435 Hamilton Street  
Allentown, Pa. 18101  
Allentown  
Minutes - Final  
City Council  
Wednesday, February 1, 2023  
6:30 PM  
Council Chambers  
Invocation:  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks asked that everybody keep in mind, the city lost two  
employees this past week in the city of Allentown. He stated that a former  
retired Inspector, Thomas Schray had approximately 20 years with the city  
as an Electrical Inspector and from the Police Department, former EMT  
and Para Police William Mentesana, who was approaching 49 years of  
service. He asked that everyone please, keep them in their thoughts.  
Pledge to the Flag  
Roll Call  
7 -  
Present:  
Candida Affa, Cynthia Mota, Daryl Hendricks, Ed Zucal, Ce-Ce Gerlach, Natalie  
Santos, and Santo Napoli  
Courtesy of the Floor  
Courtesy and Privilege of the Floor Rules  
Ms. Dawn Godshall, Community Action Development in Allentown - 523 N.  
Seventh Street, asked that as the city finalizes the final distribution for the  
remaining ARPA funds that they continue to see a youth center in  
Allentown. She asked for a financial commitment from the city.  
Ms. Betty Cauler, talked about oversight for the Allentown Parking Authority  
and talked about Officer 506. She stated that she retained a lawyer and  
will pursue legal action against the APA and the city of Allentown. She  
asked for the removal of Mr. Hendricks from the Parking Authority Board.  
She asked for an apology from Ms. Affa for the rude and condescending  
remarks she made.  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks read a statement regarding the Allentown Parking  
Authority having a quarterly evening meeting that will start in the near future.  
Ms. Milagros Canales, 932 N. Law Street, talked about the value system.  
She talked about community and playground shootings shaking the public  
to its core. She stated that city needs all hands on deck.  
Ms. Jessica Lee Ortiz, 523 Tilghman Street, stated she started a Call to  
Action to sign Petitions for a Special Meeting according to the Charter.  
She stated that she does not want to be a part of the club where her kids  
are in the ground. She stated that the city is not safe.  
Mr. Eddie Aviles, 209 N. Fourth Street, stated that he is here to talk about  
how to help businesses stay open and stay safe. He stated that the city  
has not cooperated with the clubs and deemed them undesirable. He  
asked the city to make the police available to make their presence felt. He  
stated that he wishes and prays that Ms. Gerlach will resign.  
Mr. Lance Lopsey, 779 E. Washington Street, stated that he is here as a  
father, a husband, and an Allentown resident for over 37 years. What he is  
seeing in Allentown is Pay to Play going to the Dominican Republic,  
signing the city up as a Sister City, giving certain people special rights and  
special amounts of money to stop gun violence. He stated that we need to  
stop all the violence. He stated that we have a mayor who is disappearing  
with a board member to make deals. We have a person on this board that  
dropped a teenager off to a tent city. We are giving all this money and  
there are no resolutions at all.  
Ms. Jeani Garcia, 208 S. 13th Street, stated that she is a mother with a  
dead son in this city and would never come before Council and represent  
herself like that. She talked about the businesses, the community and the  
violence in the city. Crime is down by five percent in the city. Promise  
Neighborhoods canvasses the streets and the schools for prevention and  
response.  
Mr. Pas Simpson, 215 N. Ninth Street, stated that this was a little  
disappointing. At the end of the day our leaders do not know how to lead.  
You can't end gun violence if you can't sit down and be quiet. It is about  
violence prevention.  
Mr. Dave Derosa, 1216 W Turner Street, stated that he is a high school  
student. This city requires passion instead of pointing fingers. If we teach  
our students that is how it works, that is not something to be taught.  
Mr. Tim Ramos, 1408 Linden Street, stated that David took the words right  
out of his mouth. The problem is there are a lot of personal gripes and  
grudges. We seem to not be able to put any of that to the side to get the  
job done. The people that have lived here for generations can no longer  
able to afford to rent rooms in this city.  
Mr. Sean Forkid, (sp) 219 1/2 E. South Street, stated that he was invited  
here to speak. He stated that he owns a lounge. It is crazy when he hears  
people state to work together and then he sees this nonsense. He opens  
his lounge for everyone to have a good time. He stated that certain people  
owe him an apology because they were wrong with the actions that they  
stated. He hopes that they can find a solution.  
15-5628  
Betty Cauler - Courtesy of the Floor (February 1, 2023)  
Attachments: Betty Cauler - Courtesy of the Floor (February 1, 2023)  
Proclamations for the Trench Rescue  
15-5643  
A motion was made by Candida Affa, seconded by Ed Zucal, that this Ordinance  
be Suspend The Rules. The motion carried by the following vote:  
7 -  
Yes:  
Candida Affa, Cynthia Mota, Daryl Hendricks, Ed Zucal, Ce-Ce Gerlach, Natalie  
Santos, and Santo Napoli  
Contract Approvals  
15-5605  
R30  
Authorization for a change order with ABE Doors Inc in the amount of  
$35,000 for time and materials contract for on-call, on-site Overhead Door  
replacement, repair, inspection and maintenance, at various City owned  
and/or operated facilities. The resulting agreement shall include all labor,  
equipment, licensing, materials, tools, travel and all other items necessary  
to complete orders on an “as needed” basis. Services will include but not  
limited to emergency repairs, preventative maintenance, general repairs,  
and repairs to springs and tracks, as well as door replacements when  
necessary.  
