Gracedale By the Numbers

I've written three times about last week's Gracedale's Oversight Committee meeting. Continuum of Care Director Tom Carson has told NorCo Council established that an operational assessment they obtained in 2023 has been largely ignored by a former county executive who opposed it. We learned that the county's CNA training program was actually stopped by the state Department of Health. We also discovered that Gracedale, currently operating with a provisional II license, had two G-level deficiencies (actual harm) in September and failed to inform County Council. Most astonishingly, the very matter that led to an investigating grand jury had still been unresolved. There still is no formal protocol between Upper Nazareth police and Gracedale on 911 calls despite several attempts by the police to establish one. I'll finish my reporting about this meeting with some of the facts presented by Administrator Michelle Morton.

Employment Hires & Separations. - From January through August, Gracedale had 78 new hires, but lost 59. 

Open AFSCME positions (incorrectly spelled as AFCME) in Morton's report - In Dining, there are 43 positions, of which 23 are staffed. In Housekeeping, there are 54 staffed positions, of which 16 are open. In nursing there are openings for 319 CNAs, with only 69 positions staffed. There are 51 LPN positions staffed, with another 134 unfilled.  

Why did Executive Tara Zrinski raise the salaries of front-line workers before the nursing supervisors. She said the union actually asked her to raise the wages of nursing supervisors first. She added that the large number of open positions "will get better if you throw money at it." 

There are many dedicated employees, including 11 people with 30-35 years at the home. 

What about RNs? Morton failed to provide that information. 

Admissions. - Gracedale has had only 48 admissions this year through July. Over that same period, 56 residents have left. Average daily census dropped from 493 in January to 463 in August. 

Finances  - Gracedale is projected to lose about $2.3 million in 2026 according to one slide, but in another the loss is about $1 million. 

Zrinski Addresses a Senior Center Crisis

On Thursday,NorCo Exec Tara Zrinski updated County Council on the recent decision to close the Northampton Borough Senior Center. She has a "sustainable operating plan" to keep the facility open as a community-based organization.

Northampton County operates 9 senior centers, while Lehigh operates 11.

Zrinski reported that there is a statewide funding crisis for senior centers. This is the result of both the end of federal American Rescue Plan and declining state funding combined with rising costs for meals, transportation, staffing, and other services. A dozen senior centers across Pennsylvania have already closed, with 40 more slated for termination.

Statewide, there's an estimated $50 million statewide funding gap for aging services, and they include far more than senior centers.

The Department of Aging's responsibilities also include:Meals on Wheels (the county cleared a wait list, but 13 more have applied); Emergency food assistance; Health and wellness programs; Transportation; Home modifications; Medication management; Personal emergency response systems; Cooling centers during extreme heat; and In-home personal care services (there are 62 people on a personal care wait list).

Zrinski pointed out that "When you have people at a senior center, and you have people on a care wait list, people waiting to be bathed, people waiting for in-home services, and you think, 'Well, we have able-bodied seniors and we have people who cannot change themselves. Who do we provide services to first?"

Could the county make up the $1-1.5 million shortfall? According to Zrinski, no. She cited and waved a 1991 Council resolution barring the administration from funding more than is allotted by the state.

The budget at Northampton's senior center includes $90,000 for meals, $11,000 for rent and $8,000 for operating expenses. This excludes the cost of a 27-hour per week part-time employee.

So though the county will continue to pay rent until the end of the year, it is unable to support the senior center.

She's suggesting the formation of an autonomous community group that can provide volunteers for a newly organized nonprofit like Neighbors in Need. to provide a safe setting fand social interaction or seniors.

After she finished her presentation, Council member Jeff Warren fawned over it, claiming that Zrinski is thinking "outside the box," a phrase that she herself later used to describe her plan.

I'm a bit more skeptical. If Zrinski wanted to think outside the box, she could ignore a 1991 County Council resolution that has no binding effect on her or future County Councils. She could ask County Council to rescind the resolution. She could also consider merging two senior centers on south side Bethlehem that are within a stone's throw from each other. One is located at the Rooney building, and the other at the Hispanic center/ Frankly, at a time when we should be more inclusive and have even established a Human Relations Commission, why would we want to have separate senior centers for those who speak Spanish and those who don't? With the money saved by this merger, it might be possible to continue the senior center in Northampton.

Zrinski Keeps NorCo Council Informed About Specific Departments

At last week's meeting of NorCo Council, Executive Tara Zrinski continued the trend she started of delivering detailed reports about what specifically is happening in various departments. I already advised you what she had to say about the election as well as her responses to questions about the parking deck replacement. Here's a summary of what she had to say. 

Parking Deck. - Zrinski, who walked the Washington Street hill last week, acknowledged, "It wasn't easy." I've previously told you about a contract for a lease at Shiloh Baptist Church on Easton's south side and shuttle service to and from the courthouse. I've also told you that the county is negotiating a lease for additional parking at St. Anthony. In addition to what she reported last week, she told me yesterday that the county was in discussions for parking with Easton, but "the closest parking garage would be totally cost prohibitive, costing thousands of dollars per employee, per month. A gravel lot on Lehigh Drive was proposed, but the City was unable to guarantee 150 spots. 

Human Relations Comm'n. - Members have been selected and nominations will be presented at the next County Council Personnel Committee meeting. 

Gracedale. - Zrinski will present her "continuum of care" concept at the next Human Services committee meeting. 

GLP-1. - This latest weight loss medication has increased health care costs to the county by $1 million. 

Hotel Tax Grant applications. - will open 7/10 for eligible applicants. 

Human Services. - has reduced out-of-home juvenile placements to 156, which is half what it was 5 years ago. Instead, diversionary services are prioritized. "It's kind of nice to "make sure that children are staying within their family, and that they're getting the help that they need to keep that family intact."

Parks Department. - has planted over 800 trees. Renovations are near completion at Wy Hit Tuk Park in Williams Tp. 

Corrections. - Has been placing inmates in crisis in inpatient facilities that focus on treatment, which has saved the county $500,000 this year. 

Fiscal Affairs Director. - Will be announced in late June

State of the County Address. - Zrinski's first "State of the County" address will be on June 24, 4:30 pm at the National Industrial Museum of History. 

Zrinski Pledges No Cage Match at Courthouse Campus For Nation's 250th Birthday Bash

'Let the games begin!'

In line with the most hedonistic traditions of ancient Rome, President Donald Trump is planning a UFC cage match on the White House south lawn for June 14, which is both Flag Day and his 80th birthday. 

"We who are about to die salute you!" 

In ancient Rome, the unwashed masses at least were able to attend gladiatorial events for free at a stadium that seated 100,000 people. But if you want a ringside seat at this tacky spectacle, it will cost you between $1 and $1.5 million. The rest of you can watch via Paramount. 

