435 Hamilton Street

Allentown, Pa. 18101

Allentown

Minutes - Final

City Council

Wednesday, December 7, 2022

6:30 PM

Council Chambers

Invocation:

Ms. Cynthia Mota stated that it is great to have you guys here. She

apologized stating it took a long time. You got to see this.

Mr. Ed Zucal stated that a couple of weeks ago, he spoke to Mr. Watts who

is one of the Directors at Academy and they had a conversation about their

football season this year and last year. Although they are not part of the

normal high school of Allen Dieruff and Central, they are still students from

Allentown and have accomplished in two years incredible success and

obviously you can see around their necks, they got medals to prove it. He

stated that he thought it most appropriate that as part of Allentown youth

that we applaud them and recognize them and tonight we will be given

each one a Proclamation from City Council. They have their coaching staff

to thank as well. He thanked the parents of these young men. They have

molded them into what they are. We need to thank them also.

Coach Ford stated that he is the head coach to Executive and thanked

Council for having them. He knows it was a long wait, but these guys

needed to here some of the stuff that was talked about here. Obviously,

these young athletes listened to what you had to say. It was very moving.

Dealing with these guys on a day to day basis and definitely don't want to

see anything happen life that to these young men because the past two

years, family or a big brother or whatever they want to call them as

coaches. He has the other coaches here as well and the CEO from the

school is here and obviously Mr. Watts. They are just trying to represent for

the city and that's just what it is. We love the recognition. We love that they

are finally getting the respect that they deserve. We had a great year this

year. Obviously, coming out as District Champions. Making it to states

and making it as far as they did. They appreciate all the support. If you

came to a game, we appreciate you. If you watched it online or even

looked in a newspaper, we appreciate you. He stated that they appreciate

the city and here to stay. It is just that simple. They want to be able to

complete and play Allen, Dieruff and Central hopefully in the near future and

get some of these local team on our schedule because that has not

happened yet in the past two years that they have been in existence.

Hopefully, that can happen sooner rather than later.

Mr. Jyhmiek Roman stated that he is Jyhmiek Roman.

Ms. Cynthia Mota and Mr. Ed Zucal read the Proclamation.

Pledge to the Flag

Executive Education Academy Charter School Raptors Proclamation

Roll Call

6 -

Present:

Candida Affa, Cynthia Mota, Daryl Hendricks, Ed Zucal, Ce-Ce Gerlach, and

Natalie Santos

Courtesy of the Floor

Courtesy and Privilege of the Floor Rules

Mr. Jeremy Warmkessel, President - Allentown Firefighters Local 302, 936

Hawthorne Road, in 2022 going into 2023 Budget, he found himself in a

different position than normal. Usually, the Fire Administration and the City

Administration put forth a budget and it goes before them, the union has

issue with it and they have made a presentation every year since he has

been on the Fire Department. This year, the Fire Administration came up

with a way of addressing the staffing issue which has been a problem since

the former Mayor Pawlowski left. He turned us from 146 members when he

got on the Fire Department in 2002. Apparently, we have 131. He listened

to the amendment tonight and did not feel that he needed to speak or

address anything that was going on and try to educate Council which it

seemed that everybody got it. He is not going to speak about anyone in

specific and he is not, but the only reason he is speaking now is because

Councilman Hendricks spoke out of term after the vote was already taken.

He had some statements that he believes are in error. He stated that he

wants to point out that Mr. Hendricks been on since 2014 so you had ample

time to address hiring people and not addressing it through overtime in

which the Fire Department came before you every year. In 2018, at 1:28

and they went back and looked at the videos and all the presentations that

they made and all the notes they have. All the comments you made to us.

He stated that Mr. Hendricks had ample time to address it and you didn't

and now here we are today. He thanked him for addressing it in the

affirmative manner and thank them that it is going forward because it is truly

his safety and the other 130 members that he serves safety. Unfortunately,

they have not made such an aggressive ask in the past because after

Mayor Pawlowski, we had trucks to address, staffing to address,

equipment to address. The budget in 2010 personnel is approximately the

same it is right now. Twelve years later. They gotten raises in those 12

years. What you have done is saved money over the last 12 years on their

backs and then you are going to sit here and make a jerk out of his chief

saying that he should have hired. It is unforgivable. It is ridiculous.

Mr. Daryl Hendricks stated nobody made a jerk out of your chief. This isn't

for you to make comments and criticize. No one came to him and the

Mayor never spoke to Council as a body about what is necessary.

Ms. Cynthia Mota stated that this is not a back and forth. You have a few

minutes left.

Mr. Jeremy Warmkessel stated that he just wants to point out to them that

they are down 15 guys so the proposal you had on the table would have

added four. It would have done nothing to address their safety and filling

operational needs that this fire department has. When you say that we

don't come to you, you are correct. We don't always come to you. We

come to you at budget time. We talk to you. He stated that he knows that

he provided numerous documentations, and we had numerous discussions

about staffing. Right here, he stood before him his predecessors stood.

He appreciates the fact that the misconception and stated to Ms. Gerlach

that he wants to absolutely, positively in no way, shape or form does it

enhance our pension. He stated that the firefighters' pension is based on

longevity, holiday pay, base pay, vested, shift differential, and overtime.

