City Council

BETHLEHEM CITY COUNCIL MEETING 10 East Church Street - Town Hall Bethlehem, Pennsylvania Tuesday, March 4, 2025 – 7:00 PM PLEDGE TO THE FLAG 1. ROLL CALL The meeting was called to order by President Colón. Present were Bryan G. Callahan, Grace Crampsie Smith, Hillary G. Kwiatek, Colleen Laird, Kiera Wilhelm, Rachel Leon, and Michael G. Colón, 7. CITATIONS Five retirees were recognized for their service to the City. Firefighter Pedro Solivan, Jr. served the City for more than 25 years while firefighter Christopher Vargo served for 20 years. Additionally, Stephen Dudla, Jr. retired as a Maintenance Worker III from the Grounds Bureau after more than 20 years. Carey Ruhf retired after more than 35 years as Business Manager with the Department of Water and Sewer Resources. And Darlene Heller retired as Director of Planning and Zoning after more than 25 years with the Department of Community and Economic Development. Mr. Dudla, Mr. Vargo, and Ms. Heller were present to receive their Citations. Citations will be mailed to Mr. Solivan and Ms. Ruhf. 2. APPROVAL OF MINUTES February 18, 2025 3. PUBLIC COMMENT A. PUBLIC COMMENT (on any subject not being voted on this evening – 5 Minute Time Limit) Compliment Paid Resident Robert Virgilio complimented William Santiago, the City’s Recycling and Trash Enforcement Officer. Mr. Virgilio related that he saw signs of rats in the area of Long and Walnut Streets and believed that rodents were attracted to a neighbor’s overflowing trash. The problem has been rectified through enforcement. Mr. Virgilio encouraged those with trash and recycling issues to contact Mr. Santiago. Support ‘Red Flag Law’ Resident Mark Will-Weber cited a recent op-ed column by Senator Lisa Boscola about rising electric costs. He believes there is a parallel to increasing water costs. Mr. Will-Weber believes that one way that Council could help the Bethlehem water consumer is to address concerns over “mega-bills” that can result from extreme water leakage or other unintentional Bethlehem City Council Meeting 2 March 4, 2025 usage. He urged Council to support state Representative Jeanne McNeill’s “Red Flag Law” that would require quicker notification of customers’ abnormally high-water usage. If this bill does not pass, he would like to see Council and the Mayor implement similar action and speed up the installation of smart meters with the technology to provide these alerts. Elected Officials’ Salaries/Legalize Drugs Resident Arthur Curatola believes that elected officials “all across the board” get paid “way too much money” compared to veterans who put their lives on the line. He also believes that concerns about hantaviruses are overstated. Mr. Curatola also suggested legalizing drugs such as cocaine much in the same way that marijuana laws have changed. People should educate themselves on the dangers but if they are foolish enough to use these drugs, they should get them through doctors. Eliminate problems associated with crime by making these drugs legal. This would cut out dealers and cartels. Reaction to Immigration Statement Resident Sebastian Zawierucha said he appreciates the advancements that Police Chief Michelle Kott has made with the Department. He believes she made a solid case in recent weeks in recommending that City Council not pass welcoming city legislation. Strong points were fear of federal repercussions for the City it if were to enact such legislation as well as creating false hope that it would make a meaningful difference compared to any other existing options. Still, he wonders whether Bethlehem will draw a line and proclaim that it stands for something even if there are repercussions. As for false hope, he believes that Allentown’s actions will not make a meaningful difference but that taking such a stand would proclaim that Bethlehem stands with other cities on immigration issues. Preferential Treatment?/No Need to Declare Sanctuary City Status Resident William Scheirer believes that the developers of the proposed Woolworth Building project received preferential treatment a few weeks ago because they were allowed to address Council before the matter was discussed and voted upon. However, members from the Historical and Architectural Review Board who were present to defend their recommendation to reject the proposal had to wait until the second portion of Public Comment. He also noted a Bill in the House of Representatives that would deny any funding to a city that declares itself a sanctuary city. He suggested there is no need for Bethlehem to make this declaration but to simply not cooperate more than necessary. Safety in Numbers Resident Valerie Noonan said she along with student and community organizers concerned about immigration have met with Chief Kott and Councilwoman Colleen Laird. She noted that 24 cities are currently certified as welcoming cities. She believes the more cities that participate, the more protection there will be. School Board, City Council Comparison Bethlehem City Council Meeting 3 March 4, 2025 Resident Stephen Antalics compared and contrasted the roles of City Council and Bethlehem Area School Board. Time dedication is about the same but Council deals with issues such as building height compared to the education of our children. Meanwhile, Council receives a salary; whereas, School Board members do not. He summarized these differences in pay to say that School Board members serve as a calling compared to Council members meeting an obligation. He added that the school district has a larger budget, hires more people, has more buildings to maintain and generally has more responsibilities. Appreciates Support A South Side resident for more than 20 years spoke on behalf of immigrants who do not feel safe speaking to authorities. She thanked Chief Kott and Council members who have been listening to pleas made regarding federal immigration matters. She appreciates the support and urges welcoming city legislation. Silence is a Deadly Weapon Resident Harry Faber noted Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s blockade that effectively violates the ceasefire terms by punishing the 2 million residents of Gaza. We live in profoundly unequal times in that those who are in power can discriminate against those they choose. He spoke of the “silence of the world” as being a greater weapon than arms. B. PUBLIC COMMENT (on ordinances and resolutions to be voted on by Council this evening – 5 Minute Time Limit. Opposes Pay Raises for Council, Mayor Resident Harry Faber asked why Council thought this would be a good time, in light of the potential loss of federal funding including grants, to propose pay increases for some City elected officials including Council members. Raising Council salaries would be the clearest waste of City resources. He does not oppose an increase for the