Public Meetings - Allentown, Pennsylvania

On March 2, 2026, the Allentown Zoning Board heard two cases: a special exception for a group child care home expansion at 118 St. John Street and a dimensional variance appeal for a 10-unit apartment conversion at 1421-1425 Hamilton Street. Both cases were approved subject to conditions. Consent Calendar - None identified. The meeting proceeded directly to the two cases. Public Comments & Testimony - Case 2 (1421-1425 Hamilton Street): One interested party was present but did not object; no objectors were identified. - Case 1 (118 St. John Street): No objectors or interested parties were present. Discussion Items - Case 1: Paulino Segundo Tejeda – Special Use Appeal at 118 St. John Street - The applicant sought to expand an existing family child care home (licensed for 6 children) to a group child care home. The use is permitted as a special exception in the N3 district. The only stated deficiency was the need for three off-street parking spaces; the applicant currently has two paved spaces but recently obtained a crossover permit (issued Feb. 24, 2026) to extend the rear parking lot. - Zoning Supervisor Mike noted that based on a quick review, the lot width (29.5 feet at the rear) could likely accommodate three compliant spaces, but a slight pentagonal jog at the rear reduces width to just under 24 feet, so exact compliance is uncertain without a scale drawing. He suggested the board could condition approval on providing such a drawing. - The applicant testified that he, his wife (the operator), and one additional outside employee will staff the group child care. Hours of operation (6:00 AM–5:30 PM, Monday–Friday) will remain unchanged. No exterior renovations are planned; the home will retain its residential appearance. - The board reviewed the special exception criteria: the dwelling is a single-family house type A, B, or C with a single household (applicant and wife); only one outside employee will be added (ordinance allows up to two); and no adverse neighborhood impacts were identified. - Case 2: Jandal Partners LP – Appeal at 1421-1425 Hamilton Street - The applicant requested a dimensional variance for three of ten proposed apartment units in the historic John Taylor House (circa 1909). The variance was needed because three units fall below minimum size requirements due to existing building constraints, including historical features and balloon-frame construction. - Witnesses: Casey Keller (commercial real estate broker) testified that the property has been vacant since 2015, was purchased in 2014, and marketed for about a year. He stated that residential conversion is the market-feasible use, the building is suited for apartments, and the existing parking lot eliminates the need for parking relief. - Lucien Tibias Duli (principal architect, Artifact Inc.) testified that the proposed plan maintains 99% of the building's historic character. She noted that three units are undersized: Unit 101 (studio, 404 sq ft vs. 500 required) due to constraints from the primary staircase and lobby; Unit 301 (two-bedroom, 647 sq ft vs. 700 required) due to the mansard roof, balloon framing, and egress hallway; and Unit 303 (one-bedroom, 383 sq ft vs. 500 required) because of similar constraints. The remaining seven units are oversized or compliant. She also stated that the hardship is caused by the existing structure, not the applicant. Key Outcomes - Case 1 (118 St. John Street) – Approved: The board approved the special exception for the group child care home, subject to conditions: - The applicant must provide a scale drawing to the Zoning Office showing that three code-compliant parking spaces can be installed (meeting dimensional requirements and with proper paving). - The applicant must provide proof of necessary state licenses (Department of Human Services) and all other permits. - The use must be operated as testified (hours, staffing, no exterior changes). - Motion by a board member, seconded, and all voted in favor. - Case 2 (1421-1425 Hamilton Street) – Approved: The board granted the dimensional variance for the three undersized units (101, 301, and 303). The motion noted that: - The hardship is caused by the unique physical characteristics of the historic building (balloon framing, mansard roof, historic features). - The variance is dimensional (lower burden of proof). - No adverse impact on the neighborhood was identified; the use is permitted and density is unchanged. - The applicant is not seeking any parking relief. - Motion by a board member, seconded, and all voted in favor. - Next Meeting: The board does not meet on March 9, 2026; the next scheduled meeting is March 16, 2026.

