Letters: Affordable spaces needed downtown; Incumbent trustees proud of work

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Affordable spaces needed downtown

Walk down College Avenue in downtown State College and you can’t miss empty storefronts or office space. There are many reasons: closed shops in the aftermath of COVID, an uncertain economy, and high rents.

Recent zoning changes have helped create inclusionary and affordable housing in State College and we need more. Affordable housing is needed close to where people work and go to school, this will allow for more pedestrian and bicycle connections, and cut down on our carbon footprint. We also need to strengthen neighborhoods and increase home ownership.

We need to help local startups and can assist with more affordable space for commercial and office space. Just like we offer zoning incentives for affordable housing, we can do the same thing to fill the storefronts and office space downtown. As a former member of the State College Planning Commission and Borough Council I have advocated for these measures. Incentives to create these more affordable spaces don’t cost taxpayer dollars. Thresholds can be established, like we do for apartment renters to allow shops to rent space at reasonable rates in newly constructed buildings. It would be a boost to the local economy and create more jobs — something we need to mindful of as Penn State moves to make cuts in staff and spending. It is important to push for zoning that can help realize the aspirations of affordable housing and commercial space. As State College works toward a new zoning code, it is vital that this be included.

Incumbent trustees proud of work

A few years ago, alumni began electing trustees who supported greater transparency, accountability and engagement with the pressing issues faced by Penn State. As the core of the trustees elected to initiate positive change, we’re proud of the work we’ve done. Now, we are seeking reelection to keep delivering constructive and conscientious leadership. At a time when all of America’s leading research universities face daunting challenges, we are advocating for unique solutions, the kind that will continue to set Penn State apart as the nation’s greatest land-grant university.

Working collaboratively with our board colleagues, we have expanded communication between the board and the public; increased fiscal responsibility by slowing the rise of tuition and implementing ongoing cost savings; improved support for student success, well-being, and belonging; and promoted sustainability across university operations.

The board’s most important duty is to hire the president. We are committed to supporting the transition of President Neeli Bendapudi. She quickly recognized that Penn State’s vast potential for excellence would depend on embracing our foundational core culture, history and values. An ambitious vision requires the partnership of a highly effective board. We seek reelection to provide Penn State with experienced continuity at this critical time. Together, we will advance student success and academic excellence in a welcoming community for all. Together, our core land grant mission will transform the commonwealth with innovative strategies to address challenges facing our state, our nation, and the world.

For more information about our accomplishments and our platform, visit www.jayvpaterno.com/2023alumnielectioncentral.