Scranton public meetings in 2025

COUNCIL

Council voted to take three resolutions from the table for final action. These included two board appointments and a denial of a certificate of appropriateness for a fence installation.

• Approved appointment of Anna Campbell to the Scranton Housing Authority Board
• Approved HARB denial for certificate of appropriateness for fence installation at 301-303 Penn Avenue
• Approved appointment of Melinda Krokus as an alternative member of the Environmental Advisory Council

COUNCIL

Council voted to take the 2026 city operating budget and a zoning ordinance amendment from the table for final votes. The meeting also included public comments regarding the GCMC expansion, public safety, and the DPW contract.

• Approved taking 2026 city operating budget (File No. 102 of 2025) from the table for final vote (5-0)
• Approved taking zoning ordinance amendment (File No. 104 of 2025) from the table for final vote (5-0)

COUNCIL

The meeting was largely procedural. Council received and filed correspondence including a Planning Commission resolution recommending adoption of a 2025 Zoning Ordinance Amendment, a budget transfer, and an ARPA quarterly report. Item 5-F was removed from the agenda. During citizen participation, residents raised concerns about a proposed hospital development, public safety, and other issues. No votes were taken on substantive matters.

• Received and filed Planning Commission resolution recommending 2025 Zoning Ordinance Amendment
• Received and filed budget transfer from City Business Administration
• Received and filed ARPA quarterly report from BA/ARPA Director
• Removed agenda item 5-F with no introduction

COUNCIL

The Scranton City Council met on November 18, 2025, but took no votes on ordinances or resolutions. Council received and filed reports including a Comcast franchise fee and budget transfers. Public comments focused on missing audits and union contracts online, a proposed zoning change for Geisinger, and the opioid crisis. A public hearing on the zoning change is scheduled for December 9.

• Received and filed Comcast CATV franchise fee check for Q3 2025
• Received and filed budget transfers from City Business Administration
• Received and filed Controller's Report for October 2025

COUNCIL

The Council received various pension board minutes, correspondence, and overtime reports. No substantive legislative decisions or votes were recorded during this meeting.

• Received and filed various commission minutes and correspondence

Scranton Planning Commission

The Commission approved a waiver regarding financial security requirements for the CKPA, LLC project at 1012 Wheeler Ave. Conditional approval was granted for that same project pending responses to outstanding comments. No action was taken on the North End Electric plan as it remains under review.

• Approved July minutes (ALL IN FAVOR)
• Approved waiver for SALDO 804.B at 1012 Wheeler Ave (ALL IN FAVOR)
• Granted conditional approval for 1012 Wheeler Ave project (ALL IN FAVOR)

City Planning Commission Meeting

The Scranton City Planning Commission granted conditional approval for a townhomes and laundromat project at 1012 Wheeler Ave, pending responses to outstanding comments. The commission also unanimously waived a financial security requirement for the site. An application extension was received for the Davis St Apartments, while review of the North End Electric plan continues.

• Granted conditional approval for townhomes and laundromat at 1012 Wheeler Ave (pending outstanding comments)
• Waived financial security requirement for 1012 Wheeler Ave project (unanimous vote)
• Received application extension for Davis St Apartments at 406 Davis St
• Deferred review of North End Electric plan at 1225 N Keyser Ave pending further staff review

City Planning Commission Meeting

The City Planning Commission reviewed three land development plans for approval, including projects at 406 Davis St, 1012 Wheeler Ave, and 1225 N Keyser Ave. The meeting concluded with the approval of the July minutes.

• Approved July minutes
• Reviewed Davis St Apartments plan (90-day)
• Reviewed Townhomes & Laundromat plan (60-day)
• Reviewed North End Electric plan (30-day)

COUNCIL

The Council received and filed various items including fire department budget transfers and food pantry listings. Upcoming work sessions were announced to discuss the 2026 operating budget with several city departments.

• Received and filed Scranton Fire Department budget transfer correspondence
• Received and filed food pantry listings for Lackawanna County
• Announced 2026 budget work sessions for various city departments

COUNCIL

The Scranton City Council met on November 6, 2025, for a regular meeting that included receiving correspondence, announcements, and public comments. No formal votes or substantive decisions were recorded during the session.

COUNCIL

The Scranton City Council meeting on October 28, 2025, consisted of receiving and filing several items under Third Order (minutes, overtime report, budget transfer correspondence, and a walkability project letter) without any votes or substantive decisions. Council members made announcements about a haunted attraction at Nay Aug Park, a call for food pantry donations amid potential SNAP delays, and scheduling changes for upcoming meetings. Public comment included remarks on a veteran exhibit, property assessments, local politics, and support for walkability improvements. No ordinances, resolutions, contracts, or other binding actions were approved or denied.

COUNCIL

The Scranton City Council meeting on October 21, 2025, was largely procedural. Council members received and filed multiple reports, including pension commission minutes and a controller's report, without any votes. Two residents spoke during citizen participation about a downtown streetscape project and budget availability. No ordinances, resolutions, or other substantive decisions were approved or denied.

• Received and filed minutes from Firefighters Pension Commission (Sept. 17, 2025)
• Received and filed minutes from Police Pension Commission (Sept. 17, 2025)
• Received and filed minutes from Composite Pension Board (Sept. 17, 2025)
• Received and filed Controller's Report for month ending Sept. 30, 2025
• Received and filed minutes from Non-Uniform Municipal Pension Board (Sept. 17, 2025)
• Received and filed agenda for Non-Uniform Municipal Pension Board (Oct. 15, 2025)
• Received and filed Lackawanna County Planning Commission evaluation report (Sept. 22, 2025)
• Received and filed correspondence from City Business Administration on quarterly payroll tax collections

COUNCIL

The Council issued a proclamation to Norma Jeffries for her community involvement and acts of kindness. No other substantive legislative decisions were recorded during the meeting.

• Issued proclamation honoring Norma Jeffries

COUNCIL

Council members voted to take Resolution No. 264, 2025, from the table and approve the HARB recommendation for a digital billboard at 141 Jefferson Avenue. The meeting also included public comments regarding sidewalk repairs and budget discussions.

