435 Hamilton Street  
Allentown, Pa. 18101  
Allentown  
Minutes - Final  
City Council  
Tuesday, December 30, 2025  
6:00 PM  
Council Chambers  
Roll Call  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks stated good evening everybody stating tonight, they  
are here for a special meeting. He stated that this meeting was called for  
by two of our members who wished and did make a Motion to bring forth an  
attempted override of the mayor's veto of the budget. He stated so at this  
time he would ask if there is a Motion to do so.  
Mr. Michael Hanlon stated that this is actually a Resolution. He stated that  
it is R199. It was sponsored by Zucal, Gerlach, Santos and Mota (inaudible  
mic is off). He stated that it overrides the mayor's veto. Bills 84, 85, 86,  
87, 88, 89, and 90 stating those were the Budget Bills. He stated that was  
the Resolution. He stated that you need five votes to override.  
Female audience member asked Mike to use his microphone.  
7 -  
Present:  
Cynthia Mota, Daryl Hendricks, Ed Zucal, Natalie Santos, Ce-Ce Gerlach, Candida  
Affa, and Santo Napoli  
RESOLUTIONS FOR FINAL PASSAGE (To be Voted On):  
15-8157  
R199  
Overrides Mayor’s Veto of Bills 84-2025, 85-2025, 86-2025, 87-2025,  
88-2025, 89-2025, 90-2025  
Gerlach, Mota, Santos and Mr. Zucal  
Sponsors:  
Attachments: R199.doc  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks stated that at this time he will open it up for  
conversation.  
Mr. Ed Zucal asked is that from Council or the general public.  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks stated no, from his colleagues.  
Mr. Ed Zucal stated ok, he will make this final statement. He stated that he  
just wants to refer quickly to our solicitor. He asked is it true or not true that  
there is no default budget in the city of Allentown.  
Attorney Maria Montero stated under current Charter there is no default  
budget.  
Mr. Ed Zucal stated ok, so the public knows and it's been spread that  
should the veto fail tonight that the mayor's initial budget go into effect. That  
is not correct. Allentown does not have a default budget stating that was a  
result of a Referendum back in 2019. He stated that he has it here and  
also it is very clear in subsection 805, Section C that the Council and the  
administration must come to an agreement for the budget. He stated  
therefore if this fails, you will enter 2026 basically as the state and federal  
government did with no budget. He stated that he wants to make it as part  
of the record. Thank you.  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks stated ok. He asked is there anyone else from Council  
that wishes to speak. He stated and now he will open it up to comments  
from the public. He stated if you wish to speak, please step up to the  
podium and state your name and address. He stated good evening.  
Ms. Betty Cauler stated good evening, happy new year and stated in 2025  
(inaudible, mic off). She stated that they all know that there are several  
lawsuits against the Allentown Police Department as well as three against  
the city administration. We have a mayor who isn't transparent about the  
details. She stated that she wants them to remember who has to pay the  
legal costs and settlements. She stated about the taxpayers. It is not part  
of the budget. She stated that she does not recall seeing Ms. Patel's  
spreadsheet and how those cost would affect it. All she heard from the  
mayor is how this tax increase will continue to provide the city services, but  
yet the city workers were here wearing masks the last time at the last  
meeting. She stated what can you say, a lot of families are losing their  
homes because of the cost of living in Allentown when it is already  
burdensome some of the taxpayers and elderly.  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks stated thank you. She is now hearing the mayor is  
asking for a tax increase to help the city workers and their collective  
bargaining. She is only hearing nine percent raises, capital projects, and  
turn one way streets around on the sidewalk in the Seventh Street. She  
asked is that what the community needs right now asking is that what is  
necessary at a time of great want in this city. She stated but really, this is a  
time when this city, when this state and this country have almost zero or  
zero with huge tax deductions. She stated our influential downtown  
developers and the administration. She stated that we all sat here, you all  
sat here and listened to dozens of alternate methods of raising capital, but  
to her knowledge not one of them have been acted on. She stated that they  
all sat here and listened to dozens of alternative methods of raising capital,  
but to her knowledge not one has been enacted as a proposal. She stated  
that they were told to enact an entertainment tax, an amusement tax, and  
end the NIZ. She stated tax the rich. Cut the police budget and reign in the  
corrupt APA like our sister city Reading has done stating not a single one  
has been acted on. Instead, the mayor's petulant response to your vote to  
cut a mere $50,000 for the homeless services. She stated that she is  
speaking for the citizens of Allentown stating she gets five minutes, right  
come on. She stated that it is almost over.  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks asked Ms. Cauler you speaking for who?  
