City Council

BETHLEHEM CITY COUNCIL MEETING 10 East Church Street - Town Hall Bethlehem, Pennsylvania Tuesday, September 16, 2025 – 7:00 PM PLEDGE TO THE FLAG 1. ROLL CALL The meeting was called to order by President Michael G. Colón. Present were Bryan G. Callahan, Grace Crampsie Smith, Hillary G. Kwiatek, Colleen Laird, Rachel Leon, Kiera Wilhelm, and Michael G. Colón, 7. CITATIONS Two retirees were recognized for their service. Police Capt. Michael Leaser served the City for 21 years. Additionally, Assistant Fire Chief Anthony Preletz was recognized for nearly 30 years of service. Neither was present. Their citations will be mailed. The Lehigh Little League all-star team, Ages 9 and 10, was recognized for winning the U.S.A. Eastern Regional Championship on August 9 in Cranston, R.I. All team members were recognized and received Citations from Council. Team member Ashton Kendy thanked Council for the recognition. 2. APPROVAL OF MINUTES September 2, 2025 3. PUBLIC COMMENT A. PUBLIC COMMENT (on any subject not being voted on this evening – 5 Minute Time Limit) Tenting Grounds Resident Peg Church supported Marc Rittle for his efforts in helping the homeless. She understands Norfolk Southern’s position of wanting to keep people safe along the railroad tracks but she urged the City to help the homeless. She suggested Harrisburg’s model of providing a “tenting ground” where the homeless can stay legally and safely. She hoped the City would consider providing a similar opportunity. She suggested using golf facilities for a tenting ground. Bus Stop Resident Sean Kernan observed that there are no benches for those waiting for public buses at 2nd and New Streets. This is unsafe and uninviting. He suggested the City or the Lehigh and Northampton Transportation Authority should consider improvements at this bus stop. Bethlehem City Council Meeting 2 September 16, 2025 Don’t Transfer Money Resident and business owner Anthony Spagnola urged Council not to re-allocate $150,000 that was earmarked in the budget to assist downtown businesses. He pointed out that the Business Privilege Tax raises about $5 million in a year. The businesses have earned the right to keep the $150,000 instead of being transferred for World Heritage purposes (agenda Item 9A). Metal Detectors Needed Resident Arthur Curatola spoke out against the September 10 shooting death of political activist Charlie Kirk in Utah. He recommended the widespread use of metal detectors at all public gatherings in the United States and in the Gaza Strip. Tariffs Passed on to Consumers Resident William Scheirer continued his comments from last meeting concerning economics. Generally speaking, consumers ultimately pay for tariffs as those higher costs are passed from the manufacturer to the buyer. Tariffs are now raising over $1 billion per month. This money is then used to help defray part of the tax cuts. Meanwhile, the tax cuts for the wealthy eat away at the taxes raised. This lost revenue would significantly cut into the National Debt. Sweeps Information Not Adding Up Resident Valerie Noonan said it is not clear which parcels are included in the upcoming evictions of homeless encampments and who is doing the evicting. This was originally a matter involving Norfolk Southern. It has since been learned that UGI and PennDOT also are involved. Additionally, a City police captain advised that the whole area along the canal will be swept of homeless including people occupying City land. This is in contrast to Ms. Noonan’s conversation earlier today with Deputy Director of Community Affairs Sara Satullo, who said City parcels would not be included. Ms. Noonan is frustrated that the City seems to want to pass the buck on this issue in the sense that many City workers are working on this issue but it appears that the police are participating in preparations for the sweep. Dangerous Situation Reported Resident Sam Desoto has a business at Taylor and Mechanic Streets and requested increased police presence or a camera to encourage public safety on the nearby one-way streets. The situation is dangerous. Don’t Enforce the Sweep Resident Harry Faber said systemic injustice and inequality is a form of political violence. The ruling class has power. The poor are disadvantaged. He appealed to Council to not enforce the announced homeless sweep. Bethlehem City Council Meeting 3 September 16, 2025 History of Discrimination Resident Stephen Antalics said discrimination within the City goes back to the origin of the two boroughs joining. North Bethlehem at one point did not allow anyone to join the church who did not own property. The South Side had barren land but became inhabited because workers were needed. An “iron curtain” of sorts was formed between the educated and wealthy on the north side of the Lehigh River and the uneducated working class on the south side. Many of the ills that exist today were created by the City. Those asking for assistance for the homeless should be given every ounce of assistance to