Doug Bruce

The meeting included discussions and actions on several items. The Board granted site plan approval for the DLUX Properties LLC Site Plan, which involves using an existing building as a financial services office, subject to review of tree plantings and fence placement. A motion was passed to authorize staff and the solicitor to move forward with the proposed convenience store zoning ordinance text amendment for adoption and to advertise a related public hearing. The Board also approved the establishment of a 2027 Comprehensive Plan Steering Committee and appointed two Commissioners to serve on it. Furthermore, the Board authorized the advertisement and scheduling of public hearings to adopt updates to the UCC Codes (IBC and IRC) and the International Property Maintenance Code (IPMC). A resolution was adopted appointing Todd Kowalski as Tax Collector following a resignation. The Board approved authorizing police personnel attendance at Technical Collision Investigation Training. A right-of-way grant agreement with PPL Electric Utilities Corporation for an additional utility support pole was authorized. The Board approved the bill agenda of January 14, 2026, and the purchase orders presented. The Treasurer's Report of December 31, 2025, was approved subject to audit. The Board voted to oppose one appeal before the Zoning Hearing Board and sent the solicitor to advise staff. A motion passed to sell a portable bathroom trailer on Municibid. Finally, Commissioner Deckman was appointed to the Internal Stormwater Committee.

The meeting commenced with the administration of the Oath of Office to two Commissioners-Elect, followed by the election of officers, resulting in the selection of Mr. Merhottein as President and Mr. Gallagher as Vice President. Key actions included adopting an ordinance amending stop intersections, changing the intersection of Dewalt and 7th Streets to a four-way stop. Numerous resolutions were approved, appointing Township Manager, Solicitor, Assistant Solicitor, Labor Counsel, Township Engineer, Assistant Township Engineer, and members to various commissions and boards, including the Planning Commission, Recreation Commission, Vacancy Board, Zoning Hearing Board, Civil Service Commission, and Environmental Advisory Council. The board also established a revised official policy regarding the use of fire tax proceeds and authorized an application for a Local Share Assessment Grant. Furthermore, the board approved an Improvements Security Release for Nancy Run Estates Phases 7-10 and a change to Civil Service Rules regarding police officer applicants. The resignation of John Petro as Tax Collector was accepted. Discussion topics included resident concerns about a polluting gas station lot and a PennDOT intersection improvement project, which resulted in calling in the sidewalk deferral for Wolfe Dental. Finally, the board appointed consultants for septic testing and environmental assessments for the Johnston mansion project.

The budget hearing included discussions regarding funding requests from the Freemansburg Bethlehem Township Athletic Association and the Bethlehem Township Athletic Association. The fire companies discussed their assets, training, and a new incentive program to recruit and retain active members. There was also discussion about radio projects and the possibility of increasing the fire tax. The township manager recommended a wage increase for non-union employees, and a commissioner offered to forgo his stipend. Contributions to the Miracle League were mentioned, and non-reimbursable legal expenses were reviewed.

The board discussed the proposed 2026 budget, including the general-purpose tax and an increase to the Fire Tax. They also considered an extension for a developer's obligation to complete improvements for the MNB Properties Land Development Plan. Applications to the Local Share Assessment grant program were authorized for purchases related to the Nancy Run Fire Company, Bethlehem Township Volunteer Fire Company, and the Bethlehem Township Police Department. Additionally, the 2026 public meeting schedule was approved, and the board discussed the potential installation of an all-way stop at 7th Street and Dewalt Street. The installation of a crosswalk and signage on Wilson Avenue was also approved.

The board discussed the stormwater program and a proposed fee increase, community development revenues and expenses, and PPIS department revenues, expenses, and capital items. Topics included the potential repurposing of police cars, sewage capacity, replacement of a CCTV truck, upgrades to the meter-reading system, and a municipal building parking lot project. The board decided against raising the stormwater fee and agreed to increase the fire tax rate to fund fire company incentives, also considering postponing the municipal building parking lot project.