Easton · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Easton public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Holiday Free-Parking Trial for Downtown
Councilman Pintabone pitched giving shoppers 30 minutes free at meters outside the Circle during December shopping season. The administration will study it and report back in two weeks.
Winter Village Overhaul and Small Business Support
Easton is cutting down Winter Village vendor huts from over 30 to 12 and raising fees to encourage visitors to explore permanent downtown retail shops instead of staying centered in Center Square. While some council members worry the fee hikes and reduced huts will hurt vendor participation, organizers believe it will drive foot traffic to brick-and-mortar stores.
Health Code Fees and Vendor Regulations
Council reviewed proposed changes to special event vendor fees, creating a tiered system based on event size and impact while offering discounts for local Easton businesses.
Commercial Property Code Enforcement and Business Retention
Residents raised concerns that landlords are able to delay essential repairs on commercial properties like a downtown Peruvian restaurant, while minimal magistrate fines fail to deter violations, hurting small businesses in the West Ward.
Amusement Tax on Arcade Machines
A downtown arcade owner spoke out against a $100 per machine annual amusement tax, arguing it unfairly burdens small businesses operating skill and video games. City leaders expressed willingness to review and potentially reform the outdated tax structure.
City Solicitor Office Transition
With City Solicitor Joel Scheer transitioning to the Court of Common Pleas, council appointed two assistant solicitors to manage the workload and prepare for a leadership handoff.