As Mars Borough and Adams Township begin the early stages of exploring a possible municipal merger, local officials and business owners say the discussion is as much about long-term sustainability and identity as it is about finances and services.
Mars Borough Mayor Gregg Hartung described the proposal as a proactive step driven by changing economic realities and the borough’s physical limitations.
“Mars is landlocked and we’re not growing,” Hartung said, explaining that rising costs and shrinking state and federal funding have made it increasingly difficult for small boroughs to operate independently. By contrast, Adams Township continues to grow, creating what Hartung described as a moment where both municipalities can come together from a position of strength rather than necessity. Adams Township, which has experienced significant residential and commercial growth along the Route 228 corridor, brings a broader tax base and expanded municipal infrastructure to the discussion.
Hartung emphasized that the two communities already share many services, including the school district, fire district, sewer authority, and cooperative work between police and public works departments. “It’s just been moving in that direction,” he said, calling the timing a good moment to formally explore whether a merger makes sense.
Importantly, Hartung stressed that nothing will change in the short term.
“Operations as usual,” he said. “This goes back to the voters.”
Identity and the Mars Name
One of the most sensitive issues, Hartung acknowledged, is identity — particularly what happens to the name “Mars.”
“The emotional side is real,” he said. While efficiencies may make sense on paper, residents want assurance that Mars will not disappear. Hartung said early discussions have centered on keeping the Mars name front and center, potentially through a combined name such as “Mars–Adams Township.”
“The town will continue,” he said. “It’s not like Mars is going to disappear.”
That concern resonated with local business owners.
Nick Salkeld, co-owner of Stick City Brewing, said that from a day-to-day business perspective, a merger would likely mean “business as usual,” but emphasized the importance of public engagement.
“I’d encourage people to get involved and attend the public meetings,” Salkeld said. “That feedback is what elected leaders are looking for.”
Salkeld also pointed to Mars’ unique character — from its railroad roots to its festivals and branding — as something worth preserving.
“That unique identity is something I hope we can keep,” he said.
For newer businesses, the conversation is being met with cautious optimism.
Josette Gastonguay, owner of FYIE Boutiques, said she is watching closely as discussions continue.
“I’m cautiously optimistic, and interested to see how this potential merger continues to unfold,” Josette said. “As a newer business in the Mars Borough, I’ll be watching closely to understand how any proposed changes may impact local small businesses, residents, and the future of Grand Avenue.”
She added that thoughtful planning and clear, transparent communication will be essential.
Taxes, Services, and the Library
Hartung acknowledged that taxes are among the first concerns residents raise. While he cautioned that no final numbers exist, he suggested Mars residents could potentially see lower taxes over time by joining a larger tax base, though library, fire, and borough-specific taxes would all require careful review.
The future of the Mars Area Public Library also remains central to the discussion. Hartung said surveys show strong public support for keeping the library in Mars, citing walkability, foot traffic, and its role as one of the most heavily used libraries in Butler County.
What Happens Next
Both Mars Borough and Adams Township formally adopted resolutions on January 5, 2026, to begin a public discussion process regarding a possible municipal merger. The resolutions do not approve a merger but allow both governments to engage residents and gather feedback.
The first joint public meeting is scheduled for January 22, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. at Twelve Oaks Mansion, 160 Scharberry Lane, Mars. Residents and taxpayers from both municipalities are encouraged to attend, and advance RSVPs are requested through the Adams Township website:
https://adamstwp.org/borough-of-mars and-township-of-adams-possible-merger-information
Officials said representatives from the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development are assisting both municipalities and will help guide the process. Any merger would ultimately require voter approval in both communities.