On September 29, 2022, both parties mutually agreed and entered into an  
agreement that the contractor will provide a time and materials contract for  
on-call, on-site Overhead Door replacement, repair, inspection, and  
maintenance, at various City owned and/or operated facilities. The  
resulting agreement shall include all labor, equipment, licensing, materials,  
tools, travel, and all other items necessary to complete orders on an "as  
needed" basis. Services will include but not limited to emergency repairs,  
preventative maintenance, general repairs, and repairs to springs and  
tracks, as well as door replacements when necessary. At this time, the  
department is requesting an increase in the amount of $35,000 for A B E  
Doors and Windows, Inc as there was an increase in services needed to  
maintain the overhead doors on City properties. Since September, the City  
has paid out $33,420.00 of the $50,000.00 from the original contract.  
Administration  
Sponsors:  
Attachments: R30 Change Order  
Resolution #30582  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks asked if there were any questions, comments or  
concerns from Council.  
Mr. Ed Zucal asked if the city a couple of months ago do an RFP for  
additional money for them through a Change Order.  
Ms. Sarrah McNeill stated that the RFP was submitted for $50,000. The  
city has to do a little bit more repairs than they were expecting. To date,  
they paid $33,000.  
Mr. Ed Zucal stated that it seems like they are always coming to Council for  
these repairs.  
Mr. Mark Shahda stated that he understands their concerns for additional  
funding that is being requested. The city has 79 total garage doors that  
they are responsible to maintenance throughout the city. There is hardware  
that has aged and requires a lot of maintenance.  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks thanked Mr. Shahda and Mr. Zucal.  
Ms. Ce Ce Gerlach asked for this contract and the remaining contracts are  
any minority or women businesses.  
Ms. Sarrah McNeill stated that she was going to address it with the next  
contract coming up.  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks asked if there were any questions or comments,  
questions or concerns from the public.  
7 -  
Yes:  
Candida Affa, Cynthia Mota, Daryl Hendricks, Ed Zucal, Ce-Ce Gerlach, Natalie  
Santos, and Santo Napoli  
Enactment No: 30582  
15-5607  
R31  
Authorization for Contract with FIA NYC, Inc., to provide recruitment  
services in the amount of 25% of the gross annual salary of each employee  
placed per contract year.  
The City advertised the solicitation on December 7, 2022, seeking a  
qualified firm to provide recruitment services, preferably a firm that is  
experienced in placing diverse underrepresented talent, in order to  
expedite the hiring process for City vacancies. On December 21, 2022 a  
public opening was held for which the City received five (5) proposals. The  
technical evaluation was held on January 4, 2023, 1:00 PM. All committee  
members were present. The Proposals were scored based on the RFP  
requirements, IBE Preference (10 Points), Ability to Meet RFP  
Requirements (25 Points), Specialize in Diversity (25 Points), Recruitment  
Methodology (25 Points). Cost proposals were opened on January 4,  
2023. Proposals were distributed to all committee members via Teams for  
evaluation after the completion of the technical evaluation. The cost  
evaluation committee meeting occurred on January 6, 2023, 10:00 AM. All  
committee members were present. The committee members discussed  
the cost proposals. The evaluation committee has decided to not hold oral  
interviews for this project. They have decided based on the Technical and  
Cost Proposal scores.  
The Contract term shall commence upon full execution and shall cease one  
(1) year thereafter. Upon written agreement, this contract may be extended  
for up to an additional four (4), one (1) year renewals beyond the contract  
expiration period.  
Administration  
Sponsors:  
Attachments: R31 FIA NYC, LLC  
Resolution #30583  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks asked if there were any questions, comments or  
concerns from his colleagues.  
Mr. Ed Zucal asked if this will be for every employee that they do a  
background on or a specific department.  
Mayor Matt Tuerk stated that he will be able to use this contract to hire for a  
specific position. The one position that remains open is for the Director of  
Human Resources. They are asking for assistance from FIA NYC for  
recruitment.  
Mr. Ed Zucal stated that was going to be his follow up question. With all the  
experience that we have in the city, he finds it impossible that they can't  
come up with a committee with different people to do a background.  
Mayor Matt Tuerk stated that this is not just for background.  
Mr. Ed Zucal stated that the city should be able to come up with a  
committee of different department heads with Deputy Directors as a team.  
Mayor Matt Tuerk stated that the administration needs additional help. The  
administration needs outside help in this case. The specific position for  
HR Director was posted in August of this year. They had 21 applicants and  
none of which met the qualifications.  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks asked if there were any other questions, comments or  
concerns from his colleagues or the public.  
