Matthew Bauder

The board discussed the financial report, including approval of outstanding invoices and a review of financial statements. Key project updates focused on the Iron Works project, specifically regarding zoning ordinances, grant applications, and a proposed connectivity concept plan to link the D&L Trail. There was also an update on the redevelopment of the former Lehigh Valley Dairy property and a discussion concerning a municipal needs survey conducted by the DCED, with a focus on future strategic planning, expanding the Authority's mission statement, and exploring new opportunities for municipal engagement and commercial revitalization.

The meeting included an update on the progress of human relations ordinance passages in various jurisdictions using the Lehigh County template, a report on training provided to new commissioners in another county, and a status update on a logo competition for the commission. The commission also reviewed the status of four active complaints, discussed the potential for a memorandum of understanding with the City of Allentown regarding human relations matters, and received information about upcoming events and the process for updating partner jurisdictions on ordinance amendments.

The meeting includes discussions regarding the passage of Human Relations Ordinances, training updates, logo revisions, and a review of pending complaints. An executive session is scheduled to discuss case #2025-09. New business includes the appointment of Dr. Jennifer Swann as a mediator for case #2026-01 at a fixed fee, a presentation of findings for complaint #2025-09, the review of new complaints received, and proposed changes to the complaint form and related website instructions.

The meeting agenda includes old and new business items. New business consists of the final certification approval for the 2026 General Primary Election and the casting of lots for the Republican County Committee of Lower Macungie 3, followed by a public comment session.

This document provides a comprehensive overview of the Lehigh County Department of Human Services' current state, challenges, and initiatives for the 2026-2027 period. It outlines key service areas including HealthChoices, Aging and Adult Services, Children and Youth Services, Drug and Alcohol Services, Intellectual Disabilities, and Integrated Mental Health Services. The plan highlights innovative programming, addresses challenges such as declining membership, increased acuity, and staffing shortages, and details efforts to mitigate the impacts of policy changes, ensuring the continued provision of essential human services to the community.