Council MInutes

September 2, 2008

BETHLEHEM CITY COUNCIL MEETING
10 East Church Street – Town Hall
Bethlehem, Pennsylvania
Tuesday, September 2, 2008 – 7:00 PM

1. INVOCATION
2. PLEDGE TO THE FLAG
3. ROLL CALL

President Donchez called the meeting to order. Reverend Ron Hari of Hungarian Evangelical Reformed Church offered the invocation which was followed by the pledge to the flag. Present were Karen Dolan, Joseph F. Leeson, Jr., Gordon B. Mowrer, J. William Reynolds, J. Michael Schweder, and Robert J. Donchez, 6. Jean Belinski was absent, 1.

4. APPROVAL OF MINUTES

The Minutes of August 19, 2008 were approved.

5. COURTESY OF THE FLOOR (for public comment on ordinances and resolutions to be voted on by Council this evening)

President Donchez announced that there may be a motion later in the Agenda to take Item 6 A 1 off the Table if anyone from the Public would like to address that item under Courtesy of the Floor.

Bill No. 24 – 2008 - Gaming Local Share Account Ordinance

Chuck Nyul, 1966 Pinehurst Road, asked how Bill No. 24, the Gaming Local Share Account Ordinance, corresponds to Mayor Callahan’s five year financial model, and whether a set amount will be earmarked for spending from the money the City is to receive from the casino host fee.

Mr. Leeson responded that the Ordinance does not represent a numerical formula, but rather is a process-related Ordinance. Mr. Leeson advised it is neutral as far as the five year financial model. Mr. Leeson further explained to Mr. Nyul the Ordinance states that any casino money that is spent must have Council’s approval, and is a stand-alone document as is the five year financial model.

Records Destruction Requests

Stephen Antalics, 737 Ridge Street, questioned why any records would be destroyed in light of available technology by which a large volume of records can be stored on a small flash drive device, for example. He added it cannot be said that something destroyed today will not be of importance to someone in the future. Mr. Antalics asserted that records should not be destroyed, and that records destruction requests should never appear on the Agenda in the public interest of historical records preservation.

President Donchez recounted that the process discussed at the last Council Meeting with the City Controller and Members of Council provided the level of comfort regarding records destruction.

Mr. Schweder highlighted the fact that, as was discussed at the last Council Meeting, the assurance was given that all the documentation would be saved electronically, and anything destroyed would be the paper copies.

Dennis Reichard, Business Administrator, confirmed that is correct.

Bill Scheirer, 1890 Eaton Avenue, noting that he spent most of his life doing research, said he learned it is better to have too much information than too little.

6. OLD BUSINESS.

A. Tabled Items

1. Authorizing Records Destruction – Department of Water and Sewer Resources

President Donchez noted that the Members of Council received a memorandum confirming that the records are backed up and can be destroyed. President Donchez advised that he will accept a motion under Agenda Item 11 to take the Resolution off the Table.

B. Unfinished Business

1. Establishing Article 314 – Security Cameras
2. Political Contributions and Expenditures – Proposed Ordinance
3. Gift of Real Estate – LVIP

C. Old Business – Members of Council

Zoning Ordinance – Variances; Moratoriums; Demolition

Mr. Schweder recounted that at the last Council Meeting there was a discussion concerning what is occurring under the City’s zoning law and the variances that have been granted. Mr. Schweder noted he had suggested that the Council Solicitor would make a determination on whether there was any action that can be taken at this point. Continuing on to state that Christopher Spadoni, City Council Solicitor, has advised it is not possible to institute a moratorium, Mr. Schweder asked Attorney Spadoni to explain that matter and possible alternatives that he had discussed with Attorney Spadoni.

Christopher Spadoni, City Council Solicitor, confirmed that, as a result of the discussion at the last Council Meeting, he sent a memorandum today that a moratorium is not permitted by the Pennsylvania Supreme Court since the Pennsylvania Municipalities Planning Code does not contain such a provision. Attorney Spadoni recounted that he previously forwarded correspondence to President Donchez regarding the possibility of increasing the number of Zoning Hearing Board members from 3 to 5. Additionally, Attorney Spadoni had talked about monitoring the Zoning Hearing Board agenda and that possibly, at the call of the Council President, Attorney Spadoni would attend on behalf of Council and report on certain matters such as impacts on the fabric of the City’s neighborhoods; e.g., the West Side of Bethlehem.

