Council MInutes

April 6, 2010

BETHLEHEM CITY COUNCIL MEETING
10 East Church Street – Town Hall
Bethlehem, Pennsylvania
Tuesday, April 6, 2010 – 7:00 PM

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

President Donchez called the meeting to order. Pastor Luis Ortiz, of Templo El Refugio, offered the invocation which was followed by the pledge to the flag. Present were Jean Belinski, David T. DiGiacinto, Karen Dolan, Eric R. Evans, Gordon B. Mowrer, J. William Reynolds, and Robert J. Donchez, 7.

4. APPROVAL OF MINUTES

The Minutes of March 16, 2010 were approved.

5. COURTESY OF THE FLOOR (for public comment on Ordinances and Resolutions to be voted on by Council this evening – 5 Minute Time Limit)

Greenway - Trash

Stephen Antalics, 737 Ridge Street, asked what Ordinances are in place to prevent trash on the Greenway. Mr. Antalics further stressed that Fifth Street, Fillmore Street and Hillside Avenue have a large amount of debris in the gutters that could be from student housing. He enumerated that there are plastic cups, bottles and empty food containers, and no one seems to be correcting the trash problem. Mr. Antalics urged that a strong Ordinance be passed if there is not one already in effect to hold the residents of the properties responsible for all the trash in the gutters. Mr. Antalics, in response to President Donchez, advised the trash is not associated with specific addresses but rather the curb areas of the streets he listed.

Amending Article 121 – Financial Reporting

Dana Grubb, 2420 Henderson Place, encouraged the Members of Council to pass the amendments to Article 121 for financial reporting that he said is very much needed. Mr. Grubb thought that bank statements should be requested on a monthly basis.

6. OLD BUSINESS.

A. Tabled Items

None.

B. Unfinished Business

1. Establishing Article 1716 – Landmarks and Properties of Historical Interest
(Assigned to Preservation Plan Task Force)

C. Old Business – Members of Council

None.

7. COMMUNICATIONS

A. Purchasing Director – On-Line Auction Items

The Clerk read a memorandum dated March 18, 2010 from Mary Jo Reed, Director of Purchasing, to which was attached a listing of items that will be sold at the next on-line auction to be held within the next 60 days.

President Donchez asked the Members of Council to advise if anyone would like to have an item discussed or removed from the list.

B. Director of Parks and Public Property – DCNR Grant – Higbee Park - Spring Street

The Clerk read a memorandum dated March 29, 2010 from Ralph E. Carp, Director of Parks and Public Property, to which was attached a proposed Resolution to apply for a grant from the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) for the renovation of Higbee Park at Spring Street to add more green space, a new play system, landscaping and improved ADA access. The City has an opportunity to partner with the KaBoom organization to provide a new play system for the park, and the renovation will be an event planned during the Pennsylvania League of Cities and Municipalities annual meeting to be held in Bethlehem in June. The anticipated grant is in the amount of $60,000 that will be matched with $15,000 from the City’s Parks Capital fund, plus City in-kind work prepping the area, and $35,380 from KaBoom for the cost of the new play system.

President Donchez stated that the Resolution will be listed on the April 20, 2010 Council Agenda.

C. City Solicitor – Records Destruction Resolution – Police Department

The Clerk read a memorandum dated March 30, 2010 from John F. Spirk, Jr., Esq., City Solicitor, requesting a Resolution for the destruction of records from the Police Department. The Law Bureau reviewed the Municipal Records Retention Act and the records fall within categories where destruction is permitted.

President Donchez stated that the Resolution will be listed on the April 20, 2010 Council Agenda.

D. Director of Planning and Zoning – DCNR Grant – South Bethlehem Greenway – High St. Bridge

The Clerk read a memorandum dated March 31, 2010 from Darlene L. Heller, Director of Planning and Zoning, to which was attached a proposed Resolution in support of a grant application to the DCNR for the replacement of the High Street Bridge over the South Bethlehem Greenway. The request is a grant in the amount of $400,000 for complete bridge replacement to retain the connection of the Greenway underneath.