Overtime will be capped at 10 percent of the firefighter's monthly salary. It

is only 10 percent. He stated that he could have made $50,000 this year,

and if his base pay is $80,000, he could only use $8,000 of that towards his

pension. It will not impact in a negative way. They have a study done every

year through the Pension Board and it addresses that. He wanted to give a

quick reminder that is not what it is. The Fire Administration came up with

a good plan and are going to address it going forward to hire through a

safer grant. They are able to have firefighters paid for with 100 percent of

the cost for three years. They are a perfect candidate for that. He stated

that he can't guarantee them that they are going to get it, but he can tell

them that they talk to the federal officials very often and know that they are a

prime candidate for it. He thanked Council and stated that he just wanted

to address any misconceptions that were there during the budget. Have a

nice night and if he does not see them, have a Merry Christmas.

Ms. Cynthia Mota stated that this is Courtesy of the Floor and this is how

we are going to do this. Please, this is not a back and forth. No attacking.

Mr. Tim Ramos, 1408 Linden Street, thanked Mr. Zucal for issuing the

Proclamation and all of Council for issuing the Proclamation to the

Executive Academy students. He thanked the Mayor for the upcoming

banquet where he will be issuing his own Proclamation. What he wanted to

share with all of them is that they elected officials and all ran in different

campaigns. He stated that they ran believing they were doing something

that is bigger than ourselves. These young people when they are in high

school, and you are playing on a sports team and you are trying to achieve

at the highest levels you believe that you are doing something that is

greater and bigger than yourself. He stated that he remembers being an

Allen High student, Allen wrestling, a proud Canary, and remembers going

to the surrounding districts for the Christmas Tournament. He remembers

being robbed of all their belongings by Parkland School District and Coach

Joe Billy having to go in his very nice and polite way and get their stuff back

because he did not want a riot to break out. He remembers the treatment

that they received as Allen wrestlers. He remembers the treatment his

friends received as basketball players and Allen football players. He

wanted to share with all of them that the Charter School students who have

sports programs, are Allentown students. They are our kids. They are

Allentown kids. They receive the same treatment because we all know. He

thinks and recognizes that the greater Lehigh Valley looks at Allentown no

matter how good it is as trash. Those kids according to outsiders are

trash. He stated that he would think that none of them will believe that, and

he definitely don't believe that. He stated that he would stand with any one

of the schools and the young people. He frequently goes to Allen wrestling

matches. He has taken his son there and his son goes to Executive. He

stated that he supports the schools and supports the students. He supports

Dieruff down to their volleyball program. He goes over to the other schools.

He shares that to say and reminds them that all of these kids are our kids,

and he hopes that these Proclamations are not a one - off and not just for

the moment. Because Ray Barbosa led Executive Education to four

district titles over the last four years. He led them to those championships.

The only reason they are not state champions from earlier this year, is

because of misbehaviors by referees and bad refereeing. It is something

that he witnessed as an Allen wrestler as well. He stated that they know the

kids are up against it when they come out of Allentown and they should

always celebrate them and be willing to stand by them no matter what. He

echoed what he said a few weeks ago when he stated what do any of

these kids know about the politics between Charter Schools and District

Schools. They don't.

Ms. Cynthia Mota asked if there were any other comments from the public.

Contract Approvals

15-5478

R170

Authorization for Contract with Tetra Tech, Inc. for $66,944.12 to conduct

an after-action report and Improvement Plan related to the Allentown

Health Bureau’s response, mitigation, and vaccination distribution actions

during the COVID-19 Pandemic from February 1, 2020 through June 30,

2022. AAR/IP products will follow guidelines and standards set forth by the

Homeland Security Exercise and Evaluation Program (HSEEP), including

initial after-action meetings and evaluation aligned to capabilities identified

in the Public Health Preparedness Program and Hospital Preparedness

Program, multiple bids, one year contract that can be extended for

additional year upon agreement.

Attachments: R170 Tetra Tech

Resolution #30530

Ms. Cynthia Mota thanked Mr. Hanlon and asked if there were any

comments from the dais, the administration or the public.

Ms. Sarrah McNeil stated that this was done as RFP 2022 - 40. It was

advertised on September 25, 2022. The city received six proposals. The

evaluation committee held both technical and cost evaluations. The

proposals were evaluated on the ability to meet the RFP requirements,

firm's experience, project plan, references, and the costs. After both

evaluations were conducted, committee did not feel that oral interviews

were necessary and were confident in awarding based on the

qualifications and overall score. The committee is recommending the

award to Tetra Tech, Inc.

Ms. Cynthia Mota asked if there were any questions from the dais or the

public.

6 -

Yes:

Candida Affa, Cynthia Mota, Daryl Hendricks, Ed Zucal, Ce-Ce Gerlach, and

Natalie Santos

Enactment No: 30530

15-5479

R171

Authorization for change order with Traffic Planning & Design in the amount

of $99,990.46 for the Construction Inspection Agreement for the Jordan

Creek Greenway Trail; the original contract was for $186,270.24; the new

total is $286,260.70, the expenditure is for additional time spent on the

project. .

Administration

Sponsors:

Attachments: R171 Change Order

Resolution #30531

Ms. Cynthia Mota thanked Mr. Hanlon and asked if there were any

comments from the administration.

