Public Meetings - Allentown, Pennsylvania

The Human Resources Administration and Appointments Committee met on June 10, 2026, to discuss Bill 44, an update on the Personnel Policy Manual, Mayor's Office travel expenses, and a comprehensive review of authorities, boards, and commissions. All council members were present. Consent Calendar - Bill 44: This bill advanced part one and state legislation, chapter 12. The committee moved it favorably without discussion. A motion was made and seconded, and all members voted in favor. Public Comments & Testimony - Michael Stoller: Asked for clarification on the reference to '12 cents per capita' in the travel expense report. He was informed that this represents the cost per resident for the Mayor's Office travel. He also noted that the clerk has their own staff, similar to the mayor's. Discussion Items - Personnel Policy Manual (PPM) Update: Representative reported that the PPM update is delayed due to vendor drafts taking longer than expected and multiple review cycles. The target presentation date is now July 15, 2026. Council members requested adequate time to review the lengthy document before a vote. - Mayor's Office Travel Expenses: A report on travel expenses was distributed about one hour prior to the meeting. Total costs amount to approximately 12 cents per capita for Allentown residents. Council members expressed concern about the lack of advance notice and the need for greater transparency, including pre-travel schedules and post-travel outcomes. Councilperson Giral noted the mayor attended housing conferences and questioned why affordable housing progress has not been more evident; the administration pointed to networking with the Mayor of Baltimore regarding gun violence prevention. Councilperson Pungo called for a clear process for mayor's travel and advance planning. It was agreed to schedule a follow-up committee meeting to allow council members to review the report and submit questions. - Authorities, Boards, and Commissions Review: The administration announced a comprehensive review of all authorities, boards, and commissions, focusing on those that have been inactive, to potentially consolidate or dissolve them. Councilperson Mota asked whether the Commission on Homelessness would be dissolved; the administration confirmed it would not be targeted and the review is aimed at inactive bodies. Key Outcomes - Bill 44: Moved favorably out of committee (all in favor). - Personnel Policy Manual: Expect to present at the July 15, 2026 committee meeting. - Travel Expense Follow-up: A future HR committee meeting will be scheduled for late June or mid-July to further discuss the travel report and related questions. Council members were encouraged to submit questions in advance. - Authorities, Boards, and Commissions Review: The administration will work with council to conduct the review; no specific timeline was provided.

The City Council Committee, chaired by Councilperson Santos, convened at 10:45 AM on June 10, 2026, with Councilpersons Pungo and Vinter present. Two budget amendment bills were reviewed and unanimously approved to move forward to full council, followed by updates on parks and recreation projects. Discussion Items - Bill 43 (Supplemental Appropriation of $50,000 for Youth Climate Action Fund): Ms. Selena presented the third round of the Youth Climate Action Fund, funded by a $50,000 supplemental appropriation from the Blue Burgess Greens. The fund supports youth-led climate and sustainability projects, such as murals and community gardens. Applications will be accepted via a "shark tank" style selection process where youth present their ideas. The bill was moved favorably to full council. - Bill 48 (Supplemental Appropriation of $3,955.50 for Parks and Recreation): Ms. Tolino explained that this appropriation comes from the Truxo Fund (which performed well) and includes a required city match per the Truxo agreement. The funds will support both operating and capital budgets, with $3,955.50 allocated to support maintenance operations in parks and future project accounts. The bill was moved favorably to full council. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public offered comments on either agenda item. Parks and Recreation Updates - Ms. Lila reported upcoming events: - Ribbon Cutting at Jordan Park Mini Pitch: Friday at 6:00 PM (weather permitting). The new mini soccer pitch was fully funded by Eastern PA Soccer and Muscow Lighting. A World Cup watch party will follow at 9:00 PM. - Juneteenth Celebrations: Flag raising at City Hall on June 19; community cookout with vendors and food on June 20; basketball tournament from June 19–21. A flag football tournament was successfully held the previous weekend. Key Outcomes - Bill 43 moved favorably to full council by a unanimous voice vote (motion by Councilperson Pungo, seconded by Councilperson Vinter). - Bill 48 moved favorably to full council by a unanimous voice vote (motion by Councilperson Pungo, seconded by Councilperson Vinter). - Committee meeting adjourned.

