All in Allegheny held a well-attended community event at The McKeesport Palisades Center in McKeesport on February 29. This was the fifth event for the initiative known as County Conversations where anyone could get information from various county agencies and other programs available to county residents, as well as share ideas to better their communities. County Executive Sarah Innamorato was the keynote speaker.

Innamorato exuded confidence, professionalism, and enthusiasm as she welcomed the audience.  “How are we doing, McKeesport?  Thank you so much for being such a gracious host and giving us a space for meaningful dialogue tonight. It is an honor to be here.”

Local elected officials and county employees were introduced to the audience.  McKeesport residents were also recognized. A free dinner of meat balls and marinara sauce, salad and dinner roll were served to the attendees.

Innamorato said, “We have two goals. The first goal is bringing county government to a community. There are good programs being offered. We want to hear about your ideas, find out what you want for the county and see how we can make things more accessible for everyone.

She continued, “The second goal is that we want real dialogue between you and the Allegheny County teams manifest and create an Allegheny County that works for all of us, that will impact things that will be good for all of us. When you show us for an event like this, it shows that you care about the future.

We launched a survey two months ago, and 18,000 residents took the survey, to say what they wanted to see in their neighborhoods, for their families and for the future. So, at your tables we want you to tell us what it is like to live here, to work here, to drive over our bridges, to care for children and family members and to visit our parks.  You are an expert about what it means to be a resident of Allegheny County.”

“We had more than 200 people register. We had food, sign language translators to remove as many barriers as possible, lots of jobs and childcare. I want them to share themselves and their ideas.  Share what matters.”  Innamarato said.  She wanted attendees to focus on the areas  of public safety, housing, voting, jobs, robust education, sustainability and green economy, reliable transportation and infrastructure, health  and economic development.  

After Innamorato spoke, table discussions were held to share ideas. Table facilitators Megan McDonough and Val McMonagle, of Food & Watch, a national environmental organization, read Post-It notes from the participants at their table which focused on topics like water quality, energy renewal, homeownership, and recycling programs.

Tanisha Long, of Robust Education, said, “We want to get ways to get people working in McKeesport and Clairton. Get feedback.  Bring summer jobs for kids, offer free counseling for children, workplace for elders, internships and afterschool programs, transportation, and free community college for everyone.”

Ponnie Butler of Elizabeth Township said, “I think it was important the way she reached out to everyone.”

Fred Bickerton of Elizabeth Township said, “I think it’s great that she is having this. Time for a change of the guards.”

Innamorato said, “ We are going to go even deeper. This is just the beginning. You are going to form the next steps we take as an administration. We are so grateful that you are willing to share your ideas with our administration. We are going to make an action plan. I’m rooted in county government. We are going to take those steps together. Looking forward to what we can build together. Thank you for using your voice, giving your time, your expertise. Thank you for sharing that with our entire administration.”

  - Colette Funches