Council Minutes
January 16, 2007 Meeting Minutes
BETHLEHEM CITY COUNCIL MEETING
10 East Church Street – Town Hall
Bethlehem, Pennsylvania
Tuesday, January 16, 2007 – 7:30 PM
1. INVOCATION
2. PLEDGE TO THE FLAG
3. ROLL CALL
Acting President Joseph F. Leeson, Jr. called the meeting
to order. Pastor Mario Corado of Templo El Refugio offered
the invocation which was followed by the pledge to the flag.
Present were Jean Belinski, Karen Dolan, Robert J. Donchez,
Joseph F. Leeson, Jr., Gordon B. Mowrer, and Magdalena F.
Szabo, 6. President J. Michael Schweder was absent, 1.
Public Hearing – Liquor License Transfer Request -
1427 Marvine Street
Prior to consideration of the regular Agenda items, Acting
President Leeson called to order a Public Hearing on a request
for an Intermunicipal Transfer of Liquor License Number R-5834
owned by Groff Real Estate Investments, formerly owned by
Soul Imperial, Inc., formerly licensed to conduct business
at 2447 Freemansburg Avenue, Wilson Borough, Easton, Northampton
County, Pennsylvania to 1427 Marvine Street, Inc., 1427 Marvine
Street, Bethlehem, Northampton County, Pennsylvania.
Attorney Theodore Zeller, representing 1427 Marvine Street,
Inc., stated it is an entity formed to operate a restaurant
at 1427 Marvine Street called Steel City Pub that will be
an American cuisine restaurant and tavern. Attorney Zeller
continued on to say this is the former site of the Democratic
Club that is immediately adjacent to Just Born Candy company.
Attorney Zeller distributed to the Members of Council a map,
simple site plan, and photographs of the inside and outside.
Attorney Zeller notified the assembly that the principal of
1427 Marvine Street, Ron Stauffer, is present this evening.
He is the sole owner who recently purchased the real estate,
and will lease it to the entity 1427 Marvine Street, Inc.
that will operate a restaurant liquor license. Attorney Zeller
informed the Members that the property has operated for nearly
60 years as a liquor license facility with a C license that
is a Club license, and was restricted to club members. Under
the present plan, it will be open to the public. Attorney
Zeller noted that immediately behind the facility is Just
Born Candy company, to the left is a motorcycle shop, and
across the street are apartment complexes. Attorney Zeller
advised the Members that his client plans to be open seven
days a week, Mondays through Thursdays from 11:00 a.m. to
12:00 Midnight, Fridays and Saturdays from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00
a.m., and Sundays from 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Attorney Zeller,
acknowledging there are many other regulations that will have
to be complied with, noted it will be a simple restaurant
tavern, it will have an amusement permit, and entertainment
is projected to be limited to Friday and Saturday nights.
His client plans to stay within the current confines of the
occupancy rating of 148. There are approximately 50 to 60
parking spots on site, and it is not believed that parking
will be a problem. The liquor license that was purchased was
formerly located in Wilson Borough where the facility was
closed by District Attorney Morganelli, the bank foreclosed
on the property, a real estate developer bid for the property
and license at the sheriff’s sale, obtained the equitable
title, and Attorney Zeller’s client entered into an
agreement with the bidder for the license only. Attorney Zeller,
stressing there is no affiliation with his client and the
former operator in Wilson Borough, explained this is in essence
a rescued license that is requested to be moved into the City
of Bethlehem to a site that has been licensed for 60 years
by the PLCB (Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board), and there
is a change in the classification of the license from a C
or Club License to a R or Restaurant license.
Mr. Mowrer asked what kind of entertainment is proposed.
Ronald Stauffer, 2124 Stefko Boulevard, responding it would
be a one or two piece band, noted there is a very small stage
area, and advised the entertainment would be Friday and Saturday
nights.
Ms. Dolan, denoting there are regulations regarding locations
that serve alcohol and their distance from schools, observed
that Lincoln, Marvine and Northeast Schools are nearby.
Mr. Stauffer stated they are all probably at least a mile
away. Attorney Zeller expressed his belief that the PLCB regulation
is 500 feet. Ms. Dolan requested verification by the next
City Council Meeting. Attorney Zeller, affirming that the
application was forwarded to the City Clerk’s Office,
confirmed that if there were any churches, hospitals, or schools
within a 500 foot radius they would have been listed. Attorney
Zeller commented the information requested would be researched.
