Council approves Consent agenda: four LSA grant resolutions, 3–0

Consent agenda: four LSA grant resolutions

3 yes, 0 no, 1 abstain

Jessica McClay (abstain), Tony Brooks (yes), Stan Mirin (yes), Mike Belusko (yes)

Resolution — LSA grant application for two new refuse trucks ($734,842)

3 yes, 0 no, 1 abstain

Traffic Safety and Speeding Enforcement

A resident counted 13 cars running the stop sign near a school in 15 minutes and asked for improved signage and enforcement at every city school. The mayor met with school district, police, and code enforcement officials this week on the issue.

What it means: Schoolchildren walking and biking to school citywide.

City Council 2026 Organizational Meeting and Leadership Elections

Chair Jessica McClay leaves for the statehouse December 1, and the four remaining councilmembers must choose her replacement within 30 days. Members agreed on a public application process starting around November 19, with interviews and possible public input.

What it means: Residents of McClay's district, who get a voice through the public application process.

Refuse fleet replacement

The city's garbage packer trucks are wearing out, and DPW workers have complained publicly about breakdowns. Two new trucks are being funded through casino money via LSA grants, avoiding a hit to taxpayers — but one commenter warns the fleet will keep aging.

What it means: No local tax impact — the $734,842 would come from casino-funded LSA grants.

General Neighborhood Concerns & Public Maintenance

Residents described homeless encampments and abandoned buildings in Parsons, including a pigeon-infested structure and a home with collapsed windows. The mayor said cleanup responsibility lies with property owners including the Redevelopment Authority and a utility company, and that hazmat-certified contractors are required.

What it means: Parsons neighborhood residents near the encampments and abandoned structures.

Lead paint inspection capacity

The city wants a $27,425 lead paint analyzer so health department staff can test older homes for lead hazards in-house, rather than referring cases out.

What it means: Families in the city's older housing stock, especially kids exposed to lead paint.

Community Facility and Historic Building Upgrades

The 1916 theater's roof is past its service life, and a prior $150,000 grant proved too small once bids came in high. The new request of $234,848, combined with the earlier grant, would let the community theater complete the whole roof at once.

What it means: Theater audiences across Northeast PA, plus 50–60 kids a year in the youth theater workshop.