Ms. Sarrah McNeil stated that this Change Order was for a previously bid

and an awarded contract with Traffic Planning & Design. The

department is seeking an increase in the sum of $99,990.46. This Change

Order was sent to the Change Order Committee on November 1st and

deemed approved on November 4th. This increase has been requested

as the original amount was based off of what PennDOT bid out and

estimated. The increase is dictated by PennDOT due to the grant that the

city received from them.

Ms. Cynthia Mota asked if there were any comments from the dais or the

public.

6 -

Yes:

Candida Affa, Cynthia Mota, Daryl Hendricks, Ed Zucal, Ce-Ce Gerlach, and

Natalie Santos

Enactment No: 30531

15-5480

R172

Authorization for Contract with Engle-Hambright & Davies, Inc., in the

amount of $115,000.00 per contract year for services related to the design,

implementation, analysis, maintenance, improvement and communications

of an employee and retiree benefits and wellness program, multiple

bidders, three years; upon mutual written consent the contract term may be

extended for up to two (2) additional one (1) year terms.

Administration

Sponsors:

Attachments: R172 - EHD

Ms. Cynthia Mota asked if there were any comments from the

administration.

Ms. Sarrah McNeil stated that this was done as RFP 2022 - 15. It was

advertised on July 1, 2022. The city received 10 proposals. The

evaluation committee held both technical and cost evaluations. The

proposals were evaluated on RFP requirements, knowledge and expertise,

related experience described in the description submitted. The cost after

both evaluations were conducted. The committee felt they needed to

proceed with oral interviews. after the interviews were conducted, the

committee decided to award based on the firm's qualifications and overall

score. The committee is recommending an award to EHD

(Engle-Hambright & Davies, Inc.)

Ms. Cynthia Mota thanked Ms. McNeil and asked if there were any

questions from the dais or the public.

6 -

Yes:

Candida Affa, Cynthia Mota, Daryl Hendricks, Ed Zucal, Ce-Ce Gerlach, and

Natalie Santos

Enactment No: 30532

15-5484

R173

Authorization for a change order with Omnes LLC in the amount of

$20,870.00 for a landscape architectural firm, to have on retainer, that will

provide services that are inclusive of, but not be limited to, City-wide

architectural design services, project management and project

implementation for City owned and private properties. The initial sum as

$50,000, the total sum will be for 70,870. The City anticipates future

projects, in designing outdoor areas, landmarks, and structures to achieve

aesthetic outcomes.

Administration

Sponsors:

Attachments: R173 Change Order

Resolution #30533

Ms. Cynthia Mota asked if there were comments from the administration.

Ms. Sarrah McNeil stated that this Change Order is for previously bid and

awarded contract with Omnes LLC. The department is seeking an

increase in the sum of $20,870.00 and to increase the term by one year.

This Change Order was sent to the Change Order Committee on

November 15 and deemed approved on November 16. This request is

due to the job not being able to be completed by December 16 due to the

weather and supply chain issues.

Ms. Cynthia Mota asked if there were any comments from the dais or the

public.

6 -

Yes:

Candida Affa, Cynthia Mota, Daryl Hendricks, Ed Zucal, Ce-Ce Gerlach, and

Natalie Santos

Enactment No: 30533

Minutes of Previous Meeting

15-5477

November 16, 2022 Special Council Meeting - Public Works Budget

Review Minutes

Attachments:

November 16, 2022 Special Council Meeting - Public Works Budget

Review Minutes

6 -

Yes:

Candida Affa, Cynthia Mota, Daryl Hendricks, Ed Zucal, Ce-Ce Gerlach, and

Natalie Santos

15-5471

November 16, 2022 City Council Meeting Minutes

Attachments: November 16, 2022 City Council Meeting Minutes

6 -

Yes:

Candida Affa, Cynthia Mota, Daryl Hendricks, Ed Zucal, Ce-Ce Gerlach, and

Natalie Santos

Communications:

Ethics Disclosure Notice: Councilperson Gerlach

Ms. Ce Ce Gerlach stated that Charlie Marcon was also there.

Old Business

REPORTS

Special Budget Meetings: President Mota

If we need future meetings to deal with the budget, we will schedule it based on

council’s availability.

Budget and Finance: Acting Chair Hendricks, Santos

The Committee has not met since the last council meeting; the next meeting is not

yet scheduled.

Community and Economic Development: Chair Gerlach, Siegel, Mota

The Committee has not met since the last council meeting; there are no meetings

scheduled at this time.

Human Resources, Administration and Appointments: Chair Santos, Hendricks,

Siegel

The Committee has not met since the last council meeting; there are no future

meetings scheduled at this time.

Parks and Recreation: Chair Affa, Gerlach, Santos

The Committee has not met since the last council meeting; a meeting was scheduled

for the December 21st prior to the Council meeting. Ms. Affa stated that she will not

be in the city so they will have to cancel the meeting.

Public Safety: Chair Hendricks, Zucal, Affa

The Committee has not met since the last council meeting; a meeting is being

schedule prior to the council meeting on December 21st.

Public Works: Chair Zucal, Affa, Hendricks

The Committee has not met since the last council meeting; a meeting is being

schedule prior to the council meeting on December 21st.

Rules, Chambers, Intergovernmental Relations, and Strategy: Chair Mota, Zucal,

Gerlach

The Committee has not met since the last council meeting; there are no future

meetings scheduled.