• Approved digital billboard at 141 Jefferson Avenue (5-0)
• Received and filed Third Order correspondence
• Scheduled city presentation on Lackawanna Avenue streetscape project for next week
• Agreed to move presentation time to 5:30 p.m.

COUNCIL

The Council approved five resolutions to correct typographical errors and moved two ordinances to final vote: the 2026 Capital Budget and legislation authorizing entry-level police employment.

• Corrected Resolution 255, 2025 (Fire Dept. name)
• Corrected Resolution 256, 2025 (Steamtown Church name)
• Corrected Resolution 257, 2025 (Weston Park Baseball name)
• Corrected Resolution 258, 2025 (Cultural Center name)
• Corrected Resolution 259, 2025 (Providence Pregnancy Center name)
• Moved 2026 Capital Budget to final vote
• Moved police entry-level hiring ordinance to final vote
• Received and filed Third Order correspondence

COUNCIL

The September 23, 2025, Scranton City Council meeting was largely procedural. Council received and filed reports and pension board minutes. Public comments were heard, but no ordinances or resolutions were brought to a vote.

COUNCIL

The Scranton City Council met for a roll call and received the Controller's report for August 2025. The session consisted entirely of public comments, announcements, and procedural items with no votes or final decisions made.

• Dispensed with reading of previous minutes
• Received Controller's report for August 31, 2025
• No substantive decisions made; only procedural items and public comments

Ethics Board Meeting

The Scranton Board of Ethics determined it lacked jurisdiction on two complaints — one about amending the code and another about campaign finance rules — and will have the solicitor reply to complainants. The board approved the minutes of the March 19 meeting with added dollar amounts and approved a $95.82 invoice for advertising meeting dates. No other substantive decisions were made; items on financial disclosures and law department communications were noted.

• Determined no jurisdiction on complaint regarding amending the code; solicitor to reply
• Determined no jurisdiction on complaint about campaign finance rules; solicitor to reply
• Approved minutes of 19 March 2025 with addition of invoice dollar amounts
• Approved $95.82 invoice for Scranton Times advertising meeting dates

Ethics Board

The Scranton Board of Ethics met on July 16, 2025, but took no substantive actions. The only decision was to approve the minutes from the March 19, 2025 meeting. No reports or public comments were presented, and the meeting adjourned after 12 minutes.

• Approved minutes of 19 March 2025 meeting (unanimous)

COUNCIL

The September 9, 2025 meeting was largely procedural, with the only formal action being the receipt and filing of the August 2025 overtime report. Council heard public comments on a proposed police hiring ordinance, grant applications for street improvements, and resident concerns about a sinkhole and ATV enforcement, but took no votes or substantive decisions.

• Overtime report for August 2025 received and filed (procedural only)

Historical Architecture Review Board

The board approved certificates of appropriateness for properties on Jefferson Avenue and Adams Avenue. It also approved a request for exterior door changes at 721 Adams Ave and a public notice invoice.

• Approved door and exterior entrance changes at 721 Adams Ave (4-0)
• Approved certificate of appropriateness at 302 Jefferson Ave (4-0)
• Approved certificate of appropriateness at 216 Adams Ave (3-0-1)
• Approved Yearly Times ad invoice for $186.64 (4-0)

Historical Architecture Review Board

The Board denied a signage application for 320 Mulberry St following public comment. An application to change doors and exterior entrances at 721 Adams Ave was tabled. Two newspaper advertisement invoices were approved.

• Approved February meeting minutes (4-0)
• Tabled door and entrance changes at 721 Adams Ave (3-0-1)
• Denied signage application at 320 Mulberry St (4-0)
• Approved $91.04 February Times ad invoice (4-0)
• Approved $81.48 March Times ad invoice (4-0)

Historical Architecture Review Board

The board approved certificates of appropriateness for properties at 209 N Washington Ave and 400 Wyoming Ave, both by unanimous 4-0 votes. The meeting minutes from May 8, 2025 were also approved.

• Approved minutes of May 8, 2025 (4-0)
• Approved certificate of appropriateness at 209 N Washington Ave (4-0)
• Approved certificate of appropriateness at 400 Wyoming Ave (4-0)

Historical Architecture Review Board

The board approved certificates of appropriateness for four different properties. The board also approved the minutes from the April meeting and a solicitor invoice.

• Approved certificate of appropriateness at 108 N Washington Ave (3-0)
• Approved certificate of appropriateness at 227 Lackawanna Ave (3-0)
• Approved certificate of appropriateness at 130 N Washington Ave (3-0)
• Approved certificate of appropriateness at 300 Lackawanna Ave (3-0)
• Approved Solicitor invoice for $1805.00 (3-0)
• Approved April meeting minutes with changes (3-0)

COUNCIL

The Scranton City Council met on September 2, 2025, but took no substantive actions. The meeting consisted of receiving and filing third-order reports (planning evaluations, overtime, budget transfers, pension board minutes) and hearing public comments. No ordinances, resolutions, or contracts were voted on.

• Received and filed third-order items (planning reports, overtime report, budget transfers, pension board minutes) – no vote recorded
• Heard public comments on street signs, pothole repairs, food drives, and military recognition – no action taken

COUNCIL

The Council voted to take Council File 80, 2025 from the table and place it in Seventh Order for a final vote. The meeting included announcements from Council members regarding community events and a missing person update. Citizens spoke on water rates, property taxes, and a reassessment lawsuit.

• Moved Council 80, 2025 from table to Sixth Order
• Motion made to suspend rules and move Council 80 to Seventh Order for final vote
• Dispensed with reading of the minutes

COUNCIL

Council voted unanimously to take from the table File of Council Numbers 81, 82, and 83 of 2025 and place them in Seventh Order for a final vote. The ordinances would establish a no-parking school zone near Francis Willard School and make Hampton Street one way south to Main Avenue.

