The city of Butler is joining the ranks of municipalities applying for the annual $10,000 matching funds grant through the Butler County Parks Renovation Program.

City Council discussed making improvements to Father Marinaro Park at Thursday’s forum meeting. The proposed improvements include installing a new baseball field, basketball court, parking lot and a new playground at the park.

Councilman Don Shearer said the project is estimated to cost $228,000. The county grant would supply $7,500 to the city.

“We were counting on that $7,500 from the county as a portion of the match grant,” Shearer said. “We match $2,500 on a basis for helping with upkeep of the parks. Council last year earmarked this grant to go towards matching funds for Father Marinaro (Park).”

Another grant opportunity

The council also discussed the possibility of getting a grant through the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development to fund the purchase of a new fire truck.

Mayor Bob Dandoy said the city has to resolve an agreement with the city redevelopment authority before applying for the grant. He said a motion to apply for this grant, along with the parks and recreation grant, will likely be on the voting meeting agenda at 7 p.m. Feb. 24.

“We’re really happy and excited about the possibility,” Dandoy said. “That would be a big thing for the city, a very big thing.”