During last week’s Mars–Adams merger meeting, a resident posed a simple but pointed question:
Had anyone asked downtown Mars business owners how they feel about the proposed merger?
Township and borough officials didn’t have a clear answer.
The 228 Times spoke with seven downtown business owners, asking what they see as the potential pros and cons—and whether they support the merger.
From Main Street storefronts to regional destinations, reactions vary, but most agree on one thing: it’s too early to draw firm conclusions, and more information is needed.
A Wait-and-See Approach
For some business owners, the proposed merger is still unfolding—and they’re watching closely before forming strong opinions.
“As we’ve learned more about the potential merger and the proposed name, I remain optimistic. It sounds like this could be a positive move overall,” said Josette Gastonguay, owner of FYIE Boutique. “As a newer business owner in Mars Borough, I’ll be watching closely to see how this continues to unfold.”
Sonya Thompson, owner of Grand Avenue Salon, echoed a similar sentiment.
“I think it’s going to be okay… I think it will all work out eventually,” she said, noting that while the topic has become a frequent conversation among clients, opinions vary widely.
While many are taking a wait-and-see approach, some business owners see clear advantages to a potential merger.
Among those who support the merger is Richard Gubitosi, office manager of Mars Cosmetic Dermatology, who sees it as a necessary step as the area continues to grow.
A former New York City police officer, Gubitosi said a combined municipality could bring more resources to first responders.
“It’s always good… to have more help and more funding,” he said. “More training, better equipment—that works.”
He also pointed to the pace of development in the area.
“Mars is growing rapidly… it’s putting a strain on all the systems,” he said, adding that a merger may be needed for both communities to keep up.
Gubitosi said he sees little downside.
“I’d be for it.”
Potential Benefits: Growth, Funding, and Infrastructure
Several business owners pointed to potential upsides—particularly when it comes to scale, investment, and long-term growth.
Nick Salkeld, owner of Stick City Brewing Company, said the merger could open doors to additional funding and revitalization efforts.
“By having a larger population… it would open up access to additional grants and funding for revitalization,” he said.
Robert Goupil, owner of Grand Avenue Grille, was more direct in his support.
“I think it would be a great asset to have the merger,” he said. “I like to see Mars thrive… I think it will do good for the people.”
Goupil added that improvements seen in nearby communities could serve as a model.
“I’m hoping they’ll come here and do the same,” he said, referring to infrastructure and downtown enhancements.
Heather Sprague, owner of Novel Breads Company, also sees opportunity—particularly in shaping the town’s future.
“I think it has positive potential… we could have more resources available to develop the town into more businesses, more lively town center,” she said.
Others highlighted the practical advantages of shared resources.
Local business owner Ernie Kuhs noted that combining the borough and township could ease the burden of infrastructure improvements.
“Instead of 1,700 residents trying to fix a street, it would be 21,000 contributing,” he said, adding that increased traffic and investment could benefit businesses along Main Street.
Concerns: Identity and Representation
While many see opportunity, some concerns remain—particularly around maintaining Mars’ identity.
Dina Russo, owner of Masterpiece Creations Art Gallery, said preserving the town’s name is critical.
“I just don’t want the name Mars to go away… Mars has to still be Mars,” she said, adding that the proposed name “Mars Township” helps address that concern.
Sprague also noted the importance of protecting the town’s character.
Salkeld emphasized the same point from a branding perspective.
“It has that unique character… we play on it with our business. It gives that community feel and quirkiness that’s very unique,” he said.
Questions around representation were also raised, particularly how governance would shift from a borough council to a township structure.
Still, most business owners interviewed said they believe those details will be worked out over time.
A Community Conversation Still Taking Shape
Across interviews, one theme stood out: the conversation is ongoing.
Business owners are hearing about the merger from customers, neighbors, and public meetings—but many say they are still gathering information.
“I think it’s just a shock for everybody… it’s something new,” Thompson said.
Even among supporters, conversations remain mixed.
Goupil noted that while many customers see benefits, opinions still vary across the community.
Despite differing perspectives, there is a shared sense that the process should remain transparent and collaborative.
“I see this more as the community coming together—power in numbers,” Salkeld said.
What Comes Next
For now, most are watching, listening, and waiting for more clarity—knowing the outcome could shape the future of downtown Mars for years to come.
Who We Spoke With
- Robert Goupil, Grand Avenue Grille
- Nick Salkeld, Stick City Brewing Company
- Sonya Thompson, Grand Avenue Salon
- Josette Gastonguay, FYIE Boutique
- Heather Sprague, Novel Breads Company
- Dina Russo, Masterpiece Creations Art Gallery
- Ernie Kuhs, local business owner
- Richard Gubitosi, office manager of Mars Cosmetic Dermatology