The Allentown Planning Commission met on Tuesday, June 9, 2026, at 12:17 PM in Council Chambers, 435 Hamilton Street, and adjourned at 2:05 PM. Chair Christian Brown presided. The meeting primarily focused on the final approval of the Southside Homes at Harrison subdivision and land development, along with administrative matters and announcements. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes (May 12, 2026): Unanimously approved as written with no corrections or comments. Public Comments & Testimony - Postponed Items: Justin Hernandez (815 N 21st St) inquired about the rescheduling of the 2401 Emaus Avenue data center project. Staff responded that no date is set, but it may appear on future agendas, and that the applicant is still evaluating feedback. - Southside Homes at Harrison: Several residents spoke about concerns: - Sylvia Yorgey (431 Harrison St) raised issues of parking, narrow Pear Street, snow plowing, flooding, and flood insurance costs. - Donna Ortwein (424 Harrison St) questioned the flush curb, retaining wall, flooding, parking, and noted previous homes torn down due to flooding. - Brenda Krasenics (442 Auburn St) expressed concerns about parking on one-way Harrison Street, flooding, and the project worsening existing problems. - Miguel Marrero (415-417 Harrison St) described difficulty accessing his garages from Pear Street, property damage from other vehicles, and flooding. He also stated he had maintained the project lot for years. - Neil Sickler (412 Auburn St) noted living in the area since 1964, witnessing extreme flooding, and previous home demolitions. - Darnell Mussa (440 Auburn St) questioned plans for floodwater direction and parking. - Commissioner Brown acknowledged residents' concerns and stated the city holds developers and itself accountable to regulations. Discussion Items - Southside Homes at Harrison (401 Harrison St): - Staff Overview: Melissa Velez summarized a major land development and subdivision proposing six townhouses on vacant land. Preliminary approval was granted November 11, 2025, with conditions including facade staggering, architectural enhancements, exterior lighting, and neighborhood concerns. Staff noted that plans did not show staggering or significant enhancements; only color changes to two houses were added. Engineering comments recommended widening Pear Street to 12 ft and dedicated right-of-way; applicant proposed a 10 ft cartway with a 4 ft access easement, which staff did not accept. No additional lighting was added. Staff remained supportive but suggested conditioning approval on addressing comments. - Applicant Response: Bernard Telatovich (Hanover Engineering) and attorney Tim Charlesworth (for owner Chad Clifton) stated most conditions were addressed. Outstanding issues: lighting, sewer, Pear Street. They agreed to a 2 ft stagger, discussed lighting options, noted sewer backups are a neighborhood problem not solvable by this project, and proposed a 4 ft access easement instead of right-of-way. They also committed to milling and overlaying Harrison Street. Floodplain compliance was discussed; project is in 100-year floodplain (not floodway) and meets elevation requirements. - Commission Deliberation: Discussion centered on facade variation (1–3 ft suggested by Commissioner Hornung), additional front-yard lighting (freestanding light considered), sewer backup prevention (to be coordinated with LCA), and the Pear Street width and turning radius. Chair Brown raised concerns about vehicle access and turning movements from narrow driveways onto underimproved Pear Street. Commissioner Hartney supported pedestrian lighting. The applicant asked for conditional final approval. Key Outcomes - Motion to Grant Final Plan Approval (401 Harrison Street): Commissioner Brown moved, seconded by Commissioner Hornung, to grant final plan approval with the following conditions: 1. Compliance with the Staff Report and City Comment letters. 2. Provide additional exterior lighting to the front of the project. 3. Provide a facade variation between 1 to 3 feet and use building materials and shadow lines where less variation is possible. 4. Coordinate with the City Engineer to resolve the width of improvements to Pear Street frontage. 5. Provide a turning template to demonstrate access turning radius to the private driveways from Pear Street right-of-way. - The motion passed unanimously (4-0). - Appointment of Secretary: Following the passing of former Secretary Jeff Glazier, Commissioner Brown nominated Erich Hornung as new Secretary. Seconded by Commissioner Hartzell, the motion passed unanimously (4-0). - Public Comment Policy Discussion: The Commission discussed adopting a formal public comment procedure for future meetings. Feedback on a draft policy should be directed to staff (Jennifer Gomez) individually, not as a group, to comply with sunshine laws. The policy will be presented for approval at the next meeting. Other Announcements - Sustainability Coordinator Veronika Vostinak (Parks Department) introduced herself and announced public events for the City Climate Action Plan (virtual forum June 10 at 6 PM; in-person forums June 16 at Muhlenberg College and June 27 at Fearless Fire Company) and the Urban Forestry Master Plan (meeting July 14 at Bucky Boyle Park). She also noted the recent street tree inventory counted approximately 13,000 street trees. - Jennifer Gomez announced a pre-launch event for the Zone Allentown Pattern Book on Tuesday, June 23 from 5:30–8 PM at Inkwell, in collaboration with Lehigh University.

