The Bethlehem City Council held its regular meeting on October 7, 2025, with six members present (Councilwoman Kramsey Smith absent on vacation; Councilwoman Laird arrived shortly after roll call). The meeting included public comment on topics ranging from international affairs to local development, followed by votes on several ordinances and resolutions. Key actions included budget amendments to fund a World Heritage Site manager position and approval of a contract to update the North Side Alive plan. Public Comments & Testimony Artie Curatola called for increased security at public events, metal detectors, and a mandatory 10% tithe from elected officials to address homelessness, while also criticizing historical treatment of Native Americans. Harry Faber condemned the city’s silence on the ongoing conflict in Gaza, urging the council to pass a resolution for a ceasefire and divest from companies profiting from oppression. He stated that over 82.5% of Bethlehem’s population would have been killed if comparable to Gaza’s casualties. Jan Beattie expressed appreciation for the Public Works department’s responsiveness. Lynn Rothman (representing the Environmental Advisory Council) announced a climate action plan update on November 20, 2025, and noted an open position on the EAC, with applications due by January. Mary Tomlinson and Sharon Finnegan criticized the city’s handling of the arrest and firing of Lehigh County Commissioner Zach Kolborghi, citing lack of due process and a rush to judgment. Mike Staffer expressed concern about the rapid pace of development in Bethlehem, urging the council to slow down to preserve the city’s character. Mark Weber requested the city provide a downloadable app (e.g., Aquahawk) for smart water meters to help residents detect leaks, citing high bills reported by residents after smart meter installation. Sean Kernan reported finding stickers advertising a past event (Lehigh Lounge) stuck on sidewalks in the Southside Historic District without permits, remaining for weeks despite complaints. Mary Jo McCool suggested using the NRAD speed enforcement system (as used in Salisbury Township), questioned the need for a permit to install a new fence inside an existing fence, and opposed tax abatement for billionaire developer Norton Herrick’s Martin Tower and Hanover Apartment projects, arguing funds should aid the homeless. Bill Shire noted the police department has 133 officers against an authorized strength of 154, with 14 vacancies, and urged competitive salaries to address retention and reckless driving. Stephen Anhaleks lamented the loss of historic character on South Third Street, criticizing the ArtsQuest development and the inclusion of West Bethlehem in the South Side Historic District. Bruce Haynes questioned why the boundaries of the North Side Alive oversaw district were extended to include the north side of Broad Street, claiming it disrupted the downtown DBA. Jeffrey Parks voiced strong support for the UNESCO World Heritage Site designation and the proposed $150,000 contribution to fund a Heritage Site Manager position, calling it a critical investment in the city’s future. Discussion Items North Side Alive Plan Update (Resolution 10A): Laura Collins confirmed the boundaries have always included Broad Street down to Main Street. Council members noted the original 2017 plan (North Side 2027) and that community engagement meetings will occur. The resolution authorized a $39,960 contract with WRT LLC. Revolving Loan Fund (Resolution 10D): Laura Collins explained the $12,000 contract with the Center for Public Enterprise will design a mixed-income housing revolving loan fund to fill financing gaps and ensure affordability. Council members expressed optimism that this could help control development pace and leverage private projects. Police Staffing: Chief Cott reported 14 vacancies and officers out on long-term injury or military leave, putting effective strength in the high 130s. Collective bargaining occurs in 2026. Council discussed recruitment challenges and suggestions to improve facilities and training. Food Co-op Funding: Laura Collins clarified that $500,000 in federal Community Project Funding granted to the Bethlehem Food Co-op is administered by the city on a reimbursement basis with HUD approval and city controller oversight; funds cannot be reallocated to other purposes. World Heritage Site Manager (Ordinance 8A & Resolution 10E): The budget amendment and agreement with Moravian University (for $150,000) passed despite recusals from Councilwoman Laird due to her employment with Moravian. Campaign Finance Amendments: Council President reported that the Committee of the Whole voted unanimously to send proposed amendments to Article 112 (campaign finance reports) to full council for a future meeting. Key Outcomes Ordinance 8A (Budget amendment for World Heritage Site manager) passed 5-0-1 (Councilwoman Laird abstained due to conflict of interest). Ordinance 8B (General fund budget amendment) passed 6-0. Resolution 10A (Agreement with WRT LLC for North Side Alive plan update) passed 6-0. Resolution 10B (Authorization for North Side Alive plan update - apparently duplicate? Actually passed 6-0 per transcript) – Note: numbering confusion; but vote recorded as 6-0. Resolution 10C (Use permit for 2025 Bethlehem Running Festival) passed 6-0. Resolution 10D (Agreement with Center for Public Enterprise for revolving loan fund) passed 6-0. Resolution 10E (Agreement with Moravian University for World Heritage Site manager) passed 5-0-1 (Councilwoman Laird abstained). Resolution 10F (Certificate of appropriateness for 306 South New Street signage) passed 6-0. Resolution 10G (Certificate of appropriateness for 13-15 East Third Street facade restoration) passed 6-0. The council set a Committee of the Whole meeting for October 21, 2025 at 6 p.m. to review the 2026–2030 Capital Improvement Plan.
