Council MInutes
JULY 15, 2008
BETHLEHEM CITY COUNCIL MEETING
10 East Church Street – Town Hall
Bethlehem, Pennsylvania
Tuesday, July 15, 2008 – 7:00 PM
1. INVOCATION
2. PLEDGE TO THE FLAG
3. ROLL CALL
President Donchez called the meeting to order. Pastor Jason
Stewart of Christ Community Church offered the invocation
which was followed by the pledge to the flag. Present were
Jean Belinski, Karen Dolan, Joseph F. Leeson, Jr., Gordon
B. Mowrer, J. William Reynolds, and Robert J. Donchez, 6.
J. Michael Schweder was absent, 1.
4. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
The Minutes of July 1, 2008 were approved.
5. COURTESY OF THE FLOOR (for public comment on ordinances
and resolutions to be voted on by Council this evening)
Unfinished Business
Dana Grubb, 2420 Henderson Place, inquired about the status
of the items under Unfinished Business.
President Donchez affirmed there was a Public Safety Committee
meeting on the Security Cameras proposal following which several
points were addressed and a follow-up Committee meeting will
be held.
President Donchez confirmed that, following the Committee
of the Whole meeting on the Political Contributions proposal,
Christopher Spadoni, City Council Solicitor, has been working
on the draft and additional information was forwarded by Councilwoman
Dolan. The issue will be addressed again.
Records Destruction
Stephen Antalics, 737 Ridge Street, inquired about the status
of Tabled Items under Unfinished Business.
President Donchez confirmed the items were tabled, can be
removed from the Table upon motion of Council, and Tabled
Items was added as an Agenda item when Council’s Rules
were recently amended.
Mr. Antalics expressed his recommendation that the Resolutions
listed under Tabled
Items should be removed from the Agenda and destruction of
records should be discontinued based upon existing technology.
President Donchez affirmed that, as explained by Council
Member Schweder at the last City Council Meeting, the issue
is being addressed and a final decision will be arrived at
in the near future.
6. OLD BUSINESS
A. Tabled Items
1. Authorizing Records Destruction – Controller's Office
2. Authorizing Records Destruction – Bureau of Purchasing
3. Authorizing Records Destruction – Department of Water
and Sewer Resources
4. Authorizing Records Destruction – Tax Bureau
B. Unfinished Business
1. Establishing Article 314 – Security Cameras
2. Political Contributions and Expenditures – Proposed
Ordinance
7. COMMUNICATIONS
A. City Solicitor – Tower Lease Agreement – TTM
Operating Corp., Inc. – South Mountain Park
The Clerk read a memorandum dated July 3, 2008 from John
F. Spirk, Jr., Esq., City Solicitor, to which was attached
a proposed Tower Lease Agreement between the City and TTM
Operating Corporation, Inc., to install and/or operate radio
communications equipment on the tower located in South Mountain
Park on South Mountain Drive according to the terms and conditions
of the agreement.
President Donchez referred the request to the Parks and
Public Property Committee.
B. Assistant City Solicitor – Gift of Real Estate from
LVIP – Applebutter Road
A memorandum dated July 10, 2008 was received from Joseph
M. Kelly, Esq., Assistant City Solicitor, to which was attached
a proposed Resolution and Quit Claim Deed for property located
in Northampton County on Applebutter Road that LVIP would
be giving to the City as a gift.
President Donchez announced this issue will not be discussed
this evening, since information is still pending.
8. REPORTS
A. President of Council
Speed Bumps
President Donchez, referring to a recent New York Times
newspaper article about 3 D speed bumps that have been utilized
by several communities with a positive effect, asked if the
Public Works Department is aware of it.
Michael Alkhal, Director of Public Works, verifying the
Department is aware of it, explained the feedback is that
after a period of time motorists become accustomed to them
and then ignore them. Mr. Alkhal added the Department would
prefer to use the actual speed humps.
B. Mayor
1. Administrative Order – Richard S. Horvath –
Electricians’ Examining Board
Mayor Callahan reappointed Richard S. Horvath to the Electricians’
Examining Board effective until July 2011. Mrs. Belinski and
Ms. Dolan sponsored Resolution 2008-116 to confirm the appointment.
Voting AYE: Mrs. Belinski, Ms. Dolan, Mr. Leeson, Mr. Mowrer,
Mr. Reynolds, and Mr. Donchez, 6. The Resolution passed.