Ms. Betty Cauler stated that citizens of Allentown. The citizens of Allentown  
who are under oppressive rule.  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks stated that doesn't qualify.  
Ms. Betty Cauler stated that there are only a couple more sentences.  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks stated please, finish up. Ms. Betty Cauler stated after  
all, he cut the $50,000 earmarked for homeless services. After all, we can't  
have that money going to those people while he is, but for the grace of God  
riding around town in his $45,000 taxpayer funded mustang. She stated  
that one of the three of you have got to change your vote, stand up and  
change your vote to a no. She stated please, we are asking you stating  
that you have to stand with the majority of the citizens in this city. She  
stated that they are all struggling to meet our bills. People can't pay for  
their children's needs. They can't pay their rent. They can't buy their  
medication, their health insurance and their groceries. She stated that is  
what taxpayer money should be for. Making things better for all residents,  
not just the JB Reilly's and the big donors. She stated don't let our city  
become a victim of narcissistic photo -ops and crony capitalism. She  
stated please, for God sake do the right thing. She stated override the  
veto. She stated one of three. Thank you very much.  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks thanked Ms. Cauler.  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks stated that the other gentleman had.  
Mr. stated it is ok.  
Mr. Joseph (inaudible) stated that he resides at 209 N. 4th Street here in  
Allentown. He stated that he is a former County Commissioner here in  
Lehigh County and a practicing attorney. He stated that he has been very  
politically active. He stated that he can speak for some of the tenants in the  
city. The proposed budgets which ever the way you are looking at is  
causing problems in the rental market. People that haven't had increases  
in several years and haven't seen gross amounts of increases like 10 to 20  
percent increases in their proposed rent and it will start in a lot of cases in  
January, ok. He stated also to echo what Councilman Zucal said, there is  
no default budget. That is just like that state and the county level and also  
the federal situation. He stated so we don't have that. He stated that he  
would actually recommend to override the budget. The veto and he doesn't  
quite understand and he doesn't know if a lot of people do. He asked what  
seems to be the big context, contest between he guesses it was a 3.96  
percent increase in the revenue coming from taxes and then there was a lot  
of discussion about the Solid Waste fee. He asked does that seem like  
the big problem here. There are other issues that are involved.  
Ms. Candida Affa (inaudible)  
Mr. Joseph (inaudible) stated yeah. He stated that seems to be the two big  
issues. He stated that the reason he says is because he saw the  
proposals of something to do. It is not overridden and you have the  
mayor's proposal and Council proposal.  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks asked if he had a copy of it.  
Mr. Joseph (inaudible) stated he read it over and filled out.  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks stated all the details are spelled out.  
Mr. Joseph (inaudible) stated that he read it, but haven't studied it. He  
stated based on a spreadsheet. He stated that he doesn't know what their  
original budget was passed in November he guesses, November 19th and  
something like that and then it went through some compromises and so  
forth, just from what he read here.  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks stated that there was no budget passed. There were  
just Budget Hearings that were held. He asked when was the actual  
Budget passed that the mayor vetoed. He stated December 17th.  
Mr. Joseph (inaudible) stated that he was not sure. He stated that is all he  
has. Thank you.  
Mr. Quinn Allen, Allentown, stated that this is going to be the final fight  
against tax increases, but how about we get a mayor that can handle the  
finances properly and instead of doing whatever he wants with our money,  
and all the wise maybe we should have an investigation within the budget  
by an unbiased investigator to see what's really going on because it is  
really hard to get transparency within our government these days and he is  
getting a little sick and tired of it, especially when the next tax increase can  
bring more homelessness, could raise some rents, could get people out of  
their homes that may people can't already afford or they have to pay taxes  
so they will go hungry. He stated one or the other which will be the only two  
choices many people will have. He stated it is sickening. He stated really  
sickening. He stated that he is going to spend all of 2026 looking at the  
budget and the spending from the last couple of years from the Tuerk  
administration and from City Council and seeing where they are messing  
up. Thank you.  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks thanked Mr. Allen. He stated good evening.  
