LETTER: Lobbying for local interests
Last week, I traveled to Washington, D.C. with my fellow commissioners in surrounding counties, along with the Southwestern Pennsylvania Commission. We met with U.S. Sen. David McCormick and his staff, as well as representatives from other congressional and senatorial offices in our state. My goal was simple: to make the case for Washington County. Our residents work hard, pay their taxes, and contribute to the economic vitality of Pennsylvania and the nation. But too often, our needs for federal investment are overlooked.
One of the greatest barriers to home development and community expansion in Washington County is the cost of basic infrastructure. New neighborhoods, businesses, and job sites can’t be built without reliable sewage and water systems. Local governments can’t shoulder these costs alone, and state dollars are stretched thin. Federal grants would allow us to open the door to new housing, ease the pressure on young families looking for affordable options, and ensure every resident has access to safe, reliable water.
Our county airport is a tremendous asset with untapped potential. Right now, we’re on a waitlist for hangar space because demand far outpaces supply. Expanding the runway and building additional hangars would do more than serve aviation enthusiasts – it would create new business opportunities, attract investment, and help us compete for jobs and growth. Federal support would be an investment in our long-term economic future.
South Strabane Township recently experienced devastating flooding that damaged its fire station, yet FEMA’s requirements left our community without relief. This is unacceptable. Our first responders deserve the resources they need to protect lives and property, and federal disaster funding must be more responsive to the realities faced by local communities. When disaster strikes, residents should not be left to fend for themselves.
Finally, I advocated for federal funding to help transition away from scattered-site public housing toward a modern, cluster-site model. Scattered housing has proven inefficient, expensive, and difficult to maintain. A coordinated redevelopment effort – one that includes demolition funding and support for new construction – would allow us to create safer, more stable, and more supportive neighborhoods for families who need them most.
With the right investment, we can grow our housing stock, expand our economy, strengthen public safety, and modernize our infrastructure. My trip to Washington was about making sure our county’s voice is heard and that we get our fair share of federal resources. The people of Washington County deserve nothing less.
Electra Janis
Washington County commissioner