• Approved taking from the table ordinances for school zone no-parking and one-way street (unanimous 5-0)

COUNCIL

Council voted to reconsider and place File of the Council No. 84, 2025 back on the agenda for a final vote. The body also received a tax office funds comparison report. Residents expressed concerns regarding downtown parking and road maintenance during public participation.

• Approved motion to reconsider and place File of the Council No. 84, 2025 on the agenda (5-0)
• Received and filed Single Tax Office City Funds Distributed Comparison Report

COUNCIL

The Scranton City Council met but took no substantive actions, receiving and filing routine correspondence and minutes. The bulk of the meeting was devoted to public comment opposing proposed expanded Saturday metered parking hours, with business owners and residents urging more community input before any decision.

• Received and filed minutes of Lackawanna Health and Welfare Authority meeting (Feb 20, 2025)
• Received and filed Lackawanna County Planning Commission subdivision report (June 10, 2025)
• Received and filed ARPA budget transfer correspondence (June 30, 2025)
• Received and filed DPW budget transfer correspondence (July 2, 2025)
• Received and filed Governor Shapiro's school commitment letter (June 7, 2025)

COUNCIL

Council voted to take Resolution 235 of 2025 from the table and place it in Seventh Order for a final vote. The resolution concerns a contract with Peopleguru for payroll processing services. No other substantive decisions were recorded.

• Moved Resolution 235 (Peopleguru payroll processing contract) to final vote (4-0)

COUNCIL

The Scranton City Council meeting on June 24, 2025, was largely procedural. Council received and filed several reports, including planning commission evaluations, pension board minutes, and an overtime report. No ordinances or resolutions were voted on. The meeting consisted mostly of member announcements and public comments on heat safety and homelessness.

COUNCIL

The Scranton City Council met on June 17, 2025, but took no substantive votes. Members received and filed the overtime report, Lackawanna County planning evaluations, and the controller's report for May. The meeting consisted primarily of public comment from residents on issues including DPW contracts, payroll software costs, police and fire overtime, a proposed PTSD clinic, and street conditions.

Scranton Planning Commission

The commission approved the previous meeting's minutes (4-0) and accepted two land development plans for review: a townhome and laundromat project at 1012 Wheeler Ave and an apartment project at 406 Davis St. Both acceptances passed unanimously (4-0). No final approvals were granted; the plans are at the preliminary or preliminary/final review stage.

• Approved meeting minutes (4-0)
• Accepted preliminary final plan for Townhomes & Laundromat at 1012 Wheeler Ave for review (4-0)
• Accepted preliminary/final plan for Davis St Apartments at 406 Davis St for review (4-0)

COUNCIL

Council President Gerald Smurl apologized for not preventing hateful and derogatory remarks during the previous meeting. The council received and filed a tax office funds comparison report. No other substantive legislative actions were decided.

• Received and filed Single Tax Office City Funds Distributed Comparison Report (June 6, 2025)

COUNCIL

City Council voted to take Resolution No. 210 of 2025 from the table and place it in Seventh Order for a final vote. The resolution concerns a transfer for a restaurant liquor license. No other substantive decisions were recorded.

• Approved motion to take Resolution No. 210 of 2025 (restaurant liquor license transfer) from the table for final vote (5-0)

COUNCIL

The Scranton City Council meeting of May 27, 2025, was largely procedural. Council received and filed minutes from the Board of Ethics and the Environmental Advisory Council, and heard announcements and citizen comments. No ordinances, resolutions, or other binding actions were voted on or approved.

• Received and filed minutes of the Board of Ethics meeting (March 19, 2025)
• Received and filed agenda for the Board of Ethics meeting (May 21, 2025)
• Received and filed minutes of the Scranton Environmental Advisory Council 1st Quarterly Meeting (February 24, 2025)

Civil Service Commission

The Civil Service Commission approved the Police Entry Certified List and a $950 invoice for legal services. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved Police Entry Certified List (unanimous)
• Approved invoice for Atty. John Kennedy ($950)
• No unfinished business reported
• No substantive new business decided

Civil Service Commission

The commission decided to keep the current NTN police exam scoring system unchanged for one year. It approved payments of $2,422.50 for legal services, $115.16 for meeting ads, and $62.36 for a special meeting. March minutes were tabled until the next meeting. The commission also noted Thomas Miller's appointment by City Council as an alternate commissioner.

• Maintained police exam scoring system with NTN for one year, no rule changes
• Approved $2,422.50 payment to Atty. Kennedy for legal services
• Approved $115.16 payment to Scranton Times for 2025 meetings advertisement
• Approved $62.36 payment to Scranton Times for January special meeting
• Tabled March minutes until next meeting for quorum approval

City Planning Commission Meeting

The Scranton City Planning Commission denied the final land development plan for the Davis St Apartments (Delray Properties LLC at 3111 Cedar Ave) due to incomplete submissions on stormwater management, lighting, and traffic safety. The motion to deny passed 6-1. The commission will continue its search for a solicitor.

• Denied final land development plan for Davis St Apartments at 3111 Cedar Ave (6-1)
• Approved March 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous, no vote tally recorded)
• Adjourned meeting (7-0)

COUNCIL

Scranton City Council received and filed a memorandum of agreement with the International Association of Fire Fighters Local No. 60 regarding residency requirements. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting consisted of public comments and procedural items only.

• Received and filed MOA between city and IAFF Local 60 on residency requirements (no vote recorded)

Ethics Board

The Scranton Board of Ethics met March 19, 2025, and conducted routine business. The board approved the minutes from the January 19, 2025 meeting and approved Invoice #91577 from DLP. No other substantive decisions were made, and no public comment was offered.

• Approved minutes of 19 January 2025 meeting
• Approved DLP Invoice #91577

COUNCIL

The meeting consisted of roll call, the receipt of a tax office report, and several member announcements. No votes were taken and no official actions were decided.

COUNCIL

The Council received and filed meeting minutes from the Scranton Municipal Recreation Authority and a quarterly ARPA report. No substantive legislative decisions or votes were recorded during the meeting.

