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100 Years of Black History Month, Additional Property Tax/Rent Rebate Clinics, State Grant Awards, Rural Health Summit, and More!

(17 hours ago) Rep. Paul Takac

Dear Neighbor, After a bitterly cold winter, it’s finally starting to feel like spring is in the air here in Centre County. Snow is melting, and streams are rising. But before looking too far ahead, I want to take a moment to reflect on this February as we mark the 100th anniversary of the founding of Black History Month. One hundred years ago, when this observance began, our nation was still deeply divided and segregated. Yet Black history has always been an inextricable thread woven throughout American history. This month offers an opportunity to shine a spotlight once again on the courageous and innovative — and far too often overlooked — men and women who have shaped our nation through inventions and artistic achievements, leadership in economics and democracy, and the ongoing pursuit of justice for all. Only by understanding and learning from the full scope of our past — including its most difficult chapters — can we truly appreciate both the progress our nation has made Read more

 

Takac: Over $203,000 awarded to bolster traffic safety along Route 26

(Feb 10, 2026) Rep. Paul Takac

HARRISBURG, Feb. 10 – A College Township project to improve intersection safety along the College Avenue (Route 26) corridor will receive $203,061 in grant funding, state Rep. Paul Takac, D-Centre, announced today. The funding comes from Pennsylvania’s Automated Red Light Enforcement program. “Keeping people safe on our roads is a top priority,” Takac said. “These targeted improvements along Route 26 will enhance signal coordination and visibility, reduce the risk of crashes, and make travel safer for drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists throughout our community. I appreciate PennDOT’s continued investment in projects that deliver tangible safety benefits for Centre County residents.” The funding will support safety, technology, and signal coordination upgrades at the following intersections: Route 26 and Squirrel Drive Route 26 and Elmwood Street/Millbrook Way Route 26 and U.S. 322 East Route 26 and U.S. 322 West Pennsylvania’s ARLE program directs grant funding—generated from fines collected for red light violations in Philadelphia—to projects that improve safety, enhance mobility, or reduce congestion at signalized intersections. Since the Shapiro Administration took office in 2023, the program has awarded more than $60 million to 121 projects statewide, reflecting a continued commitment to community safety and connectivity. More Read more

 

A message on ICE, the Governor’s Budget Proposal, PTRR Clinics, Open Ag Innovation Grant, and More!

(Feb 06, 2026) Rep. Paul Takac

Dear Neighbor, Over the past several weeks, I have heard from hundreds of folks from near and far who, like me, are appalled and deeply concerned about recent developments in Minneapolis involving federal immigration agents. Reports of violence and intimidation (including the fatal shooting of two U.S. citizens) by unidentified, heavily armed, and aggressive agents, as well as tactics including random ID checks, warrantless home invasions, and using young children as bait, are shocking and disturbing. In addition, the suppression, withholding, and even destruction of evidence raises serious questions regarding accountability and oversight. Government agents acting with secrecy and impunity threaten the foundations of our legal and constitutional system of justice. As the proud son and grandson of police officers, I believe that law enforcement can and must be a public service, as exemplified by the motto “to protect and serve.” What ICE and CBP are doing today betrays that honorable tradition. Their recent actions have little if anything to do with protecting communities or upholding due Read more

 

Khan and colleagues introduce resolution demanding accountability in DHS and ICE enforcement

(Jan 25, 2026) Rep. Paul Takac

State Rep. Tarik Khan, D–Philadelphia, joined by colleagues in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives, today introduced a resolution urging Congress to withhold additional federal appropriations for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) until meaningful accountability and safety reforms are enacted.The resolution comes in the wake of the killing of ICU nurse Alex Pretti by federal agents in Minneapolis in January 2026, just weeks after another U.S. citizen, Renee Nicole Good, was shot and killed during federal immigration enforcement operations in the same city. Read more

 

Service, Justice, and the Work of Democracy: MLK Day, PA Farm Show, Property Tax/Rent Rebate & Heating Assistance Programs, and much more!