make up for past wrongs. A Call for Humanity Lucas believes that systems are what is creating and sustaining the problems associated with homelessness. City councils are in charge of the systems and have the ability to make change. He encouraged humanity and encourage Council to do what it can to help the homeless. Compassion for the Homeless Nori has experienced housing instability. She has been fortunate to rely on the kindness of friends and community. She has not lived outdoors but has faced that possibility. She also asked for the humanity toward the homeless and is concerned by news of intended sweeps. She hopes that more time will be given to find alternative arrangements with more stability for the homeless. B. PUBLIC COMMENT (on ordinances and resolutions to be voted on by Council this evening – 5 Minute Time Limit. Thanks for Seeking Grants A woman who did not provide her name applauded the City’s push for grants including several on tonight’s agenda that would support the Bethlehem Emergency Shelter if received. 4. OLD BUSINESS A. Members of Council Ms. Kwiatek thanked Police Chief Michelle Kott for her follow-up information to a concern raised during the September 2 Council meeting that data obtained from license plate readers was being improperly shared with third parties. The Chief has advised that the data is not being sold or shared. Chief Kott said it is specified in the contract that the data is owned by the City. The City also limits what law enforcement agencies can obtain this data. Those that cannot include U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement or the Department of Homeland Security. B. Tabled Items C. Unfinished Business Bethlehem City Council Meeting 4 September 16, 2025 5. NEW BUSINESS Encampments Update Ms. Crampsie Smith said Norfolk Southern’s announced eviction intentions is a crisis situation. She again asked why not take the developers of the Martin Tower site up on their offer to provide both land and money to develop affordable housing if the City creates a tax abatement for their property. She urged the Administration to re-open these discussions with the developers. President Colón recognized that this would be a topic in which many on Council would want to offer comment. He suggested exhausting this subject before switching to others. Mr. Callahan said he was not on Council when developer Norton Herrick spoke individually with Council members concerning his offer to develop the property. However, he has since obtained a related letter from development partner Lewis Ronca outlining the developers’ proposal. Mr. Callahan does not understand why the City is not engaging with the developers. With high interest rates and supply costs, he has been told that construction is not feasible at this time. The residential portion of the property will remain undeveloped until costs come down. From what he has been told and what he has read in the letter, the developers were offering land for affordable housing and fees in lieu of building apartments that would sell at affordable housing rates but only if a tax abatement program were to be offered. It is up to Council now to take the next step because the Administration has refused to do so. The proposal was to build 1,700 apartments but zoning only would allow 1,085 by right. Mr. Callahan said the latest proposal would be to build about 880 units. Director of Community and Economic Development Laura Collins said that the City typically does not offer tax abatement on one property, although this is a large one. Historically, it has offered a program such as LERTA (Local Economic Revitalization Tax Assistance) on a cluster of properties as a development incentive. Mr. Callahan said the developers at the time of the letter proposed providing land for affordable housing and $5 million to $6 million for the “in-lieu-of” fee. He does not understand why there is not a discussion on the Administrative level with the developers at a time when affordable housing is in such need. Ms. Collins said that she spoke with Mr. Ronca as recently as two weeks ago. There has been contact between the parties. Mr. Callahan asked the Administration to re-open talks with the developers. He wants to encourage the development to proceed. Despite giving up some tax money by offering a tax abatement, the project would be started. Tax money would be generated sooner with the project started rather than the City receiving nearly nothing for a property without a building. Asked by Mr. Callahan whether this reasoning is sound, Ms. Collins opined that her answer would depend on the rest of the details. She added that the property, which now includes two medical office facilities that have recently opened, received $9 million in support from the Commonwealth through the Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program. Ms. Collins added that Bethlehem City Council Meeting 5 September 16, 2025 there is a City Revitalization and Improvement Zone benefit to the property, implying