Last night, Northampton County Council voted that the position of part-time Chief Public Defender be upgraded to make it a full-time position. This vote followed a meeting yesterday in which Chief Public Defender Nuria DiLuzio justified the upgrade.
As a part-time Chief Public Defender, Di Luzio is paid an annual $78,188 salary. As a full-time employee, she will be paid $107,482 a year.
The position is "exempt," meaning that she serves at the pleasure of the Executive and can be replaced as Executives change.
The upgrade was adopted by a vote of 7-1. It was supported by Council members John Goffredo, Tom Giovanni, Jeff Warren, Jeff Corpora, Kelly Keegan, Ken Kraft (by phone) and Ron Heckman (by phone). It was opposed by Council member John Brown with no explanation.
Council President Lori Vargo Heffner was absent from this part of the meeting but participated by phone later.
John Goffredo, Council's VP, chaired his first meeting, and kept it down to 27 minutes.
Northampton County Council was briefed on the nationwide avian flu outbreak yesterday by Hope Kossube, an animal welfare expert from Penn State Extension. This is spread primarily by direct bird-to-bird contact, including wild birds, as well as through contaminated materials. The virus could be airborne as well. If a bird is infected with what is known as high path avian flu, no treatment is available.
The current outbreak started in February 2022, infecting 163 million birds in 754 commercial and 828 backyard flocks. In the past 30 days, the virus has infected 23.33 million birds in 102 commercial and 49 backyard flocks.
In Pennsylvania, four counties - Cumberland, Dauphin, Lancaster and Lebanon - are under active control by the state Department of Agriculture. It has affected 2 million commercial poultry. (Lehigh County was in active control as well but has since been removed). A control zone is the infected farm and anything within a 6.2 mile radius.
When bird flu is suspected, the farm is quarantined, and the birds are tested. If infected, they are "depopulated."
Is there a concern that this can be spread to humans?. According to Kossube, the risk of transmission is low. Nationwide, 69 people have been infected by avian flu. Most of them worked with poultry or dairy cows. One person did die but was suffering from autoimmune deficiency. There is no detected instance of one human infecting another.
To avoid contagion, Kossube recommends that all eggs be cooked to at least 160 degrees and that we should only drink pasteurized milk. This would kill the virus.
Kossube predicted that the outbreak should ease during the hotter months of the year.
Obviously, bird flu is the reason for soaring egg prices, not Trump or Biden.
Blogger's Note: Bethlehem Mayor Willie Reynolds announced his plan to seek re-election last night at the Boyd. Below is his announcement, which includes an enviable record of 50 accomplishments over his first four years.
BETHLEHEM,
PA – J. William Reynolds has announced that he will be seeking
re-election to
another term as Mayor of Bethlehem.
“Four years ago, I laid out a
vision for our city’s future as I announcedI
was kicking
off a campaign to earn
your support to be our next Mayor.
You placed your faith in that vision, and I am so grateful and proud
of all that we have accomplished as a city since that day. I
am humbly asking the people of Bethlehem for their support for a
second term to
continue the important progress we have made in creating
an even more thriving, vibrant city – where neighborhoods are safe
and filled with activity and possibility, where residents have
economic opportunity and a sense of belonging, and where City Hall
plans for the future and promotes sustainability, from its finances
to its climate action initiatives. ”
Reynolds
stated that he is proud of everything that his
administration
has accomplished over
the past three years including
Consistently
being named as one of the best places to live in America
Ranking
as the safest city in Pennsylvania
Receiving
international recognition as the 26th
World Heritage Site in America
Holding
the strongest overall financial position in City history
Making
record levels of public investment in parks, trails, and streets
Implementation
of Bethlehem’s award-winning Climate Action Plan
Maintaining
a commitment to increasing opportunities for all residents
If
re-elected, Reynolds stated that his priorities would include
continuing to invest in Bethlehem’s
public safety departments and building financial stability within
City Hall as well as
Working
to increase housing attainability and affordability within Bethlehem
and the Lehigh Valley
Implementing
Bethlehem’s Parks and Recreation Master Plan
Building
a South Bethlehem Community Center
Making
streets safer by executing major roadway improvements and
implementing a Complete Streets and bike infrastructure strategy
Continuing
to implement and execute Bethlehem’s climate action plan
Continuing
to build cooperative strategies with the Bethlehem Area School
District
Reynolds
Administration Accomplishments 2022-2024
City
Finances:
City
of Bethlehem focuses on economic sustainability
City
of Bethlehem and Bethlehem Parking Authority partner to bring bike
culture downtown with new Coalition for Appropriate Transportation
retail space in Walnut Street Garage
City
of Bethlehem launches “Better Blocks for Bethlehem," a
cross-departmental program to promote violence and injury prevention
at the neighborhood level.