Controller but he believes that the current $90,500 salary for the Mayor is more than enough. And he opposes an increase for Council primarily because it has failed “to meet public demand” by deflecting responsibility by not passing a ceasefire Resolution last year or welcoming city legislation this year. Council would need to prove that it is “the voice and the bodies of the people of Bethlehem” before he would support a pay increase for its members. Oppose Council Pay Increase Resident Charles Tommor offered a petition signed by an estimated 150 to 175 residents asking Council to oppose the proposed Council salary increase. He said that residents cannot bear this financial burden and further stated that the City has never received “one penny” from the casino. He said The Sands, now Wind Creek Casino, promised the City money to offset costs for City services. Look to the casino for this pay increase. (Editor’s Note: Despite a brief discussion of submitting the petition to the City Clerk, the petition was not provided.) Oppose Rezoning Request Bethlehem City Council Meeting 4 March 4, 2025 Resident William Scheirer urged Council not to change the zoning for 11-15 W. Garrison Street from RT to CB. He acknowledged that the proposed change would promote development efficiency, but sacrificing the two existing buildings proposed to be razed on these lots is too high a price. He warned that, if the City is not careful, what is now attractive to visitors and residents will be lost. Supports Pay Raise Resident Frank Barron supported the pay raises for the Controller, Mayor, and Council members. Council members deserve more compensation for the hours spent at Council meetings as well as less obvious time spent at committee meetings, meeting with residents, etc. He acknowledged the point made earlier that school board members are not paid and believes that is according to state law. He believes this is unfair but it is barred by law. This should not, however, penalize Council members. Mr. Barron also pointed out that an approved pay raise would not guarantee an increase for the sitting Council members. Pay Raise Not Earned Resident Stephen Antalics said that Council members of the past rarely discussed compensation. The position was a calling, not a job. Mr. Antalics agreed with a comment made at the February 24 Finance Committee meeting that pay raises should be based on merit. A previous opinion poll that he conducted resulted in meeting attendees offering poor ratings for several sitting Council members suggesting that a pay raise, if based on merit, would not be in order. Kudos to Darlene Heller/Pay Increase Based on Performance Resident Bud Hackett complimented retiring Director of Planning and Zoning Darlene Heller. He called her the “consummate professional.” Mr. Hackett also said he would support pay increases for the Mayor and Council if there was an agreement on goals, objectives, and outcomes (performance). If these are achieved, more money should be received. Merit should be a major part of the consideration. Mr. Hackett also recommended that Council spend more time on City business rather than national and international matters. Council Salaries a ‘Pittance’ Resident Valerie Noonan said the amount that Council is working for now is a “pittance” compared to the work involved, and the proposed increase is not much better. The Mayor’s current salary seems reasonable. Salaries Should Not Exceed Veterans’ Pay Resident Arthur Curatola said that Council and the Mayor should view their salaries as public service. Elected officials should not be paid more than military personnel. Supports Higher Pay/Merit at the Ballot Box Bethlehem City Council Meeting 5 March 4, 2025 Resident Sebastian Zawierucha believes it is important for elected officials to be properly compensated. It is important that the positions pay enough that all can participate. As for merit, he believes that is determined by election and re-election. Pay Raise Inappropriate Brandon reminded that City Council raised taxes a year ago. He believed this was to pay for these anticipated raises. He suggested that Council does not deserve a raise because of the condition of City roads and the number of homeless people. Reject Zoning Change Resident Jim Schoffstall is a neighbor to the property that is the subject of tonight’s rezoning request. He reminded that a rezoning request for this property was rejected in 2019 primarily because of increased traffic and limited parking. Salary Should Not Be a Barrier Resident Paige Van Wirt, a former Council member, corrected a statement that the City has not received money from the casino. It receives approximately $10 million annually that goes directly into the General Fund. She also supported increasing the salaries of Council members, the Controller, and Mayor. Serving on Council requires many hours of research, communication, and collaboration in addition to time spent at meetings. She did not seek re-election because she could not both be an informed Council member and continue to grow her business. These elected officials do not expect top dollar for their services, but the salary should never be a barrier to serving. Reasonable Plan Gabe Moyer, the co-developer of 11-15 W. Garrison Street, said four-fifths of the site is already commercially zoned. In time, all of the existing structures will be razed to make way for new ones. They have provided multiple plan adjustments based on suggestions made throughout the planning process. He believes it is a reasonable plan with a reasonable height and provided parking. Tough Decision Resident Robert Virgilio recalled suggesting a year ago that salaries should increase for Council members and the Mayor. They have a demanding job, and we want the best candidates. But he learned during budget meetings that the City does not have a lot of ways to generate revenue. Mr. Virgilio also believes that first responders should receive raises, and he does not see these being proposed. He is not against giving raises to all in these groups but he is unsure how that can happen. Reject Rezoning Cindy Toledo, a neighbor to the West Garrison Street rezoning proposal, requested that the rezoning request not be approved. The project appears to intend luxury apartments rather Bethlehem City Council Meeting 6 March 4, 2025 than the needed affordable housing. She is concerned with traffic congestion and insufficient parking. Doesn’t See the Demand Resident Tina Canelmi checked the Zillow real estate website to gauge the supply of available apartments in the City in response to comments made by the developers of 11-15 West Garrison that their project would help to address a need for more residential properties. She cited several apartment complexes with multiple available units. She also encouraged home ownership rather than renting. Addressing Needs Vincent Marucci, an architect working on the 11-15 West Garrison Street project, said the developers are considering condominium ownership for this project. He also pointed to studies that suggest a “drastic deficit” remains for dwellings in the Lehigh Valley. He added that inner- city development can curtail suburban sprawl that includes disappearing farm fields. 