Mr. Lewis Shupe, Allentown, PA, stated that he was convinced to come up  
and say a few words. He stated that he is sure they heard the arguments  
before that not raising taxes and how it could fall back bad on various  
landlords and such. He stated and it is true. Raising taxes is hardly ever a  
good idea, especially when other options are available. He stated to the  
new people, who is going to be here next year, not and stated don't take  
offense to anything, but maybe next year they can talk about other ways to  
raise money. On the Allentown PA Community Group which he had been  
has been proposing the idea of turning the Hamilton Street Dam into a  
hydroelectric generating station that can fill the coffers of Allentown with  
money. Money that can be used may lower taxes down the road because  
any electricity generated from this hydroelectric station can be sold back to  
the state grid by law. They have to buy it. He stated that he doesn't know  
why ideas like that are never considered, but maybe they can talk about  
that down the road. Thank you.  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks thanked Mr. Shupe. He asked is there anybody else.  
Ms. Candida Affa stated Mr. president.  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks stated Ms. Affa.  
Ms. Candida Affa stated that she knows and she did not want to say  
anything before, but would like to address and asked if he would mind.  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks stated not at all.  
Ms. Candida Affa stated that the mayor's proposal of the 3.9 percent plus  
the $50, knocked off of the garbage she thought was a great proposal.  
She stated on her own, with her calculator stating she does own property at  
12th and Chew. She stated that she is a landlady. She stated that she  
figured it out that 3.9 percent would raise her taxes for the year, $50. She  
stated $52. She stated now knocking off $50 dollars for the garbage, she  
would be paying $2.00 more a year. She stated that if we are looking,  
12th and Chew is not a high end earners. This is basically what we talk  
about when we talk about people that can't afford, people that are having  
problems and as a landlord, she has to tell them even at $50 a year, if she  
has the audacity to raise her tenants rent because she is paying $50 more  
a year she is doing nothing, but gauging and being and just being shellfish  
and blaming the city. Well, the city raised taxes so I have to raise your rent.  
How many tenants are going to ask, well, how much did you pay or how  
much are you going to pay their. She stated that they are not going to ask  
that. She stated do you know why, because people vote for Council to  
make the right decisions. She stated now, when she looks at her property  
and if you take your calculators out and look at yours, Ms. Patel, our  
Finance Director, our Controller all said the same thing. She stated 23,000  
homes will be affected just like that she was affected. She stated that  
some of them will pay less. She stated that this year, in 2026 with that  
proposal of the rate they knocked down.  
Mr. Ed Zucal stated excuse me and stated point of order, Mr. president  
stating he does not know why she is discussing that. He stated that there  
has been no Motion by the four people that voted that down to have that  
discussion.  
Ms. Candida Affa stated that she just wanted to point to the gentleman  
here.  
Mr. Ed Zucal stated that she is discussing what was voted down.  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks stated that she is discussing the Bill itself.  
Mr. Ed Zucal stated no, no she is discussing about the four percent and the  
$50 reduction of the trash fee. That is what she is discussing.  
Ms. Candida Affa stated that she is addressing.  
Mr. Ed Zucal stated that he made his point of order. Thank you.  
Ms. Candida Affa stated that she apologized she just wants to explain  
where she is going to not override the veto. Because she truly believes  
they are helping the taxpayer this year because they have next year and the  
following year. She stated that they have so many years after that. She  
stated next thing you are going to be looking for another 27 percent tax  
raise like they did before and if they don't do small increments and don't.  
She stated that this proposal was beautiful. She stated 23,000 homes  
save money and thank her colleagues for costing her $50 as opposed to  
$2. She stated that is it. Thank you.  