(Jan 23, 2026) Rep. Paul Takac

Dear Neighbor, Earlier this week, we commemorated the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. through a local Day of Service. I always appreciate this annual reminder of the importance of investing in civic life, giving back to our community, and honestly reflecting on how we can better live up to our shared ideals of justice and equality. Dr. King reminded us that democracy is precious but not guaranteed—it requires participation, reflection, care for one another, and the courage to fight for what is right. I can think of few more urgent or important messages right now, especially in light of the deeply troubling news from across the country and around the world. Dr. King believed that the long arc of the moral universe bends toward justice, but only if we are willing to do the work. Every day, I see members of this community answering that call—whether by helping a neighbor in need, donating their time and resources to organizations and events that bring people together, or advocating for civil liberties in the face of government overreach. Progress is only possible when we work together with Read more

 

Takac delivers $1.66M for Calder Way upgrades, road repairs and wastewater improvements

(Jan 20, 2026) Rep. Paul Takac

HARRISBURG, Jan. 20 – More than $1.66 million in funding from the Commonwealth Financing Authority will support six critical transportation and utility projects across the 82nd Legislative District in Centre County, state Rep. Paul Takac, D-Centre, announced today. “Safe, reliable infrastructure is the backbone of thriving communities,” Takac said. “Often unseen and underappreciated, stormwater and sewer systems are essential for maintaining quality of life and protecting our communities and environment from damaging floods. These awards will make Calder Way and local roads safer for pedestrians and cyclists while modernizing stormwater and wastewater systems from Bald Eagle to the Mountaintop. “Investing in these projects now lowers future costs for taxpayers, creates good-paying jobs in Centre County, and strengthens our resilience to extreme weather -- all while supporting responsible economic growth. I’m grateful to the Commonwealth Financing Authority and to local leaders, municipal staff, and engineers who advocated for these projects. I’m also proud to have worked with my colleagues to secure this funding, which includes more than $725,000 for State College and over $935,000 for the Mountaintop and Bald Eagle Valley.” The approved funding includes: $425,202 to the Borough of State College for the Calder Way Transportation Improvement Project, enhancing safety for Read more

 

Takac: Over $500,000 secured to boost environmental projects benefiting Centre County

(Jan 12, 2026) Rep. Paul Takac

STATE COLLEGE, Jan. 12 – More than $518,600 in grant funding will support three conservation, recreation, and outdoor - education projects across Centre County, state Rep. Paul Takac, D-Centre, announced today. Takac said the awards include $383,600 to ClearWater Conservancy of Central PA to install approximately 15 acres of riparian forest buffers in the Susquehanna River Watershed in Centre County. “Riparian buffers are a smart, science - based investment,” Takac said. “They reduce pollutants and sediment entering our waterways, protect streambanks from erosion, improve groundwater recharge, and create habitat for wildlife. This project will strengthen the health of the Susquehanna watershed and benefit our communities for years to come.” ClearWater Conservancy also received $85,800 to coordinate and fund the Centered Outdoors program. The funding will support management of a gear library, expanded transportation assistance, skill and wellness workshops, and increased staffing and professional training. The work will include a written summary report documenting program outcomes. “This grant will help remove barriers that keep people from enjoying the outdoors,” Takac said. “By lending gear, expanding transportation options, and offering workshops, Centered Outdoors will make it easier for families, students, and seniors to connect with nature and build healthier lives.” Read more

 

Resolutions for the New Year, Upcoming MLK Day Event, Green-Light-Go Award, PA Farm Show!

