Butler is looking for a consultant to help outline goals for the mayor and members of city council in their plan to undergo training from the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development later this year.

City council approved a resolution in April in support of having its members complete the Strategic Management Planning Program, and followed up by approving the request for proposals at a meeting Wednesday, May 8.

Mayor Bob Dandoy said public officials can set their own goals for the training, which is where the consultant will come in.

“We are enthused about it; we are hoping for some feedback to help us move forward and address some of the needs,” Dandoy said. “We'll talk about the (goals) that are most pressing, and they'll work with us on how we fund this.”

The training program offers grants up to $200,000 for 50% of the program’s cost and requires a 50% match, according to the DCED’s website. Dandoy said he is still unsure when the training will take place, but proposals from people interested in consulting for the city are due by the end of the day June 7.

Council also announced the opening of its donation period for the annual Independence Day fireworks display.

The display will be July 5 this year instead of July 4, because July 5 falls on a Friday.

Council will vote on entering a contract with Zambelli Fireworks to supply a fireworks show for up to $15,000 at its upcoming meeting — a cost that is typically funded by donations.

“The phones are now open; we're raising money,” Dandoy said.

To donate to the fireworks fund, call the city at 724-285-4124.