435 Hamilton Street  
Allentown, Pa. 18101  
Allentown  
Minutes - Final  
City Council  
Wednesday, August 2, 2023  
Invocation:  
6:30 PM  
Council Chambers  
Pledge to the Flag  
Roll Call  
7 -  
Present:  
Candida Affa, Cynthia Mota, Daryl Hendricks, Ed Zucal, Ce-Ce Gerlach, Natalie  
Santos, and Santo Napoli  
Courtesy of the Floor  
Courtesy and Privilege of the Floor Rules  
Ms. Vicky Kiss, 28 S. Berks Street, stated that she is disappointed that  
Council voted against term limits. It is a democracy and it should have  
went on the ballot for everybody to vote. The reason why you did not put it  
on the ballot because you know people will vote for them.  
Mr. Lewis Shupe, 1101 Hamilton Street, stated that tomorrow night he is  
hosting an event at Seventh and Hamilton at the Sailors and Soldiers  
Monument to stand up against Donald Trump and the rule of law. No one is  
above the law. He asked for retention ponds to hold back the water.  
Ms. Terry Kloiber, 345 Grandview Boulevard - Bethlehem, thanked Mr.  
Hendricks for responding when she was inquiring about City Council  
meetings and if the public was able to speak at the meetings. She talked  
about the accidents that happen on Hanover Avenue, Eaton Avenue and  
Broad Street a few feet west of the Allentown/Bethlehem border. She  
spoke of the dangers of the intersection. There nothing on this intersection  
telling drivers they have to yield to oncoming traffic when they cross over  
from Hanover Avenue crossing over to Eaton. She stated that it will get  
worse if apartments are built on this lot. She asked for a traffic circle and a  
scaled down project.  
Mayor Matt Tuerk advised Ms. Kloiber to talk with the Planning/Zoning  
team, Vicky Kistler and Mark Shahda, who is the Public Works Director.  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks stated that he forwarded the email to Mr. Shahda.  
Ms. Mary Jo McCool, 449 Grandview Boulevard - Bethlehem, stated that  
she is not a current visit, she grew up on the Eastside of Allentown, moved  
to Bethlehem in 1987. Her concern is the stormwater by Bennett Toyota.  
There is major flooding in the area. Manhole covers have been pushed off  
the street. The intersection flood with three to four feet of water. With the  
development of the State Hospital Property that can compound, and she  
does not know if the infrastructure is strong enough to handle all of that  
along with the traffic.  
Mr. Paul Fondl, 413 Grandview Boulevard, stated that in 2016, there was  
an accident at the intersection. The girl that was hurt ended up having neck  
surgery. She started this petition and moved back to her home state of  
Washington. He has over 200 names. He asked about an anti-skid  
macadam and the intersection.  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks asked if Mr. Fondl has a copy.  
Contract Approvals  
15-6112  
R125  
Authorization for Contract with All City Management Services, Inc. in the  
amount of $720,241.20 per contract year to provide Crossing Guard  
Services, as needed by the City of Allentown. Terms.  
Attachments: R125 - Crossing Guards  
Resolution #30677  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks asked if there someone to speak to that.  
Ms. Sarrah McNeil stated that this was RFP 2023 - 16. It was advertised  
on May 13, 2023. On June 16, 2023, the public opening was held and the  
city received two proposals. The evaluation committee held both technical  
and cost evaluations. The proposals were evaluated on the ability to meet  
the RFP requirements and after all the evaluations were conducted, the  
committee felt that the oral interviews were necessary. The committee held  
oral interviews on July 26. THe committee made recommendations to  
award based on the firms qualifications and overall score. The city is  
recommending an award to All City Management Services, Inc.  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks asked if there were any questions from his colleagues.  
Ms. Candida Affa asked on these two bids are any on the contracts that we  
already have.  
Ms. Sarrah McNeil stated yes. All City Management is who we currently  
have.  
Ms. Ce Ce Gerlach asked how well did they do or they are doing. She  
asked how much do they pay their people.  
Chief Charles Roca stated that they have improved immensely for  
providing that services. They had some transitional issues during the  
Covid time when the Police Department took additional help. They have  
improve significantly. The cost per person is $25 per person.  
Ms. Sarrah McNeil stated that let her pull it up.  
Mayor Matt Tuerk stated that they contract is attached.  
Ms. Ce Ce Gerlach stated that she feels that at some point they increase  
their pay to try to get more people.  
Chief Charles Roca stated that is correct.  
Mayor Matt Tuerk stated that they made a concerted effort on the  
communications side to increase awareness of the available of these jobs.  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks asked Ms. McNeil what was the cost last year.  
Mayor Matt Tuerk stated that he can answer that. It was around $520,000.  
Ms. Sarrah McNeil stated that she has the rate that they are going to  
propose. It is $27.22 per hour.  
Ms. Ce Ce Gerlach asked if that is what the employ gets. No way.  
Ms. Sarrah McNeil stated they said $27.22 per hour, per guard. It is based  
on 49 crossing guards compensated on an average of three hours per day  
or 180 school days annually.  
Ms. Cynthia Mota stated that there are no more issues with crossing  
guards, right.  
Chief Charles Roca stated that they had issues. It could be that the pay  
was lower. It attracted more people. It alleviates the police officers to have  
to cover those corners which eats up a lot of manpower. They a  
determining the best layout.  
Mayor Matt Tuerk stated that is the rate they charge us is $27.22 per hour.  