• Received and filed Scranton Municipal Recreation Authority March 2025 meeting minutes
• Received and filed ARPA quarterly report dated April 25, 2025
• Received and filed Grow America Board of Directors meeting minutes from March 31, 2025

Scranton Housing Authority

The Scranton Housing Authority Board approved the March meeting minutes and the treasurer's report for March 2025, both in 4-0 votes. No substantive policy decisions or contracts were voted on. Public comment included discussion of a proposed trail project on SHA land, but the board took no action other than agreeing to consider a letter of support for a feasibility study.

• Approved March 3, 2025 meeting minutes (4-0)
• Approved treasurer's report for March 1-31, 2025, showing cash and investments totaling $9,768,572.92 (4-0)
• Discussed but took no vote on a proposed trail project on SHA and Geisinger land; board agreed to consider writing a letter of support for a feasibility study

Civil Service Commission

The Scranton Civil Service Commission approved payments for legal and testing invoices and unanimously decided to keep Police Department passing scores with National Testing Network for one year. The Commission also voted to keep Ryan Filipkoski on the certified Lieutenant's list and instructed the solicitor to request testing materials for supervisor examinations.

• Approved payment of $883.50 to Atty. John Kennedy (unanimous)
• Approved payment of $1,750.00 to National Testing Network (unanimous)
• Approved payment of $3,600.00 to Bucks County Community College (unanimous)
• Unanimously approved keeping Police Department passing scores with NTN for one year
• Unanimously voted to keep Ryan Filipkoski on the certified Lieutenant's list
• Instructed Solicitor Kennedy to request testing materials for Police Supervisor Exams
• Decided to request a proctor for the Fire Dept. Civil Service Exam Chauffeur
• Signed Resolution to amend Civil Service Rule Section IX.1.2.i (sent to Mayor)

COUNCIL

The Council received the April 2025 overtime report for all departments. No substantive legislative actions or votes were recorded during this session.

• Received April 2025 overtime report for all departments

COUNCIL

The Council received and filed several reports and meeting minutes from various boards and commissions. No substantive legislative actions or votes were recorded during the meeting.

• Received and filed Controller's Report for month ending March 31, 2025
• Received and filed minutes from Sewer Authority, Firefighters Pension Commission, Non-Uniform Municipal Pension Board, Police Pension Commission, and Composite Pension Board
• Received and filed Lackawanna County Planning Commission reports
• Received and filed Governor's Award for Excellence

City Planning Commission Meeting

The Planning Commission elected Todd Pousley as Chairman and Joe Enten as Vice Chairman. The commission granted conditional approval for a preliminary land development plan at 522 Wyoming Ave and approved plans for Hill Top Heights at 136 Belvedere Dr.

• Elected Todd Pousley as Chairman (unanimous)
• Elected Joe Enten as Vice Chairman (unanimous)
• Approved conditional land development plan for 522 Wyoming Ave (4-0)
• Approved land development plans for Hill Top Heights at 136 Belvedere Dr (4-0)

COUNCIL

The council held a regular meeting and received and filed minutes from the Scranton Housing Authority and a presentation by Council President Smurl at a PUC hearing regarding UGI rate increases. No substantive legislative decisions were made; the remainder of the meeting consisted of council announcements and public comment.

• Received and filed Scranton Housing Authority meeting minutes of March 3, 2025
• Received and filed Council President Smurl's PUC hearing presentation on UGI rate increase

COUNCIL

The Scranton City Council meeting on April 8, 2025, was largely procedural. The only action taken was receiving and filing the minutes of the Scranton Parking Authority. No ordinances, resolutions, contracts, or other substantive decisions were voted on or approved.

• Received and filed minutes of Scranton Parking Authority (unanimous)

Scranton Housing Authority

The board unanimously approved the January 2025 meeting minutes and the treasurer's report showing $9.2 million in total funds. A letter of intent to purchase Park Gardens for $10.5 million was read; the executive director stated Park Gardens is not for sale. Residents raised pest-control and other concerns during public comment. A motion to hire a consultant for a holistic operational review was proposed but no vote was recorded.

• Approved regular meeting minutes of Jan 6, 2025 and special meeting Jan 13, 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved treasurer's report for Jan 1-29, 2025 showing $9,221,207.07 total funds (unanimous)

Scranton Housing Authority

The Scranton Housing Authority Board voted unanimously to approve amended minutes from the February 3 meeting, correcting a previous error about a consultant RFP, and also approved the treasurer's report showing $9.49 million in total funds. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting included public comments on evictions and tenant resources.

• Approved amended minutes of February 3, 2025 (5-0)
• Approved treasurer's report for period Jan 30–Feb 26, 2025 (5-0)

COUNCIL

Scranton City Council received and filed the controller's report for February 2025, planning commission evaluations, and minutes from several pension boards and ethics meetings. During citizen participation, residents raised concerns about DPW contract negotiations, litter, homeless camps, and traffic markings. No ordinances or resolutions were voted on.

• Received and filed controller's report, planning commission evaluations, and pension board/ethics minutes (unanimous)

COUNCIL

The Council received and filed reports on city department overtime and payroll preparation tax collections. No substantive legislative actions or votes were taken during the meeting.

• Received and filed March 2025 overtime report for all departments
• Received and filed March 2025 payroll preparation tax collections report
• Received and filed Lackawanna County Planning Commission evaluation report

City Planning Commission

The Commission approved the February 2023 meeting minutes and a Scranton Times invoice. The 2022 Annual Report was approved pending clarification regarding the City Engineer's presence or comments.

• Approved February 2023 meeting minutes (7-0)
• Approved Scranton Times invoice for March meeting cancellation (7-0)
• Approved 2022 Annual Report with condition of clarification regarding City Engineer (6-1)

City Planning Commission Meeting

The City Planning Commission approved preliminary land development plans for a Scranton Housing Authority project and a Lackawanna College automotive building. The commission requested additional sidewalks and a retention pond fence for the housing project.

