Mayor George Brown and the Wilkes-Barre City Council voted unanimously May 22 to authorize city officials to apply for a $250,000 Greenways, Trails and Recreation Program grant from the Commonwealth Financing Authority to fund improvements at Huber Park.

The measure designates Mayor George Brown and Controller Tony Thomas to execute “all documents and agreements” between the city and the Commonwealth Financing Authority if the application is approved. Mayor Brown told the council the plan would “redo a lot of the playground equipment, provide a nice playground for the kids, but also resurface the basketball courts, new backboards, things of that nature.”

Why it matters: the mayor and council described the project as a full park renovation and a greenway enhancement for the neighborhood. During the work-session and regular meeting the mayor said the memorial in the park would be updated, fencing would be installed, and that the project aims to create a safer, cleaner space for families and children.

Details and vote: Mayor Brown said the grant would be used “for the Huber Park improvement project if the application is approved.” Councilmember Merren moved the resolution and Councilmember Belishko seconded. The roll call recorded votes in favor from Barrett, Belishko, Merren and Brooks; the measure passed.

Next steps and procurement: The mayor and council said that if the grant is awarded the city will put the work out to bid and follow standard procurement (RFP) procedures; the mayor noted the project would be awarded to the lowest responsible bidder. No contract or contractor was identified at the meeting.

Public comments and scope questions: During discussion, residents and council members asked whether the $250,000 would cover all planned improvements; Mayor Brown said the grant, if received, would fund the planned renovations at Huber Park and that any work would proceed after the competitive bid process.

No timeline or implementation dates were specified at the meeting; the grant application itself remains subject to approval by the Commonwealth Financing Authority.