What they are paying their employees may not be detailed in the contract.  
Ms. Sarrah McNeil stated that they say $27.22 per hour, per guard.  
Ms. Ce Ce Gerlach stated that is a lot.  
Ms. Sarrah McNeil stated that is a lot, but that is what they have in the  
paragraph under proposed hourly rate.  
Ms. Cynthia Mota asked how much will this be for a year.  
Mayor Matt Tuerk stated $720,241.20  
Attorney Charles Smith stated that might be quantifying their internal costs.  
Mayor Matt Tuerk stated that is their internal costs. He stated to Ms.  
McNeil for a point of clarification, we you do the math, 49 crossing guards,  
three hours a day, 180 days a year times $27.22 equals the $720,241.20.  
Whatever their margin is would be the difference of what they pay their  
employees. There is a performance standard and meet the expectations.  
Ms. Cynthia Mota stated that the reality is that they had issues getting  
guards and now there are no issues. Obviously, they are happy with their  
wages.  
Chief Charles Roca stated that he would agree with that, but sometimes  
people don't like to go out in the cold, the rain, or the snow. Realistically,  
the city did a good job advertising this and getting the residents involved.  
Ms. Cynthia Mota stated to Ms. Gerlach that it would be good to find out  
how much they are getting per hour.  
Mayor Matt Tuerk stated that if the posts are not covered, it becomes the  
city's responsibility. It is significantly more expensive to hire a police  
officers to man the pedestrian crossing.  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks asked if there were any questions or comments from  
his colleagues or the public.  
7 -  
Yes:  
Candida Affa, Cynthia Mota, Daryl Hendricks, Ed Zucal, Ce-Ce Gerlach, Natalie  
Santos, and Santo Napoli  
Enactment No: 30677  
15-6103  
R126  
Authorization for Contract with RCM&D Self Insured Services Company,  
Inc. (d/b/a Sisco, Inc.) for a total of $170,000.00 to act as a Third-Party  
Workers Compensation and Automobile Claims Administration (TPA)  
Services. This Contract term shall commence upon full execution and shall  
cease two (2) years thereafter. Upon written agreement, this contract may  
be extended for up to one (1) additional one (1) year term beyond the  
contract expiration period.  
Attachments: R126 - TPA  
Resolution #30678  
Ms. Sarrah McNeil stated that this was done as RFP 2023 - 24. It was  
advertised on May 3, 2023. On May 31 2023, the public opening was held  
and the city received three proposals. The evaluation committee held both  
technical and cost evaluations. The proposals were evaluated on the ability  
to move the RFP requirements and after all evaluations were conducted,  
the committee felt that oral interviews were necessary. The committee held  
oral interviews with the two highest scored firms on June 21st. The  
committee made recommendations to award based on the firms  
qualifications and overall score. The committee is recommending an  
award to RCM&D Self Insured Services Company, Inc.  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks asked Mr. Ferry if he wanted to add to this.  
Mr. John Ferry stated that the city is currently using a company called PMA  
and they have been with the city for a long time. They do great work, but  
the city wanted to go and see what other options were available. Luckily,  
the city had a lot of interest in this contract and decided to go with the  
change. They were really impressed with the companies analytics and  
data collection capabilities. They are excited to hopefully move forward  
with this contract.  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks stated at a lower cost he presumes also. Any money  
saved, is a bonus for the taxpayers.  
Mr. John Ferry stated that it is. About $10,000 per year.  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks asked if there were any questions or comments from  
his colleagues or the public.  
7 -  
Yes:  
Candida Affa, Cynthia Mota, Daryl Hendricks, Ed Zucal, Ce-Ce Gerlach, Natalie  
Santos, and Santo Napoli  
Enactment No: 30678  
Minutes of Previous Meeting  
15-6099 July 19, 2023 City Council Meeting - ARPA Resolution Discussion Minutes  
Attachments:  
July 19, 2023 City Council Meeting - ARPA Resolution Discussion  
Minutes  
7 -  
Yes:  
Candida Affa, Cynthia Mota, Daryl Hendricks, Ed Zucal, Ce-Ce Gerlach, Natalie  
Santos, and Santo Napoli  
Communications  
Mr. Ed Zucal stated that on June 23 about 10 after 10 at night he returned  
home from a job and having been involved in some of the arrests of the  
prior dog fighting that occurred in Allentown. It has its own specific sound  
believe it or not. He thought he heard two dogs fighting. When he came  
around to put his trash out, he looked in the direction where he thought it  
was coming from and it was not coming from that. He looked in the  
opposite direction and it was a female who he knows who always walks her  
dog at 10th and Green to about 22nd and 23rd walks back sometimes  
twice a day. She was screaming for someone to help her and that she was  
being attacked. He stated that he was a couple hundred feet if that. He ran  
down and another motorist had stopped. Her dog was getting attacked by  
a dog across the street who we later now know was not vaccinated, had no  
leash on it at the time, has been allowed to run free before. He is not sure if  
it attacked anybody before that night. She stumbled and struck her head.  
