Month: May 2019

Draft questions for the May 9 meeting on the Martin Tower demolition (31)

(31st in a series on Martin Tower)

Martin Tower demolition May 19
www.martintowerbethlehem.com

Informational meeting
Thursday, May 9, 6PM
Nitschmann Middle School

“It is amazing to me that so many people are reacting to this implosion
as entertainment or spectacle rather than a health risk.”
Barbara Diamond

Here’s Gadfly’s quick shot at walking through the MT process in chronological order and thinking about the kinds of questions about public health concerns we should hope to have answered at the May 9 meeting.

Ha! looks like a deposition, doesn’t it!

He has incorporated suggestions from a half-dozen followers (some copied from implosion protocols elsewhere), and there’s bound to be some repetition.

Let’s consider this a “draft.”

Now that you’ve seen it, please make suggestions.

If you don’t see your question or concern covered here or covered adequately here, let Gadfly know.

Gadfly would hope to publish some “final” version revised on the basis of further follower ideas around mid-day Monday so that City officials might have time to consider answering our questions at or even before the Thursday meeting.

Preliminary Planning:

  • What options besides implosion are available for demolition?
  • Why (according to the newspaper) is implosion used only 1% of the time?
  • What factors (time, cost, efficiency, geography, etc.) made implosion the best option for MT?
  • Where did potential health hazards factor in to the decision? Is it fair to say that other options would provide less of a health hazard?
  • Was the City involved in the planning decision? If so, name those City officials involved. If so, what role did the City play in the decision? If so, did the City have a veto power?
  • Was there any disagreement about the decision to use implosion among any of those consulted in the planning decision? If so, who and for what reason?
  • Is it too late to choose another option for demolition?

The Regulatory Process:

  • What Federal and State laws, regulations, and guidelines govern implosions?
  • What Federal and State approvals had to be obtained? What offices, where located, and who were the principal government agents consulted and responsible for approvals?
  • What City laws, regulations, and guidelines govern implosions?
  • What City approvals had to be obtained? What City offices were consulted and were responsible for the approvals? Who were the key figures in the approval process?
  • What information had to be submitted to the City in order to obtain approval?
  • Were there any disagreements or concerns voiced by City officials during the approval process? If so, who and for what reason?
  • What Federal, State, and City laws, regulations, and guidelines specifically relate to health concerns? Where in the regulations are health concerns addressed?
  • Did the City do its own background check on Controlled Demolition, Inc.? Did the City solicit references? If not, why not? If so, were there any concerns or, more importantly, “red flags”? What was their last job similar in nature and scope to Bethlehem? Who was responsible for the vetting of CD?
  • Did City officials meet with the developer and/or CD during the approval process? Elaborate.
  • Did City officials research prior implosions by CD for health protocols and health consequences? Did CD provide testing data post-demolition in previous cases?
  • Are there any City officials with prior expertise or experiences in implosions? On what did they depend for their judgments?
  • What in the history of demolition in Bethlehem, imploded or otherwise, was pertinent to consideration of MT?
  • What pertinent independent general studies of the health consequences of implosions were studied by the City?

Possible contaminants:

  • Is there any asbestos on site? What tests have been done? Where are the results available? Is there independent verification of what asbestos is onsite? If there is asbestos, what will be done to control it?
  • Are there other contaminants onsite? What are they, and what are their health effects?
  • What will the fallout, the “dust” that the implosion raises contain?
  • Will the developer remove and safely dispose of any building components containing lead and other known contaminants before demolition?
  • Has a fallout zone been determined? Where will the fallout be most intense? How far will the fallout spread?
  • Will there be tests to determine the range and intensity of the fallout? If so, who will do them? Will there be independent tests? Where and when will the test results be available?
  • Will there be tests of indoor air quality?
  • What health effects can we expect from “normal” fallout? What is a worst-case scenario? Are there long-term independent studies of fallout health consequences after implosions?

Preparation of the townspeople:

  • Should people be worried about health consequences? If so, what should they do to avoid or to mitigate those consequences?
  • Should people with certain health conditions take certain precautions or avoid the area for a period of time?
  • Do you recommend face masks?
  • Has the city made arrangements to ensure that community residents within the fallout zone are provided with high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) vacuums and “tack mats,” which remove dust from shoes as individuals enter the home?
  • Should homes be sealed up?
  • Will dust lay on cars, outdoor furniture, and so forth, and, if so, should anything be done?
  • Should people be told to avoid lawn mowers, blowers, etc., for a time – things that stir up the dust?
  • Should people be kept off the Little League fields, off the Golf course, out of Burnside, from shopping at Lowe’s, and so forth, for the day?
  • Should people be advised to restrict any kind of activity or to avoid any locations?
  • Has the city made arrangements to ensure that residents, community organizations, faith-based organiza­tions, and city agencies are fully informed about the potential health hazards from dust from the demolition and who to contact if they believe they have been exposed?
  • Has the city made arrangements to ensure training of community block monitors to assist residents with questions and home safety measures?

Demolition day operation:

  • Who is in charge of the operation that day? Who is calling the shots? Does the City have any say in the operation? What officials will be on site?
  • What factors will determine that the demolition is “a go”?
  • What factors would determine a delay or a cancellation of the demolition?
  • What could go wrong? What could seriously go wrong? What is a worst-case scenario?
  • Is wind speed and direction a factor in whether to go or not? Is there such a thing as a desirable and undesirable speed or direction? Or is it “anything goes”?

Post-demolition testing:

  • Will there be tests to determine the range and intensity of the fallout? If so, who will do them? Will there be independent tests? Where and when will the test results be available?
  • In addition to air-quality tests, will there be seismic monitoring, to determine possible impact on building foundations and so forth?
  • Has the city made arrangements for independent testing of the streets and sidewalks surrounding demolished property to measure the impact of demolition and debris removal on the local environment, and to repeat such tests when clearing the site has been completed?

Post-demolition clean-up:

  • Has the city made arrangements to ensure that all sidewalks, streets, and parking lots in the fallout zone are swept immediately after the demolition and again when debris has been removed?
  • Has the city made arrangements to ensure the developer will cover all dust & debris on the demolition site so it will not be carried off by wind or rain AND require it all to be completely removed as rapidly as possible?
  • Has the city made arrangements to ensure that two inches of topsoil are removed and replaced on all exposed ground within the fallout area?
  • Has the city made arrangements to ensure the developer has established procedures for safe removal of all debris from demolished buildings, including use of hoses to suppress dust and covering trucks?
  • Do we have to wait for rain to be totally safe?
  • Will it be safe to use the Little League fields, play golf, visit Burnside, use compost, and etc.?

