Wilkes-Barre public meetings in 2025

City Council

The City Council will consider authorizing the Mayor to appoint David Wilson to the Parking Authority and approve a $3 million Tax and Revenue Anticipation Note for the 2026 fiscal year. The body will also review minutes from previous meetings and authorize the Mayor to sign an agreement with the Luzerne County Emergency Services Commission.

• Authorize $3,000,000 Tax and Revenue Anticipation Note for 2026
• Appoint David Wilson to Parking Authority to fill unexpired term
• Authorize Mayor to execute Articles of Agreement for Luzerne County Emergency Services Commission
• Review minutes from General Municipal Authority, Zoning Hearing Board, Wyoming Valley Sanitary Authority, and City Council
• Public input on pending legislation

The council appointed David Wilson to the City Parking Authority to fill an unexpired term ending Dec. 31, 2028. It authorized the issuance and sale of a Tax and Revenue Anticipation Note for $3,000,000 for the 2026 fiscal year. The council also authorized the mayor to execute the Articles of Agreement of the Luzerne County Emergency Services Commission and approved the listed prior meeting minutes.

• Appointed David Wilson to the Parking Authority (term expires Dec 31, 2028)
• Authorized issuance of a $3,000,000 Tax and Revenue Anticipation Note, Series of 2026
• Authorized Mayor to execute Articles of Agreement of Luzerne County Emergency Services Commission
• Approved minutes of General Municipal Authority (Nov 25, 2025)
• Approved minutes of Zoning Hearing Board (Nov 19, 2025)
• Approved minutes of Wyoming Valley Sanitary Authority (Oct 21, 2025)
• Approved minutes of City Council Regular Session (Dec 4, 2025)

Zoning Hearing Board

The Zoning Hearing Board will hold a public hearing on December 17, 2025, to consider a zoning appeal for a beauty salon at 44 East Chestnut Street. The applicant seeks a special exception to change a nonconforming use and a variance to waive two parking spaces.

• Public hearing for beauty salon variance at 44 East Chestnut Street
• Request to change nonconforming use from real estate office to beauty salon
• Request to waive 2 parking spaces for the proposed use

Parking Authority of Wilkes-Barre

The Parking Authority of Wilkes-Barre will hold a reorganization meeting to approve prior minutes, review reports, and vote on the 2026 budget and a management agreement amendment.

• Approval of bills totaling $12,112.52
• Vote on 2026 budget
• Vote on 3rd amendment management agreement
• Discussion of flood policy
• Review of prior meeting minutes

City Council

The Wilkes-Barre City Council is deciding on the adoption of the Mayor's proposed 2026 General Fund Budget and an ordinance amending sewer utility fees. The meeting also includes a resolution to transfer a restaurant liquor license.

• Adoption of 2026 General Fund Budget
• Amendment to sewer utility fees
• Transfer of restaurant liquor license
• Purchase of electronic medical records system ($30,000)
• Public hearing on liquor license transfer

City Council

The Wilkes‑Barre City Council will adopt the Mayor's proposed General Fund Budget for calendar year 2026. It will also consider three resolutions requesting Statewide Local Share Assessment grants of $500,000, $400,000, and $984,497 for university, college, and youth‑center projects. An ordinance amending the traffic and motor‑vehicle code to restrict parking of large vehicles will be read for the second and final time.

• Adoption of the Mayor's Proposed General Fund Budget for 2026 (File of Council No. 7)
• Ordinance amending Article V of Chapter 29 to repeal and replace Sec. 29‑103 on parking of large vehicles (File of Council No. 6, second and final reading)
• Resolution requesting a $500,000 grant for Wilkes University Nursing Simulation Lab Equipment – Phase 2
• Resolution requesting a $400,000 grant for King's College Sheehy‑Farmer Campus Center 3rd Floor Improvement
• Resolution requesting a $984,497 grant for Wyoming Valley Catholic Youth Center Improvement

Zoning Hearing Board

The Zoning Hearing Board will hear appeals regarding apartment conversions, parking requirements, and building expansions. The meeting is scheduled for November 19, 2025, at 4:30 p.m. in City Council Chambers.

• Hearing for 2 Fresh Auto at 1330 North Washington Street to expand auto repair with outdoor storage
• Hearing for Janta Raja, LLC at 16-22 East Union Street to increase apartments from 15 to 29
• Hearing for MyGod Kelley at 54 Marlborough Avenue to build a duplex with reduced lot area
• Hearing for Vito Malacari at 147 and 155 Austin Avenue to convert churches into apartments
• Hearing for Sandy Gabin at 292-294 Carey Avenue to construct a fourth-story addition

Parking Authority of Wilkes-Barre

The Parking Authority of Wilkes-Barre Board of Directors will review prior minutes, receive reports from the Executive Director and Engineer, and vote on bulk monthly parking rates. The meeting will also include the approval of bills, including a payment to Valley Mart.

• Vote on bulk monthly parking rates
• Approval of bills (Valley Mart $157.98)
• Executive director contract renewal discussion
• Annual Reorganization Meeting scheduled for December 16

City Council

The City Council adopted the Mayor's proposed 2026 General Fund budget and a new ordinance prohibiting the parking of trucks, trailers, and oversized vehicles on city streets. The meeting also included resolutions requesting state grants for local university and youth center projects.

• Adoption of 2026 General Fund Budget
• Ordinance prohibiting parking of trucks, trailers, and oversized vehicles
• Resolution requesting $500,000 for Wilkes University Nursing Simulation Lab Equipment
• Resolution requesting $400,000 for King's College Sheehy-Farmer Campus Center
• Resolution requesting $984,497 for Wyoming Valley Catholic Youth Center

City Council

City Council is reviewing an ordinance to prohibit the parking or standing of trucks and tractor trailers within the city. The body is also considering several grant applications and a street paving contract.