President Donchez stated that the Resolution will be listed on the April 20, 2010 Council Agenda.

8. REPORTS

A. President of Council

None.

B. Mayor

1. Administrative Order – Seth A. Cornish – Historic Conservation Commission – South Bethlehem and Mount Airy

Dennis W. Reichard, Acting Mayor, read the Mayor’s reappointment of Seth A. Cornish to the Historic Conservation Commission – South Bethlehem and Mount Airy, effective until April 2013. Mr. DiGiacinto and Mr. Mowrer sponsored Resolution No. 2010-38 to confirm the reappointment.

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

2. Administrative Order – Mary T. Pongracz – Historic Conservation Commission – South Bethlehem and Mount Airy

Dennis W. Reichard, Acting Mayor, read the Mayor’s reappointment of Mary T. Pongracz to the Historic Conservation Commission – South Bethlehem and Mount Airy, effective until April 2013. Mr. DiGiacinto and Mr. Mowrer sponsored Resolution No. 2010-39 to confirm the reappointment.

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

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

Dennis W. Reichard, Acting Mayor, read the Mayor’s reappointment of Glenn M. Taggart to the Zoning Hearing Board, effective until March 2013. Mr. DiGiacinto and Mr. Mowrer sponsored Resolution No. 2010-40 to confirm the reappointment.

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

4. Administrative Order – Kathryn Lynch – City Planning Commission

Dennis W. Reichard, Acting Mayor, read the Mayor’s appointment of Kathryn Lynch to the City Planning Commission, effective until May 2010. Mr. DiGiacinto and Mr. Mowrer sponsored Resolution No. 2010-41 to confirm the reappointment.

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

9. ORDINANCES FOR FINAL PASSAGE

A. Bill No. 5 - 2010 – Amending the 2010 Golf Course Enterprise Fund Budget – 2009 Year End Adjustments

The Clerk read Bill No. 5 - 2010, Amending the 2010 Golf Course Enterprise Fund Budget – 2009 Year End Adjustments, on Final Reading.

Voting AYE: Mrs. Belinski, Mr. DiGiacinto, Ms. Dolan, Mr. Evans, Mr. Mowrer, Mr. Reynolds, and Mr. Donchez, 7. Bill No. 5 - 2010, hereafter to be known as Ordinance No. 2010 - 5, was declared adopted.

B. Bill No. 6 - 2010 – Amending the 2010 Non-Utility Capital Fund Budget – 2009 Year End Adjustment.

The Clerk read Bill No. 6 – 2010, Amending the 2010 Non-Utility Capital Fund Budget – 2009 Year End Adjustments, on Final Reading.

Voting AYE: Mrs. Belinski, Mr. DiGiacinto, Ms. Dolan, Mr. Evans, Mr. Mowrer, Mr. Reynolds, and Mr. Donchez, 7. Bill No. 6 - 2010, hereafter to be known as Ordinance No. 2010 - 6, was declared adopted.

C. Bill No. 7 – 2010 – Amending the 2010 Community Development Fund Budget – 2009 Year End Adjustments

The Clerk read Bill No. 7 – 2010, Amending the 2010 Community Development Fund Budget – 2009 Year End Adjustments, on Final Reading.

Voting AYE: Mrs. Belinski, Mr. DiGiacinto, Ms. Dolan, Mr. Evans, Mr. Mowrer, Mr. Reynolds, and Mr. Donchez, 7. Bill No. 7 - 2010, hereafter to be known as Ordinance No. 2010 - 7, was declared adopted.

D. Bill No. 8 - 2010 – Amending Article 121 – Fiscal Policy and Financial Reporting

The Clerk read Bill No. 8 – 2010, Amending Article 121 – Fiscal Policy and Financial Reporting, on Final Reading.

Voting AYE: Mrs. Belinski, Mr. DiGiacinto, Ms. Dolan, Mr. Evans, Mr. Mowrer, Mr. Reynolds, and Mr. Donchez, 7. Bill No. 8 - 2010, hereafter to be known as Ordinance No. 2010 - 8, was declared adopted.