Long-term view:

  • People will eventually live, work, visit at the MT site. What safeguards will be put in place to protect their health?
  • Are we learning anything in this process about such things as City-citizen communication and the efficacy of our various laws, regulations, and guidelines that we would want to change as a result of this MT experience?

Gadfly reminds followers that email links to the Mayor and City Council are on the sidebar for easy access. If it is not obvious, the reason Gadfly has been including this footer is to suggest that if you have public health and safety concerns and concerns about tardy City communication (follow-up information was promised mid-April), that you communicate those concerns directly and powerfully to your public officials.

Council Candidates – 4-year seat – Prompt 6 (36)

(36th in a series of posts on candidates for election)

 BCDC is hosting a candidates’ forum May 6, 6PM,
at Steelworkers Hall,
53 E. Lehigh St.

Election Day is May 21

5 candidates
(one not represented here)

vote for 3

6th in the series of candidate statements

statements in alphabetical order this time

Candidates are invited to alert the Gadfly about where they are appearing

Prompt #6, 1 & 2

1) Climate change

There is an urgency among Gadfly followers over the destructive forces of climate change. Other cities have legislated as part of their planning codes mandatory “green” initiatives such as green roofs where feasible. What changes in the existing City of Bethlehem zoning, planning, building codes, etc. are you willing to propose and support to more effectively battle climate change on a local level?

Michael Colon (incumbent)

First let me start by acknowledging the fact climate change is real and the result of human activity. Second, I will be the first to admit I am not the first voice one should listen to when it comes to local environmental policy. My education, professional background, and campaign platforms would confirm such. Rather than google and repeat initiatives I can look up from around the country I would listen to professionals we have from within City Hall and the community (shout out to the EAC who has been working very hard). There are seven members of City Council, if all seven rolled out their own set of ordinances related to one issue it could lead to a legislative logjam. I am more than happy to listen to the ideas of others and see how they can apply to Bethlehem. The times are changing and in the very near future I can see all forward thinking municipalities addressing climate change the best way they see fit to handle the issue. What am I willing to support? Any ordinance we fully understand and have the capacity to enforce. Sometimes legislation requires compromise and digging into the nuance of proposals. I imagine most if not all candidates agree that climate change needs to be addressed but like other proposals, such as wage equality and government ethics, sometimes the devil is in the details. Rather than claim ownership of any one idea I’d rather listen to the good ideas of others and figure out how we can move forward as a legislative body to combat climate change locally.

J. William Reynolds (incumbent)

When I proposed Bethlehem’s first Climate Action Plan, I did so because I realized how
important creating a sustainable Bethlehem was to the citizens of our city. Bethlehem needed to become a more sustainable city and we needed a permanent structure of citizens and environmental organizations ready to implement our Climate Action Plan’s recommendations into the future. Our Climate Action Plan is in the process of becoming expansive in scope and depth. Internal municipal reduction goals, citywide energy reduction goals, alternative energy investment strategies, and short and long-term potential policy recommendations will all be included. Adjusting and changing planning and building codes will certainly be included in that discussion.

Several years ago, I investigated the potential to mandate new construction (over a certain amount of square feet) be Leaders in Engineering and Environmental Design (LEED) certified. I discovered the Pennsylvania State Uniform Construction Code (UCC) prohibited certain mandates as it pertains to building codes. What other municipalities have done, however, is offer certain “bonuses” if a project is LEED (or equivalent) certification. Some of these bonuses, however, that building developers are looking for can become controversial (such as an increase in the allowable density of the project). It becomes an in-depth, nuanced conversation between Administration staff and developers about the inclusion of green initiatives.

So what can we do? When it comes to important projects in the city, the City Administration can absolutely hold out their support for projects that don’t fit our vision of what a sustainable community can be. Administration support at Planning and Zoning hearings for example is often vital in determining the success or failure of a project. So it might not be a conversation of “mandating” as much as “How do we use the planning structures we have to get the best projects for the city?”.

David Saltzer

The City of Bethlehem developed the Environmental Advisory Council (EAC)to work with city council and to develop a Climate Action Plan (CAP). Some of the plan has been committed to already and the 2018-2019 Climate Action Plan has been divided into Phase 1 and Phase 2 as outlined by the EAC and current city council. The EAC has done an outstanding job presenting at council meetings as well as the Martin Tower “information plan” held 2 weeks ago. If elected, I would continue the work on what the current city council and EAC have framed out and continue to work with the EAC, who has a very good understanding of environmental impact and a very educated committee to advise the members of council on the directions that we need to go in. As for changing ordinances, codes, and zoning, they would have to be dealt with as the findings are presented to council, and the committees meet to discuss what benefits the city could have or what could cause harm to the city. If you are interested in reading the CAP or learning more about the EAC please visit this link http://bethlehem-pa.gov/about/authorities/eac/index.html

Paige Van Wirt (incumbent)

The City of Bethlehem is far behind similar-sized progressive cities in terms of addressing environmental concerns. Recently, the Bethlehem Environmental Advisory Council has been an active voice in proposals to both reduce carbon emissions in the city and reduce our downstream waste. This Council backs their advice with facts, and, using their data, in conjunction with experiences in other cities, I feel the City of Bethlehem can make some major inroads on both fronts.

1) solar panels on new builds. I would be in support of a proposal to pilot a solar project on new warehouse construction in Bethlehem. Should the pilot succeed, consideration should be given to expanding solar to all new builds over a certain square footage, where appropriate.

2) The EAC has proposed a plastic bag ban in the City. Eliminating this major source of waste to our local and global ecosystem makes sense. I would study how other cities of our size have implemented such a ban, and understand pitfalls and success stories, and apply them to Bethlehem.

3) The city’s fleet should be changed over to electric where feasible, and our maintenance shop brought along, in order to service these vehicles. The EAC studied the costs to the city of a switch in Parking Authority Jeeps over to Chevy Volts and the costs were par.

Whenever changes such as these are proposed, there are plenty of people who will react “yes, but the cost of doing this is X!” What is not taken into consideration in this answer is the cost of NOT addressing our impact on the environment. The more behind we get, the harder it is to catch up.

———–

2) Development

Development is a major source of tension and controversy among Gadfly followers, many of whom are professionally knowledgeable, interested in preserving the historical nature of the City, and disturbed by poor and subjective decisions. What is your view of recent and current development projects in Bethlehem? Possible foci include the rapid neighborhood change in South Bethlehem, the Martin Tower site, the need for affordable housing, the role played by City Administration, the role played by Council, the role of citizen input, adherence to Historical District codes.