• Proposed ordinance to prohibit parking or standing of trucks and tractor trailers within the city
• Contract for 2025 Various Street Paving Project awarded to Pennsy Supply, Inc. for $1,133,533.00
• Grant request of $904,760.00 for Downtown Public Square Pathways Improvements Phase II
• Grant request of $841,295.00 for Horton Street Stormwater Infrastructure Improvements
• Grant request of $533,860.00 for City Hall Renovations - Phase III

City Council

The agenda for this meeting consists of procedural boilerplate. No specific legislative items, contracts, or ordinances are listed for decision.

Parking Authority of Wilkes-Barre

The Parking Authority Board will consider a resolution to enter into a lease agreement with Janta Raja LLC. The meeting also includes a budget review, reports on gate signage, snow removal, and lot lighting, and the approval of several invoices. Members will vote on the lease and approve the listed payments before adjourning.

• Resolution to enter into lease agreement with Janta Raja LLC
• Approval of Troy Mechanical invoice $3,139.80 for HVAC construction
• Approval of Valley Mart invoice $79.24 (Inv #2101)
• Approval of WVSA invoices totaling $385.00 (5 invoices)
• Approval of City of WB Sewer invoices totaling $150.00 (4 invoices)

Zoning Hearing Board

The Zoning Hearing Board will hold public hearings for eight zoning appeal applications. The board is considering special exceptions for businesses and residential units, as well as variances for parking and property setbacks.

• Janta Raja, LLC: request to increase apartments from 15 to 29 at 16-22 East Union Street
• D’Aaron Car Detailing: special exception for hand-detailing business at 380 Hazle Street
• 2 Fresh Auto: request for body work restoration and storage for 12 vehicles at 1330 North Washington Street
• ST Way Inc.: variance for 8-van parking area at 270-272 Carey Avenue
• BDE Properties, LLC: request to change a building to two residential units at 191 Mayock Street

City Council

The Wilkes-Barre City Council meeting on October 9, 2025 will begin with a pledge of allegiance and roll call. Council members will review the minutes from the Planning Commission meeting of June 18, 2025; the Traffic Committee meeting of August 28, 2025; the General Municipal Authority meeting of September 23, 2025; and the regular City Council session of September 25, 2025. No other agenda items such as ordinances, contracts, or public hearings are listed.

• Review minutes of Planning Commission meeting (June 18, 2025)
• Review minutes of Traffic Committee meeting (August 28, 2025)
• Review minutes of General Municipal Authority meeting (September 23, 2025)
• Review minutes of regular City Council session (September 25, 2025)

City Council

The City Council adopted the Luzerne County 2025 Hazard Mitigation Plan Update as Wilkes‑Barre’s official hazard mitigation plan. The council also designated the mayor and city controller to execute documents for several Luzerne County Local Share Assessment grant applications. Grant requests include $367,472 for a new advanced‑life‑support ambulance, $476,045 for the King’s College Safety and Security Project Phase 3, $185,000 for Wyoming Valley Challenger Baseball Field lighting, $346,500 for a back‑up generator at the Coal Street Complex, and $307,250 for the Penn Plaza Revitalization on South Main Street and Hazle Street.

• Adoption of the Luzerne County 2025 Hazard Mitigation Plan Update as the city’s official plan
• Request for a $367,472 grant for a new advanced life support ambulance for the Fire Department/EMS
• Request for a $476,045 grant for the King’s College Safety and Security Project – Phase 3
• Request for a $346,500 grant for a back‑up generator for the Coal Street Complex
• Request for a $307,250 grant for the CV LTD Penn Plaza Revitalization on South Main Street and Hazle Street

City Council

The Wilkes‑Barre City Council will adopt the Luzerne County 2025 Hazard Mitigation Plan as the city’s official mitigation plan. The council also designates the mayor and city controller to seek several Luzerne County Local Share Assessment grants for projects including an ambulance purchase, a safety and security upgrade at King’s College, a back‑up generator for the Coal Street Complex, and lighting for the Wyoming Valley Challenger Baseball Field. Each grant request is contingent on approval by the Commonwealth Financing Authority.

• Adopt Luzerne County 2025 Hazard Mitigation Plan as city’s official plan
• Request $367,472 grant for City of Wilkes‑Barre Fire Department/Emergency Medical Services ambulance purchase
• Request $476,045 grant for King’s College Safety and Security Project – Phase 3
• Request $346,500 grant for back‑up generator project for the Coal Street Complex
• Request $185,000 grant for Wyoming Valley Challenger Baseball Field lighting at BOG public park on Dewy Lane

Zoning Hearing Board

The Wilkes-Barre Zoning Hearing Board will hear appeals regarding special exceptions and variances for auto detailing, daycare homes, and multi-unit conversions. The meeting is scheduled for September 17, 2025, at 4:30 p.m. in City Council Chambers.

• Public hearing for auto repair and detailing businesses at 380 Hazle Street and 1330 North Washington Street
• Special exception for Kings College addition at 157-171 North Franklin Street
• Variance requests for multi-unit conversions at 278 McLean Street and 307 Carey Avenue
• Special exception for a sober living facility at 415 North Main Street
• Public hearing for daycare homes at 183 Madison Street and 33 Barney Street

Parking Authority of Wilkes-Barre

The Parking Authority Board will review reports and discuss parking rates for Luzerne County Community College. It will consider and vote on three bill payments, including $210 to the Postmaster and $3,082.50 to Rosenn Jenkins & Greenwald. The meeting also includes routine reports from the chairman, engineer, solicitor, and executive director.

• Approve $210.00 payment to the Postmaster (PO Box 2315 annual)
• Approve $3,082.50 invoice #7503562 to Rosenn Jenkins & Greenwald
• Approve annual inspection contract for Bonner Chevrolet (no dollar amount listed)
• Discuss Luzerne County Community College parking rates
• Review authority budget and LAZ report

City Council

At the September 9, 2025 meeting, the Wilkes‑Barre City Council will adopt a second‑reading ordinance amending the Reserved Parking Program, temporarily suspend open‑consumption alcohol rules for the Osterhout Rooftop Party, and designate the mayor and controller to pursue multiple Luzerne County Local Share Assessment grants—including a $904,760 grant for Downtown Public Square Pathways Improvements—and authorize a $500,000 no‑interest loan for stormwater repairs on Conyngham Avenue.