Mr. Santo Napoli stated that he wants to quickly add and stated that the  
biggest driver of a rental increase is going to be the trash. He stated that is  
something that they can't control. He stated that was a contract that was  
competitively bid and if they override the mayor's veto, that trash isn't going  
away. It was the fee that was set. He stated that he thinks he believes is  
was $135 for 2026 or $140. He stated if they do nothing, and if they don't  
raise taxes a penny, that trash fee is still there and that is what landlords  
may use as an excuse. He can tell them that many properties in Center  
City, the tax increase is $15 bucks for the year, $18 bucks for the year. The  
tax increase is really not part of this conversation. It is the trash. He stated  
that again is something that they couldn't avoid because it was something  
that a contract that was again bid and they took the lowest bid. He stated  
that they did what they had to do, but when he hears rents will increase  
because of a tax increase, he doesn't believe because of a tax increase.  
He thinks it is because what they are dealing with trash and enforcement.  
There is no way around that. He stated to Ms. Affa's point, it was a  
compromise out there. He state that he can't believe they are not talking  
about it and there are a lot of senior that would have actually made out with  
that compromise. He stated that they would have put money in their pocket  
and they continue to avoid that and he doesn't want to kick the can down  
the road. He thinks politicians do that too much. A lot of folks he has  
spoken with prefer a small increment versus a bigger increase down the  
road. He heard about the federal and state government. He stated that he  
doesn't want to look like them. He stated if we do nothing tonight, we  
showed that they are just like them and we can't get something done and  
we just kick the can down the road in 2026 and some of you won't be here  
and some of us will be here and will be left cleaning up the mess and all  
because we couldn't come to a compromise and have a conversation on  
how we can get this to the finish line. He stated to him that is very  
disappointing. He stated thank you.  
Mr. Ed Zucal asked can he comment on this Mr. Napoli. The amendment  
was to reduce the $50 and still have the tax increase. He stated so you are  
saying double. He stated that he is in agreement, let's reduce it $50. He  
stated that he loves that, but no tax increase. He stated that it is right here.  
Reduce the or decrease the solid waste by $50 and reinstate the tax  
increase at 3.96.  
Mr. Santo Napoli stated that he will give an example. If a property with a  
3.96 percent owed $16 of taxes. He stated that we will reduce their fees  
$50, essentially they would come out $34 ahead. He stated that they will  
be putting money in folks pockets by using that compromise. He stated  
now, they did a study and he heard earlier from a member of the public that  
they need to find a way to make sure folks who can't afford it aren't paying  
and the folks who can, can. He stated that actually the compromise does  
exactly that. That folks who has the most expensive properties and the  
commercial property owners who have the deep pockets, they are the one  
who are paying more and the folks who are living in a property that is a  
lower value is actually getting money back in their pocket. He stated again,  
he is a little confused here because he thinks what they are trying to  
accomplish with a compromise actually accomplishes what folks want. The  
3,000 households that have deeper pockets will pay more and the ones  
who don't will either come out neutral or have money in their pocket. He  
stated that he is confused about this conversation and where it is going.  
Ms. Becky Kiss, Allentown, asked if she is able to say something.  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks stated that it was open to the public.  
Ms. Becky Kiss asked is it off the table now.  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks stated that we will give her an opportunity, yes.  
Anyone on the dais can speak again. He stated that go ahead. He is  
going to override their own rules and let her speak.  
Ms. Becky Kiss stated that she guesses her comment here is by reducing  
the trash fee by $50, you are kicking the can down the road. Because they  
still are going to have to pay that $50 at the end of 2026. It is moving into  
2027. She asked why are you borrowing it from the Solid Waste Fund and  
then in 2026, the trash every year.  
Ms. Candida Affa stated a little bit every year. She stated that it will  
increase by a little bit every year to make up for the $50. She stated not the  
next year. That's not next year.  
Ms. Becky Kiss stated that is not her understanding of it because she  
understood that for the 2026 budget, you guys are going to borrow $50 per  
household from the Solid Waste Fund and then pay that back over time.  
She stated now in 2027, when the mayor comes and gives his 2027  
budget they are going to have to owe that $50 and the 3.9 increase from  
this year and whatever increase he wants to do next year. She asked is  
that correct.  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks stated that it was designed that it will be paid back  
over five years, if he is not mistaken. He stated not one year so it will be a  
decrease.  
Mr. Santo Napoli stated by the city and not.  
Ms. Becky Kiss asked what will we be paying next year for trash fees with  
and without the $50.  
Ms. Candida Affa stated with the $50, the city will have five years to pay it  
back.  
