Lehigh County Board of Commissioners discussed a proposed budget amendment during its Oct. 12 meeting.

The change, recommended by Commissioner Dave Harrington, to reduce the staffing budget of the district attorney’s office brought out strong emotions regarding the effectiveness of the office.

District Attorney James Martin defended his staff and his record of nearly 25 years in the position.

Martin took the microphone twice, addressing the opioid crisis, domestic violence and the homicides his office deals with on a daily basis. He noted his office has seen positive results with the mental illness substance abuse program.

Among those voicing their support for Martin and his office were Commissioners Zakiya Smalls and Antonio Pineda, who both praised the work of the DA’s office in helping support victims’ rights.

A handful of residents spoke out against the DA’s office, but Martin’s argument was enough to convince most commissioners to defeat the proposed amendment by a vote of 8-1.

The second proposed amendment sponsored by Harrington, regarding additional funding for legal or other direct support in stopping evictions for families with children, passed unanimously.

The other major issue of the night was the agreement to provide $3 million in funding for Coca-Cola Park. An initial $2.3 million is to be provided to the IronPigs, with $700,000 later.

Although the motion passed unanimously, some commissioners considered the pros and cons.

“Major League Baseball will continue to keep communities hostage,” Commissioner Ron Beitler said. “I don’t relish the thought of sending this money.”

In other business, Jill Pittenger was approved as the new human resources director, and Pineda was appointed to the Lehigh County Conservation District for a term ending Dec. 31.