• Ordinance amending the Reserved Parking Program (second reading)
• Temporary suspension of Section 20-4 for the Osterhout Rooftop Party on Oct 3, 2025
• Grant request of $904,760 for Downtown Public Square Pathways Improvements
• Grant request of $500,000 for Wilkes University Nursing Simulation Lab Equipment
• Authorization of a $500,000 no‑interest loan for Stormwater Repair Project on Conyngham Avenue

Zoning Hearing Board

The Wilkes-Barre Zoning Hearing Board will hold a public hearing on August 20, 2025, to review a zoning appeal for a hand-detailing business at 380 Hazle Street in a C-2 zone. The applicant seeks a special exception under Section 324 of the zoning ordinance.

• Special exception appeal for hand-detailing business at 380 Hazle Street
• Public hearing scheduled for August 20, 2025, at 4:30 p.m. in City Council Chambers

Parking Authority of Wilkes-Barre

The Wilkes-Barre Parking Authority will discuss and potentially approve updated terms for its LAZ contract, review a $6,900 change order for Panzitta work, and approve routine bills including fuel and insurance payments. The board will also hold a special meeting on August 26th.

• Panzitta change order of $6,900
• Discussion and potential approval of updated LAZ contract terms and conditions
• Approval of bills including Valley Mart fuel ($192.66) and Rosen Jenkins Greenwald invoice ($4,446.00)
• Special meeting scheduled for August 26, 2025

City Council

City Council is reviewing a $1.04 million insurance package and a contract for the Police Headquarters Replacement Project. The body is also considering an ordinance to amend the reserved parking program for handicapped parking.

• Insurance package from Risk Strategies for a total annual premium of $1,040,155.00
• Police Headquarters Replacement Project award to M & B Electric LLC for $135,500.00
• Winter Services Agreement with PennDOT for a payment of $64,914.33
• First reading of an ordinance amending the Reserved Parking Program for handicapped parking
• Resolution urging federal legislators to increase monthly black lung benefit rates

The council unanimously adopted six resolutions and one ordinance. It authorized the mayor to sign the 2025‑2026 Winter Services Agreement, urged federal legislators to support increased black‑lung benefits, and temporarily suspended park hours for the Night Golfing Event. The council also approved awarding the Police Headquarters Replacement Project to M & B Electric LLC for $135,500.00 and accepted an insurance package from Risk Strategies costing $1,040,155.00 annually. The ordinance amending the Reserved Parking Program for handicapped parking was adopted on first reading.

• Approved Winter Services Agreement (Resolution R0030-25) – 5 yeas, 0 nays
• Approved urging of federal legislators for black‑lung benefit legislation (Resolution R0031-25) – 5 yeas, 0 nays
• Approved temporary suspension of park hours for Night Golfing Event (Resolution R0032-25) – 5 yeas, 0 nays
• Approved award of Police Headquarters Replacement Project to M & B Electric LLC for $135,500.00 (Resolution R0033-25) – 5 yeas, 0 nays
• Approved acceptance of Risk Strategies insurance package for $1,040,155.00 annual premium (Resolution R0034-25) – 5 yeas, 0 nays
• Adopted Ordinance amending Reserved Parking Program (handicapped parking) – 5 yeas, 0 nays

City Council

City Council is reviewing several administrative resolutions, including a new insurance package and a contract for police headquarters work. The body is also considering a liquor license transfer and updates to the city's reserved parking program.

• Insurance package from Risk Strategies for a total annual premium of $1,040,155.00
• Police Headquarters Replacement Project contract awarded to M&B Electric LLC for $135,500.00
• Transfer of Restaurant Liquor License # R-3625 to Ghost Six Packs To Go, LLC at 1075 Scott Street
• PennDOT Winter Services Agreement (Year 4 of 10) for $64,914.33
• Ordinance amending the 'Reserved Parking Program' regarding eligibility and definitions

Zoning Hearing Board

The Zoning Hearing Board will hold a public hearing to consider five zoning appeal applications. The board will decide on requests for setback waivers, property conversions, and land-use changes.

• Variance for 179 South Empire Street to reduce side and rear setbacks for a second story addition
• Variance for 69 South Hancock Street to reduce rear setback for a shed addition
• Variance for 820 South Main Street to convert a single-family home into a 2-unit dwelling
• Variance for 284 Blackman Street to build a 30’ x 40’ commercial storage and auto repair building
• Variance for 454 South Main Street to convert a building into a 600-unit self-storage facility

Parking Authority of Wilkes-Barre

The Board of Directors will review an auditors report from Snyder Clemente and discuss parking rates for a new downtown tenant. The body is also considering personnel pay changes and updated terms for the LAZ contract.

• Proposed $2,500 bonus for Matt Price
• Proposed pay increase for Dusty Titus to $825 per month
• Payment of $17,000.00 to Snyder Clemente for Audit/ARPA audit
• Payment of $2,955.00 to JW Hoban & Associates for D & O policy
• Discussion of updated LAZ contract terms and conditions

City Council

City Council is considering the final reading of an ordinance to adopt the 2025 Action Plan for Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and HOME program budgets. The body is also reviewing grant applications for streetscape improvements and a police alarm system contract.

• Ordinance No. 4 of 2025 to adopt the 2025 Action Plan for CDBG and HOME programs with a CDBG budget of $1,625,226.00
• $3,000,000.00 grant application for South Main Streetscape Improvements Project — Phase II
• $597,855.00 grant application for King’s College North Main Streetscape Improvements Project — Phase 2
• $38,250.00 contract for the Wilkes-Barre Police Department Alarm System awarded to Eastern Time
• CDBG budget allocations including $627,180.80 for streets/ADA ramps and $100,000.00 for fire equipment

The council adopted the consent agenda, authorizing the city to sign a $38,250 police alarm system contract and to submit grant applications for $3,000,000 and $597,855 for streetscape projects. The council also adopted Ordinance No. 4, the 2025 Action Plan for the Community Development Block Grant program. Both actions passed with a 4‑0 vote and one member absent.