Controller’s Report (3 minutes)

NONE

Mayor’s Report (3 minutes)

NONE

ORDINANCES FOR FINAL PASSAGE (To be Voted On):

15-5481

Bill 90

Amending the City code to reflect the changes made to the City’s pension

plan, as required by PMRS.

Attachments: Bill 90 PMRS Pension Plan Re-Statement

PMRS Plan 2023 Draft Revised

Note

39-006-2 N2 PMRS Plan_2023 Final

39-006-2 N2. PMRS Plan_1998 Stated Plan

Ordinance #15856

Mr. Michael Hanlon stated that this was before the Special Committee

Meeting this evening. It was forwarded and someone needs to make that

amendment.

A motion was made by Ed Zucal, seconded by Ce-Ce Gerlach, that this Bill be

amended to add

Section IX: Pursuant to Section 218 of the Home Rule Charter and upon the

affirmative vote of six council members, the 14 day requirement between

introduction and final passage is hereby eliminated.

5 - Cynthia Mota, Daryl Hendricks, Ed Zucal, Ce-Ce Gerlach, and Natalie Santos

Yes:

1 - Candida Affa

Absent:

Enactment No: 15856

Ms. Cynthia Mota asked if there were any comments from the dais or the

public.

6 -

Yes:

Candida Affa, Cynthia Mota, Daryl Hendricks, Ed Zucal, Ce-Ce Gerlach, and

Natalie Santos

Enactment No: 15856

15-5399

Bill 77

An Ordinance of the City of Allentown, County of Lehigh, and

Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, adopting the Liquid Fuels Fund Budget

for 2023.

Administration

Sponsors:

Attachments: Bill 77 2023 LIQUID FUELS

Ms. Cynthia Mota asked if there were any questions from the dais,

comments from the administration or the public.

6 -

Yes:

Candida Affa, Cynthia Mota, Daryl Hendricks, Ed Zucal, Ce-Ce Gerlach, and

Natalie Santos

Enactment No: 15857

15-5400

Bill 78

An Ordinance of the City of Allentown, County of Lehigh and

Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, adopting the Trexler Fund Budget for

2023.

Attachments: Bill 78 2023 TREXLER FUND

Ms. Cynthia Mota asked if there were any comments from the dais, the

administration or the public.

6 -

Yes:

Candida Affa, Cynthia Mota, Daryl Hendricks, Ed Zucal, Ce-Ce Gerlach, and

Natalie Santos

Enactment No: 15858

15-5401

Bill 79

An Ordinance of the City of Allentown, County of Lehigh and

Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, establishing and adopting the Solid

Waste Enterprise Fund Budget for 2023 and amending Article 1131,

Municipal Waste Storage, Collection and Disposal by maintaining the

Solid Waste Fee at Three Hundred and Seventy-Five ($375) Dollars.

Administration

Sponsors:

Attachments: Bill 79 2023 SOLID WASTE FUND AND FEE

Ms. Cynthia Mota asked if there were any comments from the dais, the

administration or the public.

6 -

Yes:

Candida Affa, Cynthia Mota, Daryl Hendricks, Ed Zucal, Ce-Ce Gerlach, and

Natalie Santos

Enactment No: 15859

15-5402

Bill 80

An Ordinance of the City of Allentown, County of Lehigh and

Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, establishing and adopting the Stormwater

Fund Budget for 2023 and amending Article 393.15 – Stormwater Utility

Fee by maintaining the Stormwater Utility Fee at Twenty ($20) Dollars per

Five Hundred (500) square feet of impervious surface.

Administration

Sponsors:

Attachments: Bill 80 2023 STORMWATER FUND AND FEE

Ms. Cynthia Mota asked if there were any comments from the dais, the

administration or the public.

6 -

Yes:

Candida Affa, Cynthia Mota, Daryl Hendricks, Ed Zucal, Ce-Ce Gerlach, and

Natalie Santos

Enactment No: 15860

15-5403

Bill 81

An Ordinance of the City of Allentown, County of Lehigh, and

Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, establishing and adopting the Rental Unit

Licensing Fund Budget for 2023 and amending Article 1759 – Landlord

and Rental Fee by maintaining the Residential Rental Fees.

Administration

Sponsors:

Attachments: Bill 81 2023 RENTAL UNIT FUND

Ms. Cynthia Mota asked if there were any comments from the dais, the

administration or the public.

6 -

Yes:

Candida Affa, Cynthia Mota, Daryl Hendricks, Ed Zucal, Ce-Ce Gerlach, and

Natalie Santos

Enactment No: 15861

15-5404

Bill 82

An Ordinance of the City of Allentown, County of Lehigh, and

Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, adopting the American Rescue Plan Fund

Budget for 2023.

Administration

Sponsors:

Attachments: Bill 82 2023 ARPA FUND

Ms. Cynthia Mota asked if there were any comments from the dais.

Ms. Ce Ce Gerlach asked for clarification and asked if this includes the

Metal Works item.

Mr. Michael Hanlon stated correct.

Ms. Ce Ce Gerlach stated that as she did disclose, she did meet with Mr.