Mr. Schweder noted that Mrs. Belinski does have a proposal with respect to preservation of the churches in South Bethlehem, and requiring demolition permits to come before City Council. Mr. Schweder pointed out that among the concerns of Members of Council is demolition of single homes with replacement by multi-unit townhouses. Mr. Schweder communicated what he was suggesting is perhaps to require all demolition permits to come before City Council so as to avoid any loopholes. Mr. Schweder added that perhaps there is a way to incorporate that into what Mrs. Belinski is proposing, and to do so in a rather quick fashion.

Ms. Dolan queried whether it would be appropriate to refer the matter tonight to Committee for discussion.

Mr. Schweder, advising he was unable to attend the meeting that was held previously with the State Historic Officer from Harrisburg, Tony Hanna, Director of Community and Economic Development, Christine Ussler, City Historic Officer, Darlene Heller, Director of Planning and Zoning, Mrs. Belinski and Attorney Spadoni, explained the outcome was that the Administration would be developing a proposal that came out of the meeting by which there would be referrals to City Council. Mr. Schweder expressed the hope that the proposal would be forwarded by the Department of Community and Economic Development within the next week or two, and then a Committee meeting would be scheduled. Mr. Schweder added, if the Council Solicitor agreed, then language could be added to address demolition.

7. COMMUNICATIONS

A. Recycling Director – Amending Article 933 – Recycling

The Clerk read a memorandum dated August 22, 2008 from Thomas E. Marshall, Recycling Director, to which was attached a proposed ordinance to replace Article 933 – Recycling. Among the proposed revisions are the addition of designated recyclables for the residential program including leaf waste, magazines, and newspapers.

President Donchez referred the proposal to the Community Development Committee.

B. City Solicitor – Records Destruction Resolution – Department of Water and Sewer Resources and Department of Public Works

The Clerk read a memorandum dated August 19, 2008 from John F. Spirk, Jr., Esq., City Solicitor, to which was attached a proposed Resolution for the destruction of records from the Department of Water and Sewer Resources and Department of Public Works. The Law Bureau reviewed the Municipal Records Retention Act and the records fall within categories where destruction is permitted.

President Donchez stated that the appropriate Resolution can be placed on the September 16 Council Agenda.

C. City Solicitor – Records Destruction Resolution – Department of Financial Services Payroll Office

The Clerk read a memorandum dated August 19, 2008 from John F. Spirk, Jr., Esq., City Solicitor, to which was attached a proposed Resolution for the destruction of records from the Department of Financial Services Payroll Office. The Law Bureau reviewed the Municipal Records Retention Act and the records fall within categories where destruction is permitted.

President Donchez stated that the appropriate Resolution can be placed on the September 16 Council Agenda.

D. City Solicitor – Records Destruction Resolution – Controller’s Office

The Clerk read a memorandum dated August 19, 2008 from John F. Spirk, Jr., Esq., City Solicitor, to which was attached a proposed Resolution for the destruction of records from the Controller’s Office. The Law Bureau reviewed the Municipal Records Retention Act and the records fall within categories where destruction is permitted.

President Donchez stated that the appropriate Resolution can be placed on the September 16 Council Agenda.

E. City Solicitor – Records Destruction Resolution – Department of Police

The Clerk read a memorandum dated August 19, 2008 from John F. Spirk, Jr., Esq., City Solicitor, to which was attached a proposed Resolution for the destruction of records from the Department of Police. The Law Bureau reviewed the Municipal Records Retention Act and the records fall within categories where destruction is permitted.

Ms. Dolan highlighted the fact that important records are being saved electronically, and what is being destroyed is paper copies that in some cases is not of any importance. Ms. Dolan clarified that Members of Council all support the procedure.

President Donchez stated that the appropriate Resolution can be placed on the September 16 Council Agenda.

F. Director of Planning and Zoning – Miscellaneous Zoning Ordinance Amendments

The Clerk read a memorandum dated August 29, 2008 from Darlene Heller, Director of Planning and Zoning, to which was attached proposed miscellaneous zoning ordinance amendments approved by the Planning Commission at their February 10, 2008 meeting.