• Adopted Consent Agenda authorizing signing $38,250 police alarm contract (4-0)
• Adopted Consent Agenda authorizing $3,000,000 Multimodal Transportation Fund grant submission for South Main Street Streetscape Phase II (4-0)
• Adopted Consent Agenda authorizing $597,855 Multimodal Transportation Fund grant submission for King’s College North Main Street Streetscape Phase II (4-0)
• Adopted Ordinance No. 4, 2025 Action Plan for Community Development Block Grant program (4-0)

City Council

City Council is considering a final reading of an ordinance to adopt the 2025 Action Plan for Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and HOME program budgets. The body is also reviewing resolutions for police equipment and state grant applications for streetscape projects.

• Ordinance to adopt 2025 Action Plan for CDBG and HOME programs, including $852,180.80 for public facilities and $100,000 for fire equipment
• Contract for Wilkes-Barre Police Department Alarm System with Eastern Time, a Division of Sciens Building Solutions for $38,250.00
• $3,000,000.00 grant application for South Main Streetscape Improvements Project — Phase II
• $597,855.00 grant application for King’s College North Main Streetscape Improvements Project — Phase 2
• Allocation of $198,000.00 for public services, including $125,000.00 for community policing

Zoning Hearing Board

The Zoning Hearing Board will hold public hearings to decide on several special exceptions and variances. These requests include changes to commercial and residential land uses and modifications to required yard setbacks.

• 760 North Washington Street: request for a restaurant with 32 seats and use of an across-the-street parking lot
• 561 North Main Street: variance to reduce side yard setbacks for a two-story staircase addition
• 402-404 Park Avenue: request to use a garage for bulk resale storage and a parking variance for 11 spaces
• 200 Conyngham Avenue: variance to reduce front and rear yard setbacks for a single-family home
• 300 North Pennsylvania Avenue: request to change a vacant commercial building to an auto repair shop

Parking Authority of Wilkes-Barre

The Board of Directors will discuss and vote on a parking lease agreement for the North Parking Garage. The meeting also includes reviews of LAZ contract terms and elevator maintenance.

• Lease approval for North Parking Garage to JANTA RAJA, LLC, JANTI RANI, LLC and KATHAL REALTY, LLC
• Approval of Port Elevator Maintenance Contract
• Updated terms and conditions for LAZ contract
• Payment of $516.50 to Rosenn Jenkins & Greenwald
• Payment of $222.00 to Commonwealth of PA for truck registration

City Council

City Council is reviewing the 2025 Action Plan for Community Development Block Grant and HOME program budgets. The body is also considering several resolutions for emergency infrastructure repairs and police equipment.

• First reading of Ordinance No. 4 of 2025 to adopt the 2025 CDBG and HOME program budgets
• Finance package not to exceed $600,000.00 for emergency repairs to a 60” culvert off Conyngham Avenue
• Five-year lease/purchase agreement with Community Leasing Partners for five police vehicles totaling $384,815.00
• Purchase of 14 Panasonic Toughbook FZ-55s ($52,402.00) and 14 Havis docking stations ($16,553.04)
• Purchase of ArcGIS Velocity program for $52,530 from Environmental Systems Research Institute

The City Council adopted the Consent Agenda, approving four resolutions that authorize financing for a 60" culvert repair, purchase of computer equipment, a lease‑purchase agreement for police vehicles, and acquisition of an ArcGIS Velocity program. The council also adopted Ordinance No. 4 of 2025, establishing the 2025 Action Plan for the Community Development Block Grant program. All actions were approved unanimously.

• Authorized Mayor to obtain up to $600,000 finance package for emergency culvert repairs (5-0)
• Authorized purchase of 14 Panasonic Toughbook FZ‑55 computers for $52,402.00 (5-0)
• Authorized purchase of 14 Havis DS‑PAN‑432 docking stations for $16,553.04 (5-0)
• Authorized five‑year lease/purchase agreement for 5 police vehicles totaling $384,815.00, annual payment $89,231.76 (5-0)
• Authorized purchase of ArcGIS Velocity program for $52,530 funded by Public Health Emergency Preparedness Grant (5-0)
• Adopted Ordinance No. 4 of 2025 establishing the 2025 Action Plan for Community Development Block Grant and Home Program budgets (5-0)
• Adopted Consent Agenda (Resolutions/Minutes) encompassing all listed resolutions (5-0)

City Council

City Council is reviewing several resolutions for emergency infrastructure, police equipment, and public health software. The body is also considering an ordinance to adopt the 2025 Action Plan for Community Development Block Grant and HOME Program budgets.

• Finance package up to $600,000 for emergency repairs to a 60-inch culvert off Conyngham Avenue
• Five-year lease/purchase agreement for five police vehicles totaling $384,815.00
• Purchase of 14 Panasonic Toughbooks ($52,402.00) and 14 docking stations ($16,553.04)
• Purchase of ArcGIS Velocity software for $52,530 funded by a Public Health Emergency Preparedness Grant
• 2025 Action Plan budget including $852,180.80 for public facilities and $100,000 for fire equipment

City Council

City Council is holding a second and final reading of an ordinance to penalize drivers who use non-thoroughfare property to avoid traffic controls. The body is also considering a grant application for park improvements and a municipal authority appointment.

• Ordinance to set fines between $250.00 and $600.00 for driving across private or public property to avoid traffic signals
• Resolution to request a $250,000.00 GTRP grant for the Huber Park Improvement project
• Appointment of Jerome Dunn to the General Municipal Authority through December 31, 2028

The council approved a resolution requesting a $250,000 Greenway, Trails and Recreation Program grant for the Huber Park Improvement project and designated the mayor and controller to handle the grant paperwork. It also appointed Jerome Dunn to the General Municipal Authority for a term ending December 31, 2028. Finally, the council passed an ordinance amending traffic rules about crossing private or public property to avoid traffic signals.