The Veteran Finance Committee of Allentown met on February 25, 2026, to discuss Bill 12 on water and sewer rebates, review December 2025 and January 2026 financial reports, present a comparative analysis of other Pennsylvania cities' budget processes, and explore alternative revenue sources. The meeting was chaired by Councilperson Pungo with all committee members present. Consent Calendar - No consent calendar items were identified. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were offered during the meeting. Discussion Items Bill 12 – Water and Sewer Rebate Sliding Scale - Mike Zumas, Revenue and Audit Manager, presented the proposed sliding scale for water and sewer rebates for eligible seniors and persons with disabilities. The scale mirrors the existing garbage rebate program: household income $0–$15,000 receives a 75% rebate; $15,001–$20,000 receives 50%; $20,001–$25,000 receives 25%; $25,001–$34,450 receives 10% on the water and sewer fixed charge. - For 2025, the quarterly sewer fixed charge was $29.75 and the metered water fixed charge was $85.57. The city would administer the rebates jointly with the garbage rebate program. - Discussion included outreach strategies: contacting state representatives, Lehigh County’s aging committee, and ensuring Spanish translation. The rebate form will be made more prominent on the city website. - Director Patel clarified that although water and sewer operations are leased to Lehigh County Authority (LCA), the city retained this rebate program to assist property owners. - A motion was made and seconded to refer Bill 12 to the full council meeting on March 4, 2026. The motion carried. Financial Reports for December 2025 and January 2026 - Director Patel presented the December 2025 (version 2) and January 2026 financial reports. - December 2025: General fund revenues were 3% stronger than budget at $152 million, driven by earned income tax, business license fees, charges for services, and investment income. Expenditures were at 96% of the adjusted $154 million budget, reflecting 4% savings in services/charges and materials/supplies. The fund balance increased. Police, fire, and EMS premium pay totals were just over $3 million (police and fire) and just over $1 million (EMS). General fund cash position was $39.8 million, with $37 million invested through PLAGIT yielding 3.74%–4.35% APY. Other funds (solid waste, stormwater, risk, golf, rental, building code) were largely in line or showed savings. - January 2026: First month data limited. General fund revenues were $4.3 million (on track), expenditures $10 million (7% of budget, up 1% from January 2025). Cash position $34.5 million. Controller Patel noted the typical revenue-expenditure imbalance in early months, highlighting the need for a healthy fund balance. - Deed transfer tax increase was implemented; revenue will be reported in the housing fund starting next month. - No questions or disputes were raised; reports were accepted. Budget Process Review: Comparative Analysis - Genesis (staff) presented a comparative analysis of budget processes in Reading, Easton, Philadelphia, Bethlehem, Pittsburgh, Lancaster, and Lehigh County. Key differences included default budget clauses, adoption deadlines, veto authority, and impasse procedures. - Allentown’s home rule charter was amended by voters in November 2019 to remove the automatic budget default and lower the supermajority for tax increases from 5 to 4 votes, but lacks a defined failure scenario if no budget is adopted by December 31. - The 2007 Goldman Goldsmith Conn study was referenced, which found Allentown’s process reasonable but recommended improved communication and training. - Next steps: analyze internal surveys, meet with the mayor and finance director, and present a white paper at the March 25, 2026 budget and finance committee meeting. Potential charter or ordinance changes may be considered. - Councilperson Bender inquired about managing director roles in other cities; Genesis noted the Model City Charter recommends such a role. Director Patel added that Easton and Bethlehem have business managers/managing directors. Alternative Revenue Sources - Director Patel described a 2024 RFP process for revenue consulting. Three firms (RSI, ESI, PEL) bid, but the administration concluded they could only repackage existing data, not generate new revenue. The RFP was not pursued. - The amusement device tax, repealed in 2021, generated only about $6,000 annually and cost more to administer than it collected. - The economic nexus tax (based on the Wayfair Supreme Court decision) is being actively pursued. Letters have been sent to top e-commerce businesses (Amazon, Walmart, Target). The city uses a bright-line test: 15 transactions and $5,000 in gross receipts within Allentown establishes nexus for business privilege tax. Enforcement has been limited by staffing for auditing. - Councilperson Gerlach asked about projecting potential revenue and resource needs for auditing. The administration agreed to provide projections and review internal processes. - Councilperson Bender asked about impact fees under Act 209. The city’s new zoning and SALDO may address some infrastructure mitigation, but the controller noted state roads limit impact fees. The CED director may present on this later. - Councilperson Gerlach inquired about recouping costs for services (public safety, public works) provided within the NIS zone. Information was requested from departments. - An NISDA presentation is scheduled for April 22, 2026, at a committee of the whole meeting. Key Outcomes - Bill 12 was referred to the full city council meeting on March 4, 2026 for adoption. - Financial reports for December 2025 (version 2) and January 2026 were received and noted; no formal vote required. - Budget process review will continue with a white paper and recommendations presented at the March 25, 2026 budget and finance committee meeting. - Alternative revenue: The administration will provide projections for economic nexus revenue and staffing needs; continued auditing enforcement is prioritized. The committee will follow up on impact fee exploration and NIS cost recovery.

