Robbins Participates in Pennsylvania's Local Government Day

Lauds the Work of the Center for Local Government Services

Harrisburg – State Senator Bob Robbins (R-50) participated in the Governor's Center for Local Government Services' annual "Local Government Day."

The Center sponsors Local Government Day and an Awards Program to honor local governments and officials who serve their communities and improve their quality of life. Senator Robbins congratulated Mercer County Commissioner Olivia Lazor for receiving the 2006 Governor's Award for Local Government Excellence and commended Wheatland Mayor Thomas Stanton for his involvement with the Pennsylvania State Association of Boroughs.

"It is imperative that state and local officials work together to make any type of project reach completion," said Sen. Robbins. "I would like to thank Commissioner Lazor and Mayor Stanton for working, not only with me, but with officials and colleagues around the Commonwealth."

The Center for Local Government Services, located within the Department of Community and Economic Development also acts as the Commonwealth's one-stop shop for local governments -- providing a full range of technical and financial assistance to local officials.

"I have introduced legislation -- Senate Bill 261 -- that would enhance the status of the Center by elevating the position of Executive Director and giving local governments a larger voice in the "Community" part of the Department of Community and Economic Development," said Sen. Robbins. "I believe it is necessary that this successful agency be provided with the recognition it deserves and to ensure that it plays a lead role in providing services to local elected officials."

Senate Bill 261 currently awaits consideration in the Senate Appropriations Committee. In the meantime, Senator Robbins is working with Community and Economic Development Secretary Dennis Yablonsky and his staff to further promote and work with local government officials.

CONTACT:

Nate Silcox
(717) 787-1322

April 12, 2006: Senator Robbins is pictured between Tom Klaum, Executive Vice President of the Pennsylvania State Association of Boroughs (Left) and Wheatland Mayor Thomas Stanton (Right) at the Governor’s Center for Local Government Services' Awards Program.

April 12, 2006: Senator Robbins is pictured with Mercer County Commissioner Olivia Lazor and Fred Reddig, Executive Director of the Center for Local Government Services at the Center's Awards Program.

April 12, 2006: Senator Robbins addresses the Governor's Center for Local Government Services' Awards Program.