(Jan 09, 2026) Rep. Paul Takac

Dear Neighbor, As the calendar turned to 2026, I found myself – like many of you – reflecting on goals and resolutions for the year ahead. Not the kind that involves doing more push-ups (my shoulders have filed an objection!), but those that keep me grounded, fulfilled, and focused on the important work that you elected me to do. Those resolutions span home, community, and Harrisburg, and a common theme quickly emerged: continuing to show up and be fully engaged. At home, that means being there for my family and treasuring every minute I get to spend with Regan and our kids -- especially as they get older, pursue their own dreams, and take on their own responsibilities. In our community, it means listening first, being visible and accessible across all sixteen (!) municipalities in the district and continuing to work alongside my team to host clinics, drives, and community events. Each year, we’ve expanded our reach to connect with more neighbors, and we have even bigger plans for 2026—so stay tuned! Read more

 

Takac announces over $500K Green Light-Go grant to upgrade signals at Curtin Road & University Drive

(Jan 07, 2026) Rep. Paul Takac

HARRISBURG, Jan. 7 – State Rep. Paul Takac, D-Centre, announced today that College Township has been awarded $503,700 in Green Light-Go funding to upgrade traffic signal equipment at the intersection of Curtin Road and University Drive. The project advances key goals of Pennsylvania’s Long Range Transportation Plan, including enhancing safety for both motorized and non-motorized users, strengthening mobility for residents, businesses, and visitors, and improving the performance of the Commonwealth’s transportation assets. The upgrades will benefit a critical, high-volume corridor serving State College and the Penn State University Park campus. “This project will rebuild an aging traffic signal that has exceeded its expected useful life, improving overall safety and operational efficiency at this high-vehicle and high-pedestrian intersection on the Penn State University campus,” said Frank Scott, College Township’s signals technician. “The township extends its sincere thanks to Representative Takac and PennDOT District 2 signals staff -- particularly Jon Tate and Ron Ogden -- for their support of this successful grant application.” “Anyone who has driven, walked, or biked through this area knows how important proper signal timing is to safely navigate this very busy intersection,” Takac said. “This investment will make a real difference for safety and mobility in College Read more

 

Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service A Legacy of Love: Serving with Purpose, Strengthening Families

(Jan 05, 2026) Rep. Paul Takac

Join us in honoring the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. at a special community event hosted in partnership with the State College YMCA, Centre County Pearls of PA, an official interest group of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc., and First National Bank. This free, family-friendly event will include complimentary food, packing backpacks for the Backpack Program, arts and crafts, and a financial literacy class sponsored by First National Bank. Event Details Date: January 19th, 2026 Time: 12:30 pm – 3:30 pm Location: State College YMCA - Community Room & Small Gym 677 W Whitehall Rd, State College, PA 16801 Read more

 

Wishing you a Wonderful Holiday, Food Distribution, Grant Awards for the 82nd, and a Few Reflections on 2025

(Dec 23, 2025) Rep. Paul Takac

Dear Neighbor, As 2025 draws to a close, I want to take a moment to thank you. I am deeply grateful for the countless ways you show up for me, and for one another, every day. Whether it is a kind note, a conversation at a community event, or the work you do as a neighbor, a parent, a volunteer, or a student -- I am reminded constantly that our strength comes from the people who care deeply about our community and about each other. This past year has certainly brought its share of challenges, but it also demonstrated once again what can be achieved when we work together for the common good. We made more progress on funding public schools, supporting vital services, and investing in local infrastructure to make our communities safer, stronger, and more connected. I had the privilege of working with educators, local leaders, small business owners, and others across Centre County and across our commonwealth to tackle real problems with practical, sustainable solutions that positively impact their lives and livelihoods. Those partnerships, Read more

 

