Aug. 31, 2026
— Jeff Ward, Lehigh Valley News Briefs
Allentown may need to shift $6.5 million in the city budget, mainly to cover the costs of employee health care.
“Amounts for healthcare claims are significantly higher this year and certain losses have been experienced at rates higher than expected,” according to the agenda for Wednesday’s City Council meeting.
The city also needs money for auto repairs.
“Motor Vehicle Accidents for City-owned vehicles are trending high in 2026 throughout the City’s departments,” the transfer request says.
The ordinance, sought by the administration of Mayor Matthew Tuerk, is just up for introduction Wednesday, not passage. Public comment is allowed before the proposal is assigned to a Council committee.
There is some urgency, according to the agenda item: “Very high priority – As soon as possible, to pay for the invoices.”
If the $6.5 million is transferred from Allentown’s general fund, $6 million would go toward “insurance, dental, life, drug” costs, and the remaining half-million dollars would cover insurance, and property and vehicle damages.
“The City has had substantial increases in damage to City owned property due to weather-related occurrences and vandalism,” the proposed ordinance says.
City Council will also take a first look at an ordinance requiring some housing developments to include “affordable housing.”
Allentown City Council will meet at 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 2, in Council Chambers, 435 Hamilton St.
Lehigh Valley News Briefs 