• Adopted Resolution RO0O21-25 to request $250,000 GTRP grant and designate Mayor George C. Brown and Controller Tony Thomas (4 yeas, 0 nays, 1 absent)
• Adopted Resolution R0O022-25 appointing Jerome Dunn to the General Municipal Authority (term expires 12/31/2028) (4 yeas, 0 nays, 1 absent)
• Adopted Ordinance File of Council No. 3 of 2025 amending Article XI of Chapter 29 on driving across private/public property (4 yeas, 0 nays, 1 absent)

Zoning Hearing Board

The Zoning Hearing Board will hold public hearings for six applications seeking variances or special exceptions. These requests involve changes to building uses, parking requirements, and setback distances for residential and commercial properties.

• 425 South Main Street: Request to change use to two storefronts and five apartments with parking and setback variances
• 240 Matson Avenue: Request for side and rear yard setback variances for an 18’x 22’ shed
• 158 High Street: Request to increase driveway width from 20 feet to 46 feet
• 89 Lehigh Street: Request to change use from party planner/rental business to a nail/beauty salon
• 421 North Pennsylvania Avenue: Request to install three non-illuminated vinyl advertisement wall signs

Parking Authority of Wilkes-Barre

The Parking Authority of Wilkes-Barre will vote on the LAZ report, rents, and the Executive Director's response to LAZ. The board will also review progress on East & North projects and welcome new board member William Murtha.

• Vote on LAZ Report and Rents
• Approval of response to LAZ
• Payment to Rosen Jenkins & Greenwald for $1,354.50
• Payment to Valley Mart for $193.00
• Engineer's report on East & North progress

City Council

Wilkes-Barre City Council will hold a first reading of an ordinance that would impose fines of $250 to $600 for drivers who cross private or public property to bypass traffic signals. The council also will vote on reappointing Jay Delaney and Patricia Gazenski to the Housing Authority and approve minutes from recent board meetings.

• First reading of Ordinance No. 3 of 2025 amending Article XI of Chapter 29 to penalize driving across property to avoid traffic signals (fine $250–$600, up to 90 days imprisonment)
• Reappointment of Jay Delaney to the Housing Authority (term expires September 10, 2029)
• Reappointment of Patricia Gazenski to the Housing Authority (term expires June 10, 2029)
• Approval of minutes from Zoning Hearing Board (April 16, 2025), Wyoming Valley Sanitary Authority (March 18, 2025), and City Council (April 24, 2025)

The council unanimously adopted the consent agenda, reappointing Jay Delaney and Patricia Gazenski to the Housing Authority. It also adopted, on first reading, Ordinance File No. 3 of 2025 amending the city code to prohibit driving across private or public property to avoid traffic controls. All actions passed with a 5‑0 vote.

• Adopted Consent Agenda, reappointing Jay Delaney to the Housing Authority (term expires Sep 10, 2029) (5-0)
• Adopted Consent Agenda, reappointing Patricia Gazenski to the Housing Authority (term expires Jun 10, 2029) (5-0)
• Adopted Ordinance File No. 3 of 2025 amending the code on driving across private/public property (first reading) (5-0)
• Adopted minutes of the Zoning Hearing Board of Apr 16, 2025 (5-0)
• Adopted minutes of the Wyoming Valley Sanitary Authority of Mar 18, 2025 (5-0)
• Adopted minutes of the City Council regular session of Apr 24, 2025 (5-0)

City Council

Wilkes-Barre City Council will hold a first reading of an ordinance targeting drivers who cross private or public property to avoid traffic signals, with fines of $250 to $600. Council will also vote on reappointing Jay Delaney and Patricia Gazenski to the Housing Authority.

• First reading of ordinance banning driving across private or public property to bypass traffic signals (fine $250-$600).
• Reappointment of Jay Delaney (275 Mayock Street) to Housing Authority, term to September 2029.
• Reappointment of Patricia Gazenski (66 Elizabeth Street) to Housing Authority, term to June 2029.

City Council

City Council will meet to vote on a construction contract for a fire station auxiliary garage and a board appointment. The meeting also includes presentations and public input on pending legislation.

• Agreement with Panzitta Enterprises for $49,500.00 for the Hollenback Fire Station Auxiliary Garage Project
• Appointment of William Murtha to the Parking Authority through December 31, 2028

The council adopted the consent agenda, which included two resolutions. It authorized city officials to contract with Panzitta Enterprises for the Hollenback Fire Station Auxiliary Garage Project at a cost of $49,500, funded by a state grant and the fire department budget. The council also appointed William Murtha to the Parking Authority, with his term set to end on December 31, 2028. The adoption passed with a 5‑0 vote.

• Adopted consent agenda (5 yeas, 0 nays)
• Authorized $49,500 contract with Panzitta Enterprises for Hollenback Fire Station Auxiliary Garage Project
• Appointed William Murtha to the Parking Authority (term expires Dec 31, 2028)

City Council

City Council is reviewing a resolution to award a contract for the Hollenback Fire Station Auxiliary Garage Project. The body is also considering the appointment of a new member to the Parking Authority.

• Contract with Panzitta Enterprises for $49,500.00 for the Hollenback Fire Station Auxiliary Garage Project
• Appointment of William Murtha to the Parking Authority with a term expiring December 31, 2028
• Presentation by Gail Malloy

Zoning Hearing Board

The Wilkes-Barre Zoning Hearing Board will hold a public hearing on seven variance applications. One request seeks to convert a former church into a 16-unit apartment building with a reduced parking setback. Other applications include an auto body repair garage in a residential zone, a subdivision with multiple lot size reductions, a rooftop sign, and residential setbacks.

