Council MInutes

April 21, 2009

BETHLEHEM CITY COUNCIL MEETING
10 East Church Street – Town Hall
Bethlehem, Pennsylvania
Tuesday, April 21, 2009 – 7:00 PM

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

President Donchez called the meeting to order. Pastor Dale Miller, of First Baptist Church, offered the invocation which was followed by the pledge to the flag. Present were Jean Belinski, Karen Dolan, Joseph F. Leeson, Jr., Gordon B. Mowrer, J. William Reynolds, J. Michael Schweder and Robert J. Donchez, 7.

Citation – Honoring Cheryl A. Ruth

President Donchez stated that the Citation honoring Cheryl Ruth on the occasion of her retirement from the Police Department after 21 years of service to the City will be forwarded to her since she was unable to be present this evening.

PUBLIC HEARING

2009 Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) - $354, 538

Prior to the consideration of the regular Agenda items, President Donchez called to order a Public Hearing to review and accept public comment on the proposed use of funds to be received under the 2009 Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) in the amount of $354,538.00, of which $172,216.00 is allocated to the City of Bethlehem. The remaining funds are allocated to several other Northampton County municipalities for whom the City of Bethlehem serves as fiscal agent as required by federal guidelines. For serving as fiscal agent, the City of Bethlehem will receive an administrative fee of $18,232.00, which represents ten percent (10%) of each municipality's JAG funding.

Randall Miller, Police Commissioner, affirmed the total funding amount of the Justice Assistance Grant is $354,538 and the City’s share is $172,216. Police Commissioner Miller informed the assembly that the City proposes to spend the funding, as follows: $5,716 – School Overtime – Foot patrols around the three middle schools and Liberty High School for one hour at dismissal time; $18,000 – Parks Overtime – Additional patrols of parks and recreation areas during the summer months to increase safety and reduce damage to public property; $10,000 – Bicycle Uniforms and Equipment – Purchase of three new bicycles, maintenance parts, and bicycle uniforms and training; $12,000 – Computers – CAD/RMS Software and Equipment – Development and purchase of new features for CODY Systems Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD) and Records Management System (RMS) and miscellaneous replacements of hardware and peripherals; $81,500 - Computers – MDTs, Hardware, and UFED – Purchase of ten new Mobile Data Terminals (vehicle mounted laptop computers), replacement of existing hardware, and purchase of a Cellebrite Universal Forensic Extraction Device (cellular phone data extraction unit); and $45,000 – Mounted Unit – Reinstatement of Mounted Patrol unit (horses) to conduct community policing in downtown business districts and parks and recreation areas.

Police Commissioner Miller confirmed that the JAG application process requires a Public Hearing for public comment.

Council Comment

Mr. Reynolds, inquiring about the School Overtime, asked if the funding would pay for one Police Officer at each of the three middle schools and Liberty High School every day.

Police Commissioner Miller replied that is correct. Police Commissioner Miller further responded to Mr. Reynolds this has been done for the last nine years, and as of now last year’s funds are being used.

Ms. Dolan asked if the DARE Officers who are in the schools would be involved in the School Overtime.

Police Commissioner Miller responded it is an assignment that is open to any Police Officer who wishes to work overtime.

Mr. Reynolds queried if the Parks Overtime would occur during the evening hours when the parks are open.

Police Commissioner Miller, explaining it does not necessarily mean nighttime hours, advised that Officers usually are assigned to Yosko Park for extra patrols during the summer, and Officers are also assigned to Saucon Park during the day. Police Commissioner Miller continued on to explain that operations are done in sweeps, and Officers may work at Illick’s Mill Park or the towpath, for example.

Mr. Reynolds asked the cost of the mounted unit.

Police Commissioner Miller replied it is $45,000 and further responded to Mr. Reynolds that the $45,000 amount encompasses everything including additions to the barn at Burnside Plantation, fencing, tack equipment, horses, officer training, trailer, transport, etc. Police Commissioner Miller stated there has been contact with people who may be willing to give horses or equipment to the Police Department, and noted the cost could be less than $45,000. The recurring cost is less than $10,000 a year on average.

Mr. Reynolds asked if there are any limitations on the expenditure of JAG funds.

