EVANS CITY — Borough council approved hiring a consultant for the streets department at Monday’s borough meeting to better understand the department’s assets and what the borough can do to maximize the its use.

Council voted to hire Mike Visconti to consult with the water department for 10 hours per week at $20 an hour. The position will exist until the council decides it is no longer needed.

Council President Lee Dyer said the position is needed for staff and officials to better make use of the department, its equipment and other assets. Visconti will produce reports — including inventories of equipment, evaluations of software and other assets — and recommendations to more efficiently use the department’s resources.

Visconti has worked in maintenance at convenience stores in the area, started his own insurance business and has worked as a district secretary.

Council voted 4-1 to hire Visconti, with council member Shelley Natali voting against the motion.

Dyer also praised the borough business community as many area establishments have offered to help in the effort to revitalize the town.

In a recent meeting with a committee newly formed to oversee the efforts, Dyer said businesses offered to contribute funds to help pay for a revitalization study that would produce a report on improvements the town should make.

“I think we can all agree the borough could use some sprucing up,” Dyer said. “I firmly believe we need to support this effort.”

The borough is continuing to look into revitalization efforts and officials said they are searching for volunteers to aid in the effort.