2. Administrative Order – Merl J. Turzanski –
Electricians’ Examining Board
Mayor Callahan reappointed Merl J. Turzanski to the Electricians’
Examining Board effective until July 2011. Mrs. Belinski and
Ms. Dolan sponsored Resolution 2008-117 to confirm the appointment.
Voting AYE: Mrs. Belinski, Ms. Dolan, Mr. Leeson, Mr. Mowrer,
Mr. Reynolds, and Mr. Donchez, 6. The Resolution passed.
3. Administrative Order – Marilou Cummings –
Fine Arts Commission
Mayor Callahan reappointed Marilou Cummings to the Fine
Arts Commission effective until July 2011. Mrs. Belinski and
Ms. Dolan sponsored Resolution 2008-118 to confirm the appointment.
Voting AYE: Mrs. Belinski, Ms. Dolan, Mr. Leeson, Mr. Mowrer,
Mr. Reynolds, and Mr. Donchez, 6. The Resolution passed.
9. ORDINANCES FOR FINAL PASSAGE
None.
10. NEW ORDINANCES
None.
11. RESOLUTIONS
A. Approving Application – 2008 Edward Byrne Memorial
Justice Assistance Grant (JAG)
Mrs. Belinski and Ms. Dolan sponsored Resolution 2008-119
that authorized the execution of the grant award documents
for an $11,153 Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant
to be used by the Police Department to update computers and
electronic devices, and to purchase bicycle parts and equipment
needed to maintain the Police mountain bikes.
Voting AYE: Mrs. Belinski, Ms. Dolan, Mr. Leeson, Mr. Mowrer,
Mr. Reynolds, and Mr. Donchez, 6. The Resolution passed.
Considering Resolutions as a Group
Mr. Mowrer and Mr. Reynolds moved to consider Resolutions
11 C through 11 H as a group. Voting AYE: Mrs. Belinski, Ms.
Dolan, Mr. Leeson, Mr. Mowrer, Mr. Reynolds, and Mr. Donchez,
6. The motion passed.
C. Certificate of Appropriateness – 10 East Church
Street
Mr. Leeson and Mr. Mowrer sponsored Resolution 2008-120
that granted a Certificate of Appropriateness to replace commemorative
concrete pavers at 10 East Church Street.
D. Certificate of Appropriateness – 516 Main Street
Mr. Leeson and Mr. Mowrer sponsored Resolution 2008-121
that granted a Certificate of Appropriateness to change the
color of the front door at 516 Main Street.
E. Certificate of Appropriateness – 36 Wall Street
Mr. Leeson and Mr. Mowrer sponsored Resolution 2008-122
that granted a Certificate of Appropriateness to repoint the
brick facades using a colored mortar at 36 Wall Street.
F. Certificate of Appropriateness – 510 High Street
Mr. Leeson and Mr. Mowrer sponsored Resolution 2008-123
that granted a Certificate of Appropriateness to construct
a rooftop mechanical enclosure at 510 High Street.
G. Certificate of Appropriateness – 20 Wall Street
Mr. Leeson and Mr. Mowrer sponsored Resolution 2008-124
that granted a Certificate of Appropriateness to change the
paint colors at 20 Wall Street.
H. Certificate of Appropriateness – 36 Wall Street
Mr. Leeson and Mr. Mowrer sponsored Resolution 2008-125
that granted a Certificate of Appropriateness to install black
iron railings at 36 Wall Street.
Voting AYE on Resolutions 11 C to 11 H: Mrs. Belinski, Ms.
Dolan, Mr. Leeson, Mr. Mowrer, Mr. Reynolds, and Mr. Donchez,
6. The Resolutions passed.
I. Authorizing Tower Lease Agreement with T-Mobile –
Clearview Park
(Tabled at July 1, 2008 City Council Meeting)
Mrs. Belinski requested that the Resolution continue to
remain on the Table because there has not been the opportunity
yet to obtain a response from Lehigh Valley International
Airport regarding whether or not the cell tower to be located
in Clearview Park is in the flight path, and also from the
Bethlehem Area School District. Mrs. Belinski stressed she
thinks it is very important to notify the School District
because the cell tower would be located close to Clearview
Elementary School.