7 -  
Yes:  
Candida Affa, Cynthia Mota, Daryl Hendricks, Ed Zucal, Ce-Ce Gerlach, Natalie  
Santos, and Santo Napoli  
Enactment No: 30583  
15-5608  
R32  
Authorization for a contract with Ross Body & Framework, Inc. dba A-1  
Towing Service to provide towing, storage and impounding services to the  
City of Allentown.  
On December 9, 2022, the City advertised a solicitation Towing Services,  
the intention of this Invitation to Bid is to secure vendors to provide towing,  
storage and impounding services to the City of Allentown, 24 hours a day,  
365 days a year. The City shall at all times receive priority service. Work  
under this project shall include locked, fence-enclosed lighted compound  
area, preferably attended for security purposes. The Contract term shall  
commence upon full execution of said Contract and shall cease December  
31, 2024, with an option to renew for one (1) additional year. Upon written  
notification, this contract can be extended for up to an additional three (3)  
months beyond the contract expiration period. On January 5, 2023, there  
was a public opening held, one (1) bid was received. Upon review of the  
bid it was determined that Ross Body & Frame Works was the only bid and  
therefore at this time the City is recommending award to Ross Body &  
Frame Works.  
General Fund for City Vehicles: Budget of $4,000.00 – Contractor tows  
City vehicles at one-half the rates established in the bid  
Towing Services for the Year 2023: $303,600.00  
Towing Services for the Year 2024: $318,780.00  
Total Revenue for 2023-2024 Towing Services: $622,380.00  
Administration  
Sponsors:  
Attachments: R32 Ross Body & Frame Work  
Resolution #30584  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks asked if there were any questions, comments or  
concerns from his colleagues.  
Mr. Ed Zucal stated that these amounts that you see is that they are paying  
us, the city to have this contract.  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks asked if there were any other questions, comments or  
concerns from his colleagues or the public.  
7 -  
Yes:  
Candida Affa, Cynthia Mota, Daryl Hendricks, Ed Zucal, Ce-Ce Gerlach, Natalie  
Santos, and Santo Napoli  
Enactment No: 30584  
Minutes of Previous Meeting  
15-5621  
October 26, 2022 City Council - Special Meeting on Finance Department  
Budget Minutes  
Attachments:  
October 26, 2022 City Council - Special Meeting on Finance  
Department Budget Minutes  
7 -  
Yes:  
Candida Affa, Cynthia Mota, Daryl Hendricks, Ed Zucal, Ce-Ce Gerlach, Natalie  
Santos, and Santo Napoli  
15-5604  
November 9, 2022 Special Council Meeting on Public Safety Budget  
Review Minutes  
Attachments:  
November 9, 2022 Special Council Meeting on Public Safety Budget  
Review Minutes  
7 -  
Yes:  
Candida Affa, Cynthia Mota, Daryl Hendricks, Ed Zucal, Ce-Ce Gerlach, Natalie  
Santos, and Santo Napoli  
15-5614  
November 14, 2022 Special Council Meeting - Parks and Recreation,  
Human Resources Budget Review Minutes  
Attachments:  
November 14, 2022 Special Council Meeting - Parks and Recreation,  
Human Resources Budget Review Minutes  
7 -  
Yes:  
Candida Affa, Cynthia Mota, Daryl Hendricks, Ed Zucal, Ce-Ce Gerlach, Natalie  
Santos, and Santo Napoli  
15-5612  
December 19, 2022 Special Meeting on Council's Vacancy Minutes  
Attachments: December 19, 2022 Special Meeting on Council's Vacancy Minutes  
7 -  
Yes:  
Candida Affa, Cynthia Mota, Daryl Hendricks, Ed Zucal, Ce-Ce Gerlach, Natalie  
Santos, and Santo Napoli  
15-5615  
January 4, 2023 Public Works Committee Meeting Minutes  
Attachments: January 4, 2023 Public Works Committee Meeting Minutes  
7 -  
Yes:  
Candida Affa, Cynthia Mota, Daryl Hendricks, Ed Zucal, Ce-Ce Gerlach, Natalie  
Santos, and Santo Napoli  
15-5603  
January 4, 2023 Special Meeting on Council Vacancy Minutes  
Attachments: January 4, 2023 Special Meeting on Council Vacancy Minutes  
7 -  
Yes:  
Candida Affa, Cynthia Mota, Daryl Hendricks, Ed Zucal, Ce-Ce Gerlach, Natalie  
Santos, and Santo Napoli  
15-5597  
January 4, 2023 City Council Meeting Minutes  
Attachments: January 4, 2023 City Council Meeting Minutes  
7 -  
Yes:  
Candida Affa, Cynthia Mota, Daryl Hendricks, Ed Zucal, Ce-Ce Gerlach, Natalie  
Santos, and Santo Napoli  
15-5594  
January 18, 2023 City Council Meeting Minutes  
Attachments: January 18, 2023 City Council Meeting Minutes  
7 -  
Yes:  
Candida Affa, Cynthia Mota, Daryl Hendricks, Ed Zucal, Ce-Ce Gerlach, Natalie  
Santos, and Santo Napoli  
Communications  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks stated that as a result with the Allentown Parking  
Authority, they will be having quarterly evening meetings that will start in the  
near future at a time and location to meet the public demand. These  
meetings will be held in the evening hours to accommodate the public who  
otherwise might not be able to attend.  
