435 Hamilton Street  
Allentown, Pa. 18101  
Allentown  
Minutes - Final  
City Council  
Wednesday, November 6, 2024  
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  
Courtesy and Privilege of the Floor Rules  
Ms. Becky Kiss, S Berk Street, she stated that she is here to talk about an  
interaction she had with the police two weeks ago. Two weekends ago,  
there was this shooting by Muhlenberg College. A couple of hours later,  
there was a shooting around the corner from her house. She knows this  
because she woke up in the morning and three separate neighbors have  
texted her asking her for her camera footage from her doorbell camera.  
She went on her camera and she found the video. She called the police  
because when there is a shooting that is what you supposed to do. Two  
officers showed up. The first was Victor Diaz. He was polite and nice.  
She did not get the name of the second officer, but as Officer Diaz walked  
away to look around the neighborhood and see what he could see, the  
second officer stood in her yard and looked at her like he was not  
convinced that what she was saying was the truth. She explained the  
situation to him as he arrived a couple of moments after Officer Diaz and  
finally she said to him that he is looking at her like he doesn't believe her.  
She stated that she has video and audio and you are acting like she is not  
telling the truth. He said that he did not say that, but that is your demeanor.  
She stated that is how you are coming off towards me. She stated that the  
second officer whose name she doesn't know looked at her and said this is  
a safe neighborhood. She stated that she paused and said to him, it  
shouldn't matter what neighborhood you are in, if you hear a gunshot you  
should call the police. She said to him that she finds it hard to believe that  
you guys had no calls at 1:30 in the morning when this happened. Because  
there were numerous police sirens in the video that she has and he looked  
at her and said how do you know they were police sirens. Officer Diaz did  
eventually come back. There are two no parking signs in front of her house  
that were put there by the Parking Authority for some work that LCA has  
been doing. She noted that those signs had been knocked over. There  
was trash all over the street from the people who had done the alleged  
shooting. Officer Diaz picked up the no parking sign and dropped on the  
ground and said maybe this was the sound that you heard. She stated that  
it definitely not the sign that she heard. She stated that she would like to  
play the audio from the video for Council. Just to kind of prove that this is  
what she heard. In the video, there is a couple of seconds in the beginning  
where you can hear an altercation, the gunshot and then the afterwards.  
She played the audio. She stated definitely a gunshot and definitely not a  
situation where it was a no parking sign being knocked over. She and her  
neighbors did go out and see if they could find the bullet. They did their  
own little neighborhood investigation. She stated that she did email Ed  
after it happened just because she felt like this was not an interaction that  
people shouldn't have with the police. If she quote on quote live in a good  
neighborhood, how are people who live in different neighborhoods being  
treated in these situations, especially coming off Chief Roca's budget  
proposal and hearing him talk about equity across the city and being  
treated with respect and kindness by officers. She stated that she did not  
feel like this was a situation in which that happened. It was frustrating  
because she did go back to the neighbors who texted her about the  
incident who did hear it and she asked them why they didn't call the police  
at the time and they all had the same interaction and same kind of situation  
where they all said nothing is going to happen. When she did call the  
police, nothing did happen. She wanted to make them all aware of that  
incident and it was not a very good interaction with the two officers that  
showed up at her home.  
Dr. Cynthia Mota stated that she is sorry that it happened and what she  
would suggest that she gives Mr. Hanlon your name and your email and  
perhaps your phone number and make sure that someone contact you.  
Ms. Becky Kiss stated her question is what is the result of the contact. Her  
next steps here was going to get a copy of the police report which she did  
say to the second officer that they even bothered to file a report. He said  
that is what he is doing. None of this was explained to her so the next  
steps in her mind were to get a copy of the police report to file a complaint  
against the second officer about the comments that he made regarding the  
neighborhood, regarding the gaslighting of her with the sign falling over and  
honestly, to file a Right to Know to get the bodycam footage of the  
interaction.  
Dr. Cynthia Mota stated that she believes that she is entitled to do all that.  
She suggested Ms. Kiss give him your name. She stated that she is glad  
that she is here and reporting this. It is important that we get your name  
and your email and they will do a follow up.  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks asked Ms. Kiss has she contacted anyone since the  
incident from the police department, a supervisor.  
Ms. Becky Kiss stated no. She stated after that interaction why would she.  
She stated that is why she is coming here today to get the gall rolling.  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks stated that they will make sure that someone is going  
to contact her.  
Ms. Christina DiPierro, 4536 Bellflower Way, stated that she is speaking  
as a representative of the Commission on Homelessness for the city of  
Allentown. She asked for five minutes. Last month the Commission, sent  
an email to all Councilmembers and the Mayor. She stated that she is  
disappointed that the Mayor left because this is directed towards his  
administration and she would hope that someone from his administration  
would bring this message to him.  
Dr. Cynthia Mota stated that Ms. Bina is here on his behalf.  
Ms. Christina DiPierro stated that this message aims to explain why the  
abruptly paused their this summer. They also reiterated the Commission's  
purpose, goals and outlined the resources and support needed to  
affectively serve our unhoused neighbors. The Commission's purpose is to  
be a voice for the unsheltered citizens of the city of Allentown. They are  
here to offer guidance, support, expertise, to advocate for policies that  
address the needs of some of our city's most vulnerable and marginalized  
residents. In the email, they invited each of them to join in this effort and  
requested a response. Unfortunately, they did not receive any replies. Not  
one reply from Council. Not one reply from the Mayor. This lack of  
response or simple acknowledgement speaks volumes. She  
acknowledged those who reached out individually in the past to learn about  
our unsheltered community. Thank you for your dedication. However, for  
us to function as a Commission, we urgently need the support and actions  
we requested. One critical need is to fill the eight vacant seats on the  
Commission right now. These vacancies hinder our effectiveness, limit our  
ability to serve our community and violate the Charter set forth by the city for  
the Commission. We have committed to address homelessness in  
Allentown and need your partnership to succeed. She read the actual  
email that was sent to all of them and it lists the things that the Commission  
is asking. Our aim during the period of reflection, this is the reason why we  
paused.  