NorCo Exec Tara Zrinski herself alluded to this at Thursday night's County Council meeting. America 250 is "really not about, you know, concerts at the White House or, you know, boxing rings or whatever they're called. What is that, in an MA thing? Yeah. We're not putting one of those on our lawn."

Dixie Cup TIF Fails in NorCo for Second Time

Last night Northampton County Council rejected a massive tax break, known as a TIF, to kickstart the conversion of Wilson Borough's vacant Dixie Cup factory into 405 luxury apartments. This proposal was defeated in November in a close, 5-4 vote. But in January, four new members joined County Council, and the thinking was that they might be more receptive to this incentive. They weren't. By a 6 to 3 vote, the measure failed. Voting against this tax break were Lori Vargao Heffner, Dave Holland, Theresa Fadem, Nadeem Qayyum, Jason Boulette and Tom Giovanni. Voting YES were Ken Kraft, Kelly Keegan and Jeff Warren. They had also voted for it in November. 

I explained Tax Increment Financing (TIF) yesterday, but as a result of an error made last night by NorCo Exec Tara Zrinski, I feel compelled to do so again. She had stated, erroneously, that "the county continues to collect incrementally increasing taxes for the next 20 years." This is false. Instead, property taxes are frozen at their current level. Any increase in property taxes, resulting from new development is diverted to subsidize that development. Local public taxing bodies are denied the new revenue they would normally get from new development. Aside from Allentown's NIZ or an outright grant, a TIF is the most generous tax break a municipal government can provide. 

Sensing which way the wind was blowing and knowing that the public has woken up to what is going on, an effort was made to delay the matter. Zrinski, in her comments, said that she expected the ordinance would be withdrawn or tabled. And sure enough, a motion to table was made by Jeff Warren and seconded by Kelly Keegan, supposedly at the request of the industrial development authority. The obvious reason is to delay and slip it back onto the agenda when everyone goes back to sleep. 

The motion to table, which is undebatable, failed. Ken Kraft and Jason Boulette joined Keegan and Warren in seeking a delay. But Vargo Heffner, Holland, Fadem, Qayyum and Giovanni wanted a vote that night. Even after the motion to table failed, Kraft attempted one last time to push off the vote, but  Fadem and Vargo-Heffner insisted on a vote. 

During the courtesy of the floor, there were several speakers.  I will summarize a speaker from each side. 

Wilson Borough resident Armando Moritz-Chapelliquen urged a No vote for the following reasons: 

Vote no, because the county, the borough, and the school district need the $26 million over the next 20 years.

Vote no because the developer has already been awarded over $1.3 million in state and county funds.

Vote no because the remediation of the site is not a blessing. It is a basic responsibility of any property owner, one that has been neglected by Wilson Park LTD, the previous owner, for over 40 years.

Vote no because Wilson Borough hired a consultant to evaluate the TIF, and that consultant's report has not yet been publicly disclosed.

Vote no because the borough is on the record saying they'll go ahead with the tip, whether you approve it or not.

Vote no, because it is an outrage to provide a tax benefit for luxury housing in a school district with the third fastest increase in the poverty rate in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.

Vote no because there will be no affordable housing units on site.

Vote no because the county should not be the business of building housing, or, if you prefer, vote no because the county should be in the business of building housing. But $2 million isn't enough to replace the units that would otherwise go into a redeveloped Dixie.

Vote no, because tax revenue should go towards supporting the most vulnerable among our neighbors.

Vote no because the developer, because a developer who can't make this project pencil out, maybe shouldn't have spent $11 million on a site that was assessed at less than $3 million.

Vote no because the Democratic Socialists of America oppose it.

Vote no, because the Northampton County GOP opposes it.

Vote no, because any Democrat who cares about affordability would never support giving $26 million to a luxury housing development.

Vote no, because economic development and community development are intrinsically connected.

And anyone who tells you otherwise doesn't know what they're talking about.

And finally, vote no because the development of the Dixie Cup site is an inevitability..

Countering Moritz-Chapelliquen, NorCo Exec Tara Zrinski argued that 

First, the Dixie Cup project is a brown field development. That means it is more expensive because of the environmental remediation. And that damage happened decades ago. In this case, underground tanks, asbestos, radon, and contaminated soil were removed at the cost to the developer of $35 million. The TIF only offers a fraction of recovery for him.

Once again, I am compelled to correct yet another misstatement. According to the TIF ordinance itself, Exhibit I, the remediation cost is $8 million, not $35 million. Moreover, he would be getting $5.7 million back directly from the TIF. In addition, he has already been awarded $1 million in outright grants for remediation.  Instead of listening to a developer, Zrinski should be reading the ordinance. 

Zrinski also made an argument for being kind to the rich: 

I don't want to gloss over the iniquities within our society. I think we all realize they are real, but that does not mean that any alliance at all to someone with wealth is a betrayal of the working-class families or the poor. This is a false narrative that pits the rich against the poor, driving a wedge between the two further. There is no diametric opposition that is mutually exclusive.

There are a few people in our community who are using the Dixie Cup Project for self-serving purposes, and twisting comments made in this very room. When it comes to housing, we have to say yes to affordable housing. But not to the exclusion of other projects that would not ever come to fruition but through government assistance.

During the meeting, Council members Theresa Fadem and Dave Holland both indicated that they had received "unsettling" pressure to vote for the TIF. I am looking into these allegations, which I consider serious. 

I'll have more about this meeting and the committee hearings next week. 

From Gracedale's Chapel, McClure Proposes His Final Budget as NorCo Exec With No Tax Hike

Standing behind a podium next to the organ and piano at Gracedale's pristine chapel, where a preacher would ordinarily be delivering a homily, Executive Lamont McClure may have answered the prayers of many county taxpayers yesterday. No tax increase has been proposed in his eighth and final budget as Northampton County Executive.  Before a throng that included his entire cabinet, county council members, the press and curious Gracedale workers, McClure delivered a financial sermon. Fiscal Director Steve Barron acted as altar boy, genuflecting now and then. This crowd also included McClure's successor next year, which will be either Controller Tara Zrinski or Council member Tom Giovanni. 

You can see the budget here. 

It's a $503.6 million spending backage, about7.3% less than in 2025. As required by the Home Rule Charter, it is a balanced budget. Total spending may not exceed revenue. 

It maintains the same tax rate as this year. If you're a county taxpayer, this means that the current 10.8 mill tax rate will remain the same. A home assessed at $75,000 will receive a tax bill for $810. 

Open Space. - McClure will continue the county's investment in open space and farmland preservation. His administration has spent $23 million on open space during his time in office, and the county has preserved 20,000 acres of actual working farmland. 