that the developers have been offered and accepted several building incentives already. Ms. Laird asked whether a City-sanctioned tent or tiny home community option has been discussed by Bethlehem officials. Ms. Collins said there have been some discussions that have included this option. Possible locations are not limited to the City. This is a regional conversation, and the most potential for a site is outside of the City. Ms. Laird also asked which property owners are seeking support of enforcing their property rights by evicting the homeless. Ms. Collins said Norfolk Southern, UGI and PennDOT. Ms. Laird asked whether it is correct that a City ordinance prohibits camping in parks and other public property. Ms. Collins said yes. Ms. Laird also asked whether a homeowner may allow someone to construct a tiny home, an accessory dwelling unit or otherwise camp on their property to invite unhoused people onto their land. Ms. Collins said this would fall under zoning. It would depend on the circumstance. Initial questions would be the zoning district where the property is located, size of the parcel, size of the structure, etc. Ms. Kwiatek stated there was another Opening Doors update meeting last week at which the Administration and members of related community services reviewed what is being done to address the needs of those in the encampments now. She recognized that the City has been working toward assisting with homelessness and affordable housing for a long time, several years in fact. Unfortunately, the urgency of the sweeps deadline makes some other provisions necessary. To say that nothing is happening would be incorrect. She cited plans being made for an 11-unit, non-congregate affordable units, the Gateway at 4th, a partnership with New Bethany Ministries on 3rd Street, and Choice Neighborhoods which will turn a 196-unit housing neighborhood into more than 450 units of housing in the Pembroke neighborhood. The pace is never fast enough, but there is a tremendous amount of work being done. Ms. Kwiatek also stated her recollection of the Martin Tower developers’ offer. In exchange for the LERTA, the developers would build 1,700 apartments. That should have garnered an approximate $9 million in lieu of fee by calculating 170 units (one-tenth of the units) multiplied by $54,000. The developers were offering just half of that if the money were to be provided up front. She did not recall that land would be included to place the affordable housing. Ms. Leon would be open to hearing about a proposed LERTA for the Martin Tower area. She would want to know the current proposed number of units and whether land is being offered for affordable housing besides. She likes the idea of using tax abatements to incentivize housing. Bethlehem City Council Meeting 6 September 16, 2025 She added that affordable housing is “a bit too far down the line” on the housing continuum for this conversation. Providing affordable housing is very important but this conversation is about helping to solve the emergency of assisting homeless people about to be displaced by encampment sweeps. Priorities include homelessness, emergency shelters, congregate shelters, community shelters and then affordable rentals. Ms. Leon asked for clarification about what a City police officer recently said at one of the encampments. Chief Kott said City police accompanied Norfolk Southern police officers to the encampments because the railroad police department is very small and is spread between states. Railroad police also are not as familiar with the area and the homeless people, so they requested assistance from City police and Community Connections personnel. City police assisted railroad police in spreading the word on private property that is now posted concerning the December 15 eviction date. However, City police also advised anyone camping on City parks property that they are doing so illegally and must move. This has always been the case. She added that Community Connections has been a godsend, since these social workers communicate with the homeless to learn their specific issues and needs. The goal is not sweeps but to help them before the deadline. Health Director Kristen Wenrich outlined the efforts of Community Connections working with individuals to try to meet their needs. She added that the Conference of Churches and several other organizations are getting involved as well. All options are on the table. Solutions are being explored. Ms. Laird noted that money in the City’s budget has been set aside to assist with homeless sheltering. She wondered whether the Bethlehem Emergency Shelter plans to expand efforts to provide year-round rather than season services. Ms. Collins said the City is working toward assisting with the $6 million capital campaign goal to build a shelter, and BES is working toward gearing up for year-round service. But, for now, BES mostly consists of volunteers. Other New Business Ms. Leon asked about the LANTA bus stop at 2nd and New Streets. The