• Approved preliminary land development plan for Hill Top Heights at 136 Belvedere Dr (5-0)
• Approved preliminary land development plan for Advanced Automotive Building at 522 Wyoming Ave (5-0)
• Approved November minutes (5-0)

COUNCIL

City Council voted to take Resolution No. 183, 2025, from the table and place it in Seventh Order for a final vote. The resolution concerns the transfer of a restaurant liquor license. No other substantive decisions were recorded.

• Approved motion to take Resolution No. 183, 2025 (restaurant liquor license transfer) from the table for final vote (5-0)

COUNCIL

The Scranton City Council meeting on March 11, 2025, consisted of receiving and filing a third-order overtime report, correspondence, and Housing Authority minutes. Council members and citizens offered comments on the St. Patrick's Day Parade, the death of a homeless man, and other city issues. No ordinances, resolutions, contracts, or other substantive decisions were voted on.

• No substantive decisions were made; meeting was procedural only

Board of Ethics

The Board of Ethics approved the September 18, 2024, meeting minutes and a solicitor's invoice. The board also decided that Chairman Falchek will draft a letter to the Law department regarding delinquent financial filings by city officials.

• Approved September 18, 2024, meeting minutes
• Approved solicitor invoice
• Approved motion for Chairman Falchek to draft letter to Law department regarding delinquent financial filings

Scranton Housing Authority

The Board of Commissioners approved the December 2, 2024, meeting minutes and the treasurer's report for the period ending December 31, 2024. A special meeting is scheduled for January 13, 2025, to vote on a potential rent increase at Park Gardens.

• Approved December 2, 2024, meeting minutes
• Approved Treasurer’s Report for November 27 – December 31, 2024

Historical Architecture Review Board

The Scranton Historical Architecture Review Board tabled a signage application at 320 Mulberry St after an adjacent property owner raised zoning, safety, and historical character concerns. The board approved signage replacements at 532 Lackawanna Ave and 612 Jefferson Ave, each with a 2-0-1 vote (one abstention). The board also approved the solicitor invoice for $2,489.00 and the January meeting minutes, both unanimously.

• Approved January meeting minutes (3-0)
• Tabled signage application at 320 Mulberry St (3-0)
• Approved replacement signage at 532 Lackawanna Ave (2-0-1)
• Approved replacement signage at 612 Jefferson Ave (2-0-1)
• Approved HARB solicitor invoice $2,489.00 (3-0)

Historical Architecture Review Board

The Historical Architecture Review Board approved a Certificate of Appropriateness for a project at 115-117 Penn Avenue, with one abstention because the board member was the project architect. The board also approved new signage for a tenant at 127 N Washington Avenue and a $81.48 invoice for a newspaper ad. All votes were unanimous except the one abstention.

• Approved December 2024 meeting minutes (4-0)
• Approved Certificate of Appropriateness at 115-117 Penn Ave (3-0-1, Muller abstained as architect)
• Approved replacement sign at 127 N Washington Ave for Tachi Hill (4-0)
• Approved Scranton Times Ad invoice for $81.48 (4-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 5:41 PM (unanimous)

Civil Service Commission

The Commission certified the candidate lists for Fire Department Captain, Lieutenant, and Assistant Chief of Training. The Police Entry List was tabled pending the completion of one applicant's background check. Two invoices for advertising and services were approved for payment.

• Approved December 3, 2024 meeting minutes (2-0)
• Approved $62.58 Scranton Times invoice for November meeting advertisement
• Approved $787.75 FPSI invoice
• Certified Scranton Fire Department Captain list (2-0)
• Certified Scranton Fire Department Lieutenant list (2-0)
• Certified Scranton Fire Department Assistant Chief of Training list (2-0)
• Tabled approval of Police Entry List (2-0)

Civil Service Commission

The commission tabled a decision to remove an applicant from the certified Lieutenant list, pending solicitor research on whether out-of-jurisdiction experience counts toward promotion. They also approved invoices, scheduled the second Chauffeur exam for May 17, and discussed maintaining police entry exam scores for one year.

• Approved minutes of January 9 meeting (unanimous)
• Approved payment of $1,387.00 to Solicitor Kennedy for legal services
• Approved payment of $150.00 to Chris McClatchy for proctoring Chauffeur test
• Approved payment to FPSi for Chauffeur test (amount not specified)
• Instructed solicitor to investigate revising rules on police entry exam score validity period
• Scheduled second Fire Department Chauffeur examination for May 17, 2025
• Tabled removal of applicant from Fire Lieutenant list pending solicitor research
• Discussed appointment of Tom Miller as alternate commissioner, pending City Council approval

COUNCIL

The March 4, 2025, Scranton City Council meeting was largely procedural. The council received and filed minutes from the Scranton/Lackawanna Health and Welfare Authority. Members made announcements about the upcoming parade and local homeless services. Public comment included concerns about the Rubicon garbage contract, traffic on Elm Street, and hospital issues. No resolutions, ordinances, or votes were taken.

City Planning Commission Meeting

The commission approved the Salt Shed Storage project for the City of Scranton with conditions (4-0) and tabled the Davis St Apartments preliminary/final land development plan after outstanding review items and public concerns about traffic and dumpster placement were raised (4-0). The May 2024 minutes were approved (5-0). The commission also discussed next steps for a Complete Streets Policy, agreeing to draft a resolution before presenting it to the administration.

• Approved May 2024 minutes (5-0)
• Tabled Davis St Apartments preliminary/final land development plan until outstanding items resolved (4-0)
• Approved Salt Shed Storage preliminary/final land development plan with conditions (4-0)

City Planning Commission Meeting

The Scranton City Planning Commission approved the Salt Shed Storage preliminary/final land development plan with conditions (4-0) and tabled the Davis St Apartments plan due to missing storm basin infiltration and lighting plan details (4-0). The commission also approved May 2024 meeting minutes (5-0) and discussed next steps on a Complete Streets policy, deciding to draft a resolution for administration support.

