Min Xian of Spotlight PA State College
Local Accountability ReporterCentral and northern Pennsylvania is home to vast natural beauty, historic towns with changing economies, and a diverse mix of social-political values. Xian reports on how local governments are run and how public dollars are spent, with a focus on how public and private forces shape ordinary life in this region.
Before joining Spotlight PA, Xian covered local government and rural issues for the region’s NPR affiliate, WPSU. Originally from southern China, she has called State College home since 2013.
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Pennsylvania and its county and local governments are on track to spend nearly all of the federal American Rescue Plan Act funds they received to address the economic and health impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. -
John “Herm” Suplizio’s lawyers had demanded more details about allegations that he and another ex-DuBois employee stole public funds. -
The newcomer to political office bested the current district attorney in a county that President Donald Trump carried by 75% of the vote in 2024. -
On Nov. 4, you may be asked to consider candidates who want to be in charge of prosecuting crimes and leading law enforcement in your community. -
On Nov. 4, you may be asked to consider candidates who want to make decisions on local taxes, public safety, and more in your community. Here’s what you need to know. -
Clearfield County District Attorney Ryan P. Sayers will face attorney Josh Maines in the Nov. 4 municipal election for Clearfield County judge. -
Pamela Hackenburg was sentenced to two to four years in state prison and ordered to pay $615,580.78 in restitution to Gregg Township, Centre County. -
Pamela Hackenburg pleaded guilty to three felonies in county court after stealing almost $533,000 during her time as secretary of Gregg Township, a small rural community in central Pennsylvania. -
After about 150 Pennsylvania boroughs and townships were given the authority to raise higher fire and EMS taxes, a lawmaker wants to expand that power for more communities. -
The records could shine a light on how the township is making the case to its insurer in the hopes of recouping the public funds allegedly stolen. The township has promised to release them later.