Old Business: NONE  
APA Meeting Note: President Hendricks  
As a result of discussions with the Allentown Parking Authority, they will be having  
quarterly evening meetings that will start in the near future at a time and location to  
meet the public demand.  
REPORTS  
Budget and Finance: Chair Napoli, Hendricks, Gerlach The Committee met this  
evening; the next meeting is scheduled for February 22 – we are scheduled to have  
our previous auditors review the CAFR. (Council is responsible for conducting an  
annual audit per the City Charter, typically it is completed in June. This is late  
because financial statements relating to the PMRS pension system were not  
completed.) (Just a note: Councilperson Zucal has also requested the committee  
solicit areas of concern to be addressed in a ‘forensic’ audit, per a resolution  
introduced last year Mr. Zucal suggested the following items as areas of concern:  
ARPA funding, overtime, sick time, out of class pay, etc.)  
Community and Economic Development: Chair Mota, Napoli, Affa The committee met  
this evening; the next meeting is scheduled for February 8th at 6 PM on issues the  
committee would like to see addressed and priorities the Community and  
Development Department has.  
Human Resources, Administration and Appointments: Chair Santos, Zucal, Napoli  
The Committee has not met since the last council meeting; there are no future  
meetings scheduled at this time.  
Parks and Recreation: Chair Gerlach, Affa, Mota The Committee has not met since  
the last council meeting; there are no future meetings scheduled at this time  
Public Safety: Chair Affa, Hendricks, Zucal The Committee has not met since the last  
council meeting; the next meeting is scheduled for February 15th, time to be  
determined.  
Public Works: Chair Zucal, Santos, Hendricks The Committee has not met since the  
last council meeting; a future meeting has not yet been scheduled.  
Rules, Chambers, Intergovernmental Relations, and Strategy: Chair Hendricks, Mota,  
Gerlach The Committee met this evening; a future meeting is scheduled for February  
8th at 6:45 PM to review two items being referred to the Committee this evening.  
Controller’s Report (3 minutes)  
Mr. Jeffrey Glazier stated that seven years ago, Council and the public put their faith  
in him and appointed him the City Controller. He stated that he works diligently every  
day to keep earning that trust for Council and the public.  
Mr. Ed Zucal stated that the garage was using P-Cards to purchase stuff and the city  
transferred $750,000 over. When will it take place that they are allowed to have  
accounts.  
Mr. Jeffrey Glazier stated that Ms. Patel be able to address this better, but the  
P-Cards have limits on them, and they are doing fair volume on the garage. They  
need adequate stock. These purchases will be on the monthly P-Card statements.  
Mayor Matt Tuerk stated that Mr. Glazier is accurate, and Ms. Baraket reminded him  
that they are going out to bid.  
Mayor’s Report (3 minutes)  
Mayor Matt Tuerk thanked Mr. Hendricks and congratulated him on being Council  
President. He thanked the Councilmembers who attended the State of the City  
Address hosted by the Chambers of Commerce. The administration will conduct two  
presentations of the State of the City address at no charge. The revenues are seven  
percent higher than anticipated budget. Expenditures for the city of Allentown were  
six percent lower. The financial condition of the city, the General Fund balance is  
over $32 million and has a good cash position and lead to a good Credit Rating  
Agencies from A minus to A stable. He talked about the accomplishments in 2022.  
Gun violence is too high. There is a vacancy on the Parking Authority. He stated  
that the administration is working with PPL on notifying residents on their bills. The  
City of Allentown received a $312,000 grant under the IIJA and the US Government  
Department of Transportation to plan around street and road safety.  
Ms. Natalie Santos asked about the deadline to apply for the Allentown  
Parking Authority Board.  
Mayor Matt Tuerk stated that it is a rolling deadline with a deadline of  
January 31 to have time to look at it.  
ORDINANCES FOR FINAL PASSAGE (To be Voted On):  
15-5563  
Bill 3  
Amending Part II General Legislation, Taxation, Article IV Payment of  
Property Taxes by updating the language in accordance with the  
Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Act 57  
Administration  
Sponsors:  
Attachments: Bill 3 - Act 57 Tax  
Ordinance #15871  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks asked if there were any questions, comments or  
concerns from his colleagues the public.  
7 -  
Yes:  
Candida Affa, Cynthia Mota, Daryl Hendricks, Ed Zucal, Ce-Ce Gerlach, Natalie  
Santos, and Santo Napoli  
Enactment No: 15871  
CONSENT AGENDA  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks asked if there were any questions, comments or  
concerns from his colleagues or the public.  