Public Meetings - Bethlehem, Pennsylvania
Public Meetings - Bethlehem, PennsylvaniaOn October 7, 2025, the Bethlehem City Council Committee of the Whole met to discuss proposed amendments to Article 112 of the city code, which governs campaign finance reports. The primary proposal was to eliminate the city clerk's role in collecting and posting campaign finance reports, as this function is already performed by Northampton County, where the majority of Bethlehem residents reside. The committee voted unanimously to send the ordinance to full council for further consideration. Public Comments & Testimony - Mr. Shire spoke in favor of lowering campaign contribution limits for city council races. He argued that the federal limit for congressional candidates ($3,500) should be adjusted for the lower cost of local races and smaller population. He calculated a proportional limit of $350 for Bethlehem city council candidates, based on a ratio of campaign costs (2.1 million vs. $20,000) and population (760,000 vs. 78,000). Discussion Items - Council President Michael Cologne presented the proposed amendments, explaining that the county now posts campaign finance reports online, making the city's duplication of this work unnecessary. The amendments would: - Rename the ordinance from "Campaign Finance" to "Statements of Financial Interest." - Remove the clerk's duty to notify candidates about filing deadlines, shifting that responsibility to candidates and elected officials. - Remove penalties for non-compliance, as enforcement is impractical without a reliable way to contact candidates. - Continue to require the city clerk to collect and post Statements of Financial Interest (annual ethics filings) for elected officials, as these are not posted by the county. - Council members expressed support for reducing the burden on city clerks, noting the clerks are already overworked. Councilwoman Crampsy Smith (absent) and Laird (absent) were noted as not present. Councilwoman Wilhelm requested data on how often the campaign finance page on the city website is visited. Councilwoman Quietech (likely QuTech) noted that some neighboring cities have already moved to a similar model. Councilwoman Leon supported the change. Councilman Callahan had no objections but asked about redaction of addresses; it was clarified that addresses are not redacted on the county site, and the city also does not redact them (only signatures). Councilwoman Wilhelm raised concern for Lehigh County residents (the city straddles two counties), suggesting the city website should provide a clear link to the Northampton County site to avoid confusion. - Council President Cologne offered to work with Councilwoman Wilhelm and the city clerks to draft clear language for the website redirect. Key Outcomes - Motion and Vote: A motion to send the proposed ordinance amendments to full council was made, seconded, and passed unanimously (5-0). Council members Callahan, QuTech, Leon, Wilhelm, and Cologne voted in favor; Crampsy Smith and Laird were absent. - Next Steps: The ordinance will be introduced at a future full council meeting, requiring two readings (with opportunities for public comment and amendments). The intent is to implement the changes after the current election cycle, effective January 2026, to avoid disruption. - Administrative Plans: The city website will be updated with a link to Northampton County's campaign finance reports, and Statements of Financial Interest will continue to be posted on the city site.
