Council MInutes

BETHLEHEM CITY COUNCIL MEETING
10 East Church Street – Town Hall
Bethlehem, Pennsylvania
Tuesday, February 7, 2012 – 7:00 PM

INVOCATION

PLEDGE TO THE FLAG

Pastor Boddan Jurczyszn, of Our Lord’s Ascension Polish National Catholic Church, offered the invocation which was followed by the pledge to the flag.

1. ROLL CALL

President Eric R. Evans called the meeting to order. Present were Jean Belinski, David T. DiGiacinto, Karen Dolan, Robert J. Donchez, Michael D. Recchiuti, J. William Reynolds, and Eric R. Evans, 7.

2. APPROVAL OF MINUTES

The Minutes of January 17, 2012 were approved.

3. PUBLIC COMMENT

None.

4. OLD BUSINESS.

A. Old Business – Members of Council

None.

B. Tabled Items

None.

C. Unfinished Business

None.

5. COMMUNICATIONS

A. Library Executive Director – Borough of Freemansburg – Terminating Contract

The Clerk read a letter dated January 13, 2012 from Janet S. Fricker, Executive Director of the Bethlehem Area Public Library, to which was attached a copy of the official notice given to the Bethlehem Area Public Library by the Solicitor of the Borough of Freemansburg that the Borough will no longer be contracting services from the library as of January 1, 2012, and that the decision was made based on the financial difficulties faced by the Borough.

President Evans stated that the Ordinance will be placed on the February 21 Agenda for First Reading.

B. City Solicitor – Use Permit Agreement for Public Property – American Association of University Women, Bethlehem Branch – 2012 Book Fair

The Clerk read a memorandum dated January 23, 2012 from John F. Spirk, Jr., Esq., City Solicitor, to which was attached a proposed Resolution and associated Use Permit Agreement between the American Association of University Women, Bethlehem Branch, and the City for use of the Memorial Pool Building for the 2012 Book Fair.

President Evans stated the Resolution will be placed on the February 21 Agenda.

C. City Solicitor – Use Permit Agreement for Public Property – St. Luke’s Hospital & Health Network – 2012 Boutique at the Rink

The Clerk read a memorandum dated January 23, 2012 from John F. Spirk, Jr., Esq., City Solicitor, to which was attached a proposed Resolution and associated Use Permit Agreement between St. Luke’s Hospital & Health Network and the City, for use of the Municipal Ice Rink for the 2012 Boutique at the Rink.

President Evans stated the Resolution will be placed on the February 21 Agenda.

D. City Solicitor – Amending Article 1703 – Requirements and Qualifications to Obtain Licensing to Perform Electrical Work within the City of Bethlehem

The Clerk read a memorandum dated January 26, 2012 from John F. Spirk, Jr., Esq., City Solicitor, to which was attached a proposed Ordinance to amend Article 1703, Requirements and Qualifications to Obtain Licensing to Perform Electrical Work with the City of Bethlehem.

President Evans stated the Ordinance can be placed for First Reading on the February 21 Agenda.

E. City Solicitor – Use Permit Agreement for Public Property – Celtic Cultural Alliance – St.
Patrick’s Day Concert

The Clerk read a memorandum dated January 31, 2012 from John F. Spirk, Jr., Esq., City Solicitor, to which was attached a proposed Resolution and associated Use Permit Agreement between the Celtic Cultural Alliance and the City for use of various City properties for the St. Patrick’s Day Concert.

President Evans stated the Resolution will be placed on the February 21, 2012 Agenda.

F. Community Development Committee Chairman – Vendor – 15 West Fourth Street - 4th Street Club Entertainment LP/Christopher Morales

The Clerk read a memorandum dated February 2, 2012 from David T. DiGiacinto, Chairman of the Community Development Committee, requesting that the Resolutions adopted granting Certificates of Approval to 4th Street Club Entertainment LP/Christopher Morales for a hot dog vending operation be reviewed by City Council and the Historic Conservation Commission – South Bethlehem and Mt. Airy (HCC), and other related comments.

President Evans referred the matter to the Community Development Committee.

