Bethlehem Council discusses homeless encampments and public restroom needs

The April 1, 2025, City Council meeting in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, began with a public hearing focused on a proposed connection from Monoxie Way to Stanford Road, utilizing an abandoned railway in West Bethlehem. The council noted that no votes would be taken that evening, and the ordinance related to this connection will be presented for first reading on April 15, 2025.

Following the public hearing, the council moved to approve the minutes from the March 18 meeting, which were accepted without comment. The meeting then transitioned to public comments, where several residents voiced their concerns on various topics.

Scott Singerland addressed the council regarding the need for public restrooms in the city, emphasizing their importance for residents and visitors alike. He highlighted that access to restrooms is a basic human need and presented a resource titled "No Place to Go, How Public Toilets Fail Our Private Needs" for council members to consider.

Valerie Noonan brought attention to the issue of homeless encampments, specifically mentioning notices placed on tents along the Mitzi Trail. She expressed concern over the potential displacement of individuals living in these encampments and criticized the communication from the police regarding the notices. Noonan pointed out discrepancies in the information provided to the public and urged the council to consider the implications of displacing vulnerable individuals.

Regina Padilla echoed Noonan's sentiments, arguing that displacing the homeless community would not solve the underlying issues of homelessness. She called for a compassionate approach that recognizes the humanity of those affected and emphasized the need for sustainable solutions rather than temporary fixes.

The meeting concluded with a commitment from the council to address the concerns raised during public comments in future discussions. The council acknowledged the complexity of homelessness and the importance of finding effective, long-term solutions to support those in need.