On Wednesday, February 18, 2026, the Allentown City Council met at 6:30 PM in Council Chambers. The meeting included public comments on snow removal, parking enforcement, and police conduct; unanimous approvals of contracts, consent items, and a street naming resolution; and introduction of four new ordinances referred to committees. The meeting adjourned at 7:20 PM. Public Comments & Testimony - Kyle Ropski (Chair, Allentown Environmental Advisory Council) invited the public to an educational forum on air quality on February 24, 2026, 6–8 PM at Hamilton Family Restaurant, co-hosted with the League of Women Voters of Lehigh County, featuring experts from the DEP, Lehigh University, and the city Health Department. - Inid Santiago (1243 S. Jefferson Street) raised two issues: (1) inadequate snow removal left her garage buried and prevented her from accessing work for nearly a month; (2) criticized the Allentown Parking Authority for posting confusing and rude social media responses, arguing that enforcement unfairly targets residents, calling it "targeted harassment of poverty." She expressed concern that a car parked three days in front of one's house can be towed even if the owner leaves and returns. - Michaela Bell discussed rent control, noting that Pennsylvania law preempts local rent control. She proposed a voluntary city-funded program where landlords charge median-income rent (e.g., one-bedroom $900, two-bedroom $1,100) in exchange for tax discounts and free permits. She also criticized the Parking Authority, alleging over 35 cars were towed from emergency routes during snow events without subsequent street clearing, and that contesting tickets is costly and biased. - Milagros Canales (speaking for Center City residents) described a snow removal operation at 12:22 AM on February 7 that used sirens, flashing lights, and bullhorns, calling it a "tactical raid" that traumatized the neighborhood. She stated the 500 block of Allen Street has experienced more shootings than other parts of the city, and such tactics undo community-police trust. She requested a policy change: no more sirens or bullhorns for snow enforcement. - Betty Cauler expressed frustration that previous questions about tax increases, the Parking Authority, and snow removal went unanswered by the Council President. She also criticized Mayor Tuerk for allegedly retaliating against a Parks Board member (Becki Kiss) who spoke about tax increase items, claiming the removal was unjustified and urging Council to consider that when voting on appointments. - Rebecca Ramos (500 block of Allen Street) reported two incidents with Allentown police: (1) on January 6, an officer refused to cover a dead dog in the street while school buses were present; (2) on February 7 at 12:22 AM, police used sirens and bullhorns to force car moving for snow removal, causing panic. She noted that the Parking Authority's Facebook page had cancelled snow removal for that district, but enforcement occurred anyway. Residents with disabilities waited from 12:22 AM to 4:30 AM. - Council President Santo Napoli responded by announcing that Council is working to schedule a meeting with the Parking Authority on April 8, 2026, and that the Public Works Committee will discuss snow removal policies on March 11, 2026. - Mayor Matt Tuerk clarified a point about "snow clearing" versus "snow removal." Reports - Public Hearing Notice: A public hearing on the transfer of liquor license R-21060 to The Felix Restaurant LLC (395 S. Cedar Crest Blvd) is set for March 4, 2026 at 6 PM, with a resolution to follow at 6:30 PM. - Committee Reports: All committees reported on their meeting status and upcoming agenda items (see Key Outcomes for referrals). - Mayor's Report: Mayor Tuerk highlighted Allentown's selection as a 2025 "Spotlight City" by Work for America, which is helping develop an employer value proposition, modernize job descriptions, and train hiring managers. He noted the city has only three regular job openings (Maintenance Worker II, Project Manager, Diesel Tech) but stressed the need to fill summer positions (lifeguards, cashiers, playground instructors). He also announced a Dominican Independence Day Flag Raising on February 28, 2026 at 1 PM, and encouraged participation in Read Across America Week (March 2–6, 2026). Consent Calendar - R14: Contract with KS StateBank ($307,690.35) to finance Toro equipment for 5 years. Approved 7-0. - R15: Contract with BankFunding, LLC ($402,562.40) to finance one milling machine for 4 years. Approved 7-0. - R16: Contract with five vendors (Asphalt Maintenance Solutions, et al.) for road materials up to $2,650,000. Approved 7-0. - R17: Cooperative contracts for goods/services with Advanced Electronic Design Inc., Koch 33 Ford Toyota, and CDW, Inc. Approved 7-0. - Minutes: January 21, 2026 City Council meeting minutes approved 7-0. - Consent Agenda (R18–R27): All items approved 7-0, including: R18 – HARB approval for 943-951 W Chew Street; R19 – Michael Comick reappointment to Parks and Recreation (to 2/19/2031); R20 – David Snyder reappointment to Parks and Recreation (to 2/19/2031); R21 – Nancy Wilt reappointment to Parks and Recreation (to 2/19/2031); R22 – Michael Drabenstott appointment to Parks and Recreation (to 2/19/2031, replacing Becki Kiss); R23 – Diane Purdy appointment to Disruptive Conduct Board of Appeals (to 2/19/2029); R24 – Candida Affa reappointment to Disruptive Conduct Board of Appeals (to 2/19/2029); R25 – Candida Affa appointment to