435 Hamilton Street  
Allentown, Pa. 18101  
Allentown  
Minutes - Final  
City Council  
Wednesday, December 3, 2025  
Invocation:  
6:30 PM  
Council Chambers  
Pledge to the Flag  
Roll Call  
7 -  
Present:  
Cynthia Mota, Daryl Hendricks, Ed Zucal, Natalie Santos, Ce-Ce Gerlach, Candida  
Affa, and Santo Napoli  
Courtesy of the Floor  
Please observe the Rules of Council when given privilege of the floor. A copy of the  
Council Rules can be found on the council agenda on the website. If you would like  
to speak, we are asking that you fill out a card – they are on the back table provide  
them to the clerk before speaking. Include your name and address. When speakers  
have the privilege of the floor, personal insults, attacks, name calling or other  
behavior that is inconsistent with the purpose of conducting official business will not  
be tolerated.  
Courtesy of the Floor is meant to provide public comments on items that are not on  
the agenda. Public comment during consideration of ordinances, resolutions and  
motions are limited by topic – your comments must be relevant to the subject matter  
of the proposed legislation. Public comments are taken before  
legislation.  
council votes on  
You are given the privilege of the floor to provide public comment; it is not a  
question and answer session. State your position clearly and concisely for  
consideration. If you speak on behalf of yourself, you have three minutes and if you  
are speaking on behalf of a group that has several members present, you will be  
given five minutes in place of everyone coming to the podium. Please address the  
Council President not individual councilpersons or city staff. Refrain from insulting  
or defaming staff, officials, and the public; refrain from  
using offensive language,  
cursing, and making noises while other people are speaking. Please be aware that  
comments and/or behavior in violation of these rules will result in a forfeiture of all  
remaining time and you will be asked to return to your seat.  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks stated alright, good evening. He stated that they are  
going to begin with Courtesy of the Floor and would ask everybody to be  
respectful and with your comments, no criticism on other people. He stated  
if you do so, you will be asked to leave. He stated thank you very much.  
Mr. Michael Hanlon stated and just for the record, all Council people are  
here.  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks thanked Mr. Hanlon and you have.  
Mr. Michael Hanlon stated nope.  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks stated no cards. We will move forward with Contract  
Approval.  
Contract Approvals: The general idea for approving contracts is that the council  
acknowledges that proper procurement procedures were followed pursuant to  
city code. Ask the Clerk to read the resolution. After staff explains the process, ask  
for comments from the dais and the public before a vote.  
the  
15-8120  
R178  
Authorization for Contract with Herbert, Rowland & Grubic, Inc. in the  
amount of $30,055.00 to provide professional consulting and engineering  
design services related to Canal Park River Access Point Improvements.  
The project will take an existing boat launch and parking lot and reimagine  
the park to improve ADA accessibility, create a safer environment for  
emergency access, and create a more welcoming place that includes  
additional amenities. Four (4) proposals were received. Contract shall  
commence upon full execution and shall cease two (2) years thereafter.  
Upon written agreement from the City, this contract may be extended for up  
to an additional three (3) months beyond the contract expiration period at  
the same annual terms of the initial term.  
Attachments: R178 - HRG  
Resolution #31171.pdf  
Ms. Sarrah McNeil stated that this was done as RFP2025-33, Canal Park  
River Access Point Improvements Street Bid. She stated that it was  
advertised on Public Purchase on October 7, 2025. She stated that it was  
a public bid opening on November 4, 2025. The city received four  
proposals. An evaluation team consisting of four members conducted both  
technical and cost evaluation. The proposals were evaluated based on IB  
preference, ability to meet RFP requirements, prior experience and team  
member qualifications and costs. After evaluating proposals, the  
Evaluation Committee decided not to move forward with oral  
presentations. The committee is recommending an award to the highest  
scored vendor, Herbert, Rowland & Grubic, Inc.  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks thanked Ms. McNeil. He asked if there were any  
questions or comments from his colleagues or any comments from the  
public.  
7 -  
Yes:  
Cynthia Mota, Daryl Hendricks, Ed Zucal, Natalie Santos, Ce-Ce Gerlach, Candida  
Affa, and Santo Napoli  
Enactment No: 31171  
15-8119  
R179  
Authorization for Contract with Langan Engineering and Environmental  
Services, LLC in the amount of $233,830.00 to provide detailed consulting  
and engineering services for design, construction documents and  
specifications, cost estimates, bidding assistance, and construction  
administration for the City of Allentown for the proposed MLK Trail  
Extension Project. The project will involve the planning, testing, and design  
of a 10’ wide paved multi-use trail. Four (4) proposals were received.  
Contract shall commence upon full execution and shall cease three (3)  
years thereafter. Upon written agreement from the City, this contract may  
be extended for up to an additional two (2) one (1) year renewals beyond  
the contract expiration period at the same annual terms of the initial term.  
Attachments: R179 Langan Engineering and Environmental Services LLC  
Resolution #31172.pdf  
Ms. Sarrah McNeil stated that this was done as RFP2025-50 MLK Trail  
Phase II Design Rebid. She stated that it was advertised on Public  
Purchase on October 2, 2025. There was a Public Bid Opening on  
October 31, 2025. The city received four proposals. An evaluation team  
consisting of four members conducted both technical and cost evaluations.  
