Permitting Reform

November 27, 2024

Permitting Reform

Source: PA Chamber for Business and Industry

The Shapiro Administration is committed to Getting Stuff Done for Pennsylvania businesses while maintaining the environmental and public health protection that Pennsylvanians expect and deserve.

DEP is modernizing the permit review process to increase certainty for applicants, increase transparency for residents, and increase the quality of permit applications that DEP is receiving. This effort is critical in managing the more than 40,000 permits DEP reviews every year.

Through new systems, upgraded technology, and improved customer service, DEP is Delivering on Every Promise when it comes to environmental protection and permitting.

Streamlining Permits for Economic Expansion and Development (SPEED)

The Streamlining Permits for Economic Expansion and Development (SPEED) Program was created in July 2024 to continue the DEP’s Permit Modernization effort to move further and faster in permit processing and keep Pennsylvania moving at the speed of business.
Through SPEED, permit applications for select permits will be able to use DEP-approved qualified contractors to conduct initial reviews of applications for expedited review. DEP staff will review recommendations from the qualified contractor and make the decision to approve or deny the permit or issue a technical deficiency letter to the applicant.

Eligible permit Types

Air Quality plan approvals (state-only) (Chp. 127)
Earth Disturbance permits (Chp. 102)
Individual Water Obstruction and Encroachment permits (Chp. 105)
Dam Safety permits (Chp. 105)

DEP is coordinating activities across the state to meet the implementation deadline. Permit Decision Guarantee and PAyback review timeframes will still apply to SPEED permits.

Qualified Professional Requirements
The PA Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) is seeking to engage qualified professionals to review permits on an expedited basis as part of the SPEED Program. Below are the requirements to become a DEP-approved qualified contractor:

Licensed professional who may be necessary to review applications under the eligible permitting program.
Has five years of experience of relevant permitting experience in PA.
Holds all professional licenses as required by law.
Has not been convicted of or pled guilty to a crime
Has not had a professional license revoked by the state license board within the previous 10 years.
Agrees to be responsible for the review costs if the review is deemed inadequate or untimely.
Has not performed work for the applicant in the last 3 years.
No other conflicts of interest.

If you're interested in becoming a DEP-approved qualified contractor, please review the invitations for bid (IFB) below:

Air Quality

Earth Disturbance

Individual Water Obstruction and Encroachment

Dam Safety

Please continue to check back for any additional updates on the SPEED Program. If you have questions, please reach out to Brian Franklin: bfranklin@pa.gov or calling 717-787-2471

Also, happening in Permitting Reform:

Last week, Gov. Josh Shapiro signed an Executive Order creating the PA Permit Fast Track Program, which aims to streamline the Commonwealth’s permitting process for key economic development and infrastructure projects, increase transparency, and accelerate timelines to ensure state government delivers results quickly and efficiently. It would achieve this mainly through a public-facing online dashboard that tracks permit progress, timelines, and feedback from project sponsors. This helps develop transparency in permitting, along with accountability for all parties.

Get more details about the order from the PA Chamber of Business and Industry.

Small Businesses – How to Comply with the Corporate Transparency Act

November 27, 2024

Small Businesses – How to Comply with the Corporate Transparency Act

Source: U.S Chamber of Commerce

Under the Corporate Transparency Act, U.S. small businesses need to file beneficial ownership information reports (BOIR) with the Department of the Treasury by January 1, 2025.

Why it matters: Not filing by the deadline puts small business owners at risk of fines and criminal penalties.

Big picture: The law was enacted in 2021 to combat illicit activity, including tax fraud, money laundering, and terrorism financing, by capturing more ownership information for specific U.S. businesses.

Details: Businesses must provide their legal name and trademarks, as well as their current U.S. address. They’ll also need to provide a taxpayer identification number and specify the jurisdiction where they were formed or registered.

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce put together a step-by-step guide to help complete the reports.

Dig deeper

What Every Small Business Needs to Know About the Corporate Transparency Act

New Member Highlight – Horst Insurance

November 20, 2024

New Member Highlight – Horst Insurance

Horst Insurance provides commercial insurance, risk management and reduction programs, employee group benefits plans, and personal insurance policies. We’re a leading regional independent insurance agency serving Central PA and its surrounding areas for over 100 years.

Learn more about Horst Insurance

Member News ~ November 21, 2024

November 20, 2024

Member News ~ November 21, 2024

Member Offers Help on Federal Judge's ruling on Salary threshold for Exempt Positions

It was announced that a federal judge halted the salary threshold changes for Exempt positions that were approved earlier this year. Interestingly the ruling not only blocks the change to $1128/week planned for 1/1/25, it also blocks the increases that took effect in July, and is blocking the planned 3-year escalator policy that was to occur.

