WOZNIAK TOUTS REGIONALIZATION AT LEGISLATIVE LUNCHEON

JOHNSTOWN, Feb. 7, 2005 – State Sen. John N. Wozniak emphasized the need for municipalities to regionalize their services at a Legislative Luncheon Friday in Clinton County.

            “Collaborative efforts are much more conducive to getting goals accomplished; it’s a ‘bigger bang for the buck,’” said Wozniak (D-Cambria/Clinton/Centre/Clearfield/Somerset).“When regional efforts take place, property values go up, economic development follows and everyone wins.”

The luncheon, attended by more than 100 local residents and sponsored by the Clinton County Economic Partnership, also featured remarks by U.S. Rep. John Peterson and State Rep. Mike Hanna.

At the luncheon, Wozniak was presented with a Certificate of Appreciation from the Keystone Central School District, recognizing his involvement in the district’s Diversified Occupations Program. As part of the initiative, Wozniak is sponsoring Bucktail High School student Victoria Ross as an intern at his new Lock Haven District Office. Ross, a senior, spends one morning each week learning the legislative process and the types of constituent support services provided by Wozniak’s staff.

            Wozniak also voiced his support for the state’s new gaming law, which is set to provide $1 billion in annual property tax relief when casinos begin operation.

“The expansion of gaming is—-and will continue to be-—a good decision for Pennsylvania,” Wozniak said after the event. “Whether or not you live near a slots parlor, every Pennsylvanian will benefit. This will be a new and ongoing funding source for property tax relief, job growth and economic development.”

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