Easton · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Easton public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Comprehensive Zoning & SALDO Amendments
Proposed changes to Easton's zoning and land development rules are up for review. The commission's recommendation goes to City Council, which makes the final call — so this shapes how future development in the city is regulated.
Comprehensive Capital Improvements and Infrastructure Review
The council will review several new resolutions including applying for a PennDOT multimodal grant, purchasing a new street sweeper, testing LED lights, and addressing a legal settlement.
GWG Rock LLC Northampton Street development settlement
A six-story mixed-use building on three vacant, blighted lots near Fifth and Northampton was blocked when the zoning board tied on variances. The settlement adds the required common amenity space and lets the project move forward — council members voiced support.
Multi-Municipal Comprehensive Plan Consideration
Easton is exploring joining neighboring towns in a regional master plan through the Lehigh Valley Planning Commission. City leaders like the idea of sharing the burden for regional issues like warehouses and affordable housing, but want to make sure Easton's specific needs aren't overlooked.
Regional Planning and Data Center Zoning Concerns
Faced with massive new tech infrastructure trends across the region, Easton is exploring new zoning rules to regulate data centers. Officials want to make sure future facilities are properly vetted for water use, power consumption, and environmental impacts.
Homelessness Outreach and Regional Pressures
City officials and Safe Harbor representatives discussed outreach successes, noting 42 people placed into treatment, while raising concerns about out-of-town municipalities and shelters transporting unhoused individuals to Easton.
AI Fire Radio Monitoring Technology
Residents strongly protested a proposed agreement allowing Flock Safety to mount automated license plate reader cameras on city infrastructure, warning of mass surveillance and data privacy risks.
Comcast Utility Box Encroachment
Comcast is rolling out fiber-optic internet across Easton over the next two to three years, requiring 24 above-ground power boxes in the right-of-way. City officials are negotiating locations to keep them as inconspicuous as possible.
South Side Edible Walkway Project
Council expressed strong support for the South Side Edible Walkway project, which connects local gardens and promotes food access and community walkability.
OpenGov Financial Software Agreement
The city is upgrading its outdated financial and billing systems by partnering with OpenGov, backed by a $200,000 state matching grant.
Historic Preservation
Easton locals are pushing back against rapid downtown development to protect the city's historic vibe. City leaders are stuck in the middle, trying to figure out how to grow without losing the neighborhood's unique character.
Canal Street Surplus Land Disposition for Affordable Housing
City Council discussed disposing of city-owned property on Canal Street to encourage affordable housing development. Residents and officials debated whether to use deed-restricted private sales, the Redevelopment Authority, or the Housing Authority.
Downtown Outdoor Dining Enforcement and Standards
Residents and council members raised concerns about cleanliness, safety sightlines, and noise from outdoor dining areas downtown. The city is working on updating program guidelines with stricter enforcement and clear rules to balance vibrant restaurant seating with neighborhood livability.
Zoning Notification Radius Expansion
Increasing the zoning notice radius from 100 to 200 feet ensures that more neighboring property owners are informed of zoning board hearings. This gives residents more time to participate in local land use decisions.
State Minimum Wage Increase Resolution
Councilman Pintabone highlighted a resolution calling on the Pennsylvania General Assembly to raise the state's minimum wage, which has remained stagnant since 2009.
Winter Storm Recovery and Snow Removal Operations
City officials and residents discussed the immense resources and challenges involved in clearing streets and alleys following a major weekend snowstorm. While council commended public works staff and contractors for 24-hour operations, residents raised concerns about street parking and snow disposal.
Scott Park Obelisk Monument Proposal
City Council debated and ultimately voted down a proposal to install a 15-foot black marble obelisk in Scott Park, agreeing with the Historic District Commission that the monument's scale and materials did not fit the historic area.
Immigrant Community Resolution
Easton City Council just passed a new resolution backing local immigrants to make the town feel more inclusive. It's mostly a symbolic vibe check, but it sets the tone for how the city handles community policies.
Law Enforcement and Noise
Downtown Easton's booming growth is bringing more noise and late-night crowds, prompting local police to look at tougher enforcement. If you hang out downtown, you can expect new rules and policies on how noise complaints are handled.
Animal Regulations
Easton just updated its pet shop rules, banning the sale of even more animals within city limits. If you were planning to buy certain pets locally, you'll need to look elsewhere.
Light Pollution
Easton's Environmental Advisory Council is cracking down on light pollution, which means local businesses and the city might soon have to change how they light up the night.
Marijuana Decriminalization
Easton City Council just narrowly passed a new rule to decriminalize marijuana, shifting how local police handle minor possession. This is a pretty big shake-up for local law enforcement and city ordinances.
LGBTQ+ affirmation resolution
Easton just passed a resolution officially declaring itself an LGBTQ+-affirming city, showing a clear local commitment to inclusivity and rights. It's a major win for local visibility and sets a welcoming tone for everyone living or moving there.
Welcoming City designation
Easton residents are pressuring the city council to officially adopt a Welcoming City designation, sparking a lively debate about the town's core identity and local policies. This decision could reshape how the city approaches immigrant integration and community support.
State of the City Address
Easton's mayor gave his State of the City speech, focusing on new development and a positive vibe for the town's future. It's a quick look at where the city is headed and what projects are currently in motion.
Liquor License Transfer
Easton City Council just approved a liquor license transfer for a downtown gas station, so you might soon be able to grab a drink right where you pump gas. It's a small change that shakes up your local convenience and shopping options.
Welcoming City Ordinance
Easton's police chief is fighting the city's new welcoming ordinance, warning it could invite more crime. Get ready for some major fireworks at the upcoming city council meetings as this gets debated.
Political Campaign
Frank Graziano III is running for the District 1 seat on the Easton City Council, signaling the start of the local election season. Expect to see more campaign activity and debate over neighborhood issues as other candidates potentially step up.
Liquor License Approval
Easton City Council just approved a new liquor license for a local restaurant, which means a fresh spot to grab a drink is opening up in the neighborhood soon. It's a quick win for local dining options and nightlife.
Labor Agreement
Easton just teamed up with local building unions to make sure we're ready for all the new construction coming our way. It's a smart move to keep upcoming city projects running smoothly and locally-sourced.
Government Leadership
Easton just swore in its new and returning City Council leaders, kicking off the policy agenda for the year. This shakeup will directly shape local rules and community projects moving forward.
Hydropower Lease
Easton's mayor just shared an update on the Hugh Moore Park hydropower lease, which is set to shake up local energy and park resources. It's a big deal for how we power our town and take care of our favorite green spaces.
Grant Program
Easton homeowners can grab up to $10,000 in free city cash to upgrade their home's exterior and boost neighborhood curb appeal. If you own a place in town, you'll definitely want to see if your block is eligible for these funds.
Backyard Chicken Ban
Easton City Council is reviewing its backyard chicken rules, which could mean good news if you're hoping to raise your own flock for fresh eggs. This debate will decide whether residents get the green light to keep chickens on their property.
Infrastructure Failure
An SUV plunged right into a massive sinkhole on an Easton street, putting our city's crumbling infrastructure and road safety front and center. It's a terrifying reminder that our daily commutes might not be as safe as we think.