Dr. Cynthia Mota thanked Ms. DiPierro and stated that she will take that  
under consideration.  
Mr. Don Ringer, 1801 Liberty Street, stated that he is a Vietnam Era  
Veteran. He is a resident of the United States and so proud to be an  
America today. To see how democracy really works in this country. He  
thanked Council for listen to that. He stated now, this lady here just brought  
up something and Mr. Hendricks you said something about calling the  
mayor's office. You can't even call their office. They don't answer the  
phone. They are never there. How is she supposed to get a reply on  
anything. Incidentally, if you gentlemen or ladies want to drive around the  
west end with him, he will show where the officers are hiding and they do  
hide. He stated that the other thing he wanted to say is that he was  
completely disgusted as a citizen of Allentown, the way the mayor  
conducted himself at the Trump Rally the other week. He is supposed to  
be an ambassador for the city, selling our city. Not acting like an idiot.  
Dr. Cynthia Mota stated to Mr. Ringer, no name calling please.  
Mr. Don Ringer stated that he should be conducting himself in a way that  
promotes the city of Allentown. Not the way he acted. He was on video  
acting like that and it was just despicable to see how he conducted himself  
to the city of Allentown. He didn't do it at the Democratic Rally at  
Muhlenberg. What's the difference. He just could not believe the behavior  
of our mayor at that Rally.  
Mr. Tim Ramos, 1401 Linden Street, stated that he was also going to talk  
about the protest and the behavior of the mayor. He personally does not  
like and he does not care how many disagreements that he and Mayor  
Tuerk have. He does not like the idea that he is not the star in a few videos  
that have reached almost 10 million views. It is an embarrassment for him  
he is sure and it is an embarrassment for our city. It doesn't make us look  
good. More than anything, he cares what people think about our city. It  
doesn't send a message that our city is open for business and it doesn't let  
people know that we are a welcoming city. Unless, they happen to agree  
with everything they believe in or our agenda items for life and other. That  
is not the behavior that we should be allowing and he would even question  
if it would raise an ethics issue. That should have come from all of you.  
Also, during the protest that happened the day of the rally. She stated that  
he noticed that Councilwoman Gerlach was involved in that. Rock on, right.  
And, also State Representative Joshua Siegal. They are so proud of that  
and enlisting a group to protest with a group that is know to get violent in  
the past. He could attest that a personal situation where one of their  
members struck him in the chest with a palm strike. If you know the  
difference between slaps and palm strikes, you could just go to a MMA  
gym and they will be more than happy to strike you the difference. Of  
course, that individual when he responded became very cowardest and  
became a victim with everyone with their phones out. He is sure that video  
would have gone viral too and his also his friends also have videos. All he  
was doing is standing in between two groups. He wasn't protesting at all.  
All of them know he doesn't care for protest. He care for getting things  
done right. He stated that it is their job to promote the city. Not to tell  
people they are not welcome. He stated that is not your job. He  
encouraged them to do their job in promoting the city of Allentown and  
letting everybody know that we are open for business. Not close for some  
because he doesn't like it. He stated to grow up and act like adults, not  
children. If there is an ethics issue, he would encourage them to look for it  
because he knows she got more than a few emails and stop entertaining  
this nonsense.  
Contract Approvals  
15-7296  
R184  
Authorization for Contract with Baker Tilly Vantagen, LLP in the amount of  
$12,500.00 to perform an update of the city Personnel Policy Manual  
(PPM) and provide associated services related to the rollout of the new  
manual. One (1) proposal was submitted, contract shall be for twelve (12)  
months with one (1) three (3) month renewal beyond the contract expiration  
period.  
Attachments: R184 - Baker Tilly  
Resolution #30947  
Dr. Cynthia Mota asked if there were any comments from the dais. He  
stated that Ms. Baraket is here to explain it if you would like.  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks asked is this for Human Resources.  
Ms. Jessica Baraket stated that this was done as RFP2024-37. It was  
advertised on Public Purchase on August 12, 2024. on September 18,  
2024 the Public Opening was held and the city received one proposal. The  
evaluation committee held both technical and cost evaluations. The  
proposal was evaluated on the ability to meet the RFP requirements and  
after all the evaluations were conducted, the committee decided not to hold  
an oral interview. The committee made the recommendation to award  
based on the firms qualifications and overall score and the committee is  
recommending an award to Baker Tilly Vantagen.  
Dr. Cynthia Mota asked if there were any comments from the dais or the  
public.  
7 -  
Yes:  
Cynthia Mota, Daryl Hendricks, Ed Zucal, Natalie Santos, Ce-Ce Gerlach, Candida  
Affa, and Santo Napoli  
Enactment No: 30947  
15-7297  
R185  
Authorization for Contract with George E. Ley Company in the amount of  
$404,904.45 to complete the bunker renovation located at the Allentown  
Municipal Golf Course for the Allentown Department of Parks and  
Recreation. Two (2) bids were received, contract shall be for one (1) year  
with one (1) one (1) year renewal beyond the contract expiration period.  
Attachments: R185 - George E. Ley  
Resolution #30948  
Ms. Jessica Baraket stated that this was done as Bid #2024-38. It was  
advertised on Public Purchase n August 20, 2024. The public opening was  
held on October 15, 2024. The city received two bids. After the  
departments reviewed the bids, they are recommending awards to the  
lowest bidder George E. Ley Company.  
Dr. Cynthia Mota asked if there were any comments.  
Mr. Ed Zucal asked based on the availability to renew this, this could  
potentially cost them $808,000.  
Ms. Jessica Baraket stated no, the big price could be set at a firm bid  
price.  
Mr. Ed Zucal stated $404,904.45, but they have the option to renew it for a  
year.  
Ms. Jessica Baraket stated that the bid price would not renew. The bid  
would just extend the term if the work is not done in the one year. She  
would not extend that price for additional.  
Ms. Cynthia Mota asked if there were any other comments from the dais or  
the public.  