4. OLD BUSINESS A. Members of Council B. Tabled Items C. Unfinished Business 5. NEW BUSINESS Ms. Laird Ms. Laird said she is working with several community members and City Administration to address safety and privacy issues for community members concerning recent immigration concerns. This includes reviewing existing practices to better ensure privacy protections for community members. She will not take action that would make community members a target. However, she would like to find solutions to add protections. This work is ongoing. Mr. Callahan Mr. Callahan asked Business Administrator Eric Evans the annual amount that the City receives from Wind Creek Casinos. He believed this amount to be more than what Bethlehem Steel Corp. paid the City annually in its heyday, although he said this might not be accurate if adjusting for inflation. Mr. Evans said the City receives a $9.9 million host fee. Real estate taxes are not broken out separately, but Mr. Evans agreed that the annual figure is in the millions of dollars. Mr. Callahan said the revenue received by Bethlehem has been a critical financial resource to the City throughout the years. This has held down taxes. Bethlehem City Council Meeting 7 March 4, 2025 Mr. Colón President Colón referred to the 2025 Budget Book and noted that the $9.9 million casino host fee is listed as a revenue source. He also addressed a comment that the developer of the Woolworth’s Building received preferential treatment during a recent Council meeting agenda item involving a Certificate of Appropriateness for the project. According to the related City Ordinance, an applicant in a matter involving the Historical and Architectural Review Board is to be given the opportunity to address Council. 6. COMMUNICATIONS A. Police Department – 2024 Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) The Clerk read a February 21, 2025 memorandum and attached Resolution from Police Chief Michelle Kott in support of the 2024 Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant. An application is being made to receive up to $33,577. This grant would be used to expand and update the City’s intersection camera network. President Colón said he would accept motion and a second to schedule a Public Hearing on receipt of the proposed grant for March 18. Ms. Kwiatek made a motion, seconded by Ms. Leon, to hold a Public Hearing for March 18. Voting AYE: Mr. Callahan, Ms. Crampsie Smith, Ms. Kwiatek, Ms. Laird, Ms. Leon, Ms. Wilhelm, and Mr. Colón, 7. Motion passed. B. Director of Public Works – 2025 05 ADA Curb Ramps Contract – LB Construction Enterprises, Inc. The Clerk read a February 24, 2025 memorandum and proposed Resolution from Public Works Director Michael Alkhal. The memorandum seeks authorization to execute an agreement with LB Construction Enterprises, Inc. of Spring House, Pennsylvania, to provide engineering services, labor, and materials to design and construct 60 ADA curb ramps throughout the City. The cost is $459,500, and the work is to be completed within 100 days from the Notice to Proceed. There are no renewals. Five bids were received. LB Construction was determined to be the lowest bidder. President Colón stated Resolution 10 B is on the agenda. C. Director of Water and Sewer Resources – 2025 19 Water Treatment Plant Roof Replacement – CHA Consulting, Inc. The Clerk read a February 24, 2025 memorandum and proposed Resolution from Director of Water and Sewer Resources Edward Boscola. Mr. Boscola seeks authorization to execute an agreement with CHA Consulting, Inc. of Bethlehem to provide design, bidding and construction and administration services for replacement of the roof at the water filtration plant. The cost is $127,500, and the work is to be completed by December 31, 2025. There are no renewals. Bethlehem City Council Meeting 8 March 4, 2025 President Colón stated Resolution 10 C is on the agenda. D. Director of Public Works – 2025 06 Street Overlay – G&B Construction Group The Clerk read a February 25, 2025 memorandum and proposed Resolution from Public Works Director Michael Alkhal. The memorandum seeks authorization to execute an agreement with G&B Construction Group of Feasterville to provide engineering services, labor, and materials to design and construct ADA curb ramp upgrades and mill and overlay Pembroke Road from Stefko Boulevard to Woodruff Street and Elizabeth Avenue from Chelsea Street to Linden Street. The cost is $451,067.25, and the work is to be completed within 45 days from the Notice to Proceed. There are no renewals. Six bids were received. G&B Construction Group was the lowest bid received. President Colón stated Resolution 10 D is on the agenda. E. Chief of Police – Lieutenant Eric Waldeck – 2025 Disposition of Police Handgun The Clerk read a February 27, 2025 memorandum from Police Chief Michelle Kott with an attached Resolution and Agreement for the purchase of a duty weapon by a retired Officer of the Bethlehem Police Department. Pursuant to the Third Class City Code, retired officers may purchase their duty firearms at fair market value. President Colón stated Resolution 10 E is on the agenda. F. Director of Public Works – 2025 08 CDBG ADA Curb Ramps – LB Construction Enterprises, Inc. The Clerk read a February 25, 2025 memorandum and proposed Resolution from Public Works Director Michael Alkhal. The memorandum seeks authorization to execute an agreement with LB Construction Enterprises, Inc. of Spring House to provide engineering services, labor, and materials to design and construct 50 ADA curb ramps in conjunction with in-house paving activities throughout the City. The cost is $367,900, and the work is to be completed within 100 days from the Notice to Proceed. There are no renewals. Six bids were received. LB Construction submitted the lowest one. President Colón stated Resolution 10 F is on the agenda. G. Director of Water and Sewer Resources – 2024 43 HDPE Insertion – Joao & Bradley Construction Co., Inc. The Clerk read a February 25, 2025 memorandum and proposed Resolution from Director of Water and Sewer Resources Edward Boscola. The memorandum seeks authorization to execute an agreement with Joao & Bradley Construction Co., Inc. of Bethlehem to provide materials and labor to repair broken water mains at two locations. The cost is $416,525, and the work is to be completed within 180 days from the Notice to Proceed. There are no renewals. Two bids were received with Joao & Bradley submitting