E. Bill No. 9 – 2010 – Refinancing Bond Issues – Refunding of 2002 Bonds, 2003A Bonds, 2004 Bonds, 2004A Bonds and 2006 Note

The Clerk read Bill No. 9 – 2010, Refinancing Bond Issues – Refunding of 2002 Bonds, 2003A Bonds, 2004 Bonds, 2004A Bonds and 2006 Note, on Final Reading.

Mr. Evans asked for a brief presentation on the results of the Bond sale.

Darryl Peck, of Concord Public Finance, explained that competitive bids were accepted for the sale of the bonds, and he noted the summary is on page 1 of the handout titled Results of Bond Sale. Mr. Peck advised that six firms submitted 22 bids, and some of the firms use syndicates. Informing the Members that the best bid was received from Roosevelt and Cross in New York at a true interest cost of 3.23%, Mr. Peck pointed out how close some of the other bids were. Mr. Peck notified the Members that the overall net savings to the City is $345,811 or 2.99%, of which the net savings attributable to the General Fund is $245,038, and $100,772 is attributable to the Sewer Fund. Mr. Peck affirmed that the savings will be realized in the current fiscal year, and thereafter the debt service payments will be made at those same stated amounts.

Mr. DiGiacinto asked if the savings amount is net of expenses.

Mr. Peck confirmed that the net savings amount of $345,811 is net of expenses.

Ms. Dolan was informed by Mr. Peck that the bid was accepted today and the contract will be awarded tomorrow. Mr. Peck further confirmed that the interest cost will remain the same.

Mr. Reynolds, recounting that the matter was addressed at the March 10 Finance Committee meeting, restated that due to the close expiration dates of the 2002 and 2003 A Bonds the savings on each were below the 3% threshold. However, by not refinancing them at this time the Present Value savings would have been lost. Through this refinancing, savings of approximately $58,000 was realized on the 2002 and 2003 A Bonds.

Voting AYE: Mrs. Belinski, Mr. DiGiacinto, Ms. Dolan, Mr. Evans, Mr. Mowrer, Mr. Reynolds, and Mr. Donchez, 7. Bill No. 9 - 2010, hereafter to be known as Ordinance No. 2010 - 9, was declared adopted.

10. NEW ORDINANCES

None.

11. RESOLUTIONS

A. Adopting Revised Housing Rehabilitation Guidelines and Funding for Energy Efficient Improvements
Mr. DiGiacinto and Mr. Mowrer sponsored Resolution 2010-42 that adopted the revised Housing Rehabilitation Guidelines and Funding for Energy Efficient Improvements from the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) concerning the use of CDBG and HOME funds for eligible and fundable project activities as follows: (1) The maximum assistance provided by the Housing Rehabilitation Program shall be a Deferred Payment Loan (DPL) up to $16,000 to the very low income household (50% of median), a 75% DPL up to $12,000 will be available to the low income household (65% of median), a 50% DPL up to $8,000 will be available to the moderate income household (between 65% and 80% of median); (2) The maximum assistance provided shall increase when lead hazard work is involved to $4,000 for individuals that are 100% eligible, $3,000 for those that are 75% eligible, and $2,000 for those that are 50% eligible; and (3) Energy efficient improvements shall be included in the rehabilitation of the property.

Ms. Dolan questioned whether the City partners with the Bethlehem Housing Authority on the program.

Tony Hanna, Director of Community and Economic Development, replied this is a City of Bethlehem program in conjunction with its Housing Rehabilitation Program and the City does not work with the Bethlehem Housing Authority on the program since the Housing Authority gets direct funding through the Department of Housing and Urban Development on an annual basis. Mr. Hanna, affirming that the loan amounts are adjusted on a periodic basis, highlighted the fact that a new activity was added for energy efficiency.

Ms. Dolan noted that as Council’s liaison to the Bethlehem Housing Authority she knows that the Housing Authority is moving towards increasing energy efficiency. Ms. Dolan wondered if there is a reason why the City would not be working with the Housing Authority.