7 -  
Yes:  
Cynthia Mota, Daryl Hendricks, Ed Zucal, Natalie Santos, Ce-Ce Gerlach, Candida  
Affa, and Santo Napoli  
Enactment No: 30948  
15-7308  
R186  
Authorization for Contract with Pacific Crest Uniform Company (d/b/a  
Mountain Uniforms) in the amount of $460 each set / or $80,500 for 175  
sets including shipping to provide two-piece jacket ensemble, consisting of  
a waterproof outer shell jacket and a coordinating softshell jacket. One (1)  
bid was received, contract shall be for one (1) year with three (3) one (1)  
year renewals beyond the contract expiration period.  
Attachments: R186 - Pacific Crest  
Resolution #30949  
Ms. Jessica Baraket stated that this was done as Bid #2024-43. It was  
advertised on Public Purchase on September 13, 2024. The public  
opening was held on October 11, 2024. The city received one bid. After  
the department review the bid, they are recommending an award to Pacific  
Crest Uniform Company.  
Dr. Cynthia Mota asked if there were any comments from the dais.  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks asked what department is this for. Is it the Fire  
Department? He stated thank you. They spoke about it in the budget.  
Dr. Cynthia Mota asked if there were any other comments from the dais.  
Deputy Fire Chief Christian Williams stated that he would like to provide a  
little background on this. This is actually a grant funded purchase. He  
stated that they received $60,000 in order to get these jackets or coats.  
They received them last year and this will be the implementation of this. He  
stated that they quoted the contract high because they realize over the next  
few years as people leave or they replace them, they have to provide more  
coats. That are not initially going to be purchasing 175 sets. They are  
going to be using the $60,000 which is already funded with grants already  
received. The actual coats themselves, they never issued the firefighters  
coats. In the wintertime, they never had a jacket. They never had raincoats.  
They never had that. They always relied on their firefighter coat and for  
years that was the standard way they did things. As he mentioned the  
firefighting coat cost $2,500. They also found the last five years or so the  
firefighting coats has PFAS which causes cancer. They moved in to ban  
the chemicals in our coats. They have been trying to take efforts to try to  
limit how often does the members have to wear the coats. That's why they  
went out and sought the grant because buying and purchasing that coat  
when they hire them four or five of them at a time is one thing, but to outfit  
140 people at once is expensive. This is actually a nice coat. It is a two  
layer coat. You can think like a fleece softshell and it has a corresponding  
hard-shell that goes over the top so it can be worn separately. You just  
need a raincoat. They are pricey coats, but they are grant funded and it is  
really topnotch stuff. It is designed exactly for search and rescue personnel.  
He asked for them to support this grant.  
Dr. Cynthia Mota asked if there were any other comments or from the dais  
or the public.  
7 -  
Yes:  
Cynthia Mota, Daryl Hendricks, Ed Zucal, Natalie Santos, Ce-Ce Gerlach, Candida  
Affa, and Santo Napoli  
Enactment No: 30949  
15-7298  
R187  
Authorization of Cooperative Contract(s) in an amount greater than  
$40,000.00 to provide the City with various goods/services, with Canon  
Solutions America, Inc.  
Attachments: R187 Cooperative Approval - 11.6  
Resolution #30950  
Ms. Jessica Baraket stated that these are just Cooperative Purchases that  
are being purchased off of the Omni Contractor. There are two contracts  
here with both Canon.  
Dr. Cynthia Mota asked if there were any comments from the dais or any  
comments from the public.  
7 -  
Present:  
Cynthia Mota, Daryl Hendricks, Ed Zucal, Natalie Santos, Ce-Ce Gerlach, Candida  
Affa, and Santo Napoli  
Enactment No: 30950  
Minutes of Previous Meeting: NONE  
Communications  
Mr. Santo Napoli stated that he would like to add that any visitor to the City  
Council meetings are urged to park in the government deck which is next to  
city hall and to please see our City Clerk Mr. Hanlon for a Chaser ticket to  
pay for your parking.  
Old Business  
Mr. Ed Zucal stated that he just has one thing. He stated that he got a  
couple of calls over the weekend regarding the shooting that happened at  
Muhlenberg College. There really has not been any press or follow up  
about the shootings or whether or not there has been any arrest made. He  
guesses there is no one here. They all left from the police department. He  
asked if someone can follow up from the mayor's office and put some type  
of press out whether it is a normal investigation. They didn't have any  
suspects and no one was arrested. They kind of feel like they are being  
alienated since it is not a very common occurrence out there. They still feel  
like they should have some type of information or a follow up of some kind.  
Dr. Cynthia Mota thanked Mr. Zucal and stated that she does agree with  
that. Hopefully, they will follow up.  
REPORTS  
Special Council Meeting:  
There will be a Special Council Meeting on November 13, at 5:30 PM – the tentative  
schedule is as follows;  
5:30 PM - 5:45 Solicitor's Office  
5:45 PM - 6:15 PM Human Relations Issues  
6:15 PM Public Works, Solid Waste Fund, Liquid Fuels, Administrative Order Fund,  
Stormwater Fund  
7:00 PM Community and Economic On November 20th at 5:30 PM, Council will meet  
to review the Human Resources and Non-Departmental Budgets.  
At 6 PM that evening, Allentown City Council will conduct a Public Hearing to take  
public testimony on the request for the transfer of Liquor License Number R-15779  
to Top – Star Express, Inc., 2050 Tilghman Street, Allentown, PA 18104. The license  
would allow beer and wine sales as a convenience to its customers. There will be a  
resolution on the council meeting that follows the public hearing that will allow City  
Council to approve or disapprove the transfer.  
Budget and Finance:  
Chair Napoli, Hendricks, Gerlach  
The Committee met on October 30 at 5:30 PM and reviewed the audit and monthly  
finances.  
Community and Economic Development, Chair Hendricks, Mota, Napoli  
The Committee met has not met since the last council meeting. There are no future  
meetings scheduled at this time. (Might get update on two denials that were sent  
back to the CED Dept for review.)  
Human Resources, Administration and Appointments: Chair Affa, Napoli, Santos  
The Committee has not met since the last council meeting. There are no future  
meetings scheduled at this time.  
Parks and Recreation: Chair Santos, Affa, Gerlach  
The Committee has not met since the last council meeting. There are no future  
meetings scheduled at this time.  
