Committee hears update on City Hall security upgrades; committee considers access cards, cameras and staffing
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Summary
Council members discussed recently added cameras, proposals to restrict elevator access with visitor cards, and possible dedicated security staffing after employees reported feeling unsafe in City Hall. No new policy was enacted; staff will provide further reports.
Council members discussed ongoing work to improve security at Allentown City Hall, including expanded camera coverage, visitor‑access cards for elevators, and potential on‑site security personnel or police presence during business hours.
Committee chair (identified in the meeting as Miss Alfa) opened the item, saying employees had reported feeling unsafe in the building and that camera installation had been prioritized. Alfa said, “We've had security problems for quite a while at city hall where a lot of employees do not feel safe.”
Fire and emergency management representatives and Chief Agosto participated in the meeting and said that physical‑security recommendations from a prior Homeland Security review are being considered across multiple city buildings, not only City Hall. Assistant and fire‑department staff clarified that access control can be added for entrances and elevators while preserving egress for fire safety: card access can limit who goes up to particular floors, but exit doors must remain usable in emergencies.
Committee members discussed the potential for a front‑desk visitor‑ID and daily visitor cards that would allow access to a single floor and would not work for other floors. Members also raised concerns about people entering with packages or openly carrying firearms — Pennsylvania is an open‑carry state — and discussed whether a security guard or a dedicated officer in the building during business hours would help staff feel safer. Chief Agosto and staff said employee training and security protocol updates should accompany physical upgrades.
Councilmembers asked for a fuller implementation plan and a report on camera coverage, elevator access control and staffing options; staff said they will provide a consolidated report once camera installation and vendor details are final.
No ordinance or staffing action was adopted in committee; councilmembers said they will continue to refine plans with administration and public safety staff.