Ms. Becky Kiss stated that they still are going to have to pay it back and  
also pay a 3.97 increase on top of it. You are kicking the can down the  
road and now on top of that you are saying that we also are going to have  
to pay on the December 17th meeting, you said it is going to be three  
percent competitive interest on the $1.5 million you are borrowing from the  
Solid Waste Fund.  
Mr. Santo Napoli stated so what is being paid stating our Controller asking  
Mr. Glazier, do you want him to answer or do you want to answer. He  
stated so the General Fund is paying the Solid Waste Fund back, not the  
residents. The money that is brought in with this compromise is being paid  
back in five payments, but not by the residents of Allentown, but by the  
General Fund. He asked is he is correct.  
Ms. Becky Kiss asked who pays for the General Fund, us as the taxpayers.  
She stated that we put money in taxes into the General Fund and that is  
how you guys have a General Fund.  
Mr. Jeffrey Glazier stated if he may, this concept has A: been done before;  
but in reverse and B: discussed before Council two years ago. There was  
a time when the General Fund borrowed money from the Solid Waste. He  
stated that this was years ago and paid it back over seven years. He  
stated that at this point, the concept of borrowing from one fund to another  
is well established. He stated that he is sure other cities do it also. He  
stated that the proposal here is that this year you got cost that are going up  
or could go up on two fronts. He stated that one is a 3.96 percent tax  
increase which we know from the calculations is relatively minimum on  
properties, especially lower valued properties. He stated that the other  
driver is a subcontracted Solid Waste increase which is $140 on every  
property. Whether your property is worth $10,000 or whether your property  
is worth $10 million. It is the same $140.  
Ms. Becky Kiss stated that which make it $740 total per house, correct?  
Mr. Jeffrey Glazier stated that they are getting to that over time. He stated  
that he does not remember what the maximum cost is going to be, but the  
way the contract was written, the costs are increased incrementally  
because to do it all in one year, the last year would have made heads  
explode and the city would still be cleaning up. He stated doing something  
every year and asked what is the best way to do that. He stated what  
essentially they are doing is borrowing and essentially what is happening  
here is the Solid Waste Fund would borrow money from the General Fund.  
Ms. Becky Kiss stated and pay it back at three percentage interest.  
Mr. Jeffrey Glazier stated that it could be two and a half stating he doesn't  
think it is set in stone. Originally, when the General Fund borrowed money  
from the Solid Waste Fund, interest rates were practically zero. There was  
no finance charge then. Now, they are getting three percent or four percent,  
he thinks personally and he is not speaking for the administration. He  
stated that there needs to be some interest charge. It could be less in  
recognition of the situation, but once again, that would be paid back within  
five years and so it might be an additional $5 in your Solid Waste. For  
$5.50 or whatever the number is to cover the interest fee every year.  
Ms. Beck Kiss stated so what she is still hearing is you are robbing Peter  
to pay Paul.  
Mr. Jeffrey Glazier stated no, we are borrowing and we are paying it back.  
Ms. Becky Kiss stated with interest and at the end of the day ultimately, the  
taxpayers are still paying for their trash increase and the 3.97 and whatever  
it is going to be next year.  
Mr. Jeffrey Glazier stated that there is no free lunch.  
Ms. Becky Kiss stated that you are making it seems like it is some big  
great deal because you are saving $2.00 on your property at 12th and  
Turner Street, but that is not the case for everybody across the board. She  
stated that we are going to have to pay for the trash regardless, across the  
board and the tax increase across the board. She stated that she thinks  
they are making it seem like you are giving them some big deal and you  
are making some grand gesture towards us and at the end of the day, they  
still are all paying for it.  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks stated good evening.  
Ms. Barbara Redmond, Improving Lives, stated she keeps hearing them  
say the people in the west end have larger home and can more taxes. She  
stated a lot of people that live in the west end now are retirees or senior  
citizens now. They are on a fixed income so you need to stop saying that  
people in the west end can afford to pay taxes when you don't know for  
sure. Thank you.  
Ms. Betty Cauler stated one more time and she is on the west end.  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks stated you had an opportunity. You get one chance.  
Ms Betty Cauler stated but she is talking about what they are talking about  
now which is the trash fee.  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks stated it doesn't work that way.  
