selections from Christina Tatu, “Q&A with Bethlehem’s Democratic candidates for mayor.” Morning Call, April 22, 2021.
Q. Do you think there’s enough diversity in City Hall? What would you do to make sure minority groups are represented?
Grubb: No. Qualified individuals from diverse ethnicities and all gender identifications must be recruited for all authorities, boards and commissions, government positions, and particularly those in public safety. The demographics of Bethlehem’s government ought to reflect those of its citizens. In addition, there ought to be bilingual staff available at City Hall to assist those for whom English might not be a first language, and thus a hurdle to smooth interaction and the accomplishment of their goals.
Reynolds: There is not enough diversity in City Hall. It is vital that positions of leadership in our city reflect the changing identity of our community. My administration would be committed to increasing the diversity throughout City Hall. Doing that, however, also means that everyone in our city has access to high-quality services and that city government spends equitable time addressing the needs of everyone in our community. This is an issue of fairness. City government will increase the amount time that it spends in neighborhoods that have traditionally been underrepresented as far as the priorities of our government. Going into our neighborhoods to listen, study the inequities in our city and open up opportunities for everyone in our community is also imperative if we are serious about creating a stronger city.