Marcon and Mr. Unger. A couple of them on Council had conversations

and she had expressed in more detail her hesitancy concerning the Metal

Works Project. Not because and it is not because the city does not need

jobs. Obviously, we need jobs in Allentown, manufacturing jobs. The

hesitancy came from and still comes from will these jobs actually go to

Allentown residents. She stated that they know that union jobs are

awesome. We know that they pay about $37 bucks an hour which is great.

We also know that in order to get into the union, you have to take an

academic test and take algebra level tests. Unfortunately, due to lack of

opportunity some folks in Allentown can't always pass those tests. We also

know that unions themselves have admitted that they need to diversify and

better reflect the changing demographics of America yet alone the Lehigh

Valley. Because of that and because of we don't exactly have data in terms

of the surrounding neighborhood of the Metal Works. Either from the

southside or the top of the hill in the third ward and 13-1, near the library.

That would be the surrounding neighborhoods. She stated that she does

not think it is wise yet in 2023. Once the developer and Unger and the

Carpenter's Union are able to really put together a plan as to how they will

possibly start a pre-apprentice program to get out residents ready to enter

the Apprentice Program. To say this will automatically benefit Allentown

residents when we don't really know how many Allentown residents are

currently in the Carpenter's Union. She stated that is her hesitancy. She

would like to give them some time. When she met with Mr. Marcon and

Unger they were receptive to that. Obviously, they disagreed on how she

voted. She would like to give them time. She lives up the WPA steps. She

stated that she is in that neighborhood, not that she is going to work at a

manufacturing company, but people in her neighborhood can. People on

the southside can. She wants them to have an opportunity to do so. She

wants to give the unions and Marcon and Unger time to kind of flush this out

a little bit more.

Ms. Cynthia Mota asked if there were any questions or comments from the

dais, the public, or the administration.

Mr. Daryl Hendricks stated that he understands Ms. Gerlach's hesitation

here but will also state that they need to consider the financial impact that

this will have on this city. We are talking about manufacturing jobs which

are not easy to retain, let alone start anew here in this location. The tax

benefits to this city will be numerous. In fact, the carpenters' union is based

on Vultee Street. That is where they are headquartered. To criticize

something because you don't know what level of education. Hopefully, we

get those educated people in those positions. You can't have people that

are not trained properly to work in these manufacturing plants. The benefits

far outweigh the need to hesitate on this. This is an important new

business that will be coming to the city of Allentown with upwards of

perhaps 125 jobs. Nobody can say how many will be Allentown residents,

but he tends to believe a large portion will be. He asked his colleagues do

not hesitate and let's vote on this tonight.

Ms. Cynthia Mota stated that she thought it was a blighted property that

they are planning to.

Mayor Matt Tuerk stated that it is. He would state that and argue that the

current condition of the property is blight. This is the property that

overlooks Fountain Park along Martin Luther King Boulevard. Allentown

Economic Development Corporation has begun selected demolition,

supported by federal government grants and state government grants to

secure the site and prevent the public danger that the site presented.

Ms. Cynthia Mota stated that is great to know. In other words, it is being

demolished and they are going to build something beautiful.

Mayor Matt Tuerk stated that they will preserve the greenest version of

rehabilitation is to preserve the existing structure. Many of you have had an

opportunity to speak to Scott Unger. He stated that he should disclose that

he worked for the Allentown Economic Development Corporation in his

past and he asked Scott made it their mission to preserve Urban

Manufacturing on the idea that Urban Manufacturing and making things in

cities creates job opportunities for our city residents. Job opportunities for

our city residents in their backyards. Job opportunities that they can walk

to. Obviously, more environmentally sustainable to planning a

neighborhood. They will preserve components of this building. They will

preserve the manufacturing heritage of the site. Preserve the

manufacturing heritage of that corridor as detailed in the 2014

Reindustrialization Study that the city of Allentown commissioned and

adopted. He can say a lot more about the project, but does not want to

jump in front of Council.

Mr. Daryl Hendricks stated that it is also one of the only and largest

manufacturing plants because of the height to allow cranes that will be

needed to build these wall systems that makes it extremely attractive to the

type of construction that will be going on there.

Ms. Candida Affa echoed Mr. Hendricks comments because it is so true.

Many of us campaigned on wanting to bring manufacturing here to the city

and this is a great opportunity. No matter what manufacturing company

comes in, there are going to be rules, regulations, apprenticeship, and

unions. This isn't something that is unique. We can't tie the hands of

developers that come in here and manufacture a businessperson and tie

them to just Allentonians. First of all, it is illegal. If you are from Bethlehem,

you can't get the job if you are not from Allentown. She expressed that it is

something the city needs in this city. We need more manufacturing, more

jobs, and she is for one thankful that they are going to come and take this

blighted property for the last 10 years and double this is what he is coming

here for is to double his manufacturing company. There will be jobs. She

is hoping that her colleagues understand that and vote for more

manufacturing in this city.

Mr. Ed Zucal stated that the concern he has are a couple of things. We are

using ARPA money to give to an individual to make a profit. The second

things that is his concern is that he sees absolutely no difference at all

between this and the IronPigs. He is a business and coming to Council for

ARPA funds. He stated that he just does not see the difference.

Ms. Ce Ce Gerlach asked what is that million being used for.

