The workshop is being co-chaired by Senator David G. Argall (R-Schuylkill/Berks), chair of the Senate Majority Policy Committee, and Senator Tom McGarrigle (R-Chester/Delaware), chair of the Senate Urban Affairs and Housing Committee, and will feature individuals who utilize the tax credits.
One of the key tax credit programs, the state’s historic preservation tax credit program, was established in 2012. The program is set to end in 2020.
“As someone who represents many older downtowns, these programs can be an effective tool to remediate dilapidated buildings and return them to their former glory,” Argall said. “Blight is contagious, but so is revitalization. We want to hear directly from those who work with our tax credit programs to learn what is working and what needs to be improved.”
“My district is steeped in history and has several active historical societies doing great things for the community,” McGarrigle said. “I have seen the positive effect revitalization of historic landmarks has had in the area. I look forward to learning more about how Historic Preservation Tax Credits are improving various towns throughout the state.”
Tax credits have played an important role in communities of all sizes, according to Argall and McGarrigle.
In addition to legislators, the workshop will feature representatives from the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission, the Department of Community and Economic Development, Preservation Pennsylvania, the Pennsylvania State Association of Boroughs, the Pennsylvania State Association of Township Supervisors, the Pennsylvania Municipal League, the Pennsylvania Downtown Center, the Shuman Development Group of Reading, Zamagias Properties of Pittsburgh, Heritage Consulting Group of Philadelphia and Enhanced Capital out of Louisiana.
According to Mindy Crawford, Executive Director with Preservation Pennsylvania, state historic tax credits have been awarded to 61 projects spanning 15 counties since its inception. The program leveraged over $700 million in private investment and federal tax credits.