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Even though it is far too late, we hope Warren Common Council got the stern message from Piper VanOrd earlier this month after she commented about a perceived lack of support for the business community. VanOrd, who you could say has been a bigger investor in downtown than anyone on the current council, did not mince words.
“I longed to be a part of the equation of bringing our downtown back to life,” said the owner of Allegheny Outfitters. “Industry is important for certain… (but) small businesses are the heart of any town. They’re the true character and help of a small city.”
Her business, and many others, are going through an unfortunate set of events. Besides just the roundabout work, there also is the development of senior housing that includes a staging area that impacts some near the water. Two whammies in one summer.
What VanOrd learned is something that many never understand until the arm of government overextends, especially regarding the parcels it owns. Its decision, while time consuming, is uninviting to key stakeholders. It is not an appealing or welcoming look.
“Your small businesses are wary about what the city has planned. Other communities along the Allegheny and Clarion rivers are taking notes…. I will never understand why we wouldn’t harness the energy from these small businesses and make them a priority,” she said. “It doesn’t have to be that hard.”
Council and city Mayor David Wortman were sheepish to say the least while responding to VanOrd’s concerns. “This body,” Wortman said of council, “has done more to advance what is hopeful on the riverfront than any other entity.”
Nice try. But reckless actions to restrict access to the city gem by council speak louder than words for some important locations that are left to fend for themselves – without council support.
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