the lowest bid. President Colón stated Resolution 10 G is on the agenda. Bethlehem City Council Meeting 9 March 4, 2025 H. City Solicitor – Use Permit Agreement – AAUW – 2025 Book Fair The Clerk read a February 26, 2025 memorandum from Solicitor John F. Spirk, Jr. with an attached Use Permit Agreement and a Resolution. The Permittee is the American Association of University Women, Bethlehem Branch, to use the Earl E. Schaffer Ice Rink to hold its 2025 AAUW Book Fair. Event dates are April 24 through April 28, 2025 and the duration of the permit is March 31 through April 28. President Colón stated Resolution 10 H is on the agenda. I. City Solicitor – Use Permit Agreement – Work to Live d/b/a Run Lehigh Valley – 2025 Brew to Brew Run The Clerk read a February 26, 2025 memorandum from Solicitor John F. Spirk, Jr. with an attached Use Permit Agreement and a Resolution. The Permittee is Work to Live, LLC d/b/a Run Lehigh Valley for use of public property specified as Main Street from River Street to Broad Street and the Nevin Place right-of-way and a specified parcel along West Walnut Street. The event is the 2025 Brew to Brew Run, which will take place between 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM on April 12, 2025. The permit duration will be from 8:00 AM until 3:00 PM on April 12. President Colón stated Resolution 10 I is on the agenda. J. Director of Business Administration – Ordinance to Repeal and Replace Article 141 The Clerk read a February 24, 2025 memorandum and attached proposed Ordinance from Business Administrator Eric Evans. The memorandum proposes amending Article 141 to add Patillas, Puerto Rico as a Sister City to Bethlehem. President Colón stated the Ordinance will be placed on Council’s March 18 agenda for First Reading. 7. REPORTS A. President of Council 7A1. Councilmanic Appointment – Martin J. Beatty – Bethlehem Area Public Library Board President Colón appointed Martin J. Beatty to the Bethlehem Area Public Library Board. The appointment is effective through January of 2028. Ms. Laird and Ms. Crampsie Smith sponsored Resolution 2025-034 to confirm the appointment. President Colón said a vacancy arose because of a resignation from the board. He collaborated with library leadership to recommend Mr. Beatty. Ms. Laird said she has worked with Mr. Beatty at a food co-op and is pleased to see that he is a willing volunteer for this board position. Voting AYE: Mr. Callahan, Ms. Crampsie Smith, Ms. Kwiatek, Ms. Laird, Ms. Leon, Ms. Wilhelm, and Mr. Colón, 7. The Motion passed. Bethlehem City Council Meeting 10 March 4, 2025 B. Mayor Mayor J. William Reynolds followed up on the conversation about money paid to the City over the years by the casino. The City has received about $10 million annually resulting from the negotiated host fee. This amount represented about 20 percent of the City’s budget in the first years. The budget has grown and the host fee amount has remained steady but it is still tremendously helpful. This revenue has allowed Bethlehem to avoid making decisions that some other cities have had to make including significantly raising taxes. This also allows Bethlehem to be able to charge a 1 percent Earned Income Tax rate. Part of this reason is because of the host fee. He added that SteelStacks, the Hoover Mason Trestle, and the Levitt Pavilion would not exist without the casino. The Mayor also followed up on positive comments about Ms. Heller’s many years of service as Director of Planning and Zoning. “Ms. Heller is one of the reasons why Bethlehem is the place that people want to be, that they want to live in,” he said. She was one of the only people 20 years ago talking about walkability and bikability. She was talking about protecting history. She helped to create a culture where she might have been one of the few voices in City Hall talking about these things when she got here, but she was one of many voices talking this way when she retired. Ms. Heller changed the culture and the way we think about so many of these issues. Mayor Reynolds announced that City police will participate in the Blue Envelope Program, an initiative designed to improve communication between law enforcement and drivers with special needs. Disabilities and special needs can be explained with this documentation. He also announced that the pension fund for 2024 was up by 8.8 percent. One of the big increases in the 2025 budget came about because of a larger pension obligation that resulted from poor stock market performance in 2021 and 2022. The percentage for 2023 was up 11.3 percent thanks to improved market performance. This improvement will still make for one more challenging budget year in 2026, but the City will enjoy the benefits of two good performing years (2023 and 2024) in 2027 and 2028. The Mayor also announced a good year in 2024 for medical insurance. The City is self-insured, so this fluctuates yearly. He also noted current talk in Washington about potential Medicaid cuts. This would have a lot of “domino effects” for everyone’s health care bills. He also said that the City’s paving season will begin near the end of April. In 2020 and 2021, the City paved a combined 21 lane miles. In 2022 and 2023, this number rose to 47 lane miles with the help of some American Recovery Funds. The goal for 2024 and 2025 is 50 lane miles. C. Committee Chairs 7C1. Hillary Kwiatek, Chair – Community and Economic Development Committee Ms. Kwiatek reported that the Community and Economic Development Committee that was scheduled for 6 tonight in Town Hall to discuss amendments to the Residential Permit Parking program had to be postponed because of an illness. The meeting will be rescheduled. She also announced that the Community and Economic Development Committee is scheduled to meet at 6 PM on March 18 in Town Hall to discuss various code enforcement Ordinances. Bethlehem City Council Meeting 11 March 4, 2025 7C2. Grace Crampsie Smith, Chair – Finance Committee Ms. Crampsie Smith announced that the Finance Committee met on February 24 to discuss proposed amendments to elected officials’ salaries. The Committee voted 3-0 to forward to Council proposed Ordinances to increase the salaries of City Council, the Mayor, and the Controller. Those Ordinances are listed on tonight’s Council agenda for First Reading. 8. ORDINANCES FOR FINAL PASSAGE Ms. Leon made a motion, seconded by Mr. Callahan, to group agenda items 8A through 8O for consideration. Voting AYE: Mr. Callahan, Ms. Crampsie Smith, Ms. Kwiatek, Ms. Laird, Ms. Leon, Ms. Wilhelm, and Mr. Colón, 7. The Motion passed. 