Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Baldwin public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
8 issues with high priority
Tri-community fire services regionalization
Baldwin, Brentwood, and Whitehall are deep into a joint fire services study, with manager interviews underway and substantial findings expected by March or April.
Volunteer fire department funding and stipend program
Baldwin EMS has only 22.14% subscription participation, and the fire company's call volume is heading toward 1,000 for the year. Council asked for a combined revenue-and-expense report before the mid-year budget review, noting borough contributions have grown from $173,000 in 2018 to $687,000 in 2026.
2027 budget deficit and EMS contribution
EMS business costs rose 13.4 percent from 2020 to 2025, but the service is financially stable with reserves. Council will study how to boost support for both EMS and fire service this year.
Colwood Park improvements and LSA grant application
Officials floated a big wishlist for Colwood Park — amphitheater, U7 soccer fields, turf, parking, concession stand — estimated at $1.5–2 million. A county grant application for up to $1 million is planned for November, but the scope is still being worked out.
Rental property registration ordinance
Baldwin has no short-term rental or Airbnb rules, so the Planning Commission is rushing a draft ordinance modeled on Scott and Whitehall — targeting February adoption before April's NFL Draft brings rental demand.
Rescue from Penn Street-area house fire
Firefighters, police, and EMS rescued a woman trapped on the second floor of a burning Baldwin home on Monday. Officials credited the borough's fire stipend staffing program for the fast response.
2025 and 2026 Road and Storm Sewer Improvements
Six months into the new flow-based sewage billing baseline, Baldwin's share is running at 34 percent — good news for the 2027 budget. Streets Run Phase 2 lining is done and Missionary Drive storm sewer is half built.
Repeat vehicle break-ins and firearm theft on Penn Street
Resident George Hunt says a masked suspect has hit his Penn Street neighborhood four times since September, stealing a gun and cash from cars, and says police haven't followed up. The chief says the cases are active and will arrange a detective call.