It's been a tough start of 2025 for Bethlehem Mayor Willie Reynolds. It started with a barrage of President Trump's Executive orders, some of which impacted the city. Then there was a federal freeze, which was unfrozen but followed by a declaration that it's still in place. All of this prevented Reynolds from announcing his intentions concerning his job as Mayor. Then he came down with the flu.
Now that he's recovered, Reynolds is expected to announce his plans to seek re-election tonight at the Boyd in Bethlehem between 5 and 7 pm. He will be introduced by his predecessor, former Mayor Bob Donchez.
Grace Crampsie Smith, a member of Bethlehem City Council, has also announced that she is running.
Northampton County's Chief Public Defender, Nuria DiLuzio, told Northampton County Council yesterday that her office, which is appointed by the Executive as an exempt position, should be converted from part-time to full-time.
DiLuzio, whose first job as a lawyer was as a full-time assistant public defender, argued that the criminal justice system has changed since she first started in 1998, and with it so have the demands on her office. Its workload consists of 1200-1600 adult cases and 400-500 juvenile delinquency cases a year. In addition, her office also handles bail, protection from abuse contempts, appeals to higher courts and probation hearings. Finally, her office is involved with problem solving courts.
She noted that NorCo is the only third class county without a full-time chief public defender. "This is a full-time job," she asserted, and one that needs "strong leadership."
DiLuzio's office has three full-time and one 15 part-time assistants, along with three employees who are support staff. She also intends to hire a social worker, dependent on receipt of grant money.
She has the support of Council member Ron Heckman, who said he supported her request after listening to her argument.
Her request will be taken up by the entire County Council tonight.
At a meeting of the NorCo Elections Commission on Tuesday, Executive Lamont McClure suggested an on-demand voting office for Bethlehem's south side, starting with the 2025 general election. His suggestion is in response to long lines at the Banana Factory voting precinct in last November's presidential, in which Lehigh University students waited in long lines to be able to vote.
Contrary to what some Lehigh U students had been led to believe, they can vote by mail or at an on-demand voting station so long as they are registered voters.
Currently, ballot-by-demand voting is possible only at the elections office, located in the bowels of the county courthouse. Even there, voters waited in line for several hours before being able to vote.
McClure is hopeful that Lehigh U will make part of its campus available as a voting precent as well as a ballot-by-demand voting station.
In other business, Elections Comm'n Solicitor Michael Vargo said that litigation concerning the date requirement on mail-in ballots has finally been resolved. Federal courts have determined that the statutory requirement that mail-in ballots be dated is constitutional.
Elections Registrar Chris Commini informed the Commission that 69,000 letters have been sent to those wishing to vote by mail, including an application for a mail-in ballot. The deadline to apply for a mail-in ballot is May 13, 5 pm.
Candidates who wish to appear on the ballot were able to start circulating on February 18, with all nomination petitions due on March 11. The seats up for election are located here.
Stan Margle, age 67, a prominent Easton area attorney, has been charged with possession of both controlled substances and drug paraphernalia. These are misdemeanor charges and were lodged on Tuesday by Edward Fox, a detective in the Northampton County DA's office.
Margle was charged with drug offenses on Tuesday after an appearance in juvenile court. He left without his briefcase. It is unclear to me whether he left the briefcase open, In an attempt to discover the owner's identity, that's when the controlled substance and drug paraphernalia were found.
In 2019, deputy sheriffs discovered a small glassine envelope that was later determined to be methamphetamine in the well of Courtroom No. 1, near the jury box, following arraignments that day. The only people allowed to sit there are lawyers and an occasional probation officer.
The drug was destroyed because video was unable to pinpoint anything.
I believe there are suspects and they consist of every lawyer who was in the well of the court that day, particularly those who were in the jury box. I was even told that some lawyers could name the lawyer who dropped his meth bag.
That lawyer was Stanley Margle.
On his professional webpage, Margle states that he "concentrates his practice in the areas of Divorce, Domestic Relations, and Real Estate Municipal Law. He has practiced since 1983 representing clients in every aspect of Family Law. Attorney Margle has extensive experience in large asset-high income Divorce cases and complex Custody litigation. Some of the more complex cases have been argued before the Superior Court in Philadelphia.
"Attorney Margle is a member of the Pennsylvania and Northampton County Bar Associations. He was a Council Member of the PA Family Law Section of the Pennsylvania Bar Association from 2001 – 2004. He was also a member of the Board of Governors of the Northampton County Bar from 1989 – 1992. He is admitted to practice before the Federal Courts U.S. Eastern District Supreme Court of the United States. Prior to beginning private practice, Attorney Margle was a Law Clerk to President Judge Alfred T. Williams, Jr., 'President Judge of the Northampton County Court of Common Pleas'."