8A. Bill No. 01-2025 – Budget Adjustment – Non-Utility Capital Fund The Clerk read Bill No. 01-2025—Budget Adjustment – Non-Utility Capital Fund, sponsored by Ms. Crampsie Smith and Ms. Leon and titled: AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF BETHLEHEM, COUNTIES OF LEHIGH AND NORTHAMPTON, COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA, AMENDING THE 2025 CAPITAL BUDGET FOR NON-UTILITIES. Voting AYE: Mr. Callahan, Ms. Crampsie Smith, Ms. Kwiatek, Ms. Laird, Ms. Leon, Ms. Wilhelm, and Mr. Colón, 7. Bill No. 01-2025, now known as Ordinance No. 2025-01, passed on Final Reading. 8B. Bill No. 02-2025 – Budget Adjustment – Sewer Capital Fund The Clerk read Bill No. 02-2025—Budget Adjustment – Sewer Capital Fund, sponsored by Ms. Crampsie Smith and Ms. Leon and titled: AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF BETHLEHEM, COUNTIES OF LEHIGH AND NORTHAMPTON, COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA, AMENDING THE 2025 CAPITAL BUDGET FOR SEWER UTILITIES. Voting AYE: Mr. Callahan, Ms. Crampsie Smith, Ms. Kwiatek, Ms. Laird, Ms. Leon, Ms. Wilhelm, and Mr. Colón, 7. Bill No. 02-2025, now known as Ordinance No. 2025-02, passed on Final Reading. 8C. Bill No. 03-2025 – Budget Adjustment – Water Capital Fund The Clerk read Bill No. 03-2025—Budget Adjustment – Water Capital Fund, sponsored by Ms. Crampsie Smith and Ms. Leon and titled: Bethlehem City Council Meeting 12 March 4, 2025 AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF BETHLEHEM, COUNTIES OF LEHIGH AND NORTHAMPTON, COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA, AMENDING THE WATER CAPITAL FUND BUDGET FOR 2025. Voting AYE: Mr. Callahan, Ms. Crampsie Smith, Ms. Kwiatek, Ms. Laird, Ms. Leon, Ms. Wilhelm, and Mr. Colón, 7. Bill No. 03-2025, now known as Ordinance No. 2025-03, passed on Final Reading. 8D. Bill No. 04-2025 – Budget Adjustment – Water Fund The Clerk read Bill No. 04-2025—Budget Adjustment – Water Fund, sponsored by Ms. Crampsie Smith and Ms. Leon and titled: AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF BETHLEHEM, COUNTIES OF LEHIGH AND NORTHAMPTON, COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA, AMENDING THE WATER FUND BUDGET FOR 2025. Voting AYE: Mr. Callahan, Ms. Crampsie Smith, Ms. Kwiatek, Ms. Laird, Ms. Leon, Ms. Wilhelm, and Mr. Colón, 7. Bill No. 04-2025, now known as Ordinance No. 2025-04, passed on Final Reading. 8E. Bill No. 05-2025 – Budget Adjustment – General Fund The Clerk read Bill No. 05-2025—Budget Adjustment – General Fund, sponsored by Ms. Crampsie Smith and Ms. Leon and titled: AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF BETHLEHEM, COUNTIES OF LEHIGH AND NORTHAMPTON, COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA, AMENDING THE GENERAL FUND BUDGET FOR 2025. Voting AYE: Mr. Callahan, Ms. Crampsie Smith, Ms. Kwiatek, Ms. Laird, Ms. Leon, Ms. Wilhelm, and Mr. Colón, 7. Bill No. 05-2025, now known as Ordinance No. 2025-05, passed on Final Reading. 8F. Bill No. 06-2025 – Budget Adjustment – Fire Grant – General Fund The Clerk read Bill No. 06-2025—Budget Adjustment – Fire Grant – General Fund, sponsored by Ms. Crampsie Smith and Ms. Leon and titled: AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF BETHLEHEM, COUNTIES OF LEHIGH AND NORTHAMPTON, COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA, AMENDING THE GENERAL FUND BUDGET FOR 2025. Bethlehem City Council Meeting 13 March 4, 2025 Voting AYE: Mr. Callahan, Ms. Crampsie Smith, Ms. Kwiatek, Ms. Laird, Ms. Leon, Ms. Wilhelm, and Mr. Colón, 7. Bill No. 06-2025, now known as Ordinance No. 2025-06, passed on Final Reading. 8G. Bill No. 07-2025 – Budget Adjustment – Halloween Donation – General Fund The Clerk read Bill No. 07-2025—Budget Adjustment – Halloween Donation – General Fund, sponsored by Ms. Crampsie Smith and Ms. Leon and titled: AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF BETHLEHEM, COUNTIES OF LEHIGH AND NORTHAMPTON, COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA, AMENDING THE GENERAL FUND BUDGET FOR 2025. Voting AYE: Mr. Callahan, Ms. Crampsie Smith, Ms. Kwiatek, Ms. Laird, Ms. Leon, Ms. Wilhelm, and Mr. Colón, 7. Bill No. 07-2025, now known as Ordinance No. 2025-07, passed on Final Reading. 8H. Bill No. 08-2025 – Budget Adjustment – Police Radios – General Fund The Clerk read Bill No. 08-2025—Budget Adjustment – Police Radios – General Fund, sponsored by Ms. Crampsie Smith and Ms. Leon and titled: AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF BETHLEHEM, COUNTIES OF LEHIGH AND NORTHAMPTON, COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA, AMENDING THE GENERAL FUND BUDGET FOR 2025. Voting AYE: Mr. Callahan, Ms. Crampsie Smith, Ms. Kwiatek, Ms. Laird, Ms. Leon, Ms. Wilhelm, and Mr. Colón, 7. Bill No. 08-2025, now known as Ordinance No. 2025-08, passed on Final Reading. 8I. Bill No. 09-2025 – Budget Adjustment – Women’s Health Services – General Fund The Clerk read Bill No. 09-2025—Budget Adjustment – Women’s Health Services – General Fund, sponsored by Ms. Crampsie Smith and Ms. Leon and titled: AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF BETHLEHEM, COUNTIES OF LEHIGH AND NORTHAMPTON, COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA, AMENDING THE GENERAL FUND BUDGET FOR 2025. Voting AYE: Mr. Callahan, Ms. Crampsie Smith, Ms. Kwiatek, Ms. Laird, Ms. Leon, Ms. Wilhelm, and Mr. Colón, 7. Bill No. 09-2025, now known as Ordinance No. 2025-09, passed on Final Reading. 8J. Bill No. 10-2025 – Budget Adjustment – Police Organized Crime – General Fund Bethlehem City Council Meeting 14 March 4, 2025 The Clerk read Bill No. 10-2025—Budget Adjustment – Police Organized Crime – General Fund, sponsored by Ms. Crampsie Smith and Ms. Leon and titled: AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF BETHLEHEM, COUNTIES OF LEHIGH AND NORTHAMPTON, COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA, AMENDING THE GENERAL FUND BUDGET FOR 2025. Voting AYE: Mr. Callahan, Ms. Crampsie Smith, Ms. Kwiatek, Ms. Laird, Ms. Leon, Ms. Wilhelm, and Mr. Colón, 7. Bill No. 10-2025, now known as Ordinance No. 2025-10, passed on Final Reading. 8K. Bill No. 11-2025 – Budget Adjustment – Pole Replacement – General Fund The Clerk read Bill No. 11-2025—Budget Adjustment – Pole Replacement – General Fund, sponsored by Ms. Crampsie Smith and Ms. Leon and titled: AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF BETHLEHEM, COUNTIES OF LEHIGH AND NORTHAMPTON, COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA, AMENDING THE GENERAL FUND BUDGET FOR 2025. Voting AYE: Mr. Callahan, Ms. Crampsie Smith, Ms. Kwiatek, Ms. Laird, Ms. Leon, Ms. Wilhelm, and Mr. Colón, 7. Bill No. 11-2025, now known as Ordinance No. 2025-11, passed on Final Reading. 8L. Bill No. 12-2025 – Budget Adjustment – Emergency Solutions Grant – General Fund The Clerk read Bill No. 12-2025—Budget Adjustment – Emergency Solutions Grant – General Fund, sponsored by Ms. Crampsie Smith and Ms. Leon and titled: AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF BETHLEHEM, COUNTIES OF LEHIGH AND NORTHAMPTON, COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA, AMENDING THE GENERAL FUND BUDGET FOR 2025. Voting AYE: Mr. Callahan, Ms. Crampsie Smith, Ms. Kwiatek, Ms. Laird, Ms. Leon, Ms. Wilhelm, and Mr. Colón, 7. Bill No. 12-2025, now known as Ordinance No. 2025-12, passed on Final Reading. 