Mr. Hanna explained that the Bethlehem Housing Authority works on the housing units they own and manage for which they receive separate funding, and the City works on housing units that are owner occupied or residences in the City. Mr. Hanna further informed Ms. Dolan that people can apply directly to the City, and prospective applicants are also identified through the Housing Inspections program. Mr. Hanna notified Ms. Dolan that there is not competition between the Housing Authority and the City and the City approves their annual housing plan that needs to be consistent with the City’s housing plan. Mr. Hanna pointed out that the City works collaboratively with the Housing Authority.

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

Motion – Considering Resolutions as a Group

Mr. Mowrer and Mr. Evans moved to consider Resolutions 11 B through 11 F as a group.

Voting AYE: Mrs. Belinski, Mr. DiGiacinto, Ms. Dolan, Mr. Evans, Mr. Mowrer, Mr. Reynolds, and Mr. Donchez, 7. The motion passed.

B. Certificate of Appropriateness – 1 East Fourth Street

Mr. DiGiacinto and Mr. Mowrer sponsored Resolution 2010-43 that granted a Certificate of Appropriateness to install two wall signs at 1 East Fourth Street.

C. Certificate of Appropriateness – 817 East Fourth Street

Mr. DiGiacinto and Mr. Evans sponsored Resolution 2010-44 that granted a Certificate of Appropriateness to renovate the façade at 817 East Fourth Street.

D. Certificate of Appropriateness – 11 East Fourth Street

Mr. DiGiacinto and Mr. Evans sponsored Resolution 2010-45 that granted a Certificate of Appropriateness to install an awning sign at 11 East Fourth Street.

E. Certificate of Appropriateness – 332 East Third Street

Mr. DiGiacinto and Mr. Evans sponsored Resolution 2010-46 that granted a Certificate of Appropriateness to install an aluminum sign over the front door and vinyl lettering on the windows and door at 332 East Third Street.

F. Certificate of Appropriateness – 1306 Prospect Avenue

Mr. DiGiacinto and Mr. Evans sponsored Resolution 2010-47 that granted a Certificate of Appropriateness to install a bronze plaque at 1306 Prospect Avenue.

Voting AYE on Resolutions 11 B through 11 F: Mrs. Belinski, Mr. DiGiacinto, Ms. Dolan, Mr. Evans, Mr. Mowrer, Mr. Reynolds, and Mr. Donchez, 7. The Resolutions passed.

12. NEW BUSINESS.

Committee Meeting Announcements

Chairman Mowrer announced the Human Resources and Environment Committee meeting on April 21, 2010 at 7:00 PM in Town Hall.

Chairman DiGiacinto re-announced the Public Safety Committee meeting on April 27, 2010 at 7:00 PM in Town Hall.

Chairman Evans announced the Parks and Public Property Committee meeting on May 6, 2010 at 4:30 PM in Town Hall.

Handicapped Ramps

President Donchez observed that the curbs at Third and New Streets are being replaced. Michael Alkhal, Director of Public Works, advised that a meeting was held with PennDot along with some interested businesses and residents in the area regarding concerns expressed over the past several months about the handicapped ramps that were installed. Mr. Alkhal explained that improvements to the aesthetics and functionality of the curb ramps were reviewed. One of the revisions considered was to retrofit the ramps that were installed by removing the middle piece in order to improve the situation.

Mr. Mowrer asked if the ramps are being put in other areas of the City. Mr. Alkhal advised that wherever work is done that abuts the curb it is required to upgrade the handicapped ramps under Federal requirements. Mr. Alkhal noted that the ramps on Broad Street and Pennsylvania Avenue will be upgraded.

13. COURTESY OF THE FLOOR

Handicapped Ramps – Repairs

Joseph Boligitz, 2305 Covington Avenue, advised that several years ago the corners of the street were replaced with handicapped ramps. Mr. Boligitz advised that the ramps are starting to break apart, and the company that installed them is no longer in business. Mr. Boligitz was informed by the City that it is his responsibility to repair them. Mr. Boligitz, highlighting the fact that the sidewalk there lasted for 50 years, pointed out it has only been about three years since the handicapped ramp was put in and it is already breaking apart. Mr. Boligitz advised that with his limited income he cannot afford $1,000 to replace the handicapped ramp. Mr. Boligitz asked that Council think about the people who live on the corners, and stated those residents should not be penalized because they live on the corner.

