinery and equipment acquisition and Room 466 Forum Building Authorities and targeted to manufacturing, nonprofit, energy, installation, designated infnstncture, tax-exempt Harrisbua Pennsylvania 17120 Corporations solid waste disposal, and transportation bond refunding. Loans no less than ~,OOOand 71 7-783-1 108 facilities. no more than 510 million for manufacturers; no far 71 7-7874879 upper limit for other projects; up to 100% of project costs. 85% of prime interest ratr; weekly variable interest rate tied to market for faxexempt bonds; up to 3ay-r term; borrower generally must secure letter of credit from bank.

~~ ~~~ ~~ ~~ Pennsylvania Economic Development Funds are used for land and building acquisition, Kim Kaufman Industrial financing Authrotiy (PEDFA), Taxable Bond building renovation and new construction, Same addresdtelephone as Development Rogram - This bond program is for all types machinery and equipment acquisition and above Authorities and of business needing access to low-cost capital. installation. designated infiasbucture. refinancing Coprorations and working capital. Loans no less than U00,ooO; up to 100% of he total project costs. 95% to 100% of prime interest raa weekly variable interest rate tied to market for taxabie bonds; term is based upon negotiated letter of credit borrower generally must secure letter of credit from bank.

~ Pennsylvania clpiw Access Program Targened to all businesses with capital needs; loan Kim Kaufman Participating IPennC4P) - This is a loan guarantee program guarantee use is for land and buildings, equipment Same addresshiephone as Banks administered in conjunction with participating and working capital. No minimum, maximum to above Commonwealth banks. $500.000. Loans can be term or line of credit. Rates and terms negotiated with participatingbank; PEDFA bond program provides guarantee for bank loan.