Police Commissioner Miller, commenting there are some limitations, advised the JAG funds cannot be spent on already-existing programs that have been budgeted.

Ms. Dolan stated she thought the care of the horses would be handled by Burnside Plantation.

Police Commissioner Miller advised that Burnside Plantation in Lehigh County is providing the Police Department with the space and usage of their facilities. Police Officers will be taking care of the horses at the beginning and ending of their shifts.

Ms. Dolan queried whether the $10,000 recurring cost covers the Police Officers time and cost for the horses.

Police Commissioner Miller explained the Police Officers time is already paid for, and the annual cost covers food, horseshoes, tack, etc. for the horses.

Ms. Dolan asked about the cost of veterinary care.

Police Commissioner Miller, advising that subject matter experts have been consulted, explained the costs per horse were estimated for veterinary fees, horseshoes, and so on per year. Police Commissioner Miller added that some of the estimated costs were obtained from the City of Lancaster that uses horses in their downtown area. Police Commissioner Miller further advised that Police Department representatives visited Lancaster, and met with the Mayor, Police Chief and the mounted unit. He added that the plan is also to support the program with donations as is done in Lancaster, and to create a foundation and a wish list. Pointing out the citizens and businesses in Bethlehem have been extremely supportive of the City’s canine program in this manner, Police Commissioner Miller expressed the hope they will again help with the mounted unit.

Ms. Dolan asked if the mounted unit would be used a certain number of days each week or only for special events.

Police Commissioner Miller replied the mounted unit would be used on shifts, and for special events such as parades, Musikfest, and other festivals, and the towpath.

Ms. Dolan observed that a significant percentage of the use of JAG funds is going towards livability issues, for more officers on foot, and for public safety all of which she is glad to see.

President Donchez, noting that the Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant description included a statement about Federal Stimulus funding, recalled the JAG program has been utilized in the City for about 14-15 years. However, this year the JAG funding, through the Federal stimulus package, provided additional money for communities that never qualified previously.

Police Commissioner Miller, recounting that in the past the JAG grant was formerly titled the Local Law Enforcement Block Grant, stated that now with the combination of Federal monies added to it, approximately 3-4 times more was received than under previous grants.

Public Comment

Dana Grubb, 2420 Henderson Place, asked if the old computers that will be removed from the Police cars will be reused.

Police Commissioner Miller replied that some of the in-car mobile data terminal computers will be re-used but there is no trade in value.

Mr. Grubb asked whether there will be bags for the horses.

Police Commissioner Miller explained that, as in Lancaster, there is a bagging program for later disposal.

Lynn Logue, of the Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce, representing the business community, said the group is here to support the Mounted Police unit in the downtown. Ms. Logue noted that Police presence in the downtown makes everyone feel more comfortable, and is a great presence especially during Musikfest and other festivals.

Eddie Rodriquez, 1845 Linden Street, asked if public contact with the horses and having the horses on the streets would cause congestion.

Police Commissioner Miller, observing there are still hitching posts on Main Street, advised the Department wants contact with the public, and the horses are trained for people to approach them. He advised that, as has been the case at Musikfest, and in talking with Lancaster and the State Police, the horses are representatives of the Police Department that are very well received by the public. Police Commissioner Miller added that steps would be taken so as not to interfere with traffic. Police Commissioner Miller, noting it has been about 70 years since horses were in the streets in Bethlehem, pointed out the Department will have to gauge how things go as with any other project.

President Donchez stated that the Resolution will be placed on the May 5 Council Agenda.

The Public Hearing was adjourned at 7:20 p.m.

4. APPROVAL OF MINUTES

The Minutes of April 7, 2009 were approved.

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

Approving DCNR Grant for Fairview and Friendship Parks Design

Bill Scheirer, 1890 Eaton Avenue, observing that in Resolution 11 B it is stated that if the Grant Agreement was signed prior to the passage of the Resolution the grant of authority applies retroactively to the date of signing, noted this issue has come up in the past. Mr. Scheirer stated if a matter needs to come before Council for consideration then it should not be signed beforehand. Mr. Scheirer communicated that Council needs to exercise its authority and keep it.