Public Safety: Chair Zucal, Hendricks, Mota  
The committee has not met since the last council meeting. The next scheduled  
meeting is for November 20th at 5:15 PM to review the Fire fees.  
Public Works: Chair Gerlach, Affa, Zucal  
The Committee met this evening. There are no future meetings scheduled at this  
time.  
Rules, Chambers, Intergovernmental Relations, and Strategy: Chair Mota, Napoli,  
Gerlach  
The committee has not met since the last council meeting. There are no future  
meetings scheduled at this time.  
15-7327  
Controller's Reports  
Attachments: Bank Rec.pdf  
Check Review.pdf  
PCard.pdf  
ORDINANCES FOR FINAL PASSAGE (To be Voted On):  
15-7314  
R190  
Mayor Matt Tuerk and the Council of the City of Allentown, hereby authorize  
a sign at the drop off center on Martin Luther King Drive that says,  
Dedicated to Ann Saurman  
Attachments: R190 AS Dedication.docx  
AnnS.docx  
Resolution #30953  
Dr. Cynthia Mota congratulated Ms. Ann Saurman and asked if she would  
like to say a few words.  
Mr. Mark Shahda asked Dr. Mota if he can say a few words really quickly.  
He thanked Mayor Tuerk and City Council for this heartfelt dedication to  
Ms. Saurman. By honoring her exceptional contributions, you are  
demonstrating how deeply the city values. The dedication and hard work of  
our employees. In Ms. Saurman's 36 years of her groundbreaking effort in  
recycling and environmental education and her leadership is creating  
impactful programs that have greatly enriched Allentown. The commitment  
has left an enduring impact and they are all extremely grateful for her  
dedication for all the years of her service and hard work. He stated that  
they really wanted to take a minute to congratulate her in her successful  
career. He stated congratulations and he wishes her all the best.  
Dr. Cynthia Mota stated wow, we are allowed to clap.  
Ms. Ann Saurman stated good evening and thank you Mayor Tuerk,  
Council President Mota, and members of City Council, her fellow  
colleagues, family and friends. She stated that it has been her great honor  
to work for the city of Allentown in the Bureau of Recycling and Solid Waste  
and to serve the citizens of our community. She has been blessed to  
complete a long and successful 36 year career and so fortunate to work  
alongside so many wonderful and dedicated people who have guided and  
influenced her in order to achieve their goals. She stated that tonight she is  
very touched to receive this honor of dedicating the Allentown Recycling  
Drop off Center in her name from the Mayor, the administration and City  
Council. In particular, she wants to acknowledge and thank Mark Shahda,  
her former boss and Gabrielle Heiney who is also here who proposed this  
dedication and began this process in recognition to her many years of  
service. She stated that when she started 1988. That is the same year that  
Pennsylvania passed the statewide Recycling Law and the drop off center  
was created started by her mentor Betsy Morris Levin. In 2023, they  
processed and recycled over 1,400 tons of materials at the center last  
year. Throughout her 36 years old career, she believes the people and the  
relationships she made along the way stand out the most for her. From her  
staff, to the schools to her community partners to the statewide national  
recycling associations that she was elected to represent Allentown. She  
stated that she has been so fortunate to learn and grow from these  
experiences and the people and to be able to use this knowledge to  
continually move our bureau forward and our programs forward to benefit  
the citizens of Allentown. She stated that she was born and raised in  
Allentown by her wonderful parents, John and Pauline Coshenet(sp) who  
taught her to work hard and give back to her community. She is the  
youngest of four children. She would like to acknowledge her siblings:  
Marie Repco, and her brother John Coshenet (sp) and her entire family for  
their continual love and support. Her family believes in a close family and  
have a strong faith in God. She thanked God for putting her on this path of  
public service. As resulted in making our neighborhoods cleaner and  
stronger and our city more beautiful. She is extremely confident in her  
successor, the new Bureau Manager Brett Stout and the entire bureau that  
they will continue this important work that they laid the groundwork for. She  
thanked them again for this honor, dedicating the Allentown Recycling Drop  
off Center to her and she is truly humble and blessed to receive this  
recognition for her years of service to the city of Allentown. She stated  
thank you very much.  
Dr. Cynthia Mota thanked Ms. Saurman. She stated thank you so much for  
serving. She stated that 36 years is many years. It is unbelievable. She  
stated that you so much for all that you did for this city.  
Ms. Candida Affa stated that she has been on Council for nine years now.  
There wasn't a time that she had to call her on anything that she wasn't  
there for her. She stated that this is coming from her personally. A  
Councilwomen who needed advice at times and answers. She stated that  
Ms. Saurman was always there and stated thank you so much for your  
service. She stated that the fact that Ms. Saurman was there for her.  
Ms. Ann Saurman stated her pleasure and stated thank you, Candida.  
Dr. Cynthia Mota asked is it possible that they can all stand because they  
need a picture with her. She thanked them and stated that she really  
needed this.  
A motion was made by Candida Affa, seconded by Ed Zucal, to Suspend The  
Rules and go to R190  
7 -  
Yes:  
Yes:  
Cynthia Mota, Daryl Hendricks, Ed Zucal, Natalie Santos, Ce-Ce Gerlach, Candida  
Affa, and Santo Napoli  
Enactment No: 30953  
A motion was made by Cynthia Mota that this Resolution be approved. The  
motion carried by the following vote:  
7 -  
Cynthia Mota, Daryl Hendricks, Ed Zucal, Natalie Santos, Ce-Ce Gerlach, Candida  
Affa, and Santo Napoli  
Enactment No: 30953  
15-7229  
Bill 84  
Providing for the vacation of East Clay Street from the centerline of North  
Wall Street to the centerline of Club Avenue in the Fifteenth Ward of the  
City of Allentown:  
Attachments: Bill 84 E Clay Street  
Planning Staff Report - Vacate E. Clay St  
Letter from Jennifer Gomez regarding ACPC Action Vacate East Clay  
Street  
East Clay Street from North Wall Street to Club Avenue Vacation Staff  
Report  
Letter from Lehigh Valley Planning Commission regarding E. Clay  
Street from N. Wall Street  
Letter from Mike Hanlon regarding E Clay Street from N Wall Street to  
Club Avenue - Street Vacation  
East Clay Street from the centerline of North Wall Street to the  
centerline of Club Avenue (Mailing List)  
Ms. Ce Ce Gerlach stated that it was forwarded favorably through  
committee. She stated that she does have some questions that were at  
the Council meeting.  
