NEWS AND UPDATES
Newly-elected District 7 Councilwoman Deb Gross officially takes office
It’s official! District 7 finally has a new City Council representative – Councilwoman Deb Gross. Councilwoman Gross was elected by District 7 voters to fulfill the rest of former-Councilman Patrick Dowd’s term, which will run through 2015. Deb has a long history of community involvement, specifically with regards to her work with local non-profits and the arts. For Deb’s full biography, take a look at her bio page on the new District 7 website.
We are also proud to announce the new installment of the D7 team, which consists of two familiar faces in newly expanded roles. Take a look at our meet the team page, and be sure to stay in touch!
Deb Gross hits ground running, gives D7 residents a voice in future of Strip District Produce Terminal building
The Produce Terminal is one of the Strip District’s architectural and historic keystones, and is at the center of one of the most integral sites to be developed under the comprehensive Allegheny River Green Boulevard plan. The Green Boulevard plan, perhaps the most comprehensive plan for development in Pittsburgh, will set the tone for Pittsburgh’s future, with its most dramatic impact occurring in District 7.
Since being elected to serve the residents of District 7, Deb has been a vocal advocate for a delay in the sale of the Produce Terminal building, and has been outspoken in her stance that any proposed alterations of the building should occur under the careful oversight of City Council. Stay tuned to the District 7 Facebook and Twitter pages for real-time updates on the fate of the Produce Terminal and how Councilwoman Gross is leading the charge to ensure that this essential piece of the Strip’s past is best utilized in comprehensive developments that will shape the neighborhood’s future.
Do you have a great idea for Deb and the new D7 office? Let us know!
With a new City Council representative and an updated staff, the District 7 office is excited to hear your suggestions about what changes or initiatives you’d like to see in your neighborhood. Hitting the ground running to serve D7 neighbors is Deb’s highest priority during the transition.
Please use the feedback form on the District 7 webpage to let us know what you’d like to see our office do to help your neighborhood. From bike infrastructure to zoning issues to economic development and public safety, Councilwoman Gross is excited to hear what you think!
UPCOMING EVENTS AND MEETINGS
Polish Hill Community Meeting January 7
There will be a public presentation regarding a proposed residential development in Polish Hill at the January meeting of the Polish Hill Civic Association, which will be held on Tuesday, January 7th in the basement of the West Penn Recreation Center at 6:30 pm.
Highland Park Community Council
Listen to District 7 Councilwoman Deb Gross talk with Highland Park neighbors at the January meeting of the Highland Park Community Council, which will be held on Thursday, January 16th at the Union Project at 801 N. Negley Avenue, beginning at 7 pm. Deb will discuss her progress representing District 7 since her swearing-in in early December, as well as talk with Highland Park residents and stakeholders about their ideas and requests for the district.
Learn about the Affordable Care Act at the Lawrenceville Carnegie Library
Would you like to learn more about the Affordable Care Act and how it will affect you? Join your neighbors at the Lawrenceville branch of the Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh for an ACA information session and enrollment assistance seminar on Saturday, January 18 at 10 am. At the information session, you will be able to learn more about how health insurance works and what programs you and your family may be eligible for.
DID YOU KNOW?
Did you know that Pittsburgh City Council elects the City Council President immediately following the swearing-in of newly elected and re-elected members? This year’s vote for Council President will occur on January 6th, immediately following the swearing-in ceremony for the new Council.