Dana Grubb, 2420 Henderson Place, said with grants there are many procedures and processes and sometimes there are instances when applications and documents are submitted ahead of time. Mr. Grubb added it is not the fault of anyone at City Hall but rather it is the way some programs are run at the State level.

6. OLD BUSINESS.

A. Tabled Items

None.

B. Unfinished Business

1. Establishing Article 314 – Security Cameras
2. Gift of Real Estate – LVIP
3. Bill No. 28 - 2008 – Amending Zoning Ordinance – Various Sections
4. Establishing Article 1716 – Landmarks and Properties of Historical Interest

C. Old Business – Members of Council

None.

7. COMMUNICATIONS

A. Codified Ordinance Updates – Articles 109, 111 and 107
The Clerk read a memorandum dated April 14, 2009 to which was attached proposed amendments to Article 109.03 – City Treasurer - Bond and Insurance, Article 111.03 – City Controller – Bond Required, Article 107.03 – Department of Administration, Article 107.04 – Department of Parks and Public Property, and Article 107.06 – Department of Public Works reflecting updates to the various Sections that have been reviewed and approved by the respective Departments.

President Donchez stated that, unless there are any questions regarding the updates, the appropriate Ordinances will be placed on the May 5 Agenda for First Reading.

B. City Solicitor – Use Permit Agreement – Has Anyone Seen My Balloon

The Clerk read a memorandum dated April 16, 2009 from John F. Spirk, Jr., Esquire, City Solicitor, to which was attached a proposed Resolution for a Use Permit Agreement between Richard Scott Kelley and Has Anyone Seen My Balloon?, Inc. and the City for use of Yellis Park, Monocacy Park Complex Athletic Fields, Saucon Park Complex Athletic Fields, Clearview Complex, and the Area behind the Municipal Ice Rink for a hot air balloon take off, according to the terms and conditions of the agreement.

President Donchez stated that the Resolution will be placed on the May 5 Agenda.

C. City Solicitor – PennDot Deed – Silvex Road Park and Ride Expansion

The Clerk read a memorandum dated April 16, 2009 from John F. Spirk, Jr., Esq., City Solicitor, to which was attached a proposed Resolution and Deed to the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) to grant and convey approximately 0.73 acres of land as required right of way associated with the Department’s park and ride expansion project on Silvex Road. The property was acquired by PennDot as part of the Interstate 78 project in 1984, and at the conclusion of the project PennDot conveyed the property back to the City at no charge. In return for re-conveying a portion of this land back to PennDOT, PennDOT has agreed to pave Third Street from Northampton Street to Pierce Street. This portion of Third Street is a City Street and has been impacted by numerous construction activities and is not included for re-paving under any current project. As a result of this conveyance, Third Street from approximately W. Fourth Street to Daly Avenue would be re-paved/re-newed by the completion of all the ongoing construction projects. It was requested that this matter be acted on at the April 21 Meeting so that the bid opening for the project can occur this spring and the construction work can be completed during this year’s construction season.

President Donchez stated that authorizing Resolution 11 H is listed on the Agenda.

President Donchez requested that additional Communications 7 D and E be read into the record.

D. Public Works Director – On-going Auctions

The Clerk read a memorandum dated April 17, 2009 from Michael Alkhal, Director of Public Works, to which was attached a proposed Resolution to facilitate the conduct of more efficient City auctions. Currently, personal property is accumulated over an entire year prior to holding a single auction pursuant to Council Resolution, and this has continually created storage difficulties throughout City facilities. It is requested that authorization be given to sell personal property throughout the year as they become surplus to avoid storage problems. All other terms and procedures regarding these sales would remain the same and the City would benefit from collecting the money generated from the sales sooner.

President Donchez stated that the Resolution will be placed on the May 5 Agenda.

