Public comments commenced with residents expressing dissatisfaction with recent tax hikes. One resident, Ms. Mol Marij, criticized the council for a 2.6% city tax increase and an 8% rise in water and sewer fees enacted in 2024, emphasizing the financial burden these changes impose on citizens, particularly seniors. She urged the council to consider budget cuts as an alternative, highlighting a statement from a council member expressing relief that the tax increase occurred in a non-election year.

The council meeting also addressed public health initiatives, notably a discussion on condom distribution programs. One council member expressed hope for alternative funding methods that would not involve city spending on condoms and dispensers. Another council member emphasized the importance of public health strategies, recalling personal experiences during the AIDS crisis and advocating for harm reduction initiatives in social venues.

The conversation on tax increases was further explored, with council members debating the timing and necessity of such measures. A council member argued against tax hikes, stating, “there’s no good year to raise taxes,” and cited their voting record, noting support for a tax increase only under dire circumstances to avoid cuts to essential services. In contrast, another member reminded attendees that previous tax hikes were largely driven by collective bargaining agreements with public safety employees, stressing the need for a full complement of firefighters and the associated financial obligations.

Public restrooms in the downtown area were another focal point, with residents highlighting the lack of facilities as a long-standing issue. A speaker recounted a visitor’s experience of traveling to the city only to find no accessible restrooms, proposing the installation of facilities alongside a new parking garage. The absence of restrooms was framed as a barrier to tourism, especially given Bethlehem’s new designation as a World Heritage site. Council members acknowledged past discussions on the topic.

The meeting also touched on the housing crisis in the Lehigh Valley, with resident Robert Dandy advocating for zoning law changes to permit accessory dwelling units (ADUs). He drew parallels between the current housing shortage and post-World War II challenges, urging the council to study and adjust zoning regulations to better meet community needs.

Historical preservation was another significant topic, with Mr. Bill Shire voicing concerns about potential developments affecting Main Street’s architectural heritage. He questioned the impact of new constructions on the area’s historical integrity, emphasizing the need to maintain Bethlehem’s unique character amid urban development.

In fiscal discussions, the council debated the use of federal COVID-19 relief funds, with members clarifying that these funds were earmarked for specific purposes and could not cover ongoing budget deficits. The council underscored the importance of sustainable financial management, highlighting the contrast between the city’s current financial position and past years when cash reserves were low.

The meeting concluded with the approval of a resolution for engineering services related to the Broad Street Corridor Improvements Project, costing $977,500, and the scheduling of a finance committee meeting to discuss year-end budget adjustments. The council also addressed procedural aspects of their meetings, clarifying the nature of recorded minutes to ensure compliance with the Sunshine Act.