He lists the following clients: Township of Bethlehem (Assistant Township Solicitor); Wilson Borough (Solicitor); Bangor Borough Authority (Solicitor); The Goddard School of Bethlehem; Selvaggio Enterprises, Inc.; Pallet Express, Inc.; Brown Daub Ford Lincoln Mercury, Inc.; Prologis Development Corp.; Michelman Steel; Muschlitz Excavating, Inc.; Anthony Transportation Group; CMC Development Corporation; Nordel LP; RPM Recycling; Premier Abstract Co., Ltd.; Jay Miller Construction, Inc., and Computer Management and Marketing Associates.
He also claims to represent Northampton County as an assistant county solicitor, but that is untrue. Executive Lamont McClure actually relieved him when he took office in 2018.
A preliminary hearing has been tentatively scheduled for March 25 before Magisterial District Judge Daniel Corpora.
In 2024, Margle was involved in a civil forfeiture action after a Range Rover owned by him was seized because it contained drugs. It is unclear how or if that matter has been resolved.
Margle was a $1,000 campaign contributor to DA Steve Baratta.
As a first offender, Margle is likely eligible for ARD.
Samuel Culper is the alias that Adam Woodhull used when he spied for George Washington. Late last night, I received an email from this spy informing me that a prominent local lawyer was charged with drug offenses on Tuesday after an appearance in juvenile court. He left without his briefcase, which was opened later to determine who had left it behind, and that's when drugs were discovered. When I can confirm that this story is accurate, I'll let you know.
In 2019, deputy sheriffs discovered a small glassine envelope that was later determined to be methamphetamine in the well of Courtroom No. 1, near the jury box, following arraignments that day. The only people allowed to sit there are lawyers and an occasional probation officer.
The drug was destroyed because video was unable to pinpoint anything.
I believe there are suspects and they consist of every lawyer who was in the well of the court that day, particularly those who were in the jury box. I was even told that some lawyers could name the lawyer who dropped his meth bag.
The lawyer who was allegedly charged yesterday is that very same lawyer.
I will decline publishing comments identifying this attorney until I am certain the information I received is accurate.
NO, NO, NO, NO THANK YOU!!! This person has done nothing for South Side, nothing!! It's her agenda to lie in your face! NO TO TAIBA SULTANA!
Vote for Susan Hartranft-Bittinger who actually cares and is a lifelong resident!
Sultana was absent when Easton's most recent budget was adopted and even missed the meeting the previous evening at which budget amendments were considered. Given that this is the most important function of a city council, her absence for a vacation in Pakistan is inexcusable.
Just last year, she mounted an ill-advised primary challenge to State Rep. Bob Freeman. I'd agree it's time for him to step aside, but not for her. Voters agreed. Freeman won by an unheard of 77.5% landslide.
In that campaign, her own children were nabbed by Pa. State police for defacing campaign signs critical of her campaign. Her adult daughter was charged with corrupting the morals of minors.
She's divisive. At one meeting she actually did attend, she claimed to be the only person there who cares about the black and brown community even though city council member "downtown" Kenny Brown is himself black and is named Brown.
Sultana fails to mention another petition. This one was filed by 250 Easton residents, asking her to resign. Here's what it says:
"In the two years that Mrs. Sultana has held her seat in office, she has done very little for the people of the city that she was entrusted to do when she was elected.
"Since 2022, Mrs. Sultana had shown very little interest in the citizens of this city ... . In 2022, she has missed out of four budget meetings. In December 2023, she missed committee meetings to protest the Menorah lighting in Bethlehem. In January 2024, she missed committee meetings to have her State Rep announcement party. In March 2024, she had her children at the dais during the Council meeting while her husband and adult child were present and were able to sit with them, then proceeded to use the footage of that meeting as a political mudsling opportunity to again disrespect her constituents. On March 27, 2024, she did not appear in person when topics such as the parking issue on Davis Street in Southside was discussed, In April 2024, she did not attend the committee meetings to discuss the quality-of-life issues of parking in the downtown.
"At the end of 2023, South Side residents came to planning to fight three pieces of development that the residents of South Side did not want in the community. She did not attend and of [those meetings] while other Council members showed and addressed the concerns we had ... ."
"She has brought more division in the City and has continuously been combative with her constituents. ... She seems more interested in making headlines addressing national and international business as a priority.
"Many issues have been raised in South Side Easton and Mrs. Sultana was involved in none of these issues by supporting the residents in finding a solution or attending meetings to object to projects. The many times you've seen Mrs. Sultana on South Side is for her benefit, Seven town homes on Coal Street taking away all green space on an already small lot; a smoke shop less than 215' from another location; selling the same items, wanting to sell synthetic opioids; and a garbage issue in your neighborhood that we reached out for your help. South Side Civisc Ass'n reached out to you about getting benches and tables for the field house about a year ago, and you came back in October to say there was no money in the budget, yet they were notified that they were already ordered and actually [are] waiting in storage to be installed.