The dog did grab her, but did not break the skin. Her dog has now had four  
surgeries and the other person has been cited and been given a Hearing  
Notice that he will appear at. He stated that here is the issue that he has. It  
is not a major issue per se for him, but he called the Staff Review Office  
last Tuesday asking since she runs a business, if he can come down and  
get a copy of the report since his name would more than likely be on it as a  
witness. He stated that he was informed that it was not. He instructed the  
victim that she would have to go down and get it herself. She took time off  
from work. She went down last Thursday and while she was there and by  
the way the rule of the Police Department is if you are a victim in a crime  
and you pay the $15, you are entitled to see a copy of the Report. When it  
was all said and done she left there completely distraught and crying. She  
describe the individual to him and he is not going to get into that. It very  
sad that somebody that is a taxpayer in this city, had to leave a Police  
Department when they followed the proper procedures to get a Report. It  
has to go through that after all she has done. They would not give her the  
Report because she did not have the other party's name. She needed that  
Report so that she could file private charges through either his homeowner  
or him to cover the four surgeries for the dog. That is not how we should  
operate in this city.  
Mr. Santo Napoli stated that he wanted to remind residents and visitors  
and encourage them to park in the government deck when they attend City  
Council meetings. Mr. Hanlon has vouchers for free parking.  
Old Business  
Mr. Ed Zucal stated that he has a constituent/taxpayer ask him to ask  
Mayor Tuerk. Last week, he almost ran over the motorcyclist that is driving  
down our street and last year, on July 23rd you held a press conference  
forming a Taskforce. Their question was that they have seen no reduction  
of these guys riding around. He asked how many meetings have been held  
with that Taskforce to try to prevent what is going on.  
Mayor Matt Tuerk stated that there have been no subsequent meetings of  
the Taskforce. They got together one time recently about an update to the  
Taskforce.  
Mr. Ed Zucal stated to Mayor Tuerk you need to step that up.  
Mayor Matt Tuerk stated thank you, sir.  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks asked if there were any other comments for Old  
Business.  
REPORTS  
REPORTS  
Budget and Finance: Chair Napoli, Hendricks, Gerlach  
The Committee met this evening; the next meeting is scheduled for August 9 at 5:30  
PM.  
Community and Economic Development: Chair Mota, Napoli, Affa  
The committee met this evening; the next meeting is scheduled for August 9 at 6 PM.  
Human Resources, Administration and Appointments: Chair Santos, Zucal, Napoli  
The Committee met on June 26th at 6:30 PM; there are no meetings schedule at this  
time.  
Parks and Recreation: Chair Gerlach, Affa, Mota  
The Committee met this evening; there are no future meetings scheduled at this  
time.  
Public Safety: Chair Affa, Hendricks, Zucal  
The committee met on June 26th at 5:30 PM; there are no future meetings scheduled.  
Public Works: Chair Zucal, Santos, Hendricks  
The Committee met on June 26th at 6 PM; there are no future meetings scheduled at  
this time.  
Rules, Chambers, Intergovernmental Relations, and Strategy: Chair Hendricks, Mota,  
Gerlach  
The committee has not met since the last Council meeting; a future meeting has not  
been established.  
Controller’s Report (3 minutes)  
Mr. Jeffrey Glazier gave an Accounts Payable Report from 7/1/2023 - 7/28/2023.  
During that time period, they reviewed 489 checks, 966 invoices with a total amount  
of a little bit over $3 million. There were 19 manual checks for $229,000, and four  
wires for a little bit over $1 million. He went over the findings of over payments, a  
wire issue and credits quarterly which the Accounting Department netted out the  
invoices. It interrupted the audit trail. Next Wednesday, there is a Budget and  
Finance meeting for the month of August and the interns will be giving their process  
flows.  
Mayor’s Report (3 minutes)  
Mayor Matt Tuerk stated that the bridge at Martin Luther King and Wire Mill at Lehigh  
and Sixth Street is now open. There is much easier access. He was happy to see  
Mr. Hendricks. A few things that brought our community together. Romper Day is  
an absolutely awesome experience. Celebrating 109th Romper Day. He thanked  
John Rubric (sp) with the assistance of Chris Hendricks and recreation team. Mark  
calendar for next year. The last Saturday of July, friends on S. Race Street  
celebrates the S. Race Street Block Party. It is a tremendous gathering. He thanked  
the firefighters for coming out and keeping everybody cool before the rain showed  
up and did the job for us. Two events happened at the same time. The Awesome  
Fest which is a basketball tournament for high school kids and area high school kids.  
The Heritage Classes returned to Valania Park. He thanked the Parks and  
Recreation team for a fantastic job that they did organizing. He welcomed neighbors  
from Bethlehem and said he is glad they are here. He looks forward to seeing them  
this Saturday. The developer for the State Hospital property is holding a community  
feedback event. He highly encouraged Council and all the residents to attend, give  
an opportunity to listen to neighbors' concerns as it relates to development on the  
east side. He showed Council a monthly calendar that the Mayor's office has been  
producing showing the events that are coming up for each month. The month of  
August is here. September 3rd, is Indian Heritage Month which is celebrated in Arts  
Park. He talked about Classics and Cruisers. ASD is doing a back to school event  
on Tuesday, August 15.  
Mr. Ed Zucal asked for times for the ASD back to school event.  
Mayor Matt Tuerk stated that he believes it starts around noon. He will consult his  
calendar. It is a Cedar Beach starting at 1:00 PM - 7:00 PM.  
Ms. Cynthia Mota stated that this is awesome. At least they know what is going on.  
She stated that she, Mr. Hendricks and other Councilmembers have missed out on a  
lot of the events because they were not aware.  
