Too often politicians on all levels of government look for the quick solution — focusing on the near future and not the long game. This haphazard, shortsighted approach making can end up costing residents in the long run.
Fortunately for Pennsylvania, we have a standout example of how long-term, pro-growth policies can produce annual benefits for the foreseeable future in the form of the state’s natural gas impact fee.
The impact fee is clear, fair and designed to continue generating revenue. The distribution formula is easy to understand and set in such a way that it can’t be manipulated by politicians to benefit one region over another. Every county — regardless of whether there is natural gas drilling occurring in its borders or not — receives proceeds from the annual distribution.
It is also designed to continue to propagate revenue for many years to come. As new wells come online, they are subjected to the fee — helping to continue to replenish the fund to pay for important community projects — from bridge repairs and public parks to public safety. This mutually beneficial cycle of economic growth and local investment will continue for years to come.
Eric Matthews
Athens
NOTE: This letter also appeared in the Hazleton Standard-Speaker, Pottsville Republican Herald, and Wilkes-Barre Citizens Voice.
Publication: Scranton Times-Tribunehttps://www.thetimes-tribune.com/2026/07/29/letter-gas-impact-fee-model-for-government/