HARRISBURG – The Senate Urban Affairs and Housing Committee will explore different approaches to dealing with blight during a public hearing in Altoona on September 26. The hearing will be held at the Penn State Altoona Devorris Downtown Center in Room 201 beginning at 10 a.m.
Committee Chair Senator Judy Ward (R-30) said the hearing would include testimony highlighting the work of the Altoona Blight Task Force and its efforts to return abandoned properties to productive use. Members of the committee will also tour properties in downtown Altoona to receive a first-hand look at the problem and discuss how these challenges are being addressed.
Those expected to offer testimony during the hearing include Matthew Pacifico, Mayor of Altoona; Winnie Branton, Blight Consultant; Rebecca Brown, Director of Department of Codes & Inspections for City of Altoona; Steve McKnight, President & CEO of The Altoona Blair County Development Corporation; and James Hudack, Executive Director of Blair County Department of Social Services.
Media coverage of the hearing is invited and appreciated.
CONTACT: Eric Pauley (717) 787-5490