Council Minutes

November 15, 2005 Meeting Minutes

BETHLEHEM CITY COUNCIL MEETING
Bethlehem, Pennsylvania
Tuesday, November 15, 2005 – 7:30 PM – Town Hall

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

Acting President Robert J. Donchez called the meeting to order. Pastor Robert Kramer, of First Baptist Church, offered the invocation which was followed by the pledge to the flag. Present were Ismael Arcelay, Jean Belinski, Robert J. Donchez, Joseph F. Leeson, Jr., Gordon B. Mowrer, and Magdalena F. Szabo, 6. President J. Michael Schweder was absent, 1.

Citations – Honoring William McLaughlin and Richard Sherry

Acting President Donchez advised that the Citations honoring William McLaughlin who retired from the Police Department after 27 years of service and Richard Sherry who retired from the Fire Department after 28 years of service will be forwarded to them since they were unable to be present this evening.

Public Hearing - 2004 and 2005 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Programs, and 2005 Home Investment Partnership (HOME) Program

Prior to the consideration of the regular Agenda items, City Council conducted a Public Hearing to consider revisions to the Federal Fiscal Year 2004 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program, 2005 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program, and the 2005 Home Investment Partnership (HOME) Program. The purpose for the revisions is to transfer fund balances from program year 2004 to 2005, revise specific project budgets, create new activities, and re-designate certain HOME funds as HOME-CHDO funds to meet the Federal HOME Program requirement that 15% of the City’s allocation be budgeted to CHDO organizations.

Irene Woodward, Housing and Community Development Planner, confirmed that the Public Hearing is part of the Citizens Participation Plan for the CDBG Program to review the City’s proposed changes to the 2004 and 2005 Community Development Block Grant Programs, and the 2005 Home Investment Partnership Program. Ms. Woodward affirmed that the proposed changes are those presented to the Finance Committee at their meeting on October 13, 2005. The proposed changes include increasing the 2005 CDBG by $176,000 that includes $79,500 from the sale of a Redevelopment Authority property, $24,000 from the pay-off of a BEAR Program loan, and $72,5000 from 2004 funds from the Marvine Pool Improvements. It is proposed to create a new activity, Comprehensive Planning, in the amount of $79,500; increasing the BEAR Program by $24,000 from $90,000 to $114,000; decreasing the 2004 activity, Marvine Pool, from $100,000 to $27,500, creating a new activity, Visitors Center-ADA Compliance Improvements in the amount of $23,000, and increasing Saucon Park Improvements by $49,500 from $50,000 to $99,500. Proposed changes in the HOME Program are reducing the CHDO Operating Costs from $30,000 to $0, reducing the HOOP Program Eastern Gateway from $50,000 to $0, reducing the HOOP Program City-Wide from $77,980 to $67,980 and creating a new activity, Moravian House IV (CHDO Activity) in the amount of $90,000.

Public Comment

Dana Grubb, 2420 Henderson Place, recalled that at the Finance Committee meeting he asked the total investment at the Moravian House IV.

Tony Hanna, Director of Community and Economic Development, indicated he does not have the information presently.

Acting President Donchez asked if the information could be provided prior to the December 6, 2005 City Council Meeting.

Acting President Donchez stated that the appropriate Resolution will be placed on the December 6 Council Agenda.

The Public Hearing was adjourned at 7:37 p.m.

4. APPROVAL OF MINUTES

The Minutes of October 4, October 18, and November 1, 2005 were approved.

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

None.

6. OLD BUSINESS

Committee Meeting Announcements

Chairman Arcelay announced a Human Resources and Environment Committee Meeting on Tuesday, November 29 at 6:00 PM in Town Hall on Proposed 2006 Personnel Changes.

7. COMMUNICATIONS

A. City Solicitor – Use Permit Agreement – 2005 Live Bethlehem Christmas Pageant

The Clerk read a memorandum dated November 11, 2005 from John F. Spirk, Jr., City Solicitor, to which was attached a proposed resolution and Use Permit Agreement for Public Property between the City and the Live Bethlehem Christmas Pageant Society, Inc., for use of the Community Arts Pavilion and surrounding field for the 2005 Live Bethlehem Christmas Pageant for the period December 5, 2005 through January 9, 2006, according to the terms and conditions of the Agreement.

Acting President Donchez stated that Resolution 11 H is listed on the agenda.

