Public comments at the Oct. 7 city council meeting varied from support for the climate action plan, mass incarceration, traffic light timing, a downloadable application to help homeowners know their water consumption, promotional fliers still stuck to sidewalks polluting the historic district, speeding problems, pro and con Palestine/Israel sentiments, traffic issues such as speeding/parking, preservation of the Southside, balance between new construction projects maintaining historic appeal, and a thank-you to the Public Works department for their professional and quick management of a citizens issue.

Residents also expressed concerns about Northside Alive, a community-driven neighborhood revitalization process launched in 2018 by the city and the Community Action Development Corp. of Bethlehem. The boundaries of Northside Alive were confirmed by Director of Community and Economic Development Laura Collins to include Broad and Main streets. It is a U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development designated area.

Collins also responded to Councilman Bryan Callahan’s request for an accounting of contributions from the Bethlehem Parking Authority to the city. Annual contributions are made to the Arts District, Bethlehem Chamber, Southside Ambassadors project. Onetime contributions include Fairview Park and Main Street lights, as well as various contributions to downtown initiatives such as holiday decorations.

Police Chief Michele Kott reported that there are 14 vacancies in the police department. Incentives such as time off, education, bonuses, and training are offered to encourage new recruits. Police contracts are negotiated by their union and collective bargaining and initiatives are subject to both.

Council President Michael Colon reported that there will be several volunteer positions open at the beginning of 2026 for residents to serve on the Environmental Action Committee. A new EAC chairperson will be appointed by the incoming council, as the current Chairperson Lynn Rothman, will be stepping away from the position. There will also be a new chairman as per council rules that end President Colon’s term and has council select a new president at that time. Colon will remain a councilperson.

The capital improvement plan was to be discussed at city hall Oct. 21