Bethlehem Fields – Lights

Joan Madzarac, 2704 Easton Road, Lower Saucon Township, demonstrated how a shield that could be placed on the lights located in the Bethlehem Fields development on the side that is across from her home would mitigate the amount of brightness that the residents now endure. Ms. Madzarac further demonstrated how the brightness could be reduced if the lights were facing down towards the Bethlehem Fields development. Ms. Madzarac also explained that one side of the lights could be painted with black glass paint that would also reduce the brightness. Ms. Madzarac advised that the developers refuse to do anything. Ms. Madzarac related that one of the neighbors e-mailed the manager of the project about garbage and the delay in doing something about the lights. However, Ms. Madzarac explained that the neighbor received a derogatory e-mail in response from the manager of the project. Ms. Madzarac communicated that the neighbors are frustrated, disappointed, and have been suffering with the lights for 11 months but have remained civil. Ms. Madzarac requested that Mr. Alkhal meet with her at his convenience during the evening. Ms. Madzarac questioned if the City cannot remedy the light intrusion then who can.

Elias Farmers Market – Appeal of Zoning Hearing Board Decision

Al Bernotas, 1004 Johnston Drive, presented an update on the Elias Farmers Market Appeal. Mr. Bernotas noted that on March 19, 2010 in court there was a motion to open the record because there were some facts that were not on the table with regard to Elias Farmers Market, in particular the size of the building and what they wanted to do. Mr. Bernotas explained the appellants were optimistic that if they were heard outside of the Zoning Hearing Board they might get a more even-handed hearing. Judge Michael Koury dismissed the motion to open the record. Mr. Bernotas explained that the appellants are a group of residents fighting for the residential character of their neighborhood. Mr. Bernotas communicated that when the residents went to the Zoning Hearing Board they heard a decision being made based on fiction instead of fact and that is why they wanted the record opened. Mr. Bernotas expressed his opinion that the facts were misrepresented at the Zoning Hearing Board meeting, there was an omission, and people knew the facts but would not reveal them. Mr. Bernotas stated that in 1970 the roadside stand was 4,371 feet. Elias Market said the size of the building is 14,000 feet and asked for an increase in the size of the building to 19,000 feet. Mr. Bernotas advised the matter will be heard in court on May 4, 2010. Mr. Bernotas said through a legal maneuver the zoning office and the zoning officer were able to express the truth. Mr. Bernotas remarked the aggrieved neighbors would like a more equitable hearing. Mr. Bernotas commented it was realized that Judge Koury had social, familial and political contacts with the Elias family and the Judge promised to recuse himself from cases where there were any political contributors. After the hearing, Mr. Bernotas looked up public records and the Elias family were political contributors. Continuing on to note the Judge said the residents chose not to be represented by counsel at the Zoning Hearing Board meeting, Mr. Bernotas pointed out the residents did not know they could be represented by counsel. Mr. Bernotas informed the Members that the Judge wondered why City Council did not have someone in attendance at the Zoning Hearing Board meeting if they were so interested in the appeal. Mr. Bernotas remarked one would think the Zoning Hearing Board would defend the City and the people. Mr. Bernotas communicated that the neighbors thought perhaps the Zoning Hearing Board could be under pressure or may be inept.

Upon President Donchez’s inquiry, Christopher Spadoni, City Council Solicitor, commented it was a fair rendition of what occurred. Attorney Spadoni affirmed that he represented the Members of Council in court, and Attorney Backenstoe represented the neighbors and they were not successful in having the record opened. Attorney Spadoni confirmed to President Donchez that he will be in attendance at the future court date.