B. Director of Planning and Zoning – Authorizing Extension of DCNR Grant – Sand Island - West

The Clerk read a memorandum dated November 11, 2005 from Darlene L. Heller, Director of Planning and Zoning, to which was attached a proposed resolution to accept the extension of a Community Conservation Partnerships Program recreation grant from the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources for West Sand Island in the amount of $200,000.

Acting President Donchez stated that the authorizing Resolution can be placed on the December 6 Agenda, unless the Parks and Public Property Committee wishes to review the matter.

In response to Mrs. Belinski, Charles Brown, Director of Parks and Public Property, confirmed the grant for which the extension is required is the grant that the City has had for several years.

8 . REPORTS

A. President of Council

Acting President Donchez re-announced the dates associated with City Council’s review of the Proposed 2006 Budget as follows:

Tuesday, November 15, 2005 – 7:30 PM - Town Hall
First Reading of Budget Ordinances

Monday, November 21, 2005 – 7:00 PM – Town Hall
First Budget Hearing:
Council, Mayor, Treasurer, Controller
Law Bureau
Civic Expenses
Department of Administration

Tuesday, November 29, 2005 – 7:30 PM – Town Hall
Second Budget Hearing:
Parks and Public Property
Golf Course Enterprise Fund
Community and Economic Development Department
Community Development Block Grant Fund

Thursday, December 1, 2005 – 7:00 PM – Town Hall
Third Budget Hearing:
Department of Fire
EMS Bureau
911 Fund
Department of Police

Wednesday, December 7, 2005
7:00 PM - Town Hall – Fourth Budget Hearing
Non-Utility Capital Fund
Department of Public Works
Liquid Fuels Fund
Department of Water and Sewer Resources
Water Fund Revenue Estimates
Water Fund
Water General Expenses
Water Capital
Sewer Fund Revenue Estimates
Sewer Fund
Sewer General Expenses
Sewer Capital
General Fund Revenue
General Fund Expenditures
General Expenses
Debt Service

Acting President Donchez affirmed that, in addition, on Wednesday, December 7 starting 6:00 PM in Town Hall, prior to that evening’s Budget Hearing, a Committee of the Whole Meeting will take place to review the 5 Year Capital Plan

Wednesday, December 14, 2005 – 7:00 PM – Town Hall
Final Budget Meeting

Tuesday, December 20, 2005 – 7:30 PM – Town Hall
Final Reading of Budget Ordinances

B. Mayor

Mayor’s Budget Message – Proposed 2006 Budget

Mayor John B. Callahan presented his Budget Message for the Proposed 2006 Budget as follows:

“I stand before you tonight to discuss what is essentially our most important function as elected representatives of the people of our great City, and that is the budgeting of public money.

You recently received a copy of my proposed 2006 budget for the City of Bethlehem…[I]n response to suggestions from the Members of Council we have presented a…“new look” budget format that is still rich in numbers but allows for more narrative and includes: goals and objectives for the upcoming year, highlights and accomplishments from the previous year, and organizational charts for each department. While this is not the final version of what we ultimately would like to get to, I do look forward to working with Council in the upcoming year to make it an even more user friendly budget not only for Council but certainly for the public well. This evening I am proud to present a budget that is balanced, fiscally responsible, and meets both the short and long term goals of the City.

Many of us were elected to Bethlehem City government at the same time in 1997. Together, we have worked to weather the storm of losing Bethlehem Steel Corporation, and directing our City on a course of revitalization and renewal that is unprecedented across Pennsylvania.

Most cities that lose 20 percent of its taxable land would not be in the position that we are today. Bethlehem is a unique gem – not only in the Lehigh Valley – but across Pennsylvania. We have not one, but two, thriving downtown retail districts, a growing economic base, a good bond rating, excellent infrastructure, and top quality services. Our future is even brighter than our glorious past.

But, many challenges remain, and these have been difficult financial times. For many years now, we’ve needed to tighten our financial belt, and to do more with less. The loss of Bethlehem Steel and the ensuing reassessment of its properties resulted in nearly $67 million in lost real estate assessments. In just the last year, we have lost an additional $16 million in assessed value of the former Bethlehem Steel properties.

With a focus on economic development and tremendous growth, we have clawed our way back. But, our total real estate assessments are still 2 percent less than what they were in 1994 before the beginning of the end at Bethlehem Steel. Essentially, we are working with 2006 expenses against a 1994 assessment. It’s taken us 11 years and we are just about back to 1994 levels. Last year alone, we netted $20 million in new assessment growth, but we need more. And, that’s why our collective focus needs to remain on economic development.

