A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to the proposed overhaul of the SALDO, an update aiming to align with modern standards and local planning goals. This ordinance, initially adopted in 1975, has undergone only minor revisions until now. The current proposal incorporates elements of the city’s climate action plan and aims to streamline development processes. Key changes include new design standards, traffic impact study requirements, and green stormwater management strategies. These updates are designed to enhance urban infrastructure integration, improve safety, and promote sustainable practices in land development.

Council members discussed the ordinance’s implications for developers and the community, with specific focus areas such as bicycle and pedestrian considerations, landscaping standards, and safety enhancements. The revised ordinance requires developers to incorporate traffic impact studies, which consider nearby transit routes and bus stops, and includes requirements for integrating bus shelters and ensuring streets accommodate various forms of traffic. Additionally, the ordinance emphasizes the use of native plant species in landscaping to promote biodiversity and improve stormwater management.

Public concerns were raised about the potential impact of these changes on affordable housing. Speakers suggested that environmental and infrastructure requirements might increase development costs, which could be passed on to renters or homeowners. The city was urged to consider incentives for developers to mitigate these costs and prevent further strain on housing affordability. One speaker, Harry Faber, criticized the ordinance for not addressing rent control or community land trusts, arguing that the lack of such measures leaves working-class residents vulnerable to displacement.

The council also addressed the city’s housing supply challenges, with a particular focus on the need to increase the number of available units. A council member highlighted the competitive rental market in the Lehigh Valley, where demand far exceeds supply, leading to rising rental prices.

Another central topic was the public’s concern over the city’s communication strategies regarding important hearings like the SALDO update. Suggestions were made to improve outreach through newsletters and the city’s website to ensure residents are well-informed about changes and have the opportunity to engage in the planning process. The public’s involvement was emphasized as crucial for fostering transparency and ensuring community needs are met.

Further discussions included the potential over-reliance on a payment-in-lieu system for street improvements and landscaping, where developers can opt to pay rather than complete required works, with funds allocated elsewhere in the city. Concerns were expressed about this system’s impact on the city’s capacity to manage street improvements and its implications for the local environment.

The meeting also touched on civil rights issues, with public comments highlighting the need for accountability in law enforcement and support for marginalized communities. One speaker shared experiences of perceived police misconduct, advocating for measures to protect citizens from abuses and ensure their rights are upheld.

Additionally, the council reviewed a range of proposed resolutions, including funding applications for homelessness prevention and multimodal transportation improvements. These efforts aim to address pressing community needs and enhance Bethlehem’s infrastructure and social services.