Mayor Matt Tuerk stated that these calendars are mailed out to all city emails, posted  
on Facebook and on the front desk of City Hall in the lobby. He thanked Katherine  
Mako and the Mayor's office for pulling this stuff together.  
ORDINANCES FOR FINAL PASSAGE (To be Voted On):  
15-6065  
Bill 66  
Amending the 2023 General Fund Budget to provide for a supplemental  
appropriation of Eighty Thousand Dollars ($80,000) from the  
unappropriated balance to the Department of Community and Economic  
Development – Health Bureau equipment expense account. The funds will  
be used for purchasing a mobile medical response trailer and an SUV to  
be used in public health response.  
Administration  
Sponsors:  
Attachments: Bill 66 Health Preparedness SUV  
Ordinance #15928  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks stated that this was in your committee.  
Ms. Cynthia Mota stated that this was passed in committee and they are  
excited because they will be able to purchase a Medical Response Trailer.  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks asked if there were any comments or questions from  
his colleagues or the public.  
7 -  
Yes:  
Candida Affa, Cynthia Mota, Daryl Hendricks, Ed Zucal, Ce-Ce Gerlach, Natalie  
Santos, and Santo Napoli  
Enactment No: 15928  
15-6064  
Bill 67  
Amending the 2023 Capital Fund Budget to provide for a transfer of Thirty  
Thousand Dollars ($30,000.00) from the Parks Maintenance Facility capital  
project fund to the Mack Pool capital project fund to provide for an  
evaluation and recommendations for repairs to the Mack Pool facility.  
Attachments: Bill 67 Parks Facility to Mack Pool  
Ordinance #15929  
Ms. Ce Ce Gerlach stated that it was forwarded favorably to the meeting  
tonight.  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks asked if there are any comments or questions from his  
colleagues or the public.  
7 -  
Yes:  
Candida Affa, Cynthia Mota, Daryl Hendricks, Ed Zucal, Ce-Ce Gerlach, Natalie  
Santos, and Santo Napoli  
Enactment No: 15929  
15-6063  
Bill 68  
Amending the Firemen’s Pension Fund Ordinance.  
Attachments: Bill 68 Firemen's Pension Fund Amendments  
IAFF CBA 2021-2025  
Ordinance #15930  
Mr. Santo Napoli stated that this was moved forward favorably as it cleared  
up the language in our ordinance to match the CBA for the firefighters. He  
asked if there were any comments or questions from his colleagues or the  
public.  
7 -  
Yes:  
Candida Affa, Cynthia Mota, Daryl Hendricks, Ed Zucal, Ce-Ce Gerlach, Natalie  
Santos, and Santo Napoli  
Enactment No: 15930  
15-6062  
Bill 69  
Amending the Employees’ Retirement and Pension System Ordinance.  
Administration  
Sponsors:  
Attachments: Bill 69 OE Pension Fund Amendments  
Ordinance #15931  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks stated that this was also in your committee.  
Mr. Santo Napoli stated that it was moved forward favorably as well.  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks asked if there were any questions or comments from  
his colleagues or the public.  
7 -  
Yes:  
Candida Affa, Cynthia Mota, Daryl Hendricks, Ed Zucal, Ce-Ce Gerlach, Natalie  
Santos, and Santo Napoli  
Enactment No: 15931  
15-6069  
Bill 71  
Amending the 2023 General Fund budget to accommodate the  
reorganization of positions to allow the Parks and Recreation Department  
to operate more efficiently, prepare for future project work and be in  
compliance with the home rule charter.  
Attachments: Bill 71 - Parks Reorg  
ReOrg Chart  
Ordinance #15932  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks stated that it was in Ms. Gerlach's committee.  
Ms. Ce Ce Gerlach stated that it was forwarded favorably this evening.  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks asked if there were any questions or comments from  
his colleagues or the public.  
7 -  
Yes:  
Candida Affa, Cynthia Mota, Daryl Hendricks, Ed Zucal, Ce-Ce Gerlach, Natalie  
Santos, and Santo Napoli  
Enactment No: 15932  
15-6070  
Bill 72  
Amending Part II General Legislation, Chapter 298 Flood Control, Article IV  
Administration by updating the language in Section 13 and Article VI by  
updating the language in Section 26.  
Administration  
Sponsors:  
Attachments: Bill 72 - Flood Control Amendment  
Ordinance #15933  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks stated that this was in Community and Economic  
Development.  
Ms. Cynthia Mota stated that this forwarded favorably in front of full Council.  
It is updating the language that aligns with the FEMA requirements.  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks asked if there were any questions or comments from  
his colleagues or the public.  
7 -  
Yes:  
Candida Affa, Cynthia Mota, Daryl Hendricks, Ed Zucal, Ce-Ce Gerlach, Natalie  
Santos, and Santo Napoli  
Enactment No: 15933  
15-6050  
Bill 73  
Amending Chapter 406, Administrative Code, Nuisance Abatement.A.  
Board Solicitor for Hearings by having the Appeals Board select a  
Solicitor for purpose of the appeal hearings. The legislation basically does  
some housecleaning on the measure that was previously passed.  
Affa and Hendricks  
Sponsors:  
Attachments: Bill 73 Nuisance Abatement Appeals  
Ordinance #15934  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks stated that this was also in your committee, Ms. Mota.  
Ms. Cynthia Mota thanked Mr. Hendricks and stated that this was also  
forwarded favorably in front of full Council. It has to do with the board  
having its own Solicitor.  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks asked if there were any questions or comments from  
his colleagues or the public.  