• Approved May 2024 meeting minutes (5-0)
• Tabled Davis St Apartments preliminary/final land development plan pending outstanding items (4-0)
• Approved Salt Shed Storage preliminary/final land development plan with conditions in review letter (4-0)
• Discussed Complete Streets policy, decided to draft a resolution for presentation to administration

COUNCIL

Council voted unanimously to approve two resolutions taken from the table: a restaurant liquor license transfer (Resolution 177) and the appointment of the Business Administrator as Chief Administrative Officer of the city's pension plans (Resolution 179). The pension appointment was made to comply with an audit finding. Council also received and filed routine reports and pension commission minutes.

• Approved Resolution 177 - transfer of a restaurant liquor license (5-0)
• Approved Resolution 179 - appointment of Business Administrator as Chief Administrative Officer of pension plans (5-0)
• Received and filed Third Order items: controller's report, pension commission minutes, and planning commission reports (unanimous)

COUNCIL

The Scranton City Council met on February 18, 2025, and received and filed three third-order items, including a check deposit from Comcast and the Historic Architecture Review Board minutes. The meeting concluded with no substantive decisions, approvals, or denials recorded.

• Received and filed check deposit from Comcast (Third Order 3.A)
• Received and filed Historic Architecture Review Board minutes (Third Order 3.B)
• Dispensed with reading of previous minutes

COUNCIL

The meeting consisted of procedural items, council announcements, and public comments. No votes were taken and no official actions were decided upon during the session.

COUNCIL

City Council issued a proclamation recognizing National School Counseling Week. The meeting also included reports on city payroll, budget transfers, and overtime, as well as discussions regarding staffing issues at the Code Blue Shelter.

• Approved proclamation recognizing National School Counseling Week (Feb 3-7, 2025)
• Received and filed Lackawanna County Planning Commission report (Jan 28, 2025)
• Received and filed payroll preparation tax collections correspondence (Jan 30, 2025)
• Received and filed Parks & Recreation budget transfer correspondence (Jan 30, 2025)
• Received and filed January 2025 overtime report

COUNCIL

The Scranton City Council met on January 28, 2025, but took no substantive votes or decisions. The agenda included receiving and filing reports and correspondence, announcements, and public comment. No resolutions, ordinances, or other actions were approved, denied, or tabled.

COUNCIL

The Council received and filed several reports and meeting minutes from various city commissions and authorities. No substantive legislative actions or votes were taken during the meeting.

• Received and filed Lackawanna County Planning Commission report
• Received and filed Scranton Firefighters Pension Commission minutes
• Received and filed Non-Uniform Municipal Pension Commission minutes
• Received and filed Scranton Police Commission minutes
• Received and filed Composite Pension Board minutes
• Received and filed Controller's report for month ending December 31, 2024
• Received and filed Scranton Municipal Recreation Authority minutes
• Received and filed Scranton/Lackawanna Health & Welfare Authority minutes

COUNCIL

The Scranton City Council held a regular meeting on January 14, 2025, but took no substantive votes or decisions. Third-order items (audit, financial statements, minutes, budget transfers) were received and filed. Public comment focused on proposed ordinances to increase salaries for the mayor, city council, and tax collector, but no vote occurred.

• Received and filed 2023 audit, financial statements, single audit report, civil service and HARB minutes, and two budget transfers (no vote recorded).

COUNCIL

The Scranton City Council met on January 7, 2025, for a largely procedural session. Council received and filed multiple minutes, correspondence, and reports (including the 2023 financial audit and departmental overtime reports) with no substantive votes or decisions recorded. Citizens addressed Council on topics including the 2023 audit, regional hospital status, DPW union negotiations, and a banner project.

• Received and filed all third-order items (minutes, correspondence, reports)
• No ordinances, resolutions, or action items were voted upon

Historical Architecture Review Board

The Commission approved December minutes and three specific invoices for legal, advertising, and exam services. Leadership was established with Christopher McClatchy as Chairperson and Bob Solfanelli as Secretary.

• Approved December 2023 meeting minutes (2-0)
• Approved $807.50 payment to Solicitor Christian Owens
• Approved $124.72 payment to Scranton Times
• Approved $2,634.38 payment to Pennsylvania Chiefs of Police
• Established Christopher McClatchy as Chairperson
• Established Bob Solfanelli as Secretary

Civil Service Commission

The Commission appointed a new Chair and Secretary and approved a $935 invoice for Fire Captain's testing. The board also amended the date for the Fire Department Chauffeur Written Exam to December 21, 2024.

• Appointed Bob Solfanelli as Chair (voice vote)
• Appointed Ro Hume as Secretary (voice vote)
• Approved September 3, 2024 minutes (voice vote)
• Approved $935.00 invoice for July Fire Captain's Test (voice vote)
• Ratified business from September 3, 2024 (voice vote)
• Approved changing Fire Department Chauffeur Written Exam date to December 21, 2024 (voice vote)

Civil Service Commission

The commission approved minutes from July and August 2024, appointed John Kennedy as solicitor, adopted a public comment policy, and established a proctor list for independent contractors. It also approved $3,186.75 for a police assistant chief written test, $2,889 for a fire captain test, $2,351.95 for a fire lieutenant test, and other administrative expenses. Additionally, the commission certified a re-employment list to reinstate Christopher Gnall to the Scranton Police Department per a request from Chief Carroll and approval by Mayor Cognetti.

• Approved July 7, 2024 minutes (voice vote)
• Approved August 6, 2024 minutes (voice vote)
• Approved $3,186.75 to FPSI for Assistant Chief Written Test (voice vote)
• Approved $150 proctor invoice for Dhruvi Patel (voice vote)
• Approved $2,889.00 to FPSI for Fire Captain Test (voice vote)
• Appointed John Kennedy as Solicitor (voice vote)
• Approved Public Comment Policy effective immediately (voice vote)
• Certified re-employment list reinstating Christopher Gnall to SPD (voice vote)

Civil Service Commission

The Commission adopted July 7 minutes and approved four invoices totaling $4,642.54. It also voted to appoint John Kennedy, Esq. as Solicitor. However, a solicitor's note states all official actions must be revoted at a future meeting because the agenda was not posted 24 hours in advance.