Nuisance Abatement Board of Appeals (to 2/19/2028); R26 – Santo Napoli appointment to Police Pension Board (to 1/1/2027); R27 – Santo Napoli appointment to Aggregate Pension Board (to 1/1/2027). Discussion Items - Bill 8 (Noise Ordinance Revision): Amends definitions and sound level tables to align with the new Zoning Code. The Community and Economic Development Committee voted favorably. Final passage was unanimous 7-0. - R28 – Street Naming (Rose Kennedy Way): Resolution to authorize civic naming of the 2000 block of Liberty Street in honor of Rose Kennedy, a beloved community figure and supporter of the St. Patrick's Parade. Lisa Arnold (Allentown St. Patrick's Parade Committee) spoke in support, describing Kennedy's legacy. Mayor Tuerk expressed strong support. Approved 7-0. - R29 – Budget Transfer: Transfers $41,500 for unhoused access to restrooms, water, laundry, and animal care; $58,828 for fuel reclass; and $42,000 for a construction contract account. Approved 7-0. Key Outcomes - Contracts Approved (R14, R15, R16, R17): All 7-0. - January 21 Meeting Minutes Approved: 7-0. - Consent Agenda (R18–R27) Approved: 7-0. - Bill 8 (Noise Ordinance) Passed: 7-0. - R28 (Rose Kennedy Way) Passed: 7-0. Ceremony to install the street sign is planned for March 20 or 21, 2026. - R29 (Budget Transfer) Passed: 7-0. - Bill 9 (Fire Equipment Grant – $16,136.55): Introduced and referred to the Public Safety Committee. - Bill 10 (Lehigh & Union Street Reconstruction – $346,158.00): Introduced and referred to the Public Works Committee. - Bill 11 (Trexler WPA/Monument Repair – $480,000.00): Introduced and referred to the Parks and Recreation Committee. - Bill 12 (Water & Sewer Rebate – sliding schedule): Introduced and referred to the Budget and Finance Committee. - Future Meetings: Budget and Finance Committee – Feb 25 at 5:30 PM; Parks and Recreation – March 4 at 5:30 PM; Public Safety – March 4 at 5:45 PM; Public Works – March 11 at 5:30 PM; Rules & Intergovernmental – March 5 workshop with Lehigh County, March 10 workshop with Allentown School District; April 8 tentative meeting with Parking Authority.

The Community and Economic Development (CED) Committee of the Allentown City Council met on February 18, 2026, to advance a housekeeping bill aligning the noise ordinance with zoning code terminology, receive a comprehensive update on the implementation of the Allentown Works program, and preview upcoming amendments to the city's zoning code. Legislative Action: Noise Ordinance Amendment (Bill 8) - Staff presented Bill 8 as a procedural, housekeeping measure. The bill updates the definitions and sound level tables in the noise ordinance (Chapter 40) to use the same classifications as the updated Zoning Code. No substantive changes to noise parameters were proposed. - Council voted unanimously to move the bill favorably to the full City Council. Discussion Item: Allentown Works Program Update - Staff provided a detailed update on the five-year, $20 million Recompete program, which completed Year 1 in January 2026. - Progress to Date: The strategy development phase is complete. Fifteen comprehensive work plans with implementation partners have been developed. Contracts will be fully executed by March 19, 2026. A community Power Cohort of 10 residents has finished the pilot program and will transition into recruiting. - Eight Component Projects: - Navigation & Support: Resource navigators stationed at neighborhood hubs. Career coaches provide up to 9 months of post-employment support. An emergency flex fund removes immediate barriers. ESL programming is included. - New Career Pathways: LCTI to host basic and advanced manufacturing courses at the Donnelly Center. Tuition and material support provided. - Re-entry: Expanding the Muhlenberg/Lehigh County Jail Inside Out program with full-time staff, tuition reimbursement, and a reentry stipend. - Child Care: Dual strategy to help providers increase Keystone Star ratings (unlocking $1.5 million annually in state reimbursements) and provide direct subsidies to families. - Transportation: Partnering with LANta for a rider demand assessment. All participant bus fares are subsidized. - Urban Sites: $3 million allocated to AEDC to acquire and rehab vacant industrial property, creating walk-to-work opportunities and a 4x local job multiplier. - Healthcare: Developing pathways to St. Luke's and LVHN, including EPIC training. - Council and Staff Dialogue: - Council members inquired about current job availability, accountability for daycare worker wage increases with new state reimbursements, and prioritization of the eight concurrent pilot components. Staff explained the program's flexibility to pivot and emphasized that the navigation component is the critical path unlocking the others. - Discussion centered on conditioning grant funds on exclusive hiring of Allentown residents for jobs created through the program. - Council member Bender requested routine quarterly updates. Staff confirmed quarterly presentations and a publicly accessible dashboard through the Leonard Parker Pool Institute are planned. Public Comment - Blake Henry (1642 West Turner Street): Asked about the duration of training programs. Staff responded that training duration varies by individual skill level and chosen career path, with navigators conducting initial assessments. Training cohorts for targeted courses are expected to run at least twice per year. Discussion Item: Zoning Code Amendments - Staff reported the new Zone