Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Wilkes-Barre public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
6 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.