The primary agenda item was the proposed amendment to Article 112, aimed at restructuring how campaign finance reports are managed. A presentation outlined the necessity of operational changes, emphasizing the transition of report submissions from city clerks to the Northampton County elections office. This shift would alleviate the clerks’ responsibilities, which currently involve collecting, notifying, and posting reports online. The speaker suggested that the county’s modernized processes could better handle these tasks, following their advancements in publishing campaign finance reports online.

The proposal includes removing penalties for late filings, addressing the impracticality of tracking non-incumbent candidates. Instead, the city would focus on collecting and posting statements of financial interest, preserving transparency. Despite the potential for confusion due to the county’s broader report organization, the city would link to the county’s website, eliminating redundancy while retaining public access to financial disclosures.

Council discussion highlighted the importance of maintaining access to past campaign finance reports. Councilman Callahan approved linking the county’s reports on the city website, stressing transparency’s importance. He addressed inconsistencies in report redaction practices, noting that the county’s reports did not redact addresses, unlike the city’s. Legal counsel clarified that redaction was not statutorily required, allowing both entities discretion in displaying addresses as public records. The council agreed to prominently display links to county reports, easing access for all residents.

Council members corroborated that linking to county reports would reduce clerical workload, aligning with practices adopted by other municipalities. A motion to advance the ordinance to full council passed unanimously, with an emphasis on ensuring a smooth transition post-election cycle.

Public comments further enriched the discussion. A resident, Mr. Shine, proposed a $350 campaign contribution limit for city council races, drawing comparisons to federal standards and underscoring the need for updated local regulations. His comments sparked debate on campaign finance, highlighting differing views on appropriate contribution limits.

The meeting also addressed various community concerns. One resident expressed frustration over safety in public spaces, advocating for tighter security measures at public events. Another resident criticized the council’s silence on international conflicts, urging a resolution to condemn violence and divest from entities profiting from such conflicts. Discussions on urban development, police department staffing, and local regulations further reflected community priorities.

In the realm of urban development, residents voiced concerns about Bethlehem’s rapid pace of change. Mike Staer likened the development to a relentless rush, urging the council to consider ways to slow it down. His comments echoed shared sentiments about the city’s shifting identity amid new construction projects.

Concerns about water billing practices emerged, with residents reporting increased bills following the introduction of smart meters. Suggestions for apps to monitor water usage highlighted the need for technological solutions to help residents manage their expenses. Other comments addressed street advertisements, calling for accountability in maintaining community aesthetics.

Financial matters also took center stage. Mr. Shire questioned a $120,000 budget adjustment for downtown initiatives, seeking transparency regarding fund allocation.

Discussions on police staffing levels underscored recruitment challenges, with vacancies impacting department capacity. Efforts to enhance recruitment, including bonuses and adjustments to hiring standards, were noted as ongoing priorities.

A resolution to execute a mixed-income development revolving loan fund program sparked engaging discussion. Council members explored the fund’s potential in supporting affordable housing, drawing on successful models from other communities. The initiative aims to fill financial gaps in housing projects, aligning with the “Opening Doors” plan to ensure affordability.

The council also approved resolutions related to municipal funding and neighborhood revitalization. A financial allocation from the 2025 general municipal pension system state aid was authorized, supporting bond payments and municipal obligations. The use permit agreement for the 2025 Bethlehem Running Festival received unanimous support.

In a bid to preserve the city’s historical relevance, the council approved funding for a world heritage site manager position, partnering with Moravian University. This step aligns with efforts to maintain Bethlehem’s cultural legacy and foster community pride.