• Variance to build a 16-unit apartment in a former church at 607 N Main Street (C-N zone)
• Variance to operate an automotive body repair garage in an R-1 zone at 30 Gould Lane
• Variance for subdivision at 71 Parrish Street reducing lot size from 5,000 to 2,307 sq ft and lot width from 50 to 18.3 ft
• Variance to install a rooftop advertisement sign on a building at 8-18 West Market Street (C-3 zone)
• Variance to place four 8'x40' storage trailers for tire storage at 93 Butler Street (C-2 zone)

Parking Authority of Wilkes-Barre

The Parking Authority of Wilkes-Barre will hold a public hearing on non-agenda items, then review and vote on the LAZ contract response, engineering progress on East & North garages, and a list of bills including $14,601 to C-K Alarm Inc. for an alarm system and $6,202 to legal counsel. Action is also expected on monthly rent reports, camera installation completion, and the chairman's minutes.

• Approval of response to LAZ (parking management contract)
• Payment of $14,601 to C-K Alarm Inc. for invoice 140495
• Camera installation reported complete
• Payment of $6,202 to Rosenn Jenkins & Greenwald (legal fees)
• Monthly report and maintenance from LAZ on rents

City Council

The Wilkes-Barre City Council will consider a consent agenda that includes authorizing a $750,000 state grant application for King's College's Student Success Center project and awarding a $431,532 contract to Stell Enterprises for the Bog Phase II all-inclusive playground. Other items include temporary alcohol ordinance suspensions for Fine Arts Fiesta and Rockin' the River events, an Earth Day proclamation, and a traffic committee reappointment.

• Authorizing a $750,000 Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program grant application for King’s College Student Success Center project
• Awarding a $431,532 contract to Stell Enterprises for the Bog Phase II All-Inclusive Playground/Park Project
• Temporary suspension of open consumption ordinance for Fine Arts Fiesta wine tasting area (May 15–18, 2025 on Public Square)
• Temporary suspension of open consumption ordinance for Rockin’ the River (July 11, 18, 25, 2025; area to be determined)
• Reappointing Patricia Unvarsky to the Traffic Committee through March 21, 2028

The City Council adopted a Consent Agenda that temporarily suspended the open‑container ordinance for the Fine Arts Fiesta (May 15‑18, 2025) and Rockin’ the River (July 11, 18, 25, 2025). It declared April 22, 2025 an Earth Day to promote earth‑friendly foods. The council reappointed Patricia Unvarsky to the Traffic Committee through March 21, 2028. It authorized filing a $750,000 Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program grant proposal for King’s College Student Success Center and approved a $431,532 contract with Stell Enterprises for the Bog Phase II playground project.

• Adopted (5‑0) temporary suspension of open‑container ordinance for Fine Arts Fiesta
• Adopted (5‑0) temporary suspension of open‑container ordinance for Rockin’ the River
• Adopted (5‑0) Earth Day proclamation for April 22, 2025
• Adopted (5‑0) reappointment of Patricia Unvarsky to Traffic Committee (term expires 3/21/2028)
• Adopted (5‑0) authorization to file $750,000 grant proposal for King’s College Student Success Center
• Adopted (5‑0) authorization to sign contract with Stell Enterprises for Bog Phase II playground ($431,532)

City Council

The council will consider resolutions to temporarily suspend open alcohol laws for two events, adopt an Earth Day proclamation, reappoint a traffic committee member, authorize a $750,000 state grant application for King's College, and award a $431,532 contract for a playground project.

• Temporary alcohol suspension for Fine Arts Fiesta (wine tasting, May 15-18) and Rockin' the River (July 11,18,25)
• Earth Day resolution promoting earth-friendly foods on April 22
• Reappointment of Patricia Unvarsky to Traffic Committee through March 2028
• Authorize $750,000 RACP grant application for King's College Student Success Center
• Award $431,532 contract to Stell Enterprises for Bog Phase II All-inclusive Playground

City Council

The agenda consists of procedural boilerplate. The council will review and approve minutes from previous meetings of the City Council, Zoning Hearing Board, Planning Commission, and Traffic Committee.

• Approval of Wyoming Valley Sanitary Authority Board minutes from February 18 and February 27, 2025
• Approval of City Council regular session minutes from February 27 and March 13, 2025
• Approval of Traffic Committee minutes from February 27, 2025
• Approval of Zoning Hearing Board minutes from February 19, 2025
• Approval of Planning Commission minutes from February 19, 2025

Council members voted 5‑0 to adopt the minutes of the March 27, 2025 regular session. No other ordinances, resolutions, or contracts were approved, denied, or tabled during this meeting. The remainder of the session consisted of presentations and public discussion.

• Adopted the March 27, 2025 meeting minutes (5-0)

City Council

City Council will vote on a resolution to install a temporary stop sign at the intersection of Beatty and St. Claire Streets for a 90-day trial period to address traffic safety concerns raised by residents.

• Resolution to install temporary stop sign at Beatty and St. Claire Streets for 90-day trial

Zoning Hearing Board

The Zoning Hearing Board will hold public hearings to consider several special exceptions and variances. Requests include converting industrial and institutional spaces into apartments and adjusting the use of rehabilitation facilities.

• 81 Waller Street: Proposed 10 apartments and a wholesale bakery
• 429-431 North Main Street: Proposed 20-woman staffed halfway house/sober living facility
• 35 West Market Street: Variance request for BYOB use near residential, church, and school sites
• 148-150 South Franklin Street: Proposed conversion of a religious school to 11 apartments
• 26 New Hill Street: Proposed change from adult to adolescent 102-bed rehabilitation center

Parking Authority of Wilkes-Barre

The Parking Authority of Wilkes-Barre will hold a regular meeting to approve routine reports and financial items. Key actions include electing a chairman, reviewing the Harie GL & Property insurance renewal at $33,657, and approving leases for Cawley and Curry Donut. The board will also pay bills including Valley Mart $131.03 and gate insurance $1,148.

• Election of Chairman
• Harie GL & Property insurance renewal $33,657
• Gate insurance $1,148
• Cawley lease review/approval
• Curry Donut lease review/approval

City Council

Wilkes-Barre City Council will hold second and final readings on two ordinances at its March 13 meeting. The main item creates new regulations for mobile food facilities (food trucks/carts), including hours of operation, location restrictions, licensing, and fines. The second ordinance amends the fee proration rules in Chapter 28. Public input will be taken before the votes.