President Donchez, obtaining the consensus of the Members
of Council, stated that the Resolution will remain on the
Table.
Ms. Dolan, referring to the two issues about which Mrs.
Belinski is concerned and the memorandum received from Ralph
Carp, Director of Parks and Public Property, suggested perhaps
it should be requested that the School District and Lehigh
Valley International Airport be contacted before the next
City Council Meeting so the matter can be moved forward.
Mr. Carp indicated the matter will be taken care of.
12. NEW BUSINESS
Rescheduling 1st Meeting in August
Mr. Leeson and Ms. Dolan moved to reschedule the next City
Council Meeting to Tuesday, July 29, 2008 at 7:00 PM from
Tuesday, August 5, 2008 that occurs during Musikfest.
Voting AYE: Mrs. Belinski, Ms. Dolan, Mr. Leeson, Mr. Mowrer,
Mr. Reynolds, and Mr. Donchez, 6. The motion passed.
Committee Meeting Announcements
Mr. Leeson announced a Finance Committee meeting on July
23, 2008 at 4:30 PM in the Mayor’s Conference Room on
various budgetary transfers and adjustments, and the proposed
Gaming Local Share Account.
Ms. Dolan announced a Public Works Committee meeting on August
20, 2008 at 7:00 PM in Town Hall for updates on the Water
Filtration Plant and Freemansburg Trunk Line.
Blast Furnaces - Former Bethlehem Steel Corporation
Mr. Leeson, reinforcing the positive remarks made by President
Donchez about the presentation from Jeff Parks, President
of ArtsQuest, at the Committee of the Whole meeting prior
to this evening’s City Council Meeting, inquired who
is going to take care of the blast furnaces at the former
Bethlehem Steel Corporation property and pay for their upkeep.
Mr. Leeson recalled that when he chaired the committee to
negotiate the creation of Bethlehem Works and the Bethlehem
Commerce Center some engineering studies had been done showing
that parts of the blast furnaces would start falling off if
maintenance work was not done on the blast furnaces. Highlighting
the fact that it could be a public safety hazard, Mr. Leeson
inquired about the matter.
Mayor Callahan advised he has no new information to share
regarding the rehabilitation or restoration of the blast furnaces.
Mayor Callahan pointed out that in the developers agreement
there was a provision related to the blast furnaces not being
demolished. Affirming the City does not own the blast furnaces,
Mayor Callahan indicated there are no plans in place for their
immediate restoration or rehabilitation. Mayor Callahan continued
on to say there are plans to light the blast furnaces in some
fashion for the opening of the casino. Mayor Callahan added
he does not know whether the amount of resources needed for
the blast furnaces has been quantified. In further response
to Mr. Leeson, Mayor Callahan noted that title to the land
where the blast furnaces sit is a partnership between BethWorks
Now and Sands Casino.
Mr. Leeson, pointing out that the City has invested $8 million
in building infrastructure on the property owned by BethWorks
Now, as distinguished from the Sands BethWorks project, wondered
whether the owners of the western part of the former Bethlehem
Steel Corporation property could be invited to give an update
to the Members of Council.
President Donchez, confirming that a tour of the Sands BethWorks
project for the Members of Council is in process of being
scheduled, noted that an inquiry will be made about including
the western portion in the update.
Mr. Mowrer queried if it would be appropriate to ask Jeff
Parks, President of ArtsQuest, about the blast furnaces since
the structures seem to be a part of the organization’s
project at the BethWorks site in South Bethlehem.
President Donchez affirmed that a letter will be drafted.
13. COURTESY OF THE FLOOR
Greenway
John Ladics, Kaywin Avenue, explained he has noticed that
parts of the Greenway are starting to be used by the public
for off-street parking and abandoned vehicles. Mr. Ladics
asked who is responsible for taking care of the Greenway,
and whether the vehicles can be removed.
Mayor Callahan, advising that the issue of cars on the Greenway
has been occurring since the City has owned it and it is difficult
to enforce, stated the City is in process of notifying the
individuals who are illegally using the Greenway to let them
know they can be ticketed and fined.
