Allentown Seeks Interim City Controller

From Allentown City Council:  Allentown City Council is continuing to accept applications from qualified residents interested in serving as the City's interim Controller. 

Applications will now be accepted through the close of business on Monday, August 17, 2026, providing additional time for interested candidates to apply following the postponement of the previously scheduled July 1 special meeting due to scheduling conflicts affecting quorum.

 

Pursuant to the City's Home Rule Charter, applicants must be qualified voters residing in the City of Allentown and must have been registered members of the Democratic Party for at least 30 days prior to the vacancy, which occurred on May 27, 2026.

 

The Allentown City Controller serves as the City's chief fiscal officer, providing independent financial oversight on behalf of more than 130,000 residents. The Controller is responsible for reviewing City finances independently of the Executive and Legislative branches, conducting financial and performance audits, reviewing the annual budget and providing recommendations to City Council and the Mayor, monitoring the implementation of audit recommendations, assisting with independent audits, overseeing the operations of the Controller's Office, and promoting accountability and transparency in the expenditure of public funds.

 

Individuals with backgrounds in accounting, auditing, finance, budgeting, public administration, government oversight, or related fields are encouraged to apply. Experience managing financial operations, interpreting financial information, conducting audits, or working within governmental or nonprofit organizations is beneficial.

 

Interested individuals should submit:

• A current resume; and
• A statement describing their qualifications, relevant experience, and the value they would bring to the Office of City Controller.

 

Applications may be submitted by mail or email to:

Allentown City Council
Attn: Tawanna Whitehead, Deputy City Clerk
435 Hamilton Street
Allentown, PA 18101

Email: Tawanna.Whitehead@allentownpa.gov

 

Documents submitted as part of this application process will become public records. All applicants will be subject to a background check.

 

Following the close of the application period, Allentown City Council will publicly review all qualified applicants and conduct interviews during a Special City Council meeting in August before voting to appoint an interim City Controller in accordance with the Home Rule Charter.

 

The position of City Controller carries an annual salary of $76,000.

 

Questions regarding the application process may be directed to the Allentown City Council Office at 610-437-7555.

 

Attached is the job description for the position. Per the Home Rule Charter, the responsibilities of the City Controller are to:

A.       Have financial oversight of City finances, independent of the Executive and Legislative branches and shall review all expenditures of the Mayor, City Council and City Boards, Commissions and Agencies;

B.  Review the Annual Budget before approval by City Council, and make nonbinding recommendations to the Mayor and to City Council for consideration, if he or she deems it necessary;

C.       Be present or represented at all Council meetings;

D.   Perform audits, including performance audits, of the City and any City department, office, authority, board or commission. In the performance of such audits, the City Controller, to the fullest extent allowable by law, shall be given access to any and all information and documents reasonably and actually necessary for the completion of such audits. The Controller, in conducting such audits, shall in all respects comply with Section 171.02.B (Confidential Information) of the City Ethics Code and Section 140.17 (Employee Conduct and Work Rules), Part H.12 of the Personnel Code prohibiting the unauthorized disclosure of confidential information in violation of federal, state and local laws. All information and documents made available to the Controller to conduct such audits and any reports resulting therefrom shall be subject to the provisions of the Pennsylvania Right-to-Know Law.

E.   Report, to the Mayor and to City Council, on the progress of the implementation of any recommendations as found in the Annual Audit and Management Letter;

F.        Assist in all audits conducted by independent auditors;

G.       Assure the accurate and timely completion and submittal of audit reports along with appropriate follow-up recommendations;

H.       Furnish to City Council, the Mayor, and others, as appropriate, periodic reports of audits conducted;

I.         Interpret and communicate audit policies and procedures to all City management and staff;

J.         Direct internal financial security and loss investigation activities;

K.       Prepare an annual budget for the office of City Controller and operate the office of City Controller within approved budget limitations; and

L.       Issue any subpoenas in order to fulfill the duties and responsibilities of the office of City Controller.

Allentown City Council Pays Tribute to Recently Deceased Controller Jeff Glazier

Blogger's Note: This site has been a safe haven for those of you who want to rip elected officials or wannabes of every stripe and persuasion. Don't get me wrong. I do it myself all the time. It's great sport. We have nicknames like Lamont McClueless, Pee Wee Tuerk, Crooksy Brooks, Bullhorn Zrinski, Me-Me Gerlach and, my personal favorite, "Fed Ed" Pawlowski. But many if not most of the local officials I know actually try very hard to make their communities better and serve the people who live there. 