President Donchez referred the matter to the Lehigh Valley Planning Commission.

Ms. Dolan and Mr. Leeson moved to schedule a Public Hearing on October 7, 2008 at 7:00 PM in Town Hall.

Voting AYE: Ms. Dolan, Mr. Leeson, Mr. Mowrer, Mr. Reynolds, Mr. Schweder, and Mr. Donchez, 6. The motion passed.

8. REPORTS

A. President of Council

President Donchez stated that the Members of Council will have a tour of the Sands BethWorks project on September 17, 2008 at the revised time of 4:15 p.m.

B. Mayor

None.

C. Finance Committee

Joseph F. Leeson, Jr., Chairman of the Finance Committee, gave an oral report of the Finance Committee meeting held August 28, 2008 on the subject of the 2007 Audit.

9. ORDINANCES FOR FINAL PASSAGE

A. Bill No. 23 – 2008 – Establishing Streets – General Plan of Streets

The Clerk read Bill No. 23 – 2008 – Establishing Streets – General Plan of Streets, on Final Reading.

Voting AYE: Ms. Dolan, Mr. Leeson, Mr. Mowrer, Mr. Reynolds, Mr. Schweder, and Mr. Donchez, 6. Bill No. 23 – 2008, hereafter to be known as Ordinance 2008-23, was declared adopted.

B. Bill No. 24 – 2008 - Amending Article 121 – Gaming Local Share Account

The Clerk read Bill No. 24 – 2008 – Amending Article 121 – Gaming Local Share Account, on Final Reading.

Voting AYE: Ms. Dolan, Mr. Leeson, Mr. Mowrer, Mr. Reynolds, Mr. Schweder, and Mr. Donchez, 6. Bill No. 24 – 2008, hereafter to be known as Ordinance 2008-24, was declared adopted.

10. NEW ORDINANCES

None.

11. RESOLUTIONS

A. Authorizing Use Permit Agreement for Public Property – Celtic Fest, Inc. – Celtic Classic 2008, 2009 and 2010 and Harvest Fest 2008, 2009 and 2010

Mr. Leeson and Ms. Dolan sponsored Resolution 2008-151 that authorized the execution of a Use Permit Agreement between the City and Celtic Fest, Inc. d/b/a Celtic Cultural Alliance for use of City properties and streets for the purpose of the Celtic Classic 2008, 2009 and 2010 and the Harvest Fest 2008, 2009 and 2010 according to the terms and conditions of the Agreement.

Voting AYE: Ms. Dolan, Mr. Leeson, Mr. Mowrer, Mr. Reynolds, Mr. Schweder, and Mr. Donchez, 6. The Resolution passed.

B. Certificate of Appropriateness – 321 South New Street

Mr. Leeson and Ms. Dolan sponsored Resolution 2008-151 that granted a Certificate of Appropriateness to install signage at 321 South New Street.

Voting AYE: Ms. Dolan, Mr. Leeson, Mr. Mowrer, Mr. Reynolds, Mr. Schweder, and Mr. Donchez, 6. The Resolution passed.

Removing Resolution 11 C from the Table

Mr. Mowrer and Mr. Reynolds moved to take Resolution 11 C off the Table. Voting AYE: Ms. Dolan, Mr. Leeson, Mr. Mowrer, Mr. Reynolds, Mr. Schweder, and Mr. Donchez, 6. The motion passed.

C. Destruction of Records – Department of Water and Sewer Resources

Mr. Leeson and Ms. Dolan sponsored Resolution 2008-153 that authorized the disposition of the public records from the Water and Sewer Resources Department, as listed in Exhibit A, according to schedules and procedures for the disposition of records as set forth in the Municipal Records Manual approved on July 16, 1993 and Resolution 13,076.

Ms. Dolan noted that a memorandum was received from President Donchez affirming that the information is electronically backed up in the computer system.

Voting AYE: Ms. Dolan, Mr. Leeson, Mr. Mowrer, Mr. Reynolds, Mr. Schweder, and Mr. Donchez, 6. The Resolution passed.

12. New Business

Committee Meeting Announcements

Chairman Leeson announced a Finance Committee meeting on September 4, 2008 at 4:30 p.m. on the subject of the 2007 Audit; and on September 9, 2008 at 4:30 p.m. on the subject of the Six Months Budget Review.

