HARRISBURG (Sept 25, 2018) – David Black, President and CEO of Harrisburg Regional Chamber & CREDC, prepared a testimony for the Tuesday morning Hearing of the House Finance, Local Government and Urban Affairs Committees concerning the Special Taxing Authority and Act 47 within the City of Harrisburg.
“Harrisburg, I believe, is on the long road to fiscal recovery,” explains David Black. “I believe there are certain consequences of Act 47 that the Commonwealth must consider, but if we take the right steps, Harrisburg can continue to its positive growth.”
Black’s statements on Act 47 were submitted and will be reviewed by the committees. His statements included two ideas about the Act 47 plan:
Local Services Tax for Commuters
The DCED offered a plan for Harrisburg’s exit from Act 47 in three years, which was mandated from the Act 47 plan. This plan recommended the near doubling of property tax rates, a massive increase that would be detrimental to the growth and sustainability of the City.
Black emphasized the LST rate of $3 a person for those who travel into the city to work is a reasonable rate, especially when you consider that more people work in the city than those that live in the city. This LST tax would help Harrisburg exit Act 47 in a timely manner and help Harrisburg meet the public needs to the city, its residents and its workers.
Revisions to the Act 47 Plan
With 2,562 municipalities that all function differently, strengths and weaknesses are variable across the region. Act 47 must be reviewed to discover how the different municipalities function under the plan.
“The city has struggled with revenue in the past, but the incredible support from the Commonwealth has helped us with key problems over the years,” continues Black. “Harrisburg is running out of time to propose a solution to Act 47, but if we come together to offer the best solution, we can avoid potential challenges ahead.”
View Black’s full comments on the Act 47 strategy HERE.
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ABOUT HARRISBURG REGIONAL CHAMBER & CREDC
Harrisburg Regional Chamber & CREDC serves as a catalyst for promoting growth and quality of life in Cumberland, Dauphin and Perry Counties through bold leadership, visionary members and powerful results. The organization provides a unique blend of business, community/economic development and advocacy services under one roof to boost the economic vitality and livability as a region. The Chamber & CREDC has been accredited with five stars from the United States Chamber of Commerce.
