Pa. lawmakers continue deliberating Harrisburg’s future

    The Pennsylvania Senate plans to consider on Monday the bill to put the commonwealth in control of the city of Harrisburg’s finances.

    A few technical changes stand between the so-called state takeover bill and its final passage, which will likely happen by Wednesday.

    Gov. Tom Corbett has said he’ll sign the bill into law.

    Then, he’ll be able to ensure no city services are interrupted–if control over Harrisburg’s finances shifts to the state.

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    Rep. Glenn Grell, who designed part of the proposal, said the legislation is a backup plan in case the city continues to squabble over its next steps to fiscal recovery.

    “I may be too optimistic, but we have given them that last opportunity. You know the people of the city would rather their elected officials make that decision rather than the governor,” Grell said.

    If there’s no plan by the end of a 30-day period, the city’s fiscal recovery will be in the hands of two managers picked by the governor.

    The governor’s office declined to comment on those preparations.

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