Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Wilkes-Barre public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
13 issues
Construction in a flood hazard zone at 882 South Franklin Street
A continued hearing on doubling the allowed accessory structure size in a flood hazard zone raises questions about building standards in flood-prone areas.
Comprehensive Plan and Zoning Ordinance Revision
A special exception under the 'uses not addressed' provision would allow an Airbnb at 18 Birch Street — one of the first tests of how Wilkes-Barre treats short-term rentals.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Election Mail Ballot Drop Boxes
Luzerne County is extending evening hours for mail ballot drop boxes in Wilkes-Barre ahead of the Nov. 3 election, giving voters more time to return ballots without relying on mail. If you plan to drop off your ballot, check the updated schedule so you don’t miss the deadline.
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.
Election Parking
Mayor Brown just made voting easier by offering free parking for anyone dropping off their mail-in ballot at the Luzerne County Election Bureau. No more scrambling for change or feeding meters just to make your voice heard.
Traffic Light Removal
Scranton is testing out removing traffic lights at 13 downtown intersections to see if traffic flows better and safer. Local drivers are completely split, with some thinking it's a great idea and others worried it's a recipe for accidents.