DUBOIS – On Monday, the DuBois City Council approved the planning commission’s recommendation for a property located at 251 Sandy St.
At the meeting, council was advised of plans for the property to be purchased in order for it to be rented and renovated into a CrossFit gym.
Solicitor Toni Cherry said it was good to see development taking place in that area of DuBois City.
Council noted that improvements, such as increased lighting, were to be credited in helping with the area’s improvement.
Council also voted to send a letter to Senators Bob Casey and Pat Toomey as well as U.S. Rep. Glenn Thompson, asking them to fight the proposed cut of Community Development Block Grant funds from the 2018 budget.
The CDBG program provides funds; however, at least 50 percent must benefit low- to moderate-income individuals.
“The City of DuBois mayor, council and city manager dispute the assertion that the CDBG program has not shown results or return on investment,” read Councilwoman Diane Bernardo.
“CDBG funds are used to leverage projects economically beneficial to the community in ways that may or may not be directly monetarily measured.”
The city’s letter also provided examples of how CDBG funding has helped the area.
The first example was funds being used for the purchase of the DuBois Volunteer Fire Department’s only rescue truck with a rapid refill system for firefighters’ breathing devices.
Another was the renovations at Showers Field. The field has indirectly boosted area restaurants, hotels and other businesses by bringing in participants, their families and fans to watch the games, including the State Senior League Championship.
The council also approved pursuing a grant for batting cages at Showers Field.
It was noted that milling and paving will soon begin on West Long Avenue with three days anticipated for each part of the project.