Chairman Leeson asked that a representative of the Business Administrator’s office be present at the meeting to give a brief overview of the Six Months Budget Review.

Chairman Schweder announced a Community Development Committee meeting on October 7, 2008 at 7:00 p.m. on the Proposed 2008 CDBG and HOME Programs.

Resolution 2008-72 – Five Points – Removing Left Turn Lane and Restoring Parking

Mr. Schweder recounted that several months ago City Council passed Resolution 2008-72 which stated that the Members of Council directed by law that the parking be restored on Wyandotte Street and the left turn lane be removed, and that it remain in place until other changes were made. Mr. Schweder confirmed that this afternoon an inter-office memorandum was received from Michael Alkhal, Director of Public Works, in which it was advised that the Administration has decided not to eliminate the left turn at this time and will wait until implementation of the Gateway/One-Way Pairing traffic program. While noting he will defer to the President of Council and City Council Solicitor, Mr. Schweder expressed his thought that the action is illegal. Affirming this was a law enacted by City Council, Mr. Schweder pointed out that under the City’s form of government it is the legislature; i.e., City Council, that enacts laws and it is the Administration’s responsibility to carry them out. Mr. Schweder communicated that, in this situation because of the precedent set, he will look towards President Donchez for leadership along with the Council Solicitor to see that what Council enacted is carried out. Mr. Schweder observed there are not options on what laws are decided to be implemented. Mr. Schweder highlighted the fact that the matter was debated and signed into law by the President of Council after the Resolution was enacted.

President Donchez commented that, upon his initial, brief view of the memorandum late this afternoon, in concept he does agree with Mr. Schweder that as the legislative branch of government when City Council passes something it should be a form of law. President Donchez stated he would turn to the City Council Solicitor for his comments and possible options regarding the memorandum.

Christopher Spadoni, City Council Solicitor, confirming that the memorandum was shared with him prior to the meeting, stated that necessarily he will look at the law. However, Attorney Spadoni noted it is clear to him at this juncture that the legislative and budgetary end of the City’s form of government lies with City Council, and the Administration is to carry out those efforts that are passed appropriately, whether they be Resolutions or Ordinances. Attorney Spadoni observed there may be an issue here that could be, under a certain set of circumstances, a crisis.

Mr. Schweder, clarifying that he is not asking for a decision tonight, said he would like to have a response on the matter before the next City Council Meeting.

President Donchez advised he will meet with Attorney Spadoni and also hopefully a representative of the Administration from the Law Bureau, and Mr. Alkhal to see what the options are from the legislative angle.

Mr. Reynolds, referring to the June 16, 2008 letter received from Michael Rebert, District Executive with PennDot, asked what is the nature of the more complete request, as stated in the letter, that is necessary in order for PennDot to approve a change to the existing traffic and parking conditions.

Mr. Alkhal explained that a number of steps have been taken since the Resolution was passed, and some time was needed to gather additional information. Meetings were held with PennDot that clarified several issues such as what would need to be done by the Administration in order for PennDot to consider removing the left turn, and revised signal and traffic plans that the City would have to prepare and submit to PennDot for review and approval. In addition, the City received a proposal from its traffic consultant along with costs, and what would be required in order to implement removal of the left turn lane. Mr. Alkhal communicated that correspondence from PennDot essentially recommended and agreed with the Administration against removing the left turn lane especially in light of the fact that it would be eliminated later as part of the Five Points project. Mr. Alkhal explained the concern was that drivers would be forced to adjust to one traffic pattern and then nine months later do it again, and the Administration and PennDot both agreed that does not seem to be a wise move. Mr. Alkhal advised, along with the cost, it led the Administration to that conclusion.

Mr. Reynolds asked whether the cost of doing the project to remove the left turn and restore parking is something for which City Council would have to appropriate money since it is not in the budget, or would the appropriate Department have to come up with the funds.

Dennis Reichard, Business Administrator, replied he does not know what account would be used at this point, and Mr. Alkhal would have to inform him.