6. REPORTS

A. President of Council

1. Councilmanic Appointment – Karen D. Dolan – Recreation Commission

President Evans appointed Karen D. Dolan to membership on the Recreation Commission, effective until August 2014. Mr. Recchiuti and Mr. DiGiacinto sponsored Resolution 2012-17 to confirm the appointment.

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

Committee of the Whole and Special City Council Meeting Announcements

President Evans stated that City Council met as a Committee of the Whole this evening at 6:00 PM in Town Hall to receive an update and presentation on SteelStacks.

President Evans stated that a Special City Council Meeting is scheduled on Thursday, February 16 at 7:00 PM in Town Hall to fill the City Controller Vacancy, as a result of the resignation of Meg Holland, Controller.

B. Mayor

None.

7. ORDINANCES FOR FINAL PASSAGE

None.

8. NEW ORDINANCES

A. Bill No. 1 – 2012 – Amending Article 913 – Water Rates and Charges – Increase

The Clerk read Bill No. 1 – 2012, Amending Article 913 – Water Rates and Charges – Increase, sponsored by Mr. Recchiuti and Mrs. Belinski, and titled:

AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF BETHLEHEM,
COUNTIES OF LEHIGH AND NORTHAMPTON,
COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA, AMENDING
ARTICLE 913 OF THE CODIFIED ORDINANCES
ENTITLED WATER RATES AND CHARGES.

David Brong, Director of Water and Sewer Resources, affirmed to Ms. Dolan that the majority of the residential meters are 5/8 inch and the applicable increased rates are as stated in the Ordinance.

Voting AYE: Mr. DiGiacinto, Ms. Dolan, Mr. Donchez, Mr. Recchiuti, Mr. Reynolds, Mrs. Belinski, and Mr. Evans, 7. Bill No. 1 – 2012 was declared passed on First Reading.

B. Bill No. 2 – 2012 – Amending Article 927 – Sewer Rental – Increase

The Clerk read Bill No. 2 – 2012, Amending Article 927 – Sewer Rental – Increase, sponsored by Mrs. Belinski and Ms. Dolan, and titled:

AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF BETHLEHEM,
COUNTIES OF LEHIGH AND NORTHAMPTON,
COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA, AMENDING
ARTICLE 927 OF THE CODIFIED ORDINANCES
ENTITLED SEWER RENTAL.

Voting AYE: Mr. DiGiacinto, Ms. Dolan, Mr. Donchez, Mr. Recchiuti, Mr. Reynolds, Mrs. Belinski, and Mr. Evans, 7. Bill No. 2 – 2012 was declared passed on First Reading.

C. Bill No. 3 – 2012 Guaranteed Revenue Note – PennVest - $9,429,730

The Clerk read Bill No. 3 – 2012, 2012 Guaranteed Revenue Note – PennVest, sponsored by Mr. Recchiuti and Mr. Reynolds, and titled:

AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING AND DIRECTING THE ISSUANCE OF THE CITY OF BETHLEHEM’S GUARANTEED REVENUE NOTE, SERIES OF 2012 IN THE TOTAL AMOUNT OF $9,429,730 (THE “2012 NOTE”) FOR THE DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION PROJECT OF THE CITY’S DIGESTER SYSTEM AND WASTE ACTIVATED SLUDGE THICKENING IMPROVEMENTS PROJECT; THE 2012 NOTE BEING ISSUED THROUGH THE PENNVEST PROGRAM WHICH REIMBURSES PROJECT COSTS ADVANCED; AUTHORIZING AN INCREASE IN THE CITY’S NONELECTORAL INDEBTEDNESS; FIXING THE FORM, NUMBER, DATE, INTEREST AND MATURITY OF THE NOTES; MAKING A COVENANT FOR THE PAYMENT OF DEBT SERVICE ON THE NOTES; PROVIDING FOR THE FILING OF THE REQUIRED DOCUMENTS WITH THE PENNSYLVANIA DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNITY AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT FOR APPROVAL OF THE ISSUANCE OF THE DEBT; PROVIDING FOR THE APPOINTMENT OF A SINKING FUND DEPOSITORY FOR THE NOTES; AUTHORIZING, EXECUTION, SALE AND DELIVERY OF THE NOTES, AND DOCUMENTS RELATED THERETO; PROVIDING CERTAIN COVENANTS AND RESTRICTIONS FOR SECURITY AND PAYMENT OF THE NOTES; ESTABLISHING CERTAIN TAX COVENANTS REGARDING USE OF THE PROCEEDS OF THE NOTES; REPEALING CERTAIN ORDINANCES OR PART OF ORDINANCES; ESTABLISHING THE EFFECTIVE DATE OF THE ORDINANCE.