Gracedale. - While county government has no obligation to support a nursing home, and few counties are left that do, McClure has always argued - both as Council member and later as Executive - that it is a moral obligation. He stated that Gracedale will "again" operate in 2026 with no contribution from the county's general fund, but Gracedale did require a $9.9 million contribution in 2024 and another $15 million from the county in 2023. The 2023 payment was from federal funding to replace revenue lost during COVID. McClure said that Gracedale has implement an aggressive plan to reduce the county's reliance on the use of agency nursing care. That practice is unsustainable long-term. The proposed budget still includes $20-25 million for agency nursing, but McClure stated that spending for agency nursing care could be down by $1-1.5 million by the end of this year. He predicts spending on agency nursing will drop $3.5 million in 2026.

Infrastructure. - In addition to an emphasis on open space and Gracedale, McClure's spending plan will use bond proceeds to address a badly needed parking deck at the courthouse campus as well as upgrades to 911 service. 

Council Action. - McClure proposes, but County Council disposes. Council will conduct several lengthy budget hearings between now and mid-December before taking action. Under the Home Rule Charter, it can vote to reject the budget. But if it does, McClure's spending plan automatically goes into effect. Council does have the power to amend, but it must leave intact any payments scheduled for debt service and as no authority to modify the Executive's revenue estimates. If it wants to fund something, it has to find the money by making cuts elsewhere. It must take action by December 16. 

That won't be easy. McClure will use $5 million from the general fund to balance the budget, leaving the county with just $1 million in unrestricted funds to start the year. This has been a sticking point with some members of County Council, who are more comfortable with larger fund balances. McClure has long eschewed the $50-60 million fund balances favored by previous executives, claiming that his approach is that of "lean efficient governments that are taxpayer friendly like ours."

The stabilization fund, commonly referred to as the rainy-day fund, will be $8.6 million, slightly above the minimum required by County Council. This has also been a sore spot with some Council members.

Furloughs. - McClure was asked how the county will respond with more furloughs if federal and state funding dries up because of budget stalemates. 

McClure stated that a furlough notice was sent to SEIU because that is required under the county's collective bargaining agreement, but there are no immediate plans to furlough anyone. He added that "it's not the county's responsibility to fund human services. Human services is funded 80-100% by the state government." He said that if the county funded human services on its own, it would cost $30 million.

He stressed that, no matter what happens, the county has plans in place to make sure that the most vulnerable children and seniors are still seen. He then took a shot at SEIU, the union that represents human services caseworkers. He noted that the county had offered 13% in wage hikes, but SEIU threatened to strike. He said the most vulnerable will still be seen even though state senate Republicans are "deadbeats." He repeated this epithet several times, saying "the deadbeats need to pass the budget."

McClure said that the county has asked the state treasurer for as $10 million loan but wants it interest-free "because it's our money."

McClure has called furloughs an "option of last resort," but is also unwilling to invade the rainy-day fund or take out a loan with interest. So isn't the option of last resort actually the option of first resort?

He explained that the county has paused payments to human services providers, and this there is no need to consider furloughs until the end of the year, "which is why I said it is an option of last resort." 

Deadbeat Republicans. - After calling state senate Republicans deadbeats on three separate occasions, McClure was asked whether he considers the Democrats on a federal level deadbeats as well because they have blocked a continuing resolution that would fund the federal government. He said that, if he were in Congress, he would want something in exchange for his vote, like extending the credit of the Affordable Care Act. 

McClure was asked, "When you use terms like deadbeats, aren't you just continuing the divisive rhetoric that has caused problems that we have on a national and state level?" His response? "If you're going to melt because I called you a deadbeat, you're a snowflake."

McClure: Retention Bonuse $ Spent on Gracedale Operations, It Is Not Missing

Back in March, NorCo Council member John Brown wanted to know what happened to $5 million in retention bonuses, set aside by Council for Gracedale employees. By a 8-1 vote, Council tasked Controller Tara Zrinski with finding out how much money had been spent, and what was left. Brown was the sole dissenter, and that was because he wanted a report within 20 days. 

Council had the right to wonder what had happened. They, and not the Executive, control the purse strings. And it is they who directed that $5 million in federal pandemic funds be used to stop the bleeding of nursing home staff. They actually did so at the request of Executive Lamont McClure. It was his idea. 

Zrinski's audit concludes that, of the $5 million approved for retention bonuses, only $2.36 million was actually paid to employees. The rest was used for operating expenses at the nursing home. Three bargaining units at Gracedale gave up the bonuses in exchange for higher pay. These agreements were unknowingly ratified by County Council. Had they known that the retention bonuses were ending. But there was no agreement with career service to end bonuses in exchange for higher pay. They just ended.

In her audit, Zrinski notes that since the money was commingled with other Gracedale funds, it is impossible to state exactly how each dollar was spent. 

McClure addressed this issue again at last night's Governance Committee.

"You continue to say things like '$2.6 million is missing.' Well, it's not missing. The Controller's report said it went to operating expenses ... . I provided you with an explanation as to what happened. I can provide you with further explanation as to what occurred. " 

He then said he was providing Council with Gracedale's expenses in 2024, which consist of 4,000 invoices over 12,000 pages "so you can be definitively sure that all of the money was spent at Gracedale." He added that, after a review for possible HIPPA restrictions against public disclosure of sensitive health information, these records will also be released to the public. "Most of it went for agency expenditures, overtime for agency folks and overtime that shouldn't have been paid."

McClure went on to say that "I was as angry as you were when I learned they had spent all the money. ... What I found when I was doing my investigation is what's akin to waste, fraud and abuse in overtime. with respect to some of the very folks [career service employees] that you're concerned about not having that final retention bonus payment."

McClure went on to explain that these non-nursing career service employees claimed an average 324.78 hours of overtime per pay period in 2023. In 2024, they claimed 270.35 hours of overtime per pay period. He said this added up to about $1 million over two years "that didn't need to be spent." He said that, as of today, there are 47 hours of overtime per pay period.

Council member Tom Giovanni wondered why McClure failed to come to County Council once he discovered this problem. "You should have done that in January, you already knew something was going on in January."

McClure acknowledged that he should have told County Council in January about this problem. 

NorCo Council Expected to Act on Proposed Budget This Week

Northampton County Council is expected to act on the proposed budget when it meets on Thursday, When it last met on November 21, it considered a number of possible amendments at its most important budget meeting of the year. The meeting was attended by John Cusick, Tom Giovanni, John Goffredo, Lori Vargo Heffner and Kevin Lott. Three Council members - John Brown, Ron Heckman and Tara Zrinski - were absent. I find it amazing that Zrinski, the Controller elect, would fail to be present.    

Executive Lamont McClure, Finance Director Steve Barron and DCED Director Tina Smith made clear they oppose the amendments,

McClure opposes taking $1 million from Gracedale nursing. He indicated that staffing is improving, but that $1 million is needed for agency nurses.