Public and Green Space Committee has identified this as an area of concern. Ms. Leon also observed that South Side traffic is “wild” in general. She alluded to the earlier concerns raised in particular about Taylor and Mechanic Streets. She asked Public Works Director Michael Alkhal what triggers a traffic study and what can be done about traffic patterns as they continue to evolve. The intensity has changed on the South Side in recent years. Mr. Alkhal said that if motorists are not following traffic control devices and rules in place, then enforcement is the choice. If there is a capacity issue causing delays, then observations and complaints can be used to reconsider remedies. However, it may be that there will be delays in a heavily urbanized area because of limitations. Bethlehem City Council Meeting 7 September 16, 2025 Ms. Wenrich also offered that the Citizens’ Traffic Advisory Committee might be a suitable forum to bring an unsafe situation to light. Pedestrian traffic stings also can be effective as enforcement if laws are being disobeyed. Mr. Callahan noted that the Bethlehem Parking Authority has given money to some City projects. He asked how much has been given to the Downtown Bethlehem Association. Ms. Collins said the Parking Authority is paying $307,000 for lampposts for the North Side business district. He asked how much the Parking Authority provides to the City in general. Ms. Collins did not know without research but said she can provide that for Council. She cited several examples of money that it has provided to City organizations. Mr. Callahan also asked City Solicitor John F. Spirk, Jr. about a memo that the Councilman sent to Mr. Spirk inquiring about an internal investigation regarding former Right-to-Know Officer Zachary Cole Borghi. Mr. Callahan noted the sensitivity of the matter involving this former employee but he emphasized that his request was to be an internal investigation to see whether any police reports were searched by this individual outside of the scope of his duties. Solicitor Spirk believes the District Attorney’s investigation will include that search. If not, then he said an internal investigation could be done. President Colón commented on the Martin Tower site development. He hopes an agreement can be reached to develop the site but understands the care involved in trying to develop it right because it is a unique open space that remains in the City. He knows that the developers and the City have certain interest and he hopes those can align. But, “The devil is in the details” and it is yet to be determined when or if there will be alignment. He just hopes that both sides will negotiate in good faith when the time is right. 6. COMMUNICATIONS A. Director of Public Works – 2025 29 Monocacy Street Drainage – Grace Industries, Inc. The Clerk read a September 9, 2025 memorandum and proposed Resolution from Public Works Director Michael Alkhal. Mr. Alkhal seeks authorization to execute an Agreement with Grace Industries, Inc. of Bath to address erosion and hillside washout near the outfall on Monocacy Street. The cost is $205,427.22, and completion is expected by December 31, 2026. There are no renewals. Eight bids were received. Grace Industries was the lowest responsible bidder. President Colón stated that Resolution 10 A is on the agenda. B. Director of Procurement – Memo – Vehicle Auction Bethlehem City Council Meeting 8 September 16, 2025 The Clerk read a September 5, 2025 memorandum with an attached exhibit listing equipment for sale from Sandra Steidel, Director of Procurement. Listed items will be offered for sale in an online auction within 60 days in accordance with provisions of Resolution 2009-95. President Colón said if Council has no objections to the property listed, the items may be added to the on-line auction. However, if Council would like to discuss a specific item, the same shall be removed from the list and discussed at the next Council meeting on October 7, 2025. There being no objections raised, the Clerk was directed to communicate to the Procurement Director that City Council has no objections to auctioning the listed. C. Council President – Memo – Amending Article 112 – Campaign Finance Ordinance The Clerk read a September 9, 2025 memorandum from Council President Michael Colón. Mr. Colón recommends review of the City’s Article 112 – Campaign Finance Reports. He believes that certain processes are duplicative because they are carried out at the county level. Mr. Colón recommends that Council’s Committee of the Whole review this Article at an upcoming meeting for potential amendment. President Colón said this proposed Ordinance will be referred to the Committee of the Whole for review at its October 7 meeting at 6 PM. D. Business Administrator – Memo – 27th Week Payroll Year – Accumulation of Additional Workdays Over the 11-Year Period The Clerk read a September 8, 2025 memorandum from Business Administrator Eric Evans. Mr. Evans advises that the year 2026 will have