Voting AYE: Mr. DiGiacinto, Ms. Dolan, Mr. Donchez, Mr. Recchiuti, Mr. Reynolds, Mrs. Belinski, and Mr. Evans, 7. Bill No. 3 – 2012 was declared passed on First Reading.

9. RESOLUTIONS

A. Amending Rules of Council – Rule 6 E

Mr. Recchiuti and Ms. Dolan sponsored Resolution 2012-18 that amended Rules of Council, Rule 6 E that reads as follows:

E. Except for approval of Minutes and Adjournment, the vote taken upon every motion, Resolution or Ordinance shall be taken by roll call, and the yeas and nays shall be entered on the Minutes. No Council Member shall be excused from voting unless a conflict of interest, as defined by The Ethics Act, Act 93 of 1998, exists or other provisions of law prevent the Council Member from such vote. At each regular City Council Meeting, Members of Council shall vote on a rotating alphabetical basis; i.e., starting with the name of the first Member of Council in alphabetical order at the first Meeting; starting with the name of the second Member of Council in alphabetical order at the second Meeting, and so on for each regular City Council Meeting, and returning to the name of the first Member of Council in alphabetical order when the rotating alphabetical basis is completed for the [seven] Members of Council, and continuing on a rotating alphabetical basis. The presiding officer shall vote last on all questions and may take part in debate without leaving the Chair. Each Ordinance or Resolution shall be introduced in written or typewritten form and will not be discussed until signed by the Mover and Seconder (Resolution 13,681 passed 10/16/01; Resolution 15,291 passed 4/1/08; Resolution 2011-214 passed 12/21/11)

to read as follows:

F. Except for approval of Minutes and Adjournment, the vote taken upon every motion, Resolution or Ordinance shall be taken by roll call, and the yeas and nays shall be entered on the Minutes. No Council Member shall be excused from voting unless a conflict of interest, as defined by The Ethics Act, Act 93 of 1998, exists or other provisions of law prevent the Council Member from such vote. At each regular City Council Meeting, Members of Council shall vote on a rotating alphabetical basis; i.e., starting with the name of the first Member of Council in alphabetical order at the first Meeting; starting with the name of the second Member of Council in alphabetical order at the second Meeting, and so on for each regular City Council Meeting, and returning to the name of the first Member of Council in alphabetical order when the rotating alphabetical basis is completed for the Members of Council, and continuing on a rotating alphabetical basis. The presiding officer shall vote last on all questions and may take part in debate without leaving the Chair. Each Ordinance or Resolution shall be introduced in written or typewritten form and will not be discussed until signed by the Mover and Seconder (Resolution 13,681 passed 10/16/01; Resolution 15,291 passed 4/1/08; Resolution 2011-214 passed 12/21/11)

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

Motion – Considering Resolutions as a Group

Mr. Donchez and Ms. Dolan moved to consider Resolutions 9 B through 9 E as a group. Voting AYE: Mr. DiGiacinto, Ms. Dolan, Mr. Donchez, Mr. Recchiuti, Mr. Reynolds, Mrs. Belinski, and Mr. Evans, 7. The motion passed.

B. Certificate of Appropriateness – 401-405 East Fourth Street

Mr. Recchiuti and Mr. Reynolds sponsored Resolution 2012-19 that granted a Certificate of Appropriateness to install a new stairway at the rear of building at 401-405 East Fourth Street.

C. Certificate of Appropriateness – 339 Broadway

Mr. Recchiuti and Mr. Reynolds sponsored Resolution 2012-20 that granted a Certificate of Appropriateness to for vinyl window and door signs at 339 Broadway.