The Allentown City Council met on Wednesday, June 3, 2026, at 6:30 PM in Council Chambers. The meeting began with a tribute to the late City Controller Jeff Glazier, followed by public comments, contract approvals, committee reports, and a lengthy debate on Bill 20, which would add data center use regulations to the zoning code. Council voted to table Bill 20 until the next meeting on June 17, 2026, to allow the City Solicitor to conduct a Legal Service Review (LSR). Other legislation was also advanced. Consent Calendar - R68 – Authorization of cooperative contracts in amounts greater than $40,000 with Horwith Trucks, Inc., Environmental Systems Research Inst., Granicus LLC, and Lobar Associates Inc. Passed unanimously (7-0). - R69 – Approval of a sewer planning module for 1008 S 6th Street (ANB Realty 16, LLC). Passed unanimously (7-0). - R70 – Appointment of a Temporary Deputy Controller until an interim City Controller is appointed. Passed unanimously (7-0). - Bill 45 – Final passage: Removes failure to register with the Selective Service System as a disqualifier for Civil Service exams for police and firefighters. Passed unanimously (7-0). Public Comments & Testimony - Lester Wagner (resident, 2432 28th St SW): Expressed opposition to data center expansion, citing speculative rates, high energy and water use, lack of regulation, and that investors should bear full costs. He urged the council to consider cumulative impacts. - Adam Bond: Argued that data center development imposes hidden infrastructure costs on ratepayers, referencing deferred maintenance and rising electricity demand. He warned that the public assumes risks while private investors profit. - Nick Nicoloff (Allentown School Board member, policy professional): Advocated for passing Bill 20 and a municipal curative amendment, stating that the curative amendment would indicate ongoing inadequacy while Bill 20 provides immediate protections. He suggested that passing Bill 20 first could provide anecdotal support against the Emmaus Avenue project. - Alicia Rothroth (Allentown resident): Read a statement from a neighbor (Priscilla) who could not attend, expressing deep concern about the proposed data center near her home, especially for her autistic child and other vulnerable neighbors. She urged the council to pass a municipal curative amendment to allow time for full review. - Julie Vitale (721 West Green St): Criticized the city for inadequate public notice and urged a right-to-know ordinance. She noted the unprecedented turnout and called for accountability, saying the city should use existing ordinances to protect residents. - Justin Joel Hernandez (21st St resident): First-time attendee, opposed rushing Bill 20, supported the six-month municipal curative amendment, and worried about rising utility bills. - Mark Miller (board member, Camelot for Children): Asked the council to protect the children and families served by Camelot, a 40-year institution for children with medical complexities. - Jenny Mariah Krislaki (representing Hood and Waterwatch): Clarified that passing Bill 20 would eliminate the ability to pass a municipal curative amendment, because the ordinance would no longer be invalid. She argued Bill 20 actually weakens protections by opening the IG district to data centers, and that a municipal curative amendment is straightforward and legally sound. She cited the city's own zoning ordinance (Section 660-113B) which she said mandates such an amendment. - Travis Beller: Questioned the pending ordinance doctrine and expressed concern about the heat mitigation section of Bill 20, citing potential temperature increases of 3.5°F to 16°F up to 6.2 miles away. He called for stronger language. - Lester Wagner (second appearance): Noted the site's proximity to a PPL substation built for WWII industry, calling it a mega-industrial complex. He asked about class-action options for community redress. - Spencer Sayer: Recommended that controversial items not be voted on the same night as public input. He raised concerns about low-frequency sound (infrasound) and its health impacts, and suggested requiring escrow accounts for future remediation costs. - Fred Marshall: Opposed Bill 20 as “lesser of two evils,” urged trusting the people, and advocated for voting it down to allow stronger action. - Katie Onimus (South St, Allentown): Cited a recent zoning board decision in Upper Macungie that rejected a data center under a similar-use rationale, suggesting the city's current code may be sufficient. She expressed uncertainty but leaned toward the 180-day curative amendment. - Aiden Le Penta (lifelong resident): Supported the municipal curative amendment, citing the city's own code and the ability to draft stronger regulations. Discussion Items - Tribute to Jeff Glazier: Council President Napoli, Vice President Mota, Councilmembers Affa, Binder, and Pungo shared memories of the late City Controller, praising his