Mr. Schweder, noting he is not arguing the question of the cost, for example, communicated it does not matter whether PennDot thinks this is a good idea or not. Indicating it is not relevant what the cost was, Mr. Schweder highlighted the fact that the matter was debated, the Resolution was enacted, and it is the law of the City of Bethlehem. Mr. Schweder continued on to say that Administrations and Mayors do not arbitrarily get to decide what laws they enact and which ones they do not. Mr. Schweder stated if that is allowed to happen then there is not much reason for Council to be here because it would not have any real standing. Mr. Schweder suggested that the President of Council will hopefully meet with the City Council Solicitor to see that the will of Council is enacted.

Mr. Reynolds expressed he was not looking to debate the matter but rather if the matter moves forward he was wondering what the process would be to find the money or whether or not there is something else Council would have to do in order to tell PennDot.

President Donchez commented that question could be addressed when he meets with Attorney Spadoni.

Ms. Dolan recalled when the matter was debated and the vote was taken it was without a dollar figure attached to it. Ms. Dolan noted she voted against it not because of the money but because of the recommendation she was given in a meeting with Frank Barron, Traffic Engineer. Acknowledging that City Council makes laws, Ms. Dolan stated it does not mean that Council is always going to make the right decision since they are lay people. Ms. Dolan asked that consideration be given in the discussions between President Donchez and Attorney Spadoni to the question of what occurs in the event new information arises that changes the impact of a law such as that suddenly something which Council has done is going to cost money that was not discussed, or something that was done was told to Council to have been a bad decision by people who know more about the subject. Ms. Dolan continued on to ask if in the discussions the question could be addressed as to what flexibility does Council have to revisit laws when perhaps there is a possibility that Council should not have passed a law; or, what is the possibility of revisiting a law when there is more or different information than Council had when it originally passed it.

Mr. Reynolds, affirming that Council passed the matter as a Resolution rather than an Ordinance, recounted at that City Council Meeting he brought up the idea that he was not sure if it would fit under the definition of what a Resolution should be rather than what an Ordinance should be and there was no way for input for whether it should be a Resolution or Ordinance. Mr. Reynolds added it seemed to him to fit outside of the purview of what an Ordinance is as compared to what a Resolution is. Mr. Reynolds asked if in the discussions a response could be obtained to the question of why it is something that was passed as a Resolution rather than an Ordinance.

13. COURTESY OF THE FLOOR

Stratford Park

Bill Scheirer, 1890 Eaton Avenue, expressed the hope that Council would appeal the Stratford Park decision that would have to be done by October 5, 2008.

Mr. Scheirer read his report on what he stressed was the latest travesty perpetuated by the Zoning Hearing Board concerning a two acre estate at 1559 Kelchner Road. Mr. Scheirer explained that the executrix proposes to sell the property for $750,000 to a developer who will demolish the old farmhouse and cram 14 twin houses into a neighborhood that is zoned RS Residential, and has single family homes on all sides. A variance was requested to reduce the minimum lot size from 6,000 square feet to 5,981 square feet. Mr. Scheirer stated he did not find a provision in the Zoning Ordinance to the effect that the requirements for a variance can be ignored if the variance requested is small. Mr. Scheirer asserted that the requirements for a variance, once again, were ignored by the Zoning Hearing Board and, only two of the five requirements were met. He said there was no unnecessary hardship because the lot size is the same everywhere in the RS zone which surrounds the property on all sides. Secondly, Mr. Scheirer stated that the variance allowing 14 twin houses is injurious to the neighborhood. Mr. Scheirer explained he had pointed out at the Zoning Hearing Board meeting that some if not all of the neighbors enjoyed spacing between houses. Mr. Scheirer continued on to advise that the lawyer argued that the estate has not been able to sell the property without the variance, and the developer testified that 14 twin houses was the only way the economics would work. Mr. Scheirer noted that the lawyer, citing a decision of the Pennsylvania Supreme Court, tried to object three times to his speaking because he lives three-quarters of a mile from the property. Mr. Scheirer remarked this is just one more instance of how the process is tilted in favor of developers and against neighborhoods. Mr. Scheirer noted that the variance was granted by a 3-0 vote of the Zoning Hearing Board. Recalling he suggested at the last Council Meeting that the Zoning Hearing Board has taken upon itself the powers of a planning agency, Mr. Scheirer asserted that the Board is a pro-developer group, to the extent of ignoring the requirements of its enabling statute. Mr. Scheirer added that the other problem illustrated in this case is the need for Council review of all demolitions of structures that are 50 years old or more.