The proposals were based on IBE preference, ability to meet RFP  
requirements, firms experience, project plan and cost. After evaluating  
proposals, the evaluation committee decided not to move forward with oral  
presentations. The committee is recommending an award to the highest  
scored vendor, Langan Engineering and Environmental Services LLC.  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks thanked Ms. McNeil. He stated Mr. Zucal.  
Mr. Ed Zucal stated that this is why we have no money. He stated that all  
the money they spent so far on this trail and you mean to tell him they have  
to hire someone to tell them whether or not, we need to make it eight foot or  
10 foot.  
Ms. Mandy Tolino stated that this is for our detail construction docs for  
everything. She stated not just for that one piece. She stated that it is the  
whole trail. The subbase, the design, and all the permits stating everything.  
She stated that there is MPBS, there is stormwater permits, city permits.  
She stated that it is the whole design of the trail. It is not just deciding what  
size the trail is. It is a full engineering of the trail, similar to if you are going  
to engineer a road to make sure it is structurally sound and the water  
doesn't puddle and it is safer. It is similar to a road so it is a technical  
proposal.  
Mr. Ed Zucal stated and you telling me all the other money we spent for  
these other contractors to build this trail haven't been able or can't do that.  
Ms. Mandy Tolino stated that this is one section of it that is not build yet. It  
is not designed. She stated that is why you hear about it so often because  
they do a concept and then they will do the full engineering design. She  
stated that they did that for Phase I. She stated that this is Phase II. She  
stated so now they are starting again on a different section, totally from  
scratch. She stated that right now it is nothing there. It is a grassy area.  
Mr. Ed Zucal stated just out of curiosity, how many sections are there going  
to be when it is all said and done.  
Ms. Mandy Tolino stated so there are three sections. The first section is  
from the parking lot across from Parkettes. She stated some of that  
already existing. She stated it starts behind Fountain Pool, crosses over  
the bridge there to the other side of the creek and it connects to Lehigh  
Parkway by the apartments so that is Phase I. She stated Phase II  
connects from Lehigh Parkway to Union Terrace and then eventually to  
Cedar so they had to do Phase II A and II B because it came back  
expensive. She stated that they are breaking in the smaller pieces in order  
to get it done. She stated that these are grant funded projects. The third  
Phase they will connect from the Parkette's parking lot across the river to  
eventually the D&L Trail on the western side, like the raised grant area  
on Riverside Drive over there.  
Mr. Ed Zucal stated that this $233,000 is going to be grant money or no.  
Ms. Mandy Tolino stated yes. She stated most of it is grant money.  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks asked is all of it grant funded.  
Ms. Mandy Tolino stated that she should not say it so confidently. She  
stated that she believes that most of it is. They received the funded from  
DCED state funding for most of the MLK project so far. She stated that  
none of it is city funds. It is ever grant for DCED or Trexler funding.  
Mr. Ed Zucal stated ok. Thank you.  
Ms. Mandy Tolino stated you are welcome.  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks asked anybody else on the dais. He asked any  
comments from the public.  
7 -  
Yes:  
Cynthia Mota, Daryl Hendricks, Ed Zucal, Natalie Santos, Ce-Ce Gerlach, Candida  
Affa, and Santo Napoli  
Enactment No: 31172  
15-8118  
R180  
Authorization for Contract with Total Administrative Services Corporation  
(TASC) in the amount of an estimated yearly sum of $28,545.00 to provide  
administration services of the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) for  
the entire city of Allentown PA City Government employee population. Two  
(2) proposals were received. Contract shall commence upon full execution  
and shall cease one (1) year thereafter. Upon written agreement from the  
City, this contract may be extended for up to an additional three (3) one (1)  
year renewals beyond the contract expiration period at the same annual  
terms of the initial term.  
Attachments: R180 - TASC  
Resolution #31173.pdf  
Ms. Sarrah McNeil stated that this was done as RFP2025-52. FMLA  
Management Services was rebid. It was advertised on Public Purchase on  
October 9, 2025. There was a public bid opening on November 6, 2025.  
The city received two proposals. The evaluation team consisting of five  
members conducted both technical and cost evaluations. Proposals were  
evaluated based on IBE preference, the ability to meet RFP requirements,  
prior experience, project plan, methodology and cost. After evaluating the  
proposals, the evaluation committee decided to move forward with an oral  
presentation with the highest scored firm for clarification purposes. The  
committee is recommending an award to the highest scored vendor, Total  
Administrative Services Corporation.  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks thanked Ms. McNeil. He asked if there were any  
questions or comments from his colleagues or any comments from the  
public.  
7 -  
Yes:  
Cynthia Mota, Daryl Hendricks, Ed Zucal, Natalie Santos, Ce-Ce Gerlach, Candida  
Affa, and Santo Napoli  
Enactment No: 31173  
15-8117  
R181  
Authorization for Contract with The F.A. Bartlett Tree Expert Company in  
the amount of $61,850.00 to obtain the services of a qualified contractor to  
perform street tree planting, tree removal, and replacement planting  
services within the public right-of-way in the Franklin Park area in  
Allentown, PA. Contractor is responsible for all PA1 calls before digging.  
Tree species for planting should be either Princeton Sentry Gingko or  
Common Hackberry, from 2-1/2 to 3 in. caliper. All work must be  
completed in accordance with the Shade Tree Ordinance. One (1) bid  
was received. The contract shall commence upon full execution and shall  
cease one (1) year thereafter. This contract can be extended for two (2)  
additional one (1) year terms beyond the contract expiration period.  