Takac secures over $1.2M to keep Centre County safe, connected and prepared

(Dec 18, 2025) Rep. Paul Takac

HARRISBURG, Dec. 18 – More than $1.2 million in funding from the Commonwealth Financing Authority will support a range of local projects that strengthen municipal services, improve public safety, and expand community amenities across Centre County, state Rep. Paul Takac, D-Centre, announced today. Takac said that investing in these local projects will not only deliver tangible short- and long-term improvements to daily life, but also lay the groundwork for Centre County’s next chapter of growth. “These investments help fund practical, local projects and services that will make a real difference for families and communities across Centre County,” Takac said. “From safer roads and more reliable emergency services to improved trails and essential equipment for our volunteer responders and townships, these awards help ensure that our communities are safer, more connected, and better prepared for the future. “By supporting projects like these, we’re delivering the results residents of Centre County and the 82nd District expect and deserve,” he added. The funding includes: $250,000 to College Township for the Regional Bike/Pedestrian Path Project to build a roughly 1-mile, 10-ft shared-use path along College Avenue from Elmwood Avenue to campus, enhancing connections and improving safety. $276,315 to Howard Township and the Howard Fire Company for a mini-pumper to improve rural firefighting Read more

 

Takac: More than $2 million awarded to support Centre County programs and services

(Dec 12, 2025) Rep. Paul Takac

HARRISBURG, Dec. 12 – State Rep. Paul Takac, D-Centre, announced today that Centre County organizations and programs will receive a total of $2,014,596 in state grant funding to strengthen public safety, victim services and substance-use treatment efforts across the county. The awardees and the amounts are as follows: $1,191,846 — Pennsylvania State University: SPEP Juvenile Justice Program Implementation. $500,000 — Centre County Commissioners: Centre County MAT(Medication Assisted Treatment) Program. $147,750 — Centre County Commissioners: Victim-Witness Service Agency. $125,000 — Centre County Commissioners: STOP Violence Against Women. $50,000 — Children’s Advocacy Center of Centre County: CAC Operations, Services, and Multi-Disciplinary Investigative Team Facilitation. “These critical investments will help support and expand vital programs and services right here at home — from juvenile justice and violence prevention efforts to enhanced drug treatment and victim-support programs,” Takac said. “They are part of the more than $73 million in funding from the recently passed state budget to reduce gun violence and suicide, support victims of crime, and make our communities safer. “I am proud of our efforts to fund these life-saving and life-affirming programs at the state level, as well as working with local leaders and Read more

 

Hometown Holidays, Supporting our Neighbors, Holiday Blessing Boxes, Q&A on Campus, and more!

(Dec 10, 2025) Rep. Paul Takac

Dear Neighbor, I hope that the start of your holiday season has been merry and bright. I've had so much fun visiting all the holiday markets and festivals across our area. From Milesburg’s Hometown Christmas to the Lemont and Centre Furnace Mansion markets, and from Snow Shoe’s Light up the Night to Boalsburg’s Hometown Christmas – it’s been a joy to see so many old friends, make new ones, start my holiday shopping, and get into the spirit of the season. But at the same time, I’m reminded that this season can be difficult for some folks. Please take a moment to reach out to a friend or family member you haven’t heard from in a while and be sure to check in on neighbors. Our community is only as strong as our loosest bonds, and this season more than ever it’s important to know that you are never alone. To that end, December 3rd was the Read more

 

Takac announces $1.2 million Community Development Block Grant investment for Centre County water & sewer infrastructure

(Dec 04, 2025) Rep. Paul Takac

UNION TOWNSHIP, Dec. 4 – State Rep. Paul Takac, D-Centre, today praised the Department of Community and Economic Development and Secretary Rick Siger for awarding more than $6.2 million in Community Development Block Grant funding to support essential improvements across the commonwealth, and in particular $1,235,000 dedicated to a critical sewer infrastructure project serving residents of the Eagle Creek community in Centre County. The project will install a new 2-inch force main from the existing grinder pump at the Eagle Creek Wastewater Treatment Plant, connecting it directly to a Mid-Centre County Authority access point in Unionville Borough. This new sewer line will provide basic infrastructure and security benefits to the residents in the Eagle Creek community — improving reliability, preventing service disruptions, and ensuring compliance with environmental standards. “This funding is essential to keeping service costs reasonable for the homeowners while addressing critical infrastructure issues,” Takac said. “A well-functioning sewer system is among the most essential elements of a community’s overall health and well-being. “This major investment will ensure that the Eagle Creek community has access to a more reliable and effective sanitation system.” “This competitive grant was crucial to fund the project,” said Mark Higgins, chair, Centre County Read more