The Bethlehem City Council met on September 16, 2025, to discuss a range of topics including encampment evictions along the canal, budget transfers for a World Heritage site coordinator position, and multiple grant applications. The meeting featured extensive public comment and council deliberation on homelessness, downtown business support, and traffic safety. Consent Calendar - Minutes: Approved for the September 2, 2025 meeting. Public Comments & Testimony - Peg Church (435 Brighton Street) expressed support for Mark Riddle's concerns about homelessness and urged the city to consider a tenting model similar to Harrisburg for safe, monitored camping. She also called for a quiet zone meeting with Norfolk Southern. - Sean Kernan (414 West Market Street) requested benches at the bus stop at Second and New streets, noting the lack of seating and the dangerous intersection, especially for a pregnant woman he observed waiting. - Anthony Spagnola (10 West 4th Street, Daggio) urged that $150,000 dedicated to downtown businesses not be reallocated, emphasizing that businesses contribute to the local economy and have faced revenue declines of about 20% due to parking and other issues. - Artie Kurtola (813 Lawford Street) commented on political violence and metal detectors at gatherings, linking to broader concerns about safety and Palestine. - Bill Shire (1898 Avenue) discussed the burden of tariffs on consumers, the national debt, and parallels to the Roman Empire, criticizing tax cuts for the wealthy. - Valerie Noonan raised confusion about canal encampment evictions: a police captain reportedly said all parcels (including city-owned) would be cleared, while city employee Ms. Satulo said city parcels are not included. Noonan requested clarity and more solutions for those who will not go to shelters. - Sam Masoto (814 High Street, Bond Place Brewing) proposed more police presence or a traffic camera at Taylor and Mechanic streets due to dangerous one-way street violations and near misses. - Harry Faber (personal history shared) argued against encampment sweeps, calling them a form of political violence, and urged the city not to enforce them, especially with winter approaching. - Stephen Antalix (737 Ridge) stated that housing problems were created by the city through historical discrimination and inequity between North and South Bethlehem, asking for assistance to make up for past sins. - Lucas (housing instability) spoke about the need for action over prayer, fearing he may be houseless soon and asking for systems that care for neighbors. - Nori seconded previous speakers, urging more time for people living outdoors and considering a Harrisburg-style model. - Public Comment on Agenda Items: One speaker applauded the city's grant applications for Bethlehem Emergency Shelter (BES) capital improvements. Discussion Items - Encampments and Norfolk Southern: Council discussed the eviction notices posted by Norfolk Southern, UGI, and PennDOT on their properties along the canal. Chief Codd clarified that Bethlehem Police are accompanying Norfolk Southern police (who have a small tri-state force) and are focused on outreach and connecting people to services, not sweeps. Community Connections has been doing daily outreach, with 22 people now in intensive case management. The deadline (December 15) aligns with the opening of the seasonal BES shelter. Councilwoman Laird asked about a city-sanctioned camping site; Ms. Collins noted regional discussions about safe camping, but no city site is currently planned. - Martin Tower and LERTA: Council debated a developer's offer to provide land and money for affordable housing in exchange for a LERTA (tax abatement). Councilman Callahan argued that doing nothing yields zero tax revenue, while a LERTA could generate millions and affordable housing land. Councilwoman Cramsey Smith and others expressed frustration that no administration-level discussions are occurring. Director Collins noted that the developer originally sought 1,700 units but now plans 880; the city's affordable housing land inventory is nearly zero. - Traffic Safety: Sam Masoto's concerns about Taylor and Mechanic led to discussion of traffic studies, citizen complaints, and pedestrian stings. Public Works Director Alcall said enforcement and surveillance are primary; health bureau can conduct pedestrian stings. Citizens' Traffic Advisory Committee meets monthly. - World Heritage Site Coordinator Funding: A budget transfer of $150,000 from the downtown initiative fund to help fund a World Heritage site manager position (housed at Moravian University) was debated. Moravian is contributing over $100,000 annually plus benefits and support staff, and has provided $531,000 in in-kind services over two years. The city's contribution is $150,000 total over two years. Councilwoman Cramsey Smith voted no, arguing the money belongs to downtown businesses; Councilman Callahan initially opposed but switched to support after learning Moravian's contributions. - Grant Applications: Multiple resolutions authorized grant applications: $800,000 (Monroe LSA) and $400,000 (Lehigh-Northampton LSA) for BES capital improvements; $2 million and $5 million RCAP grants for BES and South Side Community Center, respectively; also $205,427 for erosion control, $211,308 for Friendship Park change order, $20,000 for a city sign, and $105,170 for Greenway Trail Phase 7 design. - Other: Councilwoman Laird recused from the World Heritage vote due to employment at Moravian. Council praised Community Connections work. The Flock license plate reader data privacy was clarified: data is not shared with ICE or DHS. Key Outcomes - Vote 9A (World Heritage site coordinator budget transfer): Passed 5–1 (Councilwoman Cramsey Smith nay; Councilwoman Laird recused). - Vote 9B (women's health/immunization budget transfer): Passed 7–0. - Resolutions 10A–10K: All passed 7–0, authorizing various contracts and grant applications. - Directives: Council asked administration to explore conversations with Martin Tower developers regarding a LERTA and affordable housing. The city will continue regional collaboration on safe camping and encampment outreach. - Next Steps: The five-year capital plan will be reviewed by committee of the whole on October 21, 2025. The next council meeting is tentatively scheduled for October 7, 2025.
