Easton · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Easton public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
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.
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.
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.
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The city is upgrading its outdated financial and billing systems by partnering with OpenGov, backed by a $200,000 state matching grant.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.