Michael Colon (incumbent)

During my first term on City Council I’ve been in both the majority (S. New Street development) and minority (2 W. Market) of votes which drew a lot of attention regarding the use of land. A few thoughts I have: First, is that Bethlehem is doing a lot right. Looking at South Bethlehem one can note the stock house turned visitor center, the preservation of the steel stacks, the opening of the Hoover-Mason Trestle, The Factory which completely repurposed an abandoned building to house an innovative business incubator, and the use of another old Steel building to open The National Museum of Industrial History. All those projects are within a few blocks of each other. I also recognize new developments and the preservation of the historical nature of the city is a delicate balance. If everything is new construction than where has our history gone? If we don’t want to demolish anything in the City then how to we adapt to changing needs and expansion? Those questions are the complete opposite ends of the spectrum and I think the reality is somewhere in the middle. As I mentioned earlier I did support the S. New Street project which I feel will be beneficial to the neighborhood but have recognized concerns of those against it. At the same time we voted on that project I also stated that I couldn’t support a project such as a 9+ story building now or in the future due to its scale. We all have different opinions about where we find that balance but is important to recognize balance is needed as we continue to grow as a city. In regards to Martin Tower I ask myself where else in the City do we have 53 acres ready now for redevelopment? The previous City Council passed a new zoning ordinance for the tract after many meeting and hours of public input. I think we need to ask what are the current needs of the City and how to encourage the best use of this parcel to meet those needs. Affordable housing is a real problem in the City and many people are simply priced out by some of the new apartments going up. During the NAACP candidates forum Councilwoman Van Wirt alluded to a provision in the City’s zoning ordinance aimed to address the issue and I think the City administration, Council, and those investing their money in these projects should continue the conversation on how to meet the housing demands of all income levels.

J. William Reynolds (incumbent)

Over the past 20 years, Bethlehem has recovered from the decline of Bethlehem Steel
because of the impressive economic redevelopment and revitalization that our community continues to experience. We are a city with an economy that is growing rapidly from year to year and with that growth has come thousands of new jobs for our citizens. We cannot become hostile to development if we want to continue to be a financially thriving city that produces enough tax revenue to pay our hard working employees who keep our streets safe and deliver our basic city services.

With that being said, the real question is “How do we create the BEST development
projects for our City?” By structure, the City Administration, with the full time professional staff, has the responsibility to carry a substantial portion of the burden in asking and answering (privately and publicly) the questions/concerns that arise in our community, from our citizens, and City Council. Above all else, the City Administration must effectively relay THEIR process and involvement in major development projects. What did they push for internally? What couldn’t they push for? Why has the process played out the way it has?

The world of development is not simple. Projects often need some approvals, don’t need other approvals, don’t come up for any City Council votes, etc. Government also does not, despite our wishes at certain points, have the ability to control every aspect of what someone does with their private property. It is a balancing act. I have supported Administrations who I feel have carried out their mission effectively in getting the best possible project for our community and I have taken Administrations to task for failing to live up to that responsibility.

As we move forward with more development in the coming years, it is imperative that we as a community continue to ask and push for the best possible development projects while also realizing that economic revitalization and redevelopment will continue to be vital to the future of our city.

David Saltzer

I am about keeping our history while continuing to attract business that will provide jobs that provide a decent living wage and benefits, thus allowing those same people to go out and reinvest in the city by dining and visiting attractions. A lot of the new construction is very bland, and I feel that we are losing some of the “historic charm” with big square box buildings that do not fit in with the current infrastructure of the neighborhoods.

I recently spoke at the NAACP forum and said there that we are pushing out the low to middle class people that live and love this city but continuing to build upscale lofts and apartments that the everyday worker cannot afford—at the same time, if local folks CAN afford it, then they are not going out to patronize the local business because they just simply cannot afford to do both. This has a trickle-down affect and now the store/business owner is not able to prosper either. We need to get back to some middle-class mentality and build affordable housing that working people can afford—again attracting quality jobs to the city can help with this.

In regard to the Martin Tower project, I was at the meeting and was very disappointed on several fronts: with the presentation, as well as the timing and the fact that it was only advertised a few hours before, and lastly that advertisements said there would not be a vote, and there was a vote. Many residents spoke and made excellent comments and points. We have the opportunity to do something great here and it seems as if average is what the developer is presenting. We are the City of Bethlehem and we deserve/demand excellence, not average. This project could bring so much to the city if properly thought out. Attendees’ concerns are the mixed use, not creating a third downtown, the impact Nitschmann and Liberty schools, walkability, green space, contamination to Burnside, as well as the creek and walking paths, all of which were talked about but none of which had clear answers, or answers that were believable.

We have a historical committee for a reason, to keep the history of this city, and their value is and should be important in the consideration of any big changes to the city. As for council and administration, there needs to be a better working relationship and more communication. As for residents in the city, they are passionate, smart, and most have been here for a long time. Their concerns should be heard and listened to and should be treated with respect and dignity.

Paige Van Wirt (incumbent)

The tension that exists now between our historic character and development is not whether we develop or not but how to we ensure that our character is maintained while we welcome new development. I used an analogy in a previous council meeting: nobody wants to to drive in a city where certain people get to run the red lights. This has happened as we allow development that builds first and then comes back later and asks for forgiveness for breaking the rules. Rules, such as zoning, historic commission guidelines, and our comprehensive plan are standards that create the shape and character of our city. If a few people are allowed to run through red lights, it makes everyone who who would otherwise develop here, go elsewhere. Investors do not like shaky foundations. City Council is the representative body for the citizens. It is up to Council to ensure that our standards are applied consistently and evenly to all
projects, so that Bethlehem retains its historic character while at the same time welcoming development that is appropriate in scale and context. Cities are dynamic, ever-evolving entities. Council must ensure that the direction this city takes is one that directly benefits the citizens, maintains our singular historic character, and creates a joyful place for all people to live.

 BCDC is hosting a candidates’ forum May 6, 6PM,
at Steelworkers Hall,
53 E. Lehigh St.

Censoring the sensing? (30)

(30th in a series on Martin Tower)
Reprinted from Facebook with permission:
Johanna Brams A Lehigh student I know is involved with doing a study on what will be in this fallout. The city and other local government officials are blocking his attempts to mount his sensing equipment. What are they afraid of?