Mayor Matt Tuerk stated that he believes that the Allentown Economic

Development Corporation gave a presentation that detailed the capital

stack. He stated that he thinks that the million and he is not positive. He

believes it is a $35 million total project which will be one of the largest

construction projects in the city of Allentown certainly since the arena. It

goes into the total project and aligns leverages additional investment from

federal money, etc. It is a part of the total rehabilitation. They acquired the

property already some time ago so there is nothing that goes into the

acquisition of the property. The selective demolition has already begun,

and he believes it is funding. He thinks it is rehabilitation of the existing

building. He can't speak beyond that.

Ms. Ce Ce Gerlach thanked Mayor Tuerk and stated that. She stated that

they did get emails. She does not think they ever publicly presented

anything, but she is just saying let's vote on this in January so that the union

can since there will be good union jobs and the union can figure out a way

to set up some type of pre-apprentice program so that our Allentown

residents will have a shot at these jobs. Right now, Building I, the smaller

building is already being worked on. Drive by, are they from Allentown?

She does not know. The people that are working there. The people that

who currently work for the company. How many folks are from Allentown?

How many people of color? She stated that she has a lot of questions and

it is not like she doesn't want to vote for jobs because the way it gets

painted is oh, you are voting against jobs in Allentown. She stated no, she

wants to vote for jobs in Allentown, but wants to know that at least a certain

percentage which she knows that not all jobs will go to Allentown residents,

but a certain percentage that they will even have the opportunity to qualify

because again, you can't get in the apprentice program if you can't pass

the test. If you have not had the opportunity to have a robust education, you

won't pass the test. When she spoke to folks years ago at IBEW they were

having that same issue with getting kids and people in Allentown able to

enter the apprentice program because the challenge of passing the

academic tests. It is not a matter of saying no, never. It is just a matter of

making sure that our Allentown folks have an opportunity to get into the

union so they can get the jobs at this facility. Keep in mind, 80 percent of

the jobs in Allentown are filled by non-Allentown residents. We got ADP,

and all these companies that have came in and our Allentown residents

don't yet always have the skills that and requirements to fill those jobs.

They are there. We see the people drive in and they drive out and the

money does not circle into the community because they leave Allentown

and they go out to the burbs to spend their money. She stated that she

wants Allentown residents to have an opportunity to get these jobs and

circle their money within Allentown.

Ms. Cynthia Mota stated to Ms. Gerlach that she shares the same

sentiment, but the reality is that this is a great opportunity.

Ms. Ce Ce Gerlach stated that which they can vote on it in January.

Ms. Daryl Hendricks stated that if he can also say that it is not only about

jobs. We have to look at the whole picture. It is about restoring a building

that has been vacant. Was a former waste site and it is about taxation and

taxes coming to the city. There is so much more than the jobs itself.

Needless to say, that is a very important part of it and that are answers that

they won't get until they start soliciting jobs and soliciting for those jobs.

Ms. Candida Affa stated that the bottom-line here is that they are giving

Allentonians and other people from the Lehigh Valley the opportunity. That

is the key word. If you can't apply for this and you not qualified to apply for

this, go get more education or whatever, but they are giving you the

opportunity. You can't hire someone that isn't capable of doing the job.

The key word here is that this company is giving them the opportunity for

the people to do it. If you don't qualify, then you have to take the next step

yourself to be qualified to do this. She stated that she wanted to make that

clear. It is the opportunity that they are giving them. If you can't do the job,

well you can't do the job, but they are giving you the opportunity to do that.

Ms. Cynthia Mota thanked Ms. Affa and stated let's move on. She asked if

there were any comments from the administration.

Mayor Matt Tuerk stated that this is an opportunity for manufacturing

returning to the city of Allentown. It creates real opportunity as Ms. Affa

mentioned. It is and as they start moving towards greener economy, the

products manufactured by Mr. Marcon's company gives us a foot in the

door and creates real opportunity for us to continue to transform this city's

economy as part of the regional economy.

Ms. Cynthia Mota thanked Mayor Tuerk and asked if there are any

comments from the public.

Mr. Michael Hanlon stated on the vote just to recap on November 30th,

Council passed a Budget Memo, Budget Memo #6 and put $1 million into

the budget. Ms. Gerlach's motion to take that $1 million out of the ARPA

funding. A yes vote means it comes out.

A motion was made by Ce-Ce Gerlach, seconded by Ed Zucal, that would remove

out of Bill 82 the allocation towards the Metal Works.

3 - Ed Zucal, Ce-Ce Gerlach, and Natalie Santos

3 - Candida Affa, Cynthia Mota, and Daryl Hendricks

Yes:

No:

Enactment No: 15862

4 - Candida Affa, Cynthia Mota, Daryl Hendricks, and Natalie Santos

Yes:

No:

2 - Ed Zucal, and Ce-Ce Gerlach

Enactment No: 15862

15-5405

Bill 83

An Ordinance of the City of Allentown, County of Lehigh, and

Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, establishing the General Fund,

Administrative Order Fund, Risk Management Fund, Debt Service Fund,

Equipment Fund, Golf Fund and Hamilton Street Dam Maintenance Fund

Budgets for 2023.

Administration

Sponsors:

Attachments: Bill 83 2023 BUDGET AND TAX RATE

Ms. Cynthia Mota asked if there were any comments from the dais or the

administration.