"Mrs. Sultana has made false, derogatory statements about the City of Easton police department twice in less than a year by calling them unprofessional, racist [and] politically motivated, and yet again now with a political ad. Her unprofessional behavior and lack of respect, shown multiple times for other members of both Council and public officials, are an indication to all that she does not have the people of Easton's best interests in mind.
"Being an elected official, you are to lead by example 24/7, 365 days a year. Unfortunately, many people who agree with this petition wouldn't sign it for fear of retaliation by [Sultana].
"Again, we are demanding that Mrs. Sultana resign as a City of Easton Council member, effective immediately. This should not be a hard decision.to make since she has no respect for the city that pays her ... You've done nothing but pretty much bash everyone who disagrees with you ..."
Bethlehem police have arrested three area residents - Francisco Rodriguez-Ayala, Melissa Ramos and Giovanni Guridy - in what appears to be a massive fraud scheme that involves 130 identified victims and over $275,000 in stolen checks. All are in jail because of inability to post $500,000 bail, which a preliminary hearing tentatively set for Friday.
A search warrant revealed this trio in possession of counterfeiting devices as well as a notebook withe the names and social security numbers of numerous individuals, from which false identities were created to set up fraudulent accounts and make purchases. They also discovered items that had been stolen from area vehicles.
If you believe you might be a victim of this identity theft scheme, Northampton County DA's office is recommending that you call Bethlehem police at 610-997-7682.
From Juli Zando-Denis' campaign Easton, PA - [Date] - Julie Zando-Dennis, a dedicated community advocate and
long-time resident of the West Ward in Easton, is excited to announce her
candidacy for the Easton City Council in the upcoming election. Julie seeks
to represent District 2, which encompasses Wards 5, 6, 7, 8E, and 8W in the
West Ward.
With a strong background in community organizing, Julie has been an active
participant in local initiatives and has consistently demonstrated a
commitment to improving the quality of life for all residents. Julie will
be an advocate for affordable housing, healthcare, quality education, and
employment opportunities. Her campaign will focus on key issues such as
food security, community safety, and quality of life issues like parking,
noise, speeding, and hazardous sidewalks.
"I am running for City Council because I believe in the potential of our
community and the power of collective action," said Julie Zando-Dennis.
"Together, we can create a more engaged community to address systemic issues
and build resilience within the community. I am committed to listening to
the voices of our residents and working tirelessly to address their concerns
and aspirations."
Julie Zando-Dennis has a proven track record of working with residents,
local businesses, and nonprofits who have a vested interest in the West
Ward. She currently serves as Vice President of the Board of Safe Harbor
Easton, which fosters lifelong success and stability in homeless men and
women by addressing the root causes of their homelessness. She also supports
community revitalization activities as a volunteer for local organizations
and as a member of the Steering Committee of the West Ward Community
Initiative. She plans to bring this same dedication and passion to the City
Council, ensuring that the West Ward is a great place to live, work, and
raise a family.
To maintain impartiality and ensure that her decisions are solely in the
best interest of the community, she will self-fund her campaign and will not
accept any contributions from individuals or corporations. This approach
will allow Julie to remain unbiased and fully dedicated to serving the
residents of the West Ward.
About Julie Zando-Dennis
Julie Zando-Dennis graduated from law school in 2005 and currently works as
a construction professional and pollution claims examiner. She and her wife
Ghen have lived in the West Ward for 17 years and have three dogs.
Blogger's Note: According to her LinkedIn page, Zando Denis is a graduate of the University of Buffalo (M.A.H), McGill University (B.A.), Bard College (M.F.A) and Cardozo School of Law. She is licensed to practice in both Pa and NJ and is currently employed as a Senior Claims Examiner at AVP in New York as a construction specialist.
From Sharbel Koorie: I am Sharbel Koorie and today I am announcing my candidacy for Easton City Council – District 2, which is comprised of Wards 5, 6, 7, 8 West and 8 East in Easton.
As a lifelong resident of Easton, I have seen the challenges and opportunities our community faces. Today, I am excited to announce that I am running for City Council to represent District 2, a neighborhood I have called home for 55 years. With your support, I hope to bring a fresh perspective and practical solutions to the issues that matter most to our families and businesses.
I believe in the potential of Easton. For over four decades, I’ve worked here in various capacities—from co-owning Daddy’s Place, a popular local restaurant, to running a successful Disc Jockey business. For the past 25 years, I have also served the City of Easton in several roles, including laborer, heavy equipment operator, building inspector, and code administrator. These roles have given me a deep understanding of how our city functions and what works well and needs to be changed.