Barron had a number of objections He opposes the removal of money from the county's fiscal stabilization account (rainy day fund) to fund student loans, claiming this is "not fiscally responsible." He opposes increasing fundingt o Lehigh Valley Planning Commission because they refuse to disclose their salaries (Lehigh Valley Planning Commission gave me a thorough answer of wages paid when I asked for them.) He also objected to the "musical chair of grants" to organizations in which "they, family or friends are affiliated."  He went on to accuse them of funding their own self-interests. 

That is a serious accusation, If true it would violate the Ethics Act. But Barron provided no details. Council member John Goffredo later stated he is an unpaid volunteer firefighter, but Council Solicitor Chris Spadoni told Goffredo that he has no conflict. So what the hell was Barron talking about? He even said state police are involved in an investigation of one volunteer fire company in a rather ugly attempt to paint Council members as crooks.

When County Council members complains that they are being treated like garbage, I can see what they mean. You can't expect a legislature to cooperate with you when you attack their integrity with no basis. 

Barron owes County Council an apology.

Tina Smith also objected to grants being awarded to entities that never bothered to apply for them. Kevin Lott noted that doing so undermines the entire grant process and is a disservice to organizations that did their due diligence. 

Amazingly, one of the grants that Council wants to fund will go to Lou Pektor. It is illegal to award a grant to a for-profit entity. 

Council member Lori Vargo Heffner explained that grants to Lower Saucon Fire Rescue ($20,000), Hellertown Library ($10,000) and Saucon Valley Community Center ($5,000). Her rationale is that these entities are under incredible pressure as a result of friction between Hellertown and Lower Saucon.

ArtsQuest Raising $66 Million For Cultural Center and Other Improvements

Until the early 2000s, The Bethlehem Steel gobbled most of Bethlehem's south side. For a time,  especially during WWII, it was one of the largest steelmakers and shipbuilders in the world. When the company closed, the Christmas City fell on hard times. It has rebuilt itself, not with manufacturing, but with entertainment, the arts and tourism. Wind Creek Casino now occupies much of the Bethlehem Steel complex. Instead of steel ingots, it deals in plastic poker chips. Most of the rest is now the ArtsQuest home base. It's no Bethlehem Steel, but it's a pretty big operation for an organization that started by selling Musikfest mugs over a 10-day festival. Kassie Hilgert, who has replaced Jeff Parks as the helmsperson for this uniquely Bethlehem venture, updated Northampton County Council last week on her latest $66 million capital campaign. 

ArtsQuest is well on its way to raising $66 million for a Cultural Center ($22 million), Turn & Grind Shop ($14 million) and improvements to its Center ($2 million).  In addition to the brick and mortar projects, it is establishing cash reserves of $2.2 million, $4 million in risk capital and a $22 million endowment. 

In addition to Musikfest, ArtsQuest sponsors several other events and festivals like Oktoberfest, Christkindlmarkt, Slainte, Ginvitational, Bikefest and Icerink at SteelStacks, According to Hilgert, its economic impact was $122 million last year. This ripples into numerous businesses. 

Northampton County has pledged $1 million over 10 years to help fund the cultural center, which replaces the old banana factory. It has also pledged $1 million over 10 years for the Turn & Grind Shop. 

The $2.2 million in cash reserves makes ArtsQuest self-insured in the event that mother nature interferes with a festival, as it sometimes does. The $4 million is risk capital covers events like the Ice Rink, which has lost money so far. 

The cultural center will replace six banana factory buildings with a single, five-story structure. The top floor is set back to make it less noticeable. It will include a MakerSpace for welding, 3D printing and woodworking. The building will have broadband for anyone who needs it. It will includes space for artists. The fifth floor will remain empty for now. 

Side windows at the cultural center, facing Third Street, are in binary code spelling out "Art for All." 

The Turn & Grind, a 150 year-old Bethlehem Steel building, can be turned into an event center with seating for 1,000. It will be a beer hall during Oktoberfest, and will provide space during Christkindlmart. It can also serve as an emergency shelter. 

Council member Tara Zrinski, who said she's an occasional patron at SteelStacks, reacted to a detailed explanation of a $66 million investment, complained about the plastic cups. "Can you just get the eco friendly ones?" she asked. She also suggested getting LEED certification for this redevelopment, which Hilgert said would be cost prohibitive. Zrinski also wondered about the displacement of artists at Pennsylvania Youth Theatre, located at the Banana Factory. Hilgert responded she offers space at below market rates. 

Hilgert told Council member John Goffredo that she'd like to background for both the cultural center and turn & grind by the end of 2024 or beginning of 2025. 

Blogger's Note: I don't drink or care at all for loud bands, so ArtsQuest has little appeal to me personally. But I believe it does great work for the community. My sole concern is whether elected officials are getting free tickets to different events.

Winners & Losers in Proposed NorCo Council Budget Cuts

On Tuesday, Northampton County Council considered a series of budget amendments. They will vote on them tonight while considering Executive Lamont McClure's proposed spending plan for next year. Under the County's Home Rule Charter, a Council is unable to touch the Executive's revenue projections. This prevents a legislature from spending money that the county is unable to generate. But it can make cuts in some spending to fund other projects that are deemed more worthy. That's what happened yesterday. If the budget is adopted, NorCo employees with outstanding student debt will be the big winner, with over $400,000 set aside to help them. Other beneficiaries of Council largesse are Bath Borough, Godfrey Daniel and Touchstone Theatre. The big losers are Lehigh Valley Iron Pigs, New England Hydropower and Historic Hotel Bethlehem.  It was a bit ironic to see county Republicans clamor for student loan assistance while six GOP-led states are fighting against it in the US Supreme Court. 

I already told you about the clawback of about $1.1 million from a 2018 loan agreement with New England Hydropower yesterday. The following additional budgetary changes were considered. 

Reduction of $50,000 in hotel taxes set aside for the Iron Pigs, and reallocation of that sum to a student loan repayment program for county workers. 

Council member John Cusick explained he offered this amendment for two reasons; (1) Coca Cola Park is located in Lehigh County; and (2)  Allentown, the host municipality, refused to fund it.  . Allentown chose not to fund at all. Council member John Goffredo called it "corporate welfare" and chastised the Phillies for holding its affiliates hostage by threatening to move unless improvements are made. 

Council member Kevin Lott hates that MLB holds its affiliates like the Iron Pigs hostage, especially at a relatively new stadium. But he argued that losing the Iron Pigs would be devastating to helping market the area. Council member Tara Zrinksi argued that the Iron Pigs provide lots of jobs, even for residents of Norco. She added that Allentown actually did give Covid funds to the Iron Pigs, but that statement appears to be refuted by a news account.  

This proposed budget amendment has been tentatively adopted by a 6-2 vote. Tara Zrinski and Kevin Lott are the two dissenters, while the amendment was supported by Cusick, Goffredo, Lori Vargo Heffner, Tom Giovanni, John Brown and Kerry Myers. 