What does this mean for you?

There may need to be a wait and see approach, while still planning for several “what if” scenarios to be prepared when any final determination is made.
It is expected that the DOL will appeal this decision and if the courts act quickly; there is a chance the appeal will be overturned, and employers will need to comply with the original ruling.
If the appeals are delayed and any decision comes after the January 20, 2025 inauguration, the new administration may take a different approach. What that might be is a little early to tell.

Regardless of what happens, employers should be taking the time to assess their current situation, communication that may be needed for employees in the interim, and potential approaches to take. Contact Welch Performance Consulting at tina.welch@wpchr.com or go to https://wpchr.com/ if you are interested in learning more.

MC Federal Supports Local Women’s Center

MC FCU hosted a clothing, hygiene item, and nonperishable food
drive to support The Women's Center, Inc. of Columbia and Montour Counties. Learn more.

RABBITTRANSIT's Stop Hopper Service Expanded to Berwick

rabbittransit's on-demand Stop Hopper service is now available in Berwick Borough, by popular request! Stop Hopper enables residents to schedule rides on smaller, neighborhood friendly-sized public transit vehicles using a smartphone app. It's just $2 per ride within the Bloomsburg-Berwick service zone, and registered seniors 65+ ride FREE. To learn more, visit www.ridethestophopper.org or call 1-800-632-9063.

McKonly & Asbury Named #1 Best Accounting Firm for Young Accountants in 2024

McKonly & Asbury, a leading Mid-Atlantic accounting and business advisory services firm, is proud to announce it has been recognized as the #1 Best Accounting Firm to Work for Young Accountants in 2024 by Accounting Today and Best Companies Group. Learn more.

November ReadyPA Newsletter out now

Winter Weather in Pennsylvania: Snow Squalls & Staying Safe; Stay Informed This Winter! and Get Support for Heating Costs This Winter.

Learning To Live Beloved Ministries to hold Gala January 11th

Learning to Live Beloved Ministries will be holding its First Annual Well House Gala on January 11th at the Pine Barn. Learn more.

Bloomsburg Theatre Ensemble Announces "A Christmas Carol" Cast

BTE proudly presents the cast for its upcoming production of A Christmas Carol, running from November 29 through December 28. Three actors play every character in this new adaptation written and directed by BTE resident actor Amy Rene Byrne. The six-member cast is divided into teams that will rotate performances. Learn more.

United Way Selected to Oversee Distribution of Federal Emergency Food and Shelter Funds to Local Agencies

Susquehanna Valley United Way (SVUW) has been chosen to oversee the distribution of $100,013 in federal funds under the Emergency Food and Shelter National Board Program. Learn more.

2024-2025 PDA Senior Community Center Grant Application Open

The Pennsylvania Department of Aging has opened the Senior Community Center Grant Program for the 2024-25 year. All applications and application materials for the competitive grant funding must be received electronically through the Electronic Single Application (ESA) system from eligible AAA-affiliated SCCs no later than 5 p.m., on Friday, Dec. 13. Additional information, including the application submission instructions, can be found here.

Bloomsburg Children's Museum Announce December Programs

Get full list of programs and events here.

PPL Rate to Compare Changes December 1

PPL Electric Utilities’ Price to Compare (PTC), or default rate, will change on Dec. 1, 2024. The new PTC for residential customers will be 10.771¢/kWh for residential customers and 10.446¢/kWh for small business customers. Learn more.

Wilkes SBDC dedicates new Incubator Space

On Thursday, November 14, the Wilkes University SBDC and Ben Franklin Technology Partners of Northeastern PA dedicated our small business incubator at the Bloomsburg Innovation Center. The incubator is designed to support the growth of emerging businesses and entrepreneurs in our community by offering modern, flexible office spaces and shared resources like high-speed internet, conference rooms, and office equipment. Congratulations to Dorothy Lane and the Staff of the Wilkes SBDC.

America250PA Launches First Round of Semiquincentennial Grants

America250PA is now accepting applications for the first round of semiquincentennial grants to help celebrate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence and the birth of the United States of America. For additional information about how to apply, including a schedule of virtual office hours to answer questions about the program, click here.

Coming Up at the Weis Center

Delta Blues - Last Performance of the Fall Season December 7th

Santa, Ghosts, and Free Books at 36th Annual Treefest November 29 - December 1 and December 6 - 8

TreeFest ushers in the holiday season with new and returning special events at the Caldwell Consistory, starting November 29th. Learn more.

IMC hosting AI to Support HR webinar December 5th

Join the IMC for a free one-hour webinar where an internationally renowned HR expert shares how AI can elevate your HR operations. From streamlining recruitment to crafting personalized employee development plans, this session will give you the tools to future-proof your HR strategy. Learn more and register here.