7 -  
Yes:  
Candida Affa, Cynthia Mota, Daryl Hendricks, Ed Zucal, Ce-Ce Gerlach, Natalie  
Santos, and Santo Napoli  
15-5616  
R33  
Sewage Planning Module at 417 North 15th Street Adaptive Reuse  
Attachments:  
R33 417 North 15th Street Adaptive Reuse - Sewage Planning  
Module  
415-417 N 15th Street - Sewage Planning Module  
Resolution #30585  
Enactment No: 30585  
15-5619  
R34  
Daryl Hendricks, Aggregate Pension Board, 01/01/2024  
Attachments: R34 Appointment to Aggregate Pension Board - Daryl Hendricks  
Resolution #30586  
Enactment No: 30586  
15-5620  
R35  
Daryl Hendricks, Police Pension Board, 01/01/2024  
Attachments: R35 Appointment to Police Pension Board - Daryl Hendricks  
Resolution #30587  
Enactment No: 30587  
RESOLUTIONS FOR FINAL PASSAGE (To be Voted On):  
15-5580  
R29  
Denial of a Certificate of Appropriateness – 322 N. 8th Street  
Administration  
Sponsors:  
Attachments: R29 HARB DENIAL - 322 N 8th St  
322 N 8th St Final Review  
Resolution #30588  
Ms. Cynthia Mota stated that it was forwarded favorably, 3 - 0.  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks asked if there were any questions, comments or  
concerns from his colleagues or the public.  
7 -  
Yes:  
Candida Affa, Cynthia Mota, Daryl Hendricks, Ed Zucal, Ce-Ce Gerlach, Natalie  
Santos, and Santo Napoli  
Enactment No: 30588  
15-5595  
R36  
Appoints Mandy Tolino as Director of Parks and Recreation  
Administration  
Sponsors:  
Attachments: R36 Appointment Director of Parks and Recreation Appointment  
Letter Mandy Tolino Dir Parks and Rec  
Mandy Tolino Resume Dir Parks and Rec  
Common administrative procedures. - Heads of departments, offices  
and agencies. - Qualifications. - Prohibitions  
Department of Parks and Recreation  
Heads of departments; duties  
Resolution #30589  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks stated that we have Ms. Tolino here and asked if there  
were any questions, comments or concerns from his colleagues or the  
public.  
Mayor Matt Tuerk stated that one of the things that they are focused on in  
the State of the City is to invest in talent. He stated when they conducted  
searched for individuals to step in these leadership positions. They were  
careful about the approach to make sure they have the right hire. They  
have the ability to raise of their team and bring them to a new level. He  
introduced Ms. Tolino.  
Mr. Ed Zucal asked what is the salary that is proposed for Ms. Tolino.  
Mayor Matt Tuerk stated that the administration is asking Council to  
approve a salary of $111,000 which is step A of Classification of 21A.  
Mr. Ed Zucal stated to Ms. Tolino that they never met. He asked seven  
questions based on her resume: Family's Vineyard? What is the largest  
number of employees you managed? It is a bargaining unit facility which  
involves grievance procedures and employee contracts, what experience  
do you have? 2023 is $6.5 million what is the largest budget you are in  
charge of? He asked if she is familiar with pass through and matching  
grants? If she had experience with Trust Fund, large scale recreation  
programs and the Golf Course? You were on the board and committee on  
that was responsible for a program called the Injustice related to Tree  
Canopy Program and the Monarch Butterfly is an endangered species.  
There is a lot of that in our Park System in the city. He asked what  
experience she had with control of that type of chemical to protect the  
milkweed.  
Ms. Many Tolino stated no, but it is nice to meet you. Similar experience in  
business with 40. She stated that she does not have direct experience.  
She stated that she was in charge of a larger budget than that. When she  
was working for a small business, the operating budget was more than $6  
million. She talked about federal grant for ARC. She talked about a Trust  
in Delaware. The city of Wilmington has a municipal golf course. She is a  
certified arborist.  
Ms. Candida Affa stated that she stated that she looks at resumes, but she  
needs to speak to the candidate or the person. She and Ms. Tolino spent  
several hours and they had a wonderful conversation. Everything Mr. Zucal  
asked her, she already had. She was impressed by the leadership  
qualities and recognized the beauty in our parks. She stated that she  
spoke with Rick Holtzman and he likes you.  
Ms. Cynthia Mota welcomed Ms. Tolino and asked if she gets appointed  
tonight, what would be the first thing she is planning to do. There is a lot of  
things going on in the city. What would be your main emphasis. Do you  
have experience with a diverse community.  
Ms. Many Tolino stated that she would have a listening session, learning  
from the people that have been here a really long time and finding out  
where we are right now. She stated coming up with some immediate  
goals. She stated that the city of Wilmington was a diverse community, and  
her role was working with residents for the tree program.  
