While it might be premature for Evans City to formally advertise for a borough manager, the borough council shouldn't be as pessimistic as council President Bill Painter seems to be about the future of such a position.

After Councilwoman Cheri Deener suggested that the council advertise for applicants for the job, which has been a council topic for about 10 years, Painter expressed doubt that the borough could afford even a part-time manager.

Deener had suggested a part-time manager as one possibility, saying such a job could be appealing to a younger candidate just out of college looking for experience, or to a retired person with experience who might want to remain active but not in a full-time job.

Her reasoning is not foolish.

Painter said the council shouldn't advertise for a job it most likely couldn't offer. However, the council won't know what the result of advertising will be until it actually goes ahead and advertises.

Perhaps the council would be pleasantly surprised about the interest in the job and the caliber of the candidates. If no interest emerged, the council would know that it should be trying to find a way to create a full-time position, if it deems that such a person is necessary for the borough's betterment.

Painter conceded that the borough could use a manager, whose task would be to handle some of the administrative matters to which the council currently tends. That would free up council members to devote their attention to more important issues.

It was noted that the council's human resources committee is studying the possibility of hiring a part-time manager, looking at what pay and benefits might be offered, as well as the scope of responsibilities that would be tied to the position. The committee might present its findings to the full council in September.

It's not uncommon for small municipalities to talk about some things — even very good ideas — for years before acting upon them. Sometimes, they end up being forgotten.

It's laudable that Evans City has resurrected the long-discussed manager position — and finally seems more intent on making a decision.

Deener should strive to keep the issue in front of the council until a decision is made. Meanwhile, the council should seek opinions from borough residents while being ready to answer the public's questions about a manager's duties and responsibilities.

However, the important thing is that the issue shouldn't fall victim to premature pessimism. Pondering the creation of such a position requires open-mindedness and a willingness to look at the community's operations and short- and long-term goals.