• Second and final reading of Ordinance No. 1 of 2025 establishing Article V in Chapter 11 for mobile food facilities (food trucks/carts).
• Proposed hours of operation for mobile food facilities: 7 a.m. to 2 a.m. daily; must vacate parking spot after business.
• Mobile food facilities prohibited within 50 feet of a restaurant's service area or entrance, and banned in the Retail Business District (bounded by Union St, Pennsylvania Ave, Northampton St, and Susquehanna River) without city consent.
• Annual license required; operators must provide proof of at least $500,000 liability insurance, mercantile tax payment, and written permission from private property owner if operating there.
• Second and final reading of Ordinance No. 2 of 2025 amending Article VI of Chapter 28 on fee proration (no details provided in agenda).

City Council adopted two ordinances on second and final reading: a new Mobile Food Facility ordinance (File No. 1 of 2025) regulating food trucks, passed 3-2, and a Fee Proration amendment (File No. 2 of 2025), passed 5-0. Public comments addressed food truck hours, safety, and health concerns, but no other substantive decisions were made.

• Adopted Mobile Food Facility ordinance (File No. 1 of 2025) 3-2
• Adopted Fee Proration amendment (File No. 2 of 2025) 5-0

City Council

City Council is considering two ordinances for second and final reading. One proposal establishes comprehensive rules for food trucks and carts, while the other concerns fee proration.

• File of Council No. 1 of 2025: Ordinance creating 'Mobile Food Facility' regulations including licensing, health inspections, and a 50-foot distance requirement from restaurant service areas
• File of Council No. 2 of 2025: Ordinance regarding 'Fee Proration'
• Requirement for mobile food facilities to carry at least $500,000.00 in public liability insurance
• Proposed fines between $300.00 and $1,000.00 for health license or distance violations
• Operating hour restrictions for mobile food facilities from 7:00 a.m. to 2:00 a.m. daily

City Council

The City Council will hold a first reading of an ordinance to regulate mobile food facilities, including hours of operation, proximity to restaurants, and health inspections. The consent agenda includes reappointing William Murtha to the Fire Civil Service Commission, appointing Delphine Torbik and Michael DiMare to the Board of Health, and authorizing two Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program grants: $1,000,000 for the Wilkes-Barre Recovery House at 300 Courtright Avenue and $750,000 for the Wilkes University Nursing Simulation Project. Also on first reading is an ordinance amending fee proration in the city code. Minutes from previous meetings are also approved.

• First reading of ordinance adding Article V to Chapter 11 regulating mobile food facilities
• First reading of ordinance amending Article VI of Chapter 28 on fee proration
• Authorizing $1,000,000 RACP grant for Wilkes-Barre Recovery House at 300 Courtright Avenue
• Authorizing $750,000 RACP grant for Wilkes University Nursing Simulation Project
• Appointments: Delphine Torbik and Michael DiMare to Board of Health; reappointment of William Murtha to Fire Civil Service Commission

City Council approved a consent agenda including two RACP grants totaling $1.75 million for the Wilkes-Barre Recovery House and Wilkes University Nursing Simulation Project, plus appointments to the Fire Civil Service Commission and Board of Health. Council also gave first reading to ordinances on mobile food facilities and fee proration. The food truck ordinance passed first reading with a 3-1 vote.

• Approved $1,000,000 RACP grant for Wilkes-Barre Recovery House (4-0)
• Approved $750,000 RACP grant for Wilkes University Nursing Simulation Project (4-0)
• Reappointed William Murtha to Fire Civil Service Commission (4-0)
• Appointed Delphine Torbik and Michael DiMare to Board of Health (4-0)
• Adopted first reading of Mobile Food Facility Ordinance (3-1)
• Adopted first reading of Fee Proration Ordinance (4-0)

City Council

The City Council will hold a first reading of an ordinance to add Article V to Chapter 11, creating regulations for food carts and food trucks. The proposed ordinance includes licensing, health inspections, operational hours (8 a.m. to 11 p.m.), distance restrictions from restaurants, and insurance requirements. This is a first reading only, not a final vote.

• Ordinance adding Article V to Chapter 11 of the City Code: Food Carts and Food Trucks (first reading)

Wilkes-Barre Finance Authority

The Wilkes-Barre Finance Authority is meeting to discuss amendments to the Trust Indenture and Loan Agreement for the Series 2015A University of Scranton Revenue Bonds. The body will consider authorizing the execution of these amendments and confirming the Authority's limited liability regarding the bonds.

• Proposed amendments to Trust Indenture and Loan Agreement for University of Scranton Revenue Bonds, Series 2015A
• Recording Secretary fee of $100.00

Zoning Hearing Board

The Wilkes-Barre Zoning Hearing Board will hold a public hearing on three zoning appeals. Items include a special exception and variances for a parking lot, a home occupation florist business, and a mixed-use conversion of a vacant industrial building into apartments, warehouse space, and a wholesale bakery.

• Hen Hen Reality LLC seeks a special exception for an eight-vehicle parking lot at 21 West Elm St. with variances to reduce setbacks to zero and waive screening.
• Kelly Ann Nilon requests a special exception for a home occupation florist business at 18 Donald Ct.
• 126 South 45th Street, LLC proposes converting 20,000 sq ft of vacant light industrial space into 10,000 sq ft of warehouse and 10 apartments at 81 Waller St.
• The same applicant also seeks a special exception to change a 7,369 sq ft light industrial building into a light industrial wholesale bakery use.
• A variance is requested to reduce an aisle width for two-way traffic from 24 ft to 22 ft along Vulcan Street for the proposed parking lot configuration.

Parking Authority of Wilkes-Barre

The Parking Authority of Wilkes-Barre will review monthly reports and progress on East and North projects. The body will consider leases for Cawley and Curry Donut, as well as lighting for Central via the Amato group.

• Amato group lighting for Central
• Cawley lease
• Curry Donut lease
• Payment of $974.45 to Matt Price for April Conference
• Payment of $130.04 to Valley Mart for truck gas

City Council

The Wilkes-Barre City Council is holding a regular meeting with a procedural agenda. The council will consider approving minutes from the Wyoming Valley Sanitary Authority, the Parking Authority, and the prior council session, and will take public input. No new ordinances, contracts, or public hearings are listed.