8M. Bill No. 13-2025 – Budget Adjustment – LERTA Affordable Housing – General Fund The Clerk read Bill No. 13-2025—Budget Adjustment – LERTA Affordable Housing – General Fund, sponsored by Ms. Crampsie Smith and Ms. Leon and titled: AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF BETHLEHEM, COUNTIES OF LEHIGH AND NORTHAMPTON, Bethlehem City Council Meeting 15 March 4, 2025 COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA, AMENDING THE GENERAL FUND BUDGET FOR 2025. Voting AYE: Mr. Callahan, Ms. Crampsie Smith, Ms. Kwiatek, Ms. Laird, Ms. Leon, Ms. Wilhelm, and Mr. Colón, 7. Bill No. 13-2025, now known as Ordinance No. 2025-13, passed on Final Reading. 8N. Bill No. 14-2025 – Budget Adjustment – St. Luke’s Hospital Donation – Golf Fund The Clerk read Bill No. 14-2025—Budget Adjustment – St. Luke’s Hospital Donation – Golf Fund, sponsored by Ms. Crampsie Smith and Ms. Leon and titled: AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF BETHLEHEM, COUNTIES OF LEHIGH AND NORTHAMPTON, COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA, AMENDING THE GOLF FUND BUDGET FOR 2025. Voting AYE: Mr. Callahan, Ms. Crampsie Smith, Ms. Kwiatek, Ms. Laird, Ms. Leon, Ms. Wilhelm, and Mr. Colón, 7. Bill No. 14-2025, now known as Ordinance No. 2025-14, passed on Final Reading. 8O. Bill No. 15-2025 – Budget Adjustment – Community Development Block Grant Fund The Clerk read Bill No. 15-2025—Budget Adjustment – Community Development Block Grant Fund, sponsored by Ms. Crampsie Smith and Ms. Leon and titled: AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF BETHLEHEM, COUNTIES OF LEHIGH AND NORTHAMPTON, COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA, AMENDING THE COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT FUND BUDGET FOR 2025. Voting AYE: Mr. Callahan, Ms. Crampsie Smith, Ms. Kwiatek, Ms. Laird, Ms. Leon, Ms. Wilhelm, and Mr. Colón, 7. Bill No. 15-2025, now known as Ordinance No. 2025-15, passed on Final Reading. 9. NEW ORDINANCES 9A. Bill No. 16-2025 – Salary – Council and Council President The Clerk read Bill No. 16-2025—Salary – Council and Council President, sponsored by Ms. Laird and Ms. Crampsie Smith and titled: AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF BETHLEHEM, COUNTIES OF LEHIGH AND NORTHAMPTON, COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA, AMENDING ORDINANCE 2017-01 Bethlehem City Council Meeting 16 March 4, 2025 ESTABLISHING THE SALARIES OF THE MEMBERS OF COUNCIL AND THE PRESIDENT OF COUNCIL. Ms. Wilhelm outlined the three bills involving elected officials’ salaries. She recognized comments that school board members are not compensated and said she believed they should be. However, Council does not make that decision. She added that she took some offense to the insinuation that accepting modest compensation for Council service diminishes dedication to their work. She understands that it is awkward for Council to propose salary increases for future Council members rather than some other proscribed mechanism for recommending raises, but this is the only allowable means. She added that this sensitive procedure probably is why Council salaries have not been raised in 16 years. She underscored the fact that any salary increase would not take effect until the next election cycle, meaning that no one voting tonight would be guaranteed an increase unless and until they are re-elected. In particular, Ms. Wilhelm said she did not want a relatively low compensation to be a barrier to someone serving. Ms. Wilhelm said the Controller’s position has been an important one and is also due for a raise. So, too, is the Mayor’s position. The $90,500 has not been raised in 12 years. All of the department heads’ salaries have risen above his during this time. Solicitor Steward was consulted as to whether incremental raises, which would ease an abrupt $39,000 boost to the budget, would be permissible. State statute does not allow for incremental increases for Council or the Controller. However, the Third Class City Code does allow for an incremental increase. Ms. Wilhelm is offering an amendment to her proposed Bills suggesting annual raises for the mayor of $1,875. Ms. Leon also does not want serving on Council to be cost prohibitive. One must have a certain level of financial stability in order to have the time to serve on Council. She does not want it to be that way. Council should have a make-up of members from different financial strata. She asked if there is a way of creating an Ordinance that could build in a cost-of-living increase rather than putting Council in this awkward position of being seen as voting on its own salary. Solicitor Steward said no. The Pennsylvania Constitution governs this. She added that any Ordinances passed to change salaries must be done at least two days prior to the candidate withdrawal deadline for the Primary Election so that the candidate pool is not finalized and those to receive compensation would not be certain. Ms. Laird agreed that voluntary service to Council is an honor. But volunteering is a privilege that many cannot afford. She considers the salary a stipend, or small compensation. She wants public service to remain accessible and sustainable. President Colón offered that the genesis of the proposed Bills resulted from a memo that he circulated based on a reminder from the Clerk’s Office. It has been the practice of the Council President prior to the four-year election cycle that if it wishes to review elected officials’ salaries, that must be done at least two days prior to the candidate withdrawal deadline. Ms. Laird asked how much the Council increase would impact next year’s budget, understanding that only four positions will be newly elected and eligible for the increase rather than all seven. She was told $14,200. Bethlehem City Council Meeting 17 March 4, 2025 Ms. Crampsie Smith sought clarification on which Council members would receive the increase. Solicitor Steward said anyone re-elected or newly elected this November. Incumbents would not receive the salary until the next election in two years if they were to be re-elected. Ms. Crampsie Smith asked whether this could ever be the subject of a referendum to be determined by voters. Solicitor Steward said the statutes speak to these matters being addressed by Council. There is no reference to a referendum. Ms. Crampsie Smith appreciated the discussion and that it has been many years since an increase, but she was concerned about where the money will come from, noting Business Administrator Evans’ comments during the Finance Committee meeting that the budget would have