• Adopted July 7, 2024 Minutes (voice vote)
• Approved FPSI invoice for $3,186.75 (voice vote)
• Approved Dhruvi Patel invoice for $150 (voice vote)
• Approved Dena Taroli invoice for $150 (voice vote)
• Approved Solicitor Owens invoice for $1,405.79 (voice vote)
• Appointed John Kennedy, Esq. as Solicitor (voice vote)

Civil Service Commission

The Civil Service Commission approved a motion to waive the physical agility exam for active-duty military candidates, provided they pass it before a conditional job offer. The meeting also approved invoices totaling $3,792.38 and discussed the status of various police and fire department promotional exams.

• Approved $172.30 Scranton Times invoice for Police Officer Examination ad
• Approved $57.58 Scranton Times invoice for July meeting ad
• Approved $3,320.50 FPSI invoice for Chauffeur’s Written Test
• Approved $150 proctor invoice for Cristine Cuddey
• Approved $150 proctor invoice for Dhruvi Patel
• Approved motion to waive physical agility exam for active-duty military candidates
• Discussed revamping SPD promotional process with Chief Carroll
• Discussed scheduling First Line Supervisor exam for next meeting

Civil Service Commission

The Scranton Civil Service Commission approved several actions: it accepted Mayor Cognetti's requests to initiate entry-level police, detective, first-line, and second-line supervisor exams; and it amended the Civil Service Rules to change promotional exam weighting from 60% written/40% oral to 40% written/60% oral. All motions passed by voice vote. The commission also approved an invoice for police officer interviews and adopted prior meeting minutes.

• Approved change to police promotional exam weighting - from 60% written/40% oral to 40% written/60% oral (voice vote)
• Approved initiation of police entry-level examination (voice vote)
• Approved initiation of detective examination (voice vote)
• Approved initiation of police first-line supervisor examination (voice vote)
• Approved initiation of police second-line supervisor examination (voice vote)
• Approved invoice for PA Chiefs of Police Association $2,688.11 for December 2023 police officer interviews (voice vote)
• Approved minutes of October 1, 2024 (voice vote)

Zoning Hearing Board

The Zoning Hearing Board denied Ryan Barletta's appeal to construct an outdoor patio for Barletta's Bar at 419 Oak St after neighbors testified about noise, parking, and proximity to a playground. The board also tabled two requests to convert single-family homes into duplexes (515 N Main Ave and 1169 W Elm St) and a garage variance on a vacant lot (326-328 S 10th St). Approved items included a pool setback variance at 2005 N Washington Ave, a bathroom size exception at River St, and a duplex-to-3-unit conversion at Wheeler Ave. One application for a convenience store at 218 Linden St was found to be a permissible use, requiring no vote.

• Tabled Lipman Strasser's variance to duplex at 515 N Main Ave (5-0)
• Approved April Davis's variance for pool setback with fence condition (4-1)
• Approved Thomas Hoppel's special exception for bathroom sq ft (5-0)
• Tabled Marcin Nadolny's variance to duplex at 1169 W Elm St (5-0)
• Found Nileshkumar Patel's convenience store use permissible in D Zone (no vote)
• Denied Ryan Barletta's appeal for outdoor patio at Barletta's Bar (1-4)
• Approved 444-446 Wheeler Ave LLC's variance to convert duplex to 3-unit with parking condition (5-0)
• Tabled Antonio Cordero Mendez's variance for garage on vacant lot (5-0)

Zoning Hearing Board

The Zoning Hearing Board approved five variance requests for property additions, unit conversions, and new construction. One request for a gas station addition was tabled.

• Approved variance for addition at 3111 Egan Ave (4-0)
• Tabled variance for gas station addition at 801 Pittston Ave (4-0)
• Approved variance to recognize 1719 S Webster Ave as a 4-unit property (4-0)
• Approved variance to convert 301 303 Penn Ave gravel lot to paved parking (3-1)
• Approved variance for 11 studio apartments at 215 Hickory St (3-1)
• Approved variance for 5-unit mixed-use building at 910 Pittston Ave (4-0)

Zoning Hearing Board

The Zoning Hearing Board approved three requests, tabled two, and dismissed one. A special exception for an auto repair and salvage yard at 430 N 9th Ave was approved with conditions including a bathroom, operating hours 8am-8pm, and a limit of five vehicles for sale. A variance for a small restaurant at 1107 Jackson St was approved with hours 8am-8pm. A variance to convert a barber shop into a tobacco store at 701 S Main Ave was approved. Two special exceptions were tabled: a mobile home at 1423 Euclid Ave and commercial recognition at 1607 Washburn St. A variance for a gas station addition at 801 Pittston Ave was dismissed when the applicant did not appear.

• Dismissed variance for gas station addition at 801 Pittston Ave (no show, 4-0)
• Tabled special exception for mobile home at 1423 Euclid Ave (4-0)
• Tabled special exception to recognize property as commercial at 1607 Washburn St (4-0)
• Approved variance for small restaurant at 1107 Jackson St with conditions (4-0)
• Approved special exception for auto repair/salvage yard at 430 N 9th Ave with conditions (4-0)
• Approved variance to convert barber shop to tobacco store at 701 S Main Ave (4-0)

Zoning Hearing Board

The Zoning Hearing Board approved requests for a commercial property recognition, a duplex conversion, a convenience store variance, and a car lot operation. The board denied requests for a mobile home in a front yard and a 4-unit home conversion, while tabling a duplex conversion request.

• Denied mobile home in front yard at 1423 Euclid Ave (0-4)
• Approved commercial recognition at 1607 Washburn St with conditions (4-0)
• Approved single-family to duplex conversion at 925 Madison Ave with conditions (4-0)
• Approved Wawa convenience store variance at 1130 Moosic St (4-0)
• Approved car lot and inspection station operation at 2122 Washburn St with conditions (4-0)
• Tabled single-family to duplex conversion at 515 N Main Ave (4-0)
• Denied 4-unit home recognition at 1413 1415 Academy St (0-4)

Zoning Hearing Board

The Scranton Zoning Hearing Board approved a variance to convert a former personal care home into 20 one-bedroom apartments at 712 Harrison Ave, and denied a proposal for a short-term rental at 406 Roanoke Ln. Several other variances were tabled, including a duplex conversion and a pool setback request. All decisions were unanimous.