Glazier, you may recall, became Allentown City Controller because his predecessor resigned after being charged with a conspiracy to deprive the good people of Allentown of honest services. As a member of City Council, he was a reliable Fed Ed ally. But that's only a part of his story. In a well-written news release, City Council Public Affairs Officer Genesis Ortega presents a far different picture of Glazier than the one I drew. 

I like her version better.

May 27, 2026 — Allentown City Council is mourning the passing of City Controller Jeff Glazier, whose decades of service helped shape the city he loved so deeply.

Jeff dedicated much of his life to public service in Allentown, serving on the School Board, City Council, and as City Controller — but to many who knew him, he was more than a public official. He was also a steady and familiar presence in the community.

He believed in public service, and he carried that belief without pretense. Jeff held firmly to the idea that government should be honest, careful, and accountable, even when the work was difficult or went unseen. That conviction shaped the way he served and the way he led throughout his career.

As City Controller, Jeff was responsible for overseeing the city’s finances and ensuring transparency and accountability in government operations. He approached that role with care and discipline, earning respect across city government for the seriousness with which he treated the public trust.

Those who worked in City Hall will also remember the small, everyday moments of his presence, including his dog, Artemis, who was a constant companion. She was often by his side in his office or walking through the building, familiar to many who worked there. Jeff also brought warmth and personality into the workplace through his love of music. Colleagues also knew his office for the sound system and endless music collection he kept there and was always eager to share.

Beyond his official duties, Jeff’s kindness showed itself in quieter ways. He spent years helping provide beds and furniture to children and families in need across Allentown. Much of that work was rooted in his family’s furniture business, and he never made a point of talking about it; he simply believed it mattered and did something about it.

Council President Santo Napoli said, “Jeff Glazier loved this city and served it with a level of integrity and humility that set a standard for all of us. He cared deeply about the people of Allentown, and his absence will be felt across this community in ways that are both public and deeply personal.”

“I worked alongside Jeff for over a decade, during that time he became both a trusted colleague and a friend,” Vice President Cynthia Mota shared. “He carried himself with kindness and thoughtfulness in every setting, and he never lost sight of the people he was serving. His passing is deeply personal to me and to many of us who knew him well. May his memory be a blessing.”

Councilwoman Candida Affa said, “There are some people whose presence becomes woven into the life of a city itself. Jeff Glazier was one of those people. His fingerprints are on decades of public service, but his true legacy is something deeper: trust earned, lives touched, and a community strengthened by his goodness.”

In honor of Jeff’s memory, and to allow members of Council and staff time to grieve, tonight’s scheduled Council meetings will be rescheduled.

All the members of Allentown City Council extend their deepest condolences to Jeff’s family, his friends, and all who are mourning him across the city.

Allentown is better because Jeff Glazier chose to serve.

Lehigh County's DCED Director Tapped as Allentown's Managing Director

Frank Kane, who has been Director of Lehigh County's Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED), has been tapped by Allentown Mayor Matt Tuerk as that city's new managing director. 

Kane, a graduate of Moravian College, has spent 20 years with Lehigh County and has been DCED Director since 2013. Prior to that, he spent three years as the press secretary for Pennsylvania's General Services Administration when Don Cunningham was the Director of that department. 

Damage to Allentown's "Lights in the Parkway" Estimated at $100k, Police Investigating

Here's the latest from Allentown Communications Director Genesis Ortega concerning this past weekend's vandalism at "Lights in the Parkway."

Move It Monday will proceed tonight as planned, featuring a Hanukkah Night theme in partnership with the Jewish Community Center of the Lehigh Valley, from 5:30 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. Police will be present throughout the event to help ensure a safe and welcoming experience for all attendees.

 

At this time, there is no public criminal update related to the vandalism investigation. We continue to assess the full scope of damage. While the final valuation is still being tallied, the City is currently projecting a minimum loss of $100,000, which includes staffing costs, damaged and destroyed displays, and lost revenue.

 

Several signature displays have been confirmed as total losses and are not salvageable, including Old Man Winter, Penguin with the Top Hat, and Fishing Penguins, with a combined estimated value of $60,000.

Despite the damage, the City is grateful to share that Holiday Outdoor Decor reached out immediately after learning about the incident and visited the site this morning. In a remarkable show of support, the company has loaned 22 display pieces to help replace those that were damaged. City crews are actively removing vandalized displays, and thanks to this generosity, the attraction will be restored and ready to reopen to vehicle traffic tomorrow night, provided there are no additional setbacks.

 

Lights in the Parkway is a fundraiser benefiting local nonprofit organizations. Due to last night’s closure, the featured nonprofit, Allen High School, lost a day of donations. The City will still provide the organization’s stipend for the impacted day, and additional donations are encouraged.

 

Those interested in supporting the program and helping replace damaged displays can contribute through The Parknership at: https://givebutter.com/25lights. Donations will be used directly to replace destroyed light displays.