Mr. Stauffer pointed out there is a lawn mower repair shop
on Stefko Boulevard, and at the next traffic light past Strauss
Motors at Stefko Shopping Center one would make a left turn
and that is where Lincoln School is located at least three
or four blocks away.
Acting President Leeson asked that a supplemental letter
be submitted in response to Ms. Dolan’s inquiry to the
City Clerk’s Office.
Mr. Mowrer questioned whether Just Born Candy company has
been contacted about the plans.
Mr. Stauffer, replying no, said the party to the one side
is a motorcycle shop that is aware of the plans. Mr. Stauffer
explained that the site is at the back end of Just Born Candy
company where the company manufacturing and delivery trucks
are located.
Mr. Mowrer explained he is curious as to how Just Born Candy
company feels in light of its program for the future.
Mr. Stauffer, restating he has not talked to anyone from
Just Born Candy company, affirmed the location has been a
bar for 60 years, and nothing is being changed other than
being open to the public.
Citizen Comment
Edwin Rodriquez, 1845 Linden Street, observed there is a
lot of drug activity in the area in question, and a long time
ago at Marvine Street and Pembroke Road stabbings and murders
had been dealt with. Mr. Rodriquez thought to start something
there again, especially liquor, is a bad idea. Mr. Rodriquez
encouraged the Members to think about the proposal more and
get the real details as to activities in the immediate area.
Dana Grubb, 2420 Henderson Place, asked what happened to
the Club license, and when it left the location.
Attorney Zeller expressed it was placed in escrow by the
club members. Mr. Stauffer responded the club operated until
December 7, 2006.
Mr. Grubb queried how the Police Department feels about the
plans, and whether this is an appropriate venue for their
comments, or whether they would comment in some other way
about a liquor license coming into the City. Mr. Grubb, recalling
he has spoken in the past about the number of liquor licenses
coming into the City, wondered at what point there is a sufficient
number and concentration of liquor licenses in the City. Mr.
Grubb explained it is a concern of his overall and has nothing
to do with the specific proposal. In response to Mr. Grubb,
Acting President Leeson noted that any party can comment on
the proposal, and City Council is open to input from any source.
Robert Pfenning, 2830 Linden Street, expressed his belief
that according to the liquor law the receiving municipality
should consider how the license would impact the health and
welfare of the community. Mr. Pfenning said he has not heard
yet this evening how the license would improve the health
and welfare of the community. Mr. Pfenning thought that issue
is supposed to be looked at, and said hopefully Council will
consider that.
William Scheirer, 1890 Eaton Avenue, asking has a notice
been posted outside the premises, asserted that a notice to
the neighborhood should not go up after a decision is made
but rather before. Mr. Scheirer asked if it is within the
law for a notice to be posted on the premises so the neighborhood
knows about the plans. Mr. Scheirer said he has no particular
comments on the merits of the License but rather on the process.
Continuing on to say there might be some associations or churches
that should be notified, Mr. Scheirer requested that it be
posted before a decision is made, and added do not leave it
up to the PLCB because they are not familiar with Bethlehem.
Acting President Leeson stated the appropriate Resolution
will be placed on the February 6 City Council Agenda for consideration.
Attorney Zeller, advising his client is the owner of Bethlehem
Windows who has been a resident and businessman in the City
of Bethlehem, stated his client has absolutely no intent with
regard to letting wayward souls into the bar for illicit purposes,
and the hours of operation speak to the type of facility.
Attorney Zeller affirmed when they apply to the PLCB there
is a large orange placard that will be posted, and the residents
in the surrounding community are free to protest and be heard
through the PLCB process at the hearing. Attorney Zeller confirmed
that, according to 461 b 3 of the Liquor Code, one has to
find that the license would be detrimental to the health,
welfare, and morals of the community as opposed to finding
it is going to be in the interests of the health, welfare,
and morals of the community. He continued on to say if there
is no testimony taken with some specific objection to the
health, welfare, and morals of the community then there is
no choice but to approve it.
Ms. Szabo, apologizing for being out of the room when the
discussion started, questioned whether the orange placard
will be placed on the premises now so that the neighbors can
see what is proposed and would still have time to comment.
Acting President Leeson, while affirming there is no legal
obligation, asked if Attorney Zeller’s client would
be willing to post the orange placard within the next 48 hours
with a supplemental notice indicating that City Council will
consider the matter on February 6.