D. Certificate of Appropriateness – 822 East Fourth Street

Mr. Recchiuti and Mr. Reynolds sponsored Resolution 2012-21 that granted a Certificate of Appropriateness to install a sign above the doors at 822 East Fourth Street.

E. Certificate of Appropriateness – 520-526 East Fourth Street

Mr. Recchiuti and Mr. Reynolds sponsored Resolution 2012-22 that granted a Certificate of Appropriateness to install signs at 520-526 East Fourth Street.

Voting AYE on Resolutions 9 B through 9 E: Voting AYE: Mr. DiGiacinto, Ms. Dolan, Mr. Donchez, Mr. Recchiuti, Mr. Reynolds, Mrs. Belinski, and Mr. Evans, 7. The Resolutions passed.

10. NEW BUSINESS.

Committee Meeting Announcements

Chairman Reynolds announced a Finance Committee meeting on Monday, February 13, 2012 at 7:00 PM in Town Hall, on the following: PennVest Loan, Year-End Budget Adjustments, Codified Ordinance Section 121.08 – Restrictions on Fund Transfers.

Chairman Recchiuti announced a Human Resources and Environment Committee meeting on Monday, February 27, 2012 at 6:00 PM in Town Hall, on candidates for the Human Relations Commission.

Flatiron Building – 301 Broadway – Solar Collector

Ms. Dolan recounted that a Certificate of Appropriateness, Resolution 2011-189, was approved at the November 1, 2011 City Council Meeting for a solar collector on top of the Flatiron Building at
301 Broadway. Noting a lot of questions were asked, Ms. Dolan commented that responses made clear that the solar collector would not take away from the look of the building that is one of the most historically beautiful structures in Bethlehem. Ms. Dolan informed the Members that she looked at the solar collector today and it does not look appropriate. While highlighting the fact that she is very supportive of solar power, Ms. Dolan wondered if something can be done to still keep the solar collector effective but to not look so big and out of proportion. Ms. Dolan communicated there needs to be some assurance when applicants advise that something will not be visible from certain viewpoints, and photoshop documents supplied, that the scale is proper, and there is perspective put into the documents. Ms. Dolan recalled City Council was told that the solar collector structure would be able to be seen from the Hill to Hill Bridge and other than that would not be noticeable. Ms. Dolan, encouraging Members of Council to view the structure, pointed out it can be seen from almost underneath the building and from across the street. Ms. Dolan, acknowledging that Mary Pongracz had talked to her about the matter, advised that the architectural drawings and projections she saw did not match the structure. Ms. Dolan stated that what is seen now is not what was seen in the photographs.

Cub Scout Pack 335

President Evans welcomed Cub Scout Pack 335 from West Bethlehem to the Meeting.

11. PUBLIC COMMENT

West Broad Street

Mary Toulouse, 1528 W. Market Street, advised she is the President of the
West Bethlehem Neighborhood Association and works with the Broad Street businesses and North by Northwest. Ms. Toulouse noted she is at the Meeting to deliver Broad Street business directories that the group put together. Informing the Members that about a year and a half ago there were a series of meetings that City staff, including Darlene Heller and Kathy Vossough, helped to organize, Ms. Toulouse explained a partnership was started in the community where residents and businesses feel that the quality of life depends on a good relationship. Ms. Toulouse thanked Ralph Carp, Director of Parks and Public Property, for use of the DAR house for the meetings. Ms. Toulouse stated one of the major results was the directory that lists over 100 businesses. She further informed the assembly that about 50-60 people have picked up the directories and have talked with the business people. Volunteers will deliver the directory throughout the West Side of Bethlehem. Ms. Toulouse notified City officials that the group has a few concerns including what will happen since the North by Northwest program has lost its administrative funding for that project. Whole blocks of commercial space are empty and the residents would like to see them filled with businesses like a grocery store as opposed to a check cashing facility. Stating that many of the merchants and residents are seriously disappointed by the resurfacing of Broad Street, and had hoped there might be bicycle lanes, Ms. Toulouse pointed out that crosswalks have been lost. While commenting that the crosswalk at the traffic light at 8th Avenue is fine, Ms. Toulouse explained one can go about a half mile down the street to Pennsylvania Avenue but it is not pedestrian friendly and that is the current situation in the neighborhood. Ms. Toulouse added it is hoped that the pool on the west side will reopen. Ms. Toulouse encouraged people to consider shopping or visiting some of the professionals on West Broad Street, and pointed out they still do need the support.