 

We also extend our sincere thanks to the sponsors who support Lights in the Parkway year after year, as well as the many community members who have expressed encouragement and support.

The City will continue to provide updates as the damage assessment and investigation progress.

The Grinch Hits Allentown's "Lights in the Parkway"

When I skimmed a notice from Allentown Communications Director Genesis Ortega on Sunday about the "Lights in the Parkway" being closed, I assumed it was due to the weekend's snowstorm. It's sad to see that the reason is because the displays have been vandalized. Here's the release:

December 14, 2025 – Lights in the Parkway is closed tonight following a significant act of vandalism that caused extensive damage to holiday light displays, including restrooms at Lehigh Parkway. The vandalism has resulted in port-a-potties being pushed into the river, bent light poles and posts, and crushed light bulbs.

We are actively assessing the full extent of the damage and determining the broader impact on the remainder of the Lights in the Parkway season. Preliminary assessments indicate that restoring the damaged displays will be difficult and costly during the current season.

As a result, we have not yet made a determination on whether Move It Monday, scheduled for tomorrow, will proceed. An update will be provided as soon as more information becomes available.

Residents and visitors who purchased tickets for tonight’s Lights in the Parkway event should contact the Parks Office for assistance with rebooking or refunds at (610) 437-7757 (Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.) or by email at events@allentownpa.gov.

The City has deployed its full complement of Parks crews, who are simultaneously addressing last night’s snowstorm, assisting Public Works crews, and responding to the vandalism while securing and evaluating the site.

City officials condemn all acts of vandalism, and stress that last night’s incident impacts not only a beloved holiday tradition, but also the staff, volunteers, and families who look forward to this event each year.

While we continue to evaluate repair options, please know that every effort will be made to keep the Lights in the Parkway tradition going with the resources currently available.

This incident is being investigated by the Allentown Police Department. Anyone with information can contact the department at (610) 437-7753. Tipsters are also encouraged to provide information related to the incident through the TIP411 application on www.allentownpa.gov/police.

The City of Allentown will release additional information once the damage assessment is complete and next steps are determined.

I question whether this could have occurred but for Saturday night's storm. Emergency responders and public works were no doubt prioritized city streets and local accidents and medical emergencies over the parkway, But given the time that it must have taken to commit these numerous acts of malicious mischief, I suspect that the numerous cameras deployed in Allentown might help solve this insult to family fun. I believe that unless this kind of behavior is addressed and the perpetrators are nabbed, it becomes an invitation for similar acts throughout the city. 

I have an alibi. 

Allentown Truth, Molovinsky, Siegel and Eddie "Cares" Aviles

I'm ashamed to say that I completely missed the existence of an Allentown-specific blog until this past weekend, when it was brought to my attention by Attorney Nathan Thurm. The blog? Allentown Truth. The blogger? He's anonymous but calls himself Honest Abe. I have linked to him and want to draw attention to one of his recent stories. 

Let me give you the background.

Recently, LC Exec candidate Josh Siegel blasted both his GOP opponent, Roger MacLean. and LV Congressman Ryan Mackenzie because they recently posed in a group photo that included a fellow named Eddie (Eduardo) Aviles. He was apparently canvassing neighborhoods with them.  It's unclear to me whether MacLean or Mackenzie know anything about him. 

Frankly, from what I've seen of him on his Eddie Cares Aviles Facebook page, he's different. I've seen unhinged Facebook lives from him bashing Promise Neighborhoods, an Allentown nonprofit that feeds off white guilt for funds that have done nothing to improve the lives of anyone, excepting two-time convicted felon Hasshan Batts. I can no longer locate those emotional Lives, but WFMZ-TV69 did cover his mini-war against Batts. He fancies himself a champion of the tired, the poor, the homeless, the unwashed, the huddled masses, the refuse of society. Kinda' like an Allentown Statue of Liberty. But I don't know enough about him to reach any conclusion other than that he's failing. That's no dig at him. It happens with everyone, whether it is some well-funded nonprofit, a local government throwing cash this way and that, or even the well-meaning members of a church. 

But Eddie Cares Aviles has a tendency to let his emotions take over and gets in trouble as a result. Charges include disorderly conduct, fighting, accusations of terroristic threats (always dismissed) and possession of a small amount of marijuana. Siegel cited these in a Facebook post. He also linked to a WFMZ-TV69 news article published back in 2013, when he allegedly punched his girlfriend. Interestingly, this charge no longer appears on the state website for criminal cases, so those charges may have been expunged. 