The budget before you tonight is a tight one. In total, it spends only 1.5 percent more than last year’s budget. That’s less growth than the rate of inflation, and a lot less than the increased cost of medical care, pensions, salaries, fuel, and other supplies. The total proposed budget for next year is $54.9 million. This year’s budget for 2005 is $54.1 million. The net increase in spending from 2005 to 2006 is only $800,000.

The budget, however, does reflect a 6.9 percent increase in the cost of personnel, which amounts to an additional $1.7 in spending mandated by our collective bargaining agreements, a $3.1 million General Fund cost for pension obligations, and a $5.4 million cost for medical. These non-discretionary costs for salaries, pensions, and medical costs are the core areas of growth in next year’s budget.

All of the costs that we could control we’ve limited and held the line. This budget has the smallest number of non-uniform employees in decades. Yet we continue to deliver a high level of service to the citizens. In short, Bethlehem City government is truly doing more with less.

In addition to the rising cost of salaries, pensions, and medical care, the Hirko case settlement remains a burden on the budget, and next year we will pay $878,000 towards that settlement.

After tremendous effort to wringing out any unnecessary expenditure and limit discretionary spending, we are forced to propose an increase of 13 percent in the tax rate in order to maintain the same level of excellent service that the people of Bethlehem know and deserve.

The proposed millage rate for the 2006 budget would rise to 14.17 mills from the current rate of 12.5 mills. This would result in an increase of about $83.50 per year or $6.95 per month for the average property assessed at $50,000. It is not without great consternation that we propose this increase, but it is with the knowledge that we’ve done what can be done with the spending that we can control.

The bottom line is that we still haven’t completed our transition from the loss of the Bethlehem Steel Corporation, along with some of the large and unexpected costs such as the Hirko case and the pension fund shortfalls. The good news is that there is light at the end of the tunnel, and by the end of next year I believe that our economic development efforts will return us to our 1994 level and well beyond. In fact, our rate of growth from 2005 to 2006 increased by 30 percent. And, I am confident that together we can begin to put the past behind us. The proposed 2006 budget includes a proposed 30 percent sewer rate increase, which will allow us to self-fund a portion of the city’s approximately $22 million share of the more than $50 million expansion and modernization of our wastewater treatment plant. This expansion is needed to accommodate the City of Bethlehem’s and the region’s long term growth and expansion needs up to the year 2020. A typical residential user of sewer will experience a $14.99 quarterly increase as a result of this rate change. But, even with this rate change, the City of Bethlehem’s sewer customers will still enjoy the lowest rates in the region.

In my two years as Mayor, I have consistently demonstrated the willingness to step up and make the right decisions for the City of Bethlehem – decisions that were often quite difficult. And unfortunately, after having exhausted every other option, the City is in need of a tax increase. We cannot make reckless cuts in services. Austerity without a purpose will not improve our City, or help us with any new economic development opportunities. We will not convince one company to locate, expand, or stay in Bethlehem, nor will we convince one family to choose Bethlehem over the suburbs merely by being frugal in our government. We must also deliver at a fair and competitive cost improved services that meet the needs of the people that live and work in Bethlehem. We have not skimped on services. In fact, this Administration can honestly say to the taxpayers and water and sewer customers of Bethlehem that they receive more and better services than at any other time in our City’s history.

This budget retains and expands the high quality of services to our residents, particularly in the critical areas of public safety…We continue to have the largest Police force in history, 146 Officers strong; we have over $400,000 of new equipment including 4 new police cars; a 22% increase in our EMS staffing with the addition of 4 paramedics; additional part-time Housing Inspector for increased code enforcement; $450,000 in parks and playground upgrades; improvements to the western end of Sand Island; long-needed upgrades to the City’s Water Filtration Plant; replacement of the Homestead Avenue sewer lines…; update to City’s Comprehensive Plan and Zoning Ordinance dollars set aside for the restoration of the Star of Bethlehem; Traffic Signal Energy Savings Program; and the continuation of aggressive street paving within the City.

And finally, the City continues to aggressively pay down debt. From 2005 to 2006, the City decreased its debt by more than $34 million, and that’s principal and interest…And, we are on track to reduce our overall debt by 50 percent in the next 9 years. We have also increased our General Fund balance by 23 percent.