As a proud resident of South 9th Street, married to my wonderful wife Lena, and a father of four and a grandfather of six, I care deeply about the future of Easton, especially in the West Ward, where I have spent my life. The issues here are personal to me.
As your City Council representative, I will prioritize being accessible, listening to your concerns, and working tirelessly to ensure that we create a cleaner, safer, and more vibrant Easton for everyone. It will be my goal to make Easton a city we’re all proud to call home.
I humbly ask for your support in this campaign. Together, we can make Easton better, stronger, and more connected than ever before.
Blogger's Note: I know Sharbel and have visited his excellent restaurant many times more than I should. He and his family are good people. But can a Republican get elected in a heavily Democratic District? Can a former code enforcement officer get elected an any district? We'll see.
According to LehighValleyLive, about 125 people gathered in Easton's center circle yesterday at noon for a President's Day protest aimed at Donald Trump's ambitious agenda. As it began to wind down around 1 pm, a self-proclaimed veteran in skinny jeans that might have restricted the blood flow to his brain decided to accost the crowd.
"You got a permit? You got a permit?" he asked several times, telling one of them to "Shut up!" and "Hit me, old man."
At one point he ripped off half of the vest he was wearing in what seemed like a rather poor imitation of a Chippendale. "When you bleed for the flag, let me f---in' know," he added.
Things appeared primed to take a turn for the worse when Easton City Council member Frank Pintabone, who happened to be driving through the circle on his way to City Hall, stopped his truck and intervened. Frank, whose girth rivals that of the entire Philadelphia Eagles offensive line, put himself between the wannabe edge rusher and those who were there to protest Trump. He backed the guy off as effectively as Mekhi Becton did for Jalen Hurts.
Unfortunately for bottom feeders like me, Pintabone defused what could have turned into a physical altercation.
Free speech is a beautiful thing so long as it remains nonviolent.
The Eagke could probably use another offensive lineman, Frank.
From Christian Pungo's Campaign Allentown, PA – Cristian Pungo, a local construction project manager, and dedicated
community advocate, has officially announced his candidacy for Allentown City Council.
With a deep commitment to the city that shaped him, Cristian Pungo is running on a
platform centered around "Building Up Allentown"—a vision that prioritizes housing and
infrastructure expansion, community investment, and increased access to economic and
educational opportunities for city residents.
Cristian proudly represents Allentown, a place that embraced his Latino heritage, and his
identity as a first-generation Latino American. "Allentown is my home. I grew up here, went
to school here, and have built my career here," said Cristian Pungo. "My parents worked
tirelessly to provide a better future for me, and that same drive is what fuels my
commitment to our city. We need leadership that listens, acts, and believes in the potential
of every resident."
Cristian Pungo currently serves as a Construction Project Engineer at Alvin H. Butz, Inc.,
overseeing projects in education, community buildings, and healthcare. His firsthand
experience in construction development has provided him with unique insight into how
thoughtful planning and strategic investment can transform a city.
Beyond his professional work, Pungo is deeply involved in the Allentown community,
serving on multiple nonprofit boards, including the United Way Emerging Leaders, the
William Allen Arts Alliance, and the William Allen Enhancement Project.
With a policy focus on community-driven economic growth, affordable housing expansion,
and infrastructure development, Cristian is committed to making Allentown a city that
works for everyone.
"We have the talent, the passion, and the drive to make Allentown thrive," said Pungo. "With
strong leadership and a focus on equity, we can ensure that no resident is left behind."
Cristian invites supporters to join the campaign and be part of the movement to "Build Up
Allentown." The campaign is hosting a Petition Kickoff Event on Tuesday, February 25, 2025,
at 6:00pm at Inkwell. in Allentown. Members of the public can register to attend the free
event through the campaign’s website. For more information, visit www.votepungo.com or
follow @votepungo on social media.
Patti Bruno has joined five other Democrats in announcing her candidacy for one of the five at-large Northampton County Council seats that will be decided by voters this year.
I feel compelled to observe at the onset that her headshot (which I've attached), looks nothing like her. I understand why someone running for office would want to present a good photo. But the airbrushed one that Bruno uses is so much unlike her that it's a tad disingenuous. This practice puts pressure on men and women to conform with an unrealistic body image. At the very least, a political candidate who feels the need to use a digitally enhanced photograph should disclose this detail.
Bruno texted me twice in December about her possible candidacy. She sat next to me when Tara Zrinski announced her candidacy for Executive. But I never received her actual announcement.
That announcement, posted on Facebook, declares that "she isn't a career politician - she's one of us." That's also false. She has been a political operative for several years and ran for office herself four years ago. She managed Amy Cozze's failed state house race, Terry Houck's failed DA's race and nearly lost the primary election when Brian Panella ran for judge.