What public health and safety questions should be asked (and answered) regarding the Martin Tower demolition? (29)

(29th in a series on Martin Tower)

Martin Tower demolition May 19
www.martintowerbethlehem.com

Informational meeting
Thursday, May 9, 6PM
Nitschmann Middle School

“It is amazing to me that so many people are reacting to this implosion
as entertainment or spectacle rather than a health risk.”
Barbara Diamond

Nicole Radzievich, “Want to know more about Martin Tower’s demolition? Attend this meeting.” Morning Call, May 3, 2019.

Implosions are wonderful entertainment.

The technological wizardry.

The engineering artistry.

The visual orgasm.

Implosions are made for tv.

Martin Tower implodes May 19.

Gadfly has no gaper appetite to satisfy.

He passes highway accidents without a glance.

Frankly, he didn’t give the act much thought.

And he will be away that day. Far away.

So Gadfly didn’t give the implosion much thought.

Until Marty Romeril at the EAC.

Until Barbara Diamond’s post.

Duh!

Of course, there must be public health and safety concerns.

And why haven’t those concerns been addressed?

Certainly it seems that the May 9 meeting is late in the game.

Certainly it seems that the May 9 meeting has the feel of being forced by public pressure rather than a routine courtesy.

It is not clear what the format of the meeting will be. We should know that beforehand.

Actually, the newspaper article indicates that there will be two meetings with slightly different representatives and only the second open to the public.

Will “government officials” be at the public meeting? — it is not clear.

Again, it is not (yet) clear what the format of the public meeting will be.

There should be public input at the meeting. One would hope. One would demand.

But in what form?

Gadfly is not sure the customary 5-minute (or 3, or 2 depending on the turnout) “comment” time per person, one-time each, is best.

A Q&A seems better. Specific questions given specific answers. And follow-up if the answers don’t immediately satisfy.

A Q&A might not be allowed.

Here’s an idea. Open to suggestions and feedback and other options.

“We” put together a list of public health and safety questions “we” would like answered, submit that list beforehand, requesting that they be sure to be answered in whatever presentations are planned.

And then public comment about health and safety matters would have something(s) concrete to address.

Even better would be a request that the answers be publicized (well) before the meeting, so the public could think about them.

So Gadfly is going to spend time today thinking what questions about public health and safety he would like answered.

And he invites you to do the same.

And to send your questions to him (through the blog or, tidier, to ejg1@lehigh.edu).

He will compress, compile, organize — whatever — the list and publish it first thing Monday morning for the officials running the meeting to see and to incorporate in their presentations.

Gadfly reminds followers that email links to the Mayor and City Council are on the sidebar for easy access. If it is not obvious, the reason Gadfly has been including this footer is to suggest that if you have public health and safety concerns and concerns about tardy City communication (follow-up information was promised mid-April), that you communicate those concerns directly and powerfully to your public officials.

Controlled Demolition Inc: “Here’s the company that’s going to bring down Martin Tower” (28)

(28th in a series on Martin Tower)

Martin Tower demolition May 19
www.martintowerbethlehem.com

Informational meeting
Thursday, May 9, 6PM
Nitschmann Middle School

“It is amazing to me that so many people are reacting to this implosion
as entertainment or spectacle rather than a health risk.”
Barbara Diamond

“They’re big. They know what they’re doing,” said Robert Novatnack, Bethlehem’s emergency management director. “We’re confident they’ll do it right.”

“They’re the gold standard with a history that goes back to 1947,” said Duane Wagner, a representative of the developers.

Nicole Radzievich, “Here’s the company that’s going to bring down Martin Tower.” Morning Call, April 23, 2019.

  • It made the Riviera, a legendary Las Vegas casino of the Rat Pack era, and Pittsburgh’s Three Rivers Stadium disappear in mere seconds. It’s toppled four, 3,000-ton blast furnaces at U.S. Steel in Youngstown, Ohio, and choreographed a tricky implosion of the remnants of the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building, the target of the 1995 Oklahoma City bombing.
  • “They’re big. They know what they’re doing,” said Robert Novatnack, Bethlehem’s emergency management director. “We’re confident they’ll do it right.”
  • The owners sought a specialized firm with a national reputation to demolish the 332-foot-tall, cruciform building that once served as the world headquarters of Bethlehem Steel. “They’re the gold standard with a history that goes back to 1947,” said Duane Wagner, a representative of the developers.
  • Controlled Demolition bills itself as imploding tall structures with such precision the building falls within its own footprint.
  • Their portfolio includes buildings in dense urban areas as well as remote locations.
  • Its explosions have been featured in Hollywood, including “Batman: The Dark Knight,” “Lethal Weapon 3,” “Demolition Man” and “Child’s Play.”
  • Less than 1% of all demolition are implosions, according to the association.
  • Much of the interior character of the once opulent offices has been gutted over the last two years as contractors stripped the walls to the beams in order to get remove asbestos in preparation for demolition.

Gadfly reminds followers that email links to the Mayor and City Council are on the sidebar for easy access.

Council Candidates – 2-year seat – Prompt 6 (35)

(35th in a series of posts on candidates for election)

 BCDC is hosting a candidates’ forum May 6, 6PM,
at Steelworkers Hall,
53 E. Lehigh St.

Election Day is May 21

2 candidates
(status of Ashley Daubert is uncertain)

vote for 1

6th in the series of candidate statements

statements in alphabetical order this time

Candidates are invited to alert the Gadfly about where they are appearing

Prompt #6, 1 & 2

1) Climate change

There is an urgency among Gadfly followers over the destructive forces of climate change. Other cities have legislated as part of their planning codes mandatory “green” initiatives such as green roofs where feasible. What changes in the existing City of Bethlehem zoning, planning, building codes, etc. are you willing to propose and support to more effectively battle climate change on a local level?

Will Carpenter Will Carpenter

Climate change is real, and urgent action is required to address the costs to our health, our environment, and the economy.  If our government is to act in the best interest of its citizens, there can be no higher priority than protecting our environment. This is the perspective from which I will view each project or initiative that comes before Council. We have an Environmental Advisory Council whose input too often goes unacknowledged. This must change so that we seek and value their conclusions and input. We must also strengthen our commitment to the Climate Action Plan and receive regular reports on progress made.

While I believe that action is necessary, I also believe that this action can positively impact our economy. Clean energy and sustainable development attract business and residents. It also requires skilled labor. There is no choice between economic growth and climate action. We must have both.

