Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Wilkes-Barre public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
23 issues with high priority
Group Home and Multi-Family Residential Proposals
Two continued hearings address group residences — one for eight adult women and one for six individuals — in R-2 zones, each with parking waivers. Decisions here shape where supportive housing can operate in the city.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Multimodal Transportation Funding & Infrastructure
The city is applying for a $650,000 Multimodal Transportation Fund grant from the Commonwealth Financing Authority to fund repairs on the Empire Street and McLean Street bridges.
Senior Citizen Property Tax Relief
Local seniors face climbing property taxes and living expenses, threatening their ability to stay in their long-term homes. The city council is pushing state lawmakers to allow a property tax freeze for residents over 65.
Noise Ordinance Enforcement and Penalties
Councilwoman McClay raised concerns about property damage and noise caused by King's College students partying in March, asking the administration to speak with the college.
LSA Grant Applications for City and Community Projects
City Council reviewed and authorized multiple Luzerne County Local Share Assessment grant applications supporting Public Square Phase 3, City Hall renovations, local non-profits, and public works facilities.
Mobile Food Vendor and Code Ordinances
The owner of the Burnt Norton restaurant and supporters raised concerns after code enforcement ordered them to stop using certain cooking equipment due to a lack of a commercial Type 1 hood vent, creating severe financial hardship.
Winter Services Agreement
Residents and council members pointed out icy patches and snow piles remaining on city streets like South Street and in the Parsons neighborhood after recent storms.
Municipal Insurance Coverage Review
The city council reviewed its property and casualty insurance policies, discussing deductibles, property values, and vehicle fleet coverage.
Utility Construction Notification and Street Closures
Mayor Brown provided updates on ongoing sewer and water line repairs, addressing broken lines, contractor changes, and traffic impacts.
Utility Coordination and Neighborhood Disruption
Residents complained about severe road damage and mud from unfinished utility trench cuts on Dana Street and Scott Street. Council members discussed strengthening municipal pave cut ordinances and enforcement tools against utility companies.
Municipal Technology and Cybersecurity Services
The city council reviewed software and technology support contracts to maintain data management and cybersecurity for municipal operations.
Washington Street Bridge Property Negotiations
Negotiations and property acquisitions, including an apartment building, are underway for the Washington Street Bridge replacement project under a revised design grade.
Debt Refunding and $1.8M New Capital Funding
The city is exploring issuing about $8 million in debt to fund capital projects and restructure existing financial obligations. Council authorized hiring legal and financial advisors to prepare for the bond issue.
Comprehensive Community Health Needs Assessment
Wilkes-Barre is spending $65,000 in opioid settlement money on school anti-drug materials, billboards, and fire department safety gear to comply with DEA rules.
Sanitary Sewer System Valuation and Potential Sale
The city has hired PFM Financial Advisors to evaluate the financial worth of the municipal sewer system, sparking resident concerns over potential rate increases and privatization impacts.
Mayoral Election
Wilkes-Barre Mayor Brown is gearing up for a potential third-term run, meaning we're looking at a major local political race that's going to dictate the city's leadership and direction. If you live here, get ready for campaign season to start heating up as candidates vie for control of City Hall.
Liquor License Transfer
Wilkes-Barre City Council is voting on whether to approve a liquor license transfer that could shake up the local dining and nightlife scene in your neighborhood. Keep an eye on this if you're curious about new spots opening up nearby.
Police Chief Appointment
Wilkes-Barre just got a brand new police chief, which is a big deal for how neighborhood safety and local policing are going to be handled from here on out. If you live in the city, expect potential shifts in daily law enforcement priorities and community outreach.
Federal Lawsuit
Wilkes-Barre is being sued in federal court over its harsh 'one strike' housing law. This legal battle could force the city to completely overhaul how it handles local housing policies.