Various Issues

Eddie Rodriquez, 1845 Linden Street, referred to a newspaper article about removal of the left turn lane at Wyandotte Street and said those wishing to turn left into McDonald’s restaurant would have to cross two southbound lanes that poses a dangerous situation. Mr. Rodriquez asked that the return of the northbound meter parking also be considered so that residents and customers can park their cars. Mr. Rodriquez requested follow-up on registered sex offenders. Mr. Rodriquez reported that the video surveillance camera and glass dome at East Morton and Buchanan Streets was broken, and added it is too low and should be moved to another area. Mr. Rodriquez did not think that Council should get involved in a cell phone ban law while driving and should wait for the State law. Mr. Rodriquez communicated there are times when he observes problematic situations in the community and cannot find anyone in the Police Department. Mr. Rodriquez said he has seen condemned buildings for rent and called the inspectors. Mr. Rodriquez questioned why buildings that do not meet codes are passing inspection. Mr. Rodriquez suggested that cameras could be installed at the Bethlehem Area Public Library to deal with situations that have been occurring with individuals who are homeless.

Billboard – Hill to Hill Bridge; Historic Preservation

Kim Carrell-Smith, 833 Carlton Avenue, noted she teaches historic preservation and heritage tourism at Lehigh University, and is a member of two boards but is speaking on her own behalf. Ms. Carrell-Smith expressed her appreciation for the preservation plan efforts that are underway for a comprehensive preservation plan, and advised she attended the meeting. Ms. Carrell-Smith stressed her sense of frustration and disappointment with the electronic billboard on the Hill to Hill Bridge that is a gateway to Bethlehem from two directions, and might be the introduction to Bethlehem for a lot of people. Ms. Carrell-Smith thought it not only disrupts the historic vistas of the South Side since the views of the Lehigh Valley Railroad building and Sayre Mansion Inn are now lost, but going northbound it distracts from the historic view as well. Ms. Carrell-Smith asserted such a billboard is not only a distraction in terms of safety for drivers but is a weapon of mass distraction that does not serve the City well because its character is based in its history. She added that it is a loss in terms of the historical past and future use of historical and heritage tourism. Ms. Carrell-Smith, communicating that the billboard is tacky, asked that it be reconsidered and thought there must be some way to undo what has been done.

Peter Crownfield, 569 Brighton Street, asserted that the electronic billboard on the Hill to Hill Bridge is a massive device that distracts every driver every day. Pointing out that the messages change every seven seconds, Mr. Crownfield said that is extremely quick and many cities have more conservative regulations. Mr. Crownfield recounted that during the meetings on the Comprehensive Plan it was stated that any future billboards in the City would only be allowed near I-78. Mr. Crownfield stressed the billboard destroys the historic vistas in both directions and subtracts immeasurably from the character of the City. Mr. Crownfield communicated it is a huge disappointment that citizens cannot count on City Council to protect them from things like this.

Various Issues

Dean Bruch, 555 Spring Street, expressed that he cannot understand why City officials cannot correct the terrible situation with the lights from Bethlehem Fields coming into Ms. Madzarac’s home. Mr. Bruch wondered whether City officials have the fortitude to do something for her. Mr. Bruch thought that the City is doing well overall. Mr. Bruch related that last week Police Officers did an excellent job in addressing a situation near where he lives.

President Donchez informed Mr. Bruch that Mr. DiGiacinto and Mr. Evans visited the site of Bethlehem Fields to review the situation, and confirmed that several memorandums have been sent to the Administration and responses have been received.

Host Fee Revenues – Sands Casino

Robert Pfenning, 2830 Linden Street, distributed to the Members of Council his calculations of First Quarter 2010 Host Fees from the Sands Casino. Using a $210 win/per slot machine/per day figure, Mr. Pfenning estimated that the City will have a budget shortfall of $117,222.94 at the end of 2010. Mr. Pfenning continued on to explain his calculations of the revenue from the Table Games based on an assumed starting date of July 1, 2010. He explained that, using the State figures, $92,193.20 will be generated from Table Games versus the City’s budgeted amount of $275,000 or a $182,806.80 shortfall. Added to the budget shortfall of $117,222.94 from slot machines, Mr. Pfenning calculated that the total budget shortfall will be $300,029.74. However, Mr. Pfenning pointed out that revenue from casinos in Pennsylvania have increased. If that continues, and with the advent of table games, Mr. Pfenning explained it is possible that the revenue deficit could be eliminated. Mr. Pfenning thought it is in the corporate interest of the Sands to complete the hotel project, but observed they may have a greater interest in opening their casino in Singapore.

