Takac announces appointment to commission aimed at revitalizing PA’s rural population
Central PA Delegation October 29, 2024 | 5:25 PM
HARRISBURG, Oct. 29 – Underscoring his commitment to advancing the interests of rural communities across Pennsylvania, state Rep. Paul Takac, D-Centre, today announced his recent appointment by Pennsylvania House Speaker Joanna McClinton to serve as the House Democratic caucus representative on the Center for Rural Pennsylvania’s newly created Rural Population Revitalization Commission.
Takac's appointment comes at a critical juncture. Counties in rural Pennsylvania face many serious challenges, including a projected 5.8% population decline by 2050. The commission's mandate is to identify innovative strategies that will help drive development and revitalization efforts to ensure the long-term growth and sustainability of these vital regions.
"This appointment provides me a unique opportunity to focus on, identify, and help tackle the real challenges facing our rural communities across Pennsylvania,” Takac said. “One of my top priorities is working to find solutions that will ensure a vibrant future for every resident of our commonwealth. Since taking office, I have been laser focused on delivering for rural Pennsylvania, and my legislative record embodies that philosophy.
“From helping deliver a first-of-its-kind $10 million Agricultural Innovation fund to championing the reauthorization of the $50 million Rural Jobs Investment Tax Credit program -- and from helping secure over $5.5 million in direct grant funding to prioritizing satellite offices and constituent services in Centre County’s most rural communities -- I have worked to prioritize folks who often feel overlooked in Harrisburg. I am proud to be a strong advocate for Pennsylvania’s rural communities and am excited for this opportunity to continue that important work.”
As a member of the commission, Takac will leverage his extensive experience in public service and his deep understanding of local and regional issues to contribute to policy recommendations that aim to enhance quality of life, support economic prosperity, and improve access to essential services for rural residents.
Takac’s district is the largest in land size held by a Democrat in the Pennsylvania House and encompasses a unique mix of rural communities such as Snow Shoe, Howard, and Milesburg, as well as areas in and around State College, including the Penn State University Park campus.
The Center for Rural Pennsylvania, a bipartisan, bicameral legislative agency, serves as a resource for rural policy and research within the PA General Assembly. The commission's work is instrumental in shaping legislation that addresses the nuanced and evolving needs of rural communities.
“I wanted to express my gratitude to Speaker McClinton for entrusting me with this opportunity to contribute to the commission’s critical mission of revitalizing Pennsylvania’s rural communities,” Takac added. “I look forward to continuing our work of ensuring that the interests of rural Pennsylvanians are well represented in Harrisburg.”