Mayor Matt Tuerk stated that this is the General Fund Budget and they

obviously made some changes those many hours ago. They made some

concession here and appreciates the work that Council has done to deliver

a budget that the administration could certainly work with. He stated that

they appreciate the work that you have done to protect the financial interest

of the city and to protect the operational interest of the city. He thanked

Council for being excellent working partners on this and looks forward to

doing this again next year.

Ms. Cynthia Mota thanked Mayor Tuerk and asked if there were comments

from the public.

6 -

Yes:

Candida Affa, Cynthia Mota, Daryl Hendricks, Ed Zucal, Ce-Ce Gerlach, and

Natalie Santos

Enactment No: 15863

CONSENT AGENDA: Items are voted on as a group unless Council would like to

remove the item. Public Comment will be taken prior to the vote.

Ms. Cynthia Mota asked if anyone has any issues with these Resolutions

and wants to take it off the Consent Agenda. She asked if there were any

comments from the dais or the public.

6 -

Yes:

Candida Affa, Cynthia Mota, Daryl Hendricks, Ed Zucal, Ce-Ce Gerlach, and

Natalie Santos

15-5460

R174

Mark Hartney, Nuisance Abatement Board of Appeals, 4/19/2025

Attachments:

R174 Appointment Mark Hartney - Nuisance Abatement Board of

Appeals

Mark Hartney, Nuisance Abatement Board of Appeals, 4-19-2025

Resolution #30534

Enactment No: 30534

15-5461

R175

Garry Ritter - Noise Control Hearing Board, 1/1/2024

Attachments: R175 Appointment Garry Ritter - Noise Control Hearing Board

Garry Ritter, Noise Control Hearing Board, 1-1-2024

Resolution #30535

Enactment No: 30535

15-5462

R176

Vicky Kistler, Disruptive Conduct Board of Appeals, 6-1-2024

Attachments:

R176 Appointment Vicky Kistler - Disruptive Conduct Board of

Appeals

Vicky Kistler, Disruptive Conduct Board of Appeals, 6-1-2024

Resolution #30536

Enactment No: 30536

15-5463

R177

Mark Shahda, Disruptive Conduct Board of Appeals, 6-1-2024

Attachments:

R177 Appointment Mark Shahda - Disruptive Conduct Board of

Appeals

Mark Shahda, Disruptive Conduct Board of Appeals, 6-1-2024

Resolution #30537

Enactment No: 30548

RESOLUTIONS FOR FINAL PASSAGE (To be Voted On):

15-5483

R189

Approves four transfers: (1) $100,000 in Technical Services to Purchase

new Street Cameras as the Current Ones are Aging past Their Useful Life;

(2) $27,163.85 in Trexler for $6,200 Needed to Assist with the Costs of

Stone and Masonry Work Done on the Southern Bridge in Trexler Park,

$17,340.41 is required to Pay for New Trash Cans to be Deployed

Throughout the Park System; and $3,623 Needed to Pay an Outside

Contractor to Pour and Create Concrete Pads for Memorial Benches; (3)

$10,000 in Special Events Required to Pay for Advertising for Special

Events Run by City Staff; (4) $6,327.54 in Trexler Needed to Complete

Stone and Masonry Work on the Southern Most Bridge in Trexler Park.

Attachments: R189 Transfer Funds

To Pay for Advertising for Special Events Run by City Staff

Purchase New Street Cameras As the Current Ones are Aging and

Past Their Useful Life

$6,200 Is Needed to Assist With the Costs of Stone and Masonry

Work Done on the Southern Bridge in Trexler Park

Funds Are Needed To Complete Stone and Masonry Work on the

Southern Most Bridge in Trexler Park

Resolution #30549

Ms. Cynthia Mota asked if there were any comments from the

administration, the dais, or the public.

6 -

Yes:

Candida Affa, Cynthia Mota, Daryl Hendricks, Ed Zucal, Ce-Ce Gerlach, and

Natalie Santos

Enactment No: 30549

15-5491

R190

Authorizes the submission of COVID-19 ARPA H2O PA Water Supply,

Sanitary Sewer, and Storm Water Projects grant.

Attachments: R190 - H20 Grant

Resolution #30550

Ms. Cynthia Mota asked if there were any comments from the

administration, the dais, or the public.

6 -

Yes:

Candida Affa, Cynthia Mota, Daryl Hendricks, Ed Zucal, Ce-Ce Gerlach, and

Natalie Santos

Enactment No: 30550

15-5492

R191

Approves the submission of the formal application for the Pennsylvania

Department of Transportation Multimodal Grant Fun requesting a grant of

One Million Two Hundred Seventy Thousand Nine Hundred and Forty

Dollars ($1,270,940.00) to support installation and replacement of all

existing school flashers with latest technology, monitoring system, and the

installation of speed radar board underneath the school flasher.

Attachments: R191 - School Zone Flashers Upgrades

Resolution #30551

Ms. Cynthia Mota asked if there were any comments from the

administration.

Mayor Matt Tuerk stated that this is a public comment if PennDOT is

listening. This would update flashers at all our schools' crossings for

intersections. it is critically needed and grateful for the support of Council

and making this application to PennDOT. If there is anything you can say to

PennDOT to help us get this grant, it would be much appreciated.

Ms. Cynthia Mota asked if there were any comments from the dais, or the

public.