Administration  
Sponsors:  
Attachments: R 181 - The F.A. Bartlett Tree Expert Company  
Resolution #31174.pdf  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks thanked Mr. Hanlon.  
Ms. Sarrah McNeil stated that this was done as Bid #2025-51, Contractual  
Tree work for Franklin Park. She stated that it was advertised on Public  
Purchase on October 15, 2025. The public opening was held on  
November 11, 2025. She stated that the city received one bid. Upon  
review of the bid, it was determined to award to the sole bidder.  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks thanked Ms. McNeil and asked if there were any  
questions or comments from his colleagues. He asked if there were any  
comments from the public.  
7 -  
Yes:  
Cynthia Mota, Daryl Hendricks, Ed Zucal, Natalie Santos, Ce-Ce Gerlach, Candida  
Affa, and Santo Napoli  
Enactment No: 31174  
15-8116  
R182  
Authorization for Contract with Titan Tree Services, Inc. in the amount of an  
estimated yearly sum of $200,000.00 to secure a Contractor to perform  
tree services such as, but not limited to, pruning, removal, stump grinding,  
and emergency care as authorized by the Bureau of Engineering. Four (4)  
bids were received, however one (1) was rejected due to submitting an  
incomplete bid. The contract shall commence upon full execution and shall  
cease three (3) years thereafter. This contract can be extended for two (2)  
additional one (1) year terms beyond the contract expiration period.  
Administration  
Sponsors:  
Attachments: R182- Titan Tree Services, Inc.  
Resolution #31175.pdf  
Ms. Sarrah McNeil stated that this was done as Bid 2025-35, Tree  
Services, Pruning, Removal, Stump Grinding, and Emergency Care. It was  
advertised on public purchase on August 28, 2025. The public opening  
was held on September 26, 2025. The city received four bids. (inaudible)  
was rejected due to submitted a complete bid. Upon review of the bids, it  
was determined to award Titan Tree Services, Inc.  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks thanked Ms. McNeil. He asked if there were any  
questions or comments from my colleagues or any comments from the  
public.  
Ms. Karen Ocasio, Southside, stated that shouldn't this go along with the  
previous one that you guys just approved.  
Ms. Sarrah O'Neil stated no. They are two different. She stated that she  
believes that Parks is grant funded and the other one, the city is paying for.  
The second one is on an as needed basis contract.  
Ms. Karen Ocasio stated ok. Thank you.  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks stated to Mr. Hanlon, please conduct the vote.  
7 -  
Yes:  
Cynthia Mota, Daryl Hendricks, Ed Zucal, Natalie Santos, Ce-Ce Gerlach, Candida  
Affa, and Santo Napoli  
Enactment No: 31175  
15-8115  
R183  
Authorization for Contract with Traffic Planning And Design, Inc. in the  
amount of $187,114.83 to provide supplementary construction inspection  
staff of one (1) Full-Time Transportation Construction Inspector  
(TCI)/Transportation Construction Manager (TCM) OR one (1) Part-Time  
TCI Inspector and one (1) Part-Time TCM Consultant with all certifications  
required for construction management, inspection, and documentation  
services on a PennDOT roadway. Two (2) proposals were received.  
Contract shall cease December 31, 2026, and may be extended for up to  
an additional twelve (12) months beyond the contract expiration period.  
Administration  
Sponsors:  
Attachments: R 183 - Traffic Planning And Design, Inc  
Resolution #31176.pdf  
Ms. Sarrah McNeil stated that this was done as RFP2025-46, Seventh  
Street and Hamilton Street realigning project. It was advertised on Public  
Purchase on October 6, 2025. There was a public bid opening on  
November 3, 2025. The city received two proposals. The evaluation team  
consisting of four members conducted both technical and cost evaluations.  
Proposals were evaluated based on IBE preference, ability to meet RFP  
requirements, firms experience, references and costs. After evaluating the  
proposals, the evaluation committee decided not to move forward with oral  
presentations. The committee is recommending awards to the highest  
scored vendor: Traffic Planning and Design, Inc.  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks thanked Ms. McNeil. He asked if there were any  
comments or questions from his colleagues or any comments from the  
public.  
7 -  
Yes:  
Cynthia Mota, Daryl Hendricks, Ed Zucal, Natalie Santos, Ce-Ce Gerlach, Candida  
Affa, and Santo Napoli  
Enactment No: 31176  
15-8113  
R184  
Authorization for Contract with Advance Auto Parts, Bergey's Truck Parts  
Inc., DPF Services LLC, Factory Motor Parts, Fire Line Equipment, LLC,  
Gilboy Automotive Group, Granturk Equipment Co., Inc., Horwith Trucks,  
Inc., Levan Machine & Truck Equipment, Macmillan Oil Co. of Allentown,  
Inc., Interstate Battery of Allentown, and Penn Power Group, LLC. in the  
amount of an estimated yearly sum of $1,600,000.00 to provide various  
parts, supplies, equipment, and accessories that the City uses for repairing  
city owned vehicles and equipment. The City intends to award contracts to  
multiple vendors to ensure coverage across all needed categories.  
Thirteen (13) bids were received; however (1) was rejected. The contract  
shall commence on January 1, 2026, and shall cease three (3) years  
thereafter. This contract can be extended for two (2) additional one (1) year  
terms beyond the contract expiration period.  