 

Wishing you a wonderful Thanksgiving, Blessing Box Food Distribution, Gratitude for my Team, and a note on RGGI

(Nov 25, 2025) Rep. Paul Takac

Dear Neighbor, For many of us, this week kicks off the official start of the holiday season. My family and I wish you a joyful holiday, filled with friends, family, food, and peace. I know for many people this has been a difficult year, so I hope you can find some time in this busy holiday period to reflect on the things that have made this year special. A tradition in my house is to go around the table and share some of the things that we’re thankful for. This year, for me that has been family, friends, good health, and the countless blessings that come from doing meaningful and impactful work on behalf of our community. Thank you for that opportunity and that privilege. Please read below to see more of the wonderful events taking place in our district. Read more

 

Takac appointed to Pennsylvania State Board of Higher Education

(Nov 25, 2025) Rep. Paul Takac

STATE COLLEGE, Nov. 25 – State Rep. Paul Takac, D-Centre, has been appointed to serve on the Pennsylvania State Board of Higher Education, the body charged with guiding policy, oversight and long-term strategic planning for the commonwealth’s colleges and universities. In this role, Takac will help shape statewide priorities that strengthen educational access, support institutional accountability and ensure that Pennsylvania remains competitive in an evolving global economy. As a member of the board, Takac will also serve on the new standing Policy Committee, which is charged with tracking key state- and federal-level policy issues, ensuring legal compliance and equity, and contributing to policy development and recommendations. Takac has made equitable access to high-quality education a cornerstone of his career and his public service. Before joining the Pennsylvania House, Takac spent nearly 25 years working with K-12 school districts and institutions of higher education across the state and beyond, working with teachers, students and administrators in educational technology consulting. His recent legislative work on economic opportunity, workforce development, and full and fair funding for education mirrors the mission of the board—to expand pathways to high-quality, affordable post-secondary education while fostering innovation across the system. In addition to serving as chair of the Rural Population Revitalization Commission, Takac is Read more

 

Takac bill to equip doctors with better nutrition guidance wins House approval

(Nov 17, 2025) Rep. Paul Takac

HARRISBURG, Nov. 17 – Recognizing the critical role nutrition plays in preventing and managing chronic disease and strengthening rural health efforts, the Pennsylvania House today passed H.B. 1980 with bipartisan support, announced its prime sponsor, state Rep. Paul Takac, D-Centre. Takac said H.B. 1980 would require physicians licensed in Pennsylvania to complete one hour of continuing medical education in nutrition during each two - year licensing period, with that hour included within the existing 100 - hour CME requirement. The modest, targeted change is designed to keep clinicians up to date with rapidly evolving evidence - based nutrition science while preserving the majority of CME time for specialty training. “Proper nutrition is the cornerstone of preventative medicine,” Takac said. “Conditions such as diabetes, obesity and heart disease are closely tied to diet, yet many physicians receive only limited nutrition education in medical school and may not pursue further training unless prompted. This is exacerbated by the flood of misleading and harmful nutrition advice online, with social media only amplifying the danger. “House Bill 1980 makes a small, practical change that helps doctors offer better, more holistic care to their patients.” Takac noted that improved nutrition education will strengthen clinical counseling, support preventive care and enhance Read more

 

A Balanced, Bipartisan Budget for Pennsylvania

(Nov 14, 2025) Rep. Paul Takac

Dear Neighbor, At long last, Pennsylvania has a balanced, responsible, and bipartisan budget. Getting here was certainly not easy, but my House Democratic colleagues and I, along with Governor Shapiro, stood firm. This budget makes historic investments in every public school student, supports working families, and preserves vital services—all without raising taxes or tapping the Rainy Day Fund. With costs already rising for so many, I’ve ensured this budget helps make life more affordable for you and your family. This is a responsible budget that helps working people and strengthens our communities. It lowers costs for families, combats hunger and healthcare cuts, and prepares us for whatever comes next from an unpredictable Washington, D.C. It ensures that our townships and boroughs can retain the dedicated public servants who plow our roads, maintain our parks, and respond to emergencies. The plan also increases school funding so teachers and students in districts like State College, Bald Eagle, Keystone Central, and Bellefonte have the resources they Read more