E. City Council Solicitor – Notification Requirements – Liquor License Transfers, Economic Development Plans and Studies, Zoning Hearing Board

The Clerk read a letter dated April 17, 2009 from Christopher T. Spadoni, City Council Solicitor, to which was attached a proposed Ordinance to amend the Zoning Ordinance, Section 1325.04(a)(2) – Notice of Hearings, to require that written notice be given to parties who own premises within a radius of five hundred feet of the subject property lot lines. Also attached was a proposed amendment to Resolution 15,083 so that in Council’s consideration of liquor license transfers and the approval of community and economic plans and/or studies a Certificate shall be submitted in writing to Council that the affected property was posted at three conspicuous locations upon the premises.

President Donchez referred the matter to the Community Development Committee.

8. REPORTS

A. President of Council

None.

B. Mayor

1. Administrative Order – Glenn M. Taggart – Zoning Hearing Board

The Mayor appointed Glenn M. Taggart to membership on the Zoning Hearing Board effective until March 2010. Mr. Schweder and Mrs. Belinski sponsored Resolution No. 2009-79 to confirm the appointment.

Voting AYE: Mrs. Belinski, Ms. Dolan, Mr. Leeson, Mr. Mowrer, Mr. Reynolds, Mr. Schweder, and Mr. Donchez, 7. The Resolution passed.

2. Administrative Order – Mari Girardot – Sister City Commission

The Mayor reappointed Mari Girardot to membership on the Sister City Commission effective until March 2012. Mr. Schweder and Mrs. Belinski sponsored Resolution No. 2009-80 to confirm the appointment.

Voting AYE: Mrs. Belinski, Ms. Dolan, Mr. Leeson, Mr. Mowrer, Mr. Reynolds, Mr. Schweder, and Mr. Donchez, 7. The Resolution passed.

3. Administrative Order – George Samuelson – Bethlehem Housing Authority

The Mayor reappointed George Samuelson to membership on the Bethlehem Housing Authority effective until March 2014. Mr. Schweder and Mrs. Belinski sponsored Resolution No. 2009-81 to confirm the appointment.

Voting AYE: Mrs. Belinski, Ms. Dolan, Mr. Leeson, Mr. Mowrer, Mr. Reynolds, Mr. Schweder, and Mr. Donchez, 7. The Resolution passed.

4. Administrative Order – Dorothy Saby – Bethlehem Housing Authority

The Mayor appointed Dorothy Saby to membership on the Bethlehem Housing Authority effective until May 2011. Mr. Schweder and Mrs. Belinski sponsored Resolution No. 2009-82 to confirm the appointment.

Ms. Dolan, noting the appointment is to fill the vacancy of a member who resigned and who lived in Bethlehem Housing Authority (BHA) housing, inquired about the policy where a member of the BHA Board must live in BHA housing and asked if the appointee lives in BHA housing.

Clara Kendy, Executive Director of the Bethlehem Housing Authority, affirmed that Dorothy Saby lives in the BHA high rise at 512 Elm Street and is filling the vacancy of Paul Reitmeir who resigned.

Voting AYE: Mrs. Belinski, Ms. Dolan, Mr. Leeson, Mr. Mowrer, Mr. Reynolds, Mr. Schweder, and Mr. Donchez, 7. The Resolution passed.

C. Parks and Public Property Committee

Mrs. Belinski, Chairwoman of the Parks and Public Property Committee, presented an oral report of the meeting that was held this evening April 21, 2009 on the subject of the Recreation Commission Addendum to the Parks and Recreation Plan of 2007. The Committee unanimously recommended that Council approve a Resolution to adopt the Addendum.

9. ORDINANCES FOR FINAL PASSAGE

None.

10. NEW ORDINANCES

None.

11. RESOLUTIONS

A. Authorizing Execution of Amendment No. 1 to ArtsQuest Use Permit Agreements – Musikfest 2009

Mr. Mowrer and Ms. Dolan sponsored Resolution No. 2009-83 that authorized the execution of Amendment No. 1 to ArtsQuest Use Permit Agreements between the City and ArtsQuest for Musikfest 2009 according to the terms and conditions of the agreements.

Voting AYE: Mrs. Belinski, Ms. Dolan, Mr. Leeson, Mr. Mowrer, Mr. Reynolds, Mr. Schweder, and Mr. Donchez, 7. The Resolution passed.