Elliott Heights – Development Project

Joanne Huertas, 1530 Elliott Avenue, said she is speaking regarding the proposed condominium project at 1801 Elliott Avenue that the residents are very hard pressed to accept. Ms. Huertas stressed it seems that developers want only to consume property for profits in their pockets and with no moral concept. Ms. Huertas exclaimed the residents are still going forward with trying to keep the continuity of their West Side neighborhood along with the natural beauty of the woods and the wildlife.

2007 Audit

Robert Pfenning, 2830 Linden Street, said the accounting firm representatives who presented the 2007 Audit at the September 4, 2008 Finance Committee meeting did an excellent job, and he commended City officials for obtaining the firm’s services. Mr. Pfenning, referring to the accrual basis of the General Fund closing balance of $1.4 million, observed it was made possible by two non-recurring revenue items that were the Sewer Tapping Fee of $1.7 million from the Sands Casino project, and the Suburban Stakeholders Agreement payment of $2 million without which the deficit would have been $2.3 million. Mr. Pfenning related that at the meeting Chairman Leeson asked how the $2 million payment from the Suburban Stakeholders Agreement received by the City in February 2008 was reported as General Fund Revenue for 2007. The Auditor replied that since the Agreement was dated in 2007 and the cash was received near the end of the year it could count as 2007 revenue under accounting standards. Mr. Pfenning said the identical $2 million was used in the 2008 Budget to justify no tax increase. Mr. Pfenning noted he asked at the meeting whether there was any restriction against placing the Sewer Tapping Fee of $1.7 million in the General Fund versus the Sewer Fund. The Auditor replied there was reliance on the in-house opinion of the Administration’s legal advisor regarding placing the revenue in the General Fund since the Agreement did not mention sewer. Mr. Pfenning acknowledged the reasoning behind the use of the General Fund revenues of not raising taxes and burdening senior citizens on fixed incomes, but stressed the money will have to be repaid in the future.

Atlantic Street – Living Conditions in Neighborhood

Mary Galvin, 636 Atlantic Street, reported on occurrences in her neighborhood that have been going on for years, and about which she has come before City Council in the past. Ms. Galvin pointed out that Mayor Callahan has known about the problems with her neighbors as does District Attorney Morganelli. Ms. Galvin related that she has called the Police constantly about the disturbing of the peace at 637 Atlantic Street and 628 Atlantic Street. In addition, there is selling of drugs, and throwing garbage. She continued on to recount one of the confrontations on Saturday, August 16 between her and the Rivera family at 632 Atlantic Street, and advised there are a lot of people who go there. Ms. Galvin explained that people come near her home, provoke her and her family, they sit at her car, and try to get inside her property. On one occasion when Ms. Galvin called the Police she was on the second floor of her home and explained she did not dare go outside of her house. People were cursing at her and urinating at her home. Ms. Galvin further informed the Members how unsafe she feels at her home, and advised that she has asked the Police to patrol the neighborhood in view of the increasing bad element there. Further stressing that she fears for her life, Ms. Galvin related she was told they are going to break her car and her house, and break her. Ms. Galvin communicated she was promised there would be more patrols in her neighborhood but she has not seen that, and she was informed there are only two Police Officers patrolling South Bethlehem on a Saturday night. Highlighting the fact that she does not have the luxury to pick up and move from her residence, Ms. Galvin said that she has the right to have peace in her home. Ms. Galvin added that people are waiting to provoke her when she leaves her house. Ms. Galvin explained that the incidents she has described are happening all the time, she wants the public to know, the problems have been existing since 2002 and every year it is worse than the year before. Ms. Galvin expressed her hope that something can be done.

President Donchez requested that Randall Miller, Police Commissioner, meet with Ms. Galvin after the Meeting.