The day after this group photo, Aviles was arrested again and charged by Allentown's constabulary with terroristic threats, disorderly conduct (fighting) and, of all things, jaywalking. Bail was set at $10,000 (10%), but Eddie was sprung by a professional bondsman. A preliminary hearing is pending. 

This was all red meat to Josh Siegel, who thought nothing of marching with convicted felon Hasshan Batts in Allentown Streets and even doxed Allentown's Mayor for the amusement of thugs who called and threatened to burn down his house. 

According to Siegel, "this isn’t new — Aviles has a violent history, is deeply unstable, and even harassed the Mayor of Allentown into needing security.

Yet MacLean and Mackenzie still chose to walk beside him.

They knew who he was.

They still showed up with him.

Because this is who they are:

✅ The GOP wants control over women’s bodies.

✅ They protect abusers and predators.

✅ And now, they walk door-to-door with a man who has a violent past and a fresh arrest.

Enough is enough.

So sayeth the man who walked the streets of Allentown in the middle of the night with abusers and predators to chants of "Fuck the Police."

Needless to say, both Honest Abe and Michael Molovinsky take a dim view of Siegel's slurs. Molovinsky writes, Eddie now gets into what John Lewis used to call good trouble. Standing up for the homeless won't lose votes with most people.

Of course, a GoFundMe has been started for Edie Cares, calling him "a hero who protects us all." According to the GoFundMe, "While peacefully advocating for housing justice, Eddie was arrested and now faces legal charges — nuisance, terroristic threats, disorderly conduct, and jaywalking. Some of the tents and supplies meant for unhoused people were discarded in the process. Eddie cannot carry the resulting legal expenses alone." It has raised $50.

Allentown Takes Aim at Predatory Towing

From Santo Napoli:  The Allentown City Council voted last Wednesday night to adopt a new ordinance aimed at protecting residents and visitors from predatory towing practices on private property. The measure adds critical procedures to the city’s administrative code and establishes a uniform framework to ensure fair, transparent, and legal towing operations. The ordinance comes in response to a growing number of complaints from residents who had their vehicles towed from private property and were charged excessive, cash-only fees ranging from $400 to $700—often with little to no information on how to retrieve their cars.

Councilmember Santo Napoli, who sponsored the ordinance, said he was prompted to act after conversations with police and multiple residents impacted by these practices.

“The manner in which these vehicles were towed caught my attention,” Napoli said. “People were forced to pay hundreds of dollars in cash with no clear information or recourse. That’s simply unacceptable.”

Napoli added that such predatory fees can have serious ripple effects on individuals and families already facing financial strain. “A surprise $600 expense can push someone into late rent, missed mortgage payments, or even the risk of eviction. For those living paycheck to paycheck, it’s more than just an inconvenience—it can be a devastating setback.”

The ordinance focuses on four key areas:

1. Signage - Private properties must display clearly visible towing signs (minimum 12” x 18”) that include the name and phone number of the towing company.

2. Tow Company Standards - Tow operators must be registered with the city, maintain liability insurance of at least $1 million, and be in good standing with all city ordinances. Tow trucks must also display the company name and phone number, and report all tows to the Allentown Police Department within 30 minutes.

3. Reasonable Fees - Towing companies must charge reasonable rates consistent with Pennsylvania law.

4. Decoupling - If a vehicle owner arrives before their car is removed, the tow truck operator must release the vehicle immediately and may charge a decoupling fee no greater than half the towing cost.

Violators—tow operators or private property owners—face penalties of $500 per violation or the total amount charged to the vehicle owner, whichever is greater.

"I commend City Council for passing this much-needed legislation, and I especially thank Councilperson Santo Napoli, Detective Luiz Garcia of the Allentown Police Department, and members of the community for their collaboration in addressing the issue of predatory towing,” said Chief Charles Roca. “This ordinance sends a clear message: these exploitative practices will not be tolerated in the City of Allentown, and those engaging in them will be held accountable. The new regulations provide clear expectations and transparency for both towers and residents, helping ensure a fair and consistent process for all."

Napoli also acknowledged the numerous partners involved in shaping the ordinance, including Council Vice President Cynthia Mota and City Clerk Michael Hanlon.

“I’m thankful for the collaboration and support across departments,” Napoli said. “This is a win for transparency, fairness, and the people of Allentown.”

Residents and visitors who believe their vehicles were towed in violation of the updated ordinance should report concerns to the Allentown Police Department immediately at 610-437-7732.

For more information on the ordinance, contact the Allentown City Clerk’s Office or visit www.allentownpa.gov.