dedication, institutional knowledge, and service to the city. - Committee Reports: - Special Committee meeting on June 10 at 6:30 PM for Bill 46 (Police DROP). - Community and Economic Development Committee meeting on June 17 at 5:30 PM to discuss vacant property registration and potential data center restrictions. - Human Resources Committee meeting on June 10 at 5:30 PM to review travel expenses, personnel manual, and introduced legislation. - Other committees reported meetings scheduled or not yet set. - Bill 20 – Data Center Zoning: Extensive debate occurred. Councilmember Gerlach (CED Chair) raised concerns about the ordinance's strength and proposed a municipal curative amendment to gain 180 days for stronger language. She noted that 12+ Pennsylvania municipalities have used this approach. Administration (Frank Kane, Michael Handzo, Jennifer Gomez) argued that without Bill 20, the city is vulnerable to applications under the old code with no setbacks, and that a curative amendment may not halt all applications. Solicitor Maria Montero noted conflicting legal opinions, but stated that the pending ordinance doctrine protects from May 17 publication date. Councilmember Pungo suggested passing Bill 20 and then adding a curative amendment; Councilmember Mota moved to draft a letter to the Planning Commission regarding the Emmaus Avenue project, but the motion was withdrawn after the tabling motion. Councilmember Binder called for clarity via an LSR. Key Outcomes - Bill 20 was tabled until the June 17, 2026 City Council meeting, to allow the City Solicitor to complete a Legal Service Review (LSR) on the legal options, including the viability of a municipal curative amendment. Motion by Councilmember Gerlach, seconded by Councilmember Binder, passed unanimously (7-0). - Bill 46 (Police Deferred Retirement Option Plan) was introduced and referred to a Special Committee meeting on June 10, 2026 at 6:30 PM. - Bill 47 (PFAS remediation appropriation of $649,139.15 from AFFF class action awards) was introduced and referred to the Public Works Committee. - Bill 48 (Trexler Fund appropriation of $322,955.50 for Parks and Recreation) was introduced and referred to the Parks and Recreation Committee. - R70 (Temporary Deputy Controller) passed unanimously, filling the vacancy left by the late Controller. - Council President announced that applications for the City Controller vacancy are being accepted via the city website.

The Allentown City Council held a public hearing on Wednesday, June 3, 2026, at 6:00 PM in Council Chambers to consider Bill 20, a proposed ordinance amending the city's zoning code to define and regulate data centers. The hearing was conducted in accordance with the Pennsylvania Municipal Planning Code. Following the hearing, the Council was scheduled to vote on the ordinance at its regular meeting at 6:30 PM. Note: The raw transcript incorrectly states the date as June 6, 2026; the agenda and minutes confirm June 3, 2026. This summary uses the correct date. Introduction and Staff Presentation - Council President Santo Napoli opened the hearing, clarifying that testimony would be limited to Bill 20 only, and not the proposed data center project at 2401 Emmaus Avenue (which was to be considered at a Planning Commission meeting on June 9). - Planning Director Jennifer Gomez presented the ordinance, emphasizing it is a proactive measure to regulate data centers, which currently fall under general manufacturing. The ordinance would require data centers to be a special exception, subject to additional oversight, including setbacks of 200 feet from residential and sensitive uses, minimum lot sizes for facilities over 50,000 sq ft, pre- and post-noise studies, water and sewage reporting, emergency response planning, and design standards. She noted that renewable energy requirements were not included because legal counsel advised it could not be mandated. Staff acknowledged the ordinance is a starting point and open to strengthening. Public Comments & Testimony - Kyle Ropsky (Chair, Environmental Advisory Council): Expressed strong support for Bill 20, stating the EAC provided over 40 review letters and a letter of support. He urged passage for environmental protections and noted record public engagement. - Ginny Marcelle Kerslake (Senior Organizer, Food and Water Watch Pennsylvania): Opposed the ordinance, calling it one of the worst she has seen. She raised three key concerns: (1) allowing data centers in both IM and IG districts (should be restricted to IM); (2) insufficient 200-foot setback from homes (citing recent Chester and Montgomery County guidelines recommending 1,000 feet); (3) lack of decommissioning requirements and financial security. She recommended denying the ordinance and instead enacting a 180-day municipal curative amendment. - Spencer Snig (Local businessman): Expressed opposition, citing environmental harm, lack of job creation, and the need for