Chair Janine Santoro led the Mayor’s South Side Task Force hybrid meeting with updates from city hall and community partners held Aug. 25 at the NCC Fowler Center.

Attending remotely, Bethlehem Senior Planner Corey Grey shared the Stefko Boulevard Improvement Project Survey results. A clear majority of respondents favored reducing lanes available to motor vehicles and better timing for traffic lights, among other suggested safety improvements.

Grey listed improvements being contemplated for Clearview, Fritz and Madison parks including water bottle refilling stations, splash pads, bike repair stations and additional shade trees. Refreshing the basketball courts is also being looked at. These three city-owned recreational spaces will be the first to be renovated as part of Bethlehem’s 40 in 10 Parks Plan.

Katy Knibbs from the SouthSide Arts District said Oct. 17 will be the 30th year of “celebrating spice” for ChiliFest!

Also attending online, Donna Taggart promoted the Bethlehem-Patillas Sister City Celebration is scheduled for Sept. 26th from 1:30 - 6 p.m. at ArtsQuest. The festival includes a walking parade and flag raising at Levitt Pavilion.

Back at the Fowler Center, Santoro announced the Chilean Independence Day Flag Raising is scheduled for Sept. 18 from 4 p.m. - 6 p.m. at Payrow Plaza.

Carissa Cam from Bethlehem Bureau of Health discussed a pilot program that may help address and decriminalize homelessness. She noted an up tick in homeless folks age 55 and over. She and Bethlehem Community Police Officer William Rodriguez agreed that some of them lose their homes to scammers. Rodriguez spoke about how individuals with addiction and mental health issues end up on the street.

Cam described the gap in health care among families experiencing poverty and how the health bureau is working to address it.

Free medical clinics will be offered by Remote Area Medical (RAM) Volunteer Corps at Northeast Middle School on Oct. 31 and Nov. 1 on a first-come, first-served basis until capacity is reached. Among the services offered at no cost are physical exams and consultations, dental cleanings and other procedures, as well as eye exams with prescription glasses included.

Nayeli Hance from the BAPL Southside Branch highlighted programs they offer such as English classes and participation in a Community Zine Library. She explained that the public has an opportunity to pick up or contribute DIY self-publications to share with others at this mini library within the branch.

Touchstone Theatre ensemble member Mary Wright announced that she is seeking memories from members of the community for Touchstone’s “I Remember This Spot” mapping initiative.

According to Santoro, there are still openings on Bethlehem authorities, boards and commissions as well as open positions at city hall. Recruitment efforts continue with the Bethlehem Police Department.