The final vote is tonight.  

$62,500 from Future Grants to Greater LV Chamber of Commerce as a pass thru for Historic Hotel Bethlehem.  They hotel had applied for $75,00 and got only $12,500

TZ gave HB lots of money. $185,000 over the years. Gave $12,500

All four Republican Council members consider this a great investment in the community. Democrats noted that Bethlehem already are already getting over $2 million in different grants.

This motion failed 4-4, along party lines. 

Removal of $100,000 from pooled communications as it could be funded with state money for a county student loan repayment plan. 

This would actually remove some funding for elections for a student loan repayment program. Cusick argued that there are state grants for elections, which should have been declared as revenue. 

Zrinski actually agreed with Cusick. Agrees.

This motion passed 7-1. Lott was the sole No. 

Remove $5,000 from Ironpigs and give $2500 to Godfrey Daniel and $2500 to Touchstone Theatre. 

Vargo Heffner : "These two are small but they do a lot of good work. ... It wouldn't hurt to give the IP a haircut, so ... ." 

Kevin Lott observed that we already gave Touchstone and Godfrey Daniel exactly what was requested. 

This motion passed 6-2. Tara Zrinski and Kevin Lott are the two dissenters, while the amendment was supported by Cusick, Goffredo, Lori Vargo Heffner, Tom Giovanni, John Brown and Kerry Myers. 

Remove $20,000 from Iron Pigs and give to Bath for a long-range parks plan. They really didn't have a plan. 

This Tom Giovanni-sponsored amendment was offered because Bath has the money to match and an engineer who can prepare a long-range plan.  John Brown, himself a former Mayor, said it is hard for a borough to raise even $1. "We  can't do enough to support our smaller communities," he said. 

This budget amendment passed 8-0. Ron Heckman, the ninth member of Council, was absent. 

Remove $100,000 from Iron Pigs for future grants 

This Cusick amendment was originally intended for a bridge study, but questions arose concerning the liquid fuel tax fund, a separate account

This motion passes 5-2 .  Tara Zrinski and Kevin Lott are the two dissenters, while the amendment was supported by Cusick, Lori Vargo Heffner, Tom Giovanni, John Brown and Kerry Myers. 

Goffredo was forced to leave before he could vote, and Ron Heckman was absent. 

NorCo Council Tentatively Sets Aside $400,000 For Student Loans of County Workers

Yesterday, Northampton County Council began the arduous process of considering changes to Executive Lamont McClure's proposed spending plan for next year. They're not really cuts, but reallocations of money Most of these budget amendments were penned by Council member John Cusick. I'll tell you about the first change now and fill you in on the rest tomorrow. 

In the first amendment, Cusick proposes eliminating $1,147,000 from a $1.5 million loan agreement with New  England Hydropower Company for a small hydropower plant along the Delaware and Lehigh Canal at Easton's Hugh Moore Park. This project, first approved in 2018, would generate enough power for 500 homes, but the plan is to sell the energy to a local college. 

Cusick would use this money for farmland preservation, affordable housing and to help employees repay student loans. 

Cusick, who opposed this project from its inception, condemned it as "corporate welfare," and added that taxpayers "should not be venture capitalists."  He also noted that the project's overall cost has risen from $5 to $10 million.  "That's a lot of inflation in four years," he remarked. 

Council member Tara Zrinski countered that ending this project now could be a breach of contract. "This money has been allocated for several years now, the project is under way. ... We need to honor our commitment ... ."

But Cusick countered that the county still has money from other sources to fund this project. He noted there is $1 million in a fund from the American Rescue Plan Act, $1.1 million in reimbursements from the state for elections and over $1 million in gaming funds. 

Although this is still tentative, County Council voted 5-3 to move this amendment forward for the budget meeting on Thursday night. Voting yes were Cusick, John Goffredo, Tom Giovanni, John Brown and Lori Vargo Heffner. Voting No were Zrinski, Kevin Lott and Kerry Myers.

Council member Ron Heckman was absent.  

 

I'll discuss the remaining amendments tomorrow, but Cusick was quite pleased by how things went. "We voted today to allocate $400,000 for student loan relief for county employees and prospective employees. I think that's the way that it should be done. We should reward work and we should attract workers and the fact that they may have a student loan obligation that may make them not consider a job here at Northampton County is .... . Let's just say I'm real happy that we're trying to establish this program."

NorCo Council Ponders McClure's $15.5 Million Plan at Gracedale

On May 5, Northampton County Council tabled Executive Lamont McClure's $15.5 million plan to turn things around at Gracedale. Although all Council members generally supported the idea of investing in the county's embattled nursing home, they wanted more detail. They got it last night. 

The $15.5 million is part of about $30 million that NorCo will receive this month from the American Rescue Plan Act, enacted by Congress in response to the pandemic.

McClure's original plan called for the following: $2.5 million for nursing agencies to supply manpower; $2 million to build an on-site Daycare for Gracedale staff at no cost to them; $5 million for bonuses paid to keep and recruit staff over a two-year window; $1 million for capital projects; and $5 million to replace revenue lost as a result of the reduced census.

Bonuses - $5 million

In response to Council's concerns, McClure dropped his proposal to set aside $5 million to replace lost revenue. He has instead added that money to extend the bonuses proposed to keep and recruit staff for four-years instead of two years. Every person hired or working at Gracedale, from Housekeeping to Administrator, will be entitled to a $2,500 annual bonus paid annually over four years. 

"If you're a CNA [certified nurse's aid] within the sound of my voice, it would be a really good time to come to Gracedale," he said, and repeated it several times. 

With the exception of member John Brown, County Council was generally supportive. Council member John Cusick initially suggested that the bonuses be limited to those workers who work directly with residents. But he was swayed by McClure's argument that all workers are "absolutely critical." He was the Council member to move the bonuses for consideration by the board tonight. 

Brown complained that, despite multiple requests, the administration has failed to provide him with a breakdown of the workers employed at Gracedale. he observed that the county has offered similar incentives in the past, to no avail. He said the county "was throwing money at something, and then you're going to make it up as you go along, but I don't see that as functionally being a plan."

Brown's dig brought McClure to his feet. He turned the tables on Brown, and the two sparred. 

"What's your plan? What would you do with the $10,000," he asked. "We're all ears."

- "I would have to have more information to be able to take a look at that."     

"What information would you need, Mr.Brown?  You had my job for four years. What information would you need, sir? I understand you're opposed to the efficient and long-term success of Gracedale, but you said we don't have a plan. What's yours?

- "No I did not say that I'm opposed to the long-term and efficient plan, again, I don't have enough detail to move this forward. ... I don't even know how many full-time employees we currently have. And what is the long-term impact? And if you do provide this and you're able to begin ro sustain some recruitment or retention overall, what does that do to Gracedale's budget and how are you going to make up the revenue then to maintain this going forward once this goes away? ... ." 