Elliott Heights
Mary Toulouse, 1528 West Market Street, notified the Members
that she and her neighbors have a great concern about the
Zoning Hearing Board. Ms. Toulouse advised that a property
in the Elliott Heights section of the West Side near the railroad
tracks and towpath was recently purchased by a developer,
although people apparently did not know he was a developer
at the time. The developer wanted to build up to 24 condominiums
on the property on which there is currently an approximately
100 year old brick house. Because of the slope of the property,
the developer had to ask the Zoning Hearing Board for an interpretation
of the Zoning law. Ms. Toulouse continued on to explain the
City Engineer had stated that the proposed number of housing
units could not be built on the property. The neighbors were
not notified there was going to be a Zoning Hearing Board
meeting. However, almost 30 residents came to the meeting.
Ms. Toulouse highlighted the fact that the entire area is
all single family residences. Ms. Toulouse pointed out the
developer took his own measurements regarding the slope without
any verification, and brought a new map that the City Engineer
and the Zoning Officer did not have a chance to examine. Ms.
Toulouse advised that the City asked for more time in the
matter, and the homeowners asked the Zoning Hearing Board
to give the City more time. However, the requests were turned
down, and the Zoning Hearing Board rendered a 2 to 1 vote
on the item. The residents were told they could appeal but
they discovered it would cost $10,000 for an attorney. Ms.
Toulouse emphasized the residents thought that by purchasing
homes in the City they had a right to be represented by the
Zoning Hearing Board but find out otherwise, and added the
people bought their homes there and put their life savings
into them. Ms. Toulouse questioned how can this happen. Ms.
Toulouse, mentioning she has seen this happen a few times,
observed that developers feel confident they can buy any property
they want and maybe they will get the laws changed in their
favor.
President Donchez, affirming that the Zoning Hearing Board
members are nominated by the Mayor and approved by City Council,
highlighted the fact that the Zoning Hearing Board is an independent,
quasi-judicial and quasi-legislative body who interprets the
City zoning laws. President Donchez pointed out that the Zoning
Hearing Board, and the Planning Commission, are important
and powerful bodies that make decisions.
President Donchez asked that a copy of the minutes be forwarded
to the Members of Council regarding the matter.
Christopher Spadoni, City Council Solicitor, stated the Zoning
Hearing Board is a quasi-judicial body that is an arm of the
court, is independent, and there is to be no meddling in the
Zoning Hearing Board. Attorney Spadoni pointed out the Board
hears various matters including variances and special exceptions
to the Zoning Ordinance or conditional uses. Attorney Spadoni
acknowledged the only remedy, as mentioned by Ms. Toulouse,
that is somewhat onerous is to take an appeal. Attorney Spadoni
verified that City Council does not have control or influence
in Zoning Hearing Board matters as it would be totally improper
in their deliberations since they are an independent board.
Attorney Spadoni informed Ms. Toulouse that the Zoning Hearing
Board appoints a solicitor to advise them appropriately under
the law.
Ms. Dolan commented that the more she hears about the Zoning
Hearing Board’s decision in this matter the more she
does not understand how the decision was arrived at. Ms. Dolan
wondered what Council can do.
Attorney Spadoni noted that Council can appeal a decision
of the Zoning Hearing Board. However, Attorney Spadoni highlighted
the fact that there is a specified timeframe within which
an appeal can be filed which starts after a decision is rendered.
President Donchez asked Attorney Spadoni to research the
issue and the law, and confer with the citizen regarding the
timeframe.
Elliott Heights; Stratford Park; Trucks Idling
Bill Scheirer, 1890 Eaton Avenue, thought the decision in
the Elliott Heights matter was rendered after the May Zoning
Hearing Board meeting, and the Solicitor came up with the
decision on July 7 so that the 30 day appeal period would
expire August 7.
Mr. Scheirer observed that larger lots in West Bethlehem
are perhaps a little cheaper than in Northeast Bethlehem,
and remarked that West Bethlehem is in danger of losing its
small town appeal. Mr. Scheirer said there was meeting concerning
Elliott Heights at Rosemont Lutheran Church attended by 40
people.
Mr. Scheirer noted that the development planned at Stratford
Park, located between Sixteenth Avenue and Stratford Street
between Union Boulevard and Route 378, is scheduled to go
before the Zoning Hearing Board next Wednesday.
Mr. Scheirer, referring to the issue of trucks idling, said
he found out that some truckers may come from Route 22 to
Route 378 and park in the Lowe’s parking lot on Eighth
Avenue and rest there for several hours with the truck engines
idling. Mr. Scheirer related that at a Planning Commission
meeting there was a general concern about the problem, and
it seemed there was a consensus to make a request to City
Council to adopt an Ordinance limiting the idling of engines.