Allentown's Noose Story Turns Out to Be Just That - a Story

On Monday, both The Lehigh Valley News and Morning Call dutifully reported that LaTarsha Brown, a City of Allentown employee and Allentown school board director, has been charged with filing false reports in connection with her claim that someone planted a noose atop her computer at City Hall.  I am surprised by how many of you remember my January story about her claim of racism, in which I suggested it was a set-up to make her many claims of racial discrimination seem credible. Here's what I said then:

According to both The Morning Call and LehighValleyNews, Allentown employee LaTarsha Brown found what appeared to be a small noose on her computer when she reported to work on Friday morning. She just happens to be the very employee who has made multiple accusations of racism and harassment at City Hall. City Council member Ce-Ce (from DC) Gerlach was quick to call the incident a "hate crime." An investigation by Allentown police isn't good enough for outraged activists, who want to involve the FBI in tracking down the bigot who supposedly placed this symbol of racial hatred.  In addition to investigating a possible hate crime, I'd suggest that police or FBI or INTERPOL look into another possibility as well. - false reports. 

While possible, I find it hard to believe that someone would place a noose on the computer of a city employee who has repeatedly claimed that she and others are victims of racism. It's equally possible that it was placed there in an attempt to make the allegations of bigotry seem more credible. Another reason for the hangman's noose is to strangle Allentown Mayor Matt Tuerk's quest for re-election. Several members of City Council would be pleased by that outcome. 

Here's what neither news account has revealed. This was reported to authorities by a City Council member who just happened to be at City Hall on a Friday morning at 6:30 am. Though Council's meeting room is on the first floor, and city council offices are on the fifth floor, this City Council member was on the third floor, where this employee's office is located and where there are no cameras. What the hell was this person doing there? If there in response to a tip, who did that come from? 

Elected officials and city employees are issued ID cards and can enter City Hall at any time, but there is a record of it. And there are cameras on the first floor and entrances. 

I'm unwilling to identify this City Council member at this time, but this person is no friend of Tuerk or his re-election efforts. It will come out with the wash. For now, I'll leave you hanging. 

Blogger;s Note: Michael Molovinsky has a related story about the politics of racism.

Brown's claim fueled outrage by people who were quick to assume that perhaps the most woke City Hall in Pennsylvania is a hotbed of racism. The City actually conducted segregated "healing sessions" in response to what certainly appears to have been a lie. 

What's unfortunate about Brown's alleged false report is that there really are victims of racial discrimination, but Brown has just diminished them just as much as when a white woman mendaciously accuses an innocent black person of pulling a gun on her or raping her. 

Daryl Hendricks To Seek Re-Election to Allentown City Council

Daryl Hendricks is one of a very few normal people left on an Allentown City Council filled with no-shows like Natalie Santos and Mayoral wannabes like Ce-Ce Gerlach (she ran last time) and Ed Zucal (it's his turn now). Gerlach, who was placed on ARD after she dropped an underage boy off at a homeless camp, has done her best to minimize a police presence. Zucal has been out to get Mayor Tuerk since he took office and will use anything, even ridiculous claims of racism at City Hall, to go after him. In the meantime, the Queen City is slowly burning. Its government is caught up in far too many nonsense issues to accomplish anything. 

Hendricks is one of the increasingly few voices trying to right a sinking ship. Below is his re-eelction announcemnt:

I am announcing my candidacy for re-election to Allentown City Council.

Now, more than ever, Allentown needs leaders with vision and experience.

Leaders who are committed to Allentown and care deeply about its future.

I will continue to govern with an open mind and a strong effort toward fiscal stability and transparency, and a keen eye toward economic development throughout the City to include the expansion on the Waterfront area, as well as the ongoing and future development of the former State Hospital site on the East side of the City.

I have and always will strongly support our emergency services to include Police, Fire and Allentown EMS Services.

I am a native and life-long resident of the City of Allentown, who attended Allentown Schools, raised my family in Allentown and have served the citizens of Allentown continuously for the past 47 years. My career for 36 years was with the Allentown Police Department retiring as a Captain. I hold a degree in Criminal Justice Administration from Lehigh Carbon Community College and have completed numerous degree courses from Muhlenberg College’s Wescoe School. Currently I serve as 1st Vice President of “Dream Come True”, a local organization that grants dreams for seriously, chronically and terminally ill children in the Lehigh Valley. It has been my privelege to be a founding member of the Lehigh County Child Advocacy Center. I was elected into the Union Terrace Hall of Fame as a former youth baseball/basketball coach, where I served for over ten years. I was elected to Allentown City Council in 2012 and have served continuously since that time.

Alvin Butz Project Manager to Run For Allentown City Council

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.

