Butler County is facing an unprecedented moment in its history due to the coronavirus pandemic, but county leaders deserve credit for exploring ways to ease the financial pain some are experiencing.

The Eagle recently published three stories about aid being delivered or sought for those struggling financially — both residents and businesses — during COVID-19. We’re glad the county is stepping up during such a difficult time.

In one story, Butler Township commissioners unanimously approved a resolution to reduce the required number of parking spaces for restaurants in the township by 40 percent — instead offering outdoor seating — during the green reopening phase of the pandemic.

This is a good idea. Although many eateries have done business throughout the pandemic by offering takeout, and most are now reopened for in-person dining, most restaurants are likely still far from being back to normal.

The commissioners’ move allows for a dining-in option that might provide comfort for patrons who feel uneasy about sitting inside and, in the process, drums up more business for local restaurants.

In another story, county commissioners approved a resolution last week for the county’s Housing and Redevelopment Authority to apply for and administer funds from the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act Rent Relief Program. About $2 million that county officials hope to obtain would go toward rent and mortgage assistance for county households in which members have lost jobs or are contending with at least a 30 percent household income loss due to COVID-19.

During a meeting, the commissioners said that much of the suffering from residents during the pandemic was “out of their control.”

Agreed, so it’s good the commissioners are seeking assistance for renters and landlords affected by COVID-19.

And in a third story, the county commissioners approved a COVID-19-inspired resolution to apply for a state grant for nearly $17 million that could go toward everything from aid to businesses with fewer than 100 employees and nonprofits to funding for behavioral health and substance abuse disorder treatment services.

The pandemic shows little sign of slowing down — at least in a number of other states, if not Pennsylvania — and it’s difficult to gauge how long the recovery will take.

In the meantime, we’re glad county leaders are taking steps to help people stay afloat.

The aim — as it was pointed out by county commissioners — is to ensure the county retains residents and its great local businesses. It’s hard to argue with that.