Oct. 20, 2025
— Jeff Ward, Lehigh Valley News Briefs
The Bethlehem Co-Op Boondoggle still has not set an opening date. It might not be until 2026.
That’s the main bit of news from Monday’s meeting of the board of directors.
That is hardly surprising, to be sure, but after more than three years past the 2022 date, there might be some sense of urgency.
The 250 E. Broad St. non-operating co-operative is a $4 million project, according to its board of directors. Most of that money came from taxes.
Perhaps the City of Bethlehem, the State of Pennsylvania or the federal government should be demanding some accountability from an organization that has received more than $3 million of taxpayers’ dollars and broken promises for years.
The Bethlehem Boondoggle’s board contends that most of the work at the non-open store is done except for refrigeration work. It is also looking for a firm to carry out a financial audit.
The organization only exists because of government grants. That audit should be made public. Meanwhile, the Boondoggle needs another $1 million and is seeking “partnerships” which means it’s seeking money.
It’s all about “synergy” which is one of the ultimate jargon terms.
Beware of jargon and those who use it.
I’m probably done with the Co-Op for now, unless and until it opens. I’m getting bored with it. I’ve asked every elected official in the City of Bethlehem, state Sen. Lisa Boscola and others to demand accountability.
At least $3.1 million public dollars went into this. That’s $3,100,000, a fair amount of money.
The public has a right to know.
I can’t make that happen, I’m just an irritating old blogger, but elected officials who led cheers for this mess and helped it get our money should demand answers.
Lehigh Valley News Briefs 
Thank you for covering this. I’d like to know why elected officials aren’t outraged about the lack of answers as to why this Co-op can’t open and where all the tax money went.
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