 

Takac: Historic boost for schools at center of budget that builds jobs, supports working people, and invests in our economy

(Nov 12, 2025) Rep. Paul Takac

HARRISBURG, Nov. 12 – Following bipartisan approval and enactment of the 2025-26 state budget, state Rep. Paul Takac, D-Centre, praised a balanced and responsible plan that advances priorities without raising taxes or tapping the Rainy Day Fund. The plan, totaling just over $50 billion, represents a compromise among the governor’s proposal, the House plan, and the Senate’s approach. It was crafted to ensure the Commonwealth can pay its bills, provide a historic boost to education funding, and invest in working families, job creation and economic growth. “This is responsible governance — fiscal discipline paired with compassion,” Takac said. “With $11 billion in reserves and no tax increase, this budget meets our current needs while protecting our future.” Takac highlighted how the budget addresses affordability and strengthens programs that matter to families across the district. He noted the plan increases Basic Education funding by more than $100 million, boosts Special Education by $40 million, and directs nearly $600 million to begin correcting long-standing adequacy gaps in school funding. The budget reforms charter payments to align with actual instructional costs, saving local taxpayers roughly $178 million statewide, and adds another $100 million for school safety and mental health services. It also strengthens early childhood education through investments in high quality, Read more

 

100 Years of Black History Month, Additional Property Tax/Rent Rebate Clinics, State Grant Awards, Rural Health Summit, and More!
17 hours ago

Takac: Over $203,000 awarded to bolster traffic safety along Route 26
Feb 10, 2026

A message on ICE, the Governor’s Budget Proposal, PTRR Clinics, Open Ag Innovation Grant, and More!
Feb 06, 2026

Khan and colleagues introduce resolution demanding accountability in DHS and ICE enforcement
Jan 25, 2026

Service, Justice, and the Work of Democracy: MLK Day, PA Farm Show, Property Tax/Rent Rebate & Heating Assistance Programs, and much more!
Jan 23, 2026

Takac delivers $1.66M for Calder Way upgrades, road repairs and wastewater improvements
Jan 20, 2026

Takac: Over $500,000 secured to boost environmental projects benefiting Centre County
Jan 12, 2026

Resolutions for the New Year, Upcoming MLK Day Event, Green-Light-Go Award, PA Farm Show!
Jan 09, 2026

Takac announces over $500K Green Light-Go grant to upgrade signals at Curtin Road & University Drive
Jan 07, 2026

Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service A Legacy of Love: Serving with Purpose, Strengthening Families
Jan 05, 2026

Wishing you a Wonderful Holiday, Food Distribution, Grant Awards for the 82nd, and a Few Reflections on 2025
Dec 23, 2025

Takac secures over $1.2M to keep Centre County safe, connected and prepared
Dec 18, 2025

Takac: More than $2 million awarded to support Centre County programs and services
Dec 12, 2025

Hometown Holidays, Supporting our Neighbors, Holiday Blessing Boxes, Q&A on Campus, and more!
Dec 10, 2025

Takac announces $1.2 million Community Development Block Grant investment for Centre County water & sewer infrastructure
Dec 04, 2025

Wishing you a wonderful Thanksgiving, Blessing Box Food Distribution, Gratitude for my Team, and a note on RGGI
Nov 25, 2025

Takac appointed to Pennsylvania State Board of Higher Education
Nov 25, 2025

Takac bill to equip doctors with better nutrition guidance wins House approval
Nov 17, 2025

A Balanced, Bipartisan Budget for Pennsylvania
Nov 14, 2025

Takac: Historic boost for schools at center of budget that builds jobs, supports working people, and invests in our economy
Nov 12, 2025