"Well clearly we would not be able to offer $10,000 bonuses forever. This is an emergency measure to deal with an emergency. We need to be able to hire, we need to be able to get people in the door. There is a very good plan top get people in the door. There is a marketing plan. And the best piece of that marketing plan is this $10,000. 

McClure went on to say that "questioning the plan to death" will only further endanger the home. "Not allowing us to do this is setting us up to fail."

-"The reality of this, Mr. McClure is that the home is failing, has been failing for an extended period of time.  ... You're not addressing the management issues that I feel are part of the problem. ... ." Brown added that Gracedale employees are the ones telling him that management is the real issue.

"My suspicion is there'll  never be enough detail for you," continued McClure. 

Unfortunately, just as things were getting good and I thought Steve Lynch might pop in with boxing gloves and challenge everyone to a duel, Council President Lori Vargo Heffner gave them both a time out.  "I don't think anyone up here needs or wants the antagonism." 

Speak for yourself, Heffner!  

"Why the rush?" she asked McClure. He likened Gracedale to a tanker (hopefully not The Titanic) ) that needs a lot of time to turn around. "If we don't start now, we won't turn it around."  

Tara Zrinski said these bonuses will be a Godsend, not just to Gracedale staffers, but to "vulnerable people" who have nowhere else to go. 

"Tara hit the nail on the head as far as I'm concerned," added Kerry Myers. But he said that as soon as he leaves, he'll be getting calls from other county workers asking, "What about us?" 

McClure later explained that he hopes the hiring and retention bonuses will yield 54-60 nursing staff, and at that point Gracedale will be able to provide the required 2.7 hours of daily nursing care per resident. 

Capital Projects - $1 million

Council members Lori Varho Heffner and Ron Heckman both noted this money is needed for converting four-resident rooms to two-resident rooms. This is currently under consideration by the federal government. "I think we're going to end up needing more money," noted Heckman. Administrator Jennifer Stewart-King said that the majority of rooms at Gracedale (about 300) are for four residents. 

Council member John Goffredo said that the bonus money is a "no-brainer," but he has reservations about how much money is needed to change the occupancy of 300 rooms. 

McClure then stated that, if the room occupancy is reduced, the county will have to decide whether the home can even continue.  If it does, the county will probably need to borrow. 

Council will vote on this tonight. 

Nursing agency staffing - $2.5 million 

Because of staffing shortages, Gracedale brings in outside nursing agencies to provide staff.  The hourly rate paid for agency nurses is much higher than what is paid to workers.

Council member John Cusick had a problem with using these agencies. "If we were paying substitute teachers more than we pay our regular teachers, I would probably quit and become a substitute. We're almost incentivizing it by paying it. This is one I'm gonna' be a No on."   

McClure said he feels the way Cusick does, "but I can't get to the numbers I need without it." Administrator Jennifer Stewart-King noted that the higher salary is paid to the agency, not the nurse. She indicates she's been able to recruit few agency nurses who are looking for homes. 

Daycare - $2 million 

McClure presented detailed plans to Council. "If it's done right, I think it could be great, said Council member John Goffredo. "Some of the staff would like it tomorrow," said Jennifer-Stewart King.  The daycare could be operational by year's end. 

It will start out for Gracedale workers only, but it could be extended to others. The total cost of construction might be as low as $200,000. It will be located next to the chapel,and there will be interaction between residents and children. 

Lori Vargo Heffner indicated she'd like to wait until June 2 to take action on the plan.

"This is the single biggest piece of the recruiting puzzle,: said McClure.  

Heckman said his concern is that this will be a continuing cost. 

Make Your Last Minute Pitches Here

Feel free to make your last minute pitches for the candidate of your choice here, whether for President or any of the other offices. I will take your comments and post them right here.  

Updated 9:38 PM: I posted nearly every comment offered. I am knocking off early tonight and will be unable to pay much attention to the blog tomorrow. I will check in as time permits but will be unable to upload your last minute pitches on the post. You can still make them in the comments.

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Tomorrow, I will NOT be voting for militant white christian nationalism. Period!

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Joe Biden is a pathological liar, everyone on earth over 70 years old lied at some point in time. When people lie you may never know it but with Joe he does it being filmed. Just a few examples starting with the present time, yesterday in Philadelphia I’m wearing my Eagle jacket, in the debate Trump says to Biden you said you want to ban fracking Biden‘s response I never said it. Primary debate Bernie Sanders says to Joe Biden you wanted to cut Social Security and veterans benefits multiple times over many years, Joe Bidens answer NO I never said that.

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Given this weekend's display of malicious Trump Truck parades running the Biden campaign off the road in Texas, blocking highways and bridges in New Jersey and driving by spraying pepper spray at people in Richmond, VA- it's clear where this is headed.

The Trump Trucks look an awful lot like ISIS trucks with all their flags and gun totting drivers.

I'm not voting for fascism lite or dangerous nationalism.

Voting the wannabe dictator out.

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I will be voting for FREED0M and LIBERTY. Without these, America is no more.

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Trump is the best choice for the economy. Even our Corona recovery FAR outpaces that of European nations. The news doesn't report that.

Trump is the best choice for world peace. More peace agreements have been hammered out under this president than any in my lifetime. First president in 40 years not to start a war. Trump is bringing our children home from the sandbox across the ocean.

Trump is the best choice for my family. Our taxes are much lower and gas is much cheaper. Interest rates are low. Jobs are readily available. The stock market (my 401k) is soaring.

Biden has no record of accomplishment after 35+ years in Congress and 8 as VP. He had his opportunity to lead. He did not. He could have already done the things he says he's about to do.

Yes Trump is mean. He's crude. He is an egomaniac. His accomplishments exceed any president in my lifetime. Imagine if the media accurately reported his successes. Focus on what he DOES not what he SAYS.

Trump deserves to win "bigly" as he says and I believe he will.

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(Please try to limit comments to one paragraph.)

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The passion not violence (no one ran them off the road comment). Shows the passion for freedom. We are still a place where we are free. I prefer it to remain that way. I am inspired by support for these freedoms and support of law and order and our police. Peace agreements. Support for our military and those who have served. Support for the people to continue to live the American dream. Support for free speech. So easy to choose. I pray whatever happens that everyone doesn't use this result as a reason to be violent and loot and hurt each other.

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Huntress: I voted at a drop box a month ago in NorCo. It is no exaggeration to say that this election is about whether our democratic institutions survive. If Trump gets 4 more years he will continue to unravel any trust that is left regarding a functioning government that protects our citizens on many levels. The chaos and division he has sown will become more dangerous. Look at what we've become in just 4 years. Who was in charge?? Do you think this happened by accident? We are where we are bc of Trump and his inability to lead responsibly. For the sake of the nation, he needs to go.

