Image description: Homepage of the Snydertown Borough website.
Lewisburg, PA — Snydertown Borough is a small rural community of approximately 380 residents in Northumberland County. The borough launched its first fully functional website in March with support from the SEDA-COG ITG program. The new website is designed to provide borough residents quick and easy access to information, forms, and upcoming events.
Prior to the website launch, residents who needed a copy of a borough ordinance, form, or permit had to call or stop by the borough office, which has limited hours of operation. They then had to wait to receive the requested information or form by mail or email. Residents now have immediate online access to information, which also reduces borough administrative costs. With the new website, residents can easily access forms and other important and informational resources, as well as current and previous year’s council meeting agendas and minutes.
The idea of creating a website was first discussed over 10 years ago, but the effort never progressed into a usable site. The project gained momentum earlier this year when council members reached out to SEDA-COG ITG for assistance.
Council members were pleased with how quickly the website launched. “We wanted this for over 10 years,” said council member Steve Wilson. “Within a month of our first contact, it was up and running. Our council and residents are very happy with the results.”
Wilson said the borough has received very positive feedback from residents, especially regarding access to building/zoning information. Residents planning home or property improvements, or simply have questions regarding what is or is not permitted, can now easily locate the ordinance, forms, and guidance they need online. “Zoning has its own page on the website, and it should prove to be a great asset,” Wilson said.
While the current focus is on providing access to information, borough officials see potential for the website to support additional services over time as needs and resources are evaluated.
As part of the project, SEDA-COG ITG provided technical setup, website design, and hands-on training to support the borough’s launch. The focus was not only on building the site, but also on ensuring borough staff could confidently manage and update content going forward.
By the end of the project, Snydertown Borough was equipped to maintain the website independently and continue expanding its online presence as community needs evolve.
Wilson offered advice for other municipalities considering a website launch. “Move forward with it,” he said. “Review the information, documents, and other resources you have, determine your residents’ needs to access those resources, and take the next step. It is affordable, timely, and will have a significant positive impact on your community.”
Visit the Snydertown Borough’s website at https://snydertownpa.org/.
SEDA-COG is a community and economic development agency in Lewisburg and is one of seven Local Development Districts in Pennsylvania. SEDA-COG enhances the quality of life and economic advantage for residents and businesses in the 11 central Pennsylvania counties through its vital partnerships and initiatives.