Administration  
Sponsors:  
Attachments: R 184 - Vehicle Parts, Supplies, Equipment & Accessories  
Resolution #31177.pdf  
Ms. Sarrah McNeil stated that this was done as Bid #2025-45, Vehicle  
Parts, Supplies, Equipment and Accessories. It was advertised on Public  
Purchase on October 14, 2025. The public bid opening was held on  
November 12, 2025. The city received 13 bids. One was rejected due to  
not submitting the Bid Security. On review of the bids, it was determined to  
award all qualified vendors. He stated thank you, Mr. Zucal.  
Mr. Ed Zucal stated yes, just one quick question for Mr. Shahda. He stated  
that this $1.6 million was this that put in the budget already or no. He stated  
it was.  
Mr. Mark Shahda stated that it was.  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks asked anybody else. He asked if there were any  
comments from the public.  
Ms. Karen Ocasio stated that she just wants to know how do you come up  
with that amount of the $1.6 million for all of those. She asked how could  
you foresee that is how much it is going to cost for parts and whatever the  
case may be. How do you come up with that sum.  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks stated might he remind her.  
Ms. Karen Ocasio stated no, she knows there is no questions.  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks stated comments, not questions.  
Ms. Karen Ocasio stated well, ok. That defeats the purpose and stated  
never mind.  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks stated thank you. He asked anybody else.  
7 -  
Yes:  
Cynthia Mota, Daryl Hendricks, Ed Zucal, Natalie Santos, Ce-Ce Gerlach, Candida  
Affa, and Santo Napoli  
Enactment No: 31177  
15-8114  
R185  
Authorization of Cooperative Contract(s) in an amount greater than  
$40,000.00 to provide the City with various goods/services, for Power Pro  
Equipment.  
Administration  
Sponsors:  
Attachments: R 185 - Coop  
Resolution #31178.pdf  
Ms. Sarrah McNeil stated that this is just being purchased through a source  
well cooperative.  
Dr. Cynthia Mota asked what is a (inaudible) tractor.  
Ms. Mandy Tolino stated that it is basically a lawnmower on steroids. It is  
one of the machines that they use for many things that they do in Parks so it  
fits on a sidewalk. It had various attachments. It could either blow leaves or  
have a spinning attachment that helps brush the snow. They could put a  
plow in the front so it is versatile and allows them to kind of go into  
pathways or on top of sidewalks and all the areas in parks that they can't  
really fit with a truck. They do have other tractors that they used in the past  
and the one breaking down pretty frequently and they found this type of  
equipment is something that works very well for our parks system.  
Dr. Cynthia Mota thanked Ms. Tolino.  
Ms. Mandy Tolino stated you are welcome.  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks asked if there were any other questions or comments  
from his colleagues. He asked any comments from the public.  
7 -  
Yes:  
Cynthia Mota, Daryl Hendricks, Ed Zucal, Natalie Santos, Ce-Ce Gerlach, Candida  
Affa, and Santo Napoli  
Enactment No: 31178  
Minutes of Previous Meeting  
15-8111 September 24, 2025 City Council Meeting Minutes  
System  
Sponsors:  
Attachments: September 24, 2025 City Council Meeting Minutes.pdf  
7 -  
Yes:  
Cynthia Mota, Daryl Hendricks, Ed Zucal, Natalie Santos, Ce-Ce Gerlach, Candida  
Affa, and Santo Napoli  
15-8138  
November 5, 2025 City Council Meeting Minutes  
System  
Sponsors:  
Attachments: November 5, 2025 City Council Meeting Minutes.pdf  
7 -  
Yes:  
Cynthia Mota, Daryl Hendricks, Ed Zucal, Natalie Santos, Ce-Ce Gerlach, Candida  
Affa, and Santo Napoli  
Communications  
Mr. Santo Napoli stated that also for visitors at City Council they encourage  
them to parking in the government deck next door and see our City Clerk,  
Mr. Hanlon for a chaser ticket to pay for your parking. Thank you.  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks stated that a Special Meeting has been tentatively  
scheduled for December 10th at 6:00 PM to consider any further  
amendments to the budget and at 6:30 PM to adopt the budget. On  
December 17th at 5:15 PM to review Bill 83 - an ordinance protecting  
public health and safety, reducing the harms experienced by unsheltered  
homeless residents and setting up certain procedures.  
Old Business: NONE  
REPORTS  
Special Meetings: Council President Hendricks  
A special meeting has been tentatively scheduled for December 10th at 6 PM to  
consider any further amendments to the budget and at 6:30 PM to adopt the budget;  
and on December 17th at 5:15PM to review Bill 83 - AN ORDINANCE Protecting  
Public Health and Safety. Reducing the Harms Experienced by Unsheltered/Homeless  
Residents and setting up certain procedures.  
Budget and Finance: Chair Napoli, Santos, Gerlach  
The Committee has not met since the last council meeting; there are no future  
meetings scheduled.  
Community and Economic Development, Chair Mota, Hendricks, Napoli  
The Committee has not met since the last Council meeting; the next meeting is  
scheduled for December 10th at 5:30 PM.  
Human Resources, Administration and Appointments: Chair Santos, Napoli,  
Hendricks  
The Committee has not met since the last council meeting; there are no future  
meetings scheduled.  
Parks and Recreation: Chair Gerlach, Santos, Affa  
The Committee has not met since the last council meeting; there are no future  
meetings scheduled.  
Public Safety: Chair Affa, Zucal, Mota  
The Committee has not met since the last council meeting; there are no future  
meetings scheduled.  