Shannon Patrick, 1019 West Broad Street, noted that she worked with Ms. Toulouse in preparing the directory, rallying the businesses along Broad Street, and is at the Meeting representing the group tonight. While mentioning they sometimes feel forgotten, Ms. Patrick pointed out that 56 businesses participated in listing their business, their hours of operation, and their specialties. It was a door to door effort to convince some of the businesses that this will help bring some business to them. The directory is also intended to make the neighbors aware of the businesses and services available to them. Communicating that Broad Street is different from Main Street in the sense that the businesses are specialized, Ms. Patrick noted there are many service providers including a comic store and massage therapist, and basically anything one can get at a mall can be found either on Main Street or West Broad Street. Ms. Patrick mentioned that the group had a mixer at The Mint Restaurant and a block party is planned in April or May focusing on the businesses. She invited neighbors and residents of Bethlehem to come and find out about the area. Ms. Patrick explained the group wanted to make it known that they are out there and trying to be a viable corridor, and would welcome any help to make Broad Street more appealing to a new business coming in.

111 Dewberry Avenue – Drug and Alcohol Treatment Center

Gregory Zebrowski, 23 Dewberry Avenue, thanked City Council and Attorney Spadoni for their due diligence and concern about the request for a variance to build a drug and alcohol treatment center at 111 Dewberry Avenue in the former Baptist Church. He thanked Mr. DiGiacinto for responding to questions at the Zoning Hearing Board meeting. Mr. Zebrowski commented what has been learned through this process is that the population and the neighborhood has expanded and its concerns have increased. Mr. Zebrowski pointed out that the population that could potentially inhabit the building will not be screened, there will be no background checks, and there will be a turnover rate of 70 per month, with potentially 1,000 people coming in and out. Mr. Zebrowski highlighted the fact that the building is next to a school and, since there will be no background checks for drug and alcohol, potentially felons may be coming in and out, and can come and go as they please. Stressing this is a serious concern, Mr. Zebrowski remarked that the provider is a for-profit provider. Mr. Zebrowski also mentioned that testimony was given at a Zoning Hearing Board meeting that people in the community do not understand treatment. Communicating that no neighbor he has met through the process is against treatment, Mr. Zebrowski stated that the proposal on face value is difficult to accept as a credible proposal because of where it is located next to a school and in a residential community. Mr. Zebrowski pointed out another fact is that the same provider that wants to provide this treatment center in this community could not get a variance and could not be accepted in their own community in Malvern today because Zoning Ordinances in Malvern do not allow a drug treatment center in a residential community. Mr. Zebrowski explained the provider would like to grandfather this in because of the special exception which the residents hope the zoning in Bethlehem will not allow in the future. Mr. Zebrowski advised that the community’s concerns have actually increased because of the nature of the population, and the overall concern is the general character of the neighborhood. Pointing out that Bethlehem is a unique City, Mr. Zebrowski recalled that Mayors have said what distinguishes Bethlehem is the unique character of its neighborhoods. Mr. Zebrowski emphasized that when decisions are made that needs to be kept in mind. Stating that no one is against rehabilitation, Mr. Zebrowski said the residents are objecting to the site, the place, the population, and risk for that neighborhood because it is next to a school. Mr. Zebrowski requested that, as the City moves forward with adopting the new Zoning Ordinance, it is ensured that the general population be informed when those hearings will be held.