• Minutes of the Wyoming Valley Sanitary Authority (Dec 10, 2024) for approval
• Minutes of the Parking Authority of Wilkes-Barre (Jan 21, 2025) for approval
• Minutes of the Regular City Council session (Jan 23, 2025) for approval

The council voted unanimously to approve minutes from the Wyoming Valley Sanitary Authority, Parking Authority, and its own January 23 session. No other formal decisions were made; the rest of the meeting consisted of public comments and updates from the mayor on city projects.

• Adopted Wyoming Valley Sanitary Authority minutes (5-0)
• Adopted Parking Authority minutes (5-0)
• Adopted City Council regular session minutes (5-0)

City Council

The city council will consider a consent agenda that includes a proclamation of April 2025 as Fair Housing Month and reappointments to the General Municipal Authority and Zoning Hearing Board. No other substantive legislation is listed; the meeting consists primarily of procedural items and public comment periods.

• Proclamation of April 2025 as Fair Housing Month in Wilkes-Barre
• Reappointment of Robert Koval, Robert Hogan, and Ruth Whalen to the General Municipal Authority (terms expire Dec. 31, 2028)
• Reappointment of Hayden White to the Zoning Hearing Board (term expires Jan. 24, 2030)
• Approval of minutes from January 6 and January 9 council meetings, December 19 Traffic Committee, and December 18 Planning Commission

City Council unanimously adopted the consent agenda, which included a resolution proclaiming April 2025 as Fair Housing Month, reappointments to the General Municipal Authority and Zoning Hearing Board, and approval of prior meeting minutes. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting also included council member reports and public comments on snow plowing and other issues.

• Adopted consent agenda including Resolution No. RO004-25 proclaiming April 2025 as Fair Housing Month (5-0)
• Reappointed Robert Koval, Robert Hogan, and Ruth Whalen to the General Municipal Authority (5-0)
• Reappointed Hayden White to the Zoning Hearing Board (5-0)
• Approved minutes of January 6, January 9, December 19, and December 18 meetings (5-0)

Zoning Hearing Board

The Wilkes-Barre Zoning Hearing Board will hold a public hearing on eight zoning appeals. The board will decide on special exceptions and variances for property uses including a 120-unit apartment building, conversions of commercial space to apartments, and changes to nonconforming uses.

• Sphere International, LLC seeks variances for a 120-unit apartment building with first-floor commercial uses at 63 South Main Street, requesting reduced front yard setback and increased lot coverage.
• Vito Malacari seeks a variance to convert 9,060 sq ft of vacant commercial space at 87 North Main Street into a 10-unit apartment building.
• Penn One, LLC seeks a special exception to change a nonconforming use from a jewelry store/pawn shop to a grocery store at 322 North Pennsylvania Avenue.
• Daryl Lewis seeks a special exception for a community garden on a vacant lot at 445 South River Street.
• Sandra Rea seeks a special exception to change a nonconforming use at 374 New Market Street from two apartments and commercial space to two apartments, a barbershop, and a nail salon, with a parking variance.

Parking Authority of Wilkes-Barre

The Parking Authority of Wilkes-Barre will discuss and vote on several reports and contracts, including leases for Curry Donuts and Cawley, an appraisal of the Central Garage, and a QuickBooks purchase. The agenda also includes routine approvals of monthly reports, financial statements, and bills for payment totaling over $9,000.

• Curry Donuts lease (discussion and possible vote)
• Cawley Lease (discussion and possible vote)
• Central Garage Appraisal (discussion and possible vote)
• Bills for payment: Rosenn Jenkins & Greenwald $4,196.50, Valley Mart $95.85, and others
• East & North garage project progress update

City Council

The City Council is meeting to discuss the reappointment of members to the General Municipal Authority and the Zoning Hearing Board. The body is also considering a resolution to proclaim April 2025 as Fair Housing Month.

• Reappointment of Robert Koval, Bob Hogan, and Ruth Whalen to the General Municipal Authority
• Reappointment of Hayden White to the Zoning Hearing Board
• Proclamation of April 2025 as Fair Housing Month

City Council

City Council will consider the appointment of Stephen M. Trimingham to the Zoning Hearing Board to fill a vacancy. The meeting also includes the approval of minutes from several city boards and committees.

• Appointment of Stephen M. Trimingham to the Zoning Hearing Board (term expires January 24, 2029)

City Council unanimously approved the consent agenda, appointing Stephen M. Trimingham to the Zoning Hearing Board for an unexpired term and adopting minutes from prior meetings. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting included public comments and council member reports.

• Appointed Stephen M. Trimingham to Zoning Hearing Board (5-0)
• Adopted minutes of Dec 19, 2024 Council meeting and other committee minutes (5-0)

City Council

The City Council is meeting for a work session to consider a resolution regarding a board appointment. The body will review the Mayor's proposal to fill a vacancy on the Zoning Hearing Board.

• Appointment of Stephen M. Trimingham to the Zoning Hearing Board to replace Jack Nolan

City Council

City Council is meeting to elect a Chair and Vice Chair. The body is also deciding on the 2025 holiday schedule and the 2025 meeting dates for Council.

• Election of Council Chair
• Election of Vice Chair
• Resolution establishing the 2025 holiday schedule
• Resolution establishing the 2025 meeting dates for Council

At its Jan. 6 reorganization meeting, City Council unanimously elected Tony Brooks as chairperson and Jessica McClay as vice chairperson for 2025, with oaths administered. Council also approved the 2025 holiday schedule and the 2025 meeting schedule, both by 5-0 votes.

• Elected Tony Brooks as Council Chairperson (5-0)
• Elected Jessica McClay as Vice Chairperson (5-0)
• Approved 2025 holiday schedule (Resolution R0001-25) (5-0)
• Approved 2025 meeting schedule (Resolution R0002-25) (5-0)