Stratford Park
President Donchez confirmed that this evening the Members
of Council received a memorandum sent from John F. Spirk,
Jr., Esq., City Solicitor, in response to Mrs. Belinski’s
questions about Stratford Park.
City Vehicles – Use by Employees
Dana Grubb, 2420 Henderson Place, informed the Members that
since May 19, 2008 a Housing Inspector’s position has
remained unfilled at the busiest time of the year, and asserted
nothing has been done to get the position filled that he stressed
is irresponsible management. Mr. Grubb said he was told by
someone that Michael Palos, Chief Housing Inspector, recently
worked 22 consecutive days and usually until 9:00 p.m. each
day. Mr. Grubb observed this dedication and superior level
of performance and service to City residents should not surprise
anyone about Mr. Palos. Mr. Grubb stressed that housing code
compliance and the public welfare is at stake, and revenue
is lost. Mr. Grubb added the other day the part-time Inspector
was rushed by ambulance to the hospital with chest pains.
Exclaiming that not filling the position is disrespectful
and shows a lack of concern, Mr. Grubb stated the Bureau is
behind in everything including regulated rental and home sales
inspections to handling complaints. Mr. Grubb said Mr. Palos’
family is extremely concerned about the demands the situation
is placing on Mr. Palos as are his friends. Stating that the
Inspector’s position should have been filled 60 days
ago, Mr. Grubb said a qualified and hard-working person should
be found so that the public welfare and safety of the City
are no longer being compromised.
President Donchez, acknowledging the importance of the position
as well as the generation of revenues, asked if the position
is vacant and if so what is the timeframe for filling it.
Mayor Callahan, affirming that the importance of the position
is recognized, and commending Mr. Palos for his work ethic,
advised that a suitable candidate is in the process of being
identified. Mayor Callahan advised the position will be filled
in short order.
Various Issues
Robert Pfenning, 2830 Linden Street, referring to the $4
million non-recurring revenue in the 2008 Budget from the
developers of property in the Route 33 corridor, noted that
one of the parcels has been sold. Mr. Pfenning asked if the
organization who bought the parcel is going to pay twice as
much or will some revenue be missing.
Mayor Callahan confirmed that the City has already received
$2 million in February and $2 million will be received by
the end of the year. Mayor Callahan, affirming that under
the agreement the costs travel with the property, advised
the change in ownership will have no impact on the revenues
to be received.
Mr. Pfenning asked what is the criteria for encroachment
permits and how many have been issued. Mr. Pfenning asked
how wide sidewalks have to be open in business areas. Mr.
Pfenning asked if permits are issued for signs on sidewalks
and what is the criteria. Mr. Pfenning asked who paid for
the construction work involved in the bulb-out on Main Street
in front of the restaurant at 546 Main Street.
Michael Alkhal, Director of Public Works, confirmed that
the City issues encroachment permits, and right of way usage
permits. Mr. Alkhal advised that guidelines are applied that
meet the needs of the applicant as well as maintaining public
access. The minimum passageway required is 6 feet. Mr. Alkhal
affirmed that his office can supply Mr. Pfenning with the
criteria. Mr. Alkhal informed Mr. Pfenning that the permittee
paid for the bulb-out on Main Street in front of the restaurant
at 546 Main Street. Mr. Alkhal further notified Mr. Pfenning
that when the City receives the plans from Apollo Grill for
a sidewalk pavilion they will be evaluated, and a permit would
be issued if is possible to allow the project.
Eddie Rodriquez, 1845 Linden Street, stating there is an
enormous amount of graffiti at the Minsi Trail Bridge and
at Riverport on the Fahy Bridge side, said it is getting out
of hand and must be stopped. Explaining that an individual
climbs on top of buildings and over fences, Mr. Rodriquez
asked the Members to deal with the issue of cameras. Mr. Rodriquez
also remarked that gangs in the City including the Latin Kings
and the Bloods are out of hand and must be stopped, and stressed
again that cameras are needed. Mr. Rodriquez highlighted the
fact that the City of Allentown uses cameras. Mr. Rodriquez
complimented the Dispatchers in their handling of calls. Mr.