Public Works: Chair Zucal, Gerlach, Affa  
The Committee has not met since the last council meeting; the next meeting is  
scheduled for December 17th at 6 PM. He stated at that time they will have a Water  
and Sewer Compliance Review Board.  
Water and Sewer Compliance Review Board: Chairperson Zucal  
A meeting has been scheduled for December 17th at 6:15 PM.  
Rules, Chambers, Intergovernmental Relations, and Strategy: Chair Hendricks, Mota,  
Napoli  
The Committee has not met since the last council meeting; there are no future  
meetings scheduled at this time.  
Controller’s Report  
Mr. Jeffrey Glazier thanked Mr. Hendricks. The Controller's office released three  
audits today. The Clerk would have forwarded them to you. He stated that he will  
report on them at a public session at a future meeting. He stated thank you, Mr.  
president.  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks stated thank you.  
Mayor: The mayor has not submitted anything.  
ORDINANCES FOR FINAL PASSAGE (To be Voted On):  
15-8047  
Bill 92  
An Ordinance of the City of Allentown, County of Lehigh and  
Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, amending Section 570-13 of the Realty  
Transfer Tax Ordinance by increasing the Realty Tax by 0.5% for the  
purpose of raising funds to deal with issues relating to housing.  
Affa, Gerlach, Hendricks, Mota, Napoli and Santos  
Sponsors:  
Attachments: Bill 92 Deed Transfer Tax.docx  
Allentown Housing Plan_2024_Final-1.pdf  
Ordinance #16179.pdf  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks stated thank you and said Mr. Napoli.  
Mr. Santo Napoli stated that back in July 20, 2024, he sounded the alarm  
on how investors were acquiring real estate in the city. He stated that at  
that time, the percentages that he came up with were 44 percent for a few  
months back in that timeframe. He stated that the finance department did a  
deeper dive and in over 18 months, they came in at 48 percent as an  
average. These investors are LLCs and corporations. He stated that the  
fear of investors inquiring much real estate and squeezing Allentown  
residents was a huge concern. He stated investors as you know come to  
the table with all cash offers. They have inspections and fast settlements  
and that entice the sellers to sell to them instead of homeowners and  
meanwhile Allentown residents are stuck renting and more times than not,  
higher rents. He stated instead of acquiring homeownership and build  
generational wealth, they just seem to be fixed in rentals and can't get out of  
that and can't seem to get out of that. He stated that one of the thoughts he  
had was too many rentals have a negative effect on quality of life and public  
safety. He stated that was a concern. He stated in this legislation tonight,  
is an opportunity to level the playing field for our residents. He stated that  
the 0.5 percent increase increases the deed transfer tax from two percent  
to 2.5 and that rate hasn't changed in almost 50 years. What that means  
for someone buying, the median home price in Allentown according to the  
realtors is $241,000. For a buyer coming in and buying a home, it will  
mean an extra $250 for every $100,000 of real estate. He state so they are  
looking at around high fives, early or low 600s extra for someone coming to  
buy real estate in the city of Allentown on a home of $241,000. He stated  
what this legislation does not impact is our current city homeowner. He  
stated folks who live here, seniors on fixed incomes, some vulnerable  
residents stating that they will not be affected by this at all. Only the folks  
that are coming in and having the ability to buy property in the city of  
Allentown. He stated most importantly all the funds received from the 0.5  
percent increase, exclusively goes into a Housing Fund under our CED  
department and that fund is going to be tasked with addressing housing  
initiatives in the city and as they all know most of Center City was built back  
in the late 1800s and early 1900. He stated that the stock is aging and it  
needs TLC, it needs work and it needs help before it deteriorates. It gets  
to a point where, it is very difficult to save. He stated lastly, a study was  
completed and many of you know that our CD department conducted a  
study called Welcome home. The City of Allentown has housing needs  
assessments. He stated for those of you, it is 90 pages and it is on the  
city's website. He stated that if you go to CED, you can click on it and it's a  
really good Report from a consultant on what needs to be done in the city of  
Allentown going forward and most importantly what the budget is. He  
stated that this legislation is providing a reliable source of revenue. He  
stated for us to or our CED department to accomplish these goals, we  
need a reliable source of revenue. Something they can count on year after  
year and this Deed Transfer Tax if approved tonight would bring in  
approximate $3.2 million a year for them to accomplish their goal. Lastly,  
the public does deserve transparency and accountability so the legislation  
does mandate that the CED department must present an annual action  
plan to future City Council's detailing their plans each year of what they plan  
to do with these funds. Also, they have to present an Annual Report to  
detail what was actually accomplished and at the five year anniversary.  
They report from an independent source to be given to a future City Council  
detailing the effectiveness of the program and whether to continue to go  
forward. It is something that will give future City Council's annually a chance  
to understand what there plans are, what they are accomplishing and hold  
them accountable. He stated that is really a legislation there and regarding  
the funds every year regardless, they haven't gotten in exactly what they are  
going to do, but what they talked about based on the consultants' plan on  
home repairs for seniors and vulnerable residents who are at the risk of  
losing homes due to major repairs. They also talked about blighted homes  
and getting them remediated and back into the home the hands of  
homeowners and these goals can be accomplished with tools for instance  
using deed restrictions to make sure these properties are owner occupied  
going forward instead of rentals and also using liens so that when the  
property is sold down the road, the city gets that money back for the  
repairs. He stated that there are tools at our disposal that will continue to  
replenish the funds over the next decade or two decades. He stated that  
there is a lot we can do. He stated that they can work with renters. They  
can work with a lot of different ways to help homeowners and residents in  
the city of Allentown and try to really address our housing stock. He stated  
that it really needs a lot of attention. It has been neglected for decades and  
this is an opportunity with a reliable source of revenue to actually start  
addressing some of our needs. Thank you.  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks thanked Mr. Napoli and stated Mr. Zucal.  
