Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Allentown public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
11 issues in taxes budget
Special Ad Hoc Municipal Police Fire Postretirement Adjustment
The board will get an update on the state-authorized 2026 Ad Hoc PRA, which affects postretirement adjustments for police and firefighter pensions. This directly shapes retirement benefits for Allentown's first responders and the city's pension obligations.
Firefighter Pension and Disability Requests
The firefighters' union wants a new actuarial cost study on how pension credit for prior Allentown employment would work and what it would cost. The board will consider the request, which could expand pension eligibility for some members.
2027 Budget Creation
Staff will start shaping the Redevelopment Authority's 2027 budget, which guides how it funds property acquisition and redevelopment work across Allentown. Early discussions now set priorities for next year.
Cable franchise agreements with RCN and Verizon
Both franchise agreements — which pay the city 5% of cable revenue — were tabled for two weeks so council can look for ways to improve the deals for residents. The agreements technically expired six years ago and the city has been operating under them since.
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.
2027 Capital Projects Budget and Capital Planning Reform
Council introduced the 2027 capital budget and a separate ordinance (from Binder and Mota) to make the capital planning process clearer and more public. Both head to committee.
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.
Elimination of GLP-1 weight-loss drug coverage
The city stopped covering GLP-1 medications for weight loss starting 2027 after spending ballooned from $470,000 to nearly $3 million in two years. Coverage remains for medical conditions.
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.
Pass-Through Grant Appropriations for Community Construction Projects
Several bills allocate state and federal grant money for traffic signals, trail construction, streetscapes, and environmental remediation.
HR Position Upgrade and Budget Reallocation
Allentown is upgrading an existing HR receptionist position to a constituent services specialist equipped with tracking software. This change aims to improve how the city handles and responds to resident inquiries and service requests.