7 -  
Yes:  
Candida Affa, Cynthia Mota, Daryl Hendricks, Ed Zucal, Ce-Ce Gerlach, Natalie  
Santos, and Santo Napoli  
Enactment No: 15934  
15-6066  
Bill 74  
Amending the 2023 General Fund budget to create three (3) new positions  
and upgrade two (2) positions in the Allentown Health Bureau. The funds  
for these positions were awarded as a grant from the Center for Disease  
Control.  
Administration  
Sponsors:  
Attachments: Bill 74 Grant Funded Health Positions  
Ordinance #15935  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks stated that this was also in your committee, Ms. Mota.  
Ms. Cynthia Mota stated that this was also forwarded favorably to the full  
Council. It has to do with upgrading positions to move it out of the General  
Fund.  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks asked Mr. Hanlon if he had to do an amendment to this  
with the full vote.  
Mr. Michael Hanlon stated that was the shortest term ever served.  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks asked if there were any comments or questions from  
his colleagues or the public.  
A motion was made by Cynthia Mota, seconded by Santo Napoli, that this Bill  
amended to Change the Name in Section I Community Health Paramedic to  
Public Health Paramedicine Specialist  
7 -  
Yes:  
Yes:  
Candida Affa, Cynthia Mota, Daryl Hendricks, Ed Zucal, Ce-Ce Gerlach, Natalie  
Santos, and Santo Napoli  
Enactment No: 15935  
7 -  
Candida Affa, Cynthia Mota, Daryl Hendricks, Ed Zucal, Ce-Ce Gerlach, Natalie  
Santos, and Santo Napoli  
Enactment No: 15935  
CONSENT AGENDA  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks asked if there were any questions or comments.  
Mr. Ed Zucal stated that he knows Ms. Santos will do a great job. He  
stated that he is just curious why Ms. Affa does not want to be on it  
anymore. He asked if her time was up.  
Ms. Candida Affa stated that they found it better for her not to be on.  
Mr. Ed Zucal stated that is your baby. That's your gig.  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks asked if there were any other comments from his  
colleagues or the public.  
7 -  
Yes:  
Candida Affa, Cynthia Mota, Daryl Hendricks, Ed Zucal, Ce-Ce Gerlach, Natalie  
Santos, and Santo Napoli  
15-6121  
R128  
Natalie Santos (Replacing Candida Affa), Nuisance Abatement Board of  
Appeals  
Attachments:  
R 128 Appointment Natalie Santos - Nuisance Abatement Board of  
Appeals (Replacing Candida Affa)  
Resolution #30679  
Enactment No: 30679  
15-6078  
R129  
Sewage Planning Module at Stack Storage Allentown – 2118 Hanover  
Avenue.  
Attachments: R129 Stack Storage Allentown - Sewage Planning Module  
00A_Letter and Checklist  
00B_Completeness Checklist  
01_Municipal Transmittal Letter  
02_Resolution of Adoption  
03A_Component 3 and Attachments Combined  
03B_LCA Allocation Letter  
04_Signed Component 4A_City of Allentown  
05_Signed Component 4B_LVPC  
06_Flow Calculations  
Resolution #30680  
Enactment No: 30680  
15-6084  
R130  
Certificate of Appropriateness for work in the Historic Districts: 246 N. 11th  
St.; 449 N. 10th St.; 347 N. 8th St.;  
745-47 W. Turner St.; 44 N. West  
Attachments: R130 HARB Resolution  
44 N West Street Final Review  
246 N 11th Street Final Review  
347 N 8th Street Final Review  
449 N 10th Street Final Review  
745-47 W Turner Street Final Review  
Resolution #30681  
Enactment No: 30681  
RESOLUTIONS FOR FINAL PASSAGE (To be Voted On):  
15-6056  
R124  
Denial of a Certificate of Appropriateness – 1033 ½ W. Court Street  
Attachments: R124 HARB Resolution to DENY - 1033.5 W Court St  
1033.5 W Court St Final Review  
Ms. Cynthia Mota stated that it was tabled. They need more information.  
This Resolution was tabled.  
Enactment No: 30682  
15-6104  
R131  
Authorization for Contract with Pinebrook Family Services in the amount of  
$100,000 per year to provide professional services, Mental Health Liaison  
Program - sole source, one year contract with option for two additional  
renewal terms of one year each.  
Attachments: R131 Resolution - Pinebrook Agreement  
Resolution #30683  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks asked if there were any questions or comments from  
his colleagues.  
Mr. Ed Zucal stated that they have two members from there helping us now,  
correct. He asked about the $100,000 covering how many workers.  
Chief Charles Roca stated that we currently have one. One left the  
employment of Pinebrook. He stated that all together it will be two. They  
are in the process of hiring tomorrow. They have interviews with Pinebrook  
to pick a new second Community Intervention Specialist.  
Mr. Ed Zucal asked if two were enough.  
Chief Charles Roca stated no, we need more and hopefully they will be  
able to get more.  
Mr. Ed Zucal stated that he can't make a motion now, he will come up with  
a Resolution for a later date. He stated that it seems like we are trying to  
solve issues here with mental illness. He asked if there is a way to take  
additional funding from the General Fund to increase to four.  