the unusual circumstance of having 27 pay periods for City employees, rather than 26. Mr. Evans explains how funds to cover this extra pay period have been escrowed over the past 9 years to avoid a financial shortfall. President Colón said the memo was for informational purposes only and required no action by Council. E. Grants Administrator, Community and Economic Development – Memo – Monroe LSA – Bethlehem Emergency Shelter – Grant President Colón read a September 9, 2025 memorandum and proposed Resolution from Lori Gilio, Grants Administrator for Community and Economic Development. Ms. Gilio seeks authorization to apply for a grant in the amount of $800,000 for the Monroe County Local Share Account through the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development. If awarded, the money would be used for capital improvements to the Bethlehem Emergency Shelter. President Colón stated Resolution 10 B is on the agenda. F. Grants Administrator, Community and Economic Development – Memo – Lehigh Northampton LSA – Bethlehem Emergency Shelter – Grant Bethlehem City Council Meeting 9 September 16, 2025 President Colón read a September 9, 2025 memorandum and proposed Resolution from Lori Gilio, Grants Administrator for Community and Economic Development. Ms. Gilio seeks authorization to apply for a grant in the amount of $800,000 for the Lehigh and Northampton County Local Share Account through the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development. If awarded, the money would be used for capital improvements to the Bethlehem Emergency Shelter. President Colón state Resolution 10 C is on the agenda. G. Grants Administrator, Community and Economic Development – Memo – Lehigh Northampton LSA – West Broad Street – Grant President Colón read a September 9, 2025 memorandum and proposed Resolution from Lori Gilio, Grants Administrator for Community and Economic Development. Ms. Gilio seeks authorization to apply for a grant in the amount of $400,000 for the Lehigh and Northampton County Local Share Account through the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development. If awarded, the money would be used for construction on West Broad Street. President Colón stated Resolution 10 D is on the agenda. H. Grants Administrator, Department of Community and Economic Development – Memo – Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program (RACP) – Bethlehem Emergency Shelter – Grant President Colón read a September 9, 2025 memorandum and proposed Resolution from Lori Gilio, Grants Administrator for Community and Economic Development. Ms. Gilio seeks authorization to apply for a grant in the amount of $2 million for the Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program Grant through the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. If awarded, the money would be used for capital improvements to the Bethlehem Emergency Shelter. President Colón state Resolution 10 E is on the agenda. I. Grants Administrator, Community and Economic Development – Memo – Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program (RACP) – Southside Community Center – Grant President Colón read a September 9, 2025 memorandum and proposed Resolution from Lori Gilio, Grants Administrator for Community and Economic Development. Ms. Gilio seeks authorization to apply for a grant in the amount of $5 million for the Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program Grant through the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. If awarded, the money would be used toward the Southside Community Center. President Colón state Resolution 10 F is on the agenda. J. Approve Resolution – 2025 10 Friendship Park Improvements – Grace Industries, Inc. President Colón read a September 5, 2025 memorandum and proposed Resolution from Public Works Director Michael Alkhal. Mr. Alkhal seeks authorization concerning a proposed change order to a contract with Grace Industries, Inc. of Bath for additions to the Friendship Bethlehem City Council Meeting 10 September 16, 2025 Park Improvements project. Additional work is recommended that would amend the original contract price of $965,952.73 to $1,177,261.23 for an increase of $211,308.50. The term of the contract is December 31, 2025. President Colón stated Resolution 10 G is on the agenda. K. Director of Community and Economic Development – Memo – 2025 43 Wawa Gateway Art – Five Rivers Fabrication, Inc. President Colón read a September 9, 2025 memorandum and proposed Resolution from Public Works Director Michael Alkhal. Mr. Alkhal seeks authorization to execute an Agreement with Five Rivers Fabrication, Inc. of Wind Gap to design and construct a sign containing the words “City of Bethlehem” to be located on the property at 770 Hellertown Road. The cost is $20,000, and the work is to be completed by July 1, 2026. President Colón stated Resolution 10 H is on the agenda. L. Director of Public Works – Memo – 2025 14 South Bethlehem Greenway Trail Phase – Herbert, Rowland & Grubic, Inc. President Colón read a September 8, 2025 memorandum and proposed Resolution from Public Works Director Michael Alkhal. Mr. Alkhal seeks authorization to execute an Agreement with Herbert, Rowland & Grubic, Inc. of Allentown to provide design services for the Greenway Trail Phase VII improvements which, will provide a paved connection from the previously completed improvements at Auburn Street to the Saucon Rail Trail near Bachman Street. The cost is $105,170, and completion is expected by December 31, 2026. There are no renewals. Two bids were received with the successful bidder being the lower of the two. President Colón stated Resolution 10 I is on the agenda. 