Dr. Cynthia Mota stated to Ms. Gerlach that you have some questions.  
Ms. Ce Ce Gerlach stated that she just wants to get it through so they can  
have it here for discussion.  
Dr. Cynthia Mota asked if she could asked the questions before they vote.  
Ms. Ce Ce Gerlach stated that she had mentioned and it was  
acknowledged that there were two objections to the vacation. She stated  
that she reviewed the objections and she always try to put herself in their  
shoes. It looks like these are two property owners and she looked at the  
photos and she would object to if she was them. They are saying that they  
park and if you look at the photos that are greenspace and right beside the  
parking lot for this beverage dealer. They are saying that they park there  
and the one that is Ms. Gomez is saying that it is not really a place else for  
her to park. She parks behind her house as well. She has another car.  
She guesses two cars. She stated that she doesn't know if the  
administration has any kind of response. She stated that she gets why they  
would object. Just looking at these photos and reading the letter.  
Mr. Mark Shahda asked if David was on the line yet.  
Mr. David Petrik stated yes to Mark and stated that he is here.  
Mr. Mark Shahda asked if Mr. Petrik can answer Ms. Gerlach's question,  
please in terms of the parking for the Wall Street resident.  
Mr. David Petrik stated that the reason the administration and the bureau is  
recommending this is because the city doesn't have any right to the alley  
anymore. It was never opened and never approved. Any use that the  
owners have of the area, they are doing as private resident parking on  
private property. Any action that the City Council takes on this will not affect  
what they are doing now. He thinks that certainly there is an impression  
that there is a public right to there and their use of it as parking and  
establishing that. It is not the case. Their opinion is that whether it is  
vacated or not, the conditions on what they are using the parking don't  
actually change.  
Ms. Ce Ce Gerlach stated ok. So she read on one of these documents that  
they would have to ask the Petitioner, the property owner and negotiate that  
ability to park with them. If the street was to be vacated. They would be  
able to lose the right if the Petitioner, the owner of that establishment says  
no, you can't park there.  
Mr. Mark Shahda stated that it would become a civil matter at that point  
and time.  
Mr. David Petrik stated correct. He stated that it is a civil matter now.  
Ms. Ce Ce Gerlach stated that she guesses Ms. Gomez was under the  
impression when she purchased her home and she can see why because  
her yard is right there. That was her property. It looks like it would be. She  
stated that it is not.  
Dr. Cynthia Mota asked if they have spoken to the owner.  
Mr. Mark Shahda stated that the property owners were consulted during the  
polling process. He asked Mr. Petrik is that correct.  
Mr. David Petrik stated correct. He stated that they both objected. Given  
the reasons of the impressions that they would lose parking.  
Mr. Michael Hanlon stated that they letters were forwarded to you. You  
guys got those emails from Brian Borzak.  
Ms. Ce Ce Gerlach stated that the one gentleman and said no, this is the  
Petitioner. He is stating that parcel has not been used for more than 50  
years. Obviously, the homeowners would differ. He stated that it is only 12  
feet wide and not usable per city engineers. He stated that six feet is  
already allocated to 902 Club Avenue's lot. That is his argument. She  
stated that she wanted to forward it to the regular Council meeting, not  
necessary because she agreed because she had these questions and it is  
not really clear to her what the impact would be. There are two  
homeowners. She does not want to have a disparaging impact on their  
quality of life. She doesn't know if it would or if it wouldn't. She stated that it  
is not really clear on that.  
Dr. Cynthia Mota stated that property doesn't belong to them, right.  
Mr. Mark Shahda stated that is correct. It belonged to the city and they lost  
their rights to it. They have not improved the climate for decades. The city  
can't go in there and do any improvements. He stated that they lost all of  
their rights and this is why our engineering department is supporting this  
Street Vacation. They technically lost all rights to it.  
Mr. Santo Napoli asked to remind him and stated that the city losing rights  
to a property, if it is not used for how many years.  
Mr. Mark Shahda stated 20 years.  
Mr. Santo Napoli stated that this is obviously past 20 years.  
Mr. Mark Shahda stated when he is looking at this photo of the property on  
the corner of East Clay Street and North Wall Street, it looks like their  
fence, the portion that is shaded red and asked if they would lose all that  
parking or just the portion from their fence going toward the Petitioner. He  
stated that he is not sure if he is explaining that well enough. The shaded  
area seems bigger on the side of their house. He stated that he is looking  
at Page 2. Page 2 and 3 of the Planning Staff Report.  
Mr. Mark Shahda asked the question from Mr. Napoli.  
Mr. Santo Napoli stated when you look at their fence it looks like they would  
maintain parking next to their trash cans, right. That is their property.  
Mr. Mark Shahda stated that the entire portion would be vacated.  
Mr. Santo Napoli stated that the fence portion is theirs.  
Mr. Mark Shahda stated that it is theirs, but it sub illegally.  
Mr. Santo Napoli stated that it explains it then. The fence should not be  
there.  
Mr. Mark Shahda stated that the fence should not be there. They have  
been utilizing the portion of the alleyway for their own personal gains. The  
Petitioner filed the Street Vacation Request. They felt since he paid the  
fees, they should see the process all the way through.  
Mr. Santo Napoli stated lastly, if the city lost all rights and he thinks and  
knows when you purchase a home he knows there was a concern about  
and the thought was theirs. When you purchase a home, on the deed it has  
where the property line is at. Unfortunately, they may have not caught that.  
It sounds like they have been using the property illegally. He guesses that  
is the word he would use. He thanked Mr. Shahda for the clarification.  
Dr. Cynthia Mota stated that she would like to hear from the Controller.  