Mr. Santo Napoli stated that they did have an opportunity to meet with Ms.  
Tolino, Mr. Hendricks, Ms. Gerlach and it was a great meeting. Ms. Tolino  
brings a wonderful skill set. It is really tough to get the whole package. The  
entrepreneurial side is one of his favorite because they tend to be problem  
solvers. He spoke about recreational activities.  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks asked if there were any questions, comments or  
concerns from the public.  
Pastor Jim Rivera stated that he used to take kids from the inner city and  
the first ward for 29 years and got 79 guns off the streets and never put  
anybody in jail doing it. He took the kids off the streets and took them  
hiking on Sand Island.  
Mr. Pas Simpson stated that he heard a lot of great things from her. What  
is her plan for the people? We are a community that is highly  
impoverished and a lot of the things that were planned in the past did not  
include the people. He loves the trees, but people are here.  
Ms. Mandy Tolino stated that the first thing is to recognizing the barriers  
and if it is financial, it is clear. If it is for another reason, it might take a little  
longer to figure out for the access.  
Mayor Tuerk stated during the State of the City he talked about city hall at  
large and the efforts of the Manager of Civic Engagement to get out and  
engage residents on how to improve city services and collaborations.  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks stated that what they are looking to do is complete  
funding for the Irving Street Pool and that would help the eastside residents.  
Mr. Ed Zucal stated that it is very appropriate to thank Mr. Holtzman for the  
job he has done for stepping in after Ms. El Chaar left. He stated to Ms.  
Tolino that with Mr. Holtzman you have education and experience in the city.  
You have a good second hand to help you.  
Pastor Jim Rivera stated that 20 years ago he went to the Parks  
Department and asked if he could borrow one or two. He stated that they  
took them and took a bunch of kids and went kayaking and canoeing.  
Mr. Tino Babayan stated that he is big on soccer. What is she doing to  
bring soccer in the city?  
Ms. Mandy Tolino stated that she is currently involved in her children's youth  
sports. There is a lot of interest in soccer, and she has a really good base  
knowledge to start the discussion and figure out why we need more soccer.  
If it is a demand in the city, that is the way they should be moving and get  
feedback from the people.  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks asked if there were any other comments.  
Mr. Luis Acevedo, 2106 Baker Drive, welcomed Ms. Tolino. He stated that  
he is a former president from Mountainville Little League Baseball.  
Unfortunately, Little League Baseball took the Charter away from Allentown.  
He asked for a conversation to see if they are able to get it back to  
Allentown.  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks asked if anyone had a comment.  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks congratulated Ms. Tolino and welcomed her to the city  
of Allentown.  
Mayor Matt Tuerk stated that Ms. Tolino's first day will be the 6th. She will  
start very quickly.  
7 -  
Yes:  
Candida Affa, Cynthia Mota, Daryl Hendricks, Ed Zucal, Ce-Ce Gerlach, Natalie  
Santos, and Santo Napoli  
Enactment No: 30589  
15-5618  
R37  
Appointment of the Director of Finance - Bina Patel  
Administration  
Sponsors:  
Attachments: R37 Appointment of Director of Finance  
Bina Patel Resume  
Memo from Mayor Matt Tuerk regarding the Nomination of Bina Patel  
for Finance Director  
Resolution #30590  
Mayor Matt Tuerk stated that he hopes it is much excitement for the  
appointment of Ms. Bina Patel. Obviously, Ms. Patel is stepping up to the  
Finance Director's position after a very short time after the departure of Mr.  
O'Neill. He did a fantastic job in putting a department together in preparing  
his staff to take over after he was gone. Ms. Patel has been the Treasury  
Manager for a couple of years now. She is incredibly well equipped. It  
made the search easy. They did open the search and saw a handful of  
candidates that did not come anywhere close to Ms. Patel. They had a  
slightly longer search for the Chief Information Officer position that the  
administration filled today. That is not an appointment position. They  
made the hire of Gerald Anthony who is another internal candidate to lead  
the IT department.  
Mr. Ed Zucal stated that he has 15 questions for her, but will forego them  
tonight.  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks stated that he did speak to her earlier and she will do  
everything in her power to make sure we don't have a tax increase next  
year.  
Mr. Santo Napoli stated that he only been here for a short amount of time,  
but he gotten to know Ms. Patel and worked with her in the last month or so.  
He finds her to be very qualified and very confident with her position  
leading the Finance Department which is really important for our residents.  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks commended Mayor Tuerk for looking inside for a  
candidate. She has 15 years with the city. It is important to give our  
employees the opportunity to move forward with the city.  
Ms. Candida Affa thanked Ms. Patel for the work she has been doing for  
the city. You are good enough to become Director and you will continue to  
do good work.  
Ms. Cynthia Mota stated that she comes highly recommended and Ms.  
Patel will continue to do a great job.  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks asked if there were any questions, comments, or  
concerns from the public.  