7. REPORTS A. President of Council None. B. Mayor Business Administrator Eric Evans reported in place of the absent Mayor Reynolds. He said the Administration presented the 5-Year Capital Plan at Thursday’s Planning Commission meeting. It received unanimous support. This matter will next be reviewed by Council’s Committee of the Whole. Mr. Evans invited any Council member who wishes to review the plan with the Administration prior to the Committee meeting to contact him. C. Committee Chair Reports 7C1. Finance Committee – Ms. Crampsie Smith Bethlehem City Council Meeting 11 September 16, 2025 Ms. Crampsie Smith stated that the Finance Committee met at 6 PM this evening in Town Hall. Three agenda items were reviewed. The first was a proposed budget transfer to support the World Heritage Program. The second was a proposed budget transfer to use money from two grants to support women’s health services and immunization outreach. The final item was a memo from Business Administrator Eric Evans concerning a 2026 payroll matter. Mr. Evans’ memo was for informational purposes only. Both budget adjustments resulted in a recommendation to be placed on Council’s agenda tonight for First Reading. 8. ORDINANCES FOR FINAL PASSAGE None. 9. NEW ORDINANCES 9 A. Bill No. 42-2025 – World Heritage Coordinator – Budget Adjustment Ordinance – General Fund The Clerk read Bill No. 42-2025 – World Heritage Coordinator – Budget Adjustment Ordinance – General Fund, sponsored by Ms. Wilhelm 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. Ms. Crampsie Smith noted that this matter received thorough discussion earlier this evening during the Finance Committee meeting. Mr. Evans explained that the proposal is to move $120,000 in unspent money from Downtown Initiatives from 2021-2024 to an allocation of $50,000 for 2025, raising the total to $170,000. Of this, $150,000 would be used as the City’s contribution to help fund the newly created World Heritage site manager position. He added that $10,000 has been spent this year, leaving a $10,000 balance in the Downtown Initiatives account. Ms. Crampsie Smith asked where money will come from next time this position must be funded. Mr. Evans said this is “rolling conversation.” The next step will be to develop a 501(c)(3) designation with the goal of being self-sustaining. This discussion should be had in two years to see where matters stand. Ms. Crampsie Smith believed the answer from the World Heritage coordinator has been that the City will be looking to continue funding this in the future. She is asking where funding would come from to do so. Mr. Evans said that is a 2028 budget question. Ms. Laird stated that she will be recusing herself from this vote because she is employed by Moravian University (a partner with the City in the World Heritage venture) and also will be directly involved with the World Heritage work at Moravian. (Her Disclosure of Conflict of Interest Form is attached to the original set of meeting minutes.) Bethlehem City Council Meeting 12 September 16, 2025 Mr. Callahan said he supports the World Heritage venture but he will oppose this because this is money that should be supporting downtown businesses. They are hurting right now. They are down 20 to 25 percent on revenue for the year. The money would have been better spent promoting these businesses. He does not want to get into the habit of promoting a private university that has a $142 million endowment. Ms. Crampsie Smith says she 100 percent supports the World Heritage designation site but has concerns about transferring money from the Downtown Initiatives to pay for the site manager. She added that Moravian University already pledged to pay this salary in perpetuity. She does not believe it is proper for Bethlehem to use tax money for this purpose. She also said the City does not know if this is a one-time City expense and has not identified future funding sources. Finally, the Downtown Initiative funds are designated for improvement or enhancement to benefit North Side and South Side businesses. It was not fair to not make improvements for three years and for the City to take that money and spend it toward the salary of the World Heritage site manager. Stephanie Augello, World Heritage Coordinator, offered additional insights. Moravian University has offered to host the site manager