The Bethlehem City Council Finance Committee met on September 16, 2025, chaired by Grace Cramsey Smith, with members Hillary Puyatec and Rachel Leon, and Councilman Callahan also present. The committee reviewed three agenda items: a budget adjustment to support the World Heritage Coordinator position, a budget adjustment for two health grants, and an informational memorandum on an extra payroll period in 2026. No public comments were offered. Discussion Items - World Heritage Coordinator Budget Adjustment: Stephanie Agello, the World Heritage Coordinator, presented a request to transfer $150,000 from the downtown initiatives account (unspent funds from 2021-2024) to support the site coordinator salary, freeing up resources for other site needs. She highlighted the partnership with Moravian University, which agreed to fund a site manager position and provide in-kind services (e.g., grant writing, event support). The request is for two years, with reevaluation after that. Council members expressed support for the World Heritage site but raised concerns about using the downtown initiatives fund, given prior unmet merchant needs for downtown improvements. The administration noted that the parking authority is funding $350,000 in lamp post replacements, a top merchant priority, and that other funding sources exist. After discussion, the committee voted unanimously to recommend approval and place legislation on the council agenda. - Health Grants Budget Adjustment: A representative from the health department requested two budget increases: $7,900 for the women's health services program and $34,000 for immunization outreach, both from leftover funds from the prior fiscal year. The representative noted that the immunization grant will decrease next year, but flexible public health infrastructure grant funds and clinic billing are offsetting the shortfall. The women's health grant is uncertain after June 2026. The committee unanimously approved the adjustments. - 27th Payroll Period in 2026: Business Administrator Eric Evans presented an informational item about an extra payroll period occurring once every 11 years due to bi-weekly pay cycles. The 27th pay would fall on January 1, 2027, but due to the holiday, it will be paid on December 31, 2026, within the 2026 fiscal year. The city had prepared by setting aside nearly $2 million in an escrow account since 2016, built from various savings, to cover the extra payroll cost. No vote was needed; the item was for advance notice. Key Outcomes - The committee voted unanimously (3-0) to recommend approval of the $150,000 budget transfer for the World Heritage Coordinator position and to place the corresponding legislation on the council agenda. - The committee voted unanimously (3-0) to recommend approval of the two health grant budget increases ($7,900 and $34,000) and to place the legislation on the council agenda. - The third item was informational only; no action was taken.
The City Council held its regular meeting on September 2, 2025, addressing a range of issues including the Norfolk Southern eviction of homeless encampments, the arrest of a former city employee, and the passage of a new Subdivision and Land Development Ordinance (SALDO). Six members were present; Councilwoman Wilhelm was absent. Mayor Reynolds joined later in the meeting. Two agenda items were withdrawn at the administration's request. Public Comments & Testimony - Mark Riddle (Executive Director, New Bethany) expressed appreciation for community collaboration regarding the Norfolk Southern situation and urged a short-term solution while pursuing long-term plans. - Harry Faber read a lengthy statement from the Tricontinental Institute, criticizing far-right politics and the Israeli genocide in Gaza. - Brian Hillard (Bethlehem Township resident, officer of STAR) urged the city to find space for homeless neighbors, acknowledging Norfolk Southern's safety concerns but asking for careful regulation of adjacent public spaces. - Mark Weber (water/sewer advocate) urged the city to implement water monitoring apps (e.g., AquaHawk) alongside smart meters, citing potential savings and citing other municipalities' success. - Bill Shire (economist) criticized Trump-era policies