Senator Keefer E-Newsletter

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In this Update:

  • Join Us for a Veterans Appreciation Breakfast
  • Honoring Lt. Godfrey’s Courage and Recovery
  • Around the City of York: Connecting with Those Making a Difference
  • Celebrating 100 Years of the Yorktowne Hotel
  • Discussing School Property Tax Relief with PSU York Lifelong Learners
  • Partnering for Greater Community Impact
  • Open Government: Tracking How Your Tax Dollars are Spent
  • Give Your Feedback on PennDOT Construction, Maintenance Services
  • PennDOT Construction Projects for Cumberland and York Counties

Join Us for a Veterans Appreciation Breakfast

Veterans are invited to join Rep. Joe D’Orsie and me for a special Veterans Appreciation Breakfast on Friday, Nov. 7, from 8-10 a.m. at the Eagle Fire Company, 54 Center St., Mt. Wolf. This special morning is our way of saying “thank you” to those who have served our nation with honor and dedication.

We are excited to welcome Pennsylvania National Guard Brig. Gen. Reece J. Lutz as our featured guest speaker. Attendees will also have the opportunity to visit the Mobile Veterans Service Officer Outreach Team from the Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs, which will provide helpful information, assistance and resources.

Veterans and one guest should RSVP online or by calling 717-432-1730 no later than Wednesday, Oct. 29.

Honoring Lt. Godfrey’s Courage and Recovery

I joined physicians, staff and community members in celebrating the discharge of Lt. David Godfrey from WellSpan Health Surgery and Rehabilitation Hospital. Lt. Godfrey, an officer of the York County Sheriff’s Department, was seriously wounded during the September shootout in North Codorus Township.

His remarkable courage, resilience and determination to recover serve as an inspiration to us all. It was deeply moving to witness the outpouring of support from family, colleagues and the community as he begins this next chapter of healing.

We continue to wish Lt. Godfrey strength, peace and a full recovery in the days ahead.

Around the City of York: Connecting with Those Making a Difference

Over the past week, I’ve had the privilege of visiting several individuals and organizations in the City of York to learn about the important work they are doing to strengthen the city and support its residents and businesses.

My first stop was the Rex Laurel Fire Station, where I toured the newly renovated facility with Chief Bill Sleeger and Deputy Chief Adam Smith. Originally built in 1877 to house horses and fire wagons, the station has been fully upgraded to meet the demands of today’s firefighters and the community they protect. It’s inspiring to see tradition and modern safety come together in such a beautifully restored space — a true reflection of York’s dedication to honoring its history while embracing progress.

I also had the pleasure of an impromptu meeting with Marion Kinard, founder of Combined Focus Film, a youth arts program in the city. Meeting Kinard and his daughter, Brianna, at Tony Orr Sons & Daughters Barber Shop was a wonderful reminder of the creativity and opportunities being brought to young people through arts programs that inspire and empower.

Finally, I spent time with Gene Fells, a community resource assistant with the York City Police Department, at the Downtown Resource Center. Fells’ work focuses on connecting businesses and organizations, facilitating communication and addressing concerns to help make York a place where businesses can thrive. These efforts are vital in fostering collaboration and strengthening the bonds that hold the city together.

It’s exciting to see the passion and dedication happening all around York, building a stronger city for everyone.

Celebrating 100 Years of the Yorktowne Hotel

It was wonderful to join the Yorktowne Hotel to celebrate its 100th anniversary this past weekend. Since opening on Oct. 17, 1925, the Yorktowne has stood as a true landmark in York, hosting galas, dignitaries and stars such as Lucille Ball, Frank Sinatra and Eleanor Roosevelt.

It’s great to see this historic gem thriving and shining brighter than ever. Here’s to the next 100 years of history, community and unforgettable moments at the Yorktowne Hotel.

Discussing School Property Tax Relief with PSU York Lifelong Learners

We recently had a great discussion with members of the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at Penn State York about the School Property Tax Elimination Act, introduced by Rep. Wendy Fink and me. It was a valuable opportunity to share our plan and answer questions about how it can provide meaningful relief for homeowners across Pennsylvania.

We want to hear from you, too! Attend our upcoming town hall to learn more, ask questions and share your input:

  • Nov. 20, 5 p.m. – West Deer American Legion, 57 Superior Rd., Tarentum

Whether you’re a homeowner, renter or planning for the future, your voice matters. Join us to help shape solutions that bring real relief to Pennsylvania families.

Partnering for Greater Community Impact

I recently joined the York County Community Foundation’s legislative panel, where local elected officials and nonprofit leaders came together to discuss how we can better collaborate to serve our communities.

I shared my key initiatives and ideas for strengthening partnerships between government and nonprofits. We also explored new ways to work together for greater impact across York County.

Open Government: Tracking How Your Tax Dollars are Spent

Government is funded by money paid by taxpayers, and these resources are available to shed light on how those dollars are being spent by the commonwealth.

The PennWATCH website allows citizens to keep tabs on the state budgetspending and revenue. Pennsylvania also makes it easy for people to review state purchases, lobbyist registrations and reports and campaign finance reports.

Announced earlier this year by state Treasurer Stacy Garrity, OpenBookPA is a vast resource of data and information related to state finances. It includes the Fiscal Health Scorecard, the daily balance of every state fund and the Contracts e-Library, which allows people to search all state contracts valued at $5,000 or more.

Give Your Feedback on PennDOT Construction, Maintenance Services

Through Oct. 21, motorists can take an online survey to give their feedback on Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) construction and maintenance services.

The 22-question survey asks participants how they receive PennDOT roadway information and how often PennDOT meets or exceeds expectations in construction and maintenance activities. Respondents are also asked about experiences with reporting concerns to the department, and whether or how they use the state’s 511PA traveler information services.

PennDOT is directly responsible for nearly 40,000 miles of highway and 25,400 bridges. A summary of recent projects and funds spent can be found in the 2024 Annual Report.

PennDOT Construction Projects for Cumberland and York Counties

As we enter the winter months, PennDOT no longer sends weekly roadwork schedules. Instead, we will share PennDOT news releases about specific construction projects planned in our senatorial district.

These updates are provided sporadically based on project timelines, so the information at this link may not change weekly. Please note that it may not include every construction project or be fully accurate.

We hope these updates help you avoid delays and make your travel easier.

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