Allentown Conducts Segregated "Healing Sessions" To Combat Racism

Yesterday, most government workers, schoolteachers and banks took the day off in honor of civil rights leader Martin Luther King, Jr. He, and many like him, fought for the Civil Rights, Voting Rights and Fair Housing Acts.  Groups like the Freedom Riders peacefully protested segregation despite being beaten, fire-bombed and arrested. This segregation existed locally, too. Blacks were barred from swimming in our local pools. When they did, the pools were drained.  Now, despite the valiant efforts of civil rights leaders to bring people together, Allentown is doing its best to drive them apart with absurd "healing sessions" in response to a noose supposedly found on the computer of an employee who has made complaints about discrimination at city hall. 

Get this. These "healing sessions," which were conducted on Friday, were divided into two groups. One was for black, the indigenous and persons of color. The other was for whites, even those who call themselves "allies" to persons of color. This initiative imposes the very segregation that civil rights leaders fought against for decades. 

A letter to city staff states, "The purpose of these affinity spaces is not to divide AT ALL. We do not want people thinking that we are dividing by ethnicity, to put people on separate sides or ideals."

Whatever the intention, that is precisely what happened. George Wallace would have been proud. 

By the way, the "affinity space" for persons of color is a basement.  

Allentown Ponders "Welcoming" Ordinance For Immigrants

At the rate that Allentown is investigating itself, it might soon need a tax increase just to cover the host of investigations and lawsuits concerning those investigations. But that's only the start. On Wednesday, the City Council also considered a "welcoming" ordinance that would protect immigrants without regard to status. According to a summary from LehighValleyNews, city employees would be blocked from sharing the immigration status of residents unless required by federal law. The matter has been referred to Council's Public Safety Committee. 

Though from Ecuador, Lehigh County Comm'r Jon Irons spoke in favor of this legislation. He was festooned in a keffiyeh, otherwise known as a Yasser Arafat scarf. It's unknown whether he's advocating for this on a county level. " Sharon Finnigan argued that people have the right to feel safe, adding that similar legislation has already passed in Lancaster. "There ain't no power like the power of the people," added Jessie Lopez.

And therein lies the rub. The people decided in the most recent Presidential race to support a candidate who wants to deport millions of illegals. Like it or not, a majority of American voters feel unsafe with the status quo. A "welcoming" ordinance may be very unwelcome to them. 

In response to this city initiative, Lancaster County Commissioners passed a resolution declaring Lancaster a "non-sanctuary county" and called on the City to rescind its ordinance. Three Indiana cities have rescinded their "welcoming" city legislation after being threatened by the state attorney general with litigation.  

Numerous cities throughout the country, including Philadelphia, are certified welcoming cities. Though similar to a sanctuary city, a welcoming city must still comply with federal law. 

Allentown City Council Reports That FBI Working "In Tandem" With Allentown Police Over Alleged Noose Incident

At the beginning of last night's Allentown City Council, but not before praying to Jesus, Council President Cynthia Mota announced that earlier that day, Council conducted a questionable and possibly illegal executive session with Allentown police concerning the noose that was supposedly discovered early last Friday. She then reported that the FBI is working "in tandem" with Allentown police to uncover the truth.

She failed to disclose that it was in fact a city council member who supposedly discovered this noose at City Hall on Friday, on a floor where this member has no business. No explanation was given for the presence of this member of City Council member, or whether this is a possible attempt to throw a monkey wrench into Tuerk's re-election.  

Given that the Sunshine Act's exceptions for executive sessions have no application to this situation, I question City Council's ability to determine what is or is not legal. That meeting should have been open to the public spotlight. 

Mayor Matt Tuerk, described by one of my readers as a 4th degree black belt in virtue signaling, was conspicuously absent. "Where's our Mayor?" asked saloon owner Don Ringer. "This is an important meeting." It certainly is to those trying to set him up as the mastermind of a racist city hall. 

A parade of outraged citizens addressed Council, not one of whom suggested that this could have been put there for political purposes or to lend credibility to claims of racism. 

I referred to Mota as City Council President, but Daryl Hendricks was elected President later that evening. 

After agreeing to spend $50,000 for a related civil investigation and incredibly, is considering hiring yet another law firm to conduct even more investigations. 

Is Allentown's Supposed Noose Story a Set-Up?

According to both The Morning Call and LehighValleyNews, Allentown employee LaTarsha Brown found what appeared to be a small noose on her computer when she reported to work on Friday morning. She just happens to be the very employee who has made multiple accusations of racism and harassment at City Hall. City Council member Ce-Ce (from DC) Gerlach was quick to call the incident a "hate crime." An investigation by Allentown police isn't good enough for outraged activists, who want to involve the FBI in tracking down the bigot who supposedly placed this symbol of racial hatred.  In addition to investigating a possible hate crime, I'd suggest that police or FBI or INTERPOL look into another possibility as well. - false reports. 

