A representative from the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development told Coaldale officials about programs that can help the borough get back on track with its finances.

Jim Rose, local government policy specialist, explained to borough council recently that DCED keeps tabs on each of the commonwealth’s approximate 2,500 municipalities to see how they’re performing. It looks at financial audits, among other things, he said.

“We’ve noticed issues with finances that we think we can straighten out,” Rose said of Coaldale.

One program would provide a consultant to the borough at a reduced cost. Typically, the fees are split evenly between a municipality and the state.

“I looked at the information about the finances of the borough and I think we could do a 90/10 split. That’s how concerned we are,” Rose said.

The consultant would study finances, operations and more. From there, they would compile a list of suggestions for the borough to follow.

Typically, Rose said, recommendations include new computer systems, updated software and employee manuals.

Should the borough need to purchase any of the recommended items, Rose said it would be a 90/10 split.

The fee for the consultant would be around $60,000 but because of the split, the borough would pay $6,000.

Another program would provide a “peer consultant” to the borough.

“It allows you to have a trained and experienced peer as a manager,” he said. The peer would help the borough on a temporary basis and “make sure everything is being done the right way so the borough doesn’t miss out on anything it should have, such as liquid fuels funds.”

The borough wouldn’t pay for the peer consultant’s services.

“We aren’t trying to run your community. We are just looking to help,” Rose said.

He encouraged council to think about the programs and contact him if they are interested.

“Me personally, I believe we need all the help we can get,” Councilwoman Claire Remington said.

Should council decide to participate in either program, they will vote on a resolution next month.