Attorney Zeller advised it would be in violation of PLCB
regulations to post the placard now because it cannot be posted
until the application is filed, and the application cannot
be filed until a Resolution is obtained. Attorney Zeller said
he would have no problem posting the notice for the next City
Council Meeting. Acting President Leeson asked that some type
of notice be posted on the building indicting the matter is
pending, and that the vote is to occur at the next City Council
Meeting on February 6. Attorney Zeller indicated his agreement.
The Public Hearing was adjourned at 8:00 p.m.
4. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
The Minutes of January 2, 2007 were approved.
5. COURTESY OF THE FLOOR (for public comment on ordinances
and resolutions to be voted on by Council this evening)
Acting President Leeson, announcing that a motion will be
entertained later to add two Resolutions to approve a Federal
Aid Reimbursement Agreement for the Lynn Avenue Bridge Replacement,
and to approve Reimbursement for Training of Police Officers,
explained that any citizen could address City Council on these
matters at this time.
6. OLD BUSINESS
Lowe’s Activities – Eighth Avenue
Mrs. Belinski read from a letter December 20, 2006 sent
by Robert Williams of Stanford Road concerning problems associated
with Lowe’s from trucks idling in the early morning
hours, noise after closing hours from industrial vacuum cleaners,
and lighting until 11:30 p.m. Mr. Williams expressed his belief
that Council would act on behalf of the residents to assure
that illegal activities cease. Mrs. Belinski further related
that following an on-site inspection around the time of Thanksgiving
2006 Mr. Williams asked Tracy Samuelson of the Planning Bureau
if the weeds that were 2-3 feet high were going to be taken
care of, in addition to the planting of trees for a buffer
but was told by Ms. Samuelson that she was not at the site
to take care of those matters. Mrs. Belinski asked if money
is being held in escrow until there is proper completion of
development-related items.
Tony Hanna, Director of Community and Economic Development,
advised he would get back with a response, and asked for a
copy of Mr. Willliams’ letter.
Acting President Leeson requested that Mr. Hanna contact Mrs.
Belinski concerning the matter, and stated that the status
of the escrow related to the project will be part of the response.
Acting President Leeson affirmed he was on-site at the request
of several of the neighbors and there is a problem with vegetation
and non-compliance. Acting President Leeson asked that a report
be provided by the next City Council Meeting. Acting President
Leeson continued on to say he would like to see the escrow
held until the problems are resolved satisfactorily.
7. COMMUNICATIONS
A. Director of Public Works – Lynn Avenue Bridge Replacement
– Supplemental Federal Aid Reimbursement Agreement
The Clerk read a memorandum dated December 20, 2006 from
Michael Alkhal, Director of Public Works, to which was attached
a proposed Resolution required by the Pennsylvania Department
of Transportation for Supplemental Federal Aid Bridge Project
Agreement 050008-B that will increase the funds available
for preliminary engineering costs for the Lynn Avenue Bridge
Replacement project. The City will be reimbursed 95% of these
costs and the maximum reimbursement will be increased from
$213,750 to $285,000. This agreement will again be supplemented
as needed to include reimbursement costs for final design,
right-of-way acquisition, utility relocation, and construction.
Acting President Leeson stated that the authorizing Resolution
will be added to this evening’s Agenda.
B. Superintendent of Water Supply and Treatment – Water
Service Agreement – City of Bethlehem and Utilities,
Inc. - Westgate
The Clerk read a memorandum dated January 12, 2007 from Jeffrey
A. Andrews, Superintendent, Water Supply and Treatment, to
which was attached a proposed Resolution and Water Service
Agreement between the City of Bethlehem and Utilities, Inc.
– Westgate to allow the City to begin providing water
in bulk for a fee to Westgate for all regular customer uses.
Acting President Leeson referred to the matter to the Public
Works Committee.
Acting President Leeson asked the Clerk to read additional
Communication 7 C into the record.
C. Commissioner of Police - Reimbursement for Training Police
Officers
The Clerk read a memorandum dated January 16, 2007 from Randall
P. Miller, Police Commissioner, requesting consideration of
a Resolution necessary for the City to receive reimbursement
from the State for 60% of the salaries of Officers John Casella,
Nicholas Lechman, Joshua Schnalzer, Jason Holschwander, Greg
Huff, and Gregory Yerk for the 20 weeks they will be attending
the Allentown Police Academy.