As you can see, this budget achieves the three goals of my Administration: the delivery of good basic City services in the most efficient way possible, delivering more with less, and driving and encouraging economic development. The numbers I have shown clearly reflect the economic transition the City continues to go through. You can’t lose as much as we did as a city without realizing some pain. But the good news is, however, that the City has turned the corner with a $20 million increase in real estate assessments from last year, and more than $630 million of new economic development in the pipeline which will bring more than 2,000 jobs to the City, and that’s just what we anticipate in the next 12 to 18 months. If we work hard to keep costs down and rebuild our economic base, we will achieve success. The plans are in place and they are working. All market indicators point to continued economic growth and continued job creation in Bethlehem. The financial challenges of City Hall will not slow down the economic rebirth of our City. And despite difficult financial times, I am committed to finding ways to invest in infrastructure, to maintain our buildings, our facilities, and equipment, and to make the delivery of basic services a priority. We will not sacrifice investment and spending on critical functions to solve our problems. I realize that we only lose ground and put our community at risk if we avoid spending on necessary basic functions that will grow our economy and grow our City.

To conclude, we have done everything within our power to avoid raising taxes. Unfortunately, this news was not entirely unexpected. But I am proud to present a budget that is balanced, fiscally responsible, and meets the goals of my Administration and the needs of this City. Sure, we are challenged with tight budgets -- all governments are -- but this is a challenge that we have met, and an opportunity to continue to build a better Bethlehem. I look forward to working with Council throughout this process…in the coming weeks to finalize and craft a budget for next year.”

C. Public Works Committee

Mr. Mowrer, Chairman of the Public Works Committee, presented an oral report of the Committee’s meeting held on November 10, 2005, on the following subject: Presentation on the Act 537 Plan that was for information only.

9. ORDINANCES FOR FINAL PASSAGE

None.

10. NEW ORDINANCES

A. Bill No. 53 – 2005 – Amending Article 1113 – Food Establishments – Fees

The Clerk read Bill No. 53 – 2005, Amending Article 1113 – Food Establishments – Fees, sponsored by Mr. Mowrer and Ms. Szabo, and titled:

AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF BETHLEHEM,
COUNTIES OF LEHIGH AND NORTHAMPTON,
COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA, AMENDING
ARTICLE 1113 OF THE CODIFIED ORDINANCES
ENTITLED FOOD CODE REGULATION.

Voting AYE: Mr. Arcelay, Mrs. Belinski, Mr. Leeson, Mr. Mowrer, Ms. Szabo, and Mr. Donchez, 6. Bill No. 53 – 2005 was declared passed on First Reading.

B. Bill No. 54 – 2005 – Adopting the 2006 General Fund Budget

The Clerk read Bill No. 54 – 2005, Adopting the 2006 General Fund Budget, sponsored by Mr. Donchez and Mrs. Belinski, and titled:

AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF BETHLEHEM,
COUNTIES OF LEHIGH AND NORTHAMPTON,
COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA, ADOPTING
THE GENERAL FUND BUDGET FOR 2006.

Voting AYE: Mr. Arcelay, Mrs. Belinski, Mr. Leeson, Mr. Mowrer, Ms. Szabo, and Mr. Donchez, 6. Bill No. 54 – 2005 was declared passed on First Reading.

C. Bill No. 55 – 2005 – Adopting the 2006 Water Fund Budget

The Clerk read Bill No. 55 – 2005, Adopting the 2006 Water Fund Budget, sponsored by Mr. Mowrer and Mr. Donchez, and titled:

AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF BETHLEHEM,
COUNTIES OF LEHIGH AND NORTHAMPTON,
COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA, ADOPTING
THE WATER FUND BUDGET FOR 2006.

Voting AYE: Mr. Arcelay, Mrs. Belinski, Mr. Leeson, Mr. Mowrer, Ms. Szabo, and Mr. Donchez, 6. Bill No. 55 – 2005 was declared passed on First Reading.

D. Bill No. 56 – 2005 – Adopting the 2006 Sewer Fund Budget

The Clerk read Bill No. 56 – 2005, Adopting the 2006 Sewer Fund Budget, sponsored by Mr. Mowrer and Mr. Donchez, and titled:

AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF BETHLEHEM,
COUNTIES OF LEHIGH AND NORTHAMPTON,
COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA, ADOPTING
THE SEWER FUND BUDGET FOR 2006.

