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PEL Over Time

The Pennsylvania Economy League (PEL) was founded in 1936 by a group of business and civic leaders seeking to improve the quality of government and promote economic development in Pennsylvania. PEL has distinguished itself for nearly 70 years with the ability to reinvent itself according to the changing needs and challenges of the times. In the broadest terms possible, the League has evolved from providing basic research to applied research; and from providing assistance in the delivery of civic and municipal services to community consensus building.
 

The 1930s

At the time PEL was incorporated in July 1936, state and local governments were adjusting their financial and administrative mechanisms to handle the new responsibilities of social welfare and economic needs as a result of the Great Depression. Through the remainder of the '30s, PEL worked to establish itself as a statewide research organization as well as a fiscal and administrative consultant.
 

The 1940s

In the 1940s, the changes in the structure and programs of the League reflected the changes going on within the country. With World War II, there was a shift in state and local governments away from social concerns and economic needs as the nation geared up to be the "arsenal of democracy." The period was characterized by material and manpower shortages, new and rapidly growing industries, and shifts of populations. Appropriate changes were made in PEL's organizational structure, all with the goal of creating a workable statewide organization that would achieve a balance between the dual advantages of statewide uniformity and of local autonomy. Thus, the division offices were established.

The 1950s

By the 1950s, PEL had established itself as a reputable and reliable source of assistance both to taxpayers and to public officials; its reputation for objectivity and integrity would be the key to maintaining PEL's unique character in the coming years.

The 1960s

As the '60s and early '70s witnessed a progressive expansion of public functions and programs, both state and local governments were faced with added responsibilities. To answer the increased requests for its assistance, PEL once again reinvented itself to meet these growing and changing demands. PEL continued to perform day-to-day routine services, but there was a growing number of larger, formal management consultation and research projects.
 

The 1970s

During the 1970s, there was a significant change of pace and direction of public policy and finance in Pennsylvania. As the focus of government changed through the late '70s and into the '80s, PEL increasingly served as research adviser to--and occasionally member of--official study commissions appointed by public officials and governing bodies to deal with high priority and often controversial public issues.

The 1980s

In the '80s, PEL was called on more frequently for comprehensive long-term financial analysis and management research projects. This shift away from basic research toward more applied research, analysis and planning eventually led PEL to become an instrument for building consensus among private leadership.

The 1990s

The Pennsylvania Economy League has worked hard since 1936 to make Pennsylvania a better place to live, work and do business. PEL responds to the challenges caused by continuing structural changes in the economy and the resulting challenges to private-public leadership.

The 21st Century

In the new millennium, our focus on the pressing civic issues of economic competitiveness and government performance continues. Our commitment is stronger than ever to provide critical information, perspective, and support to the business, civic and governmental leadership of our communities and our state -- both today and tomorrow. Our goal--to change ideas into realities for all Pennsylvanians.