• Approved variance for Harrison Apartments LLC to convert personal care home into 20 apartments at 712 Harrison Ave (4-0)
• Approved with conditions variance for Jordan Clark to convert funeral home to mixed-use at 329 W Market St (4-0)
• Approved with conditions variance for OTTO MOTOR LINE LLC for car detailing/wrapping at 1638 N Keyser Ave (4-0)
• Denied variance for Sarmiento Gerardo to convert duplex to triplex at 428 Alder St (0-4)
• Denied special exception for Fathiyyah Williams for short-term rental at 406 Roanoke Ln (0-4)
• Tabled variance for Lipman Strasser to convert single-family home to duplex at 515 N Main Ave (4-0)
• Tabled variance for April Davis for pool setback and fence at 2005 N. Washington Ave (4-0)
• Tabled special exception for Thomas Hoppel for bathroom sqft requirement at 507-511 River St (4-0)

Zoning Hearing Board

The Scranton Zoning Hearing Board voted 2-2 to deny a variance to update the record for 1320 Prospect Ave from a 2-unit to a 4-unit home. A special exception to convert a duplex at 315-317 Harrison Ave into a 4-unit home was approved 4-0 with conditions including parking at 301 Harrison Ave. A variance for a garage at 326-328 S 10th St was approved 4-0 with size and use restrictions. Two other applications were withdrawn and tabled.

• Withdrawn: Application by Dartmouth EFH LLC for special exception at 1321 Dartmouth St (0-0)
• Tabled: Application by 712 Harrison LLC for variance for women’s transitional living facility at 712 Harrison Ave (0-0)
• Approved 4-0: Special exception for Anicit Patel to convert duplex to 4-unit home at 315-317 Harrison Ave, with conditions on parking and lease
• Denied 2-2: Variance for 1320 Prospect Ave LLC to update record to recognize property as 4-unit home
• Approved 4-0: Variance for Antonio Cordero Mendez for a 28x50 garage at 326-328 S 10th St, with conditions on size, setback, and use
• Approved 3-0: Special exception for Shawn Walsh to convert towing business to auto repair and sales at 914 Robinson St

Zoning Hearing Board

The Zoning Hearing Board approved several requests for residential multi-unit conversions and a hair salon operation. A request for car and truck storage was denied, and one application was withdrawn.

• Approved variance for 2-unit property at 2010 Edna Ave (3-0)
• Denied variance for car and truck storage at 1638 Keyser Ave (3-0)
• Applicant withdrew request for two duplexes at 803 809 Colfax Ave
• Approved special exception for two-unit dwelling at 317 S Irving Ave with parking and wall conditions (3-0)
• Tabled variance for nail salon at 2934 Birney Ave (3-0)
• Approved variance for hair salon at 267 Rear Railroad Ave as a single person operation (3-0)

Zoning Hearing Board

The Zoning Hearing Board approved one variance for a garage and denied a request to reestablish a 3-unit dwelling. Two other applications were tabled, and one was withdrawn by the applicant.

• Approved variance for 12x32 garage at 1722 1724 Washburn St for storage only (4-0)
• Denied interpretation/special exception for 3-unit use at 1615 Monsey Ave (4-0)
• Tabled conditional use for 2-unit property at 2010 Edna Ave (4-0)
• Tabled variance for car and truck storage at 1638 Keyser Ave (4-0)
• Application for two principal structures at 803 809 Colfax Ave withdrawn

Scranton Zoning Hearing Board

The Scranton Zoning Hearing Board approved variances for a nail salon at 2934 Birney Ave (5-0) and for truck storage and office at 1638 Keyser Ave (5-0 with conditions). It denied an appeal to reclassify 600 St. Francis Cabrini St. as commercial use (5-0), a sober living home variance at 814-816 S 12th Ave (4-1), and a tattoo shop variance at 1642 Sanderson Ave (4-1). An application for a special exception at 1321 Dartmouth St. was withdrawn.

• Approved variance for Mof Solutions to operate nail salon at 2934 Birney Ave (5-0)
• Denied William Fox appeal to recognize 600 St. Francis Cabrini St. as commercial use (5-0)
• Denied Sanctuary House LLC variance for sober living home at 814-816 S 12th Ave (4-1)
• Denied Kristal Borge variance for tattoo shop at 1642 Sanderson Ave (4-1)
• Approved Marelli Realty LLC variance for truck storage and office at 1638 Keyser Ave (5-0) with conditions
• Withdrawn: Dartmouth EFH LLC special exception for 4-unit property at 1321 Dartmouth St.

Scranton Zoning Hearing Board

The Scranton Zoning Hearing Board on July 10, 2024, approved a variance to convert a single-family home to a duplex at 515 N Main Ave with conditions, and a variance to build a laundromat at 1002 Wheeler Ave with planning commission approval. Two garage variance requests were denied, and two other applications were tabled. A special exception for a third unit at 506 S Webster was also approved with conditions.

• Approved variance for duplex at 515 N Main Ave (Lipman Strasser) with conditions (4-0)
• Denied variance for duplex at 1169 W Elm St (Marcin Nadolny) (4-0)
• Denied variance for garage at 326-328 S 10th St (Antonio Cordero Mendez) (0-4)
• Tabled variance for garage at 1722-1724 Washburn St (Esmeralda Gomez) (4-0)
• Approved special exception for third unit at 506 S Webster (Daniel King) with conditions (3-1)
• Tabled interpretation for third unit at 1615 Monsey Ave (Ivana Kerculj) (4-0)
• Approved variance for laundromat at 1002 Wheeler Ave (Christian Nicolais) with conditions (4-0)