Grace Crampsie Smith grace crampsie smith

I am definitely in support of facilitating as many changes as feasible to battle the effects of climate change and promote environmentally friendly practices, and believe it imperative to start at the local level. I would first and foremost propose a ban of single-use plastic bags. Several municipalities have done so with what appears to be minimal resistance. I would support mandating “green” initiatives in zoning, planning, and building codes as feasible. I would assure all city-owned properties utilize “green” construction practices for new properties, as well as in renovations of existing properties. We must assure we are efficiently using energy, water, and other resources while reducing waste, pollution and environmental degradation. I would support increased legislation and enforcement relative to littering and would explore enhancing and expanding our existing curbside recycling efforts. In addition, I would promote open space to the extent possible in future development initiatives. I believe our future lies in our children and thus would propose increased initiatives/programs within the city targeted at our school age population to increase their “green awareness.”

2) Development

Development is a major source of tension and controversy among Gadfly followers, many of whom are professionally knowledgeable, interested in preserving the historical nature of the City, and disturbed by poor and subjective decisions. What is your view of recent and current development projects in Bethlehem? Possible foci include the rapid neighborhood change in South Bethlehem, the Martin Tower site, the need for affordable housing, the role played by City Administration, the role played by Council, the role of citizen input, adherence to Historical District codes.

Will Carpenter Will Carpenter

Development is good and necessary in a vibrant city, but it should be done on our terms. It is good to see the proposed redevelopment at Martin Tower, the Armory, and on Third and New. We should seek productive use of these parcels and the tax base and jobs that come with it. It is wrong that these projects were given parking garages and variances, HARB violations excused, questionable zoning variances, and, worst of all, that public input was too often trivialized.

No one has all the answers, and no project is perfect. We need to start with a commitment to the environment and have a comprehensive plan and a vision of where we want to be in ten years. Then we can have a robust debate to determine the best outcome for our community.

Grace Crampsie Smith grace crampsie smith

As a school counselor, within the past 2 years I have seen an astoundingly significant increase in the number of students and families facing homelessness. This is a direct result of the lack of housing that is affordable and suitable throughout our country and within our communities such as Bethlehem. The disparity between housing costs and income has grown considerably and has received national and local media attention.

Families who pay more than 30 percent of their income for housing are considered cost-burdened and may have difficulty affording necessities such as food, clothing, transportation, and medical care. An estimated 12 million renters and homeowner households now pay more than 50 percent of their annual incomes for housing. A family with one full-time worker earning the minimum wage cannot afford the local fair-market rent for a two-bedroom apartment anywhere in the United States. Within the Lehigh Valley, 34,000 people pay more than 50% of their income on housing costs.

While development of residential properties is essential, let’s examine the disproportion between the development of high-end luxury apartments and condos versus affordable residential units. We are interdependent upon one another and thus must assure that our neighbors have the basic needs of life met, first and foremost, housing that is affordable and suitable.

As I have noted previously, Council members must be mindful that our community is made up of people from all walks of life who have varied incomes, educations, and skills, and we all want the same thing – to provide for our families and have a good quality of life.

Recent initiatives such as the partnership between the Community Action Development Corp. of Bethlehem and the City of Bethlehem to rehab homes on the South Side is promising and needs to be expanded upon.

To further address this issue, I would propose developing a task force of public and private entities as well as securing grant monies. After all, assuring our community members have affordable and suitable housing promotes stronger, safer neighborhoods, which benefits the community at large.

An example of “Responsible Demolition Protocols” (27)

(27th in a series on Martin Tower)

Martin Tower demolition May 19
www.martintowerbethlehem.com

Informational meeting
Thursday, May 9, 6PM
Nitschmann Middle School

“It is amazing to me that so many people are reacting to this implosion
as entertainment or spectacle rather than a health risk.”
Barbara Diamond

 Peter Crownfield is officially retired but spends most of his time working with students in his role as internship coordinator for the Alliance for Sustainable Communities–Lehigh Valley.

Here’s another excerpt from the Annie E. Casey Foundation Report:

“Key Takeaway — Any building redevelopment should not expose residents to physical health hazards. Clear, detailed demolition protocols offer a concise guide for policymakers interested in improving demolition safety.”

and see the following “Responsible Demolition Protocols.”

EBDI Responsible Demolition Protocols

I’ve highlighted several that seem particularly relevant, and I’d like to note that all of this should be considered part of the demolition process, all costs of which should be paid by the developer.

Peter

Gadfly reminds followers that email links to the Mayor and City Council are on the sidebar for easy access.

Informed (and informing) approach to demolition in Baltimore (26)

(26th in a series on Martin Tower)

Martin Tower demolition May 19
www.martintowerbethlehem.com

Informational meeting
Thursday, May 9, 6PM
Nitschmann Middle School

“It is amazing to me that so many people are reacting to this implosion
as entertainment or spectacle rather than a health risk.”
Barbara Diamond

 Peter Crownfield is officially retired but spends most of his time working with students in his role as internship coordinator for the Alliance for Sustainable Communities–Lehigh Valley.

One more thought, Gadfly. In Baltimore, they learned from a project sponsored by the Annie E. Casey Foundation. One of many important points in their report was an emphasis on engaging the community in developing the plans:

“Project leaders convened an independent panel of outside experts to assess the
demolition protocols in consultation with community residents, advocate for needed
changes, and review test results.… the panel met several times with
community members to answer questions related to demolition safety, discuss
demolition protocols, review test results and relay community concerns to the
project’s sponsors.”

Bethlehem could learn a lot from informed approaches like this.

[Peter previously posted that he thinks Baltimore is one of the cities that banned this type of demolition.]

Peter

Gadfly reminds followers that email links to the Mayor and City Council are on the sidebar for easy access.

“If they want to call us CAVE people, let’s redefine it to mean *Care* About Virtually Everything (& Everyone)” (25)

(25th in a series on Martin Tower)

Martin Tower demolition May 19
www.martintowerbethlehem.com

Informational meeting
Thursday, May 9, 6PM
Nitschmann Middle School

Peter Crownfield is officially retired but spends most of his time working with students in his role as internship coordinator for the Alliance for Sustainable Communities–Lehigh Valley.

Gadfly:

The accepted ways of doing things (and assuming that elected officials & government agencies are protecting the health & welfare of the public) have produced global warming & climate change as well as emerging public health crises resulting from environmental contamination with chemicals and products that cause disease, cancer, and endocrine disruption that can take up to 2 generations to manifest.

