Economic Development Committee Launches in Butler

The Butler Council created an Economic Development Committee (EDC) Tuesday.

The committee will “foster, develop and implement an economic plan that attracts merchants of all sizes to establish or move their business into Butler.”

The committee will try and revitalize the downtown business district to “enhance the rich and diverse business mix already existing,” there, revitalize old and vacant properties, and bring in more taxes for the borough.

People spoke at a council meeting Sept. 17 about the need to have an EDC.

Sandy Liss also said she would want stores brought up to meet the borough code and that any “existing health issues” should be remediated.

Resident Alex Calvi said he would like to be on the EDC. He also said that, in his opinion, people “do not feel comfortable on Main Street” and said that “an effort needs to be made to put the Borough [on] the right direction.”

The committee will also attempt to foster a friendly and cooperative business environment and to “help realize a desirable economic future for the Borough of Butler.”

 Seven people will serve on the committee: two business owners, two council members, and three residents, including a senior citizen. Two alternates must also serve. Terms will be two years.

Members will not be compensated for their service.

Mayor Robert Alviene did not respond to a request for comment.