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Funny thing about President Trump. He is constantly being criticized for being bold and brash, saying and doing things a “President” shouldn’t be doing, etc. But, his so called flaws and unpredictability are exactly what scares the shit out of our foreign enemies and domestic corrupt politicians and government operatives.

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It was sad to see all the good Christians violating the flag code yesterday. Especially given the fact that during church hour, they abandon their God to fly trump flags.

Hey, wait a minute . . .

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Just in case Zrinski, watch this: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CzgrPzo2N60

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I find it interesting that Biden is getting all the Wall St money. My prediction is Biden will win but not in a blowout like the polls are saying. The problem with the Democrat party is the AOC crowd will immediately say they have a mandate to implement their anti american socialist agenda. They'll go too far and get smoked 2022.

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To me it's a choice between a guy who has done nothing in 50 years in Washington, or a loud mouth ego maniac who I really don't like. At the end of the day it comes down to policies, and I like more of Trumps than Bidens. Biden says it's about "saving democracy" yet it's his party that talks about packing the court, adding new states, and getting rid of the electoral college. No thanks! I'll hold my nose and vote for the ego maniac.

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In 2016, I was tired of "more of the same" from politicians and voted for Trump in the hopes of seeing things shaken up. That certainly happened, and the Dems spent the next four years doing nothing but attacking him. Do I like his personality? No, but I will again vote Trump in 2020, because of his accomplishments and I believe he is the best choice to keep our freedoms intact, keep us out of war and continue the policy of "American First."

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Everyone of you people should be ashamed of yourself, Trump is a businessman that knows how to make a deal, he took his inheritance of $1 million and ran with it and made a fortune good for him. I watch his rallies on right side broadcasting network, people love to go to his rallies, they support him, they have a good time, he makes them smile and laugh, he gave up the lap of luxury because he loves America. Do you want millions upon millions of illegal aliens flooding this country, Getting free healthcare, free college, while senior citizens have money taken out of their bank account every month to pay for Medicare and supplement plans and drug plans. Stopping drilling for oil and gas will make us buy oil from Russia while China burns coal, You will be paying $5 to $6 dollars for gasoline and heating oil. Then vote for creepy Joe Biden and laughing Kamala Harris."

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As a small business owner in the oil and gas industry, my choice is clear. We cannot afford a 33% increase in corporate taxes, nor suffer zealots who look to "phase out" our industry. In reality, oil and gas are not going away immediatly, but why fight a battle on two fronts (covid AOC and gang). 3rd world nations will still need it. The US will still need it. Energy independence is a real thing. In addition, I find no use for an career politician who has had 47 years (8 as the second most powerful person in the world) and has accomplished almost nothing. All while collecting his various pensions. Now he "finds Jesus" and wants to fix all the wrongs? The sleepy Joe name fits. I also hope the black and latino community sees through the Dems free free free method of garnering votes. One thing that really stood out for me as a parent, was "school choice". No matter what color you are. We all want our children to receive the best education possible. Only one candidate offered that.

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In the past four years, America has become energy independent. I'm in my late 30's and always assumed America would become increasingly dependent on foreign energy. With new technology, the energy industry can access natural gas and crude oil to fuel America for future generations. Over that time, I believe the free market will trend greener without government intervention. You can see this already with prevalence of electric vehicles, which, for the most part, are powered by electricity created at plants powered by natural gas. The energy industry creates hundreds of thousands of good jobs for American workers. Joe Biden is on record that he will stop this progress in favor of renewable energy alternatives, which he naively believes can be equivalently beneficial for energy independence and job creation. This is absolutely insane and will again make us beholden to foreign powers. It will also promote crony capitalism in the renewal energy industry, just like it did in the Obama administration. If you enjoy the benefits of energy independence, vote for President Trump. P.S. - This is written by a Northampton County Democrat that voted for Hillary Clinton in 2016.

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I’m not arrogant enough to think my opinion will sway another’s vote, so I will just say I’m going with the devil I know because the thought of President Kamala Harris scares me. I also can see the Democratic ticket fir what it is — fraud. Biden is the draw, the placeholder, who will resign and elevate Harris to the presidency. The deal was done and America will not necessarily be the better for it.

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Tim DeFoor is by far the superior candidate for State Auditor General! His experience as a Controller in Dauphin County and for the Office of Inspector General is what we need to keep an eye on the Wolf.

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At times in history, its difficult to do the right thing. By electing Trump again, we are faced with 4 more years of media hysteria, rioting and violence. But is that threat the reason to vote otherwise? Should we vote for bad policy and giving up American liberty and exceptionalism to prevent these groups from the riots? I think it is our duty to vote for America and damn those who threaten violence. I didn't vote for him in 2016 (third party), but right now its Trump 2020. 4 more years.

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Dennis P: Carbon County will vote for Trump

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Guy Williams: Just watched the Trump rally in Fayetteville NC and listened to his every word. Its no wonder he is down big time on the Fox news poll. Sorry republicans you had your chance and your chosen candidate blew it. Blew it by his own words. Should have done his thing and kept his mouth shut. Sad, very sad. End of story.

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I would never vote for someone who is a racist, an idiot, was impeached, is self-absorbed with money over everything else, calls our soldiers suckers and losers, ignores the fact bounties are placed on our soldiers' (the losers and suckers) heads, sees women only as sex objects, ignores a disease for which there is no cure or vaccine for 10 months after he himself is recorded saying it is far more deadly than the flu, and fails to institute a mask requirement even though he himself said 10 months ago that because it is transmitted through the air it is so dangerous. What is in YOUR wallet? God help us if this dangerous jackass is re-elected. Four years was four too many.

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Democrat-controlled cities all over this country are boarding up, it only makes sense, they know they're at the mercy of the mob.
And that mob is not composed of Trump voters.
Unfortunately people like Bernie constantly deny that antifa & blm are controlled by Democrats--they are! And they will be doing all the burning, looting, and murdering.
Trump supporters have jobs.

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I think Lehigh county may turn red this time! A combination of the black & hispanic votes, and west end jewish types. Respect is high for Trump and His unparalleled peace deals with Sudan, UAE, and Bahrain. As well as recognizing Jerusalem as Israel's capital.

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Both parties are war parties. Trump has taken the US out of the endless war business. Voting for Biden or any of the usual war hawk Rs is a vote to send more 19-year olds to die. I don't care about your gun or your abortion or your 401(k). I care about ending endless wars and sending our kids to die. If you think anything is more important, you're sick and your kids should serve and die first, as soon as the shooting fires back up - which it will. I'm voting for Trump. I'm voting for peace.