Mr. Jeffrey Glazier stated that you are hearing from the Controller as a  
member of the Planning Commission this evening. Street Vacations go  
through the Planning Commission. They don't say yes or no. All they do is  
make a recommendation which is forwarded to Council. He stated that  
99 percent of those times the recommendations are sure. This happened  
to come with a negative recommendation from the Planning Commission.  
He stated that everything that Mr. Shahda and Brian Borzak have said is in  
fact true and correct, but there was a process as he recalls, a process  
issue here where the I wasn't dotted and the T wasn't crossed in terms of  
everyone being notified in a timely manner. That ultimately lead us to say,  
they can't recommend this at least not at this point. In terms of when it took  
place in the hearing, they had some questions to whether it should have  
even come before them with that deficiency. He stated that he doesn't  
know if there is a good answer at the moment, but this is something that  
has a little bit of a twist to it. He certainly understands everybody's concern  
about the property owners. This is the nature of street vacations. Whatever  
that 12 foot or 20 foot piece is, you get half of it. Once again, here they felt  
it was a process issue and they were not willing to make an affirmative  
recommendation at that time in this case. He stated that quite honestly and  
he would defer to the Solicitor and Mr. Shahda and Mr. Borzak. He is not  
quite sure how to cure it either. Ultimately, it should be vacated, but it is  
proper that they strive to do things with a proper process.  
Mr. Michael Hanlon stated that he would just add gently on the process, on  
the process Brian indicated in an email that has been followed. The  
process has always been the polling of the property owner to indicate  
whether it is abutting, the property owner would object or not object and  
usually they would advertise it differently if the abutting property owners  
didn't approve it. He stated that he would push back gently. Historically,  
they have always done it this way.  
Mr. Jeffrey Glazier stated that this is an odd one.  
Ms. Ce Ce Gerlach stated that she has a question. Now that other things  
have been brought to light. If the fence on the Clay Street property was put  
up say illegally, they had to get a permit from the city to put the fence up.  
So did they get a permit to put a fence up on property they now own.  
Mr. Mark Shahda stated that he doesn't think any permits were ever pulled.  
Ms. Ce Ce Gerlach stated that it would be nice to know that for sure. If they  
did get a permit. For sure they got one. If they did, that opens up a whole  
other thing where if they got a permit, then she can definitely see a  
reasonable person would think that large section, that intersection with Wall  
Street would be their property.  
Dr. Cynthia Mota in other words do you know for a fact that they didn't pull a  
permit or do we have to find out.  
Mr. Mark Shahda stated that they would have to confirm with Planning and  
Zoning.  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks asked would that have normally been done by now.  
Mr. Mark Shahda stated yes.  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks stated that they just don't know what the answer is.  
Mr. Mark Shahda stated that he can't confirm whether or not a permit has  
been pulled. He was told permits weren't pulled. he just can't confirm it  
this evening.  
Ms. Ce Ce Gerlach stated that it looks like an older fence and it looks like it  
has been there for a while. She read that there was an unfavorable  
recommendation from PP&L and maybe another utility company.  
Mr. Mark Shahda stated that they are supportive as long as the easements  
are pulled so they have access to their utilities.  
Dr. Cynthia Mota asked shall they hold on for voting so they can find out if  
they had a permit. She asked if they can do that.  
Ms. Candida Affa suggested that they wait until they received a permit.  
Dr. Cynthia Mota stated that is her suggestion.  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks stated that there is no rush.  
Ms. Ce Ce Gerlach stated that she will move to wait to vote on this item  
until they get some of the answers, especially with the permits and  
potentially maybe confirm everything was done.  
Dr. Cynthia seconded that Motion.  
A motion was made by Ce Ce Gerlach, seconded by Cynthia Mota, to move to  
wait to vote on this item until they get some of the answers, especially with the  
permits and potentially maybe confirm everything was done and this Bill be  
tabled.  
7 -  
Yes:  
Cynthia Mota, Daryl Hendricks, Ed Zucal, Natalie Santos, Ce-Ce Gerlach, Candida  
Affa, and Santo Napoli  
15-7281  
Bill 98  
Amending the 2024 Capital Fund Budget to provide for an appropriation in  
the amount of Eighteen Thousand Dollars ($18,000.00) from the Trexler  
Fund to the Rose Garden capital project account. These funds will be used  
to complete the stone entrance step repairs at the Rose Garden.  
Administration  
Sponsors:  
Attachments: Bill 98 - Rose Garden Improvements Allocation  
Ordinance #16061  
Ms. Bina Patel stated that she believes it was moved favorably at tonight's  
Park's meeting.  
Dr. Cynthia Mota asked if there were any comments from the dais or the  
public.  
7 -  
Yes:  
Cynthia Mota, Daryl Hendricks, Ed Zucal, Natalie Santos, Ce-Ce Gerlach, Candida  
Affa, and Santo Napoli  
Enactment No: 16061  
15-7280  
Bill 99  
Amending the 2024 Capital Fund Budget to provide for a supplemental  
appropriation of Two Hundred Twenty-Eight Thousand Nine Hundred Thirty  
Dollars and Fourteen Cents ($228,930.14) from UGI for the purpose of  
construction ADA handicap ramps and for the milling and paving of streets  
under the City’s Utility Paving Program.  
Attachments: Bill 99 - UGI Cost Share Agreement  
Ordinance #16062  
Mr. Michael Hanlon stated that this was forwardly favorably at the Special  
Committee.  
Dr. Cynthia Mota asked if there were any comments from the dais or the  
public.  
7 -  
Yes:  
Cynthia Mota, Daryl Hendricks, Ed Zucal, Natalie Santos, Ce-Ce Gerlach, Candida  
Affa, and Santo Napoli  
Enactment No: 16062  
15-7283  
Bill 100  
Amending the 2024 Capital Fund Budget to provide for a transfer of One  
Hundred Thirty Thousand Dollars ($130,000.00) from Irving Pool  
Improvements capital project into Roosevelt Park for demolition of the old  
pool house building and a new pavilion.  
