Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Easton public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
9 issues in taxes budget
Suspension of Pennsylvania gasoline tax
Council plans to weigh in on Senator Boscola's legislation to temporarily suspend the state gas tax, which affects prices Easton drivers pay at the pump. The resolution urges state lawmakers to act.
Bacon Fest parking revenue shortfall
Parking revenue came in 20-25% under prior years during Bacon Fest — people parked all day rather than turning over spots, and officials are considering raising ticket fines to discourage it. Also considering tapping former part-timers for busy weekends.
$12 million loan via Redevelopment Authority lease-back
The lease-sublease with the RDA refinances a $6 million short-term note due Dec. 31 — and it let the city drop the proposed 1-mil property tax increase for 2027.
Act 209 transportation impact fee gap
The city can't currently charge developers a transportation impact fee because it lacks an Act 209 plan, which takes about a year and a consultant to prepare. Commissioners want the city engineer's input and discussed whether home rule authority could allow alternative funding mechanisms.
Utility shutoff affordability
A resident found a $113 Met-Ed shutoff bill on a free bench and warned council that more residents can't afford rent or electric. The mayor pointed to existing assistance programs and offered to connect people with resources.
City Budget and Water Authority Agreement
The mayor says the budget is still in flux, but a pending deal with Easton Suburban Water Authority could let the city lower or wipe out three budget line items — good news if it keeps a proposed tax increase smaller.
Business Privilege Tax Utility Exemption Dispute
A local landlord questioned why Easton's business privilege tax does not exempt pass-through utility costs for tenants, citing state law and city code.
2026 Budget Deficit and Healthcare Claims Surge
The city is facing severe budget pressures in 2026, driven by a projected $3 million spike in employee healthcare claims and shortfalls in earned income and casino taxes. City leaders are discussing potential borrowing through a tax anticipation note to weather the shortfall.
2026 CDBG Budget Allocations
Council reviewed and approved roughly $1 million in federal Community Development Block Grant funding, directing increased funds toward affordable housing acquisition and rehabilitation.