Acting President Leeson stated that the authorizing Resolution
will be added to this evening’s Agenda.
8 . REPORTS
A. President of Council
1. Councilmanic Appointment – Patrick Herrity –
Recreation Commission
President Schweder reappointed Patrick Herrity to membership
on the Recreation Commission, effective until December 2011.
Mr. Donchez and Mrs. Belinski sponsored Resolution 14,988
to confirm the appointment.
Voting AYE: Mrs. Belinski, Ms. Dolan, Mr. Donchez, Mr. Mower,
Ms. Szabo, and Mr. Leeson, 6. The Resolution passed.
B. Mayor
None.
9. ORDINANCES FOR FINAL PASSAGE
None.
10. NEW ORDINANCES
None.
11. RESOLUTIONS
Motion – Adding Resolutions 11 A and 11 B
Mrs. Belinski and Mr. Donchez moved to add Resolutions 11
A and 11 B to the Agenda. Voting AYE: Mrs. Belinski, Ms. Dolan,
Mr. Donchez, Mr. Mowrer, Ms. Szabo, and Mr. Leeson, 6. The
motion passed.
A. Authorizing Supplemental Federal Aid Reimbursement Agreement
– Lynn Avenue Bridge Replacement
Mr. Donchez and Ms. Szabo sponsored Resolution 14,989 that
authorized the execution of a Supplemental Federal Aid Bridge
Project Agreement between the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania,
acting through the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation,
and the City of Bethlehem for the Lynn Avenue Bridge, according
to the terms of the Agreement.
Voting AYE: Mrs. Belinski, Ms. Dolan, Mr. Donchez, Mr. Mower,
Ms. Szabo, and Mr. Leeson, 6. The Resolution passed.
B. Requesting Reimbursement – Training of Police Officers
Mr. Donchez and Mrs. Belinski sponsored Resolution 14,990
that authorized the City to obtain reimbursement of monies
for expenses incurred for Officers John Casella, Nicholas
Lechman, Joshua Schnalzer, Jason Holschwander, Greg Huff,
and Gregory Yerk pursuant to the training provisions of the
Municipal Police Officers’ Education and Training Act,
and agreeing that while receiving funds from the Commonwealth
pursuant to the Act, the City shall adhere to the rules established
by the Commission.
Voting AYE: Mrs. Belinski, Ms. Dolan, Mr. Donchez, Mr. Mower,
Ms. Szabo, and Mr. Leeson, 6. The Resolution passed.
12. NEW BUSINESS
Committee Meeting Announcement
Chairman Mowrer announced a Public Works Committee meeting
on January 22 at 4:15 p.m. on the water service agreement
with Utilities, Inc.-Westgate.
Broughal Middle School - Preservation
Ms. Dolan commended Mrs. Belinski for conducting a radio
interview with Thomas Hilton, from Pottstown, Pennsylvania,
author of Save Our Land, Save Our Town, and for providing
a transcript of the interview concerning the preservation
of Broughal Middle School. Ms. Dolan stated that Council needs
to know what their role will eventually be regarding the preservation
efforts.
Intermunicipal Liquor License Transfers
Acting President Leeson pointed out an interesting observation
was made earlier about how the sense of the community is to
be obtained concerning Intermunicipal Liquor License Transfer
requests if the citizens do not know it is to be voted on.
Affirming that after City Council votes on the Resolution
it is advanced to the PLCB, Acting President Leeson noted
if there are community issues then City Council would have
the opportunity to stop it before it gets to the PLCB. Acting
President Leeson asked Chairwoman Szabo to add as a discussion
item for the Community Development Committee a requirement
that the applicant pay for notices to be sent by the City
to neighbors within a certain radius so they know that a liquor
license transfer request is pending and can come to the hearing
before Council to make their concerns known.
In response to Ms. Szabo, Christopher Spadoni, City Council
Solicitor, affirmed that posting a placard is a PLCB requirement,
it may not be posted until the application is filed, and the
application cannot be filed until there is approval from the
receiving municipality. Further advising that the law has
changed, Attorney Spadoni pointed out the standard now is
that City Council may approve a liquor license transfer request,
as opposed to the former wording of shall approve. Ms. Szabo
explained she meant to say a posting to inform neighbors that
the matter is pending before City Council. Attorney Spadoni,
noting that Attorney Zeller did acquiesce in that concern,
expressed the hope that the posting would be conspicuous in
its size.