on deportations, tariffs, and Federal Reserve pressure, arguing they would increase inflation. - Valerie Noonan expressed solidarity with former city employee Zach Cole Borghi (arrested on cannabis charges) and strongly opposed the Norfolk Southern eviction, calling it a broken promise not to sweep encampments. - Sam (last name not given) echoed opposition to the eviction, stating housing is a human right. - Artie Caratola (resident) complained about the livestream camera angle and discussed homeless veteran issues, suggesting pooled resources for home purchases. - Brandon (Broad Street resident) criticized the city's $30,000 contract with Flock Safety for surveillance cameras, citing privacy concerns. - Stephen Antalix (resident) blamed the city council for the loss of single-family homes through zoning changes and redevelopment policies. - Destiny (college student living in the encampment) described personal struggles, frustration with shelters, and a lack of programs for those without addiction or mental health issues. - Richard Moser asked council to negotiate a later eviction date (beyond December) to avoid winter displacement. - Terry (homeless resident under train tracks) appealed for compassion, stating he works hard and is not a "bum." - Sebastian Zavaruka questioned the stigma and criminal activity narratives used to justify the eviction, noting many encampment residents are long-term Bethlehem residents. - During second public comment (items to be voted on), Joe Paposki (city council candidate) argued that the new SALDO would increase housing costs due to bike path requirements on major subdivisions. Gail DeMolacus countered that sustainable elements in the SALDO are necessary and do not clash with affordability. Discussion Items - Norfolk Southern Encampment Eviction: Councilwoman Leon initiated discussion on the eviction of homeless individuals from Norfolk Southern property. Mayor Reynolds explained that Norfolk Southern set a December 15, 2025 deadline, but the city has long engaged with service providers and community connections. He outlined efforts to gather individual data, explore grants, and push for regional cooperation. Council members raised concerns about daytime services, legal camping sites, and legislative changes. Councilman Quitak noted additional strain on food banks due to federal funding cuts. Chief Cott confirmed ongoing collaboration. - Arrest of Former City Employee Zach Cole Borghi: Solicitor Spurk stated that the arrest was part of a multi-state grand jury investigation, with many documents sealed. He confirmed there is no ongoing investigation of the city or its officials. Mayor Reynolds explained that the employee was terminated on advice of labor counsel. Several council members criticized the administration for not notifying council in advance, citing concerns about transparency and employee morale. Questions were raised about Borghi's hiring, job performance, and access to police records, but specific answers were deferred due to the ongoing investigation. - SALDO (Bill 39-2025): Councilwoman Cramcy Smith asked about the applicability of the new ordinance to pending plans, the definition of "where practical" for tree preservation, and potential cost increases. Planning staff clarified that the SALDO mainly codifies existing practices and is not expected to significantly raise housing costs. Councilwoman Laird inquired about incentives for developers and metrics to track effectiveness. The ordinance passed 6-0. Key Outcomes - Minutes Approved: The minutes from August 19, 2025 were approved without comment. - Bill 41-2025 (Non-Utilities Capital Fund Budget Amendment): Passed 6-0. - Bill 39-2025 (SALDO – Subdivision and Land Development Ordinance): Passed 6-0 after discussion. - Resolution 10A (Workers' Comp Program Management Agreement with Engel, Hambright & Davies): Passed 6-0. - Resolution 10C (Use Permit for Bethlehem Patias One-Year Celebration): Passed 6-0. - Resolutions 10D–10H (Certificates of Appropriateness): Grouped and passed 6-0. - Resolutions 10I and 10J (Certificates for 305 and 307 East Fourth Street): Passed 6-0. - Agenda Items Withdrawn: Communication 6B and Resolution 10B were pulled at the administration's request.