Mayor Matt Tuerk stated that they budgeted for the 2023 budget for  
$208,000. It is a question to come into an agreement. They have a  
partnership agreement with Lehigh County to fund the other person. If they  
can strike an agreement with the county to increase the manpower, it would  
come out of our additional funds. This is something you will see in the  
2024 budget which is a desired increase for funding for this program.  
Mr. Ed Zucal asked if they can get four onboard versus two.  
Chief Charles Roca stated with the appropriate vetting of people,  
absolutely.  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks asked if there were any other comments.  
Ms. Ce Ce Gerlach stated that she voted for this every single year, even  
though she obviously does not think it goes far enough. She continues to  
vote for it. She thinks it should be referred to committee because they have  
not gotten data yet to see how well it is working. Based on the  
communication you and Mr. Hanlon, the report is finished and it is in the  
hands of the county. We don't have it and it then brings up the question of  
the original semi-finished report that we received from Cedar Crest was  
different from what they gave to the county. She asked if the city report  
done or just the county report done.  
Chief Charles Roca stated that the county's report is in partnership with the  
city. If the county funded the report, it goes through the process of the  
county. By having them review it which they are not done yet he will be  
happy to provide them with an approval, a copy of the report so that you  
can review it as well.  
Ms. Ce Ce Gerlach stated that Mr. Hendricks talked about the importance  
of data at the equity meeting at Fountain Park and he is data driven. She  
does feel that it is important that before they make decisions about  
continuing the program and got data to make those decisions on. The only  
data she has is from a year ago when they first presented. She asked if  
they had updated data.  
Chief Charles Roca stated that they are making data driven decisions as  
far as the Police Department. This is a Resolution and something that  
should be voted on right now then go to committee. These workers have  
been working since January. He wants to pay them for the work that they  
have done. He stated that they will be happy to provide Ms. Gerlach with  
data at an upcoming time.  
Ms. Ce Ce Gerlach asked if they city already had a contract with them.  
Why do we have to do this now? Did the Lehigh County pull out for paying  
for this?  
Chief Charles Roca stated that he cannot answer for Lehigh County, but  
can say that last year you may recall was on a Purchase Order and wanted  
to make it correct by doing it as a contract. It was pointed out by the  
Controller who talked about it. This is the steps to do that. In lieu of making  
an MOU with Pinebrook Family Answers for the purpose of this program.  
That is what brought us to today for the authorization for the contract.  
Ms. Ce Ce Gerlach asked what would happen if it was a two-week delay  
and have Mr. Vogler or someone come in and say what they have been up  
to before we say here is more money.  
Attorney Sarah Rotz stated that the Police Department reached out to the  
Solicitor's office to help draft a contract to formalize the process as Mr.  
Glazier recommended. It is the Solicitor's understanding that this will just  
formalize the agreement that is already in place to have the terms more  
official between the parties and have a contract in place in Rule 7D,  
Council Rules do say when a Resolution first appears on the agenda, it will  
be acted upon at the meeting unless the presiding officer or Council by a  
majority vote and submit such matters to the appropriate committee.  
Ms. Ce Ce Gerlach asked for a copy of that contract.  
Attorney Sarah Rotz stated that it is still under review by the parties. It is  
drafted and will be reviewed by the city and then go out to Pinebrook.  
Ms. Ce Ce Gerlach asked if there is an anticipated month, not date when  
they will get some information about the successes that is happening and  
challenges.  
Chief Charles Roca stated that as soon as he can provide her with  
something, he will within a month's timeframe at the latest.  
Ms. Ce Ce Gerlach stated that she would want a more community  
response. They have to work with what they got. She will support it. It just  
would be great to have some more information as they make these  
decisions. She stated that they do that for a lot of other things. She stated  
that Council tables things, push things off if we say we don't have enough  
information.  
Mayor Matt Tuerk stated that when we prepare the 2024 budget, they will  
have the full report from Pinebrook and Cedar Crest and can offer a theory  
of change and a reason for the expected outcomes. When they appear  
before them in the 2024 budget process, certainly asking for increases in  
the level of funding to increase the investment in the program. It will be  
based on the reports. The expectation is that this is a successful program  
and asking Council to take action tonight to formulize the agreement that  
they are preparing and that the reporting will provide Council with the data  
necessary to make a decision about it in terms of increase investment in  
the program which will result in an improved intervention which should result  
in improve outcomes for residents.  
Ms. Ce Ce Gerlach stated that she definitely looks forward to the report.  
The first time when Professor Hoke was here. Some of the questions  
weren't exactly able to be addressed and measured. A question was how  
many arrests have been diverted. She suggested that Vogler was a better  
person to present. She asked if they can get him here to present. She is  
not saying that she is a number one fan of this program, but he definitely  
cleared up some of her misinterpretations.  
Chief Charles Roca stated that they can always speak with him. That is an  
absolute possibility.  
Ms. Ce Ce Gerlach stated that he's got data for whatever reason Cedar  
Crest just did not present.  
Mayor Matt Tuerk stated that when City Council votes on this Resolution  
tonight, it won't put this topic to bed. They are happy to continue presenting  
the results of the investment of this program over the course of the next  
weeks and months. It is something that we believe in and have visual  
evidence as a result of our investment and partnership with Pinebrook with  
the county. We are happy to prepare and develop and deliver the data to  
get to you in partnership with our colleagues at Pinebrook and the county  
as it becomes available.  