Voting AYE: Mr. Arcelay, Mrs. Belinski, Mr. Leeson, Mr. Mowrer, Ms. Szabo, and Mr. Donchez, 6. Bill No. 56 – 2005 was declared passed on First Reading.

E. Bill No. 57 – 2005 – Adopting the 2006 Golf Course Enterprise Fund Budget

The Clerk read Bill No. 57 – 2005, Adopting the 2006 Golf Course Enterprise Fund Budget, sponsored by Mr. Mowrer and Mr. Donchez, and titled:

AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF BETHLEHEM,
COUNTIES OF LEHIGH AND NORTHAMPTON,
COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA, ADOPTING
THE GOLF COURSE ENTERPRISE FUND BUDGET
FOR 2006.

Voting AYE: Mr. Arcelay, Mrs. Belinski, Mr. Leeson, Mr. Mowrer, Ms. Szabo, and Mr. Donchez, 6. Bill No. 57 – 2005 was declared passed on First Reading.

F. Bill No. 58 – 2005 – Adopting the 2006 Liquid Fuels Fund Budget

The Clerk read Bill No. 58 – 2005, Adopting the 2006 Liquid Fuels Fund Budget, sponsored by Mr. Mowrer and Mr. Donchez, and titled:

AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF BETHLEHEM,
COUNTIES OF LEHIGH AND NORTHAMPTON,
COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA, ADOPTING
THE LIQUID FUELS FUND BUDGET FOR 2006.

Voting AYE: Mr. Arcelay, Mrs. Belinski, Mr. Leeson, Mr. Mowrer, Ms. Szabo, and Mr. Donchez, 6. Bill No. 58 – 2005 was declared passed on First Reading.

G. Bill No. 59 – 2005 – Adopting the 2006 Capital Budget for Non-Utilities

The Clerk read Bill No. 59 – 2005, Adopting the 2006 Capital Budget for Non-Utilities, sponsored by Mr. Mowrer and Mr. Donchez, and titled:

AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF BETHLEHEM,
COUNTIES OF LEHIGH AND NORTHAMPTON,
COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA, ADOPTING
THE 2006 CAPITAL BUDGET FOR NON-UTILITIES.

Voting AYE: Mr. Arcelay, Mrs. Belinski, Mr. Leeson, Mr. Mowrer, Ms. Szabo, and Mr. Donchez, 6. Bill No. 59 – 2005 was declared passed on First Reading.

H. Bill No. 60 – 2005 – Adopting the 2006 Capital Budget for Water Utilities

The Clerk read Bill No. 60 – 2005, Adopting the 2006 Capital Budget for Water Utilities, sponsored by Mr. Mowrer and Mr. Donchez, and titled:

AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF BETHLEHEM,
COUNTIES OF LEHIGH AND NORTHAMPTON,
COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA, ADOPTING
THE 2006 CAPITAL BUDGET FOR WATER UTILITIES.

Voting AYE: Mr. Arcelay, Mrs. Belinski, Mr. Leeson, Mr. Mowrer, Ms. Szabo, and Mr. Donchez, 6. Bill No. 60 – 2005 was declared passed on First Reading.

I. Bill No. 61 – 2005 – Adopting the 2006 Capital Budget for Sewer Utilities

The Clerk read Bill No. 61 – 2005, Adopting the 2006 Capital Budget for Sewer Utilities, sponsored by Mr. Mowrer and Mr. Donchez, and titled:

AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF BETHLEHEM,
COUNTIES OF LEHIGH AND NORTHAMPTON,
COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA, ADOPTING
THE 2006 CAPITAL BUDGET FOR SEWER UTILITIES.

Voting AYE: Mr. Arcelay, Mrs. Belinski, Mr. Leeson, Mr. Mowrer, Ms. Szabo, and Mr. Donchez, 6. Bill No. 61 – 2005 was declared passed on First Reading.

J. Bill No. 62 – 2005 – Adopting the 2006 Community Development Budget

The Clerk read Bill No. 62 – 2005, Adopting the 2006 Community Development Budget, sponsored by Mr. Mowrer and Mr. Donchez, and titled:

AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF BETHLEHEM,
COUNTIES OF LEHIGH AND NORTHAMPTON,
COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA, ADOPTING
THE COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BUDGET FOR
2006.

