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Brown to Introduce Legislation Strengthening Local Government Transparency and Accountability
I will soon be introducing legislation to strengthen public confidence in local government by establishing a waiting period for municipal elected officials who seek paid employment within the same municipality after leaving office. My office regularly hears from residents across the 40th Senatorial District about concerns related to municipal operations. While I strongly believe local governments must retain the autonomy to make decisions that reflect the voices of their communities, state law should provide clearer guardrails that promote transparency, accountability, and public trust. When gaps in state law create opportunities for actions that erode public confidence, it becomes our responsibility as lawmakers to address them. That is where my constitutional authority lies. Under current law, a municipal elected official may resign and immediately apply for or accept a paid position within the same municipality. This practice can undermine voter intent, raise concerns about backroom arrangements, and weaken the accountability the public expects from those in office. Recent events and concerns brought to my attention have called into question whether the will of the people is truly being upheld. In one instance, an official elected by the voters was sworn in, resigned, and then appointed to a paid municipal position in the very same meeting. It is understandable that residents would question whether their vote mattered when something like this occurs. Voters must have confidence that their choices carry through and are not undone behind the scenes. When that trust falters, faith in both the electoral process and local government is weakened. My legislation would establish a one-year waiting period before a municipal elected official could apply for or accept a compensated position within the same municipality after resigning or retiring. This one-year window would apply whether the official left midterm or completed their full service. This is a commonsense safeguard. It supports clean transitions, helps prevent favoritism, and reinforces the principle that public service is about honoring the role voters entrusted to you. I appreciate the feedback residents continue to share with my office and encourage ongoing engagement in local government at every level. Brown to Hold Telephone Town Hall
I am hosting a Telephone Town Hall on February 11th at 6PM! You will have the opportunity to listen from the comfort of your own home and ask questions or share your concerns with me. Solid Barriers Coming to Route 33 in Monroe County
Through my work, along with the assistance of Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) Secretary Mike Carroll, Route 33 will receive a solid barrier in Monroe County where currently there are only metal barriers. This is a significant safety upgrade for our community as many residents of the 40th district travel this corridor regularly. Scenes from the 40th District
This week’s photo is courtesy of Michael from East Stroudsburg, showing the historic Downtown East Stroudsburg Delaware-Lackawanna Railroad! This photo has been shared on my social media and posted to the 40th Senatorial District Photo Gallery. Interested in showcasing your photography skills? I am inviting residents of the 40th Senatorial District to share their photography and help capture the beauty and character of our community. Whether it’s a stunning landscape, a lively community event, or a cherished historical landmark, I encourage you to submit photos that highlight the unique aspects of our district, which includes parts of Lackawanna and Wayne counties, and all of Monroe County. Click here to submit your work and learn more. Brown Announces Funding to Improve Community Parks
I am proud to share that several community parks in our district will receive funding through the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources’ (DCNR) Community Conservation Partnerships Program (C2P2). In the 40th District:
Funding for this round of C2P2 comes from the Keystone Fund, Environmental Stewardship Fund and other funding sources. Roundtable with Students from Forest City Regional School District
Earlier in the week, I had the delight of meeting with students from Forest City Regional School District for a roundtable discussion. Our time together was so fulfilling for me to hear directly from students in our area and the issues that really matter to them, as well as hear their questions for me as a state legislator. Special thank you to Superintendent Gilroy and all the students for a great meeting! Maplewood Fire and Rescue Company Annual Installation Dinner
On Saturday, I was very happy to attend the Maplewood Fire and Rescue Company Annual Installation Dinner in Hamlin! It was great to join with PA State Representative Jeff Olsommer to present citations from the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania for our local heroes and first responders. Thank you all for your dedication to our community! Touring Cal Mal Vending in Olyphant
To start my week, I joined with Representative Kyle Mullins in Olyphant to meet with and tour Cal Mal Vending. It was so great to see how in depth this business runs and all the preparation they take in their work. Thank you to Brian, Matt, and the whole Cal Mal team for welcoming us!
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