position in perpetuity. The University provides other in-kind services and health benefits toward the cause. This total so far has been $531,000 over the past two years. The City Administration felt it might be possible to help fund the site manager position for now as its contribution toward the partnership. Ms. Kwiatek recalled that it was stated during tonight’s Finance Committee meeting that it was hoped that the site manager can initiate a 501(c)(3) and use it to obtain grant money and other fundraising to build sustainability for the organization itself. She added that the World Heritage designation will add to the prestige of Bethlehem and predicted that the City and its businesses will benefit financially from heritage tourism. She called it an investment. Ms. Augello added that Moravian University owns just two of the 10 World Heritage sites in Bethlehem. The City owns the Colonial Industrial Quarter. The Bethlehem Area Moravians own the rest. She added that the City would re-evaluate the situation of whether to contribute toward the site manager’s salary in two years. Ms. Leon said she has strongly supported efforts toward achieving World Heritage status. She views this as the City’s share of initiating start-up costs to the program. She is hopeful this will be a one-time contribution but will see where things go. She additionally supports the City’s contribution because Moravian University’s share will include grant writing which may reap support money. Ms. Leon asked what the Bethlehem Area Moravians are contributing. Ms. Augello said they primarily are providing in-kind contributions which include tours of the Central Moravian Church and sanctuary. They funded much of the recent World Heritage celebration as well as other services including an annual expense of $120,000 in site maintenance. Mr. Callahan asked specifics about the World Heritage site manager’s compensation. Bethlehem City Council Meeting 13 September 16, 2025 Ms. Augello said the University is already paying about half of the $175,000 salary as well as all of the benefits including health care. Mr. Callahan said he did not realize that the University was contributing to the salary. He also did not realize that the $150,000 contribution by the City was to be spread over two years. He will now support this expenditure. Ms. Crampsie Smith asked how much money the City already has contributed to World Heritage efforts. Ms. Augello said $60,000 came from previous Downtown Initiatives money. $25,000 came in both 2018 and 2020 to pay for dossiers supporting Bethlehem’s candidacy as well as another $10,000 in 2023. Ms. Crampsie Smith asked whether the University has asked the City to contribute toward the site manager’s salary. Ms. Augello said not directly. But at a meeting in January, the three partners were asked what they would be able and willing to contribute toward the effort. When the City heard what others were offering, City representatives said they hoped to contribute the $150,000 toward the salary. Ms. Crampsie Smith said she still had concerns about using taxpayer money to pay for a position that the University already was willing to fund. She added that this money was earmarked for downtown initiatives in support of small businesses. Voting AYE: Ms. Kwiatek, Ms. Laird, Ms. Leon, Ms. Wilhelm, Mr. Callahan, and Mr. Colón, 5, NAY: Ms. Crampsie Smith, 1, ABSTENTION: Ms. Laird, 1. Bill No. 42-2025 passed on First Reading. 9 B. Bill No. 43-2025 – Women’s Health Services and Immunization Outreach – Budget Adjustment Ordinance – General Fund The Clerk read Bill No. 43-2025 – Women’s Health Services and Immunization Outreach – Budget Adjustment Ordinance – General Fund, sponsored by Ms. Wilhelm 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: Ms. Kwiatek, Ms. Laird, Ms. Leon, Ms. Wilhelm, Mr. Callahan, Ms. Crampsie Smith, and Mr. Colón, 7. Bill No. 43-2025 passed on First Reading. 10. RESOLUTIONS A. Approve Resolution – 2025 29 Monocacy Street Drainage – Grace Industries, Inc. Bethlehem City Council Meeting 14 September 16, 2025 Ms. Wilhelm and Ms. Leon sponsored Resolution No. 2025-143 that authorized to execute an Agreement with Grace Industries, Inc. to address erosion and hillside washout near the outfall on Monocacy Street. Voting AYE: Ms. Kwiatek, Ms. Laird, Ms. Leon, Ms. Wilhelm, Mr. Callahan, Ms. Crampsie Smith, and Mr. Colón, 7. The Resolution passed. Ms. Kwiatek made a motion, seconded by Ms. Wilhelm, to consider Resolutions 10 B through 10 F as a group. Voting AYE: Ms. Kwiatek, Ms. Laird, Ms. Leon, Ms. Wilhelm, Mr. Callahan, Ms. Crampsie Smith, and Mr. Colón, 7. The Motion passed. B. Approve Resolution – Monroe LSA – Bethlehem Emergency Shelter – Grant Ms. Wilhelm and Ms. Leon sponsored Resolution No. 2025-144 that authorized and directed the Mayor to execute all application forms necessary to apply for a Monroe County Local Share Account grant through Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development to assist the Bethlehem Emergency