Voting AYE: Mr. Arcelay, Mrs. Belinski, Mr. Leeson, Mr. Mowrer, Ms. Szabo, and Mr. Donchez, 6. Bill No. 62 – 2005 was declared passed on First Reading.

K. Bill No. 63 – 2005 – Adopting the 2006 9-1-1 Fund Budget

The Clerk read Bill No. 63 – 2005, Adopting the 2006 9-1-1 Fund Budget, sponsored by Mr. Mowrer and Mr. Donchez, and titled:

AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF BETHLEHEM,
COUNTIES OF LEHIGH AND NORTHAMPTON,
COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA, ADOPTING
THE 9-1-1 FUND BUDGET FOR 2006.

Voting AYE: Mr. Arcelay, Mrs. Belinski, Mr. Leeson, Mr. Mowrer, Ms. Szabo, and Mr. Donchez, 6. Bill No. 63 – 2005 was declared passed on First Reading.

L. Bill No. 64 – 2005 – Fixing the 2006 Tax Rate for All City Purposes

The Clerk read Bill No. 64 – 2005, Fixing the 2006 Tax Rate for All City Purposes, sponsored by Mr. Mowrer and Mr. Donchez, and titled:

AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF BETHLEHEM,
COUNTIES OF LEHIGH AND NORTHAMPTON,
COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA, FIXING
THE TAX RATE FOR ALL CITY PURPOSES FOR
THE YEAR 2006.

Voting AYE: Mr. Arcelay, Mrs. Belinski, Mr. Leeson, Mr. Mowrer, Ms. Szabo, and Mr. Donchez, 6. Bill No. 64 – 2005 was declared passed on First Reading.

11. RESOLUTIONS

Motion – Considering Resolutions as a Group

Mrs. Belinski and Mr. Arcelay moved to consider Resolutions 11 A through 11 G as a group. Voting AYE: Mr. Arcelay, Mrs. Belinski, Mr. Leeson, Mr. Mowrer, Ms. Szabo, and Mr. Donchez, 6. The motion passed.

A. Certificate of Appropriateness – 549 Main Street

Mr. Mowrer and Mr. Donchez sponsored Resolution 14,725 that granted a Certificate of Appropriateness to paint the exterior at 549 Main Street.

B. Certificate of Appropriateness – 443 Center Street

Mr. Mowrer and Mr. Donchez sponsored Resolution 14,726 that granted a Certificate of Appropriateness to restore the front porch posts to their original profile at 443 Center Street.

C. Certificate of Appropriateness – 64 Wall Street

Mr. Mowrer and Mr. Donchez sponsored Resolution 14,727 that granted a Certificate of Appropriateness to add a skylight to the garage roof at 64 Wall Street.

D. Certificate of Appropriateness – 429 Heckewelder Place

Mr. Mowrer and Mr. Donchez sponsored Resolution 14,728 that granted a Certificate of Appropriateness to install an educational sign on 429 Heckewelder Place.

E. Certificate of Appropriateness – 429 Heckewelder Place

Mr. Mowrer and Mr. Donchez sponsored Resolution 14,729 that granted a Certificate of Appropriateness to install temporary steel siding to protect the exposed sidewalls during renovation at 429 Heckewelder Place.

F. Certificate of Appropriateness – 459 Old York Road

Mr. Mowrer and Mr. Donchez sponsored Resolution 14,730 that granted a Certificate of Appropriateness to install louvers on each side of front stairs and under the rear deck at 459 Old York Road.

G. Certificate of Appropriateness – 574 Main Street

Mr. Mowrer and Mr. Donchez sponsored Resolution 14,731 that granted a Certificate of Appropriateness to restore the exterior and renovate the interior of 574 Main Street.

Voting AYE on Resolutions 11 A through 11 G: Mr. Arcelay, Mrs. Belinski, Mr. Leeson, Mr. Mowrer, Ms. Szabo, and Mr. Donchez, 6. The Resolutions passed.

H. Authorizing Use Permit Agreement – Live Bethlehem Christmas Pageant

Mr. Mowrer and Mrs. Belinski sponsored Resolution 14,732 that authorized the Mayor and the Controller to execute a Use Permit Agreement between the City and the Live Bethlehem Christmas Pageant Society, Inc. for use of the Community Arts Pavilion and Surrounding Field for the 2005 Live Bethlehem Christmas Pageant for the time period December 5, 2005 through January 9, 2006.