Administration  
Sponsors:  
Attachments: Bill 100 - Parks Irving to Roosevelt Transfer  
Ordinance #16063  
Ms. Cynthia Mota asked if there were any comments from 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: 16063  
15-7282  
Bill 101  
Amending the 2024 Capital Fund Budget to provide for a transfer of One  
Hundred Ninety-Eight Thousand Seven Hundred Seventy Dollars and Five  
Cents ($198,770.05) from various accounts within the Bridge Capital  
Project for inspection services, conceptual cost estimate services, scour  
protection designs, deck repair designs, and sidewalk/pedestrian barrier  
improvement designs on various city bridges. This will transfer the unused  
funds from the various accounts within this capital project to the correct  
account for these services.  
Administration  
Sponsors:  
Attachments: Bill 101 - Public Works Bridge Transfer  
Ordinance #16064  
Dr. Cynthia Mota asked if there were any comments from the dais or the  
public.  
7 -  
Yes:  
Cynthia Mota, Daryl Hendricks, Ed Zucal, Natalie Santos, Ce-Ce Gerlach, Candida  
Affa, and Santo Napoli  
Enactment No: 16064  
15-7284  
Bill 102  
Amending the 2024 Federal Grants Fund to provide for a supplemental  
appropriation of One Hundred Fifty Thousand Dollars ($150,000.00) from  
the Pennsylvania Department of Health, Bureau of Family Health Lead  
Abatement Grant.  
Administration  
Sponsors:  
Attachments: Bill 102 - Lead Abatement Grant  
Ordinance #16065  
Dr. Cynthia Mota asked if there are any comments from 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: 16065  
CONSENT AGENDA  
Dr. Cynthia Mota stated that there are two items on the Consent Agenda,  
R188 and R189. She asked if there were any comments from the dais or  
the public.  
Dr. Cynthia Mota asked if there were any comments from the dais  
7 -  
Yes:  
Cynthia Mota, Daryl Hendricks, Ed Zucal, Natalie Santos, Ce-Ce Gerlach, Candida  
Affa, and Santo Napoli  
15-7295  
R188  
Certificate of Appropriateness for work in the Historic Districts: 953 W  
Turner St., 1651 Linden St.  
Administration  
Sponsors:  
Attachments: R188 HARB Approvals  
1651 Linden Street Pre - Review  
953 W Turner Street Pre - Review  
Resolution #30951  
Enactment No: 30951  
15-7294  
R189  
Sewage Planning Module at 366 West Allen Street  
Administration  
Sponsors:  
Attachments: R189 366 West Allen Street - Sewage Planning Module  
366 West Allen Street - Planning Module  
366 W Allen Completeness Checklist  
Resolution #30952  
Enactment No: 30952  
RESOLUTIONS FOR FINAL PASSAGE (To be Voted On):  
15-7311  
R191  
Approves three transfers: (1) $65,422.00 in Parks to correct negative  
balances: Premium pay is over due to the snow storms and necessary  
increase of trash pick up and bathroom cleanings due to park usage in the  
summer; (2) $21,799.20 in Traffic Planning required for purchase of traffic  
equipment to maintain and upkeep with various projects throughout the city;  
(3) $20,000.00 in Recreation for funds needed to be transferred to the 50 –  
other services & charges account to cover the cost of credit card fees  
assessed by Global Payments (payment processor).  
System  
Sponsors:  
Attachments: R191 Transfer Funds  
Funds needed to be transferred to the 50 – other services & charges  
account to cover the cost of credit card fees assessed by Global  
Payments (payment processor)  
Traffic Planning required for purchase of traffic equipment to maintain  
and upkeep with various projects throughout the city  
To correct negative balances - Premium pay is over due to the snow  
storms and necessary increase of trash pick up and bathroom  
cleanings due to park usage in the summer  
Resolution #30954  
Dr. Cynthia Mota asked if there were any comments from the dais or from  
the public.  
7 -  
Yes:  
Cynthia Mota, Daryl Hendricks, Ed Zucal, Natalie Santos, Ce-Ce Gerlach, Candida  
Affa, and Santo Napoli  
Enactment No: 30954  
15-7302  
R192  
Authorizes submission of a formal application to the Department of  
Community and Economic Development for a grant of One Million Dollars  
($1,000,000) to support the construction of a 1.2-mile extension of the  
Martin Luther King Drive (MLK) Trail.  
Attachments: R192 - DCED LSA Grant  
Resolution #30955  
Dr. Cynthia Mota asked if there were any comments from the dais or from  
the public.  
7 -  
Yes:  
Cynthia Mota, Daryl Hendricks, Ed Zucal, Natalie Santos, Ce-Ce Gerlach, Candida  
Affa, and Santo Napoli  
Enactment No: 30955  
15-7303  
R193  
Authorizes the submission of a Formal Application for funding from the  
Pennsylvania Department of Transportation Green Light Go Grant (GLG)  
Services in the amount of approximately One Million Dollars ($1,000,000)  
for signal modernization at 19th Street and Roth Avenue.  
Attachments: R193 - GLG 19th St Grant  
Resolution #30956  
Dr. Cynthia Mota asked if there were any comments from the dais or the  
public.  
7 -  
Yes:  
Cynthia Mota, Daryl Hendricks, Ed Zucal, Natalie Santos, Ce-Ce Gerlach, Candida  
Affa, and Santo Napoli  
Enactment No: 30956  
15-7304  
R194  
Authorizes the submission of a Formal Application for the Local Share  
Account (LSA) Grant for funding from the Pennsylvania Department of  
Community and Economic Development Services in the amount of  
approximately One Million Dollars ($1,000,000) to supplement the  
reconstruction of Lehigh and Union Streets.  
Administration  
Sponsors:  
Attachments: R194 - Lehigh & Union St Grant  
Resolution #30957  
Dr. Cynthia Mota asked if there were any comments from the dais or the  
public.  
7 -  
Yes:  
Cynthia Mota, Daryl Hendricks, Ed Zucal, Natalie Santos, Ce-Ce Gerlach, Candida  
Affa, and Santo Napoli  
Enactment No: 30957  
15-7305  
R195  
Authorizes the submission of a Formal Application for funding from the  
Pennsylvania Department of Transportation Multimodal Transportation  
Fund Grant (MTF-PennDOT) Grant Services in the amount of  
approximately One Million Dollars ($1,000,000) for pedestrian safety  
improvements on three blocks of Hamilton Street (12th, 13th, and 14th  
Street).  
