I am concerned that our three commissioners have shown no effort to gather public input around American Rescue Plan funds. Westmoreland County leadership has failed to provide both a community engagement plan and a spending plan, both of which are required by the law.
The $105 million coming to Westmoreland provides a once-in-a- lifetime opportunity to improve the lives of county residents. But how will the commissioners know what people in the community need if no effort is made for public engagement and transparency?
Our commissioners must invest in future growth and prosperity, the impacts of which will benefit rural and underserved communities for a generation. Commissioners Doug Chew, Sean Kertes and Gina Cerrilli Thrasher, it is imperative you hold public meetings and town halls now to gather public input for ARP allocations.
Now is the time to listen and to lead us toward an inclusive recovery that brings transformational change to Westmoreland County. A renovated courthouse will not immediately help people and businesses in desperate need. Stop stalling and do what is right for the people of Westmoreland County.
Sarah Skidmore
Greensburg