Scranton City Council voted to adopt the 2026 operating budget and authorized paperwork to purchase portions of 334–336 North Washington Avenue, moving forward a proposed acquisition that drew sustained public questioning about transparency and long‑term costs.

During public comment, local taxpayer Sean McAndrew asked whether council had received appraisals, written plans or a feasibility study before being asked to approve what he described as an $1.8 million purchase plus unknown renovation costs. “You should at the minimum have the appraisal packages in front of you,” McAndrew said.

Council debate on the down‑payment item (7d) split on fiscal and conflict concerns. One council member said the issue boiled down to “need to have versus nice to have,” warning that the city may not be able to maintain newly acquired properties. Another council member raised concerns about “huge campaign contributions from the CEO and board members” related to the mayor, citing donations exceeding $15,000 and saying that created a perceived conflict. Supporters said the property would add ADA accessibility, space for services and up to 35 employee parking spots.

The committee recommended final passage of the purchase authorization and council adopted it following roll call (three yes, two no). Separately, the council adopted the general appropriations ordinance for the 2026 operating budget (council file 1022025) on roll call; the motion to take the budget from the table earlier in the meeting enabled that final vote.

Council members who voted in favor said they had reviewed responses to questions and emphasized access improvements and operational needs; those voting no said information about appraisals, renovation costs and long‑term maintenance remained incomplete.

The adopted actions allow staff to execute necessary documents and proceed toward closing but do not themselves commit the city to final renovation budgets or long‑term financing beyond the items recorded in the capital budget amendment. Council members and public speakers asked city staff to provide appraisals, feasibility studies and clearer cost estimates in follow‑up reporting.