Stewart Early, 2277 Main Street, expressed his concern about the special exception that Mr. Atiyeh is seeking for the Calvary Baptist Church conversion into a residential treatment center for drug and alcohol addicts. Mr. Early thanked City Council and their decision to intervene in opposition to that request for a special exception. Mr. Early, informing the Members that some of the neighbors have hired an attorney that costs money, stated that the neighbors are grateful for the support that Council has given. He noted that the Zoning Hearing Board has had 20 plus hours of hearings on this request and there have been many conversations. Advising that most recently former Phillies player Dickie Noles came to a Zoning Hearing Board meeting and expressed the benefits of rehab, Mr. Early applauded him for that but said he does not regard him as an expert in citing rehab facilities. Mr. Early noted that Mr. Noles did make the statement that he was aware of a high school that was located next to a rehab facility in Bensalem. Mr. Early informed the assembly that he checked into the matter and, in fact, that is not the case since there is more than half a mile between that rehab center and Bensalem High School. Mr. Early highlighted the fact that it is not at all like Bethlehem Catholic High School that will be right next door. Mr. Early noted

it is hard to know where Mr. Atiyeh is going with his ideas. One of the possibilities could be some apartment buildings but Mr. Atiyeh has been turned down a few times for the proposal on the 5 acres across the street. Advising he is aware of the community based treatment philosophy, Mr. Early stated that in fact Mr. Atiyeh could be positioning to create a concentration of rehab capabilities in that location. Mr. Early enumerated that Mr. Atiyeh has an application that is in appeal now for a 125 bed hospital and acute treatment center on the 5 acres, he has this request for a special exception at the Church location at 111 Dewberry Avenue, and he has purchased a house on the corner of Dewberry and Center that could easily become an outpatient facility. Mr. Atiyeh has had a realtor approach three other home owners moving north on Center Street on that side of the street. Mr. Early observed that, if put all together, it could be quite a concentration of rehab facilities, it would be very harmful to Bethlehem Catholic High School, it would change the character of the neighborhood, and it would impact the health and safety of the residents. Mr. Early pointed out that, for visitors to Bethlehem from the north coming into the area, one of the first impressions after passing the beautiful churches would be a rehab center, and it does not seem consistent with what he would like to see in Bethlehem. Mr. Early encouraged Council to continue to be involved in this and expressed his appreciation for the involvement of Council Solicitor Christopher Spadoni in this matter. Mr. Early commented that, as a result of this experience, many people have become more engaged in the process that one goes through when a special exception is requested. Regarding deliberations on changing the Zoning Ordinance, Mr. Early stated he would like the opportunity to participate and hoped that Council makes that opportunity available through notice of when the meetings will be scheduled.

Vendor Issues

Christopher Morales, 649 Alaska Street, voiced his opinion that there is much confusion that goes on being the first vendor in the City of Bethlehem. He said there are many mix ups and there is no clear, concise, set in stone policies or procedures to do anything from the start of initiating the permits down to the renewal process. Mr. Morales communicated his understanding that everyone is trying to work through the procedures. Mr. Morales stated his renewal fee has not been paid but he is not hiding behind not paying it, and added there is much confusion about where to pay this fee. He expressed his appreciation for the assistance of the Health and Engineering Bureaus that have helped to figure out an easy way to go through the renewal process. Mr. Morales thanked President Evans for reaching out and taking his own personal time to call him. Mr. Morales also thanked Councilman DiGiacinto and added that he received the memo from him. He appreciated everyone helping to get to a solution. Mr. Morales invited anyone from Council or other business owners to give their opinion and input.

111 Dewberry Avenue – Drug and Alcohol Treatment Center; West Broad Street

Bill Scheirer, 1890 Eaton Avenue, said he seconds the remarks about the proposed rehab facility at 111 Dewberry Avenue and the comments regarding West Broad Street. He noted that although a rehab facility is a worthy concept it can go in many different places other than next to a high school. Mr. Scheirer pointed out that West Broad Street has the only coin dealer in the City at the intersection of Third Avenue and is paying 20 times face value. Mr. Scheirer thought West Broad Street has to be one the most difficult streets in the City to cross for a pedestrian because the traffic goes so fast. Mr. Scheirer, commenting he does not know what the answer is, said something should be done.

Flatiron Building – Solar Collector

Steven Antalics, 737 Ridge Street, referring to the comments of Ms. Dolan concerning the solar collector on top of the Flatiron building, explained that as he drives through the area he now has seen something very ugly on Fourth Street and Broadway and that is the big structure on top of the Flatiron building. Mr. Antalics observed that, if Ms. Dolan is correct, this is a case of bait and switch, something promised for something else with the hope that no one notices. He asserted that City Council has the responsibility to preserve the face of the South Side and see whether there was a bait and switch. Mr. Antalics, noting that he passes this building now constantly to avoid traffic, stressed that he sees this structure as insulting and thought that Council should have this ugly structure removed.