Ms. Betty Cauler stated that trash fee. She stated that she would rather pay  
the trash fee and scrap the tax increase.  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks stated thank you.  
Ms. Betty Cauler stated that her house is in the west end. She stated when  
she bought it, it was $57,000 and now it is worth $250,000. She asked can  
she afford a tax increase on a fixed income. She stated what Ms.  
Redmond said, Amen. She stated remember folks, there is a housing  
bubble. It is going to burst again and all of our housing is going to come  
down again. So here we are paying what and stated what are you saying  
honey, please say it out loud to everybody. She asked what did you say,  
please Candida. She asked Ms. Affa do you have something to say.  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks stated thank you, ma'am.  
Ms. Candida Affa stated you don't have to call me out.  
Ms. Betty Cauler stated your name is Candida, is it not.  
Ms. Ce Ce Gerlach stated Point of Order. We have been breaking the  
Rules all night.  
Attorney Maria Montero stated if you could address all your comments.  
Ms. Betty Cauler stated did you not see her make a snide comment.  
Attorney Maria Montero stated if you could address all comments to the  
president, thank you ma'am.  
Ms. Betty Cauler stated why don't you talk to me afterwards like you did to  
Karen Ocasio. She stated maybe you can threaten to beat me up.  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks stated alright, that's enough. Please.  
Ms. Candida Affa stated she is completely out of order.  
Ms. Ce Ce Gerlach stated Point of Order. There is not supposed to be  
back and forth. When some members come up, they are told that they are  
not supposed to be back and forth. It is not a Q & A and stated she is not  
even talking about this. She is just talking about in general Point of Order  
in terms of violations of the Rules right now at this very moment. She stated  
that Council has been violating the Rules this entire night the way that this  
meeting has been conducted. So just to point out one situation, it is  
incorrect, but let's move on. She stated that she still has her comments to  
make.  
Ms. Betty Cauler stated thank you.  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks stated you wanted to speak. Go ahead.  
Ms. Ce Ce Gerlach stated so since what's on the table is Resolution to  
override the mayor's veto stating she will be supporting that. She stated  
the reason why is it is important that we look at tax increases as a body as  
part of the context, the larger context. She stated that they are looking at  
some of the folks that were talking about who are working class, on a fixed  
income, are the same folks that will be very soon will be paying to $300 to  
$500 a month for their medical insurance. These are some of the same  
folks that are paying a 3.2 percent increase in grocery prices. These are  
some of the same folks who live in old homes that are hard and expensive  
to heat and will be paying 6.7 percent from UGI increase and anywhere  
from four to 10 percent PPL increase so again, we have to look at the  
broader context. It is not just us increasing taxes and saying that oh well,  
you know the garbage fee will offset that. It is also everything that's  
happening in this economy. She stated that rent will increase because of  
greed, because of corporate greed and it is great that there are perhaps  
landlords on this dais who maybe don't function that way, but part of the  
reason why they raised the Deed Transfer Tax is because we recognize  
that many of the properties are owned by corporations, by LLCs. Not good  
folks like yourself so therefore corporate greed plays a role and there are  
not regulations in terms of rental increases in Pennsylvania. She stated  
that we have seen corporations and other aspects take advantage like  
corporations, grocery stores and stated not grocery stores, but  
manufactures for groceries and take advantage of this current economic  
situation by raising prices. These corporate landlords will do the same  
thing. They looked across the street at the Allentown School District stating  
that if there is one entity that continues to be under funded it's the Allentown  
School District and yet, they were able to figure out a way to not raise  
taxes. They are underfunded like on paper, underfunded by the state, but  
yet, they did not raise taxes. Because they see the context that the families  
that the kids are living in exists. She stated that she applauds them for not  
raising taxes and encourage them to follow in their suit. Again, it is not just  
what they do. It is what is happening all around us. She stated $5 is  
someone's prescription meds. She stated that she will be voting to  
override the veto. Thank you.  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks thanked Ms. Gerlach. He stated that he just wants to  
mention also that he will not be voting to override this. He stated that he  
has heard constantly and stated please, he does not want to hear anymore  
shout outs or you are going to be forced to leave. He asked do we  
understand.  
