Debt Repayment New Economic Development Advisor’s Main Priority
Local Resident Don Mains has volunteered to help with Ford City Borough’s Economic Development Committee.
By Jonathan Weaver
Ford City Economic Development Committee Advisor Don Main’s first priority will be helping council members settle a $580,000 debt with the U.S. Economic Development Administration.
Mains, who attended last night’s council work session, led efforts for Ford City’s Economic Revitalization with lobbying missions to Washington D.C., Harrisburg and Pittsburgh 15 years ago - using the remaining PPG buildings to attract new employers and create new local jobs.
And said it could be done again.
“The circle turns, and I feel like we’re back where we started,” Mains said. “But, anything can be done. We need to unite everyone as a community.”
Mains, 60, credited that federal grant effort with his continued success.
“When we did the revitalization efforts back in 1998-2000, by uniting the community we were able to raise $8 million. Fortunately for me because of that, I was appointed U.S. Deputy Assistant Secretary for Economic Development – the highest position in economic development you can have,” Mains said. -“It was directly because of what we did in Ford City and how we involved the whole community.
“I advise that we do the same sort-of thing, and hopefully we have the same sort-of success again.”
Councilman (and Economic Development Committee member) Jerry Miklos – who “talked (Mains) into” volunteering – said Mains has also assisted with Hurricane Katrina economic recovery in the state of Louisiana and city of New Orleans in December 2006, and will be a very valuable piece in helping committee members reduce that long-time debt.
“Don has agreed to assist our council Economic Development Committee in an advisory capacity,” Miklos said. “Don has an extensive resume and a very-impressive work history.”
“Unfortunately, that effort was derailed, and our council Economic Development Committee is hoping that we can get that effort back-on-track,” Miklos said.
“We’re very happy that he’s willing to volunteer some of his time.”
Mains was confident the debt could even be reduced to zero with his expertise.
“I know the federal government, the economic development Association,” Mains said. “I think having that experience hopefully will help.
“I worked with communities nationwide that were struggling or doing well. I have a good idea of what they’re looking for.”
In October, Borough officials did receive a reduced settlement from Economic Development Administration Regional Director Willie Taylor for $116,200, however Council has not acted on the proposal.
Councilman (and Economic Development Committee chair) Josh Abernathy told Mayor Marc Mantini in April that the issue will be discussed publicly in the future.