The suggestion that the [Martin Tower] demolition experts have experience and know what to do is alarming. It should be obvious to any thinking person that continuing along the path of “business as usual” is folly.

If they want to call us CAVE people, let’s redefine it to mean *Care* About Virtually Everything (& Everyone).

Peter

Gadfly reminds followers that email links to the Mayor and City Council are on the sidebar for easy access.

“I want to know about the compost center” (24)

(24th in a series on Martin Tower)

Martin Tower demolition May 19
www.martintowerbethlehem.com

Local citizen of West Bethlehem, Sarah Andrew.

Gadfly-

I do not know the better way to get comments to you — email you or comment on the blog post? Anyway, I want to know about the compost center. A worker there told me his boss said they are working that day, which seems crazy.

Also I get all of my mulch and compost from there, but won’t it be (even more) toxic afterwards and possibly not safe for us to use to grow food? Or touch?

I’m now convinced it’s not best practice to take my small children to watch from Nitschmann.

Sarah

Gadfly reminds followers that email links to the Mayor and City Council are on the sidebar for easy access.

“It is amazing to me that so many people are reacting to this implosion as entertainment or spectacle rather than a health risk.” (23)

(23rd in a series on Martin Tower)

Martin Tower demolition May 19
www.martintowerbethlehem.com

“It is amazing to me that so many people are reacting to this implosion
as entertainment or spectacle rather than a health risk.”
Barbara Diamond

Barbara Diamond enjoys retirement as Lehigh University Director of Foundation Relations by engaging in various activities and organizations hopefully for the betterment of the community. Her particular interests at the moment are preventing gun violence, local government ethics reform, and Bethlehem Democratic Committee work.

Gadfly,

Thank you very much for raising awareness about the potential health risks posed by the implosion. Many thanks to Marty for doing the research.

Steve and I have been trying to learn more about what measures the city is taking to protect the public from any remaining asbestos plus other noxious agents like mold, lead paint, and building materials that will be aerosolized during demolition. The more we looked into this, the more we are concerned by the lack of public information and possibly the lack of adequate safety measures.

We attended the planning commission meeting on 4/11 where Steve asked for some information but was told by the chair that no questions would be entertained about anything except the plan. He advised that the city had created a website to answer such questions. When we went to the website martintowerbethlehem.com, we did not find specific information about what measures are being taken — just vague assurance that they were — such as enforcing a safe distance.

I called the state Health Dept Wednesday 4/17 and was referred to the DEP and eventually to the regional county air quality division of the DEP. They are coordinating the demolition. I spoke with Matt Bardzilouskas (570.826.5440). He told me he had just started his position earlier that week. I believe he is district supervisor in the air quality division. He told me that during a walk through Martin Tower that day, 4/17, a small amount of asbestos was found.

In response to my question, he said that the DEP will not certify that there is no public health risk from asbestos from the demolition of the building and doesn’t know if anyone would. He was not aware of the EPA or DEP being present at demolition and doubts they will monitor air quality (WFMZ reported that PA DEP would be present and monitor on the day. http://www.wfmz.com/news/lehigh-valley/dep-will-monitor-air-quality-concerns-at-martin-tower-implosion/1065121598). I asked if there was any plan to monitor air quality following the implosion, and he said no. There are no regulations requiring that. It is up to the responsible parties (developers and the demolition company they hire) to do that but not mandatory. I find this troubling. The only measure he knew of at that time was to put up chain link on each floor inside and line with fabric.

I spoke with Matt again on Friday 4/19. He told me that at the meeting the day before, which included the demo contractors, EMS, and others, they have some preliminary plans to suppress dust with watersprays (similar to snowmaking equipment) and water cannons that can be elevated. He believes the demo company is planning to monitor air quality before, during, and after, but he was not firm on that. Also not sure if the data will be public. I asked him who would be on site with authority to delay or postpone demo in case of high winds (which is a “best practice”; he said the contractor decides and, Matt said, the only reason the contractor will delay is if someone is in the blast zone (he said this with certainty). He said that he doesn’t know about any discussion of what to do in case of high winds (there were sidebar meetings that he was not part of).

Of concern, he mentioned that they have never dealt with an implosion of this magnitude (his area is air quality and dust suppression). He said there is no requirement for a permit that would be based on meeting air quality measures; the demo company just has to be making a reasonable effort. I asked him if he would leave town that day if he lived here, but he said he wouldn’t get into his personal conduct.

I am glad the city has arranged a public hearing, but it is late. The city has not done a good job informing people about this situation. They shut down the comments aspect of their site. I think they should be providing the public with more information about how they are adhering to best practices for demolition of an asbestos-laden building. I have a feeling that there is more risk to the public than people realize and maybe more can be done [for safety] than is being considered — for example having an independent entity monitor air quality or having someone there who could postpone the implosion in case of high winds. I hope you might help with getting this information to the public and maybe encourage the adherence to best practices.

Given the close proximity of baseball playing fields, the Rose Garden Park, Nitschmann school grounds, Municipal golf course, and other public spaces, I would like to know the health risks to people of contaminated dust that can settle and be kicked up. Will the city, DEP or some other agency monitor the soil after the implosion?

Barbara

Gadfly reminds followers that email links to the Mayor and City Council are on the sidebar for easy access.

Meeting on MT demolition May 9 (22)

(22nd in a series on Martin Tower)

Martin Tower demolition May 19
www.martintowerbethlehem.com

From the City: May 3, 2019                       12:51 PM

There will be a public informational meeting, hosted by the Martin Tower property owners, representatives from the demolition company Controlled Demo Inc., along with other governmental agencies, regarding the May 19th demolition of Martin Tower on May 9, 2019 at 6 p.m., at Nitschmann Middle School. City of Bethlehem Public Safety representatives will be in attendance. *This meeting is intended for the general public.*

Gadfly strongly suggests that those concerned with public health and safety from the demolition should prepare for the meeting, should just not blindly accept any “expert” opinion provided by the official representatives at the meeting.

And that official representation is a bit vague. Will the state be there? Our City Health Bureau? Is the representation vague because this was a hastily arranged meeting because Martin Romeril was burning up the phone waves this morning? I think we need to know the line-up well in advance of May 9. And if we see a gap, we need a chance to plug it.

I think Martin would agree that he did not do systematic in-depth research about the effects of implosion, but his offer of these two items might be a starting point about things to consider:

1) A 2003 article “Spectators Discouraged from Watching Building Demolitions” about “one of the first studies of its kind [to fill] a research gap and respond to community concerns about the impact of such events on community air quality.”