Ms. Dolan communicated there should be consistency for all
geographic locations in the City when it is requested that
someone who wants to bring a liquor license into the community
post a sign to inform neighbors that the matter is pending
before City Council. Ms. Dolan queried what could be done
in terms of the City Ordinances that is within the City’s
right under Third Class City Code.
13. COURTESY OF THE FLOOR
Intermunicipal Liquor License Transfers
William Scheirer, 1890 Eaton Avenue, commented that what
Ms. Dolan had expressed in terms of intermunicipal liquor
license transfers is what he had in mind.
Broughal Middle School - Preservation
Mr. Scheirer said last week the Bethlehem Citizens Association
approved unanimously that any structure in the City eligible
for inclusion on the National Register for Historic Places
shall not be demolished without the permission of City Council.
Mr. Scheirer related that, at a meeting of the Bethlehem Area
School District Facilities Committee, it was learned that,
if a new school is built along Morton Street and the present
Broughal School remains, there will still be an area equivalent
to one-third of a football field, and removing an addition
built in the 1950’s would create more space. Mr. Scheirer
thought this would be enough for physical education. He added
that a regulation size football field does not need to be
behind a middle school. Mr. Scheirer, communicating he does
not understand why Dr. Lewis feels a regulation size athletic
field is critical, observed the football team could be bussed
somewhere else for practices. Mr. Scheirer thought a reason
might be because there is a vision of a new school with a
full-sized athletic field behind it as good as or better than
any other middle school in Bethlehem, and retaining an old
school at the site does not carry the same aesthetic appeal.
Mr. Scheirer stressed that the demolition of Broughal Middle
School, a remarkable structure that was the former Bethlehem
High School in South Bethlehem, should not be allowed to happen,
and the South Side deserves to have the marvelous building.
Amey Senape, a representative of the Friends of Broughal
School, requested that the City of Bethlehem take a proactive
stance on the possible demolition of Broughal Middle School.
She stressed that the decision by the Bethlehem Area School
District (BASD) to demolish this National Register-eligible
historic structure is not in the best interests of the community
and is incongruent with Bethlehem's reputation as a State
leader in adaptive reuse. Highlightiung the fact that in 1962
the City of Bethlehem created the first Historic District
Ordinance in Pennsylvania, Ms. Senape pointed out that vision
allowed Bethlehem to become a shining example of how adaptive
reuse of historic structures can help revitalize communities
and increase property values. She added that the City has
shown great patience and leadership regarding the redevelopment
of the former Bethlehem Steel site. Ms. Senape stressed that
the community is faced with the impending loss of prominent
local architect A. W. Leh's 1917 Broughal School that is slated
for demolition not for a new school building but rather for
athletic fields. Ms. Senape asserted that the BASD has clearly
indicated they are not willing to pursue or entertain the
thought of all viable alternatives, even though many citizens
of the community have urged them do so, and despite the Department
of Education's own guidelines that recommend such a course
of action. She asserted that approval of demolition of this
significant building against the Pennsylvania Historic and
Museum Commission recommendations and without exhausting all
possible attempts for adaptive reuse should cause all taxpayers
and citizens of Bethlehem concern. Explaining that several
years ago the Hazleton Area School District was prepared to
demolish historic Hazleton High School, Ms. Senape informed
the assembly that the community appealed to the City's leadership,
and the Mayor of Hazleton refused to issue a demolition permit.
Ultimately, the School District changed their stance and decided
to rehabilitate the historic structure for an elementary school.
Ms. Senape implored City Council and the Administration to
take an active role to intervene in the Broughal situation
by refusing to grant the necessary permits until all viable
options, such as a request for proposal to private developers,
have been thoroughly pursued. Ms. Senape stressed that citizens
deserve a broad, exhaustive search before a piece of their
heritage is destroyed.
Mr. Mowrer recounted he has been listening to the arguments
concerning retaining Broughal Middle School for about a year,
and noted he is personally against demolishing it. Mr. Mowrer
asked has the decision been made to demolish it, and can there
be nothing done about it. He further asked what legal rights
City Council has to do anything.
Mr. Hanna expressed his belief that the Bethlehem Area School
District has made the decision with the plans. Mr. Hanna further
stated the Planning Commission has approved the plan, part
of which includes demolition of the Broughal Middle School
building. Mr. Hanna advised that no application has been made
for a demolition permit.
