SHARON, Pa. - Sharon city leaders hosted the first of four public meetings that are geared towards shaping the future of Downtown Sharon.

About 40 people attended the meeting facilitated by Bill Fontana and Mary Tate of the Pennsylvania Downtown Center.

Pennsylvania Downtown Center provides outreach, technical assistance, and educational services to assist communities in revitalizing their central business districts and surrounding residential neighborhoods.

The city of Sharon can work with this organization thanks to the Keystone Communities Program through the Department of Community and Economic Development.

"We got a grant to bring in the experts. After we have this development plan, that will open the doors for future funding streams," said Melissa Phillips, Sharon's Community and Economic Development Director.

During the meeting held at the Mercer County Visitors Center, people were asked to take a survey about Sharon's downtown center.

This will be used as part of their study before generating a plan.

Phillips said over the next few years; they will be focused on investing in their small businesses, providing them with the technical support they need to thrive and creating a clear and comprehensive marketing message for Sharon.

"People can very easily go on the internet and see what is going on. It is dynamic. It changes quite frequently. So there is going to be a lot more promotions and cohesiveness for our small business community in Sharon."

Phillips added that Sharon is simultaneously doing economic and community development planning.

They are activity fighting blight in neighborhoods and working to maintain properties once homes are torn down.

"At the end of the day, strong neighborhoods are imperative to a thriving business community."

The owner of Our Gangs Lounge on N. Sharpsville Avenue, Geno Rossi, said his restaurant had become sort of a destination location.

He's hopeful people will begin to see the progress Sharon is making and decide to make the city their home.

"Have the conversation go from I come in with blinders on to them recognizing the progress we are actually making from everywhere from actual buildings to houses coming down to new businesses popping up," said Rossi.

Lifelong Sharon Resident John Evans said he thinks the city needs to focus on branding.

"We have to develop a brand and a collective vision."

The next meeting open to the public will be held on Thursday, February 13th.