economic impact studies. - Lewis Shupe (Facebook group administrator): Advocated for a complete ban for 180 days, citing concerns about mass surveillance. - Nick Nicholoff (School Board member, individual capacity): Supported passage despite concerns, emphasizing that AI data centers should be classified as heavy industrial and that passing now is better than no regulation. He cited a Harvard study linking data centers to $100 million in health damages and 6.5 premature deaths per year in a comparable area. - Ander Nixon (Veteran, DSA member): Urged rejection until a curative amendment is added, criticizing vague language like "encourage" in landscaping and heat mitigation sections. - Female audience member (Cumberland Street resident): Opposed the ordinance, citing existing water, electricity, and air quality issues on the South Side, and requested a 180-day pause. - Fred Marshall (PA Stands Up, speaking personally): Supported a 180-day pause, arguing that warehouses promised jobs but sit empty, and data centers may similarly leave stranded assets. - Tinku Khanwalkar (Co-chair, EAC): Clarified that the ordinance does include an electronic waste plan and decommissioning requirements, subject to EAC approval. - Adam Bond (West Park Civic Association): Criticized cumulative environmental impacts of development, especially on water resources, and urged stronger cumulative impact analysis. - Alicia (9th and Gordon area): Opposed weak setback requirement and requested 180-day curative amendment; noted 503 people had emailed. - William Gerecky (Teacher): Expressed concern about the rushed timeline and lack of public notice, supporting a 180-day pause. - Erin McCarthy (Parent and special needs advocate): Asked for independent studies on noise, sensory, and health impacts before moving forward. - Multiple additional speakers echoed concerns about insufficient setbacks, vague language, lack of enforcement, water and energy use, and requested a 180-day curative amendment. - Chris Brown (Planning Commission Chair): Supported passing the ordinance now, arguing that no ordinance is perfect and that having some regulation is better than none, given the absence of current data center rules. He warned that defeating the ordinance could open the door for unrestricted proposals under existing code. - Mary Cauler (Resident): Accused staff of lying about whether data centers fall under manufacturing, and urged council to enact a curative amendment, citing Section 660-113B of the zoning code and the Municipal Planning Code. - Leona Citron (Lifelong resident): Asked council to show they are listening by enacting the 180-day pause. Key Outcomes - No action was taken at the public hearing; the hearing was adjourned at approximately 7:41 PM. - The regular City Council meeting followed, where Council was expected to consider adoption of Bill 20. (The outcome of that vote is not included in the provided materials.) - A recurring theme from numerous public comments was the request for a 180-day municipal curative amendment to provide time to strengthen the ordinance. The Council did not indicate a decision on that request during the hearing.

The Budget and Finance Committee of the City of Allentown met on June 3, 2026, to review the monthly financial report for April 2026, discuss the proposed Deferred Retirement Option Program (DROP) for police officers, receive updates on major capital projects, and consider the financial impact of a recent Pennsylvania Supreme Court decision on stormwater fees. The meeting was chaired by Mr. Bongo, with Councilpersons Moda and Gerlach participating. Discussion Items - Monthly Financial Report (April 30, 2026): Director Patel reported that general fund revenues are at 48% of budget ($73 million) and expenditures at 27% ($42.3 million). Revenues are net of NIS liability. Other funds (risk, solid waste, stormwater, golf, rental unit, building code) are within expected ranges (15% to 78% in revenues and expenditures). Public safety overtime: police $746,000 (budget $2.6 million), fire $867,000 (budget $2.6 million), EMS $243,000 (budget $725,000). Director Patel noted that higher overtime was partly due to a major snowstorm. General fund cash: $68.5 million, mostly invested in PLGIT (yields 3.74% for money market, 3.72-3.87% for term investments). The realty transfer tax increase was noted, with half deposited to the housing fund ($664,000 as of April 30). - Police Deferred Retirement Option Program (DROP): Councilperson Moda asked about the DROP liability and its impact on taxpayers. Director Patel explained that DROP allows officers with 20+ years to defer retirement, accrue pension benefits, and receive a lump sum upon leaving (up to five years). The administration supports DROP for operational reasons (retaining senior officers for training). An actuarial study by Cairon provides cost ranges based on participation. The committee agreed to discuss the matter in detail