Allentown code is well-received but presents administrative challenges. Applications are being processed under both old and new codes. - A list of amendments is being compiled. A specific ordinance addressing data centers is being drafted. - Timeline: The first comprehensive set of amendments is expected to be presented to council in April 2026. The data center amendment will come sooner. - Council discussed the importance of preventing unintended consequences, such as enabling large communal living arrangements. Key Outcomes - Bill 8 (Noise Ordinance housekeeping) was voted favorably out of committee and will proceed to the full City Council. - The Allentown Works program is on schedule to have all 15 implementation partners under contract by March 19, 2026. - Staff committed to providing quarterly updates to the CED Committee on Allentown Works progress. - Planning staff will present the first batch of zoning code amendments to council in April 2026.

The Historical Architecture Review Board (HARB) of Allentown, Pennsylvania, met on February 17, 2026, to review several applications for work in historic districts. The board considered five regular agenda items and one demolition review. Key actions included approvals, tabling, and advisory comments. The meeting began at 6:00 PM with roll call and approval of the previous meeting's minutes. Consent Calendar - Minutes from June 2, 2025: Approved unanimously. (Motion by Dave, second by Philip) Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made by non-applicants. Discussion Items 1. 229 North 9th Street – Window Replacement Applicant Joseph Cologne proposed replacing an existing wood picture window with a vinyl storm window (with furniture-grade wood veneer). Staff recommended denial, citing that vinyl is not an approved material and the proposed window lacked the mutton pattern matching the door transom. The applicant reported difficulty finding contractors to repair the window and expressed willingness to modify the proposal (e.g., aluminum wrap and added muttons). The board tabled the application for one month to allow the applicant to provide detailed evidence that the window cannot be repaired and to explore alternatives such as a fixed wood window with appropriate muttons. The motion to table passed unanimously. 2. 1619 Turner Street – Roof Replacement Applicant Jay Robinson proposed replacing the existing terracotta tile mansard roof with GAF Timberline HDZ shingles (Patriot Red) due to leaks. Staff recommended denial, noting that terracotta tile is a character-defining feature of the West Park Historic District and that the proposed shingles do not match in material, exposure, thickness, or dimension. The applicant indicated several contractors refused to repair the tile, and replacement tiles were expensive. The board tabled the application for one month to allow the applicant to provide substantiated evidence that the roof cannot be repaired and to explore alternative materials that better match the historic character (e.g., aluminum tile). The motion to table passed unanimously. 3. 1420 Linden Street – Window Replacement (20 windows) Applicant Romario Elias (owner) and Samuel Mulet (contractor from Home Depot) proposed replacing all 20 windows with vinyl (Simonton 6100 series). Staff recommended denial because some existing windows are wood (with leaded glass/muttons) and should be repaired, and vinyl is not appropriate. The board discussed that only the five front windows facing Linden Street are within HARB’s purview (visible from the public right-of-way). The remaining 15 windows on side and rear facades are outside HARB’s regulatory authority. A motion was made to approve the 15 non-primary windows as presented (secondary facades) and exclude the five front windows from this application. The motion carried 4-1 (Alex dissenting). The applicant must submit a separate application for the front windows. 4. 428-436 North 6th Street – New Construction (8-unit apartment building) Applicant Samantha Ciati Falcon (architect, representing Allentown Housing Authority) presented plans for a two-story, eight-unit building on a vacant lot. Staff recommended approval, finding the design compatible with the historic district in terms of height, massing, proportions, and materials. The board discussed materials (brick, HardiePlank siding, wood/composite porches, aluminum railings, etc.) and design details. The following conditions were added to the motion to approve: - All front facade windows must be vertically oriented (double-hung or similar). - If HardiePlank siding is used on visible facades, it must have a smooth finish (no wood-grain texture). - Roof shingles must have a straight (slate-line) profile, not a shake pattern. The motion to approve with conditions passed unanimously. 5. 1515 Linden Street (West Park Band Shell) – Door Replacement Applicant Brian Hafner (City of Allentown Parks) proposed replacing all five single doors with solid wood doors (no glass) due to ongoing vandalism and security issues. Staff recommended denial, noting that original building drawings show a six-pane light configuration and that repair/restoration is preferred. The board acknowledged the unique nature of the band shell but required additional information to evaluate the proposal. The application was tabled for one month to allow the applicant to provide: - Specific door specifications (design, material, panel configuration). - Justification for replacing original doors beyond security concerns. - Evidence that the existing doors cannot be repaired. - Clarify whether the lower-level door (egress) will be treated differently. The motion to table passed unanimously. 