B. Approving DCNR Grant for Fairview and Friendship Parks Design

Mr. Mowrer and Ms. Dolan sponsored Resolution No. 2009-84 that authorized the execution of a Grant Agreement for a grant application to the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources for the Fairview and Friendship Parks Design project.

Mr. Schweder asked whether the Agreement has already been executed.

Ralph Carp, Director of Parks and Public Property, advised he does not know whether or not it has already been submitted.

Mr. Schweder, while noting he is not going to hold up the Resolution, stated he would like an answer. Mr. Schweder stressed this is a pattern where Council’s responsibility is usurped by action taking place before Council’s consideration of a matter.

Mr. Reynolds advised that, in having dealt with such matters in his job with State Representative Samuelson, there are often compressed schedules for turning in signature pages in comparison to the actual grant being submitted. While observing that Council deserves an answer, Mr. Reynolds said it is understandable if it was a situation where something needed to be turned in and Council needed to vote on it after the fact.

President Donchez requested a response by Friday.

Voting AYE: Mrs. Belinski, Ms. Dolan, Mr. Leeson, Mr. Mowrer, Mr. Reynolds, Mr. Schweder, and Mr. Donchez, 7. The Resolution passed.

Motion – Considering Resolutions as a Group

Mr. Mowrer and Mr. Leeson moved to consider Resolutions 11 C through 11 G as a group. Voting AYE: Mrs. Belinski, Ms. Dolan, Mr. Mowrer, Mr. Leeson, Mr. Reynolds, Mr. Schweder, and Mr. Donchez, 7. The motion passed.

C. Certificate of Appropriateness – 500 Main Street

Mr. Schweder and Mrs. Belinski sponsored Resolution No. 2009-85 that granted a Certificate of Appropriateness to install new awnings with signage at 500 Main Street.

Mr. Schweder highlighted the fact that it is stated that the window signage will be determined at a later date. Mr. Schweder observed the work of the Historical and Architectural Review Board (HARB) is not complete since it is open-ended and the Board has not resolved a matter, but yet the Resolution comes to Council for approval to grant a Certificate of Appropriateness. Mr. Schweder recounted that, with respect to the building in question, about eight years ago there was an issue about the window signage in this location because of illuminating signs in the windows that were in violation of the Ordinance. Mr. Schweder expressed the hope that it is conveyed to the Historical and Architectural Review Board that items should be resolved before the matter is sent to City Council.

Mr. Reynolds wondered if in some instances the matters could be tabled until the window signage is determined, for example. Commenting that, as Mr. Schweder noted, situations such as this have occurred in the past, Mr. Reynolds thought that the HARB was to recommend approval currently of items before the proposal is sent to City Council unless there is a reason why some of these items cannot be determined until a later date.

President Donchez inquired whether it is the consensus to table the Resolution.

Ms. Dolan, recalling this is a discussion that has been held before, communicated that, rather than holding up a project for a minor detail, the HARB wants a project to move forward and have one aspect of the project come back. Observing it is not as if the window signage will be done without its going back to the HARB, Ms. Dolan pointed out that HARB will have to approve the window signage before it can be put up. Ms. Dolan commented that HARB wants to work with people and not get a reputation of slowing down a project.

Mr. Schweder, affirming he had no intentions of tabling the Resolution or voting against it, explained he is again pointing out that things are sent to City Council after the fact.

D. Certificate of Appropriateness – 257 East Market Street

Mr. Schweder and Mrs. Belinski sponsored Resolution No. 2009-86 that granted a Certificate of Appropriateness to remove and replace the front porch floor and steps at 257 East Market Street.

E. Certificate of Appropriateness – 518 Main Street

Mr. Schweder and Mrs. Belinski sponsored Resolution No. 2009-87 that granted a Certificate of Appropriateness to install a hanging sign and a two-sided projecting sign to match other signs on the building at 518 Main Street.

F. Certificate of Appropriateness – 458 Main Street

Mr. Schweder and Mrs. Belinski sponsored Resolution No. 2009-88 that granted a Certificate of Appropriateness to install a two-sided projecting sign on an existing bracket and a flat sign above the front door at 458 Main Street.