The Bethlehem City Council met on August 19, 2025, at Town Hall. The meeting included the pledge of allegiance, roll call (all members present), approval of minutes from August 5, 2025, public comments, discussion of new and old business, and votes on ordinances and resolutions. Key topics included concerns over residential development, the proposed Subdivision and Land Development Ordinance (SALDO) update, the Martin Tower site, water utility apps, and a seven-story building in the historic district. Public Comments & Testimony - Rebecca Young spoke about a plumber and daycare issues, alleging illegal activities and lack of inspections. She urged council to read her documentation. - Nicole Bonzik (8th Avenue resident) opposed a developer’s plan to demolish a ranch home and build a three-story, six-unit apartment building next to her property. She cited concerns about lot coverage, proximity, tree destruction (a 150-year-old willow), flood risk, and traffic. She noted the project is on the zoning hearing board agenda for August 27. - Mark Will Weber (Citizens Advocate for Water and Sewer) advocated for implementing water usage apps like Aquahawk, noting that other cities use them to save water and prevent high bills. He stated that 20,000 of 37,000 meters have been converted to smart meters. - Diana Rodriguez (315 Frau Street) expressed concern about overdevelopment and environmental impact, especially on the West Side. She criticized the trend of demolishing homes for apartments that are not affordable, citing the Armory redevelopment as an example. She urged council to strengthen the SALDO to require environmental protections. - Artie Curtola (813 Loffer Street) complained about a lack of freedom of speech at ArtsQuest and suggested improving the council chamber layout. He also mentioned winning a court case against a police officer. - Harry Faber commented on the genocide in Gaza, criticized law enforcement selectivity, and praised the climate action plan but argued profit motive hinders water app implementation. - Tim Porcelli (8th Avenue) supported Nicole Bonzik, worried about traffic, quality of life, and loss of single-family homes. - Terry Klober (345 Grandview Boulevard) urged Nicole to keep fighting, discussed her own fight against the Bennett's lot development, and criticized the My Bethlehem app for providing incorrect responses. - Bill Shire (1898 Avenue) recited the Scout pledge, commented on the need for scrutiny of planning commission nominees, and criticized the design of new medical buildings and public sculpture. - Stephen Antalics (737 Ridge) criticized council leadership, calling it a “new low,” and suggested a vote of confidence for the council president. - Bud Hackett expressed concerns that the SALDO updates will raise housing costs and questioned the climate benefits. - Valerie Noonan noted difficulty accessing the existing SALDO online due to broken links and suggested better transparency. - Additional comments from residents on SALDO and other matters. Discussion Items - Martin Tower Site: Councilman Callahan urged the administration to engage the developer to move forward with residential development (currently zoned for 1,085 units, but developer sought 1,700 units and a LERTA tax abatement). He argued that adding units there would relieve pressure on neighborhoods. Councilwoman Laird asked if council could reach out to the developer. The administration stated they communicate regularly but the developer has not presented a new residential plan. - Seven-Story Building in Historic District: Callahan expressed opposition to a proposed seven-story building in the Historic District (HARB area), noting that HARB members are against it. The administration acknowledged the project is in design review and encouraged the developer to consider stepbacks and architectural features. - Water Utility Apps: Councilwoman Laird asked about the status of smart meters (20,000 out of 37,000 installed) and the possibility of implementing a consumer-facing app. Director Boscola said they are evaluating platforms, with startup costs around $100,000 and ongoing costs under $100,000 per year. He indicated a goal to include funding in the next budget. - My Bethlehem App: Residents reported receiving incorrect responses. The administration explained the app routes requests to departments, but direct answers are not always provided. Council encouraged follow-up with the police chief. - SALDO Update: The council discussed the proposed SALDO, which includes environmental provisions. Councilwoman Laird raised questions about enforcement, tree protection, and incentives. The council voted 7-0 to postpone final passage to the September 2, 2025 meeting, to allow more time for questions and public input. - Development Trends: Councilwoman Crampsy Smith expressed concern about the trend of demolishing single-family homes for rental apartments, which she said are not affordable. She asked about the administration’s vision. The administration noted the need for more housing supply and cited the Opening Doors plan and affordable housing projects like the Gateway project (120 units, two-thirds affordable) and the Choice Neighborhoods project. - Encampments: Crampsy Smith and Leon discussed the homeless encampment along the canal, asking about services and early opening of the shelter. The administration said they are working with service providers and that the shelter is limited by zoning conditions. No immediate plans to open early. Key Outcomes - Approved Minutes: Minutes from August 5, 2025, were approved without objection. - SALDO Postponed: The final reading of Bill 39-2025 (SALDO) was postponed to September 2, 2025, by a vote of 7-0. - Passed Ordinances and Resolutions (all passed 7-0): - Bill 40-2025: Amending the general fund budget for 2025. - Bill 41-2025: Amending the non-utility capital fund budget for 2025. - Resolution 10A: Authorizing a change order with Great Western Services Inc. (increase of $128,253 for trench restoration). - Resolution 10B: Transferring $85,000 for West Fourth Street sidewalk improvements. - Resolution 10C: Approving a use permit for ArtsQuest’s Octoberfest (October 3-5 and 10-12, 2025). - Resolution 10D: Adopting Palmer Township’s Act 537 sewage plan update, redirecting flow from 165 residential units to Bethlehem’s treatment plant. - Resolution 10E: Authorizing a grant application for Getter Street sidewalk and ADA ramp improvements ($340,625). - Next Steps: The SALDO will be discussed further at the September 2, 2025 council meeting. The zoning hearing board will hear the 8th Avenue project on August 27, 2025. The administration will follow up on broken links on the city website and water app implementation details.