Chief Charles Roca invited Council to come out and see what the CIS does  
in the day to day and also when they do a ride along with officers and how  
that interaction takes place in the community. They very much want to  
collaborate and serve our residents the best that they can.  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks thanked Mayor Tuerk and Chief Roca and asked Ms.  
Gerlach if that was all.  
Ms. Ce Ce Gerlach stated that is it.  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks asked if there were any other questions or comments.  
Mr. Santo Napoli asked Chief Roca mentioned a desire to increase this  
program, but you mentioned difficulty in doing so. Is that budgetary or the  
lack of qualified candidates.  
Chief Charles Roca stated that it was more budgetary. They want to be  
able to put funds to it. It will be a great benefit to our community. He wants  
to give the CIS program its sole justice. It appears that it is always  
something else. This is something that they are shaping in collaboration  
with the Allentown Police Department that provides these outcomes for our  
residents and our community to be able to divert people from having to go  
to jail or helping people that are repeat callers to 911. It is something that  
is ongoing and growing. It adds values to our services overall in the city in  
conjunction and collaboration with the county.  
Ms. Cynthia Mota asked if they are inviting Council to do a ride along.  
Chief Charles Roca stated that he always do. He opens the Allentown  
Police Department to any member of Council. Please come along. Even if  
it is not with the CIS Program, see what our officers do day to day.  
Understand the calls of services that they are going on. There are two  
members of Council that are former Police Officers and have an  
understanding, but things over the years have changed as well. It is  
important to get that understanding from the officers' perspective not just  
Chief of Police Roca. They are a department that wants to be able to  
connect and interact positively with the community.  
Ms. Cynthia Mota stated that she did a ride along and she was really  
impressed. She stated that she would love to do one with Ce Ce Gerlach.  
She stated that when you are ready, she will go along with her.  
Ms. Ce Ce Gerlach stated that they will see. Thank you for the offer.  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks asked if there were any other comments from his  
colleagues or the public.  
7 -  
Yes:  
Candida Affa, Cynthia Mota, Daryl Hendricks, Ed Zucal, Ce-Ce Gerlach, Natalie  
Santos, and Santo Napoli  
Enactment No: 30683  
15-6106  
R132  
Authorization for Contract with Norfolk Southern Railway to provide  
preliminary engineering services.  
Attachments: R132 - Norfolk Southern Agreement  
Resolution #30684  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks asked if there were any comments or questions from  
his colleagues.  
Mr. Ed Zucal asked what is the Engineering Services for.  
Mr. Mark Hartney stated that this is associated with a land development.  
There is a land crossing that the city has asked the developer to look at.  
Norfolk Southern because they are regulated by the PUC won't enter into  
an agreement with a developer. They would only enter into an agreement  
with the municipality. The city established an escrow account with the  
developer. The city is not paying anything for this. They just want to have  
an agreement with the city. Norfolk Southern feels better contracting with  
the city of Allentown then a developer.  
Mr. Ed Zucal asked where is this at.  
Mr. Mark Hartney stated 1901 S. 12th Street.  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks asked if there were any other comments from his  
colleagues or the public.  
7 -  
Yes:  
Candida Affa, Cynthia Mota, Daryl Hendricks, Ed Zucal, Ce-Ce Gerlach, Natalie  
Santos, and Santo Napoli  
Enactment No: 30684  
15-6105  
R133  
Authorizes the submission of the formal application for a Pennsylvania  
DCED Emergency Solutions Grant in the amount of Five Hundred  
Thousand Dollars ($500,000.00) to benefit Lehigh Valley Regional  
Homeless Advisory Board members. This grant will allow sub-recipients to  
provide homeless services and resources to the region’s homeless  
population.  
Attachments: R133 - PA ESG  
Resolution #30685  
Ms. Vicky Kistler stated that this is the distribution where it is a pass  
through of the allocation to the RHAB for the RHAB to be able to deal with  
the issues around homelessness. The Regional Homeless Advisory Board  
gets its money through this allocation.  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks asked if there were any questions and comments by  
his colleagues or the public.  
7 -  
Yes:  
Candida Affa, Cynthia Mota, Daryl Hendricks, Ed Zucal, Ce-Ce Gerlach, Natalie  
Santos, and Santo Napoli  
Enactment No: 30685  
15-6107  
R134  
Authorizes the submission of the formal application for funding from the  
DCED Multimodal Transportation Fund (MTF) Grant Services in the  
amount of One Million Four Hundred and Three Thousand Dollars  
($1,403,000) for three intersections on 17th Street.  
Attachments: R134 - DCED Mutimodal Transportation Fund Grant  
Resolution #30686  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks asked where are those intersections.  
Mayor Matt Tuerk stated that these are the signalized intersections at 17th  
and Hamilton, 17th and Linden and 17th and Turner. It improves traffic  
safety along the corridor leading to Allen High School.  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks asked if there were any questions or comments from  
his colleagues or the public.  
7 -  
Yes:  
Candida Affa, Cynthia Mota, Daryl Hendricks, Ed Zucal, Ce-Ce Gerlach, Natalie  
Santos, and Santo Napoli  
Enactment No: 30686  
15-6096  
R135  
Approves transfer: (1) $136,500.00 in Information Systems to Cover  
$122,000.00 from Account #46 Used to Pay for new allentownpa.gov  
website which was a non-budgeted expense and to Cover Slight Overages  
of the Microsoft and ESRI Contracts.  