Ms. Betty Cauler stated yes, sir.  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks stated thank you. He stated 23,000 out of 26,000  
homeowners will be paying less under this compromise. He stated that he  
constantly hear about costs going up and they are and they are going up for  
the city also. The city has not had a tax increase in six years stating that he  
thinks it is a responsible compromise that they had presented. It makes  
absolute sense and all you are doing is a short-term loan on the Solid  
Waste Fund. When you have three quarters of the people that are going to  
get a tax break or nothing more. He stated that to him is a big benefit at a  
time when it is vastly needed. Thank you.  
Ms. Betty Cauler stated to look at the spreadsheets.  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks stated ma'am, please.  
Dr. Cynthia Mota asked Mr. Hendricks if she could speak. She stated that  
a lot has been said this budget season and she continues to stand by what  
she said that she is not voting stating actually she is voting to override the  
mayor's veto. She stated that if it doesn't pass, she hopes that the  
administration sees that this extra dollar coming from our residents pockets  
is their hard earned money and we need to use this money responsibly.  
She stated that the city needs to manage its finances responsibly and do  
good by our residents. Thank you. He asked is it anyone else on the dais  
that wishes to speak.  
Mr. Ed Zucal stated that maybe he can ask the Solicitor if there is no  
budget which there will be none depending on what the vote is tonight, will  
anybody get paid in city hall. He stated that he wouldn't see how because  
there was no funding so and stated thank you.  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks stated you're welcome.  
Mr. Michael Hanlon stated Mr. president I have four yeas and three nays.  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks thanked Mr. Hanlon. He stated moving forward he  
would like now to present Amended proposal to revisit it and for nothing  
else to go through the Motions. He stated that this was sponsored by  
himself, Ms. Affa, and Mr. Santo Napoli, also.  
Mr. Ed Zucal stated Point of Order. He stated to the Counselor, he does  
not believe that Mr. Hendricks can do that. It has to come from the four  
members that initially voted on it, correct.  
Attorney Maria Montero stated that if there is a Motion from any Council  
member who did not vote for that, they are the ones who can make that  
Motion.  
Mr. Ed Zucal stated correct. They are the only ones that can make the  
Motion, correct stating yes.  
Attorney Maria Montero stated yes.  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks stated that he will make that Motion to move forward  
and asked if he could have a Second.  
Mr. Ed Zucal stated that you can't make it. You cannot make the Motion. It  
only could be the four that voted against it.  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks stated oh, against it stating ok. He stated very good.  
He stated that he believes that the business of this Council this evening is  
now ended stating thank you very much.  
4 - Cynthia Mota, Ed Zucal, Natalie Santos, and Ce-Ce Gerlach  
Yes:  
No:  
3 - Daryl Hendricks, Candida Affa, and Santo Napoli  
Council President Hendricks would like the amended proposal revisited if the override  
fails, per council rules he would like a motion from a councilperson that voted for the bill  
make a motion to reconsider the proposal to decrease the solid waste fee by $50 and  
reinstate the tax increase at 3.96%. (Sponsored by Councilpersons Affa, Hendricks,  
Santo)  
15-8105  
Background/Attachments  
1.A proposal to decrease the solid waste fee by $50 and reinstate the tax  
increase at 3.96%. (Affa, Hendricks, Santo)  
Background: On November 19th City Council amended the General Fund  
Budget to remove the mayor’s proposed 3.96% tax increase. At that time,  
the Mayor proposed a compromise that would reduce the solid waste fee  
by $25. President Hendricks scheduled a special meeting on December 3  
to review the mayor’s compromise. After reviewing the compromise and  
reviews by the Finance Director and the City Controller, Councilpersons  
Affa, Hendricks and Santo are proposing a reduction in the solid waste fee  
by $50 and reinstatement of the mayor’s proposed tax increase. The  
General Fund would lend funds to the Solid Waste fund which would be  
paid back over time – a common practice this city has used multiple times.  
