PA State Association of Township Supervisors

10/13/2026

From infrastructure planning to taxpayer impacts, local officials are often best positioned to understand the unique needs of their communities. This conversation highlights why local flexibility remains essential to responsible growth and effective government.

In this week's DaveTalk, PSATS Executive Director Dave Sanko examines the growing trend of state preemption of local decision-making and why slowing down, asking questions, and thoughtful policymaking is paramount for better public policy. Using accessory dwelling unit (ADU) proposals and Act 44 of 2026's commercial solar facility decommissioning requirements as examples, he explores the challenges of applying one-size-fits-all solutions to Pennsylvania's diverse communities.

What do you think? Should more decisions be made locally, or should the state establish uniform standards? Share your thoughts in the comments.

In this episode of DaveTalk, Dave discusses why slowing down, askin...

10/08/2026

🚨 Last Chance for Early Bird Savings! 🚨

Today is your last chance to take advantage of the $175 Early Bird rate for the PSATS Public Works Expo, November 10-11, at Kalahari Resort in the Poconos.

Join public works professionals from across Pennsylvania for: ✅ New equipment demonstrations
✅ More exhibitors and hands-on exhibits
✅ Educational workshops
✅ The NEW Public Works Skills Challenge
✅ A discussion forum on municipal responsibilities for state roads

Plus, stay at Kalahari, and you'll also receive four waterpark passes with your room reservation.

Don't wait until tomorrow and pay more.

👉 Register now: pwe.psats.org
https://youtube.com/shorts/Ya3o0oynJiI?si=8EUPY1CzBKOuFWSd

10/08/2026

Why Residents Need to Be Part of the Conversation
The Pennsylvania Local Government Bill of Rights is not just for township supervisors.

It is also for residents.

After all, residents live near proposed developments, travel township roads, rely on local emergency services, and experience the impacts of public policy every day.

That's why the new Pennsylvania Local Government Bill of Rights Toolkit includes a resident handout that explains the initiative in clear, simple terms.

The Bill of Rights supports community-based decision-making, modern transparency, protection from unfunded mandates, and a stronger partnership between state and local government.

Municipalities are encouraged to distribute the handout at meetings, community events, and through local communication channels.

Residents can learn more and add their names at https://www.psats.org/billofrights/.

10/07/2026

📢Early Bird Savings End Tomorrow!📢

There's still time to secure Early Bird savings for PWE '26, but only until tomorrow, October 8.

Join public works professionals from municipalities throughout Pennsylvania for two days of:

👉 Educational workshops
👉 Live equipment demonstrations
👉 Industry exhibits
👉 Networking and collaboration
👉 The NEW Public Works Skills Challenge

The Public Works Expo is more than a conference. It's a chance to evaluate equipment, compare solutions, learn from experts, and return home with ideas to improve service delivery in your community.

Register by October 8 and save with the $175 Early Bird rate.

Visit PWE.psats.org to register today.
youtube.com/watch?v=1jhErT37Ymc&feature=youtu.be

The PSATS Public Works Expo is built for the people who keep Pennsy...

09/30/2026

09/29/2026

Who knows a community's needs best? Township officials explain why local conditions, infrastructure, and community plans matter when decisions about housing and development are being made, and why communication between local officials and state legislators is an important part of the process. Watch and then contact your legislators.

Who knows a community's needs best? Township official explain why l...

09/25/2026

This weekend is the perfect time to think about applying for the PSATS Excellence Awards! Your winning project could help spark an idea or innovation at another municipality. Check out all of the PSATS Excellence Awards at https://www.psats.org/psats-award-programs-2026/. Have questions? Contact Hanna Martin at [email protected] or 717-763-0930, ext. 129.

09/25/2026

PSATS wants to hear your township's experience with short-term rental enforcement and administration for the November issue of the Pennsylvania Township News! If you have advice or a story to share, contact Hanna Martin at [email protected] or 717-763-0930, ext. 129, and your township could be featured in the article.

09/23/2026

Oh my, say it ain't so Pennsylvania News Media Association, community engagement thanks to a public notice being posted on the township website and page. The law needs to change to meet today's world and allow residents to easily find what's happening in their own communities. Newspapers are shutting down and no longer serving local communities. Governor Josh Shapiro