Mr. Ed Zucal stated that he just has one question for you. He asked Mr.  
Napoli how did he come up with the $3.5 million.  
Mr. Santo Napoli stated that the Finance Department did a Study and had  
based on previous years it was $3.2 million he believes and had they done  
this a year ago, that would have been what the funds would have  
generated. He stated that this is based off data off the prior year just to  
give them an idea if this is worth pursuing if it came back hypothetically, if it  
came back at $200,000. He stated that it is not worth it. It is not worth the  
squeeze, but $3.2 million, that gives our CED department a lot of  
opportunities to start really addressing and accomplishing some of the  
goals that you are talking about.  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks asked any body else and asked Ms. Gerlach.  
Ms. Ce Ce Gerlach stated just a procedural question asking so then voting  
on this tonight they will make a statement if they want to raise by .5 percent,  
but in terms of the money going to the CED specifically the housing fund  
asking do we legislatively need to do something for that or since it is written  
here does it automatically and stated that she would just be honest what  
she doesn't want to see happen is that they do this Deed Transfer Tax  
increase and the money gets funny and it goes somewhere else.  
Mr. Santo Napoli stated that it is in the legislation and pointed directly to the  
Housing Fund and he believes the Housing Fund, Mr. Hanlon was named in  
the legislation.  
Mr. Michael Hanlon stated that it was named in the legislation and they  
were discussing that perhaps at the Budget Adoption that you might have  
to amend the General Fund Budget to account for the increase and flip the  
money into the Housing Fund. He stated that he is going to check with  
Finance and the Controller on that. He stated that the way the legislation  
was crafted was legislation basically points that the extra $3 million will go  
to the Housing Fund and the thought process is that they will consult with  
Bina and the Controller on what might happen September 10th and that  
could possibly be bumping up the revenue item in the General Fund by $3  
million and indicating the Transfer of that money out of that Housing Fund.  
He stated that amendment will be prepared with the consultation.  
Mr. Santo Napoli stated and to be clear, we wouldn't have $3.2 million day  
one. It would take time to accumulate, but the legislation clearly states that  
it must go into a Housing Fund and it is under the CED department to be  
used for Housing initiatives for our residents in the city of Allentown.  
Ms. Ce Ce Gerlach stated that if needed, there will be an amendment. She  
stated that she is going to vote yes. She stated that she doesn't think  
HOME was included in the recent state budget so they need it even more  
so now. There is not going to be money coming in to help people fix up  
their homes anymore.  
Mr. Santo Napoli stated that is a great point and again, they are following  
the recommendations of the Study so for those who have not seen the  
Study, it is probably in the 80s, Page 80 something. He stated maybe  
early 90s, but there is a whole list of recommendations that the consultants  
prepared and they are going to work on that and have public meetings  
where they will discuss it and talk about what we are going to do.  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks asked anybody else on the dais. He stated that he  
wants to commend Mr. Napoli for the initiative he took in addressing this  
issue. He stated that this is a serious issue. He stated that he does  
dabble a little bit and watch a lot of real estate going on and the amount of  
homes that are being sold to investors rather than homeowners. He stated  
that it is very concerning what's happening to the city overall. He stated  
that you can see it. These homes now are single family dwellings, are  
being converted where they are now two and three units. He stated as  
many as four units and it affects everything. He stated loss of parking and  
the one time he was able to because a friend of his lives in Center City, he  
would go there and never had a problem with parking. He stated that  
sometimes he has to circle the block four or five times to find parking. He  
stated that it is something that is needed, keenly needed. He stated again,  
he commends him for this. He asked anybody else on the dais or any  
comments from the public.  
7 -  
Yes:  
Cynthia Mota, Daryl Hendricks, Ed Zucal, Natalie Santos, Ce-Ce Gerlach, Candida  
Affa, and Santo Napoli  
Enactment No: 16179  
CONSENT AGENDA  
7 -  
Yes:  
Cynthia Mota, Daryl Hendricks, Ed Zucal, Natalie Santos, Ce-Ce Gerlach, Candida  
Affa, and Santo Napoli  
Note  
Mr. Michael Hanlon stated on the Consent Agenda you have three items:  
the appointment of Elizabeth Still to the Commission on Homelessness.  
The appointment will extend to 12/4/2029. The appointment of Joshua  
Newlin to the Commission on Homelessness. The appointment will extend  
to 12/4/2029. The appointment of Ana Rivera Lago to the Allentown  
Housing Authority. The appointment would extend to 12/4/2030. He asked  
if there were any comments from the public.  