LCBC hosting Night to Shine

On Friday, February 7, 2025, LCBC will once again partner with the Tim Tebow Foundation to host Night to Shine, an unforgettable prom night experience for people with special needs. Night to Shine is a worldwide movement that will include special needs proms in 50 states and 7 countries. This is LCBC’s 10^th year hosting this unforgettable night in NEPA. Learn more here.

Happy Holidays in the Town of Bloomsburg

The Town of Bloomsburg meters on Main Street from East Street to Jefferson Street will be bagged starting November 29 through January 5th. Free parking in the municipal parking lots and metered side streets will start on December 14 and run through January 5th. Meters on E. 2nd St. are excluded.

Coming up at Arts in Bloom

Melt - December 7th

Luzerne County Community College's Spring Semester Class schedule now available

Luzerne County Community College’s Berwick campus is accepting registrations for their spring semester. Classes are available in a wide ranges of subjects including interpersonal communications, advanced composition, and Basic EMT. For a full class list and to get dates/times for classes check out their course catalog at https://www.luzerne.edu/cl/index.jsp

Servpro of Columbia, Montour & Sullivan Counties offering CE classes

5 CE classes will be offered by Servpro of Columbia, Montour & Sullivan Counties. Get the full schedule.

Save the Date - DCDC's Dueling Piano's Coming back April 2025!

Please stay tuned for details on how you can be a part of this great event!

House and Senate Elect Leadership Teams for 2025-26 Session

November 20, 2024

House and Senate Elect Leadership Teams for 2025-26 Session

Source: PA Chamber of Business and Industry

Last week, the Republican and Democratic caucuses in the state House and Senate selected their respective leadership teams for the next session beginning in January 2025.

The Senate Republican leadership team was all re-elected to their positions, with the re-elections of Senate President Pro Tempore Kim Ward (R-Westmoreland); Leader Joe Pittman (R-Indiana); Whip Ryan Aument (R-Lancaster); Caucus Chair Kristin Phillips-Hill (R-York); Caucus Secretary Camera Bartolotta (R-Washington); and Appropriations Committee Chair Scott Martin (R-Lancaster).

The Senate Democrats elected Leader Jay Costa (D-Allegheny); Whip Christine Tartaglione (D-Philadelphia); Caucus Chair Maria Collett (D-Montgomery); Caucus Secretary Steve Santarsiero (D-Bucks); Caucus Administrator Judy Schwank (D-Berks); Policy Chair Nick Miller (D-Lehigh); and Appropriations Chair Vincent Hughes (D-Philadelphia).

In the House, the Democratic one-seat majority plans to nominate Joanna McClinton (D-Philadelphia) to continue serving as Speaker of the House and will be led by Leader Matt Bradford (D-Montgomery); Whip Mike Schlossberg (D-Lehigh); Appropriations Chair Jordan Harris (D-Philadelphia); Policy Chair Ryan Bizzarro (D-Erie); Caucus Chair Rob Matzie (D-Beaver); Caucus Secretary Tina Davis (D-Bucks); and Caucus Administrator Leanne Krueger (D-Delaware).

The House Republican leadership slate consists of Leader Jesse Topper (R-Bedford); Whip Tim O’Neal (R-Washington); Appropriations Chair Jim Struzzi (R-Indiana); Policy Chair David Rowe (R-Union); Caucus Chair Martina White (R-Philadelphia); Caucus Secretary Clint Owlett (R-Tioga); Caucus Administrator Sheryl Delozier (R-Cumberland).

In a statement, PA Chamber President and CEO Luke Bernstein congratulated the new leadership teams and expressed optimism about how they can collaborate toward a stronger economic future in Pennsylvania. “When the new General Assembly convenes in January, the party breakdown in both chambers will look the same as the past two years, reinforcing the continued need for bipartisan consensus around issues that will improve Pennsylvanians’ lives and move our state forward,” Bernstein said. The PA Chamber is ready and eager to partner with these leaders and their caucuses to make the commonwealth the most competitive state in the nation for investment, job growth, and economic prosperity.”

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Founded in 1916, the Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry is the state's largest broad-based business association, with its membership comprising businesses of all sizes and across all industry sectors. The PA Chamber is The Statewide Voice of BusinessTM.

Five Strategies for Leading Through Emotionally Charged Times

November 20, 2024

Five Strategies for Leading Through Emotionally Charged Times

In emotionally charged times, strong leaders adopt flexible strategies to help teams stay focused and grounded. Here are five ways leaders can support employees through change and uncertainty — or any time outside events disrupt the workplace.

