Allegheny County

The event focused on celebrating MS Awareness Week. A proclamation was read by the County Executive, Rich Fitzgerald, declaring March 7 through 13 as Multiple Sclerosis Awareness Week in Allegheny County. The proclamation detailed that Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a chronic, disabling disease of the central nervous system, noting that it affects an estimated 2.3 million people worldwide. It highlighted the mission of the National MS Society Pennsylvania Keystone chapter, which includes funding research, advocacy, and providing services to those affected. The Allegheny courthouse was scheduled to be lit orange in recognition of the designation. A portion of the discussion also involved acknowledging the critical, demanding role of the Executive's scheduler, Sonia Deet, who is afflicted with MS, in managing the County's daily operations for 1.3 million residents.

The event centered on the dedication and ribbon-cutting ceremony for the Safe Families Resource Center. Significant acknowledgement was given to Child Watch and the National Council of Jewish Women for their support, particularly in funding the project. The center aims to be a more friendly and easier place for children seeking protection orders, featuring a safe play area, a safe waiting area for victims, separate check-in space for defendants, and private conference/interview rooms to ensure confidentiality. Discussions highlighted the significant contributions of Judy Horgan and the organizational overhaul of the juvenile justice system accomplished through Child Watch Allegheny County, including video conferencing to reduce trauma for children testifying. Judges present discussed the trauma commonality among juvenile and family court users, noting the need for the new resource center, which also provides services for attorneys and victims seeking immediate aid.

The briefing provided an update on the COVID-19 pandemic situation in Allegheny County, noting that case numbers remained relatively flat due to public adherence to social distancing and mask-wearing guidelines. Key discussion points included expressing sympathy for families who lost loved ones and addressing the dual crises of health and economic impact. Announcements regarding the loosening of state restrictions were reviewed, such as allowing online car sales and curbside pickup for the Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board, with construction projects resuming on May 8th, all subject to Department of Health mitigation rules. The extension of the stay-at-home order through May 8th was also noted. The importance of enhanced testing, contact tracing capabilities, and surveillance was emphasized. Specific discussions involved the status of testing data, including case numbers, positivity rates, and the low percentage of the population tested (approximately 1%). Plans to expand testing availability at various locations were mentioned. Furthermore, the challenges facing seniors, especially in long-term care facilities, regarding COVID-19 symptoms and social isolation were addressed, with recommendations for maintaining social connections and planning for future medical care wishes. Finally, updates were provided on ongoing community functions, specifically encouraging participation in the Census and detailing the process for mailing out applications for mail-in ballots for the upcoming election.

The All-in Allegheny Plan is an action plan developed through extensive and diverse community engagement with nearly 19,000 residents across Allegheny County, outlining 91 specific steps for the County Executive administration. Its purpose is to build opportunity, access, and justice. The plan focuses on advancing solutions in key areas including health, housing, infrastructure, economic development, education, youth support, environmental quality, public safety, and election accessibility, with the vision of creating a county that works for all residents in the coming years.

The Allegheny Grows Program, an initiative by Allegheny County Economic Development, aims to transform vacant, underutilized lots into productive and aesthetically appealing community lands. The program provides essential startup materials, technical assistance, education, and community organizing support to garden groups, in partnership with Grow Pittsburgh. It seeks to enhance communities, foster resident engagement, and create beneficial green spaces throughout Allegheny County.