Attachments: R135 Transfer Funds  
To Cover $122,000 from Account 46 Used to Pay for New  
allentownpa.gov website  
Resolution #30687  
Mr. Gerry Anthony stated that the $122,000 was overlooked funding for the  
2023 budget. IT needs an interdepartmental transfer from the 42 to the 46  
Account to cover expenses.  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks asked if there were any questions or comments from  
his colleagues or the public.  
7 -  
Yes:  
Candida Affa, Cynthia Mota, Daryl Hendricks, Ed Zucal, Ce-Ce Gerlach, Natalie  
Santos, and Santo Napoli  
Enactment No: 30687  
ORDINANCES FOR INTRODUCTION (To be referred to Committee with public  
comment prior to referral)  
15-6109  
15-6110  
15-6111  
Bill 75  
Amending the 2023 General Fund budget to allow for a position name  
change in the Department of Public Works, Recycling and Solid Waste, by  
changing the SWEEP Officer position to SWEEP Officer Bilingual.  
Attachments: Bill 75 - SWEEP Officer Retitle  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks asked if there were any comments from his colleagues  
or the public.  
REFERRED TO THE PUBLIC WORKS COMMITTEE  
Bill 76  
Amending the 2023 Capital Fund Budget to provide for a supplemental  
appropriation of Five Thousand Dollars ($5,000.00) from People’s First  
Federal Credit Union to support the mini-pitch system at Jordan Meadows.  
Attachments: Bill 76 People's First Donation  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks asked if there were any comments from his colleagues  
or the public.  
REFERRED TO THE PARKS AND RECREATION COMMITTEE  
Bill 77  
Amending the 2023 General Fund Budget to provide for a supplemental  
appropriation of Two-Million-Dollars ($2,000,000.00) grant funding from the  
U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development to address housing  
related hazards including radon remediation, asbestos abatement, and  
electrical and plumbing repairs.  
The 2023 Federal Healthy Homes Production Grant is a reimbursable  
grant which will be spent over the course of 42 months to fund repairs up to  
$10,000 per home for 135 qualified Allentown homeowners and  
tenants/landlords. Additionally, it is requested to amend the 2023 General  
Fund budget to create two (2) new fully grant funded positions in the  
Department of Community & Economic Development’s (DCED)  
Community Housing program and provide supplemental grant funding to  
two (2) existing positions. The funds for these positions were awarded as a  
grant from the Federal Healthy Homes Production (HHP).  
Attachments: Bill 77 Grant Funded PAHHP0110-23  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks asked if there were any comments from his colleagues  
or the public.  
REFERRED TO THE COMMUNITY AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT  
COMMITTEE  
15-6094  
Bill 78  
Providing for the vacation of Dodge Street from the centerline of South  
Muhlenberg Street to the centerline of Vacated South Brighton Street in the  
Eighteenth Ward of the City of Allentown.  
Attachments:  
Bill 78 Dodge Street from the centerline of South Muhlenberg Street  
Vacation  
Dodge Street Vacation Report  
Letter from Mike Hanlon regarding Dodge Street from S. Muhlenberg  
Street to S. 24th Street - Street Vacation  
Dodge Street from South Muhlenberg Street to South 24th Street -  
Vacation Report  
Lehigh Valley Planning Commission Letter regarding Dodge Street  
Vacation Petition  
S. Muhlenberg Street S 24th Street Labels  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks asked if there were any comments from his colleagues  
or the public.  
REFERRED TO THE PUBLIC WORKS COMMITTEE  
RESOLUTIONS FOR INTRODUCTION (Can be voted on or Referred to Committee):  
NEW BUSINESS  
Ms. Candida Affa stated that she wants to clarify when Mr. Zucal asked her  
about the Nuisance Abatement. She stated that she takes it very seriously.  
She was with the Nuisance Abatement from the very beginning, eight years  
ago and the Disruptive Conduct. Those boards are so important. As  
legislators, they make these laws. It is so important that it is not kicked to  
the curb. That they are done in a way that we can win and get disruptive  
people out of our city. You are a judge when you are sitting up there. She  
stated that she made comments publicly and she sticks with them. She  
would like to see the after hours clubs shutdown. She made the comments,  
so she cannot be a judge. She respects and would not do anything that will  
hurt the city's chances to win in every case. She stated that lawyers, the  
police officers, and the administration are working hard for that. She would  
have to recuse herself almost every time. She commends all the people  
that volunteers to do this because they have to take it very serious,  
understand, listen and be fair judges. In the case she made statements,  
she made them publicly. She does not want to interfere. She wants it done  
right.  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks commended Ms. Affa for her candor for speaking on  
that.  
Mayor Matt Tuerk asked if he can build on the importance of that. If there  
are members of the public that are listening, it is an opportunity through the  
city of Allentown's website to submit an application for consideration to be  
appointed to both the Nuisance Abatement and Disruptive Conduct Appeal  
Boards. There are critically important positions and we need excellent  
representation from the cost of the city of Allentown to ensure that we are  
conducting the most fair process possible. Anybody that is out there and  
members of Council as they work through the community, please  
encourage people to submit an application for consideration.  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks thanked Mayor Tuerk for that.  
GOOD AND WELFARE  
Mr. Ed Zucal gave a piece of advice stating he found through experience  
that if you buy a Roku TV, you don't have to buy the separate Roku remote.  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks thanked Mr. Zucal for that tip.  
ADJOURNED: 7:49 PM