“I think this is a huge mistake,” said Councilman Brian G. Callahan. “I think this is going to lead to selling city land. Not just any city land, Historic Bethlehem city land.” The comment came before the vote to vacate land at the site of the Walnut Street Garage Feb. 20.

It was another night of strong emotions around the parking structure, this time related to two ordinances: one about zoning, the other about vacating the land.

The HARB’s Connie Postupak spoke about the height and design of a new building, and why HARB’s voice is needed at the table. “Before moving forward, the project should return to HARB for finishes and detail approvals. We know that parking can embrace or detract from a business.”

Hotel Bethlehem’s Bruce Haines echoed Postupak’ss concerns, saying council members “disrespected” HARB’s work and that council had voted strictly on the Certificate of Appropriateness. He asked, “Does council not have any say in the size of the garage, the capacity of the garage, whether it meets the requirements to satisfy the businesses on Main Street?”

Councilwoman Grace Crampsie Smith asked how people will get to Main Street during high tourism seasons, particularly if they use public transportation or have disabilities.

Mayor William Reynolds answered, “This is not a place where currently people use buses for drop-off during the holidays. It is not a place that is utilized.”

Reynolds assured council this is being investigated by his office and Stephen Fernstrom of the Bethlehem Parking Authority.

Both ordinances passed.