Various Issues

Eddie Rodriquez, 1845 Linden Street, referring to Ms. Galvin’s remarks, stated it is not only in her neighborhood but an increasing amount of such incidents is occurring in many neighborhoods throughout the City, and he has been talking about this for a number of years. Mr. Rodriquez said more Police are needed in the neighborhood of Yosko Park in the Atlantic Street neighborhood as it is an extremely dangerous area, and the people living there have been at risk for years. Mr. Rodriquez exclaimed that if there is an Ordinance pertaining to closing parks at a certain hour then they should be closed. Mr. Rodriquez asserted that the problems at 628, 632, 639, and 640 Atlantic Street must be addressed, Latin King members are in the vicinity, and he knows that Ms. Galvin is in harm’s way. Mr. Rodriquez stressed that the drug problem has to be uncovered, and it should be ensured there is no dealing of drugs inside stores. Mr. Rodriquez communicated that the community needs to get more involved because although the Police are doing a very good job, they cannot do everything and be everywhere.

Five Points – Removing Left Turn and Restoring Parking

Louise Valeriano, 3114 East Boulevard, observing that the removal of the left turn lane at Five Points seemed like the best idea or it would not have been passed, asked why is it not the best idea now. She felt the City should stay with the idea. Ms. Valeriano pointed out that a stop light was installed on Broad Street at the post office where there had not been one before and drivers adapted to it so they will adapt to the removal of the left turn lane.

Commending Police Officer; Research by Citizens

Stephen Antalics, 737 Ridge Street, commended Police Officer Kevin Conrad for the empathy and sympathy he showed for a handicapped person in an incident involving a car parked into the intersection and the blocking of a fire hydrant. Mr. Antalics related the details of the situation that he observed and highlighted the fact that, instead of simply issuing a ticket, Officer Conrad put a lot of effort into clarifying the situation by going into the nearby businesses to find out what had happened. Mr. Antalics also commented that he is impressed with the amount of research done by the citizens who regularly attend Council Meetings.

Transportation Issues

Chuck Nyul, 1966 Pinehurst Road, referring to the situation described by Ms. Galvin, stressed that Bethlehem is a great City and something should be done about the situation. Mr. Nyul, communicating that Robert Pfenning’s comments at the last City Council Meeting concerning transportation in the City were very good, questioned the plans for transportation in view of the fact that the casino will open next year and there will be many more cars coming into the City. He wondered whether City officials have any solutions. Mr. Nyul suggested that the School District buses that are not used during the summer months could perhaps provide jitney service as a transportation solution, and added that it would provide the school bus drivers with some extra income.

Center Street Vicinity – Living Conditions in Neighborhood

Carol Ann Krasley, Center Street, advised that approximately three weeks ago in the unit block of East North Street bounded by New Street and Center Street there was an incident involving many Police vehicles that arrived on the scene with no lights and no sirens, and neighbors were told to remain inside their homes. Ms. Krasley highlighted the fact that it is a clear indication of the types of occurrences that are now being experienced in Bethlehem. Advising that the incident occurred around the corner from her home, Ms. Krasley informed the Members that the residents have worked diligently to make their neighborhood as safe as they possibly can, but yet there are still such incidents. Ms. Krasley stressed that the residents need to feel safe and need to be safe, and it is most unpleasant to have to tolerate these conditions. Advising that one of the individuals was sent to Northampton County prison, Ms. Krasley notified the assembly that the individual drinks, his activities are deplorable, it was a concern for many years and it was reported to the Police Commissioner by one of the neighbors. Ms. Krasley questioned when is it going to stop.

Police Officers; Council and Administration

John Ladics, Kaywin Avenue, stated that the laws are enforced in the City, and remarked that district justices have to stop acting like lawyers for the defendants. Mr. Ladics highlighted the fact that Police Officers risk their lives and feel as if they are the guilty ones when they go into the courtroom. Mr. Ladics explained how some people run away when they see a Police car, and others try to act gentle and meek when they see a Police Officer. Mr. Ladics communicated that, as a former Police Officer, he sees a lot of things, and wonders how things are going to be stopped. Referring to the assessment of Members of Council presented at the last City Council Meeting, Mr. Ladics pointed out that he votes in a voting booth at election time. Mr. Ladics noted that the Members of Council and the Mayor always have taken the time to listen to him, and added they should not be badgered at Council Meetings.

City Center Plaza; Invitation

Dana Grubb, 2420 Henderson Place, expressed the hope that the City Plaza will be repaired soon. Mr. Grubb commented that he will be sending an invitation to City officials for a ceremonial groundbreaking on September 11 for the Montclair Terrace townhomes.

The meeting was adjourned at 8:20 p.m.