6 -

Yes:

Candida Affa, Cynthia Mota, Daryl Hendricks, Ed Zucal, Ce-Ce Gerlach, and

Natalie Santos

Enactment No: 30551

ORDINANCES FOR INTRODUCTION (To be referred to Committee with public

comment prior to referral)

15-5500

Bill 91

Amending Part II: General Legislation/Fees Article VIII Parks and

Recreation Fees § 270-58 Golf Course Fees, Chapter 270 Fees, by

revising and establishing new fees for the Allentown Municipal Golf Course.

Administration

Sponsors:

Attachments: Bill 91 2023 Golf Course Fee Increase Ordinance

Ms. Cynthia Mota asked if there were any comments from the

administration, the dais, or the public.

REFERRED TO PARKS AND RECREATION COMMITTEE

15-5493

Bill 92

Amending the 2022 Capital Fund Budget to provide for a transfer of Three

Hundred Forty-Four Thousand Six Hundred and Forty ($344,640.00)

Dollars from numerous Capital Accounts to a newly created Capital

Account to cover matching funds needed for the Green-Light-Go grant to

install a traffic adaptive system along American Parkway/Basin Street from

Susquehanna Street to Airport Road.

Administration

Sponsors:

Attachments: Bill 92 American Parkway Traffic Signal Improvements

Ms. Cynthia Mota asked if there were any comments from the

administration, the dais, or the public.

REFERRED TO PUBLIC WORKS COMMITTEE

15-5494

Bill 93

Amending the 2022 Capital Fund Budget to provide for an increase to the

unappropriated balance of the Capital Fund in the amount of One Hundred

Twenty-Nine Thousand Five Hundred and Ninety Six ($129,596.00) Dollars

to fund the integration of an EOC into the training facility by providing

state-of-the-art equipment which will ensure interoperability among all EOC

users.

Administration

Sponsors:

Attachments: Bill 93 - EOCP Grant

Ms. Cynthia Mota asked if there were any comments from the

administration, the dais, or the public.

REFERRED TO PUBLIC SAFETY COMMITTEE

15-5495

Bill 94

Amending the 2022 Capital Fund Budget to provide for a transfer of One

Hundred Ten Thousand ($110,000.00) Dollars from Capital Account Traffic

Signals-Upgrade Various (1225) to a newly created Capital Account for the

match money needed to install the traffic adaptive system on Hanover

Avenue from Albert Street to Wahneta Street.

Administration

Sponsors:

Attachments: Bill 94 - Hanover Ave Traffic Signal Improvements

Ms. Cynthia Mota asked if there were any comments from the

administration, the dais, or the public.

REFERRED TO PUBLIC WORKS COMMITTEE

15-5496

Bill 95

Amending the 2022 Capital Fund Budget to provide for an increase of Six

Hundred Fifty Thousand ($650,000) Dollars to the new Capital Project

“Mack Blvd Lighting Upgrade”. These funds have been awarded as a

MTF-DCED reimbursable grant to replace the old street lights on Mack

Blvd. from Emmaus Ave. to Rail Road underpass with a new LED lights,

new poles, foundation and wiring.

Administration

Sponsors:

Attachments: Bill 95 - Mack Blvd Lighting

Ms. Cynthia Mota asked if there were any comments from the

administration, the dais, or the public.

REFERRED TO PUBLIC WORKS COMMITTEE

15-5497

Bill 96

Amending the 2022 Capital Fund Budget to provide for a transfer of Fifty

Thousand ($50,000.00) Dollars from Jordan Creek Greenway Trail Capital

Project into the Parks Master Plan Capital Project to use for a grant match

for the comprehensive plan.

Administration

Sponsors:

Attachments: Bill 96 Parks Master Plan Grant Match

Ms. Cynthia Mota asked if there were any comments from the

administration, the dais, or the public.

REFERRED TO PARKS AND RECREATION COMMITTEE

15-5498

Bill 97

Amending the 2022 Capital Fund Budget to provide for a transfer of

Forty-Nine Thousand Seven Hundred Fifty Dollars ($49,750.00) from

Capital Account (1803) Bridge Repairs to Capital Account (1912) Traffic

Signal Modernization to cover the remaining amount needed for the match

funds of the MTF-PennDOT grant, which will be used to install traffic

adaptive system on 15th Street from Tilghman Street to Highland Street.

This grant will also cover installing a new school flasher at Trexler Middle

School.

Administration

Sponsors:

Attachments: Bill 97 Transfer to Capital 1912 for 15th Street Grant

Ms. Cynthia Mota asked if there were any comments from the

administration, the dais, or the public.

REFERRED TO PUBLIC WORKS COMMITTEE

RESOLUTIONS FOR INTRODUCTION (Can be voted on or Referred to Committee):

15-5506

R192

Authorizes lease agreement with Roger MacLean for the residential

property located at 145 Springhouse Road, Allentown, PA 18104

Administration

Sponsors:

Attachments: R192 Springhouse RM lease 11.28.22

City Owned Rental Properties 12.9.22

Ms. Cynthia Mota asked if there were any comments from the

administration, the dais, or the public.

REFERRED TO BUDGET AND FINANCE COMMITTEE

15-5507

R193

Authorizes lease agreement with Lehigh University for the boathouse and

boat ramp at Bucky Boyle Park, located at Chew and Front Street,