  • The researchers studied the quality of air within a four-block radius immediately after the August 19, 2000, implosion of a 22-story building in east Baltimore, Md. Samples were taken at seven indoor locations and four outdoor sites. They found that immediately after the implosion, concentrations of airborne dust particles were as much as 3,000 times higher than they had been prior to the demolition. As expected, sites nearest to the implosion had a more dramatic and earlier peak when compared to sites further away. Even at the furthest site, seven and one-half blocks from the implosion, there was a 20-fold increase in particulate matter. The good news, according to the researchers, is that the peaks were very short-lived, lasting only 15-20 minutes. No measurable effect was found upwind of the implosion, nor in the indoor sample sites. The researchers suggest that remaining upwind of a building demolition and staying indoors offers protection from high outdoor concentrations of dust particles.
  • The spectator hazard can be avoided easily and completely by simply staying at home and watching the event on television. The fix is not so easy for the surrounding community. Our results suggest that staying indoors with the doors and windows closed will offer some protection.

2) A 2005 article on an 1998 implosion “The Implosion of the Calgary General Hospital:
Ambient Air Quality Issues” :

  • The ability of an implosion to effectively aerosolize building materials indicates that all lead painted surfaces and nonfriable and friable asbestos-containing materials should be removed from a building during the preparatory work. The
    implosion dust cloud affected ambient air quality up to 20 kilometers downwind and suggests that public advisory zones around implosion sites should be extended. The necessity for large advisory zones in densely populated areas will be a challenge for the effective public communication of the health risks, mitigation, and cleanup strategies. We suggest that implosions should be prohibited in densely populated areas.
  • Public advisories to mitigate personal exposure and indoor migration of the implosion dust cloud constituents should extend to 10 or 20 km around an implosion site.
  • Air sampling conducted after the implosion indicated there were several stationary short-term air quality issues. As well, the implosion-created dust cloud traveled much further than expected, out to 20 km, and, thus, needs to be considered when
    communicating preventive measures to the public. Furthermore, all sources of hazardous materials, such as Pb-based paints and nonfriable asbestos, should be identified and removed before the implosion so that the airborne release of
    these hazards is prevented. Problematic issues surrounding public health protection in affected areas that could extend 10 or 20 km downwind from an implosion site suggest that implosions should be prohibited in metropolitan areas.

For illustrative purposes, Martin provided maps showing city area in radii of 1, 10, 20 kms (.6, 6, 12 miles) of MT. Find your home. Find your loved ones’ homes.

Martin Tower ONE KM dust radius map

Martin Tower TEN KM dust radius map

Martin Tower TWENTY KM dust radius map

Now, these studies may be severely dated. In 1-2 decades no doubt the technology of removing asbestos has significantly improved. In 1-2 decades no doubt more studies have been done on the impact of implosion demolitions.

As Martin said, “maybe there is no danger at all.”

The lack of communication seems the prime problem.

It feels late in the game to be staging such a meeting. The City web site promised a follow-up “mid-April.”

But we need to know what questions to ask, what procedures for safety are being used, what studies they are based on, and we need to do some of our own research.

The Gadfly blog could be a clearing house for questions and information. Then someone might volunteer to organize. Let us know what you are thinking. Let us know what you find. Let us know what we should read.

It might also be well to prepare a worse-case outcome of the meeting. Suppose the collective “we” are not pleased by what we hear May 9? How would we seek an injunction to halt the demolition? Any advice on that from Gadfly followers?

Gadfly reminds followers that email links to the Mayor and City Council are on the sidebar for easy access.

A walkable city needs . . . walkers (25)

(25th in a series of posts on Walkability and Bikeability)

Tail on the Trail

Tail 1

Walk/run/bike 165 miles between May and November. Can log your miles anywhere.

Gadfly is a “J” on the Myers–Briggs scale. Likes a bit of structure. Likes discipline.

Take the challenge along with him?

Council cares about MT implosion, waiting for meeting with the Administration (21)

(21st in a series on Martin Tower)

Martin Tower demolition May 19
www.martintowerbethlehem.com

 Olga Negrón is a Bethlehem Councilwoman.

Gadfly:

I really appreciated all the research that Martin Romeril has done on MT implosion and share it with some of us but I’m shocked that he stated members of city council don’t care! I know that at least Dr. Van Wirt and I have been talking about it and asking the administration many questions we have especially after receiving Marty’s research. I have already said “The Sky is falling” but as an elected official, I can’t just start running around screaming “the sky is falling” (yes I remember the cartoons!). I see my role as seeking answers from the administration and get answers not just for my own knowledge but to better inform our constituents. We are appalled by the way the administration is dealing with this issues not just with the public but with members of council and we (members of council) are still waiting to know when are we meeting to “talk about it.” We were told we would know by May 2, today is May 3rd! At this point Gadfly, like you, I’m going from looking for the best spot to watch the historical moment to I’m sealing my house and changing my flight to Puerto Rico to May 18 instead of May 22! But just because I’m not screaming out loud the sky is falling, doesn’t mean I don’t care!

Olga

Gadfly reminds followers that email links to the Mayor and City Council are on the sidebar for easy access.

DEP is the joke (20)

(20th in a series on Martin Tower)

Martin Tower demolition May 19
www.martintowerbethlehem.com

Peter Crownfield is officially retired but spends most of his time working with students in his role as internship coordinator for the Alliance for Sustainable Communities–Lehigh Valley.

Gadfly:

Why does the City remain silent on these important questions?

At a minimum, this is a failure of transparency; at worst, it raises a question of whether residents’ health & wellbeing will be protected from ingredients known or likely to be in the dust cloud, including lead (from paint), mold spores, fine plastic particles, and the unknown ingredients in the concrete used in the original building. Even small deficiencies in the asbestos removal process would add another set of risks.

City officials take an oath to uphold the Constitution of PA, which includes a provision that ‘The people have a right to clean air, pure water, …’.

Bethlehem has not seen fit to require floor-by-floor demolition as many cities do, and it apparently relies on the DEP to protect the health of people. Anyone who has any experience with DEP knows that is a joke.

Peter

Gadfly reminds followers that email links to the Mayor and City Council are on the sidebar for easy access.

The fallout from Martin Tower (19)

(19th in a series on Martin Tower)

Martin Tower demolition May 19
www.martintowerbethlehem.com

Ha! Not political fallout. Though there surely has been enough of that, we might all agree.

So, no, not that — demolition fallout May 19.

Bad dust.

Danger to health.