She is an Easton resident who graduated from Temple University (political science) and a Master's from American Public University (online). She did serve a two-year stint as a Presidential Management Fellow, but her announcement fails to state how or where she is employed now.
The winners of the Democratic primary will square off against Republican incumbents John Brown and John Goffredo; Juan Martinez, who owns the popular Don Juan restaurant chain; Bethlehem police officer Sam Elias and commercial air cargo pilot and Venezuelan immigrant Dan Campo.
In July, Northampton County Council voted 8-1 (with Kelly Keegan dissenting) to pay Council Clerk Aline Shafnisky an annual salary of $107,482. Just a few short months later, when County Council adopted its budget for this year, her salary increased by $4,836. A Council Clerk works for all nine Council members, and through them, the people who put those elected officials in office. As a law school graduate, she should know that it is unlawful to use her office to play politics for certain Council members. Yet that's precisely what she did yesterday in a voice message she left with the elections office.
Three members of County Council - John Brown, John Goffredo and Lori Vargo Heffner, seek re-election. Like anyone else running for office, they must circulate nomination petitions signed by registered voters. That's their business, not the people's. It's political. But yesterday afternoon, Council Clerk Aline Shafnisky left a 36-second voice message with the elections office, asking for advice on behalf of "a couple of Council members" who wanted to be "sure they were accurately filling out the forms." She asked for a "ring back" for what is "hopefully an easy answer."
Here's an answer. It is a theft of services to engage in political activity while you are supposed to be performing the duties of your office. They do not include political activity. If you doubt me, I have one word. Bonusgate.
At the very least, Shafnisky should be admonished.
Last night, NorCo Council President Lori Vargo Heffner sent me a release indicating that she is seeking a third term as one of Northampton County's five at-large members. At-large members are countywide. The other four members are selected from four different geographical districts. (Bethlehem area, Easton area, Nazareth area and northern tier). Her release is below, but I thought I'd take this opportunity to say I'm glad she's running. Let me explain why.
First, she's a veteran. Most people, even those who run for council and get elected, have no idea what county government does. There's a two-year learning curve for most people who serve in this part-time position. With Ron Heckman stepping down, her knowledge and experience is very beneficial, not just to newer members, but to the public she serves.
Second, she's bipartisan. When Peg Ferraro served on Northampton County Council, she liked to say she was a Republican until the election was over. After that, she did what she thought was in the best interests of the people she served, even if that meant ruffling a few feathers here and there. Vargo Heffner has embraced this thinking. As President of County Council, she named Republicans to chair different committees and even voted to elect Republican John Goffredo as Vice President. We could use more, not less, of that attitude.
Third, she's independent. She's unwilling to be pressured into voting a certain way, whether it is for a voluntary employee health center or a new county building. While I disagree with her position on these matters, I think it's very important to have Council members who can think for themselves.
Fourth, she stands up for the working class. Over the Executive's objection, she insisted on a pay study for county employees that reveals most of them are stuck for years in the middle of their pay scales. She supported a responsible contractor ordinance that ensures people working in trades are paid what they are worth and are safe.
Fifth, she has weathered a barrage of personal and mean-spirited attacks during her seven years in office, most of which are based on her simple refusal to rubber stamp what the Exec wants. In fact, I half-expected her to simply bow out because it has had to have taken a personal toll. At all levels of government, Executive overreach has been a problem. She has made sure that the legislative branch has remained a separate and co-equal branch of government.
Is she flawed? Yes. There are times when she can get petty or make snide remarks and can be obstructionist at times. But we need people like her in office now more than ever.
From Lori Vargo Heffner's Campaign, Northampton County, PA (February 12, 2025): Northampton County Council President Lori Vargo Heffner will seek re-election to Northampton County Council as an At-Large member.
“I’m announcing that I will be seeking a third term to continue my service to all residents and fight for Northampton County’s working families,” said Vargo Heffner. “In addition to 7 years of no tax increases, including one tax cut, I have worked to ensure that core county services are available and accessible to all residents.”
“During my tenure I have worked across party lines to maintain quality core services, complete the P3 bridge project, and enhance good governance practices. I have led efforts to create an independent pay study for our workforce and an independent study of operations at Gracedale. I have worked with judicial services to support their service delivery needs and identify ways to collaborate on the statewide mental health population crisis in our prisons. I believe the essence of good government is to be an independent voice and work to ensure a high quality of life for all residents.”
“I have proven my experience, commitment and integrity during my seven years on Northampton County Council, and I would be honored to continue working to improve the quality of life of all of our residents,” adds Vargo Heffner.
