The Strategic Management Planning Program (STMP) will help 16 local governments across the Commonwealth fund projects like upgrading outdated software, developing financial and operational plans, and conducting salary studies.

Since taking office in 2023, the Shapiro Administration has invested more than $12,717,521 through the STMP to help strengthen 118 communities.

Harrisburg, PA - Today, Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) Secretary Rick Siger announced the approval of $1,487,697 in grants through the Strategic Management Planning Program (STMP) to help 16 municipalities across Pennsylvania develop plans that will strengthen their financial capacity.

The STMP provides matching grant funds of up to $200,000 to help local governments experiencing financial issues develop comprehensive multi-year financial plans and establish short- and long-term financial objectives.

Since taking office, the Shapiro Administration has invested more than $12,717,521 through STMP to help strengthen 118 communities.

"The Shapiro Administration is committed to supporting local governments by investing in their financial future," said Secretary Siger. "Keeping our local governments in good financial health ensures that they can support the people who work and live there and allows communities to compete for important investments. These investments help local governments keep the lights on, responsibly manage finances, and keep their communities growing while maintaining their financial footing."

A complete list of STMP grant awards can be found online. Recipients include:

Allegheny County

• $50,000 to Scott Township to conduct an assessment and update the township's Comprehensive Plan, and revise and modernize the Zoning Ordinance and Map.

Dauphin County

• $56,463 to Lower Swatara Township to evaluate and purchase updated software and technology to modernize operations.

Erie County

• $69,612 to the Borough of Union City to purchase updated software and technology to modernize the city's operations.

Lackawanna County

• $131,250 to Lackawanna County to complete a comprehensive Salary Study and Compensation Review to elevate compensation structures, classification systems, market competitiveness, internal equity, wage compression, and long-term compensation administration practices throughout the County's government.

Northampton County

• $200,000 to the City of Easton to upgrade the city's software and technology to manage financial data, facilitate financial reporting, and improve operations.

The 2026-27 bipartisan budget, signed into law by Governor Shapiro, included strategic investments that will increase Pennsylvania's competitiveness, strengthen communities, and boost the economy.

The 2026-27 bipartisan budget included:

• Investing $125 million to create the Innovate in PA 2.0 program to support startups, life sciences, and innovation.
• Increasing funding for the Historically Disadvantaged Business Program by $3.75 million.
• Increasing funding for Career and Technical Education (CTE) by $10 million.
• Maintaining $20 million for Main Street Matters to strengthen commercial corridors across Pennsylvania.

For more information about the Strategic Management Planning Program or DCED, visit the agency's website, Facebook, X, and LinkedIn.

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