Mr. Leeson recalled that the organization, which provides a very nice and meaningful activity that is a worthwhile addition to the holiday season, was experiencing financial difficulty, and queried whether that is still the situation.

Charles Brown, Director of Parks and Public Property, expressed the belief that the organization has enough donations for this year. Mr. Brown, further commenting that he has addressed the matter with the Recreation Commission, advised he will find out what the organization’s budget needs are for next year.

Mrs. Belinski, noting she was contacted by a member of the organization, stated they applied for a $5,000 grant that Senator Boscola indicated they would receive. Mrs. Belinski continued on to explain that the wood for the production had been re-used so many times it was unsafe for rebuilding again last year by the Bethlehem Vo-Tech students, and the organization did not have money to buy new lumber.

Mr. Brown stated that although grant approval was obtained the funding has not been received.

Voting AYE: Mr. Arcelay, Mrs. Belinski, Mr. Donchez, Mr. Leeson, Mr. Mowrer, and Mr. Schweder, 6. The Resolution passed.

12. NEW BUSINESS

Setting Date for Adoption - 2006 Budgets

Mrs. Belinski and Mr. Arcelay moved to set the date for Adoption of the 2006 Budget and Tax Ordinances on Tuesday, December 20, 2005 at 7:30 PM in Town Hall.

Voting AYE: Mr. Arcelay, Mrs. Belinski, Mr. Donchez, Mr. Leeson, Mr. Mowrer, and Ms. Szabo, 6. The motion passed.

Congratulating Election Winners

Acting President Donchez congratulated Mayor Callahan on his re-election as Mayor, Karen Dolan on her election to City Council, and Mrs. Belinski, Mr. Leeson, and Mr. Schweder on their re-elections to City Council.

Bicycles on Sidewalks – Interference with Pedestrians

Mrs. Belinski advised she was informed by a senior citizen that he was close to being run over by a bicycle, and pointed out that the curb cuts make it easy for bicycle riders who may not have lights, horns, or bells to accelerate on the sidewalks. Referring to a newspaper article she was given that appeared in the Saturday, November 12, 2005 edition of the New York Post, Mrs. Belinski pointed out that in New York City bicyclists are fined $60 for not having reflectors or other equipment. Mrs. Belinski inquired whether anything can be done about the situation.

Mayor Callahan noted he received an e-mail from Steve Schmitt, Executive Director of the Coalition for Appropriate Transportation, regarding Police Bicycle Officer Jason Schiffer who through the organization has been helping to teach a class and educate bicycle riders about rules, regulations, not operating bicycles on sidewalks, and safe operation of bicycles in traffic. Mayor Callahan thought that the City could step up enforcement.

Randall Miller, Deputy Police Commissioner, explained that bicycles have to follow the same rules of the road as any motor vehicle in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, and are subject to fines under the Motor Vehicle Code. Deputy Commissioner Miller affirmed that part of the grant for the Coalition for Appropriate Transportation was for overtime for Police Officers to enforce bicycle violations. He continued on to note that Sergeant Jason Schiffer also does education programs for the public and for the Coalition for Appropriate Transportation. Deputy Commissioner Miller noted that memorandums could be sent to Police Officers to heighten awareness of the situation.

Ms. Szabo questioned whether there could be specific rules for use of the cartway by bicycles, and with fines. Ms. Szabo related a past incident when a bicyclist jumped the traffic signal and smashed into her sister’s car causing extensive damage.

Deputy Commissioner Miller, affirming that in the rules of the Commonwealth operating a bicycle is just like operating a motor vehicle, confirmed that the Police have cited bicycle operators for going through stop signs, etc. He restated that bicycle operators have to follow the same rules as motor vehicle operators, including stop signs and rules of the road. He added that the situation is multi-pronged with education and enforcement. Deputy Commissioner Miller, in further response to Ms. Szabo, advised that the definition of vehicle in the Commonwealth is any sort of mode of operation and conveyance which is considered a bicycle. Noting the violations have held up in Magistrates courts, Deputy Commissioner Miller pointed out that the fines and costs for bicycles are the same as for motor vehicles.

Mayor Callahan commented the situation may be a potential education awareness program that might be able to be instituted in working with the School Resource Officers.