G. Certificate of Appropriateness – Lehigh Street – Hurd Campus Residence Hall

Mr. Schweder and Mrs. Belinski sponsored Resolution No. 2009-89 that granted a Certificate of Appropriateness to install a new entry gate at the Lehigh Street entrance of the Hurd Campus Residence Hall.

Mr. Reynolds asked what is the location of the entry gate on Lehigh Street. President Donchez requested that a response be provided by Friday.

Voting AYE on Resolutions 11 C through 11 G: Mrs. Belinski, Ms. Dolan, Mr. Leeson, Mr. Mr. Mowrer, Mr. Reynolds, Mr. Schweder, and Mr. Donchez, 7. The Resolutions passed.

H. Authorizing Execution of Deed – Silvex Road – PennDot Park and Ride Expansion

Mr. Mowrer and Ms. Dolan sponsored Resolution No. 2009-90 that authorized the execution of a Deed with the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDot) to convey approximately 0.73 acres of land as required right of way associated with the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Department of Transportation’s park and ride expansion project on Silvex Road.

Voting AYE: Mrs. Belinski, Ms. Dolan, Mr. Leeson, Mr. Mowrer, Mr. Reynolds, Mr. Schweder, and Mr. Donchez, 7. The Resolution passed.

12. NEW BUSINESS

Committee Meeting Announcements

Chairman Schweder announced a Community Development Committee meeting on April 30, 2009 at 7:00 PM in Town Hall on the subjects of Notification Requirements for Liquor License Transfer Requests, Economic Development Plans and Studies, and Liquor License Transfer Requests.

Chairman Leeson announced a Finance Committee meeting on May 21, 2009 at 4:30 PM in the Mayor’s Conference Room on various budget amendments and transfers.

Cell Phone Regulations and Food Recycling

Mr. Mowrer, noting that he visited Winston-Salem, North Carolina last week, commented that municipal officials were voting on not using cell phones when driving, and he asked that the matter be put on a future Public Safety Committee agenda.

President Donchez affirmed that today a letter was received from Christopher Spadoni, City Council Solicitor, regarding the question raised by Mr. Antalics at the last City Council Meeting about regulating cell phone usage, and it will be read into the record at the next City Council Meeting and referred to the Public Safety Committee. President Donchez added that tomorrow the matter of cell phone regulations will be discussed at the State level.

Mr. Mowrer further noted that in the Winston-Salem, North Carolina area there is recycling of food, particularly from restaurants, and it becomes used as fertilizer. Mr. Mowrer thought the City should take a look at the recycling of food.

13. COURTESY OF THE FLOOR

Security Cameras – Five Points

Eddie Rodriquez, 1845 Linden Street, handed pictures to the Members of Council concerning security cameras in the Five Points area. Mr. Rodriquez said the security cameras are installed in the wrong places. Mr. Rodriquez pointed out there is drug activity in the Five Points area, in addition to auto theft. Mr. Rodriquez stressed that, with regard to the security camera on northbound Route 378, the Ale House building on the northbound side is completely blocking the view of the camera at any angle. On the eastbound side of Broadway there are tree branches that block the view. On the northbound side of Route 378 up the hill on Wyandotte Street the leaves on the trees along with the angle of the camera do not allow a complete view. Mr. Rodriquez thought the security camera could be put on the westbound lane to make sure all five streets in the Five Points area are in view, and added at this point only two are in view. Mr. Rodriquez questioned why the cameras were installed this way, and did not think they should be allowed to stay this way. Mr. Rodriquez noted that he did receive a copy of the response from Randall Miller, Police Commissioner.

Ms. Dolan, noting this is a pilot project, communicated that Council needs to know how flexible the City can be and whether changes can be made in order to know whether the project is working.

President Donchez, acknowledging it is a pilot project, commented that further discussion can be held on the matter.

Cell Phone Regulations

Stephen Antalics, 737 Ridge Street, inquired what would happen in Harrisburg tomorrow regarding cell phone regulations.

President Donchez noted his understanding is that the House Transportation Committee in Harrisburg will be discussing the issue of cell phone regulations tomorrow.