at a special meeting next week, where written questions will be answered. - Capital Projects Update: Councilperson Moda requested financial impact details on major capital projects, including the new public safety building, central fire life safety center, and parks and recreation facilities. Director Patel reported 71 active capital projects with a total budget of $90 million (excluding the life safety and wellness project). Police headquarters: groundbreaking occurred, 29 bids open June 24, $9 million from ARPA (federal) allocated, $6 million remaining unspent from city funds. Central Fire Life Center: not yet active; site acquisition phase with two sites under consideration. Parks and recreation facilities: details deferred to Director Mandy Tolino. - Stormwater Fee Financial Risk Assessment: Councilperson Moda raised concerns about the potential impact of a recent Pennsylvania Supreme Court decision on stormwater fees. Mr. Kane responded that the city faces a projected $6.75 million exposure in uncollected stormwater fees next year. The administration is exploring options to recoup the revenue, including potential ordinance changes, and will provide updates. Councilperson Moda expressed grave concern about the impact on the general fund. Key Outcomes - No formal votes were taken during the meeting. - The committee acknowledged the monthly financial report and noted the overtime levels, with a reminder that the snowstorm contributed to higher figures. - The DROP program will be the subject of a special committee meeting next week, where the actuarial study and financial analysis will be reviewed in detail. - The administration committed to providing written responses to Councilperson Moda's questions on capital projects and stormwater fee risk. - The committee will continue to monitor the stormwater fee situation and explore mitigation strategies.

The Allentown City Council met on Wednesday, May 20, 2026, at 6:30 PM in Council Chambers. The meeting began with an invocation including a moment of silence for Tymell Mason (victim of a recent homicide) and Howell Warner. All seven council members were present. The meeting featured extensive public comments on community violence, unanimous passage of multiple budget and policy ordinances, and referrals of new legislation to committees. Public Comments & Testimony - Jeani Garcia (208 S. 13th Street) spoke emotionally about the shooting death of 18-year-old Tymell Mason at a McDonald's on May 15, which occurred near Lincoln Leadership Charter School's eighth-grade dance. She commended city events employee Priscilla Reyes, Lieutenant Leonard, and Officer Manaya for their responses. Garcia, representing Promised Neighborhood of the Lehigh Valley, expressed full support for the $20 million Allentown Works (ReCompete) grant but asked how implementation reflects community needs, calling for a violence prevention strategy that complements economic investment. She stated that funding decisions, especially for facilities, should also invest in people and prevention. She urged the council to bring community organizations and youth back to the table. Garcia also noted that Allentown recorded four homicides in 2024, the lowest since 1989, but progress does not mean the work is finished. - Jose Rivera (219 N. 9th Street) spoke about the rise in violence among youth, referencing the McDonald's shooting and park takeovers. He argued that technology and surveillance cannot replace human connection and prevention. Rivera called for investment in community programs, mental health support, youth employment, trauma services, and safe spaces. He stated that public safety is not just policing after tragedy. - Councilwoman Cynthia Mota added that the incident affected many children, including her own, who now have trauma and don't want to go to school. She urged more counseling for youth and acknowledged speaking with the police chief about a collaborative plan. Reports & Announcements - President Napoli: Council has been meeting with local partners (Lehigh County, Parking Authority, AEDC, ANIZDA) to explore collaboration. Next meetings: Allentown Housing Authority on May 27 at 6:30 PM; Allentown School District Workshop on June 25 at 6 PM. A public hearing on Bill 20 (data center regulations) is set for June 3 at 6 PM. - Committee Reports: - Budget & Finance (Chair Pungo): Not met; next meeting June 3 at 5:30 PM. - Community & Economic Development (Chair Gerlach): Met May 14; forwarded several items; vacant property registration bill still under review. - Human Resources (Chair Binder): Not met; next meeting May 27 at 5:30 PM to review new legislation, mayor’s travel expenses, city travel rules, and personnel manual. - Parks & Recreation (Chair Santos): Met this evening; forwarded several bills. - Public Safety (Chair Affa): Met; reviewed Quality of Life Taskforce; next meeting June 3 at 5:45 PM. - Public Works (Chair Mota): Met; next meeting not