Budget Preparation

In response to Ms. Szabo, Mayor Callahan explained that preparation of the Proposed 2006 Budget Book is a joint effort on the part of the Department Heads, Dennis Reichard, Business Administrator, Linnea Lazarchak, Financial Services Manager, as well as Darryl Yothers, Budget Analyst, and the Duplicating Bureau copies all the Budget Books. In addition, Louise Kelchner, Mayor’s Administrative Assistant, and Michelle Smith, Mayor’s Secretary, collated the goals, objectives, and organization charts. Mayor Callahan affirmed it is a group effort on the part of all the employees in the City.

Ms. Szabo highlighted the fact that is a lot of employees doing a lot of work that people are not even aware of and that she was not aware of.

Mayor Callahan, denoting that at the Business Leaders Breakfast this morning he had the opportunity to introduce each one of the Department Heads and his staff members, explained that at various events he always does his best to recognize the outstanding and dedicated team of employees throughout City Hall, including the Public Safety side, Public Works, and non-uniformed personnel.

Street Light Posts – Damage

Mrs. Belinski, noted Eddie Rodriquez had made a list that she passed on to Charles Brown, Director of Parks and Public Property, of various places in the City where street light posts were placed and were damaged. Mrs. Belinski asked who made the decision for placement.

Michael Alkhal, Director of Public Works, explained the design and layout of the street lights was a combination of the part of in-house staff who did the design and PPL that did the layout. Mr. Alkhal, affirming he did receive the information about the listing, explained the lights have to be placed in a certain way to provide an even amount of lighting on the sidewalk and the street while at the same time factoring in many other things such as utilities, foundations, conduits, trees, signs, and intersections. Mr. Alkhal, observing there were some street lights that were placed in less than perfect locations, said that issue was looked at extensively, there were concerns with some of the light locations with respect to trees, and some trees were trimmed back. However, Mr. Alkhal thought for the most part the placement was satisfactory, but affirmed he will check on the locations in question, and added he trusts Mr. Rodriquez’s opinion. Mr. Alkhal communicated if there is something that can be done he will try to address it.

13. COURTESY OF THE FLOOR

Congratulations; Trees; Street Lights; Crime; Cameras; and Youth

Eddie Rodriquez, 436 Pawnee Street, congratulated all the elected officials, including Mayor Callahan, Mrs. Belinski, Mr. Leeson, President Schweder, and Karen Dolan. Mr. Rodriquez expressed that he knows these individuals can do the job.

Mr. Rodriquez, noting he received a letter from Michael Alkhal, Director of Public Works, affirmed that certain trees on Union Boulevard, Church Street, and East Third Street were taken care of.

Mr. Rodriquez observed that out-of-towners are putting a burden on the community. Mr. Rodriquez asked City officials not to overlook this, and stressed it will get worse before it gets better.

Mr. Rodriquez, referring to a list he gave to Mrs. Belinski, stated that some street lights are too close to the corners and related he went street by street on the South Side and identified certain lights that are being damaged. In addition, he pointed out that the trees overlapping light fixtures need to be trimmed, and questioned why lights were chosen that do not do the intended job.

Mr. Rodriquez, remarking that crime and violence have been increasing in nearby areas, asserted it is time that society deals with the criminal element. He asked City officials to come up with a plan to attach cameras, especially in shopping centers and other areas where crime and drugs are heavy and gang activity exists. Mr. Rodriquez described the benefits of cameras that he commented cost about $12,000 each. Mr. Rodriquez suggested a curfew in the Five Points area where there are drugs and gang activity. Mr. Rodriquez communicated that youth must be kept active in education, sports, and activities to counteract the negative impacts of society. He felt that by focusing on youth and cameras something can be done to deter crime and violence. Mr. Rodriquez asserted that the drug problem in the City has gotten out of hand and enforcement is needed.

Live Bethlehem Christmas Pageant; Proposed 2006 Budget

Dana Grubb, 2420 Henderson Place, advised when he was a City employee he wrote, on his own time, several grant applications for the Live Bethlehem Christmas Pageant Society. Mr. Grubb noted the group is not only in need of a new manger but also new outfits. Mr. Grubb stated he will contact a representative of the group regarding several ideas.

Mr. Grubb thought it was a good idea to include organizational charts in the Proposed 2006 Budget book. Mr. Grubb was informed by Mayor Callahan that copies of his speech and the Proposed 2006 Budget will be available tomorrow.

14. ADJOURNMENT

The meeting was adjourned at 8:37 p.m.