Mayor Defends Borough Business Record (Poll)

When the sign story detailing Main Street businesses struggle with signage was , Chester Borough Mayor Robert Davis said that a response letter from the council would be forthcoming.

According to Davis, the borough had done a lot to work with businesses and try to help them through tough economic times.

Later, as Charles Wasser, owner of , was summoned to court on for , Davis reversed field.

"We are not going to have a debate through the media," The Mayor said.

Apparently, that decision has changed. In a letter to the editor published in the last issue of the Observer-Tribune, Davis lists the many things the borough government has done for businesses of Chester.

Business owners like Luis Gonzalez, owner of a new barbershop in Chester, was less than impressed.

"If I had known about how unfriendly this town is to business I would have never opened my business there," Gonzalez said.

The issue of promotion and signage is one Gonzalez is also struggling with.

"I cannot even place a banner in my car to advertise my business," Gonzalez said. "How can I bring more customers to my business?"

Chester Zoning Officer Kerry Brown has suggested to many store owners concerned with the signage issue to meet with her and bring their concerns to borough council. Davis himself has suggested that the offensing businesses work through the Historic Chester Business Association to incite change. But that is a commitment of time many can't make.

"I am at my store six days a week, and on that seventh day, I care for my parents," said Sandy Bianco, who recently plead not guilty after being issued a sign ordinance violation. "In between, I like to see my kids, maybe share a meal with them."

So we want to know if the borough and mayor are doing enough. Take the poll and let us know in the comments below.