to be searched. She believes the timing is bad. There is a lot of concern regarding federal funding and how that shortfall could impact the budget. Ms. Kwiatek wanted to correct a concern raised earlier that first responders have not received salary increases in light of these proposed increases for elected officials. She stated that collective bargaining has produced pay increases of 4 percent for the first year and 3 percent for each of the next three years. Ms. Kwiatek added that Mr. Evans might not have known in the moment where the $14,200 Council salary increases would come from, but she was confident that it would not be too difficult to find in the City’s budget of more than $112 million. The budget review has not yet occurred. It would be part of the process for 2026 and beyond. She agreed with Ms. Wilhelm’s statement that review of Council’s salaries is awkward and hard but not addressing it for so long can cause other problems. Ms. Leon said her biggest hesitation was that this time four Council members’ salaries will be affected rather than three. She also asked whether those seeking re-election would be within their rights to abstain from this vote. Solicitor Steward recommended that Council members seeking re-election vote. The statutes are crafted so that self-interests are not involved because it cannot be known whether Ms. Leon or others would be re-elected. President Colón asked Mr. Evans whether the total proposed elected officials’ salary increases of $23,325 for 2026 would create a significant challenge given the City’s budget total. Mr. Evans said it is unfortunate that the deadline to decide this matter when other expenses and revenue will not begin to take shape for another six months. The number does not give him “indigestion” but there is some significance to it. Mr. Colón also observed that if the salary increase fails for any reason, the matter likely would not be revisited until 2029, making it 20 years since an increase. Ms. Kwiatek said it seems that there always are factors leading to financial uncertainty. If this increase were approved and the City experienced a bad year, could the increases be cancelled? Bethlehem City Council Meeting 18 March 4, 2025 Solicitor Steward said no. Voting AYE: Ms. Kwiatek, Ms. Laird, Ms. Wilhelm, and Mr. Colón, 4; NAY: Mr. Callahan, Ms. Crampsie Smith, and Ms. Leon, 3. Bill No. 16-2025 passed on First Reading. 9B. Bill No. 17-2025 – Salary – Controller The Clerk read Bill No. 17-2025—Salary – Controller, sponsored by Ms. Laird and Ms. Crampsie Smith and titled: AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF BETHLEHEM, COUNTIES OF LEHIGH AND NORTHAMPTON, COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA, AMENDING ORDINANCE 2017-03 ESTABLISHING THE SALARY OF THE CONTROLLER. President Colón said that Controller George Yasso could not attend this evening but said he is not advocating for the increase. Voting AYE: Mr. Callahan, Ms. Kwiatek, Ms. Laird, Ms. Leon, Ms. Wilhelm, and Mr. Colón, 6; NAY: Ms. Crampsie Smith, 1. Bill No. 17-2025 passed on First Reading. 9C. Bill No. 18-2025 – Salary – Mayor The Clerk read Bill No. 18-2025—Salary – Mayor, sponsored by Ms. Laird and Ms. Crampsie Smith and titled: AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF BETHLEHEM, COUNTIES OF LEHIGH AND NORTHAMPTON, COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA, AMENDING ORDINANCE 2017-02 ESTABLISHING THE SALARY OF THE MAYOR. Mayor Reynolds said he is not in favor of this proposed increase. The Mayor’s salary at $90,500 is adequate. He believed the median income for Bethlehem households is $62,000. If this were to pass, he would veto the Bill. President Colón said that is his right but he has not experienced a veto during his Council tenure. He asked Solicitor Steward what this would mean procedurally. Solicitor Steward said that is the Mayor’s right. Ms. Leon said she is aware of some circumstances where a leader would receive the top salary plus one dollar. If this system could be set, it would avoid having to re-open this matter every so often. She asked whether this would be permissible. Solicitor Steward said a salary could not be set on an unknown figure. Bethlehem City Council Meeting 19 March 4, 2025 President Colón said he has heard the Mayor state his position on not seeking a raise several times but he does liken the position to that of the chief executive of a corporation. He believes a raise is warranted. However, he also recognizes the Mayor’s veto authority. He wondered, if the Mayor intends the veto, if the effort to pass this legislation would be fruitless. Solicitor Steward said the veto could be overridden by a two-thirds majority of Council, a 5-2 vote. President Colón noted the March 24 deadline for Council to decide because of the candidate withdrawal date. Council could approve this Bill at its March 18 meeting. Mayor Reynolds would have up to 10 days to sign or veto the Bill. Mayor Reynolds indicated he likely would veto the Bill or not sign it within 10 days, which would effectively be a veto. Council could not meet until April to consider overriding the veto. The March 24 passage deadline would have passed, nullifying the proposed Mayoral salary increase. Voting AYE: Mr. Callahan, Ms. Kwiatek, Ms. Laird, Ms. Leon, and Ms. Wilhelm, 5; NAY: Ms. Crampsie Smith and Mr. Colón, 2. Bill No. 18-2025 passed on First Reading. 9D. Bill No. 19-2025 – Zoning Map Amendment – 11-15 W. Garrison Street The Clerk read Bill No. 19-2025—Zoning Map Amendment – 11-15 W. Garrison Street, sponsored by Ms. Laird and Ms. Crampsie Smith and titled: AN ORDINANCE AMENDING PART 13 OF THE CODIFIED ORDINANCES OF THE CITY OF BETHLEHEM, PENNSYLVANIA, AS AMENDED, KNOWN AS THE ZONING ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF BETHLEHEM, PENNSYLVANIA, BY AMENDING THE CITY ZONING MAP. Ms. Laird has spent much time on this matter since first presented at the February 18 Public Hearing. A statement was made by the developers that relationships were built as neighbors were advised of building plans and no one came forward to object during the Public Hearing. Ms. Laird has learned that some neighbors say they were not spoken to. It is not her role to judge, but it is her duty to ensure that all are heard. Additionally, there is a lot of trust in this process especially since what is being shown is a conceptual plan that the developer is not locked into. She believes the communication should be clear and open but also verified. She proposed allowing more time for facilitated conversations between the developers and the residents. Northside Alive would be willing to facilitate this conversation if both parties would be willing. Mr. Callahan noted a call for affordable housing, whether it is in home ownership or rental units. He believes that the pandemic and the resulting strangled