MUNICIPAL AUTHORITIES IN PENNSYLVANIA

The 2,500 municipal authorities form a significant part of Pennsylvania's local government system. This publication describes the organization and operation of a municipal authority and outlines its powers. The book also contains the complete current text of the Municipality Authorities Act of 1945, the enabling legislation under which authorities are created. Municipal authorities have provided the means for financing many needed capital investments in community projects. In some cases the authority is merely a financing mechanism and leases back the project to the school district or municipality for operation. In other instances the authority directly operates the project, much like a local public utility. Reform of the constitutional limits on municipal debt in 1968 removed the necessity for municipalities to finance large projects through authorities. However, there are other considerations which cause municipalities to create authorities when planning new projects. However, there are drawbacks to creation of another government entity and municipal officials must weigh the pros and cons before making such a decision. This publication will assist them by providing basic information on authorities.

• Corporate Authors:

  Pennsylvania Department of Community Affairs

  Information Services Division
  Harrisburg, PA  United States 
• Authors:
  • Schlosser, D G
  • Hoffman, C
  • Baur, A A
  • Hydeman, ALJ
  • Coleman, G L
• Publication Date: 1977-5

Media Info

• Pagination: 68 p.

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Airports; Cities; Cities and towns; Districts and authorities; Federal assistance programs; Financing; Legislation; Local government; Local government agencies; Parking facilities; Public works; Recreational facilities; Revenues; Schools; Sewers; Solid waste disposal; Urban areas
• Uncontrolled Terms: Economic assistance
• Geographic Terms: Pennsylvania
• Old TRIS Terms: Municipal authorities; Water services
• Subject Areas: Aviation; Education and Training; Finance; Law; Terminals and Facilities;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 00169643
• Record Type: Publication
• Source Agency: National Technical Information Service
• Files: TRIS
• Created Date: Mar 14 1978 12:00AM