While possible, I find it hard to believe that someone would place a noose on the computer of a city employee who has repeatedly claimed that she and others are victims of racism. It's equally possible that it was placed there in an attempt to make the allegations of bigotry seem more credible. Another reason for the hangman's noose is to strangle Allentown Mayor Matt Tuerk's quest for re-election. Several members of City Council would be pleased by that outcome. 

Here's what neither news account has revealed. This was reported to authorities by a City Council member who just happened to be at City Hall on a Friday morning at 6:30 am. Though Council's meeting room is on the first floor, and city council offices are on the fifth floor, this City Council member was on the third floor, where this employee's office is located and where there are no cameras. What the hell was this person doing there? If there in response to a tip, who did that come from? 

Elected officials and city employees are issued ID cards and can enter City Hall at any time, but there is a record of it. And there are cameras on the first floor and entrances. 

I'm unwilling to identify this City Council member at this time, but this person is no friend of Tuerk or his re-election efforts. It will come out with the wash. For now, I'll leave you hanging. 

Blogger;s Note: Michael Molovinsky has a related story about the politics of racism.

Molovinsky Reports Zucal Plans to Run For Allentown Mayor

Blogger Michael Molovinsky has reported that Ed Zucal, a retired cop who currently sits on Allentown City Council, plans to announce his Mayoral bid on November 19. It's hard to see how incumbent Matt "Pee Wee Herman" Tuerk can be re-elected since he's alienated just about everyone. But Allentown citizens are the same voters who routinely re-elected Edwin "Fed Ed" Pawlowski, even after he was indicted. Molovinsky believes Tuerk will be "hard to beat" in the primary, which in a one-party town is the election. I believe Zucal has spent most of his time on Council over the past two years attacking Tuerk, which I believe is counterproductive. 

One of my readers has this assessment of Allentown's Mayor and City Council: "I have lived in Allentown through several mayors. Tuerk is by far the worst. He truly isn't qualified to run this city. Nor is Boyer, Genesis, those in H.R. Then Kistler is a yes woman to the mayor. Council is awful. Santo [Napoli] couldn't be more bought by the mayor. "well l, I mean, I own a business and I know hard it is to find good workers" blah blah. [Candida] Affa- let's scream at everyone and say negative things under her breathe. [Daryl] Hendricks- "I was a police officer for 30 years, I served this city." Okay but irrelevant, times have changed. CeCe [Gerlach]- police get nothing, [Natalie] Santos- is it my turn to vote? Otherwise I won't speak. [Ed] Zucal- let's call the mayor out on everything, [Cynthia] Mota- I know the right thing to do, but I am gonna vote against it or for it. Guys what is going on here!!! No one has blasted the mayor for making Allentown a viral comedy. We all look awful. Next council and mayoral elections will certainly bring new people."

I agree with everything this reader said except for his last sentence. I believe the new Council will be very much like the old Council, perhaps even worse. 

Allentown Mural Arts, Cedar Crest College, Transform Utility Boxes Into Art

Can Allentown's electric utility boxes be transformed into works of art? Shocking, you might say, but that's exactly what's happening. Allentown Mural Arts has teamed up with Cedar Crest College Arts students to create public art out of Allentown's nondescript and ubiquitous utility boxes.

According to Jane Heft, Director of Allentown Mural Arts, this program is intended to "bring color and creativity to otherwise dull and utilitarian structures in the heart of Allentown." This project started May 8 on Hamilton Street and will continue throughout the summer. 

City Center Group and Fast Signs of Allentown have contributed to make this possible. 

Allentown Health Assessment Reveals Need For Education and Learning English

Last week, I told you that Allentown's Community Health Assessment (read it here) concludes there's a need to combat loneliness. That's complete horseshit. What it really reveals is a serious need for both an education and the ability to speak English as a second language. Those two things will do more to achieve upward mobility among its residents than anything else. That is made abundantly clear by this portion of the assessment:

Amidst an economic resurgence, many communities within the City of Allentown are burdened by persistent economic distress. Across the City, the poverty rate is 23.3%, and the median household income is $47,700. Compared to the Allentown-Bethlehem-Easton metropolitan area, Allentown has a poverty rate twice as high, and a median household income that is lower by one-third. Economic disparity illustrates the reality and the persistence of a citywide prime-age employment gap of 6.1%. The gains of a growing, prosperous regional economy are not being shared by all, especially here in the City of Allentown. Regionwide, there is a noticeable disparity in access to opportunity between different racial and ethnic groups. White individuals are twice as likely to live in an area with very high opportunity compared to Non-Whites. Just 38% of the Hispanic/Latino community in our region have high access to opportunity, 40-points less than white individuals. This disparity is especially pronounced within the City of Allentown, a now majority-minority city following the 2020 Census.