Now Gadfly — who lives less than a mile away — has joked about this twice here on the blog.

What he calls “charnel humor.”  “Charnel” — good SAT word.

At the Environmental Advisory Council meeting last night Martin Romeril reminded him that he shouldn’t be joking.

Steve Diamond tried to ask about health and safety matters related to the demolition at the April 11 Planning Commission meeting on the proposed MT site design, but he was quickly advised by the Chair that the PC was not the time nor the place for such discussion.

Last night Martin pointed out with some urgency that residents were not getting good information. Listen here to his concise formulation of his commonsense concern (taking just 4-5 mins.), sharing some potentially troubling information about his contact with City officials and about the range of implosion fallout from a quick online search.

  • “My concern is for the spread of dust from a potential dustcloud.”
  • “I have shared this with a member of City Council, but I’ve been informed that City Council doesn’t care, and the City has assured us that they are taking care of everything.”
  •  “[The City EMS director] said no one from the state has talked with him about dust mitigation or anything to do with the implosion, and he’s not aware that the City actually has a plan to deal with that.”
  • “[Martin] created a map of a 1km radius [.6mi] which is always where the heaviest dust falls.”
  • “[Martin cited a study showing] a 1km radius of heavy dust, and traces of stuff up to 10 and 20kms away.”
  • “[After citing several specific examples of legitimate concerns, Martin recognized that] maybe there is no danger at all from the asbestos . . . but I’m concerned that people who are not making a lot of money of this decision are not asking questions or providing useful information to the public.”

Gadfly lives within the heavy dust zone. Hundreds, maybe thousands of others do also.

Discussion at the meeting included trust that there must be a plan, trust that state regulations must be followed, trust that the City must be doing all that it should for health and safety.

Trust.

Here’s what the City says on the specially designed informational web site linked at the top of the page: “All necessary provisions to ensure the safety, health and welfare, of the public are being taken for this large undertaking. ”

Trust.

The last message on that City web site was April 2 — a month ago — and really focused mainly on viewing and traffic details.

Steve and Martin have Gadfly wondering if — far from finding a good spot to view the implosion — he should stay away for the day, or two days, or seal the house.

Martin is no Chicken-Little claiming the sky is falling.  He’s just asking the absolutely right questions.

No joke.

Electric cars: another EAC proposal

(The latest in a series of posts relating to the environment, Bethlehem’s Climate Action Plan, and Bethlehem’s Environmental Advisory Council)

“There is no reason why good cannot triumph as often as evil.
The triumph of anything is a matter of organization.”
(Kurt Vonnegut)

Gadfly’s been haunting the Environmental Advisory Council (EAC) for many moons.

Lots of good things percolating out of this citizen bunch chaired by Lynn Rothman, with members Elizabeth Behrend, Elisabeth Cichonski, (ubiquitous) Kathy Fox, Brian Hillard, and Mike Topping — in addition to a cluster of regular attendees known for their environmental knowledge and activism — and Councilman Reynolds often present as well.

Think EAC and think Climate Action Plan and the proposed plastic bag ordinance, and, as Gadfly reported not long ago, the EAC weighed in on the proposed Martin Tower site design.

(The EAC meets tonight, actually – 7PM at Illick’s Mill, with a presentation by Lehigh University graduate students on “Sustainability impact assessment on the future closure of Packer Avenue on Lehigh’s campus.” Yikes, remember the question Gadfly asked the candidates for Council last week????? Serendipability at work).

Inspired by EAC missionarying, Gadfly looked into solar heating. But that turned out not to be right for him. Damnation.

But Gadfly is close to needing a new car. Should he look into electric? He wishes someone would take him by the hand and walk him through the thought process and the economic and practical considerations of electric cars. He’s hoping the EAC will produce a decision-making guide aimed at people, like him, a little slow in technical and financial matters.

But EAC’s Brian Hillard has been doing some powerful producing aimed at helping the City think about electric vehicles for its fleet or certain parts of it.

Recently the EAC submitted Brian’s “cost analysis of electric vehicles versus gasoline vehicles for municipal operations.”

Take a look: EAC.Electric Vehicle.Cost.Analysis

Here are a few pertinent passages:

  • As Bethlehem strives to push forward with the Climate Action Plan, integration of electric vehicles into the fleet could be a key component to reducing emissions, while demonstrating to the public both the benefits of electric vehicles and the City’s commitment to sustainability.
  • Based on the most current and trusted information available, the five-year cost of integrating an electric vehicle is nearly identical to that of vehicles being used today. As the City of Bethlehem pushes forward with its Climate Action Plan, there will be many decisions to make as to how to reduce emissions while providing for its residents and maintaining government services. While many of these decisions could require tough decisions in regard to cost and practicality, the decision to integrate EVs into the municipal fleet should not be one. As demonstrated, the cost comparison is very favorable, especially with respect to unmeasured efficiency gains. In addition, there have been numerous assessments as to how air pollution can negatively affect children’s neurological development20, so there are considerable benefits that lie outside the scope of this assessment.
  • The City of Bethlehem has a history of providing its residents with a healthy and vibrant community, including environmental stewardship, which enhances our quality of life. In considering the integration of electric vehicles into its fleet, Bethlehem shall continue to exemplify what climate action planning means.

Pretty much break even and be a good steward as well. Can’t beat that!

Brian also made recent presentations to City Council and to the Bethlehem Parking Authority that Gadfly will report on later.

Your non-tax dollars at work

It’s Thursday, May 2, do you know where your local Climate Action Plan is?

Candidate Carpenter campaignin’ (34)

(34th in a series of posts on candidates for election)

 BCDC is hosting a candidates’ forum May 6, 6PM,
at Steelworkers Hall,
53 E. Lehigh St.

Election Day is May 21

Candidates are invited to alert the Gadfly about where they are appearing

Gadfly caught Will Carpenter, candidate for the two-year seat on Bethlehem City Council, as he spoke Wednesday night at the meeting of Lehigh Valley for All.

  • 20yr resident
  • lived in Chicago, Milwaukee, Boston, Baltimore
  • democracy not solving our problems, felt need to do what he can
  • Director of Real Estate
  • need to be sure we have the best for our citizens
  • valuable skill-set
  • primary issues/concerns are the environment and ethics

Gadfly’s kind of organization:
“Lehigh Valley For All is a progressive , community-minded organization whose goals are to provide a platform for voters to gain knowledge of the political system and to effectuate progressive policies within their communities through issue campaigns and encouraging our membership to seek office.”
Lehigh Valley For All