Although the agendas were basically light, affordable housing remained a theme heard at both July city council meetings.

The July 1 public hearing challenged council to determine the allocation of $1.84 million of federal funds between city needs and private organizations. A proposed list of recipients has been compiled by Mayor William Reynolds and his staff. This hearing was a chance for residents and the council to review and discuss specific points.

The city’s 2025 Community Development Block Grant allocation is $1.42 million and the Home Investment Partnership Program grant is $418,000. The HOME grant is primarily focused on affordable housing.

The July 15 public hearing provided information regarding the Subdivision and Land Development Ordinance, or SALDO. SALDO, as recommended by the Pennsylvania Municipality Zoning Code, are ordinances adopted and administered to protect public health, safety and welfare; establish design standards and procedures for the orderly layout of land; and ensure the provision of necessary infrastructure and facilities. SALDO looks at the bigger picture when developing land- the sidewalks, roads, plantings and stormwater runoff. Private streets will need to meet city standards, Bicycle lanes and bus shelters would be thoughtfully placed. Progressive inspections verifying the work that is being done.

Councilman Bryan Callahan restated the ongoing affordable housing dilemma. Residents want quality affordable housing without increasing the cost of building on the developer, or higher taxes. He fears that areas, like the Southside, are becoming gentrified and are so nice it is becoming too expensive to rent

SALDO would also simplify consolidation of property parcels.

Bethlehem Planners have been working on revisions to this ordinance since 2021. The ordinance was first developed in 1975. This hearing was strictly for information purposes and SALDO will be on the Aug. 5 agenda for the first reading.

The Aug. 5 council meeting will begin at 5:30 p.m. due to Musikfest.