As a member of County Council Vargo Heffner has served in a variety of leadership positions, including her current role as President, a position she has held for four years. Vargo Heffner also served two years as Vice President and Chair of the Human Services, Finance, Governance, and Election Integrity committees. She serves as the Northampton County Council liaison to the Lehigh Valley Economic Development Corporation and Discover Lehigh Valley. She also serves on the County Commissioners Association of Pennsylvania (CCAP) Board as the Region 6 Representative, a position she has held for 3 years, as well as a member of CCAP’s Human Services and Court and Corrections committees. In addition, she currently serves as the President of the Pennsylvania Federation of Democratic Women.
Her accomplishments on County Council include the creation of term limits for all elected county officials, a Responsible Contracting Ordinance which ensured that County residents earn a living wage for work done in Northampton County, distribution of ARPA funds to small businesses during the COVID pandemic, and support for all farmland preservation and environmental resolutions.
A nearly 30-year resident of Northampton County, and 23-year resident of Lower Saucon Township, Vargo Heffner is a psychotherapist employed by St. Luke’s University Health Network. She earned a Bachelors degree Psychology from Moravian College, Masters degree in Counseling from Kutztown University and Masters degree in Adult and Organizational Development from Temple University. She serves on the Lehigh Valley Economic Development Corporation and Discover Lehigh Valley Boards and is a member of Assumption BVM Catholic Church where she serves as a lector and on the Liturgy Board.
Blogger's Note: Democrats Nadeem Qayyum (husband of Easton City Council member Taiba Sultana, Jason Boulette (Wind Gap Borough) David Holland (a nurse practitioner) and Theresa Fedem (Hellertown Borough Council) have also announced that they are seeking the Democratic nomination. There may be more.
(From Roger MacLean's Campaign) ALLENTOWN, PA — Former Allentown Police Chief and City Council President Roger MacLean, a lifelong Allentown resident and dedicated public servant, announced his candidacy for Lehigh County Executive, seeking the Republican nomination.
"Serving Allentown has provided me with a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities within our county," said MacLean. "As Lehigh County Executive, I will leverage this experience to ensure effective governance and uphold the values that make our community strong."
MacLean served 39 years with the Allentown Police Department, where he rose through the ranks from cadet to chief, managing a staff of over 200 officers and a $30 million budget. Following his retirement from the police force, he worked for the District Attorney’s Office at the James B. Martin Regional Intelligence and Investigation Center for ten years and served four years on Allentown City Council, including two as President.
A proven fiscal conservative, MacLean has consistently fought to protect taxpayers. As a City Council member, he voted against a 26% tax increase and opposed the establishment of a stormwater fee.
MacLean is a staunch advocate for farmland preservation, recognizing the critical role agriculture plays in the county’s heritage and economy. He is committed to protecting farmland from overdevelopment and opposes the proliferation of unnecessary warehouses, noting the large, vacant facilities already sitting unused. Instead, MacLean supports thoughtful, strategic development aligned with the county’s long-term needs.
“Lehigh County is at a pivotal moment,” MacLean added. “We must balance growth with preserving our community’s character and values. I’ve done that throughout my career, and I’ll continue that mission as County Executive.”
MacLean holds both bachelor’s and master’s degrees in criminal justice from DeSales University. A proud grandfather of two, with a third grandchild on the way, he attends Bethany United Methodist Church in Wescosville and remains deeply connected to the community.
"I am seeking the Republican nomination because I believe in time-tested conservative principles: responsible stewardship of taxpayer dollars, personal accountability, and common-sense solutions that foster growth while preserving our community’s unique character," said MacLean. "I’m ready to lead with integrity, transparency, and a deep respect for the values that unite and strengthen Lehigh County."
Roger MacLean’s decades of public service, deep understanding of governance, and unwavering commitment to fiscal responsibility make him uniquely qualified to serve as Lehigh County Executive. He invites the community to join his campaign to build a stronger, more prosperous county for generations to come.
Blogger's Note: MacLean joins Justin Simmons and Mike Welsh in seeking the Republican nod for Lehigh County Exec. The winner of that race will face Democrat Josh Siegel in November.
Yesterday afternoon, in the cacophonous Northampton County Courthouse rotunda, a formidable slate of Republicans announced their candidacies for the county offices to be decided by voters this November. Their point man is Tom "The Quiet Man" Giovanni, a second term Council member who has decided to take the next step and run for Executive.
Standing with him are County Council candidates John Brown and John Goffredo, both of whom are seeking re-election to a second term. Also present was political newcomer Juan Martinez, who owns the popular Don Juan restaurant chain. Two other newcomers, Bethlehem police officer Sam Elias and commercial air cargo pilot and Venezuelan immigrant, are also seeking two of the five at-large Council seats up for election this year. They were both working and unable to attend. Finally, James Fuller, who is running for Northampton County judge, introduced himself.
Giovanni, whom I have referred to as "the Quiet Man" on NorCo Council, explained he's never been interested in making headlines or playing politics, but feels "it's time to get louder" because of what he calls the dysfunction, irresponsibility and mismanagement by the county administration.
