The Pennsylvania Gaming Local Share Account (LSA) program, administered by the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED), is established under the PA Race Horse Development and Gaming Act (Act 2004-71) to distribute portions of the local share assessment on certain licensed gaming facilities. The program aims to enhance the economic well-being and community development of affected regions by providing financial support for eligible projects. The Local Share Account for Washington County is managed through the Redevelopment Authority of the County of Washington (RACW), which oversees the local application process and submits funding recommendations to DCED.

Eligible applicants for this funding opportunity are limited to the Redevelopment Authority of the County of Washington (RACW), which acts as the primary recipient of funds. The eligible uses of funds include economic development projects aimed at fostering local business growth and job creation, job training programs to enhance workforce development, community improvement initiatives such as the creation or enhancement of civic, cultural, or recreational facilities, and projects deemed to be in the public interest, which improve the overall quality of life in the affected communities.

Applications for LSA funding must be submitted through RACW, following a locally approved process. RACW releases program application guidelines and schedules in accordance with statutory and DCED requirements. Applications undergo review and evaluation by RACW in coordination with the Washington County LSA Committee. Recommendations for funding are forwarded to DCED for final review and approval, with funding decisions made no later than March 31st each year.

Funds awarded under the LSA program may not be used for projects that have already commenced before DCED approval. Additionally, grant funds cannot be utilized for refinancing or reducing existing debt obligations. The competitiveness of applications is assessed based on several criteria, including economic impact, economic conditions of the region, private sector investment leveraged, reuse of underutilized sites, local financial support, project readiness, strategic importance, financial need, and timeline for project completion. Administrative costs, such as legal and audit expenses, are eligible but cannot exceed 6% of the total grant award.

Upon approval, a grant agreement and commitment letter will be issued electronically to RACW, outlining the terms and conditions of the grant. The agreement must be signed within 45 days, or the offer may be withdrawn. Funds are disbursed on a quarterly basis, with a required reporting process in place to track expenditures. All grant recipients must maintain detailed records, including contracts, invoices, and procurement documentation. Compliance with state and federal regulations, including nondiscrimination and prevailing wage laws, is mandatory.

For inquiries regarding the program, applicants can contact the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development, Center for Community Enhancement, at (717) 787-6245. The program's funding cycle requires that all distributions of local share assessments be reported annually. Guidelines for program modifications or exceptions are subject to DCED approval unless otherwise mandated by law.