Gaming revenue generates $8 million for Dauphin County projects

The Dauphin County Commissioners awarded more than $8 million gaming dollars from Hollywood Casino to provide emergency services, food bank and shelter resources, park improvements, and infrastructure projects, saving taxpayers the burden. 

The Board of Commissioners approved 94 recipients/projects with funding available through the casino local share revenue program at their meeting Feb.23. 

The money will be awarded to projects and agencies across the county, saving local taxpayers financial burden and creating or preserving an estimated 13,5000 jobs. 

“If not for the local share revenue, these projects would require taxpayer dollars,” Commissioner Chair Mike Pries said. “These funds are imperative to community growth and stability.” 

The Dauphin County Gaming Advisory Board (GAB) presented recommendations to the commissioners. Those recommendations were made following application and hearing processes. 

“This process is open, fair, and diverse, and is duplicated by counties across the state,” Commissioner Chad Saylor said. “Casino revenue really is the gift that keeps on giving.” 

The local share funds, by law, cannot be used for property taxes. 

“Local share funds go a long way in keeping property taxes from being increased,” Commissioner George P. Hartwick, III said. 

Among the projects highlighted at the Feb. 23 commissioners’ meeting were: 

• The purchase of a mobile command center for Dauphin County’s Crisis Response Team. 
• A transport van to be used by H.I.S. Ministry, which offers services and training to men being released from prison. 

• Improvements to Pennbrook’s Little Valley Park and pickleball courts construction in Conewago Township and Swatara Township. 
• A Hamilton Health Center primary care satellite office in Steelton. 
• Bullfrog Valley Stream restoration in Hummelstown Borough and Derry Township. 

Projects that did not receive funding will be given prioritized reconsideration next year. 

The Dauphin County Gaming Advisory Board was created by the commissioners when local share money first became available. In addition to reviewing projects in a fair and open process, the GAB is responsible for tracking ongoing work to ensure the money is used as intended.