Mr. Antalics, advising that Philadelphia City Council last week unanimously passed an Ordinance prohibiting the use of hand-held cell phones while driving and rollerblading, asked why can Philadelphia pass it and why Bethlehem cannot pass a law. Mr. Antalics thought that Bethlehem should pass an Ordinance in view of fatalities that could occur and let someone say it is illegal.

President Donchez, affirming that Philadelphia is a First Class City, confirmed there is a letter from Attorney Spadoni regarding the matter and it can be discussed in the Public Safety Committee.

Attorney Spadoni confirmed he has drafted a preliminary Ordinance that he has shared with the Members of Council and that can be reviewed in Committee and considered by City Council.

President Donchez notified Mr. Antalics that there is a process which is followed for proposals.

Mr. Antalics wondered who in the community would object to an Ordinance that regulates the use of hand-held cell phones while driving.

School Street – No Parking Sign

Terry Meixell, 56 E. Goepp Street, thanked Michael Alkhal, Director of Public Works, for moving the no parking sign at School Street.

City of Bethlehem Signs

John Ladics, Kaywin Avenue, observed that Route 412 traveling North and South is the gateway to South Bethlehem and would be more of a gateway if there were signs identifying the City of Bethlehem. Mr. Ladics noted that in many communities there are attractive signs announcing their communities to visitors. Mr. Ladics pointed out there are signs at Saucon Park and near Liberty High School that give the impression to visitors that they are leaving the City at those locations which is incorrect. Mr. Ladics further advised there is a sign near Hellertown that does not identify the fact that visitors are in the City of Bethlehem. Mr. Ladics stated that Bethlehem should be advertised, particularly in view of how proud people are of the City.

Lehigh University Student Senate; Zoned Trash Hauling

Tara Sheppard, 39 University Drive, and another representative of the Community Relations Committee of the Lehigh University Student Senate, advised that the Committee was formed at the beginning of the school year with the goal of improving the relationship between Lehigh University and Bethlehem. They notified the assembly that the group organized two off-campus housing forums that included representatives of the City, created an off-campus living packet highlighting the Bethlehem community, explained how students can be good neighbors, and volunteered at several events. They pointed out there are many students interested in positive change, and would welcome any suggestions. They advised that the group also drafted a letter of support for a zoned trash bill.

President Donchez thanked the students for coming and for their positive contributions to the community. President Donchez recounted that a zoned garbage proposal was forwarded by the Administration to City Council about two years ago, and it was sent back to the Administration. He explained that a proposal when received would be sent to Committee for further review. President Donchez added that he would be willing to meet with student representatives to discuss various issues.

Zoned Trash Hauling; City of Bethlehem Signs; Certificate of Appropriateness Resolutions

Bill Scheirer, 1890 Eaton Avenue, stated that a zoned garbage proposal could have unintended consequences such as putting small trash haulers out of business. Mr. Scheirer expressed his agreement with Mr. Ladics that there is a hodge-podge of signs around the City and the matter should be dealt with. Mr. Scheirer thought that Council could amend a Certificate of Appropriateness Resolution to state they reserve the right to approve window signage.

Various Issues

Dana Grubb, 2420 Henderson Place, thanked the Public Works Department for repairing Township Line Road. Mr. Grubb thought it sells the meeting short when a representative of the Community and Economic Development Department is not in attendance. Mr. Grubb observed that process gives government its form, makes it responsible and accountable, and should be followed. Mr. Grubb expressed his support for advancing cell phone legislation, and observed there are many distractions when people are driving. Mr. Grubb informed the assembly that he has noticed numerous recyclable materials in waste cans at the Little League fields in the City, and he thought Little Leagues should be required to recycle in view of the fact that recyclable materials mean cash for the City.

Recycling – Little League Fields

President Donchez inquired what is the program for recyclables at Little League fields.

Ralph Carp, Director of Parks and Public Property, responded there is recycling at the Monocacy Complex area as of this year through the City’s recycling contract, but there is not a recycling program at the other park facilities in that the City is not collecting the recyclable materials.

Ms. Dolan, recalling she thought the Use Permit Agreements with the Little Leagues contained a provision regarding recycling, suggested they should be looked at.

President Donchez requested that the matter be reviewed and a response provided.

The meeting was adjourned at 8:10 p.m.