“I don’t do spirits, I don’t do appearances, I follow the law.”

Bethlehem City Solicitor John Spirk Jr. repeated those words a few times to Councilman Bryan Callahan during a heated debate during city council’s July 16 meeting. The subject: Whether appointing Councilwoman Rachel Leon to the Bethlehem Housing Authority could be perceived as a conflict of interest.

The discussion began with Leon expressing her desire to work with the BHA. As a disabled veteran, she explained her work limitations give her a unique opportunity to spend time in the community to understand what is needed, providing a unique voice at the BHA.

Callahan and Councilwoman Grace Crampsie Smith made a point of not questioning Leon’s credentials, but rather the appearance and spirit of ethics rules, as she is an elected official.

Spirk admitted he had not sought legal opinion on the matter, saying his 46 years as a lawyer gave him confidence in stating Leon’s appointment would not breach any codes of conduct.

Council Solicitor Stephanie Steward welcomed a tabling of the issue to allow for further research.

A visibly frustrated Mayor William Reynolds reminded council members of the time they have before a meeting to reach out and get clarification any department head about any issue on the agenda.

This did not satisfy Callahan. Drowning out his colleagues, he continued to ask members of the mayor’s cabinet whether anyone had reached out to BHA for their legal opinion.

Reynolds responded by asking President Michael Colon, “What do you believe is the best strategy for us to give responses where there’s not interruptions that lower the decorum of this body in a way that is embarrassing?”

He requested Colon address these concerns at the next meeting.

During public comments, Fountain Hill resident Lynn Sparrow addressed council on behalf of several Indian Hill residents concerned about ongoing safety and traffic concerns, specifically on Seneca Street.

Sparrow called for a traffic study specifically at the three-way intersection of Seneca and West Third, and Seneca and West Fourth.

In general terms, traffic studies are “conducted for different reasons, it depends on what the concern is, what the need is,” according to Public Works Director Michael Alkhal.

He confirmed the city is actively trying to fill the recent vacancy of Traffic Engineer/Superintendent.

Note, the next city council meeting is scheduled for Aug. 6, at 5:30 p.m. The earlier time is due to Musikfest-related events in the vicinity.