supply chain greatly limited supply and demand for housing including rentals. More homes need to be put on the market before prices will come down. He knows that these will be higher end units but any units will help the overall supply, which should bring down cost. Mr. Callahan also stated that the developers plan to build 70 units whether they construct the first or second option. The option that would not include the zoning change would have to be built higher, at six floors instead of five floors, in order to include all 70 units. Fewer parking spaces also would be provided if the zoning amendment does not gain Bethlehem City Council Meeting 20 March 4, 2025 approval. He added that existing zoning could allow a height of up to 13 stories, although that is not the proposal. He believes the positives of approving the rezoning far outweigh the negatives. Ms. Kwiatek said this action would be changing the zoning map. A map has boundaries for a reason. She believes the two properties that are zoning RT were done that way intentionally to better fit in with the West Garrison Street neighborhood. Ms. Kwiatek said what was presented was concept drawings. The developers are not locked in, so there is no guarantee that that they will limit the number of units to 70. Additionally, the decision before Council right now is just about whether the boundary will be changed. She believes the two parcels are better suited for RT. Ms. Leon supported having more conversation and added that, intentionally or unintentionally, there is broken trust at this time between the developers and neighbors. More discussion would offer a chance to provide information and repair trust. Ms. Crampsie Smith had concerns about tearing down the two viable homes at 11 and 15 West Garrison Street. Character is being lost. She also was concerned about West Garrison Street being narrow yet this would be adding more vehicles. President Colón pointed out that property owners have certain rights including, in this case, the ability to tear down the two existing homes if they choose. Ms. Laird made a motion, seconded by Mr. Callahan, to postpone the First Reading vote on this matter until Council’s April 1 meeting. Ms. Leon asked that any related meeting dates be communicated to Council members. Voting AYE: Mr. Callahan, Ms. Crampsie Smith, Ms. Kwiatek, Ms. Laird, Ms. Leon, Ms. Wilhelm, and Mr. Colón, 7. Motion passed. 10. RESOLUTIONS A. Approve Resolution – Health Bureau – Records Destruction Ms. Laird and Ms. Crampsie Smith sponsored Resolution No. 2025-035 that authorized the disposal of public records in the Health Bureau, as set forth in Exhibit A. Voting AYE: Mr. Callahan, Ms. Crampsie Smith, Ms. Kwiatek, Ms. Laird, Ms. Leon, Ms. Wilhelm, and Mr. Colón, 7. The Resolution passed. B. Approve Resolution – 2025 05 ADA Curb Ramps Contract – LB Construction Enterprises, Inc. Ms. Laird and Ms. Crampsie Smith sponsored Resolution No. 2025-036 that authorized to execute an Agreement with LB Construction Enterprises, Inc. to provide ADA curb ramps. Voting AYE: Mr. Callahan, Ms. Crampsie Smith, Ms. Kwiatek, Ms. Laird, Ms. Leon, Ms. Wilhelm, and Mr. Colón, 7. The Resolution passed. C. Approve Resolution – 2025 19 Water Treatment Plant Roof Replacement – CHA Consulting, Inc. Bethlehem City Council Meeting 21 March 4, 2025 Ms. Laird and Ms. Crampsie Smith sponsored Resolution No. 2025-037 that authorized to execute an Agreement with CHA Consulting, Inc. to provide design, bidding and construction administration services for replacement of the roof at the water filtration plant. Voting AYE: Mr. Callahan, Ms. Crampsie Smith, Ms. Kwiatek, Ms. Laird, Ms. Leon, Ms. Wilhelm, and Mr. Colón, 7. The Resolution passed. D. Approve Resolution – 2025 06 Street Overlay – G&B Construction Group Ms. Laird and Ms. Crampsie Smith sponsored Resolution No. 2025-038 that authorized to execute an Agreement with G&B Construction Group to provide ADA curb ramps and mill and overlay portions of Pembroke Road and Elizabeth Avenue. Voting AYE: Mr. Callahan, Ms. Crampsie Smith, Ms. Kwiatek, Ms. Laird, Ms. Leon, Ms. Wilhelm, and Mr. Colón, 7. The Resolution passed. E. Approve Resolution – Lieutenant Eric Waldeck – 2025 Disposition of Police Handgun Ms. Laird and Ms. Crampsie Smith sponsored Resolution No. 2025-039 that authorized to execute an Agreement to effectuate the transfer of the City-issued handgun assigned to Lieutenant Eric Waldeck, a retired City police officer. Mr. Callahan asked what would be done with handguns not purchased by retiring officers. Chief Kott said the intention would be to keep a few as spares in case of malfunctions. Otherwise, the Department could sell the weapons to an arms dealer. Mayor Reynolds added that none has been sold. All officers in recent memory have purchased their weapons upon retirement. Selling to an arms dealer is a legal option, but is not one that his administration wishes to follow. Voting AYE: Mr. Callahan, Ms. Crampsie Smith, Ms. Laird, Ms. Leon, Ms. Wilhelm, and Mr. Colón, 6; NAY: Ms. Kwiatek, 1. The Resolution passed. F. Approve Resolution – 2025 08 CDBG ADA Curb Ramps – LB Construction Enterprises, Inc. Ms. Laird and Ms. Crampsie Smith sponsored Resolution No. 2025-040 that authorized to execute an Agreement with LB Construction Enterprises, Inc. to provide ADA curb ramps. Voting AYE: Mr. Callahan, Ms. Crampsie Smith, Ms. Kwiatek, Ms. Laird, Ms. Leon, Ms. Wilhelm, and Mr. Colón, 7. The Resolution passed. G. Approve Resolution – 2024 43 HDPE Insertion – Joao & Bradley Construction Co., Inc. Ms. Laird and Ms. Crampsie Smith sponsored Resolution No. 2025-041 that authorized to execute an Agreement with Joao & Bradley Construction Co., Inc. to provide materials and labor to repair broken water mains at two locations. Bethlehem City Council Meeting 22 March 4, 2025 Voting AYE: Mr. Callahan, Ms. Crampsie Smith, Ms. Kwiatek, Ms. Laird, Ms. Leon, Ms. Wilhelm, and Mr. Colón, 7. The Resolution passed. H. Approve Use Permit Agreement – AAUW – 2025 Book Fair Ms. Laird and Ms. Crampsie Smith sponsored Resolution No. 2025-042 that authorized a Use Permit Agreement with the American Association of University Women, Bethlehem Branch, for the 2025 AAUW Book Fair. Voting AYE: Mr. Callahan, Ms. Crampsie Smith, Ms. Kwiatek, Ms. Laird, Ms. Leon, Ms. Wilhelm, and Mr. Colón, 7. The Resolution passed. I. Approve Use Permit Agreement – Work to Live d/b/a Run Lehigh Valley – 2025 Brew to Brew Run Ms. Laird and Ms. Crampsie Smith sponsored Resolution No. 2025-043 that authorized a Use Permit Agreement with Work to Live, LLC d/b/a Run Lehigh Valley for the 2025 Brew to Brew Run Event. Voting AYE: Mr. Callahan, Ms. Crampsie Smith, Ms. Kwiatek, Ms. Laird, Ms. Leon, Ms. Wilhelm, and Mr. Colón, 7. The Resolution passed. 11. ADJOURNMENT The meeting was adjourned 10:58 PM. ATTEST: Tad J. Miller City Clerk