Monessen considers Neighborhood Assistance Program

A spokesman from Westmoreland Community Action explained the benefits of similar efforts in Jeannette and New Kensington.

A representative from Westmoreland Community Action discussed the benefits of the state’s Neighborhood Assistance Program at Thursday’s Monessen council meeting.

Businesses that contribute financially to the program receive a tax credit from the state. The funds used for the program go toward community development projects.

Dan Giovannelli, WCA vice president of administration, said the organization is in the initial planning stages of NAP in Monessen.

“The next big step is to pull together a community group to help advise on this,” Giovannelli said.

WCA completed respective multiyear NAPs with Jeanette and New Kensington. The program’s funds paved the way for beautification efforts in both cities. Giovannelli mentioned the transformations that occurred in New Kensington.

“In that program, for example, we helped start a farmers market, community gardens, did a whole bunch of facade grants for businesses through that downtown corridor on Fifth and Constitution Avenue in New Kensington,” he said. “This program helped pay for tons of new signs, lights and things for the businesses there.

“That was the tail end of COVID, so we helped pay for some things for the small businesses that were having a hard time going electronic on things. Paid for cash register systems and things like that to help small businesses survive into COVID.”

Giovannelli stressed that the program is dependent on donations from businesses. He said that WCA hopes to start the community planning process for a NAP in Monessen next month.

“Through that, we’ll identify some target goals, and we’ll put that together and start talking to businesses about whether or not they’d be willing to support that,” Giovannelli said. “And if we’re successful in getting commitments from businesses, we go to the (state) and apply for this thing. … In about a year from now is when we would know whether or not it’s successful.”

Recreation director passes away

Mayor Ron Mozer announced the death of Recreation Director Julian Naphier, 25, at Thursday’s meeting.

“I come to you with a really heavy heart and to share some deeply saddening news. Our community has lost a young and promising member, Julian Naphier,” Mozer said. “Julian suffered a serious medical issue, and despite all efforts, was pronounced deceased at about 10:45 (Wednesday) morning. Julian was a vibrant part of the community, and his passing is a profound loss to us all.”

In his role, Naphier coordinated many events at the Civic Center, dedicating much of his time to the youth of Monessen.

A moment of silence was held in Naphier’s honor during the meeting.