15-8131  
R186  
Elizabeth Still, Commission on Homelessness, 12/04/2029  
Administration  
Sponsors:  
Attachments:  
R 186 Elizabeth Still - Commission on Homelessness,  
12-04-2029.doc  
Memo from Mayor Matt Tuerk regarding Appointment to Commission  
on Homelessness - Elizabeth Still.pdf  
Elizabeth Still Resume.pdf  
Resolution #31179.pdf  
Enactment No: 31179  
15-8132  
R187  
Joshua Newlin, Commission on Homelessness, 12/04/2029  
Administration  
Sponsors:  
Attachments:  
R187 Joshua Newlin - Commission on Homelessness,  
12-04-2029.doc  
Memo from Mayor Matt Tuerk regarding Appointment to Commission  
on Homelessness - Joshua Newlin.pdf  
Joshua Newlin Resume.pdf  
Resolution #31180.pdf  
Enactment No: 31180  
15-8133  
R188  
Ana Rivera Lago, Allentown Housing Authority, 12/04/2030  
Administration  
Sponsors:  
Attachments: R188 Ana Rivera Lago - Allentown Housing Authority, 12-04-2030.doc  
Memo from Mayor Matt Tuerk regarding Appointment to Allentown  
Housing Authority - Ana Rivera Lago.pdf  
Ana Rivera Lago Resume.doc  
Resolution #31181.pdf  
Enactment No: 31181  
RESOLUTIONS FOR FINAL PASSAGE (To be Voted On):  
15-8126  
R189  
Approves the submission of the formal application for the local share  
account grant for the City of Allentown Parks Department to support the  
construction of a new park operations facility.  
Attachments: R189 - Parks LSA  
Resolution #31182.pdf  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks asked if there were any comments or questions from  
his colleagues or any comments from the public.  
7 -  
Yes:  
Cynthia Mota, Daryl Hendricks, Ed Zucal, Natalie Santos, Ce-Ce Gerlach, Candida  
Affa, and Santo Napoli  
Enactment No: 31182  
15-8125  
R190  
Approves the submission of an application to obtain a HUD 108 Loan for  
This Life Forever, Inc. in the amount of $1,015,000.00  
Attachments: R190 - Mishka HUD 108 Loan  
Resolution #31183.pdf  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks asked if there were any questions or comments from  
his colleagues or any comments from the public.  
7 -  
Yes:  
Cynthia Mota, Daryl Hendricks, Ed Zucal, Natalie Santos, Ce-Ce Gerlach, Candida  
Affa, and Santo Napoli  
Enactment No: 31183  
15-8124  
R191  
Approves the submission of the formal application for the local share  
account statewide grant for the City of Allentown Parks Department to  
support the improvements of the Lil Le Hi Trout Nursery.  
Attachments: R191 Fish Hatchery LSA  
Resolution #31184.pdf  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks thanked Mr. Hanlon and asked if there were any  
questions or comments from his colleagues or any comments from the  
public.  
7 -  
Yes:  
Cynthia Mota, Daryl Hendricks, Ed Zucal, Natalie Santos, Ce-Ce Gerlach, Candida  
Affa, and Santo Napoli  
Enactment No: 31184  
15-8136  
R192  
A Resolution stating a joint commitment of the City of Allentown’s  
Department of Parks and Recreation and Allentown Environmental  
Advisory Council to maintain limited use of herbicides in public parks, and  
to continue to pursue sustainable land management alternatives in order to  
protect the wellbeing of Allentown’s local ecosystem.  
Administration  
Sponsors:  
Attachments: R192 - Parks and EAC Herbicide Reduction.docx  
Resolution #31185.pdf  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks thanked Mr. Hanlon and asked if there were any  
questions or comments from his colleagues or any comments from the  
public.  
Mr. Kyle Ropski, 528 N. Berks Street, stated that he is here on behalf of  
Allentown Environmental Advisory Council to express support for the  
Resolution here before you guys here tonight which reaffirms the city of  
Allentown's commitment to limited responsible herbicides use and  
continued advancement of sustainable land management practices within  
our parks system. He stated that as you all know the city of Allentown  
Parks Department maintains an extensive network of parks, public spaces,  
naturalized areas. These places represents some of our most valuable  
public assets and their stewardship requires approaches that are both  
environmentally sound and operational effective. He stated that he wants to  
give a huge shout out to the Parks and Recreation Department and the  
maintenance crew there. They did an incredible job. It is a huge task. He  
stated just acknowledging them there. He stated now over the summer, the  
Allentown EAC in collaboration with Muhlenberg Colleges Office of  
Community Engagement and had a summer intern who focused  
researching on invasive species and unfortunately, was not able to come  
here tonight to speak on the research due to the last minute scheduling  
conflict. However, there were several key findings in her Report which is  
available to view on the new website: AllentownEAC.org. These findings  
affirm the importance of minimizing herbicides use and ensuring when they  
are applied, they are applied safely, sparingly and in accordance with best  
practices. He stated that these are the chemicals that they spray among  
living things and they die. He stated definitely not good to be putting out in  
the community. He stated equally as important is the city's proactive  
adoption of sustainable alternatives with techniques of expanding native  
planting, time cutting, and other chemical or ecological strategies proving  
effective and managing invasive species while simultaneously supporting  
pollinators, protecting biodiversity and enhancing long-term resilience in  
our green spaces. By endorsing this measure tonight, City Council is  
affirming the corporate principle that Allentown's Environmental  
Stewardship should be grounded in science, guided by responsible  
management and aligned with a long-term well being of residents and  
ecosystems alike. This Resolution reflects the EAC purpose to protect,  
reserve our natural resources, reduce environmental risks and ensure  
continued health and beauty of our public lands. As a member of the  
Allentown Environmental Advisory Council he respectfully urge City Council  
to adopt this Resolution and continue supporting sustainable evidence  
based practices that safeguard the Allentown's natural environment for  
current and future generations. He stated just another thank you to the  
Parks Department for their work with this and all the work that the  
maintenance crews do. It is hard work. If you ever cut grass in 90 degrees,  
it is not fun. He thanked the administration for the work in putting this out.  