6. 36 South Madison Street – HBDO Demolition Review (Turret Roof Removal) This was an advisory review (no vote) for a proposal to remove the turret roof at 36 South Madison Street due to leaks. Staff evaluated the property as historically significant (Queen Anne style, retaining original turret) and noted that roof removal would negatively impact the streetscape. The board agreed with staff comments, emphasizing that the turret is a character-defining feature and that demolition by neglect is not acceptable. These comments will be forwarded to the Zoning Hearing Board. Key Outcomes - Minutes approved: Consent calendar approved. - 229 N 9th St: Tabled 1 month (unanimous). - 1619 Turner St: Tabled 1 month (unanimous). - 1420 Linden St: Approved for 15 non-primary windows; front windows excluded (4-1 vote). - 428-436 N 6th St: Approved with conditions (unanimous). - 1515 Linden St (Band Shell): Tabled 1 month (unanimous). - 36 S Madison St: Advisory comments submitted, supporting denial of demolition. - New Business: No additional items. - Violations Update: No action taken; one case (related to 947 Street) still in process. - Announcements: - HARB received a grant for translation services (Spanish) for documents. - Upcoming virtual preservation camp (August 20-21, cost $65 per person) – board members expressed interest. - Meeting adjourned at approximately 8:40 PM.

The Allentown Historic Architectural Review Board (HARB) met on February 17, 2026, at 11:00 AM to discuss two violation correction applications: a roofing replacement at 126-128 North 15th Street and window trim repairs at 521 North 6th Street. The board approved both items with conditions, and also discussed upcoming training and meeting logistics. Consent Calendar - The board approved the minutes from the December meeting with a minor punctuation correction noted by Mr. Huber. New Business - 126-128 North 15th Street - Roofing Replacement - Location: West Park SARP district (double home, gable end, symmetrical facade, play towel roof, copper gutters and downspouts). - Description: The original terracotta clay Spanish barrel tile roof had been removed from the main roof areas and a red shake-style architectural asphalt shingle was started before work was stopped. The applicant proposes installing Brava's Spanish barrel tile, a synthetic material matching the original clay tile in profile and color options. - Staff recommended approval with conditions, noting that the original clay tile at the projecting eaves and gable ends should remain if sound, and that a separate application is needed for gutter/downspout modifications. - The applicant stated he had not yet obtained physical samples, only online images, and offered to donate leftover original tiles to the Lehigh Valley Preservation League. - Board discussion focused on color matching (antique clay, Tuscan vintage terracotta, or Tuscan clay were considered), treatment of ridge/hip caps, and valley details. The board preferred copper for open valleys, consistent with the original, but allowed closed valleys with staff approval. - 521 North 6th Street - Window Trim Repairs - Location: Old Fairgrounds/SAR district (attached row home with Queen Anne influences, front porch, projecting tower). - Description: Deteriorated wood on the second-floor projecting bay window, including rotted panels and missing soffit board. The applicant had already removed damaged materials and installed pressure-treated substrate, planning to add new custom-carved exterior trim to match the original architectural pattern. - Staff requested more information on the extent of work (confirmed as only the bay window) and how a consistent finished plane would be achieved with the added trim thickness. - The applicant (Mr. Mandara) explained he intended to use paper patterns and route the trim by hand, using clear cypress or western red cedar for durability. - The board recommended staff approval of the final carving pattern and wood species (cedar, cypress, or mahogany), leaving the fabrication method open (hand-carved, CNC, etc.). Key Outcomes - 126-128 North 15th Street: Motion to approve with conditions (moved by AJ, seconded by Alex). Conditions include: submit Brava barrel tile sample with colors closest to existing, staff approval of hip/rake/ridge caps and valleys (open valleys to be copper, closed valleys to be disclosed by roofer), maintain existing gutters/downspouts, and final color approved by staff. Unanimously approved. - 521 North 6th Street: Motion to approve with conditions (moved by AJ, seconded by Philip). Conditions include: wood species suitable for carving and longevity (cedar, cypress, or mahogany), staff approval of the carved pattern before installation, and compliance with historic district guidelines section 3.2. Unanimously approved. - The board noted a magistrate case for the property at Python 2 is scheduled for Friday at 1:30 PM at the district court. - A training webinar on preservation trades was announced for January 22nd at 1:00 PM; the board agreed to register. - Discussion on moving meetings to City Council chambers: the board considered the second Tuesday of the month to avoid conflicts with West Park meetings (first Tuesday). - The HP DO review was postponed to next month pending discussions with the zoning supervisor.