473 ~ 2 min. read

Managing teams through stressful news cycles, like after an election, can test any leader’s flexibility and empathy. While current events are often beyond your control, how you respond as a leader can significantly impact your team’s morale and productivity. Here are five effective strategies to lead with clarity and empathy in emotionally charged environments.

1. Acknowledge the Climate

Ignoring external pressures like election results or significant news events can alienate employees. Instead, create a space where your team feels seen by acknowledging the collective emotional tension. Starting a team meeting with a short, empathetic acknowledgement —“I know this week has been intense for many of us”—can set a tone of understanding. Harvard Business Review notes that leaders who recognize their team’s emotional state foster stronger team cohesion and resilience.

2. Promote Flexibility and Autonomy

High-stress periods often affect employees’ focus and availability. Offering flexible scheduling options, whether that means remote work or adjusted hours, can reduce stress and empower team members to manage their time more effectively. Research from Forbes suggests that employees with greater autonomy during challenging times experience higher job satisfaction and lower anxiety, contributing positively to overall productivity.

3. Encourage Open Communication

Create an open dialogue by regularly checking in with team members individually and collectively. Encourage team members to voice concerns, not just about work but also about how current events may be affecting them. Leaders who normalize these conversations foster a psychologically safe environment where employees feel supported and respected.

4. Model Emotional Resilience

Demonstrate calmness and resilience to help your team navigate uncertainty. Displaying emotional steadiness encourages employees to mirror these behaviors. Additionally, showing a healthy approach to stress—by openly discussing positive coping mechanisms—sets an example for managing emotions productively. Studies published by Inc. suggest that employees often mimic the emotional cues of their leaders, making it crucial for managers to exemplify balanced reactions.

5. Refocus on Purpose and Values

In times of anxiety, reconnecting employees with the organization’s mission can help ground their focus. Reinforcing the team’s shared goals and values can remind employees of the broader purpose behind their work. This strategy not only strengthens commitment but also promotes resilience as it refocuses energy from external events back to collective goals.

Final Thoughts

In times of high external stress, flexibility, empathy, and clear communication are critical leadership qualities. By acknowledging the emotional climate and prioritizing open support, leaders can help their teams remain engaged and resilient, no matter what’s happening in the world outside. These strategies are invaluable for any organization committed to fostering a compassionate and adaptive workplace culture.

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The Columbia Montour Chamber of Commerce is a private non-profit organization that aims to support the growth and development of local businesses and our regional economy. We strive to create content that not only educates but also fosters a sense of connection and collaboration among our readers. Join us as we explore topics such as economic development, networking opportunities, upcoming events, and success stories from our vibrant community. Our resources provide insights, advice, and news that are relevant to business owners, entrepreneurs, and community members alike.

Workers Consider Wellness Programs a Top Priority

November 20, 2024

Workers Consider Wellness Programs a Top Priority

As companies are increasingly requiring their employees to return to the office, company leaders and human resource department personnel are hearing their workers and future talent prospects ask for programs and services that go beyond traditional benefits. Specifically, individuals are looking for those with a greater focus on benefits that will allow them to maintain and enhance their personal health and well-being.

For many workers, wellness programs offer practical solutions to modern challenges, such as managing chronic conditions, coping with mental health issues, or achieving a better work-life balance. Benefits like gym memberships, increased access to mental health resources, flexible work hours, the ability to work at least part-time from a remote location, increased PTO, ergonomic support, nutritional advice, a robust health care program and even on-site physical amenities like gyms are all benefits that can improve wellness and boost employee well-being.

Companies that prioritize wellness signal to employees that their well-being is valued, contributing to stronger loyalty and morale. Moreover, wellness programs help employees manage stress and avoid burnout, which has become especially relevant in the post-pandemic world.

In a competitive job market, wellness programs are often viewed as a deciding factor when choosing an employer. As employees increasingly seek a holistic approach to health and well-being, these programs have become essential for attracting and retaining top talent while fostering a positive and supportive workplace culture.

The Columbia-Montour Chamber of Commerce offers its members access to My Benefit Advisor as a solution for employee benefits, including voluntary offerings. For more information about My Benefit Advisor, visit our website at cmcc.mybenefitadvisor.com or contact Rob Higginbotham at (800) 377-3536.

Member News ~ November 14, 2024

November 14, 2024

Member News ~ November 14, 2024

RABBITTRANSIT's Stop Hopper Service Expanded to Berwick

rabbittransit's on-demand Stop Hopper service is now available in Berwick Borough, by popular request! Stop Hopper enables residents to schedule rides on smaller, neighborhood friendly-sized public transit vehicles using a smartphone app. It's just $2 per ride within the Bloomsburg-Berwick service zone, and registered seniors 65+ ride FREE. To learn more, visit www.ridethestophopper.org or call 1-800-632-9063.