COUDERSPORT — At Thursday’s meeting, Potter County commissioners reported on a recent open forum with state Rep. Martin Causer, R-Turtlepoint, and local business leaders.
Commissioner Paul Heimel reported that much of the discussion revolved around the state budget and ongoing issues with funding the proposed expenditures.
“The budget has been passed, but it’s not fully funded. A lot of things are in jeopardy as they try to figure out how to pay for it,” said Heimel.
Heimel said that much of what is on or off the table for cuts is a closely-guarded secret, and he called plans for a number of new revenue streams “not very palatable.” Legislators have discussed several measures, including pulling money from the tobacco settlement account, expanding legal gambling through slot machines in businesses, a severance tax on shale gas, and borrowing the funds.
“Commissioners across the state are concerned about a severance tax. Not for the tax itself, but we feel that the impact fee paid to local governments is important and necessary” in communities where gas development is ongoing, Heimel said.
Commissioners stated that there will be no action until the legislature returns to session in mid-September.
Commissioner Susan Kefover reported on efforts by the downtown marketing committee. At a recent meeting, several new business owners were introduced, and discussions were held on a writing campaign to provide start-up capital for a new business. Sponsors are being sought to provide funding, which will be awarded to the individual who proposes the best business idea to fit in with established businesses in Potter County.
Members are also researching an Elliot Ness festival, and a committee is being formed to develop the idea further.
Megan Larson-Reidy had the idea as part of the business writing contest, and a sponsor has already been found to help fund the inaugural event.
Kefover also commented on a presentation by the Potter-Tioga Visitors’ Bureau (PTVB), which she said was well-received by local business owners and highlighted the many benefits provided to members.
“It’s obvious that the organization can take us to the next level of tourism promotion,” said Kefover, who stated that a number of the business owners who viewed the presentation showed an interest in joining the fledgling organization.
Similar information has been presented to the Galeton Business Association, and a presentation is also planned for the Coudersport Chamber of Commerce. In Coudersport, the façade program is ongoing, with work being completed now on one Main Street storefront. The remaining empty buildings in the business district are being staged as a way to make them look more attractive and less disused, while also advertising for activities, events, attractions, and other local businesses.
An agreement was approved with ILM Services, LLC Haz Mat Team for hazardous material response in Potter County. Potter was previously covered by a HazMat team from Elk County which recently disbanded. Potter, Cameron and McKean counties will now be covered by the ILM Team that received advanced certifications over the past month.
The county locked in gasoline and electricity rates for the next two years. Gasoline will cost the county $2.87 per gallon, while electricity will cost $0.05782/kilowatt. The lower electricity rate will save the county $2,300 annually over the next two years.
The next meeting of the Potter County Commissioners will be held at 11 a.m. Sept. 14 at the Gunzburger Building in Coudersport.