The Allentown Zoning Hearing Board convened on February 16, 2026, to hear four cases. The board granted a 60-day continuance for one application, approved a change of non-conforming use for a graphic design office, denied a variance for tractor-trailer cab parking on a residential lot, and approved a special exception to expand a child care operation. All decisions were unanimous. Case 1: 640 North Second Street – Appeal of Zaheed Mohammed (Change of Non-Conforming Use) Applicant: Antonio Silva (represented by nephew Stephanie Petit) Request: Variance to operate a graphic design office in a building that previously housed non-conforming uses (sewing factory, pool room, etc.). Testimony: The applicant testified that no clients would visit the premises; all work is delivered online. Two employees would be present 3–4 days per week during limited hours. The property has no kitchen and no residential history; it currently has zero dwelling units on file. Discussion: Board members noted the prior non-conforming use (sewing factory) had not been abandoned despite being vacant for over 12 months; the tenant’s removal of equipment did not indicate abandonment. The proposed use is lower intensity and less detrimental than the former use. Outcome: Unanimous vote to grant the change of non-conforming use as a variance. (Motion by McLean, second by Unger; all in favor.) Case 2: 214 North Ave Street – ECB Property Holdings LLC (Special Use Application & Appeal) Applicant: Matthew Dechler for ECB Property Holdings LLC Request: 60-day continuance to discuss alternative determinations with the city under the new zoning ordinance. Outcome: Unanimous vote to grant the continuance, extending the hearing deadline to April 16, 2026. (Motion by Unger, second by McLean; all in favor.) Case 3: 213 East Tioga Street – Appeal of Axel Coss (Variance for Tractor-Trailer Cab Parking) Applicant: Axel Coss Request: Variance to park a tractor-trailer cab (no trailer) on a residential property, a use not permitted in the residential zone. Testimony: Mr. Coss stated he had parked the cab on his 95-foot driveway for about 10 years without complaints. Neighbor Ricardo Lopez expressed support, stating the truck does not bother him. Discussion: Board members determined that the hardship was personal (need for work vehicle) and not a unique physical characteristic of the property. The property can be used as zoned for a single-family dwelling. The board lacks legal authority to grant the variance. Outcome: Unanimous vote to deny the application. (Motion by McLean, second by Unger; all in favor.) Board recommended contacting the Allentown Parking Authority for legal truck parking locations. Case 4: 807 North La Cross Street – Jinmi Jin Mai Tavarez (Special Exception for Group Child Care Home) Applicant: Jinmi Jin Mai Tavarez Request: Special exception to convert a family child care home to a group child care home. The zoning officer identified a parking insufficiency – three spaces required but only two provided. Testimony: The applicant presented a photograph showing three cars parked on the property. Board members reviewed aerial imagery and informally measured 32 feet of available width, sufficient for three 9×18-foot spaces. Discussion: The board determined that three parking spaces can be accommodated, thus no insufficiency exists. No negative impacts were identified. Outcome: Unanimous approval of the special exception, with a finding that parking requirements are met. (Motion by Unger, second by McLean; all in favor.) Administrative Notes - The next meeting is scheduled for March 9, 2026. Board member Scott Unger indicated he will not be present on March 9. - Cases filed after December 2025 will be heard under the new zoning code.