I first met Giovanni long before he ran for office. I mistook his IT business for a computer repair shop. While he was unable to help me, he referred me to a few people who could fix my ailing blog machine. In the private sector, he also served as a board member of the Greater Valley Y, including 9m years as its chair. He currently is the board chair of Nazareth Mutual Insurance.
He pledged fiscal responsibility and a rejection of tax hikes. He noted he has always voted for tax cuts and would oppose any tax increases, adding it would be unfair to burden people struggling with high prices.
He promised to end "the failed policies that have hurt Gracedale." He claimed that the Lamont McClure administration failed to maintain the quality of care at the county-owned nursing home.
Giovanni also pledged to expand farmland preservation should he prevail. "We need to work to protect family farms and keep them going from generation to generation. Also, our farmers have to have a voice in county government. Farmers are the people that put food on the table, and we need to cover theor backs."
Giovanni asserted that the McClure administration has been neither transparent nor honest over the past seven years and botched elections in 2019 and 2023.
"When you are elected, you must represent everyone, no matter if they voted for you or not. Unfortunately, what we are seeing in the county government is political weaponizing the office instead of working jointly for bipartisan results to work for the progress of the morale of the county employees. And I did vote for a pay study."
"I will continue to wake up every day to fight for the county that I love so much."
John Brown, a former county executive and Bangor Mayor, is finishing hie first term. He graduated from Bangor High School and the University of Notre Dame.
He stated that, when he was Executive, he worked to make sure that Gracedale, a 688-bed facility (current census is 546), had a 97% occupancy rate. He said his reforms eliminated multi-million-dollar losses and returned the facility to profitability while earning a four-star rating.
He complained that the McClure administration is responsible for two failed elections in 2019 and 2023. He added that McClure has also undone most of the improvements he made as Executive. "They have spent down most of the county's reserves," he charged, asserting that the county drained its rainy-day fund just to be able to balance the budget. He also slammed the county for failing to replace failing infrastructure like the parking deck on the courthouse campus, and then "plunge the county into debt to do so."
His final and most egregious indictment is that the administration has allowed Gracedale "to fall into financial and operational ruin with a 425-bed census with only 30% of the nursing staff [as] county employees.
John Goffredo, a slate belt businessman seeking a second term, has lived in NorCo his entire life. A coach and volunteer firefighter, he said "a lack of leadership in general" is what has prompted him to run again. "We have too many people who are followers or opportunists or activists seeking these positions and not people that are here to do the will of the citizenry and to do what's right, even when it's politically inconvenient." Though he is a Republican in a 6-3 Democratic Council, he was elected VP in January. He said that as a member of the minority, he has mostly played defense, "trying to stop things I thought were bad ideas, things that were pushed over every year, every time they got the opportunity to bring up the same issue. We have to sit there and argue for months as to why we thought it was a bad idea. He argued that with a Republican majority on county council, they would be able to "get back to the things that matter."
Thise include the county core functions, like elections. He noted botched elections in 2019 and 2023, with machine malfunctions and vote-flipping. He also pointed to 6-hour long lines in the 2024 Presidential. "All of those things are unacceptable. We don't have that many responsibilities as a county government. We have the courts, we have the jails, we have elections with human services. If we can't get elections right, we're failing the most important task this government has."
Goffredo stated that a Republican majority County Council would introduce a new "culture of excellency."
Unfortunately, and as a direct result of the incompetence of my videographer (me), I could only upload this announcement as a YouTube short video.
Martinez, said he worked hard to build something from the ground, creating jobs and opportunities while contributing to the local economy. But he said that, along the way, he's encountered a government that imposes roadblocks instead of finding solutions.
He said he would bring common sense and accountability as well as a leadership that listens and works hard. He would work to support small business, lower taxes, responsible budgets, safer communities and better infrastructure. Most importantly, he pledged to bring a county government that works for the people.
He introduced his wife and two sons, who joined him for his announcement. When finished, he invited everyone to his restaurant on Third Street (he has five of them) for tacos and margaritas.
That was a generous gesture, but I am a highly conditioned, well-trained athlete, so I demurred.
Fuller stated that he's been a resident of Northampton County since he was a child. He went through the Easton school system and graduated from Penn State. He at first worked for KidsPeace, where he met his wife of 15 years. They have two boys who attend Northampton schools and he coaches baseball, soccer and basketball. His soccer team went undefeated, but his basketball team is 2-7.
He has practiced criminal law in Monroe County for nearly 10 years, 7 as a public defender and two as a prosecutor. "My message to everyone is that I'm in court every day." He has tried 13 jury trials, 10 of which are felony trials. He feels that running for judge is the best way to give back to a community that has given him so much.