7 -  
Yes:  
Candida Affa, Cynthia Mota, Daryl Hendricks, Ed Zucal, Ce-Ce Gerlach, Natalie  
Santos, and Santo Napoli  
Enactment No: 30590  
15-5591  
R38  
Approves five transfers: $73,590 in Health for a part-time position -  
Community Health Nurse/HIV Navigator; $15,000 in Parks Maintenance  
for Overtime for special events; $12,536.08 - Building Standards and  
Safety for overtime for weekend and overnight call outs; $12,349.47 –  
Buildings Standards & Safety for overtime, longevity and shift differential  
overages due to personnel issues and manpower shortages; $5,251.75 –  
Health to correct a negative account to Zero.  
Administration  
Sponsors:  
Attachments: R38 Transfer Funds  
Funds Required to Pay for OT Needed Special Events Run by City  
Staff  
Transfer Will Correct A Negative Account to Zero - Health  
OT To Help Assist 4th Floor with Weekend and Overnigth Call Outs  
Significant Overtime, Longevity and Shift Differential Overages Due to  
Personnel Issues and Manpower Shortages  
Part Time Position (#912-001 Community Health Nurse HIV Navigator)  
Resolution #30591  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks thanked Mr. Hanlon and asked if there were any  
questions, concerns or comments from the dais or the public.  
7 -  
Yes:  
Candida Affa, Cynthia Mota, Daryl Hendricks, Ed Zucal, Ce-Ce Gerlach, Natalie  
Santos, and Santo Napoli  
Enactment No: 30591  
15-5572  
R25  
Amends City Council adding and issues relating to inclusion and equity  
under the jurisdiction of the Community and Economic Development  
Committee  
Gerlach and Mota  
Sponsors:  
Attachments: R25 CD Jurisdiction  
Resolution #30592  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks asked if there were any questions, comments or  
concerns from the dais or the public.  
Mayor Matt Tuerk thanked City Council for contemplating formally adding  
Inclusion and Equity into the committee structure. He appreciates Council  
taking this issue seriously and giving it appropriate level of attention.  
7 -  
Yes:  
Candida Affa, Cynthia Mota, Daryl Hendricks, Ed Zucal, Ce-Ce Gerlach, Natalie  
Santos, and Santo Napoli  
Enactment No: 30592  
15-4944  
R35 Forwarded with a proposed amendment  
Amends Council Rule VIII, Voting by requiring a councilperson to submit to  
council a request in writing for abstaining on a vote prior to the meeting,  
stating the reason for the abstention pursuant to the local, state and federal  
statutes and in absent of council approval of such request, the vote shall be  
recorded in the affirmative.  
Amendment: See File, adding this sentence and deleting the provision that  
turns an abstention into an affirmative vote:  
If the abstention is approved by Council, the vote of the abstaining  
Councilperson shall be recorded as an abstention approved by Council. If  
the abstention is not approved by Council and the Councilperson does not  
vote yea or nay, the vote shall be recorded as an abstention not approved  
by Council  
Gerlach, Affa and Mr. Zucal  
Sponsors:  
Attachments: R35 Council Rules  
Rule Change with Proposed Amd  
Abstention_ The Unexpected Power of Withholding Your Vote  
Roberts-Rules-Cheat-Sheet  
Rules  
Resolution #30593  
Mr. Michael Hanlon stated that this goes back a long time ago. It was also  
an amendment to recording the vote in the affirmative. This was Attorney  
Smith's recommendation. The request was to do an amendment to this.  
Attorney Charles Smith stated that there was some abstention behind  
treating it as an affirmative vote. In the past, there were members seeking  
to abstain.  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks asked if there were any questions, comments or  
concerns from the dais or the public.  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks asked if there were any questions or comments from  
the public.  
A motion was made by Ce-Ce Gerlach, seconded by Ed Zucal, adding a sentence  
and deleting the provision that turns an abstention into an affirmative vote:  
If the abstention is approved by Council, the vote of the abstaining Councilperson  
shall be recorded as an abstention approved by Council. If the abstention is not  
approved by Council and the Councilperson does not vote yea or nay, the vote  
shall be recorded as an abstention not approved by Council.  
7 -  
Yes:  
Yes:  
Candida Affa, Cynthia Mota, Daryl Hendricks, Ed Zucal, Ce-Ce Gerlach, Natalie  
Santos, and Santo Napoli  
Enactment No: 30593  
A motion was made by Daryl Hendricks that this Resolution be approved as  
amended. The motion carried by the following vote:  
7 -  
Candida Affa, Cynthia Mota, Daryl Hendricks, Ed Zucal, Ce-Ce Gerlach, Natalie  
Santos, and Santo Napoli  
Enactment No: 30593  
ORDINANCES FOR INTRODUCTION (To be referred to Committee with public  
comment prior to referral)  
15-5624  
Bill 4  
Amending the 2023 ARPA Fund by transferring One Hundred Thousand  
($100,000) Dollars from the ARPA Fund to the General Fund to develop  
and evaluate a pilot Credible Messenger Program; and One Million Two  
Hundred Thousand ($1,200,000) Dollars from the ARPA Fund to the  
Capital Fund to cover expenses for the Irving Pool Project.  
