MARS, Pa. — More than 150 residents packed Twelve Oaks Mansion Tuesday evening as officials outlined the process for a potential merger between Adams Township and Mars Borough — a proposal that could ultimately go before voters.
During the discussion, Adams Township officials also indicated support for renaming the combined municipality “Mars Township,” reflecting how many residents already identify with the area.
The meeting, the second in a series of public discussions, featured a presentation from the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) explaining the legal process required for a municipal merger and what steps would come next.
At its core, the proposal would ask voters in both municipalities to decide whether to combine into a single community — a decision that could ultimately appear on a future ballot, if the process moves forward.
A Process That Would Ends With Voters
Terri Cunkle, a government policy specialist with DCED, emphasized that while elected officials can initiate the process, the final decision rests with residents.
“Ultimately, it’s your decision,” Cunkle told the audience, encouraging residents to stay informed as the process moves forward.
Under Pennsylvania law, both municipalities must approve a joint agreement outlining details such as governance, finances, and structure before the question can be placed on the ballot. If approved by voters in both communities, the merger would move forward according to a transition plan.
Timeline: What Happens Next
According to information presented during the meeting, the process is expected to unfold throughout 2026:
- February–June: Drafting of a joint agreement
- June–July: Approval by both governing bodies
- Early August: Deadline to submit a finalized agreement and ballot question to appear on the November ballot
- November 2026: Public vote in both municipalities
- January 1, 2028: Potential effective date of the merger
To appear on the November ballot, the proposal would need to be finalized and submitted by early August. If the referendum fails in either municipality, the question cannot be placed on the ballot again for five years.
What the Ballot Could Ask
If the process continues, voters could be asked to decide the following:
Shall the Borough of Mars, a Pennsylvania municipality organized under the Borough Code, be merged into the Township of Adams, a Pennsylvania Township of the Second Class, and with the Township being renamed Mars Township, a Pennsylvania Township of the Second Class, effective January 1, 2028? __Yes __No
Because state law allows only a single ballot question, both the merger and the proposed name would be decided together.
Officials Outline Potential Benefits
Local leaders from both municipalities said the proposal is rooted in long-term planning and efficiency, noting that the two communities already share services and infrastructure in several areas.
Adams Township Board of Supervisors Chairman Russ Ford said the merger could reduce duplication and expand services.
“We’re doing a lot of those things together — why not become one?” Ford said.
Officials highlighted several potential benefits, including:
- Expanded police coverage and public works services
- Shared staffing and resources
- Greater access to grants and funding opportunities
- Long-term cost efficiencies
Presentation materials also indicated that Mars residents could see lower local tax rates under Adams Township’s current structure, though final financial details would be determined through the joint agreement.
What Would Stay the Same
Officials also addressed common concerns about what would not change if the merger is approved.
According to the presentation, there would be no changes to:
- Postal addresses
- School district boundaries
- Emergency services such as fire and EMS
Name Discussion Emerges as Notable Detail
While most of the meeting focused on process and logistics, one notable point came when Adams Township officials indicated support for renaming the combined municipality “Mars Township.”
The proposed name aligns with how many residents already identify with the area, including references such as Mars Area School District and Mars Area Library.
Officials emphasized that while the borough structure would be dissolved, the Mars identity would remain central to the community moving forward.
Residents Weigh In
Following the meeting, Adams Township resident and local property owner Ernie Kuhs said he sees potential benefits in combining resources, particularly when it comes to infrastructure and economic growth.
“Instead of 1,700 residents trying to fix a street, it would be 21,000,” Kuhs said. “I think it’s going to balance that.”
Kuhs also pointed to the potential for increased investment in the downtown area and broader community development.
“I don’t see it as a bad thing,” he added.
A Community Decision Ahead
Tuesday’s meeting marked another step in what officials described as an ongoing and transparent process, with additional public meetings expected in the coming months.
Residents are encouraged to review materials, ask questions, and participate as discussions continue.
If the proposal reaches the ballot, voters in both Mars Borough and Adams Township will ultimately decide whether the two communities become one.