Attachments: R195 - MTF-PennDOT Grant  
Resolution #30958  
Dr. Cynthia Mota asked if there were any comments from the dais or from  
the public.  
7 -  
Yes:  
Cynthia Mota, Daryl Hendricks, Ed Zucal, Natalie Santos, Ce-Ce Gerlach, Candida  
Affa, and Santo Napoli  
Enactment No: 30958  
15-7306  
R196  
Authorizes the submission of a Formal Application for funding from the  
Pennsylvania Department of Transportation Multimodal Transportation  
Fund Grant (MTF-PennDOT) Grant Services in the amount of  
approximately Five Hundred Thousand Dollars ($500,000) for safety  
improvements on Hanover Avenue and East Linden Street.  
Attachments: R196 - MTF-PennDOT Hanover Ave Grant  
Resolution #30959  
Dr. Cynthia Mota asked if there are any comments from the dais or from  
the public.  
7 -  
Yes:  
Cynthia Mota, Daryl Hendricks, Ed Zucal, Natalie Santos, Ce-Ce Gerlach, Candida  
Affa, and Santo Napoli  
Enactment No: 30959  
15-7307  
R197  
Authorizes the submission of a Formal Application for the Local Share  
Account (LSA) Grant for funding from the Pennsylvania Department of  
Community and Economic Development Services in the amount of  
approximately Three Hundred Thousand Dollars ($300,000) to purchase a  
truck, trailer and paint eradicator for improvements and maintenance of  
crosswalks within City limits.  
Attachments: R197 - Public Works Equipment LSA Grant  
Resolution #30960  
Dr. Cynthia Mota asked if there were any comments from the dais or the  
public.  
Dr. Cynthia Mota asked if there were any comments from the dais or the  
public.  
Dr. Cynthia Mota asked if there were any comments from the dais or the  
public.  
Dr. Cynthia Mota asked if there were any comments from the dais or the  
public.  
7 -  
Yes:  
Cynthia Mota, Daryl Hendricks, Ed Zucal, Natalie Santos, Ce-Ce Gerlach, Candida  
Affa, and Santo Napoli  
Enactment No: 30960  
ORDINANCES FOR INTRODUCTION (To be referred to Committee with public  
comment prior to referral)  
15-7299  
Bill 104  
Amending the 2024 Grant Fund budget to accept Twenty Million Dollars  
($20,000,000) from the US Economic Development Administration (EDA)  
grant.  
Attachments: Bill 104 Recompete Phase 2  
Ordinance #16060  
Dr. Cynthia Mota asked if there were any comments.  
REFERRED TO NOVEMBER 13TH SPECIAL MEETING.  
Enactment No: 16060  
15-7300  
Bill 105 Special Committee Meeting, forwarded favorably  
Amending the 2024 Capital Fund Budget to provide for a transfer of Sixty  
Thousand Dollars ($60,000.00) from the unappropriated balance of the  
Golf Funds to the Golf Capital Projects fund. These funds will be used for  
the bunker capital improvements to enhance the golf course.  
Attachments: Bill 105 - Golf Funds Appropriation  
Ordinance #16068  
Dr. Cynthia Mota asked if there were any comments.  
REFERRED TO THE NOVEMBER 13TH SPECIAL MEETING.  
Enactment No: 16068  
15-7301  
Bill 106 Special Committee Meeting, forwarded favorably  
Amending the 2024 Capital Fund Budget to provide for a transfer of Two  
Thousand Nine Hundred Thirty-One Dollars and Fifty-Six Cents ($2,931.56)  
from the Jordan Greenway Trail Capital Project into the MLK Trail Capital  
Project. These funds will be utilized for the construction of the trail.  
Attachments: Bill 106 - MLK Trail Allocation  
Ordinance #16069  
Dr. Cynthia Mota asked if there were any comments from the dais.  
REFERRED TO THE NOVEMBER 13TH SPECIAL MEETING.  
Enactment No: 16069  
15-7290  
Bill 107  
Amending the Environmental Advisory Council by allowing nonresidents  
who have a significant property or business interest in the City to serve on  
the Council at the discretion of City Council in order to encourage the  
broadest participation authorized under the Home Rule Charter.  
Mota, Napoli and Administration  
Sponsors:  
Attachments: Bill 107 EAC membership.docx  
Ordinance #16070  
Dr. Cynthia Mota asked if there were any comments from the dais or the  
public.  
REFERRED TO THE PARKS AND RECREATION COMMITTEE  
Enactment No: 16070  
15-7309  
Bill 108  
Amending Chapter 393 Neighborhood Improvement, Section § 393-9  
Maintaining Property, by adding a requirement that dumpsters in the  
public-right-of-way be covered when not it use to prevent unauthorized use  
or scattering of contents.  
Administration, Gerlach, Mota and Napoli  
Sponsors:  
Attachments: Bill 108  
Ordinance #16071  
Dr. Cynthia Mota asked if there were any comments from the public or the  
dais.  
REFERRED TO THE PUBLIC WORKS COMMITTEE  
Enactment No: 16071  
15-7322  
Bill 109  
Amending Part II General Legislation, Chapter 525 Solid Waste, Article I  
Waste Storage, Collection and Disposal, Section 2 Authorization of City  
contractor(s); scope of work by updating the rebates and penalties portion  
as well as the language of the ordinance.  
Administration  
Sponsors:  
Attachments: Bill 109 - Solid Waste Fee Amendment.docx  
Dr. Cynthia Mota asked if there were any comments from the dais or the  
public.  
REFERRED TO THE SPECIAL COMMITTEE MEETING  
Dr. Cynthia Mota asked if there were any comments from the dais or the  
public.  
RESOLUTIONS FOR INTRODUCTION (Can be voted on or Referred to Committee):  
NEW BUSINESS: NONE  
GOOD AND WELFARE: NONE  
ADJOURNED: 7:26 PM