scheduled. - Rules (Chair Napoli): Not met; no meetings scheduled. - Controller’s Report: An Accounts Payable report was submitted and is available online. - Councilman Binder: Announced that he and Councilwoman Gerlach will hold a quarterly presentation on the Allentown Works grant at an upcoming CED meeting. Discussion Items - Bill 34 – ReCompete Personnel Amendment: This bill adjusts the Fixed Cost Distribution for two DCED employees, moving the Senior Planner’s grant-funded time from 25% to 50% and adjusting the Assistant Planner accordingly. Councilman Binder questioned whether this shift would reduce access to city services by diverting the Senior Planner’s workload. Director Vicky Kistler explained that the change reflects actual work performed in the startup phase of the Allentown Works grant, and that billing to the grant reduces the general fund burden. She stated that workload is being tracked more accurately, not added. The bill passed 7-0. - Bill 32 – Tobacco-Free Parks: Prohibits smoking/vaping within 25 feet of playgrounds, recreational fields, and courts. Councilwoman Mota sponsored the bill. Kyle Ropski (Chair, Environmental Advisory Council) spoke in support, calling it an excellent compromise. Passed 7-0. - Bills 35-42 and Resolutions R66, R67: All passed unanimously with brief committee reports and no further public or council discussion. Key Outcomes - Unanimous Passage (all 7-0): - R65: Cooperative contracts over $40,000 for HT Lyons, Miller Flooring Company, and Shafnisky Electric Inc. - Bill 32: Tobacco-free buffer around parks. - Bill 34: ReCompete personnel FCD amendment. - Bill 35: Upgrade of part-time Clerk III to full-time Administrative Assistant; two part-time custodial positions upgraded to full-time. - Bill 36: $1,650,000 for Lehigh and Union Street reconstruction (congressionally directed grant, partially reimbursable). - Bill 37: $100,000 from Allentown Parknership for Ithaca Park improvements and programming. - Bill 38: $50,841.45 transfer from completed projects to Bogert’s Bridge Rehabilitation. - Bill 39: $106,329 DCED grant for Dixon Street sidewalks. - Bill 40: $800,000 DCED LSA grant for MLK Trail Extension Phase 1. - Bill 41: $1,905,000 for approved Parks Capital Projects from 2026 borrowing. - Bill 42: $136,319 from General Fund for a second Fire Academy in 2026. - R66: Submission of HUD Action Plan. - R67: Appointment of Bryne Heffner-Bair to the Arts Commission (term ends May 21, 2031). - Ordinances Referred to Committee: - Bill 43 ($50,000 Bloomberg Philanthropies Youth Climate Action Fund) referred to Human Resources Committee. - Bill 44 (updating Council of Youth purpose and practices) referred to Human Resources Committee. - Bill 45 (removing Selective Service System failure as disqualifier for police/fire Civil Service tests) referred to Public Safety Committee. - Adjournment: 7:10 PM.

The Allentown Parks and Recreation Committee met on May 20, 2026, to consider several bills related to park improvements, funding appropriations, and code amendments. All bills were moved forward favorably. Public Comments & Testimony - A representative from Blue Zones and an advocate spoke in support of Bill 32, emphasizing the importance of prohibiting smoking near playgrounds to protect children's health. - Michael Molovinsky inquired about plans to resurface the steps at the Robinhood double stairwell, a historic WPA icon, and requested the use of qualified masons for repairs. - Jeannie Garcia (from Wawa at South 13th Street) expressed support for the Fountain Park plans but questioned the placement of rocks blocking access to the basketball court, noting that similar obstructions do not exist at other city waterway parks. Discussion Items - Bill 32: Amends the city code to prohibit smoking or vaping any substance within 25 feet of playgrounds, recreational fields, and courts. Committee members and public speakers highlighted the benefits for children's health. The bill was moved forward. - Bill 37: Provides a supplemental appropriation of $100,000 from the Allentown Partnership for improvements to Ithaca Park (shade structure, playground additions, path connection, basketball court) and recreational programming (Monday Fundays with healthy food, learn-to-swim program). Moved forward. - Bill 38: Transfers $50,841.45 from completed Dixon Street Pedestrian Bridge and Parks Master Plan accounts to the Bilgarts Bridge rehabilitation project to purchase additional timbers. Project expected to be completed by end of year. Moved forward. - Bill 39: Provides a supplemental appropriation of $106,329 from the Pennsylvania DCED for constructing sidewalks connecting Mac Pool to a bus stop, improving accessibility. Moved forward. - Bill 40: Provides a supplemental appropriation of $800,000 from the Pennsylvania DCED for construction of the MLK Trail extension phase one. Discussion included the need for a comprehensive trail map to show phases. The