The Community Development Committee discussed a proposed LERTA expansion on the Southside June 28, encompassing the remainder of the Bethlehem Steel Corp. properties, with the possible expansion of existing businesses in the industrial area.

Council member Paige Van Wirt raised the idea of adding solar panels on warehouses as a condition for a Local Economic Revitalization Tax Assistance zone, while an overall discussion about how trying to build affordable housing needs to be examined in greater detail, for which there will be a public hearing July 5.

Officials spent much of the evening detailing for residents the city’s programs and tools for fostering economic growth and revitalization.

Planning Director Darlene Heller described the city’s land development process and how it seeks to improve contiguous lots, tracts or parcels. Heller explained that developers must follow specific submission guidelines, from zoning regulations to plan reviews.

She made it clear that many consultations and inspections must take place before a project can receive approval by planners. They use all the tools at their disposal, including LERTA, which is seen as a powerful option to help promote economic growth for all of Bethlehem.

LERTA is Pennsylvania’s economic development incentive program. The city has greatly benefited from this initiative, from the creation of affordable housing to investments in economically viable projects. Bowery Farming, the largest vertical farming in the U.S., Ecotech Marine and Factory were highlighted as examples of LERTA-based investments that have achieved enormous economic success.

There are currently 28 active projects in the city, with 6,389 employees. Tax revenue for each successful investment helps both the city and the school district.