Various Issues

Al Bernotas, 1004 Johnston Drive, commended Ms. Dolan on her viewpoint about what has happened with the Flatiron building. He added it is terrific to know that someone is paying attention to what buildings look like, and what citizens say when they come to the meetings. He

said this happens all the time on the Zoning Hearing Board and to some extent on the Planning Commission. Mr. Bernotas pointed out it is easy for someone to come in and say do not worry, it will only be 24 feet high and no one will see it, or that no one will see air conditioning on top of a roof, as people come in with expert testimony to say that these things will not be seen. Mr. Bernotas, noting that City Council will be appointing a new Controller to fill the vacancy as a result of the resignation of Meg Holland, Controller, recited from the Third Class City Code that the City Controller shall be a competent accountant at least 21 years of age and shall have been a resident of the City for at least one year next before his election and shall reside in the City throughout the term of office. Of the 5 or 6 candidates, Mr. Bernotas said one of them has a terrific financial background, and one has a background as an economist that might qualify as an accounting background. He thought if the other candidates do not have those qualifications they should immediately be discounted. Mr. Bernotas, mentioning that he has interacted with Gina Bullard from the Engineering Bureau, said he wanted to give her public accolades because she was very helpful. Mr. Bernotas continued on to say he had a positive interaction with Police Commissioner Jason Schiffer who was receptive to suggestions that Mr. Bernotas had made. Mr. Bernotas, turning to the new Rules of Council, noted that under Public Comment citizens cannot get an answer back from Council or from City staff members and wanted clarification on the matter. President Evans stated that is correct. Wondering why no one talks about West Bethlehem as having a downtown, Mr. Bernotas pointed out that Bethlehem has three downtowns, and the one on the west side has a terrific arterial roadway coming off Route 378.

Various Issues

Mary Pongracz, 321 W. Fourth Street, remarked that the South Side has been the victim of the type of development where non-profits would dump the undesirables because supposedly it was cheaper to put them there. Ms. Pongracz remarked it was not for that reason but it was another form of blockbusting for the benefit of Lehigh University and Bethlehem Steel. Communicating these people are wise, Ms. Pongracz explained if that type of development occurs in that area, it begins to destroy what has been and is a stable neighborhood. Ms. Pongracz, noting she is a graduate of Bethlehem Catholic, said to make a statement that the students of Bethlehem Catholic can go over to the treatment facility is not right. Ms. Pongracz questioned whether the for sale sign at the church on Dewberry Avenue means that Mr. Atiyeh will not buy the building until he gets his variance. Ms. Pongracz stated that West Bethlehem is a well established part of the community. Commenting that City Council has the ability and desire to realize that the people in West Bethlehem have also suffered from unnecessary demolition, Ms. Pongracz highlighted the fact that there is a whole area of West Bethlehem that no longer exists. Ms. Pongracz noted that when she looks at the people who are put on the various boards of the City she has no doubt that they are good people, but she questioned how many people are really from Bethlehem. She communicated there are too many people on the boards because they work with a certain institution, and the City needs people on boards, commissions, and committees who are interested in a real city and people who care about the City of Bethlehem.

West Broad Street – Street Markings

Joshua Buck, 1739 Hastings Road, advised he is a member of the Coalition for Appropriate Transportation in the City. As a cyclist who uses the street, Mr. Buck said he is grateful to the City for repaving West Broad Street and no longer has to dodge potholes and cracks in the road. Mr. Buck stated it is important for the community on the West Side and the people who regularly use the road for modes of transportation other than driving that when roads are repaved the markings are returned to the road surface in a timely manner. Expressing his understanding of conditions that have to be met which the City cannot always meet in a timely manner, Mr. Buck stated the City should begin looking at repainting street markings so that all road users are safe when using all of the roads in the City of Bethlehem.

The meeting was adjourned at 8:00 p.m.