Senator Keefer E-Newsletter

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In this Update:

  • WellSpan Brings New Health Care Option to Northern York County
  • Honoring Chief Lash for Leadership and Civility
  • Highlights from the Great American Outdoor Show
  • Update from Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission Leadership
  • Exploring Data Center Development and Community Planning
  • Chime Scholars Foundation Opens 2026–27 Scholarship Applications
  • Concerned About Winter Energy Bills? Call Utilities Now
  • PennDOT Roadwork Schedules for Cumberland and York Counties

WellSpan Brings New Health Care Option to Northern York County

Northern York County residents will soon have greater access to local health care with the opening of WellSpan’s Newberry Hospital. I attended the official ribbon cutting this week and toured the facility, which is designed to bring convenient, high-quality care closer to home.

The hospital will operate 24 hours a day, seven days a week, featuring a full emergency department, inpatient beds, advanced imaging and comprehensive laboratory services. Its patient-centered design ensures efficient, comfortable care while keeping services connected across all WellSpan facilities.

Newberry Hospital is scheduled to begin welcoming patients in March 2026, expanding timely, coordinated care for rural communities.

Honoring Chief Lash for Leadership and Civility

I recently presented a Pennsylvania Senate certificate of achievement to Chief David L. Lash of the Northern York County Regional Police Department for his local recognition of leadership in York County.

Chief Lash’s selection reflects his commitment to service and positive impact throughout Northern York County. Congratulations to Chief Lash on this well-deserved recognition and thank you for your continued dedication to our community.

Highlights from the Great American Outdoor Show

The Great American Outdoor Show returned to the Pennsylvania Farm Show Complex in Harrisburg, celebrating hunting, fishing and outdoor traditions over nine days. Touted as the “world’s largest outdoor show,” the event features exhibitors, live music, speaking events, archery competitions, celebrity appearances, seminars, demos and more.

While at the show, I spoke with Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission Executive Director Tim Schaeffer, who shared insights on ice safety, trout stocking and how the commission is promoting healthy waterways and responsible stewardship of natural resources.

I also met with Pennsylvania Game Commission Deputy Executive Director David Gustafson to discuss the agency’s initiatives across the state and in the 31st District to support hunting and wildlife.

Later, I visited a vendor booth for Safe Source USA, a local business in Lewisberry, and spoke with President and CEO Paul Ousey, who talked about his family-owned business, the products they offer, and shared a few tips on safely storing guns, ammunition and other valuables.

The Great American Outdoor Show is more than an event—it celebrates Pennsylvania’s rich outdoor heritage. The 31st District stands out as a vibrant example of thriving outdoor activities and abundant wildlife.

Update from Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission Leadership

I joined the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission for their District Six Legislative Briefing Breakfast to hear firsthand about their work and plans for the future.

Commissioners Robert B.J. Small and Richard Lewis, along with Executive Director Tim Schaeffer, reviewed key accomplishments from 2025 and outlined initiatives for 2026 aimed at improving Pennsylvania’s waterways. Their focus includes enhancing recreational opportunities, protecting aquatic habitats and supporting local communities that rely on healthy waterways. It was a valuable discussion on the commission’s ongoing role in preserving and promoting the state’s natural resources.

Exploring Data Center Development and Community Planning

Data centers have become a key topic in Pennsylvania, and the 31st District is no exception. Land-use and planning decisions are a huge responsibility for local elected officials. I have prioritized helping local officials access the tools and knowledge necessary to make truly informed decisions on these developments.

That’s why I recently traveled to “data center alley” in Loudoun County, Virginia — known as the “Silicon Valley of data centers” — to study their approach. I met with county leaders and toured facilities to understand the strategies that have succeeded, the obstacles they faced and lessons learned from their experiences.

Their insights were invaluable and will help guide responsible growth in our region, from zoning and infrastructure planning to environmental stewardship and community development. By planning carefully today, we can foster sustainable and balanced growth that benefits our neighborhoods for years to come. I look forward to sharing these findings with municipalities across the 31st District.

Chime Scholars Foundation Opens 2026–27 Scholarship Applications

The Chime Scholars Foundation has opened applications for the 2026–2027 academic year, offering scholarships of up to $20,000. The program is designed to help learners of all backgrounds and stages of life pursue a variety of educational pathways, including traditional college degrees, trade schools, apprenticeships and technical certifications.

Applications are open through March 31, 2026. For more information and to apply, visit the Chime Scholars Foundation website.

Manage Winter Energy Costs

January and February are usually the months when home energy bills tend to peak, due largely to increased heating demand.

The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission encourages consumers to be proactive about managing their energy costs by visiting PAPowerSwitch, an online tool designed to help ensure safe, reliable service at reasonable rates. Residents can shop and compare electric suppliers, review pricing options and explore plans available in their area.

Taking time to review your options now can help you make informed decisions and better manage energy costs throughout the winter months.

PennDOT Roadwork Schedules for Cumberland and York Counties

As we move into the winter months, PennDOT road work schedules are released less frequently. To ensure you stay informed, we will share PennDOT news releases about specific construction projects planned in our senatorial district.

Because these updates are issued based on project timelines, the information at the link may not change each week, and it may not include every project or reflect the latest conditions.

We hope these updates help you plan ahead, avoid delays and travel safely throughout the season.

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