Allentown · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Allentown public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Peregrine Tower Mixed-Use Development & Sight Triangle
Developers are proposing a major 37-story mixed-use apartment building at 90 S 9th Street, which would significantly alter downtown Allentown's skyline and housing options.
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.
Recreation Bureau Updates and Project Reviews
An extra $55,450 for Simone Collins Inc. would complete design, construction documents, and cost estimates for the Franklin Park upgrade.
Historic District Property Alterations
A property owner is asking the HARB to legalize window replacements and front porch work that were done without prior historic approval. The case shows how the board handles retroactive reviews in the historic district.
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.
Police Department Staffing and DROP Pension Reform
The police chief urged council to adopt a DROP retirement program to keep veteran officers, with 15 retirements expected in December. The auditors pegged its cost at $1.1–$3.9 million a year starting 2028.
2027 City Budget and Property Tax Increase
The proposed $257.3 million budget includes a $153 million general fund and a millage rate of 7.67, costing most residents about $1.75 a month more. Cuts to parks, health, and other departments offset expiring police and fire grants and inflation.
Stormwater Fee Financial Risk Assessment
If the $20 stormwater fee is ruled a tax under the city charter, the city could lose $5.4 million a year — a scenario that would nearly drain reserves by 2031.
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.
Public Encampments and Homelessness Regulations
The council was scheduled to discuss a proposed ordinance establishing formal rules and procedures for city responses to individuals living outdoors on public property.
Snow Removal and Parking Enforcement Concerns
Public Works officials and residents debated the city's winter storm response after severe snowstorms and a three-week freeze left many streets uncleared, prompting sharp criticism from residents and union leaders over management and resource allocation.
Nuisance Abatement and Problem Properties
Allentown established a new vacant property registry requiring registration for properties empty over 90 days. The goal is to help police and fire crews track empty buildings and prevent them from turning into blighted properties.
Workforce Housing Mandates for Publicly Funded Projects
Council is considering a new rule requiring larger apartment projects to include affordable units or pay a fee-in-lieu, mirroring a law in Easton.
W. Emaus Avenue Data Center Conversion
City council enacted robust zoning amendments to regulate data centers, addressing public concerns over noise, environmental impacts, and resource consumption.
SS4A Safety Grant Appropriation (Tilghman St & Union Blvd)
The city is receiving a partial reimbursement grant of $1.1 million to fund major safety and implementation projects on Tilghman Street and Union Boulevard.
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.
Union Boulevard After-Hours Club Safety Concerns
Residents spoke out about recurring safety issues, violence, and after-hours club operations along Union Boulevard.