Billboard – Hill to Hill Bridge; Historic Preservation

Dana Grubb, 2420 Henderson Place, said he attended the preservation planning meeting last week at which the issue of the abomination alongside the Hill to Hill Bridge with the installation of the electronic billboard was discussed. Stressing that not only does the billboard ruin the landscape that includes a number of historic properties and create a distraction, Mr. Grubb informed the Members that the base of the billboard structure was placed about five feet away from the stone walls where there is a historic marker commemorating the landing spot for the ferry that crossed the Lehigh River. Mr. Grubb thought that to now say nothing can be done to remediate this situation, preferably by removing the billboard, is shortsighted and a way should be found to do so. Remarking it is almost hypocritical to plan for historic preservation and allow something like this billboard to happen, Mr. Grubb enumerated the various other historic buildings that have been taken down over the past several years. Mr. Grubb stressed that if the City is to be marketed for its history then its history must be preserved and taken seriously, otherwise the community’s history will erode. He added that while proposals such as the new Zoning Ordinance are being studied, developers and others take advantage of current regulations. Mr. Grubb asserted that allowing these kinds of things to happen is irresponsible, and stressed that the commitment of City officials should be to the community, the neighborhoods, and the citizens, and not to companies and developers.

Handicapped Ramps; Billboard – Hill to Hill Bridge; City Plans

Stephen Antalics, 737 Ridge Street, referring to the handicapped ramps on Third and Fourth Streets being installed, explained that the ramps installed on Federal standards were taken out and replaced with the old State standards as authorized by the State. Mr. Antalics thought there was more to the issue than meets the eye. Focusing on the electronic billboard on the Hill to Hill Bridge and the billboard coming off the Fourth Street ramp onto Third Street that also blocks the view of the South Side, Mr. Antalics exclaimed they are obtrusive and ugly. Mr. Antalics remarked that Bethlehem is approaching Admiral Wilson Boulevard in Camden, New Jersey. Noting he attended the preservation plan meeting, Mr. Antalics recalled past discussions on the Comprehensive Plan and Sasaki Plan and said nothing happened. Mr. Antalics wondered if the meetings including the preservation plan are called to make people happy and give their ideas since nothing happens afterwards.

Preservation Plan Meeting; City Plans

Mary Pongracz, 321 W. Fourth Street, asked why the preservation plan meeting was scheduled on Holy Thursday resulting in very low attendance, and questioned who was responsible for setting the meeting date. Ms. Pongracz commented that Mr. Antalics is right in that there have been many plans in the past that have amounted to nothing and some have displaced people who have lived in the City for years for the benefit of Lehigh University and Bethlehem Steel. Ms. Pongracz pointed out that Bethlehem has been home to many ethnic groups that are in danger of dying out. Ms. Pongracz observed it has been several years but nothing has been done yet to finalize an ordinance to establish Article 1716 – Landmarks and Properties of Historical Interest.

City Sign; Billboard – Hill to Hill Bridge

John Ladics, Kaywin Avenue, recalled that a year ago he had asked about the billboard at Saucon Park that welcomes people to Bethlehem but that is located a mile away from the City line. Mr. Ladics expressed the hope that the sign can be changed and the appropriate sign be placed at the Bethlehem and Hellertown border so that the City limits are known. Mr. Ladics thought that the billboard on the Hill to Hill Bridge may be utilized for Musikfest announcements. He further commented that many people passing through the City may not really care what is on the billboard because they may just want to get home from work.

Removal of Billboards – Hill to Hill Bridge

Mr. Reynolds asked if the billboards at the southeast end of the Hill to Hill bridge will be coming down and if so when. Mr. Alkhal, responding yes, advised that they may be taken down in the next six to twelve months. Mayor Callahan informed Mr. Reynolds that a total of seven panels will be collapsed down to the two that are on the Hill to Hill Bridge.

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