Allentown · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Allentown public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Budget Process Reform and Timeline Adjustments
Bill 89 would write down clear, public capital planning procedures under the Home Rule Charter, developed jointly by the administration and Council staff.
Independent Five-Year Financial Analysis
Auditors found Allentown's plan is balanced only in 2027; after that, deficits of $3.1–$3.8 million a year accumulate and cash reserves fall below the 17% minimum by 2030. Council will need new revenue or spending action to stabilize finances.
City Controller Independence and Account Reconciliation
The city is updating its code to officially separate the controller's independent oversight duties from the day-to-day preparation of bank accounts. This change matches current practice and reinforces financial checks and balances.
Controller's Special Events and Procurement Audits
The City Controller's office revealed widespread compliance issues, including missing vendor business licenses, uncollected late fees, and procurement system gaps.
Employee Healthcare Costs and Risk Fund Transfer
City Council transferred $6.5 million from the general fund into the self-insured risk fund to cover higher-than-expected employee healthcare claims and medical expenses. Officials noted that while self-insured healthcare costs have spiked, stop-loss insurance will eventually reimburse portions of high-dollar claims.
City Controller Vacancy Appointment
The City Council interviewed three candidates to fill the unexpired term of the late City Controller Jeff Glazier. Jasmine Salgado was selected to provide independent financial oversight, audit municipal expenditures, and review city budgets through December 2027.
Parking Authority Debt and Municipal Revenue Sharing
Council members questioned why the Allentown Parking Authority does not currently remit surplus revenue to the city, contrasting Allentown's practice with other Pennsylvania municipalities.