In the recommended alternate proposal the property owners least able to  
absorb increases remain protected. In the new proposal fixed-income  
taxpayers are NOT disproportionately impacted. The City still generates  
the revenue needed to sustain services. The alternate proposal lowers the  
garbage fee and results in little to no increase for lower-valued homes and  
some even pay less than they are paying currently. Higher-valued  
properties contribute slightly more, which reduces the burden on residents  
living on fixed or limited income. This makes the alternate proposal a more  
equitable option for our community while maintaining essential revenue for  
services. The new proposal would have a positive impact on 23,000 single  
family residents – out of a total of 26,000. The impact is presented on the  
spreadsheet attached to the agenda. This policy would retain cash  
reserves and a fund balance that would lower borrowing costs for projects  
everyone on this dais has approved. It follows recommendations from our  
Finance Team, Controller and Financial Advisor.  
2.Proposal submitted by the Mayor found on Budget Memo 2: Increase the  
Mayor’s operating budget by $50,000 to support the Conference of  
Churches in providing an additional day of weekly services for homeless  
support.  
000-09-00908-0091-50040 - $50,000  
$50,000  
Attachments: Amend FV.docx  
2026 Finance Budget Memo 2.docx  
For 12.10.2025 Meeting - Garbage Fee Data.pdf  
Smaller Sample of Properties For 12.10.2025 Meeting.pdf  
$50 Proposal Impact Single Family Residence Detailed Tax  
Impact.xlsx  
Unhoused Coor Svcs 2026 revised.pdf  
Finance Budget Memo No. 1.pdf  
HC.pdf  
Background Verification Analyst Job Description Final 11. 2025.docx  
Per Unit Garbage Fee Cost and Revenue.pdf  
Property Tax and Garbage Fee Analysis-12.2.2025.xlsx  
Recommended Alternate Proposal.pdf  
15-8040  
Bill 84  
An Ordinance of the City of Allentown, County of Lehigh, and  
Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, establishing the General Fund,  
Administrative Order Fund, Risk Management Fund, Debt Service Fund,  
Equipment Fund, and Golf Fund Budgets for 2026.  
Administration  
Sponsors:  
Attachments: Bill No. 84 -2026 BUDGET AND TAX RATE.docx  
15-8041  
Bill 85  
An Ordinance of the City of Allentown, County of Lehigh, and  
Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, establishing and adopting the Building  
Code Fund Budget for 2026 for Community and Economic Development  
per Chapter 270 of City code for Building Fees.  
Administration  
Sponsors:  
Attachments: Bill No 85 .- 2026 BUILDING CODE FUND.doc  
15-8042  
Bill 86  
An Ordinance of the City of Allentown, County of Lehigh, and  
Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, adopting the Liquid Fuels Fund Budget  
for 2026.  
Administration  
Sponsors:  
Attachments: Bill No.86 - 2026 LIQUID FUELS.doc  
15-8043  
Bill 87  
An Ordinance of the City of Allentown, County of Lehigh, and  
Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, establishing and adopting the Rental Unit  
Licensing Fund Budget for 2026 and amending Article 1759 – Landlord  
and Rental Fee by maintaining the Residential Rental Fees.  
Administration  
Sponsors:  
Attachments: Bill No.87 -2026 RENTAL UNIT FUND.doc  
15-8044  
Bill 88  
An Ordinance of the City of Allentown, County of Lehigh and  
Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, establishing and adopting the Solid  
Waste Enterprise Fund Budget for 2026 and amending Article 1131,  
Municipal Waste Storage, Collection and Disposal by increasing the Solid  
Waste Fee at Seven Hundred Forty ($740) Dollars.  
Administration  
Sponsors:  
Attachments: Bill No. 88- 2026- SOLID WASTE FUND AND FEE.doc  
15-8045  
Bill 89  
An Ordinance of the City of Allentown, County of Lehigh and  
Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, establishing and adopting the Stormwater  
Fund Budget for 2026 and amending Article 393.15 – Stormwater Utility  
Fee by maintaining the Stormwater Utility Fee at Twenty ($20) Dollars per  
Five Hundred (500) square feet of impervious surface.  
Administration  
Sponsors:  
Attachments: Bill No.89- 2026 STORMWATER FUND AND FEE.doc  
15-8046  
Bill 90  
An Ordinance of the City of Allentown, County of Lehigh and  
Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, adopting the Trexler Fund Budget for  
2026.  
Administration  
Sponsors:  
Attachments: Bill No.90 - 2026 TREXLER FUND.doc  
ADJOURNED: 6:38 PM