department agreed to create a map with timelines. Moved forward. - Bill 41: Increases the capital fund by $1,905,000 for four approved parks capital projects: (1) design of a new park operations facility to replace the historic barn (currently rated D for employee safety); (2) safety surface replacement at Cedar Park; (3) balance of funding for MLK Trail construction; (4) concept planning for Fountain Park (repurposing the vacant pool based on public feedback). A detailed presentation and public comments were heard. Moved forward. - Approval of Minutes: The minutes from the previous meeting were approved without discussion. Key Outcomes - All bills (32, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41) were moved favorably from committee to full council. - The department will create a detailed map of trail phases and update the capital projects page on the city website. - The department confirmed plans to repair the Robinhood double stairwell this year using Trexler funds, beginning with a historic how-to guide to ensure proper masonry work. Updates - Ms. Tolino announced upcoming events: the Urban Block Party and movie on Friday (May 22) at 2 PM, a free pool day, the launch of tap-to-pay for aquatics, an 88% return rate for aquatics staff, and a concert at Union Terrace with Low Cut Connie on Friday evening. - She also thanked the Chamber and La Omega for the successful Fiesta event.

The Public Safety Committee, chaired by Councilperson Candida Affa, met on May 20, 2026, to consider a budget transfer for a second fire academy and receive updates on the newly formed Quality of Life Task Force. The fire chief requested additional funds to address staffing vacancies, and the police chief presented noise complaint data and enforcement strategies. Consent Calendar - Approval of the minutes of the January 21, 2026 Public Safety meeting was moved without discussion. (No objection noted.) Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made during the meeting. Discussion Items - Bill 42 – Budget Transfer for Second Fire Academy: Fire Chief (name not given) requested a transfer of $136,319 from the general fund unappropriated balance to the fire department operating budget to fund a second fire academy in 2026. The chief explained that due to a higher-than-usual number of retirements and resignations, the department faced nine vacancies. Typically, only one academy is held in the first half of the year, with the next not until January, resulting in overtime costs for covering vacancies. The second academy would allow filling vacancies earlier and reduce overtime. The chief noted that Allentown's training model is being studied by other municipalities (Scranton, Chester, Wolfesbury, Lancaster, Bethlehem, Easton) and that the department also conducts training for external organizations. The committee voted unanimously to move the bill favorably to full council. - Quality of Life Task Force Update: Councilperson Affa reported that the task force held its first meeting, bringing together city council, administration, police, DCR (Department of Community and Economic Development?), and public works. The focus is on developing practical solutions to noise issues (loud music, modified mufflers, fireworks, etc.) that residents have consistently raised. The second meeting is scheduled for the following day (May 21) to cover DCR reviews and enforcement mechanisms. - Noise Complaint Analysis (Police Chief Charles Roca): Chief Roca presented data from 2022 through April 2026. Peak noise complaint hours are 7 p.m. to 2 a.m., with the most activity on Saturdays and Sundays. The most common citations are for loud music from homes, followed by amplified sound from vehicles. Geographic mapping showed neighborhoods where noise complaints have decreased or increased by more than 10%. The police department is exploring new technology to identify and sanction disruptive vehicles. The chief also acknowledged the loss of life over the weekend and assured the community that justice is being sought. - Other acknowledgments: The fire chief thanked the city for recognizing EMS week and reported that the recent Fiesta on Hamilton event (with 40,000 attendees) had no incidents due to collaboration between fire, police, EMS, and county and state agencies. The police chief thanked council for participation in Police Week events (flag raising, groundbreaking ceremony, memorial service, promotion ceremony). Key Outcomes - Bill 42 was voted favorably out of committee (all ayes) to be considered by the full city council. - Quality of Life Task Force will continue meeting monthly; further updates will be provided to the public. - Police Department will continue to analyze noise complaint data and work on legislative solutions with city council. Note: The transcript includes references to "Council starts at 6:30" indicating the meeting may have been held in the evening, but the formal date is May 20, 2026.