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For the first time in my 40 years of voting I will actually be praying to God for an election result. Never in those 40 years have I ever seen such a clear choice of following an egomaniacal, compulsive lying, thug worshiping, flag humping draft dodging, dictator wanabe with no interest for anyone but himself and his corrupt family and a basically decent human being who actually cares about people and our country. For all the "one layer deep' people out there who do no research and just believe whatever they are told (and remember: "Don't believe what you see and hear") there truly is little hope. For anyone who is incredibly on the fence yet: Please spend 10 or 15 min. of research on subjects like: Did someone start out with a 1 million dollar loan from his Pop? -No, he was given 399 million from his father and the great business man blew it all ( and let's not forget that that same "great" businessman also blew the 400 million he made from his reality show and must pay back a loan of almost a billion dollars within the next 4 years. The Pandemic, who knew it could be so bad? Maybe the previous administration that set up a task force for just such an occasion then was knee-capped by the present administration by cutting the force by 80% and forcing out anyone with experience. Who knew the pandemic could be so bad? For those who are not hypnotized please listen to the tape where he almost boasts to an author about how horrible and deadly the pandemic is and within the same week admittedly downplays it to the citizenry costing hundreds of thousands of lives. The Wall? added 5 miles and Mexico didn't pay for it. His critics are hard core lefties? You mean like "Mad Dog" Mattis (also didn't give him nickname as claimed), his former attack dog lawyer (now jailed), The Lincoln Project, countless officials who have resigned from foreign affairs and the FBI? I have seen division in our country but never to the point where we might actually see another civil war. Lord save us from ourselves and do not let this fraud be elected again.

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As an independent for the last 30 years, I am discouraged, because once again it's a matter of voting against someone and not for someone. I'm considering voting straight democrat, despite being disgusted with the antics of many of them on both Northampton County Council and Lehigh County Commissioners board. I have had enough of the Republicans and their hate. I don't consider it a vote for socialism because even with the New World Order and the Green deal, only so much is going to change in that direction. Things are going to change regardless...

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Tara Zrinski is the one. She leads the Northampton Count Council.
She has made sure that money went to the needy. She believes in integrity, hope and honesty.

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If all the expected vote fraud, especially here in Pennsylvania, results in a Biden win there will never be another free and fair election in America. Something to think about.

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Reading the regurgitated fox news talking points makes me glad we don't live in a democracy where you idiots actually get to vote. . . shit!

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Biden’s time on the campaign trail has proven him to be at times incoherent, not being able to properly pronounce names and forgetting things happening at the current time. It’s sad to see him obviously suffering from the early signs of dementia and nothing more than a Trojan horse to get the far left into control of the White House. This would play right into the hands of their main puppeteer – George Soros. Meanwhile, Trump continues his mean-spirited and crusty personality into the campaign. But he’s also regulated immigration, stood tough against China and Iran, was pro-active against terrorists, made our European allies pay more towards their own defense, protected life and religious freedom, improved trade deals, brought about a booming economy and record low unemployment for minorities. If it wasn’t for the biased main-stream media this election would not even be close; the choice is that obvious.

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Naive. Everyone keeps saying they won't do it. Mark my words. They will. Don't vote because you don't think they'll do what they say they'll do.

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So true. The people believe the biased one sided news media. It would have been a no brainier if the media was fair and reported to facts only

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James Neara: The only one expecting voter fraud is the Orange Fraud himself.  Trump is the pictionary definition of a corrupt, abusive, wasted fraud. Biden's a pathological liar? That's rich!

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When historians and our grandchildren look back on this time in 50 years, the only issue that will resonate with any significance will be the human contribution to climate change and the environmental degredation that our heedless actions have wrought. Biden and the Democratic party are much more likely to take effective action on this front. There is no good reason that coal miners could not be re-trained to install solar panels or fix wind turbines. That is the future, but Mr. Trump sells a return to an idealized fantasy of the past, which is wishful thinking at best and cynical nihilism at worst.

And to all of you single-issue anti-abortion voters out there, I'd like you to imagine that Mr. Trump or one of his sons got some unfortunate girl pregnant. What do you think our president would do in the face of that moral challenge?

Updated: NorCo Council Ponders $1 Million Grant to Da Vinci Center

Without a business plan or feasibility study in hand, Northampton County Council is nevertheless considering a $1 million grant for the Da Vinci Science Center project in Easton. Payments would be made in $100,000 increments over the next ten years. The money would come from hotel taxes, not real estate taxes. Hotel taxes may only be used for projects that promote regional tourism. The proposal is similar to a grant that helped fund Steel Stacks and PBS-39 in South Bethlehem.

While $1 million is a lot of money, it's far below the $15 million sought by Da Vinci Center Executive Director Lin Erickson. Council member Peg Ferraro, a strong supporter of the aquarium, said at the November 16 meeting that she would be offering an amendment. This means she wants to award more than $1 million. She invited fellow members to call her, but an issue like this really should be discussed in full public view.

Pitched as a science center that will promote STEM education, DaVinci's big draw is a 500,000 gallon aquarium with large view panes to be located at the site of the Easton Days Inn, located near the junction of the Lehigh and Delaware Rivers. Easton will demolish the existing hotel and from its ashes, a 170,000 sq ft facility will rise. In addition to the marine vivarium, it will include a restaurant and event center with seating for 500, an immersion theater, a creativity studio or "Fab lab," classrooms and offices.

Its projected cost is $130 million, and Easton has pledged $30 million. Mayor Sal Panto has told Council that City has already spent $6 million on this project. It intends to borrow $24 million through a bond issue, to be paid by the amusement tax on 400,000 visitors per year and income taxes paid by 200 permanent workers.

Northampton County has already contributed $50,000 in hotel taxes for a $1.2 million feasibility study. As of late last month, Da Vinci still needed $100,000 for this business analysis.

In addition to the difficulty of building in a flood plain, other serious problems with the location include a lack of parking, a dearth of hotel space and possible competition from a similar project under consideration in Monroe County.

Executive-elect Lamont McClure has said at the Executive debate that he supports DaVinci, but more work was needed to determine how much NorCo should contribute.

Incoming Council members have also expressed reservations.

Ron Heckman warned that developers dazzle you with charts and then give you a bill.  Tara Zrinski said she has three children and they all liked shiny new toys. "I don't know if we should be spending taxpayer dollars for a shiny new toy," she said. Noting that the aquarium is in a flood plain, she always instructed her children not to leave their toys out in the rain.

Lori Vargo Heffner objected to there being a "county ATM on all the projects for everyone."

Council will vote on this proposal at their December 7 meeting, before these new Council members are seated.

Earlier in the evening, Council tabled some appointments to authorities on the grounds that incoming Executive Lamont McClure should be able to weigh in on the measure. By that same reasoning, this ordinance should be tabled as well. Let the new Council decide.

Blogger's Note: This story has been updated from the original story posted 11/16/17 at 12:01 am.