Chaired by Bethlehem’s Director of Equity and Inclusion Janine Carambot Santoro, the task force convened for the year’s first meeting Jan. 25 at shared news and concerns at the masked meeting at Northampton Community College Fowler Southside Center.

Santoro gratefully acknowledged former chair Roger Hudak, who attended remotely, for “all of his years of dedication to this group.” She added, “Thank you for your compassion, care, and advocacy for the South Side!”

Saying, “I’m excited to wear this new hat,” Santoro spoke about producing “Bethlehem Corner,” a series of short videos highlighting diversity and lesser known history, among other topics.

She described the city’s Climate Action Plan and the “Climate Justice” part her office is working on.

Mayor William Reynolds discussed seeking a more equitable allocation of city services, like snow plowing, for neighborhoods north and south of the Lehigh River.

Since the Boys & Girls Club had closed, he said there is a need for a community center for the Southside.

Community outreach plans to address affordable housing concerns were also brought up. “Where do we want to put our resources?” Reynolds asked.

The mayor spoke about the process of establishing a stand-alone homeless shelter, as the Bethlehem Emergency Shelter relies on a church on Market Street. Reynolds expressed a need for a regional solution for this issue.

Hudak said, “We have to look after the poor folks,” as he remarked on the number of new high rises being built nearby.

Community Action Development Corporation of Bethlehem (CADCB) Director Yadira Colon-Lopez reported on “Southside’s Tomorrow.” In partnership with the city, they look to focus on housing, as well as on public and green spaces.

Vivian Robledo-Shorey discussed her upcoming retirement as director of Student Services and Minority Affairs for BASD. She suggested that circulating an agenda prior to a meeting would be helpful to her successor.

“We are a resource for you,” said Sgt. Blake Kuntz from the Bethlehem Police Dept. He offered department assistance in addressing many of the issues discussed at the meeting.

“He came to this meeting because he cares,” said Reynolds, praising Kuntz, who had to deal with an “intense” emergency situation prior to attending the meeting.

State Rep. Steve Samuelson (D) and his legislative assistant Glorilex Vasquez spoke about state rent and mortgage rebates for seniors.

Brenda Grow from the Bethlehem Area Public Library South Side Branch reported on neighborhood changes that caused a drop in library patrons. Lack of parking has had some affect.

Susan Vitez, Steelworkers’ Archive, mentioned more Bethlehem Steel site tours are being planned.

Santoro asked those gathered in person and online for continued input on what can be done to make for more productive meetings and to benefit the South Side district.

The Mayor’s South Side Task Force regularly meets on the last Tuesday of the month.