Mar 11, 2016 By Mark Soroka for The 2 min read

Last night’s regular monthly meeting of the Donora Council sparked a spirited discussion about efforts to revitalize the community.

Donora Mayor Don Pavelko told the council he was encouraged by the turnout at last Wednesday’s town hall meeting.

“The meeting was a good start,” he said. “It gave residents an opportunity to express concerns and share ideas.” Pavelko added that he is exploring ways to stimulate growth, such as bringing a gas station back to Donora.

Other members of the council expressed similar optimism that these public forums can generate productive ideas. “We took a major step in the right direction this week,” said Council President Dennis Gutierrez.”

However, several members of the audience told the council they were frustrated with the lack of progress with new initiatives.

“There is a cultural divide in Donora,” said Jerimiah Hughes, a resident of Donora.

“We don’t feel that our voices are being heard. We elect people into office to set an example for us. But the council is missing an opportunity to build a relationship with the residents and create more programs.”

The exchange grew heated as council member John Conger told Hughes that he was out of order. But

Gilbert Szakal, council member, reassured the audience that everyone’s ideas are welcome.

“We encourage all our residents to attend Donora’s next town hall meeting,” he said. “Everyone will get a chance to talk at that time.”

In other action, the council voted to increase salaries for each of Donora’s four administrative staff by 3 percent, retroactive to January 1, 2016. That represents approximately a $6,000 total increase for all administrative salaries. The council also voted to move ahead with a community garden that will be built at the corner of Second Street and McKean Avenue.