Acting President Leeson inquired whether John F. Spirk, Jr.,
Esq., City Solicitor, has any thoughts on Mr. Mowrer’s
question about what legal rights City Council has to do anything.
Attorney Spirk noted the School District as property owner
would come before the City to obtain a building permit and
a demolition permit that is something they have a legal right
to do on their property. While pointing out he has not researched
the matter, Attorney Spirk observed there seems to be nothing
as far as a significant role the City could play to block
it.
Ms. Szabo stressed this is not just a question of historic
preservation since at every meeting suggestions have been
offered as to what the Broughal Middle School building could
be used for. Pointing out that in view of all the residential
construction in the community the student population will
be increasing greatly, and more space will be needed for an
elementary school as is needed now, Ms. Szabo stressed the
same will occur with the middle schools. She observed that
in the near future taxpayers will be faced with building a
new school on the South Side. Ms. Szabo exemplified that,
as occurred with the City’s industrial quarter on which
millions of dollars had to be spent on refurbishment, questioned
why millions of dollars should be spent in the future when
the building could be preserved today.
Mr. Mowrer commented that if the City has no legal rights
in this matter then it should not be involved, but if it does
have legal rights and wants to take them then something should
be done before it happens. Mr. Mowrer, expressing his philosophy
that the School Board is the responsible party and the City
should normally not interfere, restated he has a special interest
in the matter, although he wants to know if Council has any
legal rights or not.
Mrs. Belinski, highlighting the fact that before demolition
of a historic building can occur there must be review of every
avenue to reuse the building in some way, pointed out the
School District has not done so. Mrs. Belinski related that
at a School District meeting on January 8 scheduled to start
at 6:00 p.m. citizens had to wait until 6:45 p.m. and were
told by Mr. Amato that all the citizens who wanted to speak
would be allowed 15 minutes in total. Mrs. Belinski remarked
that although the City’s recreational facilities on
the South Side include football and soccer fields at Saucon
Park, and basketball courts at Yosko Park, children instead
are inside playing computer games. Mrs. Belinski stressed
that, despite a continuing decline in sports, the School District
wants to sacrifice a beautiful, historic building so that
a football field can be built at the site. Mrs. Belinski,
referring to comments made by Mr. Hilton, exemplified that
a school district in the State built a magnet school with
a large number of students and experienced many discipline
problems. Mrs. Belinski further pointed out that Broughal
Middle School is the only one in the community that meets
the Federal guidelines for No Child Left Behind meaning it
has the perfect setup. She added that the acoustics in the
auditorium are perfect, and the gymnasium is probably the
best of all the schools. Mrs. Belinski, expressing it was
her prediction, commented it was announced at the January
8 School District meeting that its master plan is to build
a new Nitschmann School.
Michael Kramer, on behalf of the Friends of Broughal School,
said it is his understanding that the decision has not been
made officially, although in the minds of the School District
the decision was made a long time ago. Communicating that
for the greater community the group would like to see both
the School District and the City working together, Mr. Kramer
thought perhaps in this instance the School District is not
exactly doing the best for the community and so the group
is asking Council to get involved. Mr. Kramer informed the
assembly that The Friends of Broughal School are opposed to
the demolition of the National Register-eligible Broughal
School without thoroughly exhausting all possible avenues
to rehabilitate it for a new use. Mr. Kramer said since the
Bethlehem Area School District's search for a new use of the
structure was exceptionally narrow, the group is asking the
City to intervene to avoid losing an important part of the
community. Mr. Kramer advised that, specifically, The Friends
of Broughal wish to clarify the Bethlehem City Code regarding
BASD's "New Broughal School" project. BASD's project
documents include the demolition of the existing school as
a part of the overall project of building a new school and
athletic fields, with demolition planned for 18-24 months
after the start of construction of the new building. Mr. Kramer
advised the group formally requests a written determination
whether the City of Bethlehem will view the demolition of
Broughal Middle School as part of the new school construction
process allowed under a building permit or if a separate demolition
permit will be required to demolish the current structure.
Mr. Kramer asked to what office should the group’s request
be given and who will be responsible for answering the questions.
Acting President Leeson suggested the request could be delivered
to the City Clerk who will copy the Members of Council, and
that a copy be delivered to the Mayor’s Office. Mr.
Leeson informed Mr. Kramer he can follow up with any Member
of Council or the Mayor’s Office.