The Allentown Historic Architectural Review Board (HARB) held a meeting on February 12, 2026, beginning at approximately 11:00 AM. The board reviewed a residential conversion project at 943-951 West Chu Street, discussed the annual report, and conducted the annual board reorganization. No public comments were heard. Approval of Minutes - The minutes from the January 5, 2026 meeting were approved with one abstention (member who was absent). Discussion Items - 943-951 West Chu Street Residential Conversion: The applicant, Jason Colfer and Paul Dioli, proposed converting a circa 1900 vernacular commercial building (formerly a print shop) into 18 dwelling units. The building, located in the Old Allentown Historic District, has been significantly altered over time. Key discussions centered on: - Windows: Staff recommended metal windows to match the industrial character, rather than aluminum-clad wood windows proposed by the applicant. The board majority favored metal windows, citing the building's history and narrower sightlines. The applicant agreed to the change. - Loading Dock Bumper: The board stressed preserving the bumper as a character-defining feature. The opening could be infilled with a different material (e.g., fiber cement) or a unique window, as long as the bumper and opening size are retained. The board suggested a varied window design (e.g., different color) to highlight the opening. - Single Door Brick Infill: For the western door being removed, staff recommended recessing the brick infill by 0.5 to 1 inch to preserve the original opening size and vertical line down to the sidewalk. - Other Details: The double door will be retained; a sign opening will be infilled with a window matching adjacent windows. The applicant agreed to use breathable paint for painted brick elements. Key Outcomes - Motion to Approve with Conditions: Passed unanimously (all present in favor). Conditions include: 1. Replacement windows must be metal with the proposed muntin configuration and operation. 2. The single-door (western) brick infill must be recessed 0.5 to 1 inch, preserving the original opening size and vertical elements continuing to the sidewalk. 3. The loading dock bumper and opening size must be retained; if infilled, a different material or window configuration may be used. 4. Paint used on brick must be breathable. - Board Reorganization: Chair AJ Me and Vice Chair David Hewer were unanimously reappointed. - Annual Report: The board reviewed the report and thanked staff for their work. - Adjournment: The meeting adjourned at 6:34 PM.

The Allentown City Planning Commission (ACPC) met on Tuesday, February 10, 2026, at 12:25 PM in Council Chambers at 435 Hamilton Street. The meeting was adjourned at 2:55 PM. Commissioners addressed an extension request for the Central Park Apartments, approved a minor land development at 1420 Walnut Street, and tabled two major land developments (112 N 8th Street and 138 N 9th Street) pending zoning approvals. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes (January 13, 2026): Unanimously approved as written (6-0). Public Comments & Testimony - Harold Barber (143 North Fountain Street) spoke during Item 5 (138 N 9th Street – The Vault Residences). He thanked the Commission for considering parking impacts, supported a loading zone, expressed concerns about pedestrian access during construction (urging limited accommodation if sidewalks are closed), and noted worries about the building’s size and sinkholes in the area. Discussion Items - Extension Request – Central Park Apartments (605-665 Wahneta Street): Staff recommended a one-year extension to February 13, 2027, for recording plans and entering a land development agreement. The project involves 12 buildings, 126 units, and coordination with City Center Investment Corporation’s Northridge development. Commissioner Craig Beavers noted the unique circumstances justified the extension; Chair Christian Brown agreed the challenging site made a denial unlikely to yield a better project under the new code. The extension was granted unanimously (6-0). - Land Development – 1420 Walnut Street (Minor – Preliminary/Final): Staff presented a proposal to demolish a garage and construct a 2-unit building, with existing house conversion to 4 units. Conditions included landscaping along the school property line, a lighting plan, and addressing city comment letter items. Discussion focused on landscaping (fence vs. plantings) and trash handling. The Commission approved with conditions (6-0). - Land Development – 112 N 8th Street – AW Living (Major – Preliminary/Final): A seven-story, 23-unit studio apartment building with no on-site parking (proposed spaces at the APA Spiral Deck). Staff recommended deferral until the Zoning Hearing Board (ZHB) rules on demolition in the HBDO district. The applicant requested conditional approval, but the Commission voted to table (5-0, with one recusal by Leslie Hartzell) to allow the developer to first obtain HARB and ZHB approvals. - Land Development – 138 N 9th Street – The Vault Residences (Major – Preliminary/Final): A seven-story, 40-unit mixed-use building (29 studios, 11 one-bedrooms) with 2,705 SF of retail. Parking proposed at the APA 940 Linden Street deck. Staff again recommended waiting for ZHB demolition approval. Commissioner concerns included coordination with adjacent Resurrected Life Church, alley access for trash, and the design’s compatibility with historic context. The Commission tabled (5-0, with one recusal) pending zoning approvals. Key Outcomes - Central Park Apartments Extension: Approved one-year extension to February 13, 2027 (motion by Beavers, seconded by Hornung; 6-0). - 1420 Walnut Street: Approved with conditions (landscaping, lighting plan, city comment letter compliance) (motion by Beavers, seconded by Brown; 6-0). - 112 N 8th Street – AW Living: Tabled to allow applicant to obtain HARB and ZHB approvals; time extension agreed upon (motion by Beavers, seconded by Glazier; 5-0, Hartzell abstained). - 138 N 9th Street – The Vault Residences: Tabled similarly; time extension agreed upon (motion by Glazier, seconded by Hornung; 5-0, Hartzell abstained). - New Commissioner: Kate Hartney was welcomed as a new member. The Commission noted one vacancy remains.