The Bethlehem City Council met on August 5, 2025, to discuss a range of items including a contested appointment to the Planning Commission, the first reading of a major update to the Subdivision and Land Development Ordinance (SALDO), budget adjustments, and routine approvals. Public comments addressed Music Fest logistics, traffic issues, and concerns about conflicts of interest on city boards. Public Comments & Testimony - Mr. Shire (1898 Avenue) complained about noise from the Musikfest festival interfering with the meeting and parking difficulties, suggesting future meetings be moved or canceled. He also read quotes from federal judges on immigration cases. - Mr. Italix criticized the conversion of Linden Street to two-way traffic, arguing it was not done in pair with Center Street as originally made one-way in 1967, accusing council of a failure of oversight. - Mr. Kerr (self-described international peace activist) discussed a range of topics including the need for peace in Palestine, praised the Bethlehem police force, and announced his candidacy for mayor, vowing to take no salary and address issues with the Parking Authority, ArtsQuest, homelessness, and waste. - Mr. Shire (second comment) spoke about the tension between expertise and personal relationships on boards and commissions, using his experience with the Planning Commission and the Boyd Apartments project as an example. - Chris Barwelson (520 E Laurel St) asked for highlights of the new ordinance 9A (SALDO) changes. - Joe Daniels (829 Broadway) expressed strong opposition to the appointment of a realtor to the Planning Commission, citing potential conflicts of interest with developers and luxury developments. He posed multiple questions about the appointee's qualifications, safeguards, and alignment with equitable development goals, urging council to reconsider or delay the appointment. Discussion Items - Appointment to Planning Commission: Mayor Reynolds appointed Richard Pongratz to the Planning Commission. Council debated the appointment due to Pongratz's profession as a realtor. Councilwoman Cramsey Smith and Councilman Callahan opposed, citing a high likelihood of conflicts of interest and the mayor's acceptance of a $15,500 donation from the Realtors Association during his campaign. Councilwoman Quitek, Laird, Leon, and Cologne supported the appointment, noting Pongratz's degree in urban planning, community involvement, and the planning commission's limited authority as a recommending body. A motion to table failed 2-5. The appointment passed 5-1, with Councilman Callahan recusing himself. - New Ordinance 9A (SALDO): First reading of a comprehensive update to the Subdivision and Land Development Ordinance, replacing the 1975 version. Council discussed provisions for tree protection (forester recommendations), fees in lieu of street widening, and the inclusion of detailed definitions. Councilwoman Laird asked about requiring landscaping materials in plans. Councilwoman Quitek inquired about the rationale for the overhaul and the addition of definitions. Public input opportunities included multiple planning commission meetings since 2021. The ordinance passed 7-0 on first reading; a second reading is scheduled in two weeks. - Ordinance 9B (Budget Adjustment): Amended the general fund budget to reflect a state reimbursement of $84,195 for bomb squad services related to fireworks, to be used for an X-ray system and ballistic vests/plates. The adjustment increased the general fund budget from $112,983,162 to $113,067,357. Passed 7-0. - Resolutions 10A and 10B: Approved amendments to civil service rules for promotion to police lieutenant (recommended by the Civil Service Board) and authorized the mayor to apply for a $1 million Main Street Matters grant from the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development for the Gateway on Fourth project. Both passed 7-0. - Certificates of Appropriateness (10C-10G): Granted for five historic properties: 453 Main Street (rear wall repair), 418 N New Street (roof replacement), 23 E Church Street (roof and metal hood replacement), 400 Main Street (bell tower balusters at Central Moravian Church), and 14-412 Heckwelder Place (entrance steps). All passed 7-0. Key Outcomes - Richard Pongratz appointed to the Planning Commission (5-1, 1 recusal). - First reading of the new SALDO ordinance (9A) passed 7-0; second reading scheduled for the next meeting. - Budget adjustment for bomb squad equipment approved (7-0). - Grant application for $1 million Main Street Matters authorized (7-0). - Civil service rule changes for police lieutenant promotions approved (7-0). - Five certificates of appropriateness for historic properties granted (7-0).