Attachments: Bill 4 ARPA Funding Pool and RFP for CMP  
Info/links to various models  
Opportunity--RFP-128-2021-Messenger-Program-06-29-2021-94623 (1)  
CDC 2016_technicalpackage  
09282022_RFP_LCWFSfJIY  
Credible-Messenger-RFP_July-8-2016_Revised-2  
RFP 682 Credible Messenger (1)  
Proposal to evaluate PNLVs Violence Prevention Program  
Cure the Violence Feasibility Study  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks asked if there were any questions, comments or  
concerns from his colleagues.  
Ms Candida Affa stated that she would like to make a comment on the  
Credible Messenger Program. It is a good program and she thinks they  
should have a PILOT to be overseen by Cedar Crest College to see in a  
year that the statistics will show that it is working and we have made  
progress with violent crime.  
Mr. Michael Hanlon stated that idea was that it was $100,000 not for a  
Credible Messenger Program, but could be an Interrupter Program or  
whatever the RFP request gets.  
Ms. Ce Ce Gerlach stated that thought the $100,000 was for someone to  
come in and help us develop the RFP and make sure we have the in  
structure as a city or as a county to actually implement a Credible  
Messenger Program and have an expert come in.  
Mayor Matt Tuerk stated that was the intent. The idea was to work with  
someone for guidelines.  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks stated that the guidelines to know how to determine.  
Ms. Ce Ce Gerlach stated that Mr. Hanlon sent on to the Mayor and  
someone else. This has been done. What the city has been doing is new  
to us in terms of how the heck do we do this. She asked is this the only  
ARPA conversation on the 8th is on gun violence.  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks stated no, it all falls under the pool.  
Ms. Candida Affa stated that they will have meetings on other things.  
Mr. Michael Hanlon stated that he thought it was an internal agreement to  
get the ball rolling on the $1.2 million for Irving Park and get the Credible  
Messenger or Interrupter Program RFP out there and look at other  
expenditures as stuff was introduced.  
Ms. Ce Ce Gerlach stated she certainly shares the concern with the pool  
and gun violence.  
Ms. Candida Affa stated that she thinks the point is that some of the money  
is needed to go out there and start the programs. She stated to the people  
on the eastside that they are going to have a pool.  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks asked if there were any other comments, concerns or  
questions or the public.  
Ms. Dawn Godshall stated that Community Action has given almost  
$100,00 a year to Promise Neighborhoods to run a Credible Messenger  
initiative. She found out from her predecessor that Reports were not in  
order. She asked the executive director of Promise Neighborhoods if they  
were certified Credible Messengers, she was told what difference does it  
make as long as they were doing the work.  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks stated that Council will do their due diligence before  
anybody is awarded funds for such a program.  
Ms. Pas Simpson stated that as the lead Certified Messenger for the State  
of Pennsylvania, he is a little disappointed. What expertise does Cedar  
Crest College have to oversee this program. It is keeping a program that  
is lasting for our community.  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks stated that Ms. Affa offered that up as an example.  
They will do it in conjunction with our Police Department.  
Mr. Pas Simpson stated that when they do presentations, let them do it  
publicly.  
Ms. Jessica Ortiz, 523 Tilghman Street, stated that she appreciates people  
overseeing and she likes the example. The title says it all, Credible  
Messenger. There are several individuals who promote Credible  
Messenger and they are not credible. You have to live here, work here, and  
invest here. Let's look at who is truly a Credible Messenger in the  
community.  
REFERRED TO RULES, CHAMBERS, INTERGOVERNMENTAL  
RELATIONS AND STRATEGY COMMITTEE  
15-5626  
Bill 5  
Amending the Police Pension Fund Ordinance with various editorial  
revisions to enhance its clarity.  
Administration  
Sponsors:  
Attachments: Bill 5 Police Pension Ordinance 2023 revision  
REFERRED TO BUDGET AND FINANCE COMMITTEE  
RESOLUTIONS FOR INTRODUCTION (Can be voted on or Referred to Committee):  
15-5625  
R39  
Street Dedication  
Attachments: R39 - Street Dedication  
Request  
Dedicating City Assets  
REFERRED TO RULES, CHAMBERS, INTERGOVERNMENTAL  
RELATIONS AND STRATEGY COMMITTEE  
NEW BUSINESS  
Ms. Ce Ce Gerlach stated that she wants money to go to affordable housing. How does  
she get this money from ARPA to go to affordable housing.  
Mr. Daryl Hendricks stated that she can talk to him and they can talk about scheduling.  
Ms. Ce Ce Gerlach stated scheduling or putting it on the agenda like these items were.  
GOOD AND WELFARE: NONE  
ADJOURNED: 8:37 PM