Rodriquez expressed his concern about the safety of pedestrians
crossing the streets, or those in wheelchairs, especially
in light of the casino project when it opens. Mr. Rodriquez
stressed that motorists are driving too fast. He added that
enforcement of laws is needed. Mr. Rodriquez agreed with Mr.
Ladics’ earlier comments about the Greenway as well
as abandoned vehicles in the City and asserted the issue must
be addressed. Mr. Rodriquez informed the assembly that this
past weekend four cars were parked in the vicinity of the
railroad tracks at Adams Street but only one was ticketed
because it was too far out in the street while the others
were not because they were on the Greenway space. Mr. Rodriquez
asked for better signage for parking.
Security Cameras
President Donchez advised that he met last week with a Member
of Allentown City Council and the issue of cameras was discussed.
The Allentown City Council Member was pleased with the cameras
and the results so far. Allentown has about 80 cameras throughout
the City, and the goal is to get about 200 cameras over the
next year. President Donchez asked for a tour to see where
the cameras are located in the City of Allentown, and to find
out how they work in conjunction with the communications center.
President Donchez advised that he will meet with Police Commissioner
Miller and Deputy Commissioner Bedics on the matter after
he obtains more information.
Security Cameras; Engines Idling
Louise Valeriano, 3114 East Boulevard, thought that cameras
would be a wonderful idea and very helpful with law enforcement.
Turning to the issue of trucks idling, Ms. Valeriano recalled
that in the late 1980’s there were a large number of
tour buses in front of the Hotel Bethlehem and across the
street that were idling for sometimes two hours. Ms. Valeriano
further recalled that a rule was passed to limit the idling
of the buses, and thought it could be applied to trucks.
President Donchez noted that the matter will be checked and
a copy forwarded.
Stratford Park
Jameel Memon, 1626 West Union Boulevard, explained he looked
for a house in a peaceful neighborhood in Bethlehem and selected
to buy his house on West Union Boulevard. Mr. Memon advised
he was surprised to know the City is considering rezoning
property in the vicinity of Stratford Park and the developer
wants to build multiple houses. Mr. Memon asked the City to
please not change the Stratford Park area, currently zoned
Institutional, to commercial or residential. Mr. Memon questioned
how and why was the plot destroyed, and why the City maintained
the lot.
Rosanne Fox, 826 Sixteenth Avenue, advised she lives adjacent
to Stratford Park and was told by the neighbors when she moved
there that the area was going to be a park and wondered whether
the City had heard it was also an Indian burial ground.
President Donchez affirmed that a copy of City Solicitor
Spirk’s correspondence on the matter would be forwarded
to her.
John F. Spirk, Jr., Esq., City Solicitor, noting that he
reviewed details with Mr. Scheirer for 3 hours last Friday
afternoon, advised the Barker tract of land was purchased
from Blue Ridge Real Estate Company this year, and Blue Ridge
had owned it since 1917.
Ms. Fox, noting that taxes were not paid for 80 years, felt
the City should have the property. While acknowledging there
was a reversion clause, Ms. Fox pointed out the land has been
used as a park, there are trails there, people walk there
and make use of it. Ms. Fox asked if the City is fighting
this.
President Donchez commented that the response from Attorney
Spadoni would be available by the next City Council Meeting,
and would be forwarded.
Ms. Fox added that, after the trees were cut down, the wild
life that had been there were seen on the nearby streets and
Route 378, and the City was contacted regarding the matter.
Five Minute Time Limit; Traffic Lights; Main Street Restaurant;
and Greenway
Stephen Antalics, 737 Ridge Street, observed that an individual
this evening spoke for 5 minutes and then was allowed to speak
again after comments from the Table, and remarked a precedent
is being set and the rules are being violated.
Mr. Antalics asked if the blast furnaces become a safety
hazard are the people who own them free to tear them down,
or is there a commitment to preserve them as a historical
monument. Mr. Antalics emphasized if there is no legal recourse
then an important historic monument is lost, and stressed
this should have been thought out before agreements were signed.
President Donchez, noting that in the letter received from
The Venetian it does not specifically mention the blast furnaces,
commented it is a good question and an answer will try to
be obtained.
