July 6, 2026
— Jeff Ward, Lehigh Valley News Briefs
Bethlehem City Council will discuss regulations on short-term housing at its meeting Tuesday, along with an $80,000 contract for the Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce.
The housing issue focuses on people here for brief stays. Here’s the gist of it, from the agenda:
“ … a proposed Zoning Text Amendments would modify the definition of “hotel” in the Zoning Ordinance so as to include transient guests, who are defined as individuals renting lodging for fewer than 30 consecutive days. The amendments would have the effect of excluding short-term rentals in residential districts where hotels are prohibited.”
There will be a public hearing at the start of the meeting to discuss the potential change, among others. The agenda indicates the hearing will be held before public comment, which should be a relief to anybody who just wants to attend for the hearing. Some interesting items come up in public comment, along with stuff that has nothing to do with the city.
Council will also look at an $80,000 contract for the Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce for marketing. The Bethlehem Chamber is part of the Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber.
From the agenda:
“Each year, the Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce provides marketing and public relations services to the City through its management and operation of the Bethlehem Chamber of Commerce.”
Council will also review permits for ArtsQuest’s Soccer Fest, Sabor Latin Festival and One Earth Reggae Fest.
On a more serious note, a $210,000 contract for an emergency shelter for families on West Packer Avenue is up for review. Spillman Farmer Architects will handle final design and engineering.
The details:
“Description of project or scope of services to be provided: Spillman Farmer will provide final design and engineering for 232-234 W. Packer Avenue, the 11-unit non-congregate emergency family shelter. Spillman Farmer will prepare construction documents, assist in the preparation of bid documents, the bidding and award process and contract administration.”
Bethlehem City Council will meet at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, July 7 in Town Hall. The meeting will also be broadcast on the Internet.
Check the city website for complete details.
Lehigh Valley News Briefs 