Mary Pongracz, 321 West Fourth Street, thanked City Council
for being polite and willing to listen to what people have
to say. Ms. Pongracz stressed she was insulted at the School
District’s meeting that was referenced by Mrs. Belinski.
Ms. Pongracz pointed out that Broughal Middle School was
the first high school in the City of Bethlehem that is a stunning
piece of architecture. Ms. Pongracz, noting that the Members
of Council represent the citizens of Bethlehem, said it is
Council’s duty to do something about keeping a building
that is of historical value to every one in the City. She
continued on to stress that a building is living history,
history cannot be replaced, and to tear down the building
is to tear down the soul of the community. Ms. Pongracz wondered
who is making money on a decision to demolish the building.
Ms. Pongracz highlighted the fact that a member of the School
Board had stated that a building has to be brought to the
poor relatives on the South Side and give them something beautiful
as on the North Side. Ms. Pongracz stressed that the South
Side deserves to have their history and that of the City of
Bethlehem preserved.
Jason Slipp, 64 Lechauwecki Avenue, Fountain Hill, echoed
comments of previous speakers about the negative environment
of the referenced January 8 School District meeting. Mr. Slipp,
focusing on asbestos and lead levels at Broughal Middle School,
related he had asked Mr. Amato whether any remediation studies
were done about the demolition and was told nothing had been
done yet. Mr. Slipp observed the analysis did not contain
information about the environmental impacts of lead and asbestos.
Speed Bumps – Fountain Hill
Mr. Slipp inquired how he could request speed bumps on his
street located in Fountain Hill. Acting President Leeson informed
Mr. Slipp he would have to contact Fountain Hill officials.
Broughal Middle School - Preservation
Dana Grubb, 2420 Henderson Place, noting that some communities
require that their City Council approve demolition permits
on properties eligible for listing on the National Register,
suggested that City Council and the Administration consider
pursuing such legislation. Mr. Grubb pointed out that such
legislation would protect any structure in the City eligible
for listing on the National Register. Mr. Grubb, expressing
his opinion that the Bethlehem Area School District has not
sought adaptive reuses for the Broughal School building and
took a very limited scope for potential reuse of the building,
commented if the preservation of the building takes place
that is the ultimate goal. Mr. Grubb, observing that Lehigh
University was not interested in the building, suggested that
an RFP be issued to find out whether private developers are
interested. Mr. Grubb, pointing out there are many options
that citizens who have attended the School District meetings
have not seen pursued, thought if legislation were to be passed
then the City could demand of the School District or any other
developer in the City that certain requirements be met before
a demolition permit is granted in an effort to preserve historic
properties in the City.
Casino Revenues
Robert Pfenning, 2830 Linden Street, communicated that Northampton
County officials have indicated that since the City of Bethlehem
will receive money as a result of the casino project planned
for the South Side the City does not need any more money for
the Commerce Center project. He further noted that at a Finance
committee meeting of the School Board, a representative of
the City of Bethlehem presented the LERTA tax abatement program
for ratification but the School District questioned why it
should give up tax revenue for the City when the City will
have gambling revenues. Mr. Pfenning, pointing out it is a
recurring theme, stressed it now appears that some of the
other governmental agencies and others who have worked with
the City in the past on economic development and other issues
are now saying they do not have to help the City any more.
Expressing the hope that City officials can explain to the
agencies there are other costs and other issues, Mr. Pfenning
remarked otherwise the City will not receive the concurrence
of various agencies for its LERTA program, and stressed it
is something that City officials should be addressing.
Various Issues
Edwin Rodriquez, 1845 Linden Street, informing the assembly
he was attacked by his son due to a drug-addicted state, stressed
that so many drugs are affecting the community. Mr. Rodriquez
thought that Broughal Middle School should be allowed to expand,
rather than be demolished, because it is a part of the community
and how children are raised and educated is very important.
Turning to the Marvine and Pembroke neighborhoods, Mr. Rodriquez
observed a lot of things happening all over the City affect
that neighborhood and communicated one would not want to bring
back something that has already been disposed of. Pointing
out the Parking Authority and developers have land, Mr. Rodriquez
thought Council Members should do something about the land.
Mr. Rodriquez stressed that, as he has stated over the past
two years, the issue of drug dealing must be addressed to
turn the community around.
Broughal Middle School
Dean Bruch, 555 Spring Street, agreed that from the outside
Broughal Middle School is a very interesting structure. Mr.