Zoning Hearing Board; Stratford Park; Police Protection for
Events
Bill Kovatch, 1736 West Union Boulevard, expressed his opinion
that the Zoning Hearing Board is not interested in the people
who live in the area of a request made to the Board, and the
public’s interest is not being looked after. Mr. Kovatch
thought the Mayor should perhaps talk to the Board or give
them the direction that the people who live in the area in
question should be given a say in zoning matters. Otherwise,
cases will be rubber-stamped and it will not help the people.
Mr. Kovatch, focusing on the Stratford Park issue, stated
that the back taxes that were not paid by Blue Ridge Real
Estate Company for 80 years should be sought for both the
City and the County. Mr. Kovatch further asserted the City
should be compensated for cutting the grass and doing work
on the property.
Mr. Kovatch asked who paid for the Police protection during
the visit of the Dali Lama to Bethlehem at Lehigh University,
and will the City be compensated for police and fire service.
Mr. Kovatch stressed that the City should be compensated because
he does not want his tax dollars being used for that activity.
Mayor Callahan, noting the Police Commissioner is not at
the meeting this evening, commented that it was probably handled
similar to other events where the Police Officers are paid
Roster Duty.
Greenway; Curbside Pickup of Yard Waste
Andrew Prickler, 1843 Willow Park Road, Bethlehem Township,
noting he is a City employee and also owns a waste hauling
firm in the City, advised he spent four days in a row cleaning
up the Greenway after the City received the property. Mr.
Prickler pointed out the two worst areas were in the area
of the Banana Factory and Third and Hobart Streets, and added
there was a dump truck parked along the Greenway. Mr. Prickler
agreed that enforcement of trash issues is needed. Mr. Prickler
commented that the Recycling Bureau wants the control over
solid waste to be transferred from the Health Bureau to the
Recycling Bureau, and to incorporate yard waste into the curbside
recycling program. Noting this will affect his business, Mr.
Prickler advised that people contract with him to haul yard
waste that he takes to the City’s Compost Center. Mr.
Prickler stated that curbside collection of yard waste will
add to blight in the City, truck traffic, and noise. Mr. Prickler,
questioning how scheduled garbage pickup days in the City
will be addressed for commercial establishments, pointed out
that sometimes he services a restaurant three times a week.
Mr. Prickler highlighted the fact that grass clippings, that
are the largest amount of yard waste, are not included in
the collection but yet under the DEP definitions grass clippings
are to be included with yard waste collection. Mr. Prickler
stated that in the event this affects his business he will
take action.
State Police Horses - Musikfest
Wade Haubert, FOP President, Star Lodge 20, 77 West Broad
Street, commended the Mayor and his staff for getting the
State Police horses for duty at Musikfest in August. Officer
Haubert advised it has always been a great tool for the Police
from an Officer safety standpoint, and can do more to control
crowds than a large number of Police Officers.
Stratford Park
Mrs. Belinski affirmed that she sent a memorandum to John
F. Spirk, Jr., Esq., City Solicitor, questioning the history
of Stratford Park. Mrs. Belinski, reading from Attorney Spirk’s
response, noted it was explained that City-owned land was
conveyed to the City Blue Ridge Real Estate Company on July
25, 1929 exclusively for park and playground purposes with
a provision that if the property was not so used, it would
revert to Blue Ridge Real Estate Company. There is litigation
currently ongoing concerning whether that property should
be deemed to have reverted to the grantor or their successors.
The City is defending that litigation, and maintains that
the property has not reverted. The City is attempting in the
ongoing litigation to reserve that portion of Stratford Park
that was received from Blue Ridge Real Estate Company. The
other portion of Stratford Park that was received by the City
from Robert and Elizabeth Klotz and Edwin and Hattie Bregenzer
on December 22, 1921 with a similar reverter clause if the
property was not used for park and playground purposes. The
City has been contacted by the heirs of Klotz and Bregenzer.
There is n litigation pending yet, but if there is the City
will defend its right to the land. Mrs. Belinski confirmed
that City Council has to vote on any sale of City land.
Attorney Spirk clarified that the first sentence in the paragraph
was not read, and what Mrs. Belinski read about were the two
tracts adjacent to the Barker tract. Attorney Spirk confirmed
that the City never owned the Barker tract.
President Donchez suggested that Council wait until the response
is received from City Council’s Solicitor prior to the
next Meeting.
The meeting was adjourned at 8:30 p.m.
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