He thanked Council for their time tonight. Thank you.  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks thanked Mr. Ropski.  
7 -  
Yes:  
Cynthia Mota, Daryl Hendricks, Ed Zucal, Natalie Santos, Ce-Ce Gerlach, Candida  
Affa, and Santo Napoli  
Enactment No: 31185  
15-8134  
R193  
Approves Transfers for EMS, Fire, Police premium pay; Council for  
warming shelter; Building Maintenance for electric; and Parks and  
Recreation For a Sprayer for the Golf Course  
Administration  
Sponsors:  
Attachments: R193 Transfers.doc  
EMS Premium Pay Through the End of the Year.pdf  
BM - Electric.pdf  
Council - Shelter.pdf  
ParksRec.pdf  
Police Prem Pay.pdf  
Fire Budget Transfer Request - Prem Pay.pdf  
Resolution #31186.pdf  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks thanked Mr. Hanlon and asked if there were any  
questions or comments, Mr. Zucal.  
Mr. Ed Zucal asked Ms. Patel do we know what the Transfer amounts are  
for EMS, Fire and Police.  
Mr. Michael Hanlon stated that they are attached. He stated that he has the  
attachments.  
Mr. Ed Zucal stated just give me those three. He stated that he is trying to  
prepare something for next year's budget. That's all.  
Mr. Michael Hanlon stated that he has on his reading glasses and these  
things are pretty small.  
Dr. Cynthia Mota stated that Ms. Bina is behind you.  
Mr. Michael Hanlon stated that they are on the website and stated that you  
got for the Fire Premium Pay, you got a Transfer of $565,129.79.  
Mr. Ed Zucal stated ok. What about EMS?  
Mr. Michael Hanlon stated that you got $244,035.64. He stated for the Golf  
Course, Police Operations you got $300,000.  
Mr. Ed Zucal stated ok. Thank you.  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks stated ok, anybody else. He asked if there were any  
comments from the public.  
Female audience member asked is there a way for him to speak up and  
use the microphone. He stated that sometimes it is very hard hear what  
you are saying.  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks asked do you want to hear those numbers again.  
Female audience member stated yes, please.  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks stated Mr. Hanlon.  
Mr. Ed Zucal stated that he has them. He could just say them. He stated  
for EMS it was $244,035, for Fire $565,129 and for Police $300,000.  
Mr. Michael Hanlon stated that the details of those are on the website.  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks stated ok and asked anybody else, no. He asked any  
comments from the public.  
7 -  
Yes:  
Cynthia Mota, Daryl Hendricks, Ed Zucal, Natalie Santos, Ce-Ce Gerlach, Candida  
Affa, and Santo Napoli  
Enactment No: 31186  
ORDINANCES FOR INTRODUCTION (To be referred to Committee with public  
comment prior to referral)  
15-8122  
Bill 99  
Amending the 2025 Capital Fund Budget to provide for a supplemental  
appropriation of Three Million One Hundred Twenty-Five Thousand Eight  
Hundred Twenty-Five Dollars and Ninety-Seven Cents ($3,125,825.97)  
from the Aqueous Film-Forming Foams (AFFF) class action awards to  
offset the cost of any PFAS remediation systems the City is required to  
install under federal and state regulations. The 3M settlement payment will  
be made in ten separate installments through 2033. The first two settlement  
payments from 3M equal $2,659,283.88. Additionally, there will be two  
settlement payments from DuPont. The first payment equals $466,542.09  
and represents 95% of the Dupont settlement claim. The total from these  
sources thus far is $3,125,825.97.  
Administration  
Sponsors:  
Attachments: Bill 99 - PFAS Appropriation.docx  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks asked if there was any comments from the public.  
REFERRED TO THE PUBLIC WORKS COMMITTEE.  
15-8123  
Bill 100  
Amending the 2025 General and Building Code Fund Budgets to provide  
for a transfer of Twenty-five Thousand Dollars ($25,000.00) from the  
Building Code Fund to the General Fund. This transfer will allow the DCED  
Director’s Administration budget to pay the YMCA invoice for the early  
warming shelter opening.  
Administration  
Sponsors:  
Attachments: Bill 100 YMCA Transfer  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks asked if there were any comments from the public.  
REFERRED TO THE COMMUNITY AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT  
COMMITTEE  
RESOLUTIONS FOR INTRODUCTION (Can be voted on or Referred to Committee):  
There are no resolutions for introduction.  
NEW BUSINESS  
Ms. Ce Ce Gerlach stated she just had New Business. She stated that she  
wanted to see if by the December 17th meeting when they discuss the  
encampment enclosure ordinance, if they would be able to get a  
breakdown of the money that has been spent to close the recent  
encampments. She stated materials, heavy equipment, machinery,  
advertising, printing, staff time and all costs related to see how much if has  
been costing us to close the encampment so that as they weigh the policy,  
they can see what kind of money we are talking about.  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks stated that he believes that the administration can do  
that and asked Ms. Patel do you have that.  
Ms. Bina Patel stated yes, they will get the numbers.  
Ms. Ce Ce Gerlach thanked Ms. Patel.  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks asked anybody else.  
GOOD AND WELFARE: NONE  
ADJOURNED: 7:13 PM  
15-6577  
Reference Materials:  
Council Rules  
Procurement Code  
Ethics Code  
Attachments: Procurement Code  
Ethics Code  
Rules