Bruch said he attended School Board meetings often in the
past and their attitude has not changed. He added that if
a citizen talks about an issue not previously addressed then
the School Board will allow 15 minutes for public comment
as opposed to 5 minutes. Turning to historic buildings, Mr.
Bruch communicated if a building is used for something that
will bring in revenue he would not object to saving it. Mr.
Bruch remarked that a large football field is not needed and
the players could go elsewhere. Mr. Bruch thought Bethlehem
can expect that school district enrollment will increase.
Mr. Bruch stated if surrounding areas are affected by different
things it will slowly come to Bethlehem.
Ms. Szabo informed Mr. Bruch that speakers were only allowed
3 minutes per person
Mrs. Belinski, explaining there are “ringers”
who address the School Board at its meetings, notified Mr.
Bruch that is probably why citizens do not bother to come
to the meetings.
Intermunicipal Liquor License Transfers
Dave Sanders, 69 East Goepp Street, expressed his agreement
with notifying neighbors of a pending liquor license transfer
request. Affirming he is a Bethlehem Housing Authority member,
Mr. Sanders said comments made should not be used as excuses
for denying the license. Mr. Sanders stated that the Bethlehem
Housing Authority does not have a serious drug problem. Adding
that a Police Substation is located approximately four blocks
from the proposed restaurant discussed at the Public Hearing
this evening, Mr. Sanders observed that residents of the Bethlehem
Housing Authority may like to use the restaurant with their
families. He advised in the past there were four bars on Pembroke
Road. Mr. Sanders pointed out the Bethlehem Housing Authority
along with the Boys Club conducts a golf program for more
than 300 youth, and there is a computer program at the Fink
building. Mr. Sanders highlighted the fact that the individual
applying for the license has a business on Stefko Boulevard
and one can look at his good reputation.
Broughal Middle School - Preservation
Stephen Antalics, 737 Ridge Street, informed the assembly
he was at the Bethlehem Area School Board meeting earlier
this evening. Mr. Antalics expressed his opinion that it is
a case of the will of one person, the Superintendent of Schools,
versus the general public, and there are two members of the
School Board who represent the citizens and seven who do not.
Consequently, Mr. Antalics explained the citizens in desperation
are before City of Bethlehem officials who he said should
be as equally concerned with their welfare as the School Board.
Mr. Antalics, stressing it is a citizens issue as opposed
to a legal issue, asserted that City officials should become
involved on any level they can and be behind the citizens
as much as the School Board is not behind them. Mr. Antalics
affirmed that City Council did send a letter in the past to
the School Board recommending preservation of Broughal Middle
School. Mr. Antalics advised that he and Chris Ussler, City
Historic Officer, went to Harrisburg and were recognized for
what they were saying about preservation but the School District
is ignoring it. Mr. Antalics highlighted the fact that there
is no citizen minority asking for demolition of Broughal Middle
School. Querying who is going to help citizens in their request
to preserve the school building, Mr. Antalics asked City officials
to please help the citizens in their welfare need.
Artie Curatola, 813 Laufer Street, noting he attended Broughal
Middle School, said the acoustics are fantastic in the auditorium,
and stated he does not think the building should be torn down.
Asserting that preservation of the beautiful building should
be accomplished over the heads of the School District, Mr.
Curatola added there is no reason to tear it down, and it
should be renovated and remain. Mr. Curatola suggested that
offices could be located there, or international concerts
could be held in support of his idea for an international
music awards.
Ms. Dolan, suggesting additional questions that could be
answered, asked has or has there not been an official decision
made to demolish the Broughal Middle School building. Ms.
Dolan asked what exactly will the role of City Council be
in the process as the law stands now. Ms. Dolan, exemplifying
that the Mayor of Hazleton is the one who issues demolition
permits, asked about the procedure for demolition permits
in the City of Bethlehem. Ms. Dolan further asked can City
Council create an Ordinance that would do what was suggested
tonight which is to require a demolition permit for any building
in the City 50 years or older.
Mrs. Belinski advised that, with the approval of the President
of Council, she has already initiated an Ordinance that would
require a demolition permit.
Acting President Leeson asked Attorney Spadoni to report
back by February 6 on questions raised by Ms. Dolan and Mrs.
Belinski, and confer with the City Clerk on questions raised
earlier in the evening.
14. ADJOURNMENT
The meeting was adjourned at 9:20 p.m.
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