Brown, Bernstine Announce Counties Receiving Funds From Natural Gas Drilling Impact Fees

HARRISBURG – Rep. Marla Brown (R-Lawrence) and Rep. Aaron Bernstine (R-Butler/Lawrence) today announced that communities in the 8^th Legislative District in Butler and Lawrence counties and residents of the 9^th Legislative District will receive nearly $3.1 million in Marcellus Shale impact fees.

“During these difficult economic times, this funding will assist with important services and projects throughout Lawrence County,” said Brown. “The natural gas industry has created new jobs and opportunities in our communities, and this funding is another reminder of the importance of this industry in Pennsylvania.”

“These impact fees have helped municipalities complete a variety of projects,” added Bernstine. “Our economy, workers, counties and municipalities are reaping the rewards. This industry continues to create jobs and improve our quality of life.”

The following impact fee revenue amounts were announced by the state Public Utility Commission (PUC) for Lawrence County and eligible municipalities that are part of the 9^th District.

Butler County:

• Brady Township – $11,373.
• Center Township – $118,842.
• Clay Township – $36,400.
• Connoquenessing Borough – $12,153.
• Connoquenessing Township – $179,357.
• Forward Township – $167,624.
• Franklin Township – $32,748.
• Lancaster Township – $103,171.
• Middlesex Township – $91,512.
• Muddy Creek Township – $46,896.
• Penn Township – $112,548.
• Portersville Borough – $1,618.
• Prospect Borough – $5,929.
• West Liberty Borough – $4,305.
• West Sunbury Borough – $834.
• Worth Township – $25,369.

 Lawrence County:

• Ellport Borough – $1,414.
• Ellwood City Borough – $7,564.
• Enon Valley Borough – $370.
• Little Beaver Township – $17,300.
• New Beaver Borough – $2,731.
• Perry Township – $11,945.
• Plain Grove Township – $2,446.
• Scott Township – $3,462.
• Slippery Rock Township – $6,065.
• Wayne Township – $4,005.
• Wampum Borough – $740.
• Washington Township – $1,977.

Under Act 13 of 2012, impact fees are collected from the drilling companies with 60% returned to counties and municipalities affected by drilling. The rest of the money goes into a Marcellus Shale Legacy Fund, a portion of which is provided to counties. The remaining funds are used by the state for emergency response planning, training and other activities; water, storm water, and sewer system construction and repair; infrastructure maintenance and repair; as well as statewide environmental initiatives.

 Checks to municipalities are expected to be distributed in early July.