Shelter and further authorized that the Mayor and Controller shall execute such other agreements and documents as are deemed to be necessary and/or related thereto. C. Approve Resolution – Lehigh Northampton LSA – Bethlehem Emergency Shelter – Grant Ms. Wilhelm and Ms. Leon sponsored Resolution No. 2025-145 that authorized and directed the Mayor to execute all application forms necessary to apply for a Lehigh and Northampton County Local Share Account grant through Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development to assist the Bethlehem Emergency Shelter and further authorized that the Mayor and Controller shall execute such other agreements and documents as are deemed to be necessary and/or related thereto. D. Approve Resolution – Lehigh Northampton LSA – West Broad Street – Grant Ms. Wilhelm and Ms. Leon sponsored Resolution No. 2025-146 that authorized and directed the Mayor to execute all application forms necessary to apply for a Lehigh and Northampton County Local Share Account grant through Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development to assist with the construction of West Broad Street and further authorized that the Mayor and Controller shall execute such other agreements and documents as are deemed to be necessary and/or related thereto. E. Approve Resolution – Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program (RACP) – Bethlehem Emergency Shelter (BES) – Grant Ms. Wilhelm and Ms. Leon sponsored Resolution No. 2025-147 that authorized and directed the Mayor to execute all application forms necessary to apply for a Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program grant through the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania to assist the Bethlehem City Council Meeting 15 September 16, 2025 Bethlehem Emergency Shelter and further authorized that the Mayor shall execute such other agreements and documents as are deemed to be necessary and/or related thereto. F. Approve Resolution – Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program (RACP) – Southside Community Center – Grant Ms. Wilhelm and Ms. Leon sponsored Resolution No. 2025-148 that authorized and directed the Mayor to execute all application forms necessary to apply for a Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program grant through the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania to assist the Southside Community Center and further authorized that the Mayor shall execute such other agreements and documents as are deemed to be necessary and/or related thereto. Ms. Kwiatek pointed out that there are $3.6 million in grant requests for the Bethlehem Emergency Shelter among these Resolutions. Voting AYE on Resolutions 10 B through 10 F: Ms. Kwiatek, Ms. Laird, Ms. Leon, Ms. Wilhelm, Mr. Callahan, Ms. Crampsie Smith, and Mr. Colón, 7. The Resolutions passed. G. Approve Resolution – 2025 10 Friendship Park Improvements – Grace Industries, Inc. Ms. Wilhelm and Ms. Leon sponsored Resolution No. 2025-149 that authorized to execute an Amendment to an Agreement with Grace Industries, Inc. to provide additional materials and labor for the Friendship Park Improvements project. Voting AYE: Ms. Kwiatek, Ms. Laird, Ms. Leon, Ms. Wilhelm, Mr. Callahan, Ms. Crampsie Smith, and Mr. Colón, 7. The Resolution passed. H. Approve Resolution – 2025 43 Wawa Gateway Art – Five Rivers Fabrication, Inc. Ms. Wilhelm and Ms. Leon sponsored Resolution No. 2025-150 that authorized to execute an Agreement with Five Rivers Fabrication, Inc. to design, construct, and install a metal sign. Voting AYE: Ms. Kwiatek, Ms. Laird, Ms. Leon, Ms. Wilhelm, Mr. Callahan, Ms. Crampsie Smith, and Mr. Colón, 7. The Resolution passed. I. Approve Resolution – 2025 14 South Bethlehem Greenway Trail Phase – Herbert, Rowland & Grubic, Inc. Ms. Wilhelm and Ms. Leon sponsored Resolution No. 2025-151 that authorized to execute an Agreement with Herbert, Rowland & Grubic, Inc. to provide design services for the Greenway Trail Phase VII improvement. Voting AYE: Ms. Kwiatek, Ms. Laird, Ms. Leon, Ms. Wilhelm, Mr. Callahan, Ms. Crampsie Smith, and Mr. Colón, 7. The Resolution passed. Bethlehem City Council Meeting 16 September 16, 2025 J. Certificate of Appropriateness – HARB – 441 High Street Ms. Wilhelm and Ms. Leon sponsored Resolution No. 2025-152 that authorized to replace the existing roof shingles on the rear portion of the roof. Voting AYE: Ms. Kwiatek, Ms. Laird, Ms. Leon, Ms. Wilhelm, Mr. Callahan, Ms. Crampsie Smith, and Mr. Colón, 7. The Resolution passed. K. Certificate of Appropriateness – HARB – 36 East Wall Street Ms. Wilhelm and Ms. Leon sponsored Resolution No. 2025-153 that authorized to remove the slate roofing that fronts on Wall Street and replace it with GAF Slateline Shingles in the Antique Slate color. Voting AYE: Ms. Kwiatek, Ms. Laird, Ms. Leon, Ms. Wilhelm, Mr. Callahan, Ms. Crampsie Smith, and Mr. Colón, 7. The Resolution passed. 11. ADJOURNMENT The meeting was adjourned 10:12 PM. ATTEST: Tad J. Miller City Clerk