Officials Seek Public Input on Direction of Sharon’s Future

SHARON, Pa. – Officials are inviting residents, stakeholders and business owners to participate in a survey to help shape the city’s future. 

The survey for the Sharon Comprehensive Plan, which was last updated in 2007, will focus on quality of life, commercial development, employment, housing and community and economic development, among other issues. 

“We value the input of our Sharon stakeholders,” said Bob Fiscus, city manager.

He said officials are looking for the “best suggested actions or strategies to positively impact the city’s current and future residents.” 

The plan, which is being spearheaded by Suzanne Kepple, Community Development Block Program manager, will help the city be more competitive in grant funding and provide a strategic pathway for the city’s next steps of growth and business expansions, a news release states. 

“Getting feedback from our community stakeholders is extremely valuable as we work on moving the city forward,” Kepple said.

She said the goal is to create a “user-friendly document that can convey the intent, vision and plan recommendations that are easily understood by the general public and policymakers alike.” 

In addition to the survey, public meetings will be held to help identify community concerns and priorities, with the first component of the plan update slated to be completed by next fall. A second component that will occur concurrently is a comprehensive zoning ordinance and city map update. 

“This could include any administrative amendments, as well as other needs or recommended changes revealed through the planning process,” Kepple said. “The goal of the zoning ordinance and map update is to provide an easily understandable and accessible document for city staff, potential developers and the general public.” 

“With all the changes occurring in the city with its current growth path, it makes sense to update our Comprehensive Plan to keep pace with all the changes and to help our city focus on the future,” Fiscus said. 

The survey, which will remain open through Dec. 8, is available HERE. Paper copies are available at the Community & Economic Development Department.

Published by The Business Journal, Youngstown, Ohio.