Allentown is a diverse city with 54.5% identifying as Hispanic/Latino and 47.5% identifying as non-native English speaking. Skills and education gaps are the fundamental barriers to employment for Allentown residents. Among this subset of the city, 25% of prime-age residents are not high school graduates. Language barriers accentuate this gap: individuals who do not speak English at home are over three times less likely to graduate from high school compared to those who do. Low educational attainment and proficient skills render many of the higher paying local jobs inaccessible to many within this area. A consequence of this incompatibility is the challenge many residents face arranging transportation to work. Despite 90% of residents traveling to work outside of their neighborhood, one in every three households in this area are without a personal vehicle.

I like to eat at a Vietnamese restaurant in this area once a week. A few months ago, the owner's two nephews immigrated (legally) after waiting for years. Neither spoke a word of English. Despite this handicap, both obtained jobs very quickly. Both also immersed themselves into studying English. While waiting for ESL classes at Northampton Community College, they used an online app to teach themselves. They both speak English quite well now and one of them just bought a car. 

Being an Auschlander hurts you only if you let it hurt you. 

Allentown's Community Health Assessment Released

Allentown has released its community health assessment, which you can read for yourself here. According to a news release accompanying this assessment, three issues have been identified for inclusion in its health improvement plan: (1) loneliness and isolation; (2) a need for safe, stable and affordable housing; and (3) a need for upward economic mobility. 

The three issues identified strike me as wholly misplaced, especially the notion that Allentonians are lonely or isolated.  But the assessment itself provides a great deal of useful data. I plan on reading it thoroughly over the weekend and will weigh in next week on what a health improvement plan might wish to consider. I invite you to do the same. 

Allentown "Leader" Hasshan Batts Justifies Baby's Murder

Over this past weekend,  in what should have been a celebratory atmosphere, eight people were shot in three separate incidents in Allentown. Two are dead, including a one-year old boy. 

Never one to waste a crisis, former drug dealer Hasshan Batts conducted what The Morning Call has dubbed a "rally" outside of his Promise Neighborhood's offices on Sunday, flanked by local elected officials who've regularly thrown public money at him to reduce gun violence. That's been a failure, pretty much like The Philadelphia Eagles. 

Batts, who not long ago was chanting "Fuck the police!" from a bullhorn in center city Allentown, actually excused these homicides. "'We’re not here to have a conversation about bad apples,' Batts said Sunday. “When people are wrestling with poverty, they do what they need to survive.'”

I was unaware that murdering a baby is something poor people do to survive.

Amazingly, this demagogue is labeled a community leader. I call him what he is - a thug. 

It is time to turn off his money faucet.  

Easton Mayor Sal Pamto Explains Millage Rate

On Tuesday night, with little discussion, Bethlehem City Council voted 6-1 to approve both a 2.6%  property tax hike as well as an 8% sewer tax hike for next year. The sole dissenting Council member was Grace Crampsie Smith. It did so despite having received $34.4 million in ARPA funding, which can be used to replace revenue. In Allentown, their City Council enacted a budget that takes $760,000 out of the rainy day fund without touching $1 million in unspent ARPA funding, Given the amount of federal funding provided to municipalities over the past two years, both Bethlehem's tax hike and Allentown's decision to deplete its emergency fund balance are fiscally irresponsible decisions. If the Lehigh Valley's three cities, only Easton acted responsibly. For the 16th year in a row, it avoided a tax hike by raising parking meter fees and passing along part of the cost of an increase in trash collection. 

Some of you remarked that Easton is near its maximum tax rate of 25 mills for third class cities and thus has been forced to be more creative. This is incorrect. Mayor Sal Panto posted a comment on this blog explaining that the 25 mill max applies only to the city's general fund. He added that is only taxed at a rate of 12 mills. Here's what he said. 

Hi Bernie, Sal Panto here. I would like to clarify the issue about the millage ceiling. The ceiling for a city of the Third Class like Easton is 25 mils for the General Fund. This does not include a number of budgets that aren't part of the General Fund. The actual millage rate for the General Fund is about 12 mils and all budgets combined including recreation, debt service, etc. equals 24.95 mills. Let's also remember that I have never shied away form the fact that we are increasing fees, like parking fees. The intent is to place any increases on our visitors and tourists, and not the city property owners, many of who are elderly and on a fixed income. The fact is that we could raised the millage rate a lot higher if we needed to but my intent is to keep it level and hopefully lower the rate.

Whatever you may think of Mayor Panto, he has been an incredibly good steward of the people's money. And incidentally, he is a Democrat.